Glass News August 2015 by Christina Shaw

With a few cautionary notes, D & G Consulting forecast an

improving

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

The Spring and Summer 2015 edition of D & G Consulting’s ‘The PVC Window, Door and Conservatory Industry Market Forecasts to 2017 has just been published and is the first forecast for the UK window and door industry after the UK general election. Before the election the different political parties were offering many policies that would positively improve the future of the window and door industry over the next five years. Not-the-least of these promises from all parties was a boost in the construction of houses and although there had been no mention of this boost to house building in its first Queens speech, the government has since announced a reform to the planning system in an attempt to ease the path to new homes delivery. The plans, which are part of a 90 page document aimed at improving UK productivity, include automatic planning permission on “suitable” brownfield sites in the new government Housing Zones. The

The plans, which are part of a 90 page document aimed at improving UK productivity, include automatic planning permission on “suitable” brownfield sites in the new government Housing Zones.

PAGE 17

government also wants to intervene to release land if local authorities have not drawn up local plans for housing delivery. They have also said that major infrastructure projects that include housing provision will be fast-tracked under the proposals. This drive to increase new home supply comes from the Treasury and chancellor George Osborne, specifically, who said that Britain had been “incapable of building enough homes”. D & G’s forecast shows a continuation in the improving situation to the UK window and door industry extending from the short term to the long term although overall the difference between this forecast and that produced last winter is marginal. The industry has been boosted by the increased activity within much of the construction industry over the past few months and also with the welcome increase in consumer spending – this after four years of austerity. The period from 2016 shows an easing of the rate of growth due to the timing of the increases to the interest rates and the political uncertainty in Europe. As has been the case for the past few years composite and bifold doors are ‘bucking’ the trends. The revival in house building, albeit less than expected pre the election is welcome but even with Help to Buy (H2B1) the level of house building lags behind the 2007 levels. However, 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.

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August 2015

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Where’s the year going?

‘TIME OUT’ Winners – JULY!

My father always said that the years go more quickly as you get older but I hadn’t banked on this!

The longest day has come and gone and we are moving inexorably towards dark evenings and autumn mists. But there is much to enjoy before the thoughts of hibernation set in, even though the event of the year has come, and gone.

Eye Spy: Rob Green, Stansted Glass

CONTENTS

Spot The Difference: Keith Critchfield, Stoke Poget

4 Front Cover Story

I refer, of course, to Glass Times’ Raceday at Haydock Park. Now some of you may feel it strange for me to mention a competing trade journal in this way, but life is too short to be petty about these things.

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

An offer from ‘Legal Eagle’ Call Saul I know a fair number of our readers are already in contact with Philip Harmer at Stormcatcher and appreciate his legal pieces each month. Now Philip has an offer that may just prove too tempting to ignore! Here’s what Philip has to say: “The concept of “packaged” outsourced legal services which give businesses access to legal resources for an annual/ monthly subscription, isn’t new. Invariably, subscriptions follow the “car wash menu system” in that the user buys a package, be it bronze , silver or gold, each offering broader coverage and increased user limits. The bad news for the customer, is that they have to anticipate their needs in advance and as a result usually come up against circumstances where they’re not covered and have to pay more, or upgrade. What’s more, customers have the tedious and frustrating process of overcoming a call centre, pressing 1 for X or 2 for Y, and even then the person they need to speak to is out or on the phone leaving you waiting for a call back. Yes, I hate bureaucracy and call centres! As a result and uniquely (to the best of our research) we are offering a solution(s) tailored to different industries but giving customers access to all of our services and practise areas for a single fee, thereby taking away the car wash menu and any additional fees ....... if we do it , they’re covered, no limits , no exceptions.

Credit where it’s due, and Andy and Mandy Westhead deserve every plaudit for what, to many, is the trade social function that outstrips all others. In their 9th year of running this event, it just keeps growing. And the 440+ guests enjoyed a fabulous day, networking, having fun and…er, drinking, too. So a big thank you, Andy and Mandy, from all your friends in the industry. However, this is far from being the only event being held this summer. Many of both Promac and Padiham Glass’ customers have enjoyed events styled to celebrate 35 year anniversaries. It’s always good to have an excuse to celebrate and having successful companies with track records of that sort of longevity reinforces the fact that we are an industry of substance, and a long way away from the so-called ‘double glazing salesmen’, of old.

Crossword: Mrs B C Davies, Horizon Windows, Denbs

4 Doors

Sudoku: Mr T Kellett, Bolton

8 Voice Of The Industry 10 Software & IT 16 Face To Face 17 Hardware

July 2015 crossword solution:

22 Face To Face 26 Conservatories 28 Windows 34 Architecture In Fenestration 35 Glass 36 Installer Focus 42 Aluminium

Editor: Chris Champion T: 07850 267223 E: chris@glassnews.co.uk Features Editor: Sheilah Reed M: 07880 990144 E: sheilah@glassnews.co.uk Sales: Kathy Leeming T: 01405 947279 E: cathy@glassnews.co.uk Trade Counter Distribution Department: Roz Worgan E: roz@glassnews.co.uk

Deadline for copy: 28th of each month

46 Trade News

glassnews™ is a registered Trademark.

69 Letters 70 Recruitment 74 Charity News 77 Face To Face

Christina Shaw

Advertising Enquiries: Christina Shaw M: 07805 051322 T: 01302 759096 E: christina@glassnews.co.uk

Graphic Design: hook-a-duck

46 Legal Eagle

@GlassnewsMag

Publisher & Owner: Christina Shaw 12 Sunderland Street, Tickhill, Doncaster, DN11 9QJ M: 07805 051322 T: 01302 759096 E: christina@glassnews.co.uk

The views contained herein are not necessarily those of glassnews™ and whilst every effort is made to ensure information throughout is correct, glassnews™ does not accept liability for errors. The views expressed by contributors and the content of letters, are not necessarily those of glassnews™ and therefore cannot take responsibility. The paper we use is 100% recycled.

78 Time Out! 79 Find A Supplier

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Please recycle this newspaper so we can continue to use recycling in our effort to help the environment.

And looking through the diary, there are lots more opportunities to meet up with colleagues in the industry, with Golf Days and, of course PIGS, a report on which appears later in this paper. It’s not only social or activity type functions that get us all together. Open days such as Made for Trade’s Celsius Solid Roof demonstration was well attended and a chance to meet different people within the industry.

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Although Law Plan is in its infancy and only launched on 1st May ‘15 we’ve received a subscriber a day on average Motor Trade:Law Plan is up and running at www.motortradelaw.co.uk and www. lawplan.org will be up and running in a few days, covering small and medium sized businesses.

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Lawplan is priced at £1000 + VAT a year based on the average cost a firm may spend on an employment tribunal, arbitration, pursuing a debt, and so on. However we are offering Glass News’ readers a special deal of £700 per annum.” If you’re interested, and why wouldn’t you be, contact Philip at philip.harmer@stormcatcher.co.uk.

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

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FRONT COVER STORY

Values at Installer and Fabricator levels 2009 to 2017

Fabricator Values by Product Line 2014

Volume of PVC Profile 2009 to 2017 000’s Tonnes

Continued from page 1... The emerging of the industry from the recession both here in the UK and in some parts of Europe in a much strengthened and confident state has brought with it renewed interest from investors and M&A activity. Over the past year here in the UK Masonite has acquired Door Stop, Proventus Capital Partners has provided Synseal with extended credit facilities, Epwin have floated on the AIM (the London Stock Exchanges international market for smaller growing companies), Solidor ownership has changed and Synseal has acquired LB Plastics including Manse Masterdor. In Europe VEKA acquired Gealan. 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 this report as second time replacements which continues to grow. 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 house building sectors will take an increasing share of the market. Improvements to social housing are bound to reduce as government cuts back on social housing.

DOORS “By the end of 2017 the total industry volumes are forecast to have recovered back to pre-recession levels.” D & G reported earlier this year that 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 well and truly 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 secondtime replacements are now largely a discretionary spend. What is now firmly with us is a new industry ‘battlefield’ that of foiled windows. The share of the total market that foiled windows takes has increased and is continuing to increase as too is the range of colours. Where once there were five or six traditional wood-grain finishes there are now twenty or more foiled finishes - including pastel and bold colours. Fabricators (and end customers) are no longer prepared to wait weeks. But this new challenge is an opportunity for systems companies’ production and logistics operations to step up to the plate and find ways to satisfy customer demands. But there are some dark clouds on the horizon as the UK Government has warned us austerity is still with us and will remain with us for some time yet. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0004

Distinction Doors’ slab passes fire resistance testing with flying colours Distinction Doors’ composite door slab was recently submitted for fire resistance testing in accordance with British Standard 476: Part 20/22: 1987.

Two doors at different dimensions were tested (1914mm x 840mm x 45mm and 2025mm x 914mm x 45mm). Both were set into a VEKA Bowater PVC 10 system outerframe and installed into a BM TRADA plasterboard clad timber stud supporting partition. The test involved the doors being exposed to a furnace and being monitored closely for signs of integrity failure. The integrity of both doors remained after 40 minutes, which is significantly more than the 30 minutes the British Standard specifies.

The Standard states that a door must be able to withstand fire for a minimum of 30 minutes. Distinction Doors’ slab resisted fire for 40 minutes, a result that proves beyond doubt its fire resistance qualities.

The tests were carried out at the request of one of Distinction’s commercial customers who wanted to tender for a fire door replacement scheme. Dave said, “We always look to work with our customers and provide the support they need, so we were more than happy to help.”

Dave Walker, Distinction’s Technical Director said, “Fire resistance certification is an essential requirement for increasing numbers of commercial contracts, so these results will help our commercial customers secure more sales. They will also provide a valuable selling point for our retail customers because of the peace of mind factor.” The test was carried out by BM TRADA, a company that provides independent certification, testing, inspection and training services around the world. Dave

Distinction Doors is the UK’s largest composite door company and it is not hard to see why. The quality of its slab has just been proved yet again, as has the company’s commitment to supporting its customers in whatever way it can. commented, “As you would expect from a fire resistance test, the process is extremely rigorous and detailed, so we are delighted our doors performed so well.”

Tel: 01226 352265 www.distinctiondoors.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0005

Vista showcases door quality with ‘extreme’ photoshoot With its corrosion proof stainless steel hardware, weather resistant triple sealed outerframe and energy efficient Nan Ya slab, XtremeDoor, the high performance composite door from Vista has been designed to keep homes warm and withstand the very worst of the British weather. XtremeDoor offers extreme thermal and weather performance, and to help get this message across, Vista and marketing partners Purplex organised a very unusual photoshoot at one of England’s most iconic and spectacular landscapes.

house but considering our ‘extreme’ brand name, we decided to do something different and take the door out in the wild and obtain some memorable photography. The images are stunning and we plan to use them in the next consumer facing XtremeDoor brochure, which is freely available to all Vista customers.” Aside from showcasing the excellent thermal and weather performance, several photos focused on the five point lock, which is included on every XtremeDoor as standard and

makes the product one of the most secure on the market. “We’re very pleased with the images, they really get across the quality components that go into XtremeDoor, and Vista customers are welcome to use them as part of their marketing activity” Keith concluded. The new XtremeDoor brochure will be launched later in the year. For more information call 0151 6081423 or visit www.vistapanels.co.uk.

With some slightly bemused tourists watching from afar, the Purplex creative team carried Vista’s 70kg composite door up Cheddar Gorge in Somerset and took a selection of stunning photographs to showcase the premium product in this ‘extreme’ location. Vista managing director Keith Sadler comments: “XtremeDoor offers market leading weather performance and thermal efficiency and we wanted get this message across in an interesting and unusual way. As an industry we’re used to seeing nice images of doors in a

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0006

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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DOORS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Distinction Doors’ stockholding reflects

Endurance® Doors are pleased to announce an exclusive new addition to our range of colours: the ambassador’s choice, Walnut. Virtually indistinguishable from the real thing, one of our doors finished in Walnut will add a touch of class to any home.

commitment to rapid lead times

Distinction Doors’ stockholding is as market-leading as the rest of its offering. The company can hold up to 70,000 door slabs at its South Yorkshire headquarters, meaning it has by far the biggest stockholding of any composite door company in the country. Chantel Roach, Distinction’s Marketing Director says, “Our rapid lead times are something our customers really appreciate and we know from feedback that not only do they improve cash flow they also help to close sales.” Alongside the vast door stockholding, Distinction has 100,000 snap together glazing cassettes and 25,000 glass units in stock. The company also has its own in-house painting

facility, capable of spraying up to 500 doors per week, which helps to ensure that special orders are rapidly processed too. Distinction’s 70,000 door stockholding reflects its status as the UK’s largest composite door company. But this vast number is a far cry from the early days. Chantel explains, “When we were founded in 2004, composite doors were still very much a niche product and our stock holding was correspondingly small. Today, composite doors are the UK’s most popular type of door. Our stockholding needs to be as large as it is to meet growing demand.” Chantel says, “We want to consolidate and build on our position as the UK’s biggest composite door supplier. That means making sure that every aspect of our products and services are as good as they can be. Our stockholding and paint facilities are key selling points for us.” Alongside these benefits, Distinction Door’s customers also benefit from exemplary customer service and expert marketing support. And let’s not forget that the Distinction composite door is the most energy efficient on the market. All in all, it’s a package of benefits that befits this exceptional company. Tel: 01226 352265 - www.distinctiondoors.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0008

Endurance® Doors introduce exclusive new colour option

We use 3D Laminates CoolSkins for all of our doors which offer full through colour. This means that there is no danger of paint chipping or uneven fading. For the ultimate in style and class we can supply Rehau frames finished in Walnut to perfectly match our Endurance® Doors. Unlike sprayed frames where there can be a noticeable difference between colours our Walnut will blend seamlessly to give a superb final appearance.

As the ambassador rose from her seat to leave the luxurious leather upholstery emitted a satisfying creak.

Managing Director Stephen Nadin is pleased with the new addition. “Wooden finish is difficult to get right” he says, “but the team at 3D Laminates have done an amazing job. This Walnut finish looks incredible and is the ideal match for the quality of our doors.”

Her feet sank into the deep carpet as she wove her way through the widely spaced tables towards the exit. Her fingers brushed lightly across the surface of the door as she reached for the handle and she paused briefly to admire the solid, secure sensation as it glided silently and effortlessly open at her touch. As she emerged into the cool evening air she glanced back to watch the door swing closed with a satisfying, weighty clunk. No wonder the city’s elite chose to gather here; a door like that provided a feeling of sanctuary that was simply impossible to replicate.

To find out more about the Endurance® Doors range and the colours and designs we can offer please call 01652 659259 or visit http:// endurancedoors.co.uk.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0009

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VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

VOICE OF THE INDUSTRY

What’s your opinion?

‘Voice of the Industry’ in Glass News for August looks at how the trade is doing and what our expectations are for the second half of the year. A good start to the year and the results of both the Scottish devolution referendum and General Election settled the markets: all looked good for a summer for the domestic market to buy with confidence. But has that been the case? There are mixed messages as to the buoyancy of the market, so the question is:

Has the second quarter lived up to expectations and, if troubles in the Eurozone continue and we see a Grexit, with all that may do to upset the markets, what can we expect from the second half of 2015?

David Amos Principal, D & G Consulting

Gareth Jones Marketing & Technical Director, REHAU

Richard Gyde Managing Director, Mila

Lawrence Wall, Managing Director of ERW Joinery Ltd

Mark Towers Managing Director, ODL Europe

Starting with Europe, as I write this the Grexit seems to have been avoided and as a whole Europe is struggling to get to 2% growth and carrying 9% unemployment, this despite continuing relatively low oil prices and a falling Euro.

After such a buoyant end to 2014, I think we were all disappointed to see things fall rather flat at the start of this year. Obviously, we weren’t helped by the uncertainty around the Election and by a tailing off in some large social housing contracts but, even despite the concerns about the wider global economy, things are looking much more positive now.

I would agree that the market seems to have stalled a bit at the moment. We’re getting mixed messages from customers – some are reporting falls in sales while others are up by as much as 15% which I think suggests they are taking share from each other rather than benefiting from overall market growth.

ERW Joinery specialises in timber door and window manufacture, refurbishment and renovation, servicing both the domestic and commercial markets. So far, 2015 has been a record year. Our order book value is at its highest in 36 years and Q2 sales have exceeded budget by 16%. Domestic sales remain consistently ahead of budget and there’s been no significant change in the level or type of enquires since the election.

The first half of 2015 has been a mixed bag for many, but commenting on ODL Europe specifically, we have had a strong first and second quarter as demand stays high for composite door products and other added value items for the home. And we expect to be even busier moving forward.

We have just finished our latest forecast for the window and door industry – a bit later than usual so we could reflect decisions by the new Government that impact upon the construction industry in general and the window industry in particular. The good news is that we expect overall industry growth in 2015 to be similar to last year. However, from 2016 through to the end of the forecast the rate of growth will slow as, amongst other things, interest rates rise. In the run up to the election figures annual house building figures of over 200,000 units were pledged. We have yet to see when and how government in conjunction with builders, will give the boost to housebuilding the window and door industry need.

During June and July, we’ve seen a return to the sort of sales pattern we would be expecting for this time of year and looking ahead we certainly expect to achieve real growth this year compared to last. From a REHAU perspective, we’re obviously benefiting from the fact that we’ve got such a flexible and successful offering in coloured profiles where demand is still increasing, and we’re now seeing our four new product launches from the first half of the year translating into sales which is good news.

I know there is uncertainty in the wider global economy, but in my experience UK consumers can be remarkably insular and generally spend money if they feel confident about their own personal circumstances. I think the difficulty at the moment is that those consumers who do feel confident are not necessarily spending on their homes. Is it just a coincidence that in the first half of this year new car registrations hit a record high? Looking ahead to the rest of 2015, I’m confident that the market will remain fairly steady but I’d like to see some real growth finally coming from the new build market, where we’re investing in some very exciting new products, and less reliance on domestic replacements.

The main difference in the sales mix for us has been the commercial sector, where enquiries have risen since Sept 2014 and the tender opportunities are returning to pre-2008 levels, with 3 large contracts won this year so far. We don’t foresee retail or commercial sales being affected events in Greece. The greater challenge for us is a shortage of quality tradespeople. We expect to see a strong 2nd half of 2015 - beating budgets by 15% - and our worry is that without the right people to service this demand, labour costs will rise fast and put a squeeze on margins.

It doesn’t pay to take anything for granted, but the first budget under the new government pointed to signs of an established recovery, and while the growth rate has reportedly halved in the opening months of 2015 on the final quarter of 2014, it is still growth, which fits with industry specific forecasts. Something can always upset the status quo, but with the, albeit, uneasy treaty in Brussels ensuring Greece remains in the Eurozone, it seems this shouldn’t be a factor, for now. We can only strive to keep the value in our industry with investment, service and product development, which is exactly what we are doing with the launch, this month, of our Built in Blind and our support of October’s Build Show and the 2016 FIT Show.

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

SOFTWARE & IT

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SOLIDOR’S ONLINE CLOUD SOLUTION Solidor have now launched their secondgeneration Cloud service for online quoting and ordering, as they look to offer their network partners a world-class customer experience. This second-generation solution has been developed to seamlessly take customers from the point of quotation through to order and delivery with complete 100% accuracy and delivered to world-class standards of efficiency and accuracy. The new user interface to Solidor Cloud has been developed by The Consultancy and sits on a Business Micros Evolution platform for manufacturing and EvoNet business management solution. Customers are able to quickly generate a quote and convert this into an order, with a live tracking facility and both existing and old orders can be called up all within a

single managed account. This is an important milestone for Solidor as they look to deliver a complete end to end business solution that will enhance their business efficiency and give network partners an outstanding customer experience. Existing users of the first generation Cloud service will see their existing accounts transform seamlessly into the new solution. Joe Martoccia, managing director of Solidor commented: ‘The second generation of Solidor Cloud offers a far better user experience, while at the same time allows us to process a complete order electronically from order confirmation to delivery. We’re investing heavily across the business at present and a strong IT infrastructure is pivotal to our future success. He continues: ‘Our product is renowned for innovation, we want to match this with new, modern ways of doing business. I firmly believe we’re now taking our network partners on a journey to excellence across all facets of the business.

Distinction Doors customer, Custom uPVC in Widnes, recently commissioned Giles Hayhurst of Bradley Giles Ltd to incorporate the full range of Distinction composite doors into their Windowlink Focus software. Considering that there are 45 different designs in 43 different colours all with various glass and furniture options, there are over three thousand combinations.

Distinction have their own online door designer which is excellent both from the user point of view and presentation but it only covers their doors and not any other products which accompany them, as part of an order. Giles set up the Windowlink Focus software to also cover Custom uPVC’s windows, inline sliders from Sliders UK and Plasway panels. With this set up, Ian from Custom uPVC can visit customers and show them exactly what they’re getting with one program, as opposed to having to log on to the internet several times to visit individual websites for a presentation/price of each product. Bradley Giles are on 01285 656957 or 07775 433122

“Giles set up the Windowlink Focus software to also cover Custom uPVC’s windows, inline sliders from Sliders UK and Plasway panels. With this set up, Ian from Custom uPVC can visit customers and show them exactly what they’re getting with one program, as opposed to having to log on to the internet several times to visit individual websites for a presentation/price of each product.” READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0015

To find out more about Solidor and their Cloud solution, 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: 0815/0014

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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Join in our success by calling us today on 0808 168 5816, e-mail info@origin-global.com or visit www.origin-global.com for specifications & quotes. See more of our photography on our Twitter & Facebook pages

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

SOFTWARE & IT

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

FURTHER SUCCESS FOR BUSINESS MICROS Business Micros continues to grow with an expansion at its Newton Le Willows sales and installation office and the recruitment of two new members to join its Technical Resource Team. With orders up 28% compared to the same period last year, the software specialist is investing in the resources it needs to keep pace with such fast growing customer demand. Managing Director Graeme Bailey says: “We’ve already expanded our office space in Newton Le Willows once since we moved into this building last year and now we’re expanding again with a new dedicated office for carrying out installations and a new area for training and presentations. “We’re also currently recruiting for an additional support technician and, for the first time, a field support programmer based here who can provide rapid bespoke software changes for customers using our EvoNet business management system. “We reached a major milestone recently with 75% of the 1590 PVC-U fabricators identified by the recent Insight Data report now using our software and more choosing us all the time, but the biggest growth is still coming from existing customers who want to expand their software capability.

“We’ve already responded to that by restructuring our Technical Resource team to make our service faster and more flexible, and now we’re growing that team as well so that we can make sure we continue to provide the level of service which we know sets us apart from the competition.” As well as providing CNC links for the increasing number of customers who are investing in new machinery, the biggest growth area for Business Micros is in its EvoNet business management software. This is increasingly being chosen by fabricators who are themselves managing large scale expansion programmes because it effectively provides a dashboard for them to monitor every aspect of their business and allows them to generate reports and analyses to support their business planning. Further details are available at: www.businessmicros.co.uk

“We reached a major milestone recently with 75% of the 1590 PVC-U fabricators identified by the recent Insight Data report now using our software and more choosing us all the time, but the biggest growth is still coming from existing customers who want to expand their software capability.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0017

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0815/0018

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

SOFTWARE & IT

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Bradley Giles setup Focus software up for Origin doors

Giles Hayhurst of Bradley Giles Ltd has completed the first phase of work at G & N Windows of St. Albans.

Their Focus software now displays prices and quotes the full range of Origin bifolding doors and produces unique quotations, orders and confirmations to G & N’s design. In addition, Kloeber doors are also covered together with the Schuco bifolds from Dutemann. The next phase is to cover the Air Door from Everglade and roof lanterns from Sunsquare and Howells. G & N’s software is quick to operate with five sales staff using it to efficiently quote without having to wait for answers from their suppliers. All orders are stored on their

Fast growing composite door manufacturer DOORCO has now launched its eagerly awaited new website and upgraded the linked online ordering system.

DOORCO BOOSTS ONLINE PRESENCE

WITH IMPROVED ONLINE ORDERING & EXCITING NEW WEBSITE Fast growing composite door manufacturer DOORCO has now launched its eagerly awaited new website and upgraded its linked online ordering system. The combined website and ordering system provides the company’s resellers with an important resource through which to increase sales. It is a further indication of the company’s commitment to continually improving customer service.

server so that any member of staff can access them. Quotes are then emailed direct to the customer. Bradley Giles are on 01285 656957 or 07775 433122.

“G & N’s software is quick to operate with five sales staff using it to efficiently quote without having to wait for answers from their suppliers.” READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0019

Creating the new website was a lengthy process, due to DOORCO’s continuous expansion of its product range with new styles and choices which were added throughout the website design process. The end result however is and exceptionally clear, bright and modern site and its simplicity encourage the user to delve deeper and explore more options. The News and Build Check Calculator are two other site facilities designed to provide support for DOORCO customers. The site is designed to provide a simple and effective ordering system for the company’s Prepped Slab trade customers whilst also providing them with a tool that helps to steer their homeowner customers through the design and selection process. Every

one of DOORCO’s door ranges is featured using high quality professional images, together with style and colour options. The images used are also available for DOORCO customers to use in their own marketing. “DOORCO nominated The Consultancy as our website partners and we are delighted with the first version produced by their team,” said DOORCO’s Dan Sullivan. “There are a lot more ideas and development points that the Consultancy has suggested, so there will be a programme of advancement of the site over the next few months with their help. “Our customers have told us that our ordering system is one of the best on the market,” added Dan,” so the emphasis was on improvement using the advice that they gave to us, such as fewer clicks to complete the order. Now every one of our customers places their orders with us this way and the need for manual forms has all but vanished.” See the DOORCO web site and Online Ordering System at www.door-co.com. You can also follow us on twitter @DOORCO_ Official or keep up to date with our Facebook Page at DOORCO Ltd. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0020

Wintech Launches Brand New Website Wintech Engineering Limited, the UKAS accredited testing specialist, has this month launched a fresh new website to suite in with the revised corporate image already featured in its brochures and social media presence. “We have been working hard behind the scenes to update our corporate image and create a suited set of marketing materials that better represents our business,” explains Mike Wass, Technical Director of Wintech Engineering. “The new website follows the recent addition of our brochures. Both of which help companies understand the different tests necessary for their sector of the window, door, glass, façade and curtain walling industries while also

detailing the tests Wintech can help them with. Whether companies want their products tested to show how they differ from their competitors or to prove they meet existing legislation, we can help customers ensure their products are truly fit for purpose. The aim of our new website is to better

guide visitors through the various services we offer as well as the previous prestigious projects we have worked on. Additional features on the website include a brand new tab dedicated to certification, a service which we are excited to launch later in the year. This promises to be a very popular offering and anybody who would like to register their interest in advance can do so here. The site is also scattered with customer endorsements so potential customers can hear firsthand how they can benefit from working with Wintech. “Visitors to www.wintechtesting.com can also catch up with all the latest news from Wintech as well as download our brochure for more information.” For more information about Wintech Engineering please call 01952 586580 or visit www.wintechtesting.com. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0021

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0815/0022

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www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

insightdata business is better with insight

FACE TO FACE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

THIS MONTH: Mark Lofthouse Managing Director, 3D Laminates Ltd, Leeds Mark Lofthouse is 3D’s figurehead who loves everything from golf to gardening and beer from microbreweries. His work-load is full with the promotion of the company’s unique CoolSkin® product for the composite and panel door manufacturers in the UK and with export markets as far away as Romania.

It’s all about you Where you were born and live, currently… I was born in Keighley, West Yorkshire, ironically the same place as Jason Higgins who featured in last months’ column. I’ve never moved out of God’s own country, Yorkshire and have just moved to Eldwick, a small village near Bingley.

Your education and the subject or activity in which you excelled… I wasn’t necessarily an academic at school but I did ok with my favourite subject being Social Studies, though some of my teachers may have suggested that acting the goat was my forte! Sport was and is a big part of my life and I represented my schools at both rugby and football – Bronte Middle School and Oak Bank Grammar School.

Your favourite sports or interests… I’ve always enjoyed football and rugby union since I was at school and I’ve also played golf since then with a current handicap of 11, down from my best of 7, primarily due to the time constraints of running a company with many export markets!.At home I really do enjoy my garden and I’m now blessed

The UK was blighted with discoloured and poorly performing products technically, but we’ve addressed this with a zero defects product, that’s also worked well in the far hotter climates of Southern Europe.

with a house in a quiet village in which I can enjoy the countryside. I’m also an avid cook and enjoy the far-ranging TV cookery programmes. I would to this day still challenge Gordon Ramsay with my mutton and Worcester Sauce inspired Shepherds Pie!

Your biggest regret in life… To be fair not many thankfully. But I’d have to say not meeting my second wife sooner or indeed asking her to marry me a lot earlier.

Someone or something that inspires you… Without question my Mum and my Dad have inspired me as they worked very hard when I was a child, taking on board menial jobs to help pay the household bills. I’m now able to help them back, given that they are now in their mid-70’s. I have to also say that I’m inspired by Peter Winterbottom, the former England Rugby No7 and also Alan ‘Sniffer’ Clarke, the former Leeds United No8 from their heyday in the early 1970’s.

The temptation you can’t resist… It has always been beer for me and not necessarily food or chocolate etc. I don’t like gassy lagers but I’m a big advocate of the beer from microbreweries, which Yorkshire is blessed with many thankfully.

your career When and how you joined this industry… I’m a slaughterman by trade and bought my first butchers, aged 17 form the Co-Op. I then sold it, bought it back again and then sold it again. I had a good friend at the time with a foiling machine for the newly emerging glazing industry. I bought him out in 1995 and within 2 years I was foiling sheet products for Amari Plastics, Simona, Palram etc under the name of Technik. I also bought in a hot stamp foil product from the USA from CFC International at a time when the Kurz product from Germany was dominant. This business was then eventually sold to Lamitec. After a 2-year enforced sabbatical I came back into the industry with West Yorkshire Conservatory Components and a little later with 3D Laminates. I have been blessed to have worked

in the conservatory sector at its peak and now in the burgeoning composite door sector. The conservatory business which foiled components in 3D, was sold to Latium Group (Kestrel) in 1998 as I recall. Today 3D Laminates has an 85% share of the foiled sheet market in the UK, thanks to the revolutionary CoolSkin® product which we have developed with Roechling Plastics and Horschurch, our German partners.

The job you do in 25 words… Given the niche sector we work in I’m everything including a sales, operations and technical director. But customer facing at heart, they are the lifeblood of any business.

Your greatest achievement… I’m not one to boast but I really do think we have revolutionised the door panel and composite door sector in recent years and I’m proud of the achievement.

Over a decade ago the reject levels for door panels were anything from 20-40% and this is now all but zero, as our customers will be testament including GAP, GBW and even Safestyle. We’ve also been able to help the likes of Solidor, offer a wider range of foiled finishes with a next day delivery service, so they can offer a foil that perfectly matches the PVCu frame in which it is to be installed in.

The mistake you’d like to correct… There’s no specific mistake that I’d like to correct, I try to make decisions that I can live with for the longer-term and this has served me well. I’m no different to anyone else, as each day we’re always learning and I like to keep my feet firmly grounded on the floor.

The talent that you’d like to enhance… I don’t have the talent to play the piano or guitar, but I’d love to have the time and commitment to do so. To play an instrument live in front of an audience takes skill, commitment and talent.

and your future What you would like to do if you weren’t in the industry… Without question a professional golfer. I’m not sure I’d be as dapper as Ian Poulter, but I’d be happy with a career playing golf, hopefully successfully around the world.

A particular ambition… I’d like to continue building 3D Laminates as a worldclass supplier of niche products within the home improvement and related sectors. I still believe we’ve got room for considerable development and I’m already looking at some new and exciting products for the coming months and years.

The way you want to be remembered… I’d always like to think of myself as a straighttalking and genuine bloke. Honesty and trust in people is something I value very highly, as those that know me would agree.

If you would like to appear in ‘Face to Face’, or would like to nominate someone else to be featured, simply email chris@glassnews.co.uk. 16

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

HARDWARE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Dynamic performance at it’s best by SFS Intec Secured by Design (SBD), is the official UK Police flagship initiative set up in essence with the objective of ‘designing out crime’ and focuses on the design and security for new & refurbished homes, commercial premises and car parks, reducing the vulnerability of people by removing security issues that may be inherent in existing product design.

By using SFS intec hinges, installers benefit from ease of adjustment and get the peace of mind that they will not be required to rectify future problems due to failing hinges. An important factor for both the installer and end user not necessarily influenced by ‘fastest to fit’ claims.

SFS intec is committed to producing exceptional products that are compliant with regulations. We do this by working with SBD to design products that exceed current standards. In fact, in recent PAS-024 testing held at a UCAS approved test centre earlier this year, a PVC-U residential door with SFS intec’s Dynamic 2D hinges fitted withstood 14kN - more than three times the force required to pass the test. Only failing at this point due to the screws pulling out and not because of the hinge failure.

Dynamic 2D hinges not only far exceed the demands of PAS 024 (SBD) but also offers a 4mm downward adjustment to cater for the increased use of low thresholds. Specifiers and fabricators are reassured that they are using products of the highest specification, which will contribute to the overall reliability of their work, customer satisfaction and ultimately their reputation. With the additional fabrication and installer benefits proving Dynamic 2D to be a runaway success in production and in the market,

Pheonix Doors, one of the UK’s leading independent PVC/U and GRP composite door manufacturer, have now changed the specification of all their products to feature both the Dynamic 2D and the Dynamic 2D-F, which is a custom hinge offering all the benefits of the Dynamic 2D for flush door-sets. Phoenix Doors Sales Director, Haydon Statham commented: “We have every confidence Dynamic 2D and 2D-F will prove a success with our range of doors. As a company we currently manufacture in excess of 1400 UPVC door panels per week and 400 GRP composite doors. We always aim to deliver quality products. That’s why we don’t cut corners and trust only reliable hardware manufacturers like SFS intec who are committed to working closely with us. Distinction Doors, one of the largest composite door slab suppliers in the UK chose to switch their specification to SFS intec’s Dynamic 2D

hinge for use on its new 70mm twin rebate composite door based on its operational reliability and excellent visual appeal with built-in strength and security. Dave Walker, Technical Director at Distinction Doors commented ‘When selecting a hinge, it was important that we chose a manufacturer with a reliable and high performance product which would pass the testing requirements of PAS-24, whilst providing high end aesthetic appeal with adjustability to aid installers. We invited SFS intec to join us on our development journey and through extensive testing we found that the SFS intec’s Dynamic 2D hinge was the perfect fit.” “The attractive, slim-line design and easy adjustability meant this hinge nicely complimented the doorset. We tested the hinge on our 70mm composite door leaf secured to a PVC-U outer frame, and found it could pass PAS-24 test requirements with ease.”

Nigel Wood added “We are aware that the choice of hinge makes a massive difference to the overall quality and appearance of the completed door-set installation. This is why we have invested our time and money into creating high quality hinges. To have the opportunity to work in association with market leaders such as Phoenix Doors and Distinction Doors is testament to the superior strength and performance coupled with colour matching properties and aesthetic appeal that the Dynamic 2D and 2D-F hinge range offer. The Dynamic 2D hinge has rapidly become one of the market-leading hinges for PVC-U and twin rebated composite door-sets. Dynamic 2D-F shares the same aesthetic and installation principles to offer consistency and familiarity in fabricator product ranges and production processes.

All Dynamic hinges are precision engineered in Europe and available in a wide range of standard colours. SFS intec also offers an aesthetic solution for outward opening doors where the barrel and sash plate colours are different to match the frame and door sash finishes, this includes our new guaranteeable, high performance, metallic finish Endurabrite in Gold and Chrome. For more information on SFS intec’s Dynamic Hinge range, please visit our website at www.hinge-security.co.uk; call 0113 2085 500 or email uk.leeds@sfsintec.biz Further details of Secure by design can be found at www.securedbydesign.com. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0023

0815/0024

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www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

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HARDWARE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

SOLIDOR’S NEW

UNBREAKABLE

Modplan switches

ULTION to Yale shootbolt locking

CYLINDER Solidor’s desire to drive innovation has again been realised with the launch of the new Ultion 3 star cylinder from BrisantSecure, which has achieved the coveted Sold Secure Diamond standard from the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA).

® ® KeyTurn LOCKMASTER KeyTurn KeyTurn LOCKMASTER LOCKMASTER The latest The innovation latest innovation from the fromthe the The latest innovation from masters masters of home of security. home security. masters of home security.

• Multi-point • Multi-point protection protection with an with an • Multi-point protection with an aesthetic appearance aesthetic appearance

aesthetic appearance

• Easy to operate • Easy to key operate activation key activation

• Easy• to operate key • Compatible Compatible with a range with ofactivation adoor range of door and handle and styles handle styles • Compatible with a range of door

This new Ultion cylinder is just one of two that have achieved Sold Secure Diamond, which is a real life test operated by the MLA and it provides all the functionality of a cylinder guarded lock, without the additional cost. This makes the upgrade to this cylinder an obvious security enhancement and the opportunity for installation companies to realise more profit, a clear win/win scenario.

• 10 year 10 yearstyles mechanical guarantee guarantee and•mechanical handle

• 10 year mechanical guarantee

The industry can sometimes appear guilty in failing to sell the benefits of the upgrade to a better cylinder in recent years, yet research shows that security is the number one driving factor in external door sales and Solidor promise they’ll be addressing this with some eagerly anticipated marketing tools.

® ® LOCKMASTER LOCKMASTER

KEYTURN KEYTURN MULTI-POINT MULTI-POINT LOCK LOCK

Steve Stewart, managing director of Brisant-Secure commented: ‘It’s re-assuring

0815/0025

For more For details more ondetails the latest on the addition latestto addition to the Lockmaster the Lockmaster range, callrange, the Yale callteam the on team on ® Yale 01902 364006 01902or364006 visit www.yaledws.co.uk or visit www.yaledws.co.uk

LOCKMASTER

KEYTURN MULTI-POINT LOCK

An ASSA ABLOY An ASSA Group ABLOY brand Group brand

For more details on the latest addition to the Lockmaster range, call the Yale team on 01902 364006 or visit www.yaledws.co.uk

10274 Yale Lockmaster 10274 Yale KeyTurn Lockmaster Half Page KeyTurn Advert.indd Half Page 1 Advert.indd 1

17/07/2015 11:03 17/07/2015 11:03

An ASSA ABLOY Group brand 18 10274 Yale Lockmaster KeyTurn Half Page Advert.indd 1

High security has long been associated with all Solidor products, given the renowned solid, hardwood core and exclusive Avantis lock which features the industry’s largest deadbolt and hooks in the industry, all part of an important consumer message. But the new Ultion lock from Brisant-Secure takes composite door security a big step further, helping to make for the industry’s most secure and differentiated composite door.

Leading VEKA trade fabricator Modplan has just announced it is changing its shootbolt locking system on its casement profile ranges to Yale. Chris Reeks, Modplan’s Sales Manager, said, “Whilst the current system has proven to be a robust and reliable product, the introduction of the Yale shootbolt locking system will bring a product name to the market that is better known to the general public.” He adds, “To add further value to our customers’ marketing, every Yale shootbolt is covered by the free Yale Secure Scheme, which safeguards homeowners’ insurance excess should they be victim to a break-in through the window.” Chris was also keen to point out that there would be no cost to the upgrade. “With the benefit of the Yale brand name, the backing of the Yale Secure Scheme and no additional cost involved it really is a product to boost our customers’ sales!” The quality of the Yale shootbolt locking system is evident from its features. The system has Secured By Design and PAS 24 accreditations and comes with a ten year mechanical guarantee and a ten year security guarantee. The Yale shootbolt locking system will be available on Modplan’s Matrix 58mm, Matrix 70mm and Fully Sculptured products in the coming weeks. The change will mean the company’s choice of lock on its casement windows will to know that forward thinking companies such as Solidor value the importance of having the very best security features in their doors. With the Ultion lock they can now offer the consumer the most secure composite door in the market, not to mention the best looking!’ Joe Martoccia, managing director of Solidor Group concluded: ‘Yet again we’re announcing an industry first with the adoption of the Ultion lock. It’s providing our network partners with a

match the Yale door locking system used on its single and double doors. Chris concludes, “We are renowned for the quality of our product offering and by fitting Yale shootbolts we will be enhancing that reputation and helping our customers to secure more sales.” Modplan manufactures and provides a comprehensive range of products that includes three VEKA profiles and Vertical Sliders, VEKA composite doors, PVC-u and aluminium patio and bifold doors, the Warmcore Folding Sliding Door, complete conservatories, the Vertex solid tile-effect roof, glass and polycarbonate conservatory roofs and the Vertex Open Canopy. For more information on any of Modplan’s products and support, simply Ask the Man from Modplan. Tel: 01495 246844 www.modplan.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0026

major sales differential and one that can yield increased margins, while at the same time satisfying consumer demand for better security.’ To find out more about Solidor, 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: 0815/0027

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk 17/07/2015 11:03

0815/0028

5 OILS +TRAY

to Collect

Summer Oil Promotion is Here!

Your FREE Weekly Summer Gift from July 13th to August 21st 2015. It's Summer and we are celebrating with a Free bottle of Oil every week. There are 5 oils to collect plus a designed oil tray. One free Gift of Oil on every order over ÂŁ150

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

HARDWARE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

NEWS

Stainless steel range meets instant success

Tradelocks Do It Again... Tradelocks Budget

Total Hardware’s Quantum range of stainless steel handles.

National supplier for the trade, Total Hardware, has reported strong demand for their recently launched range of stainless steel door furniture, Quantum. With more pressure than ever to deliver a true “fitand-forget” product to the market, that will hugely reduce callouts, fabricators are now adopting stainless steel hardware for a wider range of applications, beyond the usual higher-end, or coastal markets. “It’s true that demand for entrance doors is going strong, but so is competition, and the last thing you need in such a tight market is to have to deal with service calls and manage disappointed clients,” says Chris Pell, Total Hardware general manager. “In reality, stainless steel needs to be specified for applications in more diverse areas than it is being done currently, in order to avoid tarnishing and pitting, which leads to guarantee claims, and ultimately writes off all the cost advantages of an initially cheaper hardware option. Our clients are amongst the first to realise this, and to act on it, to the benefit of everyone involved – from their own business, to their installer clients, down to the end-consumer.” The range consists of door handles in long and

short back plate versions, letterplates, door knockers and letters & numerals, and has been designed following client consultations and their request for a stainless steel alternative to Total Hardware’s exclusive range of premium products, Quantum. Chris commented: “The current market is driving the development of more advanced solutions and upgrades of existing hardware options. We anticipated the strong move towards premium products, including stainless steel, and we launched our own range of hardware to meet this demand. “With Quantum, we offer our clients a range that is both great looking, with sleek and contemporary design, as well as long lasting. Its success determined us to design more products within this range, and add more finishes in order to satisfy a complex demand, with Quantum stainless steel being the most recent development.” Available in six finishes, from Brushed Stainless, to Chrome, Flint, Prime Gold, as well as powder coated White and Black, the Quantum stainless steel comes with a 10-year mechanical and surface finish guarantee. For more information call Total Hardware on 01132432255.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0029

Tradelocks is fast becoming synonymous with tool advance and innovation, and once more Tradelocks under their Genuine Brand have advanced the market yet again! And this time it’s the humble 8 Cut Tibbe pick that is the focus of their attention. The Tibbe has been used for many years on Ford and older Jaguar vehicles with the latter using the 8 Cut Tibbe as opposed to the more common 6 cut. For years the market has had a Tibbe for the 6 cut locks that acts as both a pick and a decoder. In Europe, most locksmiths favour using the pick as a means of entry, whereas in the USA the locks are commonly decoded and then a key cut to open the door. The 6 cut works really well as a pick and a decoder, but it is a delicate tool, and on some locks particularly in old Transits, many over tension the tool and break the turners. So this led to Tradelocks launching the very popular 6 Cut Tibbe and make up key. The lock can be quickly decoded and the make up key can be assembled with the correct combination for opening the vehicle. This resolved the issue of broken picks, whilst offering the locksmith the chance to then clone the make up key to make a duplicate rather than having to use a cut to code machine! This is all well and good for the 6 cut, but there has been no useable decoder or pick for the 8 cut. The problem has been the weakness of the turners in the structure which makes it difficult to make a useable tool.

The 8 cut is described as a decoder, and is ideally used with a make up key or a cut to code new key. Martin Pink explains, “The new 8 cut Tibbe will pick a lock, but you have to relax the number 2 heights a fraction to do this. On a stiff or old lock, this may cause some issues, so we prefer to promote the 8 cut as a straight decoder and generate the cut key or make up key as an opening solution to protect the tool.” Tradelocks have also changed the standard packaging for the Tibbe, making it a part of the now famous Genuine Lishi NightVision tray system. David Jennings explains, “The NightVision tray system is now well established, and we wanted to make sure as many tools as possible fit into the modular system. We looked at the way Lego bricks lock together with single, double, quad bricks etc., and got inspiration from that.” Changing the system also allows Tradelocks to add the Tibbe to their serial number registration programme on their Genuine Lishi app and Genuine Lishi website. David says, “Having the serial number registered allows you to view all the Tibbe training videos and documentation we have, and it’s completely free!” You can find out more information by visiting www.tradelocks.co.uk. Information on the Genuine Lishi app and registration details is available on www.GenuineLishi.com.

Cylinders – Why Can’t You Have Your Cake and Eat It?

When UAP went about developing the new Tradelocks cylinders, they decided to work in a different way. They wanted to offer a budget cylinder packed with security features usually found on the more expensive options. But Why? David Jennings, MD of UAP, explains, “There are 2 main reasons. One is we believe that all cylinders should offer security features as the cylinders are designed to protect the public. Second, we believe that companies who promote security doors will increase their profits and sell more, and so it makes economic sense to offer a more secure cylinder.” David continues, “However the security features must be done in a way to still make the cylinder a budget cylinder. And that has always been the issue.”

UAP are renowned for developing innovative solutions to problems, and the challenge of developing a security packed budget cylinder was taken on with relish. David says, “We knew we had price as a significant parameter to maintain the budget price objective. We knew we wanted Anti-Drill and Anti-Pick. And we knew we wanted 6 pins. The icing on the cake was if we could add Anti-Bump...” UAP have been at the heart of the Anti-Bump debate since they launched Pickbuster some 9 years ago as an aftermarket Anti-Bump upgrade. Pickbuster was a chemically based solution to the problem and hundreds of thousands of locks throughout the UK are still protected by Pickbuster. Tradelocks is the locksmith supply division of UAP, and Tradelocks works with some of the finest locksmiths and lock engineers in the

And so Tradelocks took 18 months to develop a good solution, and now it is ready for the market. It is designed on the same principal as the 6 cut Tibbe using the same style of turners, and there are 8 turners with 3 heights instead of the standard 6 turners with 4 heights.

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

HARDWARE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

AUGUST 2015

UAP Summer Oil Promotion

UAP Ltd constantly strives to update and renovate their catalogue of exceptional products and aim to offer only the finest door hardware products available on the market.

Their incomparable merchandise of door knockers, letterplates, door handles, door viewers, numerals, cylinders and door and window security hardware is contemporary, fresh and current, and this is why they have decided to team up with The Gift of Oil, as their main emphasis is also on affordability, originality and excellence. Ben Jennings, Marketing Manager of UAP, explains, “The Gift of Oil has been operating for 20 years, offering high quality olive oils and balsamics. Each and every item is contemporary, current and innovative, and their ethos fits in perfectly with our own product portfolio, as we regularly update and develop our already impressive catalogue of supplies in order to appeal to a diverse and wide ranging client base.” Ben continues, “This Summer we have decided to celebrate and take our partnership with The Gift of Oil a little bit further… Starting on Monday 13th July, and lasting for 6 weeks until 21st August, we are giving away one bottle of oil or balsamic each week free of charge on all orders over £150.00+VAT!” “Each week we will also email you a different recipe to try with each oil or balsamic. If you fancy getting creative in

country. And it was with working with Martin Pink, that UAP developed an effective and economical Anti-Bump solution for budget locks, which UAP Patented called Zero Lift. David explains the Zero Lift concept, “We wanted to introduce an Anti-Bump system that was not based on trap pins as they are expensive to produce. We wanted to look at how bumping works and develop a system based upon the pins in the cylinder. If we were able to do this then we could pin cylinders cheaply at source and add an AntiBump feature for pennies.” “So we studied bump keys which are used to trick a cylinder into opening. It became obvious to us that we could achieve our goal by introducing a long pin which was the full height of the cylinder core, and went from the keyway line

to the shearline as a solid pin. As a full height pin, anything that is shorter requires a shallower cut in the bump key, and this would overlift the long pin. What this means is that the long pin would push over the shearline and lock the cylinder. To bump the cylinder requires a deeper cut bump key, and the smaller pins need to jump a much higher distance. This makes bumping hard. We then used the Zero Lift system, and developed a pinning chart of combinations that makes bumping this cylinder almost impossible by criminals.” With the Zero Lift system now Patented, UAP added the system to the Tradelocks cylinder to give added protection to the Tradelocks cylinder with little impact on the cost!

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

the kitchen, submit your own recipe to us using the oils and balsamics, and your recipe could feature in our 2016 calendar. If your recipe makes it into our calendar, you will win yourself a very prestigious 100 year old bottle of balsamic worth £200! So get your thinking caps on, and submit your recipes to marketing@uapcorporate.com!” There are 3 olive oils and 2 balsamics to collect, as well as an exclusive oil tray, designed by UAP’s own R&D team to neatly organise your bottles! The following oils and balsamics will be available:

Week 1: Lemon Infused Oil Monday 13th July – Sunday 19th July

Week 4 : UAP Oil Tray Monday 3rd August – Sunday 9th August UAP Tray to organise the 5 Oil and Balsamic bottles.

Week 5: Caramalised Onion Balsamic Monday 10th August – Sunday 16th August Serve as a main dish or as a side with BBQ meats, fish, mushrooms, salads, corn or potatoes.

Week 6: Rosemary and Garlic Olive Oil

Serve with salads, crispy potatoes, couscous or any other BBQ foods.

Monday 17th August – Sunday 23rd August

Week 2: Chilli and Garlic Oil

Serve as a side dish at your BBQ’s alongside fish, steak, salads, kebabs and coleslaw.

Monday 20th July – Sunday 26th July Serve with salad, in a wrap or pitta bread, or with any other delicious BBQ food.

Week 3: Cranberry and Orange Balsamic Monday 27th July – Sunday 2nd August Serve alongside salad, corn, potatoes and other delicious BBQ foods.

So what makes up this remarkable Tradelocks cylinder? Firstly it is made from Brass which means it is dimensionally stable, and easy to work in production. David adds, “We would

never consider using Aluminium as most of those cylinders are very poor quality. We just don’t think a budget cylinder needs to be low quality.” The Tradelocks cylinder is 6 pins, meaning that it is harder to pick, and the number of pin combinations

Ben concludes, “This is a fantastic promotion, and we are looking forward to seeing how creative everyone can be in the kitchen. Don’t forget to send in your own recipes to be in with a chance of having your recipe featured in our 2016 calendar and winning the 100 year old bottle of balsamic, where only 50 individual bottles are produced each year!” So what are you waiting for? Stock up on those products you’ve been aiming to buy and receive this amazing offer! For more information call our sales team today on 0161 796 7268, email sales@uapcorporate.com or visit www.uapcorporate.com!

is well over 30,000 meeting the requirements of EN1303 Grade 5. Each cylinder has an Anti-Drill pin in the body protecting the plug. The pins are made to a minimum 50 RHC meaning that they won’t be beaten by standard HSS drill bits commonly used. The pins also stretch the full length of the barrel giving complete protection to the front end of the cylinder! Every cylinder has a minimum of 1 Anti-Pick mushroom on each side. An Anti-Pick mushroom looks like a dumbbell. If someone picks a cylinder, they try and force the pins down to the shearline, and being solid shapes they move smoothly up and down the cylinder chamber. But a mushroom has a thin midsection. When picking the mushroom, it will tip over and trap, thereby hampering the picker!”

David concludes, “The Tradelocks cylinder just shows that you can have a budget cylinder, packed with security features. And not only does the Tradelocks cylinder offer security, but it conforms to the requirements of EN1303 and can be keyed alike and master suited.” “To my mind the Tradelocks cylinder is the perfect budget cylinder for today’s market – so now you can have your cake and eat it!” Tradelocks budget cylinders are in stock now, and are available to buy with next day delivery. Call our friendly sales team today on 0161 796 7268 or email sales@uapcorporate.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0030

FACE TO FACE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

THIS MONTH: Jennie Owen PR & Marketing Co-ordinator, The Promac Group Living by the mantra ‘you only live once’, Jennie Owen is a happy go lucky sports fan. Also a fan of cheese and bubble wrap! Ambitious and studious but living life to the full, Jennie is currently enjoying a new role at Promac, where she has worked for the last 11 years.

likeable, a true gent. We keep a framed picture of him in the office and talk to him regularly!

The temptation you can’t resist… Any kind of cheese but you can hold the biscuits! And bubble wrap, but then, who can resist bubble wrap?

your career

It’s all about you Where were you born and live, currently… I was born in Edinburgh apparently the second most popular city in Scotland! I’ve been living in Rugby, where Promac HQ is based, for 25 years now but I just can’t shake the accent!

Your education and the subject or activity in which you excelled… I am educated to high school level. I hated the classroom when I was younger, but excelled in IT, which lead on to an IT support job once I left school. I gained most of my knowledge and skills through work based

When and how you joined this industry… training. Currently, I’m back at evening college studying English (which my 10 year old daughter says I can’t do, because I’m Scottish!) and have embarked on formal PR and marketing training in house.

Your favourite sports or interests… As anyone who has met me will know, I am not a big fan of sports. I prefer pub based sports such as skittles, pool and snooker! I am a keen reader though – a big Stephen King and James Herbert fan. I am currently reading ‘The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas’ by John Boyne but my favourite book

is ‘The Shining’ by Stephen King.

Your biggest regret in life… I can’t think of any – you only live once, so don’t spend time worrying about what happened yesterday!

Someone or something that inspires you… Derek Bonnard, the former MD of Promac. Derek strived for excellence and made every effort to exceed expectation, a mantra that Promac continues to work towards to this day. He was also extremely genuine and

I joined Promac 11 years ago as a Sales Administrator. The fact that the office was literally 4 minutes away from my house was a big selling point (although I still drive every day!). I settled in quickly and fell in love with the people and the variety and pace of the job and have never looked back….

The job you do in 25 words… I have recently changed roles and am now PR & Marketing Co-ordinator. The role brings new challenges, all of which I am still learning about!

Your greatest achievement…

My two daughters’ Ellie and Grace, aged 10 and 8 are my greatest achievement; I don’t think I’ll be able to top that!

The mistake you’d like to correct… I wouldn’t correct any mistakes I’ve made. They’ve led me to where I am today and hopefully I have learned from them and grown stronger.

The talent you would like to enhance… I have always been good at working at a fast pace, resolving problems and adapting to situations in order to get the best resolution. My new role is presenting me with new challenges which means I am learning all of the time – it is putting my skills to the test, but no doubt I will be able to improve as a result.

and your future What you would like to do if you weren’t in the industry… If I wasn’t in the industry, I would like to work in a publishing house. My love of reading and impressive talent for spotting spelling mistakes from a mile off would make me a great proof reader.

A particular ambition My ambition is quite simply, to enjoy life and be happy.

The way you want to be remembered… As the ‘go-to’ girl!

If you would like to appear in ‘Face to Face’, or would like to nominate someone else to be featured, simply email chris@glassnews.co.uk. 22

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0815/0031

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

FACE TO FACE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

THIS MONTH: Krishma Nakeshri Marketing Assistant at Edgetech UK Krishma Nakeshri joined Edgetech UK in 2012 as Marketing Assistant in a growing team. Since then Edgetech has seen substantial change with the launch of new products and further customer-focused support programs for the entire supply chain.

It’s all about you Where you were born and live, currently I was born in Stoke on Trent and moved when I was a baby to live in Leicester where I’ve been for the past 29 years.

Your education and the subjects or activities in which you excelled At school I enjoyed all subjects but I was particularly interested in IT, Business Studies and Art. Although I would have loved to have carried on with IT further when I went to college, I decided to go for business studies instead. I’m glad I did now because this was how I found I enjoyed marketing and I went on to study Business and Marketing at Birmingham City University.

Your favourite sports or interests Recently I’ve been going through a phase of being healthier and getting fit. I have Suzanne our HR manager to thank for this as she is always encouraging us to make healthier choices as part of The Workplace Wellbeing Charter. I have developed an interest in running so I try to go out a few times a week before or after work. Ultimately I’d like

work towards completing a long distance run.

Your biggest regret in life Not spending enough time with family when I had the chance.

Someone or something that inspires you My family and friends have inspired me to improve and work hard. My father showed me that hard work pays off. I also believe if you have faith in yourself you can achieve anything you want.

The temptation you can’t resist This doesn’t go hand in hand with my new running

“Although I would have loved to have carried on with IT further when I went to college, I decided to go for business studies instead. I’m glad I did now because this was how I found I enjoyed marketing and I went on to study Business and Marketing at Birmingham City University.”

“We have hosted some incredible events in the industry, launched some fantastic products with unique benefits and we continue to develop really useful marketing support packages for customers. In the future, I would like to develop and continue to grow my skills in marketing, particularly on the customer communications side of the business.” regime, but salt and vinegar crisps and chocolate are my ultimate treats – yummy!

your career When and how you joined the industry 3 years ago I was working in a small family owned business when I saw the advert for the job at Edgetech. I joined as Edgetech’s Marketing Assistant in the growing team and now I can’t imagine working anywhere else. I work closely with Marketing Manager, Charlotte Davies at Edgetech who joined Edgetech in 2007. I’ve learned a lot from her experience working in the industry and really enjoy working with her. I’ve had the opportunity to be part of some incredible projects like The Triple Glazing Question and FIT Show 2013. I also get to meet lots of people from the industry at social events like our annual golf day, which I organise every year.

The job you do in 25 words I coordinate the day-to-day marketing support to add value for customers through Dealership and the quarterly benchmarking Voice of the Customer survey.

Your greatest achievement I have to say it is finding a position at Edgetech, which I Iove. I feel like I have experienced more in the past 3 years than I would have in another industry. I enjoy talking to customers and helping them with their marketing through our support packages. Working in a small team is great too. It means I can make a significant difference.

The mistake you’d like to correct Mistakes are a part of life. As one door closes, another one opens.

The talent you would like to enhance A big part of my role is speaking directly to customers. In the future I’d

like to develop my direct marketing skills and bring more of my creative side to the role. I’d like to get more involved in customer communications including mailers and e-shots. Outside work, I quite like the idea of going on one of these ultimate driving experiences on the track. My little Peugeot can only take me so fast so I would love to put my driving skills to the test in some speedier machines.

and your future What would you like to do if you weren’t in the industry? Knowing what I know now and having learned so much doing this role at Edgetech, it would be interesting to get see how my marketing skills could work for a smaller company in a different sector. I worked in a pharmacy before joining Edgetech, so maybe I would

try providing marketing for that industry.

A particular ambition… I have learnt so much during my time at Edgetech. We have hosted some incredible events in the industry, launched some fantastic products with unique benefits and we continue to develop really useful marketing support packages for customers. In the future, I would like to develop and continue to grow my skills in marketing, particularly on the customer communications side of the business.

The way you want to be remembered… Nothing too flashy I don’t think. A friendly person who is hard working and trustworthy would do just fine.

If you would like to appear in ‘Face to Face’, or would like to nominate someone else to be featured, simply email chris@glassnews.co.uk. 24

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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CONSERVATORIES

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

MODENA PROVIDES A FLEXIBLE 2ND TIME REPLACEMENT EXTENSION Synseal’s Modena orangery has been installed at a detached Lancashire home to replace an existing two-storey building extension and conservatory, delivering an improved replacement extension which affords a truly modern and flexible living space. The aim of this project was to create a large kitchen-family room in the heart of the house, so the old conservatory was demolished and the rear wall of the original extension was removed, allowing the new extension to project further into the garden patio area. Key to the design was installation of a Modena structural orangery with a K2 glazed roof overhead, to illuminate the widespanning L-shaped extension measuring 7 metres by 6 metres that now combines a luxury kitchen with a light and airy social space. Boasting contemporary and linear aesthetic styling,

Powerful sales tool opens up new opportunities for installers

“The Modena is primarily designed for urban townscape and modern suburban applications.” the Modena is primarily designed for urban townscape and modern suburban applications, presenting traditional orangery design features with a modern twist. In addition to an internal perimeter soffit which is typically 604mm deep, Modena’s striking decorative aluminium fascia is a unique feature, creating an additional overhanging external soffit which is just short of 60cm in depth. When designing modern open plan premises linking kitchen, dining and living room areas, flexible use of space is essential and Modena can be fitted with full-width bi-folding doors to deliver just that. For the bi-fold door on this project,

the threshold was built-in and precisely levelled against the adjacent internal oak floor, to seamlessly link the inside and outside. The technology used in the build, including Synseal’s exclusive Celsius performance glass, means this orangery extension is highly thermally efficient and can be used all year round. The Modena fascia has also been customised on the side and rear elevations to be shallow in design with no soffit overhang above window openings, to maximise daylight. By contrast, the deep external soffit above the bi-fold door provides effective shade and shelter from the rain and this design feature has been enhanced by adding external downlights to create a magical touch when the sun goes down. For further information contact Mark Schlotel on 01623 446207 or 07764 229694; email mark. schlotel@synseal.com. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0033

Windowlink has enhanced its sales, presentation and pricing software for windows and doors, Focus, with the addition of a Roof Lantern feature, now enabling installers to seize opportunities in the fastgrowing “glazed extension” market. Windowlink’s MD, Mark Dudley, says this development is in direct response to new market trends, as well as customer demand. According to the latest report from window industry market intelligence supplier, Insight Data, the conservatory market has “reinvented itself driven by a shortage of housing stock and rising house prices, as well as product innovation, which is creating renewed consumer desire.” “One of these developments is the rise of the integrated, bespoke glazed extensions,” said Mark. “Many of our installer clients currently using Focus, the design-tosell software for windows and doors, have told us they are experiencing strong demand from end-

The high quality 3D graphics never fail to impress the homeowners.

consumers investing in extension projects, and have added the innovative Roof Lantern to their portfolio in order to take advantage of this cross-selling opportunity. “The new feature enables companies that offer the increasingly popular glazed roofs to produce life-like designs of the completed project – from windows, to bi-folds, patio or French doors, all the way through to the Roof Lantern, as part of a fully priced quotation.” This latest development is available as an addition for Windowlink’s popular sales tool, Focus. UK Windows Surrey sales team has been using Focus for the past 3 years, and have recently opted to add the new Roof Lantern feature, to help them promote the product to the homeowners. Sales director John Small, said: “Focus is an essential sales tool, and homeowners are blown away by it. They

love engaging with it, selecting their options and seeing the price changing in real time, with every choice they’re making. Thanks to it, our customers don’t argue over the price, so we never have to offer discounts. It is very effective, and I wouldn’t do a quote without it.” Mark concluded: “Larger renovation projects offer the potential to cross-sell other products, such as glazed roofs, but this is hard to do when installers are limited by a generic sales brochure. With Focus, installers are able to show homeowners not an ‘aspirational image’, but the exact products they’re getting, down to the last detail, as well as how these are going to enhance their property’s aspect and value, and now they can pitch Roof Lanterns in the same, effective way.” For more information visit www.windowlink.com or call 01452 348575. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0034

SYNSEAL ANNOUNCE A SERIES OF

“TRIPLE BILL” OPEN DAYS Synseal are inviting existing and prospective customers to attend one of the company’s “Triple Bill” open day training workshops, at which 3 different key topics will be covered in detail to ensure a productive and informative day for all concerned. First on the “Triple Bill” agenda will be Celsius Solid Roof, Synseal’s recentlylaunched and fast-fitting retrofit roof solution, followed by WarmCore, Synseal’s innovative “warm aluminium” folding sliding door system which has really caught the

imagination of many professional installers and retailers since the product’s introduction late last year. To complete the agenda, guest speakers from the BSI will present on how to secure compliance with Approved Document Q, which is due for implementation on 1st October 2015. The BSI presentation will also cover their Synseal Group Scheme, designed to assist fabricators to achieve weather performance and enhanced security product specification assessment and certification in a cost-effective manner. The workshops will take place at Synseal’s headquarters in Huthwaite, Nottinghamshire on Thursday 13th August, Thursday 3rd September, Thursday 15th October and Thursday 5th November and places are available for reservation on a “first come, first served” basis.

“Our Celsius Solid Roof and WarmCore sessions will focus on fitter-friendly aspects of these products as well as discussing valueadding technical advantages,” comments Mark Schlotel, Head of Marketing at Synseal. “I encourage all parties interested in attending to call me on 01623 446207 to book their seats and secure an opportunity to learn more

about Celsius Solid Roof, WarmCore and Approved Document Q.” For further information contact Mark Schlotel on 01623 446207 or 07764 229694; email mark.schlotel@synseal.com. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0035

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

CONSERVATORIES

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

NEW 20mm cavity solution

TREND FOR LARGER WINDOWS AND PATIO DOORS DRIVES SALES OF 22MM AND 27MM CAVITY SOLUTIONS FOR INTEGRAL BLINDS BY MORLEY GLASS

for integral blinds

customers with excellent choice and service. And all our blinds are available in just 10 days.”

Morley Glass and Glazing, the UK’s largest manufacturer of ScreenLine® integral blinds, has seen 29% annual growth in sales of its Uni-Blinds® sealed units with 22mm and 27mm cavities due to increased demand for larger windows including sliding patio doors.

Integral blinds that can be fitted into larger windows are also ideal for bi-folding and sliding patio doors providing enhanced privacy, reductions in sound intrusion and solar glare. Sealed from any ingress of dirt, dust and moisture, integral blinds offer an easy to use, low maintenance and safe solution that can help to reduce the effect of direct sunlight and heat loss, offering protection from overheating in the summer and improved thermal insulation in the winter.

Ian Short, managing director, explains: “Typical domestic windows and doors feature 28mm sealed units with a 20mm cavity, into which we can fit ScreenLine® integral blinds, in a wide range of colour options. However, there is growing demand for larger windows and doors – both for the domestic and commercial markets – which require 22mm or 27mm cavities. Our Uni-Blinds® sealed units with ScreenLine® integral blinds inside can be fitted into doors and windows as large as 2 metres high and 2 metres wide.

Designed for windows, doors and glass partitions, Uni-blinds® are available in Venetian or pleated styles and in a wide choice of colours. They can be operated manually, using a motorised system, solar power or sliding system.

“It’s the quality and breadth of our product range that makes us the ideal partner for fabricators and installers looking to enhance their profit opportunities and provide their

www.morleyglass.co.uk

Sunbell, Italy’s leading designer and manufacturer of integral blinds has introduced a new 20mm cavity solution for glazed units designed exclusively for the UK market. The new 20mm spacer bar available in natural silver or black allows blinds to be successfully installed into traditional 28mm glazed units. Sunbell integral blinds are the ideal partner for bi-folding and patio doors providing enhanced privacy, reductions in sound intrusion and solar glare. Sealed from any ingress of dirt, dust and moisture, integral blinds offer an easy to use, low maintenance and safe solution that can help to reduce the effect of direct sunlight and heat loss, offering protection from overheating in the summer and improved thermal insulation in the winter.

Commenting Richard Sheppard, Sunbell’s UK agent; “The launch of the 20mm cavity designed exclusively for the UK market represents a major investment in new tooling and components. Sunbell offers a unique combination of Italian design, quality and engineering excellence, it’s committed to offering the perfect glazing solution for all types of materials and applications allowing complete privacy and the ultimate in solarshading protection.” For more details please call 01245 422489, email: info@sunbell.co.uk.

Designed for windows, doors and glass partitions, Sunbell blinds are available in a choice of stylish Venetian and fabric finishes including blackout options in a choice of colours. Sunbell blinds use a low-voltage motorised system solution powered either by a rechargeable battery or ‘hard wired’ with remote activation for up to 12 blinds. The battery option is a flexible solution, easily installed with no hardwiring, rechargeable

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0036

by a mains connection with optional external solar panel and controllable by remote activation. Blinds are available to order direct from Italy on a 3 week lead time ready for assembly into the glazed unit.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0037

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WINDOWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

A BEAUTIFUL RETIREMENT PLAN FROM FRAMEXPRESS One of the latest projects to incorporate a variety of products from the frameXpress range is a new commercial development in Shirley. Set in a leafy suburb of Birmingham and described as offering a safe and secure environment, Trinity Apartments are retirement properties offering the best in luxurious living. For the framexpress team this required sensitivity to the needs of elderly residents whilst also offering the best in acoustic glazing with the apartments being located close to a main road. Sarah Price, Commercial Sales Manager advised on the most appropriate products to install which would meet the high specifications of the architects and town planners. The company also offered the long standing customer a broad choice of finishes and colours to meet the modern design requirements. Consequently, the new development incorporated A rated products throughout in Hazy Gray pvc-u. As one of the newest, most sought after residential developments, in the area the site now offers 51, one or two bedroomed apartments with BSI and Secured By Design guarantees. The apartments have been designed with flexible living in mind, offering the best in

modern facilities. Altogether framexpress manufactured over 190 units for the stateof-the-art project, which included casement windows and single leaf balcony doors. Sarah Price comments. “Where a combination of thermal and sound insulation as well as security and style is required, framexpress is well placed to offer products and support services that will meet and exceed the demands of specifiers. Colours continue to prove popular with architects, so our range lends itself well to accommodate the continuing changes in architectural disciplines. Equally we are aware that on projects such as this, there is a need to be sensitive to elderly occupants for whom tranquillity and privacy are essential. Our range offers the best for all property types, providing customers with total reassurance at a realistic price.” For more information on the broad range of window, door and conservatory products available from FrameXpress please visit the website www.framexpress.co.uk. Alternative please call Sarah Price on 01952 581100 to discuss your project requirements. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0039

Even better margins on Residence 9 An increasingly high number of retailers are making more profit from selling the popular Residence 9 window to homeowners across the UK, thanks to an advanced manufacturing technology used by a Lincoln-based fabricator. The StyleLine Residence 9 from Sternfenster combines the highly sought-after looks and handmade quality of a traditional timber window, with the price advantage of quick and cost-effective manufacturing. This unique version of R9 is quickly becoming a firm favourite with installers, as more are discovering the quality of the seamless corner weld, and how easy it is to promote it to the style conscious end-consumer. Steve Lane, Sternfenster national sales manager, explains: “The StyleLine R9 is different from both the mechanically jointed, as well as the standard welded windows. Although it is technically welded by machinery, the quality of the finish is so high that it places our StyleLine Residence 9 in a class of its own. “It’s not only as attractive as a timber window, but also stronger, more durable, and faster to manufacture, creating an all-round win-win situation – homeowners love the perfect, flawless finish, and installers are provided

with the opportunity to achieve higher profits. Thanks to increased productivity, we are able to offer our StyleLine R9 at advantageous trade prices and fast turnarounds.” The perfectly smooth finish is the result of a manufacturing process that welds the frame segments on the inside. This means there is no need for grooving, and no loss of material at the corner joint, making the StyleLine Residence 9 windows not only great looking, but also stronger and more durable. Sternfenster is the only UK fabricator to supply the Residence 9 window in three versions: with mechanical joints, standard weld, and the all-new StyleLine finish. Steve concluded: “There will still be many that prefer the mechanically jointed R9 windows, due to their accurate representation of a 19th century flush sash timber casement. But the StyleLine R9 is proving very easy to sell to the end-consumer, and more profitable, and we predict demand for this alternative product will soar over the next few months.” For more information contact Sternfenster on 01522 512525, or visit www.sternfenster.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0040 0815/0041

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www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

WINDOWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Look beyond the product

The challenges facing window installers today are immense. From finance and marketing, to worries about your competition, in addition you have to be able to adapt to the everchanging landscape of new products, regulations, accreditations and energy ratings. Faced with so many challenges, it’s easy to lose sight of your primary objective, and that’s to meet your customers’ expectations of great product and service. Many window installers are given heaps of advice about how to build their business, with stacks of quality information available. Often overlooked, however, is the importance of choosing the right supplier. Picking the right one will allow you to offer your customers quality products and service, at the right prices. Selecting the wrong supplier can lead to frustrating delays, upset customers and shrinking margins.

guaranteeing continuity of supply.

When choosing your supplier, ideally they need to offer a wealth of choice across leading brands in the windows, doors and conservatories market. But that’s not all. You need to look beyond the products, and align yourself to one who has the experience, expertise and service you can count on. Let’s take a look at some of the factors you should consider:

• One-stop-shop... Suppliers like SIG Windows offer a sure bet. Completely independent, we have already invested time and energies in sourcing the most appropriate and competitively priced products suitable for installation, and can deliver these at speed through local branch networks, as well as

• Consistency of supply... This is vital. There’s nothing worse than working in a different part of the country and the same network branch can’t offer what you are looking for. Look for suppliers that are able to provide a core range of products that are available at any time, regardless of where you are. • Quality assurance... Any supplier worth its salt will offer rigid quality assurance checks to ensure all aspects of the quality and condition of the glass and frame are in a perfect condition prior to dispatch to the customer. Both you and your customer benefit from quality products with no hassles, and enjoy peace of mind from the minute the job starts. • Price... Choosing a supplier because they offer the lowest prices can be fraught with danger, as it doesn’t necessarily mean that they have the strongest relationship with manufacturers. Reputable suppliers will have long established relationships with all key manufacturers, and will source the best and most competitively priced products. • MTC accredited... A supplier who can fully understand your problems is a real bonus. Minimum

Technical Competence requirements (MTC) is now mandatory for installers. It is designed to prove that you have a minimum level of skill demonstrated through proven and relevant experience (and independently assessed) and/or relevant qualifications. Indeed, MTC accreditation is necessary to work through any of the glazing Competent Person Schemes (CPS). So, wouldn’t it be great if your supplier’s staff are also MTC accredited and able to fully understand the criteria that you are required to meet when replacing windows and doors in domestic properties? At SIG Windows, this is already the case. Such is our passion for customer service, that at least one of our staff in each branch is MTC assessed. • Waste disposal... Discarding waste has long been an issue in the glazing industry. Making sure that you source your products from a supplier that offers a free licensed skip service that enables you to dispose of like-forlike waste at the depot. Not only does this save you the hassle of going to a commercial waste site to dump your rubbish, it saves time, money and reduced fuel costs too. • Innovation... With a forever changing

landscape of new products and regulations, it pays to align yourself to a supplier who is prepared to keep abreast of developments. By doing so, you will be able to add new items to your own portfolio of products and services; thereby enabling you to grow your business. • Technical support... A good supplier is also more likely to provide excellent advice and training, as well as technical support. Whether it’s support on products and accessories, or energy ratings, it’s important to know that your solution is just one phone call away. So, choosing the right supplier goes way beyond the product. It’s up to you to determine what’s acceptable and what’s not; but experience, expertise and service are key factors that you need to seriously consider. It’s important to choose wisely; it could mean the difference between a smooth and trouble-free experience, and headaches and unanswered phone calls further down the line. For further information on SIG Windows, contact 01480 466777 or visit www.sigwindows.co.uk. By Steve Jones, Operations Director at SIG Windows.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0043

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0815/0044

Looking for real choice for windows, doors and conservatories?

SIG Windows offer an extensive range with unrivalled service for the window installer Windows, doors and conservatories - by leading manufacturers including REHAU, Duraflex, Halo and Residence 9 n A range of materials - including PVC, aluminium and timber and also a combination of materials n Support with comprehensive in-branch facilities - including SIG Finance Tools, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Quality Checkedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; products, MTC assessed staff, marketing support, site surveys, storage, disposal and skip service* n

Visit your local SIG Windows branch at one of over 30 locations, visit our website or ring: 0845 0036 825 *Ask local branch for details and availability

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

We supply. You fit.

www.sigwindows.co.uk WINDOWS DOORS CONSERVATORIES

WINDOWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

10 year guarantee ISO Chemie Standout BFRC Approved

SWISSPACER’s Caluwin:

Caluwin, the energy-calculating app from SWISSPACER, is BFRC approved. The app lets users calculate how much energy and money their customers will save with their new windows. It’s available to download as an app for Android and Apple devices and it can be used online via SWISSPACER’s website. The BFRC approval accredits Caluwin as a reliable tool for calculating WERs.

Revival tape seals it for self-build

Cill

BFRC Technical Director, Gary Morgan, confirms: “The BFRC has thoroughly checked Caluwin and is satisfied that it gives the correct WER calculations.” John Cooper, SWISSPACER Market Development Manager, adds: “Interest in our energy-calculating app has grown significantly since it was launched. BFRC approval was the next step for Caluwin. Of course WERs generated by Caluwin are indicative for guidance only and can’t be used for Building Regulation compliance. “Caluwin’s a great tool to help sell windows,” John continues. “Customised versions are available for users who want the app tailored to what they sell.” SWISSPACER, the leading manufacturer of warm edge spacer bars, offers a range of selling tools. Caluwin, sample cards, videos and more help sell the energy-saving benefits of warm edge and SWISSPACER. For Caluwin online visit www.caluwin.co.uk. For more information call 0845 601 1265, visit www.swisspacer.com or follow @Ultimate_Spacer.

Whiteline, the Sussex based fabricator, is continuing to build its reputation for innovation and exclusive windows and doors. The inventor of the original FlushSASH - the 70mm PVCu alternative to traditional timber joinery, Whiteline has also introduced a unique, mechanically jointed deep bottom rail option to provide ever more authentic detailing. Their innovative range for homes that require a deeper frame, but with timberlike good looks, is the appropriately named Revival. The 85mm depth frame perfectly accommodates FlushSASH windows with stylish hardware options to revive a home, inside and out. The distinctive deep Revival cill, specifically designed to fit the Revival frame, marks another major Whiteline investment in uniqueness and quality of design. Their customers can exclusively offer a distinctive external feature that really stands out from the crowd. Instead of a standard dropped nose cill, the 163mm deep, 50mm thick, multi-chambered Revival cill, with its full length throat drip detail, creates a unique and effective feature. The cill can be personalised in a range of foils, like Irish Oak pictured here, or beautifully coated to match any colour specification. Outstanding stuff.

SWISSPACER’s Caluwin is BFRC approved. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0045

Tel: 01323 723724 www.whiteline.co.uk www.PlatinumNRG.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0046

Self builders can take advantage of ISO-Chemie’s ISO-BLOCO One multi-purpose foam sealing tape, which comes with a 10 year performance guarantee and provides up to 70% cost savings when compared to other three component systems. ISO-BLOCO One tape enables windows and doors to be quickly and easily sealed from inside the building, avoiding the need to use time consuming and costly external access systems like scaffolding and ladders, and provides guaranteed high performance sealing for the lifetime of the window. Hiring access systems, with the associated health and safety issues, can add significantly to the overall cost of a new build or renovation project, so additional savings can also be made using ISO-BLOCO One. Moreover, because the foam sealant can be used in the wet and rain the installation of windows can be undertaken regardless of external weather conditions, avoiding time consuming and costly delays. ISO-Chemie estimates that this can lead to potential savings of hundreds of pounds per day. BLOCO One offers a single product ‘fit and forget’ solution for fast and effective sealing based around the European RAL principles of three level sealing - the inside seal area is more airtight than the external one, allowing any trapped moisture inside the joint, or within the wall, to escape outwards rather than into the building.

Quick and easy-to-apply, the self-adhesive ISO-BLOCO One provides a high performance seal for window and door joints up to 30mm wide and is impermeable to driving rain at a minimum of 1,000 Pa – 66% higher reliability than most conventional joint sealing tapes. The external seal area provides weather resistance and breathability, while the intermediate seal area provides extra thermal and acoustic properties and the internal one air tightness and humidity regulation. All three levels are designed to accommodate movement between the adjacent materials. Once installed, ISO BLOCO One ensures a building is better protected from elemental factors like wind, dust and moisture ingress by accommodating the changes in structural movement caused by environmental, cyclical and settlement factors. The internal air tight seal has been tested at 1000 Pa pressure difference (20 times more than UK Building Regulations.) and found to give less than 0.01 m³ of air loss. At the same time, depending on tape width, it will also supply a U-Value of 0.55 and reduce sound by 45 dB, straight from the box. ISO BLOCO One complies with energy saving regulations (EnEV) on windows and doors as well as the RAL quality assurance association and is able to accommodate extremes of temperature changes, from 30°C to + 80°C. More at www.iso-chemie.co.uk or email p.thompson@iso-chemie.co.uk. Tel: 01207 566874

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0047

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0815/0048

Traditional Genesis recreates the timeless beautiful styling of a traditional timber sliding sash window like no other. With its authentically jointed frame and sash it replicates the windows of yesteryear that are found in period cottages, older properties and conservation areas. Modern With its elegant styling and precision design, the Genesis vertical sliding sash will enhance any modern home as well as a traditional property. Designed for modern living, Genesis combines cutting-edge technology with the traditional character of a box sash window. Precision-engineered for smooth, simple operation, Genesis effortlessly complements your modern lifestyle.

Home to the

The NEW Genesis VS SASH WINDOWS A new generation of vertical sliders

range of products

Vertical Sliding Sash Windows / Flush Casement Windows / Fold & Glide Doors Introducing the New GENESIS VS with traditional jointing methods taking aesthetics to the heart of the design process.

Unique joint design to both sash and outer frame replicates a timber window for a truly authentic appearance, setting your windows apart from the rest. Combined with period hardware and a complete range of heritage finishes, the Genesis VS pushes the boundaries of modern PVC-U sliding sash windows.

Tel: 0800 321 7284 Fax: 01226 707 947

Email: sales@bisonframes.co.uk

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

@bisonframes /BisonFrames

CONSERVATION

APPROVED!

Visit our website: www.bisonframes.co.uk

ARCHITECTURE IN FENESTRATION

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

URBAN REGENERATION

Architects & designers get the Imago Point 700 architects regularly use the Imago Points national network of showrooms in Italy for Imago Lift & Slide Doors. They take advantage of the opportunity to show their clients stunning glazed feature walls that open up to connect with the outside. Now, the Imago Points network has arrived in the UK and Ireland and is growing fast to meet demand for the exciting new wide span door system. Companies manufacturing and installing Imago Lift & Slide timber doors have full sized examples of Imago at their showrooms and offer expert advice. Imago Lift & Slide Doors feature the highest possible

FROM FRAMEXPRESS thermal efficiency, offering new design opportunities for UK projects. Developed by Italian hardware specialist AGB, Imago frames the view with large expanses of glass and a very slim wood surround. “We know architects and designers encourage clients to use more interesting materials and push the boundaries with design,” says Marco Zen, UK and Ireland Sales Manager for AGB. “Imago Points are where they can see the minimalist styling of Imago Lift & Slide

timber doors and speak with expert joiners and installers.” A map showing the 18 Imago Points across the UK and Ireland can be found on the chooseimago.co.uk website. Also on the website is Imago Toolkit, where visitors can download technical CAD drawings, specification requirements and 3D drawings as well as test data on weather and thermal performance. www.chooseimago.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0049

Roof Assured by Sarnafil single ply roofing membrane

used on home shortlisted for Welsh Gold Medal for Architecture Award The Roof Assured by Sarnafil team is delighted to see that Cefn Casttell, Criccieth, North Wales by Stephenson Studio has been shortlisted for the ‘Best New Building in Wales’ Award 2015. Included in the project was the design and installation of a Sarnafil single ply flat roof membrane and Sarnatherm roofing insulation. The project was previously featured in Channel 4’s Grand Designs programme. Roof Assured by Sarnafil approved installer, Inner World Design & Build (http://innerworld.uk.com/ home/) was chosen as the main contractor for the build of this family home and commissioned SPR Roofing, also a Sarnafil approved installer, to deliver the complicated roof installation. The 185m2 roof covered the whole property and a slate grey Sarnafil single ply membrane was applied with adhered baton profiles to recreate the piping of a traditional lead roof. The installation was technically demanding as Ian Hunt, managing director, Inner World Design & Build Ltd, explains: “Installing the roofing membrane was quite a challenge on account of the many varying pitches and parapets as well as various penetrations for drains, roof windows, columns etc. On top of that we had to catch a break in the weather as, although the Sarnafil membrane can be installed in most weathers without any problems, a prolonged period of wet weather was not ideal for the installers!” Behind the dream were owners Rob Hodgson and his partner Kay, who conceived the highly ambitious plan to design and build this dream house in a wonderful setting on Cardigan Bay, overlooking the sea. Ian Hunt said: “It was a fantastic project, brilliantly designed and carefully detailed. It was great working closely with the client,

architect, engineer and Building Control as a professional team. We enjoyed building such a stunning property. The assistance from the Sika technical team along with Simon Roche of SPR Roofing in meeting the challenges posed by this complicated roof was absolutely invaluable.” Charles Pierce, Head of Roof Assured added: “We are delighted to have had the opportunity to be involved with this exciting project and are particularly proud that Cefn Castell has been shortlisted for this prestigious award which recognises excellence in buildings. It gives well earned recognition to our registered installers, Inner World Design & Build and SPR Roofing, for their involvement in such an exciting and challenging project. We wish all the shortlisted schemes the very best of luck.” Supported by the Design Commission for Wales and awarded in association with the Royal Society of Architects in Wales, the medal recognises excellence in buildings completed between 1 January 2012 and 14 March 2015. If you are interested in learning more about Roof Assured by Sarnafil or becoming a Roof Assured installer please visits www. roofassured.co.uk or t. 0800 614 821. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0050

When it comes to product performance and stunning aesthetics, urban regeneration continues to evolve into a vast arena where architects and specifiers can blend the best of both worlds. For frameXpress this has been an important market sector to consider, particularly when evaluating climate change and reduced carbon emissions in relation to buildings. Most recently a variety of products from the frameXpress portfolio were incorporated into an inner city conversion project in London. Here, a number of modern apartments were developed from a traditional office block where energy efficiency and a reduced carbon footprint needed to be key considerations in the building’s evolution. Products selected from the range included the highest performance casement windows and French doors in white woodgrain FS70 mm system with matching white astragal bar throughout to maintain the traditional theme of the building. For Ian Davis, National Sales Manager at FrameXpress being able to provide performance and choice are just two of the key elements that he feels should be brought together to create successful UK urban regeneration projects. Today, for fabricators, he considers it is essential they understand aspects of the

architectural world to ensure that conversion projects can be highly efficient, stylish and ‘green’. He comments, “Being able to advise on the technical viability of a project regarding ‘clean green’ and appealing design is essential, otherwise it could lead to stylised schemes which quickly lose their vibrancy and ultimately their future profitability as time progresses. Everyone discusses performance and margins but varying styles and design disciplines are equally important to understand.” Ian also believes that city planners have a central role to play in tackling urban climate change primarily because the inner city developments must adapt to its effects, as the buildings contribute a lot to carbon emissions, so therefore they are under severe threat from its impacts. Climate-friendly planning is growing as the long-term effects of urban spatial policies are now carefully considered and introduced into industry legislation. Consequently, green design has become a key part of helping to tackle urban climate change and a focus for the frameXpress team. Installing the right windows, glass and doors such as the products from the frameXpress portfolio, will ensure that city planners can improve inner city pollution. “Evaluating spatial policies is a large part of the job,” Ian comments, “This covers a range of issues that affect

customers, from regional developments to individual buildings, including retrofitting existing buildings and infrastructure renewal. Ian continues: “Through urban regeneration such as this office conversion, with the right products, the best use can me made of brownfields and underutilised lands. Rather than a mono style, varied architectural styles create character in projects and being able to produce a range that can accommodate that blend of architectural disciplines is vital in today’s market. Buildings are among the major sources of carbon emissions due to energy consumption for heating and cooling. Special attention should therefore be paid by fabricators when turning existing buildings into low-carbon and less vulnerable structures. Urban regeneration will help in overcoming buildingrelated challenges, either by retrofitting or renewing existing buildings, as part of the renewal and rehabilitation of inner cities.” Framexpress is a leading fabricator or pvc-u and aluminium windows, doors and conservatories, based in a modern 30,000 sq.ft. facility in Telford. For more information on the product portfolio please visit the website www. framexpress.co.uk or call 01952 581100 to discuss your requirements. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0051

“Green design has become a key part of helping to tackle urban climate change.” August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

ARCHITECTURE IN FENESTRATION

GLASS

TUFFX SCALES NEW HEIGHTS IN THE

SHARD

Senior’s systems help drive sales at new car showrooms Curtain wall, shop front glazing and commercial doors systems from leading fenestration designer and manufacturer Senior Architectural Systems have helped to create the perfect retail environment for two new cars showrooms. The Harry Fairbairn Mini dealership in Kirkcaldy features Senior’s SMR900 curtain wall, which is ideally suited to meet the demands of the Scottish climate thanks to its robust construction and exceptional wind resistance properties. Installed and fabricated by Nortek Aluminium for main contractor Bell Buildings Projects, Senior’s curtain walling has been further complemented by the use of its commercial SD doors which together help to provide a light and welcoming space for customers. Another leading car dealership to benefit from Senior’s extensive portfolio

of products is the Inchcape Volkswagen showroom in Stockport. Appointed by main contractor Hantall Developments, installer and fabricator Crystal Architectural has created an eye-catchingly attractive façade using the thermally enhanced SMR800 curtain wall which has been perfectly integrated with Senior’s SFG shop front glazing system and SD automatic doors. With a wealth of experience in delivering high-quality solutions for commercial and retail applications, Senior curtain walling and glazing systems have been designed to help specifers working in this market meet the required environmental requirements by creating high-visibility shop frontages that minimise solar gain to create a comfortable consumer experience. For more information about Senior, visit www. seniorarchitectural.co.uk

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0052

A number of products from the TuffX portfolio have been incorporated into one of London’s most recently constructed landmarks. The Shard stands 309.6 metres high and is the tallest building in the European Union. TuffX’s longstanding customer knew that the high calibre products within the range could be relied upon within such a prestigious development. Amongst other products manufactured by the Knowsley-based company for this project is a 19mm toughened frameless glass balustrade which is now part of a feature staircase at The ShangriLa Hotel in the 72-storey skyscraper. The quality standards of the TuffX brand reflect the corporate philosophy of providing only the best for customers on all sized projects. Knowing expectation is always high the company aims to excel, which is reflected in such highly acclaimed design projects as The Shard. TuffX is a leading glass processor specialising in high performance toughened safety glass. For more details on the range please call 0845 3 400 200 or visit the website www. tuffxprocessedglass.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0053

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

SAINT-GOBAIN GLASS LOVES INTERIORS: NEW BROCHURES & WEBPAGE PULL INTERIOR GLASS RANGE TOGETHER Transparency in its many variations is at the heart of the desire to include glass in interiors and whilst SaintGobain’s glass products create a feeling of space they also surpass the unique challenges designers face when extending aesthetics with functional potential. Saint-Gobain Glass Interior products deflect and channel light in imaginative and exciting ways whilst offering the assurance of privacy, security and protection. From bathrooms, kitchens and living areas to retail, offices and hotels, the company’s interior glass range offers solutions for a wide range of applications. With such an extensive offering SaintGobain realised the need to communicate the information required by designers and specifiers in ways that convey the unique combinations of design and purpose demanded of interior glass products. The company has therefore released a brochure

pack and webpage aimed at architects and interior designers to provide key information as well as inspiration, simply and effectively. The LOVE Interiors Brochure Pack takes all of Saint-Gobain’s interior glass products and combines them in a convenient format that is highly functional whilst offering a wealth of ideas to designers. The complementary LOVE Interiors webpage offers a simple, easily accessed location through which specifiers may get an instant ‘fix’ of the company’s products whilst also providing quick links through which users may order the brochure pack, request a visit and call for specific information. Be a part of it @SGGUK_Interiors or visit the website at www.saint-gobain-interiorglass.com and request your new interior brochure pack. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0054

THE NEXT BEST THING FROM TUFFX Aintree Racecourse Shopping Park is one of the most recent venues to benefit from specialist glass manufactured by TuffX Processed Glass. The leading glass processor supplied approx. 50m2, polished, 19mm Clear Toughened glass for Next plc, which has a Next Home centre in the Liverpool shopping complex.

were not only of the highest quality but also reflected the high standards associated with the Next brand. In recent years TuffX has invested heavily in state-of-the-art machinery to ensure they lead the market in quality standards and breadth of choice. For more information on the products available from the company please visit www.tuffxprocessedglass.co.uk.

A variety of shapes and rectangles were produced at the modern TuffX facility for the staircases at the popular retail company’s shop in north Liverpool. TuffX has many years experience in toughened safety glass manufacturing and is one of the most well respected glass processors in the industry. The high standards and professional reputation of the company were an instrumental aspect in winning the contract. For the TuffX customer, with Next pursuing a strategy of selling exclusively designed products, it was essential that the products

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0055

INSTALLER FOCUS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

National Plastics opens new Wednesbury depot

SGG APPOINTS BRAND BUILDER TO SUPPORT MEMBERS OF THE PLANITHERM NETWORK

National Plastics, the UK’s largest independent trade counter network has just got even bigger, with the company opening a new store in Wednesbury.

Saint-Gobain Glass has given the Planitherm Installer Network its own dedicated Brand Builder, Janet Foster, to support its 800-plus members in making the most of the growing array of resources and materials it offers. Janet joins the group with a wealth of relevant experience across the construction sector and from other trade bodies, especially in the role of member support. She said of her new role: “The Installer Network is an important tool in raising the brand awareness with consumers via the installers and I am looking forward to helping all members grow their business and help create the demand.” The Planitherm Installer Network, now in its fifth year, supports members with a broad range of sales, marketing and training tools, many via its dedicated marketing portal including downloadable adverts, personalised consumer literature and point-of-sale material. Members can access online training in subjects such as product knowledge and effective sales, and can gain certificates and accreditations to add credibility to the consumer. Among the training modules is the use of the Glazing Options initiative and its own dedicated suite of literature, new additions to the training package include modules on the Planitherm range and Viewclear anticondensation glass. Also now available, the Online Help Centre gives comprehensive details on getting the most out of membership and includes downloadable reference guides and videos.

Janet added: “As well as supporting them in making full use of what is available, it will also be part of my role to listen to the members, to learn about their needs and to encourage feedback on what we can do to refine the services we offer. I also hope I will be able to support fabricators in bringing more of their installers into the fold to strengthen both them and the Network as a whole.” Susan Lambeth, Marketing Manager at Saint-Gobain Glass UK, said: “Our Planitherm Installer Network has gone from strength to strength and continues to raise the profile of its members via the tools it provides them. With Janet as Brand Builder, we can now maximise what we already have as well as working on developing and evolving it into the future to ensure we continue to create value for Saint-Gobain Glass and our loyal customers.” www.saint-gobain.com READER ENQUIRY No: 0515/0056

The new depot continues an unprecedented period of growth for National Plastics. Managing Director, Geoff Foster says, “Our longterm plan is to grow to a network of over 50 depots by the end of 2017, ensuring there’s no UK area without convenient access to one of our trade counters. With the new Wednesbury base we’ve fortified our position in the West Midlands, further extending National Plastics’ values of superior quality products, great value and exemplary service throughout the area.” National Plastics is renowned for being a one stop shop for the trade. Its range covers everything from drainage to roofing and everything in between. Products are available at all price points, so there is

something for every project, no matter what its scale. Geoff comments, “Everyone is very time-pressured these days. Stocking as broad a range of products as we can means we reduce that pressure a little. It means customers need to go to fewer places for their supplies, saving them time and making their lives easier.” The National Plastics business model has proved very successful. It has grown substantially in the past few years, even in the face of the recession, adding £10 million to its turnover in the last five years alone. Geoff comments, “Our growth is something we are very proud

of. Some of it is thanks to acquisitions and opening new sites, but it’s mainly because we have increased sales to our customers by offering an ever-wider range of products, holding huge amounts of stock and being able to deliver, in many cases for free.” National Plastics is one of the industry’s big success stories thanks to a simple formula: give customers what they need. The new store in Wednesbury will bring that service to even more people in the West Midlands. Tel: 0800 011 3503 www.nationalplastics.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0057

WINDOW-DEC PROVIDES SAFE ACCESS FOR WINDOW FITTERS Window-Dec is a purpose designed access platform from Easi-Dec, the working at height safety specialist. This safety platform provides window fitters with an effective way of installing replacement windows. If sufficient safety measures aren’t taken, installing windows can be a dangerous job. Not only does the fitter have to work at height, but the job requires them to carry heavy materials up to the level they are working on. On top of this, window fitters have to consider the amount of time it takes to install windows – the longer it takes to fit, the more money it costs. It is for these reasons that Window-Dec has been designed with optimum safety, ease of installation and quick assembly in mind.

Incorporating a lifting mechanism for raising window panels up to the required height, the Window-Dec platform is available with a self-locking pulley system which is capable of lifting up to 75Kg. The platform has a hinged opening at the base through which the panel can be lifted, to avoid any unsafe leaning or stretching by the installers. The hinged opening is closed once the window is lifted onto the platform to maintain the platform’s integrity. The Window–Dec platform creates a safe working platform extending to 2.5 metres.

“Amongst its many benefits, the platform can be erected easily and enables installers to be ready to start work in less than 10 minutes, thus saving the setting up time.”

The safety solution is manufactured from non-corrosive aluminium, making it lightweight and compact enough to enable easy storage and transportation. It also features individually height-adjustable legs which can cope with uneven or sloping ground.

Installers can work comfortably using the 2500 mm x 880 mm wide platform size with a hinged opening of 2440 mm x 210 mm.

Recognised as a member of Glass and Glazing Federation, Easi-Dec has a reputation for excellence in health and safety and has been relied upon to supply access platforms to the replacement window market for over 25 years.

“Being an active member of the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF), our products adhere to health and safety standards”, explains Soni Sheimer, General Manager at Easi-Dec.

For more information on the Easi-Dec range, please visit www.easi-dec.co.uk where full product information, pricing and specifications are available. For further details, please call 01767 691812 or email info@easi-dec.com.

“Window–Dec’s modular design makes it exceptionally lightweight and versatile. Amongst its many benefits, the platform can be erected easily and enables installers to be ready to start work in less than 10 minutes, thus saving the setting up time.”

READER ENQUIRY No: 0515/0058

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

INSTALLER FOCUS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Truemans grows with a little help from Polyframe TEAMWORK WORKS

FOR GLAZERITE/VEKA TEAM Anyone looking for proof of how teamwork can benefit the whole supply chain need look no further than the Cambridgeshire village of Haddenham where trade fabricator Glazerite Windows Ltd, VEKA PLC and G14 “Installer of the year” award winner The Window Company (Contracts) Ltd completed a social housing new build contract for The Sanctuary Housing Group with main contractor T J Evers Ltd. VEKA’s commercial team work closely with Sanctuary housing and they agreed on the 80% recycled Infinity bevelled system for this project. VEKA submitted the enquiry to their fabricator/ installation partners who not only supply the Infinity range of products but also meet the Secured by Design requirements for the future homes project. Glazerite discussed the opportunity with The Window Company (Contracts) who submitted the tender to Evers and subsequently won the contract – for all the windows and French doors in 24 new homes which range from two bed bungalows and flats to four bed detached houses in the village’s Northumbria Close. The contractor was in no doubt of the outcome, as Director Kevin Howell complimented the TWCC team: “The Window Company did a great job for us on this project. They were efficient and they provided a good quality installation that was completed without any problems.”

The Window Company (Contracts) Ltd Director Martin Thornton said the company had already made approaches to T J Evers as a potential client: “So when this enquiry was passed to us from the Glazerite/ VEKA team, we were not only happy to fulfil our part of the contract but also had the chance to give Evers firsthand experience of what we can do.” Infinity from VEKA contains 80% recycled PVC-U with 20% virgin polymer on all outer surfaces for aesthetics and colour stability.

Seven years ago, the leading onestop shop trade supplier Truemans decided to stop fabricating and buy their stock in. Five years ago they switched their main supplier to Polyframe. The latest Insight Data Report states that some regional independents are seeing spectacular growth, without the need to fabricate, citing Truemans as proof. Now ordering 700+ PVC-U frames a week from Polyframe, Truemans has seen significant and consistent growth through its network of trade counters. Managing Director Joe Trueman comments: “Polyframe’s quick turnaround and consistently high quality products are a great help to our business. We are able to be flexible with our customers knowing that we can trust Polyframe to supply on time and in full regardless of volume. They have the capacity to fulfil our changing needs with ease.” Polyframe Sales Director Peter Dyson says: “Truemans is a positive

example of a fabricator turned trade supplier gone well. It’s great that a partnership with Polyframe has supported, and will continue to support Trueman’s success and the changing needs that come with it.” “We have achieved large growth in the last three years,” Joe adds, “and the next five years will see even more. I look forward to continuing the development of our partnership with Polyframe, which will result in substantial growth for both parties.” Fabricators thinking of unplugging their machines and plugging into Polyframe call 01422 398 969. Image caption: Truemans Sheffield branch fabricator in Halifax to a fast-growing fabrication grouzero to 3,000 framesa-week in just 3 years. New CEO and ex-DoorStop MD Nick Dutton is implementing the next stage of growth for Polyframe, with a business model that will transform the industry. G14 Fabricator of the Year, Polyframe is one of only 147 companies listed two years in a row in the London Stock Exchange’s landmark 1,000 Companies to Inspire Britain” report for 2013/14 and 2015.

Glazerite is VEKA’s largest trade fabricator in the UK as well as a longstanding Network VEKA member. It offers a fully nationwide service based on manufacturing units in Northants and Greater Manchester as well as its South West distribution hub in Bristol serving South Wales and The West of England. www.glazeritewindows.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0059

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

Deceuninck extends its big colour-fromstock range

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0060

Deceuninck’s new Heritage Colour Collection.

Deceuninck, one of the world’s leading PVC-U systems companies, has recently introduced the Heritage Colour Collection. The new range includes six premium colours with a pure white woodgrain foil on the inside, as well as white woodgrain outside on English Oak inside and an English Oak on English Oak option. This takes Deceuninck’s colour-from-stock range to 26 unique colourways. “The eight new premium colourways are a stunning addition to the existing 18 colour-from-stock Colour Express range,” says Roy Frost, Deceuninck UK Managing Director. “The new range will help cement

our customers’ positions as leaders in colour – they already sell 50% more than their competitors.” All Deceuninck’s Slide & Swing New Wave Door, composite door, new sliding patio door and Heritage 2800 window profiles come in 26 colourways from stock with matching or complementary trims, cills and ancillaries. “Fabricators and installers find it hard to sell colour because systems companies have made it very difficult for them. But Deceuninck has done everything to make it easy to sell colour,” continues Roy. “We keep it in stock for a start, so when installers order they know their complete order will arrive together at the same time. Selling Deceuninck colour is as easy as selling Deceuninck white. That’s why Deceuninck fabricators and installers sell so much more colour than their competitors.” To find out more about Deceuninck’s new Heritage Colour Collection, or how Deceuninck can help you lead in colour call Roy Frost, Managing Director, now on 07808 365234. Follow @ DeceuninckUK and visit www.WhyDeceuninck.com. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0061

INSTALLER FOCUS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Emplas: Redefining Installer Networks Fast approaching a year since its launch, Emplas has reported continuing growth in its game-changing installer network. The Emplas Installer Partnership, gives qualifying customers access to lead generation, sales and marketing support, including their own website, in addition to 24/7 online ordering, one of the industry’s most comprehensive product ranges and most competitively priced composite door offers. Offered at no additional cost, the launch of this unparalleled support package in summer last year represents a challenge to traditional system company and fabricator retail support models. This is underpinned by its direct sector experience as gained through its own (and Northamptonshire-only) retail business T&K, which claimed the G12-Awards Installer of the Year and G14 Conservatory Installer of the Year titles. Almost a year into the retail support scheme and Emplas has reported continuing demand for membership. “The response we have had from our own installers but particularly new prospects has been fantastic”, said Mike Crewdson, Sales and Marketing Director, Emplas. He continued: “Recovery has been great in driving demand but the market remains competitive. “We have spoken to a lot of installers who haven’t received an appropriate level of support from their incumbent supplier and who have recognised that by joining us, they can gain that critical edge that sits between new business and growth, or continued pressure on margins.” At its last review, Emplas’ product quality was rated good or excellent by 98.7 per cent of its customers compared to an industry average of 79.2 per cent. It also scored an enviable 99.3 per cent figure for complete and on time deliveries compared to an 84.6 per cent industry average.

Its focus on customer service contributed to Emplas’ place as a finalist in the G14 Fabricator of the Year category and the winner of the Customer Service Initiative of the Year for its Customer Information Manual. This gives Emplas installers instant ‘jumpto’ access to everything they need to know about products and processes in a single resource. Part of a wider investment made by Emplas in digital customer service this sits alongside Emplas’ Window Designer and Door Designer as part of an online portal, delivering the flexibility to place and track orders 24/7. All of this comes in addition to direct marketing and sales support from the Emplas team. This includes own-branded tape, localised product literature and ranges, all geared towards developing its customers brands in the areas in which they work. Crewdson concluded: “We have always been conscious of the importance of getting the balance right. We give our customers online tools but they also get their own dedicated customer service manager “We’re not offering a ‘one size fits all’ programme but a dedicated support package that is fully catered to the needs of each customer and which will support them in building and growing their brand and their brand identity, locally.” To find our more follow us on twitter #InstallerPartnership or @emplaswindows. For more information visit www.emplas. co.uk , email info@emplas.co.uk or call 01933 674880.

First apprentices join the Network VEKA Academy Network VEKA's pioneering education and training offering, the Network VEKA Academy has taken on its first apprentices after being launched by the industry's leading installer support organisation earlier in the year.

looking to progress within their respective businesses can do so without disrupting their work, and, with generous subsidies – secured with the help of The Vocational College – costs have been minimised, making this an inclusive opportunity for all.

Enabling its member companies to ensure that current and prospective staff have the practical and academic skills to excel in the industry, Network VEKA established the Academy in partnership with The Vocational College – an award-winning learning provider with strong links to the Glass Qualifications Authority (GQA).

“Traineeships are proving a popular option, with companies like MG Windows in Northampton taking on apprentices in the 16-24 age bracket for brief, 5-6 month courses that offer an introduction to the industry. Besides footing travel expenses and the cost of Personal Protection Equipment, for member companies, it's essentially free!”

It offers a range of training programmes and apprenticeships, tailored to the needs of Network VEKA member companies and their staff. Managing Director, John Ogilvie explains: “Our organisation is all about maintaining the highest standards – in systems, materials, fabrication and installation, marketing support, training... you name it! With the Network VEKA Academy we've proactively looked to the future, helping to make sure that companies under our umbrella can continue to deliver the 97% plus satisfaction rates that separate us from an industry standard of just 83%.

Adrian Lewis, Managing Director at Suffolk-based Frames Conservatories Direct commented: “The Network VEKA Academy can only be beneficial for companies like ours. The more motivated and engaged in their work our fitters are, the better job they are likely to do. They are ambassadors for the company, interacting with customers on a daily basis and directly influencing their perception of our brand, so, in a way, the Academy is indirectly enhancing our relationship with customers.

“The Academy has benefits for everyone involved. Member companies – in light of the widely publicised construction industry skills shortage – need no longer worry about finding suitably qualified staff. Those

“One of our fitters, David Denness is going through the Academy at the moment and is really enjoying it. From his point of view, he feels he has learned a lot more about the technical benefits of the products he fits – in terms of energy efficiency for example – and, in his words, he feels inspired by the course.

“On-site visits and a planned trip to the manufacturing site go a long way in making employees feel valued too. We're now in the process of recruiting two new apprentices and plan for them to be enrolled in the Academy as well.” Workers with greater industry experience can access courses up to Advanced Apprenticeship level, with candidates earning a valuable Level 3 NVQ qualification upon completion. John concludes: “It's great to see companies getting behind the Network VEKA Academy so soon. It's through such installer-centric offerings that Network VEKA has always thrived and it's clear that this initiative holds great benefits for the future. I'd wholeheartedly recommend that members check out what's on offer – who knows what development opportunities it could one day open for their business?!” If you'd like to learn more about the Network VEKA Academy, the courses available, and how it can even help to find a suitable apprentice for your business, please call Network VEKA on 01282 473170 or visit: www.networkveka.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0063

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INSTALLER FOCUS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Plastic Trade Convenient, fast & friendly: Frames Gains VEKA why trade counters are taking over Approved Status The huge success Customers of Suffolkbased Plastic Trade Frames can now apply to join the respected VEKA Approved Installer Scheme since the supplier has been granted VEKA Approved Supplier status.

PTF already has a good name for customer service, with the offer of on-site assistance or can even supply and install via its retail sister company, the award-winning Frames Conservatories Direct.

The fast-growing VEKA scheme insists that installer members source its frames only from one of its Approved Suppliers, so PTF can now not only support its existing customers in applying for membership but also has an additional selling point to offer new customers, as MD Adrian Lewis explained:

Both are customers of Glazerite Windows Ltd, which has supported PTF in its application for Approved status, just as PTF will now do with its own customers. Frames Conservatories Direct was also named as UK winner of the annual Network VEKA awards for customer service.

“We will be using our Approved status and the opportunities it brings as part of our package to attract new customers but we will also be encouraging our existing ones to make the most of scheme. “It gives installers something they cannot get from other suppliers, as well as rewarding their loyalty, and at the same time gives them a unique edge to present to the homeowners, not to mention many other benefits like lead generation and use of the VEKA Marketing Hub.”

As well as supplying frames to local installers, PTF also operates a trade counter, mainly for builders and other trades in the area. Glazerite is VEKA’s largest trade fabricator in the UK as well as a longstanding Network VEKA member. It offers a fully nationwide service based on manufacturing units in Northants and Greater Manchester as well as its South West distribution hub in Bristol serving South Wales and The West of England. www.glazeritewindows.co.uk

well as operationally,” said Joe. "This is how we are able to launch services that are truly needed, rather than invest in what we think might be helpful. We also keep a keen eye on the market to make sure we react in time to changing trends in terms of product demand, so our installers are always equipped with the right tools to make sure they never miss out on any opportunity.”

experienced by trade counters as alternative distribution channels is “the single biggest shift in the window and door industry”, according to Insight Data’s recently published report. Trade counter networks are re-shaping the window and door industry by offering a convenient, fast and friendly service. Truemans Windows is one of the most prominent examples of this shift, as one of the first window and door companies to understand the potential of offering value added services when supplying products to the trade. A former fabricator, Truemans has stopped manufacturing almost a decade ago, to focus on the customers, and help them grow. Managing director, Joe Trueman, commented on the results revealed by the latest report from Insight Data: “The emergence of the trade counter has changed installers’ expectations regarding customer service and the overall relationship with their supplier. The report confirms trade counters’ transition from a fast growing trend, to an established business model that is continuing to gain momentum as a key driver in the supply chain.” The company’s wide range of products is matched only by its array of services

According to the same report, the convenience of the trade counters is also “fuelling the ‘Builder Installer’, with over 22,000 local builders now actually offering windows, doors, conservatories and other products directly to consumers.” Joe Trueman, managing director.

- from sales-oriented, comprehensive marketing support with every order, which is enabling installers to generate repeat business and find new clients, to free facilities meant to simplify their operations, such as free skip use and free fixings and packers. Huge investments in a state of the art online ordering system means Truemans’ customers benefit from maximum flexibility, being able to place orders at any time, even during evenings or weekends. The same system is a valuable sales ally for installers, as it makes it easy and straight forward to generate quick, professionallooking and personalised quotes to be handed to the end-consumer. “We spend time talking to our customers to understand their needs and create new services that will benefit their business both in terms of sales, as

Joe commented: “Thanks to free marketing support, the ‘Builder Installers’ are able to promote their services more than ever before, opening up new opportunities to explore. What’s more, they don’t always have the necessary space to store products, so buying and collecting their windows, doors and conservatories at a time that suits them is essential – and they can also have their order delivered directly on-site, should they require it. “All these advantages were unavailable to small builders and installers dealing directly with the fabricator. Trade counters are satisfying a stringent need for a one stop shop that doesn’t just supply products, but can play an integral part in an installer’s activity via a diverse range of value added services and a customer-oriented policy,” concluded Joe. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0066

National Plastics brings VEKA Approved service to Wednesbury VEKA Approved Supplier, National Plastics has announced its acquisition of Wednesbury's former PAL Supercentre, strengthening the trade counter giant's position in the West Midlands. Providing a one-stop shop for trade and DIY customers, National Plastics supplies complete, CE-Marked VEKA door and window systems, with frames provided by leading Gwent-based fabricator, Modplan.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0065

The company's procurement of the Wednesbury depot continues an unprecedented period of growth, as Managing Director, Geoff Foster explains: “Our long-term plan has been to grow to a network of over 50 depots in the next few years, ensuring

there's no UK area without convenient access to one of our trade counters. “With the new Wednesbury base we've fortified our position in the West Midlands, further extending National Plastics' values of superior quality products, great value and exemplary service throughout the area. “With VEKA playing a massive part in our window, door and conservatory offerings, and now supporting us as an Approved Supplier, our customers know they're getting the very best, from the country's leading PVC-U systems supplier. We value its backing in this exciting new chapter of National Plastics' growth.” Amy Grundy, National Sales Manager for VEKA's Approved Installer Scheme

commented: “National Plastics is a fantastic addition to our line-up of Approved Suppliers. To have the UK's largest independent network of trade counters championing high-spec VEKA systems gives both customers and Approved Installers easy access to our products. “We're proud to be part of the exceptional service that National Plastics offers. Opening new depots such as Wednesbury, it's evidently meeting with success! I'd like to congratulate the team on their new acquisition and wish them the best of luck in reaching their target of 50 outlets.” Tel: 01282 716611 - www.vekauk.com READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0067

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

WHY DECEUNINCK? Customers love our doors and windows “We’ve worked exclusively with Deceuninck for 23 years because its products are outstanding. The 2800 profile makes great looking doors and windows - homeowners love it.” Vince Lord, Managing Director Abbey Windows 0116 269 6669 www.AbbeyWindowsLeicster.co.uk Sales@AbbeyWindowsLeicster.co.uk

Building your brand, builds ours Call Sales Director Rob McGlennon 07818 383 385 www.WhyDeceuninck.com Follow @DeceuninckUK 0815/0068 Abbey Windows ad Glass News.indd 1 www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

23/07/2015 16:57:08

ALUMINIUM

Hinge & Grub Screws.

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Beaconsfield installation interior.

Beaconsfield Exterior.

Origin’s 3D Printer.

DECEPTIVELY SIMPLE DESIGN IS THE KEY TO BI-FOLD SUCCESS Over the last 20 years, the bifolding door market has grown at an exceptional rate, bringing with it an evolution in design as suppliers battle to become the market leader by displaying the latest design features and technology.

The window has had an impressive first year. Sales have increased quickly; averaging nearly 18% each month from December 2014, which has contributed to a 34% rise in Origin’s year on year turnover. The adoption rate from our trade customers has been incredibly high, with 88% now offering the Origin Window. We’re extremely pleased about how the window has been received by both trade and consumer customers, which is reflected in a large number of agents displaying it in their showrooms.

What’s the ‘next big thing’ on the market?

For Origin, a British manufacturer of bespoke aluminium doors, windows and blinds, the secret of great design lies in its simplicity. Neil Ginger, CEO at Origin, answers questions from Glass News about the company’s design process and the R&D ethos that has led to Origin creating its award-winning bi-fold system.

In 2008, only 7,000 sets of bi-fold doors were installed. This number has risen significantly and is estimated to be closer to 50,000 this year, according to Palmer Research. As the popularity has risen, so has the temptation to produce the ‘next big thing’ on the marketplace.

Tell us about Origin’s design history From the start, Origin’s roots have been in design. The company was started 13 years ago when my cousin Victoria Brocklesby and I found we couldn’t source a high quality bifold door supplier in the UK for our fathers’ swimming pool business. Our solution was to establish a company to manufacture the UK’s best quality doors with uncompromising levels of service. The result was the Origin Bi-fold Door, a cleverly designed, beautifully made folding sliding door system. Today, Origin is a £20 million turnover business, employing 160+ people with operations in Europe, UAE and North America. Every door that leaves the High Wycombe factory is bespoke and made by skilled craftsmen.

Who designed the Origin Bi-fold Door and what considerations are being given to its design moving forward? I designed the original Origin Bi-fold door, but today, we have our own team of designers. While the research and development side has grown significantly over the years, the focus remains the same – high quality engineering and a system designed with the customer in mind. This means offering the best solution for trade customers and the homeowner who

Neil Ginger.

will live with the doors for years to come. The trade partner’s priority is to install the system quickly, easily and to a high standard, without any call backs. They want to only have to visit the site once, so the system has to be faultless when installing. For the customer, the priorities lie in having a product that will continue to function excellently for the next 20 to 30 years, while aesthetics and thermal efficiency also play an important part. Both considerations for the trade and consumer need to be taken on board, which is our job as the R&D team at Origin. The Origin Window launched last year – tell us about the design and how it’s performed over the last 12 months. The Origin Window is a premium grade flush casement window that has a traditional look with a modern twist. The window was introduced to our ‘Origin Home’ range following demand from trade partners seeking a window to match the aesthetic and quality of our bi-fold door system. We took great care to create a window that is not only finely engineered, but that also looks attractive. The sleek design of the Origin Window brings beauty and comfort into the home, in addition to its high-quality thermal and sound insulation properties and longterm durability.

While we are open to new design, Origin is disciplined in steering away from gimmicks. For example, an electric bi-fold door may look cool, but in reality a lot of homeowners won’t use the function often enough to justify the cost. Slimmer sightlines are something also to be wary of. While, on the surface, reducing the amount of aluminium in the frame should lead to a more pleasing aesthetic, it is important to find a balance. Go too small with sight lines and the doors take on the appearance of products more akin to internal use, like a shower door, and you also have the disadvantage of loosing structural integrity and security of the doors. Origin champions the true function of the product. Our design discipline keeps this as the focus, and has allowed Origin to offer a 20 year guarantee – twice the industry standard. When considering a new design concept, the first question is whether a customer will use it, and whether it adds value to the existing system.

How much does the company spend on research and development? Origin has made a significant investment towards in-house research and development, investing 5% of our annual turnover on product design in the last year alone. The 3D printer and design software, which we installed in 2014, has made a huge impact on the speed and accuracy at which the

R&D arm of the business operates. It’s also allowed us to redesign, manufacture and test components in-house for increased strength and durability. Years ago, the only way to do redesign a component would be through the use of a lost wax dye, which costs thousands of pounds. The R&D team would have to make an educated guess on the end design, but as the budget has increased, the complexity and the parameters that have been adopted for putting something onto the market has changed dramatically. Today, the design process involves coming up with the initial concept, then using the latest technology to design a 3D model; either on a screen or a print out. The component is then made on the 3D printer so we can see how it feels and works in the hand. It’s then a case of iterations after iterations until the product is 100% right. The design is then made into a metal prototype with springs and screws. The final component will go to cycle testing to ensure it meets our high standards. This year, Origin has been working on updating the design of the slave handle. The redesign for this went through 40 revisions of the same process; tweaking the radius, then printing it out again, then tweaking again, and so on. The 3D printer produces plastic printouts, but they work in the same way a metal component would, so we can get a real feel for how the end product will function.

What plans does Origin have for design and product development in the months and years ahead? The next big thing isn’t a product being launched. Instead, what everyone needs to be looking at right now is performance across the board. Improving the thermal efficiency of existing systems particularly will be key, especially with fuel prices on the rise. For Origin’s R&D team, the objectives for 2015 are to look at our award winning bi-fold door and window system and see how it can be improved – a job that’s easier said than done. For more information, visit www.origin-global.com or call 0808 168 5816.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0069

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

ALUMINIUM

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

CDW Systems invest hundreds of thousands in major factory overhaul

Aluminium demand for Britain’s favourite shade of grey propels sales of the RAL 7016 gasket Birmingham based ExtrudaSeal is reporting record levels in the uptake of their popular RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey gaskets, as the summer renovation projects are pushing sales of aluminium windows and doors to spike. The leading manufacturer of flexible extrusions is supplying fabricators across the UK with a comprehensive range of rubber seals in thousands of RAL colours, suitable for any glazing applications, whether static or dynamic. Managing director, Chris Byers, said: “This year, the warm spell has arrived with an even greater surge in demand for aluminium, bifolding doors in particular, and our customers are extremely busy supplying installers with the volumes they need, which has had a strong influence on our own output of gaskets, especially the RAL 7016.” Grey is arguably the most popular colour for windows and doors in the residential sector, which has been strongly influenced by modern architectural trends, as well as the commercial market, where the traditional white is almost never the preferred choice.

“The times when homeowners could have ‘any colour window or door as long as it was white’ are long gone,” said Chris. “Now fabricators are investing in expensive powder coating facilities, helping their customers be more appealing to the end consumer thanks to unlimited choice. So why have different colour gaskets from that of the aluminium frame? In today’s tight market, attention to detail could make all the difference for a fabricator.” Directors at the company are also crediting the growth to more fabricators discovering the advantages of sourcing their gaskets from a specialist manufacturer, as Chris explains: “It is a combination of a rise in demand coming from the market, and an increase in the number of customers we’re now supplying, as more fabricators are finding out about the huge savings they can obtain should they buy gaskets from a flexible extruder, rather than from their system companies, as the latter do not manufacture rubber seals, and have to buy them in.” ExtrudaSeal is part of the EuroSeal group, and is a

As part of its long-term growth strategy, leading specialist aluminium fabricator CDW Systems has invested significantly to update its factory. ExtrudaSeal manufactures gaskets in any RAL colour, including the popular anthracite grey.

market leading supplier of gaskets, weather seals and pressure plates for aluminium fabricators. The company manufactures a wide range of gaskets, suitable for most aluminium window and door systems, including Smart, AluK, Ikon, Senior, Kaye Building Systems, Metaltech and many more. The rubber seals are extruded in either Thermo Plastic Elastomers (TPE/ TPR), or Poly Vinyl Chloride Nitrile (PVC) from British suppliers. UV stable, the rubber seal may also be produced with an antistretch polypropylene cord, to stop it from stretching. For more information, call 0121 3568733, or visit www.extrudaseal.com. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0070

DUTEMÄNN DOUBLES UP AGAIN FOR 2016 FIT SHOW Set up in 2010 to supply the trade with Schüco aluminium bi-folds, Glide Sliding Doors and Dutemänn Haus residential doors Dartford, Kent based Dutemänn has enjoyed remarkable growth ever since, now producing the equivalent of more than 200 three-panel bi-folding doors every month. Taking a leap of faith with its first ever exhibition stand at the inaugural FIT Show in April 2013, so successful was the event for Dutemänn the company returned the following year with a stand double the size and has now doubled that to 48 metres for 2016. With the addition of Dutemänn Glide-S large panel sliding doors for 2016 the company needs the space to show the burgeoning range of folding, sliding and residential doors, but it would not be sizing up if previous appearances had not been so successful, says MD Martin James: “We have enjoyed tremendous success and our appearances at The FIT Show have played an important part in that. The emphasis at Dutemänn is on the highest quality for products that are in demand from discerning customers. It has been clear from our appearances at each

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

event that there is a high demand from visitors looking for products that satisfy this end of the market, something out of the mass of standard bi-folds and sliding doors.Our doubled-again stand for 2016 is necessary to show our products properly, especially the new Dutemänn Glide-S sliding doors, which are capable of spanning an aperture of 6.7m wide by 3.2m in height in just two panels. They look incredible when installed.” Dutemänn can be found on Stand 120 at The Fabricator Installer Trade (FIT) Show when it takes place next year at The International Centre Telford on the 12th, 13th and 14th April 2016. Although more than 80% of the enlarged exhibition space has been sold, some excellent stands are still available but continuing to sell fast. Further information is available at http:// www.fitshow.co.uk/stand-packages. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0071

Management signed off cheques totalling hundreds and thousands of pounds in order to ensure the company’s factory and manufacturing process is as lean as it can be. The changes include switching to vertical racking instead of horizontal, to allow for more storage space and increase efficiency. A new mezzanine area has also been built in the factory, which will service as a cafeteria and breakout space for employees. The investments have been made in order to prepare CDW Systems for further growth, following two

consecutive record breaking years in business. Jerry Webb, managing director of CDW, comments: “As we’ve grown and become busier, we want to keep investing in the latest infrastructure and technology to streamline production and remain innovative and cutting edge for our customers.” Alongside the restructure of the factory, CDW Systems has introduced a second shift, which has increased production to 16 hours a day to meet increased demand and bring lead times down. Overseeing the changes are a newly appointed board of directors, including Sales Director, Operational Director, Technical Director and Production Director, who bring over 120 years’ experience to CDW.

The new team of Directors will be officially unveiled in the coming weeks. Jerry comments: “CDW has experienced phenomenal growth recently and with the investments in the new factory, alongside recruiting one of the best teams in the aluminium sector, we have the resources in place to continue this trajectory and help our customers grow too, over the following months.” CDW Systems manufactures a range of aluminium products including windows, doors, conservatory roofs, curtain walling and shop fronts, supplying these for domestic and commercial projects across the UK. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0072

GLAZERITE WARMS TO WARMCORE Glazerite Windows Ltd was expecting a good reaction to the launch of its Warmcore aluminium bi-fold but its Northwest Division landed two orders as soon as the brochure went out – and is already following up many more enquiries in the short time since.

As well as being one of the lowest U-Values of any bi-fold on the market, it was immediately hailed as “a fitter’s dream” by the experienced subcontract fitter on the first of the jobs. “I’ve installed all kinds of bi-folds, aluminium and PVC-U,” said Steven Harris who was fitting the Warmcore in a domestic installation for Hardshaw Developments (pictured), “This was the first Warmcore I’d fitted and it was brilliant.” Glazerite’s Northern Divisional Sales Manager Peter Smith added: “Both trade customers were impressed with the Warmcore’s U-Value as

well as its looks and general handling. We offer it as standard at U-1.5 but it can be made to 1.0 with 44mm triple glazing for anyone wanting that extra spec. We already offer the Imagine PVC-U bi-fold, Imagine patio and New Wave doors; these four together provide installers and homeowners with an array of options and the perfect solution for any installation.” The Glazerite Warmcore door is available with a choice of four external sash options, three internal beads, and four colours, with no added cost or extended lead times for any of the dual colour combinations. Glazerite is VEKA’s largest trade fabricator in the UK as well as a longstanding Network VEKA member. It offers a fully nationwide service based on manufacturing units in Northants and Greater Manchester as well as its South West distribution hub in Bristol serving South Wales and The West of England. www.glazeritewindows.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0073

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TRADE NEWS

LEGAL EAGLE

Legal Eagle

Call Saul...

REHAU JOINS SCOTTISH FEDERATION OF HOUSING ASSOCIATIONS

End to dodgy

practices??

Despite being billed as the biggest change to consumer law for more than a century and with the spotlight well and truly on the old favourites including the glazing industry, why is the impending Consumer Rights Act barely raising an eyebrow?

Simply, it’s seen as nothing new, just a rebranding exercise, packaging the existing consumer laws into one, with the same old problems for customers facing an overburdened court system, leaving the new law looking like a toothless tiger. The reality is that the new law brings with it enhanced powers for Trading Standards, which like HM Customs are above and beyond the Police and are more akin to a British FBI or DGEA (Dodgy Glazer Elimination Agency). We’ve seen from the recent sting operation involving Halfords, how Trading Standards

“Installers and manufacturers are advised to take the opportunity to review and amend their policies and procedures in line with new law, including complaints, sales techniques, order forms, invoices and customer file accuracy.” are mounting covert operations, placing targeted businesses under surveillance and making test purchases resulting in prosecution and significant fines. But this is likely to be just the tip of the iceberg, with firms potentially facing “mystery shopper” operations exposing overzealous sales people and spurious promises. Installers and manufacturers are advised to take the opportunity to review and amend their policies and procedures in line with new law, including complaints, sales techniques, order forms, invoices and customer file accuracy.

Philip Harmer

About

Philip Harmer

Philip Harmer is a Business Lawyer and partner at Stormcatcher Law specialising in employment and business legal services. His real world experience in construction and property as well as car sales, repair centres, and finance and leasing, give him a true commercial outlook to the business of law pertaining to commercial and company law including employment, anti-bribery, competition and ethics, anti-money laundering , consumer law and trading standards, for the small and medium sized businesses, as well as PLCs and large firms.

Contact Philip

Tel: 0333 700 7676 philip.harmer@stormcatcher.co.uk

Watch out, you’re being watched...

The move reflects REHAU’s ongoing commitment to the Scottish social housing market and its support for customers across Scotland supplying and installing windows, doors and curtain walling on both new build and refurbishment projects. As part of its membership, REHAU will be exhibiting at the SFHA’s Property Repairs and Asset Management Conference at Aviemore in October and is nominating its team of technical and commercial experts to speak at other SFHA events. REHAU’s products are very well specified by social housing providers across Scotland and it has a network of fabricators producing popular products in the REHAU TOTAL70 system including fully reversible and tilt and turn windows, and advanced Passivhaus certified products such as the GENEO window and REHAU Polytec 50 curtain walling systems.

The ‘Call Saul’ column in Glass News is brand new and, unlikely as it seems, we have a lawyer in the shape of Philip Harmer who is giving his advice to our readers, free of charge! Now I know you will be gasping at the thought that a lawyer isn’t going to sting you with a large bill, but it gets better… if you have any queries about the subject he is talking about in his column, Philip is happy for you to contact him by ‘phone or email and he will impart his wisdom absolutely free. So please, take Philip up on his offer. The ‘Call Saul’ column will try and bring you news and views on current and impending legislation to help you keep ahead of the game.

Leila Robertson, REHAU’s Commercial Sales Manager in Scotland said: “REHAU is involved in some of the most high profile social housing projects currently taking place in Scotland, including the Linthouse Point project in Glasgow. It makes perfect sense then for us to be involved with the SFHA at this time and we will be looking to make a very positive contribution.”

And why ‘Call Saul’? Those aficionados of TVs Breaking Bad will understand! Chris Champion Editor READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0075

REHAU has joined the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations for the first time as an Associate Member.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0076

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Winkhaus increases production capacity

It’s your time to shine at G15 Awards It’s that time once again for the best of the best to step into the spotlight and be recognised in the G15 Awards, the premier event for glass and glazing people throughout the UK.

with new factory in Münster Hardware specialist Winkhaus has opened a new production facility in the northern area of the German city of Münster, to meet the high demands of a future-oriented production of access control systems. The new location includes 10,000 sq. m dedicated to manufacturing activities and technology development, and another 3,500 sq. m of office space. With a total surface of 30,000 sq. m, the facility is twice the size of the former production plant, situated in the city centre, and has been designed with layout and material flow optimisation in mind, significantly increasing both the production capacity, and efficiency. Construction of the new factory was completed in record time, and has resulted in an 80% increase of the production and technology area, compared to the old unit. Processes which had previously been divided over multiple levels, have now been streamlined into a single system. Justin Harris, commercial director at Winkhaus UK, added: “The investment in a new production facility in Germany reflects

Winkhaus’ new production facility in Münster.

our company’s focus on the continuous development of new, advanced products, as well as in maintaining the high levels of customer satisfaction our clients have become accustomed with, thanks to short lead times and the guarantee of unrivalled quality for every single product we supply.” Alongside the Münster factory, Winkhaus operates two other manufacturing facilities in Germany, at Telgte, where the company focuses on window technology, and Meiningen, where security door locking systems are being developed. For more information visit http://winkhaus. co.uk or call 01452 348575. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0077

Boing Boing Group Ltd Enters Market with

First of Planned Strategic Acquisitions

Headed up by industry figurehead, Gary Morton, Boing Boing Group Limited (BBGL) has completed the first of up to four planned acquisitions in the window and door sector, with the purchase of long established Midlands fabricator, CentralRPL. After a short period outside the industry, Morton has been working behind the scenes on his aggressive plans for BBGL and this acquisition firmly establishes

his return to the fabrication sector.

strategic acquisitions in the pipeline. Watch this space.”

He comments: “CentralRPL is a business I am familiar with and was an obvious choice for our first acquisition. After a period of strategic development, which includes some ambitious growth targets, we will stabilise the team, implement systems and then proceed on to our second target. We will also further develop the Group over the coming years with at least two further,

Morton is joined on the board by Martyn Elwell, Sales & Marketing, Richard Griffiths – Non executive and David Martin, Finance.

From left to right: Martyn Elwell - CentralRPL Sales Director, David Martin - Thomas Nock Martin Accountants, Rachel Radford - Thomas Nock Martin Accountants, Katie Willems - Higgs & Sons Solicitors, Gary Morton - Boing Boing Group CEO – CentralRPL Managing Director, Richard Griffiths - Higgs & Sons Solicitors and Jonathan Bicknell - CentralRPL – Commercial Sales Director.

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

CentralRPL Sales and Marketing Director, Martyn Elwell adds: “I am excited about our future as part of BBGL with the aim to offer even higher levels of customer satisfaction. The additional support, expertise and investment that they will bring to us will help drive the brand even further forward and establish us as one of the UK’s leading trade fabricators. In the short term, it’s business as usual for customers and staff alike, but long term, the acquisition will allow to accelerate investment to help keep our installers ahead of their competition when it comes to product and service.” BBGL were advised by Higgs & Sons Solicitors and accountants, Thomas Nock Martin and both will form the corporate team going forward. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0078

Promotional Campaign, Training and Development Initiative, Component Supplier, Installer, Fabricator, Conservatory Installer, Glass Company and Customer Care Initiative. Entry is free of charge for all categories.

Nominations are now open, at www.gawards.com and with twelve categories, from environment and training to products and promo, there is a unique opportunity for just about any company in any part of the industry to be acclaimed for their achievements. G-Awards organiser Tony Higgin said: “We have the same extended range of categories that proved so popular last year and at G13 – including the new trophies for commercial, new products and environmental initiatives – and judging by the entries so far, they look set to be more popular than ever.” Nominations are open until July 24 when all entries will be scrutinised by a panel of independent judges ready for the Awards Presentation and Gala Dinner, to be held at the prestigious London Hilton Park Lane on Friday November 27th. As well as the three newer categories, nominations are also invited for the year’s best: Retail Promotional Campaign, Trade

A few sponsorship opportunities are also remaining, though most sponsoring companies from last year and before have been keen to carry on into G15. Tony stresses that the G15 Awards are about quality, not the size of the company. He said: “There are no prizes for being the biggest. We are genuinely out to recognise and celebrate the best of the best in our industry, whatever it is they excel at and however large or small. Past winners have proven again and again that the coveted G-Award trophies are a great boost for the winners, not only in raising each company’s profile and quality message but also as a great morale booster for the workforce. This year’s sponsors are: Pilkington UK, Saint Gobain Glass, Swisspacer, Veka UK, Glass and Glazing Federation, DW3 Products Group, Business Micros, Epwin Group, ERA, Ultraframe, Thermoseal, Glassolutions, Synseal, Emplas, and Mila. www.g-awards.com READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0079

POSITIVE FIRST HALF GIVES TUFFX OPTIMISITC OUTLOOK TuffX Processed Glass has achieved positive figures for the first six months of 2015, with a healthy increase in overall sales compared to 2014 to date. Figures demonstrate a 15% increase in roof glass and commercial glazing sales over last year’s results. Senior management at the company attribute this sales upsurge to continual product development and a diverse portfolio which gives the consumer greater scope with more dynamic design options. Whilst competition is always fierce within the sector, the TuffX team considers it maintains its leading market position through excellent customer service, a friendly and flexible business approach combined with the largest selection of selfcleaning, high performance oversize glass that can be manufactured up to 4000 mm projection in 4mm Toughened.

The company prides itself on its customer support services which include a modern, marketing suite that provides full marketing packages as well as website support. TuffX management considers this a vital support element which provides the latest necessary market information which will help customers grow their own business. TuffX continues to invest heavily in new state of the art machinery and additional vehicles to the national fleet that will lead to a combined investment of over £1,000,000 for 2015. With more innovative products due to be introduced to the market in 2016, the

company is set to continue its increasing lead in both Conservatory Roof Glass and Commercial Glazing. Graham Price, Managing Director comments, “It remains crucial that we nurture this steady growth. A strong and solid development programme is helping us to retain a leading market position which is required to sustain growth for TuffX and its customers. The art of continually evaluating and adapting according to market needs and consumer trends are significant factors in the success of our sales this year.” READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0080

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Super Spacer Alpha wins ORIGIN INVESTS IN NEW MACHINERY a British manufacturer, Manufacturing Innovation Award Origin, has ordered £300,000 worth of

Launched just six months ago, Super Spacer Alpha® has won Manufacturing Innovation of the year in Insider’s Made in the Midlands Awards. The new premium warm edge flexible spacer bar manufactured by Edgetech UK, a Quanex company, took the top spot for innovation.

“To win for a brand new product is superb,” says Alan Fielder, Director of Sales and Marketing, who collected the winning trophy at the award ceremony on 20 May. “Super Spacer Alpha’s innovative design came through reverse engineering Super Spacer. We developed a new profile shape, creating the most thermally efficient spacer bar. The design is set to provide major benefits to customers and manufacturers using it can make highly energy efficient units without any increase in cost.” Super Spacer Alpha offers improved performance and creates a strong reason for manufacturers upgrading

new machinery to ‘future proof ’ the business and keep abreast of the continued demand for its products.

Director of Sales & Marketing Alan Fielder and Marketing Manager Charlotte Davies collecting the award, pictured with James Simester.

equipment to switch over. Edgetech already has advance orders valued at £1 million a year. The Midlands is at the heart of UK manufacturing and competition for the award was strong. This was recognised by the award organisers Insider Media. Of Edgetech’s winning product, Super Spacer Alpha, judges wrote: “Coventrybased Edgetech’s latest innovation is the most thermally efficient insulated glass unit spacer bar in the world, giving customers up to 66 percent increase in productivity and 20 percent reduction in sealant usage. The judges were delighted to see so many companies putting innovation at the heart of their businesses.

But Edgetech’s work in the glazing industry gave it the real edge.” Edgetech’s Marketing Manager Charlotte Davies joined Alan to collect the coveted prize from host Declan Curry at the NEC’s Hilton Metropole at the awards ceremony on Wednesday 20 May. For a full list of winners and finalists go to http:// www.insidermedia.com/ insider/midlands/139831awards-celebrate-bestmanufacturing?utm_ source=event_ newsletter&utm_ medium=top_ story_article&utm_ campaign=event_tracker. Tel: 08700 566844 READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0081

Brocklesby adds: “The culture and ethos of Origin is very much a family one and our values are at the very forefront of how we do, and deliver, our business, so it’s important that all employees know the company background.

Investing in equipment will help the Buckinghamshire based business maintain its high quality standards, increase capacity, and grow further in the aluminium door and window sector.

“In 2002, Origin employed two members of staff; it now employs 153 people and is growing rapidly, so it is imperative that there is an ongoing commitment to monitor and review how staff views the Origin brand. Origin’s employees are our greatest asset, and we consistently drive for everyone to be happy, engaged and rewarded as they are the eyes and ears of the business.”

Origin exclusively designs, manufactures and assembles its Origin Home range in-house which includes bespoke aluminium bi-fold doors, windows and made-to-measure blinds. Founded in 2002, the family run business in High Wycombe has become a £20 million turnover business, with operations in Dubai and North America.

Origin employee training covers all departments from admin and sales right through to the factory process, trade showroom and complete competitor knowledge. This is so every employee understands Origin’s core values and the significance each person plays in achieving the company’s goals.

Ben Brocklesby, Sales and Marketing Director, said: “Investing in new machinery is always top of our priority list, as it enables us to maintain high quality standards as we grow. It will also boost productivity and production and ultimately, contribute to the overall economy. The logic behind it is simple; by investing in the latest technology the company is able to save time and money as it doubles its manpower production efforts.”

Origin sets out a Personal Growth Plan so all staff can maintain and control their own destiny within the Origin team with ongoing training and development where necessary, which has increased job security for employees. Having invested significantly in the business and its employees from the start, Origin has witnessed a rise in customer confidence and sales, with 89% of customers rating Origin either a four or five out of five when it comes to product and customer service.

The investment will significantly streamline Origin’s manufacturing processes and help maintain its 100% delivery record on its ‘Your Lead Time, Not Ours’ (YLTNO) service, which offers a zero lead time on its bi-fold doors and an unrivalled one week lead time on the Origin Window. Not only has Origin financially invested in its company growth, but also its staff by introducing a two week induction course for all new employees, with a one week refresher a month in.

For further information on Origin products, please visit www.origin-global.com.

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0082

GQA headline ‘Young Persons’ category at National Fenestration Awards GQA Qualifications is delighted once again to be a main sponsor of the National Fenestration Awards. Now in its third year, the awards are rapidly growing in popularity with the industry, and with 15 categories there is something for everybody. “Supporting the National Fenestration Awards is really important to us at GQA Qualifications” says CEO Mick Clayton. “It is important for us to be involved in this type of people recognition; it is into the fenestration industry that most of our

qualifications are issued and we are more than keen to remain close to it so we can understand its requirements and respond to them. Sponsoring the NFA’s seemed to us to be a logical step; they are becoming very popular and we are delighted to be on board. We are especially excited to be sponsoring the Young Person of the Year Award, a subject which is close to our heart, and we would recommend everybody to get involved”.

people and companies around, and especially those who often get overlooked. It was their focus on apprenticeships that impressed us the most. As the awards were set up we purposely created the Young Person category to dispel the myth that the majority of all young people were lazy and didn’t want to work. GQA honed in on that category in particular and decided that they wanted to put their name to it”.

Speaking for the National Fenestration Awards Jason Grafton Holt commented “We’re delighted that GQA Qualifications are a main sponsor of the awards once again. When we first set out to expand the sponsorship of the awards, we wanted to work with companies that made a real difference to the industry, companies that had a real passion for what they do and a passion to make a difference. Once we had spoken to Mick Clayton, we knew we’d found an ideal partner”.

“They have been with us from the outset and their support early on ensured that the National Fenestration Awards grew from an online experiment into a fully fledged genuine industry awards. The support for the awards from GQA Qualifications has been fantastic and we hope to continue working with them for a long time to come. We would absolutely encourage all companies to nominate their young people and to get involved in these awards”.

Supporting young people in the industry “GQA Qualifications wants to promote initiatives such as apprenticeships to get new young talent flowing into the industry, and they’re at the forefront of delivering NVQ qualifications and MTC compliance. Their ethos around people fits in with our own ideals of rewarding the very best

GQA has been writing qualifications for and with the industry for over 25 years. Mick Clayton is Chief Executive Officer for GQA, the leading provider of qualifications to the window and door industry. Tel: 0114 272 0033 - www.gqaqqualifications.com - @gqaquals READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0083

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0815/0084

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Listers add a Special Award to the Trophy Cabinet

The Chancellor’s

‘New Deal’ The Chancellor George Osborne was accused of ‘giving with one hand and taking away with the other’ in July’s budget. Emplas Mike Crewdson discusses what it holds for the window industry. George Osborne’s Summer Budget was about cutting the welfare bill and ‘making work pay’ - both vote winning messages and delivered by the Chancellor with one eye firmly on Number 10. But the decision to increase the national minimum wage, now rebranded as the new living wage to more than £9 an hour by 2020, does create a challenge for business and for our industry in particular. The Office for Budget Responsibility has said that the decision will immediately benefit around 750,000 workers, while a further two million should benefit by 2020. It forecasts that the wages of low paid workers will increase across the board in response to the change. That people will have a little more money in their pockets is a good thing but timing as they say, is everything. We are now in recovery but while in general things are up, the trajectory of economic growth has been pitted with the occasional trough – not least in the first half of this year. We are also not immune as an industry from more far reaching issues of productivity, which combined with increased costs could slow growth in the construction sector. There is clearly work to do to improve the UK’s skills base - which should have by default increased productivity and business’ ability to pay higher wages to staff regardless of any legislative drivers to do so. But while this skills deficit is being addressed, the decision to increase the living wage could run counter to the Chancellor’s ambition and have a negative impact on job creation and growth. It also means that those manufacturers who have relied on cheap labour as the foundation of recovery without any accompanying investment in processes and equipment, may be forced to pass on costs to their customers. At Emplas we took a decision to continue to invest in our systems and factory floor equipment throughout the downturn. This has included increased automation, investment in new machinery plus our bar code factory management system. Our investment in new equipment alone in the first half of this year, has totalled more than half-a-million pounds. This has improved product quality and the service that we are able to offer to our customers but has also given us an element of immunity from the launch of a living wage at more than £9 per hour - a potentially crippling cost for many fabricators unless its passed on to their customers. If this was the ‘bane’, George Osborne has suggested that the ‘antidote’ for business is a two per cent cut in Corporation tax. This is welcome but you have to be making a profit for a cut on what is essentially a tax on profit to have any real worth.

More positively, for those on middle-incomes there were one or two positive measures, which may add a little more buoyancy to the retail sector, most notably, the increase in personal tax allowance. From next year, this will increase from the current £10,800 to £11,000. The Chancellor also delivered an increase in the threshold for the higher rate of personal tax from £42,385 to £43,000 - a move which he claimed would spare 130,000 workers from the 40p rate. The decision by the Chancellor to cut buy-tolet tax breaks could also benefit the industry. From 2017 landlords will no longer be able to deduct all of their mortgage interest payments from their tax bill and the amount that landlords can deduct for ‘wear and tear’, will also be reduced. The aim of the measure is to try and level the playing field to get more first-time buyers onto the housing ladder, redressing the balance by slowing the buy-to-let housing market, which now accounts for 15 per cent of all new mortgages. For those of us adopting a glass half full mentality, anything that brings more stability to the housing market by increasing the affordability of properties to first time buyers, has to be a good thing. They are also much more inclined to invest in home improvements than buy-to-let landlords. Those of a glass half empty persuasion, could equally be justified in thinking that the change will do little in real terms to increase the availability of homes to first time buyers and will in fact simply squeeze landlords, driving them to increase rents and making them less inclined to invest in any improvements to their properties at all. So to conclude, on balance, this is a mixed budget for business and for our industry. The gamble is whether the Chancellor’s measures continue to drive growth. If they do, the tax breaks for individuals and the creation of the living wage, means that we should all have a little more in our back pockets and if consumer confidence is higher, we may be more inclined to invest in home improvements. What it doesn’t do is to address a fundamental deficit in supply and demand in the UK housing market. This will be important in ensuring the sustainability of the housing market in the long term and with it, the UK’s wider economic recovery. For more information visit www.emplas.co.uk, email info@emplas.co.uk or call 01933 674880. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0085

It was a barmy summer’s night in July when the inaugural Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards event took place at the County Showground. Mixing with over 400 of the great and the good of the Staffordshire Business Community, Lister Trade Frames of Stoke on Trent arrived en masse ready to battle it out for a new award to add to their trophy cabinet. Listers are a company who have proudly traded for four decades in Stoke on Trent supplying windows, doors and conservatories to the trade. Throughout their trading history, Listers have lived by one golden rule, “look after your staff and your staff look after you”. And this ethos helped Listers to scoop what they believe to be a very special award from the Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce, the coveted “Employer of the Year”. Recognised by a panel of judges, Listers demonstrated their commitment to their staff by providing exemplary working conditions, a programme of continued training and support and an excellent HR programme. “It was a very impressive group of companies that we were up against,” commented Derrith Turner, Listers’ HR Director, “and that made the recognition even more special for us. We have won many industry awards over the years and each one has been of huge importance to us. But I have to say, to compete against other outstanding local businesses and come out as winners, is a real coup for Listers.” What was particularly evident to the judges, was the way that Listers embraces Apprenticeship schemes and training programmes. Unlike many businesses who

From left to right: Presenting the award, Carl Riding of Newcastle under Lyme College to the Listers Director team, Derrith Turner, Darren Pusey and Phil Warren.

shy away from upskilling their staff for fear of losing them, Listers actively support their staff in bettering their skill sets. “We know that a company can only be as successful as the staff allow, so it makes perfect sense to us to make sure we have the best people working for us,” commented Derrith, “and if you provide an environment that they want to work in, then you shouldn’t have to be concerned about losing them!” It was also really encouraging for Listers Directors to hear the judges comment that they were also impressed with all the people at Listers “who seemed to be fully engaged and enjoying their role. Listers was a nice company to work for.” Listers have just come off the back of two record years in 2013 and 2014 and they make no secret of the fact that their success is down to a collaborative approach to business. They actively include their management team and their staff in deciding the best direction for the business and it’s this approach that has steered Listers through economy recessions when other companies have failed to adapt. The evening was a huge success and the inaugural Staffordshire Chambers Awards surely cemented itself in the awards calendar. Listers would like to thank the team at the Staffordshire Chambers for organising a fantastic event and you can rest assured, Lister Trade Frames will be back to defend their crown and maybe even scoop another award in the process. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0086

GQA support Liniar with

‘good installation practice’ video GQA recently supported leading system company Liniar during the making of their latest installation video to demonstrate best practice for installers. “We were delighted when Liniar asked us to get involved to advise them in a real ‘hands on’ way the many do’s and don’ts for installers when fitting a new window” says CEO Mick Clayton. “We passionately believe that good installation is really important, and when Liniar asked us if we would help them with their new installation video we were only too happy to help. It is great for us that leading players like Liniar recognise the work we do as a qualifications awarding body for the industry, and that they attach such importance to what we say that they wanted

us to support them on the making of their video”. “It was great to be involved, and we appreciate the opportunity to support them in trying to raise the standard of installation by developing good practice guides”. GQA has been writing qualifications for and with the industry for over 25 years www. gqaqualifications.com READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0087

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0815/0088

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Promac celebrate

their 35th anniversary

with a Golf Day at Moor Hall, Sutton Coldfield Glass News’ Editor, Chris Champion, attended Promac’s 35th Anniversary celebration Golf Day and shares the thoughts of both Pierre de Frédy, Baron de Coubertin, and his own, on competitive sport….

Gathering for the start.

The individual winners

Having fought through a period of cold and wet weather at the end of May, the sun shone on the righteous or, at least, a corner of England which included Sutton Coldfield, such that Promac’s Golf Day was blessed with a fine day to celebrate the company’s 35th anniversary.

• 1st – Mir Patel (Unique Window Systems) • 2nd – Andy Jones (Edgetech) • 3rd – Atul Patel (Unique Window Systems)

Team winners

As the contenders gathered to despatch the traditional bacon sandwich ahead of taking to the fairways and greens of Moor Hall, a watery sun broke through promising a fine day if not one that would top up the tan! With the organisation of the Golf Day in the safe hands of PR and Marketing Coordinator, Jennie Owen, this was just one of the events to celebrate the Promac Group’s 35 years of proven supply in machinery supply and service delivery. Supplying world class aluminium, glass or PVC machinery to the UK and Irish markets, Promac has been a mainstay of an evolving industry over their 35 years and has seen, and helped, the development into the professional industry it is today.

coined the phrase, “The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not winning but taking part; the essential thing in life is not conquering but fighting well.” Fortunately for me, Edgetech’s Andy Jones has never heard of this saying and has made a habit of winning Golf Days, even his own! And, as luck would have it, there I am in a team including Andy, Mir Patel of Unique Window Systems and David Offland of Float Glass Industries.

A golf day is always a bit of a hit and a miss affair. Who will you be partnered with in your team and will you have a chance to win? Now I know that winning is not meant to be important…it’s the taking part. In fact it was Pierre de Frédy, Baron de Coubertin, a French educator and historian, and founder of the International Olympic Committee that

With Mir playing a great round of golf, sending his ball further than I go on my holidays even to the point of earning a reprimand from his father, playing in the group ahead, when he drove the green while they were still putting, I was able to be carried along by my talented partners and up onto the winners rostrum!

Andy Jones, Edgetech, splashes out

•

1st – Mir Patel (Unique Window System), Andy Jones (Edgetech), Chris Champion (Glass News), David Offland (Float Glass Industries)

•

2nd – Jamie Munday (Promac), Tom Munday (Promac), Neil Deeley (Frameforce), Robert Thiroff (Profine Group)

Individual winner, Mir Patel shows how it’s done.

Nicely done by ..................

•

3rd – Bob MacDonald (Heritage Trade Frames), Richard Oakes (Oakland Glass), Alan Sadler (Profix Group)

Caption to come 3.

Longest Drive •

David Offland (Float Glass Industries)

Nearest the pin •

Craig Brown (Eurocell)

Presentations were made at the celebration dinner by Promac’s David Stockton-Chalk and thanks was given to both Group Managing Director, Joe Hague, and Jennie Owen for their work in staging this excellent golf day in celebration of Promac’s 35th anniversary. A good day had by all? Absolutely! Promac’s Joe Hague and ........ relax with a coffee.

Concentration from Synseal’s Gareth Edwards.

Caption to come.

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Caption to come 2.

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Feeding a donkey strawberries?

Strange goings on at the Deceuninck Golf Day! Glass News’ Editor, Chris Champion, was one of those fortunate to be invited to Deceuninck and VBH’s Golf Day at Woburn and reports on the day’s events… Deceuninck’s fabulous Golf Day, held on the Duke’s Course at Woburn, brought the old idiom of ‘you don’t give strawberries to a donkey’ very much to mind, and for a number of reasons. That idiom is all about giving something to people who may not appreciate it and I remember it being used during the early 1950s when food rationing was still enforced. Anything remotely tasty, or nice, was very much reserved for the ‘grown ups’, bearing in mind that salt, spices and sugar were in very short supply, everything was pretty bland! So when something tasty appeared it was all to do with giving it to someone who would appreciate it, and certainly not the kids who had, as yet, tasted nothing more exciting than the odd bit of meat, vegetables and a bit of bread! How is all this relevant, you may well ask? Well, it’s not that different than walking the hallowed fairways of Woburn and being confronted by a fox – and one that was prepared to hang around and watch you play! Feed the aforesaid creature

Beating the Pro on the magical 3rd Hole was harder than it looked for Ian Harrison of Diamond Windows.

with KitKats and Snickers bars (other chocolate bars are also available) is pretty akin to feeding strawberries to a donkey. The odd plump rabbit would have probably been more welcome! Add to all that the fact that some 88 assorted representatives of the Window, Glass, Door and Hardware industry, all of mixed handicaps and abilities, were gathered at one of the finest golfing complexes in the land and home of the 2015 British Masters Tournament, could well also be described as ‘giving strawberries to a donkey’! I refer, of course, to my own golfing abilities and was, for one, very honoured to have the privilege to play on such a fine course.

I have to say that I admired Roy Frost’s faith in his colleagues. As a member of one of the finest clubs in the country would you risk letting me, or even you, loose at your home club with the risk of your reputation with your fellow members being tarnished? As it happened, the industry acquitted itself well. Neither the ambulance service nor the riot squad were called to intervene in any unseemly behaviour and, in all honesty, it was a day to savour, remember with great pleasure, and tick off on your bucket list as having played the Duke’s Course at Woburn.

who was thought to be coming to the club that evening and he has a reputation of being friendly and amenable to ‘selfies’. The lack of a Ferrari appearing in his reserved car park space was clear evidence that he’d heard about Deceuninck’s guests and was giving them a wide berth! Shouts of “How about a ‘selfie’, Ian, and how come you missed the cut at the Open” was probably not what he would have wanted to hear! The course was being prepared for a tournament and was in magnificent condition with greens certainly faster than I have ever experienced. “They’re a 12 on the stimp meter”, said Roy, “and probably a bit too

Don’t feed a donkey strawberries...or a fox chocolate!

quick.” That was an understatement! But despite my own feeble efforts, there was some excellent scoring on a challenging course from both low and high handicappers. Mike Parczuk and his Stern Fenster team took the glory. Mike was assisted by Rob Winstanley, Guy Hubble of RegaLead, Joe Hague of Promac, and they won on a countback with 114 stableford points with the best three scores on each hole to count beating the Bergson & Eaton team led by Jim Bergson himself. There were some ribald comments about winning even with Guy in the team but, to

It was thought that tournament pro and Ryder Cup player, Ian Poulter,

It looks like Roy Frost (far right) is ensuring Ian Harrison, Diamond Windows; Justin Lazenby, Glass News; Raj Digwa, Diamond Windows and John McNabb of Andrew Wright Windows are really leaving the Duke’s course!

It’s busy on the practice ground.

Guy Hubble, RegaLead, Chris Bailey (longest drive winner) and Graeme Bailey, Business Micros get ready for their round.

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No Ian Poulter, but this is where he would have parked his Ferrari!

Britannia Windows’ Hayden Rushton talks with Peter Rowlands, VBH.

Roy Frost thanks Golf Day organiser, Carol Hearn, for her hard work.

Earnest conversation between Trevor Rodwell (Guest L) and Deceuninck Sales Director Rob McGlennon (R). In front, Rob Clements, Deceuninck’s BDM.

Sussing out the pace before facing greens running at 12 on the stimp meter.

“The lack of a Ferrari appearing in his reserved car park space was clear evidence that he’d heard about Deceuninck’s guests and was giving them a wide berth!”

Phil Dewhurst, Georgian Bar Company (back to camera) relaxes in good company with Peter Dyer, Dempsey Dyer, Joe Hague, Promac, Roy Frost, Deceuninck, and Mike Rigby of MRA Marketing, before winning the auction for a fourball at Woburn.

being able to look at some products and talk to the Deceuninck and VBH staff who were there to help.

be fair which I very rarely am, Guy contributed well off a 24 handicap despite being well acquainted with the trees and gorse of the Duke’s Course. From arrival for the traditional and very welcome breakfast of Bacon Rolls and pastries, hosts Deceuninck and hardware arm VBH, looked after everyone magnificently. With a pyramid of balls to practice with on the range and time to test out the speed of the greens on the putting green outside the clubhouse, the guests disappeared like a bomb burst to the four corners of the course for a shotgun start. With fine sunny weather and a light breeze all was set fair for a round to remember. The hospitality continued throughout the day with sausage and bacon buns and beers at the halfway house and refreshments being brought round the course as you played! Relaxing with a drink on the terrace before dinner I even saw a number of people take advantage of looking at the Deceuninck and VBH displays that were set up in the Dining Room and, in talking with both members of my team and others on the table at dinner, there was a serious side to the event and an appreciation of

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

A winning team. L to R: Guy Hubble, RegaLead; Joe Hague, Promac; Roy Frost, Deceuninck, Mike Parczuk Sternfenster and Robert Winstanley (Mike’s guest).

Roy Frost seems to be saying to Chris Champion: “Who are you and did I really invite you?”

With the prize giving complete and the raffle drawn, with proceeds going to GM Fundraising’s Hope House appeal, the Woburn Management had generously donated a fourball to be played on any of their three courses with dinner thrown in, donated by GM Fundraising….a prize worth in excess of £600. Roy Frost, ever the wily negotiator especially when it comes to raising money for charity, decided to auction this very special gift voucher. There was great fun as bids started at £150 and quickly rose to over £800 as Phil Dewhurst of the

Georgian Bar Company went head to head with Gary Torr of Dekko Windows, with Phil bidding against himself in his enthusiasm. With Phil securing the voucher he promptly invited his auction opponent to play in the fourball with him! It was that sort of day. Great fun and all played in a wonderful spirit. It was an opportunity to meet up with old friends and make new ones, too. And it’s all thanks to Roy Frost and Deceuninck. and Peter Rowlands and VBH, not forgetting Carol Hearn who did all the organising of this fabulous event. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0091

Bergson & Eaton Team L to R: Henry Chopping, Jim Bergson, Roy Frost (Deceuninck), Carl Gunning & Rob Purvey reap their just rewards for losing on a countback.

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A bird’s-eye review KAT exhibit at

for Network VEKA members London Build

in June 2015

June 2015 saw the arrival of the first London Build Expo at the O2 Arena, London. Thousands of visitors registered for the event and came to visit KAT to see the major new products we had on display, which included KATpod Roof Lantern, Timber Box Sash Window, Mayfair PVCu Box Sash Window, Whitehall Timber Residential Door, Knightsbridge flush casement window and KAT Aluminium Residential Door. KATpod is the slimmest Roof Lantern solution in Europe with 40mm aluminium rafters which are 30% slimmer than conventional systems. Gareth Thomas from Atlas Roof Solutions said “KATpod has excellent thermal properties which keep the room warm in winter and cool in summer”. KAT now offer both Aluminium Residential Doors and Timber Residential Doors with

There have been a number of trade press articles recently questioning the validity of company review websites. The Federation of Master Builders (FBM), in particular, has called for customers to be vigilant - in response to an investigation by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). Questions have begun to buzz around the industry: can homeowners trust online reviews? Can these comments and ratings be too easily fabricated? Can positive reviews be promoted while negative comments are swept under the carpet? Network VEKA’s MD John Ogilvie comments: “it may not be my position to discuss the merits or potential disadvantages of review sites but it is certainly an interesting topic, and it did get us thinking about the options available to homeowners when choosing tradespeople. “Here at Network VEKA, we began to consider how many ways there were for people to gather information about a company, how reliable that information is - and what would be the ideal scenario for confidently seeking out a reliable craftsman. “...Then we sat back and put the kettle on, having done our bit to solve these problems 20 years ago! “We know that one of the strongest elements of our offering, is the customer satisfaction questionnaire that every single homeowner fills out. These forms come directly back to

Network VEKA HQ, not to the local member company, so we can assess how good a job has been done in every single case. “We can feed back and make sure the members get credit and praise where it’s deserved, and we can also speak to members about any areas of their business that might be improved upon. “It allows us to assess how good a job is being done by each and every one of our members, and we get this information ‘straight form the horse’s mouth’ so to speak. “If we find that a member is no longer meeting the same high standards that allowed them to enter the organisation in the first place, they will NOT be allowed to remain in the organisation. “So, carrying the Network VEKA branding is effectively like a displaying a badge of honour. Homeowners know that if they look for the logo - they’re guaranteed to find a craftsman, not a cowboy. “Our strict standards, with constant policing, mean we can allow all our member companies to offer homeowners our failsafe Ten Year Insurance-Backed Guarantee. This commitment to quality and customer service has resulted in a collective customer satisfaction rating consistently at 97% or above, compared to an industry average of 83%.” Find out more about Network VEKA and the many benefits for members and homeowners at www.networkveka.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0092

multi-point locking in a range of finishes and sizes. Jane Richards, KAT Marketing Manager, said “Being able to offer our customers casement windows in either Timber, PVCu or Aluminium and Box Sash Windows in either PVCu or Timber was really well received at London Build. KAT are one of a small number of companies who are able to offer this wide range of materials in bespoke sizes and colours”. KAT has manufacturing facilities and showrooms in Macclesfield, Hazel Grove and Newhaven. For more information contact KAT on 01625 439666, enquiries@katuk. co.uk, www.katuk.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0093

Brouha Swaps M4 PVC Corridor for Silicon Valley, and Windows for Wearables Although generally better known for their work in the door and window sector, Brouha Marketing has also been involved for several years now in looking after the public relations for several London exhibitions and international conferences in areas as diverse as mortgages and tech. May saw the agency working hard to support the latest of these in the shape of London’s international Product, Design Innovation conference (PD+I). Keely Portway who looks after the PDI account comments: “We look forward to working on PDI every year as it’s a rare opportunity to get insight into what’s driving industrial product design, a sector that contributes £3.1 billion pa to the UK economy. “Cutting edge papers this year delivered by big brands and design agencies like Whipsaw Inc., McLaren, Williams Advanced Engineering, Plan, Mormedi, Bacardi and Speedo covered topics as diverse as wearables, automotive design, air travel, and end user engagement, as well as surprise references to monkeys, employed robots and super heroes. Delegates were tasked with challenges such as Can You Design A New Chair, How Do You Make A Zip that Curves, Create Objects That People Want to Pick Up and Avoid IP rights pitfalls when it comes to 3D printing. “In addition to promoting the show to maximize footfall with a strategic mix of stories, Q+A interviews and social media management, we manned the press hub

during the event, organized speaker and attendee interviews and transcriptions during the two day conference. California’s Silicon Valley may be a long way from the so called PVC Corridor from which we’re normally based, but the cross-over of ideas and innovation is massively useful. We want our customers to benefit from the learning we can take from one sector and apply to another. Just last week, I was with a fabricator who had just taken delivery of a 3D printer to manufacture one-off conservatory roof caps – so maybe the worlds aren’t as far apart as they first seem.” To see the conference highlights on video visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eito Wo26x98&feature=youtu.be. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0094

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P C Henderson bulks up its Securefold range with

new weight category

P C Henderson, leading designer and manufacturer of sliding door hardware, has enhanced its popular Securefold exterior folding door range with the addition of a new heavier weight category product, meeting growing demand from customers. Suitable for timber or aluminium door panels, the new hardware has been tested to 150kg, making it ideal for the specification of triple glazed doors for improved energy efficiency. The Securefold 150 is designed for both residential and commercial external outward

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

range, it is a tried and tested quiet solution. Its superior quality components are made from 316 stainless steel, making it perfect for external use.

opening door applications that require a heavy duty system that moves effortlessly. Available in a brushed satin finish, Securefold 150 hardware is extremely durable and corrosion resistant, and like the rest of the

“Suitable for timber or aluminium door panels, the new hardware has been tested to 150kg.”

Andrew Rolye, UK Commercial Director, P C Henderson adds: “Following on the success of our Securefold offering, we have had increasing calls from customers for an exterior sliding door application to accommodate doors heavier than 100kg. Fulfilling our customers’ requests, we are pleased to introduce the Securefold 150 to our range. Ideal for heavier triple glazed doors, it opens up the opportunities for our customers to create their own indoors/outdoors experience.” The Securefold range is the definitive choice when specifying hardware for exterior folding doors. A variety of weight capabilities, finishes and locking options makes this the system that performs as well as meeting the

“The Securefold 150 is designed for both residential and commercial external outward opening door applications that require a heavy duty system that moves effortlessly.” aesthetic preferences of the customer. All components in the Securefold range undergo extensive cycle testing in accordance with EN1527, achieving in excess of 100,000 cycles - if the set of doors is opened and closed twice a day the system would last over 137 years. To download the latest digital brochures please visit www.pchenderson.com. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0095

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Made for Trade showcases

Synseal’s Celsius Solid Roof at an Open Day

Thermally-efficient Kingspan TEK Building System structural insulated panels (SIPs), are put in position.

Glass News’ Editor, Chris Champion, visits Made for Trade in Stockton-on-Tees, for a trade Open Day. Descending on Stockton-on-Tees based Made for Trade at 09.30 on the morning of an ‘Open Day’ and the place was a hive of activity! Customers, both fabricators and installers as well as prospective customers, had journeyed from all over the Midlands and the North to see a live demonstration of Synseal’s Celsius Solid Roof and, when I arrived, there must have been around 25 to 30 spectators already there, keen to see this revolutionary roof and its speed of build. Glass News reported on the launch of the Celsius Solid Roof in the June edition and was impressed by the fact it was a complete system from Day One and here was living proof at Made for Trade’s show facility. When I arrived the timber ring beam was already in place with the Kingspan Insulation manufactured section going in to place and ready for the addition of the Velux rooflight. The simplicity of construction was watched keenly by the audience and each stage was clearly explained by the three man Synseal team on-site to show the product.

Part of Made for Trade's show area.

that the Celsius Solid Roof would save days of construction, could be justified. There was some comments that it was, virtually, returning to a traditional roof build. However, with the realisation of the insulation properties, modern day fixings from Rapierstar, Velux windows and easy, strong and highly durable tiling components, the comparisons with old style roofing were few and far between. At the heart of the system is thermally-efficient Kingspan TEK Building

System structural insulated panels (SIPs), enabling the Celsius solid roof to achieve a U-value of 0.18 W/m2K for compliance in England and Wales. The U-value of 0.15 W/ m2K for compliance in Scotland is achieved by fitting insulated plasterboard to line and finish the solid roof interior. Now that’s a long way away from the U values of an old style traditional roof! And how did the roof look, bearing in mind it was sitting next to a genuine slate roof? The answer is, pretty

good. Did it look different? It certainly wasn’t identical but if you didn’t know that it was covered in Envirotiles, I don’t think you would notice the difference unless you looked very closely. But I don’t think this is a problem. It is not the intention to pretend these are genuine slates: they are Envirotiles that are 80% lighter than standard concrete tiles, weighing 8.4kg per square metre in contrast with cement or natural slate roof tile products that typically weigh 50 kg per square metre.

1 Position the Envirotile...

2...snap into place...

3...and fix with a screw.

I had to admire the fact that Bradley Gaunt, Made for Trade’s Managing Director, had chosen to build the Celsius Roof on a structure that was cheek by jowl with one with a traditional slate roof. There was a lot of interest as to how the Envirotile external roofing components and interlocking, 12mm thick, 610 gram, 100% recycled polypropylene tiles would look against the genuine article! The cutting and fixing of the Envirotile and components was quick and straightforward and it was easy to see how Synseal’s claims

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Bradley Gaunt (far right) talks with guests.

Envirotile next to a genuine slate roof.

“There was a lot of interest as to how the Envirotile external roofing components and interlocking, 12mm thick, 610 gram, 100% recycled polypropylene tiles would look against the genuine article!” solid roof is available for existing glazed conservatory roof replacements or new build applications in Lean-To, Georgian, Gable and Victorian building extension styles.

Measure twice, cut once

Available in a choice of 3 popular and appealing colours: Black, Brown or Terracotta, the interlocking Envirotiles are self-draining, self-ventilating and branded with the Synseal logo for ease of identification. The single or double Envirotiles are easy to handle and cut on site for a precision finish at concealed hip or valley roof edge intersections. In addition to single and double roof tiles, the Synseal Envirotile range includes an elevated and interlocking ventilated ridge cap, radius end/apex cover, hip, hip end cap, gable end cap, dry verge, tile starter trim and pushfit screw cap cover to ensure a high quality aesthetic finish for each Celsius solid roof. Fully approved and registered by the Local Authority Building Control (LABC), Celsius

SIPs are fixed in position.

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

The finished article will make an important addition to Made for Trade’s excellent show garden (for want of a better name!). The display of products is exceptional and thoroughly well maintained. Some of the conservatories and other showpieces are many years old – but you wouldn’t know it. They are clean and look as good as the day they were erected. In fact the whole garden area would do credit to a garden centre!

Envirotile overlap explained.

I asked Bradley about the cost and difficulty in maintaining such an impressive showground: “If we have some time, the guys will come out and clean the PVCu and glass, and Dad does the garden.” So Richard Gaunt has another career waiting for him once his fabrication days are over! READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0096

Explaining the roof design.

Synchronised Felting - a new Olympic sport.

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About to tackle the Segways.

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Laser Clay Pigeon Shooting.

Winner of Kong Rope Course, Kush Patel, Emplas.

Padiham Glass celebrates its 35th birthday with activities for all at Carden Park Chris Champion, Glass News’ Editor, reports from Padiham Glass’ 35th Birthday Activity Day. Padiham Glass Ltd is one of the UK’s leading independent manufacturers of high performance insulating glass units, insulating spandrel panels and fire rated IGU's as well as premier suppliers of processed interior and furniture glass for both the Commercial and Domestic markets. 2015 marks their 35th birthday and, in celebration, Padiham hosted an activity day for their friends, customers, suppliers and even the odd representative of the trade press! Based at Cheshire’s Carden Park which boasts not one but two superb golf courses, it also offers a range of other activities and the team at Padiham Glass took full advantage of the facilities. Wes Clarkson, Padiham’s Sales Director, said: “We wanted to celebrate our 35th birthday and offer a fun day for all our customers, suppliers and friends…and not just those who play golf! With Spa facilities and outward bound facilities, too, we were able to provide entertainment to suit all tastes, and include the girls. So often activity days are aimed at just the boys and we wanted to make it different. In fact we had too many golfers trying to opt for the Spa session instead of tackling the Nicklaus course!”

Wes was, of course, right. The idea of being pampered in a spa had a certain appeal but organiser, Vida Cade, Padiham’s efficient Sales and Marketing Executive made it very clear that I was down for golf and I could forget lazing around in a jacuzzi and getting a luxurious massage. So, armed with the mandatory bacon sandwich, I prepared to tackle the Nicklaus course while other guests were taken off to sample zip wires, climbing through the canopy of trees and attempting to stay upright on a Segway obstacle course and, the lucky few, settled down to a day of pampering in the Spa. Jealous? Totally! With the days fun and frolics completed, it was soon time for the evening festivities and after an excellent dinner it was time to find who had won what! There was some speculation as to how the prize giving would pan out for the Spa day activities and what would constitute the best massage. Sadly, it transpired that there was no judging for this part of the proceedings and we would have to move on to activities of a clothed variety. Talking to those who had subjected themselves to the trials and tribulations of the activities, it appeared that great fun, allied to some fear, had been the order of the day.

Andy Jones, Edgetech; Ian Grime, Vibe Interiors; Ryan Ainsworth, Pure Exteriors; and Jeremy Kemp, Padiham Glass.

The Rope course had caused the most consternation especially for those with a degree of vertigo. Winner of the Kong Rope Course was Emplas’ Kush Patel who was also voted the one most likely to make a good burglar. Not withstanding the fact that I had regaled the participants with how the inventor of the Segway had met his premature and sad demise, Nick Emmot

“We wanted to celebrate our 35th birthday and offer a fun day for all our customers, suppliers and friends… and not just those who play golf!” On the Nicklaus Course.

Probably not where the second shot should be played from...

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Ryan Johnson, Emplas; Andy Jones, Edgetech; and Kush Patel, Emplas.

of CGS Glazing took the honours in the Segway Slalom. As we had played our round of golf there had been comments as to the lack of noise from the Clay Pigeon shooting. All was revealed at the prizegiving as AW Glazing’s Alan Wood received his prize for, what turned out to be, Laser Clay Shooting! On then to the golf and for those who have read other reports of Golf Days, it will come as no surprise than one name features in the winners lists. I shall say no more! It also came as no surprise that Padiham’s Trade Counter Director, Jeremy (Jez) Kemp, had not only organised the golf tournament but also picked the teams. Amid ribald laughter and language unsuitable for the tender ears of our readers, lo and behold,

Simon Cougill, Pure Exteriors, with partner, Emma Hallmark.

Wes Clarkson, Padiham Glass; and Mark Hickox, Thermoseal Group.

the team of Jeremy Kemp (Padiham Glass), Ryan Ainsworth (Pure Exteriors), Ian Grime (Vibe Interiors) and Andy Jones (Edgetech) had won with a score too disgusting to even mention. Let’s just say, a long way behind was the second placed team of Dave Percox and Mark Longmore (Elite Aluminium), Paul Gibbs (Hegla) and Graham Driver (Hi-Lite Windows). There was no great surprise, therefore, that the 1st and 2nd placed in the individual rankings were Ian Grime (Vibe Interiors) and Andy Jones (Edgetech). The straightest drive competition caused some scratching of heads out on the course because not only did you have to get closest to the line, you also had to hit a very short drive as the man painting the line had obviously got bored and stopped painting after about 200 yards! The winner, appropriately, was Graham

Paul Gibb, Hegla, and Malcolm Searle, Clear Thinking Software.

Driver (Hi-Lite Windows). Rounding off the prize giving was the Nearest the Pin, won by Jason Haye (Industrial Door Company).

John Tierney of TuffX having fun on the zip wire.

Vida Cade, Padiham Glass, seems to share a secret with Lyn Raven, Unilam, and Kimberley Wilkinson of Padiham Glass with husband, Damian, in the background.

A commemorative cake for all...

On the Kong Ropewalk.

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

A great day was had by all and many thanks go to the whole Clarkson family but especially Wes and Anthony. Thanks also go to the many staff who had helped ‘police’ all the events and to Vida Cade for her organisational skills in bringing it all together.

It had been a day that would long be remembered and there were many tales of the exploits on the various activities as we all sat outside on a warm summer’s evening, partaking of a sherbet or two! Pictures taken in the early hours of the morning have been withdrawn from Glass News now that enough money has changed hands. Thank you, Jez. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0097

Lynsey Galloway, RBS; Phil & Katherine Stewart of Stewart Fersina; Coreen Aldridge of New View Window Systems.

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PIGS on tour...

London’s Canal 125 hosts the July event

Chris Champion, Glass News’ Editor, presents a photographic review of PIGS held on 16 July 2015. Is it by chance, or design, that the last three People In Glazing Society events have all had a watery theme? And, by the way, that has nothing to do with the strength of the drink that was on offer. It just so happens that the excellent venues, chosen by Balls2Marketing, have all been waterside establishments providing both indoor and outdoor facilities with a decking providing the chance to get outside if the British weather decides to be kind. The watery element on this occasion was represented by the Regent’s Canal, affording a pleasant vista to take in while imbibing and enjoying the company of colleagues from the industry. And the turn out from the industry was good. Not maybe as many as had attended Manchester and perhaps that says something about London’s popularity as a destination, or perhaps

stresses that the industry is more Midlands to North biased, as far as location of companies is concerned. Nevertheless, people travelled from all over to attend PIGS and it is safe to say that a good time was had by all.

• Glass and Glazing Products Magazine

Sarah Ball, of organisers, Balls2Marketing took to the microphone to thank the sponsors of the evening, without whose generosity we would have been delving into our pockets much earlier than we had to! So a thank you to all those who made the evening possible:

• Solidor Ltd

• Avantis International • Business Micros • Danvac Vacuum Lifting Equipment

• Profile 22 • Purplex Marketing • Quickslide • Stuga • Swish Window & Doors Systems • The Fabricator • The Installer • The VEKA UK Group • Thermoseal • Ultraframe • Whizzle Ltd • Window News

• Emplas

• Yale Door and Window Solutions

• Everglade Windows

L to R: Reena Gjoci, Everglade Windows; Andy Ball, Balls2 Marketing; Jay Patel, Jayesh Hirani, Everglade Windows; Sarah Ball, Balls2 Marketing.

• Synseal

• Dempsey Dyer

• FIT Show • GGF

L to R: Fay Bibi and Dean Bradley, Glazpart; Sarah Binns, Window Ware.

• Insight Data

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0098

L to R: Mark Pearce, KJM Group; Sarah Ball, PIGS organiser.

L to R: Nathan Bushell, Glass Times; Brian Eddleston, GGF; Guy Hubble, RegaLead.

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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L to R: Rebecca Healy, Charlotte Jackson, Hazel Sharp, GGF Training; Natasha Erskine, GGF.

L to R: Karen Lund, Network Veka; Sam Hill, Thermoseal Group; Jason Wooton, FIT Show.

L to R: Darren Boyle and Gary Jenkins, Olympic Glass; Danny Williams and Andy Linnett, Pioneer Trading Company.

L to R: Dawn Tucker, Sophie Stevens, Sarah Knight, GGP Magazine; and Gemma Bradley, Balls2 Marketing.

L to R: Steve Gravestock, Windows Active; Keely Portway, Brouha Marketing.

L to R: Brian Eddleston, GGF; Nigel Rees GGF; Rory Eddleston; Paul Needham, Smart Builder.

L to R: Jon Walker, Avantis International; Simon Owen, Liniar; Gemma Bradley, Balls2 Marketing.

L to R: Sarah Ball, PIGS organiser; Paul Rogers and Peter Henley, Express Glazing Contractors Ltd.

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

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Andrew Scott talks

business growth on camera

Andrew Scott MD of Purplex Marketing.

Purplex Marketing, the full service marketing agency that specialises in the building products industry, has released the first in a series of videos advising business owners how to achieve sustainable and rapid growth. The debut video, which was filmed by the recently launched Purplex video and photography division, features managing director Andrew Scott discussing how to overcome the Marketing Wave, an issue that prevents many businesses reaching their full potential. The Marketing Wave is defined when business owners react to a drop in sales by throwing money at an advertising campaign. When business picks up, the owner then takes their foot off the gas and stops investing in marketing. Business inevitably slows down and owner reacts by running another campaign. When business picks up, the owner takes their foot off the gas and the Marketing Wave continues. As Andrew explains in the video, this is not how to grow a sustainable business. Instead you need to constantly engage with customers and prospects with relentless marketing across multiple channels. Andrew comments: “Purplex is on a mission to help ambitious companies achieve impressive growth, so we

“Purplex is on a mission to help ambitious companies achieve impressive growth, so we decided to produce a series of short videos outlining some of the strategies I have devised during my 20 year business career.” decided to produce a series of short videos outlining some of the strategies I have devised during my 20 year business career. The Marketing Wave is a common mistake made by so many businesses so it seemed like the ideal place to start. We plan to follow this video up very soon with my three step process how to grow a successful business, so make sure you tune into the Purplex Youtube channel to see.” Before setting up Purplex, Andrew bought and sold numerous businesses in the window and door industry, including transforming PVC-u fabricator Cambrian Windows from £1m to £12m annual sales in 4 years with extraordinary profits, before being acquired by U.S. Fortune 500 Company Masco. The Purplex video division was set up earlier in the year and has already produced a number of videos including for trade fabricator Dempsey Dyer and the Consumer Protection Association. Watch Andrew’s video here: www.purplexmarketing.com. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0099

Bison’s superhero crew

raises money for MADi Fundraising at Bakewell Carnival

Leading trade fabricator Bison Frames team took Bakewell Carnival by storm recently with a show stopping appearance as comedy legends Only Fools and Horses’ Del Boy, Rodney & Uncle Albert. Dressed as Batman and Robin and complete with a bright yellow Robin Regal Supervan, they were the spitting image of the iconic scene from the sitcom.

MADi Fundraising, which organises events that will appeal to a wide audience in the glazing industry to raise funds for worthwhile causes is a charity that Bison are happy to support. This year’s cause is the Anthony Nolan Trust, which helps to save the lives of people with blood cancer.

Martyn Haworth (Uncle Albert) from Bison Frames said, “We had a blast! And won a trophy to boot. It was great to see so many people there and our collection team received around £500 in donations, which we will double up to £1000 and donate to the MADi Fundraising charity’.

Bison Frames is a specialist manufacturer of windows, doors and conservatories and is the home of the innovative Genesis brand of products. The company is one that catches the eye in the industry for its commitment to innovation, quality and service. It caught the eye at Bakewell Carnival too, but for completely different reasons!

“Bison Frames is a specialist manufacturer of windows, doors and conservatories and is the home of the innovative Genesis brand of products.”

Martyn says, “We love the events that MADi organises to support charities such as the Anthony Nolan Trust. And we would have loved to have taken part in the inaugural event, the MADiBall Rally, which ran from Port Lympne Safari Park to the Café de Paris in Monaco. But, to be honest, we didn’t think our 3 wheeler would be capable of such an epic journey, so we undertook our very own ‘Mad Rally’ and made it as far as Bakewell’’.

Tel: 0800 138 3838 - www.bisonframes.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0100

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

Local Authority Building Standards Scotland

TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

UK has world’s most costly diesel The Fuelcard People has pointed out that UK companies now pay more for diesel than they would anywhere else in the world. Steve Clarke, group marketing manager, cited the latest research by globalpetrolprices.com, published on June 22, 2015. He said: “It made headlines that the UK is back into the world ‘Top Ten’ for petrol prices, but nobody seems to have noticed the diesel chart. Of more than 170 countries surveyed, we have the world’s most expensive diesel.” The research, cited regularly by the world’s broadcast, print and online media, includes an explanation for internationally differing prices. Steve Clarke said: “There is no mystery to the UK’s embarrassing position. Each nation buys oil on the

same global markets, but then imposes its own taxes. The price on our forecourts includes 59% for diesel, 61% for petrol. Having to pay the highest fuel duty in Europe is crippling our economy and hindering the recovery.” He put the high rates of duty into context and offered a warning to UK businesses. “Even firms in notoriously expensive places like Switzerland, Luxembourg and Monaco pay less for petrol. Everyone in the world pays less than our companies have to pay for diesel. With fuel being a major cost for any business using the roads, we are trying to compete internationally on a very uneven playing field. With a deficit to clear and no room for manoeuvre, nobody should expect the government to be reducing fuel duty in the foreseeable future.”

Warwick North West; the fabricator that specialises in complex frames such as bi-folds and sash windows; has geared up for a forthcoming product launch with a £500k investment. Warwick have acquired a second Schirmer Saw Centre, which has been custom-made to their exact specifications and increases capacity by 200%, meaning the fabricator can now produce 2,000 frames per week. Steve Clarke’s long experience in the sector makes him perfectly positioned to comment. The Fuelcard People reduces refuelling costs for many thousands of customers every day, typically by up to 4p per litre for both diesel and petrol. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0102

New Insight Window

the natural supply chain, opening up the market to 22,000 builders who are actively challenging existing installers.”

The Report is the result of 6 months research with 15,000 fabricators and installers, outlining trends, new developments, industry changes and threats to the industry. Insight Data’s Commercial Director, Helen CosteloeHughes comments; “The industry is going through another transition. Trade Counters are disrupting

Greg Johnson, Director of Warwick North West.

West) and Warwick Sliders but a recent re-brand will see the two go under the one header as Warwick North West. Greg explain the reasons behind the re-brand: “Previously Warwick Development (North West) sold our ‘standard’ product range, which encompassed casement windows and doors, whereas Warwick Sliders focussed on specialist products such as bi-folds and VS windows. We will soon be launching a new product brand encompassing casements, bi-folds and VS windows so it made sense to promote all products under the Warwick North West banner. Our new product will be available early summer and we are very much looking forward to the launch.” For more information call 0151 933 3030 or email info@warwicksliders.com. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0104

Edgetech joins the Rolls Royce of manufacturers at awards Helen Costeloe-Hughes.

“Elsewhere there have been a number of surprises, especially with aluminium, conservatories and composite doors.”

Key facts from the Report include:

The Market Report points to changes across the entire industry, with detailed information on regional variations, installers, fabricators and products.

• Aluminium now a serious challenger to PVC-U

It also includes the Insight Top 30 – the UK’s top performing PVC-U fabricators by turnover and the top 30 by Net Worth.

• Rise of the ‘conservatory replacement’ market

“We’ve seen some big changes in the Top 30, and some really exciting developments in terms of overall industry growth. The Report makes fascinating reading” adds Helen.

Director Greg Johnson comments: “Warwick North West has grown significantly over the past few years and the new Saw Centre allows us to continue this trajectory well into the future. We have an exciting product launch up our sleeve and needed additional resources in order to successfully bring this to market. We chose Schirmer because they were able to modify the machine to our exact requirements, enabling us to enjoy more productivity than an ‘off the shelf ’ solution. The Saw Centre has only recently been installed but we are already seeing the benefits on the factory floor and customers are enjoying faster lead times and better service.” Established in 1998 and operating from a 25,000 square foot factory in Liverpool, Warwick North West are one of the region’s largest window and door trade fabricators. Warwick North West incorporates two companies Warwick Development (North

Industry Report is a ‘must read’, says industry experts

Insight Data has published its annual Window Industry Report, now established as the ‘must-read’ barometer for the UK window, door and conservatory industry.

Warwick North West gear up for product launch with £500k investment

• Number of PVC-U fabricators declined for another year

• Installers under threat from a new breed of ‘Builder Installers’

• Battle of the giants among the industry’s biggest companies The comprehensive 13 page report is published by Insight Data as a free service for the industry and is available online at www.insightdata.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0103

Super Spacer Alpha®, the best performing warm edge spacer in the world from Edgetech UK, a Quanex company has made it a hat trick of award nominations as finalist alongside Rolls Royce in the Insider Made in the UK Awards and the Coventry Telegraph Business Awards. Having already won Manufacturing Innovation of the year at Insider’s Made in the Midlands Awards in May, Edgetech’s new warm edge space bar has been shortlisted for Advanced Manufacturing Innovation at the national Insider Made in the UK Awards, and for the Manufacturing Award in the Coventry Telegraph Business Awards. The company has also been nominated for the Coventry Telegraph Enterprise Award. Andy Jones, Managing Director at Edgetech UK said: “Edgetech works with customers to improve the manufacture of thermally efficient windows and today approximately one third of all warm edge windows sold in the UK use Edgetech Super Spacer®. Having already won Manufacturing Innovation of the year for Super Spacer Alpha, to also be shortlisted for Advanced Manufacturing Innovation, Manufacturing and Enterprise recognises Edgetech as a leader in its field.”

The Coventry Telegraph Business Awards will be announced at a dinner hosted by comedian, Dominic Holland at The Ricoh Arena in June and The Insider Made in the UK Awards will be presented at St. Georges Hall in Liverpool in July. Tel: 02476 639931 - www.edgetechig.co.uk

Andy Jones, Managing Director at Edgetech UK. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0105

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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TRADE NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Astraseal announced as one the UK’s leading fabricators One of the UK’s largest and longest established fabricators, Wellingborough based Astraseal, has secured a high ranking position on the much anticipated Insight Data Top 30 list. The report includes companies active in the retail, trade, commercial and new-build markets, and Astraseal has been ranked 4th on the list, making them the second highest trade company in terms of net worth. Mark McMullan, managing director of Astraseal, comments: “The total net worth of the top 30 fabricators is an impressive £196.8m and it’s pleasing to see Astraseal making a big contribution to this figure. We’ve made a number of significant investments in the business recently, including a £3m machinery investment and an expansion of our logistical division, and this has contributed to our financial success and improved service to our customers. Astraseal recently celebrated 25 years with REHAU by signing a new supply agreement, closely followed by the launch of Warmcore, a premium product they’re offering at a very affordable price. Working alongside marketing partners Purplex, Astraseal will soon be rolling out a new marketing support package designed to help their trade customers grow their business. Mark comments: “It’s been a busy time for Astraseal and the Insight Top 30 list

has recognised our investments and the achievements of both ourselves and our customers over the past year. We look to continue this and fully expect to see further progress over the next few months.” Astraseal manufactures a comprehensive range of PVC-u and aluminium windows, doors in the REHAU Total 70, REHAU Geneo, Synseal, Smarts and Reynaers systems. They also manufacture complete conservatory packages and orangeries using the Global and Global Summer system, making them a true ‘one stop shop’ for the installer. For more information call Astraseal on 01933 227233 or visit www.astraseal.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0107

BOOK NOW OR GET A PIZZA

The FIT Show Gala Dinner has become a social highlight of the industry with exhibitors and visitors taking advantage of their presence at the industry’s commercial focal point to gather and relax in style. With

dozens of tables booked even before the event appeared on The FIT Show website, just 22 tables remain early in July, with proximity to the stage arranged on a first-come-first-served basis for the first time. Guests will enjoy a champagne reception, fine food and wines and star entertainment which remains a closely guarded secret for 2016. And following the presentation of £10,000 worth of prize money to the winners of the Master Fitter Challenge, guests can party into the early hours with some fun features and dancing. “In the window and door business advising people to ‘Book now or lose the deal’ seems like sales patter,” said The FIT Show’s Matthew Glover. “But Gala Dinner places have been selling even faster than exhibition stands. If you want to be there you really should get in touch now or you may face takeaway pizza as an alternative,” he laughed. Full details of The FIT Show Gala Dinner may be obtained from Jason Wootton by calling 07854 131050 or via email jason@fitshow.co.uk. Full details of The FIT Show can be found at www.fitshow.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0108

Insight Data reveals Window Industry Billionaire Club

Mark McMullan, managing director of Astraseal.

FIT SHOW GALA DINNER:

Just as exhibitors have clamoured to book stands for the 2016 FIT Show, which takes place in April at The International Centre Telford, then so too are people rushing to book their places at the Gala Dinner. With an enlarged capacity of 890 places, just 220 seats – that’s 22 tables – remain, with more than 10 months to go until the big occasion.

Exciting Changes Ahead At Force 8

Force 8 have been trading for over 25 years and are renowned for their profile bending and are the only company who produce a one-piece arched frame bend without the need for welding, thus eliminating any weak points within a frame. They have always been one of the first for innovation and have constantly evolved with the market, and they are now carrying this through to a new business strategy which will be launched over the next month. You cannot fail to notice the changes that are taking place in the industry, both on the internet and the rise of the trade counter, and if companies fail to evolve with the changes they will struggle to keep pace. With this in mind, Force 8 are forming a dedicated trade division to service companies requiring arched frames or composite doors with a high quality product, fast turnaround and a delivery service that uses the latest satellite technology allowing the delivery vehicles to be tracked, therefore all customers can be informed exactly when their delivery will be arriving. Dennis Sumner, managing director at Force 8 commented; “Our commitment to the industry is well-known and our customers can be reassured that their product is not only fully compliant with the new CE regulations, but is also of the highest quality and carries our money back guarantee which offers them complete peace of mind.”

Insight Data, the market research and data specialists, have revealed the UK’s Top 30 PVCU fabricators with a combined turnover of almost £1billion. Insight Data Managing Director, Andrew Scott said; “This really shows the scale and dynamics of our industry, when just 30 of the industry’s 15,000 companies have a combined turnover of £971 million.” The Top 30 Fabricators increased turnover by a whopping £55million in 2014 compared to the previous year, even after a £47m reduction in turnover by Everest following internal restructure and realignment. Entry level to the Billionaires Club was £10.9m turnover in 2013. In 2014 it rose to £12.3m, an increase of 12%. “Some companies have made the Insight Billionaire Club for the first time, such as Conservatory Outlet, while others have seen spectacular growth in the last year. It is worth noting that a number of high growth fabricators are sitting just outside the Top 30 ready to challenge in 2015,” added Andrew. According to Insight Data, the Top 30 list reflects a significant financial improvement in the fenestration industry and points to continued growth in this sector. For a list of the Top 30 fabricators that make up the Insight Billionaires Club visit: www.insightdata.co.uk.

www.force8.co.uk

http://www.insightdata.co.uk/news/ index.php/insight-data-reveals-windowindustry-billionaire-club/

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0109

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0110

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

Solidor and DW3 Products Group CEO, Gareth Mobley, picked up yet another business accolade, when he was nominated as a regional finalist in the highly regarded EY Entrepreneur of the Year awards. On the night, Gareth walked away with Entrepreneur of the Year for manufacturing in the North of England. The EY Entrepreneur of the Year Awards is a major national awards event, celebrating entrepreneurs from all industries across the UK with previous winners including Holly Tucker MBE, founder of Notonthehighstreet.com. This year the awards have been supported by Social Enterprise UK, CBI and the Department for Business Innovation & Skills According to Steve Varley, chairman and managing partner of EY in the UK and

“This award is a true reflection of all the hard work carried out by our staff, the commitment of our customers and overwhelming support from our partners.”

Irelands, ‘EY’s Entrepreneur Of The Year programme is not only a celebration of entrepreneurship, but also builds networks which span the world. It’s not only about winning an award; it’s about growing networks, making contacts and leveraging knowledge. I look forward every year to playing my part in this fantastic EY programme.’ In recent years Gareth Mobley has won Entrepreneur of the Year for a record three times in the Sentinel Business Awards for North Staffordshire and South Cheshire’s and led Solidor to Business of the Year in the same business awards twice and to G13 Promotional Campaign of the Year – Retail. But now Gareth’s remit is to build DW3 Products Group into one of the most powerful, influential and innovative groups in the home improvement sector. Gareth Mobley, commented: ‘I was thrilled to be nominated as a finalist against such strong competition from all sectors of the economy. This award is a true reflection of all the hard work carried out by our staff, the commitment of our customers and overwhelming support from our partners. He continues: ‘The future for me is to now realise the considerable potential of DW3 Products Group and to help shape the future direction of our industry and others that we touch.’ Tel: 01782 847300 READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0111

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

Your Letters

ANOTHER REWARD FOR ENTREPRENEURIAL FLAIR

LETTERS Dear Chris, Life is too short to get carried away by company listings or small errors. But many of your readers, including our customers and suppliers, will have been surprised that Polyframe didn’t figure in the Top 10 in Insight Data’s recent report. We appeared 11th in the Top 30 with a turnover of £20.3m for Polyframe (Trade) Ltd. Insight explained that to create consistency between companies they’d “elected to operate a single company model where we listed a single trading PVCU fabricator”. They immediately corrected the anomaly in a footnote to the table, with an adjusted turnover of £28.8m putting Polyframe in sixth place. But this is still a long way short of our actual turnover of £47m, which puts us 4th just beneath Everest. Polyframe is the largest independent trade window, door and conservatory fabricator in the UK. Fabricating eight profiles in PVC-U and Aluminium across its sites nationwide, Polyframe makes several thousand frames a week. Few people read footnotes or the text beside a table but they do read trade magazines, so I’d be grateful if you’d let your readers know the true position. Thank you. Sincerely Nick Dutton, CEO Polyframe Group

Dear Chris, Whenever power is concentrated in a few hands it’s tempting to manipulate supply and put up prices. In power generation and utilities, we’ve seen it on a grand scale. In banking and the finance sector it appears to be commonplace. As the manipulation of LIBOR rates showed there is no limit to ambition: if you can make money by changing the balance of advantage someone will. Fortunately, power is generally fragmented and dispersed so it’s only in a few industries that large groups manage to concentrate power through acquisition and merger, and get their hands on the controls. When they do create a chokepoint on the supply chain they can raise prices and their profitability at will. Recently Europe’s PVC converters’ have been protesting noisily against upstream suppliers doing just this. The suppliers, they say, are using their highly concentrated producer power to impose unwarranted price increases. EPPA, the European PVC Window Profile and Related Building Products Association, said its members were highly concerned about an “unprecedented wave of over 30 ‘forces majeures’ events in the past four months.” ‘Forces majeures’ include plant shutdowns for a variety of reasons, some planned and some accidental. One of these was a large fire. “Price rises of 10% have been imposed and further increases have been announced.” As there is no link to oil price trends and 30 is a suspiciously and conveniently high number, the “converters (systems companies and profile extruders) question the legitimacy of these declarations.” “Because of the shortage of feedstock,” wrote Ineos to its (PVC profile) customers, “the company was unable to meet its obligations,” reports Plastics Information Europe. So prices go up. Recently the chemical giant Ineos sold two operations in Runcorn as part of a deal to form a PVC joint venture with Solvay. Solvay is also selling some assets to comply with requirements set by the European Commission competition authority to level the playing field slightly. Now they’ve made their token disposals and start flexing their muscles, will we see more unwarranted price increases being forced on systems companies, fabricators and installers? Sincerely Mike Rigby, MRA Marketing

What’s your opinion? Feel free to get in touch with your views on the industry, legislation, government, or even the newspaper. Contact Chris: chris@glassnews.co.uk

@GlassnewsMag

Christina Shaw

/GlassNews

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0112

RECRUITMENT

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Recruitment

See more positions online at: www.glassnews.co.uk

Helping you find & place positions. If you are looking to recruit, contact us today for prices! Email: christina@glassnews.co.uk or Tel: 07805 051322 NEW APPOINTMENT

NEW APPOINTMENT

New Production

Gillian Coldwell brings 27 years’

experience to bi-fold experts

Bi-fold door specialist TWR Bifolds has appointed a new National Sales Manager to spearhead sales. The new appointment follows intense and prolonged demand for its range of aluminium products. Gillian Coldwell lives in West Yorkshire and has 27 years’ experience in the glazing industry, having previously held positions at leading hardware suppliers Avocet and Fab&Fix. In her new role at TWR Bifolds, Gillian will focus on promoting the benefits of TWR and its aluminium product range, which includes bi-fold doors, wide-span patio doors and vertical sliders, to installers across the UK. The appointment comes after a successful year for TWR Bifolds – the fabricator grew 20% over the past 12 months – and Managing Director Terry Richardson hopes to continue this growth into the future.

Terry comments: “I’m delighted to welcome Gillian to the team. On top of offering a first-class product range, we offer a stand-out level of service such as superfast lead times on colour, a major benefit to installers. Colour is a selling point we are keen to push and capitalise on colour; as Gillian moves into the role of promoting our aluminium products.” Gillian Coldwell comments: “It’s exciting to be working for a company which is doing so well at the moment and investing in its future. Colour is king at TWR and I’m looking forward to using my industry knowledge and experience to help drive sales of coloured aluminium products.” Investment in an in-house colour spraying facility means TWR Bifolds can supply their aluminium products in any RAL colour on six-day lead times, helping installers offer

Manager at Selecta!

more choice to the consumer and turnaround colour jobs even quicker. This extends to dual-colour options including the installer-voted most popular colour, white and grey, which TWR have on stock, ready to go, allowing customers to capitalise on the most popular colour combination in the bi-fold door market. TWR Bifolds supplies coloured aluminium products to installers nationwide but is also keen to partner with single product fabricators to help them expand their product range without incurring additional manufacturing costs. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0113

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Selecta Specialist Doors, a division of Selecta Systems, have appointed Neil Meakin as Production Manager for the Specialist Doors Department. Neil will be based at the Birmingham businesses new factory unit and takes control of production with the demand for Selecta Composite, Bifolding and Patio Doors on the increase. Neil has a wealth of experience in both fabrication and production management having previously manufactured Selecta products at a former company. Neil commented, “I have known of Selecta’s products for many years of which the quality has always been excellent. The customer service and support from Selecta has always been of a high standard and one which I aim to develop further within my new role.” Bob Heeley, General Manager of Selecta, added “We believe we have appointed an experienced and motivated person in Neil

who has the desire to succeed. All in all we are excited at the prospect of Neil working within Selecta and wish him the very best in his new position.” READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0114

NEW APPOINTMENT

Brisant Secure appoints Warren Yates as Director Warren Yates has teamed up with Brisant Secure to help drive its recent growth even further. Warren has significant experience in the hardware industry, having started as a master locksmith before taking positions at Yale and Assa Abloy. Warren was most recently Commercial Director at Yale. Brisant CEO Steve Stewart says: “Warren brings over 30 years’ experience, unique expertise and a great passion for the industry. I’m delighted he’s on board and confident he will help

to push Brisant forward as a driver for change.” Warren explains: “The future of the lock market rests in educating the homeowner in real security and the standards that matter, offering high quality products such as Ultion that achieve the best. Brisant’s offering is like nothing already in the market; it manufactures an impressive range of products and provides outstanding service, particularly with flagship cylinder Ultion. It’s a fast growing company and already has a big presence,

Warren Yates.

with a remarkable business structure. Brisant is setting the standard. I’m blown away by the whole package.” For more information on Ultion and Brisant Secure contact Warren Yates directly on 01924 455444. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0115

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

RECRUITMENT

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

WHAT AM I WORTH?

It’s a very direct question and the direct answer to ‘what am I worth’ maybe more than you think, claim fenestration industry recruitment specialists, Chase Taylor. With demand from potential employers higher than it’s ever been, there’s no better time than now to consider your credentials as an employee.

Mat Gibson, managing director of Chase Taylor commented: ‘We’re in the people business and not to make a quick win. It’s fundamental to us that we’re able to seek the

talent that lies within our industry and to assess exactly what people are worth. If you’re not sure then contact us today for a free assessment.’ To find out more what Chase Taylor can do for either companies seeking a new position to fill or for individuals looking to enhance their career then call 01543 897800 or e-mail enquiries@ chasetaylor.co.uk in the strictest of confidence. Alternatively look at the new website at www. chasetaylor.co.uk for the latest jobs or follow them on Twitter @Mat_Chasetaylor. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0116

NEW APPOINTMENT

Another New Key

Appointment for Selecta!

Selecta Systems have appointed Neil Allport as part of their Business Development Team. Neil will be based in Central England looking after both existing accounts and promoting the products and services of which Selecta offer to the industry. Neil brings with him many years of experience and expertise within the trade having previously worked for Deceuninck for the previous 10 years. Neil commented, “The vision of Selecta combined with an excellent array of products and the strong presence within the UK market made this an easy choice to join such a professional and friendly organisation. From my experience within the industry Selecta have a good reputation for quality and what I can only describe as exceptional customer service of which

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

Warwick North West welcomes a familiar face to the team Peter Roberts Warwick North West.

It’s not just the actual salary you bring home that forms part of your package, but the car you drive, bonus opportunities, private healthcare, promotion opportunities and even training and development. In 2015 to date, Chase Taylor has placed over 80 candidates each receiving on average a £4,752 pay rise. Chase Taylor have also placed a number of candidates into more senior roles as part of their career advancement and there remains a number of people within the industry eager to make the next step up the ladder. While the fenestration industry recruitment specialists delve far deeper than their peers into the pool of talent, they are still looking for candidates eager to seek new opportunities or even for those looking to assess their current package.

NEW APPOINTMENT

PVCu fabricator Warwick North West has appointed Peter Roberts as sales representative. Operating from a 25,000 sq ft factory in Liverpool, Warwick North West is one of the region’s largest window and door fabricators, manufacturing products using the Eurocell profile and supplying these to the trade. In his new role Peter will be actively promoting the benefits of the extensive range of products Warwick North West can offer to installers in the area. Peter previously worked at Warwick North West as an Office Manager, and after a brief hiatus is moving into the role of driving sales forward as the fabricator prepares to launch a new range of products early this summer. Greg Johnson, Director at Warwick North West comments: “We’re delighted to have Peter back on the Warwick North West team. His extensive knowledge of our products and the market means he will be a key member in the launch of our new range as we look to continue the significant growth we’ve achieved over the past few years.” Peter Roberts commented: “I’m looking forward to getting stuck into this fresh and exciting role to help support Warwick North West in its strategy to increase sales in the PVCu trade market.”

I’m look forward to getting out there and promoting.” Mark Richmond, Sales & Marketing Director, added “This is another key appointment at Selecta and we believe we have appointed someone who is already established within the industry with great core skills, commitment and motivation to succeed. We are excited at the prospect of Neil further enhancing our position within the market of which Neil has a vast amount of experience and knowledge.” READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0117

NEW APPOINTMENT

Carl F Groupco service attracts new Sales Director Paul Simpson has been appointed Sales Director of Carl F Groupco. Key attractions of the role reported by Paul include Carl F Groupco’s market leading position, professionalism and total commitment to service. In his previous post as Sales Director for Birchwood Price Tools (BPT), part of the Travis Perkins group, Paul developed a number of major brands including Scruffs, Defender and Rhino: while leading a successful team, turnover during his 18 years employment with BPT increased from £3m to £50m. Paul will be active in working with the sales team to support the company’s ambitious plans for continued growth and market development. Commenting on his move to Carl F Groupco, Paul Simpson said: “The commitment to service at Carl F Groupco is nothing short of phenomenal: the whole company is engaged, each and every member of staff pulls out all the stops to supply full delivery orders placed before 4pm next day. I can honestly say that I have never witnessed this passion for performance from a supplier organisation. “There is no complacency at Carl F Groupco – service values are at the heart of the organisation and these have been a significant contributor to the company becoming a major player in the UK hardware industry. “The sales team is a significant asset to the organisation – with six members of staff in double digit years of service, product knowledge is extensive but enthusiasm hasn’t waned. Like the rest of the company, the sales team is highly responsive - they go the extra mile providing guidance and support to customers.” At Carl F Groupco, Paul heads a sales team of 14 people including field personnel, internal sales and Product Managers. Activities encompass Carl F Groupco’s hardware sales and Carl F direct, the organisation’s specialist tools and accessories division. Tel: 01733 393330 - www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

Warwick North West is geared up for the product launch with a £500k investment in a second Schirmer Saw Centre for its factory, which has the potential to increase capacity by 200%. The company also recently re-branded as Warwick North West, incorporating its two manufacturing businesses – Warwick Development which sells ‘standard’ products such as casement windows and doors and Warwick Sliders which focusses on specialist products such as bi-folds and VS windows – under one banner. For more information call 0151 933 3030. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0118

Paul Simpson heads sales for service focussed hardware distributor Carl F Groupco. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0119

RECRUITMENT

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

NEW APPOINTMENT

EMMEGI INVESTS IN DEDICATED TEAM IN IRELAND With the early signs of recovery now appearing in the Irish fenestration market, Emmegi (UK) has appointed a new team to look after customers in both the North and South of the country.

Ian Latimer, Managing Director of Emmegi (UK), said: “Jim and Lukasz join us at a time when we are seeing lots more positive activity in Ireland from both new and existing customers. The market is certainly starting to improve and we have responded to that by putting in place our own dedicated Emmegi team who can take care of the whole machine buying and installation process right through from initial enquiry to after sales service.

Jim O’Connell has joined Emmegi as National Sales Manager for Ireland and Lukasz Szulc has joined as a Senior Engineer.

“Irish customers can now deal direct with the manufacturer rather than with a reseller, and benefit from our technical expertise, market and machinery knowledge and of course competitive pricing structure.” Both Jim and Lukasz have extensive experience across the machinery sector and are very familiar with the Emmegi range, having worked together at a machinery merchant since 2006. Jim is focused exclusively on sales of Emmegi machines but, because of his working and technical knowledge, Lukasz is also supporting customers with servicing of other types of machinery alongside Emmegi. The reaction from customers and from the Irish market in general to Emmegi’s move has been very positive with orders already placed for a number of new machines. One of these is Compass Windows in Dungiven who have ordered a Classic Magic saw and the new entry level Phantomatic M3 CNC machine. Liam McCarney said: “It was a huge advantage for us having Jim and Lucasz on the ground over here. We got great service from them throughout the machine buying and installation process and we felt that they

Production Manager

really understood our business and the requirements of our market.” Jim O’Connell is a familiar and well respected figure in the Irish window market. Over the past 23 years, he has worked in machinery supply, aluminium fabrication and in hardware sales, while Lucasz is a graduate electrical and software engineer. Tel: 02476 676192 - www.emmegi.com READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0120

NEW APPOINTMENT

Management Changes

for Climatec’s

Manufacturing Team Due to a period of unprecedented growth coupled with the identification of some skills gaps in our workforce, we are on the lookout for a new Production Manager to oversee our multi-million pound 24-hr manufacturing facility. The role will give the right candidate opportunity to develop their managerial skills whilst their experience within a production environment will bring focus and direction to the business. As Production Manager, you will be able to recognise and identify key areas for development within the manufacturing process, which will demonstrate your strong analytical skills. Your strength of character will also give you the ability to question and challenge current systems in order to make improvements. Preferably with a background in insulating glass manufacturing and /or production, you will have experience of leading a team of people and will have exceptional communication skills! With over 100 members of staff across two separate sites, the applicant must be able to demonstrate an aptitude for delivering key production messages using various techniques. You will be responsible for motivating a small team of Production Supervisors and providing authoritative guidance, but it is also critical that you can be flexible, approachable and composed when under pressure.

Established trade fabricator Climatec Windows have recently appointed David Williams as Works Manager at their Southend Manufacturing premises. With a shake-up in their production management team, David will head the manufacturing facility, working with newly appointed Production Manager Paul Brooker to drive the total quality ethos throughout their working processes. With over 25 years’ experience in manufacturing, David has a wealth of experience implementing lean manufacturing techniques, including Kaizen (Continuous Improvement), 5S, OEE, SMED and Change management. He is also competent leading Health & Safety and Quality management. David has experience of the window industry however, in his early days, he spent 17 years as an engineer at Ford Motor Company. Commenting on his appointment David says “Climatec already has a good production facility based over three factories, which was part of the attraction for me to take on the role. However, I’m looking forward to implementing new processes that will increase efficiency, drive out waste and bring

David Williams-Climatec Windows.

the factory processes even further in line with modern manufacturing”. As Climatec Windows enjoys another successful year, the manufacturing team will continue to improve on their ability to deliver high quality products and service to their customers. For further information on Climatec Windows and their products, visit www. climatec-windows.co.uk or call 01702 613733. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0122

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

0815/0123

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

RECRUITMENT

CHARITY NEWS

RAPID GROWTH

VEKA takes to the road

PROMPTS RECRUITMENT DRIVE AT DOORCO With a continued growth in sales driven by the company’s commitment to a price freeze for 2015, customer-friendly supply agreements and future-proofing product improvements, Britain’s fastest growing composite door manufacturer DOORCO has embarked upon a recruitment drive. A move into larger premises close to DOORCO’s original Macclesfield, Cheshire base has allowed the doors to be flung open for talented people in all departments including Logistics/Distribution, Buying/ Purchasing, Sales, Customer Service, I.T. and Finance. Managing Director Dan Sullivan says the opportunities for a genuine career path are excellent: “We are growing on a weekly basis which gives the team a huge lift; but we need like-minded people on board to help us grow our infrastructure for existing and new customers, to help us remain at the forefront of the market.”

Dan says that a number of factors are responsible for a 60% growth in sales yearon-year at DOORCO and that the increase shows no signs of slowing: “Earlier this year we made a commitment to maintaining our prices for 2015 at least, in addition to offering non-restrictive supply agreements for our customers. We have been able to make such commitments and the market has responded. That now translates into some excellent opportunities for talented people.” Anyone believing they have the talent to bring something special to DOORCO should contact the composite door manufacturer now says Dan: “Write to us at DOORCO and tell us your story! We need the best people to grow with us.” Interested applicants write to Dan or Jayne at info@door-co.com or call 01625 428955.

for The Encephalitis Society The weekend of the 26th - 27th June will see members of staff from The VEKA UK Group taking to two wheels to raise funds for the company’s nominated charity, The Encephalitis Society. The cyclists’ route will cover 100 miles of beautiful Wiltshire countryside over the two days, passing landmarks such as the Avebury Stone Circle, Stonehenge and the Wiltshire White Horses. The VEKA UK Group chose to support The Encephalitis Society after Mark Barsby, Head of Technical was diagnosed with an autoimmune form of Limbic Encephalitis last year. He – in discussion with Head of Commercial Sales, Richard Garland and Head of Product Management, Steve Bakewell – planned the challenge as part of the company’s year-long fundraising programme for the charity. Mark explained: “I wanted to do my bit and put something back for the help The Encephalitis Society had given me. Steve gave us some ideas as he had already taken part in similar events to raise money for charity. “I decided to make some changes to my diet and exercise more when I came out of hospital. As part of my goal, however, I’ve promised myself an ice cold beer and a hot sausage roll on completion of the second day as they’re probably the two things I’ve missed the most!” The intrepid trio hope that a further two VEKA cyclists will join them on the ride, which will see them rewarded with a wellearned barbecue at the end of day one. Colin Torley, Sales and Marketing Director for The VEKA UK Group commented: “What a great way to raise funds and awareness for The Encephalitis Society! 100 miles over two days, under their own steam, will be an admirable achievement for all taking part. It’s a beautiful part of the world to tour – let’s just hope the weather holds up! The support Mark received from The Encephalitis Society made it an obvious candidate for our support. We normally work with charities for six-month periods but this cause is so close to our hearts that, in this case, we decided to dedicate a full year’s support. Everybody has really gotten behind it including four of our management team, raising funds by running the Great Manchester 10k, and there’s loads more planned throughout the year.”

Britain’s fastest growing composite door manufacturer DOORCO has launched a campaign to recruit Britain’s best talent to help deal with the company’s unprecedented growth in sales. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0124

If you would like to sponsor Mark and the team in their cycling challenge, visit www. justgiving.com/anything-is-possible and, to learn more about Encephalitis and the work of The Encephalitis Society, visit the website: www.encephalitis.info. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0125

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

CHEERS TO

CHARITY

Morley Glass & Glazing said cheers to charity when it sponsored the 4th Annual North Leeds Charity Beer Festival last month. The Leeds based sealed unit manufacturer and integral blinds supplier was headline sponsor of the three-day festival which is run by British Guild of Beer Writer, Sam Parker, in association with the Rotary Club of Roundhay. The Rotary Club of Roundhay was formed in 1960 and raises money throughout the year for local national and international charities including PolioPlus which is Rotary’s commitment to eradicating polio. The aim of the festival is to provide interesting and unusual beers from Yorkshire micro and independent breweries for people to enjoy, to stimulate debate and to help raise charitable funds. Ian Short, managing director of Morley Glass & Glazing said: “The beer festival is an excellent and innovative way to have fun, feature and support local businesses and for local charities to benefit.” Morley Glass is committed to supporting its local communities and also sponsors many local sports clubs and good causes. For more information visit www.morleyglass.co.uk.

“The aim of the festival is to provide interesting and unusual beers from Yorkshire micro and independent breweries.”

A volunteer from CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) serving up a glass of beer sponsored by Morley Glass & Glazing at the 4th Annual North Leeds Charity Beer Festival. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0126

Steve steps up a gear to bring good cheer

Sternfenster’s national sales manager taking part in the Peterborough Easter Egg Run on his Lambretta GP200.

Easter is the time to give, and it’s all the better when good deeds come with a bit of fun, as Sternfenster’s national sales manager, Steve Lane, would have you believe. Taking part in a huge Egg Run on two wheels, Steve was one of hundreds of riders embarking on a mission to spread some joy before Easter. The charity ride saw over 200 members of the Peterborough Lambretta and Vespa Scooter Club (PLVSC) stopping at the Manor Respite Home, Dogsthorpe, the Amazon Children’s Ward at Peterborough City Hospital, and the Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice in Longthorpe to drop off their donations of toys and Easter eggs and bring cheer to children and adults alike. Steve said: “This is my 12th Easter Egg Run with PLVSC, and this year I had some extra support from Sternfenster. All the donations come from local businesses and the scooterists themselves. It’s wonderful to see so many children smiling, despite some difficult medical conditions they have to face, and it’s great to be able to contribute to making their day more cheerful.” Sternfenster’s national sales manager took part in the ride on a Lambretta GP200, and says he’s already looking forward to the next year’s event: “The Easter ride has grown from year to year and I’m glad to see so many of the club members taking part in it. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” Now in its 18th edition, the PLVSC Annual Easter Run brings together enthusiastic scooterists to help good causes. This year’s event ended in the evening with live music and a raffle to help raise money for the East Anglian Air Ambulance and the Prostate Cancer Research UK. Tel: 01522 512525 READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0127

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

CHARITY NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

CUSTOMADE DIRECTORS SMASH

THREE PEAKS CHALLENGE

Aching limbs and dwindling energy levels couldn’t dampen the spirit of a team of directors and staff from Customade as they took on the punishing Three Peaks Challenge to raise £18,000 for a Gloucestershire-based charity. The 21-strong team’s attempt to scale the three highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales was in aid of The Spring Centre, which provides support to the families of children with disabilities and special needs across Gloucestershire. The 24-hour dash to conquer Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon was the brainchild of Nick Gibbons, Customade Group Operations Director. His 11 year old daughter Niamh, who suffers from a genetic condition and needs 24 hour care, regularly visits The Spring Centre for essential respite care. The brave adventurers included Nick and his wife Carly, Customade Group Managing Director John Lightowlers and his wife Kirsty and Customade Group Sales Director John Adams. Also on the team were bighearted staff from Crystal Units of London and the Omega Resource Group, which is based close to Customade in Stonehouse. All three companies contributed to the mighty fundraising effort. The team was transported from peak to peak by drivers Derek Travers from Customade and Steve Fisher from the Spring Centre. Rain and snow didn’t deter the three intrepid Customade directors, who, together with nine of their remaining team members, completed their mammoth challenge in 23 hours and 45 minutes. Nick Gibbons said: “This was undoubtedly the biggest challenge I have ever attempted but it was important for me to put every effort into raising as much money as possible for the Spring Centre - a place that is very important to my family. There was a huge amount of

From left to right: John Lightowlers (Group MD), Kirsty Lightowlers, Nick Gibbons (Group Operations Director), Carly Gibbons, John Adams (Group Sales Director).

preparation and training involved and I am so proud of everyone who took part in this epic event. It was tough to keep going for 24 hours but the sense of camaraderie was amazing. I’d like to thank everyone involved for such a great effort in doing this challenge and raising money for a very deserving charity.” You can read more about the team’s adventures on Nick Gibbons’ Just Giving page: www.justgiving.com/nick-gibbons72. Customade was established in 1979 and offers a comprehensive range of PVC-u and aluminium windows, doors, roofs and conservatories. The £33 million turnover Customade Group, which employs 290 people, also includes Atlas Glazed Roof Solutions, Fineline Aluminium, which supplies designer architectural aluminium products with very slim sight lines, and Hourglass Seal, which manufactures sealed glass units. For further information, please contact Customade’s marketing hotline on 0800 0094 203 or visit www.customade.co.uk. READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0128

Carl F Groupco’s

Frog Race Fund Raiser

“Phenomenal” 13th

GM Fundraising Golf Day

With temperatures in the high twenties, the July sun beat down on the 13th GM Fundraising Golf Day at Hellidon Lakes in Daventry. The annual golf day had confirmed its status as a must attend event in any glazing industry golfer’s calendar, having sold out within 24 hours. Despite the sun, players took on the challenge of the rolling 6187 yard championship course, which as the name suggests featured several demanding water hazards. Many also took the opportunity to challenge and even beat the pro on the par 3 eighteenth hole. All confirmed the quality and toughness of the course. Gary Morton, founder of GM Fundraising says: “As well as a great day out for all involved with a superb dinner, high quality raffle, charity auction and prize giving in the evening, the key objective, as in everything we do, was fundraising. We’re delighted to say that overall we raised £8,400 for Hope House Children’s Hospices.” Congratulations were extended to the winning Promac team of Joe Hague, Paul Young, Mark Rodgers and Richard Brooks, who took the honours with 94 points just one point ahead of Mike James, Steve McEwen, Chris Hunt and Bob Meath of the 3D Aluminiumplas team. Steven Beasley hit a screamer for the Longest Drive, and Dave Pullen won Nearest the Pin. Quickslide’s Adrian Barraclough achieved the Best Individual Score of 39 points with Haffner Murat’s Dave Thomas’ proving how tough the conditions were, picking up the Wooden Spoon trophy on a countback. Morton added, “I’d just like to say a huge thank you for the generosity of our friends and colleagues in making this such a phenomenal day. It has been such a success that all the signs point to making it a two day event next year.” If you’d like to know more about what GM Fundraising is doing to raise funds, and the work they’ve already done, visit http://www.gmfundraising.co.uk/ or http://www.hopehouse.org.uk/. www.gmfundraising.co.uk

The charitable staff at Carl F Groupco entered the world Frog Racing championships to raise funds for MacMillan Cancer Support. With the entire workforce of the company’s Cambridgeshire distribution centre cheering them on, a team of five people successfully eased an eight foot high plywood frog along a rope achieving semi-finalist status. Competing against 36 other teams, the event took place at the Peterborough Greyhound Stadium. The fittings firm said the competition was fierce and that it was ‘frog eat frog’ during the races. Having taken the leap to enter the event for the first time, Carl F Groupco had so

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

Inaugural GM Football Fives competition hailed as a great success The glazing industry’s national five aside football competition GM Football Fives, which took place at Birmingham City Football Club in early May, has been hailed as a massive success by all involved. Developed specifically to allow teams from the glazing industry to compete against industry peers and friends, the GM Football Fives provided a great opportunity for participating companies to put a team together with people from any area of the business - from fitter to Chief Executive – and play for their organisation, while having a lot of fun along the way. Alan Sadler, Managing Director of Profix and GM Fundraising team member explains: “We’d like to thank everybody who helped make the inaugural GM Football Fives such a great success, in particular the 128 players – with a notable mention to Malene Svendsen from ERA who played fantastically, both alongside and against all the male competitors as the only female player. Congratulations to Travis Perkins, who emerged as champions on the day, and a great effort from MB Frames/Oakley Green Conservatories for reaching second place, and Glazerite – the most senior team on the day – for achieving third place, an accolade only slightly overtaken by their victory in the evening’s dance-off against Quickslide. “As well as the tournament itself, other prizes up for grabs at the presentation ceremony in the evening included the Golden Boot, which was shared by Ben Jeavons of Travis Perkins, Matt Draper of Willmott Dixon and Callum Willmot from MB Frames/Oakley Green Conservatories, who scored six goals apiece. Player of the Tournament as voted for by the qualified referees – including ERA Home Security CEO Darren Waters – also went to Callum Willmot, who gained three votes throughout the day. The Spinning Penalty challenge provided a high proportion of the laughs and was admirably won by Quickslide’s Ben Lawrence. But the biggest presentation of the day came before the tournament kicked off, with the handing over to Hope House of the cheque for funds raised at the Spring Ball, which were in excess of £35,000.” Gary Morton adds: “I’d like to extend a huge thank you to the whole GMF Team, especially Alan Sadler, who put on a first class inaugural five-a-side event. Also to Birmingham City Football Club for being such wonderful hosts and of course to the teams who entered and took part in a very competitive event. Congratulations to all the winners and runners up. A great day was had by all, and I think it is safe to say it will stay on the GMF calendar of events.” www.gmfundraising.co.uk

Carl F Groupco staff with the frog used for the Macmillan Cancer Support fund-raiser.

much froggy fun that the hardware supplier is set to enter next year’s event with a boys versus girls challenge. Tel: 01733 393330 - www.carlfgroupco.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0129

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0130

READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0131

CHARITY NEWS

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

GM Fundraising Border2Border Cycling Challenge 2016 Launch Promises ‘The Toughest Challenge Yet’ The National Velodrome in Manchester played host to the official launch of the 2016 GM Fundraising Cycling Challenge: the GMF Border2Border Cycling Challenge, with proud sponsor, Deceuninck. Taking place over 11 days next June, spanning 2,016 miles between Vancouver, Canada and Tijuana, Mexico, offering up 92,295 feet of climbing and temperatures in excess of 40 degrees, the ride is being described as the ‘Toughest Yet’ for good reason. Gary Morton, founder of GM Fundraising comments: “This really is the toughest challenge we’ve ever set ourselves and it promises to be a daunting trial both mentally and physically. To put it into context, during the Rome2Home ride in 2010, the team tackled the infamous Mount Ventoux, which is one of the Tour De France’s toughest ascents of more than 5,000 feet of climbing over almost 13.2 miles. There are three climbs on the B2B route that are bigger than that Mount Ventoux climb.” We will cross seven mountain ranges and much of the ride will be taking place in the absolute wilderness of mountains and deserts including the Cascade Mountains, Columbian Plateau, Sacramento Valley, Californian Coastal Mountains, the Sierra Nevada, the Mojave Desert and the San Antonio Mountains en route from Canada to Mexico. Even excluding the 92,295 climbing from start to finish, the ride is the equivalent of riding from the London Eye to the Manchester Velodrome, each and every one of the 11 days. “During the launch event, which included a 2 hour session on the World Championship velodrome track, we made it clear that riders must be at the peak of fitness by next June. Without the necessary advanced training there is no way even an experienced cyclist would survive this challenge. That’s why the 18 strong riding team will be starting now to get under their belt the planned training of the 2,500 miles target prior to the ride, including 75,000 feet climbing and at least fifteen, 70 plus mile, rides over the next 12 months. And let’s not forget why we’re putting ourselves through this: the fundraising target for the Border2Border Challenge is £100,000 and with industry support we would love to surpass this. Every penny raised goes to Hope House Children’s Hospices because the riders and support team each cover their own costs. We’re also delighted to welcome Deceuninck as our proud headline sponsor and with the support of this leading global brand, we aim to make the 2016 B2B journey a safe and enjoyable experience for all involved, while ultimately raising much needed funds for the families looked after by Hope House.”

Award-winning AWC sponsors Saddleworth Show & charity Colour Blast AWC Home Improvements, an Oldham-based Network VEKA installer is, once again, providing main sponsorship for its local regional show.

In Partnership with Deceuninck Roy Frost, Managing Director of Deceuninck UK explains his decision behind the headline sponsorship: “I’ve known Gary for many years and in fact when I was at Everest, took part in the GMF Top2Bottom ride. That’s now a decade ago and since, I’ve been watching how GM Fundraising has grown and developed to the point where it has really strong brand awareness across the industry. “It’s a great cause and a great charity on a journey that I’m keen to join, so when Gary approached me about both the potential Deceuninck headline sponsorship and joining the challenge as one of the team cyclists, it was an obvious yes. “Although I’ve never been touched directly by the challenge of children’s life limiting illnesses that Hope House faces every day, interestingly my first ever charity cycle ride and one that got me seriously into endurance riding was a London to Paris challenge for which I raised £7,500 for a children’s charity called Keech Cottage. So in that respect, it’s come full circle. “There are other synergies too in that Deceuninck Belgium is well known for its passion for cycling so are keen to support the initiative, and thanks to Dave Broxton who has done the B2B route planning, we have managed to change the route a little to take in Reno, Nevada where a new Deceuninck facility is being opened for North America. So all in, it’s a perfect fit and a challenge that along with the rest of the team, I’m looking forward to –although be it with a little trepidation!” The Ride Starts here; the training has begun; to follow the progress of the team during their 12 month training visit www.gmfundraising. co.uk/border2border like us on Facebook or follow: @gmfundraising on Twitter, and look out for the hashtags #GMFB2B for regular updates. Most importantly the fundraising starts now and each of the team has their own dedicated Just Giving page as well as a general team one: https://www.justgiving.com/teams/GMFB2B. www.gmfundraising.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0132

The Saddleworth Show has become an annual highlight in the AWC calendar, with Network VEKA’s Brand Ambassador, Steve Davis joining the company to generate sales of more than £40,000 during the 2013 event. This year’s show takes place at Well’i’hole Farm, Greenfield on Sunday 28th June. “Sponsoring the show gives us a great opportunity to get the AWC name out to people from throughout the Oldham region”, explains MD, Michael Griffiths. “The stand gives us room to showcase numerous products ‘in the flesh’ and our friendly team are on hand to discuss the benefits of working with a Network VEKA installer – ten-year insurance-backed guarantees, continuous quality assurance, and our commitment to using VEKA door and window systems – industry leaders the world over.” AWC was recently named Best Retailer at the Oldham Business Awards, recognising its business excellence as well as its connection with the local community. The company is

a long-standing patron of Doctor Kershaw’s Hospice – a local specialist care facility for adults with life limiting illnesses. This September 27th sees them sponsor the charity’s Colour Blast event, where entrants follow a 3km course while being showered with clouds of powder paint! Colin Torley, Sales and Marketing Director for The VEKA UK Group commented: “AWC is really pro-active in its relationship with the local community and, judging by its Network VEKA customer satisfaction ratings, its contribution is paying dividends. I wish them the best for another successful Saddleworth Show – let’s see if Michael and the team can top last year’s amazing sales figures!” Tel: 01282 473170 - www.networkveka.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0133

JOHN O’GROATS TO LAND’S END – ALL OVER AGAIN What do you do to mark the 10th anniversary of cycling from John O’Groats to Land’s End? Why, you do it all again of course! Well, you do if you’re Graeme Bailey and Keith Aspinall from Business Micros. The two were members of the very first GM Fundraising Team which rode the 975 miles in 2005 to raise money for the Hope House Children’s Hospice. Feeling nostalgic, they have just completed the very same feat again but this time with just their wives and their dogs for support. Graeme said: “We’ve both ridden in all of the GM cycle challenges since 2005 – including the Hope 66, Coast to Coast and Rome to Home events and raised a huge amount for charity in the process. Before we hang up our spokes, we decided to set ourselves just one more challenge and chose the John O’Groats to Land’s End trip because it held such special memories.” This time around Graeme and Keith completed the trip just for fun and even managed to take a day off their previous time

reaching Land’s End in 12 days instead of the previous 13. Keith said: “It was a great experience with our wives providing the support in their very own mini camper van and even our dogs coming along for the ride. Ten years on, it gave us a chance to relive some of the memories from the many GM Fundraising trips and reflect on all the adventures we’ve had along the way.” Tel: 01925 296105 www.businessmicros.co.uk READER ENQUIRY No: 0815/0134

August 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

FACE TO FACE

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

THIS MONTH: Mark Tetley Director, Bison Frames Mark Tetley is Director at Bison Frames, home of the ground-breaking Genesis brand.

It’s all about you Where you were born and live, currently I’m a Yorkshire man born and bred. I was born in Hemsworth, which is just outside Wakefield, and I now live in Rotherham. Yorkshire is god’s own country and I’m proud to call it home.

Your education and the subjects or activities in which you excelled… Foolishly I was never that interested in school and from

the age of about 13 I would spend my holidays working in my dad’s window and door fabrication plant and decided from a very early age that was the direction for me. So sadly school never seemed that important How wrong was I, a good education is so important but after saying that I had a great mentor: - my dad.

Your favourite sports or interests… I’m not really into sport. Music is my big passion. In fact, I even had my honeymoon at Glastonbury last year. And I’m particularly proud to be able to say that Bison supports up and coming musicians

locally. We sponsor a band called The Sherlocks, a four-piece guitar band which consists of two pairs of brothers. They’re on tour at the moment and well worth seeing. We’re a business that’s rooted in our community. Our success means we’re helping the local economy and by sponsoring The Sherlocks we’re doing our bit for the local music scene too.

Your biggest regret in life… I don’t really do regrets because I think you constantly learn from life. Having said that, my only regret is not marrying my wife, Ashley, sooner. We were together for 26 years before we finally decided to marry last year. We should have done it years ago.

Someone or something that inspires you… I’ve always been inspired by dad and the people I grew up with in the window industry – people who take a chance and make a difference. More recently people like Gareth Mobley of Solidor, Dan Gill of Eclectic Systems and Charles Greensmith of GAP because they think outside the box. I’ll get some stick from them next time I see them for having said that – they’ll never let me forget it! Could you print this answer in white text?!

The temptation you can’t resist…

I love the latest gadgets! I just can’t resist anything new or different. And yes, I couldn’t resist the new Apple watch!

your career When and how you joined this industry… You could say that I was born into this industry because my dad has been involved in the window industry since the early 70’s and as mentioned before I worked in his factory during the school summer holidays from a very early age and caught the bug… anyone in the industry will know exactly what I mean.

The job you do in 25 words… I can do it in less than 25 words – everything! But seriously, I love every aspect of this business and that means I love being as handson as I can. I get involved in everything from product development and production to sales and marketing.

Your greatest achievement… I will let you know! To me it’s all a work in progress.

The mistake you’d like to correct… We all make lots of mistakes, what’s important is that you learn from them. So I don’t regret anything I’ve done because you learn so much

more from the things that don’t get right the first time.

The talent you would like to enhance… I don’t think it’s appropriate to publish the answer to that in this magazine!

and your future What would you like to do if you weren’t in the industry… I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. It’s what I do and it’s what I enjoy, it’s as simple as that. This industry is what makes me tick and I wouldn’t be the person I am if I wasn’t doing what I do.

A particular ambition… I want to continue to grow the Genesis brand of products into a household name. We’ve already got three ground-breaking products in the portfolio and all I can say is watch

this space! The Genesis Vertical Slider is proving that PVCu can be used to replace timber sash windows in Grade II listed buildings and conservation areas because it’s the most authentically detailed PVCu VS on the market. The Genesis Flush Sash is making similar waves when it comes to early nineteenth century casements. And the Genesis Fold and Slide bi-folding door is a stunning alternative to French or patio doors and offers best-in-class security and design.

The way you want to be remembered… With respect.

If you would like to appear in ‘Face to Face’, or would like to nominate someone else to be featured, simply email chris@glassnews.co.uk. www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

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Down

7 Proverbially it saves nine (1,6,2,4)

1 Rats to the emperor of Russia! (4)

8 People who predict what will happen in the future (8)

2 Given a cash reward then chucked on a rubbish dump? (6)

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3 A high pitched shriek that disturbs day nurseries (7)

10 Show a choice of fruit and veg perhaps (7) 12 A bit of a fight that’s rubbish (5) 14 An expression of contempt by noisy nostrils (5) 16 A jumping insect played with a bat! (7) 19 It’s not so hot being calmly audacious (4) 20 Giving directions for a new arrangement of pit songs (8) 22 A secret scoff when the clock strikes twelve (8,5)

4 Soapy wash? Clear in seconds is the inside answer (5) 5 Attic’s in a mess - still (6) 6 From one country to another it’s what some people do (8) 11 Seek safety by fleeing (3,3,2) 13 A naval escort vessel is great if in action (7) 15 Feel in form, like a cat (6) 17 A policeman who used to be found in a laundry (6) 18 Connecting the U.S. with a time period is customary practice (5) 21 Neither very good nor very bad (2,2)

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Fill in all the answers in the grid, fill in your contact details below and send your competition entry to: FAO: Miss Christina Shaw, Glass News Competitions, 12 Sunderland Street, Tickhill, Doncaster, DN11 9QJ.

Fill in your answer and your contact details below and send your competition entry to: FAO: Miss Christina Shaw, Glass News Competitions, 12 Sunderland Street, Tickhill, Doncaster, DN11 9QJ.

Entry deadline: 31/08/15.

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Useful Numbers British Plastics Federation (BPF) Tel: 0207 457 5000

Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF) Tel: 0207 939 9101

British Standards Institution (BSI) – Standards & Publications Tel: 0208 996 9001

GQA Qualifications (formerly Glass Qualifications Authority) Tel: 0114 2720033

BSI – Assessment & Certification Tel: 0845 080 9000

Health & Safety Executive (HSE) – Glass & Related Industries Phil Smith, HM Principal Inspector Tel: 01782 602300 David Appleton, HM Inspector Tel: 0115 9712800

BSI – Product Certification & Testing Tel: 08450 765600 BBSA (British Blind & Shutter Association) Tel: 01449 780444 Building Research Establishment (BRE) Tel: 01923 664000 Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB) Tel: 01453 828851 Dekura Tel: 01952 201631 Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) Tel: 01827 52337 Double Glazing & Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS) Tel: 0845 053 8975 Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme (FENSA) Tel: 0207 645 3700 Get Britain Building (GBB) Tel: 0870 162 0936

www.glassnews.co.uk | August 2015

Proskills – Head Office Tel: 01235 833844 Proskills – Glass & Related Industries Neil Robinson – Tel: 07917 015 322 Recovinyl (via Axion Consulting) Tel: 0161 355 7618 The Glazing Ombudsman (TGO) Tel: 020 7397 7200 UK Green Building Council Tel: 0207 580 0623 Veka Recycling Tel: 01322 38721 Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP) Tel: 01295 819 900 Wood Window Alliance (WWA) Tel: 0844 209 261

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