Glass News July 2014 by Christina Shaw

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The first wholly good news forecast for the UK window and industry for five years

While there are ‘hot spots’ such as composite doors, some other products may fare less well, especially big ticket items such as conservatories due to banks being risk averse and commercial sectors taking time to recover. To explain that, David Amos comments: “We see these products growing - but less fast than many other products simply because they are big ticket items and many may require bank loans. Also growth in the commercial sectors will follow on from domestic housing spend. The commercial sector went into recession a bit later than both the home improvement and new build sectors due, in part, by the money spent on the Olympics and the supporting infrastucture of hotels, restaurants and so on. It should be remembered that it takes time to wind a big commercial project down. Therefore, the commercial sector will follow the domestic resurgence as pubs, hotels, restaurants and other commercial entities gain the confidence to expand their businesses with conservatories and extensions.” However, the industry has some headwinds to face, not least being the inevitable rise in interest rates that must be round the corner. D&G Consulting has a good record with its forecasting although D&G Director, David Amos, admits that they, along with everyone else, got it wrong with the 2008/9 credit crunch. “This report is founded on economic and construction forecasts because that is what companies within the industry want – at least those who plan rather than fly by the seat of their pants!” said David Amos. “It

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CROSSWORD EYE SPY & MORE... must be said that this is the first wholly good news forecast for the UK window and door industry for five years – i.e. since before the recession. The good news extends from the short term to the long term. Since the start of this year the much publicised strengthening of the UK economy has helped to kick start increased activity in the construction industry. The window and door industry has not only been boosted by the increased activity within much of the construction industry but also with the welcome increase in consumer spending – this after four years of austerity and belt tightening. The strong revival in house building has been propelled by the first part of Help to Buy (H2B1). Property transactions that are following on from the increasing housing transactions are providing a boost to housing improvements. Improvements that includes windows and doors. Almost all product ranges are expected to benefit throughout the four year forecast period including windows, composite, French and Bifold doors. After enduring a tough time over the past four years conservatory volumes will start to edge forward not only on the back of consumers having the confidence to splash out on a conservatory but also as businesses such as restaurants and hotels invest in a conservatory or orangery. Continued on page 4...

FIT SHOW REVIEW 2014 PAGE 26

Distribution to: Window, Door & Conservatory Roof Fabricators & Installers, IGU Manufacturers & all associated with glass & glazing industry.

We have a great review feature from this years FIT Show!! A massive 24 pages of news and reviews!

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Issue 40 | July 2014

! RT PE EX

The Spring 2014 Window, Door and Conservatory Industry Forecast from D&G Consulting is now available and, happily, the forecast for the industry in general is good.

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PAGE 62 Mark Bromley of Avantis Hardware, tells us that hardware suppliers need to offer technically advanced products and modern supply chain solutions to help fabricators and installers meet consumer expectations.

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July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

JULY 2014

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Anyone know a soap opera scriptwriter?

A storyline on MTCs would bring it to the publics’ attention! Just ahead of the FIT Show, FENSA announced sanctions for non-compliance with the Minimum Technical Competencies requirements (MTCs), and the first reaction was one of ‘is this a sledgehammer to crack a walnut’? The industry is making inroads in many areas but FENSA’a sanctions, as laid out in their release reproduced on Page 81, is designed to hurry the process along and is, indeed, very reasonable in its timescale and penalties. At FIT, I had the good fortune to have the opportunity to sit down with four industry figures who know all about MTCs and to find out more about the scheme and why sanctions are a sensible way to focus the minds of those who should have already complied with these requirements, but have failed to do so. We have included an editorial on these discussions, on page 80. And how do we tell the public, given that no one has the money to highlight Minimum Technical Competencies? It probably needs one of the many UK television soap opera dramas to write in a storyline about a homeowner having problems selling their house because of windows being fitted by someone not properly qualified. Perhaps, even, some health and safety issue on the fitting of windows to bring the scheme to the publics’ attention. Anyone know a soap opera scriptwriter? Summer is well and truly here and, at the risk of introducing a discordant note, we’re now on the run down to winter, with the longest day come and gone. I suspect FIT 2014 has been high on everyone’s agenda during June and, with that just a memory, to what do we apply our minds and efforts

THE FIT SHOW REVIEW! See page 26

for the rest of the year? The answer has to be good and profitable trading and, despite FIT being a main focus for many, there is every indication that 2014, as a whole, will be good for all. Reports of double figure percentage increases over 2013 performances are widely reported and even reforecasting of budgets – and as early as February – because trading performance has meant that conservative forecasts for this year have been blown apart. Good news, indeed, and our front page article highlighting D&G Consulting’s PVC Window Door & Conservatory Industry Market & Forecasts to 2017 makes very good reading.

CONTENTS

CONTACT DETAILS

Front Cover Story

Trade News

Publisher & Owner: Christina Shaw The Flat (Office 2), 6 Sunderland Street, Tickhill DN11 9QJ M: 07805 051322 T: 01302 759096 E: christina@glassnews.co.uk

22 Conservatories 24

Glass News Interview: Four Seasons

The FIT Show Review

Voice Of The Industry

Installer Focus

59 Glass

They talk about ‘making hay while the sun shines’ and 2014 would seem to be the year to do just that. Certainly, D&G’s forecasts are worth looking at and should provide information that’s valuable when considering future investment and revenues that may be achievable.

TIRC Newsletter

Hardware Expert

Product News

Additionally, I would draw your attention to the FIT Review and, with reports of exhibitors being happy with what they achieved at Telford, will that mean FIT 2016 will be successful? With 80% of available stand space already taken, it sounds as if it will!

The holiday season looms but, as we head into the second half of 2014, let’s hope what has started as an excellent year for our industry continues in the months to come.

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Editor: Chris Champion T: 07850 267223 E: chris@glassnews.co.uk Features Editor: Sheilah Reed M: 07880 990144 E: sheilah@glassnews.co.uk Trade Counter Distribution Department: Roz Worgan E: roz@glassnews.co.uk Graphic Design: hook-a-duck

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Congratulations to all our winners! Good Luck in this months Time Out pages!

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FRONT PAGE ...Continued from page 1. Significantly, it is now ten years since the PVC window industry in the UK and Ireland reached its peak. Over the five years up to 2004 between 8 and 10 million PVC windows and 1.2 million entrance doors were produced each year. Many of these are now old and ready for replacement and are accounted for in the report as second time replacements. By the end of 2017 the total industry volumes are forecast to have recovered back to pre- recession levels. However, by 2017 many products will almost certainly be different – there will, for example, be more foiled coloured windows, vertical sliding window volumes will increase, composite doors will continue to take market share from PVC doors and bifold will keep edging forward (albeit with a strong challenge from aluminium bifold doors). Private housing improvement and new house building will take an increasing share of the market. Improvements to social housing are bound to reduce as government continues to cut back on social housing. Having been battered by events over the past five years, most out of control of the industry – but some self-inflicted - the industry is now on the up. Much of industry is leaner and more professional. Many companies have adapted to the austerity measures and have come out fighting fit with the confidence to invest in facilities, marketing and people. The opportunities are there for those windows and doors that are energy efficient, attractive and more secure. But it has to be remembered second-time replacements are now largely a discretionary spend. These are exciting times ahead. But before we all go gung-ho remember the window industry was close to saturation before the recession, Government is not throwing heaps of money at social housing (as was the case with the Decent Homes Initiative) and austerity is still with us and remain with us for some time yet. Then what happens if (and when) interest rates rise?

TRADE NEWS The ITEM Club, whose economic forecasts we have consistently used, headed their Spring Forecast “Steady as she goes”. A sentiment we subscribe to in this forecast report. Banks at this time are looking to avoid the lending mistakes that led to the credit crunch and in consequence are risk averse. However, increasing confidence amongst consumers is being mirrored in surveys of business confidence, which are unanimous in showing a solid recovery from the traumas of the last few years. The ITEM Clubs advice for business emphasises the importance of investment in underpinning the recovery. This holds good for the window, door and conservatory industry throughout the supply chain. Now is the right time for every company to look at its productive capacity and invest so as not to get caught out as the economy picks up. However, there remain risks and as set out in the report in Section 6 (Economic Outlook), the progressive increase in consumer spending is dependent upon average earnings outstripping inflation which so far has not been achieved. Also the effects of any increase in interest rates is a risk to the recovery. As the upturn hopefully gathers pace companies must track these developments closely and their effect on the wider window industry and time their movements accordingly. At the same time, to ensure they can capitalise on emerging opportunities, companies need to be ready for growth, with investment and expansion plans in place. Interest rates in the UK, at 0.5%, are at a historically low. They are, though, forecast to rise as early as 2015- if not sooner. These rate increases are expected to slow the rate of increase in housing improvement. The effects are reflected in the forecast.” The report on The PVC Window Door & Conservatory Industry Market & Forecasts to 2017 is available from D&G Consulting. www. dandgconsulting.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0004

GLAZERITE TOAST TO ITS 7TH SUCCESSFUL ANNUAL TOWCESTER RACE DAY On a day set to be a washout with some uncompromising and very unpredictable weather conditions, sunshine prevailed as Glazerite Windows Ltd. celebrated its 7th consecutive Race Day at Towcester’s famous race course. Taking place Friday May 23rd, the celebratory shindig was Glazerite’s way of saying thank you to its loyal customer base with a little over 160 guests representing

50 or so companies in attendance. Glazerite sponsored the entire meet and took the opportunity to incorporate some of the new products they’re set to launch at this year’s FIT Show into race names, such as R9 and Solidor - the 20:20 R9 race was won by A P McCoy and trainer Jonjo O’Neil, two of racing’s most famous names. With Ladies Evening being the night’s main theme, many women were dressed head to toe in their favourite glad rags and exquisite hats all competing for the chance to be crowned the evening’s ‘Best Dressed’. With the winner receiving a £500 cash prize and Gucci watch, Dan Legg of The KJM Group was

Mick Tuckey (of Mick Tuckey Windows Limited) and his team enjoy Glazerite’s Towcester Race Day.

called upon to help judge the competition and present the winning prize. Not only that, guests were also treated to a performance from Take That tribute band, The Take That Experience.

the loyalty shown by our customers. You don’t always get the opportunity to show this on a day to day basis,” he said. “This annual event is just a small token of our appreciation.”

While the bar bill broke all previous records - confirming that the hospitality was enjoyed by all - Glazerite Director Jason Thompson explained that it was all worth it. “We are extremely grateful for

Missed out on the race day? Were in attendance but want to watch the races again? You can do so by visiting the Sky Sports website at www. skysports.com. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0005

ORIGIN LAUNCHES BIGGEST TV CAMPAIGN TO DATE ‘Origin, a new species of door’ will make its TV debut, Sunday 1st June, during Dream Homes on Sky TV. Origin, the UK’s leading manufacturer of folding sliding doors, will be sponsoring the channel for three months, as part of the brand’s biggest television ad campaign to date. The campaign, which will be aired for the first time on Sky channel 246 and Virgin 265, depicts the origin and evolution of the door, using 10 second comical sketches, each showing how

doors have progressed from the dark ages through to modern times. The action flits between a Neanderthal and modern-day couple, with sweeping panoramic shots of the Origin bi-folding door. The ad will run until the end of August, and is backed by press, digital and social media activity. Neil Ginger, CEO at Origin, said: “We wanted to show the origin of the door and innovation at its best – demonstrating our engineering prowess and illustrating how bifolding

doors can enhance any property, giving people more ways to love and enjoy their home. By sponsoring Dream Homes, we hope to capture people’s imaginations and significantly raise awareness of the Origin brand amongst key consumer audiences.” This will be the second TV campaign for the brand, which has previously advertised on UKTV Home Channel. For more information, visit www.origin-global.com. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0006

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | June 2014

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Tony Lloyd takes the double to become European & French Open Champion 2014 Tony Lloyd, AKA @shortarmgolfer, takes the double as he wins both the European and French Open. Before this result Tony’s best placing had been 5th in any European Disabled Golf Association tour and he wasn’t expecting to win category 2 in the AA St. Omer, Open de France an EDGA PREMIER Series tournament. Tony won by an amazing 12 shots. This was quickly followed with winning the European title just two weeks later. “I knew I’d played well at the French Open,” said double Champion Tony who is sponsored by Swish Window and Doors Systems. “But I didn’t realise that I’d won until after the final hole. It was a tough course. Last time I played it spanked me so to go back and get some redemption was brilliant. On the final day my opponent was my friend Miroslav Lidinsky. He ended up second and it felt good standing on the podium with him.” “To do it twice with the European is even better. I

can’t believe I won back to back tournaments. Hopefully I can use this win to raise the profile of disabled golf in the UK and Europe.” “Categories are based on golf handicaps and not the disability of players,” explained Tony. “This means we get a great round of golf. It’s more than a passion for me and I’m really happy to be playing well.” Jon Skinner, joint managing director of Swish Window and Door Systems, added: “This is a brilliant achievement for Tony. The whole team follow his progress and this is a superb result.” Follow Tony’s progress this season on Twitter @ shortarmgolfer and find Tony Lloyd on Facebook. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0008

Polyframe Recognised as one of the UK’s Fastest Growing Businesses Halifax based Polyframe have been selected by Santander and Smarta as one of the UK’s top 50 most exciting, fastest growing companies. The Santander Breakthrough 50 in partnership with Smarta seeks to shine a light on the most inspiring businesses in the UK. The rationale behind the awards is to uncover those businesses that are transforming established industries, leading the entrepreneurial movement in the UK and inspiring others to grow into businesses that push our economy forward. Winners were selected by a panel of judges including Ana Patricia Botin – CEO of Santander UK plc. and The Rt Hon Baroness Vadera – Director Shriti Ltd. and former Small Business Minister.

This prestigious award recognises the phenomenal growth that Polyframe have experienced over recent years. Year on year growth has been on average 80%, in a period of difficult trading conditions, and which has seen minimal growth in the industry. Polyframe have also consistently introduced innovative products into the market and continued to invest in machinery and research and development. Since 2012 Polyframe have invested in excess of £2million on fully automated welders and corner cleaners at the Halifax factory to ensure that the quality of the product is improved as the business continues to grow. Chris Watson, Group Managing Director, commented, “it is a great honour to be recognised as one of the top 50 fastest growing businesses in the whole of the UK. At Polyframe we strive to deliver the highest quality products but at the same time we are continually looking at business opportunities and ways to improve the products that we offer.” Information on the Santander UK top 50 awards can be found at Breakthrough 50 website. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0009

Positive start for fabricator as ‘great British Revival’ kicks in A South West fabricator is celebrating a positive start to 2014. MWD Trade Frames the manufacturing arm of the Majestic Group, which is now in its eleventh year of making Duraflex products, has reported that sales are 18 per cent up on the same time last year, for quarter one of this year. The good news comes off the back of the Prime Minister’s recent comments that the economy is enjoying ‘a great British Revival’. Mr Cameron said the UK’s fortunes had turned around since 2010, following a strong upturn in manufacturing, exports and employment. MWD manufacture and supply Duraflex casement windows, Residential, bifolding and composite doors, vertical sliding sash windows and patios. Director Jim Martin says that new customers coming on board; and returning confidence amongst its current clients and the general public is behind the good news. He comments: “It appears that confidence is returning to the UK economy and homeowners are investing in improving their

properties. This is fuelling demand and creating opportunities for installers to win new business. Couple this upturn with our commitment to ensuring the very best product quality, fast turnaround and comprehensive service; and you have a recipe for growth for installers.” In the last few months MWD Trade Frames has undergone a major investment programme; moving to new premises and investing in new product lines and staff development. MWD are also an environmentally friendly and a ‘thoroughly British’ company. The profile they buy is extruded locally in Tewkesbury; the glass they buy is from Mid-Devon Glass; and all the hardware and locks they use are British made. Jim concludes: “We source all our products where possible from British companies, many of which are locally based. This allows us to offer a fast-turnaround, control supply and ensure the very best quality. This approach has played its part in our flying start to 2014 and we anticipate strong growth going forward.” For more information call Jim Martin on 01934 743300 or email jim.martin@ majesticwindows.co.uk.. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0010

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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A choice of 6 stunning orangery designs

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25/06/2014 11:31

TRADE NEWS

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New bi-fold doors factory for Made For Trade due to rapid growth Huge increase in demand has seen conservatory roof and bi-fold door supplier Made For Trade expand with a new factory. With incredible products at low prices and quick turnaround times, it’s no surprise that Made For Trade has grown rapidly. Managing Director, Bradley Gaunt, explores the reasons for the company’s huge demand. At Made For Trade, we have a simple philosophy; provide the best products with the best service at the best prices. Having grown on average by over 60% year on year since 2010 and accumulated over 700 companies into our customer base, we have now acquired new factory space to house our aluminium bi-folding door division. With

further expansion expected, we have now confirmed to the industry we are a company that delivers.

SPEEDY RESPONSE & LOW PRICES How do we manage to offer the low prices that we do? Made For Trade is an incredibly lean and efficient company with low profit margins, allowing us to pass on savings to our customers. Our business strategy certainly isn’t for the faint hearted as it relies on a sizeable setup investment followed by lower margins, leading to a riskier return on investment. However, for our customers, this strategy allows us to

be more competitive, subsequently passing on massive savings to you. We work to swift lead times, aiming to get non-obligation quotes done within the hour and confirm and process finalised orders in the same day. However, we never cut corners – providing top service and products to our customers at all times. To ensure a job is on time and in full approach, a series of stringent systems are in place that allow little room for error.

TOP QUALITY PRODUCTS We fabricate the market leading aluminium bi-folding doors and conservatory roofs – both products with an incredible reputation for quality. Both are available in an array of colours – the bi-folds in any RAL colour, alongside the standard white, black, and grey; and the roofs in the Artisan colour range, as well as the standard shades. With our low prices, top spec products and great customer service, companies who buy from us tend to stick with us. This is encouraging as the industry is changing – people tend to shop around in order to get the best product at the lowest

price as well as looking for something a little different from the norm. Made For Trade always try to fulfil this criteria and we have proved we are trustworthy and efficient. Not only can you benefit from saving money, you are guaranteed to get a quick, helpful, and reliable service. Why not try us out and see for yourself by requesting a comparison quote?

ABOUT MADE FOR TRADE Made For Trade is a part of Aanco UK Ltd; a family run business trading since 1979. Aanco was run by Richard Gaunt until his son, Bradley took over as Managing Director in 2005. Bradley, an Engineering graduate, restructured the business with a lean mentality in mind. Bi-folds: Call Nigel on: 01642 610798. Roofs: Call Scott or Mike on: 01642 610799. www.madefortrade.co READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0012

Installers tip colours & composites as the major drivers of growth A mid-year poll reveals that double-glazed installations remain the major driver for new business for UK installers, buoyed by foiled finishes and colours, with composite door sales also reported as a growth area. The study by trade fabricator, Emplas, found that double-glazed second time replacements were universally seen as the key driver of recovery in the window industry. This was followed by colour and foils, then composite door sales, conservatory and orangery-hybrids and bi-fold doors. Triple-glazed sales were listed as least significant product area in driving business growth in the first half of the year. When broken down by size of installation business, the results reveal a more complex pattern. Although smaller installers - those fitting up to 10 frames per week

- were consistent in reporting double-glazed sales as the major platform for growth in the first half of 2014, they ranked foils behind composite doors and conservatory hybrids.

In addition to its colour and foil ranges Emplas also offers GRP composite door ranges which sit alongside chamfered and fully sculptured casement windows, vertical sliders and triple-glazed options. The trade fabricator also supplies a range of conservatories, orangeries and hybrid products, including the mid-market ‘Livinroom’ conservatory/orangery cross-over from Ultraframe.

Installers fitting between 11 and 20 frames per week shared the same analysis, although listed composite and bi-fold doors as the lead drivers of growth, ahead of foils. Conservatory hybrids were listed by this group one but last, just ahead of triple-glazed products. This was in stark contrast to larger businesses - those installing between 21 and 40, and 40 plus frames per week - which listed colour and foils as a primary driver of growth after double-glazed products. Composite doors were also cited by this group as a driver for new business. Larger installers also shared the enthusiasm shown by those fitting between 11 and 20 frames per week for conservatory-orangery hybrids, which they listed fourth. However, this group reported an only limited appeal of bifold doors, one place ahead of triple-glazed products, which was again found at the foot of the product rankings.

Mike Crewdson, Sales and Marketing Director, Emplas said: “Product development doesn’t ever stand still. Triple-glazing and bi-fold doors are exciting prospects but to date haven’t achieved the traction that was forecast.”

White, Irish Oak, Sienna PR, Steel Blue, Dark Green, Dark Red, Cream, Black Brown, Chartwell Green, Mahogany, Hazy Grey, Slate Grey and Agate Grey, as well as Anthracite Grey in both a woodgrain foil and a flat finish foil.

“Double-glazing continues to be seen by installers as central to their growth strategies, with colour and foiled finishes, achieving growing sales in the second-time replacement market.”

It also offers an ancillary product spray-painting service through Koloplas, carrying an extensive range of Profile 22 products in stock to deliver a 10 day turnaround. It also offers a full frame spray paint service available in any RAL colour. The range features smooth and textured finishes, while all sprayed products come with a 10-year guarantee.

Emplas offers 17 Profile 22 foiled colour options. Apart from Rosewood and Antique Oak ex-stock, special foils include

Crewdson concluded: “Our strategy has been and will continue to be to invest in product development and service. Drawing on our own experience and that we share with our customers, we believe we have the mix about right and are seeing strong sales growth in foils and composite doors. “It’s our job now to continue to scan the horizon, to make sure that we’re ready for what comes next and what will allow us to support our customers in sustaining growth into the future.” For more information visit www. emplas.co.uk, email info@emplas. co.uk or call 01933 674880. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0013

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

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REHAU has officially opened its new UK warehouse in Runcorn. Group Vice President Dr Veit Wagner and CEO Rainer Schulz travelled from Germany to host a ceremony for staff and customers and unveiled a plaque marking the company’s arrival in the Cheshire town. With a new logistics partner and a new high specification warehouse, REHAU is stepping up its commitment to improving both service and efficiency for customers. The new 132,000 sq ft warehouse features an eaves height of 12m to accommodate the huge volumes of stock and has seven dock level loading doors and four drive in doors to make vehicle loading fast and efficient. The location at Manor Park in Runcorn is just a few miles across the Mersey from REHAU’s previous warehouse in Widnes so is still just as convenient for transporting profile

from REHAU’s factory in Blaenau, North Wales and onto its network of fabricators nationwide. REHAU’s newly liveried fleet of vehicles is already delivering from the warehouse direct to customers and to two secondary bases in Northampton and Hereford; and the lorries, which feature huge photos of installations in REHAU TOTAL70 and REHAU Heritage, are proving great mobile advertisements for the REHAU brand. Speaking at the official opening, Martin Hitchin, Chief Executive of REHAU in the UK, said: “This is a very impressive new facility for REHAU in the UK in the perfect location to maximise efficiency. We’re delighted with how it’s performing so far and we’re confident it will continue to do so as demand goes on increasing.” READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0015

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REHAU OFFICIALLY OPENS NEW 132,000 SQ FT UK WAREHOUSE

John Ogilvie presents Network VEKA’s AGM Members of the industry-leading standards organisation Network VEKA have heard from MD John Ogilvie about the company's activities over the last 12 months. He presented the official 'AGM' during this year's FIT Show to keep members up to date about the goings on within the organisation. John explains: “This year's AGM was a much smaller affair than our usual event. This is because the Network VEKA Awards Dinner Dance will be held - with all the glitz and glamour you've come to expect - on September 20th so as not to compete with the FIT show Gala evening. The FIT Show gave us the opportunity to invite members to come and hear the formal business review of Network VEKA over the last year and to ask questions. We explained the new appointments to the Board of Directors which, alongside Myself, now includes Independent Chairman John Moon, Glazerite Windows' Jason Thompson, Goliath Homeworld's Steve Hancox, Gary McCartan of Trent Valley Windows, Malcolm Heaver from Heavers of Bridport, Nigel Bird from Eddisbury Construction and VEKA's Colin

Torley.

“After running through the 2013 audited accounts and explaining the surplus that would be reinvested for the benefit of the members, we moved on to discuss key events and milestones from recent months. I was pleased to inform members that IBG registrations outperformed the previous year's. Registrations are now running at over £1million per week, with cumulative totals of more than £830million fitted in around 230,000 homes.

“Our DCLG-authorised Competent Persons Scheme 'Assure' achieved the UKAS accreditation in July, which also enables Network VEKA to certify installers wishing to install energy-efficient windows under the Department for Energy and Climate Change 'Green Deal' initiative.

FACILITY TO SYNSEAL

Proventus Capital Partners III has provided a 5-year GBP 46 million credit facility, including both a term loan and an acquisition facility to the UK-based Synseal Extrusions Ltd (“Synseal”). The facility will be used to refinance existing debt and to continue to fund the buy-to-build strategy. Synseal is the leading manufacturer of extruded PVC-U window and door profiles, sealed glass units and conservatory roofs. Synseal operates from three facilities in the midlands, serves over 700 customers and is the prime UK consolidator in its industry. The firm has revenues in excess of GBP 100 million and employs more than 900 staff. Synseal is owned by the mid-market private equity firm H.I.G. European Capital Partners LP (“H.I.G.”) and management, bot have significant industrial experience and will continue to support the company in its next phase of growth. “We are delighted to be working again with Proventus,” says Paul Canning, Managing Director of H.I.G. European Capital Partners. “We believe it is the perfect partner to sit alongside and support H.I.G. and management’s plans to grow the business organically and through market consolidation.” Proventus Capital Partners believes that the UK building products market and Synseal represents a compelling investment opportunity given its fundamental underlying growth, strong product proposition and stable business model. Proventus Capital Partners will work closely with H.I.G. and management to continue to support its growth ambitions, both organic and by acquisitions. David Leng, Synseal’s CEO, comments: “Proventus has delivered a flexible package that allows Synseal to accelerate our organic and acquisitive growth at an exciting time as the UK market for our products is showing real growth.”

“I look forward to working with them all over the months ahead.

“We are continuing to grow our membership by expanding into areas where coverage is not as strong, not by recruiting in areas with existing members. We continue to work with affiliate companies to offer a range of specialised products and services to our members, and we seek to build these relationships even further in future.

5 YEAR CREDIT

Tel: 01623 446207

Contact Christina or Sheilah today! christina@glassnews.co.uk or sheilah@glassnews.co.uk

Tel: 01282 473170 - www.networkveka.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0016

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0017

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

A 14 nn th iv Ye er a sa r ry !

BUILDING ON

STRONG FOUNDATIONS!

Arisands Piling Ltd into their 14th Year of Trading Arisands Ltd was formed in the year 2000 by co-directors Richard Harrison and Andrew Openshaw. They developed a mini piling system to serve builders of conservatories, garages and extensions. They now have a customer base of over 100 companies, all over the North West of England, these being mainly builders of conservatories. Their engineer provides the necessary calculations to satisfy the requirements for building regulations,for extensions and garages.

VERY COMPE TITIVE ON PRIC E! NO JOB TOO SMALL!

Richard & Andrew, Co-Directors of Arisands Ltd.

If you encounter ‘poor ground conditions’ give them a call on 07966 663 207 and to speak to Andrew, who will provide a FREE site visit.

The ground condition on this job was very ‘peaty’.

The average pile depth for this job was 5 metres. The ground was lacking in clay.

Contact Details: Mob: 07966 663 207 | Fax: 01204 460266 Email: harrisrch9@aol.com | Web: www.arisands.co.uk Or simply fill in your details on our website and we will call you back. 11 Axholme Court, Horwich, Bolton, BL6 5HQ 0714/0018

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

National Fenestration Awards Moves Into Next Phase With the regular unveiling of weekly categories and the Top 30 People’s awards now finally complete, it marks a significant step in this second year of the National Fenestration Awards. Consider this as an evolutionary step, or rather the ending of one phase and movement on to a new one. With all nominate-able categories and side competitions now live, the effort now begins to pull in as many nominations as possible, and to also unveil an event in which to announce and crown the overall winners at the end of the year. Something which we’ll be able to talk more about a little bit later on in the year. But as the year continues headlong into the summer, the amount of interaction with the NFAs already points to a very positive start. Indeed, the number of nominations received so far already surpasses the total amount last year, which is clearly great news. We are still receiving new registrations on a daily basis. We have set ourselves a loose target of reaching 1000 genuine registered users by the time the nominating phase ends in September. Lets see how we get on with that! The Cool Wall continues to be a popular feature within the NFA framework, with fantastic examples of work being uploaded and voted on. So now it’s just getting the Top 30 People’s awards alive and kicking and that would be very much the cherry on the cake right now. If anyone still doubts these awards and the growing impact they have, and will continue to have in our industry, the fact that they are the UK’s fastest growing independent fenestration awards should put paid to that.

Why Take Part? I’m sure this is a question many of you still have. And it’s a legitimate one. Why should you take time out of valuable day to take part in something new like this? Well we can’t force you, but we can give you some reasons to get stuck in! • Inclusivity. We created the NFAs to be one of the most all-inclusive awards for our industry. We saw that certain sectors were dominating the more established events, with other areas of our industry seemingly going unnoticed despite all their hard work, innovation and creativity. The NFAs are the industry’s most inclusive awards event, covering 13 sub-sectors of this diverse and energetic industry. So if you believe that your area of the sector has gone unnoticed, this is your chance to make your mark. • Unbiased, fair and honest. Three of our main core principles that lie behind the success of these awards so far. We are the very first awards of our kind in this industry where everything is decided by those who input into it. That means all nominations, shortlists and eventual winners are created and decided by people taking part. Surely the most genuine way to award a truly deserving person or company? • Free. We all like a freebie don’t we? We want to make the awards as accessible as possible. So other than a very simple registration process, taking part in the National Fenestration Awards is completely free. Even the Cool Wall and Top 30 People’s awards are registrationfree. The NFAs presents the industry with the easiest way to nominate people and businesses to be recognized for the hard work they do.

Always Independent Speak to most people about the National Fenestration Awards, and they will tell you that they love the idea of the awards because it’s independent. Because the whole industry can get involved at every level and help decide the overall winner. And it is those ethics and standards which are the foundations on which the NFAs are built. We aim to reward as much of the industry as possible with as much participation from the industry as possible.

You can find out more about the National Fenestration Awards on our website: www. fenestrationawards.co.uk, follow us on Twitter on @NatFenAwards for all the latest up to date news or email us on info@fenestrationawards. co.uk to speak to one of the team. Thanks to all those who have supported us so far, and we look forward to welcoming all newcomers as well! READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0019

Windowbase sponsors the National Fenestration Awards Windowbase is sponsoring the National Fenestration Awards (NFAs) 2014. Now in its second year, the NFAs are the trade’s fastest growing, independent and exciting awards - run for and by the industry. “We’re delighted to support the NFAs,” comments Neil Parsonson of Windowbase, the UK’s national database of

“Anyone in the industry can register, nominate and vote for the companies and people they think deserve recognition. The best installations are also voted for on the NFAs monthly ‘Cool Wall’. It’s an unusually democratic set-up but with over 600 registered users already and more joining daily, it’s one that’s answered a demand!” 12

window fabricators, installers and trade counters. “Anyone in the industry can register, nominate and vote for the companies and people they think deserve recognition. The best installations are also voted for on the NFAs monthly ‘Cool Wall’. It’s an unusually democratic set-up but with over 600 registered users already and more joining daily, it’s one that’s answered a demand!” Windowbase is the industry’s longest-established source of specialist prospect data – continuously researched for almost 25 years. It is the only supplier 100% devoted to the window market, and its in-house interviewers make thousands of calls a year to validate contact details, products and system information. Data is accessed securely online via Prospect Manager, a simple, but powerful system. Records can be searched and downloaded with ease for direct marketing by post, email, fax or phone and for researching the marketplace. Neil explains: “We give companies the means to win new customers and grow sales, cost-effectively!” To register, nominate and vote for the NFAs, go to www.fenestrationawards.co.uk. To find out how Windowbase can help you create more leads, contact Neil Parsonson on 01453 845717 or neil.parsonson@windowbase.info.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0020

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0714/0021

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

BUSINESS MICROS MOVES

TO NEW PREMISES

Business Micros has moved its Warrington based sales and installation team to a new purpose designed office in nearby Newton-leWillows.

The new office, which was been stylishly converted from its original use as a pub, has been planned to meet the specific needs of the software specialist, with

REACH 50,000 PEOPLE WITH...

both private and open plan areas, a mezzanine floor and of course the very highest specification telephone and broadband system. Managing Director Graeme Bailey says the location is perfect for the business, right at the heart of the north west’s motorway network, and the building itself provides a much improved working environment for the team. He says: “We’ve got more space than we had previously and we’ve got the opportunity to accommodate new staff as we continue to grow.” As well as the Newton-leWillows office, Business Micros also has a large programming and technical support centre based in Penpont, Dumfriesshire. www.businessmicros.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0022

FORTNIG HTLY

MAJOR BUILDING COMPANIES: 9% (WE MAIL TO 4,500)

ONLIN

PUBLICAT E ION!

OTHER: 3%

House Builders

Other

Property Developers Major Property Maintenance

ARCHITECTS & SPECIFIERS: 34%

Major Building Com

Tenders & Planning Approvals

Fabricators & Install

Social Housing

Builders & Contract

Retail Developments

Architects & Specifi

(WE MAIL TO 17,000)

Construction & Building Projects FABRICATORS & INSTALLERS: 28%

Public Sector

(WE MAIL TO 14,000)

All Material Window, Door & Conservatory

BUILDERS & CONTRACTORS: 26% (WE MAIL TO 13,000)

New Build

(Commercial & Residential Developments)

Extensions

Renovation & Refurbs

0714/0023

Email for more information: christina@fenestrabuild.co.uk

WWW.FENESTRABUILD.CO.UK M: 07805 051 322 | E: INFO@FENESTRABUILD.CO.UK

0714/0024

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www.edgetechig.co.uk July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

FENSA APPROVED IBG PROVIDER LIST INCREASES TO 12 INSURANCE COMPANIES FENSA has agreed terms with a list of 12 IBG insurance companies that can supply policies to its registered companies –the FENSA Approved Provider List. All insurance companies listed have been the subject of due diligence by FENSA that has involved checking the cover provided in the policies that will be sold to homeowners. “The undertaking of due diligence by FENSA has taken longer than we would have liked,” comments FENSA managing director Chris Mayne. “This process is vital in ensuring that the right cover is offered and that all providers have the processes in place required by us as a Competent Persons Scheme.” Installers that use insurance companies that are not on the list will be required to switch to a FENSA Approved Provider as soon as possible. The list of providers is as follows: 1. Glass and Glazing Federation Insurance (GGFI) 2. Home Improvement Protection (HIP) 3. HomePro Insurance 4. HPL 5. Independent Warranty (IWA) 6. Installations Assured 7. Insured Windows Guarantees Ltd (IWG) 8. IPWFI Insurance 9. Plastic Window Federation (PWF) 10. Quality Assured National Warranties (QANW) 11. The Consumer Protection Association (CPA)

Queen’s Speech is a boost for small builders, says FMB

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Today’s Queen’s Speech announcing measures to allow zero carbon exemptions for small developers, and new legislation to tackle late payment, will make a meaningful difference to the fortunes of small construction firms and house builders, says the Federation of Master Builders (FMB). Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “The legislative programme for the final year of this Parliament shows that the Coalition is far from a so-called “zombie government”. The small developers’ exemption from zero carbon homes regulations will help SME house builders plug the gap in the supply of new homes.” READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0026

Zero Carbon Exemption Will Create More Local Homes, says FMB Recent press reports stating that small housing developments will be exempt from some zero carbon homes requirements is a positive move towards helping to create more homes and consumer choice says the Federation of Master Builders (FMB). Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB, said: “Speculation ahead of the Queen’s Speech on Wednesday that small housing developments will be exempt from some zero carbon homes requirements is very welcome news.” READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0027

12. The Underwritten Warranty Company Trading As The Insurance Backed Guarantee Company All FENSA registered businesses have been supplied with this updated list directly. If FENSA registered businesses have any questions about IBG please telephone 020 7397 7208 or email transitions@fensa.org.uk.

@GlassnewsMag

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0025

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

Christina Shaw

/GlassNews

www.glassnews.co.uk 15

GQA NEWSLETTER

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

JULY 2014 MTC’s – Do you know enough about them? We are working with Fensa & Assure on the schemes. Contact GQA to discuss on 0114 2720033

Steve Price runner up at

the 2014 Master Fitter Challenge Steve Price of Conwy Valley Windows, Penrhyn Bay has been named as runner-up in the prestigious Master Fitter Challenge at the FIT Show 2014. The FiT Show Master Fitter Challenge, managed by GQA Qualifications, has been designed to seek out, recognise and reward the best of the best from within our industry. Competitors dealt with 3 disciplines - removal and replacement of a Bay, composite door installation and a fault recognition door - in the keenly fought 2-day final. Steve has been in the industry for 9 years having started his working life alongside his brother, David, for their father’s family business. Steve joined Conwy Valley Windows and Conservatories in December 2012 and during this time he has proved to be an enthusiastic member of the team. Steve was assessed in the final by GQA assessor Steve Hill, Steve said: “Steve was initially very nervous, but he soon got into his stride. He prepared his working area and ensured all tools and equipment required were close to hand. Using the specifications given Steve produced an installation of quality beyond his years. He demonstrated all the appropriate skills required to fulfil the installation but added little touches of finesse which contributed to his overall effectiveness. He

communicated well at all times and had an attitude which can only enhance the industry. Steve is a pleasant young man who just wants to do a job to the best of his ability irrespective of any pressure. It was a pleasure to have assessed Steve at the Master Fitter Challenge. GQA caught up with Steve a week after the event for him to reflect on his experience. Steve said: “I enjoyed the chance to take part in this competition and thank my company for their support. My Managers and MD came to see me compete on the Tuesday and we had a great evening at the Gala dinner the night after. Thanks to the sponsors as everything was laid on for me and workmate Spike who stayed and helped fit the bay window and door during the final. The competition has given me a pat on the back and for my dad and brother too. That’s how I

started in the industry working with my dad so he taught me well. I plan to come back in 2016 and win the competition”. Speaking to Steve’s employers Conwy Valley Windows, Managing Director Tracy Williams said: “The FIT Show has definitely become one of the major events in the annual calendar and with Steve being runner up in the competition, Conwy Valley Windows and Conservatories Ltd were really pleased to attend this year. Steve has been with the company for a relatively short time but during the last 2 years his training continues on a regular basis as we have to meet changing legislation and industry regulations with technical compliance.” “Steve is a skilled fitter and has grown in confidence with the support of my Management Team. We are a family business so we encourage talent when we spot it.”

YES GLAZING, Winners of the Master Fitter Challenge 2014: MASTERS OF THEIR CRAFT Paul Casbolt and Karl Kinsey of YES Glazing Solutions were declared the winners of the GQA managed Master Fitter Challenge held at the FiT Show in Telford. When the winner was announced by FiT Shows Managing Director Paul Godwin, there were tears of joy from YES Glazing as they walked away with the cash prize of £5000 and the prestigious title of Master Fitter 2014, Both Paul and Karl proved they were the best of the best in the keenly fought event. Gary Robertson was the GQA Assessor assessing Paul and Karl throughout the day and said: “Paul and Karl worked together really well as a team. An excellent level of communication between them ensured they were moving along each task and working to a high standard. Paul managed the pressure of the task really well. The competition allowed installers to highlight their skills and experience throughout each task. I found both Paul and Karl very polite, courteous and approachable not only from a judge’s point of view but also from a customer’s point of view”.

now they have proved it to the nation and have got the recognition they deserve. A big thanks needs to go to Jo Taylor and the team at IPS for all their support and the inspiration she gives our staff to push on through their qualifications. Our staff receiving this kind of recognition makes all the hard work worthwhile.”

very tough and the pressure made me very nervous. I’m so proud of our achievement and being named as the winners was very emotional as I have worked within the industry for 30 years and this sort of recognition is what I have been aiming for and the good thing is, we get to hold the title until 2016, where we will be back to defend our title.”

“Everything about the competition was really good and we will definitely be pushing Paul and Karl to defend their title in 2016, in fact we will probably have a stock of fitters wanting to apply now they have taken inspiration from this year’s win”.

“I would like to thank YES Glazing for all their support and training and also Jo and Lee of IPS - they are all part of the winning team”.

Speaking to Paul and Karl a week after their winning performance Paul said: “This is the second year of taking part in the competition, but this year I put more into it and the whole competition was

Karl said: “It’s all still a blur and hasn’t really sunk in that we have won. The whole experience was very nerve wracking but very worthwhile. Everyone who took part deserves recognition, as there were some really good fitters. See you in 2016, so we can defend our title”.

James Howard of YES Glazing Solutions said: “We have enjoyed the whole show and are really very proud of Paul and Karl, we know they are fantastic installers but

Alifast Limited employees complete 3 year apprenticeship with GQA approved centre NLTG Alifast employees John Eyres and James Moore have successfully completed their 3 year Apprenticeship within Fabrication of Glass Supporting Systems with long standing GQA approved centre North Lancs Training Group.

John and James have successfully trained over three years in the fabrication of Aluminium Bi Folding Doors, Windows, Doors and Curtain Walling. The training involved assembly through to the latest CNC machines, consisting of CNC Saw and CNC Preparation. The presentation of their GQA NVQ Level 3 Certificate was made by Roy Pusey (Assessor) and Dave Edwards (Internal Verifier) from NLTG (North Lancs Training Group) Limited. Thanks has to go to both Roy and Dave of NLTG for their continued support and guidance to all Apprentices on GQA NVQ Qualifications.

Tel: 0114 2720033 | Fax: 0114 2768466 Web: www.gqaqualifications.com | Email: marketing@gqaqualifications.com GQA Qualifications Unit 1, Twelve O'clock Court, Attercliffe Road, Sheffield S4 7WW 16

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0029

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

THE SOLID CONSERVATORY ROOF

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Ideal for replacement or new conservatories • All LivinROOF designs come complete with the LivinRoom perimeter ceiling system as standard, not only providing the perfect place for spotlights and speakers, but it gives the effect of lifting the vaulted ceiling, giving a light airy feel to the new room. • LivinROOF can incorporate the Classic Cornice - hiding the guttering and giving your conservatory a modern, aethestically pleasing feature. • Externally the LivinROOF is finished in urban grey to compliment any housing style and give a contemporary look. • The LivinROOF is quick to install compared to other solid roofs on the market and because of its prefabricated design, doesn’t require any onsite cutting, reducing waste and disruption.

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Connaught Conservatory Roofs Limited, Unit 3, Lloyd Street, Parkgate, Rotherham, S62 6JG. 0714/0030

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

New SIG brand

is set to make its mark across all sectors of our industry Glass News Publisher, Christina Shaw, with Editor, Chris Champion, attended the rebranding launch of SIG at the Building Centre in London and report on the restructure introduced by SIG UK Exteriors. SIG UK Exteriors (formerly SIG Roofing & Roofline and SIG Specialist Glazing Products) is the new holding company for SIG Roofing and SIG Building Plastics with a total of 45 brands falling under the two divisions. The company offers a comprehensive range of core and specialist products and services, backed by unparalleled levels of technical knowledge and expertise for the roofing and building plastics market. SIG UK Exteriors is a fully-owned subsidiary of SIG plc - a FTSE250 organisation and UK’s largest specialist supplier of roofing and related materials for over 30 years and has a combined turnover of £823.7m. In fact, SIG is one of the leading distributors of specialist building products in Europe with over 75 years’ experience in the manufacture and delivery of specialist construction solutions. The two new divisions are driven by the brand promise ‘Make it Happen’ and the SIG brands are now clearly identified with a series of new SIG brands forming part of each division, with each clearly sub-branded by market and business focus, and all pre-fixed with SIG for consistency and clarity. To ease the rebrand process and to demonstrate ongoing loyalty to local brands, a transitional phase has been introduced - estimated to be one year - whereby local brand identities will sit alongside the flagship SIG logo. This is very necessary bearing in mind the considerable number of businesses that have been acquired in recent years and the local and regional loyalty to those local brands.

Importantly, three enhanced support brands have been added to the structure with SIG Design & Technology, SIG Zinc & Copper and SIG Industrial Roofing. The own brands of SIGA Slate and the FIX-R range of flat roofing products remain separate to the new rebrand structure. And why the re-brand? SIG is a huge organization employing over 10,000 people across as many as 750 trading sites and it makes sense to bring the range of local brands under one umbrella and it will play a pivotal role in the supply chain with a streamlinemanaged approach, providing smarter, leaner and faster delivery of what’s needed, when it’s needed. This approach will especially benefit customers of SIG UK Exteriors’ 200 depots, with the advantage of local supply and specialization, nationwide. Philip Johns, Managing Director of the newly formed SIG UK Exteriors said, at the London launch: “In what is seen as one of the most ambitious developments in recent years, the rebrand and restructure are the positive outcomes of our broadening footprint in the roofing and building plastics market, and our continued growth and increasing recognition and reputation. “By presenting a cohesive and unified brand structure, we have taken a logical step that will enable both customers and end users to easily identify and connect with our comprehensive portfolio of brands, products and services. The transitional phase will help

“In what is seen as one of the most ambitious developments in recent years, the rebrand and restructure are the positive outcomes of our broadening footprint in the roofing and building plastics market, and our continued growth and increasing recognition and reputation.”

Philip Johns, Managing Director of the newly formed SIG UK Exteriors describes the new brand and restructure as ‘one of the most ambitious developments in recent years’.

ease our suppliers and customers through this major change,” adds Philip. He continues: “Our mission is to create confidence in roofing and building plastics. ‘Make it Happen’ is built on our key values of commitment, confidence, connection and creativity, and these stem from our vision of providing unified brands with a complete customer proposition.” As part of this new customer proposition, the focus will be on four areas: • To increase branch efficiency, a new IT system will be introduced, along with a specially developed integrated Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and accounting system. • Careful to maintain its enviable reputation and proven reliability of service, two primary sectors have been identified, namely Roofing and Building Plastics, and the company’s internal structure has been split accordingly. By providing a clear focus to these two areas, customers will be able to source the right product at the right location. • A core range of products has been developed that will be available at any time and at any branch, providing customers with a ‘familiar sense of relief ’, regardless of where they are in the country. • There will be a strong focus on ensuring that customers obtain the right products, in the right places, in the right quantities, at the right time, via the company’s 200+ depots nationwide and its national logistics network.

The rebrand and restructure follows months of indepth market and customer research. In direct response to customer feedback, the new restructure provides clarity, simplicity and consistency across all sectors, and delivers a national voice with a local accent. Branches from each sector will now become more than just merchants, offering a standard core range of products that guarantee quality, reliability and outstanding service levels. The rebrand is currently being rolled out across all branches and will take on new signage, in-store branding, merchandise and POS displays. It is also being introduced to vehicle livery and uniforms. All associated websites will also reflect the rebrand with immediate effect, and to educate and raise awareness of this major development, a high profile media campaign will run until the year end. Philip adds: “Our unparalleled expertise and market commitment compels us to evolve with our customers. By unifying and aligning this incredible array of businesses into an easily recognisable and understandable structure, we are confident we can add even greater value to our much-revered products and services. “‘Make it Happen’ sums up the vision for the group and this launch is just one of many exciting new developments to come. We have some great momentum right now, and with no signs of slowing, there has never been a better time to rebrand, concludes Philip.” READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0031

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

SYNSEAL’S GO-KARTING CHALLENGE IS A WINNER!

TRADE NEWS

REHAU CONGRATULATES KEYFRAME UK ON 20 YEARS IN BUSINESS REHAU fabricator and Authorised Partner Keyframe UK has just celebrated its 20th anniversary and has received a certificate and trophy from REHAU to mark its achievement. Keyframe UK, based in Bolton, has been a REHAU customer since the day it was founded in 1994 and has successfully grown to become one of the largest trade fabricators in the region.

David Leng, Chief Executive of Synseal, issued a fun Go-Karting Challenge to guests at an orangery workshop conducted on behalf of the Conservatory Outlet Dealer Network, which was attended by 19 dealer companies and jointly hosted by Greg Kane, Managing Director of Conservatory Outlet on 21st May. Following a series of technical presentations detailing Synseal’s range of structural orangery solutions, the event venue switched to the nearby Kurburgring Go-Kart racing circuit, which is located close to Synseal’s 35-acre headquarters in Huthwaite, Nottinghamshire. With training on race track safety procedures, basic kart driving skills and competition rules duly completed, all drivers were issued with overalls, gloves and helmets and with a heady mix of noisy engines, screeching tyres and the smell of petrol fumes in the air, a strong sense of competitive spirit soon took grip.

Producing around 1,000 frames per week in the REHAU TOTAL70 system, Keyframe UK has, over the last two decades, built a reputation for its technical skills and the quality and value of its products. More than 60% of the company’s employees have been with the company for more than 15 years. The secret to the continued success of Keyframe UK is that they pride themselves on the fact that they understand and are aware of what trade customers require from a supplier and constantly deliver quality and reliability. A comprehensive range of quality frames in REHAU profile, excellent customer service and good value have been the foundation of Keyframe’s business and, moving forward, they are the platform which will help them continue to grow. The Keyframe UK product range includes casements, tilt and turn windows, doors and French doors in a comprehensive range of colours and foils. The company supplies trade customers throughout England and Wales on a 3-7 day product turnaround. Andy Bell, Sales and Marketing Manager at Keyframe UK, received the certificate and engraved anniversary trophy from Katrina Earl, REHAU’s Area Sales Manager. She said: “Our partnership with Keyframe UK is a real success story. For 20 years, they have continually supplied excellent products and are one of our flagship fabricators. REHAU has been a key supplier since the start and we remain strong and loyal partners.”

Eight teams of six competed in a team event and there was also a chance to win personal glory. Three experienced motorsport guest racers achieved lap times of under 29 seconds – the winning driver was Edward Westbury of 5-Star Windows & Conservatories with a swift lap time of 28.001 seconds, who closely pipped his 5-Star colleague Richard Manser into 2nd place while Alan Pain of County took 3rd place ahead of Synseal’s best-performing driver Phil Parry, Head of R&D, who clocked a very respectable 28.861 seconds.

0714/0034

Speaking at the evening dinner, David Leng, Synseal’s Chief Executive, was pleased to hand out the well-earned prizes and commented: “I knew the Go-Kart racing would be exciting and competitive, but I never expected so many of you to beat me. I’ll have to think of an even tougher sporting challenge for next time.” READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0032

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0033

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Sky, Sunday Independent & Daily Mail call on CPA to comment on rise in female workers A leading provider of insurance backed guarantees (IBGs) to the industry recently appeared in the national press to comment on the growing number of females working in construction. The Consumer Protection Association (CPA) was contacted by the Sunday Independent and asked to comment on the rise of white van women; following the publication of an article about how women now represent 5.7 per cent of trade workers. The CPA provides IBG’s and services that help installers achieve sales and grow their businesses. Following the publication of the story in the Sunday Independent; CPA Director Jeremy Brett’s comments then appeared in the Daily Mail and he was also contacted by Sky News to comment. Jeremy says that the organisation’s twenty one years’ experience and commitment to raising standards in the industry were key factors behind them being asked to comment. He comments: “We’ve been providing IBGs and support to installers for over twenty one years now, so we have seen lots of changes. We’re always keen to promote the good work of installers and comment on issues affecting the industry. Naturally this kind of national coverage gives us a good platform to do so.”

In the article Jeremy said this: “We have been operating in the building and homeimprovement industry for over 20 years and there has been a quantum shift.

Small house building firms have welcomed moves to increase brownfield development outlined in the Chancellor’s Mansion House speech, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has said.

“Wind back 20 years and it was very rare to see women working in the building trade, but we are seeing a change.” He added: “It’s also changing at a management level - we’re seeing more women taking roles as CEOs and directors. The perception is still that it is a male profession, but I don’t know how long that will be the reality for.” The report also said that the surge of females taking roles in the industry is down to employers seeking tradespeople who are reliable and good with customer service – which many believe women are better at. These figures have been accompanied by a drop in the number of foreign migrants working as builders and tradesmen, which has virtually halved in the past four years, according to a study of 10,000 in the industry. The CPA was recently named as an accredited provider of Insurance Backed Guarantees, following regulatory changes that make it mandatory for installers to provide finance protection.

sales presentation advice and quarterly assessment reports. For more information call The Consumer Protection Association on: 01462 850062.

Chris Carr, Chair of the FMB Home Builders Group, said: “Bringing forward planning applications remains an expensive and risky business for small house builders. Brownfield sites within our towns and cities are likely to be sites of a size and location that is attractive to local builders. However, previously-used sites often come with additional costs and complexities that increase the upfront investment required at a time when finance remains very difficult to come by for small developers.” Carr concluded: “The Chancellor’s announcement that councils will be required to place local development orders on more than 90% of suitable brownfield sites by 2020 is significant.” “It will reduce the risks involved and provide house builders with the certainty they need to invest in these sites. Where this is backed with funding to help make difficult brownfield sites viable for development then talk of an urban planning revolution may not be so far fetched.”

Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) the CPA’s core business is providing Insurance Backed Guarantees (IBGs) and deposit protection to installers carrying out home improvements. It also offers its members a host of other benefits such as marketing support; training;

Chancellor’s ‘planning revolution’will encourage investment in brownfield, says FMB

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0035

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0036

PRESS GLASS is going to develop its plant in Poland PRESS GLASS company, the largest independent glass manufacturer in Europe, is going to significantly develop its plant in Radomsko (Poland). The area of the production halls shall be doubled and 200 new employees shall be employed. The investment is to cost ca. EUR 12 million. The plant in Radomsko already is the largest European centre for processing glass for the construction industry. The plant was established

“More types of products shall be manufactured in the plant. We will also significantly enlarge the area of glass warehouses.” 20

in 2008 and it is the youngest factory of the company (the remaining ones are also located in Poland and that is in Nowa Wieś, Tczew and Tychy). At the beginning the area of the plant was 12 thousand m²; at present – after the development that took place in 2012 – the area is 30 thousand m². After the completion of the aforementioned investment the area of the halls shall increase up to 63 thousand m². The works on the development shall start in the next quarter. The company explains that the investment is related to the fulfilment of the wider plan of increasing sales on

European markets to which more than 80% of the glass manufactured by PRESS GLASS is being sold. “PRESS GLASS has been carrying out its business activity since 1991. From the very beginning we have been doing our best to improve our competitive advantage, which is one of our main priorities. The development of our plant in Radomsko shall make it possible for us to strengthen our position on Scandinavian markets to which we export the largest quantities of glass. However, at the same time we are going to increase our

sales on other markets, including, first of all, the British and the French market. These objectives are to be achieved by this new investment” - says Gerard Plaze from the PRESS GLASS Promotion Department. According to the company’s announcements, the new halls shall be equipped with machines using the most modern technologies. The factory’s production capacity shall be extended by new production lines for manufacturing glazed units and laminated glass, furnaces for manufacturing tempered glass, and the centre for manufacturing enamelled glass and printed glass. “More types of products shall be manufactured in the plant. We will also significantly enlarge the area of glass warehouses”, adds Gerard Plaze. After the completion of the development the factory’s capacity shall include, among others, 15 lines for manufacturing glazed units, 6 furnaces for glass tempering, 2 lines for manufacturing laminated glass and 2 specialist processing centres. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0037

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

CONSERVATORY ROOF SPECIALISTS

The First for Ultraframe

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Cornice •

A powder coated aluminium gutter cloaking system in a range of standard colours or RAL colour to transform the external appearance of your project.

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Easy to fit aluminium powder coated clad pillars. Available in 2 sizes to create the contemporary or classic look. Rapid build, more stable than brick pillars, thermally efficient 0.15 U Value, fantastic visual appearance.

LivinRoom •

An easy to install cost-effective system enabling you to create the orangery feature that your customers actually want. With projection up to 1200mm and variable pitches.

Integral Radiant Heaters •

Instant economical heat from a 13A socket. Integrated into the Loggia corner post system for speedy installation.

Call David to discuss your requirements!

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Connaught, the first for Ultraframe

Connaught Conservatory Roofs Limited, Unit 3, Lloyd Street, Parkgate, Rotherham, S62 6JG. 0714/0038

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

CONSERVATORIES

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

SUN TRADE EXPANDS

COLOUR RANGE IN RESPONSE TO CUSTOMER DEMAND REHAU fabricator Sun Trade Windows has expanded the range of colours available in its matching foiled range and is now offering frames, Georgian bars and conservatory roofs in five new options. Chartwell Green, Anthracite Grey, Cream, Black Brown and Irish Oak are all now available on white or foiled on both sides, all within the same three week lead time. Steve Graves, Sun Trade’s Head of Business and Development UK commented: “The decision to add new colours has come as a direct result of research among our customers, along with our own analysis of recent colour trends in the market place.” “The entire range has been showcased nationally to all our depots and the positive response we’ve had back is testimony to how well Sun can accommodate customer requests.”

Combining REHAU profiles with the Global roof system, Sun has always successfully maintained a three week lead time on matching foil colours, and it is maintaining this market leading service even with the addition of the five new colours and the matching Georgian bar. Steve continues: “Foiled products now account for a large percentage of our sales and we’re expecting that to increase further with the addition of these new colours. All of our products are fabricated in house so customers will of course continue to benefit from the exceptional quality and service which has always underpinned our success.” Sun Trade has made it even easier for customers to order the new colours by streamlining their order forms so that there are now just six simple, standard forms for all of their products. Sun Trade supplies frames in REHAU Tritec and REHAU TOTAL70 profiles along with specialist products such as conservatories, vertical sliding windows, bi-folding doors, patio doors and composite doors via a series of trade depots located across the south of the UK.

For further information on Sun, contact Ryan White on: 01656 746 650 or visit the web site at www.suntradewindows.com. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0039

0714/0040

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

CONSERVATORIES

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

New Product

“ORANGERY CENTRAL”

UNVEILED AT SYNSEAL

Launch For Rocal

With the mantra of ‘don’t move, improve’, a garden room could be the answer to a lot of people’s problems as they struggle to cope with an expanding family or just need more space. Rocal is extending its product portfolio and launching garden rooms at its site in Brigg, North Lincolnshire, on 13th and 14th May, allowing people the freedom to get up close and personal and to see for themselves what all the fuss is about. Stephen Nadin Managing Director says: ‘This is a fantastic opportunity for installers to extend their product range and create a new revenue stream by offering the latest musthave affordable outdoor living space’. They take just 2-3 days to install, even in the most inaccessible of gardens. Technically advanced and premium quality, Rocal’s garden rooms are perfect as a home office,

A brand new Synseal showroom located at the company’s Huthwaite headquarters is now officially open for customers to view.

party pad, or just a place to relax and enjoy the surroundings. The walls, floor and ceiling are all assembled from precision engineered structural insulated panels, which give an excellent thermal performance, offering a u-value of 0.3(W/m2k). This is a much better result than that achieved by timber-erected garden rooms. The modular outdoor spaces create a robust universal living space that can be used all year round, with the Structural Insulated Panels and PVC double glazed doors and windows keeping them cool in the summer and warm in the winter. There is a choice of glazing options available, to suit every requirement. Rocal is inviting prospective customers to the launch of their Garden Rooms on 13th and 14th May. To attend call 01652 659259 or email sales@rocal.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0041

Synseal’s Marketing and Technical Services teams have joined forces to create “orangery central”, conveniently located in the heart of the Midlands. Five different orangery design solutions are displayed – a Venetian widespan orangery with full-height window walling and popular Evolve PVC-U bi-folding doors in Cream woodgrain foil finish; a traditional brick-built parapet wall Integra orangery with country-style rustic detailing and Evolve vertical sliding sash windows; a flat-roofed Rio orangery with SynerJy windows; a contemporary-styled double-soffit Modena orangery in trendy Anthracite Grey finish and the best-selling Global Summer hybrid orangery with Legend windows and doors. Customers can come along and literally feel the difference by touching a Celsius performance glass demonstration wall that clearly shows how the specialist Celsius Clear, Celsius One and Celsius Elite glasses dramatically reduce thermal transference and heat loss through the sealed double glass units when compared to standard glass.

The newly refurbished showroom was specially prepared in readiness to stage an orangery workshop on behalf of the Conservatory Outlet Dealer Network, which was attended by 19 dealer companies and jointly hosted by Greg Kane, Managing Director of Conservatory Outlet on 21st May. Mark Schlotel, Head of Marketing at Synseal, comments: “Our new showroom focusses on the value-adding and aspirational products that are now driving growth in our UK market, such as orangeries, bi-folding doors and high performance glass. We’re also keen to demonstrate how our range of structural orangery designs can be fitted with Global or K2 lantern roofs, so the new Integra and Rio orangery exhibits feature an adjoining raised stairway to help visitors directly compare our two proven conservatory roof solutions up close and personal.” Tel: 01623 446207 READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0042

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0714/0043

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GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW: FOUR SEASONS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Glass News catches up with

Four Seasons Managing Director, Phil Foulger... So Phil, are there any new developments within the Company? Absolutely! Last year we began manufacturing the Guardian Tiled Roof, which has helped our sales increase by 35%. We’ve now introduced a new product to the portfolio, the K2 Plasterboard Capella. The Company has also undergone a complete management restructure.

What does the restructure mean to your customers? Earlier in the year I underwent a major back operation, which meant I had to take some time away from the business. The fact I now have a clean bill of health means I’m able to get out and see my customers, which is great for them, as they are dealing direct with the decision maker, and its great for me as I’m able to see how I can help them grow, either with marketing support, new product ranges or even technical assistance.

Going back to the K2 Capella, can you tell me more about it? The Plasterboard Capella is a lower cost Orangery Solution that looks fantastic, is easy to fit and is available to retrofit an existing conservatory. It gives homeowners something truly different, so when upgrading an existing conservatory, it gives that Orangery look, at a far more accessible price. We also offer the full range of K2 Orangeries.

PlasterboardCapellaOrangery Roof, we can upgrade a conservatory even further. Along with the Guardian Tiled Roof System our customers have a huge choice available to them, which helps them achieve their own sales objectives. The New Wave bi-folding door adds the finishing touch and again, is used to maximise the sales opportunity. See link below: http://www.newwavedoors.co.uk/

You mention you’ve been fabricating 14 years – so it’s a big birthday for you next year? Yes 15 years old next year! Can’t quite believe how the time has flown! It’s exciting times for us all at Four Seasons, as there is so much happening. It’s all very positive.

It sounds as if business is booming Phil, what plans do you have the remainder of this year? In line with the new Orangery product, we’ve just signed off a new marketing campaign which includes press coverage, advertising, direct mail and eshots, but we’ve also invested in our sales support team too. This means that when customers contact us with a new enquiry, chasing a quote, or for technical advice, the call is dealt with promptly and efficiently.

Thanks Phil. Hope to catch up with again in the near future. Christina Shaw, Publisher.

How does this new product fit into your current offering? Four Seasons have been fabricating the K2 Conservatory Roof System for 14 years. It’s a quality product, aimed at the discerning homeowner. With the

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0044

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

THE AFFORDABLE ORANGERY SOLUTION Ideal for those who are looking for something truly different but want to retain a full glass roof, the Capella also allows you to upgrade an existing conservatory to give it that orangery look. The design drastically improves the external appearance of a standard conservatory, thanks to the aluminium high fronted gutter which hides the roof bars. On the inside an eye-catching internal soffit gives the appearance of a full blown orangery allows the inclusion of down-lights or speakers, giving you a unique and highly novel appearance that will be the envy of your customers’ neighbours!

Features: • High front gutter hides the ends of the glazing and roof bars • Internal brackets create orangery soffit appearance (170mm or 317mm) • Roof specific kits - no cutting of aluminium sections

Orangery, The Capella

Benefits: • A lower cost orangery solution • Usual building regulations exceptions apply • Easy to fit - adds only a couple of hours to a conservatory installation • Available to retro-fit existing conservatories • Strength throughout - no problem with ladders leaning on the gutter

For all sales enquiries and quotes please email: vikki@fourseasons-roofs.co.uk

JUST NOT OOF A R ANY! P COM

Deal direct with the Directors... Tel: 01909 735 833 | Fax: 01909 735 385

www.fourseasons-roofs.co.uk | vikki@fourseasons-roofs.co.uk

CONSERVATORY & ORANGERY ROOFS | SOLARIS GLASS | CELSIUS GLASS | NEW WAVE SLIDE & SWING DOORS | GUARDIAN SOLID ROOFS 0714/0045

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

THE FIT SHOW REVIEW – 10, 11 & 12 June

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

FIT is history...

but only until 2016. Book now to avoid disappointment! So FIT 2014 has come and gone. It’s history. But it would be wrong to dismiss it out of hand because it’s an event that’s important to our industry. While we all want to meet new people and prospects for our businesses, the whole networking aspect of FIT with colleagues, suppliers, and existing customers is both enjoyable, useful and fundamental to the industry’s ongoing success. The fact is that there are an extraordinary number of clever, innovative, hardworking, successful and very nice people in this industry and FIT gives us all a chance to mix under one roof for three days every two years….and that brings me to the first part of this review. Once a year? Every two years? Certainly we all thought that FIT 13 would be followed by FIT 15 but then FIT 14 was slotted in. Whether we think that’s right or not, the fact is that the industry has supported FIT 14 and invested in attendance as either an exhibitor or a visitor. While logical to go on alternate years to Fensterbau, FIT 2014 doesn’t seem to have suffered, but what about 2016? FIT’s Managing Director, Paul Godwin is always great value and you know you’ll get an answer out of him: “Fensterbau and FIT in the same year is not a problem. People talk about moving stands between the two venues but they are not interchangeable anyway. The stands are built for the different markets and, in most cases, the operation is run from the UK for FIT and from Europe for Fensterbau. Let’s put it like this: the European companies have rebooked for 2016 and one large system company came to see what FIT was all about and signed for 2016 on the Wednesday….and this business is a big supporter of Fensterbau.” Fair enough. And what about the rumour machine saying that two successful shows and a full order book for 2016 heralds a sale of the FIT machine? “Categorically, no.” said Paul when I asked the question despite people ‘in the know’ claiming otherwise. Paul Godwin is a pretty straight shooter and when I put a variety of questions to him about the organisation of FIT and perceived problems or general gripes, he’s always had a good and, it has to be said, logical answer. There was certainly frustration on Monday’s set up day with exhibitors being hounded to shift their cars and deposit them in the ‘Cheesecutter’ car park. The fact that dumper trucks were covering signs to this designated car park and it was in the middle of road works didn’t help. Neither did the fact that the car park staff struggled to point a way out of the car park and back to the International Centre. But as with everything, there’s usually a good answer. “Last year,” said Paul, “a good number of exhibitors parked their cars on the set up day in the car park at the International Centre and left them there for the duration, such that our guests, our visitors, were forced to park some way away. That’s not as it should be.” Moving your car out to the Cheesecutter was annoying when there’s an empty car park at the exhibition but, to be fair, you can’t argue with Paul’s logic. The situation was made worse by the fact that the fields that were to be used by exhibitors for parking were flooded and unusable, so getting

Photograph courtesy of Dino Belvedere.

the Cheesecutter opened especially for FIT proved to be a masterstroke.

organising FIT. It’s a good show and everyone can be proud of FIT 2014.

Yes, there will always be the odd problem and what may seem trivial to one can be of great moment to another. The hiccup with the badges on day one was unfortunate, whereby the company name wasn’t printed on the badge, and that made it difficult to surreptiously identify who you were talking to. A show stopper? No. We got ours changed and it was simple to do, but not many bothered.

Poor old Glass News seemed to draw the short straw this year, suffering from the disappearance of a leather folder and IPad, complete with our notes and collection of business cards from the first day – so, sorry if you haven’t heard back from us on a particular issue. That and finding our graphics destroyed and pretty much everything else on the stand nicked when we came to breakdown on Friday, was a shame. When I asked Paul about security he was able to tell me that we were the only people to suffer and that no one else reported any problems. At least that’s good news and that our problems were very much the exception rather than the rule.

There was the usual ‘Too hot: too cold’ issue and, yes, the nonexistent air con is a shame but for FBs like Godwin and yours truly, we probably had the benefit of losing a few pounds! Some said it was hotter than last year…er, it’s June this time, not April! Was it as busy as last year? To be honest I’m not sure and Wednesday was, as expected, the one that was noticeably fuller than any other day. I believe the official figures will confirm a slight drop in numbers over the three days but, talking to exhibitors, their stands were busy and the quality of visitors was perceived to be better than last year. Certainly the FIT organisers cannot be faulted for their efforts in trying to get the installers to come to Telford and it’s evident that both a great deal of time and money was devoted to that end. Did everything go smoothly and as expected? Probably not, but these things happen in the best regulated families. No one can knock the enthusiasm or the work that goes into

And so to 2016, and it sounds as if it will be a goodie, even at this early stage. “We have just over 80% of available space confirmed and signed up for 2016, already,” said Paul Godwin. Any show would be proud to have an order book like that, and it bodes well for the industry as a whole with that sort of confidence being displayed. And if you wanted any further convincing, an exit poll conducted by the Independent Ratings Company, with a sample of 500 people, found that 72% thought it was ‘Really important’ for our industry to have its own show, while a further 25% thought it ‘Important’. A final statistic from this exit poll, and one for everyone to think about, not least the FIT 2016 organisers: 59% of visitors were new to FIT….they hadn’t visited the show in 2013!

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

Thank you. We couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have done it without you.

81%

of returning visitors said the show was as good or better than last year

96%

of new visitors said the show was really good or brilliant

98%

of all visitors said their day had been worth while

0714/0046

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

THE FIT SHOW REVIEW – 10, 11 & 12 June

Kieran Costello Jnr, Sales and Marketing Manager, GlassParts.co.uk demonstrates the new Window Lift that was being offered at the show, at a very special price. Easy lifting of windows up to 250kgin weight and up to as high as 9 metres! Less scaffolding and easy to transport.

Will Butler, Grouphomesafe’s Group Marketing Director shows an example of ERA’s new anti-snap cylinder, displaying the difference in size between the Eurocylinder and ERA’s new cylinder. ERA has a range of locks and hardware to suit the new larger size.

The Georgian Bar Company’s stand was popular and not just because of their unique clip on Georgian bars. Philip Dewhurst and Philip Dewhurst Junior with their help.

The "Have one on us" campaign on the Illbruck stand allowed an installer to fit out an entire house free of charge with illbruck's A-Rated window system containing TP651 trio impregnated expending tape and FM330 foam. Available to the first 50 installers registering on illbruck's stand, they were also treated to demonstration.

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

On the busy Pearl Window Systems’ stand, Managing Director, Jeff Walsh, seemed to have people to talk to throughout the show. The Liniar system beading, requiring no clips, and Pearl’s own factory fitting of the Liniar glazing platform, drew a lot of attention.

Purplex had a lot to celebrate, not least their 10th anniversary. Additionally, their Marketing Village attracted a lot of attention with a free marketing review offered in the private pods.

Dow Corning & Geocell presented their latest innovation in glazing sealant technology on Stand 310. Visitors, and the media alike, were able to watch practical demonstrations of the high, instant strength capabilities of newly developed Dow Corning 776 InstantFix – and easy to use silicone sealant for bonding glass into window frames.

Quality is the leading principle at Bohle – in every area, as clearly showed through at this years’ FIT. Divided into the product divisions: Handling, Glass Cutting, Glass Bonding, Glazing, Tools, Machinery, Fittings and Surface Protection, the total product range is precisely tailored to the respective customer groups from trade, industry and retail.

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

THE FIT SHOW REVIEW – 10, 11 & 12 June

Ritec launched the revolutionary new ClearShield Eco-SystemT and Stephen Byers, Managing Director, Ritec International and Brian McDonald, the company’s Sales and Business Development Manager showed the system to Glass News’ Publisher, Christina Shaw.

Senior Architectural Systems’ aluminium frames can be powder coated in virtually any colour in their in house coating facility, one of the largest and most technically advanced in the country.

Promac’s Joe Hague had much to smile about with the launch of the new and completely revolutionary SL4FF Seamless Quad Welder from Graf Synergy. This is the next step in the evolution of window manufacturing. The combined cleaning and welding platform provides a completely new way to manufacture window and door frames with exacting quality and increased strength. The unique process combines traditional process with state of the art software and hardware that allows for the precise placement of the welded sprew delivering a corner joint without any groove.

Swisspacer’s Vic de Costa explains to visitors and the media, why Swisspacer is the UK and Ireland’s no. 1 warm edge spacer bar. It’s tried and tested to give the best thermal performance and long-lasting results. Swisspacer is ideal for double and triple glazing, significantly improving thermal instulation for the best energy ratings and lowest U-values.

Spilka demonstrate what people are less aware of, at this years FIT Show: a range of products which they believe are perfect for the UK market, and which will add to their reputation as a perfect partner for the window and door sector.

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

Business Micros Aluminium specifically focuses on the aluminium sector, continually providing the most comprehensive window, door and curtain walling construction software for the aluminium market. Graeme Bailey was on hand to demonstrate their software.

Arcoframe manufacture and supply specialist frames and promise quality, handcrafted, bespoke designs for Arched and Circular frames. A select range was on show at this year’s FIT Show. The comprehensive range includes verticals & arched vertical sliders, pivot windows, composite & arched composite doors, gothic frames and gable ends. Also on offer were a broad choice of profile and colour, as well as a wide choice of systems.

THE FIT SHOW REVIEW – 10, 11 & 12 June

A busy three days for the staff at Solidor, which is arguably the UK’s fastest growing manufacturer of composite doors. Rather than use GRP-based door slabs with foam infill, they offer a solid timber core-based product, with 17 colours inside and out. There are no limitations on the combination of styles or glass types within their range.

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Managing Director of Universal Arches, Leon Day, certainly ‘held the key’ to a consistently busy stand. Universals product quality is the benchmark in the sector, with manufacturing tolerance now within a few millimetres.

“Fensterbau and FIT in the same year is not a problem. People talk about moving stands between the two venues but they are not interchangeable anyway. The stands are built for the different markets and, in most cases, the operation is run from the UK for FIT and from Europe for Fensterbau. Let’s put it like this: the European companies have rebooked for 2016 and one large system company came to see what FIT was all about and signed for 2016 on the Wednesday….and this business is a big supporter of Fensterbau.”

The hands-on displays with video animation helped to attract visitors to the Carl F Groupco stand. From left to right, Wendy Walmsley, PR Consultant; John Crittenden, Managing Director; Clare Crockett, Marketing Executive

Eclectic Systems exhibited the R9 system on stand 370, offering some exciting additions to their brand. New marketing material was made available for installers and retailers. Visitors were shown the new 55mm cill, and the launch of the R9 door screen system, as well as many other exciting products.

Veka UK Group were out in force with Colin Torley and his team showcasing the brand new innovative Imagine Bi-Fold Door System, launching the new 'Approved Installer' scheme, plus a host of other new window and door systems.

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Dean Bradley must surely win the prize for most products on display! Its hardly surprising since they are the one stop shop for your trickle ventilator, glazing accessories, vacuum foiling and plastic spraying needs. All this in addition to the widest range of & colour matched drain hole covers, complementing their ranges of flat packers, corner protectors, fixing lugs and many more.

Whiteline’s Peter Hand showed their Revival System on the Liniar stand. Due to be launched in September this an 85mm system with 7 chambers replicating yesterday…today. With deep cills and authentic throat drips and the ability to mechanically joint with traditional mortise and tenon joints, it looks seriously impressive!

THE FIT SHOW REVIEW – 10, 11 & 12 June

While Truedor were there in force, regrettably their front man for their campaign to promote the Truedor to the public was away filming. Larger than life size images of George Clarke adorned the stand as did their range of composite doors.

A busy stand for Connaught Conservatories who showcased options available for homeowners to customise their conservatories. One highlight was the Guardian Roof, the Company’s best selling solid roof product. Connaught thank all customers who visited the stand, with all enquiries currently being addressed!

Wintech Engineering are an independent UKAS accredited testing laboaory based in th heart of industrial England. They specialise In providing a comprehensive range of testing services throughout the building, construction and allied industries, worldwide. Staff were onhand to help with any questions from visitors.

A final statistic from this exit poll, and one for everyone to think about, not least the FIT 2016 organisers: 59% of visitors were new to FIT….they hadn’t visited the show in 2013!

RegaLead’s Joint Managing Director, Guy Hubble showing a preview Decorative Door Products’ new range of pre-mixed DoorColour shades. There was a fair amount of decorative glass shown, too!

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

The UK Windows stand showcased the Residence 9 window and door range, which is designed to replicate the flush sash timber window. They also highlighted the range of Residence 9 trims. As the only supplier in the country with the complete range their stand was definitely worth a visit.

Science was at the forefront at Rehau with their white lab coats and the recuperative Oxygen Bar. Amongst the most interesting new products to be featured by Rehau was the flush fitting casement window in the REHAU TOTAL70 range.

THE FIT SHOW REVIEW – 10, 11 & 12 June

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Ultraframe were showing their LivinROOF, a system that directly targets the solid replacement roof market and has the potential to save the home owner around £2000 when compared to other solid roof products currently on the market! Alongside the LivinROOF, Ultraframe were exhibiting their new entry level Loggia, the Loggia Prestige, aimed at being a more thermally efficient alternative to a standard Conservatory and their brand new Pergola product from Ultraframe’s Outdoor Living range.

Quickslide is a high volume window fabricator that specialises in manufacturing sliding sash windows in PVCu. They help customers reach pole position by keeping costs low, helping you to tune up your marketing and accelerate your sales. It was certainly fun to watch

Visitors to Total Glass were invited to see how they could be helped with improving profits. With a standard five day turnaround on windows, composite doors and aluminium bi folding doors, as well as a 10 year guarantee on certain products, Total were confident in meeting the challenge’s of todays changing marketplace.

Drew Wright, Distinction Doors’ Managing Director with Nanya’s Leon Lo and Nanya’s agent in France, Pierre Deschamps. As well as GRP composite doors, which includes back door stable doors, bi fold doors, French doors and fire doors as well as its range of 12 front door styles, Distinction showed its new 70mm door which can be over rebated and is 37% more energy efficient than a standard wooden door.

Deceuninck displayed their Innovative Colour 360 Omniral, which is a breakthrough in window frame colour. It wraps around the profile to make the market’s first fully coloured frame.

In April 2008 Door-Stop started by offering a composite door solution in a completely different way. In true form, today 90% of Door-Stop’s orders are placed using their 1 minute, 5 step online ordering system.

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

THE FIT SHOW REVIEW – 10, 11 & 12 June

Christina Shaw, Glass News’ publisher draws the winning ticket for the ‘Classic Car for a Weekend’ with Mat Gibson, Managing Director of Chase Taylor Recruitment

Nick Dutton, Doorstop; Mike Rigby, Mike Rigby Associates; and Roger Hartshorn, HL Plastics

Peter Dyer, Dempsey Dyer; and Gareth Mobley, Solidor

Leary, T&K Home Improvements; Ryan Johnson, Emplas; and Kushal Patel, Emplas

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

A busy three days for Selecta as they promoted their quality, thermally efficient and aesthetically pleasing Advance 70 Window and Door System and a new range of contemporary Ready-2-Fit Composite Doors combined with traditional styles with modern glass designs. Mark Richmond and his team were also displaying their Ready-2-Fit Bi-fold and Patio Doors.

Through industry leading initiatives including ‘your lead time, not ours’ – a sub zero lead time service, and revolutionary 20-year guarantee, it is clear to see why visitors flocked to the see Origin, a brand of choice.

THE FIT SHOW REVIEW – 10, 11 & 12 June

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

THE FIT SHOW DELIVERS AGAIN

80% OF STANDS REBOOKED FOR 2016

Delivering yet another successful show for the UK window, door and conservatory industry, over three days in June more than 5000 people passed through the doors of The International Centre in Telford for the Fabricator Installer Trade (FIT) Show.

With over 170 exhibitors at this year’s show boasting some visually stunning stands, the general consensus from visitors is that it was a colourful affair with some great attractions including the debut of many new innovations and products. Kicking things off on Tuesday June 10th, Telford became an industry hub for three days attracting visitors from far and wide as well as exhibitors from various different markets all interested in picking up new leads and exploring new designs and products. Inside the venue footfall remained consistent in all four halls with several exhibitors

“FIT Show TV was a new feature of the event and exhibitors made the most of having their stories broadcast live through the FIT Show web site and around the venue.”

reporting record levels of high quality leads. For example, Glass Systems, the UK’s largest independent sealed unit manufacturer and first time exhibitor, recorded a huge success with over 150 new leads collected throughout the three days of the exhibition. The week also saw a grand total of £10,000 handed out at The FIT Show Gala Dinner to the winners of the Master Fitter Challenge. Paul Casbolt and Karl Kinsey of Yes Glazing came in first place taking home the top cash prize of £5,000. Entertainment was provided by the amazing and unorthodox ventriloquist comedian Nina Conti. FIT Show TV was a new feature of the event and exhibitors made the most of having their stories broadcast live through the FIT Show web site and around the venue. According to the Independent Ratings feedback collected throughout the show, out of 500 people asked 81% of returning visitors said the show was as good or better than last year, 97% of new visitors said the show was really ‘important’ or ‘really important’ and 98% of all visitors said their day had been worthwhile.

5000 people passed through the doors of The International Centre in Telford for the FIT Show 2014.

There were plenty of positive statements from visitors: “My first visit to FIT Show was really

good and I have enjoyed seeing new products and innovations” said Dale Costello from Aluman Ltd, whilst first time visitor Salem Ahmed of Heathrow Glazing stated, “This was my first visit and I give it full marks – keep up the good work!” Returning for a second year, Geoffrey Beck of Merlin Network was equally as positive: “It has been an even better show this year, there’s a real buzzing atmosphere.” The greatest measure of how this year’s FIT Show performed however must be the number of exhibitors rebooking their stands or larger spaces for the next event, which takes place on 12th, 13th and 14th April 2016. Signed contracts for more than 73% of stand space were received by the end of the event, with the figure topping 80% just a week later as new exhibitors also clamoured to book the limited space remaining. “This year was more important for us as organisers, even than the first,” said Paul Godwin, Managing Director of FIT Events Ltd, organisers of The FIT Show. “This year established The FIT Show in the industry’s calendar as a regular feature and not a one off. The response by visitors and exhibitors alike has been very positive, in the most meaningful of ways. Visitors came to talk business and even buy; it became a very real marketing and sales tool for exhibitors and, with the next show almost two years away, it can play a significant part in product development cycles.” READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0047

The ultimate game changer from Promac As ‘life after the FIT Show’ begins, many people will be taking a well-deserved break from what was no doubt a manic period in the run up to get everything ready - but that is certainly not the case for The Promac Group. The longstanding service partner, with 35 years’ experience in bringing world class PVC, flat glass and aluminium machinery to the marketplace, excelled yet again at this year’s show, with the global unveiling of the Graf Synergy SL4 FF and the response has been phenomenal. Now known as the game changer, the SL4 FF certainly lived up to its billing surpassing many visitors expectations. Joe Hague, Group Managing Director of Promac explains why: “The FIT Show 2014 was the first time Promac has exhibited just one machine from

a single supplier. Ordinarily we would represent our full range from global leading supply partners, such as URBAN, For.El, Rapid, Pertici as

Promac Stand at the FIT Show.

well as many others, but this unique machine platform which combines traditional process, innovative components and extremely clever

thinking meant that the Graf Synergy SL4 FF deserved a stage all of its own as we took the decision to focus our efforts exclusively on it for the UK launch – and the decision proved correct. “This truly innovative pre-cleaning quad welder, which eliminates the need for secondary corner cleaning, really had visitors to the show truly intrigued. Graf Synergy has taken one of the oldest most traditional pieces of technology and applied some out of the box thinking and the quality of the end result is amazing. Although the machine has been exhibited in Germany, China and Russia previously, the FIT Show was the very first time anyone was able to see the actual workings of the machine itself and without appointment, which allowed visitors to get up close to see the simplicity and superiority of

the technology and the high quality end results it delivers. “With 35 years in the business, we are proud to have well established relationships with all our supply partners most of which span well over 20 years. The Promac Group’s heritage and philosophy is to bring “next step” innovation to the marketplace and exhibitions provide an ideal platform from which to do it. The fact the Graf Synergy SL4 FF was so well received is obviously down to the exceptional thinking behind the technology, but also the fact that people could see it in action for themselves.” For more information about Promac, their products and services, visit www.promac.co.uk or call 01788 577 577. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0048

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

THE FIT SHOW REVIEW – 10, 11 & 12 June

QUALITY & INNOVATION

ON SHOW FROM REHAU With a number of exciting new product launches, a stand buzzing with ‘white coated’ experts and an oxygen bar which was one of the talking points of the show, it was hardly surprising that REHAU’s stand was one of the busiest at FIT. Themed around REHAU’s scientific expertise, the stand focused on REHAU’s strengths in polymer development and product design and included the first showing of a flush fitting casement window in REHAU TOTAL70, the launch of multi-chamber profiles in the sculptured REHAU TOTAL70S system and a new range of profiles for composite door frames which allow for the inclusion of a top light. At the show, REHAU announced an agreement to supply the new profiles to Door Stop, and Door Stop’s Sales and Marketing Director Patrick Dean was delighted to see the product at the show. He said: “This profile ticks every box for

us – it looks great, it’s got the flexibility we need in terms of transoms for top lights and of course it’s available in a complete range of colours. We think our customers will love its looks and appreciate the inherent quality which comes from REHAU.” Irene Smith, REHAU’s Marketing Communications Manager, who was responsible for REHAU’s stand at FIT, said the response from visitors to the whole stand had been really positive. She said: “Just like last year, we packaged serious messages about our quality and innovation in a fun and memorable way and visitors really seemed to enjoy that. “We asked every customer who was entering our prize draw to win a trip to the BMW Concept Lab in Munich to select which elements they thought best summed up REHAU and quality, brand and product innovation came out top which was great news. “At times, the show itself felt a little less busy than last year but there was still lots of interest in REHAU and particularly in our new products so we’ve already reserved our stand for FIT in 2016.” READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0049

LINIAR – FIT FOR THE FUTURE INDEED With the largest exhibitor presence at the FIT Show, Liniar knew that all eyes would be on its stands this year. Combine that with sponsoring the Master Fitter Challenge final, and the innovative systems house had its work cut out – but luckily, didn’t disappoint! The two impressive stands in Hall 3 at Telford were fully utilised to showcase the full range of innovative Liniar products available, many of which were brand new to the industry. The stands

were hard to miss thanks to the lime green, contemporary and eye-catching design – including the Liniar logo “snakes” suspended above the stands to join them together.

and a clever way to introduce the Liniar profile; a revolving roof drew people onto the stand – and the team even found a way to bring along their testing robot, ‘Mark II’!

Visitors were able to learn more about Liniar’s thermally efficient system and get up close and personal with products including the ModLok™ bi-fold doors (now cycle-tested to over 120,000 full opening sequences!), the timber alternative Flush Sash casement window, the latest inline sliding patio door, the Liniar Zoom conservatory roof with all its latest updates, and many more.

One feature of the stand that couldn’t be missed was the brand new Supercut machining and cutting centre. Jointly developed by the Liniar team and Wegoma, the Supercut marks the start of a new era in the supply of world class machinery for the industry, with the team also making full use of a further Wegoma Machinery Sales stand in Hall 1.

Liniar’s ‘FIT for the Future’ theme continued throughout the stand design itself, with technology playing a big part in this year’s stands. iPads were used for literature displays; a cutting-edge 3D animated video created a talking point

“iPads were used for literature displays; a cutting-edge 3D animated video created a talking point and a clever way to introduce the Liniar profile; a revolving roof drew people onto the stand – and the team even found a way to bring along their testing robot, ‘Mark II’!”

One fabricator was so impressed, they signed up to Liniar then and there on the stand; Leicester-based Eco Plastic Wood join Liniar’s growing list of customers. Sponsoring the Master Fitter Challenge finals meant installers who’d never used Liniar before could get hands-on with the system, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. “The finalists were really impressed with the unique Liniar glazing platforms, which make it much easier to install the glass into the frames,” explained Liniar’s technical expert Marc Wilcoxson, who was the GQA’s main contact for Liniar during the competition final. Fitters also commented how simple the beading was, compared to other systems, as well as being very complimentary about the overall finish and aesthetics of the finished products.” Andy Carrington from competition organisers GQA Qualifications, commented: “Liniar’s support was fantastic; I could not have wished for better. The product spoke for itself and I know the installers were very impressed also.” To find out more about the Liniar system and product range, please visit www.liniar.co.uk or call 01332 883900.

Eco Plastic Wood sign up to Liniar.

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0050

THE FIT SHOW REVIEW – 10, 11 & 12 June

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

FACE OF FIT WINNERS HONOUR QUICK OFF THE MARK: GRAHAM TAYLOR AT FIT SHOW 2014 BOHLE MAKE SALE 10 MINUTES AFTER FIT SHOW DOORS OPEN

With their faces plastered all over this year’s FIT Show after winning the moviethemed Face of FIT competition, situated at stand 131 GT Window Products Ltd honoured the man behind the brand, Graham Taylor, who sadly passed away in the middle of last year.

Launching a golf day in Graham’s name at FIT Show 2014, GT Window Products Ltd. offered visitors to the fabricator and installer trade show the opportunity to drop off their business cards in exchange for one of many different coloured golf balls. These balls would put them on the invite list to attend their free golf day, GTWP, where participants will be playing for the Graham Taylor Memorial Trophy. With a date yet to be determined the GTWP will take place at one of the Midland’s premier golf courses and guests will be able to donate to the event’s chosen charity, the British Heart Foundation. Suddenly passing away due to complications of the heart, Graham was a huge influence in the window and door industry. Establishing GT Window Products Ltd. in 1993, he began the Gloucestershire-based company concentrating on the design and development of accessories and moved into offering a wide range of fixing lugs, seal compression devices, a composite panel fixing mechanism and more. The company’s reputation has been built on developing consistently high-quality products and

Making quick work of being an exhibitor at this year’s FIT Show, Bohle Ltd., one of Europe’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of tools, machines and accessories for glass processing and finishing, sold one of their new Glass Analysis Kits 10 minutes into the first day of FIT Show 2104.

maintaining excellent standards of customer service. They are about to launch GT’s new Guardian hinge protector range for UPVC doors, windows and composite doors. Graham’s son, Carl Taylor, who also works as part of the GT team, said: “This is the first year at a trade show without him. He used to attend all of the Glassex shows and he was at the FIT Show last year. It’s very strange not having him around but we’re looking forward to being able to honour him at the GTWP golf day. We hope plenty of people get involved and enjoy themselves.” If you didn’t visit the FIT Show but are interested in taking part in the upcoming GT Golf Day please contact Carl at GT Window Products Ltd. on carl@ gtwindowproducts.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0051

RITEC SIGN ON FOR FIT SHOW 2016 FOLLOWING SUCCESSFUL 2014 SHOW After helping visitors at this year’s FIT Show discover the ‘non-stick’ world of their polymer surface treatment ClearShield, Enfield-based Ritec International Ltd. have already signed on for FIT Show 2016. With a consistently busy stand (205) across the three days of this year’s show, signing on the dotted line just one day in was an easy decision to make according to Brian McDonald, Ritec’s Sales & Business Development Manager. “We

were really busy this year with a number of quality leads,” he said. “We were looking for quality not quantity and that’s precisely what we got so signing up for FIT Show 2016 only made sense.” Showing off ClearShield’s incredible low maintenance easy clean system by demonstrating what happens when paint is projected all over a glass casing coated in ClearShield, visitors and exhibitors alike were in awe of its resistant powers. As Ritec’s literature says, you get ‘cleaner window glass without the pain.’ Clearshield is a unique polymer that chemically bonds to ordinary glass, upgrading it to ClearShield Low-M (Low-Maintenance),

Sold to Elwyns Windows Ltd by Technical Sales Rep Anna Meer, who is often referred to by her colleagues as ‘the lovely Anna’, the kit itself contains a Merlin Lazer, Merlin TGI, and a Low E Coating Detector all neatly placed in a hard shell case. Situated at stand 123, the first day of FIT appeared to be a consistently busy one for Bohle. “It was a very busy day,” said Dave Broxton, the company’s Managing Director. “The only time we saw a break in visitors to our stand was during the last 15 minutes of the day when the stand opposite us started offering out free champagne but it was our team who definitely deserved a toast for their efforts.” Bohle is an international company with roots in Germany and products that are exported to over 100 countries. Exports account for over 60% of its business and is now represented by over 300 employees at 13 locations.

‘The lovely Anna’ of Bohle Ltd. sold one of their Glass Analysis Kits 10 minutes into the first day of FIT Show 2014. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0053

YES GLAZING CRY TEARS OF JOY

AS WINNERS OF FIT SHOW MASTER FITTER CHALLENGE Paul Casbolt and Karl Kinsey of Yes Glazing Solutions celebrated well into the night at this year’s FIT Show Gala Dinner after they were declared winners of the Master Fitter Challenge, in association with Fensa.

Deborah Beeley, Ritec’s Business Development Executive, with their ClearShield demonstration mechanism at this year’s FIT Show.

Anti-Microbial Glass. Low-M Glass is durable and ‘nonstick’, stopping limescale and other residues from building up on the glass surface, reducing maintenance by 50% on average. Ritec also used the FIT Show to launch both its upgraded ClearShield Eco System and one stop shop for domestic glass applications. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0052

Walking away with a cash prize of £5,000, both Paul and Karl proved that they were indeed masters of their craft. Being recognised by their peers as the best of the best as far as the chosen finalists go obviously meant a lot to the boys from Yes Glazing as when they were announced as the competition winners, following some jubilant hugs, tears of joy were evident as they took to the stage to collect their award and cheque.

GQA Qualifications, deemed Paul and Karl should be crowned ‘Master Fitter’ for 2014.

Runners-up were Steve Price and Terry Griffin of Conwy Windows who took home a cheque for £3,000 while last year’s winner, Arron Clegg of Eco-Sash, along with his father Andy placed third taking away £2,000 for their efforts.

Besides splitting the winnings, Paul and Karl will now also be able to sport the Master Fitter Challenge Winner logo on everything they and Yes Glazing Solutions use, including van sides, in the company showroom and on all company literature.

After performing a series of live installation tasks throughout the first two days of the FIT Show at the International Centre in Telford alongside eight other finalists, event assessors

Congratulations to all of the finalists.

FIT Show Managing Director Paul Godwin and Fensa Chairman Mark Warren present Paul Casbolt and Karl Kinsey with their Master Fitter Challenge winners award and cheque.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0054

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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WHY DECEUNINCK? In our view... “Deceuninck has positioned Vale to grow at a whole new level - 30% of our sales are colour compared with the industry average of 20%. The new Deceuninck Colour Express range, with coloured profile in stock on a standard lead-time, has fast-tracked this increase. “We offer a wide range of colours to our installer customers. It makes a big difference to their businesses - it’s not something other companies do.” Rob Clarke and Damon Gilberthorpe, Sales Directors, Vale Window Co.

If you’re capable of more, and you’d like to release your hero within call Deceuninck’s Sales Director Rob McGlennon on 07818 383 385 or Rob and Damon on 01623 633 112

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Master Vale ad Glass News.indd 1 www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

R e l e as e yo u r h e ro w it h i n

6/17/2014 12:27:31 PM

THE FIT SHOW REVIEW – 10, 11 & 12 June

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Installers get a lift

Carl F Groupco’s Brisk Trade & Business Growth Designed ‘in the round’, Carl F Groupco’s stand saw brisk trade with visitors walking the course to view the company’s extensive window, door and patio hardware displays. The company reports a good mix of enquiries from both long-standing and new customers.

with GlassParts.co.uk

A FIT-TING

Based on the success of the show for Carl F Groupco, the company has confirmed rebooking for the 2016 exhibition in the same stand location. Video animation, full profiles and sample boards gave a comprehensive overview, with freshly baked cookies being an added incentive to visit. Working product features were demonstrated, including the smoothness of the Siegenia HS Portal 300 lift and slide hardware gliding on its castors with the push of just one finger. Reporting a healthy upturn month on month since March 2013, Carl F Groupco announced 12.8% growth over the last year and is confident that the green shoots are set to continue. Key factors influencing the positive outlook for the company are a company-wide commitment to 98% next-day deliveries in

John Mitchell, Carl F Groupco Technical Sales demonstrates key hardware features on the company’s stand.

time and in full, plus investment in systems and people including a technical support service. Managing Director John Crittenden commented on a reassuring trend towards high-value hardware which reinforces the company’s confidence in its ongoing expansion. Tel: 01733 393330 www.carlfgroupco.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0056

ROOMING AT THE FIT SHOW Prefix Systems returned from their debut at the FIT Show with a large number of qualified sales leads, having dazzled visitors with a range of inventive products for the extended living space market including GardenRoom and their new UrbanRoom. Yet one of the stars of the show was the new prototype Clearview rooflight, which features triple glazing in neutral, blue and green tints, a variable pitch, fully insulated frame, coompletely sealed design and can boast U-values as low as 0.6 W/m2K. As with everything design and engineered by Prefix Systems, it’s also incredibly easy to install. Having built their success as a BBA accredited Ultraframe fabricator, in recent years Prefix have undertaken their own research and development programme which has notably yielded the tiled GardenRoom roof. This was a focal point on the stand with the development of a new insulated eaves beam, which has been designed to eliminate

any chance of condensation on insulated roofs with an internal plasterboard finish. The insulated eaves beam ensures that ‘cold bridging’ is avoided, which is vital in preventing plasterboard becoming damp and mouldy over time, something that has become a real issue for installers and homeowners in this emerging sector. The new contemporary UrbanRoom was also a popular addition to the stand, designed to capture an alternative audience seeking additional living space., yet with a more contemporary twist than GardenRoom. The latest version of their GardenRoom brochure was also warmly received along with a new 28 page trade brochure, that’s packed with everything from conservatories, Ultraframe’s Loggia, to GardenRoom and even ancillaries. This brochure is very much seen as the ‘bible’ for all things related to the conservatory and extended living sector. Chris Baron and Chris Cooke, co-directors of Prefix Systems commented: ‘We had a wonderful and rewarding show with numerous quality leads and we’ve even committed ourselves to the 2016 FIT Show. It’s great to exhibit again in front of such enthusiastic visitors, thirsty for new dynamic products which we had en masse.’ For further information or a FREE copy of their latest trade brochure, contact the sales office on 01254 871800, e-mail enquiries@prefixsystems.co.uk or add to their considerable following on Twitter @ prefixsystems. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0057

ANNIVERSARY

Universal Arches again came away with the bragging rights for the most leads generated from the FIT Show, 1,736 in total, in no small part to the competition to open up a arched composite door, while they also celebrated 20 years in business. While the 1,736 leads generated was down from 2,087 in 2013, the footfall was still highly impressive as stand visitors attempted to open up the arched composite door for a chance to win an iPad Air. The lucky winner picked out by Matthew Glover, chairman of the FIT Show was Richard Hammond, sales and marketing director of Cutting Edge UPVC. Products featured included an impressive metallic blue gable frame along with a fully fabricated Universal Arches logo that involved 5 bends, an incredible 67 welds and taking 35 man hours in total. There was also an arched sliding sash window and arched shutters, courtesy of their exclusive relationship with blind and shutter specialist Thomas Sanderson. It was also important for the company to promote their exclusive partnership agreements with Eclectic Systems for their Residence 9 system, along with Solidor for the arched composite door. The show was also a perfect opportunity for Universal Arches to demonstrate why they are the clear market leader in the bending sector for product quality, range and their expertise in supporting customers whatever their query. Both existing and new customers came on to the stand, which was also a celebration of their 20 years in business, a particularly impressive statistic. Leon Day, managing director of Universal Arches commented: ‘Yet again we led the bending sector at the show, whilst demonstrating our joint product development programmes with Residence 9, Solidor and Thomas Sanderson. It was also great to be able to share our 20th anniversary with the glazing industry as a whole.’ For further information Universal Arches log on to www.universalarches.com, call the sales office on 01744 612844 or follow them on Twitter @universalarches. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0058

GlassParts.co.uk, one of the largest online suppliers of tools, fittings and consumables to the glass, window & architectural industries, has announced the launch of a brand new product aimed at making life easier for installers. Officially unveiled at this year’s FIT Show, where it generated a huge amount of interest, the Window Lift is designed to alleviate the risk of strain or injury to any installer carrying heavy windows through a house and up the stairs. Kieran Costello Jnr, Sales and Marketing Manager at GlassParts.co.uk explains: “According to the Health & Safety Executive around 1.6 million working days were lost between 2012 and 2013 to handling injuries, the majority of which were sustained through heavy lifting and carrying. With substantial profile and the potential for more triple glazing, windows are getting heavier than ever before, so we felt it was important to offer our installer customers a safe alternative to manual lifting of heavy windows.” The vacuum lifter is a dual circuit device which meets all the CE norms for lifting glass on construction sites. It is fast to setup and will safely lift a window of 200kg up

The Window Lift was a hit at FIT.

to 9.5m high. This means the installer no longer needs to carry the window through the house as all the lifting is done from outside. The Window Lift can be carried in one hand for maximum portability and the standing device can extend from 5 to 9 metres, so can easily be transported on a roof rack. Kieran concludes: “We pride ourselves on our expertise and, rather than simply memorising catalogue numbers for products, we want to offer advice and real solutions for our customers’ requirements. Having invested a lot of time developing the Window Lift to do just that, we are delighted with the levels of interest it generated at this year’s FIT Show and look forward to helping many more installers manouvre windows safely and efficiently.” For more information about the Window Lift visit: www. glassparts.co.uk or call 0800 975 3436 for more information.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0059

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

THE FIT SHOW REVIEW – 10, 11 & 12 June

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Insight Data’s Salestracker turns heads at the FIT Show

BFRC HOMEOWNER CERTIFICATE

A HIT AT FIT

The human BFRC Homeowners Energy Rating Certificate was a big hit at FIT 2014 – distributing nearly 1,000 promotional leaflets. The leaflet stated that all homeowners, when asked*, said they wanted this new Energy Rating Certificate, when having BFRC rated replacement windows and doors fitted in their homes. Installers were eager to hear the message – and promote the fact they install BFRC rated product to their customers. This BFRC Homeowners Energy Rating Certificate is specific to the property and the products purchased and will feature the installers name and date of installation as well as the well-known ‘rainbow’ colour label. The ratings displayed will be ‘A+’ to ‘C’ for windows and ‘A+’ to ‘G’ for doors. It is the only such certificate available in the UK glazing sector. This certificate is a valuable new marketing tool for installers. Issuing of the certificate can be promoted by the installer to the homeowner as a value added benefit of using that company. It will also link the new windows or doors supplied with the installation company and could facilitate ‘word of mouth’ recommendation.

It is issued at the same time as the FENSA certificate and can be supplied with no extra administration for the installer. Just tick the box at the point of notification on the FENSA website. It costs just £1.50 (ex VAT). “Since its launch in January the numbers of BFRC Homeowners Energy Rating Certificates issued has grown exponentially,” commented BFRC managing director Chris Mayne. “As our survey of homeowners revealed there is an overwhelming demand from customers – so being able to issue this certificate could be a big sales driver.” *BFRC asked 523 randomly selected homeowners in England and Wales whether they wanted a Homeowners Energy Rating Certificate – and all of them (100%) said ‘yes’.

Tel: 020 7403 9200 - Email: enquiries@bfrc.org READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0061

FIT SHOW 2014 DELIVERS PERFECT PLATFORM FOR FAIRTRADES/HOMEPRO TO INTERACT WITH ITS MEMBERSHIP BASE Reflecting on their time as an exhibitor at this year’s FIT Show, HomePro and FairTrades enjoyed their time connecting with current members and signing on new ones over the course of the three day event taking place at Telford’s International Centre. The award winning IBG (Insurance Backed Guarantee) provider was on hand to keep visitors up to date with all the recent changes in legislation that has affected the issuing of IBGs in the glazing industry as well as details of the recent re-launch of TrustMark, the Government’s endorsed scheme to protect the homeowner and combat rogue contractors, of

which FairTrades is s key proponent. “It was the perfect platform for us to interact with our membership base,” Warren Stiles, Head of HomePro’s Client Development, said of the FIT Show. “It was great to be more personal with our members as well as the wider manufacturer and installer base present and address any questions about changes to legislation.” As an approved provider of IBGs on FENSA’s recently published list, one of the foundational strengths of HomePro Insurance is simply that of working hard to galvanise and sustain quality, lasting relationships with its members, an attitude that has helped them to build and establish HomePro, to being one of the leading providers of insurance Backed Guarantees in the market today and this is something they made sure was clear at FIT Show 2014. HomePro and its approved representative, IPWFI are together one of the largest providers of IBGs in the UK issuing more than 1,000,000 policies insuring more than £3.5billion worth of home improvements over the last twelve years. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0062

EMMEGI SELLS FIRST ENTRY LEVEL MACHINES AT FIT Machinery specialist Emmegi (UK) launched its new Phantomatic M3 entry level machining centre at FIT and took a number of orders for the machine during the show itself. Managing Director Ian Latimer said that several buyers had come to FIT specifically to see the prototype model which was on display and were delighted to be able to place orders for the first few machines which will come off the production line in September. Ian said: “The Phantomatic M3 gives users the chance to own an Emmegi machining centre, which comes with all of our quality guarantees, inherent performance benefits and Emmegi brand values, at a lower cost than has been possible previously. We had expected a good response but to actually have customers sign up at the show exceeded even our best expectations.” Emmegi had relocated from a stand in Hall 1A at FIT in 2013 to a prime position near the entrance to Hall 1 and the move certainly paid dividends for them. Ian added: “We were much busier than last year and the results, both in terms of the number of visitors we met and the number of orders placed, have already prompted us to book the same stand for 2016. We saw a really encouraging mix of new and existing customers from across both the aluminium and PVC-U sectors and they were looking at a broad mix of machines including saws, machining centres and crimpers.” “Our team of sales engineers spent lots of time talking to visitors, giving them advice about the right solutions for their businesses and even surprising some of them with a few facts and figures about the global reach of the Emmegi group.” Further information on the Phantomatic M3 is available at www.emmegi.com. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0063

Marketing Village at the FIT Show 2014.

Exhibiting under the Marketing Village umbrella, Insight Data has been relentlessly promoting a better way for business in the fenestration industry throughout the FIT Show. Visitors to the Marketing Village were welcomed by Insight Data’s Jade Greenhow, Zach Ward and Kirsty Winter, who were on the stand for the duration of the show to give live demos and talk about the company’s revolutionary sales and marketing software, Salestracker. The Marketing Village quickly became the place to be, with Insight Data revealing the first teaser for Salestracker Mobile, which will be launched at the end of September. The mobile version will incorporate innovative new features and use location based technology, making it the ideal tool for field sales people. Helen Costeloe-Hughes, Commercial Director of Insight Data said: ”The show was an excellent opportunity for us to promote the benefits of using highly targeted prospect data and CRM software. Marketing Village was the hot spot for fabricators, system companies and suppliers looking to grow their businesses by using the latest marketing technology”. The high footfall to the Marketing Village stand was rapidly converted by the Insight Data team in 150 quality leads. Zach Ward, Insight Data’s Sales Manager commented: “It was amazing to see how many companies realise the potential Salestracker can bring to their business. Salestracker Live contains information for approximately 15,000 fabricators and installers, 15,500 architects, 3,900 construction companies and 22,000 local builders, and this data is continuously updated live in real-time, which means the information never decays. This is completely changing the way companies find and win new customers”. Zach added that visitors were keen to know more about Salestracker CRM, which combines Salestracker Live with a fully integrated CRM platform that helps companies manage customers, track leads, drive sales and leverage growth – while the data always remains fresh and up-to-date. If you’d like to find out more about Salestacker Live or Salestracker CRM please contact Zach on 01934 808 293 or visit www.insightdata.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0064

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

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THE FIT SHOW REVIEW – 10, 11 & 12 June

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

New Selecta Systems BUSINESS MICROS Bi-Fold Door a Hit at FIT! MAKES A The FIT Show, at the STATEMENT Telford International AT FIT Centre, saw Selecta Systems launch their revolutionary new uPVC MASTERfold Bi-Fold Door System. Within a few hours of day one of the show starting, it was clear that the interest shown in the new bi-fold door was going to be huge with excellent numbers clambering to view the doors and request further information. What has made the Selecta Systems MASTERfold BiFold Door System stand out from the competition is the Ultra Low 26mm threshold, which is surface mounted, combined within a slim-line package with Ultra Slim sight lines. The fact that the Ultra Low 26mm threshold can be fixed to the surface and not require being sunk in to the floor, makes installation easier and allows for fitting in various property scenarios.

Sales and Marketing Director, Mark Richmond commented “The interest in the MASTERfold Bi-fold Door System during the FIT Show was very pleasing. Visitors to the stand were very impressed with the aesthetics of the bi-fold door and saw the Ultra Low 26mm threshold as a fantastic improvement on other uPVC bi-fold door systems with considerably higher or sunken thresholds. It also has the benefit of being able to fit a 15° threshold ramp with ease thus allowing improved disability access”.

The three day show wasn’t just about the success of the MASTERfold Bi-Fold Door System. The stand was buzzing and saw Selecta create a large amount of interest in their full product range. Mark Richmond continued, “The Selecta stand was definitely lively during the three days! Interest in the Advance 70 System, Holiday Home System, MASTERslide Patio Door System and the Ready-2-Fit Range of Composite, Bi-fold and

Patio Doors was excellent and working through the serious amount of leads will keep us busy for some time, providing literature and arranging follow up visits.

The Advance 70 Chamfered and Sculptured System proved to be as popular as ever with fabricators and installers alike with the Ready-2-Fit Composite Doors also providing a large amount of attention with the new range of doors, modern colour shades and stylish glass designs”. As part of the build up to the World Cup a total of 3,000 Selecta footballs were given away during the three day event and everywhere you looked Selecta footballs were on show! Mark Walker, Marketing and Design Manager, joked “It was amazing how many little boys and girls birthdays there were over the three days and a Selecta football was a great free gift, although the best reason for a Selecta football was for their horse to play with! All in all the show was a great success for Selecta and we have already committed to the FIT Show in 2016”. If you would like any further information on any of Selecta Systems range of products or would like a friendly chat or visit from one of the demonstration vehicles then contact Mark Richmond directly on 07970 499 102 or alternatively call 0121 325 2100 to register your interest. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0066

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In what is on course to be a record year for Business Micros, the company made a real statement at the FIT show of its position as the market leading software provider. With a large, impressive stand which was busy throughout the three days, Business Micros showed not only its success so far but also its commitment to further developments in the future. Graeme Bailey, Managing Director, said: “This was a chance for us to demonstrate the quality, service and professionalism which has helped us to achieve so much in this industry. “We had really positive comments from existing and potential visitors who came to the stand and from fellow exhibitors which was very pleasing. We made several sales at the show and generated some really interesting leads which I am confident will lead to significant new business wins.” At FIT, Business Micros was previewing two new apps for composite door designs and for its EvoNet business management software. These were being demonstrated to get feedback from visitors before launch to ensure that they meet the very latest market demands. The company was also giving a sneak preview of its Nexus project – the next generation of software from Business Micros which is being developed at its Dumfriesshire programming centre. Graeme Bailey added: “We have a team of programmers working on existing products all the time delivering new features and enhancements and bespoke options for customers. However, we also have a separate team working on a completely new project which we believe will change the software landscape. All will be revealed at FIT in 2016!”

Trojan Group proves its value at the FIT Show The Trojan Group’s Managing Director, Tony Chadwick, sums up his company’s presence at the FIT Show by saying, “It was a major success for us and we’ve already booked our stand for 2016 on the back of it.” Trojan Group utilised the show to promote its three latest products, the Sparta 3 window handle, the Patriot Plus HD door hinge and Pegasus high security window lock. All three products have been designed to help you tie up less capital in stock, releasing cash into your business. Tony says, “Our customers were telling us that one of the greatest issues they were facing was continuing to deliver quality in the face of difficult cashflow. The three new products mean our customers don’t have to compromise on the quality they offer and don’t have to make the false economy of choosing lower quality hardware to help reduce costs. So many visitors to the stand commented on the value these products will add to their business and it was great to hear such positive feedback.” Other products attracting high levels of interest were the Mega Egress Hinge, which is perfect for triple glazed windows and the formidable stainless steel range, which is still proving a bestseller thanks to its corrosion resistance. Tony commented, “These two products are a perfect example of how hardware can help fabricators and installers offer something a bit different.” The Trojan Group also took the opportunity to present prototypes of its new Chromatika spray finish, which will allow fabricators and installers to benefit from hardware in any RAL colour. The prototypes attracted a great deal of attention and Tony said, “There was a huge amount of interest in Chromatika, as we expected.” The Trojan Group is renowned for its innovative approach to hardware design and the products on its stand at the FIT Show were a perfect demonstration of why this reputation is so well-deserved. And judging by the numbers of visitors to the stand, which was busy for all three days, that reputation looks set to go from strength to strength. Tel: 01922 713 933 - www.trojangroup.com

Tel: 01925 296105 www.businessmicros.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0068

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0069

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

THE FIT SHOW REVIEW – 10, 11 & 12 June

Glass Systems steals the Show with over 150 new leads Glass Systems, the UK’s largest independent sealed unit manufacturer, has recorded a huge success at this year’s FIT Show, with over 150 new leads collected throughout the three days of exhibition. FIT Show visitors were tempted with a one-off special offer of 50% off Climate conservatory roof glass and a special price for decorative glass, both of which attracted a lot of interest from fabricators and installers alike.

“This year’s Show has been an excellent experience for Glass Systems. Aside from meeting over 150 potential new clients, we also had the chance to catch up with our existing customers and present our latest innovations. We had a permanently busy stand and we’re expecting a high number of conversions following the show”. The decorative glass options include coloured, neutral and bevelled designs, while the Climate conservatory roof glass is available in a range of different styles, each one offering benefits such as reduced glare from the sun, self-cleaning and thermal efficiency. New clients can take advantage of the special price reduction until the end of June. Following the recent opening of a new factory in Peterborough, FIT Show was the perfect opportunity for Glass Systems to connect with fabricators and installers located in the eastern region of the country. Kevin Pearce, national sales manager of Glass Systems, commented: “This year’s Show has been an excellent experience for Glass Systems. Aside from meeting over 150 potential new clients, we also had the chance to catch up with our existing customers and present our latest innovations. We had a permanently busy stand and we’re expecting a high number of conversions following the show”. For more information call Glass Systems on 01792 773752 or visit www.glasssystemsltd.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0071

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The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Haffner reports phenomenal interest at FIT Show The Haffner team are celebrating a very successful FIT Show, with high levels of interest shown in all products. Dave Thomas, Haffner’s Managing Director said, “If there was any doubt that confidence has returned to the industry, the FIT Show will have dispelled it. The interest we had in our machines proved that people are actively looking to invest in their businesses.” Haffner launched the ITALMAC range of aluminium fabrication machinery at the show, something that attracted a great deal of attention. In fact the interest was so high, that the new Onix machine on

display was actually sold at the show! Other machinery investments made included used machinery and two of the revolutionary SMR-4 welders which took the market by storm last year. Alongside the sales, Haffner also picked up a high number of leads, with Dave reporting at least 30 firm leads per day, with especially strong interest in the SMR-4. He says, “The next few weeks will be busy as we follow up these leads, find out more about their requirements and equip them with machines that add value.” With such a successful show under its belt, it’s hardly surprising that the Haffner stand is already confirmed for 2016 show. Dave says,

“The FIT Show is a great opportunity to catch up with existing customers and make connections with new ones. It’s also an ideal place to understand more about how the industry is faring. There’s undoubtedly been an upturn in fortunes since last year’s show and it was exciting to feel the buzz in the hall. We’re already looking forward to the 2016 show!” Tel: 01785 222421 READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0073

Distinction Doors celebrates

successful FIT Show

The team at Distinction Doors has returned to their headquarters celebrating a successful FIT Show. Chantel Roach, Distinction’s Marketing Manager said, “It was great to be able to showcase our full range to our existing customers as well as introduce our products to new prospects. We received a very high number of enquiries and we’re looking forward to talking to people in more detail over the coming weeks.” Our product range was extremely well received, especially our soon-to-belaunched 70mm door, which can be over-rebated so it can be a direct replacement for the PVC-U equivalent as well as offering improved thermal efficiency over a wooden door. Alongside the new door, was the company’s complete range of GRP composite doors, which includes

back door stable doors, bi fold doors, French doors and fire doors as well as its range of 12 front door styles. The doors on display showed a selection of the colours on offer, to help visitors understand the versatility of the company’s range. Alongside the door ranges, Distinction also took the opportunity to show its decorative glass units that help homeowners to personalise their composite door. All units are manufactured to EN1279 standard and when glazed in the Distinction door, comply with building regulations. Chantel said, “There was a great buzz at the FIT Show and it was fantastic to be part of it. Our product range was extremely well received and

people were impressed by the technical and marketing support we could offer. We call it the Distinction Difference and judging by the number of enquiries we received, it certainly makes us stand out.” Distinction Doors is the UK’s leading GRP composite door supplier, so was a mustvisit for many people at the show. What is clear from the number of enquiries received is that people were impressed by what the company has to offer and it looks set to remain the number one choice for some time to come. Tel: 0845 2000 816 www.distinctiondoors.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0074

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

THE FIT SHOW REVIEW – 10, 11 & 12 June

COMPOSITE SHOW STOPPERS Solidor yet again stole the FIT Show with a sizzling display of composite door innovation with 17 colours on show, new Winkhaus hardware, additional customer service initiatives and the launch of the exceptional Solidor 88 and Residence 9 doors. Alongside their front of house stand, there was even a further 14 Solidor doors on other exhibitors stands, as their second generation composite doors leave their other first generation cousins behind. The second FIT Show proved that product innovation is part of the DNA for the glazing industry and Solidor again cemented their status as the pioneers and innovators in composite door design.

The newly launched Solidor 88 was launched at the show, which harness a 62mm solid hardwood slab combined with a KBE 88 door frame, achieving a centre pane U-value of just 0.9 W/m2K with the option of further developments to create a true Passivhaus solution. The new dedicated Residence 9 door frame is 100mm deep and again harnesses the 62mm slab and was incredibly well received by a number of loyal and existing Residence 9 window frame customers. Solidor was a launch partner with Winkhaus back in April for the patented blueMatic AV2-B battery operated automatic multi-point locking system, which both companies claim is a 21st Century keyless solution for modern composite doors. This new locking system was hugely popular by visitors to the stand, with no evidence of any other company in the sector featuring this impressive locking system. Throughout the three days the Solidor stand was packed with both existing customers and newly sought ones including Glazerite, Tradelink Direct and fellow exhibitors, Truframe.

Gareth Mobley with FIT Show TV.

The show proved to be the perfect platform for cementing existing relationships and to show off the latest developments on the Door Designer feature for the website and the newly launched Solidor Cloud. Gareth Mobley, managing director of Solidor Group, commented: ‘Yet again we had an incredible show with over 300 leads and the opportunity to add further value to our customers. Our new Solidor 88 and Residence 9 composite doors add further credence to our premium position in the composite door sector, which we believe still has considerable potential for further development.’ For further information log on to www.solidor.co.uk, call 01782 847300 or e-mail enquiries@solidor.co.uk. To keep up to date with all of their developments follow them on Twitter @solidorltd or look them up on Facebook.

Showing off the latest Solidor Cloud technology.

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0075

THE FIT SHOW REVIEW – 10, 11 & 12 June

DDP colours visitors happy at FIT Installers using Door-Stop’s Brochure Builder at the FIT Show.

Door-Stop’s Brochure Builder is ‘sea change’ for installers Door-Stop’s ‘Brochure Builder’ was launched at the FIT show on 10-12 June. “The feedback we got was fantastic,” comments Martin Dickie, Business Unit Director of Door-Stop. “The people who tried it at the show said it was a ‘sea change’ in the way they sold doors - giving their businesses a presentation as professional and effective as the nationals’.” “Brochure Builder has been a year in development and is a very clever bit of software that makes marketing easy for companies that sell composite doors,” continues Martin. “We’ve made building a bespoke brochure simple, affordable and fast. Our customers can build any kind of brochure they need, from simple 4 page leaflets to detailed 90 page books, featuring only the doors they sell.” “They can redesign any door in the brochure to their specification, changing the name, colour, features and glass – the pictures change automatically.” Brochure Builder includes a range of closeup double-page artistic photography and four binding and finishing options to choose from, with order runs from 50 to 2,500. And Door-Stop customers can get their brochures for free, using the ‘Key Points’ they earn with every door ordered.

Decorative Door Products (DDP) by RegaLead has returned from a successful FIT Show where the high number of visitors to their stand were impressed with the scale of products on offer to decorate and finish the composite door. As well as the comprehensive range of decorative glass panel designs available, including the newly launched Matrix and Inox Plus, visitors were treated to a preview of new pre-mixed DoorColour shades and asked to pick the next three additions themselves from a shortlist of 12. Having collated the online survey results, the new colours – currently known as 6, 7 and 12 - have now been chosen and will be available from September. Guy Hubble, Joint Managing Director at RegaLead comments: “We had a great show with lots of visitors to the stand producing quality leads for us. The response to the survey was particularly good, with many people wanting to have their say on what the new DoorColours should be. Congratulations go to Craig Broadley from Doorsmart whose name was independently pulled from the prize draw by Edgetech’s Andy Jones to win an iPad mini. “The names of the new colours will shortly be announced on Twitter, after a competition on day two saw the Trade Press fight it out to come up with the most inventive monikers for the new additions. Follow @decorativedoor to find out first. We’d like to thank everyone who came to see us for helping make FIT 2014 another successful one for DDP and we look forward to returning in 2016.” For more information about DoorColour by Decorative Door Products visit: www. decorativedoorproducts.co.uk or call 0161 946 1164.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0076

The VEKA UK Group approves installers The VEKA UK Group believes that becoming an 'Approved Installer' ticks all the boxes for a better business. The Group unveiled its innovative, new Approved Installer scheme at this year's FIT Show and received some extremely positive feedback from visitors to the stand. VEKA and Halo customers can now become 'Approved Installers' and enjoy a host of benefits as Sales and Marketing Director Colin Torley explains: “Becoming a VEKA or Halo-Approved Installer allows companies to further build their business on the sterling reputation of The VEKA UK Group. “This initiative allows installers to prove their commitment to quality and attract new customers with a range of professional marketing materials. These can be personalised and there are items available exclusively for Approved Installers, such as retail brochures and more. “Our Approved Installers can even benefit from homeowner sales leads generated

DDP had a successful FIT Show. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0077

Colin Torley and the team introduced the Approved Installer initiative at The FIT Show.

via a dedicated consumer-facing website. Becoming an Approved Installer is completely free of charge and we received lots of interest during the FIT Show, from companies looking for a way to get ahead of their competition through more effective marketing. “Installers can find out more about becoming 'Approved' and finding an Approved Fabricator partner in their area by visiting www.fab-match.com”. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0078

Climatec Windows 21 years in business Climatec Window’s 21st year in business Climatec Window’s 21st year in business took off with a bang with the launch of their new Calibre Window and Door profile systems in January. However the decision to exhibit at this year’s Fit Show proved to be the perfect platform to showcase this product, as well as showing the industry the high quality fabrication that Climatec pride themselves on. There was a great response to the new Cailbre system with high levels of interest. It was the first time any fabricator has shown this product and by having two casement windows, a tilt and turn and a residential door on the stand, Climatec were able to show the various options and colours available for this system. Climatec also showcased their Rehau Total70 Secured By Design French doors, along with the high security hardware and glass units that enables them to achieve their SBD accreditation. There was also a TV presentation showing the testing processes that Climatec’s products undergo before they achieve their Enhanced Security status. To show off their fabrication skills further Climatec exhibited an imitation timber effect window, utilising the Rehau Total 70 chamfered and sculptured profile mechanically jointed, in a white woodgrain finish. Monkey tail handles and a dummy stay were used to complete the overall look of the window.

Martin adds: “Delivery is free too, within 7 working days - we’d have made it 3 but even the best printers work slower than Door-Stop does!” Try it now at http://www.door-stop.co.uk/ brochurebuilder or, for more information, look up #BrochureBuilder or follow DoorStop @doorstopdoors or on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/companies/door-stopinternational.

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Climatec’s Jayne Lovett says “As a first time exhibitor at the Fit Show, Climatec’s Sales & Marketing team have lived, breathed and dreamt about the perfect exhibition stand to showcase our company and its products. We primarily wanted to use the show to launch the new Calibre system which we believe is perfect for today’s market, however we also had the opportunity to show the personality of Climatec Windows and how our working

processes have helped build our success over the last 21 years. We pride ourselves in offering our customers a variety of products that will help them win business; they bring their designs to us to achieve, rather than us defining to them. We provide bespoke solutions that other fabricators may not be able to offer. It was a hard week’s work for Climatec, but a very worthwhile week!” These sentiments were mirrored by Climatec’s Director Phil Bates “I wasn’t sure what to expect from Climatec’s first exhibition, but I was very quickly put at ease on the first day when the stand became busy with potential buyers and even sellers. On the second day we were run off our feet with visitors. This show was a success for all areas of Climatec and if we knew it was going to be that busy I would have taken a bigger stand with more staff! I am sure there were visitors that came to us but could not be seen. Overall I was very pleased with the response from our existing customers and potential new customers; more so the hard work all our staff put in to make it a first successful show and certainly not our last.” For more information on Climatec Windows visit www.climatec-windows.co.uk, and further details can be obtained by contacting the office on 01702 613733. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0079

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

THE FIT SHOW REVIEW – 10, 11 & 12 June

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Leading fabricator celebrates 30 years Whiteline Launch Revival System

with Deceuninck at the FIT Show Dempsey Dyer’s presence at the FIT Show this year was marked by an impressive window industry milestone, as the company celebrated 30 years of collaboration with Belgian profile supplier Deceuninck.

They revealed their latest ‘bright idea’ - the exclusive new Revival System of windows and doors. This latest innovation has the great looks and detailing of traditional timber, delivered with all the benefits of modern, secure, low maintenance and energy efficient materials. “It’s the first unique, totally bespoke window suite developed by a fabricator – from cill to sash” is how Whiteline Director of Operations Peter Hand proudly describes it. “For our customers, Revival System delivers innovative, exclusive products full of great features, that no-one else can offer and that end users will definitely want to buy.”

The Pontefract based fabricator marked the occasion with a champagne reception held at the Deceuninck stand, which gathered a number of customers, suppliers and the trade media. Speaking at the champagne reception, Dempsey Dyer managing director Tom Dyer said: “Deceuninck has been a superb supplier for the past 30 years. They offer innovative products, great service and they’ve never once let us down. We hope our fruitful collaboration will continue for many years to come and we’re glad we could celebrate this landmark at the FIT Show”. The FIT Show was the perfect opportunity for Dempsey Dyer to promote their Inspire range of PVC-u, timber-effect and timber windows and doors. Products on the Dempsey Dyer stand included a timber door manufactured in Euro Oak with a ‘cypress stain’, a

One of the highlights of the recent Fit Show was fabricator Whiteline’s display on the stand of their extrusion partner, Liniar.

Dempsey Dyer at the FIT Show; from left to right: Martin Wright, Trevor Hopper and Peter Dyer.

timber door featuring Maco’s keyless locking system and the popular ‘timberlook’ mechanically jointed Beaumont window. Installers interested in the companies PVC-u range were able to visit the Deceuninck stand, which was situated next door to Dempsey Dyer’s. Visitors also had the chance to find out more about the Inspire marketing support package, a consumer facing brand designed to help installers promote the benefits of Dempsey’s product range to homeowners.

The products and marketing support clearly went down well with the audience, as Dempsey collected over 100 leads. Peter Dyer commented: “Like the 2013 edition of FIT Show, this year’s event has proved to be very successful. We had a good response from the audience and celebrating our 30th anniversary with Deceuninck was the icing on the cake.” For more information call 01977 649641 or visit www.dempseydyer.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0081

Revival System is a uniquely stylish combination of frame, sashes, cill and composite doors that can revive the looks of any property. The 85mm, deep yet slender profile frame is common to both windows and doors and based upon a unique, 7 chamber PVCu design for optimum strength and thermal performance. Classic, deep sculptured edge detail is reflected in mechanically jointed transoms and mullions that replicate the look of traditional mortise and tenon joints. There is a range of 4 distinctive sash styles to choose from, that each complement the frame. A 6 chamber SlimSASH profile means less sash but more glass and lighter rooms, whilst regular chamfered or sculptured sashes are also available. But the key sash option is the slim new, 4 chamber, FlushSASH profile. This incorporates an exclusive new deep bottom rail with mechanical joints, to bring traditional style right up to date. Each sash option can be finessed by the addition of conventional timber hardware, such as a working stay and peg, to enhance the look and feel of the windows in the room. The frame and sash combination sits atop a bespoke new 50mm thick, 163mm wide, deep cill that can only be used with Revival System components. The cill design matches the

section of old style timber cills, including an authentic throat drip detail. Whiteline’s new composite doors are fitted into the Revival System 85mm, strong, narrow frame to enable the full slab width to be used, giving widest possible door openings and easy access. Sleek toplite features can be readily created by mechanically jointing the outer frame and transoms, without needing to couple separate frames. The door leaf is hung on butt hinges, rather than flag hinges, which all goes to create a great traditional overall look. “As a fabricator, at Whiteline we believe it is vitally important to offer unique, feature rich, bespoke products that set our customers apart and help them to sell more successfully” says Peter Hand. “The Revival System has involved a major investment in designs, development, dies and production tooling but the positive response at and since the show, from customers and competitors alike, suggests that we have spent wisely.” Peter defines the target consumers for the new range as “The Revival System is aimed at all homeowners who want to revive the look of their properties, replicating yesterday’s style today. For those with old, rotting original timber windows and doors and who want to buy stylish yet affordable, modern replacements, here is the perfect option for them. Whilst occupants of homes where they have had to put up with unsympathetic, replacement windows, can now fit stylish, traditional, more appropriate designs that will really enhance their home. It’s a persuasive opportunity.” The complete Revival System range and options will be available to order for shipment from September and is part of the exclusive PlatinumNRG retail offering for Whiteline customers. To find out more visit www.RevivalSystem.co.uk and sign up for information and the brochure download.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0082

Selecta Systems Customer Pennine Trade & Retail Windows Are Master Fitters - Again! Selecta Systems Customer Pennine Trade & Retail Windows Are Master Fitters - Again! Selecta Systems customer Pennine Trade and Retail Windows made the finals for FIT Show’s Master Fitters Challenge for the second successive year. Only the top eight made the finals after a series of tough exams set by organisers of the event GQA Qualifications Ltd. The Master Fitters Challenge was again one of the top attractions at this year’s FIT Show.

“Having been a finalist last year, we really wanted to enter again” said Craig Hanson from Pennine Trade and Retail Windows. ”We wanted to show how good we are. So we were pleased to be in the final for the second year running and be given an opportunity to demonstrate our skills live at the show”. “We believe that being one of only eight finalist’s means Pennine Trade and Retail Windows are one of the top installation companies in the UK. That gives us a real marketing advantage and we’ve added the FIT Show Master Fitters finalist’s logo onto our website and marketing materials”

Mark Richmond adds his congratulations: “It’s excellent that Pennine Trade and Retail Windows made the finals of the Master Fitters Challenge. It’s well deserved recognition for one of our customers.” If you would like any further information on any of Selecta Systems range of products or would like a friendly chat or visit from one of the demonstration vehicles then contact Mark Richmond directly on 07970 499 102 or alternatively call 0121 325 2100 to register your interest. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0083

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

TGQ calculates profit for installers at FIT Show

Installation companies visiting the FIT Show were able to see how they can make more profits with triple glazing on Edgetech UK’s stand. The new TGQ profit calculator, launched at the exhibition, was programmed to show how adding triple glazing can impact profits. “Visitors to the show were impressed with the TGQ profit calculator,” says Alan Fielder, Director of Sales and Marketing for Edgetech UK. “The FIT Show proved to be a great opportunity to continue the debate.” Expert speakers from the Triple Glazing Question live event held at the Ricoh Arena earlier in the year were also on hand to answer questions. “It wasn’t just on Edgetech’s stand,” continues Alan. “Companies exhibiting at FIT Show that had supported TGQ were signposted with Triple Glazing Expert boards on their stands. This meant that visitors could easily see which experts they could speak to about triple glazing. “We wanted to broaden out the TGQ debate to installers. That’s why being at FIT Show was important to us. Bringing the calculator meant it was even more useful for installation companies. We ran a session about selling triple glazing every afternoon, and in the morning seminars from experts discussed practical window solutions. “Running along the movie theme of FIT Show 2014 Edgetech launched its Top Gun competition. There’s £1000 up for grabs for the winner. We’re looking for the fastest time to make 2 complete units on the airfloat table. Karl Iceman Jones laid down the gauntlet with an impressive combined time for one rectangle unit and one semicircle set at under 40 seconds! We’re expecting this to be beaten in the coming weeks. The finals will be held at Edgetech’s HQ later this year. “The organisers of FIT Show gave the industry a very successful exhibition and Edgetech is pleased to have played its part.” www.edgetechig.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0084

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

Warm Edge Specialist Connects with IGU Manufacturers at The Fit Show This year’s edition of The FIT Show was an excellent opportunity for the Technoform Glass Insulation team to promote our new bendable warm edge spacer, TGI®-Spacer M, to IGU manufacturers, fabricators and installers. Visitors to our stand were shown all the benefits of TGI®-Spacer M, which is manufactured using a combination of polypropylene and stainless steel, with added wires for enhanced rigidity. Its properties allow the TGI®-Spacer M to be processed easier and more efficiently, with important savings in time and costs. The TGI®-Spacer M is available in sizes from 8mm to 24mm, as well as in six different RAL colours.

THE FIT SHOW REVIEW – 10, 11 & 12 June

FIT’S A HIT FOR GLAZERITE More leads...more new customers...great networking...great feedback...FIT Show 2014 proved to be a resounding success for Glazerite Windows Ltd. The trade fabricator used the show to debut a host of new products and was rewarded with an excellent response from customers new and old as well as many major supply partners. “It proved to be the right decision,” said Glazerite Director Jason Thompson, “The interest the new products generated kept us busy throughout the three days, not to mention processing all the enquiries afterwards. We were looking for quality rather than quantity from the show but in the end we got both. The calibre of enquiries was very high indeed, not only from large installers but also a surprising number of small and medium fabricators looking to outsource from us. We met a great many new, potential and existing customers of all kinds and the feedback from all was very positive.”

Amongst the products on display at this year’s edition of The FIT Show was a unit incorporating the warm edge integral blind solution, developed in collaboration with Pellini, one of the world-leading integral blind manufacturers. At Technoform Glass Insulation, we have a long standing tradition in trade show exhibitions. Every year, we promote our products and present our latest innovations across the globe in a number of events like Glasstec, Fensterbau and Vitrum. Visitors to the TGI stand this year also had the chance to speak with our global General Manager, Petra Sommer, who came to the UK specifically for the show. Petra took great delight in talking with fabricators and installers, explaining how TGI®-Spacer M, and a partnership with Technoform can benefit them by delivering a better level of energy efficiency, a longer lifespan for a glass unit, and the support of a successful global business such as Technoform. For more information please call 0121 506 9740 or visit www.glassinsulation.co.uk.

GI at the FIT Show; from left to right: Jörg Lenz, Yash Naik, Petra Sommer, Andrew Jenner and Simon Rawlins. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0085

Star products at the show were undoubtedly the new VEKA Imagine bi-fold, which was premiered by Glazerite as the first fabricator to show the system to installers, as well as the Residence 9 flush sash system, New Wave slide/swing doors and Solidor composite doors, which are also new introductions to the Glazerite range. Visitors were equally impressed with a preview of the new VEKA M70 system, which Glazerite will be launching in association with VEKA in 2015. Jason added: “It was also great to be among so many of our key supply partners such as VEKA, MACO, Residence 9, Solidor and DoorCo, all with very impressive stands of their own where customers could see many of the products we offer on a larger scale. Credit is due also to so many other exhibitors for coming up with such superb looking stands. The whole event gave a terrific sense of pride and professionalism, proving even more that the industry needs a trade show like FIT.” Glazerite is the largest trade fabricator of the VEKA systems in the UK and also a prominent Network VEKA member, with a reputation for unsurpassed customer service as well as a comprehensive product range. The company offers a fully nationwide service based on manufacturing units in Northants and Greater Manchester and a distribution hub in Bristol. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0086

BUSINESS MICROS REDEEM THEMSELVES BY COMING OUT ON TOP AT FIT SHOW 2014 FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT While the question was shirts or skins when four football teams from the industry gathered at Telford United’s New Bucks Head stadium for the FIT Show football tournament, in the end public decency won on a day enjoyed by all as everyone chose shirts. Four teams, two playing with a man short, came together on June 9th - the night before the FIT Show - to entertain the watching public at Telford’s Goalzone centre with six keenly contested and often tasty games. Business Micros, remembering their thrashing

at the hands of GQAs Rest of the World team in 2013, were eventually proclaimed the 2014 winners, ending the evening unbeaten after three games with the GQA Master Fitter Assessors hot on their heels in second place. Stars on the night? Everyone really. But after asking around both Jim Cronie (Business Micros) and Simon Smith (GQA PM Training) were nominated as goalkeepers of the highest quality who wouldn’t be out of place playing for the national team in Brazil. With GQA, GT Windows, Vita Cellular Foams,

Business Micros and Haffner all fielding players, thanks also needs to be given to the timekeepers who did exactly that without stepping onto the hallowed 3G turf. GQA’s Mick Clayton weighed in with a hefty return of six goals from the three games played but was left to rue a world class save from Simon Smith that stopped him getting his hat-trick in the defeat to the GQA Master Fitter Assessors. Carl Taylor (GT Windows) impressed with his energetic displays for the All Stars, led from the back by roaming goalkeeper Will Lavin (FIT Show), but after ending the night with nil points, they’ll be hoping for better next time around. With one eye on April 2016 for the next FIT Show football tournament, keep your other eye on this space as Mick, Carl and Will discuss the potential for a FIT Show friendly in 2015. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0087

VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

What’s your opinion?

Did FIT 2014 live up to it’s expectations? Glass News’ ‘Voice of the Industry’ asks selected exhibitors...

Graeme Bailey Managing Director, Business Micros

John Crittenden Managing Director, Carl F Groupco

Mat Gibson Managing Director, Chase Taylor Recruitment

We went all out this year at FIT with a much bigger, much more impressive stand which we felt reflected our position in the market and our confidence moving forward.

Was FIT 2014 as good as you had hoped?

It was a return to the FIT Show for Chase Taylor and what we wanted to see was how we had progressed as a company in the eyes of the industry during the intervening 14 months.

It was definitely the right decision; we got lots of positive feedback and both divisions of the company – Business Micros and Business Micros Aluminium - were busy throughout the show demonstrating new software options and updates to existing and potential customers. In terms of getting a return on our investment, it’s relatively easy for us to add up the value of the actual orders we took at the show and the enquiries we received and say that it will certainly more than pay for itself. Much more than that though, it provided us with the perfect platform to showcase the investment we’re making in new developments and to give visitors a glimpse of the next generation of software which will be on display on our stand in 2016 when we’ll definitely be back.

Last year’s inaugural FIT show was always going to be a hard act to follow but we weren’t disappointed. Some new features added extra appeal including the FIT Show’s film interviews which were streamed live – this helped to create a buzz at the stand as Norman Berrill, our Sales Director, was chosen to go on camera. How was the quality and quantity of visitors? Trade was brisk and we were pleased to get a good mix of enquiries from both longstanding and new customers. Visitor quality was very high, predominantly all the people we saw were in decision making positions. We also added new features to our stand combining hands-on displays with video animation which helped to attract visitors. Do you feel you’ll get a return on your investment? We believe we will get ROI but exhibiting at shows is not purely about the bottom line – the profile gained by exhibiting is important for brand awareness. And 2016? Is it too soon to decide whether you’ll do it again? No, it’s not too soon... we have already signed up to return in the same position in Hall 2.

I have to say we are delighted with what we saw and how we were received; it is clear that we are now known for exactly what we set out to be known for – being a company wholly dedicated to the window, door, and glazing sectors which is fully able to provide experienced and professional people to meet staffing requirements at all levels of our client’s businesses. The people we spoke to both in terms of quantity and quality were excellent and without doubt it was absolutely right for us to be sat right in the middle of our own industry exhibition amongst the people we work with day in day out. Without doubt it was worth our investment, and we have already booked for the next time.

Drew Wright Managing Director, Distinction Doors

Roy Frost Managing Director, Deceuninck Deceuninck’s stand was heaving throughout the show: it was so busy, I didn’t have time to look around! We’d done a lot of campaigning before the show, telling people about Deceuninck’s latest products and innovations, so people had planned to visit our stand, many by appointment. And they were very impressed with what they saw – we had fantastic feedback on our revolutionary New Wave Slide & Swing Door, with people queuing up to see the demos! Visitors were also impressed with PricePad, our unique online pricing and ordering system, Monorail, Colour360 and our famous ‘pretty’ windows. The quality of the people who came to the stand was very good too. Since the ‘launch’ of ‘New’ Deceuninck last year, we’ve put together a new, dynamic team and sales are strong – customers are loving it! Deceuninck’s initial aim was to double market share, but our CEO, Tom Debusschere, announced at the Show that we’re aiming for a Top 3 position in the UK, Deceuninck’s traditional position in major markets. Deceuninck will certainly be at FIT 2016.

We had another excellent FIT Show this year. Our product range was extremely well received, especially our soon-to-belaunched 70mm door. This can be rebated and become a direct replacement for the PVC-U sash and panel equivalent, as well as offering improved thermal efficiency over a wooden door. People were also impressed by the technical and marketing support we are able to offer. There was a great buzz in the hall generally and our stand was busy throughout the three days, something that was reflected in the quality and quantity of the leads we generated. The FIT Show has already become a fixture in the window industry calendar and is a must-visit for any forward-thinking fabricator or installer. This, combined with the quality of leads means that we will more than make a return on our investment and consequently had no hesitation in booking our stand for the 2016 show. See you there!

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Was FIT 2014 as good as you had hoped? How was the quality and quantity of visitors? Do you feel you’ll get a return on your investment? And 2016? Is it too soon to decide whether you’ll do it again?

Kieran Costello Jnr Sales & Marketing Manager, GlassParts.co.uk We had a fantastic FIT Show last year, where we officially launched GlassParts.co.uk as the UK specific arm of Moneygall Glazing Accessories, so we had high expectations for 2014. On the whole we were not disappointed, with a good number of visitors, particularly on the Wednesday. The majority of interest on our stand was for the Tool Shop, where we were offering discounts of up to 30%, and of course the Window Lift was very well received by installers looking for ways to more efficiently manoeuvre heavy windows up the stairs of a two or more story house. It’s a bit early to tell just yet whether we’ll get a return on our financial investment, but we definitely have on our time in terms of having a presence at the UK’s only trade exhibition and meeting customers and potential customers in one place. We’ve provisionally booked our place for 2016, as if it’s going to be anything like the last two, we wouldn’t want to miss out.

Ben Brocklesby Sales Director, Origin

Joe Hague Managing Director, Promac

Irene Smith, Marketing Communications Manager, REHAU

Vic De Costa Marketing & Sales Manager, SWISSPACER

Richard Kirman Sales and Marketing Manager, Truedor

Origin exhibited at the Fit Show for the first time in 2014 and while the dust is still settling, on face value it appears to have been a fantastic success.

The FIT Show 2014 was fantastic for the Promac Group, mainly due to the fact the innovative technology we exhibited proved to be far and away the stand out ‘must see’ of the exhibition.

We were really pleased with the response we received at FIT. We went all out with our ‘REHAU Lab’ theme and we certainly generated lots of attention and positive feedback.

We had a constant stream of visitors on our stand and I was particularly impressed with the quality of enquiries – people who already knew a lot about SWISSPACER and wanted to find out more. It shows our marketing campaign over the past year has paid off!

It was amazing! The FIT Show was the culmination of a six months launch campaign for Truedor from IG Doors, and we could not be happier with the way things went.

I used FIT to launch our new flush casement aluminium window and gable systems; these have had a wonderful reception with our existing trade customers as well as potential new local and international ones all showing a keen interest in the growth opportunities these could bring to their business. The new Origin Windows are the perfect accompaniment to our existing award winning Origin Bi-fold which we also had at the show. Fortunately our stand was one of the busier of the show and I found the calibre of visitor high, from your local installer, through to your global commercial buyers. I am confident our time at FIT will help Origin maintain is high growth targets for this year and beyond and have already signed up to 2016.

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

Although we felt visitor numbers weren’t as high as the 2013 Show, the quality of them remained high and everyone we spoke to had a real interest in what we had to offer. “It has to be said, turning up and talking to people was the easy part - due to the nature of what we were exhibiting. The hard part comes now, following up on all of the leads generated in order to turn them into sales. Exhibitions prove by far the best platform for Promac to showcase our offering and are part of our culture and heritage. We are fully committed to the UK marketplace and strongly believe in the importance of it having its own Show therefore, as a consequence, attendance in 2016 is assured.”

Although overall visitor numbers were slightly down, we were still impressed with both the quality and quantity of visitors on our stand and particularly with the number of existing REHAU customers who made the trip to Telford to meet our wider team and see the new products we were launching. We will evaluate whether we get a quantifiable return on our investment in the coming months as our sales and commercial teams follow up the leads generated from the show. For us though, judging whether it’s been a success is about more than just how many more customers start buying REHAU profile in the coming months. FIT has already become an important flag waving exercise for the industry’s leading players and we certainly feel that it’s important for us to be amongst them. Unsurprisingly perhaps, we’ve already reserved the same stand for 2016.

Visitors were keen to try our new Caluwin energycalculating app, which lets users change glass, profile and spacer bar to quickly calculate how much energy and money windows will save the end user. Installers say it’s a brilliant selling tool. For me, one of the highlights of the show was SWISSPACER’s seminar on the future of energy efficiency. We were very lucky to have leading industry experts present the facts. Our expert panel included Dr Krick from the world-famous Passivhaus Institute, Saint-Gobain Glass’ Susan Lambeth, Deceuninck’s Roy Frost and SWISSPACER’s Karl-Theo Roes. The seminar gave the definitive answers to the triple glazing questions and it was great to have such a good turnout from other leading companies. The FIT Show was brilliant for SWISSPACER. We always find trade shows great for meeting customers, prospects and partners, and we’re looking forward to 2016!

High numbers of leads, and high quality, our aim was to ensure that by the time the FIT Show was over everybody would have heard the name Truedor. We have no doubt whatsoever that we will recover a return on our investment, and as with all marketing spend if you can see that it works you would absolutely do it again. For us now it is all about following up with the substantial numbers of people who have shown an interest in our products and our company and turning that into tangible business. The FIT Show really was the perfect launch pad. We know our offering to the market is second to none and the many visitors to our stand now know first hand just what we can do for them. We have exciting times ahead.

VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Sue Davenport Marketing Director, HL Plastics

Colin Torley Sales and Marketing Director, Veka

Philip Drew Jnr Geofast/Georgian Bar Company

Guy Hubble Joint Managing Director, RegaLead

Will Butler Group Marketing Director, Grouphomesafe

Joe Martoccia, Commercial Director, Ultraframe

As this was my first FIT Show, I had to rely on feedback from others about the last show – and I understand there seemed to be a reduction in visitor numbers compared to last year, with the Tuesday being particularly quiet in comparison.

The VEKA UK Group took an expansive stand at this year’s FIT Show with a host of new products and services unveiled at the Telford-based exhibition.

So it was time for Round 2 of our industry fight for new business and exposure….were we all FiT enough?

Decorative Door Products (DDP) by RegaLead had a great show, and a fantastic response to the colour survey, with lots of people wanting to have their say about the three new additions to the DoorColour range, and of course, be in with a chance to win an iPad mini.

The timing of FIT Show couldn’t have been better for ERA in terms of launching the Invincible – the indestructible cylinder.

Fit Show was perfect timing for Ultraframe in terms of showcasing our new solid roof system for the replacement market – LivinROOF.

Having said that, Liniar had a really successful show - generating plenty of high quality leads and raising brand awareness at installer level through our sponsorship of the Master Fitter Challenge. Our stand designs were complimented, as was the use of technology with our Supercut machining centre, animated 3D video and iPads displaying the literature range. Return on investment from exhibitions is notoriously difficult to measure, particularly as we don’t see immediate sales as a direct result – but we feel it was successful enough to have already booked a stand for the 2016 show. The gala dinner was particularly enjoyable – although I’ll make a mental note to make sure I’m seated a little further away from the stage next time…!

The team not only showcased the brand NEW innovative Imagine Bi-Fold Door System, but also launched the new ‘Approved Installer’ scheme, as well as showcasing a host of other new window and door systems. Sales & Marketing Director Colin Torley commented: “The organisers generated a large number of visitors once again and should be congratulated for another successful show. We received lots of positive feedback and came away with a huge number of enquiries. The FIT Show was an extremely positive experience for us and gave us a great platform to share our latest news face to face. Our tongue in cheek ‘Colin’s Angels’ campaign definitely helped to drive traffic to our stand to find out more about how we support our customers. We have already reserved our stand for 2016 and are looking forward to meeting with the prospects from the show over the coming weeks to discuss how they can build their business with The VEKA UK Group.”

On the whole I think the biggest success of the show was indeed all of us….that is the exhibitors. The time, planning and finance that we all put into the FitShow was a marvel and certainly keeps our industry looking forward in our growing economy. From The Georgian Bar Company’s point of view the show was fantastic. We launched our new 50mm bars to tremendous applause. There was a real sense of excitement over the product and we have to thank our existing customers for the buzz they created and the compliments we received. Overall the show seemed quieter than the first year, but in my mind the quality was there in droves and that’s all that matters. FiT 2016? We intend to support the show in the future in some form but we have international markets to consider so watch this space!

We exhibit at a lot of events, and to have one in the UK is important to us. The atmosphere was relaxed and it was a great chance for us to catch up with customers and suppliers and to meet new people. While it felt a little quieter on the first day than last year, Wednesday was really busy and what we did find was that the leads from visitors to our stand were of higher quality. In terms of getting a return on our investment, in a way we already have, as the colour survey was an important part of our market research for the new colour launch. We’ve already reserved our space for 2016 too, the only decision left to make is whether to take a larger stand.

We took the decision to demonstrate the strength of the Invincible versus industry-standard Euro Cylinders and certainly if the crowds on our stand were anything to go by then, this was well received by visitors. I think as a business we really stood out at the Show – not only with the lively demonstration but we were one of the few businesses that really delivered a market-changing new product. Was it successful for us? Without question. We’ve been the cornerstone of this industry since the first lock was made in Willenhall in 1838 and what we really demonstrated at the show is that this is a powerful business with resource, and ownership, to really give fabricators and installers what they need to win orders.

Certainly for our network partners it was a great opportunity to see many of our new systems including Loggia Prestige, side by side. The FIT Show was successful for us on many levels. We signed up new retailers at the Show – many were already in the mind set for switching roof suppliers but the Show was a prime opportunity to meet the research and development guys and really pick apart the new systems. The show also really enabled us to consolidate our market strategy in terms of how we’re supporting our partners to attack the new build, replacement and single storey extension market, we’ve really focused our message on this strategy and without question, all of our customers and prospects will have left the show with a clear view of how we’re supporting them back to the growth we saw a decade ago.

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

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July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

INSTALLER FOCUS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Bright future for Vale with

FREEFOAM 30% colour sales due to Deceuninck EXTEND IRISH OAK WOODGRAIN RANGE

Top 40 fabricator Vale Window Co. says 30% of its sales are now in colour compared with the industry average of 20%. The company is seeing growing demand for Cream and Anthracite Grey in particular. Vale’s Sales Director Rob Clarke comments: “Being able to offer coloured profile from stock makes a massive difference to our installers. It’s not something other companies do. Deceuninck’s new Colour Express range, with coloured profile and ancillaries on a standard lead-time, has really fasttracked this increase.”

“Last year was the best we’ve had by some way,” continues Rob. “We’re now on course to beat that by 20%! A lot of this has come from colour. We can offer a really wide range of colours to our installer customers, and as homeowners see what they can have on the same lead times, we’re seeing much more experimentation.” Vale Window Co. manufactures 1,200 frames and 3,500 sealed units a week, making it one of the

top 40 fabricators in the UK, according to Windowbase, data supplier for the window industry. Vale supplies the Midlands and North West with a huge variety of products including ‘A’ rated windows (40% of window sales but increasing rapidly), arched frames, PVC panel and composite doors, conservatory roofs and more.

“Our real focus is on customer service,” adds Vale’s Joint Sales Director Damon Gilberthorpe. “We have a dedicated sales team of 16 across our Mansfield and Stockport premises so customers always get through to someone who knows them and their spec, and can deal with their query straight away. Our customers are loyal because we focus on service and helping them grow their business: we’re interested and committed. Deceuninck has the same values which is why we work with them. “Deceuninck has positioned Vale to grow at a whole new level, but we’re also constantly investing in machinery and new

Pictured left-right: Vales Sales Directors Damon Gilberthorpe and Rob Clarke.

products. With colour, bifolds, and glass, we supply most of our customers with almost all of the products they sell. It’s all about having the right products at the right price, with quality and service you can rely on.” To find out more about Colour Express call Rob McGlennon at Deceuninck on 07818 383385.

Freefoam Building Products, a leading manufacturer of PVC building products for the Irish, UK and Mainland European markets extend range of Irish Oak woodgrain fascia, soffit and matching accessories. A wide range of full replacement fascia, standard and hollow soffit, architraves, window boards and coloured pins and nails is now available. With the increasing popularity of woodgrain windows and doors Freefoam has reacted to market trends offering this extended range to enable window supplies and fitters to meet

consumer demand. Produced using Renoit Exofol foil featuring built in Solar Shield Technology all products are designed to offer a long lasting, durable solution, guaranteed for ten years. Freefoam produce marketing leading PVC-U roofline products. A fully integrated range of components providing a complete roofline solution based around products that are designed to work together. Freefoam products are designed to stand the test of time. Having had many years of trouble-free performance in all weathers, from Scotland to the South of France, with its lead-free formulations, Colormax® technology and extra TiO2 UV protection, Freefoam manufacture products that are proven to last. Freefoam produce a sustainable range of products that are 100% lead free from core to skin, manufactured to the exacting ISO 14001: 2008 standard at its Northampton plant. Colin St John, UK General Manager comments “Our customers have seen increasing numbers of requests from installers for full replacement boards and matching fixing pins enabling them to match roofline to windows and doors. Our product offering is constantly evolving, and this addition will make a valuable addition to our woodgrain range.” www.freefoam.com READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0091

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0090

Fast Ordering & Quoting

Emplas has launched a series of workshops to support more of its customers by helping them to get up to speed with, and to take advantage of, online ordering. Accessed through the company’s online portal, Window Designer allows installers to get instant quotes and place orders anytime and anywhere, via the web. To support its customers in making the move online and make the most of the platform’s capability, Emplas is running a series of training sessions. This includes training on how to input a specification, choose glass, hardware and furniture. The system then automatically applies their discounts, to provide an instant quote. Where an order is placed installers get an immediate Order Acknowledgement. Mike Crewdson, Sales and Marketing Director Emplas said: “Rapid turnaround is part and

parcel of our business now, installers need that flexibility. Window Designer helps us to deliver it. The training we’re offering is aimed at

demonstrating the capability to new customers and to help those who may be using it already to make the most of the flexibility it offers.”

Emplas has also used Window Designer to introduce new efficiencies internally. This means that the Northamptonshirebased trade fabricator’s manufacturing and customer service teams can manage customer orders far more effectively across the board and in turn, offer a better service to its customers, whether they are coming to it ‘on’ or ‘offline’. Crewdson concluded: “Because the whole work-flow is fully integrated and because we can check or access any orders at any time, the manufacturing process becomes seamless. That makes us more efficient and flexible, and gives benefits that we can directly pass onto the customer.” To book their place, Emplas customers should contact their Customer Support Coordinator.

For more on Emplas visit www.emplas.co.uk, email info@emplas.co.uk or call 01933 674880. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0092

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

INSTALLER FOCUS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Your sash window

questions answered

Willie Kerr, managing director of Roseview Windows, answers some of the key questions faced by sash window installers

Having spoken to countless window installers during my 30 year career in the industry, I have noticed there is sometimes a little apprehension when it comes to uPVC vertical sliding (VS) sash windows. Vertical sliding sash windows are not an everyday purchase for the typical installer - casement windows are their ‘bread and butter’ – and installers are sometimes unsure about the ordering process, what product they should choose and whether there will be any installation issues. At Roseview we speak to several new installers every week who have at least one of these concerns, so I thought it would be a good idea to address some of these questions in this article.

What uPVC sash window should I choose? It all depends on where it’s going. If it’s a new build property or commercial contract you will probably require something a little more contemporary that offers excellent energy efficiency (ideally an ‘A’ Window Energy Rating), security (ideally carrying Secured by Design accreditation) and low maintenance. We offer a product called the Charisma Rose (which is manufactured using the Eurocell profile) that ticks all these boxes. The window is very competitively priced so it is ideal for circumstances where cost is an issue. If your customer is a high end homeowner who wants the look of timber but none of

“If your customer is a high end homeowner who wants the look of timber but none of the associated maintenance issues you will need to choose a truly authentic looking product. Ideally you will want a window that has intricate details such as a deep bottom rail, putty line glass lines, woolpile covers and incredibly slim sightlines.” www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

“At Roseview we speak to several new installers every week who have at least one of these concerns, so I thought it would be a good idea to address some of these questions in this article.”

the associated maintenance issues you will need to choose a truly authentic looking product. Ideally you will want a window that has intricate details such as a deep bottom rail, putty line glass lines, woolpile covers and incredibly slim sightlines. Our solution is the Heritage Rose which is manufactured using REHAU profile – widely regarded as the slimmest, most authentic looking system on the market today. If you are installing into a conservation area you will need a sash window that looks identical to timber– much like the Ultimate Rose, our top spec sash window that scooped New Product of the Year at last year’s G-13 Awards. This has a mechanically jointed sash and outerframe, perfectly emulating a timber joint and our in-house developed runthrough sash horn, which has a flush fitting end cap. The Ultimate Rose has been specified in a host of conservation areas, meaning you can win business in areas that are off limits to the majority of uPVC sash window installers.

Are sash windows difficult to install? I am often surprised to hear there is still a prevailing misconception that uPVC vertical sliding sash windows (VS) are difficult to fit. VS windows may be a highly specialised and a precision manufactured product – but the fact is they can be easier to install than a casement window, especially when replacing a timber box sash. In many ways replacing a timber box sash with a casement is like trying to fit a

Managing director Willie Kerr, Rose collection.

square peg in a round hole. The dimensions of the two products aren’t the same and you will need additional trims to fill the gap, resulting in an unnecessarily tricky installation and higher material costs. Our sash windows are designed to be the same depth as old timber sashes, and to support customers new to sash windows we offer installation training from our headquarters. We will even accompany customers on site to help them overcome any issues they may be facing.

A lucrative market The sash window market is very lucrative for installers – a typical order value can be double (if not more) than that of a casement job without the need for additional fitters – and we can see from our manufacturing volumes that demand is clearly growing. At Roseview we have been producing uPVC sash windows longer than anyone else in the industry and it has always been our mission to provide installers with the products, knowledge, service and support they need to succeed in this sector. I hope this article has answered some of the questions you have about sash windows but if you would like to know more please feel free to contact me. For more information call Roseview on 01234 712 657 or visit www.roseview.co.uk.

How do I order my sash window?

Ordering a sash window is not the same as a casement and I can understand why some installers are a little unsure how to go about it at first. This apprehension surrounding VS windows is the very reason we set up our own dedicated New Business Division. The New Business Division is a team of staff that literally guides new customers through every stage of the ordering and sales process. We have specially designed, sash window specific order forms that ask all the right questions. We help installers fill out their first few forms, provide detailed technical support and are on hand to answer any questions. It has proved to be a very successful service and has given numerous installers a stepping stone into the market.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0093

INSTALLER FOCUS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

KNOW YOUR POTENTIAL Aluminium sector Roof Assured by Sarnafil is piloting a tool to provide installers with insight into the demographics of their areas, to help identify key areas for growth through understanding the characteristics of the population. Using the Experian online demographics tool, installers are provided with a summary demographics overview and a detailed full report based on a drive time/ geographical distance of their business postcode. Rod Benson, Business Unit Manager, Sika Roofing, said: “This is part of our

commitment to support our approved installer network with marketing, training, and lead generation. Society has change so much in the last ten years with housing, ageing and technology shifts all having a role to play, and that we want to do all we can to help installers understand their marketplace. It’s about increasing revenue by attracting new customers to the Roof Assured products and services”. The demographics can also be used by installers if they are producing a business plan as it gives postcode relevant data analysis rather

“It’s about increasing revenue...”

continuing to grow says MD

than the generic data that is usually available online.

The aluminium industry continues to grow and there are increasing opportunities for installers in this sector.

The insight team at Roof Assured will be measuring and evaluating feedback from the pilot before rolling it out to their wider installer network.

This is the view of Jerry Webb, Managing Director of CDW Systems - an aluminium specialist that recently supplied windows and doors for the multi-million pound construction of apartments on the island of Guernsey.

Rod Benson continues: “Ideally we would like a demographics report to be part of the package we give to all new installers but, for the moment, we are producing reports for existing installers and getting their feedback”.

CDW Systems worked with Guernsey Glass & Window Co Ltd on a new high end residential development called One St Julians, which has both local and open market apartments.

Roof Assured is part of the Sika Sarnafil brand, a world leading manufacturer of single ply roofing membranes. For more information on becoming a Roof Assured installer visit: www. roofassured.co.uk/installer. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0094

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0714/0095

Email for more information: christina@fenestrabuild.co.uk M: 07805 051 322 | WWW.FENESTRABUILD.CO.UK

The new apartment block was built on the site of a former brewery and incorporates underground parking. The fenestration works consisted of curtain walling, dual colour SAPA dual-frame windows; and commercial and residential aluminium entrance doors. Many of the windows were curved and dual colour marine grey and white. The project is now complete, with some of the apartments on the market for multi million pound figures. Jerry says that CDW Systems have never been busier –with the project the latest in a long line incorporating aluminium products - and that the sector represents lucrative opportunities for installers. He comments: “A lot has been said about the aluminium sector and what the future holds for it. Certainly for the foreseeable future things looks very good. We’ve never been busier and we are seeing more demand for aluminium windows and doors, domestically and commercially. “There seems to be more velocity in the private sector now as well, with more projects such as this one being pushed through. It says a lot about our products that they were chosen for this project. There are clearly opportunities for installers and we have the support and products to them make the most of these.” CDW and Guernsey Glass regularly collaborate on projects.

Guernsey Glass’ Managing Director Chris Wrench comments: “We’re regularly selected for the very best projects and we like to work with CDW Systems because they have the experience, products and support to ensure everything goes smoothly. They know the aluminium market inside out.” CDW Systems have been in business for twenty-one years and manufacture and supply a wide range of windows, doors, shop fronts and curtain walling, using some of the leading aluminium profile systems on the market today, including SAPA, ALUK and Smarts. The specialist aluminium fabricator brings to market new products yearly; and most recently rolled out its new PassivHaus approved patio door that can accommodate up to 400kg of glass. For more information call CDW Systems on 01452 414853or visit www.cdwsystems.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0097

0714/0096

NEW ADDITION!! MANUFACTURERS OF THE LINIAR ENERGY SUITE & THE LINIAR PATIO PLUS

WE WANT YOU! A WHOLE RANGE OF PRODUCTS INCLUDING THE LINIAR CONSERVATORY ROOF.

Tel: 0800 014 2769 | Email: sales@liniartrade.co.uk 58

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

“

GLASS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Two or Three is Easy with Systems Glass As the Triple Glazing issue hots up in our industry media, Systems Glass, the toughened safety glass and high performance sealed unit manufacturer, is pleased to be able to support customers whether it’s double or triple glazed sealed units they need.

EPD® for Ensinger’s insulbar RE First thermal insulation profile made of 100% unmixed recycled polyamide improves the eco balance of buildings Insulbar RE has now been on the market for a number of weeks. What makes it special: The insulation profile, which is used to create a thermal barrier between the inner and outer shell of the metal frames of windows, doors and facades, is made of 100% unmixed recycled PA66, making this a truly resource-saving option. Plastic specialist Ensinger processes this high-quality material using an upcycling process which renders its properties directly comparable to those of new material. This means that insulbar RE – just like the classical insulbar product line from Ensinger - provides excellent thermal insulation and helps to save energy and costs for room heating and cooling. During the manufacturing phase, it generates 85 % fewer greenhouse gases, as well as using 89 % fewer fossil-based resources. This claim has now been backed by the Institute for Window Technology (ift) in Rosenheim, which has issued an Environmental Product

Declaration (EPD) additionally endorsed by an independent expert. "The excellent values documented in the Environmental Product Declaration are testimony to the outstanding suitability of insulbar RE for system manufacturers and processing firms in the field of window and facade construction to address current and future demands, particularly given that sustainability is set to play an ever more vital role", explains Dr. Michael Möller of the Research and Material Development Department at Ensinger. "The EPD also offers planners, architects and property developers a reliable data basis for improving the eco balance of their building project." The EPD forms the basis for ecological building assessment. In accordance with the international standards EN ISO 14025:2011 and EN 15804:2012, it encompasses all the relevant information about the environmental impact of a product over the entire life cycle - from extraction of the raw materials through to recycling. This provides a basis for comparison of the data from individual EPDs, which can be collated using a modular system to create a building's eco balance. www.ensinger-online.com READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0098

Ensinger now supplies insulbar RE with an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD). The insulating profile for thermal separation of metal frames is made of 100% unmixed recycled polyamide, and improves the eco balance of buildings. Pictures courtesy of: Ensinger GmbH.

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

“The debate about triple glazing is centring around whether or not the majority of units produced will be triple glazed instead of double, any time soon,” says Paul Naylor, Director of Systems Glass, “but we already service a good number of sealed unit manufacturers that are asking for both. Particularly now we have moved into new premises with a fully automated Lisec machine, we can easily up our production of triple glazed units if required. “Systems Glass has always strived to provide customers with everything they need, which is why we offer a range of glass, argon or

krypton gas and a choice of warm edge technology in all of our units. Most glass companies stick to one unit specification but we understand that customers may want different glass or WET types depending on personal preference. “While we can all second guess what will happen with regards to the triple glazing trend in the coming years, our customers can be safe in the knowledge that we can quickly supply as many double or triple units as they need to stay ahead of the competition.” For more information, visit www. systemsglass.co.uk or call 01942 211197. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0099

GLASSOLUTIONS HITS THE ROAD TO BUILD LINKS WITH JEWSON BRANCHES Staff within Jewson branches across the south of England and Wales are now better equipped to provide their customers with access to the wide range of glass products and services from GLASSOLUTIONS, thanks to a series of recent roadshow events. The five roadshows were organised to help Jewson staff improve their knowledge of sister company GLASSOLUTIONS, so their building industry customers can buy more of what they need from within the Saint-Gobain group. Strengthening the links between the two companies, more than 250 members of staff from Jewson attended the roadshows, with many immediately identifying ways in which they could help their regular customers with their glass requirements. Stephen Huntly, regional general manager for GLASSOLUTIONS in

GLASSOLUTIONS and Jewson personnel build links at one of the recent roadshow events.

the South was involved in delivering the roadshows. He said: “By bringing Jewson and GLASSOLUTIONS closer together, we have taken another important step along the road to making it easier for customers to do business with Saint-Gobain. The group is large and diverse so it is important that staff within the different businesses know as much as possible about each other – that’s where these roadshows have proved extremely useful.” Jewson customers in the South will not only have

greater awareness of GLASSOLUTIONS products following the roadshows, they will even be able to see products showcased. Vitrio® backpainted glass, which is manufactured by GLASSOLUTIONS at its Hayes factory and used for all kinds of kitchen and bathroom applications, will soon be showcased for customers in Jewson’s kitchen showroom in Bridgend in South Wales and other showrooms are set to follow suit. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0100

TIRC NEWSLETTER

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

July 2014

Massive thumbs up

from the industry for the FIT Show Of those who visited last year 81% reported that they thought it was as good or even better, with the balance thinking it perhaps didn’t hit the same heights as previous.

We were delighted to have had the opportunity to carry out in show and exit surveys recently on behalf of the FIT Show, and the results were a massive thumbs up for another great industry event.

IBG’s a great opportunity to gather customer feedback... The new requirement to provide IBG’s (Insurance Backed Guarantees) is an opportunity to collect customer feedback. Using The Independent Ratings Company guarantee model, homeowners are encouraged to register and download their guarantee from their supplier’s website.

Of first time visitors 96% stated they thought it was really good or brilliant actually, with just 4% not thinking it had met their expectations.

At the same time they are encouraged to provide feedback on the products and service provided. By ‘giving’ the homeowner something – in this case the guarantee - the level of feedback received is generally much higher than when requested without any incentive.

Really significant was the 79% of people who stated it was really important for the industry to have its own show, with a further 18% saying it was important, and just 3% unsure of the value.

Joining The Independent Ratings Company...

98% said that overall they thought their visit was well worthwhile, is there any better pat on the back than that?

Supalite is the latest big industry name to join up with The Independent Ratings Company to obtain feedback on behalf of their installers on the services they provide to homeowners throughout the UK. Using customer feedback and reviews to win more work is now forming an integral part of the marketing efforts of many of the industry’s leading names. The range of packages available from The Independent Ratings Company covers retail, trade, social housing and commercial and now business surveys/ market research.

www.theindependentratingscompany.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0101

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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Twitter on Twitter TWR Trade Frames

Roseview Windows - Ultimate Rose

TWR Trade Frames is the North East’s number one fabricator of Smarts aluminium, offering a wide range of windows and doors including the popular eternAL bi-folding door to installers across the UK. TWR also offers a survey and technical/site support service to help installers capitalise on the opportunities the bi-fold market provides.

Claimed to be the most authentic uPVC sash window on the market, Ultimate Rose from Roseview Windows is fully mechanically jointed and has the slimmest sightlines of any sash window. A deep bottom rail and run-through sash horns help complete the authentic original timber window look, helping you sell into the high-end consumer market and sensitive conservation areas.

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Morning all! Busy day for us as we ﬁnalise our @ﬁtshow plans! Guess What? We have something really exciting to show you! #watchthisspace BRetweeted by FIT SHOW 2014 Expand Purplex Marketing @PurplexUK

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www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

HARDWARE

! RT PE EX

HARDWARE EXPERT

Mark Bromley is Managing Director of Avantis Hardware. Mark tells us that hardware suppliers need to offer technically advanced products and modern supply chain solutions to help fabricators and installers meet consumer expectations.

Technically advanced hardware products

+ modern supply chain solutions = success in today’s market place With consumer knowledge and expectation of their suppliers at an all time high in the post recessionary economy Avantis Hardware is laying down an agenda to fully meet the needs of its direct customers as they seek to service the new demands upon them. Managing Director Mark Bromley takes up the story “Our latest product, a brand new locking mechanism designed specifically for the booming composite door market provides our customers with exactly the kind of technically advanced product they need to distinguish themselves from their competition”.

“A 25mm throw centre dead bolt which provides not just additional security, but genuine compression is supported by 25mm throw hooks, the largest in the market. This guarantees that compression from the lock extends to the full length of the door and plays a major role in countering any thermal movement to which a door may be susceptible”. “Fabricator benefits include the lock being fully reversible and non-handed with additional clearance and tolerance. The lock is bi-directional in operation, comes with 16mm or 20mm faceplates and is suitable for lever lever or lever pad operation. It is fully tested to PAS 023 and PAS 024 and Secured by Design. It is complemented by a twin fix cylinder guard and a complementary designed anti-snap cylinder”. “Consumers should be able to buy a wholly functioning product solution which addresses all issues; they shouldn’t be having to retro-

fit additional security products in today’s market or suffer from problems which the industry has known about for 20 years. The consumer today is educated enough to know this, to know what questions to ask, and what answers to expect. We know that through our on-going design and development programme we are able to give our customers the products they need to satisfy all of those consumer expectations”. In this one product alone you see the essence of Avantis. The UK based company with its own high tech manufacturing plant in Malaysia understands that technical innovation in hardware is a must in today’s market; that for far too long the industry has stood still in real terms and has not fully addressed the evolving needs of the end user.

“To really give fabricators and installers the tools to satisfy consumer expectations, technical innovation needs to be supported by truly modern supply chain solutions which are entirely efficient. Why? Because supply chain efficiency guarantees that the fabricator or installer will never let their customer down, they will never be late, they will never disappoint”.

weekly stock level for each item which we put into them as a physical starter stock. We hold an exact mirror stock at our distribution facility meaning that at no time should the customer run out of material, and they don’t need to tie cash up in their business holding vast amounts of product. The stock is taken to the customer in marked bins without excess packaging which saves them time, and is delivered directly onto their shop-floor to the relevant stations. If the stock level for a lock is eight bins, it is immediately evident when each one of those bins becomes empty, and once per week we replenish the difference”.

Supply Chain efficiency, modern solutions

“Technically advanced hardware products supported by supply chain solutions really does equal success in today’s market place.”

Responsive Management “One of the significant advantages of Avantis is that we have the ability to move very quickly indeed and to be entirely flexible”.

“We can bespoke the supply chain for each individual customer ensuring that they will have consistency of supply to meet the demands upon them. We have introduced for our customers in the UK a system which enables us to significantly reduce the amount of stock-holding and stock cost to be borne by them, and to operate a delivery system which means that they only buy what they are going to use immediately. What’s more they get it when they want it”. “How do we do this? We review our customer’s requirements and determine a

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0103

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

HARDWARE EXPERT

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Strong adaptation door market sees a growing network of ‘Repair Partners’ for Winkhaus Whether it’s the social housing or domestic market, a rise in demand for adapted doors has seen hardware specialist Winkhaus UK further strengthen its repair dealer network. Winkhaus’ range of highly advanced locking systems are proving popular components to be incorporated into existing composite, timber , aluminium or PVCu doors that require adaptation. Winkhaus is partnering with selected strategic dealers to supply appropriate options from their range of locks; with the AV2 automated locks proving particularly popular. Repair and adaptation dealers that partner with Winkhaus benefit from a full technical support training programme, including a certificated scheme that needs to be undertaken in order to supply and install automatic multi-point locking systems such as blueMatic AV2-E. As part of the partnership-building strategy, Winkhaus is also offering marketing support to its network of Repair dealers, which will also see them supplied with blueMatic AV2 –E demo samples for their showrooms and local authority adaptation department demonstrations. Mike Rushen, Commercial Manager, at Winkhaus comments: “The social housing Decent Homes programme is now over

10 years old, so the home occupiers are older, and a growing proportion have developed certain infirmities linked to ageing through conditions such as arthritis. “These conditions often make it difficult for people to operate a standard lift lever multipoint door lock and unfortunately a lot of the decent homes programmes had a “one lock fits all” approach. “By working together with the right repair dealer partners we are satisfying the requirement to upgrade to locking systems that eliminate many of the problems associated with this approach.” Mike comments further: “The AV2, AV2-E and AV2-B locks are designed for communal and home entrance doors, and they automatically engage the hook locking points of a door when it’s closed, providing instant security without further need to lift a handle or use a key to turn a cylinder.” The AV2 -E version also allows for integration with a vast range of access control systems such as an audio visual intercom. But according to Mike the choice of the access control lies with the repair dealer or adaptation specifier. Mike says Winkhaus are very happy to work with these strategic partners to supply products to satisfy what will surely be an increasing demand in an ageing society. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0104

0714/0105

FULLY REVERSIBLE WINDOW SYSTEMS

IF YO DIDN’T U AT THE SEE US FIT SHO W, CALL U S NOW

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www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

HARDWARE EXPERT

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

VBH & Deceuninck

in Partnership

Hardware specialist VBH has announced a partnership with leading PVCu systems company Deceuninck. The project will further enhance service levels and the availability of the latest hardware innovations to Deceuninck’s expanding fabricator base. The companies’ technical and commercial teams have worked closely together to develop recommended hardware solutions for Deceuninck’s profile suites. These solutions are showcased in a new Deceuninck-specific version

of the VBH hardware catalogue. Products from leading hardware brands including greenteQ, Yale, Roto, Maco and Siegenia all feature. VBH has formulated a number of PAS24 window and door hardware packages. BSI test certification can be cascaded down to Deceuninck fabricators at no cost, to help secure contracts or obtain Secured by Design accreditation if required. VBH MD Peter Rowlands commented “VBH and Deceuninck both provide premium products that complement each other

very well. For example, VBH’s greenteQ Sigma Hybrid door hinge is now available in 15 finishes to suit the coloured and foiled profiles in Deceuninck’s Colour 360 and Colour Express suites. We’re delighted to partner with Deceuninck. We’ve already had a lot of interest from Deceuninck customers and we are confident VBH and Deceuninck will enjoy a long and successful partnership.” Roy Frost, Deceuninck MD added “We’re very pleased to be able to offer VBH’s premium range to our

Additional greenteQ Hinge Colours Hardware specialist VBH has introduced seven new colour variants of the greenteQ Sigma Hybrid door hinge, bringing the total number of finishes available to fifteen. The company advises that the new colours have been developed in response to the growing trend towards painted or foiled PVCu rebated entrance doors. The colours have been chosen to complement popular new profile finishes such as Chartwell Green, Cream, Silk Grey, Cement Grey,

customers. VBH’s attractive and secure door and window hardware makes it easy for Deceuninck customers to offer Secured by Design products in Deceuninck’s unique Colour 360 range. “This partnership gives our fabricators and installers another big sales advantage. VBH’s greenteQ suited furniture looks

For more information on VBH call 01634 263300 or visit www.vbhgb.com. Call Deceuninck on 01249 816 969 or visit www.deceuninck.com for further information. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0106

Introducing the TL Rim Cylinder

We Came. We Saw. We Conquered.

Anthracite Grey, Golden Oak, Rosewood and Irish Oak. VBH Marketing Manager Gary Gleeson states ‘Many of the leading PVCu systems companies have been busy developing these eye-catching new profiles. By adding vibrant new finishes to the greenteQ hinge offering, we have given fabricators the freedom to choose a 3D adjustable hinge that will either blend or contrast with the door colour.’ Call VBH on 01634 263300 for further information on greenteQ Sigma Hybrid door hinges or download it from www.vbhgb.com. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0107

We have been asked many times to develop a budget Rim Cylinder, but we didn't want to just launch something that was the same as what is already on the market. Instead we sat back, asked a lot of questions, and sampled a lot of product. And now we have what we believe to be one of the best Rim Cylinders on the market!

and UAP+ 1* Kitemark cylinders!

The TL Rim Cylinder is a 6 Pin, Patented AntiBump, Anti-Drill, AntiPick cylinder, available in Polished Brass or Polished Chrome.

The timing Pins also have inbuilt anti-picks, and mushroom driver pins, which makes them highly effective against picking.

And as an added important feature, the TL cylinder can be keyed to any of the UAP

fantastic – our pretty windows and doors have just got even prettier!”

So how have managed to fit all of that technology into the cylinder, and just how good is it? The TL Rim Cylinder is one the latest in the line of UAP's super smooth cylinders using the Chris Belcher designed Anti Bump Timing Pin system. This very clever system uses Nickel Plated Hardened steel Key Pins and driver pins. The hardened steel pins give the antidrill feature we wanted to incorporate.

cylinders which is a very important requirement. Furthermore, we offer a full Master Suiting service for these products. The products are then very competitively priced because that is exactly what you expect from a Tradelocks product; Great products, Great features and a Great price. So how good is the TL Rim Cylinder? We believe it is the best value for money, feature packed Rim on the market!

The patented Timing Pins are designed to interrupt the timing of the pins when bumped, and it is highly effective. And because we use special pins rather than say trap pins, we do not have to have a high expense to get this Anti-Bump feature.

We have managed to get all of this into a rim with 6 pins, so that we can key Alike to the UAP and UAP+

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0108

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

HARDWARE EXPERT

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

MILA PRODUCT QUALITY BOOSTS SALES OF PROSECURE MULTI-POINT DOOR LOCK After releasing details of its latest market research showing that product quality is the single most important factor for fabricators when choosing a hardware supplier, Mila is seeing real evidence of that in sales of its ProSecure multipoint door lock. Mila has been asking fabricators who have been buying the lock over the past year what they like most about it, and the overwhelming response is that it is great quality. Companies such as Castle Windows in Tyne and Wear and A&FI Humphreys in Lancashire even say that they have specifically chosen the lock because they feel it is higher quality than other locks on the market. Others fabricators including Kent based RB Windows and Superseal in Cambridgeshire say that they like the fact that the lock matches the quality of the other Mila products they already buy and enables them to offer a complete Mila door solution which

is popular with trade and retail buyers. The ProSecure lock was launched at the FIT show in 2013 with a campaign focusing on its quality and super strength. (It can withstand an applied load of 7.5kN on its locking points which is equivalent to the weight of a classic Mini Cooper.) Fully tested to PAS24: 2012 and accredited to Secured by Design, the lock combines consistent quality and performance with clever features such as a one piece C-shaped keep which eliminates the requirements for a separate security plate. It is also easy to fit with simple, secure twist in packers and a common 4mm Allen key for adjusting the keep rather than nuts and bolts. As well as focusing on quality, Mila’s research also showed that customer service, delivery time and stock availability continue to rank highly amongst the priorities for fabricators buying hardware.

fabricators simply can’t afford to get this element of their product offering wrong so the very positive feedback we’ve had from buyers of the ProSecure lock coupled with our research findings justifies our belief that investing in quality is always worthwhile.” Mila’s ProSecure multi-point door lock is available in variants for residential and short residential doors, French doors and slave door locks. There are seven sizes in the range, all with the option of a normal or dual function gearbox and all with split spindles if required for use in both normal and night latch mode. Further information is available at http://www.mila.co.uk/door_ locks.aspx

Again, the ProSecure lock is satisfying customers on these measures with Castle Windows, A&FI Humphreys and RB all benefiting from a 100% OTIF (On Time in Full) score on their orders so far. Managing Director Richard Gyde says: “The door lock is the heart of the door and

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0109

0714/0110

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

HARDWARE EXPERT

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

New Cockspur Window Handle Set To Revolutionise UK market! The Schlosser Technik 'Apto' Cockspur Window Handle is set to take the UK maintenance and repair market by storm in the coming weeks and months. The revolutionary 'one size fits all' design will suit most applications from 9mm to 21mm, eliminating the need for distributors and maintenance engineers to carry such a wide range of stock. Each handle is provided with three differently sized packers which can be attached to suit applications from 9mm to 21mm. The patent protected design is available in a left hand and a right hand model with five

...SO, WHAT DOES GLASS NEWS DO FOR YOU?

high quality finishes to choose from including Gold, White, Polished Chrome, Brushed Nickel and Black. Commenting on the new Schlosser Technik 'Apto' handle, marketing manager Robert Standley said: “The concept behind the Apto cockspur handle is so simple yet effective. The patented design will save both retailers and maintenance engineers money, time and valuable space. Currently, retailers are stocking upwards of three to four different sizes of cockspur handle in both left and right hand, plus each finish.” “This is eating up a great deal of cash and warehouse space. The new Apto Cockspur solves this problem. It's practical, it looks great and is importantly at the right price! We're expecting a great response!” The Apto handle will be available from all major Schlosser Technik stockists in early July. Schlosser Technik are looking for potential distributors of their entire product range including the new Apto Cockspur Window Handle. Please email info@schlosser.co.uk if you are interested.

@GlassnewsMag

Christina Shaw

/GlassNews

www.glassnews.co.uk

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0111

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0714/0112

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WWW.FENESTRABUILD.CO.UK M: 07805 051 322 | E: INFO@FENESTRABUILD.CO.UK July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0714/0113

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

PRODUCT NEWS

SEALANTS

Masco UK window group select the LinkVent from Glazpart

Modern tapes have energy efficiency sealed

Banbury-based Glazpart, is a specialist injection moulding company with extensive experience in the fenestration industry, employing 80 staff at its ISO 9001:2008 certified site, producing millions of mouldings each month. Masco UK window group Ltd has selected the Link-Vent product range as their standard trickle vent for future window background ventilation. Glazpart launched this innovative new product at the FITSHOW 2013 and follows a period of cooperation and consultation in the development of the vent range. Masco UK Window group Ltd are the first major UK fabricator to integrate the products into their system from Duraflex which significantly reduces the part numbers used on their volume production. The Link-Vent 2500 allows group fabricators to standardise on one 204mm x 13 mm rout detail and replace the traditional 2000mm2 AND 4000mm2 (free area) products, with one 236.5 mm ventilator delivering 2500 EQA, a similar performance to 4000mm2 vents but with a similar length of a 2000mm2 vents. Smaller windows for non-habitable rooms can also now be compliant to building regulations, as 2500 EQA can now be delivered even through the sash of, for example, a typical down stairs toilet window. The Link-Vent 5000 allows the group fabricators flexibility to deliver 5000 EQA through one tricklevent, especially where there is only one window in a room to meet the building regulations for a habitable room.

The ventilators will be supplied initially in white, brown, black, tan and two shades of grey (RAL 7015 and 7016) with other colours to follow, as the tricklevent range will be supplied in a suite of colours designed to match the colour of foil ranges offered by group fabricators Griffin windows and Premier trade frames. Additional colours to follow include Light grey, Cream, Steel Blue, Moss Green, Dark Red, Irish Oak and Chartwell green. According to Dean Bradley – Sales and Marketing Manager (Glazpart): “This is a key step in the launch of the Link-Vent range and we at Glazpart are excited at the prospect of launching it with Masco UK window group and to develop this and future products.” Ray Mcgrady – Marketing Director (UKWG): “The simple design, part number reduction and standardisation opportunities in production working with Glazpart were key in our selection of this innovative new product.” We offer an extensive range of colour options, whether a moulded colour, vacuum foiled, printed wood grain or paint sprayed as detailed in our general trickle ventilator catalogue which is available for download at the same web address. For more information on the Link-Vent product line this is easily down loadable online at http://www.glazpart.com/products/ with instant access, the catalogue provides a detailed summary of the Link-Vent product range including features and benefits. Whilst downloading the catalogue there is the option to keep in touch through social media or you can add your details to our electronic mailing list to find out the latest developments in our furniture fittings and tube inserts at Glazpart as they happen.

Andrew Swift, technical advisor for foam sealants supplier ISO-Chemie, offers advice for installers about achieving energy efficiency installations and the benefits of using foam tape sealants for longer last performance.

might be, none of these solutions create a measurable, long term, high performance thermal, acoustic or airtight barrier – silicone usually fails within five years, reducing the U-value of the installed window, ensued by heat loss and further expense on repairs and replacements. What’s more, the Glass and Glazing Federation’s own Good Practice Guide states ‘Finishings (trims etc) should not be used to enhance the weather tightness of the windows and doors’.

While window systems have to comply with certain FENSA and CERTASS requirements there are no meaningful standards governing the standard of the actual installation. This is an area that has long suffered from any regulation yet it is also a critical one that can and does have considerable impact on the long term performance and effectiveness of even the best window products.

So how is a first class installation achieved? Installers certainly deserve better insulating products to save energy and money for the end user and a new generation of high performance foam sealing tapes, which use ‘smart’ foams impregnated with different substances to create a measurable U-Value as low as 0.6w/m2k, provide good thermal insulation and acoustic sound reduction by up to 44dB.

New regulations coming into force this June aim to improve the technical competency levels of those involved in the fenestration industry but it will remain incumbent upon installers to make sure that the benefits of A-Rated energy efficient windows are not compromised by out-dated installation techniques and poor sealing products.

Although the UK doesn’t yet have proper regulations or recommendations for the installation and sealing of fenestration, mainland Europe does. These include the RAL Window Installation Principals, which state that windows should have three levels of sealing. The outside should be weatherproof but breathable to allow potentially trapped moisture from other ingress areas to escape outwards. The inside should supply an airtight and vapour control seal while the middle area between these should have additional thermal and acoustic insulating properties. This system has excelled in Europe for many years and correctly done offers compliance with the high standards demanded by among others the Passivhaus Institute.

The energy efficiency and cost effectiveness of A-Rated windows will be drastically reduced by substandard installation - warm air will always look for the most vulnerable point to escape, so it is important that the 10mm or so expansion gap around the frames, cills and walls left after the window’s been fitted is effectively sealed to prevent heat loss and provide long term insulation benefits. In some instances, the leakage of heat around incorrectly fitted windows can reduce the ‘energy index’ as shown on the British Fenestration Rating Council’s Domestic Window Energy Rating Scheme by three units or more. This can add up to a significant loss when its considered that the average semi-detached house contains more than 16 sq m of glazing and it’s virtually ‘criminal’ that too many window installations are going unchecked or unregulated, leaving a potential legacy of problems that can last for years and cost thousands of pounds to rectify in the long run. Normally gaps between frame and substrate are left empty, or some uncontrolled volume of spray foam is injected to fill the void before a silicone trim is applied for a smart looking finish. Unfortunately, as expedient as this

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0114

“The outside should be weatherproof but breathable to allow potentially trapped moisture from other ingress areas to escape outwards.”

Fit & forget

Various manufacturers supply products that can be mixed and matched to produce the three level sealing systems, complying with energy conservation standards, but some like ISO-Chemie supply ‘all-in-one’ solutions that give a similar or better performance depending on the systems/ products. These together with the fact that they enhance the aesthetics of fenestration products, can be used in installers’ marketing campaigns to engage customers to secure work, market share and profits. The future for these ‘fit and forget’ systems is evolving quickly and most now comply with the RAL principals, not only exceeding the requirements of the UK Building Regulations but saving time and money for the installer. So, it’s not just regulations that are changing; consumer demand and the market place that companies like ISO-Chemie supply are also changing, and window installers must move with the times - the writing is on the wall but the solutions are already here to facilitate change and add even more value. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0115

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

TRANSPORT & HANDLING

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

ENERGY-EFFICIENT MODULAR CHARGERS PROMOTE UPTIME & REDUCE COSTS The new Hawker® LifeTech® Modular and Hawker® Life IQ™ Modular high-frequency battery chargers from EnerSys® deliver increased flexibility, efficiency and reliability with reduced downtime, costs and carbon footprint across a wide range of materials handling, automatic guided vehicle and motive power applications. They reduce energy consumption by up to 25 per cent compared with conventional chargers and can cut charging times by up to two hours. Single-phase and three-phase modules are available in a range of configurations with outputs from 12 to 80V for use with any batteries with a corresponding charging profile including models from the Hawker XFC™ and Hawker Waterless® ranges.

The advanced design of the chargers delivers increased efficiency and reduces energy consumption compared with conventional models. The chargers convert 94 per cent energy input into usable battery power, an industry-leading benchmark that demonstrates the technology leadership of EnerSys. This reduces the carbon footprint of batteries and chargers for businesses who want to improve the sustainability of their operations. These performance and efficiency gains result from innovative design and use of advanced components to optimise the chargers’ power factor at close to one which is ideal for battery installations. Optimised power factors minimise reactive power from the mains supply and ensure there is no voltage drop, overheating or resonance in the power circuits that can lead to damage to components and unscheduled outages for enhanced reliability. The grid optimisation enabled by the chargers also helps to reduce infrastructure requirements for mains distribution

and rephrasing systems which leads to lower costs. The optimised charging profiles of the Hawker LifeTech Modular and Hawker Life IQ Modular chargers have been developed for all low to heavy duty applications. A customer-friendly menu allows users to select the correct profile for their specific application and battery technology. For low-tomedium duty applications of up to 80 per cent depth of discharge once a day, the recharge time is reduced by around one hour for standard batteries and up to two hours when used in conjunction with an electrolyte recirculation system. These performance gains can provide operators with the flexibility to specify smaller and less expensive chargers for like-for-like applications if a suitable charging window is available. The modular design supports continuous operations with reduced downtime. If a module should develop a fault it is automatically bypassed while the remaining units continue to operate as normal until the battery is fully charged. Under these circumstances the charger operates at reduced overall power

which means the charging cycle is extended slightly but there is no risk of catastrophic failure that would lead to battery outages and operational downtime. The plug-and-play capabilities of the chargers support simpler and quicker maintenance. The builtin diagnostics provide rapid fault identification on the charger’s screen. Faulty modules can be hot-swapped quickly and easily while the charger continues to work with no disruption to ongoing operations. The modular approach also ensures fewer components are required across the complete range which means spare parts covering more models are available on service vehicles to enable faster response and higher first-time-fix rates. Replacement modules can be supplied from stock for overnight delivery to customers in remote locations for installation by their on-site technicians. Depending on specific model and configuration, the chargers are available in single and three-phase versions with outputs from 12 to 80V. They can be free-standing or wall-mounted, providing operators with complete flexibility to

configure charge-and-change areas for the best possible use of space and accessibility. An on-board screen provides a simple user interface while the built-in USB port supports connectivity with additional service equipment and allows historical operational data to be downloaded for further analysis and reporting. The chargers comply with the latest EN61000-3-2 regulations which aim to reduce electromagnetic interference and pollution to mains supplies. They have also been tested in extreme conditions of cold, dry heat and damp heat and comply with the latest EN60068 climatic standards. More information on Hawker® can be found at: www.enersys-hawker.com. More information regarding EnerSys® can be found at www.enersys.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0116

A 14 nn th iv Ye er a sa r ry !

The chargers are configured using a number of identical power modules so that performance can be matched to the specific application requirement. This allows installations to be optimised to take full advantage of all of the energy-efficiency and battery-life benefits of highfrequency charging. Each module is a standalone unit which is managed independently by the control board

to deliver peak efficiency at all times. This modular approach minimises the risk of charger failure.

BUILD ON GREAT FOUNDATIONS! A cost effective solution for constructing conservatories and extensions, on poor ground conditions. • Mini Piling and Underpinning • Insurance claims for subsiding conservatories have increased in the last 5 years. Most claims are rejected due to insufficient foundations. • Conservatories, garages and extensions - all domestic and commercial work undertaken. • Established 14 years • Enviable Reputation - helping you build reputation with your customers.

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Tel: 07966 663 207 Email: harrisrch9@aol.com 0714/0117

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

WINDOWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

GLAZERITE’S JUST THE TICKET

FOR VINTAGE LIBRARY CONVERSION One of a Bolton community’s landmarks has been restored to perfection, thanks to Glazerite & Grosvenor Windows Ltd. With arched windows as big as 5m X 4m, and a unique porthole design, replacing the distinctive features at the former Astley Bridge Library building was never going to be easy. But the trade fabricator, along with installer Grosvenor Windows, rose to the occasion and perfectly replicated the single-glazed timber and metal originals with equivalents in double-glazed PVC-U. The result took four weeks to install, with some of the units weighing 180kg and taking eight fitters to manoeuvre into place. The manufacture demanded not only extensive arching of the VEKA 70mm sculptured profile but also bending lengths of Astragal bars to form the circles of the distinctive

portholes. Also, the large frames – some nearly 20sq metres in size – had to be made in a single piece to retain the original appearance and the frames required some end milling on site. “The building is very well-known in the area so the look was very important, even though it is no longer a library.” said Grosvenor’s Lauren Wilcox, “The result looks indistinguishable from the original but has all the energy efficiency and low maintenance of modern materials.” The building had been acquired by franking machine supplier Nationwide Franking Sense as an extension of its existing premises next door. Another part of the project for Glazerite and Grosvenor was to create a glazed walkway to connect the two buildings. Glazerite Director Jason Thompson said: “This was a challenging project in a number of ways but we take pride in going the extra mile for all our customers and we are delighted that Grosvenor and their customer are happy with the result.”

CLASSIC-AL PEAKS FOR CUSTOMADE As demand for aluminium reaches an all time high, Gloucestershire-based fabricator Customade has announced record volumes of its exclusive Classic-al window system. “Aluminium is a hugely popular material now within the domestic market and Classic-al has been our fastest growing window system by far,” says Andy Thomas Customade’s Sales and Marketing Director. “We’re currently fabricating in excess of 300 aluminium windows a week and have the infrastructure in place to increase capacity as demand for aluminium grows even more in the future.” “We are very proud of the success of this superb window system, which is totally exclusive to us. It’s the ultimate choice for people who want a window with no compromises at all on looks, security or performance. Our installers have welcomed Classic-al, not just because it’s a modern and energy efficient alternative to PVC-u and timber, but also because it has helped them to diversify from the fiercely competitive PVC-u market with fresh sales opportunities,” he adds. The Classic-al window combines the traditional appeal of a timber window with the trusted performance of aluminium.

Glazerite is the largest trade fabricator of the VEKA systems in the UK and also a prominent Network VEKA member, with a reputation for unsurpassed customer service as well as a comprehensive product range. The company offers a fully nationwide service based on manufacturing units in Northants and Greater Manchester and a distribution hub in Bristol.

With its elegant, slim sightlines and a soft, sculptured profile, Classic-al has been designed with reliability and aesthetics in mind. It uses a proven polyamide thermally broken 70mm system, which is based on the popular Smart Alitherm 47 aluminium window, and benefits from the strength and durability of aluminium. Classic-al comes in a choice of more than 300 colours, in a matt, satin or gloss finish as well as a dual colour option. A textured finish, in 18 colours from the new ‘Sensations’ range of finishes, is also available. The window is fitted with a shootbolt locking system, which is bolstered by a uniquely designed shootbolt keeps for greater security. Classic-al’s proven window handles are ergonomically designed and push button operated with an additional keyed deadlock. Classic-al is available in A, B and C energy rated options and is fully kitemark tested. For added peace of mind, it has also been awarded full Secured by Design and PAS 23/24 approval. Customade was established in 1979 and offers a comprehensive range of bi-folding aluminium doors and commercial products. The £20 million turnover Customade Group, which employs 230 people, also includes Atlas Glazed Roof Solutions, the Bi-Fold Shop, Fineline Aluminium, which supplies designer architectural aluminium products with very slim sight lines, and Hourglass Seal, which manufactures glass and sealed units. For further information, please contact Customade’s marketing hotline on 0800 0094 203 or visit www.customade.co.uk.

www.glazeritewindows.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0118

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0119

CUTTING EDGE FLOURISHING UNDER DECEUNINCK Cutting Edge UPVC are flourishing, having changed over to Deceuninck’s Heritage 2800 system just a few months ago with 9 foil finishes now available from stock, along with the new introduction of their Traditional 2500 chamfered suite.

The Staffordshire-based fabricator has undergone a transformation over the last 18 months with the move to a new factory and the addition of a number of key senior staff, which have helped stimulate growth. The decision to introduce Deceuninck as their

sole systems supplier earlier this year has also been one for the longer-term. With colour being one of the key trends in the UK window and door market, Cutting Edge have been able to respond with Deceuninck’s impressive ‘Colour Express’ range of 9 stock foil finishes, including the availability of matching trims to help the installer deliver a premium finish. The range includes 9 of the most popular foils including Irish Oak, Anthracite Grey, Chartwell Green and the latest Nut Tree (Mocha) woodgrain, with each foil backed with a 10 year warranty. The Traditional 2500 chamfered suite has been introduced to offer customers the option of a contemporary chamfered finish, as an alternative to the existing decorative finish of the 2800 system. Each of these systems has been designed to offer impressive levels of energy efficiency with either double or triple glazing. Cutting Edge have also just introduced the latest range of Fab & Fix hardware with an exclusive Hardex Electro finish in the widest range of colours available on the market today, including the stunning new Graphite finish.

The revolutionary marketing package from Deceuninck has also been incredibly well received by customers seeking personalised consumer brochures, such as DNA Windows and Bradley Scott Windows. The PricePad software has also been developed to help installers close the most exacting of quotes in real time and right in front of the customer. Richard Hammond, sales and marketing director of Cutting Edge comments: ‘We truly believe that we have begun a long-term and rewarding partnership with Deceuninck. They offer both world class products and world class logistics expertise - helping us to offer an exemplary level of service to our customers.’ For further information about becoming a Deceuninck installer with Cutting Edge then call the sales office on 01782 599955 or e-mail sales@cuttingedgewindows.co.uk. You can also see their website at www. cuttingedgewindows.co.uk or add to their Twitter following @CuttingEdgeUPVC. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0120

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

WINDOWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

GREAT TURNOUT FOR DESSIAN

SCOTLAND’S SHOWROOM OPENING

Dessian Products’ Managing Director and Chairman recently made the short trip from Belfast to Cumbernauld for the official opening of the new One Stop Shop trade counter and showroom at Dessian Scotland.

The One Shop Shop trade counter and showroom is already open for trade customers to bring homeowners to see the complete range of products available from Dessian before they buy.

Nigel Bothwell, Managing Director, and Stephen Sproule, Chairman, joined Dessian’s Scottish team to meet with trade, retail and commercial customers at the opening and talk to them about Dessian’s renewed commitment to the Scottish market and about the vast range of products available at value for money prices.

As well as a comprehensive choice of windows and doors in the REHAU TOTAL 70 profile system, the showroom also features composite doors, a range of uPVC door panels, trims, roofline products, door canopies, decorative glass, window dressings and even glass splash backs for customers to touch and view.

A broad range of suppliers were also at the event including the team from REHAU’s Glasgow sales office, who work closely with Dessian in Scotland on a day to day basis providing sales and commercial support.

John McDermott, who is the General Manager of Dessian Scotland judged the event to have been a success. He said: “We had lots of customers here to see the new showroom and trade counter for the first time and helpful and enthusiastic support from suppliers. We’ve certainly put the showroom on the map.”

Colin Pearson, the head of the REHAU sales office, said: “The official opening was a great opportunity for us to show Dessian’s customers the strength of the partnership which exists between our two businesses and to demonstrate how we are supporting Dessian’s new initiatives in the trade sector.”

The new showroom and trade counter is now open from Monday to Friday from 8.30 – 4.30 and by appointment on evenings and weekends. Further details on Dessian in Scotland are available at: www.dessian.co.uk/dessian-scotland.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0121

The quality of Sheerframe’s

reversible window is reflected in its sales

When Sheerframe launched its latest generation 8000 system reversible window a few years ago it was because the company isn’t complacent about already having a great product. Gary Doxey, Sheerframe’s Marketing Manager said, “Reversible windows have been an integral part of the Sheerframe product portfolio for nearly 25 years. The great work our R&D department undertakes allows us to be constantly ahead of the regulations and future trends to ensure that we are always in a position to deliver a market-leading product. The end result of the work we undertook gave us a reversible window that in my view is unrivalled in terms of aesthetics and performance and delivers what the market needs, which is reflected in our growing sales statistics.” The window was designed to appeal to the ever increasing trend for fewer, larger windows and has shaped profiles that give a flush finish which give a softer look to a window, and eye catching aesthetics. Thermal performance wasn’t forgotten during the design process either. It offers a superb set of thermal enhancements, including a five chamber design that increases the full window U value and, with 44mm triple glazing, the window joins the Sheerframe family of Zero Carbon windows with a cost effective 0.8 W/m²K U value.

Weathertightness hasn’t been forgotten, either. Sheerframe’s reversible has twin weatherseals to double the contact area when windows are closed to give exceptional protection from the elements. Under BS 6375 Part 1, airtightness of 1000 Pascals has been achieved, giving greater comfort from draughts as well as warmer rooms and less heat loss. While end users will be impressed with the benefits the reversible window has to offer, manufacturers and installers will be equally impressed. The window has a complete set of parts, including a double sided mullion, a Z transom that can be glazed one side for fixed lights and an intermediate T transom mullion for the fixed light area. The Z frame, T mullion non glazing and T mullion glazing are all 86mm and weld into each other, meaning the practicalities of making certain multilight designs are greatly enhanced. Two unique reinforcements, Thermlock SR and FP, give great fixings combined with added rigidity where required in transoms and mullions. Installers will appreciate the simplified bead system, which uses a single clip fit action, speeding up installation time. Sheerframe, part of the Litchfield Group, is renowned for its approach to product innovation. And as the success of the reversible window shows, the company has got it right once again. Tel: 01773 852311 – www.sheerframe.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0122

KOMMERLING’S NEW SHERWOOD SUCCESS Kömmerling’s strong growth in the UK continues, as Sherwood Windows celebrate their first anniversary of manufacturing the C70 Gold® and PremiLine patio door systems from the premium German brand. All the more impressive is the fact that the Nottinghamshire based fabricator was with their previous supplier for 22 years, before making the change to Kömmerling. Sherwood Windows primarily sell externally

beaded windows in the retail market and feel that this window style gives the appearance of slimmer sightlines in a more traditional manner likened to timber widows, something that is readily achievable with the variants within the C70 Gold® system. Established in 1991, Sherwood Windows is a small local family business with over 23 years of experience situated in Newark on the Nottinghamshire/ Lincolnshire border. Their impressive retail business is

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

based on a factory showroom, a unique Insurance Backed Guarantee (IBG), premium product differentiation and the fact that 79% of their work comes through recommendation. Sherwood have also been successful over the last 12 months with the addition of new colours from stock to their Kömmerling product offering, including anthracite grey, cream and Chartwell Green, with all profiles extruded with the exclusive Greenline lead-free compound. Where there’s

a demand from customers the company also offer an internally beaded option, but it’s the externally beaded sash that is of most interest to the company. Colin Leeder, managing director of Sherwood Windows comments: ‘It’s was a big decision to change suppliers after 22 years, though Kömmerling has proven to be the premium brand of choice for us. We have built up and a close and trusting business relationship that we believe could take us forward for another 22 years.’

John England, area sales manager for Kömmerling concludes: ‘Sherwood Windows have been a valuable addition to our fabricator network and one that understands both the quality of profile and the professional way we do business. We’re looking to further build on our relationship with Colin and his closely knit team.’ For further information, call 01543 444900, e-mail enquiries@profine-group.com, log on to www.kommerling. co.uk or follow them on Twitter @kommerling_uk.

The team at Sherwood Windows. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0123

WINDOWS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

PEARL WINDOWS DELIVERS

NATIONWIDE SUCCESS WITH LINIAR Fabricator Pearl Window Systems is based in Lancashire – and its straight-talking, Northern owner Jeff Walsh is committed to achieving huge growth targets for the benefit of his family, his favourite charities and also his team of loyal workers at the factory in Bolton.

per week, he focused all his efforts on creating his fledgling business and getting it established in a competitive market. Fast-forward to 2013, and Pearl Window Systems saw its busiest year ever – manufacturing over 2,500 frames per week to become the largest fabricator in the North West.

What you see is what you get

So how did he do it?

Following a background in windows fabrication, Jeff started Pearl in 1999. His philosophy was simple – to recruit a team based on personality and attitude. “Skills can be learned, but it’s difficult to fake personality,” explains Jeff. “With Pearl, what you see is what you get – and that’s why people like doing business with us.”

From small ambitions… Jeff ’s ambitions were fairly small when Pearl switched on its first machine; with an initial aim of the regular production of 50 frames

It hasn’t been an easy ride – the recession saw some difficult times at Pearl, and Jeff freely admits there have been setbacks along the way. “Having good industry contacts helped us, as well as making sure we established a good supply chain,” he says. “When you’re growing, you want to be sure your suppliers can keep up, otherwise you run the risk of letting your customers down – a big no no for us.”

Changing to Liniar systems helped “In 2012 we changed over to Liniar systems, which helped to open a lot more doors for us. The

Liniar product range is second to none and the thermal efficiency of the EnergyPlus system makes it particularly easy to sell, as the benefits and cost savings are clear to see.”

Tremendous growth Now Pearl is offering the full Liniar product range, its sales are increasing dramatically year on year. This has been helped in no small way through Pearl’s partnership network, giving installers access to the latest products from the Liniar range, assisting with lead generation and sales and providing software to help streamline operations, together with electronic ordering and pricing.

A great team None of Pearl’s success could have been achieved without a great team of people, as Jeff is at pains to point out. “I’m a big believer in rewarding commitment, and am confident

that the team I have in place could actually run the business without me,” he explains. “It comes back to my initial point about recruiting for personality – people sell to people, and this is an industry where trust is critical.” With that kind of outlook, Pearl looks set to smash even its own target of 3,000 windows per week before the year is up.

Contact Pearl Window Systems can be contacted at sales@pearlwindows. co.uk and Liniar can be contacted at info@liniar.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0124

0714/0125

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0714/0126

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DOORS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Distinction Door’s glazing cassettes add value to an already impressive composite door

GLAZERITE GETS EVEN TOUGHER

WITH THREE MORE SBD LICENCES Trade fabricator Glazerite Windows Ltd has gained three new Secured By Design certifications – for composite doors, French doors and the new VEKA Imagine bi-folds – to add to its existing portfolio of police-approved product ranges. The latest additions, among other things, make Glazerite one of only three UK fabricators who currently hold the soughtafter accreditation on bi-folds and one of the very few VEKA fabricators to have both SBD and Part M wheelchair access certification on French doors. Glazerite now holds SBD certification on its casement, tilt/turn and VS windows and single resi-doors as well as the three new categories. All have been tested to PAS24: 2012 by a certificated independent testing house. The fabricator was also the first to supply the SBD accredited Dynamic 2D hinge from SFS Intec in all 15 colour variants for its VEKA door range. Next on the list will be the new VEKA Imagine patio door, said Glazerite Director Jason Thompson. The new range is due for launch at the FIT Show and will be submitted for SBD testing and licensing soon after.

He added: “Secured By Design gives homeowners, installers and developers the added peace of mind of knowing any accredited product has undergone the same level of stringent testing. Security is now becoming a top priority for homeowners and SBD certification is more and more specified as mandatory in commercial and social refurbishment tenders. “Many fabricators may point to the SBD badge but it might only apply to a window or maybe a door, leaving French doors or bi-folds as vulnerable as ever. But at Glazerite, we can offer a complete SBD solution for any dwelling.” Glazerite is the largest trade fabricator of the VEKA system in the UK and also a prominent Network VEKA member, with a reputation for unsurpassed customer service as well as a comprehensive product range. The company offers a fully nationwide service based on manufacturing units in Northants and Greater Manchester and a distribution hub in Bristol. www.glazeritewindows.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0127

SOLIDOR’S LOWER ‘U’ VALUES Composite door pioneer, Solidor, has re-engineered its door slabs in a move to further lower their U-values, thanks to a new specially selected, fully sustainable species of low density wood. This includes the newly launched and market leading 0.9 W/m2K 62mm door blank for their 88mm KBE and dedicated Residence 9 door frames.

As a company that continues to innovate and lead in their respective sector, the latest developments to the make up of their composite door slabs by Solidor is all part of an on-going process. The standard 48mm door slabs now achieve a U-value of 1.35 W/m2K, well under the current Building Regulations and without the need for any foam infill.

As the UK’s composite door market leader, you would expect Distinction Door’s composite door to offer an excellent package of benefits. But it is the attention to detail that really sets it apart and the door’s glazing cassette is the perfect example of this.

Tel: 0845 2000 816 – www.distinctiondoors.co.uk

For homeowners, the Distinction Difference is clear because the cassette has been designed to offer a seamless, high quality finish. There are no unsightly screws or plugs, with no compromise on security. The white, black, red, blue and green solid colour cassettes are through-coloured, meaning that they are robust and tolerant to the inevitable knocks and scratches. The pre-stained colours perfectly match the composite door colours, ensuring a consistent high quality finish. Attention to detail is also evident in the moulding design and grain effect, both of which are designed to complement the composite door perfectly. Distinction Doors offers twelve glass ranges, from traditional to modern, to help homeowners personalise their home. All but one of the ranges are triple glazed, protecting the decorative glass from the elements, sustaining its pristine appearance and providing ease of cleaning. For fabricator and installers, the cassette is easy to fit because it simply snaps together, cutting down installation time. It is also reversible because each assembly consists of an identical inner and outer cassette, both of which have symmetrical male and female connectors. The cassettes have channels around the outer and inner edges to accommodate glazing tape or sealant. Externally and internally the inner channel houses the seal between the cassette and the glass unit, and the outer channel houses the seal between the cassette and the door skin. The new 62mm slab achieves a highly impressive U-value of 0.9 W/m2K and has been designed to work with a KBE System 88 and Residence 9 door frame, with the option of specifying a Passivhaus compliant option with a few further enhancements. These include 44mm triple glazing and inserts to the door frames and these test figures have been verified independently by the internationally renowned, ift Rosenheim GmbH in Germany and by Build Check Ltd in the UK.

Solidor’s new 62mm slabs gracing the new Residence 9 door frames.

The Distinction Doors glazing cassette is unique to Distinction and Technical Director Dave Walker is proud of what it has to offer. “Like everything to do with a Distinction Door, our glazing cassettes are designed to add value to our customers’ portfolios and we are proud to supply such a high quality product.”

These latest door slabs were on show at the FIT Show in various guises and colours including Rich Aubergine, along with Winkhaus’s new patented blueMatic AV2-B battery operated automatic multi-point locking system, which is perceived by many as the next generation of keyless locking

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0128

solutions for composite doors. Pierre Mifsud, operations director of Solidor comments: ‘These are important developments for our customers and the new 62mm slab helps to further set us part and cement our reputation as the innovators in the sector. We’ve got a thirst for innovation which shows now sign of abating for our solid and fully sustainable doors.’ To find out more then log on to www.solidor. co.uk, call 01782 847300 or e-mail enquiries@ solidor.co.uk. To keep up to date with all of their developments follow them on Twitter @ solidorltd or look them up on Facebook. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0129

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0714/0130

“ I FEEL THAT CONSUMERS CAN RELY ON IG DOORS TO MEET THEIR DEMANDS AND EXPECTATIONS” GEORGE CLARKE

01633 627 190 trade@truedor.co.uk www.truedor.co.uk

GEORGE CLARKE TEAMS UP WITH TRUEDOR 0714/0006

IG Glass News July14 Full Page Ad.indd 1 www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

26/06/2014 21:13

DOORS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

TOP GLASS SOLUTION FOR HURST & REGALEAD Two industry leaders have marked 18 years of working together by joining forces to unveil an inventive decorative glass design for composite doors. Hurst Plastics is the first composite door supplier in the industry to offer the new Heritage Dorchester glass design, which has been developed by leading decorative glass supplier, RegaLead. Hurst and RegaLead have been working together since Hurst Plastics was established in 1996. In their 18 year working relationship, the two companies have collaborated on a number of innovative decorative developments for the composite door market. Paul Edwards, Sales Manager at RegaLead, says: “There is a great synergy between our two businesses. Hurst has a proven track record and is one of the most innovative door suppliers in the industry, which always strives to offer its customers a unique product to help them differentiate themselves within the market. With quality and performance at the forefront of every development, RegaLead

is focused on delivering what the market wants in decorative glass design. When bringing our new Dorchester product to the market, we wanted to launch with a high calibre partner that reflected the quality of this new design. We had no hesitation in contacting Hurst Plastics first.” Mark Atkinson, Sales Director at Hurst Plastics, adds: “As a business, we are passionate about leading the market through innovation and differentiation, so we are naturally delighted to be the first in the industry to offer this superb new glass design from a very long standing partner. Heritage Dorchester seamlessly blends the benefits of cutting edge technology with traditional crafted design and we’re very confident that the market is ready for this product.”

Heritage Dorchester is handcrafted and uses a unique technique to bond individual pieces of traditional art glass onto toughened glass, where it is leaded and soldered to achieve a more period look. It combines the aesthetics, depth of colour and texture associated with traditional art glass, with the safety and performance of triple glazing. Featuring in Hurst’s latest composite door brochure, the Heritage Dorchester is available in three classic border colours amber, deep blue and green.

GLAZERITE GAINS ANOTHER FIRST WITH VEKA BI-FOLD DEBUT Glazerite Windows Ltd is once again at the forefront of product innovation and is delighted to offer its installers the new VEKA Imagine bi-fold door. The trade fabricator will showcase this new product to the industry with a debut on its stand at this year’s FIT Show. The Imagine bi-fold is being launched in response to industry forecasts that PVC-U bi-folds will account for over a quarter of the patio/sliding doors market – and over a half by value – by 2016. It is also hailed as the first product

to come out under the VEKA UK Group banner and will be backed by an extensive marketing programme from the system supplier. Glazerite Director Jason Thompson said: “We were already fully aware of the growth and further potential for bi-folds so when we saw the VEKA product, we knew it was a winner. This is a completely bespoke new system, with every profile made specifically for this product and in our view it is the best available today. It has already achieved Secured By Design status and Glazerite are currently one of only three UK fabricators to hold this much sought-after accreditation on bi-folding doors. “We can guess that other fabricators will follow our lead but anyone wanting to see it first will have to come and see us on Stand 164.” Imagine from Glazerite is available in fully

For further information on Heritage Dorchester or to find out how to become a Hurst trade partner, then please contact Hurst on 01482 790790.

sculptured or bevelled, with up to seven sashes on a maximum 14 configurations, opening inside or out. It is also the only bi-folding door system to offer all three threshold variations: standard, Part M (wheelchair) compliant or ultra low as in internal room divider. It was also developed in association with lock manufacturer ERA and comes with a fivestar security guarantee including 24/7 help, up to £1,000 excess backup on home insurance, up to £1,000 towards repair or replacement and £1,000 inconvenience compensation in the event of a lock component failing. The Imagine bi-fold is only one of a number of new products due to be unveiled at the FIT show, including some that will remain under wraps until the show begins. Glazerite is the largest trade fabricator of the VEKA systems in the UK and also a prominent Network VEKA member, with a reputation for unsurpassed customer service as well as a comprehensive product range. The company offers a fully nationwide service based on manufacturing units in Northants and Greater Manchester and a distribution hub in Bristol. www.glazeritewindows.co.uk

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0131

READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0132

New Distinction Doors website will attract homeowners & the trade! Distinction Doors has just relaunched its website, www.distinctiondoors.co.uk. Drew Wright, Distinction’s Managing Director said, “The prime aim of the site is to attract homeowner leads for Distinction Doors’ installers. There is also a section dedicated to the trade that focuses on what we have to offer and has a wealth of tools to make their lives easier. The development was managed in-house by our Marketing Manager, Chantel Roach. She’s done a great job and we’re delighted with the results.” As Drew says, the site is primarily aimed at homeowners and utilises Distinction’s newly updated brand identity. It explains the benefits of a composite door and showcases

the reasons to choose one from Distinction. The site has a complete product catalogue, as well as an innovative Door Designer application that allows homeowners to create their very own front door.

The trade section of the site focuses on the Distinction Doors offering and explains what makes the Distinction Difference. It also features a login area where customers can manage their account, helping to reduce admin time and a knowledge bank that is packed with technical and marketing information to help customers in their business. Future developments include adding an online trade ordering system to help make placing an order even easier. Chantel Roach was the site’s project manager, with Open Path undertaking the design and window industry marketing specialists Team 4 Marketing taking care of the content. Chantel said, “Together, we made a great

team and it was a pleasure to work with two companies so dedicated to getting a quality result.” Distinction Doors is known within the industry as the home of the composite door. The new website, with its focus on attracting homeowner leads, is designed to help fabricators and installers to grow their businesses by spreading the Distinction Difference to a wider audience. Tel: 0845 2000 816 www.distinctiondoors.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0133

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

DOORS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Modplan launches new

VEKA Imagine bi-fold door

Modplan is just about to launch the Imagine Bi-Fold Door and Heidi Sachs, Modplan’s Managing Director is delighted with what it has to offer. “The door has been developed in for the UK market. It’s also been created from the ground up – every element is newly designed and there’s no ‘making do’. The result is a stunning door that will genuinely revolutionise the bifold door market.” The Imagine Bi-Fold Door offers excellence in every area, including aesthetics, thermal efficiency, security and fabricator and installer benefits, so it’s hardly surprising that Heidi is so confident that the door will take the market by storm. In terms of aesthetics, the door has a contemporary, clean look with slimmer sightlines. The in line track means no unsightly fixing to the outside of the outerframe, as well as offering improved weight distribution, while the low profile handle design means there is only a 21mm gap between fully opened leaves, improving the appearance when open. It is available in 16 VEKA Variations colours, two of which (Rosewood and Golden Oak) are available ex stock. Sculptured or bevelled sashes and beads offer the consumer additional choice, as do the three threshold options and choice of gasket, hinge, magnet and handle colours. With a maximum width of 6000mm, door height of 2400mm and sash of 1000mm, the door offers versatility in a wide variety of settings. The Imagine Bi-Fold Door also offers outstanding thermal efficiency and achieves the highest DESR ratings available, in part thanks to the five chamber sash and six chamber outerframe. In fact, when triple glazed, the door has a U value of less than 1.0. The door has been fully tested to BS6375: Part

www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

1 Weather and BS 6375: Part 2 Durability and passed with flying colours. The door is fitted with custom-designed ERA hardware which is backed by the ERA 5* Security Guarantee for homeowners. The door is PAS24 and Secured by Design accredited as standard, with no modifications required. Bi-directional hook locks and adjustable locks and shootbolts provide additional security, while there is dedicated locking on 2-2 doors and optional keylocking on auxiliary doors. While the door has a wealth of attractions for homeowners, making it an important addition to any portfolio, fabricators and installers will also find a long list of clever features that make life easier for them. Both the profile and hardware are supplied by the VEKA UK Group, making it easy to order and shortening lead times. The option of a fully welded or mechanically jointed outerframe makes it ideal for difficult to access properties. The hinges are fully adjustable in situ, while the 2D adjustable lock means there’s no need to remove the sash to adjust it and makes it quicker to set in the factory. The corner block self-locating top and bottom hinge and roller unit mean no jig drilling and less work because the only drilling required is on the centre sash. In short, the Imagine Bi-Fold Door represents a new generation of bi-fold door and will set the standard for some years to come. Modplan manufactures and provides a comprehensive range of products that includes three VEKA profiles, a vertical slider, composite doors, PVC-u and aluminium patio and bi-fold doors, conservatories, the Vertex solid tile-effect roof and glass and polycarbonate conservatory roofs. For more information on any of Modplan’s products, including the revolutionary Imagine Bi-Fold Door, simply Ask the Man from Modplan.

0714/0135

Tel: 01495 246844 – www.modplan.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0134

DOORS

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Frame Fast (UK) is the first company to offer Eurocell’s groundbreaking modus® system Leading trade fabricator Frame Fast (UK) has just announced it is the first company to manufacture Eurocell’s ground breaking modus® system. Nigel Leivers, Frame Fast’s Sales Director, said, “modus® is being billed as a game changer and we can only agree. It’s a revolutionary new system and we’re delighted to have already introduced the product into our range.” modus® has been designed to offer everything today’s market is looking for: looks, performance, sustainability and value for money. As the UK’s first fully integrated system with standard, slim rebate and fully flush options, it’s a genuine alternative to aluminium and timber products. The 75mm system covers casement windows, reversible windows, tilt & turn windows, entrance doors, french doors and composite doors. It has

clean, contemporary looks and slimmer sightlines and is available in a range of nine standard colours, plus over 40 special order options, making it versatile and flexible.

modus® also delivers industry-leading energy efficiency. With a tripleseal option which provides superb thermal performance and air tightness, U-values as low as 0.7 can be achieved – exceeding Passivhaus standards. It also delivers exceptional triple glazing solutions. The innovation that the modus® system brings to the UK market is reflected in five key areas. It’s the first fully integrated PVC-U system, the first 75mm DMET (Dual Material Extrusion Technology) window system, the first DMET PVC-U reversible system and offers the first DMET bead. Frame Fast (UK)’s reputation as a forward-thinking company that’s committed to providing excellence in all areas of its business is reflected in the addition of the modus® range to its portfolio. And it’s certainly true to say that the addition of modus® can only enhance that reputation still further. Frame Fast (UK) manufactures a comprehensive range of products that includes casement windows, vertical sliders, composite doors, PVC-u and aluminium patio and bi-fold doors, conservatories, auto-safe doors, conservatory roofs and sealed glass units. For more information on any of Frame Fast (UK)’s products visit www.framefastuk.com. READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0136

0714/0137

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | July 2014

GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

Minimum Technical Competencies must not be ignored

Following on from our page 3 intro, Editor of Glass News, Chris Champion, speaks with four industry figures who know all about MTC’s...

L to R: Austin Greene, Network VEKA / Assure Technical and Compliance Manager; Mick Clayton, Chief Executive Officer of GQA Qualifications Ltd; Paul Garforth, Technical Manager at Liniar and Dave Mechem, Inspection Manager Building Works at BBA.

The four consisted of Mick Clayton, Chief Executive Officer of GQA Qualifications Ltd; Dave Mechem, Inspection Manager Building Works at BBA; Paul Garforth, Technical Manager at Liniar; and Austin Greene, Network VEKA / Assure Technical and Compliance Manager. They have all been heavily involved in the compliance arena of MTCs and are concerned that many in our industry could be burying their heads in the sand considering MTC requirements date back to September 2012. Competent Person Schemes have been around for a long time and have been reviewed and have had their conditions of authorisation amended to include responsibility for competence of installers and surveyors, linking in with the green deal, to ensure a minimum level of competence within the industry. In all fairness, it is not unreasonable to expect those performing tasks in someone’s home should be competent to do that job. Most would argue that the vast majority of installers are competent: so why not have a piece of paper that confirms this and gives the public peace of mind? There is always the argument that this is another revenue generating scheme – fees to be paid to be compliant. In talking to our four experts, it simply doesn’t wash. With fees varying between £150 and £299 to travel sometimes hundreds of miles and then to spend a day evaluating an installer’s competency, write it all up and record the findings and issue a certificate is hardly a revenue generator and it could be argued that the fee should be much higher. And what of the public in all this? How do they know to ask their installer whether they have the correct certification? Smiles all round at that one! The biggest problem with all these schemes is making the public aware they exist. I asked them how this should be done – an advertising campaign on television and the national press? Absolutely perfect! But who has the budget to do this, and who should do it? Unanimously – the government, although everyone recognised that wasn’t going to happen. So how will the public get to know? It’s much the same as the WERS and DERS issue whereby it will probably be a competent solicitor checking everything when a house conveyance is going through and questioning whether the new windows were installed by a ‘competent person’.

The fact is that there may well be installers who are blissfully unaware that they have a qualification already that is acceptable under the competency requirements of Competent Persons Schemes. There are DCLG approved Minimum Technical Competencies for Fenestration Installation (Windows and Doors) as well as for Fenestration Surveying and it’s worth looking at the requirements. There are qualifications that exceed the minimum technical competencies and there are other options and to be honest, if an installer is confident and committed, then the requirements to achieve certification are not that onerous. Many large companies are investing heavily in ensuring that their installers are fully compliant. It is not difficult or particularly time consuming to achieve the ‘ticket’ and, quite simply, it has to be done. The message is, don’t hang around, it’s not worth it to find that you cannot get certification for your installation.

A survey carried out at FIT, with a sample of 100, made interesting reading: • 36% were already compliant MTCs • 7% were planning to be compliant • 57% were not compliant and had no intention of becoming compliant

Tel: 0114 2720033 | Fax: 0114 2768466 Web: www.gqaqualifications.com | Email: marketing@gqaqualifications.com GQA Qualifications Unit 1, Twelve O'clock Court, Attercliffe Road, Sheffield S4 7WW 80

July 2014 | www.glassnews.co.uk

GLASS NEWS INTERVIEW

The UK’s Leading Industry Newspaper

66% of those surveyed thought there was insufficient and/or unclear information about MTCs – who they applied to and how to go about it. This was their reason for not joining a scheme. Of the 100 surveyed, however, 75% believed that MTCs were a good idea and important to the industry. Additionally, 84% looked at MTCs as being an important tool when selling to the homeowner. Comments, unsurprisingly, included questions on policing the scheme, whether existing qualifications would be enough to achieve a ‘ticket’ and accusations of it being yet another layer of bureaucracy. However, the most common comment of all was that there needed to be campaign to promote awareness of the scheme by homeowners. In discussions, the topic of Insurance backed Guarantees was raised, the upshot being that this was nothing new although the problem now was that rather than offering an Insurance Backed Guarantee that most homeowners were happy to take at an additional price, now that guarantee had to be included in the price of the windows and could not be shown separately. On a personal note, it seems clear that if I was an installer faced with the requirements of MTCs I would not be waiting to find that an installation of mine could not be signed off…I would be talking to one of these gentlemen who have been doing their best to give me a better understanding of MTCs! READER ENQUIRY No: 0714/0139