• Modern, stylish and slimmer aesthetics
• Available in inline lever/lever, offset lever/pad and offset lever/lever
• Improved method of fixing lever/pad to the backplate to ensure product durability
• 10 year mechanical and surface finish guarantee on powder-coated finishes
The 1.4 per cent fall in construction output for the first four months of this year, marks a worrying trend in what is happening to the construction sector, says the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) in response to the latest ONS Construction Industry output data for April.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB commented: “The latest ONS figures show a worrying trend emerging, with decline in construction output recorded in each of the first four months of 2024. While survey data collected by the ONS indicates that continued wet and windy conditions once again contributed to the struggles of construction firms, the stagnation seen across the UK economy suggests this is part of a wider problem.”
Berry concluded: “The performance of the construction industry is a key element of the UK’s overall economic performance. With the General Election fast approaching, and all of the major political parties claiming sustainable long-term growth will be a priority, it is essential that construction receives the attention it needs. By boosting house building rates, providing support to people looking to carry out energy efficient upgrades to their homes, and taking steps to address the current skills crisis in construction, the next government can set the UK on the road to a brighter future.”
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SAFEWARE UNLOCKS 21 YEARS OF SECURITY EXCELLENCE
PAGE 11
CONSERVATORY OUTLET CONTINUES TO EXPAND ITS APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMME
• Elegant, modern flush aesthetics
• Available in any RAL colour
• Complemented with a choice of contemporary glass designs
• Suites with the TriSYS® Modern framing system
• PAS 24 compliant
• 10 year warranty
At a glitzy ceremony held at Tileyard North, Conservatory Outlet was recognised as one of Wakefield’s best businesses.
Over 150 business leaders and representatives, academics and key local figures were in attendance as the Wakefield Top 100, the list of the city’s top companies, was unveiled.
Founded by Wakefield Council, the University of Huddersfield and the 3M Buckley Innovation Centre, the Wakefield Top 100 celebrates the achievements of the region’s businesses. To rank, companies were subjected to an external audit that measured turnover, profit, employee numbers and growth.
Representing Conservatory Outlet at the unveiling ceremony was Karen Starkey, the company’s Head of HR.
“Being named in the Wakefield Top 100 only strengthens the Conservatory Outlet name in the region and beyond. This achievement showcases how successful the business is and that success has only been possible thanks to our talented and passionate workforce, many of whom call Wakefield home.”
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MERCURY MAKES WAVES IN THE USA
PAGE 17 HART & CO MAKE FURTHER UPGRADES IN PRODUCTION
Fenestra Build™ is a registered Trademark.
Christina Shaw Editor M: 07805 051322
E: christina@fenestrabuild.co.uk
Emma Champion Advertising Manager
M: 07508 263262
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M: 07711 828710
E: justin@fenestrabuild.co.uk
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WRITE TO US: 19 Heather Close, Tickhill, Doncaster, DN11 9UU
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EPWIN WINDOW SYSTEMS’ 360 SHOWROOM PROVIDES INSPIRATIONAL INTRODUCTION
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DARREN GAIT CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF SERVICE AT CARL F GROUPCO
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.
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Safeware, the specialist hardware division of Epwin Window Systems is celebrating the 21st anniversary of its iconic Safeware range of multi-point door locks. Since the inception in June 2003, the Safeware range of feature rich door locking solutions remain a popular choice with Epwin fabricators, demonstrating their timeless appeal and innovative design.
With an impressive record of over 1.5 million sold to date, Safeware door locks have retained their popularity over the years. Specifically designed for use on PVC-U and composite doors, its reputation for high-quality mechanisms and precision design ensures ease of use, reliability and durability.
During its 21-year tenure, the lock has developed into a suite of multi-point door locks, suitable for all market sectors. Paul Hinds, Head of Sales at Safeware, said: “The family of Safeware multi-point locks is renowned for prioritising security. Over the years, the range has evolved in line with market demands but the fundamental design principles have remained the same, demonstrating how ahead of its time it was when we launched it in 2003.”
The exclusive Safeware 7 multi-point lock was designed in collaboration with Yale. Paul said: “The Safeware 7 is a sevenpoint lock incorporating three hooks and four precompression rollers. It is designed to give optimum security with ease of operation. The lock is supplied with a one piece keep which features several innovations that are unique to Safeware, saving on manufacturing time and allowing simple, quick and effective installation.”
The latest addition to the range is the development of SensCheck, an integrated smart door sensor, in collaboration with Yale.
Paul said: “We were the official launch partner of Yale SensCheck back in 2022. Yale SensCheck allows homeowners the option of being able to check the status of their doors on their smart devices and mobile phones with instant connected security status for peace of mind. Since the launch, Yale SensCheck has proved popular with our customers, helping them to tap into this growing domestic interest and creating valuable upselling opportunities.”
As we are a trade-only fabricator, we can focus on giving you the products and service you need to grow your business.
• Windows
• Doors
• Conservatories
• Conservatory Roofs
• Marketing, Technical & Sales Support
• Flush Sash Windows
• Patio and Bi-Folding Doors
• Leka and Leka Xi Roofing Systems
• Ultraframe and Wendland Roofs
Conservatory Outlet, the UK’s leading manufacturer of windows, doors and living spaces, was again recognised at the West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards as Sam Allen walked away with a special award for his work as an Intermediate level apprentice.
Founded by the Yorkshire Evening Post, the West Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards celebrates individuals and businesses in the region that excel at delivering and supporting vocational education through work.
Finance Assistant Sam Allen was recognised for his outstanding work in completing his AAT Level 2 Apprenticeship. He recently completed his apprenticeship, gaining a distinction in the process, combining class-based study at Wakefield College alongside on-the-job learning and a full-time role within Conservatory Outlet’s Finance team.
Sam said about his award: “I’m delighted to have been recognised by the judges. I’ve found my apprenticeship really beneficial for my development. I’ve been able to take what I’ve learnt in class and immediately apply it at work. It’s given me a brilliant perspective and I can’t wait to continue my studies as I work my AAT Level 3 qualifications.”
Congratulating Sam on his award, Mick Giscombe, Conservatory Outlet’s Managing Director, said: “I’m delighted for Sam. His progression since joining the company has been rewarding to see.
“From starting out as a Finance Apprentice, working towards various AAT qualifications, he has completed his studies, earned a promotion and made a giant impact within the Finance department with his willingness to learn, enthusiasm and problem-solving abilities.”
Sam’s success further cements Conservatory Outlet as a leading advocate of apprentices and training in the region, and within the wider fenestration and manufacturing sectors.
Epwin’s Vertical Sliding Sash Windows have been used to transform a high-end private apartment development overlooking Kings Hill Golf Club in West Malling, Kent.
The original timber sash windows had deteriorated considerably and were no longer fit for use. The development’s residents appointed Kestrel Home Improvements to undertake the replacement project throughout the property’s six apartments. Mark Ramsey, Managing Director of Kestrel, said: “We weren’t the cheapest contractor, but we offered the authentic window solution the residents wanted. We were able to offer sash windows that maintained all the building’s original aesthetics, including the arched detailing on four of the windows. The competing contractor had proposed making the arched windows square, which might have been simpler but would have compromised on the building’s aesthetic appeal.”
Kestrel was able to offer the arched window detailing thanks to the expertise of fabricator of choice Mercury Glazing Supplies and the versatility of Epwin’s Sliding Sash Window System.
In total, Mercury manufactured 32 PVC-U Vertical Sliding Sash Windows, four of which had arched tops. All the windows were manufactured in white on both sides and featured run-through horns and astragal bars to retain the aesthetics of the original windows.
The installation of the windows took under three weeks to complete, and the Kestrel team liaised closely with the building’s residents to keep disruption to a minimum.
The finished result is impressive. Mark commented: “The new Sliding Sash windows have restored the building’s high-end architecture and improved the thermal efficiency. Compared to the original timber frames, the slimmer profile of the new windows lets more natural light into the building, something that the residents have welcomed. All credit goes to Mercury for the quality of the manufacture and our installation team for their attention to detail and exceptional working practices.”
Kestrel Home Improvements is based in Kent. It has three highly experienced installation teams and sells windows, doors and conservatories in PVC-U, aluminium and timber, as well as guttering and roofline.
Conservatory Outlet, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of home improvement products, is celebrating the continued success of its apprenticeship programme.
After investing a six-figure sum into developing the skills of young professionals in West Yorkshire last year, the firm has seen the number of apprenticeships and those undertaking official training within the company grow by 25%.
The firm has also recently created two brand-new positions for two young graduates, Sam Allen (Finance Assistant) and Ben Bradbury (Order Processor) who have recently passed their AAT Level 2 and Business Admin Level 3 courses respectively.
Karen Starkey, Head of HR at Conservatory Outlet, commented: “As one of Wakefield’s largest employers, we believe it is critical to offer new opportunities and development pathways for our staff and the local community.
“As we continue to grow and evolve as a business, we look to the future. Apprentices are the best way of doing this and we actively promote our apprenticeship programme to existing staff, school leavers and new starters alike.”
The Wakefield-based firm, which employs nearly 200 staff at its Thornes Lane Wharf factory, has won plaudits for its approach to vocational learning and professional development. The company’s approach isn’t solely focussed on young people and school leavers as they also provide ongoing training for staff keen to progress and learn new skills.
Such examples include Maintenance Engineer Joe Davies, who has completed several courses with the full backing of Conservatory Outlet and is now studying towards a degree-level qualification, and Marketing Coordinator Missy Mortimer, who has recently started a specialised marketing course to help further support the firm’s wider marketing strategy.
Additionally, over 15 team leaders and senior leaders across transport, manufacturing, operations and customer service departments have enrolled on strategic vocational management courses in the past year.
Elevate your door projects with the sleek versatility of aluminium sliding doors or the expansive qualities of bifold options , all backed by Mercury’s commitment to quality and competitive turnaround.
Bifold Doors
Sliding Doors
Designer Doors
Heritage Doors
Entrance Doors
Commercial Doors
The winners of the inaugural Steel Window Association (SWA) Awards have been announced at a ceremony in County Hall, London. These new awards have been created to highlight impressive residential and commercial projects which incorporate steel windows, doors and screens. The members of the SWA comprise the very best companies in the industry and they assembled to celebrate their achievements, old and new.
As well as being a Secured by Design member, Carl F Groupco is also an authorised supplier of Secured by Design products Kris Bennell, President of the SWA, started proceedings with a short speech before handing over to John Ramshaw, Technical Editor of Architecture Today, the awards judge, who announced the winners of the Best Domestic and Best Commercial Projects and an Associated member award.
Govette Windows won Best Domestic Project for a house extension in Weybridge, Surrey. “This project impressed in terms of its architectural response – the fenestration perfectly complements the building’s brick and metal skin, while also letting in daylight and prompting views out in all the right places. It also hints at a bygone industrial age, that seems to suit the style of the existing Edwardian house.” John Ramshaw.
West Leigh won Best Commercial Project with the Voysey House, a project which demonstrated what can be achieved when a committed client and a highly knowledgeable and experienced window manufacturer work together. The overall result is stunning, with West Leigh playing a crucial role in returning an architecturally significant building back to its original aesthetic, while providing modern levels of performance.” John Ramshaw.
Steel Window Fittings was presented with the Associated Award as the company’s ironmongery was used in both the winning Best Domestic Project and the Best Commercial Project.
Specialist fabricator Mercury, in collaboration with Conservatory Craftsmen, has completed a spectacular aluminium new build project in North Kentucky, south of Cincinnati in the USA.
The 111 sqm home extension was designed to accommodate an indoor lush garden space complete with largescale waterfall pond, allowing the homeowner to grow bananas, citrus fruits and a variety of tropical plants. With such a generous glazing façade needed, the choice of products specified was exacting to maximise light penetration.
Fabricated in-house by Gloucester-based Mercury, the extensive structure was manufactured from the innovative Smart Wall system for the main framework, featuring a combination of 100mm and 150mm sections. Reinforced with robust steel supports, the thermally broken system is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and offers excellent thermal transmittance, ensuring both longevity and performance. The aluminium structure was powder coated in RAL9011 Satin black to complement the existing property.
The project’s windows, fabricated from the Alitherm 600 system, were used as inserts and in higher-level positions within the Smart Wall framework. The windows are designed to optimise thermal efficiency whilst their slim sightlines maximise light exposure, a crucial element for this project. The windows also incorporated sloping beads to effectively channel water away, which was important given the adverse weather conditions the region can experience.
A unique aspect of the project is the conservatory’s side wall, which stands over 4 metres high and is shared with the adjoining house. The design allows the second floor of the property to directly overlook the botanical garden, creating a seamless blend of an indoor and outdoor space.
The roof was manufactured by Roof Kits in Yatton, west of Bristol and was overseen by the Mercury team to ensure a seamless integration within the structure.
Throughout the project, Mercury’s experienced in-house commercial team collaborated closely with Conservatory Craftsmen to ensure all products were manufactured and shipped on time direct to site.
Stellar aluminium windows and doors have been installed in a 285 year old windmill near Llanerchymedd as part of a transformative upgrade. Melin Gallt-y-Benddu has been an iconic part of Anglesey’s landscape for nearly three centuries. However, in recent years, the windmill, which was completed in 1738, was in danger of becoming a ruin.
Its third-generation owner and his wife wanted to restore the building and to achieve this, the couple enlisted the help of local architectural technologist Adrian Williamson of WM Design & Architecture and P&C Building Contractors Ltd.
The system specified for the project was Stellar Aluminium and the windows and doors were manufactured by longstanding Epwin Window Systems’ fabricator, Heritage Trade Frames Ltd. Richard Moore, Area Sales Manager at Heritage Trade Frames, said: “We’d manufactured Stellar products for several of Adrian and WM Design & Architecture’s previous projects, so he knew the quality Heritage Trade Frames brings. He also understood all the benefits of Stellar Aluminium, including its QUALICOAT-approved marine-grade paint finish, which is perfect for Anglesey’s coastal environment, as well as its slim sightlines and contemporary flush styling.”
Richard continued: “The original specification was for casement windows, but a site visit with P&C resulted in a change to tilt and turn windows. Looking at the five-storey building, it was clear that tilt and turn windows would be the better option because they would be easier to clean from the inside.”
To secure the agreement of the local planning department, Heritage Trade Frames supplied a sample window alongside a detailed specification. The planning officer agreed the Stellar Flush Tilt & Turn Window had all the credentials required and permission was granted.
The 22 Stellar Tilt & Turn Windows, Stellar Flush Casement Window and Stellar French door, were installed by P&C Building Contractors over a five month period.
Dynamic Hardware combines hardware expertise and experience a relentless focus on excellence to give you the products that make the difference The 40 years’ industry experience of the leadership team means we know what it takes to be a supply partner you can rely on.
Leading manufacture Hart & Co., established in 1979, continue to meet customer demand by upgrading their production line.
A well-established uPVC & Aluminium fabricator business with 45 years of trade, Hart & Co. have adapted to the market over the years and now offer product diversification, specialising in fire windows and automatic opening vents (AOVs) for high rise buildings for new-build window installers.
Just before lockdown in 2020, Hart & Co. purchased a whole new aluminium machinery package from Kombimatec. Fast forward to 2024 and they are a returning customer having purchased a new EV470 CNC Corner and Transom Cleaner which was installed recently and will be taking a delivery of a new DGS450/500 Electronic Double Mitre Saw in the coming weeks.
The EV470 has been programmed to clean the Rehau Total 70 PVC window and door system. It’s powered by a Mitsubishi servo control system and comes with a new larger colour touch screen interface making life easy for operators. Built in usb and ethernet ports enable simple backup and download of cleaning programs. A profile identification system comprising of two measuring devices and three photo electric laser sensors makes the machine run smoothly.
Chris Hart, Director, said that Kombimatec are “competitively priced and offer good turnaround times, from past experience we know the machines are built to a very high standard”. He also mentioned that as a business they continuously look at ways to improve production – David Parsons, from Kombimatec, responded to this by looking at some bespoke equipment to help solve their needs.
For further information on Kombimatec range of standard and bespoke machine solutions contact direct on 01582 562218 or visit their website at kombimatec.com
Editors Notes:
Kombimatec Machines Ltd. Are an industry leading manufacturer and supplier of precision machinery used to fabricate windows and doors for over 40 years, delivering machines for working both Aluminium and PVC-U profiles in the UK and Worldwide.
For over 37 years Window Warehouse has been providing the industry with quality doors and windows for all UPVC and Aluminium jobs. Whether you are looking to complete new builds, refurbishments, commercial or residential projects Window Warehouse is there to guide you every step of the way.
DAY TURNAROUND FOR PVC WINDOWS & ALUMINIUM BI-FOLDS 24 HOUR QUOTE TURNAROUND SECOND TO NON CUSTOMER CARE 10 YEAR GUARANTEE ON ALL PRODUCTS
You’ll never compromise on quality when you choose Window Warehouse for your commercial aluminium shopfronts. We work with designers, contractors, and architects to make our commercial aluminium shopfronts suited to you, with a wide range of configurations, RAL colours, and locking options.
With commercial projects often having tight deadlines, we pride ourselves on providing a rapid and efficient service to all projects. We can cater to new builds and refurbishment projects, with amazing levels of watertightness, air tightness, and wind load through rigorous testing. Quality is at the core of everything we do. Our quality control processes ensure that every product we manufacture meets or exceeds industry standards.
We offer both the GT55 NI and GT55 TB system depending on the insulation required. The GT55 NI is specifically designed for high-traffic environments where no insulation is required. It’s extremely robust, and with a range of security and customizable hardware, this system can be designed to suit specific demands.
The GT55 TB system offers PAS 24 rating and delivers high levels of energy efficiency with its thermally broken profiles. With sealed units of 6mm up to 28mm, it’s an effective choice for shop fronts, entrances, and ground floor treatments, exuding security and performance. Choose us at Window Warehouse to bring your vision to life with precision and reliability. Contact us today to discuss your project requirements at info@window-warehouse.co.uk or call 02392 324477. Check out our website and social media for all the latest updates www.window-warehouse.co.uk.
• Choice of three-sided extension or four-sided freestanding garden room
• Choice of finishes and options for dwarf walls, full walls or defined heights
• Modular construction – ideal for access restrictions
• Installed on concrete pads –no extensive groundworks or foundations
• Construction in just three to five days including fitting the Leka Base, Leka Walls and Leka Roof System
• Superb thermal efficiency
• GRP construction eliminates woodworm or moisture absorption
• A range of internal finishes are available
At a glitzy ceremony held at Tileyard North, Conservatory Outlet was recognised as one of Wakefield’s best businesses.
Over 150 business leaders and representatives, academics and key local figures were in attendance as the Wakefield Top 100, the list of the city’s top companies, was unveiled.
Founded by Wakefield Council, the University of Huddersfield and the 3M Buckley Innovation Centre, the Wakefield Top 100 celebrates the achievements of the region’s businesses. To rank, companies were subjected to an external audit that measured turnover, profit, employee numbers and growth.
Representing Conservatory Outlet at the unveiling ceremony was Karen Starkey, the company’s Head of HR.
“Being named in the Wakefield Top 100 only strengthens the Conservatory Outlet name in the region and beyond. This achievement showcases how successful the business is and that success has only been possible thanks to our talented and passionate workforce, many of whom call Wakefield home.”
Karen concludes: We’re incredibly proud to fly the flag for the city and be listed alongside other forward-thinking and thriving companies.”
Conservatory Outlet’s inclusion comes as no surprise. In the past year alone, the manufacturer of windows, doors and new living spaces has expanded its exclusive product range, increased its staff count, achieved Investors in People status, and been consistently recognised as one of the region’s leading employers.
Additionally, the company has successfully supported its Network of Premium Retailers with further investment, marketing initiatives and sales training, leading to sales across the Network grow by nearly 20%.
Quickslide, a leading manufacturer and supplier of PVC-U sash windows, has signed a fiveyear contract with Epwin Window Systems to continue manufacturing its market-leading Vertical Sliding Sash Window. The agreement further extends the relationship between the two businesses, which started in 2019.
Ben Weber, Managing Director of Quickslide, commented: “We are very selective about our choice of supply partner because we know we can only be as good as the suppliers we work with. Our relationship with Epwin Window Systems has gone from strength to strength since 2019, and we look forward to deepening our ties even further.”
Katrina Earl, Sales Director at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We are delighted to extend our relationship with Quickslide for a further five years. The company is a great example of how a fabricator can leverage maximum benefit from a partnership with us and make full use of the resources and personnel we have available within our business.”
Ben notes that the credentials of the Epwin Window Systems Vertical Sliding Sash Window were key to choosing the systems company as its supply partner. However, he says the true value lies in the strength of the relationship, which has significantly benefited Quickslide’s business.
He said: “We’ve seen great value from the closeness of our relationship with Epwin Window Systems. Everyone is very personable, open to market discussions and proactive – we’ve been impressed by the emphasis they place on listening to customers and working with them for mutual benefit.”
He continued: “We’ve been involved in numerous forums and had open dialogues with the senior management team to discuss continuous product developments and building regulation changes, which have helped us remain ahead of the curve for our customers. For example, the new slimline meeting rail was developed as a direct result of customer feedback.”
Conservatory Outlet welcomed Premium Retailers from around the United Kingdom to the picturesque Cheshire countryside for its annual Network Golf Day.
The event, now in its eleventh year, is one of the most respected and longest-running competitions of its kind in the sector.
Held at the renowned Championship Course at the Portal Golf & Spa Resort just outside of Tarporley, the tournament saw entrants vie for team and individual prizes. And for 2024, there were some changes to the format to accommodate an expanded entry pool.
“It was fantastic to see representation from all corners of the UK join us in Cheshire,” begins Greg Kane, Conservatory Outlets CEO.
“This year saw more entries than ever before and as we enter the competition’s second decade, we decided to add some extra stakes. We added prizes for the best pair alongside the traditional team format and created several new individual prizes to reward people’s playmaking abilities off the tee and towards the greens.
“The Network Golf Day is a highlight of the calendar,” Greg continues.
“The event allows our Premium Retail Network to come together for a little bit of friendly competition and discuss strategies with other like-minded businesses. With a giant turnout of 16 teams, this year’s was the biggest and best so far!”
With the rain driving down and the wind whipping up a storm, the undulating par 73 course played far longer than its 7,018 yards. The conditions were tough but that didn’t stop 5 Star Windows and Conservatories from posting the best score on the Donal Steel-designed course and running away with the overall team prize.
The victory marked 5 Star’s third time lifting the much-cherished Network Trophy, making them the first-ever company to finish atop the scoreboard three times.
• Choice of welded or mechanically jointed options
• Wide variety of smooth colour or textured woodgrains
• Suitable for heritage and modern properties
• Choice of options for window personalisation
• Rapid quotation turnaround
• Expert technical support
• 30 years’ experience in sash window manufacture
Epwin Window Systems has introduced an exciting new sales and marketing tool: an immersive 360º showroom tour that showcases its comprehensive product range.
Gerald Allen, Head of Marketing at Epwin Window Systems, said: “By leveraging the power of 3D technology, we now offer an immersive experience that allows our customers and prospects to explore everything our products have to offer.”
The innovative tour is accessible on the Epwin Window Systems website and its online digital portal, Connect. It’s a 3D digital twin of the company’s new showroom at its headquarters in Telford, Shropshire. The platform provides users with a 360 degree capture of the showroom, with the ability to click on each product and view detailed specifications. Users can also book an in-person tour that includes the showroom, extrusion and finishing plants, warehouse and distribution centre.
Gerald explains: “We know that businesses prefer to conduct thorough online research before reaching out to a prospective supplier. Our virtual showroom simplifies this process, allowing them to see the aesthetics and technical excellence of all our products in detail, anytime and anywhere. And when they’re ready to take the next step and visit in person, we’ve made that as easy as possible too.”
Besides benefitting prospective fabricators and installers, Gerald highlights how the immersive 3D tour will be useful for existing customers’ sales processes. He added: “The tour will be an invaluable sales tool for showing architects, specifiers and consumers how good Epwin Window Systems’ products look in situ.”
He continued. “Whilst nothing beats visiting our showroom in person, our virtual experience is the next best thing. It also extends the shelf life of any customer or prospect visit as they can go back and re-immerse themselves in the detail at a later date.”
Epwin Window Systems is renowned for its intelligent, value-added customer support. For example, its award-winning Connect platform has set industry standards by offering a 24/7/365 bespoke digital platform that provides comprehensive access to the wide range of benefits available to Epwin Window Systems customers. The 360º showroom tour is the latest testament to the systems company’s innovative approach to customer success.
Our people are the heart of Carl F Groupco, and we know that our customers value buying from reliable and proven experts.
They’ve done it..
13 participants from the Conservatory Outlet Network have successfully completed the 24 Peak Challenge, raising over £13,000 for charity in doing so.
The 24 Peak Challenge is a gruelling endurance event that tests entrants’ physical and mental endurance. From the start point in Keswick, participants had to scale 24 of the Lake District’s highest and most difficult peaks in just 24 hours.
The group completed the challenge in 22 hours, two hours under the target time.
By the time the team made it to the finish line in Dockray after scaling the likes of Hellvelyn, Great Gable and Great Dodd, the group had walked over 35 miles and tackled over 4,000 metres of elevation across the route.
And then there was the weather, which can only be described as ‘typically British’.
Despite many of the country enjoying sunshine, clear blue skies and temperatures in the high teens, the Lake District was buffeted with 50mph winds, rain and hail. It was only towards the end of the second leg of the challenge that the clouds cleared, temperatures picked up and the sun appeared.
That break in the clouds gave the team a second wind. Able to marvel at the views across the Lake District and see several RAF training flights pass close by, the group on to marched on and made great time whilst covering the final half of the challenge.
“We wanted to build on our success last year in completing the National Three Peaks. This year, we wanted to do something bigger and so the 24 Peak Challenge was born,” Greg Kane, CEO of Conservatory Outlet explains.
“This pushed us further than we’ve gone before, forcing us to walk greater distances and tackle some of the most difficult hiking routes in the country. I’m incredibly proud of every member of the team. We completed this challenge together and we had to dig deep and work hard to make it to the finish line as a group.
Darren Gait, Scottish Depot Manager at independent hardware supplier Carl F Groupco, received a 40-year Long Service Award in recognition of his longstanding contribution to the company.
Darren is a well-known, respected figure among the company’s Scotland-based customers. Carl F Groupco is renowned for exceptional customer service and considerable hardware expertise.
Darren joined the business in May 1984. “I started with the company when I was 17 years old. The knowledge and experience I gained over 40 years is invaluable to me in serving all our customers. Here’s to the next 40!”
Owen Coop, CEO of Carl F Groupco, commented: “Darren’s 40th anniversary is testament to his unwavering dedication to the business, a true example of commitment and excellence. We look forward to many more years of innovation and growth together.”
Darren’s career started in the Peterborough warehouse with Group Sales. In 2002, he moved to Cumbernauld being appointed Scottish Depot Manager. Today, he works alongside Pamela Wilson, Regional Sales Manager, delivering quality customer service to Carl F Groupco’s growing customer base. Together, they ensure the company’s commitment to next-day hardware delivery throughout Scotland and the Highlands.
Carl F Groupco is one of the only independently-owned hardware distributors supplying an extensive range of premium quality window and door hardware to the fenestration industry throughout the UK. Driven by the extensive knowledge and experience of its personnel, the company’s commitment to solving hardware problems, offering advice and finding solutions goes beyond order processing.
Remarkably, 64% of the company’s 36 employees have been with the company for over 10 years, reflecting a strong culture of loyalty and job satisfaction. “Our impressive staff retention rate confirms the supportive working environment and the opportunities for professional growth and development provided by Carl F Groupco,” said Owen.
