Glass News March 2025

HAWKEYE!

Solar panels are a great way for companies to lower their carbon footprint but that means they need to ‘see’ the sun.

Having invested more than six-figures in 2500 solar panels on the roof of its Calne manufacturing facility Deceuninck’s green energy strategy was put under threat from a pesky airborne pest - the Common Gull.

With its large rooftop offering judged a perfect

nesting habitat for the amorous airborne assassins, their guano threatened kilowatt outputs.

Rather than getting into a flap the facilities team turned to their own eco allies, Gerald, Bo Jangles and Nessie, the three Harris Hawks of Talons Out Bird Services.

The natural enemy of nesting sea birds, the three Harris Hawks have been flown regularly over Deceuninck’s facility, to persuade the gulls that solar panels are a less than perfect nesting site.

James Cross, Maintenance Engineer explained: “We installed approaching 2,500

solar panels at the start of this year, but very soon it became clear we had a problem, seagulls – or more accurately their waste, which was starting to coat them.

“The solar panels were installed as part of our sustainability strategy so it’s important that we maximise their outputs which if the seagulls were left unchecked, would have been compromised.

“The Harris Hawks are flown regularly as part of an eco-solution which encourages the gulls to move on and allows us to maximise outputs of renewable energy.”

The new solar panels will generate a total of 895,762 kWh of clean energy per year reducing CO2 emissions from Deceuninck’s Calne site by 498,507kg a year.

Deceuninck has established a lead on sustainability based on its’ commitment to the Science Based Targets (SBTi) programme, with a headline pledge to cut the CO2 emissions from its own operations (Scope 1&2) by 60% by 2030 from a 2021 baseline.

A further six figure investment at the start of this year saw Deceuninck add two new chillers to its operation, delivering a 50% reduction in energy usage.

For more information about Deceuninck’s product and service offer please call 01249 816 969, email deceuninck.ltd@ deceuninck.com or visit www.deceuninck.co.uk.

THE RIGHT PEOPLE READ GLASS NEWS

A LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL?

Getting more and more uptight as the days go by and yet more and more governmental c*** ups come to light, together with plenty of examples of lies and deceit from people we are supposed to be able to trust to guide this country to economic success, I could easily reprint Danny William’s March contribution in the form of Cold Calling. I commend it to the house as essential reading!

Trying to keep politics out of my comments is not easy although, to be fair, if any ruling party could make more of a mess of things than this lot I would be ranting against them in a similar way. Reading a variety of newspaper columns, I was somewhat relieved to find my thoughts, that I have voiced so many times before about politicians needing real world work experience before putting themselves up for selection by the voters, there seems to be more and more commentators agreeing with that very thought. I also wonder how many of our business owners and managing directors in the fenestration industry would stand by the people they’ve employed for senior positions if they found they had lied on their CVs.

Having put a real dampener on this month’s Page 3 you may be surprised to learn that, surprisingly, I am very positive about much of what our industry can achieve. This is driven by listening to the news coming out from so many companies. Businesses that have gone through MBOs that are succeeding in achieving the further investment for future growth. Investment in £ millions for companies such as Jade Engineering, a company that I have had the pleasure to visit this month. Success such as that achieved by Jade is not unusual in our industry and the fact that people are prepared to invest their success back into their businesses, rather than take the cash and sit on a South Seas Island sipping Pina Coladas, is testament to their commitment to what they’ve achieved and to their staff.

Reading through the plethora of press releases that we receive each week can really lift the spirit. OK, there are the odd ‘contrived’ releases, desperately dashed out to complete the quota that has been promised to the client, but generally they do just what is intended: inform about developments within companies whether products, successes achieved, people or anything that enhances the company image. Thinking about that prompted me to look back over what we’ve received this month and re-evaluate the reasons for these releases. According to an AI synopsis (I’m not a complete dinosaur!) “a press release is used to announce newsworthy events, information, or developments to the public, primarily

to attract media attention, raise brand awareness, generate publicity, and control the narrative around a company or event by providing key details to journalists in a structured format.” Funnily enough as I looked through the news that was sent to us one release stuck out above all the rest, and I don’t mean that in a disparaging way to the sundry other releases. It was one from the FIT Show and what made it stand out was the fact that, if you think about it, the show is one big press release all on its own! The industry, gathered together at our biggest networking event and enhanced by stands that display products, new ideas: innovation of every kind.

The Fit Show release from mid-February announced another 14 exhibitors and undoubtedly there’ll be more to come. This prompted me to have a look through the full exhibitor list and as I was doing this the invitations to save times and dates to visit specific stands was growing apace. Why am I getting excited about this year’s show? I really think it’s a mixture of the dates heralding the arrival of some warmer weather…hopefully…. and the indication that our industry is determined to weather the economic storm from which we are all suffering. It isn’t just a matter of turning up to the show. Exhibiting takes planning, financing and commitment and there is that ROI to consider – do we expect a return on investment or is it a pure marketing cost? And if you are a visitor to the show again there are financial considerations, time, effort, and that balance between the possible loss of earnings from that day’s visit or perhaps reaping the benefit from the investment by finding something new, learning, finding a supplier or maintaining contact with those you use now.

There are many reasons to invest in the FIT Show and I like to think it’s an indication of the industry pulling together for the collective good. Times may be hard, exacerbated by incompetent politicians, and not just for those employing staff with issues of minimum wages and hikes in national insurance but the homeowner that represents a large percentage of the fenestration industry’s customers.

Is the FIT Show the answer to all our problems?

Regrettably, no. But it represents our determination to win through, whatever the odds!

Chris

GOT SOMETHING TO SAY?

Email Chris at: chris@glassnews.co.uk

‘TIME OUT’ WINNERS –FEBRUARY!

Sudoku: R McAllister, Edinburgh

Eye Spy: Leah Taylor, Salford, Manchester Spot the Difference: Sharon Cottingham, InsulationServices, Crowborough, East Sussex

Crossword:

Mr M Roberts, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire

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

CONTENTS

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8

CONTACT DETAILS

Christina Lazenby

Managing Director / Advertising Enquiries

M: 07805 051322

E: christina@glassnews.co.uk

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Advertising Manager

M: 07508 263262

E: emma@glassnews.co.uk

Justin Lazenby

Finance Director / Press Release Enquiries

M: 07711 828710

E: justin@glassnews.co.uk

Chris Champion

Editor / Editorial Enquiries

M: 07850 267223

E: chris@glassnews.co.uk

Kate Carnall Graphic Design

E: kate@glassnews.co.uk Deadline for copy: 16th of each month

THE SOHO COLLECTION

INNOVATION TO ELEVATE YOUR OFFERING

STEEL-STYLE MEETS UNPARALLELED THERMAL PERFORMANCE POWDERCOATED IN-HOUSE

MANUFACTURED IN THE UK HIGHLY DESIRABLE INDUSTRIAL DESIGN

THURSDAY 22 ND MAY 2025 | 09:00AM

MAKITA NAILS IT AGAIN WITH ITS LATEST LAUNCH

Makita has added a new 18V LXT Framing Nailer to its range of high-performance cordless tools. The new DBN900 offers significant advantages over pneumatic and gas nailers including improved ease of use and greater working flexibility.

The DBN900 18V LXT Framing Nailer, designed specifically for first fix framing applications, can be used in the same way as a pneumatic nailer but without the additional setup time, complication and restriction of a compressor and air lines. In addition, unlike gas nailers, the DBN900 has no additional consumables, reducing the cost and inconvenience of replacing the cartridges.

The latest addition to Makita’s range of cordless nailers, the DBN900 is compatible with clipped head nails between 50 mm and 90 mm and nail gauges between 2.9 mm and 3.3 mm. Its magazine will accommodate up to 58 collated nails and incorporates a quick and easy reloading mechanism. The inspection window makes it simple to check the number of nails remaining. It also features a variable drive depth, with the required adjustment made using the easy-touse dial on the nose of the tool.

Furthermore, the DBN900 features two operation modes. In sequential actuation mode, it drives a nail each time the trigger is pressed, while the contact actuation mode allows continuous nailing, with a nail driven every time the tip is pressed to the material for as long as the trigger is held. Using a Makita 6.0Ah LXT battery (BL1860B), it can drive up to 1000 nails on a full battery charge at a rate of up to two nails per second.

The DBN900 has been designed for both convenience and enhanced safety. The anti-slip nose of the tool makes working on angled materials easier and more accurate, while the LED job light with pre-glow and after-glow function improves visibility of the work surface. It features both a rafter hook and belt hook, allowing it to be hung on ladders, scaffolding and timbers or clipped to the user, keeping it close at hand. The DBN900 also includes both an anti-dryfiring mechanism, which activates before the last nails in the magazine are driven to prevent missed nails, and an antirestart function to prevent accidental activation.

Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita UK said: “Our new, long awaited DBN900 18V LXT framing nailer is an excellent alternative to the conventional pneumatic or gas nailers and has been engineered to streamline framing tasks and similar first fix work. It is easy to use, even in restricted spaces and offers far greater flexibility when compared to traditional pneumatic tools.”

To find out more about the DBN900 and Makita’s wide range of 18V LXT tools and equipment, visit www.makitauk.com.

INSTALLERS ACHIEVING UNPRECEDENTED CONVERSION RATE SUCCESS WITH REVOLUTIONARY DISCOUNT SCHEME

Installers using a revolutionary discount scheme from Leads 2 Trade are achieving more than double the industry-standard conversion rate average.

Recent data from December 2024 shows that Leads 2 Trade installer members using its TLS discount scheme were the lowest price on 85% of quotes provided to consumers, successfully converting an impressive 70% of these quotes into orders.

With typical conversion rates in the home improvement industry standing at around one order per 3.5 quotes, installers offering the TLS discount scheme are achieving one order per 1.4 quotes.

The innovative discount scheme, exclusive to Leads 2 Trade members, enables installers to offer customers a substantial 20% discount while maintaining healthy profit margins. This competitive edge has resulted in members using the scheme growing their businesses by between 50% and 100% in the current market, with average order values holding steady at over £7,500.

Installers have been reporting substantial business growth despite challenging market conditions. Kieran Mitten of AWC Windows and Home Improvements, which operates in the North West, commented: “Since using the TLS discount scheme, in the last six months our turnover has gone up by 60-70%. It has meant we are much more competitive and my advice to any installer is to go for it – it really has transformed our business.”

Shaun Ellison of Barriertherm UK, which is based in the North East, said: “Being able to provide the discount has had a massive effect on our growth and we’ve doubled our turnover since adopting it.”

Another benefit of the scheme is that, provided installers are buying leads from Leads 2 Trade, they can use the discount tool on their own generated leads too.

Andy Royle, co-founder and Managing Director of Leads 2 Trade, commented: “Since launching the TLS discount scheme last year, our installer members are experiencing remarkable growth in record time, with many doubling their turnover while maintaining their profit margins.

“They are effectively offering significant savings to the end user which is helping them secure significantly more business than they would typically expect. And the results –anyone trying to compete with one of our installers simply won't be able to.”

For more information on how the discount app, and to become an accredited installer, telephone 0800 124 4308 or visit: https://leads2trade.co.uk/discount-offer-supplier/

ENGLAND’S WORSTPERFORMING AREAS FOR ENERGY-EFFICIENT HOMES REVEAL A “RETROFIT OPPORTUNITY” FOR THE INDUSTRY

Over 56% of the total properties in England have belowaverage energy efficiency, presenting a major opportunity for the window and door industry to identify where to target retrofit projects and how they can optimise marketing to homeowners - according to new research from Eurocell.

To examine the scale of inefficient housing stock in England, Eurocell analysed national Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) data, revealing the regions most in need of urgent efficiency upgrades and demonstrating where the biggest opportunities are for fabricators and installers to support homeowners in upgrading their property’s energy performance.

It’s no secret that England has an ageing housing stock that needs modernising to today’s energy efficiency standards. But Eurocell's analysis reveals that there are 32 areas that have a portion of properties with a below average EPC rating (D to G), above 65 per cent - with Isles of Scilly topping the list with 84.90 per cent - laying bare the scale of the challenge the industry faces.

A further 232 areas in England out of a total of 308 analysed, also have a portion of properties with a below average EPC rating, at above 50 per cent.

According to Eurocell’s research, Eden in Cumbria has the highest proportion of least energy-efficient housing in England. 4,319 (17%) of the 24,361 homes here are classed as either an F or G on the rating scale.

The latest data from the ONS on energy-related home improvements found one in three adults still say cost is the reason why they don’t consider investing in efficiency upgrades.

In 2024, Eurocell launched a new programme of support for its fabricator network, ‘Eurocell Grow’ to help fabricators grow their business and stand out in their markets - a full list of benefits for fabricators can be found at: www.eurocell. co.uk/fabricator-account-benefits. For more information about Eurocell’s EPC research, visit: www.eurocell.co.uk/ blog/englands-worst-areas-for-efficiency-unveiled.

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DANNY WILLIAMS ‘COLD CALLING’

Each month our special correspondent Danny Williams* replies to a reader’s letter...

“I’m not sure how to keep expanding my installer business.  I’ve been taking on new staff and training them up as we need to get new fitting teams and it has worked well.  Margins are always keen so I don’t know what will happen with all these new taxes and NI contributions…I’ll probably have to increase my prices but the homeowners are pressed for cash, too.  I’m wondering if my business is now going to contract rather than expand….any ideas?”

Name withheld by request. Retail Installer Staffordshire

I received your letter before Christmas when frankly everything felt a little different, though perhaps more out of hope rather than expectation. So I called you for a chat. And, whilst your note seemed quite hopeful if perhaps wary, now you are on the verge of letting people go and have now asked for complete anonymity… and that is a huge disappointment. For all of us, because I believe that your situation is indicative of our industry irrespective of location.

The world according to the current government is constantly evolving (including ministers as they too get found out for various and corrupt and immoral behaviors) as they try to get a hold of running a country instead of heckling from the sidelines. Sadly however, every dip and turn succeeds only to make things worse.

You tell me now that flat New Year sales and the higher, government-imposed employment costs, have resulted in a position in which you will have to let as many as 10 of your current employees go within the next six weeks, once current orders have been fulfilled. This is a reversal of annual growth that your company has enjoyed since you went out on your own a decade ago.

Usually I like to leave my reader with a positive note. But I am simply unable to do so in the current climate. The Bank of England’s February rate cut may have sparked reductions in mortgage rates, but for around 600,000 homeowners whose fixed rate mortgage terms end in the first half of this year, it still means a doubling at least of the interest rates they will face when they negotiate new loans within the next few weeks.

* Danny Williams is managing director of

“Usually I like to leave my reader with a positive note. But I am simply unable to do so in the current climate. The Bank of England’s February rate cut may have sparked reductions in mortgage rates, but for around 600,000 homeowners whose fixed rate mortgage terms end in the first half of this year, it still means a doubling at least of the interest rates they will face when they negotiate new loans within the next few weeks.”

For all of us, energy costs are set to rise again from April, by as much as 5.7%. And whilst inflation has reduced this does not mean that prices will fall, just that they do not rise so fast. The huge increases that all of us have experienced in our weekly essential household bills will continue to rise.

A further shadow looming over us is the prospect of stagflation, which is being widely predicted by some very knowledgeable people. Based predominantly as our industry is, in the home improvement market our sales are dependent almost entirely on how confident we are feeling, almost irrespective of how much money we have in the bank. And confidence is as low as I can recall seeing it, after 35 years in this industry. Which means that we have the perfect breeding ground for stagflation of a stalling economy combined with costs continuing to rise substantially. And no prospect so far of the government having any more idea how to deal with this than they have shown so far, though the prospect of further increases in taxation are on the cards rather than actually doing something to stimulate sales. Any reasonable increases in wages that we might give our employees simply cannot keep pace with the increases in the cost of living. And whilst my firm enjoys the fortunate position of being a public sector supplier and with it the promise of increased activity especially with NHS estates,

many companies in our sector – and across British industry generally - are faced with the very real prospect of making staff redundant. Then I watch PMQ’s and endure the stupid, self-righteous, smug looks across the three stooges’ faces, and wonder: ‘Do you realise how much damage and hardship you are causing’?

According to a poll undertaken by the think tank the Institute for Government, just 22% of those polled believe that this government is being effective at improving their lives. This compares with 28% that now think the last Conservative Government was effective, months after they were booted out of office. This does not bode well for the Labour government as they continue to show that ineptitude, which is the only thing at which they excel, especially now our health secretary is a Llama.

My politics are well known to my reader. But even the staunchest Labour supporter (if there is such an animal reading this glorious organ) cannot be impressed by their performance so far. Of course, they will continue to blame the previous Conservative government, but that rant has lost its gleam now and Starmer and co must show some of their own mettle.

By my reckoning it has around a year to show up and shift direction, to put UK PLC on track. After getting on for a couple of years in Government by that time the whiff of the next General Election will reach our noses and scrutiny will be more intense than ever. And with Labour MPs facing the very real prospect of being booted out of office after enjoying just a few years of sucking up the privileges of power, a Palace of Westminster revolution must surely be a distinct possibility: if Starmer and his acolytes don’t do something radical to turn the corner, he will face the chop. And who will come next?

I do not believe in miracles however and I will continue to look closely, as must you my faithful and beleaguered correspondent, at finding ways to increase business whilst reducing costs. Both will require an extraordinary level of ingenuity, just as we have when the brown stuff has hit the fan in the past. But whilst we coped with the aftermath of Covid for example, the bug was not consciously acting against us. Which this government most certainly is.

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CONNECT AT FIT SHOW 2025!

Marketing Manager, Mark Walker, talks about a challenging market and why you should Connect with Selecta at FIT Show 2025.

In the current market, it’s become imperative that fabricators and installers partner with a systems company that can provide them with more than just a range of products. Every systems company can supply fabricators with ‘sticks of profile’, but not all can provide a personal and comprehensive service and support package. By this, I talk about providing you with a personal marketing support package, which is backed up with the sales and marketing tools to help you generate more sales leads and win new business.

It’s widely reported that the industry is down by approximately 10-15%, with some stating it could be as high as 20-25% in certain sectors of the market. With the industries home improvement boom now a distant memory, it now appears that we have somewhat returned to pre-covid levels, a time we seem to have forgotten.

Businesses may have become more accustomed to the reactive nature of doing business, which they experienced with the home improvement boom over the last few years. The current downturn may require businesses to take a more proactive approach to generating sales leads and winning new business. In turn, this may involve companies undertaking a totally different marketing strategy and plan to which had worked previously and of which they are used to.

Dependent on current resources and infrastructure, there will be some who would benefit from additional support and tools to aid them in implementing and realising their strategy and plan. The marketing support package, which Selecta have invested heavily in, provides fabricators and installers with exactly that! 2025 will see more innovative developments in place to further push the boundaries of support including the tools to take our Connect customer support portal to a completely new level.

Connect provides fabricators and installers with a host of technical and general information and guidance, with an excellent resource and news centre. However, marketing support sits at the very heart of Connect, providing a comprehensive package that’s designed to help businesses generate more sales leads and win new business.

Identified as Branded Mode, our Window & Door Designer with Home Visualiser has

already been touted as a real game changer when it comes to lead generation and sales. It is fully loaded with all of Selecta’s window and door solutions, styles and configurations, and as the name suggests can be branded in-line with your business.

Customers can explore a wide range of window and door styles, choose from a variety of colour options to suit, upload property photos to visualise how they

would look and request a survey and quote based on their design. Branded Mode is a fully immersive user experience, whether done in their own home, in your showroom or by your representative at the customers property.

With Selecta inviting you to Connect at FIT Show 2025, the April show will see the launch of a host of new features and modules within Connect and the designer. The added features are aimed at connecting fabricators, installers and their customers

together with additional quoting, pricing and fabrication modules being integrated within the Window & Door Designer. This groundbreaking and integrated system will provide fabricators and installers with the ultimate sales lead generation, sales management and fabrication management tool. The software will link the initial lead, to quoting and pricing, through to workshop fabrication.

In Connect, you also have access to the Website Support Package, which features two ready-made themed websites, one for fabricators and one for installers. Fully equipped with all of Selecta’s window and door solutions, photography and text, you can have a modern and ready-to-go website up and running within 5 days! All that’s needed is your logo, chosen colour theme, a company bio and your contact details to get started. It takes out the headache of a website build.

The themed websites have been purposely designed to grow as you grow, allowing you to add new products, services and features. Upgrades include adding the Window & Door Designer, so that you can have a fully branded and professional on-line package that’s ready to start generating leads and winning new business from the outset.

This comprehensive marketing support package is key to building a trustworthy and effective partnership. In challenging times, we believe it’s imperative that you receive the right support and back-up from your systems company. This is why we are confident that Connect will provide even more added value and benefits to every fabricator and installer who choose to #bepartofthefamily

GGF A SOURCE OF INFORMATION AND INSPIRATION AT THIS YEAR’S FIT SHOW (STAND NUMBER: G40)

The Glass & Glazing Federation’s enhanced presence at this year’s FIT Show will bring together in one place the increasing number of its latest initiatives and projects that are having an impact on its members.

Partnering with FENSA, the stand (G40) will specifically focus on the latest information about the GGF’s recently launched online training platform, with a special appearance by its knowledgeable avatar GRACE. Visitors will be able to see a demonstration of the platform and gain a clearer idea of what needs to be done to ensure its workforce remains fully MTC compliant going into 2026.

Following the training theme, the GGF will also be sponsoring the show’s seminar programme, drawing attention to the importance of keeping up to date with changing work accreditations,

competencies, technical innovations and overall industry knowledge. Over the three days it will host a number of talks and presentations to ensure visitors have access to the latest industry updates.

“The industry is going through a massive amount of change this year in an unpredictable economic environment that has already proven to be very challenging,” commented GGF managing director Ben Wallace. “Training and filling the skills gap is going to be crucial when it comes to maintaining a robust position within the marketplace with a fully accredited, valued, workforce. Our members know that the opportunities available to them through the GGF Training platform will keep them ahead of the curve when it comes to proving competencies and stealing a march on the competition.”

As well as training for specific industry related competencies, the GGF Training platform also has a wealth of courses across operational practices for window and glass companies. Visitors to the stand will be able to come away from the stand with a clearer idea of what they need to do to upskill

themselves and their staff, and how that can be achieved through the GGF platform.

“The impact of the end of grandfather rights has not yet been felt, and there is still time to make the changes that will guarantee a smooth transition,” added FENSA operations director Lis Clarke. “The GGF Training platform completely simplifies the road to competency compliance in a way that is highly accessible and cost effective.

At FIT Show we will be demonstrating to window companies how FENSA can structure a failsafe route for them through these complex changes”.

Also having a presence on the stand will be Installsure, the industry’s biggest Insurance

Backed Guarantee provider which is also celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.

“In a challenging economic climate, protection against the unpredictable is more important than ever,” said Installsure’s director and head of insurance, Irene Akpojaro. “Our presence on the GGF stand will give window companies the opportunity to better understand how we can help build confidence and give reassurance.”

Finally, the GGF has also joined forces with Business Pilot to co-host the PiGs event on the GGF stand.

The GGF and FENSA will be available on stand number G40 throughout the three days of the show.

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PREVIEW 2025

GLAZPART FIT AND READY

Glazpart’s plans for FIT Show 2025 are well underway as the award-winning glazing components company gets ready for the biggest event of the year with some special features for their presence at the industry’s largest UK exhibition.

Glazpart is pleased to announce the company will launch several new products in its Glazing Accessories and Trickle Vent ranges at FIT Show (April 29-May 1) at

Birmingham’s NEC. The new products will feature at the show with special displays and promotional materials.

Also on Glazpart’s stand space (of over 100m2), visitors can expect to see strong promotion of the award-winning Glazpartners programme which was launched at FIT Show in 2023 and now has over 50 companies signed up to the marketing partnership initiative. FIT Show itself is a Glazpartner

and will be promoted from the Glazpart stand (No.J70, Hall 9).

On the forthcoming event, Dean Bradley, Glazpart Sales Director commented, “In previous years, the FIT Show has proved to be the perfect platform to showcase our products and to network with so many in the industry. This year we expect will be even better as we not only have our new products at the show but we will also be promoting all our Glazpartners and

QUICKSLIDE TAKES THE FIT SHOW STAGE WITH INNOVATION AND INDUSTRY-FIRST TRADE SUPPORT

Brighouse based fabricator Quickslide has decided to take the spotlight at this year’s FIT Show, stand number E23.

The importance of face-toface conversations has always been part of the Quickslide ethos, and the business has consequently invested in a space where existing and new trade partners can gather and discuss marketing and product strategy with a view to growing their installer business.

Quickslide will be showcasing its latest enhancements for its Legacy sash window, including the authentic slim midrail and the newly refined sash horns. Plus, expect exciting new developments designed for modern-day living, all while keeping the ever important aesthetics of traditional sash windows intact. In addition, Quickslide will feature the popular Quick-Glide slide and fold doors, which have been a standout success since their launch last year.

“The level of trade partner support that we offer is among the most comprehensive in the industry, and FIT Show provides us with that time and space to address individual partner needs in a stimulating and buzzy environment,”

commented sales director Tom Swallow. “We have always found that for us, the focus is never on the products – their excellent reputation precedes us anyway. Rather, visitors to our stand have always been more interested in how we can help them succeed in an increasingly competitive market.”

The Quick-Glide system will, nonetheless, take centre stage at the show. Unlike traditional bifold doors with a concertina swing arc, this unique slide and fold door tackles common British household challenges, such as restricted space. The QuickGlide panels slide and fold individually, allowing them to be fully stacked for an unobstructed opening, partially opened, or closed for a sleek span of glass.

Refined through joint development with Invisifold Systems, the Quick-Glide

celebrating the start of our 40th anniversary.”

Nickie West, Managing Director of FIT Show added, “Glazpart has been supportive of FIT Show since the outset and we are delighted to be Glazpartners. FIT Show is built on connecting people and products, it’s the whole premise of our campaign for 2025, so we align perfectly with the Glazpartners initiative and I am looking forward to seeing Glazpart at this year’s FIT Show.”

Dean Bradley added, “With so much to promote and launch as well as our new stand design, we are looking forward to FIT Show. In the coming months we will be providing more information on our new products and activity

planned for the show. It promises to be an exciting week in April at the biggest exhibition for the glazing and fenestration sector.” www.glazpart.com

FIT AND READY: GLAZERITE UNVEILS PLANS FOR SHOW

This year’s FIT Show is set to be extra special for the Glazerite UK Group, with the leading trade fabricator taking the opportunity to celebrate 25 years in business. The fabricator is also returning as VIP lounge sponsor at the event, which takes place from 29th April - 1st May at NEC Birmingham.

aluminium slide and fold door offers a sleek, space-saving solution with slim sightlines, modern square sashes, and an innovative “tap-in” bead for faster installations. It is the culmination of market testing and researching for the perfect door system that can fulfil everything today’s homeowners are looking for.

“We’re synonymous with sliding sash windows, so of course, we’ll have a selection on display,” added Tom Swallow. “We’ll also be showcasing our new wheeled sample cases for installation companies who are looking for more than just a supplier, but a genuine supply partner. Ultimately, we want to show our trade partners the wealth of support and opportunities that working with Quickslide gives them.”

www.quickslide.co.uk

Michelle Wright, Head of Group Marketing, says: “We’re delighted to be exhibiting at this year’s FIT Show in what marks our 25th year in the industry. We will be welcoming visitors to Stand F79 to learn more about the value we can bring to installers, including our unique marketing and technical support, which is tailored to meet the specific needs of our customers. We will also be showcasing our comprehensive product portfolio, including some great new additions to our product range from VEKA, Deceuninck and DoorCo.”

Michelle adds:  “As the industry’s biggest event, the FIT show is the ideal meeting place for the Glazerite team to catch up with existing and prospective customers, suppliers and other industry stakeholders. 2025 is a pivotal year for our business, with significant investment across our operations to broaden and

enhance our offering.”

Glazerite’s stand will showcase VEKA’s innovative OMNIA flush sash system, and the premium hardware, door furniture and smart technology on offer from Glazerite partners, Ultion, Ultion Sweet and Kubu. There will be a chance to see some exciting new additions to the door range, including the fabricator’s flood door collaboration with G24 Award finalists, M3 Floodtec, and the Triple Track Slider from Deceuninck.  The exhibition will also be an opportunity for commercially-focused installers to explore Glazerite’s commercial product offering, including its ALUK aluminium casements and Deceuninck 2500 windows.

Meanwhile, visitors will be able to take a look at the new locks and gearing

collaborations on offer from Glazerite’s new supply partners, Yale, Roto and Carl F Groupco, and learn more from Glazerite about the range of enhanced benefits and warranties on offer.

FIT Show event director, Nickie West adds: “We are delighted to welcome Glazerite back to FIT Show 2025, especially as they celebrate their 25th anniversary. Their presence on the show floor and sponsorship of the VIP Lounge reinforces their commitment to driving innovation and excellence in the industry. Visitors can expect an exciting showcase of their latest products, expertise, and services. We’re looking forward to seeing them connect with customers old and new at what promises to be our biggest and best event yet.” www.glazerite.co.uk

Dean Bradley Nickie West

WHATSAPP CRM INTEGRATION AN INDUSTRY FIRST FOR ADMINBASE

Ab Initio is launching an industry first on its stand number M40 at this year’s FIT Show – a WhatsApp integration with its market leading AdminBase CRM system. Text-based conversations can now be funnelled throughout the process, and window companies can now communicate directly with customers at every stage of the sales process using this universally popular messaging service.

Doubling up on the unique offering, the company is also celebrating its 30th anniversary. Visitors booking an onstand demonstration of AdminBase will not only receive a

premium gift to mark this 30th milestone, but will also have the unique opportunity to win an all expenses paid luxury weekend in London, overnighting in one of the capital’s finest hotels, while taking in dinner and a West End show. You can book by emailing the company direct at sales@abinitiosoftware.co.uk.

“The WhatsApp integration will be a game changer for window companies – the UK has over 40 million WhatsApp users, and it has become the ‘go to’ method of communicating,” said Ab Initio’s founder and director Rhonda Ridge. “As the first and only industry CRM to offer this as standard, we know that our customers will reap the benefits immediately.

“During our 30 years in business we have consistently stayed ahead of the curve in evolving and updating AdminBase. While WhatsApp has always been prohibitively expensive – potentially costing thousands for clients to absorb it into their system – Ab Initio has managed to streamline the process and integrate it as part of our overall offering. Consequently, there is less reliance on emails - which can get

lost among spam and go unread – giving instant, real time updates to all involved.”

Ab Initio has always focused on the smoothness of the journey when evolving its AdminBase system. Over its 30 years of business the company has worked side by side with its customers, improving the process of selling and installing their products. This systemisation has not only helped them to become more agile and more efficient, but has also helped them to focus their minds on the most important area of their business as a whole – the customer journey.

Ab Initio will be demonstrating its AdminBase software on stand number M40. We recommend you book an online demonstration as the stand is always notoriously busy. Please book by emailing the company direct at sales@abinitiosoftware.co.uk . Everyone with a genuine appointment will receive a special gift to mark our 30th anniversary, and their names put forward into a prize draw for a luxury weekend in London.

For more information go to: www.abinitiosoftware.co.uk

MADE FOR TRADE BRINGS ‘TRADE HEROES’ TO FIT SHOW 2025 NEC, BIRMINGHAM

Made for Trade (MFT), the award-winning manufacturer behind Korniche Aluminium Glazed Products is set to take centre stage at FIT Show 2025 (April 29th – May 1st) with an unmissable presence at Stand J30, right at the entrance to Hall 9. With a 10x12m open stand, MFT is once again leading from the front, showcasing why its products are true ‘Trade Heroes’; engineered for exceptional speed and ease of installation while delivering premium homeowner appeal that drives trade sales.

WHY THE MFT STAND AT FIT SHOW 2025 IS UNMISSABLE FOR THE TRADE

In an industry where every minute on-site counts, taking time away from projects might seem like a challenge. But with the latest advancements from Made for Trade, FIT Show 2025 is the place to see firsthand how innovative glazing solutions can save time, reduce hassle, and maximise profitability for installers and builders alike.

Live demonstrations at Stand J30 will bring Korniche’s industry-leading products to life, proving why they have become the trusted choice for thousands of trade professionals across the UK. Whether you're an installer, fabricator, builder, or home improvement retailer and merchant, MFT’s stand is where you’ll discover ‘What’s New’ – and why you won’t want to miss out.

SEE THE ‘TRADE HEROES’ IN ACTION!

Building on a legacy of over 40 years in business and engineering excellence, Made for Trade continues to set the benchmark for innovation, service, and trade support. At FIT Show 2025, visitors can expect:

• NEW Products: Be the first to see the newest Korniche solutions engineered to deliver even greater efficiency and answer the latest homeowner demand and appeal.

• Live Product Demonstrations: Watch first-hand how onsite installation speed can transform your workflow.

• Exclusive Show Offers: Discover unbeatable trade deals and promotions available only at the show.

• Meet the Experts: Get insights from MFT’s experienced team on how Korniche products can give you a competitive edge.

A LEGACY OF AWARDWINNING EXCELLENCE

Made for Trade’s commitment to innovation and quality continues to be recognised at the highest level:

• King’s Award for Enterprise: Innovation 2024

• National Fenestration Awards: Fabricator of the Year 2021-2024

• National Fenestration Awards: Product of the Year 2021-2024

These accolades reflect what the trade already knows, MFT products deliver the best products with the best service at the best prices.

GET YOUR VIP TICKETS

Don’t miss your chance to experience the ‘Trade Heroes’ at FIT Show 2025. Secure your VIP tickets now by registering at: www.madefortrade.co/fitshow25-mft/

Join us at Stand J30, Hall 9, from April 29th to May 1st and see why Made for Trade continues to lead the way in innovation, service, and trade support.

Scan the QR Code to secure your VIP Tickets!

FABRICATOR FOCUS

CHEAP WINDOWS DON’T SAVE MONEY, THEY COST YOU WORK

Uncompromising. That’s the standard your windows should always meet when it comes to quality. And if it costs a little bit more, you know that you will get that back manifold in terms of eliminating costly call-backs and multiplying recommendations and repeat business. Quickslide’s stellar success is down to its commitment to instil that quality ethos in every area of the company – from the manufacture of its products to the development of its people.

When a window – whether a standard casement or more complex VS (Vertical Slider) – moves along the Quickslide production line, it has to pass multiple quality checks on the company’s comprehensive inspection list. These checks are in place to help the team catch even the smallest imperfections, all to ensure every window meets Quickslide’s quality promise.

“Cheap windows fill a gap – period. Quickslide Windows solve a gap beautifully, on and on,” said the company’s managing director Ben Weber. “To achieve this, investment in automation has been and continue to be a cornerstone of our business strategy.”

21 months ago, the company took delivery of its biggest investment to date – a £1.71 million Schirmer machining centre for its 150,000 square foot VS factory. Quickslide collaborated with German based Schirmer on an exclusive design, specifically to replicate that repeated, consistent quality that Quickslide pursues so fervently. The machine covers a footprint of 4,120 square feet and can operate to an accuracy of 0.02mm.

“We needed to reduce the risk of human error,” continued Ben Weber. “No matter how well-trained an operator is, when individuals are working 24 hours a day, six days a week, there are going to be errors. With the increasing number of VSs going through our production lines, it made sense to work towards a solution that was going to enhance the overall quality of the product, eliminate human error, and provide us

with repeatable quality. The centre has now been fully up and running for 18 months, and we’ve been able to exceed every quality target we set ourselves.”

It is the high level of repeatable quality and automation that makes the VS range more accessible and affordable to a much wider range of potential trade partners. With customer expectations becoming more demanding each year, being able to offer a premium product like the Quickslide VS with a fast lead time can give them a competitive edge. Even during more challenging economic times, homeowners looking to invest in home improvement products will veer towards better quality rather than a cheaper alternative, knowing that it will last the test of time and look so much better.

“I once attempted to calculate the number of VS design configurations that we offer and without including bespoke colourbonding we’re looking at more than a trillion. Our designs and options are ever more complex and the Schirmer means we can do all these configurations without adding to the lead time with the confidence that we have mastered the art of getting it right, fast and every time. I believe that we already offer the fastest VS lead time in the industry but can do so whilst also offering the greatest choice of design and specification options,” continued Ben.

VS manufacturing processes can be more complicated, such as fully mechanical joints and the inclusion of the slim mid-rail. These complex and labour-intensive options

“The £1.71 million investment in our machining centre demonstrates our commitment to long-term quality and growth with many of our trade partners seeing the financial benefits”.

have traditionally been limited by capacity constraints due to how difficult and labour intensive they are to mass manufacture. However, with the introduction of automated processes those capacity limits can now been lifted.

Quickslide believes that today’s installer does not need to be worrying about the quality of a product. Manufacturing techniques and technologies have advanced to such a degree that there is no reason for cheap, below grade windows to even be considered a viable option. Cutting quality corners will only negatively impact an individual business, and the industry as a whole.

“We love working with trade partners who take great pride in their work,” said Ben Weber. “They recognise that quality in our product range, and in turn the selling process becomes so much easier for them, because they believe in what they are

selling. They become the craftsmen that have preceded this industry, rather than the ‘double glazing salesmen’ that have blighted the industry’s reputation for too many years. Having confidence in not just the aesthetics of a window, but its performance and quality leads to a more confident sales pitch, that will always lead to more sales. The £1.71 million investment in our machining centre demonstrates our commitment to long-term quality and growth with many of our trade partners seeing the financial benefits”.

Automating the quality processes in the factory also allows Quickslide to focus more on providing support to its trade partners in other ways. Which is why its marketing support packages – whether it is providing individually tailored marketing campaigns, innovative and intuitive tools and dedicated training – are making waves throughout the industry.

www.quickslide.co.uk

Ben Weber

FABRICATOR FOCUS

FAIRCO EXPANDS VEKA PARTNERSHIP TO BRING REVOLUTIONARY, SLEEK DOUBLEFLUSH WINDOWS TO THE IRISH MARKET

Fairco, a trusted name in premium windows and doors across Ireland, is set to bring VEKA’s award-winning OMNIA double flush system to the Irish market in 2025.

Approaching 5 years of partnership with VEKA, Fairco has built its reputation on providing high-quality, innovative products to both the trade and retail sectors. The introduction of OMNIA marks the next step in this commitment, offering a cutting-edge solution that blends performance, durability, and design.

OMNIA, unveiled by VEKA in 2024, is the first PVCu system of its kind delivering a sleek, symmetrical finish that sits flush inside and out. Combining the perfect balance of timeless elegance and 21st century performance, the OMNIA range is revered for creating a contemporary, streamlined look whilst achieving superior energy efficiency, thermal and acoustic performance. The system has already won New Product of the Year at the National Fenestration Awards, and it is quickly becoming the flush system of choice in both the UK and Ireland.

JIM TOAL, OWNER OF FAIRCO, EXPRESSED HIS ENTHUSIASM FOR OMNIA’S POTENT

"At Fairco, we’ve always set the standard for premium windows and doors in Ireland. Our partnership with VEKA has been built on trust, quality, and a shared vision for innovation.

“OMNIA is an exciting addition - its unique design offers the best of both worlds: the clean, modern lines sought after in new builds and the authentic, heritage styling needed for conservation projects.

“We see this system transforming streetscapes across Ireland, from sleek urban developments to classic period homes. We’re excited to bring OMNIA to our customers and lead the way in the next generation of window design."

Loredana Emmerson, customer marketing manager at VEKA, also shared her excitement about Fairco’s momentum with OMNIA: "It’s fantastic to see Fairco’s commitment to OMNIA. Their passion for delivering high-quality, innovative solutions to the Irish market aligns

"It’s fantastic to see Fairco’s commitment to OMNIA. Their passion for delivering highquality, innovative solutions to the Irish market aligns perfectly with VEKA’s ethos. It’s been a pleasure assisting them with marketing efforts so far, and we look forward to seeing the impact OMNIA will have as they roll it out in 2025."

perfectly with VEKA’s ethos. It’s been a pleasure assisting them with marketing efforts so far, and we look forward to seeing the impact OMNIA will have as they roll it out in 2025."

With Fairco’s expertise in high-performance fenestration solutions and VEKA’s industry-leading innovation, the

launch of OMNIA in Ireland will provide trade professionals and homeowners with a versatile, high-quality solution that meets both aesthetic and performance demands, all with one system.

For more information on OMNIA and Fairco’s product offerings, visit www.fairco.ie.

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OXFORD PERIOD PROPERTY UPDATED WITH RESIDENCE 7 WINDOWS

The Residence Collection transforms substantial period property in Oxford with new Residence 7 windows.

Collaborating with installer Andy Glass Windows and fabricator, HWL Trade Windows, R7 windows were installed in the internal and external colourway Grained White to sympathetically upgrade the property with a like-for-like window structure and modern functionality.

The project with R7 is being done in stages and currently showcase a number of windows and two bay windows all complete with a square bead and satin chrome pear drop Regal hardware. The mechanical jointing manufacturing method was used by HWL Trade Windows for this project to directly replicate the authenticity of the original sash windows.

The selection of Residence 7 windows was driven by both aesthetic and efficiency considerations within the R7 window system. With a flush external and internal profile, these windows offer maintenance-free finishes and a variety of styles, meaning versatility without complication.

Beyond their appealing design features, the R7 windows excel not only visually but also in their efficiency properties, boasting A++ energy ratings and achieving a u-value of up to 0.8Wm2k with triple glazing. This collection is also available in 22 different colourways.

“We completed this project in stages with the residents noticing a great improvement on heat retention and energy efficiency following the installation of the first windows.”

Sarah Greening, Administrative Co-Ordinator at Andy Glass Windows, commented: “It’s always a pleasure to install Residence Collection windows in properties around Oxfordshire and in particular it’s been exciting to see this property come to fruition.

“We completed this project in stages with the residents noticing a great improvement on heat retention and energy efficiency following the installation of the first windows, so we are pleased to have now completed this project so they can continue to reap the benefits of their investment.”

Jo Trotman, Marketing Manager at The Residence Collection, added: “This is a beautiful project setting a great example of everything that our Residence 7 windows have to offer from colourways and manufacturing methods to traditional design and modern performance.

“This collaboration with Andy Glass Windows and HWL Trade Windows is just one in many that we have completed together in Oxford and the surrounding areas, and it's fantastic to see installations in this location continue to grow. We look forward to many more in the future.”

To find out more about The Residence Collection’s R7 collection, please visit: https://www.residencecollection.co.uk/collections/r7/

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. I’m especially proud of the expanded sponsorship, which underscores the industry’s commitment to understanding homeowners’ needs and delivering data-based support throughout the supply chain.”

Businesses interested in to supporting the fenestration industry, and their customers, with Keystone’s trusted consumer insights are encouraged to reach out as a limited number of sponsorship opportunities remain available.

For more information about the Winter 2025 Consumer report and Keystone’s research services, visit: www.keystonemr.co.uk.

GROWING 15+ YEAR PARTNERSHIP SETS EDGETECH APART, SAYS LEADING IGU MANUFACTURER

A 15-year partnership between leading warm edge technology pioneer Edgetech, a Quanex company, and Padiham Glass has played a big part in the prominent IGU manufacturer’s continued growth.

That’s the view of John Spiby, Divisional Director for the Emplas Group and MD of Padiham Glass.

As part of the Emplas Group, Padiham Glass has established itself as a major force in both trade and new build sectors, currently producing over 1,700 units daily with ambitious plans to increase volume by 50% in the next year.

The relationship with Edgetech began with Padiham Glass initially taking small roles for shaped units before transitioning to full production – and has proved particularly valuable following Padiham’s recent investment in a highly automated IGU line to meet growing demand and maintain quality standards.

“Edgetech’s technical team has worked closely with us to implement lean manufacturing processes, improving unit performance and efficiency

thanks to the automatic spacer application,” said John.

“Branding is also key for us, and Edgetech’s strong market presence adds significant value to our proposition. Using Edgetech enables us to offer leading-edge products with leading-edge performance, which is crucial in an industry focused on window energy ratings and U-Values.”

With Edgetech’s reliable delivery and quality as a spacer supplier also scoring highly, John added: “People, products, and professionalism set Edgetech apart. I have known the team at Edgetech for many years and the expertise they bring, and share is invaluable.”

Tony Palmer, Edgetech’s Head of Sales, said: “Our 35-year track record of supporting IGU manufacturers is built on providing not just outstanding products, but technical expertise and support, and our partnership with Padiham Glass ss the perfect example of our commitment to being more than just a supplier.

“It’s been particularly rewarding to support Padiham’s transition to automated Super Spacer application. The results they’re achieving validate our belief that automation is key to meeting the increasing demands of the modern IGU market.”

For more information, please call 02476 639931 or visit www.edgetechig.co.uk.

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 resi-door, 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.

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 familyrun business based in Thame, specialises in PVC-U, aluminium and timber frames and work closely with homeowners, developers and builders.

Rose concluded: “As a business, we pride ourselves on being at the cutting edge of market trends. The introduction of AK Touch Secure™ will further enhance our commitment to delivering the highest standards of security and technology to our customers.”

ABSEILING AND ANTI-SOCIAL HOURS ALL PART OF THE ASWS ARMOURY

As one of the UK’s most experienced and accommodating specialists in the art of steel and aluminium window refurbishment, Associated Steel Window Services (ASWS), makes use of multiple skills and strategies to ensure the fulfilment of clients’ ambitions. One such project was carried out within London Shoreditch’s ‘Tech City’ district where ASWS had to work outside of working hours to address some challenging problems affecting relatively modern W40 windows; and utilising their abseiling team.

The project came about after one of the capital’s leading property consultancies asked ASWS to conduct a full condition survey on the 1990s fenestration; with the detailed paperwork, drawings and proposed interventions providing the basis for the eventual tender documents. As is often the case with such demanding window repair projects, ASWS was subsequently invited to tender on the work by all four main contractors bidding. The technical challenges were further exacerbated by the pandemic restrictions ending before work started on site, which necessitated all the window repairs being carried out at times when the offices were empty of their computer-game designers. Furthermore, the very narrow pavements along one side of the sixtiesbuilt office block prevented scaffolding being erected and so ASWS had to bring in a team of abseilers, who also undertake glazing upgrade work, while its site engineers addressed the repair issues from within.

Managing Director at ASWS, Laura Mercer, explained: “When the W40 series windows were first introduced 30 years ago to offer improved energy performance and a more modern aesthetic, they were ‘gasket glazed’ similar to aluminium framed systems. Unfortunately, however, the in-situ installed W40 gaskets, back in the 80’sand 90’s were not vulcanised and tended to break

CARL F GROUPCO SOUNDS THE ALARM ON PART F COMPLIANCE

Owen Coop, CEO of leading independent hardware supplier Carl F Groupco, has sounded the alarm on using disclaimers to avoid installing trickle vents as a means of complying with Part F of Building Regulations.

Owen says: “A recent report from RISA, which inspects window and door installations for compliance with Building Regulations and FENSA requirements, notes instances of signed disclaimers being provided as a means of avoiding fitting trickle vents. But it’s very clear that these disclaimers are not valid. Installations will be non-compliant and installers put their businesses at real risk if they use them.”  Owen cites guidance issued by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local

Government and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities when the regulations came into force.

“The guidance explicitly stated that disclaimers and indemnities would not cover installers. It said: ‘A disclaimer signed by the homeowner stating that they do not wish to have background ventilators or that they will be installed in future is not a suitable way of complying with the Building Regulations. Work must comply with the Building Regulations and competent person schemes must monitor their registrants and take action against any registrant who is found to have carried out non-compliant work. Purchasing an indemnity policy is also not a suitable alternative to meeting the requirements of the Building Regulations in full.’”

down quite quickly, which has required a complicated technique to replace them. What we do to mitigate the problem now is to top cap them both inside and out, which offers a far more effective and enduring seal. So, on this City project, the gaskets were actually hanging out of the frame and, therefore, offered almost no performance in terms of air leakage; and the draught excluder had also become brittle and failed. Our proposals were to carry out a ‘light touch’ service and overhaul of the various lights cleaning out the rebates and oiling the mechanisms. Not only were the draught excluders replaced with contemporary alternatives, the perished gaskets were removed and new top cap silicone fillets, which were RAL 9005 Black to match the old gaskets, inserted as a two-stage operation.” ASWS’s technique was to leave the 4-20-4 sealed units in-situ and remove the internal gasket replacing it with the top cap silicone sealant. Once that had dried, the procedure was repeated externally. In addition to replacing the half dozen glazing units which had failed, ASWS also undertook the repair of minor damage which had occurred to the powder coated ironmongery and replacement where necessary.

Despite ASWS’s interventions totalling some five months’ works, these weekends and other out-of-hours shifts were spread over a whole year, with the abseilers last to complete their weather dependent duties. Finally, to save the architects and other members of the project team having to undergo protracted training as abseilers, detailed photographs and reports were supplied of all the completed external window restoration work.

For more information on ASWS, please visit asws.co.uk.

The research from RISA finds that over a quarter of inspection failures are due to non-compliance with Document F, which suggests the regulations are taking a while to bed in.

Owen offers reassurance, saying: “Here at Carl F Groupco, we’re on hand to support our customers to ensure they comply with industry regulations. Our team is highly knowledgeable and experienced so we can offer all the guidance, input and advice that’s required.”

Alongside valuable technical expertise, the company also offers a comprehensive range of trickle vents. It includes the popular Glazpart Link Vent MK II, as well as options from Yale, RW Simon Ltd and Greenwood.

Carl F Groupco prides itself on being the hardware supplier that goes beyond order processing to solve problems, offer advice and find solutions. It’s an approach that’s evident in its offer to customers around compliance with Part F.

Tel: 01733 393 330

www.carlfgroupco.co.uk www.smartsecure.co.uk www.carlfdirect.co.uk

AND THE PRIZE FOR THE BEST SUPPORTING ACT GOES TO...

It’s that time of year with award ceremonies for BAFTAs, Oscars and the like, and it’s easy to forget how important those supporting acts are – not just the principals and stars of the show but those who make it happen.

In our industry we have the ‘stars’: the system houses, the fabricators, the glass companies plus machinery and hardware but what of those software companies, the ad agencies, PR companies and even, dare I say the trade papers and magazines? All part of that important industry support. But a significant and easily forgotten and unsung hero is surely the tooling companies? Without them nothing works. There’s no swapping of profiles for fabricators and no ongoing development of those profiles or launching of new ones. Step forward Jade, arguably the best supporting act! Unless you are aware of the need for tooling you are unlikely to have heard of Jade, but apart from being highly skilled engineers and toolmakers they are probably the best informed individuals in the industry. Regrettably for us journalists, Sean and Adam are also the most private and trustworthy individuals such that although they know of every change of supplier, who is moving to which profile and when it will happen, they remain tight-lipped and can, quite simply, keep a secret!

From my original visit to Jade, things have changed dramatically. Their original premises, just around the corner, was a small but highly productive engineering works. Now, approaching the new building, you are faced with an impressive façade with a vast Jade sign facing the approach road. It’s funny how things work out: the new premises which was, originally, three separate units and owned by different companies, allowed Jade to purchase one unit and then find that the other two could also be purchased, hence a large and impressive home for Jade. Now the renovation and refurbishment are complete providing an impressive 30,000 sq ft facility in Coventry and is the culmination of a £4 million investment plan that positions the company for significant year on year growth both in the UK and into the wider world.

Adam Jones and Sean Mackey are down to earth and very realistic individuals. Yes, they are hugely talented with Adam’s design skills and Sean’s background in accounting, but they realised for the company to grow they needed to

move beyond the ‘owner managed’ business and introduce a polished and professional structure to the company. To their credit they recognised the need to bring in a Managing Director to take the business forward – not an easy thing to do when you have had nearly two decades of running the show yourselves. Finding the right person to join the team turned out to be remarkably easy with Gareth Davies being known to Adam and Sean through a business club they have been involved with. Gareth has all the knowledge and expertise required to take Jade to its next stage of development and beyond.

“For nearly two decades we have had an amazing time working with everyone from the major systems houses to many smaller independent fabricators, solving manufacturing problems and helping them achieve greater efficiencies and improved product quality. But it was clear to us that operationally we needed to make some major adjustments if

“Every aspect of the manufacturing process requires a subtly different approach, from designing and developing the tooling, to integrating different processes, storage and maintenance.”

we wanted to continue with that good faith and those strong relationships in the future,” commented Sean Mackey. “And while investment in the new facilities has given us the physical ability to grow, there has also been massive operational restructuring going on behind the scenes.”

Gareth has been instrumental in that restructuring and it is clear that, in only a year, the relationship between the three main players is comfortable and productive giving Adam and Sean the time to do what they do so well and to develop and grow the customer base. Although Jade is so well known in the industry the team are keen to show their abilities to a wider audience and that may well include looking at opportunities overseas. Back in 2017 Jade made some significant acquisitions including Saltech Machines Ltd, Edgwick Sheet Metals and 50% of Kombimatec which widened their scope.

“Jade faced a choice – it had carved out a comfortable groove for itself in the industry where it could happily coast along, but probably end up losing market share,” added Gareth Davies. “However, I could sense that both Sean and Adam had the hunger and the ambition to continue growing, and the market itself still had massive opportunities that could be enjoyed by reframing the way in which the company organised itself. The skills and the expertise were there – Jade just needed to refine its messaging.”

A large part of that messaging has been to move away from the ‘engineering’ focus of Jade and highlight the key solutions that they bring to manufacturers. This formed the basis of its initial rebrand a couple of years ago, when it clarified key service areas through separate divisions –JadeTooling, JadeMachines and JadeConsult. The company is now launching a fourth ‘division’ – JadeBespoke – a sheet metal fabrication solution which specifically creates ancillary products such as racking and assembly benches for window manufacturers.

“Every aspect of the manufacturing process requires a subtly different approach, from designing and developing the tooling, to integrating different processes, storage

Adam Jones and Sean Mackey

The trade press are given the full tour

Adam, Gareth Davies and Sean

Showing an array of components

Jade Machines

and maintenance. It was important to create a framework which gave us, and our customers, the clarity to see where challenges might lie and solutions found,” continued Adam Jones. “We now have a clear-cut route for manufacturers to take, from the moment the profile comes through the door, and the finished product leaves it.”

Sean and Adam were particularly cognisant of the fact that Jade had been built on strong personal relationships, and that could potentially leave Jade, and its customers, vulnerable.

“While we have every intention of continuing to be the ‘face’ of the business – and indeed there are so many people out there we consider close personal friends – establishing systems that could run without us was a crucial element of futureproofing for both Jade and our customer base,” said Sean Mackey. “In the very unlikely event that we won the Euromillions and decided to see out our days on a tropical beach somewhere, we wanted to make sure our customers would not notice our absence! The reality is, though, that

this investment has freed up our time. So our customers will probably be seeing even more of us.”

It seems a long time since 2007 when Adam and Sean acquired J Tools and eventually bought Jade Engineering in 2014, developing a successful and important business that has served the PVCu and Aluminium industry so well. Nudging their way into their 50s what do they do? Enjoy the fruits of their labour or take the business even further? Recognising that need to change the company from being known as a purely engineering business to take it forward was key. They had always been more than engineers and the design engineering and consultancy side needed to be formalised as an integral part of the business. They have worked with many system houses and fabricators to find solutions to a problem and then developing the tools to bring the vision to fruition, hence Jade Consult. Basically, Jade Consult can engineer the problems away and the design team is already growing apace with 6 individuals in the team and…..wait for it….Jade are looking for staff! Now that’s a

real opportunity for budding design engineers to join a very successful company that is looking to double its turnover in the next three years.

Seeing what they have done with their new premises and listening to them describing their vision for the future, there is little doubt that Jade will continue to succeed. With Gareth joining them, Adam and Sean have been released to do what they do so well, talking to customers about problems and developing and building solutions.

Jade certainly gets my vote for being the industry’s best supporting act!

Engineered and built to last

Jade factory refurbishment

Jade make a whole variety of machinery Jade Tooling

And they make hole cutting machines for golf courses! This is a miniature made as a trophy for a competition

The new multilayered storage system

METAL TECHNOLOGY’S SYSTEMS

USED IN STUNNING NEW LEARNING SPACE FOR ROYAL VETERINARY COLLEGE STUDENTS

The Student Learning Centre at the Royal Veterinary College’s Hawkshead Campus is the largest single capital development project in the institution’s history.

Designed by NORR, the project comprises teaching labs, a library, a main lecture theatre, communal areas, and informal social learning spaces.

A range of Metal Technology’s high-performance, architectural glazing products were expertly installed by fabricator Duplus Architectural Systems, to help meet the development’s stringent energy efficient standards. The project was dual colour white powder coat inside and bronze anodised externally.

SYSTEMS INSTALLED WERE:

• System 17 Capped Curtain Walling

• System 4-35 Thermal Casement Window

• System 5-35 Thermal Tilt & Turn Window

• System 23 Louvres

• System 10-35 Thermal Door & Shopfront

• System 5-20D Thermal Door

The Hawkshead Campus, situated in Herefordshire, is where veterinary medicine students are based for the final three years of their course, alongside veterinary nursing students and specialists-in-training.

The new Student Learning Centre advances veterinary education and research while fostering a vibrant student community.

QR

HERITAGE THAT HAS IT ALL

Window installers JF Bodman have been operating in the south Yorkshire area for over 50 years, enjoying much repeat business from returning customers in that time. And in turn, there’s one supplier they return to themselves: Quickslide.

“We recently had a returning customer asking for our help with their window and door requirements for a truly stunning home project,” says Adam Webb, Director at JF Bodman. “The remit was for 42 authentic-looking sliding sash windows which would deliver the stylish, grand appearance required while also providing the best possible energy efficiency and security.”

For Adam and his team, Quickslide was the obvious choice for the job. “We’ve been buying from Quickslide for the last 4-5 years,” Adam explains, “and my absolute favourite product of theirs is the heritage sliding sash window. It truly replicates timber in nearly all ways, with the added benefits of being uPVC, which our customers love for its durability and low maintenance.”

The project called for fully mechanical sliding sash windows, combining authenticity with functionality.

“For this project, we chose fully mechanical sliding sash windows in cream woodgrain foil on smooth white, complete with runthrough sash horns, astragal bars, satin silver heritage hardware, and matching travel restrictors” Adam says. “We also opted for the PAS 24 security upgrade and fire escape feature in locations where required. Despite the scope of the project, we met our five-week deadline comfortably from window order to installation.”

JF Bodman supplies and installs doors and windows to both homeowners and construction companies. “We’ve earned our reputation through attention to detail,” says Adam, “and pride ourselves on our customer service, work ethic, and ability to help our clients get the results they desire.

“We use Quickslide because they provide such a quality product at a competitive cost, on time and in full. That level of reliability is crucial for our business because it ensures we never lose time on projects. My advice to any installers who value the same is to give Quickslide a try. You won’t be disappointed.”

www.quickslide.co.uk

Spot three differences. Fill in your answer and your contact details below and send your competition entry to: FAO: Christina Lazenby, Glass News Competitions, 19 Heather Close, Tickhill, Doncaster, DN11 9UU or Email: christina@glassnews.co.uk. Entry deadline: 20/03/25.

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FREEFOAM LAUNCHES NEW ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN: HELPING CUSTOMERS GROW

Freefoam Building Products, a leading manufacturer of innovative PVC building products, has unveiled a new advertising campaign aimed at supporting its customers’ business growth and promoting brand value awareness.

The campaign, called Helping Customers Grow, highlights Freefoam’s ongoing commitment to it’s business model, allowing independent customers to grow without competition or conflicts, ensuring success in a competitive marketplace.

The new adverts emphasize Freefoam’s strong links to its customer base, featuring powerful testimonials from a PVC stockist and a Freefoam Registered Installer. The designs also highlight Freefoam’s comprehensive range of durable, low-maintenance products, including fascia, soffits, cladding, and guttering systems and highlight Freefoam’s significant investment in new product development.

“Our ‘Helping Customers Grow’ campaign is really gaining momentum and we’re looking forward to working with more of our partners this year to illustrate the benefits we can bring to PVC Stockists and Installers.”

These new adverts for 2025 are just one part of a wider marketing campaign running throughout the year to illustrate the success of Freefoam’s business model. Other areas of work include:

• Customer Success Stories – Real-world examples of how Freefoam has helped businesses grow using video to bring the stories to life.

• Feature articles – In depth editorial content looking at new product developments that give Freefoam customers the opportunity to grow existing markets and build new business opportunities.

• Social Media content – Engaging and visual content to shine a light on PVC stockists and PVC installers who supply and fit Freefoam products.

Commenting on the adverts

Louise Sanderson, Group Marketing Manager, said: “These adverts reflect our core belief that our success is tied to our customers’ growth. By providing not

just great products but also the marketing and sales support to grow their businesses, we’re fostering long lasting meaningful partnerships that are proven to work. As our customer Matt Epps says “Freefoam is the perfect partner for our business.”

WHERE TO SEE THE ADVERTS

The Helping Customers Grow adverts will be featured across the Glass and Glazing trade print media as well as Building and Construction titles throughout 2025.

Aidan Harte, CEO, commented “I’m very pleased with these new adverts. They give us an opportunity to highlight to the PVC industry our successful business model and showcase our strong commitment to customers. Our ‘Helping Customers Grow’ campaign is really gaining momentum and we’re looking forward to working with more of our partners this year to illustrate the benefits we can bring to PVC Stockists and Installers.”

True authenticity comes from a blend of heritage styling and modern performance.

Single features may grab attention, but a true heritage sash window is designed to ensure the seamless integration of all its parts.

Everything has to work together: slim overlapping putty-line profiles, a 35mm midrail, heritage chalk finishes, seamless ornate sash horns, true mechanical joints, deep cills and innovative balance chamber covers, to name but a few. Add to that a 1.2 W/m2k u-value without specialist glass, and you have a true conservation-grade sash window with outstanding modern performance.

Only Roseview’s Ultimate Rose sash window delivers all this. Because it’s more than a sum of its parts.

NAVIGATING CHANGE WITH THE RIGHT PARTNER

In 2025, the glass and glazing industry is being defined by shifting market demands, rising sustainability standards, and growing pressure to deliver faster, more efficient service. In this evolving environment, partnering with a reliable ‘one-stop-shop’ supplier like Glass Express Midlands is no longer just a convenience—it’s essential.

Glass Express Midlands, with its unique offering of IGU manufacturing, processed glass, cut-to-size glass, and comprehensive stock supply, has positioned itself as a critical ally for businesses striving to remain competitive, according to its Managing Director, Arun Photay.

“What we’re seeing in the industry, is a shift towards more tailored solutions”, Arun explains. “Homeowners and commercial clients alike are demanding higher energy efficiency, intricate design possibilities, and faster turnaround times.

“To meet these expectations, installers and processors need suppliers capable of delivering a suite of bespoke, highquality products on tight deadlines, and that is what we pride ourselves on at Glass Express Midlands.”

Glass Express Midlands’ manufacture around 3,000 IGUs per week, that are delivered to clients nationwide using their fleet of specialised glass vehicles.

With energy efficiency at the forefront of building regulations, the demand for custom double and triple-glazed units is only expected to increase in 2025, and Glass Express Midlands provides bespoke and volume IGUs that meet both performance and aesthetic requirements, ensuring installers can confidently deliver cutting-edge solutions.

Additionally, the company’s expertise in processed and cutto-size glass eliminates the logistical headaches of sourcing

specialised products from multiple suppliers. From polished edges and drilled holes to intricate shapes and decorative leadwork, Glass Express Midlands deliver customised solutions to meet even the most challenging project specifications.

“One of the greatest challenges in the glass and glazing industry is managing complex supply chains”, says Arun. “Coordinating orders from multiple suppliers can lead to delays, inconsistencies in quality, and increased administrative burdens.

“We solve this problem by providing a one-stop-shop solution, consolidating all aspects of glass supply under one roof. By eliminating the inefficiencies of fragmented supply chains, we help installers focus on what they do bestdelivering exceptional results for their clients.”

Sustainability also continues to be a cornerstone of the construction industry in 2025, with stricter building regulations and consumer preferences driving demand for eco-friendly solutions.

Glass Express Midlands supports this shift by offering energy-efficient glass and sustainable manufacturing

“All of our sustainability measures culminate to save our customers time, resources and money –making them more profitable in the process.”

practices, enabling its customers to meet environmental requirements with confidence, while maintaining profitability.

And last year, the Oldbury-based manufacturer was certified as a leading player in the circular economy of glass, returning 203 tonnes of cullet to Saint-Gobain UK & Ireland’s Glass Forever scheme to be recycled into new glass.

The equivalent weight of 16 London double-decker buses, Glass Express Midlands’ cullet prevented 243 tonnes of virgin raw material from being used in the manufacture of new glass.

“All of our sustainability measures culminate to save our customers time, resources and money – making them more profitable in the process,” Arun explains. “It also puts us front and centre when bidding for high profile contracts because we can prove that we are a sustainable manufacturer.

In a market where competition is fierce and margins are tight, the choice of supplier can make or break a business. Partnering with a trusted, versatile supplier like Glass Express Midlands offers installers and processors the confidence to take on more ambitious projects, meet tighter deadlines, and deliver superior quality.

For more information, please visit www.glassexpressmidlands.uk, or call 0121 552 7616.

Arun Photay

MORE THAN JUST WINDOWS

Join us at Stand Q60 to discover how Roseview goes beyond sash windows to help support and grow your business.

Q4 MERCHANT VALUE SALES DIP

-0.5%

AS 2024 CLOSES DOWN

-4.1% ON LAST YEAR

The latest total value sales from the Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) reveals that sales for Q4 2024 were down -0.5% compared to Q4 2023, as an increase in volume sales (+2.3%) was countered by a fall in prices (-2.7%). With one additional trading day in Q4 2024, like-for-like value sales (which take the number of trading days into account) were -2.2% lower.

Four of the twelve categories sold more in Q4 2024, led by Tools (+8.8%). Value sales of the two largest categoriesTimber & Joinery Products (-2.6%) and Heavy Building Materials (-0.2%) – were down year-on-year. Renewables & Water Saving (-8.9%) was the weakest category.

QUARTER-ONQUARTER

Total value sales for Q4 2024 were -13.9% lower than the previous threemonth period. Volume sales tumbled -15.6%, while prices were slightly raised

(+2.0%). Value sales in just three categories were up compared to Q3 – these were Plumbing Heating & Electrical (+2.7%), Workwear & Safetywear and Renewables & Water Saving (+1.5%). With four less trading days in the most recent period, likefor-like value sales were down -8.2%.

DECEMBER SALES YEAR-ON-YEAR

Total Builders Merchants value sales for December were up +3.0% yearon-year. Volume sales climbed +7.4%, while

prices fell -4.1%. Seven of the twelve categories sold more in value sales, led by Landscaping (+15.9%), Services (+8.8%), Tools (+8.6%) and Heavy Building Materials (+3.9%).

LAST 12 MONTHS

Total Merchants sales in the 12 months from January to December 2024 were -4.1% lower than the same period in 2023. With three more trading days this year, likefor-like value sales were down -5.2%. Volume sales for 2024 were down -4.3% compared to last year, and prices were largely inline (+0.2%).

Mike Rigby, MD of MRA Research who produce this report, said: “The latest GB construction data from ONS shows a modest +0.4% increase in output for 2024 compared to 2023.

While this is the fourth consecutive year of annual growth, it may not feel like it for Merchants who were down -4.1% on value sales year-on-year.

“Whether things change for the better in 2025 will hinge on a number of factors, including restoring consumer confidence to encourage spending on property and home improvement projects.

Inflation may have dropped to 2.5% in December and there was also a cut to interest rates, but prices and outgoings are still considerably higher than they were pre-Ukraine war, putting continued pressure on household budgets.

“The latest Consumer Confidence Index from NIQ GfK shows a drop in all metrics at the turn of the

year with the biggest drops being to people’s perception of the general economic situation over the next 12 months (-8). January’s overall index fell -5 points to -22 – the lowest it has been in over a year.”

For the full report, Expert comments and Round Table Debates, visit www.bmbi.co.uk.

GfK’s Builders Merchant Panel

GfK’s Merchant Panel includes national, multi-regional and regional merchants such as Buildbase, Jewson, Travis Perkins, EH Smith, Gibbs & Dandy, MKM and Bradfords. GfK’s Builders’ Merchant Point of Sale Tracking Data represents 88% of the value of the builders’ merchant market. GfK insights can trace product group performance and track relevant features. GfK can also produce robust like-for-like market comparability, tailored to the requirements of an individual business.

The Builders Merchant Building Index Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) appears every month, in print and online. A full quarterly report is published every three months. The BMBI is a brand of the BMF (Builders Merchant Federation). Set up and produced by MRA Research, it uses sales-out data from GfK’s Builders Merchant Panel. BMBI includes a panel of leading industry Experts, who speak exclusively for their markets.

Mike Rigby, MRA Research

SENIOR CELEBRATES A DECADE OF PURE® INNOVATION!

Senior Architectural Systems, the UK’s largest privately owned manufacturer of aluminium windows, doors and curtain walling, is marking another major milestone - ten years of its patented, award-winning PURe® system!

Back in February 2015, Senior set new standards for low U-value aluminium windows and doors by creating a system that was the first to the UK market to feature an enhanced thermal barrier made from expanded polyurethane foam (PUR). The innovative use of this material, which is traditionally used in cladding and insulation, gives PURe® the potential to achieve U-values as low as 0.71 W/m²K for windows and 0.93 W/m²K for doors, significantly improving energy efficiency and reducing heat loss.

Senior went on to be awarded a UK patent (GB252363.8) for its PURe® system and soon extended the range to cater to both commercial and residential markets. Over the past

FDM CELEBRATES FIRST ANNIVERSARY, TRAINING OVER 600 PROFESSIONALS IN FIRE DOOR SAFETY

Fire Door Maintenance Training and Development

(FDM by UAP Ltd) marks a successful first year, having trained over 600 industry professionals and receiving industry recognition since its 2024 launch.

Over the past 12 months, FDM has played a key role in raising competency standards in fire door awareness, inspection, installation, and maintenance. More than 350 industry professionals have completed fire door awareness or inspection training, while over 200 professionals have gained hands-on expertise in installation, repair, and maintenance.

FDM was established to address the growing need for high-quality fire door training after the Grenfell tragedy, ensuring

professionals across the industry have the skills and confidence to meet evolving fire safety regulations. Since launch, FDM has partnered with over 50 industry leaders and top suppliers of door sets and components, including Falcon Timber, GGF, Mann McGowan, Lorient, PDS, IG Doors, Sentry, Strongdor, NorDan, and many more.

Recognised for its practical, industry-led approach, FDM has quickly become a leading training provider. Learner feedback reinforces its impact, with:

• 92% of participants finding the practical sessions highly relevant

• 94% saying the course content was easy to follow and understand

• 95% describing the training as engaging and enjoyable

decade, the PURe® range has evolved to offer a variety of configurations, including casement, tilt and turn, and parallel push windows, as well as folding sliding, inline sliding, lift and slide, single, and double doors. Senior added further strength to the range in 2019 with the launch of the PURe® Commercial Door – the manufacturer’s largest, strongest and most flexible aluminium door system to date. Most recently, in 2023, Senior collaborated with supply chain partner and composite door supplier Hallmark Doors and Panels Ltd to develop a new residential entrance door that combines the patented PURe® thermal efficiency with PAS 24 security.

Senior has also won a number of prestigious awards for the design and development of its PURe® range over the last decade, including in 2023, the King’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation. Prior to this, Senior was recognised at the 2020 Made in Yorkshire business awards for its work on the PURe® system and for its commitment to investing in the manufacturing sector on both a regional and national level. As the popularity of PURe® has grown over the last ten years and with demand increasing significantly following the introduction of new lower U-value targets per the recent

FDM’s commitment to raising industry standards was celebrated at the 2024 NFA Awards, where it won the “Training and Development Company of the Year” in recognition of its impact.

Looking ahead, FDM is set to expand its offering in 2025, launching an innovative app at the Fire Safety Event to support professionals in ensuring compliance when installing and maintaining fire doors. A new online training platform will also debut, streamlining course bookings and providing CPD-accredited training to further enhance industry skills.

Nicola John, Managing Director of FDM, said: “This year has been a journey of collaboration and innovation. Every

learner who steps into our training centre – from contractors to builders’ merchants – reinforces the importance of what we’re doing. I couldn’t be prouder of the foundation we’ve built for FDM, and we have a lot in store for the industry this year.”

For more information about FDM — Training and Development, or to book a course, visit www.fdmltd.co.uk.

As sustainability and energy efficiency continue to dominate building designs across the sectors, we are committed to continuing to evolve our PURe® range to support our customers, from developing new designs to the greater use of low-carbon aluminium."

updates to Part L of the Building Regulations, Senior has also made significant investments in its manufacturing capabilities. In late 2022, Senior opened its new Thermal Improvement Facility in Rotherham - this has taken the company’s overall UK manufacturing capacity to 220,000 square feet and significantly boosted production of its PURe® windows and doors.

Commenting, Senior’s managing director Mark Wadsworth said: "Over the last ten years, our PURe® system has not only transformed the aluminium fenestration market but has also helped our customers meet increasingly stringent energy efficiency targets. The fact that we developed PURe® in 2015 to exceed current building regulations allowed us to give our customers a tried, tested and trusted solution when the stricter U-values came into force. As sustainability and energy efficiency continue to dominate building designs across the sectors, we are committed to continuing to evolve our PURe® range to support our customers, from developing new designs to the greater use of low-carbon aluminium. PURe® was a game-changer when it was launched, and now, ten years on, it is still leading the way."

For more information, please visit www.seniorarchitectural. co.uk or search for Senior Architectural Systems on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and X.

SALES SOAR FOR BRITDOR

DoorCo’s British made solid timber core door is storming the market, seeing a significant rise in sales towards the end of 2024. DoorCo reports clear front runners in the sales trends.

Ben Aspinall, Commercial Director, explains more: “BRiTDOR, our first ever British manufactured door entered the market in Spring 2024 and was an instant hit with our customers. The addition of the 44/48mm size option in September, coinciding with the completion of the onboarding process for some of our key customers, skyrocketed BRiTDOR’s popularity, and we’ve seen a huge jump in sales ever since.

TOP OF THE RANGE ENZO

“One of the leading designs emerging from the sales trends over the last few months is Enzo. A new design to the DoorCo portfolio exclusive to BRiTDOR, Enzo is ultra-modern. Its design incorporates a smooth Links style finish with edge-to-edge pre-engraved horizontal lines. From the basic slab, we’ve created three styles in the BRiTDOR Designer door collection: Enzo

Solid, and the quintessentially contemporary Augusta and Augusta Long styles.

“We love to pair Enzo with specially selected and classically modern colour and glazing options, like Duck Egg Blue and Palazzo glass for a contemporary look; Slate and Deco for a modern feel; and, Blue and Impression for a refined look.

TRENDING COLOURS

“Exploring the colour choices of BRiTDOR further, our top 3 selling colours so far are Black, Rosewood and Anthracite Grey.

“The standard colours generally lead across the DoorCo product portfolio because of their versatility. We typically see large volumes of Rosewood as it looks fantastic on its own as a traditionally stained choice and is also the most popular base colour for painted doors, where fabricators opt to paint in-house.

“Black and Anthracite are popular for a reason: Basic but powerful colours that work with all the doors in the BRiTDOR collection.

Black is sophisticated, whether it’s on a Traditional style like the new Eaton or Tatton designs, or the contemporary Glenman. Anthracite Grey is stylish, adding a modern twist to traditional doors and a refined edge to contemporary and designer styles.

“BRiTDOR is available in 17 colours and stains, achieved using foil technology for seamless colour matching with coloured and stained door and window frames.

REMINDER ABOUT BRITDOR

“BRiTDOR® is the first innovation to come out of our Thorne manufacturing site. With BRiTDOR, traditional engineering meets modern innovation to deliver superior quality that protects the home and provides peace of mind for your customers.

“A key part of our ONE product range, BRiTDOR® has a solid timber core offering

dependable stability and endurance. The core is available as either 44mm and 48mm depth with CoolSkin technology and a GRP-inspired woodgrain finish to tie it in with ORiGINAL and GRiPCORE.

“With a wide range of colours, styles and glazing options, the BRiTDOR® is the most customisable solid timber core door on the market that can be designed to fit any aesthetic and taste.”

Download the brochure now and talk to your Sales Manager about adding BRiTDOR to your DoorCo product offering: https://www. paperturn-view.com/?pid=ODg8804874&v=11

HÖRMANN LAUNCH NEW COMPOSITE

DOOR WEBSITE AND BROCHURE

Hörmann, suppliers of market leading composite doors, have revamped, and relaunched its online presence with the creation of a new website and at the same time have introduced a new consumer brochure. Both the website and brochure have been designed and developed to play a key role in achieving the company’s objective to enhance the consumer experience and make it easier for the homeowner to choose their ideal door. They are a major advance for the company and are set to provide their dealers with industry-leading sales aids.

The creation of the new website and brochure has provided Hörmann with the opportunity to simplify and streamline its product offering. Six ranges with 43 styles to choose from are now named after Welsh rivers to celebrate the natural beauty and heritage of Wales, being the home of its door manufacturing facility. Whilst the choice of

glazing and colour options have also been standardised to provide greater flexibility and an easier, more focused choice. The website and brochure now feature the products that are on offer under the Hörmann brand including the Clima-63 thermal option, the Platinum 44 steel door and the Draig 30-minute fire door – bringing the whole product offering under one umbrella.

The new website is now available to view at www. hormanntruedor.co.uk, or by scanning the QR code. It features a completely updated, modern look and provides even more information and greater functionality than ever before. Colourful images and graphics guide the endconsumer through the wide variety of designs and styles of doors on offer, whilst introducing Hörmann and emphasising its’ commitment

to the environment through sustainable manufacturing and the provision of CO2-netural products. The site also features the company’s easy-to-use door configurator that guides the end consumer through simple steps and choices to create the door of their dreams.

Mirroring the style and content of the website, the new brochure creates a comprehensive guide making it easy to explore the entire range of products in one place. Added detail including technical information and sizing guides provides everything needed to make informed decisions. Hörmann have also introduced an eyecatching, colourful van sticker to further promote the composite door range and new website.

David O’ Mara, Marketing Manager at Hörmann UK

"Consumers are encouraged to use the door configurator and request a quotation, creating very real leads for our network of dealers. Plans are already well in hand to drive traffic to the site via a programme of online promotion, including pay-per-click, Facebook advertising and a schedule of social media promotions."

TOTAL HARDWARE OPENS NEW HEADQUARTERS

In the latest chapter of its impressive growth strategy, independent hardware supplier Total Hardware has just moved into new purpose-built premises in Leeds. Chris Pell, General Manager at Total Hardware, said: “This is a great start to our 21st year in business! Our new headquarters doubles our capacity, positioning us to meet future demand and continue our legacy of quality and service.”

Chris continues, “The new purpose-built offices and warehousing distribution centre is ten times the size of the original Total Hardware premises, stocking the complete Total Hardware portfolio. The move is somewhat over-due as we have customers waiting to come on board with us, but we had to be certain the move was conducted without any disruption to existing customer supply, which I am delighted to say was the case. The new facility allows us the additional capacity for growth, increasing stock holding and allowing product range expansion as the company continues to develop its extensive range of in-house designed and tested products”.

said “Rather than simply updating our existing website we wanted to start from scratch, creating and implementing added features to provide maximum benefit to our customers. The new site offers users a simple, colourful journey through the whole product range, at every stage making decisions and choice as straightforward as possible. Consumers are encouraged to use the door configurator and request a quotation, creating very real leads for our network of dealers. Plans are already well in hand to drive traffic to the site via a programme of online promotion, including pay-per-click, Facebook advertising and a schedule of social media promotions.

We see the launch of the website and brochure as a major milestone and very much part of our strategy to continue our expansion into the composite door market. Make sure you visit us at the FIT Show (Hall 9, Stand H20) to view the website and brochure, together with a comprehensive display of products from our range of residential and garage doors.”

The new facility marks the latest chapter in an impressive history of growth for Total Hardware. The hardware specialist organisation started in 2004 growing to now become the largest independently owned hardware suppliers in the industry

Chris attributes the company’s continued success to its customer-focused commitment. He commented: “We always say we’re as passionate about the service we offer as we are about the quality of our products. It’s taken us to where we are today.”

Total Hardware is renowned for its wide range of window and door hardware products including its Quantum range, Superior 25 stainless steel collection, Duration and the new Apex range of premium quality hardware.

Alongside its own product lines, Total Hardware also offers a comprehensive portfolio from leading worldwide hardware manufacturers at prices that enable its customers to maintain their competitive advantage.

To ensure service continually exceeds customer expectations, the company believes in continuous investment in its infrastructure, as this latest move demonstrates. It allows Total Hardware to hold bespoke stocks for its growing customer base, smoothing market fluctuations and continuing to provide market leading OTIF levels on next day deliveries nationwide.

Chris concluded: “We’re proud to say we’ve been the preferred hardware supplier for several of our customers since the very beginning of the Total Hardware story. We’re looking forward to continuing to serve them from our new premises – and to continuing our growth by bringing everything we have to offer to even more customers.”

Tel: 01332 432255 – www.totalhardware.co.uk

BS 3700: the first self-adjusting automatic multi-point locking system.

Uninterrupted security, ease of use and minimal maintenance: the BS 3700 combines all of this – and it does it all completely automatically. The first automatic multi-point locking system with integrated self-adjustment, it makes sure your door opens perfectly and locks reliably every time. Its intelligent design and matching frame parts eliminate the need for on-site readjustment – even after several years of heavy use of the door. An all-inclusive system with no service costs. www.siegenia.com • info-uk@siegenia.com

HARDWARE & SECURITY FOCUS

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 next-generation 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.”

Excel Bespoke Composite Doors is a specialist supplier of high-quality composite doors. The family-run business supplies trade and retail customers and has branches in Bradford, Leeds and Coventry. The company has built its reputation on continually developing and improving its offer in order to give its customers something unique that helps them stand out.

Kenrick has a history that stretches back to the eighteenth century and is the oldest hardware business in the industry. It’s retained its place as a market-leading window and door hardware designer and manufacturer because it delivers outstanding products that a new standard for the industry. The AK Touch Secure™ smart lock is the perfect examples of this approach in action.

TRADITIONAL HARDWARE MEETS DOOR INNOVATION

As the composite door market continues to evolve, installers and homeowners are looking for high-performance hardware that suits a range of door styles without compromising on quality.

Coastal Group’s Duratique range has been developed to bridge the gap between traditional looks and modern durability, combining heritage with performance.

Designed for those who love the charm of traditional door furniture but need it to withstand heavy daily use, Duratique hardware is crafted from marine-grade stainless steel, making it ideal for even the harshest environments.

With an authentic aged appearance and classic styling, it offers the perfect finishing touch for heritage-style composite doors without the risk of corrosion or wear associated with traditional cast iron alternatives.

Loren Jenner, Managing Director at Coastal Group, highlights the importance of this innovation: “Composite doors have become a popular choice with homeowners, for contemporary and heritage properties. Why should they settle for anything less than the best with their hardware? With the Duratique range, we’re giving installers

MILA AWARDED FOR 25 YEARS OF SECURED BY DESIGN MEMBERSHIP

Mila has been honoured for its 25 years as a member of Secured by Design (SBD), reinforcing its long-standing commitment to high-security fenestration hardware.

To commemorate this significant milestone, Secured by Design presented Strafford Cooke, Technical Director at Mila, with an engraved glass award in front of fellow colleagues during a ceremony at the Daventry site.

As the official UK police initiative dedicated to designing out crime, Secured by Design sets rigorous security standards for products that provide enhanced protection against

break-ins and criminal activity. Mila’s dedication to security is reflected in its extensive portfolio, which includes more than 40 SBD-Police Preferred Specification products that meet the stringent requirements of PAS24:2022 and Approved Document Q for new-builds.

“We have long recognised Mila for its secure hardware, which reflects a long-term commitment to keeping the criminals at bay,” comments Hazel Goss at Secured by Design. “The Mila Daventry site is a shining example of this, and the award is thoroughly deserved.”

a hardware solution that maintains the classic look of period doors while delivering the long-lasting durability modern doors require. It’s the best of both worlds –authenticity without compromise.”

From elegant lever handles and letterplates to traditional door knockers, the Duratique collection from Coastal Group is designed with ease of installation in mind, ensuring a seamless fit for composite door manufacturers and installers. Each piece is rigorously tested to meet the demands of high-traffic use while retaining its distinctive character.

Phil Walklett, Engineering Manager at Coastal Group, adds: “Duratique is about combining classic styling with cutting-edge engineering. We’ve worked hard to create a range that not only looks the part but also delivers on longevity, ease of installation, and resilience. By using stainless steel, we ensure that Duratique hardware offers unmatched protection against corrosion and daily wear.”

Suited to traditional-style composite doors including stable doors, Duratique is quickly becoming the go-to hardware solution for installers looking to stand out with their customers.

For more information on the Duratique range, visit www.coastal-group.com or contact Coastal Group for expert advice.

Strafford Cooke adds: “We're delighted to receive this prestigious award from Secured by Design, which recognises our continuing drive to deliver first-class, secure products that meet the highest industry standards for our customers."

This recognition underscores Mila’s leadership in the industry and its unwavering commitment to delivering high-performance, security-focused hardware solutions.

For more information on Mila’s range of Secured by Design-Police Preferred Specification products for windows and doors, please see: https://shorturl.at/rQCSB.

‘SEAMLESS’ INSTALLATION OF FIRST EMMEGI +QUADRA L2 AT EXPRESS BI-FOLDING DOORS

Right on schedule, the first installation in the UK of Emmegi’s next generation +Quadra machining centre has just taken place at Express Bi-Folding Doors’ 200,000 sq ft factory in Leeds.

Ryan Wombell, Continuous Improvement Manager at Express Bi-Folding Doors, is impressed not just with the new machine but with the service and delivery from Emmegi. He commented: “The entire process, from evaluation to commissioning, has been seamless. Ian and his team have expertly managed every detail with remarkable efficiency – from our first visit to see the impressive facilities at the Emmegi HQ near Bologna in Italy, all the way to the delivery, installation and ongoing commission work.

“In Italy, we got to meet several members of the expert team involved in the development of the +Quadra, and saw the machine in action processing our profile, which was an exciting experience.

“The delivery process was smooth and handled with professionalism, with the team going above and beyond to ensure everything was set up perfectly.

“As with any major project, we had anticipated some level of disruption and downtime during the installation of the +Quadra L2. However, thanks to close collaboration with Emmegi during the planning phase, this was minimised to virtually zero, allowing our manufacturing team to continue working with minimal interruption.”

The new 20 axis +Quadra L2 has some significant enhancements over the existing Quadra L1. It offers the same 360° rotary based milling but now with up to 8 spindles drilling and tapping on 4 faces of the profile, and has the same 360° rotary cutting blade, but now with a new head and tail end milling module with variable rotation speeds up to 8000rpm. Being the L2 variant of the +Quadra, it also features an additional 350mm radial saw blade for larger profiles requiring mitres. And it incorporates dynamic counterblocks, which can be programmed to recognise the profiles being selected and automatically adjust and set the vices, eliminating the need to set up individual counterblocks each time. There is also the option of an automatic labelling module which can position the label on 3 sides of the profile.

Ryan Wombell explained why Express Bi-Folding Doors chose the +Quadra: “With an existing Quadra L1 12-axis machine already installed, we knew all about the precision and durability of the Quadra models, but we still carefully reviewed several machines from various suppliers before we made what is a very significant investment. While each company has made impressive advancements in research and development since we bought the L1 in 2016, Emmegi still stood out as the clear choice for us.

"As a strong advocate for change, lean manufacturing, and efficiency, I was particularly drawn to the +Quadra’s promise to deliver on all three fronts."

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 stateof-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.

“We assessed our current needs and our future requirements, and the +Quadra L2 ticked all the boxes. As a strong advocate for change, lean manufacturing, and efficiency, I was particularly drawn to the +Quadra’s promise to deliver on all three fronts.

“It is a machine which excels in terms of volume, speed and quality and gives us the capability to process a wider range of profiles, with significantly shorter machining lead times and extended unmanned cycles. One aspect which was also significant was the fact that the +Quadra L2 is a real space saver in our factory. To match its output, we would otherwise need two saws and three CNC machining centres.”

Now that the +Quadra L2 has been successfully installed, the Emmegi team are helping to train the Express Bi-Folding Doors’ machinists team on the new features. Ian Latimer, Emmegi (UK)’s Managing Director, added: “This has been a pretty much textbook installation, with exceptional work from our service and installation team and real commitment from Express Bi-Folding Doors to integrating the +Quadra L2 into their operation as smoothly as possible. It certainly provides an ideal template for our future +Quadra installations in the UK.”

Looking forward, Express Bi-Folding Doors will be dedicating significant R&D resources to further reducing waste, enhancing quality and improving efficiency as it continues to forge ahead.

More details on the +Quadra variants, including a video of the machine in action are at: https://shorturl.at/jdzo8

The company has built a name for high-quality products and service from start to finish.

Haffner Ltd is the UK’s largest supplier of machinery to the fenestration industry. It offers a comprehensive range of innovative, high-quality machinery from Haffner and is the sole UK agent for Graf Synergy, recognised worldwide for its seamless welding technology. It also provides a full suite of cutting-edge machines from Fom Industrie, a leader in precision-engineered aluminium machinery.

The company is renowned for helping its customers choose the machines that will help maximise the gains to be made from automation – as Homeshield England is finding.  www.haffnerltd.com

with the new Apex Stainless Steel Shootbolt from Total Hardware

• Central reverse action gear box

• Laminated shootbolt for enhanced security

• Options to suit sash sizes 250mm-1620mm

• Suitable for Wrap Around Gearing, Standard Casements, French Casements, Flush Casements and Flush French Casements

• Seamless integration option with Yale Senscheck™

SHARING THE LOVE TOMMY TRINDER LAUNCH IN THE USA ON VALENTINE’S DAY

Tommy Trinder has established itself as go to app for installers across the UK looking to wow customers and win more orders. Now the firm is rolling out in The States, with a launch to the Eastern Seaboard on Valentine’s day.

“American window and door software seems to suffer from familiar problems; the tech is built to serve manufacturers not installers,” says Founder and CEO Chris Brunsdon. “It’s great for running factories, but not so great if you are in a customer’s house trying to make a sale. It feels like there is a Tommy Trinder shaped gap in the U.S. market for software that is doddle to use and helps installers sell.”

Making the app fit for purpose for American window installers has thrown up a number of technical challenges, however.

“The language is surprisingly different, for one thing,” says Chris. “Glass is tempered not toughened, Georgian squares are grilles and if you want back-to-back spacers you’ll be looking for ‘simulated divided lights’!’”

Address formats, telephone numbers and even paper

sizes have all had to be adapted to suit U.S. standards. But perhaps the biggest challenge for team Tommy has been to allow American installers to quote and sell in feet and inches; a change that has taken several months and some 3,500 lines of computer code to affect.

A key ingredient in Tommy Trinder’s UK success has been the app’s ability to quote any product, in any material from any supplier.

“It’s pretty common for an installer to have to source from multiple suppliers on one job nowadays - a composite door, some sash windows and an aluminium bifold, for example,” says Chris. “Often this means juggling a plethora of pricing apps, spreadsheets, and pricing books just to get the quote out of the door. It drives installers nuts! Our market research suggests the same is true in the USA. We’re looking forward to helping US retailers easily combine all their vinyl, fibreglass, aluminium, wood and steel windows and doors all in one app.”

In preparing for launch Tommy has worked closely with the Department of Business and Trade, the government department dedicated to supporting UK businesses to invest, grow and export. And, on the marketing side, the company have formed forged a positive working partnership with Chicago based digital marketers, Logical Media Group. Chris O'Neill, CEO of Logical is excited:

"Tommy Trinder's pioneering technology has transformed how UK. window and door professionals’ price and win business. Now, American companies can benefit from the same enhanced customer experience, efficiency, and revenue growth this groundbreaking tool provides. As a full-service digital marketing agency focused on unparalleled success through exceptional experiences and meaningful brand connections, we're honoured to introduce British innovation to the U.S. market."

WHY INSTALLERS CHOOSE PST’S VSHOME SOFTWARE

In today’s fast-paced home improvement industry, efficiency, precision, and the ability to attract new customers are key to success. vsHome, PST’s advanced yet user-friendly sales and surveying software is the ultimate solution for businesses looking to design, visualise, and price a wide range of home improvement products, including windows, doors, conservatories and garden rooms.

From visualising complex conservatory layouts to streamlining your pricing processes, vsHome is an essential tool that helps design and sales teams work faster and smarter.

3D MODELLING MADE SIMPLE

Create realistic designs in minutes with vsHome’s 3D modelling tools. Whether it’s a conservatory, orangery or solid roof extension, the drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to adjust cut-outs, box gutters, roof vents, doors, and windows with precision. Users can choose from a wide range of textures and materials or build custom libraries to meet specific needs. This flexibility helps sales teams gain quicker customer approvals and ensures a smooth design process from start to finish.

Experience Exceptional Service

Discover service that goes beyond

CUSTOMISABLE REPORTING

Every business has unique requirements, and vsHome’s customisable reporting tool lets users create polished, branded documents. From professional quotations to detailed reports, vsHome ensures that every customer interaction looks professional and accurate.

MODEL LIBRARY

Save time with an extensive library of models, covering a variety of home improvement styles and configurations. Focus on the finer details without starting from scratch, giving your team more time to close deals.

AUTOMATIC PRICING AND ACCURATE QUOTES

Speed up your response times with vsHome’s automatic pricing tool. Instantly generate accurate quotes based on the selected model, materials and configurations – eliminating manual calculations and delays.

CUTTING-EDGE VISUALISATION TOOL

Bring designs to life with vsHome AR, an augmented reality tool that overlays 3D models directly onto a customer’s property using a smartphone or tablet. This interactive feature helps customers see their project in real-life, making decisions easier and faster.

TRUSTED BY PROFESSIONALS

vsHome is trusted by installers for its reliability, ease of use, and impact on workflows. Users consistently highlight its ability

to simplify complex designs, reduce errors, and save time. By using vsHome, businesses gain a competitive edge and impress customers with their professionalism and efficiency.

UNRIVALLED SUPPORT

PST is committed to helping businesses succeed. From setup and training to ongoing support, the team is there to help users get the most out of vsHome. Whether it’s customising reports, integrating AR tools, or exploring advanced features, PST supports users every step of the way.

To learn more about vsHome, email info@pstonline.co.uk or call 0114 221 7070.

Link Vent

Glazpart’s award winning range of trickle vents

Premium and woodgrain finishes now in packs of 10 vents or canopies

Flat packers 34mm to 50mm perfect for triple glazing

For more information and to find your local stockist visit: glazpart.com/trickle-ventilation | 01295 264533 or call to speak with one of the team.

GET READY FOR ALUMINIUM DAY

Aluminium Day, the dedicated social media event hosted by aluminium window, door and curtain walling manufacture Senior Architectural Systems, will return once more on Thursday 13th March 2025 and this year’s focus is all about chemistry!

As well as celebrating the unique properties of aluminium, which make it such a popular and sustainable building material, Senior will also be showcasing how ‘good chemistry’ between supply chain partners and with customers is helping to encourage innovation across the construction, manufacturing and wider aluminium industries.

From developing its product range based on feedback from its fabricator partners, to refining its manufacturing process to better support the sustainability targets of its specification customers, establishing and maintaining positive relationships has been a key part of Senior’s growth over the last 34 years. This Aluminium Day, Senior is inviting contributions from other companies to celebrate the positive relationships and collaborations that have shaped their own successes.

Commenting, Senior Architectural Systems’ sales director James Keeling-Heane said: “Our customers are at the very heart of everything we do and we are constantly evolving to better meet their needs. This is what really fuels innovation and what has enabled us to develop strong, longterm and collaborative working relationships within our supply chain. We are proud of the aluminium fenestration systems we can offer but it is the people behind the products that really make the difference. This Aluminium Day we are looking forward to highlighting our own positive working relationships as well as hearing from other companies about how they support their own customers and colleagues.”

Created in 2019 to recognise and promote the benefits and uses of aluminium as a building material, the event has continued to grow in popularity as more companies from across the construction industry and beyond come together to celebrate all things aluminium.

Aluminium Day 2025 will take place on Thursday 13th March. The date itself, the 13th day of the third month, gives a nod to the fact that aluminium is the third most abundant metal in the world and its atomic number is 13.

Look out for the dedicated Aluminium Day content across Senior’s LinkedIn, Facebook Instagram and X, and join the conversation using the #AluminiumDay hashtag.

SHEERLINE LAUNCHES NEW FAST CONNECT HYBRID BEAD FOR INSTALLERS

Sheerline’s new Fast Connect Hybrid Bead speeds up installations and accommodates both under and oversized units with ease. All while being easy to remove when a glass unit needs replacing. The true fitter’s friend – helping reduce installation time on site.

Its concealed and patent-pending Thermlock® inner improves thermal performance while also providing the ‘give’ that aids both glazing and deglazing. With a co-extruded gasket to give a generous 5mm of compression, there are less issues for installers on site when dealing with irregular sized units.

Connect is available in two glazing sizes 28 and 36mm. It has been designed as a universal bead, useable across Sheerline’s entire Prestige range of windows, doors, bi-folds and patios. Helping to simplify manufacturing and available on our standard 5-day lead times to fabricators.

Delivered to site protected by pro-tape that features a QR code that takes you to the simple glazing and deglazing instructions. Fitting the bead will be second nature to anyone familiar with glazing PVC-u.

The bead also remains more stable during transit in frames, due to the positive click of the hybrid design. Once you’ve tried it you won’t want to go back!

To find out more about Sheerline’s new Fast Connect Hybrid Bead, visit the website where you’ll find our installation video: https://www.sheerline.com/product/ installation-guides

If you want to know more or are interested in switching to the UK’s most innovative aluminium system, please call us on 01332 978000.

Fully Part L compliant

Single and double door styles

Security tested to PAS 24

Can be powder coated at our in-house facility

Suitable for residential and commercial sectors

A great fit for retrofit and refurbishment projects

1.0 W/m2K*

*When calculated as a CEN standard door

DISPELLING THE MYTHS AROUND U-VALUES AND PART L – BY PAUL BOOTH, R&D DIRECTOR, ALUK

During the last quarter of 2024, it was good to see so many people agreeing with AluK in the media on the topic of U-Value compliance (or lack of it!) in this industry.

We led the way in pointing out that some of the calculations being cascaded down the supply chain by other systems companies simply didn’t add up. I’d like to think it’s a lack of knowledge that’s behind some of the issues that we see and not a case of companies trying to play the system; but either way, we’re pleased that there now seems to be a real groundswell of support for our view that suppliers need to be doing much more to make sure customers aren’t risking non-compliance by relying on information which is simply not accurate. Even beyond the issue of miscalculations though, there are still some myths circulating about how you can achieve compliance, which I also think it’s important for us to correct:

Myth 1 – Energy ratings (DSERs and WERs) can be used to show Part L compliance for new build developments. Wrong! Energy ratings can only be used for replacement product installations and in extensions.

Myth 2 – The CEN standard window shown in BS EN 14351 (1230 x 1480 single opener) can be used to demonstrate compliance with U-Values.

Wrong! There is no option to use the CEN standard configuration window in Part L. U-Values should be

assessed using the methods set out in the Building Research Establishment’s BR443 and applied to both the glass and the frame. For windows in dwellings, that means either calculated using the actual size and configuration, or calculated for a standard 1230 x 1480 window with one of the following standard configurations:

• a central vertical divider and one fixed and one opening light for a casement

• a central horizontal divider with one fixed and one opening light for a vertical sliding sash

• no divider for a roof window

Myth 3 – Bifold doors can be shown to comply via the U-Value route using a French door sample configuration.

Wrong! Part L states ‘When a single U-Value is calculated for a product range of doors, the configuration of the door chosen for the calculation should be the worst performing in the product range. The calculation has to be carried out either using the actual size and configuration of the door or using one of the following standard sizes:

• 1.23m (+/-25%) wide x 2.18m (+/-25%) high for doors less than 3.6m2

• 2.00m (+/-25%) wide x 2.18m (+/-25%) high for doors more than 3.6m2

Myth 4 – I don’t need a CE/UKCA mark for windows and doors which I place on the market, provided they comply with Building Regs (inc Part L).

Wrong! All windows and doors placed on the market in the UK must be CE/UKCA marked and thermal performance is one of the essential characteristics which must be declared on that mark. This is a legal requirement.

AluK is committed to driving up standards right across the industry – and compliance is a major part of that. We recognise that Part L is challenging, but it’s certainly not insurmountable. Sliding doors, for instance, are fairly difficult to improve due to the thermal breaks in the sashes and frames being off-set from each other. However, there are many modern systems out there, such as our new S140 Lift and Slide system, which have been developed with various thermal break enhancements to enable them to comply with existing and future Building Regulations. On the other hand, there are some systems that have been around for many years which don’t have the same enhancements - and it’s difficult to see how these systems comply.

Full details on all of AluK’s third party accredited Part L compliant products – all calculated to the correct sizes and configurations are at: https://uk.aluk.com/en-gb/products

SUITED HERITAGE SYSTEM FROM ALUK

The launch of the AluK Heritage door at the start of the year has given AluK customers a major boost in what is a fast growing sector of the market.

AluK customers now have a fully suited Heritage door and window offering to target traditional steel replacement projects, as well as contemporary refurbishments and new builds.

The design appeal of the classic industrial looking window and door never fades, but it has been made more practical and accessible with the development of ‘steel look’ alternatives in aluminium. These replicate the slim sightlines and sleek profiles of steel, but at a more cost effective price point and with proven benefits in terms of sustainability, durability, and thermal efficiency.

As a result, demand is growing in dated heritage installations where original non-thermally broken steel windows have long outlived their usefulness, but property owners haven’t been able to afford replacements, and in new builds and refurbishments where design-conscious property owners want to achieve the on-trend industrial aesthetic.

AluK’s Heritage door and steel replacement window make it easy for fabricators and installers to tap into all these profitable new business streams. They are both manufactured in AluK’s tested, tried and trusted 58BW

system, with profiles, beads and ancillaries shared across both. Fabrication methods are standard and there is minimal additional stockholding.

The new AluK Heritage door, with slim 51.7mm sightlines, can be used to make both single and double doors and is available with matching fixed light transoms so it is easy

to add fan and side lights and create a fully glazed wall if required. For whole house installations, it suites perfectly with the 58BW ST Heritage window which has sightlines of just 43mm in a fixed light and 66mm frame to vent.

Kevin Bonnar, AluK’s Sales Director, says the addition of the Heritage door to the 58BW Heritage window is a big plus for AluK fabricators: “It’s all about being able to supply the whole glazing package from one supplier and in one coherent system. It also opens up opportunities for upselling an enquiry for windows or doors into an enquiry for both.

“We’ve already had enthusiastic endorsements from customers including Midori Aluminium, Unique Window Systems and Exeter Trade Windows for the new door and we’re excited to see customers embracing the door and window combinations.”

AluK offers its Heritage range with period-inspired handles in matt black, antique bronze, heritage black and heritage grey. The standard finish is classic matt black which is available on a 5-day lead time and non-stock single and dual colours are available from 15 days.

As buyers would expect from AluK, all the Heritage options are fully Part L compliant, with third-party accredited U-Values of 1.4 W/m2K for the Heritage door and 1.4 W/m2K for the Heritage window double glazed and 1.1 W/m2K triple glazed.

More details at: https://www.alukgb.com/heritage-door.

Market leading System 10-35

Commercial Door and Framing goes from

strength to strength

Metal Technology’s System 10-35 Hi / Hi+ Commercial Door and Framing has been recently enhanced to include:

New structural mullions

Auto door pro les

New concealed closer options for wider and heavier doors

New Mag and electric lock solutions to suit standard and PAS24 security applications

New rebated door option for anti- nger trap stiles as well as additional pull handle and threshold variants.

handle

PAS 24 Security Tested U values as low as 1.0W/m2K

Multi-Point Locking + Mag Locks

Panic Exit (Push Rail or Touch Bar)

FENTRADE’S EXPERTISE INVALUABLE IN LARGE-SCALE 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 primary-coloured 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 ladder-type 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. However, achieving this required more than 100 separate manual calculations and a great deal of precision machining.

Chris commented: “Each cap was calculated by hand across the four façades to ensure a correct fit on site – and then machined, batched and clearly labelled to make installation straightforward. It represented many months of work, and we were incredibly proud to deliver on time and on budget.”

The aluminium powder coating was finished to a marine-grade finish to ensure durability, longevity and low maintenance, even in Aberporth’s coastal location.

Installation was carefully planned to minimise disruption to the school. The headteacher and pupils are delighted with the results, and there’s a renewed sense of pride in a building that’s warmer and brighter than before.

Chris concluded: “The project was a perfect example of the quality of work that can be achieved when the entire supply chain collaborates from start to finish. It’s an incredible project that we’re proud to have been part of.”

Fentrade brings over 30 years of fenestration experience, and a commitment to quality and results. These benefits were more than in evidence in this latest project.

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CAREERS & QUALIFICATIONS IN FENESTRATION

SPONSORED BY GQA AND BUILDING OUR SKILLS

FENSA – the first, and largest, Competent Person Scheme – has, as part of an ongoing modernisation programme, announced publication of its revised Articles. The updated Articles have changed the composition and eligibility criteria of the FENSA Board of Directors, with the result that some current board members will be stepping down from their roles.

The revision of Articles, undertaken by FENSA and the Glass and Glazing Federation Group (of which FENSA is part), was conducted to reform FENSA’s governance framework, ensuring greater agility, alignment with the GGF Group’s strategic objectives, and compliance with industry best practice.

The position of FENSA Board Chair will be undertaken by Dave Broxton, Managing Director of Bohle Ltd for 13 years and current GGF Board Director. Dave will begin his tenure as FENSA Board Chair on 12th February 2025.

Natalie Little, President of the GGF and Chair of the Group Board of Directors, said: “We are committed to the ongoing review and evolution of the whole GGF Group as we strive to be standard bearers of excellence in 21st Century glass and glazing. Updating the FENSA Articles is one element of our overall strategy to deliver the very best services in today’s market.

“I am delighted to welcome Dave Broxton as FENSA Board Chair and would like to express my sincere gratitude to those departing FENSA Board members for their dedication, guidance, and contributions to FENSA during their tenure. We shall ensure a smooth transition and continuity in leadership as we move forward.”

“Updating

Glazerite UK Group is set to strengthen its purchasing team with the appointment of a new Head of Group Procurement.

Phil Taylor will join the leading trade fabricator this month after over a decade at Safestyle.

Phil says: “I am excited to join Glazerite at such a pivotal time for the business. I have a real passion for continuous improvement and driving efficiencies throughout the supply chain. I will work with our team to add value and deliver quality for Glazerite’s extensive customer base by developing strong relationships with our suppliers and embedding best practices in purchasing.

“I look forward to meeting Glazerite’s suppliers in the

coming weeks and working together for the benefit of our installers.”

Glazerite Managing Director Rob Brearley adds: “We are delighted to have made such a strategic and important appointment, with Phil bringing a wealth of procurement experience to the role. His extensive fenestration knowledge will also prove invaluable for Glazerite, our suppliers, and our installers as we strive to deliver a best-inclass fabrication service for customers.”

This year marks 25 years in the industry for Glazerite and to celebrate, the fabricator is sponsoring the VIP Lounge at FIT Show. The Glazerite team will also be on hand at Stand F79 to welcome suppliers, customers, and fenestration stakeholders. FIT Show takes place at the NEC Birmingham from 29th April – 1st May 2025.  www.glazerite.co.uk

Serving as a Board Director for the Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB) offers a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Aluminium Fenestration Industry.

The Board provides a platform to influence strategic decisions that directly impact the growth of aluminium fenestration, innovation, and sustainability practices. By becoming a director, a CAB member has the chance to collaborate with key stakeholders, including manufacturers, fabricators, contractors, and architects, to ensure the Industry remains at the forefront of advancements in technology and environmental responsibility. Active involvement in CAB helps the Association address challenges such as promoting circular economies, driving sustainability through aluminium recycling, and championing industry standards that enhance the quality and reputation of CAB Members across the UK & Ireland.

Along with the opportunity to shape policy, serving on the CAB board positions its directors as leaders within the Industry. The Board offers unparalleled networking opportunities

and access to insights about market trends, legislative changes, and emerging technologies. It also contributes to the professional development as members are involved in high-level discussions that refine strategic thinking and leadership. Representing CAB as a Board Director allows members to amplify their organisation’s voice and advocate for its interests, while simultaneously contributing to the broader development of a resilient and sustainable industry. This role is not only an investment in the industry’s future but also an opportunity to leave a meaningful legacy.

As the Association grows, additional board members are needed to best represent the interests of its members across the aluminium supply chain. This year we are delighted to welcome to the Board two additional directors who offer both skills and valuable insights into the ever evolving supply chain.

www.c-a-b.org.uk

Dave Broxton

• Veka Windows and Doors

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CAREERS & QUALIFICATIONS IN FENESTRATION

SENIOR TAKES THE LEAD ON SUSTAINABILITY WITH NEW APPOINTMENT

Senior Architectural Systems, the UK’s largest privatelyowned manufacturer of aluminium windows, doors, and curtain walling, has appointed Luke Osborne to the newly created role of UK sustainability lead.

Luke brings with him a wealth of industry experience, having worked with a number of major building products manufacturers to help establish and develop environmental initiatives, sustainability policies, and reliable carbon data sources.

In his new role, Luke will advance the existing work Senior has been doing to reduce the environmental impact of its business operations, and provide its customers with accurate calculations relating to embodied and operational carbon. Key to this will be the development of environmental product declaration (EPD) documents across Senior’s extensive range of aluminium windows, doors, and curtain wall systems, as well as a

robust roadmap to support Senior’s net zero, biodiversity, and waste reduction targets.

Luke will work closely with Senior’s architectural advisory team to support the company’s main contractors and specification partners, as well as ensuring that its network of fabricators and installers can also benefit from the company’s investment in sustainability.

Commenting, Senior’s new UK sustainability lead, Luke Osborne, said: “My role here at Senior Architectural Systems will be focused on driving sustainability across the whole business and building on what is already a strong foundation. Senior has made significant advances in recent years, particularly in developing its product range and using lower-carbon aluminium. I am looking forward to working with both colleagues and customers to ensure that the work we are doing really makes a difference in terms of reducing our own carbon footprint, supporting supply-chain targets, and improving the standards for sustainability across the fenestration sector.”

Mark Wadsworth, Senior’s managing director, added: “Sustainability has always been an important part of our ethos here at Senior, and I am delighted to have Luke on board to

“We are proud to be UK-owned and UK-based, which gives us means that our sustainability policies and procedures directly align with the specific needs of our UK

customers.”

help us continue our journey and take us to the next level. We are proud to be UK-owned and UK-based, which gives us means that our sustainability policies and procedures directly align with the specific needs of our UK customers. Luke will take the lead on this next chapter of our sustainability strategy, supporting our customers to achieve compliance with the relevant regulations, targets, and the proposed UK Net Zero Carbon Building Standard”.

For more information, please visit www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk or search for Senior Architectural Systems on LinkedIn andFacebook.

SELECTA RAISE

£3,700

FOR ACORNS CHILDREN’S HOSPICE

During December of last year, Selecta Systems held a couple of fundraising events and raised a fantastic £3,700 for local charity, Acorns Children’s Hospice. A Christmas raffle culminating in a Christmas jumper day, were organised by the Selecta marketing department for this worthy cause.

Selecta Systems Marketing Manager, Mark Walker, spoke about the fundraising events and why Selecta chose to support Acorns Children’s Hospice.

“We’ve supported Acorns as our local charity for a number of years now and we’ve always been amazed at what they do for babies, children, young people and the families of those with life limiting or life-threatening conditions. Acorns has been threatened with closure over the last few years or so and is heavily reliant on donations from the community to fund the local hospice centres.”

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides babies, children and young people, who have life limiting or life-threatening conditions and associated complex needs with a network of specialist palliative nursing care and support. They also provide a holistic service which meets the needs of both the children and their families, including the bereaved. This includes short break provision; emergency and end of life care; therapeutic and psychosocial support; sibling services and family support.

Coordinated by Marketing Assistant, Danielle Southam, concludes, “It only seems right to continue our support for such a worthy cause. We would like to thank everyone who got involved and donated. We are thrilled at being able to raise over £3,700!”

Luke Osborne

Ultrasky Orangery

USEFUL NUMBERS

British Plastics Federation (BPF)

Tel: 0207 457 5000

British Standards Institution (BSI) – Standards & Publications

Tel: 0208 996 9001

BSI – Assessment & Certification

Tel: 0845 080 9000

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: 0345 053 8975

Fenestration Self-Assessment Scheme (FENSA)

Tel: 0207 645 3700

Get Britain Building (GBB)

Tel: 0870 162 0936

Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF)

Tel: 0207 939 9101

GQA Qualifications (formerly Glass Qualifications Authority)

Tel: 0114 2720033

Health & Safety Executive (HSE)

– Glass & Related Industries

Phil Smith, HM Principal Inspector

Tel: 01782 602300

David Appleton, HM Inspector

Tel: 0115 9712800

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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