As the UK’s exclusive supply partner of Graf Synergy machines, Haffner delivers the seamless weld machine innovation to take your business to the next level.
• Superior transom welding quality
• V-Perfect ® transom welding technology
• Weld seam elimination
• Suitable for both V Joints and Butt Joints
• Precision accuracy - delivering a perfect weld every time
• Faster, automated fabrication
Discover more of the benefits of Graf Synergy machines from Haffner
WINNER
This
Slim sightlines
Available in several configurations
Outstanding thermal performance
Classic matt black finish
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
MARKET RESEARCH PUBLISHES LATEST CONSUMER FENESTRATION TRENDS REPORT
Keystone Market Research is delighted to announce the release of its Winter 2025 Consumer Fenestration Trends Report, a highly detailed analysis of homeowner preferences, buying behaviours, and market trends. This comprehensive report continues to build on the success of previous publications and explores material preferences, glazing styles, energy efficiency priorities, and the implications of the upcoming Future Homes Standard.
This year’s report is made possible through expanded sponsorship, with leading industry players Endurance Doors, Epwin Window Systems, the GGF, Liniar, and VEKA supporting the initiative. Their contributions ensure greater accessibility of this unique resource across the fenestration industry, with sponsors able to share the report throughout their supply chains, helping businesses make informed decisions based on detailed consumer insights.
PAGE 17
WINDOW WAREHOUSE EXPANDS ALUMINIUM PRODUCT LINE WITH NEW ALUK DOOR SYSTEMS
Fenestra Build™ is a registered Trademark.
PAGE 23
QUICKSLIDE WHEELS IN TRADE PARTNER SALES SUCCESS WITH STUNNING SAMPLE PRESENTATION CASE
Christina Shaw Editor M: 07805 051322
E: christina@fenestrabuild.co.uk
Emma Champion Advertising Manager
M: 07508 263262
E: emma@fenestrabuild.co.uk
Justin Lazenby Finance Director / Press Release Enquiries
M: 07711 828710
E: justin@fenestrabuild.co.uk
Chris Champion Editorial Enquiries M: 07850 267223
E: chris@fenestrabuild.co.uk
Jordan Beaumont Graphic Design E: jordan@identifywebdesign.co.uk
“GET
TEL: 01302 278756
FAX: 01302 247612
EMAIL: christina@fenestrabuild.co.uk
The views contained herein are not necessarily those of Fenestra Build™ and whilst every effort is made to ensure information throughout is correct, Fenestra Build™ does not accept liability for errors. The views expressed by contributors and the content of letters, are not necessarily those of Fenestra Build™ and therefore cannot take responsibility. WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE?
WRITE TO US: 19 Heather Close, Tickhill, Doncaster, DN11 9UU
PAGE 25
CONSERVATORY OUTLET’S APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME SEES FURTHER SUCCESS
PAGE 29
FENTRADE’S LATEST INVESTMENT FURTHER STRENGTHENS ITS COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE
As the UK’s exclusive supply partner of Graf Synergy machines, Haffner delivers the seamless weld machine innovation to take your business to the next level.
• Superior transom welding quality
• V-Perfect ® transom welding technology
• Weld seam elimination
• Suitable for both V Joints and Butt Joints
• Precision accuracy - delivering a perfect weld every time
• Faster, automated fabrication
Discover more of the benefits of Graf Synergy machines from Haffner
WINNER
UNIQUE HAS VISION
Unique, the multi-award-winning supplier of UPVC and aluminium windows, doors and curtain walling, has extended its product range.
With immediate effect, the business will fabricate COR Vision aluminium sliding patio doors from CORTIZO – the vertically integrated Spanish manufacturer respected around the world for the premium quality and stunning aesthetics of its systems.
COR Vision patio doors offer an almost frameless appearance thanks to their ultra-slim profiles which have sightlines measuring just 20mm.
This frame free look is further enhanced by the fact that door rails can be fully incorporated into the floor whilst top and lateral frames can be embedded into the walls surrounding the door aperture. COR Vision can also include 90° corners without the need for a mullion.
Other benefits include good acoustic insulation, high levels of security and a U-value of 1.3 w/m2K. This means COR Vision complies with Approved Document Part L for use on existing properties.
COR Vision also offers impressive design flexibility. Doors can be created using 2, 3, 4 and 6 sashes, with single, double or triple tracks, and to fit openings measuring up to 13.2 metres wide and 3 metres tall.
Commenting on the introduction of COR Vision, Mir Patel, Aluminium Operations Manager at Unique, said: “Unique has fabricated a number of CORTIZO products since November 2023 including CORTIZO casement windows, bifold doors and the 4700 sliding door system.
“Since we introduced these lines, they’ve proved incredibly popular and by extending our range with COR Vision we’re looking to build on that.
“We’ll be able to offer customers an additional choice of patio door that combines stunning aesthetics with some equally attractive functional benefits.”
•
• Elegant, modern flush
• Suites with the TriSYS® Modern framing system
• PAS 24 compliant
• 10 year warranty
VEKA COLLECTS PROMOTIONAL CAMPAIGN OF THE YEAR AT G AWARDS
VEKA plc claimed Promotional Campaign of the Year for the marketing campaign that introduced the award-winning OMNIA suite to market.
VEKA collected the trophy at the prestigious G24 Awards as the global PVCu supplier earned recognition for OMNIA’s unique marketing campaign.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the G Awards, making VEKA’s win even more special as the company continues to innovate in the fenestration industry.
OMNIA by VEKA – a Product of the Year nominee itself – was displayed initially at FENSTERBAU FRONTALE in March, before the award-winning promotional campaign introduced the suite to the UK in April.
VEKA’s marketing team crafted a comprehensive strategy to effectively introduce OMNIA to both industry professionals and consumers through a mix of digital and traditional marketing methods.
The campaign highlighted OMNIA’s cutting-edge features, emphasising its sustainability, innovative design, and adaptability for future market demands.
The campaign’s messaging was designed to resonate with eco-conscious consumers and businesses, portraying OMNIA as the perfect solution for a greener future and VEKA’s commitment to innovation.
Jessica Cooper, Marketing Director at VEKA plc, expressed her delight at award win, saying: “The G Awards is the pinnacle of recognition in the glass and glazing industry, so to be acknowledged for a campaign we worked tirelessly on is truly rewarding.
“At VEKA, we pride ourselves on pushing the boundaries of innovation and sustainability and the marketing campaign for OMNIA encompassed that perfectly which is a testament to all involved.
AN AWARD-WINNING END TO 2024 FOR CONSERVATORY OUTLET AS ITS
RETAIL NETWORK
ACHIEVES IMPRESSIVE GROWTH
Conservatory Outlet’s end to 2024 was extra special as the manufacturer capped off an extraordinary year as it was recognised by its peers in the Wakefield region for its impressive growth during broader market struggles.
The leading fabricator of windows and doors was presented with a special award after successfully increasing its frame count and revenue this past year whilst supporting its Network of Premium Retailers to grow their year-on-year sales by an industry-busting 27%.
As a result, Conservatory Outlet was presented with the Business Growth Success award at the Wakefield Business Awards.
Managing Director Mick Giscombe noted that the victory was an extra special achievement for all involved: “It’s no secret that it has been a tough time for our sector. But our team has stuck to our vision of adding value to everything we do. We’ve fostered a culture of growth and excellence and have used our knowledge and expertise to propel our retail partners forward.
The Wakefield Business community praised Conservatory Outlet’s leadership and effective marketing and sales support, which they noted was a unique and sustainable approach to business growth.
All of Conservatory Outlet’s Premium Retailers benefit from highly tailored and optimised marketing activity and access to one of the country’s leading digital agencies. This marketing mix of on- and offline activity generates a stream of highly qualified leads.
HOMESHIELD ENGLAND SETS UP FOR SUCCESS WITH HAFFNER
South East installer Homeshield England has taken a major step to strengthen its market position by bringing fabrication in-house. To enhance efficiency and maintain a competitive advantage, the company has made a significant investment in state-of-the-art automation machinery from industry leaders Haffner Ltd. This strategic move sets Homeshield England up for long-term success, ensuring greater control over quality, production and costs.
Homeshield England selected Haffner after carefully researching the market to understand the best option for the business, commenting: “Haffner has a big reputation in the market as the go-to machinery partner – and we quickly discovered why. We wanted to get the right machinery package to achieve our short, medium and long term goals. Haffner’s attention to detail and consultancy advice was vital in achieving this.”
The company particularly praised Haffner’s Commercial Director Bryan Dando, saying: “Bryan was very knowledgeable, helping us to plan out the manufacturing set up and the machines that were right for the business.”
Homeshield England has implemented a fully automated package of Haffner machinery, ensuring exceptional quality and efficiency across its new fabrication set up. This comprehensive suite of machines enhances precision, streamlines production and optimises performance, reinforcing the company’s commitment to delivering high standards in manufacturing.
Installation was completed in early January 2025 and the company is already benefiting from the everything it needs to kickstart its fabrication operation.
Owner of Homeshield England, Mohammed commented: “We’re already impressed with the quality of the machinery. It will help us to cement the reputation we’ve built for ourselves over the years.”
Homeshield England has been installing windows, doors and conservatories in homes in the South East since 1976. The company has built a name for high-quality products and service from start to finish.
A FIRST FOR VBH AT THE INSTALLER AWARDS
VBH, the company behind the greenteQ furniture and hardware brand, has announced that it has been shortlisted as a finalist at the 2025 Installer Awards.
The company has reached the final in the Best Installer Support Program/Service Initiative category with the greenteQ furniture guarantee that was introduced during 2024.
The guarantee covers the finishes of the company’s own brand greenteQ Suite and stainless steel architeQ ranges of residoor, window, and patio door furniture for 20 and 25 years respectively. VBH stress that the guarantee covers ALL finishes, providing ‘no nasty surprises if someone needs to make a claim.’
Gary Gleeson, Marketing Manager at VBH says, “This is the first time that we have entered these awards. This year we felt that our new greenteQ Furniture Guarantee gave us something that has real relevance to installers of all sizes, so we went for it.
“Happily, the judges agreed, and we are very pleased that our guarantee has reached the final cut.”
VBH advise that the guarantee goes further than a simple 20 or 25 year term. If a customer qualifies for the enhanced guarantee, VBH will deal with any claims directly with the consumer.
Gary explains, “The enhanced guarantee takes away all the hassle and expense that installers and fabricators get if they receive a claim. We will ascertain the problem and, if it is a product fault, we’ll replace the item of furniture directly without quibble. If it’s misuse, we’ll explain the issue to the consumer and offer advice for the future. Either way, the consumer gets their issue sorted quickly, and the manufacturer and installer are left free to do what they do best. That’s selling windows and doors!”
The winners will be announced on 13th March.
EXCEL BESPOKE COMPOSITE DOORS BECOMES THE LATEST KENRICK AK TOUCH SECURE™
LAUNCH PARTNER
Excel Bespoke Composite Doors has become the latest company to add the innovative Kenrick AK Touch Secure™ smart lock to its offering.
Steven Panesar, Excel’s Managing Director, said: “We are very impressed with the AK Touch Secure™ which is a nextgeneration smart door lock. As the latest launch partner, we are excited to bring this innovation to our customers. Staying at the forefront of market advancements is a priority for us, and this cutting-edge lock presents exciting new opportunities.”
Andy Meakin, Sales and Marketing Manager at Kenrick, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Excel Bespoke Composite Doors on board. Their enthusiasm and market drive for the product is exciting and we know it will add value to their continued door sales.”
The groundbreaking AK Touch Secure™ smart lock offers a seamless blend of smart technology and high-quality security credentials.
It is compatible with any door handle fitted with a Kenrick 3 Star Locking Cylinder and can be retrofitted with no need for any major hardware modifications. It operates using touch-sensitive technology, a secure keypad, an encrypted key fob, or voice commands via Google Home or Alexa. There’s also a manual override option, meaning the door can always be opened with a key.
The AK Touch Secure™ app gives users features such as remote locking and unlocking, a status check and access logs. They can also give temporary, timed access to a property, making it ideal for Airbnb properties or where contractors need access to a building.
Steven commented: “The ease of fitting and retrofit capabilities are significant benefits of the AK Touch Secure™ for our customers. We also know end users will value the remote locking and unlocking functionality.”
ESSENTRA HELPS WINDOW SYSTEMS SUPPLIER WITH FIRST-OF-ITS KIND PUSH BUTTON
SWINGHANDLE LOCK SOLUTION
Essentra helps window systems supplier with first-of-its kind Push Button Swinghandle Lock solution.
Albert Genau, a global leader in the design and manufacture of durable window systems, has turned to Essentra Components to create and provide a new espagnolette locking system for use across its window guillotine system.
Essentra Components created a first-of-its kind Push Button Swinghandle Lock System to meet the specific needs of Albert Genau as it sought durable, reliable locking solutions across its sliding and folding glass systems.
The finished Swinghandle Lock product not only provided significant cost savings for Albert Genau, leading to greater cost efficiency and resource optimisation, but also won the prestigious RedDot, IF Design and Good Design awards for its design.
Essentra Components, a partner of Albert Genau across its locking systems since 2015, worked with the glazing solutions manufacturer to develop the product with 3D CAD drawings and prototypes. These had to meet the objectives of creating an easy to operate, durable, reliable and long-lasting locking system. The locks also needed to seamlessly integrate into the new window systems, be easy to maintain, and fit the ergonomic and aesthetic requirements of Albert Genau based on its extensive customer research.
Adil Işildak, Chairman of the Board, Albert Genau is delighted with the outcome: “Our relationship with Essentra has been going from strength to strength. When we design a new product, we discuss possible locking options with Essentra and act accordingly.”
Serkan Ruzgar, Access Hardware Regional Sales Director APAC and EMEA at Essentra, adds: “We have a fantastic, long-lasting working relationship with Albert Genau and this latest locking system combines the expertise of both partners to deliver a truly award-winning locking system. We are very proud of this solution and our partnership and look forward to delivering more bespoke solutions for Albert Genau and other clients across our extensive portfolio.”
WINDOW WAREHOUSE EXPANDS ALUMINIUM PRODUCT LINE WITH NEW ALUK DOOR SYSTEMS
Window Warehouse has expanded its Aluminium product line with three innovative door systems from AluK, designed to enhance both modern and traditional properties with cuttingedge performance and style..
The S140 Lift and Slide patio door, introduced in late 2024, offers a sleek, contemporary design with advanced functionality. With a slim interlock of 44mm, this high-performance system is perfect for modern homes and commercial spaces, providing versatility and customization. This cutting-edge door complies with all building regulations, including Part L, ensuring thermal efficiency.
The S67 Inline Sliding Door is another forward-thinking addition, designed to meet the highest UK standards. It’s an extremely versatile door that is Part L compliant for existing and new homes. With U-values of 1.4W/m2K, it provides excellent thermal efficiency. It has a sightline interlock of 35mm, is compatible with a multi-point lock, and features a low threshold, ensuring security and accessibility. It’s engineered to blend high performance with contemporary design, offering reliability and flexibility for renovation projects and new buildings.
The latest addition is the Aluk Heritage Door, a modern take on a true, early 20th-century design classic. Featuring ultra-slim 51.7mm sightlines and period-inspired handles, it enhances heritage aesthetics while offering market-leading strength and smooth operation. Available in several configurations, including fan and side lights, it can be seamlessly paired with the Heritage window system for a cohesive home design.
To find out more about Window Warehouse’s new aluminium door systems visit their website today www.windowwarehouse.co.uk. Get in touch with the sales team at info@window-warehouse.co.uk or call 02392 327744.
As a trade-only fabricator, we can focus on giving you the products and service you need to grow your business:
• Veka Windows and Doors
• Flush Sash Windows
• Conservatories
• Leka and Leka Xi Roofing Systems
• Marketing Support
• Profile 22 Windows and Doors
• Patio and Bifolding Doors
• Conservatory Roofs
• Ultraframe and Wendland Roofs
• Technical and Sales Support
HERITAGE THAT HAS IT ALL
With Legacy VS, Quickslide has designed a heritage window that can meet planning requirements, exceed building regulations and which gives homeowners an affordable and authentic alternative to a timber sash that is also low-maintenance and offers top-notch performance to boot.
With its slim midrail that is over a centimetre narrower than standard, timber-looking 90° mechanical joints, deep bottom rail, run-through sash horns and curvy ovolo frame, Legacy VS is a traditionally designed sash window that has been specifically created with conservation areas and listed buildings in mind. Even up close you’ll be pushed to tell the difference with a timber original. Optional astragal bars include spacers between the units, creating the appearance of “wood” running through individual panes, while a choice of wood-effect foil finishes including dual options for inside and out, along with a variety of hardware options complete the authentic period look.
With an impressive 1.2 U-value, the Legacy VS meets the energy efficiency standards for new-build homes, rather than settling for the limiting u-value (of 1.6 W/m²K), and it does so without the need for unsightly triple glazing or expensive krypton gas. Security is also a priority, with modern locking mechanisms available, along with a comprehensive PAS24 security upgrade.
Legacy VS brings the elegance and beauty of the past together with the very best in performance, efficiency and practicality, and ensures that choosing a sash window no longer means having to compromise. www.quickslide.co.uk
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6000+ Products
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Ordering
FENTRADE’S EXPERTISE INVALUABLE IN LARGESCALE DESIGN-LED CURTAIN WALLING PROJECT
Aberporth Primary on the Ceredigion coast has a striking new Mondrian-inspired façade thanks to the skills of trade fabricator Fentrade and contractor LEB Construction.
Chris Reeks, Managing Director at Fentrade, said: “The design, size and timescale on this project were all extremely demanding, but we were more than up for the challenge.”
The project began when LEB Construction approached Fentrade for their support. LEB Construction had worked with Fentrade on previous projects, and knew the team had the expertise that would be required.
It involved replacing almost 400m2 of original steel single-glazed screens with AluK’s SL52 capped curtain walling system. As if the scale wasn’t demanding enough, it also featured a daring design from architect Mathew Tench involving primarycoloured aluminium-faced panels in irregular rectangular shapes, all inspired by abstract artist Piet Mondrian.
Fentrade worked with AluK’s design team to recommend a switch from the original casement windows within the curtain walling to tilt and turn windows in AluK’s 58BW HI system to accommodate the larger sizes required. Fentrade also recommended replacing the double doors in the design with wider single doors in AluK’s GT55 system to achieve higher levels of security while still providing the necessary fire escape access.
The fabrication phase could only have been completed by an experienced fabricator committed to attention to detail.
The primary-coloured aluminium-faced panels were all irregular rectangular shapes and needed to fit alongside the windows and doors within the same curtain walling sections. Unlike conventional stick curtain walling with regular laddertype sections, these panels were required to run across the mullions to achieve the Mondrian-style look.
Fentrade and AluK’s technical teams calculated that the noses of the mullion caps in the SL52 system could be machined sufficiently to allow the panels to cross over without negatively impacting on the performance of the curtain walling screens.
KENRICKS SIGN SILENT VIEW WINDOWS AS LATEST AK TOUCH SECURE™ LAUNCH PARTNER
Kenricks has announced that Silent View Windows has become the latest launch partner for its AK Touch Secure™ smart door lock.
The AK Touch Secure™ has been designed to revolutionise door security and offers a seamless blend of smart technology and high-quality security credentials. It is compatible with any door handle fitted with a Kenrick 3 Star Locking Cylinder and can be retrofitted in a matter of minutes with no need for any major hardware modifications.
This standout feature particularly impressed Silent View Windows. Rose Evlat, Marketing Executive at Silent View Windows, said. “One of the most exciting features of this smart lock is its ability to be retrofitted onto existing doors. This opens up a whole new market opportunity for homeowners who want to upgrade their security without replacing their entire door. It’s a game-changer in terms of added value, convenience and ease of installation.”
The AK Touch Secure™ operates using touch-sensitive technology, a secure keypad, encrypted key fob, or voice commands via Google Home or Alexa. There’s also a manual override option, meaning the door can always be opened with a key.
Using the AK Touch Secure™ app, users gain features such as remote locking and unlocking, a status check and access logs. They can also give temporary, timed access, making it invaluable for Airbnb properties or where contractors need access to a building.
Andy Laird, Area Sales Manager at Kenricks, commented: “AK Touch Secure™ reflects our commitment to offering advanced hardware solutions that meet the evolving needs of today’s fast-moving market. We are delighted to have Silent View Windows on board and confident of the new opportunities it will deliver for the business.”
Founded in 2010, Silent View Windows has grown to become one of Oxfordshire’s and Buckinghamshire’s most respected names in window and door installation. The family-run business based in Thame, specialises in PVC-U, aluminium and timber frames and work closely with homeowners, developers and builders.
QUICKSLIDE WHEELS IN TRADE PARTNER SALES SUCCESS
WITH STUNNING
SAMPLE
PRESENTATION CASE
Quickslide continues to elevate the exceptional levels of support it commits to the success of its installer network with the launch of a user friendly and practical presentation case on wheels, designed specifically to help its trade partners showcase Quickslide’s stunning sash windows to homeowners. Created as the ultimate sales tool, this lightweight case can be transported and manoeuvred with ease, protecting the sample 600mm x 900mm Legacy sliding sash window during every home visit.
The wheeled presentation case is produced using a robust grey weave material which can be personalised with the addition a of a screen printed logo. Three pockets are integrated into the overall design to hold brochures, foil swatches, glass samples, other point of sale materials and tablets to ensure the demonstration runs smoothly towards a confirmed sale.
“The thought and preparation that goes into our sales and marketing support for our trade partners is second to none. This case is designed specifically to take any last remaining stress and inconvenience out of the homeowner pitch, allowing the sales person to concentrate wholly on demonstrating the innate quality and functionality of the product itself,” said Tom Swallow, Quickslide’s sales director. “Combining the practical with the stylish is the best way of making a brilliant first impression. Your sales team can arrive at the appointment calm, professional and confident, ready to make that sale!”
Window companies can also include a removable folder which contains hardware samples set in plastazote foam with layered cut outs. Everything can be fitted to the presentation case, and wheeled with ease from appointment to appointment.
https://www.quickslide.co.uk
CONSERVATORY OUTLET’S APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME SEES FURTHER SUCCESS
Wakefield’s Conservatory Outlet is celebrating its expanded support for learning and development as two members of senior management are the first to pass through the company’s Degree Apprenticeship programme.
Michelle Horne (Operations Manager) and Sarah Fox (Account Manager) have completed their Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Operations Management.
To achieve this qualification, comparable to a foundation degree, the pair had to participate in monthly training masterclasses across the course’s two-year duration. Alongside these regular workshops, Michelle and Sarah also received one-to-one mentoring and had to complete a series of practical activities and examinations.
Their final assessment was centred around the delivery of a project they implemented at work, culminating in a presentation about their chosen project’s impact on the business to a panel of academic teachers and business leaders.
Completing the course was a full-circle moment for Michelle, who started her career in the industry as an entry-level apprentice and has since gone on to mentor other learners in the business. This role in helping newcomers to the industry saw her named Mentor of the Year in the West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards.
“Apprenticeships have been central to my entire career,” Michelle explains.
“Recently, I’ve been helping with Conservatory Outlet’s apprenticeship programme, mentoring several school-leavers as they join the business and begin their professional careers. So, being able to enter the classroom again, so to speak, and become a learner again was a privilege.
“If you’d have asked me when I first left school whether or not I’d end up with a qualification like this, I’d say absolutely not!”
“Conservatory Outlet has been incredibly supportive and placed great faith and trust in me. They’ve believed in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself. They gave me the best chance to succeed and grow, both personally and professionally.”
Total Hardware
• Bi-directional locking cams
• Available in 8mm, 9m and 10.5mm cam variations
• One piece zinc centre keep to enhance compression and security
• Suitable for Standard Casements, French Casements, Flush Casement and French Flush Casements
• Seamless integration option with Yale Senscheck™
KEYSTONE MARKET RESEARCH PUBLISHES LATEST CONSUMER FENESTRATION TRENDS REPORT WITH EXPANDED
INDUSTRY SPONSORSHIP
Keystone Market Research is delighted to announce the release of its Winter 2025 Consumer Fenestration Trends Report, a highly detailed analysis of homeowner preferences, buying behaviours, and market trends. This comprehensive report continues to build on the success of previous publications and explores material preferences, glazing styles, energy efficiency priorities, and the implications of the upcoming Future Homes Standard.
This year’s report is made possible through expanded sponsorship, with leading industry players Endurance Doors, Epwin Window Systems, the GGF, Liniar, and VEKA supporting the initiative. Their contributions ensure greater accessibility of this unique resource across the fenestration industry, with sponsors able to share the report throughout their supply chains, helping businesses make informed decisions based on detailed consumer insights.
Key findings from the report include:
- Triple Glazing and uPVC Lead Preferences: Triple glazing continues to dominate, while uPVC emerges as the most popular material for both windows and doors this time, offering affordability and energy efficiency.
- Rising Popularity of Sliding Patio Doors: Younger and wealthier homeowners are driving demand for sliding patio doors, which have overtaken bifold doors as the preferred style.
- Low Awareness of the Future Homes Standard: With only 18% of homeowners familiar with the standard, the report highlights that the onus is on the industry to promote energy-efficient upgrades as it looks unlikely currently that the standard will drive additional homeowner sales.
Charlotte Hawkes, founder and director of Keystone, shared her perspective: “Amid the continuing economic pressures our market is dealing with, this report provides actionable insights to help businesses navigate shifting consumer priorities and outline the pockets of opportunity still available.
Kenricks AK Touch Secure™
state-of-the-art lock offers a seamless blend of smart technology and high-quality security credentials.
Key features at a glance
• Retrofit Ready Fits any door handle with the Kenrick 3-Star Cylinder
• Invisible Design Internal fit, no external signs of the lock
• Versatile Use Perfect for homes, offices and residential complexes
• Smart Security End-to-end encryption for peace of mind
• Access Control Set timed or temporary access
• Quiet Operation Smooth, quiet operation
• Fast Locking Secure in under 2 seconds
App-controlled Manage the lock remotely via the dedicated app. Check the door status from your smartphone.
FENTRADE’S LATEST INVESTMENT FURTHER STRENGTHENS ITS COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE
Trade fabricator Fentrade has reinforced its commitment to quality, service and reliability as part of its 2025 growth strategy with an investment in additional fabrication machinery. The newly-installed Elumatec EP124 Automatic Crimper is now fully operational, enhancing the company’s manufacturing capabilities and underlining its focus on excellence.
Chris Reeks, Fentrade’s Managing Director, said: “Part of the strategy for 2025 is to enhance our product offering by building upon our reputation of quality. A key way to do this is to look at various stages of our manufacturing set up and to see how we can mechanise where possible. One of the areas we felt we could improve upon was our sash corner crimping, and we made the decision to invest in an Elumatec EP124 Automatic Crimper.”
Chris notes that the crimper will improve production efficiency because it’s easy to adjust and operate and has short changeover times. It will also improve the overall finish of the sash because it produces clean mitre joins and minimises the potential for steps in the corners.
He said: “Enhancing our production efficiency and elevating product quality allows us to deliver even greater value to our customers, further strengthening our service offering.”
The Elumatec Automatic Crimper will join a number of other Elumatec machines in Fentrade’s manufacturing setup. Chris said: “We value the reliability of Elumatec machines. They help us to ensure the only machine downtime we have is through planned maintenance, not breakdowns. It means we can be the supplier our customers can depend on.”
Chris also praised Elumatec’s approach, saying: “Working with Elumatec is always hassle-free, for example with this latest machine the whole journey from initial conversation to order and delivery has taken less than three weeks. We’re delighted to have executed a key element of our 2025 strategy so early in the year.”
Fentrade has built its name on being the fabricator that’s committed to superior quality and results. Its investment in the Elumatec EP124 Automatic Crimper demonstrates that commitment is as strong as ever.
