Window News February 2016

Astroseal Kicks off 2016 with major investment 10

A Decade of Digital 48

Latest from The FIT Show 2016 52

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WINDOWNEWS

CONTENTS WINDOW NEWS

W INDOWNEWS

W INDOWNEWS

THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS

THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS

TRADE NEWS 4

W INDOWNEW W INDOWNEW W INDOWNEW

NEWS PEOPLE 26 W INDOW INDUSTRY DIRECTORY FENSA NEWS 24

THE LATEST INDUSTRY N

PRODUCT NEWS 28

WINDOW

COMPOSITE DOORS 43

THE LATEST INDUSTRY N

W INDOWNEWS

SOFTWARE / INTERNET

48

FIT SHOW 52 THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS ON-SITE 58

THE LATEST INDUSTRY N

MACHINERY 64 MARKETING 68 CHARITY 71

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Cover picture provided by Emplas showing Patiomaster’s inline sliding door.

WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2015 3

TRADE NEWS

Glazerite Acquires City Beads New Group Structure for £28 million company

The Glazerite UK Group Ltd has announced the purchase of the entire share capital of Trade Frame Holdings Limited, in turn the owner of City Beads Ltd of Peterborough.

The company will operate as Glazerite (East) Ltd under a new holding company called The Glazerite UK Group Ltd, with John Hewitt as Chairman, Jason Thompson as Managing Director, Mike Johnson as Finance Director and Ian Lloyd as Operations Director. Also included within the new structure will be Glazerite Windows Ltd; Glazerite (Northwest) Ltd; and Glazerite (Southwest) Ltd. Each company will be headed by its own Board of Directors formed through selective promotions from within each division and complimented by external appointments.

As City Beads Ltd the company manufactures products using Halo Rustique and System 10, both VEKA UK Group products and key factors in the decision to purchase the company. These will be complemented by additional products already offered by Glazerite, including vertical sliding and fully reversible windows, 4 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

Bi-Folding doors, Residence 9 flush sash windows and composite residential doors by Solidor & Doorco.

Other significant factors that influenced the acquisition include the company’s Peterborough location, its longevity – City Beads Ltd was formed in 1982 – a longstanding team and established customer base. Current sales are circa £4 million with an output of 450 frames per week.

An investment programme already agreed will take place over 12 – 18 months with an expected growth to £6m, an increase of 50%, within that period.

The infrastructure will include the installation of Glazerite’s in house software system, with full bar coding throughout production and transparency across the business; and the implementation of enhanced tools designed to improve reporting and efficiency.

Combined output of The Glazerite UK Group Ltd is now in excess of 3500 frames per week, this will increase to more than 3800 frames following completion of the investment in systems and ma-

chinery. The group forecast sales in excess of £28 million for 2016 making them one of the largest independently owned companies in the industry.

Group Chairman John Hewitt said of the acquisition: “The purchase of Trade Frame Holdings Ltd and City Beads Ltd became a natural and obvious move and I would like to thank Will Nicoll, former owner of the company, for his cooperation and support throughout the negotiations. Will intends to continue to run his Tradeframe. com operation in Peterborough, Cheltenham, Hertfordshire & Swindon and will become a customer of Glazerite (East) Ltd. The focus of all operations will be significantly improved as a result.

“Additionally Glazerite customers will now enjoy the choice of a huge range of products, with The Glazerite UK Group the largest supplier of VEKA Group products by a significant margin.

This brings benefits of efficiency, expertise and scale. The relationships with VEKA and our other market leading suppliers has been a corner stone of our success over more than 16 years and this will continue.

“This is the most exciting and positive time for everyone involved with and in The Glazerite UK Group and we welcome our new colleagues and customers to the Glazerite family” Will Nicoll was quick to praise Glazerite: “We had interest from a number of potential purchasers but I saw Glazerite as the perfect choice to take the company forward. My skills and passion are in retail and I can now concentrate on developing Tradeframe.com knowing that I have an excellent supplier and that the City Beads team - to whom I remain incredibly grateful and loyal - will prosper through Glazerite’s enormous strengths in manufacturing. It’s an excellent outcome”.

TRADE NEWS

Dear

Gerald

(L-R) Dual Seal Glass MD Richard Morris with director Nigel Meredith.

Dual Seal Glass

Invests £1M As Commercial Market Booms The industry’s largest commercial-only IGU manufacturer has invested more than £1 million to double the size of its production storage space as it responds to strong sales growth in the booming commercial market.

Sales at Huddersfield based Dual Seal Glass grew by 15% in 2014, continuing an upward trend since 2009, as the commercial glazing market gathered pace and opened up more and more opportunities.

As the recent Palmer report highlighted, it’s a market that increased by 10% in volume terms between 2012 and 2014 and a further growth of 20% is forecast up to 2019.

Dual Seal Glass has been quick to respond to this increased customer demand, putting plans in place back in June 2015 to ensure it had additional capacity to service a larger market in 2016 and beyond.

The company has doubled the space of its premises with the acquisition of an adjacent site which it has transformed into a large storage area with additional production and office facilities also provided.

Dual Seal Glass joint MD Richard Morris says, “We’ve always differentiated ourselves by focusing exclusively on IGU’s for the commercial market, and this strategy is delivering our strongest ever business performance as the market gains momentum. Our increased storage capacity ensures we can continue to deliver the great service that has been the cornerstone of our business over the past 21 years and attract new customers with confidence.

“With another 51,000 sq ft capacity, we’ve been able to allocate dedicated production areas in line with where we are seeing increased demand. For example, we have set up a new unit in which we apply insulation to our spandrel panels, a move which creates additional capacity in our main IGU factory.

Is the window and door sector being unfairly treated?

Late last year, The Window Company (Contracts) changed banks from one of the ‘big four’ to the much less well known Swedish firm Handelsbanken.

Whilst I had never been unhappy with the service we had received from our previous provider, I was driven to change by the fact that they told me in no uncertain terms that the construction sector was on their list of ‘poor risks’ and that they could not support an application from us for funding.

I’m sure many within the industry would share my surprise that even a highly profitable, award winning businesses like ours, which has a full order book and had just achieved year on year growth of 40%, could be turned down flat because of a blanket ban imposed by ‘head office’.

Bearing in mind that the funding was required to give us sufficient capital to take on a new million pound plus contract, I’ve asked myself since then whether this attitude from the traditional banking sector is holding back other businesses like ours in the window and door market?

Aren’t we hearing constantly that the construction industry is now outperforming the rest of the economy, that new housebuilding will be fast tracked through the planning process and even that the government is now planning to invest in overhauling 100 neglected social housing projects? Isn’t that message getting through?

I don’t know whether the policy extends beyond the bank we were dealing with, but it certainly prompted us to make the shift to the decentralised Handelsbanken and needless to say, our application for funding was very quickly approved.

I’ve been delighted with the switch and it will probably benefit The Window Company (Contracts) in the long run, but I would be interested to hear if any other businesses like ours have experienced similar problems or prejudices?

David Thornton Managing Director The Window Company (Contracts) WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 5

TRADE NEWS

Italian Firm Cifin Holding Acquires

elumatec Group Under the umbrella of the Italian firm Cifin Holding, elumatec AG, an international leader in the manufacturing of machines for processing aluminium, PVC and steel profiles, is joining the Emmegi Group to create a new heavyweight in the industry.

Cifin Holding, which also owns Emmegi, announced today that it has acquired elumatec AG and its subsidiary companies.

All parties involved in the deal have agreed not to disclose any details about the transaction.

In an official announcement to its customers and industry partners, elumatec AG said: ‘Cifin Holding, which has now acquired elumatec AG and all its subsidiary companies, also owns the Emmegi Group, which, as you know, is active in the same industry. Therefore, Cifin Holding already possesses an outstanding understanding of our market. ‘elumatec and Emmegi will remain autonomous companies that will operate independently of one another as competitors in the market. However, the new structure enables us to achieve solid growth and a much stronger presence in this economic sector. You can continue to expect ingenuity, expertise, technology and competency from us. You, our customers, will also benefit from our new corporate 6 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

organization.

‘Looking ahead at 2016 and 2017, we are already able to announce in-house product developments that will make it possible for us to offer innovations that will lead us forward and benefit our customers in the future. Of course, our global sales and service network will continue to operate in this new configuration just as reliably as you have come to expect.’

Their official press announcement adds: “Britta Hübner, CEO of elumatec AG, said: ‘Our restructuring concept is a resounding success, making it possible for elumatec to continue operating in the global market at full capacity and without the burdens of the past.

Cifin possesses an outstanding understanding of our market.

This industry solution comes at just the right time. It ensures continuity and growth for our company.’

Cifin President Valter Caiumi added: ‘This acquisition enables both companies to achieve solid growth and a much stronger presence in this economic sector. With ingenuity, expertise and innovative technology, we can increase the added value for our customers, who stand to benefit above all from this outstanding combination.’”

Phil Heavey, managing director of elumatec UK said: ‘I was delighted to be able to make this announcement to our customers and partners and hope they will see the positive benefits to them and to the industry. If anyone would like to request additional information or has questions they are welcome to contact me any time on 01908 580800 and of course we look forward to meeting visitors to the elumatec stand at the FIT Show in April.’

With over 700 employees, elumatec achieved consolidated sales of about 120 million euros in 2014. In addition to its headquarters and production facility in Mühlacker, elumatec maintains a sales and production facility in Bosnia-Herzegovina as well as an existing sales and service network of more than 30 subsidiary and second-tier subsidiary companies and numerous dealers in over 50 countries across the world.

Like elumatec, Emmegi s.p.a. produces machines, equipment and software for the handling of aluminium, steel and PVC profiles. The family company has around 500 employees worldwide and achieves sales of 105 million euros, with 84 million euros of that figure coming from international markets.

In addition to its headquarters in Soliera (Modena), Emmegi maintains production facilities in Piacenza, Reggio Emilia and Suzhou (China). Together, Emmegi and elumatec possess six production units, five in Europe and one in Asia.

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TRADE NEWS

The Profine Group Joins the GGF Membership commented, “I am pleased The Profine Group has joined the GGF. With their vast experience of the sector, technical expertise and their high profile in the industry, I am sure they will be a great asset to the Federation.”

The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) is delighted to announce that The Profine Group has joined the GGF. Stefan Seidel, Managing Director, Profine UK received their GGF Membership Certificate from GGF President Brian Baker at the last GGF Conservatory Association Window and Door meeting of 2015 in Birmingham.

Brian Smith, GGF Director of

Under the brands KBE, KÖMMERLING and TROCAL, The Profine Group produce PVC profiles for windows and residential doors, shutter systems and PVC sheets. Being a customer focused company, Profine is characterized by quality thinking, innovative strength, efficient processes and responsibility. The pursuit of excellence in all areas is their driving force and combined with the close partnerships they form with their customers, Profine aim to be the world leader for quality profiles and sheets.

Brian McDonald, Commercial Manager at Profine UK, commented: “The Profine Group look forward to being part of the industry’s leading trade body and to working with the GGF, not only for our own benefit but also that of the fenestration industry.”

Brian Smith added, “Profine is the latest of several of the industry’s leading companies to join the GGF in the last year. We are delighted they have joined and it can only strengthen the GGF and the industry as a whole.”

For more information on The Profine Group visit www.profine-group.com/en/ If you are interested in joining the GGF please visit the Federation’s website www.ggf.org.uk/join

turers with a reputation for quality and innovation.

Examples of the company’s recent innovations include products such as the Patriot Plus High Security Door Hinge, the Sparta 3 Window Handle and the Pegasus High Security Window Lock that bring practical features and benefits to help fabricators and installers save time and money. The company is also the home of the ground-breaking stainless steel hardware range, where each product comes with a 20 year guarantee against corrosion.

Trojan Group becomes Network VEKA Affiliate Member

The Trojan Group has announced it has become a Network VEKA Affiliate Member. Tony Chadwick, Trojan Group’s Managing Director, said, “Like us, Network VEKA is dedicated to quality and service.

It was founded to raise standards across the double glazing industry and we’re delighted to be joining the Network as an Affiliate Member.”

Trojan is one of the UK’s leading hardware manufac8 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

Network VEKA’s Affiliate Members list is a prestigious portfolio of organisations that help Network VEKA members to use the best hardware, ancillaries and services that are available in the industry.

Tony Chadwick commented, “We are looking forward to building stronger relationships with existing customers who are Network VEKA members as well as new customers who come to us because of our affiliation with the organisation.”

John Ogilvie, Managing Director of Network VEKA concluded, “The partnership with Trojan comes at a time when we are re-launching our affiliations to the membership and we are delighted to be able to include Trojan as part of the wider range of quality support for our members.” www.trojangroup.com

TRADE NEWS

Solidor’s

rapid growth set to continue

Report Predicts Strong Growth In Commercial

Aluminium Market The Commercial Glazing Market Report UK 2015 – 2019 analysis has revealed prospects for growth in the market over the next 4 – 5 years look positive.

In terms of product sectors, the report stated the largest segment by value is commercial windows, followed by curtain walling and ground floor treatments.

Solidor’s 2015 was 25% up on 2014 – a storming performance.

Over 46,000 homeowners visited the website in November 2015 looking for their ideal door, a new record for the leading composite door manufacturer in quality, design and security.

Following a period of decline between 2008 and 2011, significant growth in 2014 appears to have been sustained and improved upon in 2015.

Jerry says the report’s findings suggest the commercial market is on a fast track to recovery after reduced activity from 2012 – 2013, and hopes aluminium can now find equal footing in the domestic sector.

Solidor is prepared for this impressive growth to continue. It has doubled the size of its sales team so it can focus on providing excellent service to existing customers while winning a large pipeline of new business in 2016.

He comments: “Aluminium has always been the material of choice in the commercial market and it’s fantastic to see such positive findings from the report. At the same time we have been very vocal about the lack of use of aluminium in the domestic market and are campaigning to promote the benefits of bringing this material into mainstream projects such as new build housing.”

Solidor CEO Gareth Mobley says: “We’re really excited about 2016.

We’re in the right place to get even more growth. We’ve invested in processes, capacity and people, so we’re ready to achieve really big things.

Increased activity in the construction office sector has been a major influencer in this growth; and the education sector is also likely to see the number of new projects increasing from 2016 onwards.

Jerry Webb, MD of specialist aluminium fabricator CDW Systems, says the report’s findings spell good news for aluminium suppliers and the construction industry as a whole.

He commented: “The rise in new projects in the commercial market will see higher demand for aluminium products. It will also help attract interest and investment from developers overseas keen to get involved in a booming market, which in turn has a positive impact on the UK economy.”

CDW Systems has been operating for twenty two years as an aluminium specialist, manufacturing and supplying a wide range of windows, doors, shop and curtain walling, using some of the leading aluminium profile systems on the market today including SAPA, ALUK and Smarts.

“We had great success in 2015 thanks to a very successful consumer marketing campaign, which means that homeowners now ask for Solidor by name,” adds Gareth. “It’s creating more leads for our customers than ever. And our focus on security is resonating with homeowners as well as the trade. In January we’ll include the Ultion lock as standard, so without doubt, we offer the most secure composite door to the market.”

WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 9

TRADE NEWS

Astraseal

kicks off 2016 with major

machinery investment

Marketing manager Zac Nedimovic

One of the UK’s most prominent trade fabricators, Wellingborough based Astraseal, has kicked off 2016 with a £300k machinery investment. The uPVC and aluminium fabricator have installed a new CNC machine, increasing their composite and fire door capacity from 150 to 250 doors per week, and have acquired another wrapping machine to vacuum pack the finished product.

Marketing manager Zac Nedimovic comments: “The new CNC has been specifically designed for composite doors and will enable us to manufacture more efficient10 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

ly than ever before. It’s a double bed machine, so we can work on two doors at the same time, and incorporates specially designed saws that cut the glazing cassette holes with incredible speed and precision. As well as improving the quality of the finished product, the saw means we will produce less wastage, which is another key benefit.”

Astraseal’s recent investment is part of a longer term strategy to firmly cement their position as one of the biggest trade suppliers in the UK. The company has invested around £3m in the business

over the last two years, increasing their capacity to 4,000 frames per week.

“Astraseal have grown steadily since our inception back in 1979 and the recent round of investments means we have the tools in place to continue our evolution into the future,” Zac comments.

“Composite doors are a big part of what we do, and the new CNC means we can meet ever increasing customer demand and continue to grow this area of the business.”

Astraseal’s composite doors are made with the Nan Ya slab set in either a REHAU S706 or Eurocell Eurologik outerframe. They come equipped with the Winkhaus 2 claw STV2 Cobra lock and a choice of modern and traditional hardware. For clients that want something a little bit different from their composite door, Astraseal offer the Memphis Collection. Influenced by the Memphis Group, an Italian design and architecture group that specialised in exotic and often flamboyant designs, the Memphis Collection combines modern stainless steel handles with a choice of stunning glass designs and unlimited colour options to create some of the most modern looking doors available on the market today. Astraseal also offer 30 and 60 minute fire doors made with the Nan Ya slab and Winkhaus Eco-frame outerframe.

Operating from a 110,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Wellingborough, Astraseal are one of the largest window, door and conservatory fabricators in the UK. The company manufactures a comprehensive product range in REHAU and Synseal PVC-u; and Smarts and Reynaers aluminium.

They also produce all sealed units in-house and have an in-house colour coating facility.

For more information call Astraseal on 01933 227233 or visit www.astraseal.co.uk

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TRADE NEWS

Industry cautiously optimistic as to Continued

growth in 2016 – Poll

A new poll has found that going into 2016, installers remain quietly confident of continued growth, driven by demand from new build and retail sectors.

Published this month, [Jan] the fourth ‘Emplas State of the Market Report’, found that while reporting growth, 2015 had been a somewhat ‘sobering’ year after the initial jump seen in volumes with the start of the 2013 recovery.

RyanJohnsonAccording to the survey 64 per cent of those polled said that they believed that the industry would enjoy continued growth in the coming 12 months – marginally up on last year. Half of this number, however, said that they expected growth would be at a lower rate than in 2015.

A further 36 per cent said that they believed that the market would remain flat or even go into decline. This compares a forecast of growth from 63 per cent of those polled last year and 98 per cent in 2013.

Ryan Johnson, Managing Director, Emplas said: “The findings are more or less consistent with wid 12 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

er industry analysis, which suggested that growth tailed off a little last year.

“To an extent this was to be expected. There was always going to be some sort of realignment after the initial recovery. This year [2016] growth will be defined by two things: the impact of any potential increase in interest rates, which could dent consumer confidence; and the affordability of house prices.

“Property prices are high which drives confidence but also puts home-ownership out of reach of many, reducing the number of transactions. We believe this had an impact in 2015. Confidence in the housing sector is critical but so is affordability and movement in the market, as a driver of home improvements.”

If these external factors could impact on growth in 2016, it didn’t stop installers tipping retail as the sector for the single greatest growth in 2016 (55%). New build opportunities were predicted as a driver of growth by just under 45 per cent of those who responded to the survey.

TRADE NEWS “You only have to look at latent demand for new homes. The National Housing Federation estimates that fewer than half of the one million new properties needed to meet demand between 2011 and 2014, were actually built, while the Chancellor announced funding for more than 400,000 new homes in the Autumn Statement – new build is going to remain a growth market for some time”, added Johnson.

The poll also revealed that triple-glazing – a product previously predicted to make a high impact in both retail and new build – had failed to gain meaningful traction in 2015, cited by installers across the board as making up less than five per cent of sales.

Confidence in the performance of the composite door sector remained high, tipped by 74 per cent of respondents for continuing growth in 2016 (75% in 2015). This compares to PVC-U panels, which were forecast for growth by just 22 per cent.

Foiled and coloured product ranges were predicted by 77 per cent of respondents as a foundation of growth in 2016, slightly down on the 80 per cent polled last year.

According to the survey, installers believe that the revival in the conservatory sector is also set to continue. Figures suggest that they saw the recovery as being led by conservatory/orangery hybrid products (55%) and orangeries (44%). Traditional conservatories were tipped for growth in volume by just 30 per cent of respondents.

agreed yet were split more or less down the middle when asked if homeowners were prepared to ‘pay more for quality and service’ (52% ‘yes’ and 48% ‘no’).

When asked if they discounted regularly as part of their sales strategy, 14 per cent of respondents said that they did (34% last year), 5 per cent (23% last year) said that they did so rarely and 81 per cent said that they didn’t discount.

“Findings on pricing are encouraging” continued Johnson, “we’re seeing installers moving away from discounting to selling at higher margins and the added-value of their product and service offer.

“This is positive step forward as it supports sustainable pricing within the window and door industry as a whole and a move away from ‘commodity sales’.

“The response we see from installers suggests that consumers are recognising the contribution that windows and doors make to their properties in the form of energy efficiency, aesthetics and security and they are prepared to pay for it.”

Emplas has invested significantly across its product ranges, refining it to reflect growth areas including the addition of the Ultraframe Livin Room and at the end of last year, a new rapid turnaround composite door range, bringing six competitively priced and specially selected door styles to its customers with a lead time of just 5-days.

It has also invested significantly in its factory floor with the addition of a new Schirmer Saw Centre in the summer as part of a six-figure spend on driving new standards of quality and service throughout its operation.

Johnson concluded: “For the industry as a whole, 2015 perhaps fell a little short of expectation and that’s prompted some revision of growth forecasts. The team here at Emplas all worked incredibly hard and hit really quite ambitious budgetary targets, thanks to our customers, so we would probably define it as tough but productive.

IMG_0829Ancillary products, bi-folding and inline sliding doors were predicted as areas of growth by just over half of those polled – almost exactly the same as 2015.

Asked if ‘price was the most important factor in selecting a supplier’ 88 per cent of installers

“Assuming the housing market continues to perform, we expect to this to set the tone for 2016.

Product and service innovation will be drivers of sustainable growth this year – and we believe through to 2019.”

To find out more follow us on twitter #InstallerPartnership or @emplaswindows. For more information visit www.emplas.co.uk , email info@emplas.co.uk or call 01933 674880.

WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 13

TRADE NEWS

Thermoseal Group Exceeding The Requirements

For Investors In People

Thermoseal Group has again achieved its Investors in People (IIP) accreditation by exceeding requirements of its recent assessment.

The Group has been IIP accredited for over 15 years.

nities for mentoring’ and ‘Involving employees in improving how they are managed and developed’. The assessment process showed good evidence that people are a valued asset to the business.

Since 1991 IIP has set the standard for better people management. This internationally recognised accreditation is held by 14,000 organisations across the world. The Standard defines what it takes to lead, support and manage people well for sustainable results.

Thermoseal Group’s Managing Director, Gwain Paterson commented: “Many of our staff have been working at Thermoseal Group for over 10 years – some for 20-plus years. However, in the past few years since we have been manufacturing warm edge spacer systems and growing the infrastructure of the business in line with this, we have seen an influx of new staff. The Investors in People accreditation has been an excellent framework for us to ensure that we keep our focus on providing our staff with the training and development that they need.

We intend to continue striving to meet and exceed the requirements of this accreditation.

Thermoseal Group’s recent assessment saw the Group pass the standard with flying colours and achieve additional evidence requirements for: ‘Leadership and management strategy’; ‘Flexible approach to learning and development’; ‘Sharing knowledge and learning across the business; ‘Supporting people in their personal development; ‘Providing opportu-

“The renewed IIP status is another win for us and we are now looking to display our latest plaque in a cabinet with our prided G15 awards for ‘Component Supplier of the Year’ and ‘Training and Development Initiative of the Year’, as well as other industry standards and accreditations we have achieved. It is with thanks to the dedication of the Thermoseal Group team that we continue to grow and improve our product and service offering.

Thank you to everyone working as part of our team.”

To find out about Thermoseal Group and its comprehensive range of insulated glass components (including highest performance Thermobar and Thermoflex Warm Edge Spacers) and machinery for glazing manufacture, call +44(0)121 331 3950 or visit www.thermosealgroup.com.

Quality Standards Bring Positive Results For Tuffx The quality standards of the Ambience range from TuffX has once again inspired consumer investment.

In one specific extension project the Ambi Neutral product option was selected due to the thermal properties it offered as well as the striking aesthetic which heightened the overall finished look.

For many customers the broad selection available in the Ambience range greatly improves business opportunities as the end user can make informed decisions about the varying performances of the glass, which have all been developed to overcome restrictions caused by weather extremes.

With consumers continuing to invest to add value and year round living space, the Ambience range of thermally efficient, easy maintenance, solar controlled products are generating increased sales and referral business for the company’s customers.

Andy Hayes, Sales Manager for Ambience comments, “It is rewarding to see that we are providing the right solutions for our customers. This project is testament to the skills and diligence of the entire team, as we have developed a range that is technically advanced and that is clearly inspiring investment.”

Large orangery style extensions still remain popular and as shown in one particular project, it was to be an integral part of the home that would be used as the kitchen. A number of aspects therefore needed careful consideration by the TuffX customer, including optimum use of light and varying temperature changes that would occur both internally and externally. For this reason the Ambi Neutral product made the ideal choice.

14 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

He concludes, “The homeowner is delighted with the finished project and this has led to referral business for our customer.”

For more information on the Ambience range please visit the website www.ambiglass.co.uk or call 0845 3 400 200 to discuss project requirements.

TRADE NEWS uct offering but if our customers have a requirement and we can’t already meet it, or could perhaps meet it better, as a manufacturer we have the capacity to work with them to develop a solution.”

An independent survey of its customers late last year, found that product range was also listed by two-thirds of those polled as a key factor in determining their decision to buy from Bohle. The product knowledge of the Bohle team was cited by 62 per cent of respondents as an important factor in their purchasing decision.

Innovations from Bohle in the last year range from the small to significant capital investments. This includes the glass consumables manufacturer’s Blue Corner Protector.

Bohle Listed As One Of Top

50 SMEs For Innovation Bohle has been ranked as one of the top 50 small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs) for innovation in an exclusive new report.

The study by Business Week listed the tool, machinery and accessories for glass processing and glass finishing manufacturer and wholesaler, in an elite grouping as Germany’s 29th most innovative SME. Dave Broxton, Managing Director of Bohle in the UK, said Bohle had an established track record of innovation in Germany but also in the UK. He said: “A lot of the innovation that Bohle delivers is done so in partnership with our customers, including those in the UK. We’re a wholesaler but also critically, a manufacturer.

“We work incredibly closely with our customers on a day-to-day basis, often at a very grass roots level. That gives us visibility of opportunities but also the challenges that they face.

“We have incredible depth and range to our prod16 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

Developed in response to customer demand in the UK for a disposable but enhanced performance, corner protector for use with higher value and in particular, processed glass the product launch followed a five month research and development programme.

Suitable for use with 8mm and 10mm glass, the system is manufactured from a specially developed plastic compound designed to absorb energy without cracking.

At the other end of the scale, Bohle also launched its Sedimentor range. Installed to glass processing lines, the highly innovative solution is already saving Bohle customers thousands of pounds each year in time lost in downtime, machinery cleaning, cleaning of water tanks and the costs of waste water disposal contaminated with glass particles.

Bohle has also invested in its customer systems.

As part of the series of measures to make it easier to order, Bohle also launched its new 24/7 online ordering website, www.bohle-group.com at the end of the summer. With more than 12,000 products available online, it allows Bohle’s customers to place orders around the clock.

Broxton added: “Innovation is absolutely embedded in our culture and has been a fundamental driver for Bohle’s growth since its foundation by Josef Bohle in 1923 – it permeates absolutely everything that we do. But that this is delivered in partnership with our customers is Bohle’s greatest achievement.”

For more visit the Bohle website www.bohle-group.com email info@bohle.ltd.uk or call the customer services team free on 0800 616151 for more information.

TRADE NEWS

Deceuninck’s 26 Colours

from Stock Collection is No.1 for colour

“We make selling colour as easy as selling white with our large colour-from-stock range,” confirms Rob. “That’s why Deceuninck fabricators and installers sell 50% more colour than their competitors, and why we are No 1 for colour.”

To learn how Deceuninck can make selling colour simple for you call Rob McGlennon on 07808 365234 today, visit www.WhyDeceuninck.com and follow @DeceuninckUK.

Deceuninck says demand for colour is rising strongly from 25% in the UK, and catching up with continental Europe, where colour accounts for more than 70%.

“Colour sells because homeowners love it,” says Deceuninck UK Sales Director, Rob McGlennon.

“But most Syscos make it difficult for fabricators and installers to sell.

So, colour or white Deceuninck keeps it in stock, because that’s what gives fabricators and installers the confidence to sell it. Colour isn’t a ‘special’ at Deceuninck, with long lead times, uncertainty, delays and disappointment. Nor do Deceuninck customers have to order in bulk: they can order one profile length at a time. It’s a service to suit customers, not a service to suit us.”

Deceuninck keeps 26 colourways in stock for its pretty windows, residential and composite doors, Slide & Swing and new Slider 24 patio door, with all matching cills, trims, end caps and ancillaries.

“This means our windows and doors go together perfectly”, continues Rob. “It’s a lot of colours, as you can see from the photo, and a huge amount of stock. But we are the colour people, and we do it so Deceuninck installers can sell windows and doors in any of those 26 colourways, and order them from their Deceuninck fabricator knowing they’ll arrive in the same fast lead time as white.

WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 17

TRADE NEWS promise. Customers can order doors and windows in any of 26 colours and white for their next delivery.

You can only do that if you keep over 2,500 stockkeeping-units in stock.”

Deceuninck re-opens warehouse to deliver service promise Deceuninck has reopened its purpose-built 140,000 ft2 ‘Beaversbrook’ warehouse, a short distance from the company’s factory in Calne, Wiltshire.

“The warehouse is vast,” says Managing Director Roy Frost. “But we need the space. It’s already nearly full of stock so we can make good our customer Bebington Glazing is looking forward to the next twelve months in business, describing 2016 as a ‘window of opportunity’.

Using Deceuninck Online, customers can look into the warehouse anytime 24/7 and put their name on the stock they want for their next delivery. “That gives them the confidence to offer installer customers colour on their usual ‘white’ lead time” continues Roy. “With our best-in-class new sliding patio, Slider24, for example, there’s no waiting. It arrives in any of 26 colours with matching cills, trims and ancillaries at the same time as the homeowner’s new windows. No wonder they sell more!

“Until they see it, people don’t appreciate how much stock you have to carry to supply 26 colours in a wide range of windows and door profiles with all the ancillaries, cills and trims to go with them. Our competitors think we’re crazy to keep that much in stock, but Deceuninck fabricators and installers love it because it means they can sell colour as easily as white in a wide range of windows and doors to help their customers grow and win new business. We make a big promise so we and our customers stay No.1 for colour.”

The warehouse will free up the space to grow in Deceuninck’s factory.

New Year Opens A ‘Window Of

Opportunity’ For Bebington Glazing

The independent firm, located in New Ferry, has been appointed to work on a number of notable residential and commercial projects across the North West in the upcoming year.

Managing Director of Bebington Glazing Kay Finlay said: “With the New Year well underway, it’s great to look ahead to the prolific 12 months that we have planned.

As an independent business, it’s certainly rewarding to have been appointed to work on prestigious brands. Upcoming projects include working alongside Bridgestone Construction to fit glass balustrades during the development of new apartments based in Roman Gate, Chester, as well as working with Roofcare to replace windows for a local housing association.

18 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

local young people to learn their skills under trained professionals and for them to take the first steps into their career with us.”

“As our portfolio grows, so does our team, and last year we reported a significant increase in the number of staff that we have. We have been operating an apprenticeship scheme that has seen us employ two permanent members of staff following their training and recently, we have welcomed two new apprentices to the team. It’s great to be in a position to allow

In 2015, the Wirral based business was appointed to carry out a series of large-scale projects across the North West including glass fitting in the popular Chimp House Enclosure at Chester Zoo, together with the construction of a contemporary glass canopy in a Crewe based health centre. Domestic projects included balcony and balustrade work carried out in properties across sought after residential areas such as Commonhall Street, Chester.

For more information visit www.bebingtonglazing.co.uk or call 0151 645 3830.

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TRADE NEWS This service was expanded for those installers also buying in glass in autumn last year after Emplas established a new interface with Pilkington’s factory management system, also allowing customers to track IGU orders.

Emplas drives service with extension of Order tracking

to point of delivery Emplas has extended its digital order tracking system to include its dispatch and delivery operation, in addition to the manufacturing process, supporting Emplas customers in more efficient planning and in meeting requirements under CE Marking.

Using a bar-code based dispatch process, the individual elements of each order are automatically checked as they are prepared in the loading bays. They are then re-scanned onto the lorry, eliminating the shipping of incomplete orders.

At the other end of the process each product is scanned off the lorry, which doesn’t leave for the next delivery until all products and ancillaries are accounted for.

The paperless system then automatically issues a notification of receipt to the customer and the invoice, providing a clear audit trail, which supports their customers evidence their ‘factory management systems’ required under CE Marking.

20 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

Kush Patel, Operations Director, Emplas said: “It delivers absolute transparency to all elements of production and delivery of orders. Our customers can order 24/7 and they can track the progress of product against their order to delivery. The system even automatically alerts customers how far away their order is by text just before it’s delivered.

“But what it also drives is service and a higher rate for On Time and in Full Delivery (OTIF) and that’s clearly very important for our customers. Trucks just don’t go unless each individual element of each order is fully accounted for. At the other end, it doesn’t leave until the same result.”

Emplas introduced a bar code system to its manufacturing process in 2013. Integrated with its Window and Door Designer tools, it allows customers to create and place orders online but also to track their progress through Emplas’ state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.

As part of its new and expanded system each product is also inspected at the point at which it’s offloaded. On the rare occasion that any damage has occurred in transit, the product is scanned by the driver, the damaged part is photographed and its replacement is automatically generated in the factory production schedule.

“The whole work-flow is fully integrated and because we can check or access any orders at any time, the manufacturing process becomes seamless. That makes us more efficient and flexible, and gives benefits that we can directly pass onto our customers”, continued Kush.

He continued: “Exactly the same principle applies to dispatch and delivery. We have full visibility against each order, we know that it’s right when it leaves the factory and we know it’s right when it’s unloaded at the other end. The benefits that that delivers to our customers in potential time saved is immeasurable – they know that they can get on and do the job.”

Emplas’ complete and on-time deliveries currently run at 99.3% compared to an 84.6% industry average. It also has a product quality rating of good or excellent by 98.7% of its customers compared to an industry average of 79.2%.

To find out more follow us on twitter @emplaswindows. For more information visit www.emplas.co.uk , email info@emplas.co.uk or call 01933 674880.

TRADE NEWS

Small firms under pressure

with auto-enrolment

A new survey from the FSB Big Voice Community found that although smaller firms generally believe ‘auto-enrolment’ will be good for their staff and that workers should save for the future, many are still unclear what they need to do, when they need to do it, and how much it will cost.

Three in four business owners also said auto-enrolment pensions put too much pressure on businesses like theirs.

Over the next two years more than a million small and micro businesses will need to set up

aworkplace pension for their employees under the Government’s automatic enrolment rules.

January sees the number of employers reaching their designated staging date – the date on which they need to start complying with auto-enrolment – rapidly ramp up with tens of thousands ‘staging’ each month in 2016 and 2017.

John Allan, FSB National Chairman, said: “Our message for small employers is auto-enrolment is coming and will affect your business – and the sooner you get to grips with what you

Mercury Glazing

Showcases Its Credentials As A Specialist Fabricator

Established in 2002, Gloucester’s Mercury Glazing has a well-established reputation for being one of the industry’s most reliable specialist fabricators of niche PVCu and aluminium products.

Mercury is perhaps best known for manufacturing Spectus PVCu vertical sliders. The company sees impressive year on year growth for this product and sales in 2015 were up 18% on 2014. Chris Reeks, Mercury’s Sales and Marketing Director, comments, “We’re delighted to have seen sales growth for our Spectus vertical slider last year, not least because it means we have seen year on year growth every year we have been manufacturing it.”

Mercury is one of Spectus’ largest vertical slider fabricators and one of the few to offer a Secured by

Design option. It manufactures in a full range of colours, plus white and foil finishes so there is something to complement all homes.

Alongside the Spectus vertical slider, Mercury has just added VEKA’s FlushSash window to its range.

The product provides a cost-effective solution to the problem of ageing timber windows in historic homes. It has all the heritage looks of a nineteenth century window that sits flush within its frame and is virtually indistinguishable from the timber equivalent.

As well as its PVCu expertise, Mercury is also a well-established aluminium fabricator. Highlights in this area include an aluminium vertical slider, which uses Smart’s VS600 profile and is suitable for both domestic and commercial applications. Crucially, the product

need to do, the better off you will be.

“Most of the businesses which have already set up a work place pension told us they found the process fairly straightforward, but we know many remain concerned about their ability to cope. These businesses should feel reassured that there is plenty of information and support available to help them through this process, both through the FSB and from the Pensions Regulator.”

FSB has established a workplace pension product available to its members which helps business owners set up an auto-enrolment pension scheme.

has the design details that make it acceptable for use in heritage and conservation areas.

All products are manufactured in Mercury’s state of the art Gloucester factory, guaranteeing a quality result every time. Customers also have the reassurance of Mercury’s commitment to a level of customer service that aims to build a long term relationship that helps make running a business easier.

Chris Reeks concludes, “Despite our growing reputation and year on year growth, we never become complacent. We’ve built our name on supplying quality products and being a good company to work with and we have no intention of letting that change.” www.mercuryglazing.co.uk WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 21

TRADE NEWS

Apeer Gears Up For Growth With Ni Department Of

Enterprise Trade And Investment Minister

“Its investment in innovation and continuous improvement measures will ensure it has the resources, skills and equipment in place to maximise the sales potential of its new window range. The announcement of 25 new jobs, the majority of which are manufacturing roles, is also very positive news for Mid and East Antrim.”

Asa McGillian, Managing Director of Apeer, said: “Our phased investment programme is a significant commitment for the business which is designed to help us position ourselves competitively to secure new sales.

Northern Ireland based Apeer, manufacturer of the award winning range of Lumi frameless windows and residential doors, received a visit from the NI Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment minister Jonathan Bell recently, ahead of plans for significant future investment in the business.

After successfully launching the ground breaking Lumi system, which features unique ‘edge-toedge’ energy efficient triple glaz-

22 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

ing that is structurally bonded to a core of high strength, glass reinforced profiles, Apeer is now gearing up for further investment in machinery, marketing and the creation of 25 new jobs at its Ballymena HQ. Jonathan Bell said: “Apeer is an ambitious company, undertaking a comprehensive growth strategy to boost its market share across Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland.

“The 25 new jobs, to include a variety of roles such as production and customer services, will ensure we have the capacity to meet the expected increase in future sales. Attending key exhibitions, such as Grand Designs and The FIT Show in 2016 will be valuable opportunities to raise our profile among industry leaders in the doors and windows industry and improve awareness of our product range among the general public.”

Launched last year, the Lumi range of frameless windows is heralded as a revolutionary and maintenance-free product that offers the highest security, energy efficiency, acoustic performance and aesthetic performance of any window system in the UK and Europe.

TRADE NEWS

New property investment allows further growth for

DOORCO Having experienced a huge increase in sales year-onyear, fast growing composite door manufacturer, DOORCO has now moved into new and much larger premises to facilitate further growth in the future.

Warm Edge for Windows

Renovation work completed on the 36,000 square foot facility, which is within a stone’s throw of the previous premises in Macclesfield, in early November, with machinery and equipment moved in, up and running in just 48 hours. This reinvestment in the business marks a major commitment to the UK market, and ensures that the company can continue to deliver what customers need to get ahead in this competitive sector.

Jayne Sullivan, Operations Director at DOORCO explains: “We had searched for a long time to find a location which suited all of our requirements, and we’re delighted that the new facility in Macclesfield does just that. The new building provides a real opportunity for us to integrate our manufacturing and distribution divisions, which in turn provides greater flexibility for us as a business, as well as much needed space to future proof the company in line with the rapid growth and influx of big industry names coming on board that we have experienced.

“As with everything we do, we put a great deal of detailed planning and hard work into the moving process to ensure it went as smoothly as possible in order to minimise any downtime for customers. We used a variety of local companies, all of whom worked together to very tight deadlines in order to get everything in and working as it should be.

“We were thrilled to receive so much support from our industry friends and partners –particular thanks to RegaLead, Biesse, BC transport, Baileys Electrics and Airtek, who were fantastic in helping out when we needed them. Most importantly, of course, our customers have been brilliant – they ‘got’ the reasoning behind what we were doing, understood that it can be difficult and were supportive throughout. Yes, it has been hard and more disruptive than people may imagine, but the tight deadlines we imposed upon ourselves served their purpose of minimising downtime for our customers, and we have taken another great step towards achieving our even more ambitious growth projections for next year.”

WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 23

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FENSA NEWS

FENSA To Switch Its Inspections Provider FENSA is switching its installations inspections to RISA Ltd from the British Board of Agrement (BBA) from February 2016. RISA Ltd is the new subsidiary company recently set up by the Glass and Glazing Federation Group (GGF Group).

RISA Ltd is a brand new company with one of the most experienced inspections teams in the industry.

The FENSA inspection team at the BBA is moving to RISA Ltd to continue to provide the same excellent levels of service and professionalism as before.

FENSA Certified Installers will benefit from having the same inspector

that they have worked with over many years, no change in inspection procedures or standards, but with better controlled costs that will minimise future increases in inspection fees over the next few years. FENSA is also pleased to announce that for a least the next 24 months, all inspection costs will remain frozen.

“FENSA will be delighted to work with this new GGF Group company,” comments Chris Mayne, Managing Director, FENSA. “It

Free Window & Door

Energy Efficiency

Ratings From FENSA From January 2016 FENSA Certified installers will be able to use free window and door energy efficiency ratings as part of their registration package. It is totally voluntary. All they have to do is Opt In, agree to the rules and be supplied by a BFRC registered fabricator.

These new window and door energy efficiency ratings are operated and independently verified by BFRC. It is exactly the same as the existing BFRC scheme in terms of ratings, ratings bands, license scopes and windows and doors covered. Labels provided will cover windows and doors rated ‘A++’ to ‘G’.

The only difference is these new labels are branded FENSA and will have their own marketing support.

These ratings will be marketed heavily at consumers in the second half of 2016 to raise awareness and drive consumer demand. Existing BFRC Authorised Retailers can quickly and easily switch to be a FENSA Authorised Installer – by Opting In by emailing BFRC. “This is the most exciting and radical promotion of energy efficient windows and doors since the launch of BFRC 10 years ago,” explains FENSA managing director Chris Mayne. “This brings energy efficiency ratings 24 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

offers the exciting opportunity of even closer collaboration and streamlined administration which will deliver more efficiencies. This should allow us to better control costs and improve the inspection service for FENSA Installers.”

Chris Mayne concludes: “FENSA would like to thank the BBA for all its excellent work supporting FENSA over the previous 12 years and wishes the company all the best for the future.”

FENSA installers should see no changes in advising of installations for inspection or booking inspectors’ visits. The only change FENSA Installers can expect will be new telephone and email contact details and these will be advised very shortly.

For further information on RISA please email enquiries@risaltd.co.uk or telephone 020 7939 9300.

to UK homeowners under the name of one of the most well-known brands in windows and doors. We predict that it will vastly boost the numbers of installers using windows and door energy efficiency ratings to comply with Buildings Regulations and put the labels in front of many more consumers than before.”

The benefits of Opting In to FENSA Energy Efficient Windows and Doors Ratings for installers are: an easier product to sell because homeowners understand and recognize energy efficiency labels; installers get their own labels; it is the easiest route to Part L compliance; a listing on BFRC website (the first port of call for homeowners searching for energy efficient product); consumer publicity support & recognition; installers can source glass & frames separately; opportunities to upsell; technical & marketing support and advice.

Currently just over 53% of Part L compliant notifications are through window and door energy ratings.

The rest are by declaration of U-values.

“We expect to be reporting a big rise in WER based compliance by this time next year because of the launch of FENSA Energy Efficiency Windows and Door Ratings,” concludes Mayne.

The Opt In process for FENSA certified installers is to email the Operations Team on: EnergyRatings@fensa.org.uk with their company name, registration number and name of their fabricator supplier. FENSA will do the rest.

PEOPLE

Scholes Appointed To VEKA Recycling Board

Midlands and Cornwall. Regarded as an expert in the processing of virgin and end of life PVC-U window frames, Simon also sits on the Recycling Committee of the British Plastics Federation.

Simon Scholes has been appointed to the board of directors of VEKA Recycling Ltd. Simon assumes the role of Chairman of the rigid plastics working group, within the BPF Recycling Group, an expansion of his previous position as Business Manager for the company.

Serving VEKA Recycling in two spells for a total of eight years, Simon has responsibility for sales, marketing, administration and accounts for the company in addition to responsibility for the management of its recycling centres, presently in the West

Norbert Bruns, managing director of VEKA Umwelttechnik, parent company for VEKA Recycling Ltd, said the appointment would add strength and depth to the UK company: “We have ambitious long-term plans for VEKA Recycling Ltd and to achieve these we need the expertise and commitment that Simon can offer, to achieve the company’s aims of course, but also to develop the market for recycling PVC-U just as we have done throughout Europe.”

“Obviously I am very happy with this appointment,” commented Scholes. “We have made a measurable difference in respect of the volumes PVC-U material returned to the market. A key objective now is to prove our ability to supply high quality recyclate, reliably and consistently.”

For further information on VEKA Recycling Ltd go to: www.veka-recycling.co.uk

Business Micros

Aluminium Continues To Grow Perry Mace is the latest support technician to join the team at Business Micros Aluminium.

Based at the company’s Tewkesbury office, Perry’s role is to provide online and telephone support to users of the LogiKal software system, and also to visit customers to provide more specialist training and advice.

Perry is the second new technician recruited by Business Micros Aluminium in the past year as it has experienced record sales levels and has invested in recruiting the right people to make sure it keeps pace with demand.

Managing Director Dean Hodges said: “Our customers rely on our support team to help them get the most from LogiKal, so we’re constantly investing to make sure that we can maintain and even improve our service to them.”

Deceuninck Expands Sales Team To Support Growth

26 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

Deceuninck expands its sales team with the appointment of Andy Smith to support its rapid expansion and growth. Andy worked for Deceuninck many years ago before gaining experience with other systems companies. His return adds strength to the team in the South East.

ending on a record December.

Many significant developments in product and service have given our customers a strong lead in the market. It’s great to have Andy back and his return is a testament to the turnaround and development of our business. He is a valuable addition to the team.”

Sales Director Rob McGlennon says: “We had a fantastic 2015

Visit www.WhyDeceuninck.com Follow @DeceuninckUK

PEOPLE

Epwin Continues To Build Epwin Group is proud to announce that ex-Mul-T-Lock Managing Director Robert Hartill has joined the company as Business Improvement Director.

“For over 20 years I have worked with Epwin as a supplier and always admired the business and the professionalism and ethos of their people, and from those I’ve already spoken to, it’s a great place to work.”

Robert has 26 years’ experience in the security sector, having previously worked for Chubb Security, Hoppe and Grouphomesafe, the last of which he spent six years at Director level.

Robert’s appointment at Epwin is part of Managing Director Clare O’Hara’s wider strategy of maintaining the company’s position as leader in the industry; Robert’s focus will be very much on the customers and their experience of dealing with the company.

“This is an exciting time to be joining Epwin,” Robert said. “The wealth of experience already with-

help us improve our customers’ experience, and my efforts will be focused on supporting the sales team, making us easier to do business with, and bringing more cohesion across the brands and functions.

Clare explained that Robert’s appointment was a major coup for Epwin.

in the group, alongside some of the new appointments, is creating a formidable team.

“The investment in new products and production facilities will

“Robert’s experience and success in the security sector is practically unmatched,” she said.

“Many people understand the link between customer satisfaction and improved sales, but very few have the confidence and tenacity to make valuable improvements to a company’s culture.”

Further Strengthening of VBH Management Team Hardware supplier VBH has strengthened its senior management team with three new directorships.

Simon Monks marks his 9th year at VBH with a promotion to the position of Sales Director and is now responsible for all sales in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. VBH customers in Scotland continue to be served by Allan Price and his ‘very able’ team in East Kilbride. Allan starts his 27th year with the company in 2016.

Following the retirement at Christmas of Fay Keddie, new appointment Vince Kay takes over the reins as Financial Director. Vince has a solid construction and civil engineering background and has spent the previous six months shadowing Fay and acclimatising to the demands of the window and door industry.

Finally, Mark Skudder, who has been responsible for all aspects of purchasing and warehousing since joining VBH in 2012, moves into the newly created position of Logistics Director. His initiatives have been largely responsible for the company consistently exceeding its target of delivering 96% of cat-

(L to R) Simon Monks, Vince Kay, Mark Skudder.

alogue items on time and in full. One of Mark’s first tasks as Logistics Director will be to oversee the implementation of the storage capacity expansion at VBH Gillingham over the first few months of 2016.

Managing Director Peter Rowlands commented ‘These are very exciting times for VBH (GB) and, of course, I would like to congratulate each of the new directors on their appointments.

‘Over a period of several years we have been reshaping VBH (GB) into a company which is capable of being ‘best in class’ and sustaining that position for the long term. The appointment of the new directors is only a part of the story of our reinvigoration of the whole organisation, but it marks a key milestone in that process and provides an excellent platform for the future development of VBH in the UK.’ www.vbhgb.com WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 27

PRODUCT NEWS

Slimline Imago Lift & Slide Doors Now Available Ready-Made To Installers Timber Imago Lift & Slide doors from AGB Hardware are now available as a ready-made, trade-sell product direct to installation companies, reinforcing the growing popularity of this innovative system for panoramic glazed doors.

Imago is becoming the lift and slide door of choice for architects, who cite its slimline profile, clever Italian engineering, unbroken views and cost savings over other glazed sliding doors as reasons to specify it as an essential lifestyle product.

Now AGB Hardware is working with selected joineries in its 28 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

Imago Points network to bring ready-made Imago Lift & Slide doors to the installation market.

“This is a superb diversification product for installers who are looking to bring real innovation in wide-span timber doors to their customers,” explains Marco Zen, UK and Ireland Sales Manager of AGB Hardware. “Imago is simple to install and brings exceptional aesthetics to any home.”

The Imago system works with low-profile timber frames as slender as just 2cm. The lighttouch, lift and slide mechanism is incorporated discreetly, allowing Imago to open up spectacular

views without visual intrusion.

The result represents an appealing timber alternative to traditional bi-fold doors – an expansive panoramic glazed door that offers an uninterrupted view, brings light into a property and ensures seamless continuity between the inside and outside of the home.

Architects using Imago have reported up to 40% cost savings on the total glazed area, compared to aluminium systems. This is due to the simplicity of installation that can be achieved with Imago.

Several Imago Points are now set to manufacture and supply Imago Lift & Slide doors direct to installers – glazed or unglazed, according to preference.

To find out more about Imago Lift & Slide Doors, visit www.chooseimago.co.uk

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Mila PRODUCT NEWS - HARDWARE

Launches New Duo

Finish For Composite

Door Pull Handles

clever and stylish combination of polished and brushed stainless steel. It is available initially on the inline and offset versions of the new pull handles and has polished sections at the top and bottom and a brushed section in the middle – combining aspirational looks with practical performance.

MILA259 Mila has launched an innovative Duo finish for its new range of stainless steel pull barsMila’s new Supa range was developed following close consultation with some of the UK’s leading composite door manufacturers and comes with a 25 year guarantee on all the finishes and in a variety of sizes, styles and fixing options.

Mila’s Managing Director Richard Gyde says: “This new finish is a really original innovation in the fast growing composite door sector and gives manufacturers the chance to offer something that little bit different to their customers.

“It gives the premium, contemporary style doors which are currently so popular a real boost, and also allows buyers to create their own distinctive looks by coordinating the pull handle with either a brushed or a polished finish on the rest of their door hardware.”

The new Mila pull bar handle range includes three lengths of inline and offset handles in a choice of silver or gold stainless steel Duo finishes and eight lengths in all over brushed stainless steel.

There are also C-shape, V-shape and bow shape handles in brushed stainless steel, and all can be supplied in through fix, concealed fix or back to back fixing options.

The new pull handles are the latest products to be added to Mila’s ‘Supa’ stainless steel hardware range. All of the hardware in this range comes in two grades of stainless steel – 304 with 18% chromium and 8% nickel for general applications, and 316 with 16% chromium, 10% nickel and an added 2% molybdenum for extra corrosion resistance in coastal regions and areas of high pollution.

Mila is launching a new ‘Supa’ range of stainless steel pull handles with an innovative new ‘Duo’ finish which gives composite door manufacturers a great opportunity to differentiate their ranges.

Mila is able to offer a 25 year guarantee on the finishes for both grades, when used in line with its geographical recommendations, because of the ongoing quality assurance work it carries out on the specification and testing of its steel at all stages of the manufacturing process.

Designed in house by Mila to really stand out in the crowded door market, the new finish is a

Further product information is available at www.mila.co.uk

30 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

PRODUCT NEWS - WINDOWS

Aztec Windows ‘had to offer’ Ultion as

standard on ALL doors

“We’re a fabricator that offers customers high quality products with unrivalled service, so we’re always looking to improve our product range. I started to talk to Brisant about Ultion after reading about it in the press and on social media. I tried using Ultion as an upgrade but it quickly became clear that I had to offer it as standard because real security shouldn’t be an option. From October 1st last year all our doors have come equipped with Ultion.”

Coventry based Aztec Windows, fabricators of one of the largest ranges of PVC-U windows and doors in the West Midlands, has standardised in Ultion, Brisant Secure’s high security flagship cylinder lock, for all doors.

Aztec Windows (Coventry) Ltd Director Michael Hagan explains:

Ultion has achieved Sold Secure Diamond (SSD) having passed real-life security tests that most other cylinders can’t. There is no time limit in SSD tests. Testers choose from a range of tools and try to break the cylinder in any way they know how. If the cylinder breaks, it fails. If it doesn’t, it passes. Testers stopped trying

New security report replaces opinion with fact

Brisant’s new Domestic Door Security Report January 2016 presents the most comprehensive and compelling research on security the industry has seen. The report, from the creator of Ultion, the top performing high security cylinder door lock, combines the latest national Crime Survey from the Office for National Statistics with recent national polls of homeowners and independent locksmiths.

The report reveals that 43% of burglaries through doors are by forcing the lock, and in 9 out of

10 forced lock burglaries entry was gained by snapping. In addition, 85% of homeowners said security was the most important factor when choosing their new door.

Brisant CEO Steve Stewart says: “The industry is using out of date and incorrect assumptions based on thirty year old ‘facts’ from small sample surveys and best guesses based on what people believed without much foundation. We decided to commission in two large-scale national surveys of 671 homeowners and

to break Ultion after 2½ hours of testing.

“It seemed silly to sell insecure doors when we have a solution to secure them,” adds Michael.

“We’re talking to all our customers about Sold Secure Diamond and Ultion to make sure they know what they mean by real security. So far the reception has been great because our customers would rather pay more for a secure door.”

Brisant Secure CEO Steve Stewart comments: “Security is a problem in the window and door industry. But the fact that fabricators like Aztec Windows are taking positive steps to improve the security they sell is reassuring, and marks a real change in the way the industry is thinking.”

For more information on Aztec Windows visit www.aztec-windows.com or call 024 7662 1316.

Fabricators and installers looking to sell real life security should call Warren Yates on 01924 455 444.

306 locksmiths to distinguish fact from opinion masquerading as fact. We then took the findings from these two surveys and combined information from the National Crime Survey which is regarded as the authoritative source of UK crime statistics.

“We are being burgled. Why? Because we make it easy for burglars and we want to change all that.”

To download the report visit www.ultion-lock.co.uk/in-thenews.

Fabricators and installers wanting to sell real security should call Warren Yates 01924 455 444, visit www.ultion-lock.co.uk or follow @UltionLock.

WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 31

PRODUCT NEWS - HARDWARE

New packers expand

Sealco’s glazing ancillaries range

“The new glazing packers come in box quantitiesof 1000. Prices have to be keen for installers on ancillaries, and we’ve done everything we can to make these as competitive as possible.”

Glazing packers are the latest addition to the huge range of ancillary products from UK independent hardware distributors Sealco.

“We know installers want packers in a wide range of sizes,” says Alan Malcolm, Sales Director at Sealco. “That’s why our new glazing packers come in five sizes from 24mm x 100mm to 40mm x 100mm, andsixthicknesses from 1mm to 6mm. Each thickness is colour coordinated for easy identification.

They’re a universal design and are a strong durable construction.

ERA Announces

Partnership To Bring Smart Lock Technology To The UK

(Left) Dirk Wycoff, VP Sales & Marketing, UniKey (Right) Will Butler, Group Marketing & Innovation Director, ERA

ERA Home Security, designer and manufacturer of innovative locks, handles and hinges, has announced its partnership with UniKey, market leader in the development and execution of smart lock technologies.

32 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

Sealco continues to expand its range of hardware and ancillary products. Alan adds: “Every month we increase the choices for customers. We are constantly on the lookout for things that make life easier. We have more than 4,000 product lines and we include hardware from all the top brands. We carry big stocks so customers get what they want, when they want it.”

Sealco offers a fast and flexible service from its HQ in Falkirk. There’s no minimum order value, free next day delivery is available to mainland UK on orders over £50 and its expert team is on hand to assist with product and order queries.

The announcement was made at the recent 2016 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas where ERA and UniKey revealed their first cooperative product, ERA TouchKey, a residential nightlatch, which will stand apart from other keyless lock products. Built on the distinctive UniKey mobile platform, the ERA TouchKey smart lock will have UniKey’s Touch-to-Open passive, one-touch entry and enhanced security features including inside/outside technology that enables ERA TouchKey to know if a homeowner’s smartphone is inside or outside the home to eliminate the potential for unauthorised entry.

ERA CEO Darren Waters said: “We have been a trusted provider of state-of-the-art locks for homeowners in the UK since 1838, but the time has come to throw away the key. By working with a great partner like UniKey, the ERA TouchKey will transform the lock industry for British homeowners, making home entry easier and more convenient without sacrificing security.”

UniKey Founder and President Phil Dumas comments: “I am excited to announce UniKey’s expansion and continued influence on the lock industry with the news of our partnership with ERA. Our experience and technologies truly set UniKey powered locks apart from all other smart locks in the marketplace and now home owners in the UK will be able to enjoy the benefits.”

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PRODUCT NEWS - HARDWARE

New Green Grip™ Handle From Mila

is a future proof product which gives our customers a very significant competitive advantage in PVC-U, aluminium and timber applications.”

Mila is calling its new GRIP™ (Green Reliable Intelligent Polymer) espag handle the most exciting and innovative product it has launched in the last five years.

As well as its outstanding ‘green’ credentials, the GRIP™ handle of course has lots of other benefits for fabricators and installers as well. It has been performance tested to more than 60kg so easily outperforms a zinc handle in terms of strength and, having been cycle tested to 50,000 cycles, it is guaranteed for 10 years.

The handle, which was on display for the first time at the 2015 Build Show, looks quite similar to Mila’s existing ProLinea espag handle but in reality it represents a radical redesign.

Instead of being manufactured in conventional zinc, the GRIP™ handle is manufactured from high strength, fully recyclable ABS, which Mila says opens up a vast range of new opportunities in the trade and commercial sectors.

MILA248 MilaGRIP™ is specifically designed to be ‘green’ and Mila has worked with the Carbon Trust to certify that the carbon footprint of this handle is a massive 60% lower than a standard Mila espag. With specifiers in the commercial sector in particular increasingly looking for ways to reduce the embodied carbon in their projects to comply with government guidelines, this represents a huge benefit.

In fact, Mila has calculated that the carbon footprint of the GRIP™ is just 0.8kgCO2e per handle, compared with 2.2kgCO2e for the ProLinea espag – a saving of 1.4kgCO2e for every handle manufactured. Even more impressively perhaps, it has also worked out that, if all of the 12 million or so zinc die cast handles sold in the UK every 34 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

The corrosion and chemical resistant ABS material is suitable for use in even the most aggressive environments because it will never corrode, and the attractive high gloss finish has been independently tested to international automotive standards for UV stability and abrasion. year were swapped for the new GRIP™ version, it would constitute a saving of 16,800 tons of carbon per annum – equivalent to the annual domestic energy use of almost 3000 UK homes, or 50 million miles driven in an average UK car.

Mila’s Managing Director Richard Gyde said: “The new GRIP handle is a clever and, above all, cost effective solution for fabricators who are working on projects where carbon saving targets have already been set or where the specifier is benchmarking suppliers on their environmental performance. It

The GRIP handle was developed by Mila’s own in-house product design team and has a worldwide patent. It is supplied in packaging emblazoned with the Carbon Trust’s familiar Footprint logo to guarantee that it is the only window handle in the UK where the carbon generated by every aspect of the production process – from the raw materials used to the manufacturing, distribution, use and even eventual disposal – have been measured, assessed and independently certified.

Further details are available at www.mila.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS - WINDOWS

REHAU Total70 Shows Its Versatility In

Parallel Window Application Demonstrating once again that the REHAU TOTAL70 truly is a ‘complete PVC-U system’, Devon based fabricator Interframe has for the first time manufactured innovative, parallel hinged sliding windows using only REHAU TOTAL70C chamfered profile.

PR2054 Parallel windows in REHAU TOTAL70 have been installed at the new Steiner Academy in Exeter 2The windows, which were installed at the newly opened Steiner Academy in Exeter, were specified because they could provide almost twice the free air flow of standard top hung or casement windows and could deliver a greater number of air changes per hour.

Compared with a casement window, a parallel window increases air flow all the way around so that fresh air is drawn in at the bottom and warm, stale air is expelled at the top. This creates full circulation of the air within the room and, at the same time, the balanced air flow around

the entire opening reduces the potential for draughts.

With levels of ventilation known to have a direct effect on concentration and learning in schools, natural ventilation is a key priority for many designers looking to go beyond the minimum requirements of the Building Regulations Part F (Ventilation).

At Steiner Academy, the windows were specified by architects AHR Global in Bristol. Trade fabricator Interframe had impressed AHR on a previous new build school scheme in Devon and on this project they were closely supported by REHAU who worked with them to come up with a practical and cost effective window solution which could deliver the free air flow required in openings up to 2100mmhigh.

PR2054 Parallel windows in REHAU TOTAL70 have been installed at the new Steiner Academy in Exeter 3A key benefit of parallel windows is that

they don’t impact on the look of a building’s façade and maintain a consistent reflective view, with low G-value glass used to reduce solar gain. At Steiner Academy, all of the 150 plus windows, doors and screens installed were also coloured in a contemporary looking smooth RAL 7016 grey foil.

REHAU’s commercial sales manager Steve Tonkiss said: “Interframe were able to meet the exacting requirements of this project using our standard REHAU TOTAL70C profile. This was a huge advantage because it meant that they weren’t holding stock of additional profiles and, because of the strength of the system, they could manufacture the large window sizes required.”

The Steiner Academy was a £7.6m construction and refurbishment project carried out by Willmott Dixon. The through school, which accommodates more than 600 pupils from the ages of four to sixteen, is a state funded free school built on the 13 acre site of an old Exeter University Halls of Residence.

The Grade II listed Thomas Hall building on the site has been refurbished and the new 4,707m² two storey building where the parallel windows have been installed has been constructed alongside.

WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 35

PRODUCT NEWS - WINDOWS

Total Glass Aluminium

Windows Reach New Heights Residents in two 15-storey high tower blocks at Sefton, Merseyside are benefiting from warmer homes thanks to the installation of new energy-efficient aluminium windows, supplied and installed by Total Glass.

Total Glass - One Vision Housing 4Manufactured at Total’s Liverpool production facility using the Sapa 75 Si system, the fully reversible windows incorporate Sunguard SN70/37 solar-controlled glass to allow for maximum light transmission, while reducing solar gain and preventing excessive heat build-up.

Finished in a grey RAL 7021 polyester powder-coated finish, the 270 windows were installed in the side and front-facing

Aluprof Listens To Specifiers In all forms of new and refurbished building construction, Specifiers today are seeking to reduce window frame sight lines to increase light transmittance.

Aluprof, one of Europe’s leading systems companies, have designed a system with the slimmest of sight lines, the new ‘MB Slimline’ system.

With a fixed light and opening light aluminium face width of just 32.5mm Aluprof’s new ‘MB Slimline’ window offers both good looks and high thermal performance – something steel window systems cannot offer. U values of below 1.00 are achievable, as the new system will accept both double and triple glazing options coupled with aluminium profiles which use wide polyamide thermal break. With a wide range of profiles available, the ‘MB Slim36 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

line’ system can offer high inertia ratings and slim, deep profiles, offering the specifier the ability to use the system in any large, or small, window spaces.

Ideally suited to both new and replacement projects, in both residential and commercial environments, where slim lines are crucial to the aesthetic appearance of the building, the ‘MB Slimline’ system offers a complete solution.

‘MB Slimline’ is further proof of Aluprof’s innovative approach to

elevations of Chapel House and Dean House, which are managed by social housing provider, One Vision Housing.

Stuart Holt, Total Glass Commercial Aluminium Manager commented: “Fully reversible windows were specified for ease of cleaning and maintenance.

Given that both blocks are on an exposed site overlooking Bootle Docks, these new high performance windows will contribute to lower energy bills and better thermal efficiency for the occupants.”

For more information, contact Total Glass on 0151 549 2339 or visit the website at www.totalglass.com

fenestration solutions, establishing itself as one of Europe’s leading systems companies.

The new system joins a wide portfolio of aluminium systems which includes curtain wall systems, doors windows and high performance aluminium fire rated systems.

Aluprof UK head office and extensive distribution centre is located in Altrincham, Cheshire.

Aluprof systems increasingly being specified on a wide range of residential and commercial projects across the UK. Systems are designed, fabricated and installed by selected, specially trained companies, to ensure each fabricated product meets Aluprof exacting standards. Further information is available on our company’s website at www.aluprof.eu and specialist advice is available directly from Aluprof on 0161 941 4005.

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PRODUCT NEWS - WINDOWS

Strong Growth Forecast For Passivhaus Windows

Forecasts presented by Martin Langen MD of B+L Market Data (Window Innovations Europe 2020) at the SWISSPACER European Symposium 2015 in Potsdam show strong growth for windows with the Passivhaus standard in the UK. The forecasts, based on research with window manufacturers across Europe, including 50 UK manufacturers, says windows with U-values of 0.8 W/m2K or below are expected to have expanded to 10% of the market in the UK, 25% in Germany, 30% in Austria, and up to 35% in Switzerland by 2020.

Passivhaus is the world’s leading ‘fabric first’ approach to low energy building, promoted by the Passivhaus Institute and the BRE in the UK. Passivhaus aims to dramatically reduce the need for space heating and cooling, and typically cuts energy use and CO2 emissions by a factor of 10. The standard requires a Passivhaus to have an excellent thermal performance, exceptional airtightness and

mechanical ventilation. The heating requirement in a Passivhaus is reduced to the point where a traditional heating system is no longer considered essential. It’s the fastest growing energy performance standard in the world. There is a short animated video on their website that explains it simply: http://passivehouse.com/.

SWISSPACER’s Ultimate warm edge spacer bar is Passivhaus certified, allowing it to be used on any Passivhaus project. But achieving the certification plays only a small part. It’s what you do with it that matters, because certification doesn’t necessarily mean your product will be specified. Experience, expertise and commitment to helping specifiers and developers achieve Passivhaus projects are what matter.

SWISSPACER is the leading warm edge spacer in Passivhaus, specified in the majority of Passivhaus windows and curtain wall systems. The Passivhaus database of certified components http://database. passivehouse.com/en/compnents/ lists SWISSPACER in 70% of windows, 86% of windows with fixed glazing and 97% of curtain wall systems. Low energy domestic and commercial buildings have a big future, and specifiers, developers and installers can rely on SWISSPACER’s experience to help them take advantage of it.

For more information visit www.swisspacer.com Follow @Ultimate_Spacer

What TruFrame

Patrick Firmager, Marketing Director at TruFrame

TruFit® expanding foam window installation tape is taking the industry by storm. The take up of the product launched by Edgetech UK, has exceeded all expectations, according to the company, with professional businesses like TruFrame switching to TruFit. Here’s what Patrick Firmager, Marketing Director at TruFrame says: “Using TruFit expanding foam edge tape for installations by our retail company, Crown Windows, was an easy decision.

38 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

says about TruFit We pride ourselves on the energy efficiency of our products and are always keen to implement new techniques and advanced technologies to stay ahead of the game.

“As one of the first companies to offer A++ rated windows, we want to ensure that homeowners receive the greatest possible energy saving benefit from their investment. Using TruFit during the installation guarantees a durable and consistent level of thermal insulation.

“Also, the clean and defined

‘shadow groove’ created by using TruFit adds the perfect finish to any installation, all whilst offering a huge time-saving over traditional trimming methods.”

Alan Fielder, Director of Sales and Marketing at Edgetech agrees: “Patrick’s comments hit the nail on the head. If homeowners are choosing the highest energy rated windows, they want to know that they are being fitted to get the best long-term performance. TruFit offers all this and more. TruFit is quicker, cleaner and easier to install, and it looks much neater.”

PRODUCT NEWS - WINDOWS

SGG COOL-LITE XTREME 70/33 II

Offers Market Leading Aesthetics & Solar Control Performance SGG COOL-LITE XTREME 70/33 II is the latest product from Saint-Gobain Glass to target the premium commercial market, offering specifiers and glass processing companies a thermally efficient ‘to be toughened’ option that features high light transmission, a low solar factor and excellent neutrality.

SGG COOL-LITE XTREME 70/33 II features a unique market leading performance band by combining a high light transmission of 70% with an extremely low Solar Factor of 0.33. The light transmission ensures a high level of natural light floods any open space and the low solar factor blocks 67% of solar heat gain.

Adrian Adams, Better Working Market Manager for SaintGobain Glass commented “The

high performance SGG COOLLITE XTREME 70/33 IItriple silver coating features a selectivity of 2.12 whilst also offering a center pane u-value of 1.0W/m2k.”

ject; this can therefore make a building environmentally friendly, which can have a positive impact on BREEAM points when designing a project.”

“The products unique features make it the best product available on the market for combined light transmission and solar factor as well as excellent neutrality on a ‘to be toughened’ triple silver product.”

“Furthermore, as the product offers a high light transmittance of 70% this increases the diffusion of natural light which is strongly linked to occupant productivity, well-being & comfort and helps create a pleasant working environment.”

The high selectivity of SGG COOL-LITE XTREME 70/33 II results in the product offering increased energy efficiency and helps reduce the requirement of air conditioning.

“A reduced requirement of HVAC results in a significant decrease on energy consumption and CO2 emissions for a potential pro-

SGG COOL-LITE XTREME 70/33 II features excellent aesthetics, which provides greater design capabilities; the coating is neutral and low reflective, which means a potential reduction in the amount of external shading devices that need to be used.

WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 39

PRODUCT NEWS - GLASS & GLAZING individually often ‘unseen’ overheads, can have a significant impact on your profitability.

“Sedimentors will support most customers in trimming around 10 per cent of these costs – paying back against purchase costs in as little as a year.”

Suitable for elementary to chain-linked, double-sided straight line edgers, Bohle manufactures and supplies three different sedimentors, the 2.4, which has a filling quantity of 2100 litres, the 1.0, (1,000 litres) and the 0.3, which has a filling capacity of 320 litres.

BohleSedimentorThe fully automated system uses a sophisticated multi-stage process to pump water, first into a settling tank, removing around 70 per cent of heavier glass particles from coolant.

Powdered flocculant is added, and mixed using a programme of currents, which then bonds to the remaining glass particles, making them sink.

Glass processors could increase

Capacity by up to 10 per cent

Glass processors could increase capacity, cave thousands and extend the life of machinery and tooling by installing sedimentors to processing lines.

Time lost in downtime, machinery cleaning, cleaning of water tanks and the costs of waste water disposal contaminated with glass particles in glass processing can run into the thousands of pounds each year.

New research from Bohle reveals that glass processors can cut the costs associated with cooling and machinery cleaning by almost 10 per cent through the addition of a sedimentor to their processing line.

Dave Broxton, Managing Director, Bohle Ltd, said: “The downtime associated with cleaning machinery, the replacement of contaminated water and coolant from drilling, polishing and grinding and its disposal is a significant cost.

“If you add in the impact contaminated water can have on product quality, any reduction of what are 40 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

At the end of the cleaning process, a valve at the floor of the tank opens and the accumulated sludge is flushed into a filter bag by the water pressure.

This leaves the cleaned cooling water ready to be returned back into the cooling circuit.

“There are a number of additional advantages” explained Dave, “A key feature of Bohle’s range is that it uses a ‘bypass system’ for batch cleansing.

“This isolates water, coolant and flocculant, from the line during the cleaning process, completely eliminating the risk of accidental flocculant contamination and tool damage.”

The study by Bohle also found that clean cooling water increases the performance of machinery by up to 20 per cent and the service life of tools by up to 30 per cent – delivering additional through life savings.

Dave concluded: “There are so many multiple savings here. Given that it can pay for itself in as little as a year, increase processing capacity in saved downtime and cut the cost of waste disposal, not fitting a sedimentor is simply money down the drain.

“This is before the environmental benefits are considered, which are increasingly important in doing business and are only likely to become more so going forward.”

For more visit the Bohle website www.bohle-group. com email info@bohle.ltd.uk or call the customer services team free on 0800 616151 for more information.

PRODUCT NEWS - GLASS & GLAZING

TuffX Processed Glass comes to the rescue

The homeowner had discovered TuffX online and suggested to the installation company that TuffX’s 4.2 metre glass panels could be the solution they were looking for. Using such a product would remove the need to use a muntin bar, removing the risk of leaks as well as improving the aesthetics of the installation. Both the installer and the homeowner were delighted to find that using a single unit of glass made a minimal difference in cost compared to two units tied together with a muntin bar.

TuffX supplied an Ambi-Blue conservatory glass roof for the homeowner’s conservatory and it was successfully fitted by the installer. The glass is self-cleaning and offers up to 60% reduction from the sun’s heat rays, reducing the internal temperature of a conservatory in summer.

Specialist toughened processed glass manufacturer TuffX is valued by its customers for its ability to provide glass in lengths of up to 4.2 metres, something that makes stunning expanses of glass a reality. The company’s manufacturing capabilities proved to be invaluable for one installation company, helping them to solve a leaking conservatory roof for a homeowner and dramatically improve the aesthetics at the same time.

The installation company had been approached by a homeowner after his conservatory roof had started leaking four months after installation. The conservatory roof had a total length of 3.340mm and had been roofed using two separate units joined with a muntin bar. The homeowner was understandably disappointed and keen to have the problem solved as quickly as possible.

The homeowner is delighted with the finished result which gives him peace of mind as well as a more aesthetically pleasing living area. And thanks to the quality of the service the installation company received on the project, TuffX has a new repeat customer.

TuffX manufactures a huge range of toughened processed glass for domestic and commercial use from its Merseyside factory and is committed to supplying high quality products and exceptional customer service. Its attention to detail and willingness to help on a project of this scale illustrates its customer-oriented approach and helps explain why the company has grown rapidly in recent years. www.tuffxglass.co.uk

Stevens’ New Architectural

Glass Artist of the Year 2016

Competition: Final Site Visit for Entrants The number of prospective entrants who have visited the site so far is already up on the figure for the 2015 Competition. A few places remain on the final site visit at St Mary’s Church Southampton on Thursday 7 January 2016. Competition Brief and full details for entrants can be found on the Glaziers‘ Livery Company website: www.worshipfulglaziers. com/?page_id=3147 Closing

date for receipt of entries is Thursday 31 March 2016.

There is still time to book a place on the very last site visit to St Mary’s Church, and the Glaziers’ Company wishes to ensure that as many new and student glass artists as possible do so. Just a few places remain on the final visit, scheduled for early in the New Year.

The 2016 Competition brief is for the design of a window for St Mary’s Church Southampton to commemorate the lost crew of the iconic Titanic. Michael Holman, Competition Co-ordinator, said: “It’s vital that all prospective entrants visit the church and there is still time for them to do so on 7 January 2016.

WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 41

PRODUCT NEWS - GLASS & GLAZING

Frameless Juliet Balconies from

Balconette

Now there is nothing to obscure the view with a new Frameless Glass Juliet balcony from Balconette.

Using literally just one sheet of glass, the balustrading specialist’s new range of Frameless Glass Juliet Balconies is a highly-aesthetic, straightforward-to-install and minimalist balcony guarding solution.

Designed to enhance the external appearance of any building, Balconette’s Frameless Juliet balcony uses 21.5mm laminated and toughened glass panels. The system allows for a Frameless Juliet of up to 3.15 metres in width using a single pane of glass that makes the perfect partner for French, or any doors installed on the first floor or above.

Balconette stocks seven standard sizes of its Frameless Glass Juliet balconies, ranging from 1280mm to 2840mm, which are available within five working days. Custom sizes can also be supplied on request.

Installation is straightforward using attractive support profiles secured to the walls either side of the aperture. These profiles allow tolerances for installation where previously very accurate drilling was required for glass with pre-drilled holes.

“We listened to what our customers wanted and have designed what we believe is one of the most stylish and simple-to-install Frameless systems on the market,” said Managing Director Effi Wolff.

“This style of Juliet balcony is growing increasingly popular and we we’re getting frequent requests from architects, designers, builders and private individuals for a Frameless system that could meet their design objectives.

“We are delighted to offer this new product, which 42 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

not only delivers a stunning and eye-catching result, but is also surprisingly affordable.”

Two exclusive detached properties, built by privately-owned developer Rectory Homes, are among the first to showcase the new Frameless Juliet balconies, supplied and installed by Balconette.

The Frameless system’s minimalist appearance perfectly complements the contemporary style of the £2 million-plus homes in Harberton Mead, close to Oxford city centre.

According to Procurement Manager at Rectory Homes Tony Wrench, glass balustrading was specifically requested for the project ‘and Balconette fitted the bill’.

He added: “The ‘Frameless Juliet balconies have been well-received and look fantastic; we are very pleased with the end result. If a Frameless system or glass balustrading is required on a future project, we would use the company again.”

In addition to its Frameless Juliet systems, Balconette offers a comprehensive range of straight and curved glass and aluminium balustrades, plus Juliet balconies, with a choice of handrail styles and finishes to suit all budgets. Curved sliding patio doors and curved glass enclosures can also be supplied, along with a high-quality range of wood-free decking products.

For more details, check here www.balconette.co.uk/frameless-juliet-balcony.aspx or contact Balconette on 01342 410411, email enquiries@balconette.co.uk

COMPOSITE DOORS

10,000th door leaves

Distinction’s paint plant Distinction Doors’ recently celebrated the 10,000th composite door leaving their state of the art in-house paint plant. Chantel Roach, Distinction’s Marketing Director, said, “Achieving this milestone demonstrates that our paint plant is offering our customers a service that is of great value to them.”

The in-house paint plant allows Distinction’s doors and glazing cassettes to have an exact colour and woodgrain match across various bespoke colours and means that their customers benefit from having only one surface warranty.

Research had proved to Distinction that an in-house paint plant

would add value to their offering and, as 10,000 doors painted to date shows, this has been more than borne out in practice.

To keep up with this demand, Distinction are continually reviewing their paint offering to deliver improvements and efficiencies.

This is highlighted by their recent investment in preparation machinery which uses the latest eccentric disc technology to get the best possible door surface prior to painting, whilst also reducing the number of manual processes involved.

The volume of doors going through the plant also allows Distinction to monitor colour trends, ensuring they are perfectly positioned to meet the needs

of the industry and requirements of their customers. Chantel comments, “The current trends are moving more and more towards both greys and pastel colours such as Gunmetal, Granite, Duck Egg, Chartwell Green, Pottery and Pistachio.”

Chantel concludes, “There is no doubt homeowners are becoming more adventurous when it comes to colour, which is a major reason why our paint plant is so busy. Demand has steadily increased in the past year and we do not see any sign of it slowing down. Any installers who don’t offer bespoke colours in their portfolio are missing one of the biggest opportunities for growth in the entrance door market.”

WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 43

COMPOSITE DOORS

Get Smart and make savings with the

DOORCO Smart Door In line with its drive for innovation, fast growing composite door manufacturer DOORCO is delighted to add the new Smart Door to its range of innovative designs for 2016.

Smart Door 2Pre-apertured in the manufacturing process, the Smart Door provides customers with a host of additional benefits, as Managing Director at DOORCO, Dan Sullivan explains: “At DOORCO we pride ourselves on leading the way in product quality and innovation, and our customers tell us that our product is the best available. But customer service is also key to our approach and with the Smart Door we wanted to offer a product which not only looks and performs in the way customers would expect from us, but also helps to save them time and money.

“The reason for this is that the Smart Door is pre-apertured at

the manufacturing stage, so the fabricator can remove this layer from their own processes, therefore saving valuable CNC time and associated labour costs.

Additionally – and equally important as environmental credentials come under greater scrutiny and the cost of waste removal continues to rise – our customers need not worry about offcuts with the Smart Door, as the aperture has already been created.

“The Smart Door is available in a number of popular colours for maximum aesthetic appeal, and in keeping with the DOORCO range, it also benefits from increased security with modified, thicker skins as standard in line with Approved Document Q. We have had a lot of interest already from customers and would welcome anybody who would like to know more onto our stand – 242- at the FIT Show, where they can see the benefits for themselves.”

New VEKA Substrate Advances

CoolSkin Performance 3D Laminates have recently changed the formula of their revolutionary CoolSkin® product for the composite and panel door markets, with the introduction of a new VEKA substrate, which is designed to improve product consistency and longevity.

Following a period of exhaustive testing in both hot and cold climates, the new formulation will offer their customers a product with a realistic life span in excess of 25 years, which will be great news for respected companies such as Camden Frames, Endurance Doors, Panels Direct, Safestyle and Solidor. With the market for 44 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

composite doors quickly changing from the imported GRP slabs from the Far East to UK manufactured solid core composite doors, 3D Laminates will be able to continue to supply its customers with a next day service from the main UK warehouse, which carries £1million in stock.

Bonded onto this new VEKA substrate will be the proven Cool Colors® foil from Hornschuch, which 3D Laminates have the sole rights to in the UK, ensuring that the CoolSkin® brands remains associated with high performance, long lasting composite and panelled doors. With 16 different woodgrains

and 8 different colours, it’s already an impressive range and there are further plans to expand this during the course of 2016.

Mark Lofthouse, managing director of 3D Laminates commented: ‘The introduction of a new VEKA substrate is an important milestone for us as a business. It’s a technically better product that’s been tested to the extreme and with VEKA and Hornschuch as key partners for us, the future for our customers looks very good indeed, particularly given the success of the new generation of solid composite doors.’

For further information on CoolSkin and 3D Laminates call 0113 273 6281, e-mail info@3d-laminates. com or visit their new responsive website at www.3d-laminates.com

COMPOSITE DOORS

Emplas launches 5-day turnaround Across its most popular

composite doors

Endurance Introduce Rocfoam Technology

Endurance® Doors have now introduced their unique RocFoam technology to their range of solid and secure doors, as they look to take the technological edge in the composite door market.

The company has been involved in the composite door sector since 2002, which has provided them with the opportunity to fully test and research the performance of their solid timber composite doors. For over 13 years Endurance® Doors have been offering the Scandinavian Kerto LVL timber core that’s made up of 15 individual laminations for better longevity and structural performance. It’s also the only timber door slab that carries full BBA Certification.

The new RocFoam technology is a cellular, recycled PVCu section that is extruded in-house within the Rocal Group and has been designed to be bonded at the base of all of their timber composite doors.

This ensures that there is no risk of water ingress and eliminates the potential of any de-lamination of the door.

As the composite door market continues to move at a pace, Endurance® Doors now believe they have what their customers claim is the most structurally robust solid

timber composite door in the UK market, with new customers such as Whiteline and TruFramehaving made the switch.

Stephen Nadin, managing director of Endurance® Doors commented: ‘The RocFoam technology is a result of our 13 years experience in the composite door sector and our understanding of the longterm requirements of an external door. Our solid and secure composite doors have been carefully engineered to provide long lasting performance without any risk of remedial and warranty problems, which can be costly for installation companies.

He continues: ‘2016 will be a defining year for us and our customers and with new business leads at a record high, I’m relishing the opportunity to put the Endurance® Doors brand firmly on the map in the trade and consumer sectors.’

For further information on the Endurance Solid and Secure composite door range for complete door sets or for slab only manufacturing, please log on to: www.endurancedoors.co.uk e-mail sales@endurancedoors.co.uk or call the sales office on 01652 659259.

Emplas has launched a new rapid turnaround composite door range bringing six specially selected door styles to its customers with a lead time of just 5-days.

Available with Secured by Design as standard, the ‘bijou’ offer features the Esteem Solid, and part-glazed Elegance, Eclat Arch, Esteem, Elegance Arch and Eclat style options.

5DayCompbrochure1These are available in standard, black, blue, green, red, rosewood and white, with specially selected Kara Zinc, Scotia Zinc, Andaman Zinc and Stippolyte and clear glazing options – again picked to reflect the most popular choices for homeowners.

These combinations make up 65% of all Emplas composite door orders which means that, two thirds of its composite door range as a whole, is now available in a 5-day delivery time.

Mike Crewdson, Sales Director, Emplas said: “We offer a very extensive range of composite doors but the majority of sales come from six best-selling styles in six standard colours.

“This has allowed us to streamline our offer, introducing a rapid turnaround and but also very competitively priced range.”

To find out more follow us on twitter #InstallerPartnership or @ emplaswindows. For more information visit www.emplas.co.uk , email info@emplas.co.uk or call 01933 674880.

WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 45

COMPOSITE DOORS

TruFrame’s New Endurance® Door Offering TruFrame have just launched a new composite door range based on the proven solid and secure Endurance® door slab.

This enhanced product offering, boasts a number of key features, including Secured by Design as standard, hand finished door frames and the standard inclusion of the Sold Secure Diamond 3-Star Ultion cylinder, at no extra cost to their customers.

Within this new composite door range are 43 different door styles, along with stable, French and side panel options. There are 16 different door colours inside and out, along with 11 different frame colours, 4 different threshold options, fully suited Mila hardware, plus period inspired wrought iron handles and letterplates. Like all of the other windows and doors from TruFrame, each door frame will be finished by hand using their unique 4-stage process.

The adoption of the Endurance® door slab has been instrumental in the development of what they believe is the perfect composite door. This door slab is made

46 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

up of Scandinavian Kerto® LVL lumber, which is a 48mm thick veneered door slab that’s made up of 17 individual cross bonded laminations for unrivalled strength and stability, offering long-term performance without any issues of bowing or warping.

Product performance is also further enhanced with the ingenious use of RocFoam technology, which is a blown PVC section to the base of each door and is designed to eliminate the problems of water ingress, which can cause the delamination of door skins in certain circumstances. TruFrame believe that edge banding on its own isn’t enough of a barrier to the potential for water damage.

As the first company in the UK to offer the Sold Secure Diamond 3-Star Ultion cylinder as standard with no additional cost to their customers, enhanced security is a real stand out feature of this new composite door range, which also carries Secured by Design as standard. The Endurance® door slab easily passes the new PAS 24

cut test and has even passed a real life security test with a sledgehammer. These elements combined makes the TruFrame Endurance® composite door the most secure in the UK. Patrick Firmager, marketing director of TruFrame commented: ‘Without question we have developed the most solid and secure composite door in the UK with the Endurance® door slab. With our own added value processes and products we believe this product now sets the composite door standards for others to aspire to. Plus, we haven’t passed on any associated extra costs on to our customers.’

There is a new 76 page brochure which can be viewed at www.truframe.co.uk/composite-doors. All TruFrame customers with active accounts will receive their free hard copy before Christmas. Call the sales office on 01664 410140 for more information. You can also add to their growing following on Twitter @TruFrame.

COMPOSITE DOORS

Deceuninck’s

Heritage

Endurance Launch Three New Door Designs

As their product development programme intensifies Endurance® Doors have just launched three new door designs as part of their Classic Collection of solid and secure composite doors: the Cheviot, the Lingmell and the Scafell.

With the market for solid timber core composite doors continuing to evolve and develop Endurance® Doors are constantly investing in new products, as their recent RocFoam innovations shows. But it has been a combination of listening to customer feedback and proactivity in the team that has spurned the latest three designs, launched a matter of months after the success of the Wentwood and the Walton.

Endurance® Doors is part of the Rocal Group which has in-house facilities for extrusion, profile / foil wrapping and tool making.

This enables a far quicker product development process from concept to market than any other composite door manufacturer and these new designs have been no exception.

The Cheviot, Lingmell and Scafell are all designed around a large glazed area, dropping below handle height to allow in as much light as possible. A wide range of glass designs which include the new triple glazed Riviera and the simple but stylish Harmony mean that

warmth and privacy are retained despite the expansive glazing area.

Never ones to rest on their laurels Endurance® Doors have a number of other new door launches planned in the coming months.

Next up is a set of doors based around a simple top to bottom grooved pattern with a wide range of cassette and glass options as they look to expand their range towards 50 unique door designs alongside 16 internal and external colours.

Stephen Nadin, managing director of Endurance® Doors commented ‘We’re committed to introducing new product designs to our customers; it’s an on-going process as we look to forge ahead with our solid and secure composite doors. We’ll also be completely overhauling our marketing over the coming months as part of our plan for aggressive growth which will catapult the brand forward to take up the mantle as the fastest growing composite door company in the UK.’ For further information on the Endurance Solid and Secure composite door range for complete door sets or for slab only manufacturing, please log on to www.endurancedoors.co.uk e-mail sales@endurancedoors. co.uk or call the sales office on 01652 659259.

Colour

Collection now available

from Dempsey Dyer

Yorkshire-based uPVC and timber fabricator, Dempsey Dyer, can now supply windows and doors in eight new tasteful vintage-look foils, enabling installers to perfectly tailor their frames to the requirements of older, conservation area and high-end properties.

The foils are part of Deceuninck’s new Heritage Colour Collection and include six premium colours with a pure white woodgrain foil on the inside, as well as white woodgrain outside on English Oak inside, and an English Oak on English Oak option.

“At Dempsey Dyer, we’re all about providing added value products and I’m confident our customers (and their customers) will benefit from the increased choice the new range provides”, said Peter Dyer, the company’s Managing Director. “The new finishes are in Deceuninck’s colour-from-stock express range, meaning we can now offer installers a fast turnaround on 26 unique foils, helping them sell colour with confidence”.

This new offering comes at an exciting time for Dempsey Dyer.

Celebrating a record year in which it achieved £9m turnover for the first time, the company is now planning to expand its 64,000 square foot fabricating facility to satisfy increasing customer demand.

For more information call 01977 649641 or visit www.dempseydyer.co.uk WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 47

SOFTWARE - INTERNET “There’s no denying that the faceto-face element of selling in the industry is a precious lead-generating commodity and that a personalised sales pitch can make a massive difference, but in an era when you can reach the world with the press of a button, that human touch needed to be taken online.

A Decade

of Digital

DIGITAL specialist The Consultancy has been on a mission for the last ten years, working to bring the window and door industry out of decline and into the fast-paced hi-tech age.

In this internet and IT software edition, Window News speaks to The Consultancy about its ongoing quest to further the sector and the importance of ensuring your organisation is maximising its online potential.

Originally a full service agency, The Consultancy realised early on that its digital expertise was much more sought after and went on to evolve into an online solutions company.

From there, the company’s reputation went from strength-to-strength as it built up relations and began gaining its glazing digital specialist title.

Over the last decade, the company has worked with a range of companies including Door-Stop International, Solidor, Edgetech, 48 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

Polyframe, Deceuninck and many more, providing digital solutions and streamlining their online offering.

But why has the industry been left clinging to its traditional fax and print media - and why should it be moving faster with the digital age?

Richie Thornton, Director of The Consultancy, has more than ten years experience working in the industry and has overseen a steady stream of organisations in the window and door industry make the switch to online.

He said: “For decades now the window and door industry has had a system relying on fax, phonecalls and manpower, investing in the traditional salesman going doorto-door with a briefcase of printed marketing materials.

“When other industries began making the switch to online, the industry continued building showrooms and relying on its tried and tested methods.

“When we first set up, we decided we were the company to do this.”

Convincing family businesses and long-standing traditional organisations to re-evaluate their online offering wasn’t an easy task, but after gaining the trust of larger organisations in the industry The Consultancy began building a bank of successful projects.

Richie added: “It was so necessary to first look at the foundations of the industry and ensure they were operating online, allowing them to lead by example. This is where our work with Edgetech, Solidor and Door-Stop came into play.”

Working with larger companies, The Consultancy realised there was a gap in the market for SMEs in the industry who still needed to have a quality online presence but maybe had a lower marketing budget. This is where The Glazing Vault began.

Richie said: “The Glazing Vault is the sister company to The Consultancy and allows smaller businesses to easily custom build their own website from an existing theme and turn it into the site they want by choosing the colour, text, layout and products they feel are most relevant.”

Several businesses now operate through the Glazing Vault website, all of which are SEO-friendly and mobile responsive. The website also offers a range of additional sales tools including door and window visualisers.

SOFTWARE - INTERNET Richie added: “We knew that we couldn’t leave smaller companies in the dark and that there needed to be a solution for them.”

Online retail sales reached £52.25bn in the UK last year, where on average every UK consumer spent around £1,174 online.

On top of this the Internet was accessed every day, or almost every day by 78% of adults in the UK compared with 35% of adults in 2006. (ONS) Richie said: “The figures really speak for themselves, in ten years the UK population accessing the internet every day has doubled. If the industry isn’t noticing that and acting upon it, then it is going to be missing out on customers and crucial sales.

He continued: “The two main elements to a website is the user interface and the technology behind it. Whilst customers want to see a sleek user-friendly interface, it’s also important that the back end of the site is working to its full potential, streamlining the sales process behind the business.”

In recent years, The Consultancy has committed itself to two integral campaigns dedicated to making the industry sit up and listen about the value of online solutions - ‘Death of the Fax’ and ‘Invest Online.’

Richie added: “We couldn’t believe how many businesses were still relying on the fax machine, meaning the full process just to order one item could take over two days.

This leaves so much room for human error, and also the risk that your customer may get bored and go elsewhere.

“People want things instantly now, whether it’s finding out the price of something, ordering a window or wanting to see what it will look like on their home.

“There’s also the issue of printing costs and environmental issues to consider. Why formulate a two-day process leaving room for error, when you can build a simple online solution and save the planet in the process?”

In the last year The Consultancy has built 50 bespoke websites, 10 online ordering systems and six apps.

But what’s next for the industry expert?

Richie went on: “The customer’s expectations are constantly increasing, so its our job to ensure our clients meet that expectation.

“In the next year we would like to see more smaller businesses going digital and also more organisations generating leads and operating their ordering systems online.

“We are very aware that we cannot do this alone and would like to thank online media outlets such as Window News for supporting online development in the industry. “ Anyone who wants to join the Invest Online campaign can tweet using #InvestOnline or for a free digital appraisal for any business call 01429 239 689.

The Consultancy’s top tips to maximise your online presence: Go-mobile If your website isn’t mobile and tablet responsive, it won’t just look ‘clunky’ and be difficult for your customers to use. Google is now penalising websites and moving them down the search rankings if they aren’t mobile accessible.

74% of adults now use internet on-the-go in the UK, that’s a big demographic to ignore!

Analytics Make sure you have access to your website’s analytics page, this will allow you to track how people are finding your site, testing if your marketing methods are A. working and B. reaching the right demographic.

Customer Experience Visit your website as if you are a customer wanting to buy, what slows down the process, is there anything that you’d want to know as a customer that you’re not showing, what would maximise the customer’s site experience?

Answer these questions and you’ll instantly have changes to make.

Don’t ignore it Because it’s not a physical presence the online world can be easily pushed aside. Take time to sit down and look at your digital offering, it could eventually be the biggest source of income for your business.

Digital Appraisal If you’re still unsure get a free digital appraisal from The Consultancy. From a simple chat about what you’re looking for, the company will go away and carry out a full digital examination providing you with a set of results and notes for improvement.

WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 49

SOFTWARE - INTERNET

Solidor Cloud Makes Life Easy For PJ Plastics Solidor Cloud, Solidor’s revolutionary online ordering app, is helping London based installer PJ Plastics process quotes and orders faster and more easily than ever before.

PJ Plastics has been using Solidor Cloud since it launched in 2014.

The app has been in continuous development since then, with updates improving the system as it evolves to meet customers’ needs.

Solidor Cloud enables customers

to build the door they want quickly and easily, with all options available for selection. A live preview of the door shows them what the options look like before making their choice. One click returns a quote, which can be converted to an order at a later date.

PJ Plastics Business Development Manager Heidi Farmer says: “The vast majority of doors we sell are Solidor, and Solidor Cloud is a great benefit. We have it set up on flat screens in our showroom

so we can design the door with the homeowner and give them a quote very quickly. It means we can provide a personal service smoothly, without any stress or waiting.

“We can convert saved quotes to orders very easily, which is a great feature,” continues Heidi. “So we spend less time crunching numbers and more time making sure our customers get the service they need.”

To find out more about PJ Plastics call 01322 351588 or visit www.pjplastics.com To sell Solidor or see how Solidor Cloud makes ordering easy call 01782 950941.

Glassolutions Takes Glass Ordering Online With Revolutionary New App e-commerce platforms like Amazon, the app provides instant quotations, online payment and order tracking. Quotes can be saved for later retrieval and printable PDF quotes can be output directly from the app – ideal for anyone at the customer quote stage.

Leading glass manufacturer, processor and distributor GLASSOLUTIONS has launched a new app which is set to transform the way glaziers and building professionals configure and order smaller volume and occasional glass purchases.

Called MyGlassolutions, the new app provides access to a wide range of high quality glass products at the click of a button, including laminated glass for shop fronts and double glazed units (DGUs). In common with major 50 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

MyGlassolutions gives users the ability to order glass products using their mobile, tablet, laptop or desktop PC. App users can configure their orders to their own specification, choosing the dimensions and finish of their item as well as the type of glass and the product itself. Products are ordered on a ‘click and collect’ basis, with customer deliveries also available. The one-off registration process is simple with just three steps, providing users with a permanent username and password for instant ongoing access.

In addition to laminates for shop fronts and DGUs, MyGlassolutions users can purchase numer-

ous types of mirrors, cut-to-size stock glass, balustrade glazing and backpainted glass for applications like splashbacks, and shelving.

Mike Butterick, Marketing Director for GLASSOLUTIONS says: “We’re really excited to be launching MyGlassolutions which has been designed specifically with glaziers and building professionals in mind. Our nationwide presence and wide ranging processing capabilities put us in a unique position to be able to bring a comprehensive online glass service to the market for the first time.”

Once registered to use MyGlassolutions, mobile and tablet users can download the app through the App Store or Google Play – but usernames and passwords work across all platforms.

To find out more visit www.glassolutions.co.uk/myglassolutions.

SOFTWARE - INTERNET

Swish Enhances New Marketing

Suite With Online

Marketing Portal Following on from the launch of a comprehensive range of updated marketing materials, Swish Window & Door Systems has now introduced a new online Marketing Portal which is designed to underpin what Swish describes as the brand’s position as the UK’s foremost consumer facing brand in the industry.

Swish Windows & Doors’ Marketing Manager, Gerald Allen, said: “Swish has always had a great reputation for its market leading support, and while the latest marketing package ensures that our customers have the very best tools at their disposal to promote their business and generate demand, the new Marketing Portal makes it even easier and more convenient to access those tools.

“Our customers can now order brochures, samples, mailers, point of sale and even clothing online,” explained Gerald. “The portal is available to our fabricator partners initially, with an introductory credit on their account to get them started, and we will

be making it available to our Authorised Installers in the coming months, complete with a range of customisable features such as logos and company details.”

According to Swish, the new marketing materials and online portal have already proven to be a big hit. Matthew Spooner, Managing Director of Carlisle based fabricator, World Group, said: “The system is head and shoulders above what has historically been available. I’m really excited about the new marketing set-up that has been introduced; it’s given us a great deal of optimism heading into 2016 and beyond.”

In addition to the online Marketing Portal, Swish has also developed a further initiative, the Swish Business Rescue Kit. Gerald added: “We have a unique and unrivalled understanding of the trade market, and have conducted extensive consumer research into what attracts professional installers and what doesn’t. With this experience and knowledge, we have created a Swish Business Rescue Kit that’s designed to help our Authorised Fabricators to reach out and attract new installers by promoting the power of the Swish brand and the wealth of support available.”

The Business Rescue Kit and Online Marketing Portal follow the recent launch by Swish Windows and Doors of a comprehensive package of retail focused marketing materials designed to help installers grow. These include a 28-page retail brochure, an expert’s guide to buying windows and doors, a maintenance guide, showroom posters and banners, retail advertising templates, sample bags, drop cards, stickers and much more besides.

WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 51

FIT SHOW 132 conventional glass units with a total area of 314 metres2 will be replaced permanently with SageGlass® Lightzone™ in advance of the launch of the product at The Fabricator Installer Trade (FIT) Show, the trade event for the UK window, door, glass and conservatory industries. The installation will allow the real-world demonstration of SageGlass Lightzone, which allows the creation of up to three variable tint zones within a single pane of glass, throughout the three days of the event which takes place on 12th, 13th and 14th April 2016 at The International Centre, Telford.

When installed the glass will be automatically controlled by four external light sensors which detect predetermined light levels at which the SageGlass will tint from the clear state of 60% light transmission, in four stages down to only 1% light transmission.All cable and controls are integrated in to the system and are easily installed in the existing curtain walling. Tinting and therefore light levels may be also controlled through a special SageGlass Mobile App.

Extraordinary Fit Show First As Sageglass

Launches In Uk With Permanent

Installation In Telford Exhibition Halls In a dramatic move to provide a live-showcase for its product, US-based manufacturer of electronically tintable SageGlass® is introducing the product to the UK 52 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

at a trade show for the glass and glazing industries by replacing an entire glass wall at the Telford exhibition centre home of the event.

SageGlass, a product of SaintGobain, the leading producer of flat glass in Europe and number two worldwide, chose the event and the dramatic decision to install its product ahead of the show due to the concentration of glazing industry professionals that will be attending The FIT Show.

In addition, the company’s partner on the UK Conservatory market, County Durham based Clayton Glass, will be featuring SageGlass on its stand at the event.

Further information on SageGlass at The FIT Show may be found at: http://tinyurl.com/necsab3

FIT SHOW

Window Sealing

Solutions To Meet All Installation Standards

Rated (40mm tape) or A+ and A++ windows (65 mm tape).

ISO-BLOCO WIN2WALL is applied quickly and easy from inside the building, and is also weather tight to 600 Pa and has excellent acoustic insulation properties – giving the perimeter seal an equivalent or better thermal property than the window unit itself.

Also on display at the FIT show will be the special ISO3 WINDOW SEALING SYSTEM, which is based on the European RAL principle of three level sealing.

In this high performance concept, an external seal provides weather resistance and breathability, while the intermediate seal provides extra thermal and acoustic properties, and the internal layer meets air tightness and humidity requirements.

SO-Chemie, one of Europe’s leading producers of foam sealant tapes, will be showcasing examples from its range of specialist window installation products and systems at the FIT Show 2016 (Stand 380).

Among the products on display will the new ISO-BLOCO WIN2WALL multi-level sealing tape, which combines excellent performance with competitive cost and is specifically designed for sealing the perimeter joint between windows, doors and walls in typical UK buildings.

The new sealing tape can be used to seal gaps from 2 mm to 8 mm, accommodating the vast majority of UK window installations, and comes in two widths to provide extra thermal insulation equivalent to A

All three levels are designed to accommodate any movement between the adjacent construction materials.

Special combinations of individual ISO-Chemie sealant products can be utilised in the ISO3 system, giving it the versatility to meet specific installation standards and building regulations.

Individual products used in the system include the ISO-BLOCO 600 tapes, ISO-BLOCO HF tape, and various ISO-CONNECT window foils such as the VARIO SD, XD and FD ranges. Details of all constituent ISO3 WINDOW SEALING SYSTEM products will be provided on the ISO-Chemie stand. More details at www.iso-chemie.co.uk

In Safe Hands with CENSolutions’ Free

Clinic and Daily Give Away at FIT

CENSolutions, the largest supplier of quality certification in the window, door and glass industries, is attending the FIT show with its ‘In Safe Hands’ campaign which highlights its simple yet comprehensive approach to third party certification, but it won’t just be advice the company gives away at the show.

“As well as offering visitors to our stand advice from our free ‘In Safe Hands’ clinic, we’ll also be giving away a mini iPad to the winner of our prize draw, every day,” says Wayne Rogerson, Joint Managing Director of CENSolutions. “Vis-

itors will be able to attend our free clinic to discuss their requirements and find out the options and best routes to compliance for their business, or ask specific questions of our team of experts.

Because we have years of experience working in the window, door and glass industries, we understand that customers appreciate a more comprehensive service from their certification supplier. That’s why rather than simply audit and supply certification, our 9 strong team of independent consultants offer practical advice on the best way to achieve compliance that often provides additional benefits

– improved productivity or greater efficiencies for example.

“On our stand at FIT we’ll be offering advice on all relevant industry standards including Approved Document Q: Security, PAS 24:2012 and Secured by Design. Plus anyone that visits us and leaves their details will be in with a chance of winning a mini iPad each day. We hope to see you on stand 158 in Hall 1.”

For more information on CENSolutions, call us today on 01785 716625, visit www.censolutions.com

WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 53

FIT SHOW

SWISSPACER’s

New Toolkit At FiT Show

Following the success of the first two FiT shows, SWISSPACER will be exhibiting for the third year in April.

A main focus of SWISSPACER’s stand this year will be its new free Marketing Toolkit. It’s a unique suite of selling aids that makes it easy for fabricators and installers to sell the benefits of warm edge to their customers. The sales aids help them explain ‘Why SWISSPACER’ and the importance of high performing warm edge space bars to the energy efficiency of windows.

Warm edge is not an everyday term. A spacer bar is a small component of a window that generally goes

unnoticed by homeowners and they’re unaware of how much it contributes to energy savings in windows. It can be complicated and difficult to describe in simple terms so fabricators and installers avoid it.

SWISSPACER’s new Toolkit gives fabricators and installers the sales aids and resources to sell warm edge and windows with SWISSPACER inside easily and confidently. The Toolkit includes an already popular animated explainer video; a Caluwin app that calculates how much homeowners can save with their new energy efficient windows; brochures, sample cards, window labels, van and lorry transfer stickers, and data sheets. Many of the tools can be tailored with the customer’s own branding and details.

“The FiT Show is the main exhibition in the industry for window fabricators and installers,” comments John Cooper, SWISSPACER’s Head of Sales and Marketing – UK and Ireland. “The previous two were very effective for SWISSPACER and we’re looking forward to the next one. It’s a great opportunity to demonstrate our new Toolkit.”

Visit SWISSPACER on Stand 324, near the entrance to Hall 3.

Follow @Ultimate_Spacer or email marketing@swisspacer.com for a copy of its new Toolkit.

Titon Guarded Over FIT Show Preparations Despite Photo Leak A Titon employee claims to have spotted a mysterious box in the ‘High Security’ area of the company’s substantial manufacturing facility in Suffolk– as shown in a photograph which has been leaked to the media. This image has sparked speculation and excitement over what it may be, although exact details of its contents have yet to be determined.

A company employee, who wishes to remain anonymous, revealed: “I was making my way out of the factory when I noticed something was glowing on one of the shelves, where we store products intended for exhibitions. As it was in the secure zone, which is 54 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

known in the company as ‘AREA 24’, it was unclear what has been prepared for transportation – but something interesting is definitely in the pipeline!”

Titon is scheduled to be exhibiting at the FIT Show at Telford in April 2016 (stand 326), but whether this is connected to the unidentified glowing object is still open to debate as, when contacted, nobody from the company was available for comment. Stranger still, when the employee questioned his colleagues, no one else at the factory seemed to have noticed the boxed phenomenon. Perhaps more details will be revealed soon… www.titon.co.uk

FIT SHOW

Solidor takes two stands at FIT Show 2016 Solidor will have two stands at this year’s FIT Show and will be presenting additions to its range at the industry leading show in April.

Solidor says it makes doors that are visually stunning and high performers and that its solid laminated-hardwood timber core positions Solidor as ‘almost certainly’ the most secure composite door on the market. All Solidor doors have Ultion, secure cylinder door lock, as standard.

Solidor CEO Gareth Mobley says: “We’re known for innovative, beautifully designed, secure doors Sealco will demonstrate its comprehensive range of window and door hardware solutions on Stand 214 at FIT Show, as the distributor showcases its ‘warehouse on a stand.’

With a stand design that has the look and feel of its distribution warehouse, Sealco will underline its ability to deliver hardware solutions anywhere in the UK with next-day delivery.

The extensive Sealco range offers solutions across all major window and door types – timber, aluminium and PVC – making it the ideal partner for fabricators, joiners and other manufacturers who would like to source all of their hardware from a single, reliable source.

and the FIT Show is an excellent opportunity to show the industry what they can have next.

“We’ve grown rapidly in the last few years,” continues Gareth.

“We’re developing and adding to our range and improving services we offer customers so they – and we – can continue growing strongly in 2016.

The FIT Show will be at The International Centre in Telford 12-14 April 2016.

To find out more about Solidor visit www.solidor.co.uk, call 01782 950 941, or follow @SolidorLtd.

Sealco Brings ‘Warehouse On A Stand’ Concept To FiIT Show

Physical samples on display on the stand will include handles and hinges from Sealco’s own Endurance range, as well as the company’s new series of glazing packers.

“We think visitors will be impressed with the number of big brands we work with,” explains Alan Malcolm, Sales Director at Sealco.

“Our stand shows a typical warehouse layout, with boxes marked with the logos of our high-quality suppliers – companies of the calibre of Yale, Trojan, Hoppe, Lockmaster, GU, MACO and AGB Hardware.

“So come to Hall 2 and look out for those big boxes on Stand 214.” www.sealco.co.uk WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 55

FIT SHOW

Edgetech Goes Live At FIT

Edgetech UK goes live at FIT Show. “It’s a busy stand,” says Marketing Manager Charlotte Davies, “with lots of action to make it really interesting and interactive for visitors.”

At the centre of the action is TruTruck, Edgetech’s mobile demonstration van, where live demos of all the products will be performed every day.

Visitors will see windows installed using TruFit® professional expanding foam installation tape and the glass protection system TruShield® being applied and tested. Manufacturing insulated glass units with Super Spacer® will be shown too demonstrating how easy and cost effective the flexible foam system is.

“Edgetech’s tongue-in-cheek

gun amnesty is on the stand.

Here installers can swap their old silicone guns for a FREE roll of TruFit. It will be great to see how many pioneering installers will take the opportunity to give this alternative fitting method a try.”

Also on the stand will be Dealership Plus experts to go through the benefits of the award-winning scheme. It’s often easier to discuss things face to face, and the FIT Show is a perfect opportunity to do this. Visitors can discuss their individual requirements to see how much time and money they can save on crucial services from the most comprehensive support initiative the industry has ever seen.

“We are really excited about this year’s exhibition. Edgetech has something to offer for every part of the supply chain from IGU manufacturers, to fabricators and installers. We want to show visitors the expanded range of value-adding products and services,” adds Charlotte. “And being able to demonstrate how everything works on the stand should make it an interesting and worthwhile part of their FIT Show experience.”

You can find Edgetech in Hall 3 on Stand 336.

Future Fit Show Dates And Venue Announced Window, Door And Conservatory Trade Event Moves To Nec In 2017 FIT Events Ltd, organisers of The Fabricator Installer Trade (FIT) Show, has announced the dates and venue of events to take place after 2016.

From 2017 The FIT Show moves to the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) Birmingham, the UK’s premier exhibition venue, taking place in Halls 6 and 7. May 23rd, 24th and 25th have been chosen for 2017, with the following FIT Show to take place two years 56 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

later at the same venue on 21st, 22nd and 23rd May 2019.

The decision to move to the NEC comes after extensive research to find another venue as the event had outgrown its original Telford location. A spokesman for the organisers said: “A move was inevitable to handle the continuing demand for exhibition space and to allow the development of the event generally, including visitor numbers. For now howev-

er our focus and priority in every respect remains the April 2016 FIT Show which takes place at The International Centre Telford on 12th, 13th and 14th April.”

The Fabricator Installer Trade (FIT) Show takes place at The International Centre Telford on 12th, 13th 14th April 2016. General information on The FIT Show can be found at: www.fitshow.co.uk.

FIT SHOW of achieving sales of £20 million by the end of 2016.

“We have attended both FIT Shows because the event is the natural successor to Glassex, which we always found worked for us,” Asa said.

“At the 2013 FIT Show we launched our Modo contemporary door range; we always go to a show with something new to launch and we are constantly developing and introducing new products. We need good shows to seek out a very special sort of customer; we are selective and meeting people face to face is the best way to find them.”

FIT Show Opened The Right Doors For Carlisle

Based Finesse Group

Previous FIT Shows have offered installers valuable new opportunities, even when those companies are already considered top of their game, it has emerged.

One such company is Carlisle-based Finesse Group, which offers a full range of home improvement services. But despite the broad reach of the company, owners Ian Milburn and Kevin McGarr believe in the power of exhibitions to help keep them on top of their game – and not just for the products.

“It is one of the most exciting times in our company’s history,” Ian said, “and we need good trade shows not only to find the newest products but also to meet the people that are selling them.

We don’t just buy products; we seek trading partners – compa-

nies that we can grow with.”

Ian said that he missed the first FIT Show in 2013, but was impressed with the second event in 2014, which he attended with an open mind. While he didn’t have a written plan, he had mentally noted a number of companies that he wanted to see, including Northern Ireland based door and window manufacturer Apeer.

“We were aware of the company through its marketing and advertising so we wanted to meet them, to see their products, and get a feel for the people behind them,” he said. “We came away believing that we could grow our business with them.”

Apeer is headed by Asa McGillian, and exhibitions are a vital tool in achieving his stated goal

Apeer followed up Finesse’s enquiry within a few days after the FIT Show, and the subsequent relationship has worked out extremely well.

“Our foam-filled composite doors are leading the way not just through their superb quality, but also through the design and exciting sales campaigns we have done on the back of the new options,” Ian said. “We like to work with companies that strive to meet the standards that we attain and offer a service that helps us to continue to support our customers in the very best way possible. Apeer do that, and more.”

More than 175 further exhibitors can be seen at The Fabricator Installer Trade (FIT) Show which takes place at The International Centre Telford on the 12th, 13th and 14th

For the very latest news on the

FIT Show Just Click Here

WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 57

ON-SITE

The Façades Of Four Buildings Entirely Replaced With Wicona Curtain Walling The façades of four buildings at Velocity Village – one of the largest mixed-use developments in Yorkshire – have been entirely replaced using 14,000m2 of curtain walling from Wicona.

Velocity Village occupies a four-acre site and provides more than 600,000ft2 of residential and commercial space in the centre of Sheffield. Designed

by Axis Architecture, the extensive façade replacement was carried out by Glassolutions working with main contractor Jessops Construction.

The buildings are all faced in acid-washed concrete, steel and glass in dramatic contrast to the scheme’s red-brick surroundings and adding sparkle, light and life to the city’s business district.

Wicona Velocity Village Sheffield-103The architectural style is bold in its contemporary simplicity and has created a stylish landmark which successfully integrates urban living, learning and working environments. Each elevation is almost completely enclosed in Wicona curtain walling to maximise light, with floor-to-ceiling glazing allowing views of the Peak District, the landscaped courtyards or across the city.

Wicona’s WICTEC 50 SG structural glazing was used on every elevation of the four buildings to re58 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

ON-SITE place the original curtain walling which was no longer watertight, and to improve the overall quality of each development.

The façade specification was to create a ‘like-for-like’ frameless glass appearance to mirror the original architectural design. This was achieved using the WICTEC 50 SG system which features a ‘toggle’ to retain the glazed units within the infill channel. This option is fast and efficient to install, and delivers a frameless appearance as an alternative to silicone bonding.

The Wicona curtain walling was also semi-unitised, which allowed the fabrication and assembly of the glazing units off site for faster and more accurate installation – an important benefit as the buildings were occupied throughout the façade replacement. An area of the glazing on the V2 office building was also faceted across seven storeys.

Commenting on the project, Kevin Seers, Director of Axis Architecture said, “The curtain walling was a critical element because these four buildings had such an extensive amount of glazing. We needed to retain the appearance of continuous glass and the original façade design as closely as possible.”

“The Wicona façade system was sufficiently flexible and versatile to meet the design criteria and integrated well with the windows and doors. The WICTEC 50 SG curtain walling has successfully and closely reflected the appearance of the original buildings and we are extremely happy with the end result. The glazing is all performing well and each building looks fantastic. The façade replacement has really helped to revitalise the whole development.

We would definitely use Wicona’s systems again.”

Wicona Velocity Village Sheffield-058In addition to the curtain

largest building, V2, is now the new languages faculty for the University of Sheffield. V3 and V4 are residential buildings providing one and two bedroom apartments over seven and eight floors. V5 is a standalone building comprising 24 two bedroom luxury apartments over four upper floors, with office space on the ground floor. walling, Wicona also supplied: Solar shading using fixed aluminium louvres Open-in, side hung WICLINE evo 65 aluminium casement windows inserted into the curtain walling at every level on each building WICSLIDE 23 sliding doors to the penthouse balconies at the top of the V3 apartment building WICSTYLE 65 evo outward-opening doors for access to the balconies for all the other residential units.

Velocity Village provides high quality office accommodation across seven floors and 443 premium apartments set around landscaped courtyards. The

Wicona’s WICTEC curtain walling can be used to create vertical and angled façades; sloped and 3D glazed roofs and atria, and other geometric constructions. There is an extensive range of openings for natural ventilation; a wide variety of profiles for optimum creative freedom, and additional options for enhanced burglar and bullet resistance and fire protection, without changing the overall appearance of the façade.

For more information about Wicona’s range of door, window and curtain walling systems for complex and challenging projects, and its bespoke façade solutions, visit www.wicona.co.uk, email info.wiconauk@wicona.com or call 0845 602 8799.

WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 59

ON-SITE ment in London. With the Amlin development in particular, it was very important to them that we could supply and manufacture all the necessary specifications within their deadlines. With our experience and production expertise, we were able to achieve this and I believe this is one of the key reasons as to why we were successful in winning this contract.”

Float Glass Industries’ Supply Capability Helps Realise New HQ For International Insurers, Amlin Amlin plc’s prestigious new UK headquarters – an impressive £13.5m development in Chelmsford, Essex – is not only a significant demonstration of growth and success for the international specialist insurance company but also a positive commitment to the local area and its economy.

The new building now covers a 65,000 sq. feet plot, allowing Amlin to potentially double its number of employees. Such a move will mean Amlin becoming Chelmsford’s largest employer in the next few years, all from its new flagship home – in itself a new prominent feature of the city centre. The five-storey steel frame and glass structure has blue tinted glass and a blue canopy, complete with a stunning board room on the top floor. Overall it gives Amlin the chance to consolidate its previous offices into one 60 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

purpose-built HQ; bringing new life to what was an area of three disused office blocks.

With the building design requiring a significant amount of complex glazing within the framework of an equally complex build and site, the contractors, Alumet, one of the UK’s leading curtain walling contractors, needed to work with an experienced and knowledgeable glass supplier. Float Glass Industries were able to meet the key criteria – expertise and experience but also the ability to access and supply specialist glass.

“We were very happy to be working with Alumet Systems again,“ says Dawn Offland, Joint Managing Director of FGI. “We have a very good working relationship with them, working on other major builds since 2001, including the prestigious Riverlight develop-

The specifications included blue tinted glass for the exterior and a soft coat Low-E glass on the interior. Using low-E glass for a more comfortable and more efficient working environment was very important in a building that stretches over five glazed floorto-ceiling storeys. As part of the specification process, FGI provided all necessary technical data regarding product photometrics, as well as wind and barrier loads, another significant consideration for the development. An important aesthetic element of the design was to achieve a seamless exterior in some areas.

FGI sourced and manufactured architectural elements from the Schuco Toggle range.

The project has taken 9 months to complete in all, with all specialist glass specified, supplied and manufactured by the FGI team to schedule.

“This significant development gives Chelmsford city centre such an impressive new building as well as a significant boost to the local economy.” says Dawn Offland. “It was a very positive project to be a part of, particularly involving our technical advisory team. Their experience and knowledge contributed to the design process as well as our other teams working on sourcing and supply. At Float Glass Industries we look forward to being involved in further high-profile glazing projects where clients can benefit from our experience.” www.floatglass.co.uk

ON-SITE

Senior’s SF52 curtain walling

keeps slim sightlines in view For projects that desire a sleek, uniform appearance and demand exceptional energy efficiency, the new SF52 curtain wall system from Senior Architectural Systems can provide the perfect combination of aesthetics and thermal performance.

Interest in Senior’s thermally enhanced SF52 system has continued to soar following the product’s official launch in 2015, with SF52 now firmly established as Senior’s most popular curtain wall solution. Key to the system’s successful reception is its slim 52mm sight lines which help achieve an attractive uniform appearance. Available as a mullion drained system which removes the need for visible drainage slots, the new SF52 system can also be specified as capped, silicone sealed or as a combination of the two for even greater design flexibility.

SF52 has been carefully designed and developed

to ensure that high aesthetics are equally matched by consistent and reliable construction quality, with no special machinery or tooling required for ease of fabrication. Suitable for ground floor or high rise projects, full design support and technical backup is available and the range is also on the NBS National Building Modelling (BIM) Library.

The new SF52 system is fully compatible with Senior’s portfolio of windows and doors and is also capable of holding double or triple glazed units ranging from 24mm to 50mm in thickness via the use of various gaskets and thermal breaks. Fully CWCT tested and with excellent weather performance, SF52 is also durable, recyclable and has a life expectancy of more than 40 years.

For more information about Senior, visit www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 61

ON-SITE

Aluminium façade systems from Technal have been specified for a third project at Chelsea Football Club’s Training Academy Campus at Cobham in Surrey – a seamless below-ground extension to an existing pavilion.

Technal Chelsea FC Training Academy-5Sited on green-belt land, the scheme demanded a sensitive architectural approach to ensure minimum visual impact in the landscape. The original building accommodates the latest training, rehabilitation, medical and media technology facilities and its elevational treatment uses brass shingle cladding, natural coloured render, and Technal’s GEODE-MX Trame Horizontale curtain walling.

Designed by AFL Architects and using the same palette of materials, a basement extension has now been completed to provide additional gym, medical treatment and rehabilitation 62 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

Technal Curtain Walling For Underground Extension At Chelsea Fc’s Exemplar Training Academy areas immediately adjacent to the existing fitness and related activities. To achieve this, a moat was excavated which avoided any further outward construction or compromise of the original design for the campus.

In order to maintain natural lighting and the design quality of the training facility, the new basement space was enclosed in Technal’s GEODE-MX Trame Horizontale curtain walling supplemented by a series of light wells.

ON-SITE ance of the vertical sections. Internally the system was finished in metallic silver, and Technal’s hinged double CD commercial doors were inserted into the curtain walling for access to the gym.

John Hampton, Associate Director at AFL Architects, said, “We have specified Technal’s products on multiple projects, including the original building on this training campus, which both ourselves and the client have been very pleased with.”

Technal Chelsea FC Training Academy-22“Our aim was for there to be no difference in appearance between the extension and the original building, and so we had to achieve a seamless transition between the two. The curtain walling allowed us to realise this aesthetically and to deliver a high level of thermal efficiency. The full-height continuous glazing also allows a sufficient amount of light into the basement. The façade systems are all performing extremely well.”

eye-catching, contemporary design. It had also been specified for the adjacent youth and community facility that was completed in 2009.

Technal Chelsea FC Training Academy-8This curtain walling system had already been used extensively on the original building to give the academy an open and spacious feel and an

Fabricated and installed by Ridlands, the new below-ground façade spans 3m high and around 40m long. The curtain wall was glazed in low E toughened glass and was faceted to follow the sweeping line of the moat.

Metallic grey aerofoil caps run along the façade to provide horizontal emphasis, with flat black profiles softening the appear-

Available for vertical or horizontal emphasis, GEODE-MX Trame uses the same grid system as other design options in the GEODE-MX curtain wall suite for ease of specification and cost-efficient fabrication. It will accommodate 6mm to 32mm glazed units and Trame Horizontale can also be faceted up to 10°. Concealed vents for natural ventilation can be supplied in top hung or tilt/turn configurations and MX Acoustic is a further option for Trame Horizontale where additional acoustic protection is required.

For further information about GEODE-MX curtain walling, including the Trame Horizontale and Verticale options, call 01924 232323, email info.uk@technal. com or visit www.technal.co.uk.

WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 63

MACHINERY

Double R Invests in the Quickest Vertical Super Spacer, Automatic

Hot Melt IGU line in the World

in, with computers talking to one another to maximise the space on the line to ensure that the next unit is always ready to progress. The IT informs you what and where the problem is and displays images of faulty parts to assist Engineers in making the necessary repairs.

Whilst we all hope that we don’t have issues with machines, we know that things can go wrong and the work that Forel have put into the diagnostic areas is impressive.

With a 15 year heritage and a reputation as one of the industry’s pioneering fabricators, Double R Glass & Roofing Systems has once again raised the bar with the announcement of its investment in the world’s fastest vertical Super Spacer Automatic Hot Melt IGU line. This significant deal with the Promac Group will give extra capacity to support Double R’s future strategic growth, as well as providing the manufacturer with previously unavailable productivity gains and efficiency benefits.

Ian Sims, Managing Director of Double R, comments: “Double R celebrated 15 years in business last October and in that time we have grown because of our complete focus on offering the very best solutions to our customers.

The latest investment in our IGU manufacturing facility is testament to this approach and means we can guarantee not only consistent quality, but can also maintain our value for money promise.

Double R invests image 1“We approached Promac about this unique machine because we felt that Forel/Promac had the right mix of skills, experience and 64 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

resources to produce a truly fast sealed unit line. From the first contact with Joe (Hague – Group Managing Director of Promac) and through visits to Forel, we have come to realise that our original belief in the two companies as the right partners for us was absolutely the right one. Forel’s facility in Roncade Nr Venice is testament to the quality of products they produce and it is clear to see how important they view the relationship with Joe and his team. Promac has supported us throughout the entire process, from the initial contact and the first meeting with Forel, through advice and support during the manufacturing process, further visits in Italy and, last but definitely not least, through the installation. Promac’s Engineers, led by Paz DiLello, are incredibly knowledgeable about Forel equipment and, whilst this is the first of its kind, their expertise has made the installation and commissioning as painless as possible.

“This line consists of some of the best engineering I’ve ever seen.

It’s superbly built and its emphasis on proactive fault diagnosis is impressive. Its speed is driven by the mass of IT technology built

“Collectively, we have been able to improve the line’s performance by optimising each component part. Putting each process and element under the microscope, we’ve been able to drive in even more efficiencies and productivity gains throughout the entire process from the vertical washing machine, Super Spacer applicator, tape applicator, automatic argon gas coupling press and sealing robot, and of course, the shape recognition and quality scanner.

The line does everything it used to do, but it does it much faster now. So much so, that a double glazed unit can be processed in 20 seconds, and a triple every 33 seconds.

“Double R has always tried to be leaders, whether in conservatory roofs as the first Fabricator of Guardian roofs, or in glass as the first installer of TruShield.

Throughout our history there have been ‘firsts’ and I am proud that the future of automatic sealed unit lines has been shaped by Double R.” For more information visit www.glassandroofs.co.uk or call 01933 443658

MACHINERY

Glassolutions Fires Up £1.5 Million Dudley Manufacturing Investment The UK’s largest glass processor GLASSOLUTIONS is creating 12 new jobs at its Dudley factory as part of a major investment programme designed to increase capacity and improve manufacturing efficiency.

The West Midlands plant is one of GLASSOLUTIONS’ two glass toughening centres of excellence which it has operated for 18 years.

This £1.5 million investment project enables new technology to be commissioned and existing plant upgraded, including a Bystronic loader, a LISEC arriser to ensure high quality, consistent finishing and a larger new Firejet furnace which will improve product quality and cut energy usage by 30%.

With greater automation and plant reliability, customers will see real benefits and we believe the project will strengthen our position as a market leader in the glass processing and toughening markets.

According to GLASSOLUTIONS Marketing Manager Adam Taylor, it will be very much ‘business as usual’ during the Dudley upgrade work thanks to detailed planning and the unique way that the company is set up and resourced.

Adam says: “Our investment at Dudley will allow us to do more of what we do, and do it even better.

“We’ve planned the upgrade project in the shortest possible schedule which means it will be complete by March. Importantly, we’ll operate a full production line at all times, and we have plenty of back-up capacity at our nearby Coventry factory as well as our six other glass processing sites. This should mean little or no difference to normal lead times.”

For further information visit www. glassolutions.co.uk

Lumi Grows With £200K Machinery Boost manufacturing processes and increase efficiency and quality control as well as ensuring the capacity to meet future demand.

Apeer, creator of the Lumi seamless window system, has invested a further £200,000 in specialised machinery to keep pace with growing demand for its radical innovation.

Lumi was an instant show-stopper when it was launched in May at Grand Designs Live, London, after two years in development and an investment of £500,000. Now, with orders flowing in and a UK-wide installer network almost complete, Apeer is adding a further major investment to strengthen and speed up production.

The Lumi manufacturing process is carried out in a separate production plant at the Ballymena location with a new factory already in the pipeline. The company says the new equipment will enhance the main

Linda Tomb, Marketing Manager for Apeer said “We put a great deal of money into developing Lumi based on our initial market research and we have been delighted with the reaction since the launch.

Now that it has earned such acclaim from trade and homeowners alike, we are more than happy to invest in it even further.

“Lumi is our first venture into window manufacture but it is already shaping up to be a significant part of our output. With this additional investment, we are confident we are fully ready to meet the demand that we expect from this exciting project.”

The Lumi system is the latest range from Apeer, which also includes its Traditional, Contemporary and the ultra-contemporary Modo composite door collections.

WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 65

MACHINERY

Elumatec Unveils Next Generation Profile Machining Centre

mm, the machine’s work area has been enlarged while its overall footprint has become smaller. The protective enclosure reduces noise and eliminates the need for a light barrier meaning less space is required for installation.

Machining times have been reduced by 20 percent and the servo axes now operate at twice the previous speed. The X-axis achieves speeds of 120 m/ min and the other two reach 60 m/min.

The increased rate allows the controller to react with more sensitivity and so enabling faster positioning of the spindles which are RPM regulated. Only the energy required for the machining task is supplied to the spindle, regardless of its rated power, and this results in energy savings of between 25 and 30 percent. Furthermore, the intelligent control technology ensures an extremely high degree of consistency in speed, which in turn produces very good machining quality even with quickly changing loading.

The launch of elumatec’s new SBZ 122 family of models sees an exceptional leap forward in machine design and engineering. The new models have lower space and energy requirements and can be adapted to suit customers’ differing needs and budgets thanks to their modular design.

Originally, the SBZ 122 was aimed at small to medium sized aluminium fabrication companies however because of its reliability and breadth of machining options it soon became established in other sectors including UPVC and steel. Companies ranging from small fabricators producing 20 windows a week to those manufacturing products in volume on a multi-shift operation bought these, and their budgets varied as widely as their application requirements.

DruckWith six models planned for the range the new SBZ 122 family of machines can be better tailored to suit these individual needs. Fabricators of UPVC products – especially doors – are very keen on the option to operate parallel machining which the SBZ 122 can handle perfectly as it can work the stationary profile bar, including inserted steel reinforcement, with an angle head from five sides in a single operation.

Other advantages of the new SBZ 122 generation include a larger work area with minimized installation space requirements; faster, more energy-efficient drives and narrower, more stable clamps.

The bed is dimensioned for high rates of travel with minimal oscillation. With dimensions of 300 x 300 66 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

Maximum processing length is 4.15m without end processing or 4m with end processing. Travel distance of the X-axis is 4.2m and the Vmax. is 120 m/min; The Y-axis has a travel distance of 900 mm and a Vmax. of 80 m/min and the travel distance of the Z-axis is 610 mm, with a Vmax. of 80 m/min.

The milling spindle can operate at speeds of up to 24,000 rpm at a power output of 8 kW, S1 with feedback. The tool magazine has four positions a standard; additional tool magazines, with a total of up to 20 positions, can be installed as needed anywhere along the X-axis and up to two angle heads can also be accommodated.

DruckThe new SBZ 122’s machining head now moves on a 45° inclined machine bed. Swarf automatically falls off of the bed making it easier to clean and the operator can work more ergonomically as they can get closer to the machine table when positioning profiles. Another new feature on the SBZ 122/70 and SBZ 122/71 is the elimination of the operating cable as clamp activation via a remote control button.

As with all elumatec systems, the machine is controlled via the intuitive and easily understandable touch-screen ECI (elumatec customer interface) graphic display which is available in three different versions from entry-level to ‘Professional’. The display is now attached to the machine frame with height adjustability to again take ergonomic working into account.

For more information contact elumatec on 01908 580800 or email sales@elumatec.co.uk www.elumatec.com

MACHINERY

Haffner Murat

launches new website Haffner Murat has just launched a brand new website, www.haffnermurat.com. Dave Thomas, the company’s Managing Director, said, “It’s vital to have an online presence that reflects the quality of your business. Our new website showcases the Haffner Murat way of working: friendly, professional, knowledgeable and helpful.”

The new website has everything that current and prospective customers might need. There are sections devoted to machinery for PVCu products and machinery for aluminium products. Each section contains comprehensive details

of all the products that Haffner Murat sells in that area, together with downloadable information sheets and videos. There is also a section on used machinery that contains up to date listings of

all the reconditioned machinery that Haffner Murat has available.

Finally, visitors can find out all about Haffner, its history and its approach.

The site has a crisp, modern feel and works on all platforms, including mobiles, so it can be accessed on the go.

Dave concludes, “We have a very personalised service and we pride ourselves on ensuring that our customers invest in the machinery that best meets their needs.

It’s one of the reasons we have so many repeat customers – it’s because they trust us. A website can never replace this level of service and we don’t want it to, but our new site certainly gives us something extra because customers will be able to research the options for themselves 24/7.”

MARKETING

Warmcore’s Retail Brochure Blends System With Sizzle!

Synseal has published its most expensively-produced and deluxe sales brochure since the launch of Global conservatory roof – a new WarmCore retail brochure aimed squarely at UK homeowners which is purpose-designed to help convert sales for Synseal’s fabricator and installer partners.

Available in cartons containing 25 copies for ease of distribution, this high quality 32-page publication is jam-packed with lifestyle imagery showing WarmCore aluminium folding sliding doors in a wide variety of installed applications that are designed to both inform and inspire the reader.

Entitled “Warm, Secure, Beautiful”, the brochure presents the revolutionary ‘warm aluminium’ thermal core differentiator which is the key to WarmCore’s improved thermal performance, creating a product which is warmer by design to save consumers money.

Neat and perfectly aligned parallel stacking of WarmCore sliding sashes is illustrated and security features are fully explained, including the comprehensive ERA Five Star Guarantee for added peace of mind and the optional laminate glass specification upgrade to achieve Secured by Design accreditation. Design options such as decorative external frame stylings, dual colour finishes, threshold designs, high performance glazing units and contemporary handle finishes are attractively documented, along with the all-important door opening sash configurations.

“We’re looking to sell the system with some added sizzle,” comments Synseal’s Head of Marketing, Mark Schlotel. “While it is crucial to clearly present technical features and underline all the practical advantages of our WarmCore system, homeowners planning an investment in premium aluminium folding sliding doors want to see a wow factor as well, something that creates a bit of excitement. This new high quality WarmCore retail brochure combines both system and sizzle, in one eye-catching package.” www.synseal.com

Sumo Yuki Hits The Window

Industry In Order To Keep Trouble At Bay Leading insurance backed guarantee and deposit protection provider CPA has launched a campaign, which it says will become to the window industry what the famous meerkat from ‘compare the market’ is to consumer insurance.

The campaign is called #TOGETHERSTRONGER and fronting up the campaign is sumo Yuki – a wrestler from Japan who will work tirelessly to protect the industry from unscrupulous tradespeople – protect the majority of good home improvement companies – and promote best practice across the industry.

The CPA has been providing IBGs and Deposit Protection for over 20 68 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

years and is widely recognised by consumers as a trusted resource for finding accredited and vetted installers.

In addition to helping installers win more business, members can also take advantage of powerful sales and marketing literature, training

seminars and a sales training guide.

CPA members also get access to the sought after quarterly assessment reports. Every time an installer registers an IBG, once the job is completed the consumer is sent a questionnaire to fill out, asking a series of questions about the installer’s work and approach.

This data is then collated by the CPA and sent to the installer in the form of a quarterly report, helping them to identify areas of service for improvement and increase best practice.

Together with Yuki, the CPA is reinforcing the message that as a member, installers have these tools to help them to engage with consumers and win more sales in the home improvement market.

MARKETING

Hardware Sector Leader VBH

Partners with Insight Data VBH (GB), one of the leaders of the hardware sector, have chosen Insight Data as their main data provider. The partnership sees VBH gain access to the Fenestration Database on Salestracker.

Simon Monks, Sales Director at VBH was interviewed to find out more about why VBH have chosen Insight Data.

Why did you choose Salestracker?

“VBH chose Insight Data Salestracker as it gives us a full scope of data on fabricators and installers of PVC-u, aluminium and timber window and door products.”

What about Salestracker in particular?

“Many of our new greenteQ products are aimed towards users of specific profiles. We need to make users of these profiles aware of our

new developments efficiently so that we can start selling as soon as the stock hits our shelves. A prime example of this is the Invisifold Slide & Fold door system which has been developed initially for Rehau profiles, with other profile solutions following on. We already have our own database but we’re realistic enough to realise that our data can never be as fresh as that from a specialist company such as Insight. Salestracker is proving invaluable in introducing products such as Invisifold to the market.”

“Further functionality of the system allows our external sales team to keep a central record of their sales prospects, ensuring that we are conversing with the right stakeholders in potential customers.

Our Product Manager team also uses the tool to investigate market information on the markets that they have specific responsibility for.”

Simon Monks Sales Director

How has Salestracker benefited your company?

“Salestracker has yielded some great new business ventures for VBH and its mobile function allows the sales team to retrieve data whilst away from an office environment.”

VBH joins Insight Data’s growing list of companies choosing to use Salestracker and our databases which now have over 700 users. www.insightdata.co.uk or call 01934 808293

As an established hardware supplier, Carl F Groupco has observed the growing popularity of aluminium profiles and lists durability, security and design appeal as key reasons for their appeal. As a result, the company reports increasing demand for complementary hardware, which it is supporting with its Aluminium Collection backed by comprehensive technical support.

The Aluminium Collection

from Carl F Groupco A new full colour, six page brochure promotes Carl F Groupco’s Aluminium Collection. The literature highlights hardware designed specifically to suit aluminium profiles for domestic and commercial applications.

In line with Carl F Groupco’s ethos of providing solutions and delivering hardware, ranges included in the collection are the PN Uni for reversible window gearing, Siegenia ALU tilt & turn gearing and Cotswold Architectural Products’ friction & parallel stays. Other manufacturers represented include FUHR and Strand.

Products featured in Carl F Groupco’s Aluminium Collection also cater for remote window control, emergency and panic exit / multipoint door locks plus folding sliding door, lift & slide, and tilt & slide hardware.

For a copy of the brochure contact sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk www.carlfgroupco.co.uk WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 69

MARKETING

TruFrame’s New Composite Door Bible With the recent announcement of a new solid and secure composite door range using the proven Endurance® door slab, TruFrame have now launched a supporting 76 page brochure that existing customers have dubbed the new ‘composite door bible’.

Designed by the new in-house marketing team at TruFrame, which is headed up by marketing manager Simon Box, the brochure has been designed to show off 43 different composite door designs, including stable and French door, along with matching side frame options. The marketing team have also developed a separate 6 page colour swatch which shows an actual foil swatch of the 16 different finishes available inside and out and a total of 11 different frame colours.

The brochure commences with an exploded view of the solid timber core composite door, highlighting 13 key features which TruFrame believe makes it the perfect composite door. Also detailed is TruFrame’s unique 4-step hand finishing process to the uPVC door frames, making for the most exacting of finishes, while a cut through section shows the engineered and proven Endurance® door slab with the RockFoam technology to the base of the door.

TruFrame also lay claim to the fact that their solid and secure composite door is the most secure in

the UK, given the fact that these doors carry Secured by Design and are offered with the new 3-Star Ultion cylinder as standard, without any additional costs to customers. Elsewhere in the brochure the hardware and glass options are carefully detailed and laid out for ease of ordering either by traditional means of a fax, or through their online ordering portal which over 50% of customers now use regularly.

Patrick Firmager, marketing director of TruFrame commented: ‘We sent a small batch of these brochures out to our customers just before Christmas and we’ve received incredible feedback.

Orders are now coming in quickly for the new composite doors and we’re now in a position to be able to offer them out to the wider market.’

The new 76 page brochure can be viewed at www.truframe.co.uk/ composite-doors or call the sales office on 01664 410140 for your hard copy. You can also add to their growing following on Twitter @TruFrame.

Residence 9 installers get more (and more!) leads

Residence 9, part of DW3 Products Group, says its successful consumer marketing strategy is taking off, and generating 10% more leads every month on average compared to each previous month. R9 installers are benefitting from homeowners that know what they want, and where to get it.

Active social media accounts and eye-catching installation images are spreading the word among homeowners, who find their local Residence 9 installer by visiting the website and typing in their postcode (www. residence9.co.uk).

Managing Director Dan Gill says: “Residence 9 installations are stunning so they attract the attention of homeowners with similar homes. The ‘Find an install70 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

er’ section of our website is easy to use, so homeowners are using it, and installers are getting leads through quickly and stress-free.

“Residence 9 is designed to exude the elegance of traditional windows,” adds Dan. “The dimensions are authentic so they look beautiful. They look like old style windows but performance matches today’s highest standards. That’s why Residence 9 is perfect for conservation projects or modern homes that want incredibly beautiful windows inside and out.”

To find out more about Residence 9 visit www.residence9.co.uk, email innovation@residence9.co.uk, or follow @residence9.

CHARITY

Liniar Staff Tackle

Wolf Run For Neonatal Charity

the two departments enter a team to help raise even more money.

Although too late for the winter event, Adrian and his colleagues eagerly agreed to sign up to the spring challenge. A total of 14 Liniar staff, including Marketing Director Sue Davenport and D&D Manager Chris Armes, will be joined by Dean on Saturday, April 9 – just days before this year’s FIT Show in Telford.

Based in Warwickshire, the Wolf Run (standing for ‘Woods, Obstacles, Lakes and Fields’), is a unique mix of running trails across open ground and through woodland, as well as open-water swimming, combining to create a tough physical and mental challenge.

A tragic event has inspired two departments at Liniar to team up to take part in an “extreme” offroad running event in April to raise money for a worthy cause.

Liniar’s Design & Development and Marketing teams are joining forces to tackle the Wolf Run, a 10km course featuring a series of man-made and natural obstacles, in order to raise funds for the Royal Derby Hospital’s Neonatal unit.

date and weight.

But sadly, following a healthy pregnancy and natural labour, Winter Wolfe suddenly stopped breathing after just 30 minutes with his new parents. Doctors battled to save their son, but tragically he died in their arms the next day.

Winter Wolfe Gaskin, grandson of Liniar’s Design & Development Director Adrian ‘Reg’ Redshaw, sadly passed away just one day after his birth in October last year.

Despite their heart-breaking loss Nicola and Dean were full of praise for the incredible care and support they received from the hospital staff and have since raised more than £3,000 for their ‘Support The Baby Unit Fund’ appeal.

Adrian’s daughter Nicola and her partner, Dean Gaskin, had been excitedly awaiting the arrival of their first child – the nursery was decorated, baby grows washed and folded and bets taken on birth

The story touched the hearts of everyone at Liniar – so when Nikki Dunbar, Design & Marketing Co-ordinator, came across an event called the Winter Wolf Run, she immediately suggested that

There are a series of physical trials using man-made obstacles, with the 10km run course also featuring a huge number of nature’s obstacles – from lake swims to mud pits, fallen trees, boggy ground, ditches, hills and dense foliage. The photographs from previous events serve to illustrate the challenge that lies ahead for even the fittest members of the team – most of whom are not runners.

“We were all deeply upset for Adrian and his family,” said Nikki.

“When I saw the Winter Wolf Run advertised it was too much of a coincidence to ignore. I just knew we had to enter as it would be a fitting way for us to raise some funds for an excellent cause. I’m delighted that every member of both departments will be taking part, even though some took more persuading than others!

I’m sure that, led by Dean, we’ll be able to do ourselves proud in Winter Wolfe’s memory.”

If you would like to sponsor the Liniar team for the Wolf Run, go to the Virgin Giving page at: http://bit.ly/liniarwolfrun - and to see videos of what they are letting themselves in for, visit http://bit.ly/WolfRun10k.

WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016 71

CHARITY This year is set to be action packed for the team at GM Fundraising, as they release their 2016 Calendar of events.

The Biggest Year yet

for GM Fundraising

“This year is really going to be our biggest yet” comments Gary Morton, chairman of GM Fundraising.

“We are delighted to see the return of some of our newer events with the Football 5’s in May, alongside our signature events; the Golf Day in July and our Gala Dinner in October. The Golf day has an exciting new venue of Mottram Hall, and the Gala Dinner returns to The Holiday Inn in Stratford with a Halloween theme – fancy dress if you dare…”

are now hard into their training to complete the 2,016 mile, 92,000 ft of climbing, journey from Vancouver in Canada to Tijuana, Mexico.

Our support team is also hard at work with planning and preparation to support the cyclists. Visit us on stand A22 at this years’ FIT Show to find out more about the ride and see if you can beat the cycling pros at a one minute sprint.”

“The biggest event we are undertaking sees us face our biggest challenge to date: the Border2Border cycling challenge, taking place in June. Our 18 strong riding team

“We are also launching the inaugural GMF Cup. A Ryder Cup style competition to be held at the prestigious home of golf, the Belfry, in September. The four day event

is set to test even the most competent golfers amongst us.

“Of course none of these events would be possible without the overwhelming support of the industry, for which the GMF team and children from Hope House Children’s Hospices are continually grateful. We hope you will join us for one or more of our events this year. Download the 2016 calendar of events from our website: www. gmfundraising.co.uk, or contact gary@gmfundraising.co.uk for more information.”

Rehau’s Redkites

In Top 1% Of Charity Fundraisers

REHAU is once again thanking all the customers, colleagues and suppliers who supported its ‘Redkites’ charity skydive in 2015, because it has just been named in the top 1% of fundraisers for last year on the www.justgiving.com website.

The skydive generated more than £5000 for the Prostate Cancer charity and, rather appropriately, this put REHAU in the top 5000 of the 500,000+ people who raised money via a Just Giving fundraising page in 2015.

REHAU’s group of nine Redkites completed a series of tandem skydives from the maximum height al72 WINDOW NEWS FEBRUARY 2016

lowed for civilians without oxygen in August 2015. They received fantastic support from across the industry with notable donations coming from customers Climatec Windows, Iceni Windows and Solar Windows, industry colleagues PHAM News and Reliance Worldwide Corporation, and suppliers Dialogue PR, Earl & Thompson Marketing, Switch, Windowbase and Wyatt.

REHAU’s Marketing and Technical Director Gareth Jones, who jumped alongside colleagues from REHAU’s windows, underfloor heating and cable management divisions, said: “As it turned out, jumping from a plane at 15,000 feet was the easy part and all of us really enjoyed the experience.

The real thanks must go to our customers, colleagues and suppliers who gave us their backing and helped us make such a fantastic donation to the Prostate Cancer charity.”

Window News

If you would like to see your company featured in Window News, either on the website, twice weekly e-mail Newscasts or in our online magazine, please send your press releases and news to: edit@windownews.co.uk We consider all press items sent to us. However, all stories are subject to the editor’s discretion so we cannot guarantee that your news item will be published.

Our weekly Newscasts are broadcast every Tuesday and Thursday and accept news items up to midday for inclusion. Published news appears on the website on a daily basis and is also filtered through our social media network with full links back to the complete story on the Window News website. ww.windownews.co.uk

2016 Calendar of Events

The Biggest Year Yet

1st

NOV

29th

OCT

20th to 24th

14th

10th to 22nd

TBC

12th to 14th

SEPT JULY JUNE MAY APRIL

GM Fundraising will be hosting another full calendar of events in 2016. Please add these dates to your diaries to ensure you don’t miss out:

Fit Show

Visit us at Stand A22 and see if you can beat the cycling pros at a one minute sprint.

Location: Telford International Exhibition Centre

Football 5’s

Back by popular demand!

Date to be confirmed, but likely to be early May. Location: St Andrews – Home of Birmingham City FC

Border2Border Cycling Challenge

With proud sponsors Deceuninck – The ‘Toughest Yet’ covering 2,016 miles, climbing over 92,000ft, with temperatures excess of 40 degrees for our team 18 strong team of cyclists and support crew.

Location: Vancouver, Canada to Tijuana, Mexico.

Golf Day

This year our signature event has a new venue offering a fun and challenging day.

Location: Mottram Hall, Mottram, Cheshire

The Inaugural GMF Cup

A Ryder Cup style competition set to test the most competent golfers amongst us.

Location: The Belfry

Gala Dinner

Our most popular event has a Halloween theme this year – fancy dress if you dare…

Location: Holiday Inn, Stratford-upon-Avon

Christmas Cards

Designed by the children at Hope House will be on sale from now.

www.gmfundraising.co.uk