Window News January 2025

4

58 Are you on brand with your steel reinforcement?

UAP Ltd acquires Armadillo Metal Coatings

121 Saint-Gobain Glass wins Design of the Year award

Driving progress in door hardware

We have been driving progress since 1996. Our award-winning fire door and security hardware – combined with our continual innovation – ensure that our customers are always one step ahead.

Fire Security Innovation

safety regulations with our unrivalled expertise, industryleading training, and top-tier

Secure the places that matter most with hardware at the forefront of door and window security

Explore what’s next in door hardware with our gamechanging products that are driving progress

You can now receive your industry news in a range of formats: Newscast, Website, Social Media, and a magazine. So whatever your preference is for catching up with the latest innovations and news in the industry, there is a Window News format to suit everyone.

We aim to keep readers up-to-date with the latest industry news, trends, technical innovations and suppliers. Our web format means that we can be in the right place at the right time – wherever that may be.

The contents of Window News are provided for general use only and do not constitute general advice and should not be relied upon.

Views/opinions, replies and specific advice expressed by external persons are not necessarily those of Window News and are not subscribed to by Window News. To see the full terms and conditions please visit: http://www.windownews.co.uk/window-news-disclaimer/ Privacy Policy: http://www.windownews.co.uk/window-news-privacy-policy/

Publisher Gerald Batt Tel: 01255 850245

E-mail: gerald@windownews.co.uk

Editorial E-mail: edit@windownews.co.uk

Production E-mail: production@windownews.co.uk

Copyright © 2025 PO Box 13225. Frinton-on-Sea, CO13 3BT www.windownews.co.uk

Cover picture: Uni-Blinds integral blinds made with Planitherm One tick all the boxes, read more on page 100

UAP Ltd announces acquisition of Armadillo Metal Coatings after launch of revolutionary door hardware range

strategy of staying ahead of evolving customer needs through technology-driven solutions. It also comes as UAP continues to expand its operations following a record-breaking financial year.

Revenues reached £28.4 million for the year ending April 2024, marking the company’s 15th consecutive year of revenue growth. Revenue growth of more than a third was driven by acquisitions including Security Hardware, Maher London, and the organic expansion of its product offerings, including the launch of UAP’s Fire Door Maintenance (FDM) division.

The Armasmart range has brought the business into new markets, including healthcare, hospitality, and education. These industries, where hygiene and durability are critical, stand to benefit significantly from the technology’s ability to reduce germ transmission and maintain a cleaner environment.

The range has also opened new doors into innovative hardware, from glow-in-the-dark solutions to corrosion-resistant finishes, combining functionality with cutting-edge technology.

UAP Ltd, the Bury-based door hardware specialist, has announced the acquisition of Armadillo Metal Coatings, marking another milestone in its ambitious growth journey.

The acquisition builds on the success of UAP’s licensing of Armadillo’s Armasmart technology earlier this year, which led to the launch of the industry’s first hardware range

that eliminates 99.98% of viruses, including COVID-19. The patented anti-viral and anti-microbial technology also prevents tarnishing and corrosion, offering a cleaner, safer, and longer-lasting solution for health, care, commercial, and residential environments.

The acquisition strengthens UAP’s commitment to innovation, aligning with the company’s

Nicola John, managing director of FDM by UAP Ltd and Armadillo Metal Coatings Ltd, said: “The acquisition of Armadillo Metal Coatings has been a pivotal step as we continue to deliver gamechanging innovations for our customers. With Armasmart, we’ve set a new standard for what door hardware can achieve, addressing real-world challenges with forward-thinking solutions. This is just one example of how we’re staying ahead of the curve, and we’re excited about the opportunities this acquisition brings as we continue to grow and shape the future of our industry.”

uaplimited.com

Nicola John, managing director of FDM by UAP Ltd and Armadillo Metal Coatings Ltd

New aluminium fabricator launches

Customers looking for high quality, high performance aluminium fenestration solutions are said to now have an additional answer to their needs thanks to the launch of Endurance Aluminium.

This newly created fabricator is a sister business to Endurance Doors – the highly respected manufacturer of composite doors.

Both brands will now form part of a wider Endurance Group.

“The opening of Endurance Aluminium is an exciting and strategically important development’ comments Stephen Nadin, chief executive officer of the Endurance Group.

“It follows our acquisition of BDC Aluminium in December 2023, which gave us access to new

infrastructure, expertise and market insight.

“It was always our intention to build on the existing success of BDC as a trade-focused fabricator and to leverage Endurance’s extensive knowledge of consumer marketing to shape a separate consumer-orientated operation.

“The launch of Endurance Aluminium represents that vision becoming a reality.”

Endurance Aluminium will operate from the same site as BDC Aluminium in Witham, Essex. Its range will include windows, sliding patio doors, French doors, bifold doors, and Heritage doors and screens.

Endurance Group says the new business will combine this

comprehensive product offer with the same high levels of service and support that have become a trademark of the Endurance Doors’ brand.

The company also says that installers can expect this service and support to cover everything from lead generation and product training to assistance with marketing to homeowners.

“We’ve deliberately taken our time to bring Endurance Aluminium to market” adds Stephen.

“The popularity of aluminium fenestration products continues to soar, and we know we are entering a mature market that is already home to a number of wellestablished fabricators.

“As such, we wanted to make sure we were launching a business that gives customers not only a new alternative, but also a better choice.

“We’re confident we’ve achieved that.”

Country Hardwood invests £700k in cutting-edge CNC machinery

Country Hardwood, a leading manufacturer of bespoke hardwood products, has announced a significant £700,000 investment in cutting-edge CNC machinery.

Established in 2007, Country Hardwood offers a comprehensive array of hardwood joinery, including conservatories, orangeries, roof lanterns, windows and doors. Crafted from FSCcertified hardwoods, this range utilises a blend of state-of-the-art machinery and hand finishes by a skilled in-house team.

This strategic £700k investment is part of Country Hardwood’s wider plans to revolutionise their

production processes, offering ‘unparalleled’ precision and efficiency to trade installers, architects, and developers across the UK.

The new one-of-a-kind CNC machine represents a major leap forward in Country Hardwood’s manufacturing capabilities, and will allow for intricate, computercontrolled cutting and shaping of hardwood components. This will dramatically reduce the potential for human error and ensure consistent, high-quality results across all products, says the company.

This investment will open up new possibilities in custom designs,

allowing window installers to keep up with ever-changing consumer demand and expand into bespoke consumer projects.

“This investment underscores our commitment to innovation and excellence in the fenestration industry,” comments Mark Osborne, managing director at Country Hardwood.

“By integrating this state-ofthe-art CNC technology into our production line, we’ll be able to offer our trade partners even greater precision, consistently high product quality, and additional design flexibility.”

“This investment is just part of a bigger picture,” adds Osborne. “At Country Hardwood we are dedicated to providing timber products that meet the everevolving needs of the industry, while ensuring we are able to retain the renowned craftsmanship and attention to detail we have become known for.”

www.countryhardwood.com

Dekko ramps up production with £350,000 investment in cutting-edge machinery

Trade fabricator Dekko Window Systems has significantly boosted its production capabilities following a £350,000 investment in a state-of-theart Haffner SBA-5 automated machining centre.

The cutting-edge tool has recently been installed in Dekko’s 75,000 square foot manufacturing facility, enhancing operations and productivity to meet the rising demand for their premium uPVC products.

Dekko says the Haffner SBA-5, aptly described as a “machine powerhouse,” brings unprecedented automation and efficiency to Dekko’s production line. This latest acquisition complements two existing machining centres, further solidifying Dekko’s ability to deliver superior products with speed and precision.

“Our investment in the Haffner SBA-5 allows us to scale up production of our Deceuninck uPVC range, ensuring we continue to meet our customers’ growing demands with unmatched quality,” said Kurt Greatrex, sales director at Dekko Window Systems.

This investment follows last year’s acquisition of a state-ofthe-art Graf Synergy machine, also from Haffner, which enabled Dekko to introduce the world’s first fully seamless uPVC window to the market. The new Haffner SBA-5 is set to play a crucial role in meeting the increasing demand for Dekko’s products, particularly their upgraded Deceuninck uPVC range.

Kurt comments, “Our seamless window has been a gamechanger in the industry, with an extremely positive reaction from our customers. We anticipate the vast majority of our uPVC sales to be fully seamless, making ongoing machinery investment an essential part of our future strategy.”

These significant investments have been made possible by Dekko’s acquisition by Inwido, a European leading window group, in 2022. Inwido’s backing is said to provide Dekko with the resources and stability to continue innovating and excelling in the market, ensuring the delivery of high-quality products and services.

www.dekkowindows.com

Kurt Greatrex pictured with the new Haffner SBA-5 automated machining centre

Accsys announces

The Hadleigh Timber Group as new Accoya distributor for UK market

Accsys has announced the appointment of one of the largest players in the UK timber industry, The Hadleigh Timber Group, as a UK Accoya distributor. This partnership builds on Accsys’ strong growth reported at the end of November for the first half of this year, both worldwide but particularly in the UK.

The Hadleigh Timber Group which includes Meyer, Panelco, Timbmet and CP Timber is one of the leading suppliers of timber across the UK. With a well-established distribution network, The Group offers a full UK nationwide service across a range of products. The Hadleigh Timber Group will build inventory in December and January.

Chris Rudd, CEO of The Hadleigh

Timber Group, said: “We take great pride in delivering exceptional distribution services and customer support, ensuring efficiency and excellence at every level. Our commitment to service means that our customers can rely on us for a seamless experience every time. Accoya not only meets the growing demand for sustainable and durable wood products which meet practical joinery workshop requirements but also aligns perfectly with our values and dedication to quality. This addition allows us to further support our customers with solutions that are as environmentally responsible as they are high-performing.”

John Alexander, group commercial director of Accsys, commented: “Partnering with an industry leader like The Hadleigh Timber Group

significantly boosts momentum for us in the UK market. We are aligned around this collaboration growing the overall market for Accoya through business development and end user service. The collaboration supports our growth strategy and strengthens our commitment to providing sustainable, high-quality timber solutions to the UK joinery sector.”

Accoya wood brings “unprecedented” performance as well as strong sustainability credentials. The product is Cradle to Cradle Certified Gold and made from FSC certified (C012330) fast-growing wood. It carries the prestigious Declare label and contributes to achieving BREEM and LEED points, supporting sustainability and environmental goals in building projects. Renowned for its exceptional durability and stability, Accoya wood boasts an “unrivalled” 50year warranty above ground and 25-years in ground and fresh water.

Interim results FY25

https://bit.ly/3DZuvTj

Eliminates glazing slip, resulting in fewer call backs

Forterro continues expansion with BM Group acquisition

European software provider Forterro has continued its expansion into the window, door and façade industry, with the acquisition of BM Group.

Founded in 1979 and operating from offices in Scotland and England, BM Group is one of the leading IT solutions providers in the UK and Ireland fenestration software sector. Its products include Evolution, the widely used uPVC order processing and fabrication solution, and Touch, its web-based management platform, which covers all sectors within the windows and doors market: uPVC, aluminium and timber.

The BM Group acquisition is Forterro’s second in the

fenestration sector. In November 2024 it announced the acquisition of Orgadata AG, a German company known for its innovative Logikal software for designing, calculating and producing windows, doors and curtain walls. The Orgadata deal is expected to close in the first quarter of 2025, pending regulatory approvals. Both companies will operate in the newly formed Forterro Windows and Doors business line.

“Adding BM Group to Forterro Windows and Doors means we have an immediate and powerful presence in this market, and it is a perfect fit with our other acquisition in the sector,” said Marcus Pannier, regional president, Forterro. “BM Group is

Graeme Bailey, managing irector, Business Micros Group

hugely innovative, and bringing it into Forterro means it can benefit from our experience in scaling and growing companies, taking that innovation to a bigger and broader market than would have otherwise been challenging.”

In addition to its own products, BM Group is the sole reseller of Orgadata’s Logikal product in the UK. Logikal digitalises and simplifies processes around aluminium window, door and

curtain wall designs so that companies can work more efficiently, according to the company, and BM Group has implemented Logikal for nearly 20 years.

BM Group’s managing director Graeme Bailey will remain with the company, focusing on integrating the BM Group teams into Forterro Windows and Doors, and chief technical officer Jim Cronie will continue to drive product innovation. Bernd Hillbrands, the founder of Orgadata, will head up Forterro Windows and Doors following completion of the Orgadata transaction.

“Forterro is the ideal partner for us, with shared values and culture and a focus on innovation and collaboration,” said Graeme Bailey, managing director, BM Group. “Being part of Forterro Windows and Doors means we are better placed to help our customers meet market challenges and realise their growth ambitions, with access to broader expertise, technology and support. Our understanding of Orgadata’s Logikal and implementation with customers was also pivotal to our successful alignment within Forterro.”

“Forterro is an industrial software specialist – it’s a sector we know incredibly well, and the BM Group acquisition is timely, giving us further access to the growing window, door, and façade industry,” continued Marcus Pannier, Forterro. “Our mid-market expertise is second to none, and bringing BM Group to Forterro means that we start 2025 as we mean to continue supporting customers and achieving growth.”

Advisors to BM Group on the deal were Eversheds-Sutherland, Spencer Gardner Dickens and Thomas Nock Martin Accountants. Advisors to Forterro were Alvarez & Marsal, EY and Foot Anstey.

Epwin Window Systems announces Haffner as new Connect affiliate partner

Epwin Window Systems has announced that machinery innovator Haffner has become the exclusive affiliate machinery partner on its award-winning Connect digital platform. This partnership brings significant advantages to Epwin Window Systems customers, offering exclusive benefits when ordering fabrication machinery through Connect.

Gerald Allen, head of marketing at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We are delighted to welcome Haffner as an exclusive machinery supplier. The company is renowned for its cutting-edge machinery and outstanding commitment to customer service, and we’re confident it will deliver exceptional value to our customers.”

Matt Thomas, managing director at Haffner, added: “We are proud to be supporting Epwin Window Systems through the Connect platform. This affiliate partnership will enable us to help even more fabricators unlock the significant quality and efficiency advantages that modern automation machinery brings to both PVC-U and

aluminium fabrication.”

Haffner Ltd is renowned for its commitment to helping customers select the ideal machinery to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. The company offers a comprehensive range of innovative, high-quality machinery from Haffner and is the sole UK agent for Graf Synergy, globally recognised for its seamless welding technology. Additionally, Haffner provides a full suite of cutting-edge machines from Fom Industrie, a leader in precision-engineered aluminium machinery.

Epwin Window Systems’ Connect platform redefines customer support, providing a centralised and comprehensive resource hub. Alongside affiliate partnerships such as Haffner, the platform provides access to various business touchpoints including technical documentation and downloads, the U-Comply N Customer Portal U value calculator, information on becoming an Approved Commercial Partner to unlock further opportunities, and access a wide range of marketing assets.

Gerald concluded: “Connect was designed to help our fabricators and installers be more effective, grow sales and increase profitability. By continuously enhancing the platform and partnering with exceptional suppliers such as Haffner, we can continue to deliver on that ambition.”

https://bit.ly/4fL8GnK

CAB welcomes Minimal Frame Projects

By Nigel Headford – CAB Chief Executive

The CAB Team and I are pleased to welcome Minimal Frame Projects into membership of the Association. There have been eleven new members joining CAB in the last few months of 2024 and we have several companies who are keen to join in 2025. With a revised programme of events in the year, keeping the popular and introducing new events that we hope will become firm favourites, is proving to be an additional encouragement.

Minimal Frame Projects promote the unique benefits of the slim sight lines and strength of aluminium in their product

portfolio. Nathan Jones, Minimal Frame Projects’ project compliance officer, comments on joining the Association: “Joining CAB gives us the opportunity of collaborating with the best of the Industry when it comes to aluminium fenestration. I believe working together as an industry we can raise awareness of the unique benefits of aluminium when used with specialist glazing. Bespoke aluminium installations today last a lifetime if correctly maintained, something that can be seen on many commercial building envelopes. We look forward to interacting with working groups and committees within CAB, to further improve our understanding and offer the benefit of our experience.

Nigel Headford

“At Minimal Frame Projects, we work closely with our clients to turn concepts in structural glazing, design and manufacturing into reality. By keeping at the cutting edge of the specialist luxury glass market, we can offer a unique set of hand-picked, contemporary, innovative products across our window, door and structural glazing ranges. We offer ‘Serious Glazing Without the Serious Headaches’. Our objectives

are simple; to take all of the stress out of your project and ensure a professional service with amazing results as our customers will testify. Where required, we can also provide an in-house architect service to help homeowners create a truly bespoke glazing solution.”

At CAB we recognise that an Association belongs to its members, the influence that members bring into the Association propagates growth which drives the Industry and influences legislative changes. I am committed to growing the Association and will continue to look to increase membership value.

Why not join the Association and be recognised as company involved in supporting the best in the Industry whilst helping to shape its future. More information on membership is available our website at www.c-a-b.org.uk

Fall in RMI building work reflects consumer unease, say FMB

The 0.6% fall in repair maintenance and improvement work within the building industry in the third quarter of 2024, according to newly released figures from the Office of National Statistics, reflects growing consumer unease, says the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

Brian Berry, chief executive of the FMB commented:

“The positive growth in the construction sector of 0.8% in the third quarter of 2024 is a welcome signal that the construction industry is starting to show signs of recovery, after what has been a difficult few years. The 2% growth in new work on Q2, is indicative of growing market confidence. However, the 0.6% fall in repair and maintenance shows the building industry is not out of the woods yet,

and with the economy barely growing this could represent consumers being careful with their spending. New orders on housing are particularly worrying, given their significant fall over the quarter, this is despite the Government’s efforts to build 1.5 million homes.”

Berry continued: “The new Government have made early announcements that they are prioritising housebuilding, with new targets set, and significant planning reforms announced. The Q3 data released today suggests the construction industry has reacted positively, but the Government must now keep up the momentum. A long-term plan is needed to tackle the ongoing skills crisis, as well as a concerted effort to diversify the housing market by supporting SME builders, if the Government is serious about meeting its ambitious goals.”

HWL Windows wins a stand with FIT Show & Window News

Window News & FIT Show are delighted to announce HWL Windows as the winner of its ‘Win a Stand’ competition, with the specialist manufacturer flush uPVC and aluminium windows and doors set to exhibit for the first time at FIT Show 2025 later this year (Birmingham NEC, 29 April – 1 May.)

HWL Windows, dedicated manufacturers for just two premium systems; The Residence Collection & Sheerline Aluminium, plans to utilise FIT Show as a platform to build on the success of its premium colour range launch.

FIT Show 2025 visitors will be

able to meet and speak with HWL Windows’ team of experts who will be on hand at the show to help inspire and educate them about its full premium colour range, which includes the HWL colour swatch showcasing all of its available foils.

As well as the physical stand space at FIT Show, the prize package for HWL Windows also includes full marketing and PR support in the run up to and during the event, as well as coveted interview spot on FIT Show TV.

Speaking about the win, HWL Windows director, Graham Howatson said: “What a way to

start the year, winning a stand at FIT Show 2025. We can’t wait to bring our plans to life! We’ll be showcasing how our Residence Collection products pair beautifully with Sheerline Aluminium, especially foiled doors. As leaders in flush window color choices, we’ll also be featuring samples with unique finishes.

“This prize will help us showcase our capabilities on a larger stage and help connect with key industry players. As a smaller, upand-coming manufacturer, we’ve worked tirelessly to establish ourselves in a competitive industry dominated by larger players with extensive budgets and resources.

“With a small but dedicated team, every step we’ve taken has been driven by passion, determination, and a commitment to delivering

Left to right: Graham Howatson, director, Mark Haley, MD and Phil Gray, operations director.

exceptional products. Exhibiting at FIT Show will allow us to amplify our voice and take another step toward becoming a recognised industry leader. This stand will play a pivotal role in accelerating our growth and reinforcing our reputation as a reliable partner for both domestic and commercial ventures. Stop by to meet the team and discover the HWL Difference!”

FIT Show and Window News’ ‘Win a Stand’ competition first launched as part of the campaign for FIT Show 2023 campaign. The competition relaunched last year ahead of FIT Show 2025 return and offered one lucky brand the chance to win an exhibitor space at the UK’s only dedicated trade show for the window, door, flat glass, hardware, components and roofing industry.

FIT Show event director,

Nickie West added: “Huge congratulations to Graham and the team at HWL Windows! We were absolutely blown away by the quality of their entry, which really drilled down into the benefits that exhibiting at FIT Show would present to their brand, as well as our visitor audience.

“The song that the team produced to accompany the entry was just the cherry on the top! We’re delighted to be able to reward their efforts, in conjunction with Window News, with the prize of a stand at FIT Show 2025. I believe this will be a great stepping stone in helping them to realise their ambitions, as well as connecting and engaging with the market on a larger scale.

“The volume and quality of entries across the board really did highlight the value of exhibiting

Leading Brand Specialists

at FIT Show and I’d like to thank everyone who took the time to submit an application.”

Window News editor Gerald Batt commented: “This has been a really exciting competition for us to run again with FIT Show, and we’ve certainly seen a huge uplift in engagement with a great number of high quality entries received. Congratulations to the HWL Windows team on scooping the top prize in our 2025 ‘Win a Stand’ competition. I look forward to seeing Graham and the team at the show later this year.”

FIT Show returns to the NEC Birmingham from 29 April – 1 May, 2025. Visitors can now register to attend for FREE at www.fitshow.co.uk

If you want to listen to the HWL song click here to the page and scroll to the audio player

Our partnerships with leading hardware manufacturers mean we can source tried, tested and proven products that our customers can trust.

Q3 Merchant value sales rose +1.7% quarter-on-quarter but were -2.6% adrift of last year’s sales

The latest Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) report reveals builders’ merchants’ value sales for Q3 2024 were down -2.6% compared to Q3 2023, with volume sales down -2.8% and prices virtually the same (+0.2%). With one additional trading day this year, like-for-like sales (which take the number of trading days into account) were -4.1% lower.

Five of the twelve categories sold more in Q3 2024, led by Workwear & Safetywear (+16.5%). The two largest categories – Timber & Joinery Products (-4.8%) and Heavy Building Materials (-3.5%) –were both down more than total merchants. Renewables & Water Saving (-29.1%) was the weakest category.

Builders’ merchants’ value sales for Q3 2024 were up +1.7% on Q2 2024. Volumes increased +2.3%, while prices were down -0.6%. Ten categories

sold more quarter-on-quarter with Workwear & Safetywear (+6.6%) growing most followed by Ironmongery (+3.8%) and Services (+3.6%). Landscaping (-9.3%) and Kitchens & Bathrooms (-0.1%) were the weakest categories. With three more trading days in the most recent period, like-for-like sales were -3.0% lower.

Quarter 3 total value sales weren’t helped by September value sales, down -3.5% yearon-year. Volume sales were also down -3.6% and there was no movement on price. Sales of the two largest categories – Timber & Joinery Products (-5.6%) and Heavy Building Materials (-4.3%) – declined more than Total Merchants.

September sales were also weak compared to August (-1.7%). Month-on-month, volume sales were down -0.7% and prices also decreased -1.0%. Just four categories sold more – they

were Workwear & Safetywear (+22.5%), Plumbing Heating & Electrical (+9.6%), Kitchens & Bathrooms (+6.0%) and Tools (+2.3%).

Total value sales for January to September were -5.1% below the same period in 2023. With two more trading days this year, likefor-like sales were down -6.1%.

Mike Rigby, MD of MRA Research who produce this report, said: “There was a small increase in Total Merchant value sales quarter-on-quarter, but sales were down year on year. The new Labour government swept into power on high expectations and a desire for change as voters responded to the promise of growth. But a wet summer and a series of gloomy pronouncements about growthpostponed quickly knocked the stuffing out of consumers’ confidence and talked down the markets.

“GfK’s long running Consumer Confidence Index fell to -21 in October, the lowest it has been since March. Perhaps the most telling metric was people’s sentiments about the general economic situation over the last

12 months, which dropped -5 points to -42. A YouGov poll after the budget statement confirmed that 39% of respondents thought the budget would leave them and their family worse off. This isn’t great news for the RMI market as people will be more inclined to save than spend.

“It is good news that the government wants to grow the economy over the course of this parliament. The building industry looks forward to that, and to the necessary improvements in the planning regime, to rebuilding 500 schools, extending HS2 to London Euston, and building 1.5 million homes and some new towns. But you can’t just announce growth and expect it to happen just like that. The industry wound down and mothballed capacity to meet reduced demand. And it isn’t going to invest in new capacity without some certainty of government steadfastness and expectations of demand over a longer time horizon. £100m-£200m factories can take years to take through planning and get built and connected to the grid and water services. More than that, we don’t have the skilled people to build all those homes.”

Set up and run by MRA Research, the BMBI – a brand of the Builders Merchants Federation – is a monthly index of builders’ merchant sales, and the most reliable, up-to-date proxy for Repair, Maintenance, and Improvement (RMI) activity in the UK. The index is based on actual sales from GfK’s Builders’ Merchant Point of Sale Tracking Data, which captures value sales out to builders from generalist builders’ merchants, accounting for 88% of total sales from builders’ merchants throughout Great Britain. An in-depth review, which includes commentary by sector experts, is produced each quarter. www.bmbi.co.uk

BFRC warns ‘the time is now’

In the wake of the final report on the Grenfell Tower tragedy, the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) warns the outcomes of the report are just the beginning when it comes to placing the construction industry and those sectors that operate within it, under increasing scrutiny.

Richard Bate, technical director at BFRC explains:

“The UK’s construction industry is now in a state of reflection following the publication of Phase 2 of the Grenfell Inquiry report. The report cited ‘systemic dishonesty from both building control professionals and manufacturers’ to be to blame, with failings identified at almost every stage of the process. If there ever was a time to show compliance evidence and work ethically, that time is now.

Simulation reports are not a means of proving compliance for SAP assessors for new build or Document L.

“The BFRC launched the Window Energy Rating (WER) Scheme in the early 2000’s

which provided manufacturers with a route to a certified WER, which their customers could rely on and trust. The process of obtaining a certified WER is a complex one, as there are a number of stages within the process that each need to be followed and fulfilled correctly in order for the rating to be approved. The initial step is the completion of a simulation report, but this report means nothing if the rest of the process is not completed. Simulation reports are not a means of proving compliance for SAP assessors for new build or Document L.

“Any customer purchasing a product with a WER can easily check if that company has completed the certification process correctly, as they will be registered on the BFRC website. Put simply, if a company is not listed then they do not have a certified Window Energy Rating.

“At BFRC, we are fully committed to driving up the standards across the industry and if that means we need to put pressure on companies operating outside of the legal parameters to do the right thing, then so be it. It’s not a witch hunt, but there’s never been a more important time to be accountable. If companies are lying to consumers about their certification, something needs to be done. There needs to be a real cultural shift and at BFRC, we’re here to help anyone that wishes to be part of that shift.”

www.bfrc.org

Triple track Slinova slider now available from Euroglaze

Euroglaze claims to have cemented its place as the leading UK fabricator of Rehau’s high performance Slinova patio door – adding the 146mm deep triple track system to the 80mm dual track system it already offers.

Installers and stockists can now choose 2, 3, 4 or even 6 pane options from Euroglaze, sliding smoothly from the left, the right or the centre for maximum flexibility.

Martin Nettleton, Euroglaze’s managing director, commented: “Keystone’s 2024 Consumer Fenestration Trends report

confirmed what we already knew – sliding doors are still the most popular option for homeowners* because they maximise light in and views out. The glass to frame ratio is much higher than in bifolds, so they can make any room feel more spacious.

“The minimalist contemporary lines of Rehau’s Slinova door, with a visible frame and sash width of just 129mm, make this a door with the real ‘wow’ factor, and it is proving extremely popular with our customers. We are already making more doors per week than any other UK fabricator and the addition of the

track system will no doubt see our volumes increase still further.”

As well as supplying Slinova doors to trade customers for the refurbishment market, Euroglaze is also supplying into new build, with a significant contract completed for a developer in Stockport.

Martin Nettleton added: “Slinova offers the perfect combination of style and value for both retail and commercial buyers. It offers extreme strength, durability, stability even at maximum height (2.4m) and width (4m) and exceptional weather performance, as well as a wide range of single and dual colours.”

*40% of respondents preferred sliding patio doors, 29% preferred French doors and 24% preferred bifolds.

https://www.euroglaze.co.uk/

triple

Does your supplier go the extra mile?

At Morley Glass, we’re here to make your job easier and your business more successful.

We go the extra mile to offer you top-quality integral blinds, hands-on support, and marketing tools that do the hard work for you.

LET’S MAKE 2025 THE BEST YEAR YET!

Get in touch with Morley Glass today to see how our products, support, and expertise can make a real difference for you.

Call us now or visit our website to get started.

Innovative Products

As the leading name in integral blinds, we set the standard with innovative designs, durable performance, and a product range that’s always ahead of the curve.

Marketing Support

From stunning brochures, colour swatches and samples, we provide everything you need to make your sales stand out. When you partner with us, you gain access to professional marketing tools that help you close more deals.

Customer Service

With technical advice, dedicated service engineers, and expert support, we’re here to keep your projects running smoothly.

Window Supply Company has been named as one of the fastest growing firms in Scotland

Window Supply Company has been recognised as the 18th fastest growing business in Scotland by the UK Fast Growth Index for 2024, the programme which identifies the fastestgrowing companies in the UK.

This achievement underlines Window Supply Company’s significant impact on its market and its capacity for growth and innovation. Whilst fast growth firms represent a small fraction of all companies, they contribute to a significant proportion of new jobs in the UK economy every year. They are also often at the cutting edge in their respective industries, bringing innovative products, services, and processes to the market and, as a result, make a tremendous contribution to the UK economy.

About the UK Fast Growth Index

The UK Fast Growth Index identifies the fifty fastest-growing companies in seven regions and nations namely London, the Midlands and the East of England, the North of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, South of England and Wales. As one of the 350 firms identified through the lists, Window Supply Company contributed to the 2024 UK Fast Growth Index’s collective turnover increase of £9.6 billion between 2021 and 2023 and the creation of 24,000 new jobs in two years.

Professor Dylan Jones-Evans OBE, Founder UK Fast Growth Index said:

“The UK Fast Growth Index

demonstrates how a small number of fast-growing firms such as Window Supply Company can make a substantial contribution to the UK’s economic landscape, providing real examples of how innovation, enterprise and sheer hard work can make a real difference in all sectors from construction to financial services to technology.

This small group of businesses that grow quickly continue to play a significant role in driving economic growth. They create jobs and contribute to the economic development of the communities in which they are based. By highlighting the success of these companies across a range of sectors, the UK Fast Growth Index emphasises the importance of supporting and nurturing the private sector in every nation and region of the UK”.

This year’s UK Fast Growth Index list is in partnership with UBS Wealth Management, a world leading and truly global wealth

manager. Chris Oliver, head of high net worth at UBS Global Wealth Management said:

“UBS has a long history in advising and connecting business owners and entrepreneurs in the UK and helping them unlock potential throughout their journey. It is this exceptional entrepreneurial spirit and level of talent and innovation that drives job creation and growth, but most crucially also inspires the next generation of entrepreneurs across the UK. As the lead sponsor of this year’s UK Fast Growth Index, UBS is looking forward to following and supporting these businesses as they go from strength to strength.”

Duncan Murray CEO Window Supply Company says:

“We are delighted to be recognised by the Fast Growth 50 Index for the second consecutive year and are motivated to continue our growth trajectory. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our excellent team, fantastic customers, supply chain partners and everyone who has been part of the Window Supply Company story so far.”

Diverse Range of Businesses

The UK Fast Growth Index features companies from various sectors, adding to the diversity of the UK economy. Window Supply Company with its focus in the construction industry is part of this varied business landscape.

What’s Next for Window Supply Company

Looking forward, Window Supply Company has plans to continue to push the boundaries in innovation, excellence in product quality and target opportunities in new market sectors.

Origin Joins Qualicoat

By Chris Mansfield –Qualicoat Chair

Qualicoat UK & Ireland are delighted to welcome into membership Origin who have recently been awarded their Qualicoat licence. Origin join a growing number of powder coaters across the UK & Ireland who are taking advantage of the Qualicoat Specification to elevate their commitment to coating quality. Origin is now able to use the Qualicoat label of conformity on all their paperwork and market communications.

The label, which can only be used by licensed members of the Qualicoat Association, is registered worldwide. Members of the Association include powder manufacturers, pretreatment systems suppliers and powder coating applicators. These three main membership groups form the vertical integration required to precisely specify both product and processes

that offer the best quality coating for architectural aluminium products used in either commercial or residential applications.

Origin’s marketing team commented on their successful application for membership: “Qualicoat is a leading international specification for the application of powder coating. When we opened our powder coating facility, the target was always going to be to attain the accreditation as quickly as possible, as our drive for quality and operational excellence is synonymous with Qualicoat. We know that by joining Qualicoat, it would mean the finish on our products would not only be visually appealing, but also robust and resilient enough to handle the challenges of everyday use for decades to come. For our trade customers, it’s a trademark of quality and trust, which is vital for our sales promise.”

For more information visit www.qualicoatuki.org

Members of the Origin management team. Left to right, Paul Bowers, Adam Woolley, Robert Urbanek, Dan Jarzyna, Agnieszka Lewandowska and Dan Gray.

Glass Express Midlands joins CAB

Glass Express Midlands is said to be the first glass processing and IGU manufacturer to become members of the Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB), solidifying its support to the domestic and commercial architectural aluminium sector.

“We are over the moon to be certified as members of CAB”, says Arun Photay, Glass Express Midlands managing director. “We pride ourselves on being a forward-thinking and dynamic business, and these values align perfectly with CAB’s mission.

“We’re excited to start attending CAB events and talking to other members – we can learn so much about the nuances of the sector from the businesses within CAB,

which will then allow us to tailor our offering to further support aluminium projects.

“Equally, we feel that we have a lot of knowledge that we can pass along the supply chain about the glass-side of the industry, which will be invaluable to businesses when they come to specify and install.”

Glass Express Midlands’ admission to CAB comes after the IGU manufacturers’ commitment to forge closer working relationships with the industry supply chain at its highprofile roundtable event in May 2024.

Held at an exclusive central London location, the guestlist

included government representation, as well as representation by both the Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF) and CAB, during which the two trade associations agreed to work closer together to provide a unified voice to policy makers.

And with recent high-profile investment in products, infrastructure and technical support, Glass Express Midlands are relishing the opportunity to extend partnerships throughout the industry.

“I have always stressed my commitment to professionalism and streamlining communication within the sector”, says Arun. “Being part of a trade association like CAB will allow Glass Express Midlands to partner with more forward-thinking businesses and give us the opportunity to broaden our knowledge and service offering to meet more of the industry’s ever-evolving needs.”

Sevenday joins the Korniche Partner network

Sevenday, one of the UK’s most established builders’ merchants with 22 trade counters nationwide, has officially become a Korniche Partner. Established in 1995, Sevenday has grown rapidly in recent

years, cementing its position as a trusted supplier within the building industry.

As a long-standing and valued customer of Made for Trade, Sevenday’s transition to Korniche Partner status underscores its commitment to delivering exceptional service. This partnership grants Sevenday exclusive access to the cuttingedge KwikQuote pricing platform, enabling trade counters to provide instant quotes across the Korniche product range in just minutes. Additionally, the partnership includes ‘goldstandard’ customer support and comprehensive marketing assistance for both digital

platforms and print media.

Ian Jones, managing director of Sevenday Windows said: “Sevenday Windows have been a Customer of Made for Trade for over 7 years now. Their ease of quoting and ordering coupled with the option of site deliveries makes them the ideal supplier for all our 22 Trade Counters. The quality and ease of installation of their growing product range is always commented on by our customers.

“The recent introduction of their Korniche 4700 Patio has been well received and I’m sure will be a real winner for us. Hopefully, there will be more products to follow soon.

It is a privilege to be one of the first Korniche Partners.” www.madefortrade.co www.sevenday.co.uk

(L – R) Leigh from Made for Trade presenting Sevenday Windows business development manager, James Savage, with the Korniche Partner Award.

Country Hardwood raises the bar with 0.7 U-value glazing

Leading UK timber specialist Country Hardwood says it has upgraded its premium window and door range with the introduction of high-performance glazing that offers a U-value of just 0.7.

The Buckinghamshire-based manufacturer has incorporated the advanced 0.7 U-value glass into its bespoke hardwood windows and doors, allowing its products to exceed current Building Regulation requirements for thermal efficiency.

With a 10-week lead time and nationwide delivery service, Country Hardwood offers trade professionals a comprehensive range of timber solutions including windows, doors, orangeries and roof lanterns. All products are available in premium hardwoods including sapele, idigbo and oak, with sustainably sourced timber as standard.

This recent glazing upgrade will

Mark Osbourne, managing director of Country Hardwood

allow installers, architects and developers to future-proof their projects while still delivering the premium aesthetics that high-end clients demand.

Mark Osborne, managing director at Country Hardwood, comments: “With thermal efficiency becoming an increasing concern, we’re providing solutions that go beyond compliance with current Building Regulations, and look to the future

of energy efficient design.”

The high-performance glazing complements Country Hardwood’s innovative wrap-around locking system, creating a complete package that combines efficiency with superior security.

Manufactured at the company’s Buckinghamshire facility, which recently received a £700,000 investment in specialist CNC machinery, these products benefit from a combination of traditional joinery techniques and modern technology.

Mark Osborne comments: “With energy efficiency at the forefront of the construction industry, we’ve invested significantly in developing solutions that don’t just meet but exceed regulatory requirements.

“Our new high-performance glazing, combined with our premium timber frames, offers installers and developers a product that delivers outstanding thermal efficiency without compromising on aesthetics or sustainability.”

www.countryhardwood.com

GGF and FENSA collaborate with Keystone Market Research and

Business Pilot in publication of Autumn Market Knowledge Report

The GGF and FENSA has published its bi-annual Glazing Market Knowledge Report in collaboration with Business Pilot and Keystone Market Research, giving essential insight into upcoming industry fluctuations and trends. The document provides in-depth trade and consumer data, designed to inform and guide important decision making around

product development, investments and marketing strategies, as well as establishing a benchmark for past, present and future trends.

This is the first report that the GGF and FENSA has written in conjunction with external partners. The wide-ranging input, which combines a mix of trade and consumer data, enables the GGF

to present an even more accurate picture of the industry. It also includes data from the curtains and blinds company Hillarys, also a partner of FENSA, for additional insight into consumer trends in home improvement over the last 12 months.

“FENSA generates a wealth of data that allows us to track the overall direction of the home installation market, including the average installation cost which is around £4500 at the moment,” commented FENSA operations director, Lis Clarke. “This bears up against Business Pilot’s insights around the increasing quality of leads. Lead quantities may have decreased, but conversion rates are improving, with a higher average sales value. This is topped off by Keystone’s findings which indicate that new windows and doors are still within the top choices of home improvement projects for homeowners within the next five years.”

Keystone Market Research director, Charlotte Hawkes, added: “Without a clear understanding of the market and where your company falls within this it is impossible to make informed decisions. Together we have been able to provide a comprehensive snapshot of the industry, exploring where we currently stand and what lies ahead.”

Business Pilot managing director, Elton Boocock, commented: “When we compare all the information together using the Business Pilot Barometer we can identify key patterns and trends to help us understand what’s going on in the market and see what we can learn from that to predict and prepare for the future market.”

The Autumn Market Knowledge Report is free to GGF members and FENSA Approved Installers. For non-members a copy of the report can be purchased by contacting the GGF direct.

New hup! Trade Centres

Ultraframe is launching a series of hup! Trade Centres across the UK to provide a one-stop-shop for installers wanting to build a business around hup! and help them fully embed the revolutionary system into their business. The first hup! Trade Centre opens in early December, with further sites opening across late 2024 and early 2025.

• hup! Trade Centre Southampton at Novaseal, launch date 6th December

• hup! Trade Centre Leicester at Premier Frames, launch date 10th – 12th December

• hup! Trade Centre Worcester at Maitlands, launch date 15th & 16th January

• Plus, hup! Trade Centre Norwich at Sure Roofs and hup! Trade

Centre Blackpool at Affordable Windows, both coming soon.

Explaining more about the new hup! Trade Centres and the benefits they will bring to visitors, Ultraframe marketing director, Alex Hewitt, said: “Our new hup! Trade Centres are one-stop-hup!-shops where visitors can learn about and order the products needed for any style of hup! extension. Staff at the hup! Trade Centres will provide the full design, specification, quoting, and ordering service and offer technical support, including

on-site training and assistance. Visitors can experience a hup! training suite with samples and models of hup! to get handson with the system and really understand the technology within it and the roof finishes available. Free technical and sales training courses will also be held regularly at the hup! Trade Centres to enable installers to learn more about the revolutionary system in a live learning environment. The hup! Trade Centres will also offer FREE high-quality homeowner leads as well as supplying hup! brochures to assist with converting the leads.

“At Ultraframe we will be partnering with the hup! Trade Centres to co-invest in marketing and really build a community of companies who build with hup! and who are fully invested in the many benefits of the system. The hup! Trade Centres are a great opportunity for installers to find out all about hup! and transform their business to ‘the better way to build’”.

To find out more about your nearest hup! Trade Centre or discuss the possibility of partnering with Ultraframe to launch the next hup! Trade Centre in your area, contact marketing@ultraframe.co.uk

A true modern classic

INTRODUCING OUR NEW HERITAGE DOOR SYSTEM

Discover the perfect blend of minimal industrial design fused with modern-day engineering and compliant performance.

Our new Heritage door system has been meticulously crafted to seamlessly integrate with our 58BW HI window range, creating a unified look for the homeowner and resulting in less stock holding and simpler fabrication.

All of this is beautifully adorned with period-style handles and hardware, resulting in an understated door system that will complement a wide range of property styles, from refurb to new build.

Leaning into professional development

Employees at Quickslide have undertaken Lean Green Belt Training offered by West Yorkshire Manufacturing Services. This latest training is just part of a continued commitment by the leading windows and doors supplier to offer all staff across all levels of the business and operations personalised professional development opportunities that enrich and upskill not just each individual but also the business as a whole. And it provides measurable improvements that Quickslide’s customers directly benefit from too, says the company.

Production manager Lyndon Rattigan was one of the attendees to the five-day Lean Green Belt Training program, which was undertaken over

a 6-week period. The course focused on ways to analyse and tackle specific role-based productivity challenges to achieve quantifiable results.

“Over the past 18 months we’ve seen big changes at Quickslide, with a huge investment in automation and the launch of new products such as the slim midrail sash window and QuickGlide door,” said Lyndon. “So, our Lean Green Training centred on how best to ensure the smooth and effective introduction of new products and processes, while maintaining and even improving our standards of high quality and low wastage.”

During training, employees were introduced to new ways of thinking and working, learning

about the principles of lean productivity and how to apply them through practical exercises.

“We came away with practical tools that we’ve already put into day-to-day use throughout our production,” said Lyndon. “We’ve introduced communication boards throughout the workshop, so we can document challenges and work together to identify solutions and deliver improvements. We now have observation stations to both spot and share good practice and identify areas of improvement, to increase output across the board. And new call points at each work station means no time is wasted by employees leaving to look for supervisors, which has improved our productivity rate.”

“These are regular small gains that day in, day out, add up to measurable improvements with real financial value. Because continuous improvement is at the heart of everything we do at Quickslide.”

https://www.quickslide.co.uk/

buying resilience and choice. The aim of SBD accreditation is to reward companies who are helping to reduce crime through good design.

SBD Accreditation

Sheerline’s Classic Heritage Door Achieves

Sheerline’s Classic Heritage Door has become its latest product to achieve Secured by Design (SBD) and PAS24 accreditation. Combining traditional art déco styling with modern thermal performance and a fitter friendly design, it has already proved popular with installers, says Sheerline.

The Classic Heritage Door has already been driving sales for Sheerline fabricators and this latest security accolade will further accelerate sales growth for its customers. Part of the appeal of this product is its authentic heritage styling.

For example, it features Sheerline’s signature stepped look and a period inspired lockbox design while offering ultra slim sightlines as low as 60.5mm. And thanks

to its’ Thermlock technology, the product offers high-performance double-glazed U-values of 1.4 W/ (m2K).

Consumer choice is key, which is why homeowners can choose single or French doors, with customisable options such as zero thresholds for internal doors, and styles that vary the number of transom bars in each sash.

Doors are available in 144 different stocked colour combinations, with the most popular colours available to fabricators on five working days. Complementary hardware is available from Sheerline’s trusted hardware partners to add the perfect finishing touch.

This also enables homeowners to perfectly match the product with their décor, while giving fabricators

It ensures a consistent level of security as it sets out the standards that all products are assessed against. Fabricators manufacturing under SBD accreditation are audited regularly to ensure they not only meet the requirements during testing but continue to meet them.

This accreditation now means every product within the Sheerline range is available with the Police Preferred Specification.

Roger Hartshorn, Sheerline’s CEO, commented: “This announcement highlights our ongoing commitment to security across our entire product range. The level of security we’re offering is above and beyond what is required by Part Q legislation. We want homeowners to know that when they choose Sheerline, they’re choosing peace of mind.”

To find out more about the Classic Heritage Door, visit the website here: https://bit.ly/3Q2ZNM9

Siderise completes journey to receiving CCPI mark on all core passive fire protection product ranges

Siderise has successfully completed the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) assessment process for its RH Horizontal and RV Vertical Cavity Barrier for cladding applications, and CT Cavity Tray and EW Cavity Barrier and Firestop for masonry external wall systems. With approval already gained for its CW-FS Firestop range

for curtain walling earlier in the year, this means all the company’s main passive fire protection ranges now carry this best-practice mark, providing greater confidence that the information surrounding them is “clear, accurate, up-to-date, accessible and unambiguous.”

To gain a CCPI mark, companies are subject to a

rigorous and independent assessment process, which includes assessing that the leadership and business culture aligns with the ethos of the CCPI, as well as providing information and clear evidence of conformance to each of the Code’s applicable eleven clauses. In line with its longterm commitment to ‘integrity in all we do’, achieving CCPI conformance for these core product ranges is just one part of the Siderise’s wider strategy to support accurate specification and a safer built environment.

Siderise technical director, Lee Nichols, explained: “Following the introduction of the Building Safety Act and particularly of Gateway 2 for higher-risk buildings (HRBs), we understand that specifiers— whether they are architects, fire engineers or contractors— must feel confident in the information they are using to make decisions and be able to access robust and assessed product data in the format they need. We have aligned getting the CCPI mark for our core products with developing a more holistic specification support package, including creating Specification Packs that summarise the relevant product information for the designated application, and building our partnership with the NBS.

“By having our core product ranges assessed by the Code, we have not only made a commitment to continuous improvement as the product set remains registered with the CCPI, but we hope to communicate to our customers that we are actively responding to the challenges they face when it comes to product information —helping the industry to raise its collective understanding of the crucial importance of fire safety and fire testing.”

As the UK’s exclusive supply partner of Graf Synergy machines, Haffner delivers the seamless weld machine innovation to take your business to the next level.

• Superior transom welding quality

• V-Perfect ® transom welding technology

• Weld seam elimination

• Suitable for both V Joints and Butt Joints

• Precision accuracy - delivering a perfect weld every time

• Faster, automated fabrication

Discover more of the benefits of Graf Synergy machines from Haffner

WINNER

Ultra Installer Scheme Celebrates 20-Year Milestone with New Video

Ultraframe has announced the launch of a new video to educate homeowners about the benefits of choosing an Ultra Installer to carry out their home improvement project – namely, a top quality install, exemplary levels of customer service and the financial stability of their chosen installer.

Featuring Dan Bradley, Ultra Installer Scheme manager, and Mark Bowler, Ultra Installer lead assessor, the video is available to Ultra Installers now and can be made accessible on member’s own branded web dashboards, where they can access the video, along with their membership documents and a host of hardworking sales tools.

Established over 20 years ago, the Ultra Installer Scheme was set up to provide quality in terms of installation and customer service

for peace of mind, and that ethos remains to this day, says Ultraframe.

Companies wanting to become an Ultra Installer undergo stringent assessment in seven key areas. Applicants must excel in all these areas to become an Ultra Installer and are reinspected periodically to uphold the high standards of the Scheme.

• Financial stability

• Sales processes

• Data handling & security

• Industry knowledge

• Product knowledge

• Installation

• Aftercare

Commenting about the new Ultra Installer video and the benefits of being a member of the Scheme, Dan Bradley, Ultra Installer Scheme manager, said: “The Ultra Installer Scheme has been established for 20 years this year and so it was the ideal time to provide our members with an easy way to remind homeowners of the benefits of choosing an Ultra Installer to carry out their home improvement project. Peace of mind is incredibly important for a homeowner when undertaking major work on their home and the Ultra Installer Scheme is a fantastic way for us to provide just that.”

“By choosing an Ultra Installer, homeowners can be assured that their build will be carried out by a competent team who are assessed on an ongoing basis. These assessments don’t just cover their build skills, but also the levels of customer service that they offer. Financial stability is something that homeowners can also be confident about when choosing an Ultra Installer and this takes away any worries homeowners may have, providing peace of mind and confidence about making payments for their project. From a member’s point of view, they receive high quality leads from us which are generated via the Ultraframe website, and these can be accessed and managed via a dedicated lead management system that is fast and simple to use.”

Ultraframe says there are currently vacancies for Ultra Installers in several areas across the UK. To find out more about the Scheme and opportunities for membership contact

Marketing@ultraframe.co.uk.

Sheerline secures Axalta Powder Coatings approval

Sheerline has added to its roster of accreditations and approvals for its powder coating facility by achieving Axalta Powder Coating Approved Applicator Status. This is the latest enhancement to the company’s in-house paint plant, which has received an investment upwards of £1.3 million to date.

To be eligible for this approval, the company had to demonstrate it was working to British Standard 12206 and have at least five pre-treatment processes in place. Sheerline easily met this requirement as its’ award-winning products go through a sevenstage pre-treatment process to ensure a blemish-free finish.

To maintain this accreditation, Sheerline must undergo annual

audits to ensure the correct processes are being implemented and followed. It looks at both the pre-treatment stages as well as the powder-coating application, so users are assured the final product offers a high-quality consistent finish.

This not only gives customers peace of mind, but it also enables Sheerline to offer a 25-year guarantee for its paint application on standard installations. Alternative guarantees are available for coastal and seaside properties to reflect challenging environmental conditions.

Richard Shaw, Axalta’s technical service representative, said: “Sheerline is at the top end of applicators – everything is very

Richard Shaw, Axalta’s technical service representative, Eddy Webb, Sheerline’s production director, and Daniel Grover, Garnalex’s works manager.

clean and clinical, everyone knows what job they’re doing, and they all pull together as a team. They’ve been a pleasure to deal with and I look forward to working with them for their annual inspections.”

Eddy Webb, Sheerline’s production director, commented: “This is yet another achievement for the powder-coating team and highlights Sheerline’s commitment to the highest possible paint standards. The fact we offer our customers bespoke colour choices, woodgrain foiling, and metallic finishes without long lead times is hugely advantageous.”

This is the second powder-coating accreditation the company has received in 2024. It was awarded Qualicoat ‘Seaside Class’ earlier in the year, indicating the very high standards that Sheerline paint to.

For more information visit https://bit.ly/4gHknNH

Heritage Trade Frames: “We take security seriously”

When it comes to home security, staying ahead of burglars is a relentless battle. That’s why Heritage Trade Frames says the company has teamed up with Brisant Secure, makers of the industry-leading Ultion locks, to make sure their customers’ doors are equipped with the “best protection on the market”.

Last year, the discovery of two new attack methods shook the industry, revealing previously unknown vulnerabilities in most door locks. In response, the British Standards Institution (BSi) introduced stricter PAS24 standards to keep homeowners protected.

Heritage Trade Frames have long known the value of security when selling doors, they were one of the first major fabricators to standardise 3-star security with Ultion back in 2016. For Paul Culshaw and the team, simply meeting the updated

requirements is not enough, they want to exceed them.

After conducting their own tests, the team at Heritage were highly impressed by the Ultion lock with ALPs technology. Not only was it said to be the first lock to meet the new standards, but Heritage believes it’s also the toughest they’ve ever seen.

“We take security seriously because we know our customers do too. This lock isn’t just ahead of the game, it’s the gold standard. It’s built to protect against everything burglars can throw at it, and then some.” said Paul Culshaw, managing director at Heritage Trade Frames

Brisant says locks with ALPs technology offer unmatched protection against every known attack method, including the newly identified thermal manipulation and twist techniques. This advanced

Alex Dutton, sales director at Brisant Secure and Lee Darcy, sales & marketing manager at Heritage Trade Frames

system ensures that the moment you remove your key, the lock activates its advanced security features, keeping homes secure even if the cylinder is tampered with.

Alex Dutton, sales director at Brisant Secure explains: “When we learned about these new attack methods, we knew we couldn’t wait for the standards to catch up, we needed to act. The Ultion ALPs is a product of that determination to stay ahead of burglars. Partnering with forward-thinking companies like Heritage Trade Frames shows that the industry can rise to meet these challenges head-on.”

The new PAS24:2022+A1:2024 standard became the benchmark for door security at the end of September, and Heritage Trade Frames says it is proud to say they’re leading the pack.

https://www.brisant-secure.com/

Distinction Doors celebrates 20 years

Established in 2004, Distinction Doors is celebrating 20 years in business. On 26th November team members came together to mark the occasion with a company-wide event at the head office in Barnsley, South Yorkshire.

Mobile caterers, cupcakes and balloons created a celebratory atmosphere, while an extra special Christmas party will close the year.

Employees have been gifted an extra day holiday to commemorate the anniversary and received a special edition employee newsletter.

“20 years ago, Distinction Doors was the first to launch composite doors to the UK market,” comments Emily Bratby, head of

HR at Distinction Doors. “Today, we offer the widest range of composite door blanks, glazing cassettes and glass units in the UK. As market leaders we have sold over 4 million doors and 1 in 4 doors installed in the UK is a Distinction door.

“And while we celebrate our journey of unrivalled growth, equally important is recognition of our great Distinction Doors community, which is why this anniversary is not only dedicated to our numerous successes but also to our steadfast employees, fabricators, installer network, and passionate homeowners.”

Distinction Doors has reached some key milestones over the past 20 years, not least its

transition into a manufacturing facility offering prep, paint and glazing services in 2017. This additional service has developed over the years with many customers switching over or utilising the fully prepped service.

Meanwhile, the introduction of a bespoke glass range, designed inhouse, elevated the door supplier to a one-stop-shop with unique glass styles.

£4.5 million investment in machinery in 2021 transformed Distinction’s capacity and capability. This helped drive the company’s evolution into a premium brand, which was demonstrated and communicated with a superior rebrand in 2022.

Numerous product launches are said to be planned throughout the anniversary year, kicking off with the new Grandeur Collection – an improved range of 70mm door styles, which is available now.

“Looking to the future, we are excited to see how we build on our success and strive for excellence in every department, but more importantly, how this translates into growth and sales for our fabricators and their customers, for whom, we are extremely grateful. From all at Distinction Doors, thank you for your enduring loyalty and support,” concludes Emily.

www.distinctiondoors.co.uk

Universal Trade Frames unveils new logo

Universal Trade Frames says it is embracing a new chapter with a refreshed logo, part of a brand evolution that reflects the company’s commitment to innovation.

The new look aims to bring a fresh feel across all channels and set the stage for the launch of an updated website.

Since its founding in 1996, Universal Trade Frames has been a trusted name in the UK trade market, providing high-quality windows, doors, and conservatories to installers nationwide.

Universal Trade Frames has invested significantly in its offer to become the go-to trade supplier for The Residence Collection, Optima Flush from Epwin, and Spectus Vertical Sliding Sash Windows.

Richard Hammond, sales director at Universal Trade

Frames, said: “We want to be sure that our brand feels current and relatable, not just through our products but in the way we present ourselves.

“Our new logo marks a fresh direction, something that aligns with today’s aesthetics but still feels true to who we are.”

The new logo is the first in a series of updates, with a redesigned website set to launch soon.

Universal Trade Frames says the website will be more userfriendly, offering updated resources, straightforward navigation, and tools that will make the ordering process easier for installers.

The company aims to create a more convenient and supportive digital experience that keeps pace with the needs of today’s trade market.

“Our rebranding isn’t just about changing the logo or colours; it’s about connecting more closely with our customers,” says Richard.

“We’re putting effort into every detail, from the new look to how the website functions, so that our customers have a great experience from the moment they interact with us. We want our brand to reflect that we’re right there with them, ready to support them every step of the way.”

www.utfl.co.uk

Richard Hammond, sales director at Universal Trade Frames

Sheerline urges industry to make compliance achievable for Installers

Sheerline has renewed its call for the fenestration industry’s aluminium sector to embrace transparency around U-values. With the Future Homes Standard (FHS) due to be implemented in June 2025, the company argues now is the time for installers to check if they are compliant.

The issue of compliance has become a hot topic within the fenestration industry against the backdrop of the FHS roadmap, which was set out in 2023. The final specifications are due to be released in June 2025, yet some systems houses are still quoting misleading or unclear U-values or failing to make available the test evidence that backs up their claims, according to the company.

Installers are responsible for ensuring the final product they supply is compliant. If U-values are properly policed within the industry – as Sheerline has called for – installers must act to ensure they are compliant. Although fabricators and systems houses will also be culpable when issues, and potential litigation, arise.

The issue of compliance is particularly important for those installers who source glass separately to their frames, as they must ensure the units they’re using meet the specifications set out by the systems house in-line with the U-value simulation used.

This will ensure that any certificate they reference is valid and accurate. This is why Sheerline has

made its independently verified U-value reports publicly available and has urged other systems houses to do the same.

It’s time the industry embraced transparency around U-values, to make compliance as simple as possible and therefore, achievable for installers.

Adrian Redshaw, Sheerline’s product design director, said: “Compliance doesn’t have to be complicated. In the past, it may have been an option to plead ignorance if the requirements seemed unclear. But with the Future Homes Standard, we expect the requirements will tighten.”

“Which begs the question: why would an installer risk working with a fabricator or systems house that can’t prove the U-values they are claiming? There is no better time for installers to question if the products they supply are compliant, because this issue has the potential to cause real disruption,” he added.

www.sheerline.com/trust

REHAU Rio uPVC Foil on Foil

Fully Mechanically Jointed Flush Sash Windows & Doors

10 woodgrain colour on colour and colour on white woodgrain available from stock.

Delivered nationwide to site in just 3 weeks.

Three Week Lead Times 10 Foil/Foil Colour Ways Mechanically Jointed Trade Suppliers Nationwide Site Delivery

Euroglaze and Rehau

celebrate major business milestones

Barnsley-based fabricator Euroglaze Limited is celebrating its 45-year anniversary this year, with the milestone also coinciding with 40 years as a Rehau partner.

Founded by Alan Nettleton in 1979,

the business started fabricating Rehau profiles at its original Dewsbury site as far back as 1984, making Euroglaze Rehau’s longeststanding UK partner.

A move to Carlton, Barnsley, would

follow in 1992, where the fabricator has stayed ever since, undertaking a major expansion to the factory in 2021.

Euroglaze has remained under family ownership throughout its history, with Alan’s son Martin taking the reins in 1999, and celebrating his 25th anniversary as the head of the company this year.

Commenting on these achievements, Martin said: “It’s a pleasure to mark two major business milestones in 2024, alongside a rather significant personal milestone to boot. That we are still fabricating Rehau frames all these years on is testament to both the quality of their products, and our trust in them as a supplier. Rehau has played no small part in our success, and I look forward to seeing where the relationship will take us next.”

Corroborating Euroglaze’s trust in Rehau as a supplier, the fabricator has always been among the first to take on new Rehau products,

including the recently launched Slinova sliding door this year.

Martin went on to give his account of the onboarding process: “Once we’d ordered in the necessary tooling, making the change over to Slinova was simple. Paul Bateman, Rehau’s technical support engineer for our area, came over to our site to make sure all of our staff were up-to-speed with the fabrication process, and stayed in regular contact afterwards for any queries we might have.

“The seamless nature of this transition has allowed us to fabricate more than 400 Slinovas already. The level of technical support available from Rehau means that we’re able to put complete faith in them as a supplier, and their approved installer scheme helps tee up business for us while allowing us to focus on fabrication.”

As Euroglaze approaches its fifth decade in the fenestration agency, the business is gearing up for further growth after appointing Glen Park and Emma Mitchell to the board as operations director and finance director respectively.

This people-focused approach has been fundamental to the business’ success to date, with the percentage of products rejected internally or externally currently sitting at just 0.3%.

Hannah Smith, area sales manager for the East Midlands & Yorkshire at Rehau, said: “Euroglaze is a shining example of what it means to be a Rehau partner. Stocking our entire product range and always first to adopt our latest system, our relationship thrives on mutual trust and has only grown stronger over time. We will continue to support them in every way we can as they target further growth in year 46 and beyond.”

Euroglaze, https://bit.ly/4jkW9KN

Slinova, https://bit.ly/42lh2iR

Glideline says thermal efficiency is at the top of the homeowner wish list in 2025

Glideline has reported an increased number of enquiries for superior thermal efficiency, with the nationwide aluminium manufacturer’s customers relying on its slimline system for the increased thermal performance and insulation that the company says homeowners are looking for.

According to Glideline, with the Future Homes Standard inching closer and Building Regulations being a hot topic, homeowners are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of highquality aluminium glazing. And Glideline says the company’s slimline aluminium systems are proving to be the perfect combination of innovative design and ultra-low U-values.

“Superior thermal efficiency is definitely at the top of the checklist among our enquiries at the moment. Plus, with quite a cold start to winter, it’s no surprise that homeowners are prioritising staying warm,

without having to face sky-high heating bills,” says Glideline’s managing director, David Pickering.

“While enhanced performance is in high demand, good looking windows and doors are equally as important to homeowners. Slim sightlines and a sleek design aren’t going out of style any time soon, and our range of aluminium glazing solutions deliver on it all – whether it’s our Frameless Windows, Bifold or Sliding Doors, Rooflights, Casement Windows, or soon-to-be launched 15mm Sliding Door,” David explains.

“The proof is in our performance too,” David adds. “If you take one of our high-performing double glazed units for example, when combined with our slimline aluminium frames, it delivers a U-value of 1.3 W/m²K – helping us meet and exceed regulations, while going above and beyond functionality and style.”

www.glideline.com

New Eurocell Watford branch increases UK network for trade professionals

Home improvement specialists Eurocell is opening a brand new branch and trade counter in Watford.

The latest branch to be added to Eurocell’s network of over 210 branches, will provide local tradespeople in the Hertfordshire region with improved access to an extensive range of products.

Situated in a prominent trade hub, just outside Watford city centre, at Unit 2, Hathaway Estate, Imperial Way, WD24 4AZ, the branch is easily accessible via the A4008 from

the M1. This prime location ensures convenience for trade businesses and suppliers across the area.

The new branch was set to open on Monday December 2 and will be open from 7:00am to 4:30pm on weekdays and 8am to 12pm on Saturdays. Tradespeople can benefit from the click and collect and delivery options available, helping them stay on track with projects and fit them into their busy schedules.

Speaking on the new opening, the branch manager, Nicholas

Richards commented: “We are excited to showcase the extensive selection of quality and reliable products Eurocell offers in this amazing new space. The Watford branch is the latest in our network, providing the local trade community with convenient access to a comprehensive range of home improvement products. With a knowledgeable team on hand too, Eurocell is ready to help customers complete their projects to the highest standard.”

Eurocell aims to continue their network expansion into 2025 with eight new branches and plans to upscale or relocate up to ten existing stores, continuing its commitment to supporting local trade communities with high-quality home improvement products and expert advice.

Trade professionals are encouraged to open a Eurocell Trade Account, providing access to credit and fixed pricing across all branches, ensuring consistency and convenience nationwide.

The Business Pilot Barometer offers a monthly analysis of the key trends defining window and door retail. It draws on real industry data collated by Business Pilot, the cloud-based business management tool.To find out more see www.businesspilot.co.uk/barometer

The Business Pilot Barometer

Seasonal downturn but a tough year whichever way

you

look at it

By Neil Cooper-Smith, Senior Analyst, Business Pilot

Month-on-month figures for December follow an established seasonal pattern. You don’t need us to

tell you that sales fell away in November with a 42% drop, to an average of 29 in December compared to 50, the previous month.

Leads dropped by the same percentage, from an average of 99 in November to 57 in the same period, again reflecting established patterns in seasonality.

Despite declining leads and sales, the average conversion rate slightly improved from 43.5% in November to 44.0% in December, a 0.5% increase.

Year-on-year trends are, however, more insightful, although again possibly only confirm what most of the industry has felt, that if not quite an annus horribilis, 2024 was largely a year to forget.

This shows that December was consistent with the previous 11-months, recording a year-on-year drop in sales of around 20%.

More concerning is the year-on-year drop in leads in December 2024 on 2023 – down 42%. While things have the potential to change in January, we expect this to lead to a corresponding year-on-year decline in sales next month.

More positively, we saw month-on-month growth in average order values from £3615.21 in November to £4245.45 in December – a 17.43% rise. This was also reflected in a year-on-year analysis, suggesting a seasonal shift to complete home replacements and continuing growth in the premium market.

So, if we gaze into our crystal ball, what do we think is on the horizon for the year head?

Well, after a slow start we expect things to pick up. The UK economy is predicted to see growth in 2025.

Inflation may still be above the Bank of England’s 2% target but if it keeps rates too high for too long, it risks tipping the economy into recession. This means economists are predicting that the interest rates will drop at least four times this year from the current 4.75%.

Analysts also predict that a mortgage price war at the beginning of this year, combined with a rush to beat the end of the stamp duty holiday, could reignite the housing market.

A rush to buy property in the first quarter of 2025, should make for a better Q2 – as long as you and your suppliers get there.

The fly in the ointment is the increase in the National Minimum Wage and National insurance, which jumps from 13.8% to 15% from April – something which could cost business as much as £2,000 for

each employee.

Given tougher but improving trading conditions in January, February and March, further casualties in manufacturing and installation are likely – before things get better.

Streamlining operations and increasing visibility of your costs against this context makes sense. Business Pilot does this by giving you complete visibility across your operations while making running your business smoother and delivering a better service to your customers.

This also reduces reliance on labour, allowing you to adjust your head count over time and increase your profitability.

About Business Pilot

Business Pilot is a powerful CRM, which mobilises the power of cloud-based technologies, to give installers complete visibility of each and every element of their operation from leads and conversions to job scheduling, cost of installation, service calls, and financial reporting.

Accessible across all devices, from desktop to phone, it supports installers in running their businesses more profitably.

Freefoam ‘perfect partner’ for

Principality Plastics Warehouse

Freefoam Building Products Ltd has been described as key to the growth of new customer Principality Plastics Warehouse Ltd, supporting the specialist stockist with leads and new business opportunities.

Principality Plastics Warehouse is a multi-discipline distributor of plastics and building products, selling to trade and DIY customers in the South West and Wales. It has branches in Cardiff, Gelli, Swansea, and Gloucester.

Founded in 1992, the company was acquired in 2023 by a team including Matthew Epps (now MD), who saw an opportunity for growth – and saw Freefoam as the perfect partner.

“Freefoam are different to most suppliers in this industry, they’re a manufacturer only,” explains Matthew. “Most of their competition are manufacturers but they also have trade counters. Freefoam are just focused on the distributors, the independents, which is the perfect fit for us.”

Matthew continues: “Freefoam are key to our growth plans, and that’s from the day we sat down with their team in July 2024. We carefully thought out how we can work together and grow the business.

“We stock the full range of Freefoam products: soffit, fascia, window trims, interior panelling, and cladding. But one of the key

products in this partnership is the Fortex range of cladding. It’s a new market for us and we see massive growth in that area with existing customers - but it can also bring a lot of new customers to our business.

“Freefoam gave us lots of support as a new customer. They assisted with lots of product promotions and launches in the early days, we’ve had specials on Fortex cladding, and joint social media campaigns. We had members of their staff in the branch for the initial launch. They’re always available, always communicating. We’re really happy with the partnership. They’re the perfect partner for our business.”

Steve Shaw, Freefoam area sales manager – South Wales & South West, comments: “We’re proud to work with independent stockists like Principality and we aim to help them win new business in every way we can: when they grow, we grow.”

https://bit.ly/40qkDty

https://freefoam.com/professional

The power of online support

Hurst’s head of marketing Hayley Barker explains how online tools can help their customers grow with confidence.

We have a mantra at Hurst, which is that we must keep things simple so that our customers can concentrate on what’s important to them – the smooth running of their business.

This was key when we launched our Hurst Live online service for customers, which was initially developed to provide them with a composite door ordering tool.

This means that while today Hurst Live is a comprehensive featurerich tool, it is not overblown and complicated.

Hurst Live is essential because it provides 24/7 account access, real-time updates, and instant quoting and ordering, allowing customers to manage their orders independently and efficiently. It saves customers time by giving

them full control over tracking their orders, while still benefiting from the comprehensive support we offer through our customer facing team.

On message

But two things really make Hurst Live stand out. The first is that

Hurst’s head of marketing, Hayley Barker

we haven’t shoe-horned in lots of unnecessary features that overcomplicate the user experience. It was designed for a specific purpose, and we haven’t strayed from the brief.

The second is that Hurst Live is a complementary tool, it sits alongside our face-to-face, phone and email support by offering a self-service solution that’s convenient and user-friendly. It also sits comfortably alongside a comprehensive marketing support package that integrates print, video, and digital tools.

One element of this marketing package is a new augmented reality sales tool, which allows homeowners to superimpose a selection of Hurst’s most popular composite door styles against their property using their mobile phone or tablet.

Opened in their browser, homeowners can choose from the 12 popular composite door styles, which are featured in lifestyle images throughout the You’re Home With Hurst brochure, viewing them as a fully rotatable and zoomable 360 3D rendered image which they can then superimpose against their property on the screen of their device.

Door performance is also explained in simple and easy-tounderstand terms, with additional explanation of performance delivered in short professionally created videos, accessed via a QR code. These demonstrate the features and benefits of choosing a new Hurst composite door before the homeowner uses the AR tool to see how different door styles look on their home.

Full transparency

On the practical side, one of our customers’ favourite features of Hurst Live is the order tracking. Our customers can place an order, and then have full transparency and visibility of where that order is in the manufacturing process, right through to delivery.

And they can see that information in real-time, reducing the need for a follow up call to check on their orders. This enables them to plan their days accordingly and

provides peace of mind.

As soon as a product has been delivered, it will appear in their order history, where they’re able to see all related paperwork including proof of delivery and invoice. And if something isn’t quite right, they can easily report it through the system with a click of a button and the query will be picked up by our customer care team.

We are in the process of developing new features. I can’t give too much away, but they will be concerned with enhancing existing tools and the customer experience.

We are also looking at new technologies and how we can potentially integrate those into Hurst Live to provide a more personalised journey for our customers.

At its heart, Hurst Live is a time-saving tool, however our customers still know that they have the full support of our customer care team. Having this proactive relationship allows us to grow, innovate and develop new products.

Hurst Live is central to our business, but it’s also central to our customers’ businesses as well, helping them to manage everything online and grow with confidence. hurstdoors.co.uk

Black is the new grey says, CDW Systems

Jeremy Phillips, managing director of aluminium fabricator CDW Systems, discusses why black finishes are set to overtake grey as the most popular colour choice for aluminium windows and doors.

After nearly a decade of grey’s dominance in the aluminium fenestration sector, particularly anthracite grey, we’re witnessing a significant shift in colour preferences that I believe will reshape our industry in 2025.

As someone who has been at the forefront of aluminium fabrication for over 30 years, I’ve seen numerous trends come and go, but this emerging preference

for black finishes represents more than just a passing fad – it’s a fundamental shift in architectural aesthetics.

At CDW Systems, we’ve noticed a steady increase in specifications for black finishes across our product range, especially in heritagestyle windows and doors and Smart’s AluSpace internal screening system, which a

simplified version of Smart’s Heritage range and is a good example of how black finishes can provide that traditional steel look, industrial aesthetic that is hugely popular now for old industrial buildings that are being converted into apartments.

This trend, which is gaining huge momentum, isn’t limited to just traditional properties either; contemporary buildings are increasingly incorporating black aluminium windows and doors to create striking architectural statements.

And it’s not just heritage either, but also other styles too. A recent project we completed perfectly illustrated this shift. Working alongside Clearway Doors & Windows, we supplied AluK’s Part L Compliant 58BW/BD (HI) Window and Door System in a sophisticated black finish. The transformation was remarkable, with the black frames adding a bold, contemporary edge while respecting the property’s character.

The appeal of black lies in its versatility and timeless elegance. While grey has served the industry well, black offers superior contrast against both traditional brickwork and modern rendering, creating more defined sight lines and enhanced kerb appeal.

With black set to become the dominant colour choice in both residential and commercial projects it’s time for the industry to prepare for this anticipated shift to accommodate the increased demand for black finishes, and for installers to deliver the cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of the end-user.

The future is looking black – and that’s a positive thing for our industry.

www.cdwsystems.co.uk

• FENESTRATION

• LOCAL BUILDERS

• ARCHITECTS & SPECIFIERS

• MAIN CONTACTORS/ HOUSE-BUILDERS

• BUILDERS MERCHANTS

Are we looking through operational ‘carbon binoculars’?

We need to focus more on the embodied carbon in construction industry, not just the operational emissions. This was one of the conclusions of a recent roundtable discussion held in the commercial district in Birmingham and hosted by Glass Express Midlands.

According to Gurprit Bassi, director at Wintech Façade Engineering, and Aneel Kilaire, associate façade consultant at Ramboll UK, the construction industry lacks national guidance on reducing embodied carbon at the planning stage, which arguably outweighs the impact of the operational carbon emissions during the lifetime of a building.

Using the term ‘Carbon Binoculars’ to describe someone who doesn’t see the bigger picture, Aneel

argued that the current Fabric Energy Efficiency Standard (one of the metrics used to measure building performance in the Future Homes Standard) penalises apartments and shifts attention away from other challenges.

“Apartments and detached homes are viewed like-for-like when it comes to meeting U-values,” he said. “And I don’t think it is fair that apartments to have to hit the same targets when their actual energy usage as a total apartment is much less than a detached house.

“We’ve got to focus on other challenges, such as affordability of housing and the construction rate of new housing, together with daylight and health and wellbeing.”

Gurprit said that while it was

important to address the efficiency of the existing building stock in the UK, we must address embodied carbon in construction in a more coherent manner.

“I think embodied carbon dominates – or is close to dominating – the lifecycle of a new building,” he said. “But we don’t have national legislation on measuring or limiting embodied carbon.

“There are regional policies in the UK – the London GLA plan has embodied carbon limits for planning stage, as do a few other local authorities – but I think we need a national policy.”

Aneel thought this approach could have significant downsides.

“The sceptical part of me says ‘this is just more regulations, and more things for people to do’, and may not make a difference if only newbuilds are affected,” he said. “It could become another bit of red tape that you have to comply with which makes building more difficult.”

Aneel also said that it was important that any new legislation would require a greater focus on coherence so that different policies work harmoniously with each other.

“If you say ‘reduce your embodied carbon, that may mean ‘don’t use many materials’,” he said. “But to reduce operational carbon may need more materials – insulation, thermal breaks etc.”

Taking this on board, Gurprit argued that many suppliers are already providing the products with low-embodied carbon.

“They’re anticipating that embodied carbon is going to be a bigger component of what clients and architects are going to specify,” he said. “In some areas, because of the GLA and local authority guidance, they’re providing low carbon aluminium

Arun Photay, managing director, Glass Express Midlands

and glass, often at little to no extra cost. So, it can be done.

“And not only does this lower embodied carbon, but it creates a more circular economy.”

Aneel agreed, saying that the UK and European construction industries are at a distinct advantage.

“We have lower carbon electricity and we have a solid recycling network,” he said. “We need to tread carefully, though, because we don’t want to stifle the market. We need to get house building going again.”

This was just one of several conversations between Gurprit and Aneel, who were also joined by Liz Williams, housing delivery expert at Land Specialist UK, and Arun Photay, managing director of Glass Express Midlands.

These discussions, held against the backdrop of a thriving Birmingham skyline, were hosted by Glass Express Midlands to explore some of the issues raised in a recent high profile roundtable event hosted by the glass unit manufacturer near Whitehall in London.

“The manufacture and supply of glass products into the commercial sector doesn’t happen in isolation,” managing director of Glass Express Midlands Arun Photay said. “It is vital that we create and promote forums like these to raise awareness of key issues so that we can help raise the level of professionalism in the construction industry.

“Thank you to all our guests who gave up their time to share their views and experience.”

Follow Glass Express Midlands on LinkedIn to view the videos which will be released over the coming weeks.

SILKAselect Trade Partners say U-values and triple glazing are customers’ top priority in 2025

Aluminium Windows and Doors from us, it has been all about the U-value and triple glazing options,” he explains.

“I think U-values and triple glazing are moving from a ‘box ticking’ exercise, to something customers are striving for themselves, and this will only strengthen the more we talk about the importance of thermal efficiency, and the more energy prices increase.”

SILKAselect Trade Partners have highlighted the rise in customer demand for triple glazing and understanding of U-values. With energy efficiency being top of the homeowner wish list in 2024, 2025 looks to be the year where consumer understanding widens even further, says the company.

According to Giles Clements of The Window Centre, a SILKAselect Trade Partner, customers not only increasingly value energy performance, but are now seeing which components go into creating a futureproof home. “For the customers that have bought SILKA

Andy Jones, SILKA’s sales and marketing director for England and Wales agrees we will see a much savvier customer in 2025. “Don’t be fooled into thinking ‘U-value’ is just an industry term,” he says. “Homeowners may not know how the figure is calculated, but they largely understand that a lower U-value means a warmer home, lower energy bills, and a smaller carbon footprint.

“We knew we were ahead of the curve when we created SILKA Aluminium Windows, Doors and Rooflights, and went several steps further with the unstoppable duo of triple glazing and Thermafill to deliver U-values as low as 0.9 W/m²K.

Our SILKAselect Trade Partners are telling us that these are some of the first things their customers are now asking for in the showroom. That represents a huge shift change, and is very, very exciting.”

www.silkawindows.com

Giles Clements at The Window Centre showroom

Are you thinking of the future?

Cornwall Group’s Chairman, Mark Mitchell, explains why ‘profit’ is not a dirty word.

The Cornwall Group is a family run independent business, which means that we aren’t run by accountants with the often aim of maximising profit over a short period.

Instead, we plough profits back into the four multi-site businesses that make up the group –Cornwall Glass Manufacturing, Cornwall Glass & Glazing, Mackenzies and Forward Glass –

investing in colleagues, machinery, and transport.

This is why the budget in October sits uneasily with me, and it will unfortunately have a negative impact on the economic recovery that we are all planning for in 2025 if other businesses continue to see their bottom line shrinking.

Mark Mitchell

I understand that raising tax is important, especially if that money will be invested back into major projects that we can all benefit from. But businesses cannot simply turn on a sixpence when demand picks up again. Taxing employment rather than profit could reduce businesses’ ability to invest in their operations to meet an uptick in demand.

In fact, after 18 months of little or no growth, many companies would have cut back their operations, including staff, and may have delayed capital expenditure decisions until the market improves. And if those businesses are managed by an investment firm, then a healthy dividend will also be expected – putting further pressures on profits.

Increasing employers’ NICs has the double whammy of reducing the available profit that can be used for future investment, while dissuading firms from employing skilled workers (exacerbated by the 6.7%increase in the National Living Wage), at a time when employing and training new entrants is vital for the health of the glass industry.

If this budget were to have been announced in 18 months’ time – or phased in – then maybe it wouldn’t have hit such a nerve, but while we expect market conditions to pick up in 2025, it is far from guaranteed.

We believe the Cornwall Group of companies are well-positioned to supply leading products at volume as trading conditions improve because we’ve continued to invest while the market has been quiet. We don’t invest for today, we invest for tomorrow.

This is why we have three toughening furnaces from Glaston on order, with the first due to be installed at Forward Glass in the spring 2025. This represents an investment of around £3m.

We also continue to invest in our colleagues by developing bespoke courses to train the next generation of glass professionals, and our apprenticeship programme is active across all our sites from Cornwall to Birmingham.

Mark Mitchell

Magic ingredient

The bedrock of a sustainable business is stability. That includes your business partners, your board of directors, and external factors. It recently occurred to me that in my 37 years in this industry, I’ve witnessed 10 prime ministers. I agree that change is healthy, but stability is at risk if the decision makers at the top change with such frequency.

Looking ahead to 2025, the overall expectation throughout the supply chain is that activity in the first half will be suppressed, which could have serious negative repercussions.

Maintaining healthy profits is going to be difficult for everyone. I’ve already discussed the pressures of the Budget, but the industry is awash with cheap foreign glass at the moment, which is limiting glass manufacturers’ ability to build in margin. In fact, I understand that in many cases they are selling products at a loss.

If they aren’t making money, will they continue to manufacture glass on these shores? And if operations are closed, how will this affect market supply.

I believe there is about a third more glass in the UK than we need. That isn’t a great position to be in because glass production isn’t something you can simply pause until conditions improve.

In a nutshell, there are three float lines in the UK, yet we currently have a capacity requirement for two. In Germany, two float lines are about to close – having come to the end of their serviceable life –and won’t be replaced or refurbished.

If a float line were to close in the UK, there is currently enough glass in the system to cope with an increase in demand in 2025, and Cornwall Group is well-positioned to increase glass product supply as and when that happens.

But looking further ahead, it could weaken us as an industry.

We shouldn’t be embarrassed by healthy profits, but we should aim to create them based on the quality of our own product or service offering, not by screwing down our suppliers. Because if they can’t invest in their own operations, that relationship will be short-lived.

Suppliers who invest for tomorrow will ultimately provide the bedrock for your business’s success.

SLEEK STRENGTH THAT LASTS: ADD COASTAL STEEL TO YOUR DOORS

Discover the perfect mix of modern design and durability

Coastal’s stainless steel pull handles are crafted for superior performance in high-traffic environments.

y Made from 316 marine grade stainless steel for longlasting peace of mind

y Available in various lengths, styles and finishes

y Lifetime guarantee

The ideal solution for contemporary doors.

Your customers demand quality –provide it with Coastal

www.cornwallglass.co.uk

Aluprof

Excel in Passivhaus Projects

By Wojciech Brożyna – MD Aluprof UK

Passivhaus design is a set of standards and design principles to achieve exceptional energy efficiency, significantly reducing heating and cooling demands in buildings. By employing rigorous insulation standards, airtight construction and high-performance windows, Passivhaus buildings minimise energy loss and maintain stable indoor temperatures. The use of heat recovery ventilation systems ensures that fresh air is continuously supplied, whilst retaining warmth in winter and coolness in summer. This leads to dramatically lower energy bills

and a reduced carbon footprint. Additionally, the controlled indoor environment enhances occupant comfort, eliminating drafts, temperature fluctuations, and cold bridging.

Specifying Passivhaus windows, doors and facades from Aluprof contributes to sustainability by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting the transition to net-zero carbon emissions. The methodology prioritises efficient use of materials, often incorporating sustainable and recycled options. Beyond environmental benefits,

Passivhaus buildings promote superior indoor air quality through continuous ventilation and effective pollutant filtration. This is particularly beneficial for occupants with respiratory issues or allergies. The focus on thermal comfort and noise reduction further enhances the well-being of occupants, making Passivhaus a holistic approach to healthy and sustainable living spaces.

Aluprof was the first systems company in the UK to design and supply Passivhaus certified aluminium framed glazing systems and currently has the widest range of Passivhaus Trust certified aluminium windows, doors and curtain wall systems. Utilising low-carbon aluminium helps reduce embodied carbon emissions during the production phase, while the thermally efficient products further lower operational carbon emissions throughout the building’s life by reducing energy demand. Sustainability is further

Voreda House – Penrith

enhanced as quality methods of construction with high quality finishes, well specified and designed products supplied by Aluprof, can offer many decades of extended service life.

Some of the projects supplied by Aluprof in recent years include the following high profile buildings:

The RAD Building (GERA Building) is a 2,500 sqm Passivhaus certified research facility for the University of Nottingham, providing laboratory, office and support accommodation for the UK Government Energy Research Acceleration Initiative, known as the ‘RAD’ Building (Research Acceleration & Demonstration) on the Jubilee campus. The building achieves a BREEAM Excellent rating and includes extensive Passivhaus measures to reduce energy requirements. Aluprof’s high performance TT50 curtain wall & MB104 window and door systems have been used throughout the building offering very high levels of insulation. On completion the building has been extensively tested and has gained the coveted Passivhaus certification.

Purdown View at University of Western England (UWE) Bristol, is a remarkable milestone in sustainable living, featuring more than 900 bedrooms distributed across three striking six-story buildings. With a total floor area of 21,000 sqm, Purdown View is distinguished as the largest certified Passivhaus development in the United Kingdom to date. It was designed by Stride Treglown and uses Aluprof’s high performance TT50 curtain wall & MB104 window and door systems, the project was fabricated and installed by DenvalCo.

The Greenhaus project stands as the largest Passivhaus affordable housing initiative in the North West. The development was completed for the English Cities Fund (ECF), a collaborative effort involving Muse, Legal & General, and Homes England, in partnership with Salix Homes, a Housing Association in Salford, and with the support of Salford City Council. Greenhaus features 96 highly sustainable and affordable residences within a nine-storey structure located on Chapel Street in Salford. The project, designed by Buttress architects and constructed by Eric Wright Construction, has received official certification from the Passivhaus-Institut,

the organisation dedicated to promoting and certifying this internationally recognised building standard.

Voreda House in Penrith has undergone a significant transformation from its previous role as an NHS office to become the council’s energy-efficient northern anchor building. This facility is notable for being the first retrofit office in the UK to achieve the Passivhaus EnerPHit standard, with projected energy savings of 85%. This initiative aligns with the council’s dedication to minimising its carbon footprint and taking a leading role in the pursuit of carbon neutrality.

The British Antarctic Survey (BAS) undertakes groundbreaking research and maintains a Research Station located 67º south on Adelaide Island which was established in 1975. Known as Rothera, the busy station is used as a hub for other countries working in the area, offering a landing strip and wharf. The site has continued to develop over the years and in 2018 work began on the new Discovery Building, named to commemorate the discovery of Antarctica 200 years ago by the British naval officer Edward Bransfield in 1820. High thermal performance windows specified on the project have been provided by Aluprof. The MB-86 ST window and door system has been designed to offer outstanding insulation properties. Offered in three varieties, ST, SI and AERO the MB-86 was the first ever aluminium system to employ silica aerogel, a nano-porous material that has a very high proportion of free void volume compared to conventional solid materials. Aerogel’s high pore volume, low solid content, and its ‘torturous path amorphous structure’ offer very low values of thermal conductivity. aluprof.co.uk

Purdown View – Bristol

Are you on brand with your steel reinforcement?

Reinforcement is a critical part of a window’s construction. Yet, unlike most other component parts, the steel is typically unbranded, with fabricators unable to tell any meaningful difference between products supplied by different companies.

With this in mind, the decision to launch AngloGalv was an obvious one, says Anglo’s MD David Evans.

“We introduced AngloGalv to establish a benchmark for galvanized steel reinforcement for the window and door industry,” David says. “If customers are buying their reinforcement from Anglo with the AngloGalv shield mark on it, they can be assured

David Evans

it’s galvanized to the BS EN 10346 standard, in specified zinc coating thicknesses of Z140 and Z275.”

BS EN 10346 is the British and European standard that applies

to hot-dip zinc-coated steels used in cold roll-forming, and conformance ensures that products consistently meet and exceed quality assurance targets.

Assurance

David argues that the historic reputation of the steel roll-forming industry was tarnished by a handful of poor suppliers, and that not all steel reinforcement that entered the supply chain met the high standards expected.

“This has meant that all suppliers were tarred with the same brush and sometimes unfairly subjected to criticism,” David says. “Launching AngloGalv was one way that we can provide the quality assurances our customers need.”

The launch of AngloGalv also neatly coincided with Anglo’s ISO9001 accreditation, which recognises the commitment the window steel reinforcement supplier has made – and continues to make – to improving systems and services right across the business.

“Many of our customers themselves are operating under an ISO9001-approved quality management system,” David says. “And we found that many were asking us for assurance regarding the galv quality of the steel they were getting.

“For example, they asked for mill certificates or other technical evidence of the quality of the zinc coating on the product. And we gave them that because we source steel from UK suppliers, and we have full traceability right through the production cycle.

“But steel with the AngloGalv shield on it immediately assures them that it is carefully sourced and meets the relevant standards.”

Continued on page 60

Continued from page 58

Challenging

David also points out that AngloGalv fills a practical gap in customers’ internal procedures.

“At first appearances, when you look at the steel that Anglo produces, or any other competitor produces, it may look the same, and that can ultimately be challenging for customers when they’re trying to compare one product for the other,” David says.

“Because many want assurances around the underlying quality of the steel they were getting from us, but didn’t have the means in house to establish that, we are also loaning – for free – galv meters so they can test the products for themselves. Even if they buy from another supplier.”

Available to all UK fabricators, whether they are Anglo customers or not, the meters offer a quick and easy method to check the average zinc coating thickness on the steel reinforcement they buy and ultimately put into their customers’ finished doors and windows.

“The introduction of AngloGalv sets a benchmark for quality,” David says. “And we are proud to be a driving force for professionalism in the window and door industry.

“Ultimately, you wouldn’t make a window with unbranded profile or hardware, so why use unbranded steel reinforcement?” David concludes. “AngloGalv from Anglo provides the assurance you need that you are buying the best components, giving you and your customers the confidence that your windows are fully compliant.”

For more information, please email enquiries@angloeuropean. net or call 0161 231 2354.

12-months

to remember?

It’s a year since Cornwall Group’s acquisition of Forward Glass. We review the first year and ask if further acquisitions could be on the horizon?

“We have a bit of experience now. We’ve successfully purchased and integrated a number of different processing and merchanting businesses”, explains Mark Mitchell, chairman, the Cornwall Group.

He continues: “That’s not to say it’s necessarily always straight forward, and you invariably run into challenges. What was so attractive in this deal, was the cultural fit and that’s been very important in bringing us to where we are today.”

Cornwall Group acquired Birmingham-based Forward Glass in a transaction that

completed on December 1st 2023 in the Group’s most substantial deal to date.

This included 100% of the share capital of the toughened glass manufacturer and stock distributor, the Midlands’ largest independent glass business, plus its 100,000ft2 site.

With a turnover in excess of £10m a year and employing more than 100 people, it supplies single toughened, processed glass and stock to the trade.

“I wouldn’t be being truthful if I didn’t say it has been a challenging year”, Mark continues: “the market

as a whole has slipped in the wrong direction, which has made things tricky.

“With acquisitions, however, you have to be prepared to commit and take a long-term and I think we’ve done that.

“96% of the team are still with us 12-months on; the senior management team have stayed and a big part of the business has been successfully integrated into the Group.

“That cultural fit and the response

from colleagues to a period of significant change has given us the confidence now, 12-months down the line, to make some sizeable investments, which will support us in expanding Forward Glass’ offer and delivering an enhanced service to our customers.”

Delivered as part of a £3m plus investment programme, this includes the installation of new state-of-the-art Glaston Tempering Furnace.

One of three to be installed in different sites within the Group, it gives Cornwall Group around two per cent of the UK’s total toughening capacity.

“The installation of the new furnace gives us increased capacity, and most importantly increased quality, while lowering costs”, Mark says.

He continues: “Single toughening has been important to Forward Glass and remains important but we’re also working to expand its offer, including the stock business and to offer some processed products.

“It’s about maintaining market share and and trying to get a better split between merchanting and single toughened.

“It’s a risk to focus on one specific thing. If market conditions are great and you’re very good at it, you can generate a lot of business and control costs.

“If market conditions are more difficult, as they have been and are likely to be for a little while longer, then the flip side of that is that you can be exposed.

“Our approach is to reduce risk, by realigning our offer so that single toughened is around half of what we do, and to broaden our product and service offer to our customers.”

Cornwall Group has a proven track record of acquisitions.

Founded in 1978 and restructuring as the Cornwall Group in 2019, it operates across three divisions.

This includes, Cornwall Glass Manufacturing, which focuses on trade supply and Cornwall Glass & Glazing, which is focussed on installations, trade and retail supply.

A third division covers its glass merchanting business, Mackenzie Glass, which was acquired by Cornwall Glass in 2017 from Pilkington/NSG, and now, Forward Glass.

Collectively it operates across 12 sites, employing more than 300 people but with plans to expand its operational capability further, if according to Mark, the right opportunities come along.

“We have already seen consolidation in the last year and I’m sure there is more to come. The market remains overcapacity”, he says.

“We see a lot of our competitors are very acquisitive or racing on and pushing forward growing their groups very quickly.

“We have a different approach. I think sometimes you’ve just got to do it in an organic way not to over commit and to make sure that you’re investing properly in and growing the businesses that you already have – but to be ready if something comes up that’s the right fit.

“This has very much defined our approach with Forward Glass. We’re investing in our core offer, but also diversifying a little to build increased resilience into our business.

“At the same time, we can continue to track the market and remain open minded about future acquisitions.”

Mark Mitchell, chairman of Cornwall Group

Diversification is key

For the UK window and door industry, diversification is no longer a strategic luxury – it is a necessity, says Ian Cocken, aluplast’s director of sales and marketing.

With a fresh hike in inflation, subdued levels of consumer confidence, and increases in National Insurance on the horizon, 2025 – at face value – appears to be off to a challenging start, and it can be all too easy for us to fall into a ‘doom and gloom’ outlook for the year ahead.

But we must remember that growth has also been forecasted, with both the newbuild and RMI (Repair, Maintenance and Improvement) sectors expected to expand significantly this year.

improvement is the number one New Year’s commitment for Brits in 2025, making up 39% of resolutions – outshining common goals such as weight loss and career promotions.

But whilst opportunities for growth are predicted to grow this year, they are only valuable if you have the right quality, product offering to set yourself apart from the crowd and capitalise on the demand.

Embracing change

We believe that adapting to the changing dynamics of the market this year means embracing innovation and expanding beyond ‘traditional’ offerings. Spearheading this approach, is our partnership with RegaLead in creating their exciting new Engineered Door.

It is a product that combines aesthetic flexibility with unparalleled performance, and reflects a gap in the market for premium alternatives to traditional products, fuelled by the growing demand for visually stunning, highperformance doors.

Composite doors, for example, have long been the go-to choice for those seeking a blend of design and durability. However, the Engineered Door now offers fabricators – who already have expertise in manufacturing aluplast Ideal 4000 and Ideal 70 systems –a chance to compete in this space.

Featuring our cutting-edge aludec and woodec foils, the Engineered Door replicates the refined aesthetics of aluminium and timber, while leveraging the costeffectiveness and performance benefits of PVC-U

Changing perceptions

Glenigan has forecasted a “construction boom” throughout 2025-2026, with a 13% rise in newbuild housing starts in 2025 alone. And according to a recent survey by Redrow, home

Historically, PVC-U doors have been viewed as economical, but limited in their design scope.

Continued on page 64

Ian Cocken

Continued from page 62

However, the introduction of the Engineered Door, with our revolutionary foils, has turned this narrative on its head.

It achieves the sophisticated look of aluminium or timber, without the associated price tag, eliminating both aesthetic and budgetary concerns

It also goes a step further by incorporating design features like bolection mouldings –decorative enhancements that evoke the craftsmanship of authentic timber detailing. This innovation enables fabricators to offer a bespoke product that challenges the dominance of composite doors, while giving installers the opportunity to upsell premium doors with strong margins.

A door to the future

I like to think that our partnership with RegaLead exemplifies the importance of collaboration in innovation. It took us two years to perfect all of the details, but our joint efforts are ensuring that customers are in a position to deliver a product that meets –and exceeds – expectations.

But at the end of the day, diversification is not merely about expanding product lines; it’s about anticipating and shaping market trends. For fabricators and installers, the adoption of premium solutions like the Engineered Door marks a step toward future proofing their businesses, by differentiating themselves from their competitors, and meeting the demand for high-performance, high-quality products.

Diversification is not just a strategy; it is the key to resilience and success in 2025 and beyond. www.aluplast.co.uk

The skills shortage in our industry

By Nigel Headford – CAB Chief Executive

Not too many decades ago you became skilled in a profession such as joinery, plumbing or glazing, by becoming an apprentice with a company where a skilled person taught you how to become a skilled craftsperson over a period of a few years, known as your ‘apprenticeship’. After reaching the required standard you were

then offered a job in the same company and eventually became the teacher of new apprentices, so the cycle continued. Little changed then with the ‘foundation knowledge’ and ‘skill sets’. Undertaking an apprenticeship then would be seen as giving you a job for life.

How things have changed

today. Whilst the ‘foundation knowledge’ still underpins the skilled person, new ‘skill sets’ are needed by workers on a regular basis as legislation and technology advance at an ever-increasing rate. In some instances, old ‘skill sets’ need to be unlearnt in order to keep in line with new legislation and new technology, the old adage of ‘we have always done it this way’ is no longer valid.

Members of CAB, many of whom have their own training centres, offer ‘skill set’ courses to train fabricators, service engineers and installers in their products, have long stated that much of the ‘foundation knowledge’ is missing in the Industry, especially at the moment when experienced people are in very short supply.

At CAB we recognise that there is a shortage of skilled people in our Industry today. Not only does this shortage push up costs for attaining and maintaining staff, the reduced availability can have an effect on current skill levels. Adding to the reduced availability of staff is the increasing average age of skilled people and we are losing these to retirement at an alarming rate. Quite simply we need new young people to see our Industry as a career path and we need to attract suitable qualified people from other associated trades to join our Industry.

A few years ago CAB partnered with GQA Qualifications, a leading awarding body and CSCS provider, to develop a new route to a Curtain Walling Installers CSCS Card. It is recognised by main contractors that installers on site can show their credibility by continuing to undertake CPD and have up to date knowledge of the Industry and different curtain walling systems.

The overriding objectives in the development of the CAB Curtain Walling Installers CSCS Card has been to raise competency levels by developing standardisation of basic knowledge and best practice whilst ensuring a consistency of CSCS Card achievement which will ensure that site installers are qualified both in their field of expertise and knowledge of the particular system being installed. The scheme continues to be offered by CAB to installers and also promoted to attract new talent by presenting the fenestration sector in construction as a desirable career path.

CAB has recently attended Archway Secondary School careers fair to speak with the students and encourage them to consider a career in the fenestration industry. Mark Handley from ‘Building Our Skills’ attended alongside Jessica Dean, CAB membership and events director and Nigel Headford CAB CEO. Mark has been holding careers

fairs and attending various schools to speak about our Industry and the various careers available within it.

CAB’s aim is to create a ‘CAB Apprenticeship Toolbox’ to advise our members on how to approach their local schools, what is required when attending a careers fair and information on funding for apprenticeships. It is also Jessica Dean’s intention to contact CAB members and ask who in their organisation takes on apprentices, with the aim of building a list on the CAB website. Often when Mark attends careers fairs he picks up CV’s and if CAB had a list of members offering apprenticeships the Association could hopefully be the link between the two.

The CAB Academy offers free online webinars which are available to all members. The programme of seminars is available on the CAB website and covers a wide range of subjects in the fenestration supply chain. Non-members are also welcome to attend as a guest. All webinars are recorded and are available online for review and training purposes.

During the annual CAB Members forum, held in Spring, topical subjects are discussed during the afternoon mini-conferences. This event allows members and the wider construction supply chain to work together to improve the quality of supply which firmly revolves around acquired skill sets.

More information about CAB’s 2025 training webinars and events is available through the CAB website. Should you wish to learn more about the use of Aluminium used in Construction, please contact CAB, join the Association and be recognised as being involved in supporting your Industry and helping to shape its future. More information on our website at c-a-b.org.uk

Attending Archway Secondary School are left to right, Mark Handley, Jessica Dean and Nigel Headford.

Take the stress out of sales in 2025

As we enter 2025, Sternfenster’s sales director, Nathan Court, explains how installers can win more work in less time, using one simple tool.

We know how many plates our customers have to spin on a daily basis; they have to attend site to quote for new work, liaise with suppliers to order their products for upcoming projects, answer incoming enquiries – all whilst also trying to juggle their actual installations.

And despite the need for innovative, modern solutions that take the stress out of multitasking, our industry is still renowned for its traditional ways of working; it’s still commonplace to see installers struggling with bundles of brochures and a calculator under their arm, when they go to site to quote.

That’s why last month, we launched our brand new EasyAdmin+ system – a cloudbased business management

with a user-friendly interface. We also invested significantly in its development and teamed up with the University of Lincoln to facilitate its creation.

The fact that EasyAdmin+ is now completely online cannot be understated. It means that whether an installer is at a homeowner’s property discussing a potential job, in their van on their lunch, or on site installing, they can access all of the tools they require from their smartphone, as long as they have an internet or data connection.

We firmly believe that this will transform the sales process for our customers, making it quicker and easier to sell.

Our CGI Showroom, online brochures and instant quotations can now be accessed with just a couple of taps on EasyAdmin+, whilst sat with the homeowner themselves. So, there will be no more “I’ll send you some pictures when I get home” or “I’ll email you over a quote within 24-hours” – everything that an installer needs to secure the job is at their fingertips.

And once the job is won, our customers can then use EasyAdmin+ to easily convert their quote into an order which is automatically programmed into our manufacturing software, ready for production, without having to re-enter data or reconfirm details.

tool that allows installers to design professional quotes, track and manage leads, and have full control over the order and delivery process – all through just one online tool.

It took us two-years to develop: we wanted to make sure that what we offered our customers was fully comprehensive, whilst having a clear navigation path

This again enhances efficiencies, eliminating the need to phone or email orders over, instead allowing our customers to concentrate on securing and fulfilling more orders.

So as all of our thoughts turn to the New Year, and the challenges and successes it may bring, our message to customers is clear: let us do the hard work for you.

www.sternfenster.com

Nathan Court

Will AI destroy your brand and reputation?

CEO of Purplex Marketing, Andrew Scott discusses the potential dangers of relying solely on AI-generated content for brand marketing in 2025 and argues that, while it’s a powerful tool, AI must be used with caution.

Companies can spend years building a brand, only to have it destroyed with some bad decisions.

You probably saw the controversy

surrounding the rebrand of Jaguar Cars at the end of last year.

This iconic marque is synonymous with power, performance and luxury, with a cult following of

Andrew Scott

enthusiasts. But last November Santino Pietrosanti, Jaguar’s new head of brand, unveiled a re-brand that is set to alienate Jaguar’s core customer and fan base in the hope of attracting a younger, alternative audience – an audience that doesn’t resonate with the gas-guzzling performance cars driven by alpha personality types.

The result, I predict, will be disastrous, as Jaguar’s historic customers flee to other iconic brands and Pietrosanti’s new target audience simply choose vehicles they already connect with.

History is littered with similar tales of rebrands going wrong; who can

forget Royal Mail’s failed rebrand to ‘Consignia’ and back again within 18 months after customers defected on mass?

Your brand is much more than your logo or current ad campaign. In reality, your brand is better explained as how your customers perceive your products or business in their minds eye. How they feel towards you.

And that feeling is affected by the messages they receive about your brand, whether it’s on social media, in the press, online or the latest marketing literature.

Today, millions of companies are playing Russian roulette with their own brand, putting their very business at risk by turning to AI generated content.

AI is a powerful tool, but only in the right hands

With the arrival of Chat GPT and other AI generators, I’ve seen entire marketing departments across the world publishing AI generated content that is undermining their company’s brand and reputation. Suddenly, every novice with an AI tool can be a ‘brand expert’, while senior marketers now think they can do it all themselves.

But what happens when everyone is churning out a tsunami of AI generated content and every ‘prompt writer’ is telling Chat GTP to ‘write copy that will rank higher than our competitors?’

Overnight, strong brands have become vanilla, expert opinions have become diluted, everyone sounds the same and customers no longer know who to trust.

Of course, AI is a powerful tool that is only getting better. But it is a tool, not the tradesman. And the wrong tool in the wrong hands can be very damaging.

Old technology re-invented

AI isn’t new. It was first used in the 1950s when a computer scientist trained a model to play Chess and progressively learn.

I first became interested in AI in 2019 when I recruited a Computer Scientist in my marketing company, Purplex. Since then we have been busy building and testing AI and learning models to optimise the power of AI for marketing, content and lead generation.

While Chat GPT brought AI into the mainstream, it is still a blunt instrument and, sadly, those that use it often lack the wider skills to use the tool to its best effect.

At Purplex we built our own AI model, Orago, based on the Llama large language model.

Orago has been trained on our 20 years of specialist marketing knowledge in the construction and home improvement industry, with in-depth expertise that general AIs cannot replicate.

When we work with a client, our team build a dedicated AI model that we train on every aspect of the client, from brand values and culture to product knowledge, the history of the business and customers. The client AI gets better over time as it learns.

However, it requires real human skills to understand the nuances and bring together expert prompt writers, experienced content creators and human editors to create powerful, meaningful content that resonates with the brand and really moves the audience.

That’s why, despite our huge investment in AI and other technologies, Purplex is investing more in human marketing experience with ‘lived experience’ than ever before.

Next time your marketing team use AI to write your blog or website copy, email newsletter, social media posts or ad campaign, consider the fact that everyone else is doing the same thing, with the same tool.

Working with an AI enabled marketing agency such as Purplex, with the full arsenal of tools, marketing expertise and depth of knowledge will not only protect your brand and reputation, but position you as the stand-out market leader, head and shoulders above your competitors.

Andrew Scott is CEO of Purplex Marketing. He is a recognised marketing expert and thought leader who has advised over 1,000 business leaders on strategy and growth. For more information about Purplex Marketing visit: www.purplexmarketing.com/

The Key to Architectural Powder Coating Sustainability

By Chris Mansfield – Qualicoat Chair

Architectural Aluminium Powder

Coating is applied using the well known methodology of spraying electrostatically charged fine polyester based powders onto a product. Coated aluminium products are then heated to an optimum temperature to melt the powder which allows it to flow and chemically cross-link into a sustainable coating. As the product cools the coating sets and the finish is complete. The problem is, like most applied opaque coatings, the finish may look good, but the coating can hide a multitude of problems on the surface of the metal. If contaminants are present, or a pre-treatment process is lacking, a failure of the coating will become

evident over time.

Prior to powder coating architectural aluminium, it is crucial that the aluminium surface is subject to a ‘pre-treatment’ process which includes an etch stage to remove contaminants and then a passivation or conversion coating to ‘seal’ the surface of the aluminium which also provides a ‘key’ for the adherence of the coating. These very thin conversion coatings can be formed of a nonchromate or a very thin anodising process.

For an architectural powder coater a pre-treatment plant is a significant investment often costing as much, if not more than

the powder coating line itself. Few powder coating lines in the UK have this substantial facility and those that do will claim to powder coat to BS EN 12206-1 or become licensed to powder coat to the more substantial Qualicoat specification.

Often in an attempt to reduce costs through the supply chain, installers of architectural aluminium products will use powder coaters who often do not possess the correct pre-treatment lines. There is also the possibility that some coaters who do have the correct pre-treatment systems do not have suitable controls in place and the quality of the coatings can vary, even though they can claim to coat to BS EN 12206-1.

A Qualicoat licensed applicator, on the other hand, must use a pretreatment system that is Qualicoat approved and utilise powder systems that are also approved by Qualicoat , this ensures quality is maintained through the coating

process. Furthermore, Qualicoat licence holders are randomly inspected twice a year to ensure the Qualicoat specification is being met. Licensed coaters who fail these third-partyinspections, will lose their licence.

So, the best specification for any architectural powder coating project should simply be ‘coated by a Qualicoat licensed applicator’. Known across the globe, with a global supply chain and local licensed coaters, a Qualicoat specification can be supplied on any continent.

Powder coat failures fall into two broad categories, that of a complete failure of the coating where it simply peels off and failure called ‘filiform corrosion’. This is where oxidisation forms at the edge of a cut or punched hole in the aluminium and appears under the coating as spider like strands of corrosion. Often this failure is seen several years after installation and indicates poor pre-treatment

prior to powder coating.

Other problems with powder coating can include fading of colour, loss of gloss and ‘chalking’ of the surface finish. The first two are generally a normal ageing process and the powder coating should still adhere fully to the aluminium and continue to protect the aluminium. Chalking, is also part of the ageing process and appears as a milky surface or ‘chalk’ on the coated surface. This only forms when the finish is generally neglected and not cleaned down within an agreed cleaning regime. Often chalking can be removed by simply cleaning the finish several times over a period of time. Specifying a Qualicoat Class 2 powder, which uses more robust compounds in its composition, can significantly reduce these issues

Qualicoat powder applicators can advise of a suitable cleaning company and there is also a paper on the Qualicoat UK & Ireland website that explains how the powder coating can be safely cleaned.

For the best sustainability, ensure that the powder coater has the necessary pretreatment systems in place and that they can demonstrate that they can coat and test to BS EN 122061. Alternatively, just insist on a specification that powder coating must be applied by a Qualicoat licensed applicator. In the UK, the majority of main architectural powder coaters are qualified Qualicoat licence holders. If you are proposing to specify an architectural coater who powder coats to BS EN 12206-1, be vigilant to ensure that they posses a robust pre-treatment plant and that their processes are correctly monitored and maintained.

Should a coating specification require a longer life expectancy, possibly where future access for cleaning be difficult, then a Class 2 more robust powder can be

specified. Contact any Qualicoat licensed powder coat applicator or powder manufacturer to seek advice for any project location across the UK & Ireland.

Various country Members of the global specification, Qualicoat , have undertaken extensive work over the decades to further refine the products and processes to ensure finishes continue to offer enhanced sustainability. A worldwide working group of Members began to develop a specification for the alloys used in extrusion for fenestration, namely architectural aluminium alloy grades of 6060 and 6063. The resulting alloy specification, which now forms Appendix A13 of the Qualicoat Specifications 2023, requires these alloys to fall within the EN573-3:2019 Standard, which can be met using primary or secondary (recycled) aluminium. Compliance requires the following three tests to be carried out, Optical Emission Spectroscopy (OES), Anodic Cyclic Polarisation (ACP) and a metallographic study of the aluminium surface. This latest development has culminated in forming what is now known as the ‘Qualicoat 3.0’ specification.

Specifiers who wish to take advantage of Qualicoat 3.0 should in the first instance contact Qualicoat UK & Ireland for guidance on specification and help in choosing the correct supply chain. A Qualicoat 3.0 specification will require a coating Member to carry the ‘Seaside’ class pre-treatment license as this is a prerequisite coating procedure for Qualicoat 3.0.

The most important aspect to specification is the involvement of a specialist coater at the early design stages of any project. All Qualicoat UK & Ireland members are available to offer advice and can be found on the Association website at

qualicoatuki.org

Podcasts

You can watch the video or listen to the podcast here

You can watch the video or listen to the podcast here

Regalead & aluplast team up to create engineered doors.

You can watch the video or listen to the podcast here

Quickslides investment in training

You can watch the video or listen to the podcast here

Rehau appoints Luke

Boban as head of sales for windows in South England

Rehau UK has appointed Luke Boban as head of sales – Windows for the South England Region with a remit to further grow the business’s commercial projects division.

An experienced area sales manager with a demonstrated history of working with stakeholders on commercial projects, Luke has been in the fenestration industry since 2009. From his beginnings working as an operations manager for his father’s window installation business, Luke joined Rehau in January 2019 as area sales manager for the South East before his promotion to this new position.

His multifaceted skillset covers value engineering, cost management and quantity surveying, ensuring customers including architects, specifiers and surveyors receive suitable

and compliant window products. To that end, working alongside fabricators Central Windows, he was also integral to Rehau’s victory in the Commercial Project of the Year award in Glass and Glazing Products’ G22 Awards.

As part of his new role, Luke plans to use these skills and detailed knowledge of the South England windows market to grow Rehau’s commercial sales division and tender for more projects.

“I am very excited to have been appointed as Rehau’s head of sales – Windows for the whole of southern England,” he says. “I have worked hard to establish myself in the South East, and also build a rapport with customers in the South West while working in that region on secondment.

“This has made the transition into this new role easier, as I am

highly familiar with Rehau’s clients across the area. I will be looking to recruit further as part of my efforts to further boost the company’s profile in this key region. This includes demonstrating Rehau’s market-leading frame portfolio – particularly the new Artevo, which has already been extremely well-received by commercial contractors.”

Luke’s emphasis on recruitment mirrors his own rapid ascent within the company, with Rehau placing him on an 18-month sales executive course to sharpen his skills within a year of joining of the company. He will be taking over from Steve Tonkiss, whose invaluable experience and knowledge has contributed greatly to Luke’s development since he started in 2019.

“Both Rehau and Steve specifically have been integral to my professional development,” Luke explains. “I’d like to thank Steve for giving me such a strong base to build from across the south of England and will look to continue and expand upon his success.

“This will not only involve hiring more staff to service this vital region, but also further cementing the team culture for which Rehau is renowned. I will look to organise more in-person meetings with various area sales managers to share successes and market feedback, as I strongly believe these learnings will be crucial to our continued growth in commercial projects and beyond.”

“On behalf of Rehau as a whole, I would like to congratulate Luke on his appointment to his new role,” concludes Martin Hitchin, CEO for Rehau UK. “This promotion is well deserved, and we have every confidence Luke will continue to go from strength-to-strength as he expands the company’s commercial sales division in the south of England.”

For more information on Rehau Windows, CLICK HERE

More investment in programming at BM Aluminium

Mike Davis has joined BM Aluminium as a database programmer, focused on keeping all the profile datasets within the company’s LogiKal software fully maintained and updated.

Having spent the past 15 years using LogiKal in order processing roles for two different aluminium window and door fabricators, Mike brings really valuable experience and a new perspective to the role.

He said: “As a LogiKal user, I appreciate just how vital it is to know that you are working with accurate data all the time. No matter what aluminium profile

system you’re using, every design, quote or machining list you generate ultimately depends on that.

“I’m really excited to be moving to the other side of the software fence and joining a business which enjoys such a strong reputation for quality service and customer care. I’m particularly looking forward to working directly with the Orgadata team who are the developers of the software in Germany, as well as with fabricators and systems companies here in the UK.”

One of the biggest strengths of BM Aluminium’s LogiKal software is the sheer number of aluminium profile datasets it contains. Fabricators who use multiple systems can switch effortlessly between products and use the freedom that brings to build their own bespoke product ranges.

www.bmaluminium.co.uk

Stedek’s recent £350,000 investment in a new Supercut 6 machining centre, boosting frame production from 400 to 600 per week, positions the company for significant growth. This expansion, coupled with Shivani’s appointment, underscores Stedek’s commitment to meeting increasing demand while maintaining their high standards, according to the company.

Stedek welcomes Shivani Kattri as

new business development manager

Walsall-based window fabricator, Stedek, has announced the appointment of Shivani Kattri as its new business development manager.

Shivani joins Stedek with seven and a half years of experience at the Residence Collection, where she adopted strong relationships with their installer network.

“Shivani’s deep understanding of the Residence installer landscape perfectly aligns with our growth strategy,” says Alex Page, director at Stedek. “Her expertise will be instrumental in expanding our reach and forging stronger partnerships with installers across the country, particularly as we continue to invest in our production capabilities.”

Shivani is also excited to work with Stedek’s Aluplast range, seeing it as an opportunity to demonstrate the company’s versatility beyond their recognised Residence Collection offerings, says the company.

“As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, Shivani’s arrival marks a significant step in our journey,” Alex concludes. “Her experience with Residence, combined with our recent investments and expanded product range, including our new composite door offerings, sets the stage for an exciting new chapter at Stedek.” www.stedek.co.uk

MRA strengthens research team with new appointment

MRA Research, the research agency focused solely on the building materials, home improvements and construction sector, has welcomed Maxine Todd to the team as senior research executive.

Maxine has more than 5 years’ experience of working with market research and insight and brings to the role a passion for understanding markets, people and data. As senior research executive, Maxine will be instrumental in preparing, analysing and reporting on many of MRA’s customer research projects. She will also help deliver the range of research products and services offered by MRA, including the

trademarked Customer Experience CX Suite.

Maxine says: “It’s exciting to step into this new role at MRA Research. I’m confident that my background in research and my commitment to understanding market realities will enable me to deliver valuable insights.

“I began my professional journey in South Africa, where I immersed myself in market research, exploring both the qualitative and quantitative aspects of the field. Over the years, I developed a keen understanding of how solid, factbased research can drive business decisions. This led me to various roles where I helped businesses

navigate the complexities of their markets, delivering insights that enabled them to make informed decisions.

“Now, as I join the team at MRA Research, I am excited to apply my expertise to a new industry — one that is dynamic and rapidly evolving. At MRA, we focus on delivering in-depth, reliable research. In a field as critical as construction and building, it is particularly important that key decisions are based on facts and real insight.”

Mike Rigby, CEO of MRA Research comments: “The industry is going through a difficult time. Markets are down and finance directors are cutting budgets. While marketing is losing its legacy reputation as the colouring in department, most marketing still struggles to prove to sceptical finance chiefs and hardnosed CEOs that it’s an investment not a cost. Marketing needs to earn its place at the top table by showing it can drive growth and rapidly improve customer relationships. Our research mission is to make marketing more effective by driving improvement no matter how bad the market. We believe we’ve taken research and insight up a couple of gears to make marketing demonstrably more effective.

“We help companies drive rapid improvements in customer experience and NPS (Net Promoter Scores). We’ve spent the last five years creating a suite of trademarked research tools, and a database of benchmarked norms for building materials and individual product categories. And we’ve developed the means to deliver those improvements reliably. As far as we know this is unique. I’m delighted to welcome Maxine to our team of talented researchers and can report she’s hit the ground running. Headed up by Callum Budd, research projects director, the team helps companies achieve remarkable results. Exciting times!” www.mra-research.co.uk

Strategic appointments for Stellar Aluminium team

Stellar Aluminium has announced the appointments of Jon Foulds and Joe Leeming as Key Account Managers. The strategic appointments are part of Stellar Aluminium’s ongoing commitment to driving sales and delivering exceptional customer service as the brand continues its growth journey.

Katrina Earl, sales director at Epwin Window Systems, said: “Jon and Joe’s appointments come at an exciting time for Stellar Aluminium as we continue to expand our market presence. Their industry expertise and passion for providing outstanding customer support align perfectly with our commitment to helping fabricators succeed.”

Jon and Joe bring with them a wealth of sector experience and are familiar faces to many in the

industry.

Jon said: “Stellar is a standout choice for aluminium fabricators combining its flush aesthetics with superb energy efficiency and ease of fabrication. The company is forward-thinking and committed to innovation, ensuring that its products not only meet but exceed the evolving needs of the market. With new product additions launching in 2025, the future of Stellar is bright.”

Joe said: “Stellar has set a new standard for the aluminium sector. Its credentials and versatility present so many opportunities, and I’m enjoying helping new and existing customers make the most of them.”

www.stellaraluminium.co.uk

Crittall Windows appoints new regional sales manager

Steel window and door manufacturer, Crittall Windows, has strengthened its team by appointing a new regional sales manager at its headquarters in Essex.

Rob Sampaio joined the team in October 2024 and, having previously sold profiles to fabricators across the UK, brings with him a wealth of fenestration experience.

In his new role, Rob will focus predominantly on large-scale projects within the commercial sector and will combine his understanding of the glazing sector and impressive knowledge of steel windows and doors to support Crittall Windows’ growth strategy for 2025.

Rob comments: “I’m thrilled to join a company with such a rich heritage and innovative approach to steel manufacturing.

www.crittall-windows.co.uk.

Insight Data team members mark 10-year milestone

Marketing data supplier, Insight Data, celebrates two valued team members’ tenth anniversary milestone.

Insight Data says Nicola Andrews and Sarah Coltham, who both joined the company in 2014, have played a crucial role in maintaining the accuracy and reliability of Insight Data’s extensive databases, which serve over 700 companies in the fenestration and construction sectors.

Over the past decade, both Nicola and Sarah have been instrumental in conducting thousands of research calls and ensuring Insight Data’s

comprehensive fenestration database is at its very best.

Nicola and Sarah are also pivotal within the telesales department and are responsible for conducting in-depth market surveys as well as booking valuable meetings on behalf of Insight Data’s customers.

Andrew Scott, MD and founder of Insight Data, said: “Nicola and Sarah are highly valued members of the Insight Data team. Their decade of experience and deep understanding of the industry has helped hundreds of our customers over the years – they are true experts within their field.

“Reaching 10 years of service demonstrates not only their unwavering commitment and loyalty but also the positive working environment we’ve created at Insight Data. We’re incredibly proud to celebrate this milestone with Nicola and Sarah and look forward to many more years working together.”

Both team members have been key contributors to Insight Data’s research department, which makes an impressive 20,000 monthly calls to ensure real accuracy of the market intelligence it holds.

Since it was launched over 17 years ago, Insight Data has supported companies within the glass and glazing industry to utilise unique market intelligence to make informed business decisions and generate high-quality leads. For more information about Insight Data and its team of researchers, visit: https://www.insightdata.co.uk/

Andrew Scott with Sarah Coltham and Nicola Andrews

Jack Aluminium Systems starts 2025 with sales team expansion

Following a year of strong growth and product innovation, Jack Aluminium Systems rang in the new year by expanding its sales team, welcoming Jeremy Angel as its newest national sales manager.

This strategic addition is a direct reflection of the exceptional growth Jack Aluminium Systems has seen over the past 12 months, and will help support the Coventry-based aluminium systems supplier’s ambitious goals for further expansion and development, says the company.

With an extensive career in sales

New sales manager for Glazerite UK Group

Leading trade fabricator Glazerite has appointed a new Area Sales Manager for the South West region. Industry stalwart Jason Scrivens joined Glazerite last month and brings over two decades of fenestration experience to the role.

Based in Glazerite’s Bristol

office, Jason will support the fabricator’s customer base across the West Country and into Wales. With a background that spans uPVC fabrication and profile systems to other ancillary products, Jason is ready and raring to go. He says: “I am delighted to be joining Glazerite, and I look forward to

within the windows and doors industry, Jeremy brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience of both commercial and residential applications, and is looking to use his knowledge and industry connections to drive further success for Jack Aluminium Systems product range.

Jeremy discusses embarking on his new role, saying: “I’m really looking forward to getting started with the team at Jack Aluminium Systems. I’ve seen what the team have been doing over the past 18 months – especially the strides they’ve made with the ID30 system – and its dedication to product innovation really impressed me, so it felt like a natural move when the offer came in to join the team.”

www.jackaluminium.co.uk

connecting with our customers across the South West. It is a fantastic company to be a part of. I welcome the chance to grow with Glazerite by working closely with our installer partners to meet their own growth ambitions.”

Jason’s appointment follows a major expansion in Glazerite’s UK footprint and its portfolio. Over the last 12 months, the fabricator has opened a new site in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, and added the Deceuninck profile system to its existing Veka and Residence Collection offering. In August, Glazerite announced it was shoring up its sales team with the addition of Jordan Davidson to further support installers based in Scotland.

Jeff Dunn, group sales & commercial director at Glazerite, says: “Jason has joined Glazerite at a pivotal time. He has years of experience in the industry and his knowledge will make a real difference for our installers. We are delighted to welcome him on board.”

www.glazerite.co.uk

Jason Scrivens (left) with Jeff Dunn

Illuminex shines bright: new windows - new era

As the fenestration sector welcomes in 2025, it also welcomes an exciting new company, Illuminex. A brand new fabricator entering the industry, starting with one product and one focus – fully foiled flush fit windows and doors.

Operating from a new purposebuilt specialist production facility in Lincoln and delivering nationwide, Illuminex will be fabricating Rehau’s Rio flush fit range of windows, single doors, front doors, and French door sets.

Crucially, Illuminex’s offering will be fully mechanically jointed, and will be available in 10 colourways of either colour on colour, or colour on white woodgrain. Incorporating Yale and Mila security hardware and delivered to site in just 3 weeks, this high-quality frame fabricator is set to make big waves in the

Donna Watts, owner and cofounder at Illuminex explains: “We are very excited about what we have created. Due to the partnership, support and backing of Rehau we can bring fully mechanically jointed, double foiled, flush fit frames from order to delivery in just 3 weeks. A timeframe currently unheard of within the industry.

“Being a specialist factory means it is all we do, and we do it well. Achieving a highend finish on both the window and the service we provide is

paramount to us.

“The Rio range of products are already aesthetically pleasing, but couple that with a fully mechanical frame, 10 beautiful colourways with white foil inside as standard, and Mila’s traditional and contemporary hardware ranges, we feel we have a winning formula.”

A Unique Product with a Unique Offering

Key to Illuminex’s success within the crowded uPVC marketplace is its unique foil product offering and delivery timeframe.

Being a specialist foil only factory and single product manufacturer has allowed the company to stock all 10 of their woodgrain colourways in both colour-on-colour and colour on white woodgrain, meaning orders will be delivered within 3 weeks from point of order to site, ‘an industry-changing timeframe’.

Ethan Jones, head of production comments: “Foiled windows are growing exponentially year on year, with this market now making up nearly 40% of the fenestration industry as a whole. We identified a gap in the marketplace for a fully mechanically jointed system that would enhance the finish and look of the already aesthetically pleasing flush fit frame.

“When coupled with a white woodgrain interior, the product is simply stunning. We have been fortunate to work closely with Rehau on stock meaning we really can deliver a coloured woodgrain foil on white woodgrain foil from order to site nationwide in just 3 weeks. This is an achievement that we are very excited about as a company. It truly is a unique

product and a unique offering.”

Illuminex owners Donna Watts, Ian Patterson, Mike Taylor, Ethan Jones and Ayrton Jones bring an impressive 74 years of combined knowledge and experience from within the fenestration industry to this exciting new venture. After the success other system houses have achieved within the heritage and foiled window space Illuminex look set to take this specialist sector to the next level.

Donna adds: “We are proud to say we will be offering a full house of matching fully suited products using the Rio flush fit system. This will include windows, single doors, French door sets and we are excited to announce the launch of 9 high quality front doors, so the entire house can be suited to our flush fit system.

“Rehau’s assistance has been invaluable in achieving this full suite of products. We are very impressed with the support they have provided so far and will continue to give as Illuminex goes from strength to strength.”

Hannah Smith, area sales manager for Rehau continues: “Donna, Ian, Mike, Ethan and Ayrton have become familiar faces at Rehau over the last few months as we have worked closely with them to bring this new venture to fruition. We have really enjoyed helping them take Illuminex from an ambition to a reality.

“The whole team have extensive experience in the fenestration sector, so the fact they have solely chosen to manufacture Rehau’s Rio profile is a huge vote of confidence. We are very much looking forward to the year ahead with Illuminex and watching sales multiply.”

window industry in 2025.

Keen to position themselves at the top of the market as a fabricator of premium, highperforming frames at affordable prices, Illuminex has set out to be synonymous for quality and affordability, and this is why manufacturing with the Rehau Rio profile was said to be an obvious choice.

With the company’s products

achieving an A Window Energy Rating (WER) as standard with a u-value of 1.2W/m2K and PAS24 enhanced security accredited, Rehau have provided Illuminex with an excellent base for their quality product.

The association with such a well-regarded brand as Rehau equips Illuminex with a

strong first step as they look to establish themselves within their specialist sector.

The fact the profile can be seamlessly integrated with locks and hardware from other trusted brands such as Yale and Mila is undoubtedly important too. This provides an additional selling point for security-conscious homeowners and helps further emphasise Illuminex as a fabricator of high-end frames.

Ian, Illuminex’s owner and co-founder says: “From point of order to site delivery and everything in between our mission is to create a hand finished, high-quality flush window and door range that our customers can be proud to install. We think ongoing sales and marketing support coupled with a beautifully finished window and door will grow sales expediently in 2025 and beyond.”

Collaborative Marketing Support and Tools

Illuminex’s marketing plan for 2025 is comprehensive and will see the introduction of 5 brand new websites. Their large social media and advertising campaign, strong branding and homeowner tools, as well as a website purely dedicated to before and after photos and case studies will help boost sales.

Offline marketing will be available in the form of product focused brochures, colour sample sets, flyer cards and product specific media giving their customers everything they need to turn potential customers into sales.

A strong online presence will create leads for Illuminex’s trade customers through a stockist network that will be passed on free of charge. Their customers will also be given the option to co-brand any of the media and

marketing materials, brochures, colour and spec sheets to create a fully comprehensive marketing package that ensures an enhanced homeowner experience, ultimately driving increased sales for all.

Sample packs that contain brochures, colour foils, flyers and order forms can also be requested and sent directly to the homeowner.

Donna adds: “We want to support our customers as much as possible through strong branding, marketing, advertising and leads with a comprehensive marketing plan throughout 2025.

“We are confident we can create a unique experience for both our customer, the trade supplier and their customer, the homeowner. We think this will result in extra leads, recommendations and ultimately more business for our customer, the installer and us as the fabricator, it’s a win-win.”

Looking Forward to Illuminex’s Bright Future

Illuminex has ambitious plans for 2025 and beyond. Determined to become the UK’s largest specialist fabricator of foiled flush fit windows and doors, Illuminex are already making plans for expansion to increase production speeds as well as adding a further 8,000 sqft facility.

Donna explains: “With such a wealth of industry knowledge within our team, from marketing expertise to extensive machinery and production knowledge we are confident we can achieve the ambitious plans we have set out for the company going forward. Specialist machinery and a second production facility will allow us to produce up to 500 frames per week, a goal we intend to reach in 2026.”

Hannah, area sales manager from Rehau added: “Alongside Illuminex’s unique product offering and extremely fast turnaround times they have created a truly impressive business proposition for the top end of the fenestration market. We have every confidence they will go from strength to strength in their new venture, and I’m looking forward to working closely with the team to achieve this aim.”

Questions, Quotations? Contact Illuminex Today

You can order your free dealer pack with exclusive offers, discounts and samples today. Illuminex also offer same day quotations, easy ordering and their friendly customer service team are on hand to answer any questions or enquiries you might have.

Simply call 01526 800950 or email hello@illuminexwindows.co.uk

Force 8’s innovation in period glazing

Force 8 have developed a new Georgian Fan light which can be fitted into either an arched frame or a square one. The precisely formed astragal bars sit gracefully in front of the glass, creating an authentic and timeless look, rather than in-between the glazed unit. This latest innovation addresses a specific demand for historically accurate, high-performance fan lights, opening new opportunities within both residential and conservation-focused markets, according to Force 8.

Homeowners seeking energyefficient solutions that do not compromise on historical aesthetics will benefit from a product that is durable, visually authentic, and functional, and can be retrofitted if you are not changing the original door.

Although Force 8 are leaders in

profile bending, the astragal bars were prone to twisting during the hot oil bending process, which the company uses with the normal frame profile.

This problem required Force 8 to design a specialised clamping system, applying multiple clamps along the curve to maintain alignment and prevent any distortion. The new rig allowed them to refine the bending process, ensuring that each bar remained flat and aligned with the glass surface. This precision was essential for achieving the desired visual effect and ensuring the system’s durability.

The precision is important as the bars are on the outside of the unit and require a ‘perfect’ weather seal. The adhesive selection was also a critical aspect due to the need for long-term durability

and weatherproofing. Various adhesives were tested over several months, and Force 8 says it developed a combination that provides exceptional adhesion in outdoor environments, securing the bars against environmental factors that could otherwise weaken the bond over time.

By keeping the bars external, they ensured a faithful representation of Georgian design, maintaining historical accuracy and increasing appeal for period properties. According to Force 8, this was essential for the market focus, as customers prioritising authenticity require a product that aligns with the traditional look while offering modern durability and thermal efficiency.

The Georgian Fan Light is available in a range of colours to complement most doors. For installers also purchasing doors directly from Force 8, the company’s in-house paint facility is claimed to ensure a perfect colour match, adding to the cohesive and polished final look.

For more details contact Force 8 at sales@force.co.uk

Shepley Windows introduces new grey substratefor anthracite grey foil

Shepley Windows has announced the launch of a new grey substrate for anthracite grey foil, setting a standard in style, durability, and versatility for its product range.

The innovative grey substrate enhances the look of anthracite grey profiles, delivering a seamless, premium look that eliminates the contrast often seen with traditional white or brown substrates. This development aligns with the growing demand for contemporary design in windows and doors, providing homeowners and architects with a cohesive and modern finish.

The uniform grey tones complement the anthracite grey foil, ensuring a flawless appearance from every angle, whether the window or door is

Dekko expands commercial market offering with Fully Reversible Window launch

Dekko Window Systems has added the Deceuninck Fully Reversible Window (FRW) to its product lineup. This strategic move marks Dekko’s expansion into the commercial and high-rise residential window market, says the company.

The Deceuninck FRW is designed

for applications where external cleaning from the inside is essential, such as tower blocks, social housing, hospitals, and care homes. It offers a flush finish both internally and externally, 180-degree rotation, PAS24 security certification, and best in class performance, claims the company.

open or closed. According to Shepley, manufactured to the highest standards, the substrate is as robust as it is stylish, maintaining its integrity and colour over time, and is ideal for both residential and commercial projects.

“Shepley has always been committed to innovation and meeting customer needs, and the new grey substrate allows installers to compete against aluminium products, but with significant thermal efficiency and cost benefits.” said Ian Griffiths, managing director at Shepley Windows.

“Anthracite Grey is a popular colour choice and the new substrate keeps our installers ahead of value-added market trends.” www.shepley.com

Kurt Greatrex, sales director at Dekko and incoming managing director from January 2025, commented on the launch: “While we’ve built our reputation primarily in the retail sector with products such as casement windows, composite doors, bi-folds and patios, we’ve always kept an ear to the ground for new opportunities. When a customer approached us about a major commercial project requiring fully reversible windows, we saw it as a chance to diversify our offering and support our clients in new markets.”

According to the company, the FRW is engineered for excellent thermal performance, meeting and exceeding current building regulations for energy efficiency. With a maximum sash size of 1.4m x 1.4m and an 80kg weight limit, it’s well-suited for modern buildings with large window apertures. It’s available in Deceuninck’s extensive colour range, providing architects and specifiers with ample design flexibility.

www.dekkowindows.com

Eurocell commits to sustainable innovation

Eurocell is claiming to be the first systems house to incorporate Neovyn, a low-carbon PVC resin, into its premium window system, which is said to be underscoring its continued commitment to sustainability.

Eurocell offers several advanced window systems. However, it has chosen its Modus windows and doors system – already the most sustainable in its range – to spearhead the journey to Net

Zero for both Eurocell and its customers.

The company says this new material not only reflects Eurocell’s commitment to reducing the carbon footprint of its products and advancing innovations in sustainable building products, but also marks an important milestone towards meeting both Eurocell’s, and its customers’, legal obligations in sustainable building practices.

Modus, known for its energyefficient profiles with U-values as low as 0.76 W/m²K, is said by Eurocell to be the ideal choice for both new build and commercial sectors. This ‘exclusive’ advantage is said to also add substantial value to the trade and retail sectors, supporting fabricators to provide a highperformance product that stands out in the marketplace.

Eurocell is absorbing the increased costs associated with the introduction of Neovyn, ensuring that these benefits come at zero cost to its fabricators, as it continues support for its customers and the wider supply market.

Additionally, with Eurocell’s ‘world-class’ recycling facility located less than 10 miles from its main manufacturing site, the company can deliver a significant reduction on carbon emissions. This proximity not only enhances the sustainability of the Modus range, which contains the most recycled content within Eurocell’s product offerings, but Eurocell also believe it reinforces the company’s leadership in the circular economy model and its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Neovyn’s GHG (greenhouse gas) footprint is set at 1.3 kg CO2 eq/ kg PVC, 37% lower than the EU industry average, directly reducing

scope 3 emissions for customers who supply and install the Modus system, says Eurocell. The addition of Neovyn into the manufacturing materials doesn’t alter the ability to recycle the PVC-U profile at end of life, according to Eurocell.

“By integrating Neovyn into the Modus profile, we’re able to offer a product that not only delivers on exceptional energy performance but also represents a substantial reduction in carbon emissions,” said Darren Waters, chief executive officer at Eurocell.

“This marks a major milestone in our long-term strategy for sustainable innovation adopting low-carbon materials across

our product portfolio. Neovyn exemplifies our commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering greener, high-performance building solutions”.

Ian Kernaghan, head of products, design and development at Eurocell, said: “Our integration of Neovyn into the Modus profile range is a result of thorough technical due diligence to ensure seamless performance and durability. This development represents an exciting leap forward for us, allowing Eurocell to further reduce its carbon footprint without compromising on the high-quality standards our customers rely on.”

www.eurocell.co.uk

Ideal Window Solutions launches recycling scheme

Sustainability is on the top of the agenda for all of us. Homeowners, social housing providers and housebuilders are all looking for ways to reduce their carbon emissions and many are looking to a more considerate supply chain where carbon savings are a priority. That’s why it’s great to see one of DGCOS’ founding members,

Ideal Window Solutions, launching a new closed loop recycling service.

Faisal Hussain, DGCOS’ chief executive, tells us more about Ideal Window Solutions:

“Ideal Window Solutions is a DGCOS member who has operated as a window

and door installer for over 25 years, working on new build developments with housebuilders, as well as domestic and retail installation for general consumers. They have been associated with DGCOS for over 14 years. In addition to the installation side of the business, they have an active maintenance and repair division. The upshot of the service level they deliver is the longevity of their customer relationships. When the window and door products Ideal Window Solutions provide are truly at end of life, those customers tend to come back for replacements and now, the closed group recycling service will extend their service and customer relationships further.”

Thom Emerson, sales & marketing director of Ideal Window Solutions, tells us more about the scheme: “We’re really pleased to be launching this closed loop recycling scheme (supported by our key suppliers Epwin, Emplas, St Gobain, and Padiham Glass) at a time when sustainability is so important to all of us. Well maintained PVC-U windows and doors in their original state have an average lifespan of between 30 and 40 years. But the PVC-U material used in the frames can also be recyclable up to 10 times and still maintain its performance. Furthermore, glass can be infinitely recycled without suffering any deterioration in performance.

“Reusing the PVC-U by grounding, melting and remoulding old window and door frames, results in a potential cumulative lifetime of 400 years from a single window or door. A replacement PVC-U window frame can contain up to 45% recycled content and the PVC-U recovery and refinement process achieves 99% purity.

“Introducing glass and

PVU-C waste back into the manufacturing process not only helps to conserve raw materials and reduce landfill, it achieves significant cuts in energy consumption and emissions, too.

“The aim of the scheme is for all our PVC-U windows and doors to be recovered in

Britain, recycled in Britain and remade in Britain, which in itself brings even more sustainable benefits. We’re bringing a new lease of life for old windows and doors because consigning old products to landfill simply cannot be justified.”

Faisal Hussain concludes: “The scheme Ideal Windows Solutions

Camden drives sustainability with support from Rapierstar

Camden Group, one of the UK’s largest PVCu window and door manufacturers, has relied on Rapierstar as its trusted supply chain partner for over a decade to ensure their products achieve top-tier fastener durability and sustainability, says the company.

The County Antrim-based window and door manufacturer emphasises using highquality, eco-friendly materials that maximise longevity and performance. Their commitment aligns seamlessly with Rapierstar’s standards, backed by ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications.

Earlier this year, the company

won the “Sustainable/Ethical Manufacturer of the Year” award at the prestigious Made in the UK Awards, an accolade that celebrated its achievements in an industry that is critical to improving the energy efficiency of housing stock and reducing carbon emissions from the wider built environment, according to the company.

Sustainability has become significantly important to Rapierstar in recent years as the business evolves and responds to customers, like Camden, wishing to partner with component suppliers who can match their ambitions and align with their ESG goals.

and their supply partners have created is so relevant, satisfying national demand for greener manufacturing to support the drive for Net Zero Carbon. Ideal Window Solutions has always been at the forefront of the market with their quality and service, and this scheme is just another example of their leadership.”

Steven Doorish, director of operations at Camden Group said: “We work extremely hard as a business to offer our customers the most sustainable choice for PVCu windows and doors, and we’ve built our reputation for providing products that, once installed, will require little or no maintenance over their service life. That requires dedication and a focus on every component, including the fasteners.

“That’s why we’ve worked with Rapierstar for many years. Their products do exactly what they say on the tin, offering excellent mechanical properties whilst been easy and safe for our operatives to use during assembly. And from a sustainability perspective, their quality means they are highly resistant to corrosion and breakages, which means we can simply fit and forget, safe in the knowledge they will perform.”

Paul McAuley, Rapierstar’s technical consultant for Ireland and Scotland added: “A PVCu window or door is only as good as the fasteners that are used to assemble it, and the Camden Group team have always recognised this. But their focus on sustainability gives fastener longevity another dimension and we are pleased to be able to continue supporting the team to maintain consistently high quality.”

www.rapierstar.com

Closing the Loop: Eurocell and Biffa trial PVC-U waste

management scheme for the trade

PVC-U based products, like windows and doors, often end up in landfills when they aren’t recycled, contributing to environmental damage, increasing

carbon emissions, and wasting raw materials.

As one of the leaders in PVC-U recycling, Eurocell recognised the

need to offer its trade customers a comprehensive recycling solution that would not only reduce waste but also enhance their own sustainability efforts.

With a long-standing commitment to sustainable practices, Eurocell aims to create a closed-loop recycling process that collects used PVC-U directly from customers, recycling it into new products for the construction and fenestration industries.

To achieve this, Eurocell sought a partner with extensive waste management experience and the infrastructure to provide a reliable, scalable solution. There

was no better choice than Biffa, which offered the expertise and logistical support to implement a PVC-U collection service tailored for Eurocell’s trade customers, including fabricators and installers, according to the company.

In February 2023, Eurocell and Biffa launched a trial of a domestic PVC-U collection service within a 30-mile radius of NE28 – this covers a large part of the North East.

An innovative model was introduced, where Eurocell worked with smaller traders and collections could be

booked alongside new product orders. Collected PVC-U was then consolidated at hubs and transferred to Eurocell’s recycling facility, ensuring that materials were repurposed into new products through a closed-loop process.

Samantha Wood, corporate account manager at Biffa said:

“We’re proud to deliver comprehensive waste management solutions that support our partners in achieving their sustainability goals. Our collaboration with Eurocell is a prime example of how we can support a closed-loop recycling

system that keeps valuable materials out of landfills and contributes to a greener future.”

Since the trial began, the Eurocell and Biffa partnership has achieved significant milestones:

• 195 collections were completed, with zero failed collections—a 100% success rate.

• A total of 2,568 PVC-U frames were collected and recycled, which would have otherwise ended up in landfill. This equates to over 25 tonnes of PVC-U.

• Eurocell has enhanced its feeder stock with recycled PVC-U, reinforcing its position as a market leader in sustainable recycling for the construction and fenestration industries.

• The closed-loop recycling process is actively reducing carbon emissions and supporting a circular economy by reclaiming valuable raw materials that would otherwise end up in landfill.

Sandra Gaspar, head of recycling, at Eurocell said:

“Our partnership with Biffa has had a tremendous impact on our sustainability efforts, allowing us to recycle over 2,500 PVC-U frames, keeping our precious plastic feedstock out of landfill. This collaboration perfectly aligns with our commitment to a closed-loop recycling process, reducing waste and supporting a more sustainable future for both our customers and the environment.”

The trial has been so successful that Eurocell and Biffa plan to expand the PVC-U collection service further by January 2025, extending the reach to more customers and locations. This expansion will provide even more trade customers with a sustainable, easy-to-use waste management solution, claims the company.

Kenrick launches AK Touch Secure smart door locking solution

The oldest hardware business in the industry is about to launch the very latest in smart locking security innovation. The AK Touch Secure from Kenrick is said to offer a seamless blend of smart technology and high-quality security credentials that bring exceptional functionality and efficiency.

Andy Meakin, sales and marketing Manager at Kenrick, said: “Whether you’re enhancing security in domestic or commercial settings, specialist sites such as residential or care homes, or Airbnb properties, the AK Touch Secure is the answer.”

Kenrick says the AK Touch Secure is compatible with any door handle fitted with a Kenrick 3 Star locking cylinder and can be retrofitted in a matter of minutes with no need for any major hardware

modifications. The intelligent design means there’s no evidence of the mechanism on the front of the door, meaning security can be upgraded without compromising on aesthetics.

Andy said: “Because the AK Touch Secure can be fitted to new doors and retro-fitted to existing ones, it’s a versatile and value-added solution.”

It works using touch-sensitive technology, a secure keypad, an encrypted key fob, a standard door key, or voice commands via Google Home or Alexa. There’s also a manual override option, meaning the door can always be opened with a key.

The AK Touch Secure app adds even more impressive functionality. Users can operate the door from anywhere with remote locking and

unlocking functionality. With the status check feature, they can see if the door is locked or unlocked wherever they are. Access logs and time stamps mean they can also see who has entered and exited their property. They can also give temporary, timed access, making it invaluable for Airbnb properties or where contractors need access.

For peace of mind, all data and access methods – including the key fob and the app – are completely secure thanks to endto-end encryption.

The AK Touch Secure will be officially launched at the FIT Show this April, and is sure to attract a great deal of attention.

Andy concluded: “Kenricks has long been a trusted name in the door and window hardware industry, known for innovation, quality and reliability. The AK Touch Secure is a testament to our commitment to offering advanced hardware solutions that meet the evolving needs of today’s fabricators and installers.

To register your interest, visit https://www.aktouchsecure.co.uk/

Strand Hardware unveils all new technical data sheets

Strand Hardware has launched a brand new set of technical data sheets for its extensive range of finger protection devices, packed with more detail and clarity than ever before, says the company.

Designed to meet the exacting standards of architects, specifiers, and architectural ironmongers, these enhanced resources answer frequent client questions on finishes, sizes, material composition, technical specifications and British Standards compliance.

The updated data sheets make it easier to understand the

unique features of Strand’s range of seven finger protection devices, with clear, easy-toview tables and finish/fabric swatches that showcase product options at a glance. Additionally, critical compliance information, such as British

Standard testing requirements for fire doors, is now explicitly detailed, giving buyers confidence in selecting the right solution for their needs.

Craig Fox, sales director at Strand Hardware, said: “We’re delighted to release these new data sheets, which are a big step forward in providing the transparency our clients want. All the key information— finishes, specifications, compliance standards, and technical data—is now readily available in one place, making the decision process faster and simpler.”

The new technical data sheets are now available for download – see individual products for details www.strandhardware.co.uk

Italian Flair from VBH

Hardware specialist, VBH, is experiencing increased sales of tilt and turn hardware thanks to the addition to their range of the ArTech tilt & turn system from Italian hardware manufacturer, AGB, according to the company.

In recent months VBH has widened the reach of the system by developing profile related parts for a number of new PVCu profile systems, including Profile 22 Optima and Rehau Artevo.

VBH advise that one of the main reasons that they have picked up so much new tilt and turn business with ArTech is the product’s impressive anticorrosion performance.

ArTech is treated with ‘Activeage Hi-Protection’ coating that enables the hardware to withstand over 2000 hours of testing in a

neutral salt spray environment.

Activeage is a 3-stage finish, incorporating layers of zinc, chromic passivation with silica Nano particles, and finally an organic mineral protection coating.

In addition to its impressive weather resistance, VBH advise that another reason tilt and turn manufacturers are embracing ArTech is the system’s security performance. Security spec

windows have been tested to forces of 5.5KN, nearly double the forces specified in PAS24. ArTech is covered by ‘hardware Kitemark’ KM727991 and is listed as a Police Preferred Specification by Secured by Design, claims the company.

Dan Powell, head of brand at VBH, says “ArTech is built to resist the effects of harsh climates, including our wet and salty environment here in the UK. Figures of 2000 hours salt spray test resistance are phenomenal when you consider that the ‘Very High Resistance’ top grade of BS EN 1670 equates to 240 hours.

“Add to that the PAS24 performance of nearly double the forces specified in the standard and you can see why AGB ArTech has become a mainstay of our range in a short period of time.”

www.vbhgb.com

AluK launches easy to fabricate Heritage door

AluK is setting a new benchmark in the aluminium Heritage door sector with the launch of its own Heritage door in the tested, tried and trusted 58W system.

Marketed as a ‘true modern classic’, this is a door with all the industrial style nods of the steel original, with slim 51.7mm sightlines throughout and authentic detailing, including period inspired handles in matt black, antique bronze, heritage black or heritage grey.

It is an ideal choice for any age or style of property where the emphasis is on combining the classic with the contemporary. Crucially, says AluK, it is also easy to fabricate with profiles, beads and ancillaries shared with the 58BW HI Heritage window system.

Paul Booth, AluK’s R&D director, commented: “With the launch of this new Heritage door, we’re making sure AluK fabricators can get a bigger slice of the lucrative steel replacement market and offer

their trade and retail customers a fully suited glazing solution.

“With minimal additional stock holding, they can make single and double doors, with fan and side lights to create a fully glazed wall, and sell that solution alongside our Heritage windows for the rest of the property.

“We have designed a dedicated slim door and fixed light transom to seamlessly match the horizontal lines of the door with screen work on either side, so there is no need for dummy sashes or astragal bars. And of course, because this is AluK, our fabricators can trust that this is a fully compliant Part L door, with third party accredited U-Values of 1.4 W/m2K and

exceptional weather performance.”

The new AluK Heritage door also boasts market leading strength and durability, even up to the maximum 2m wide x 2.3m high size. That comes from a combination of cleat pockets either side of the thermal break and new AluK supplied V-block and jaws which enable fabricators to achieve strong 45 degree mitre and crimped sash corners using their existing crimpers.

The standard finish is classic matt black which is available on a 5 day lead time and non-stock single and dual colours are available from 15 days.

www.alukgb.com/heritage-door

Everglade Windows launches enhanced aïr 400SS

Minimal Frame Sliding Door

Trade fabricator Everglade Windows has launched its next generation aïr 400SS Minimal Frame Sliding Door to offer its installer customers a combination of slimmer sightlines, enhanced technical performance and greater ease of install on site, says the company.

Introducing an even slimmer frame, the updated aïr 400SS Minimal Frame Sliding Door is now available with a 34mm and 20mm interlock – compared to 50mm and 25mm previously – and larger expanses of glass.

Plus, with the added benefit of being beaded and site-bonded for ‘effortless’ transportation, installation and after-care, the next generation aïr 400SS is reflects Everglade Windows’ dedication to high manufacturing standards and delivering products that keep its customers ahead of the curve for style, performance and security.

Nick Ballinger, Everglade Windows’ regional sales manager, discusses updates to the aïr 400SS, saying: “We’re constantly listening to

customers and analysing trends to ensure we have a collection of products that deliver on everything from energy efficiency, security, performance and on-trend aesthetics, to delivering installers solutions that make their job so much easier, and our updated aïr 400SS ticks all of those boxes for customers.

“We initially announced the launch of the updated aïr 400SS to our customers at our annual Trade Customer Conference, Empower 24, and the response is confirmation to us that we are continuing to deliver what our customers need and homeowners are looking for.”

In addition to its sleek, minimal frame design, the air 400SS Minimal Frame Sliding Door comes with PAS24:2022 certification; U-values from 1.2 W/m²k; a weight limit of 250Kg per panel; configurations up to 6 panels wise; maximum sizes of 2 metres x 2.5 metres per panel, as well as a triple track option.

www.evergladetrade.co.uk

Universal Trade Frames partners with Origin to offer an expanded aluminium product range

Universal Trade Frames strengthens its aluminium range with an exciting new partnership with Origin, offering installers streamlined access to high-quality internal and external doors.

Universal Trade Frames has announced its partnership with Origin, becoming an official reseller of their internal and external doors.

This collaboration adds new options to Universal’s extensive aluminium product range, including Origin’s OI-30 internal doors and the new OB36+ series of slimline bifold, French, and single external doors.

“We’re excited to introduce Origin’s well-designed doors to our product lineup,” says Richard Hammond, sales director at Universal Trade Frames.

“These products integrate seamlessly with our existing offerings, meeting the quality and style standards our customers expect.”

The Origin products will

complement Universal Trade Frames’ established Residence Collection, known for its authentic, heritage-inspired designs like Residence 9, 7, and 2.

This partnership is already seeing positive results, as Richard highlights: “We’re seeing fantastic feedback from customers who value the quality and aesthetics of Origin doors.”

Within days of launching, Universal had already completed its first sale of Origin’s OB72 bifold doors.

Comprehensive aluminium offer

Universal Trade Frames continues to expand its aluminium offering from its 30,000-squarefoot manufacturing facility in

Shrewsbury.

With a focus on single-source supply, the company is working to simplify the ordering process for installers by providing a broad selection of premium products under one roof.

Richard explains: “For installers, a single-source supply saves time and reduces complexity.

“It’s a streamlined approach, with everything delivered on one order, one invoice—removing the need to manage multiple suppliers.”

Universal’s aluminium range includes options such as aluminium casement windows, designed for low maintenance and available in a wide range of colours and profiles to suit contemporary or classic aesthetics.

With secure multipoint locking, energy-efficient glazing, and BBA accreditation, these products meet high performance standards, providing durability and a sleek finish.

The aluminium bifold doors are also designed for flexibility, featuring options for low thresholds and various configurations to optimise indooroutdoor spaces.

Precision in premium product manufacturing

Universal Trade Frames says its manufacturing process combines advanced automation with craftsmanship, particularly for premium products such as The Residence Collection.

These products, produced by Universal’s most experienced fabricators, feature Timberweld 90° joints, replicating a traditional mechanical joint without glass bonding—ideal for heritage projects and high-end installations.

Universal’s premium product lineup also includes Solidor composite doors, adding extensive options in glass and hardware and the well-regarded

Spectus Vertical Sliding Sash, which now offers an ultra-slim 37mm meeting rail.

“The small details make the difference in the premium market,” Richard says.

“Whether it’s a mechanical joint or a slimmer profile, we aim to support our customers by helping them win more business.”

Enhanced support and performance

In addition to premium products, Universal Trade Frames provides a selection of specialist items, including the Spectus Fully Reversible Window—a functional option for projects that require versatility without compromising on style.

Richard concludes, “At Universal, we’re focused on providing our customers with high-quality, reliable products that are easy to order and install.

“The partnership with Origin strengthens our offer, ensuring that our customers have access to some of the best solutions available.” www.utfl.co.uk

Fentrade adds AluK S67 Inline

Sliding Door to its portfolio

Trade fabricator Fentrade has announced it will be adding the AluK S67 Inline Sliding Door to its portfolio. Fentrade’s managing director, Chris Reeks, said: “The S67 is a stylish and versatile solution that’s Part L compliant in both new build and existing properties. We know it will be a popular product for our customers.”

The S67 Inline Sliding Door has slimmer sightlines with its 67mm frame and 35mm interlock.

There are double and triple track options and it’s available in two to six sash configurations. Each sash has a maximum height of 2,700mm and a maximum width of 3,000mm. There are also standard, non-standard, smooth and textured RAL finishes to allow homeowners to design distinctive spaces. It achieves a U value of 1.4 W/m2k with double glazing, which means it is Part L compliant in both replacement and new build projects, claims the company.

The door has a low 22mm threshold for ease of access, and the handle design means opening and closing is straightforward. Security is assured with a multipoint locking system. Installation has been designed to be fast and straightforward thanks to adjustable rollers and pre-glazed wraparound sashes, according to the company.

Chris said: “The S67 will complement and extend our existing door offering. It will also open up new markets for our customers because it’s a more aesthetically appealing alternative to PVC-U sliding doors.”

Chris concluded: “From our choice of products to our standards of service, we are committed helping our customers gain competitive advantage in their chosen markets.”

www.fentradealuminium.co.uk

Aluprof brings wood grain elegance to aluminium

By Wojciech Brożyna –MD Aluprof UK

To ensure fenestration and facade systems stand the test of time, continue to look good offering unrivalled sustainability, a high quality finish to the aluminium is prerequisite. Aluprof offer both architectural anodising and architectural powder coating for all their systems. To ensure the highest quality is achieved and maintained during the powder coating process, Aluprof are proud to have been licensed as a Qualicoat applicator for many years and supply all their systems in accordance with this global specification.

So what is ‘Decoral’?

In 1993 Decoral, a company based in Verona, developed an enhancement of the powder coating finish by developing a new process where textures can be added to the coating. Today these finishes are exceptionally photorealistic and often portray woodgrain or stone finishes,

but any photorealistic finish can be replicated. Popular on the continent for many years, powder coated photorealistic finishes specified on architectural aluminium are now growing in availability and popularity with UK specifiers.

How is it achieved?

The finish is achieved by a ‘sublimation’ methodology, a physical chemical process which is the direct transition of a substance from a solid phase to a gas phase using heat, the technology is also known as a ‘heat transfer process’.

To achieve the finish, the aluminium profile is firstly given a base coat of powder coating, or what is known as the ‘ground’ coat. Once this has been allowed to cool after being heat cured, the profile is then wrapped with a sublimatic film which carries the photorealistic transfer inks that are required for the finished profile. The air between the coated aluminium the enclosing film is then vacuumed away which

ensures that the transfer film is in direct contact with the ‘ground’ coat. The coated profile is then cured again at approximately 200ºC where, by sublimation, these special inks are transferred from the sublimatic film into the ground coated layer. Once the profile has cooled, the film is removed and the coated, textured profile is then ready for use.

Standard woodgrain films are available in a wide range of photorealistic timber types and colours, such as oak, pine and beech, stone finishes such as marble are also available as are some patterned finishes, all of which can be seen on the Decoral website. Many of these finishes are rated ’outdoor’, are suitable for outdoor use across the UK and are as hardwearing as any architectural powder coated finish. Whilst timber will change appearance over time and require some form of re-treatment every 5 to 10 years, its powder coated alternative will remain looking the same for many years with only minimal cleaning being required.

How is the finish quality maintained?

Aluprof, a licensed Qualicoat applicator, has also attained the optional Qualideco licence which ensures that the process of pretreatment and coating prior to and including the Decoral sublimation process meets the high quality expected by specifiers of architectural powder coating. Not only do these finishes offer a robust finish for outdoor use, they are so realistic that they can be seen by many as the real thing, a testament to the technology in use today.

Used on fenestration systems internally or externally, these finishes can be integrated into any biophilic design specifications. Samples of finishes are available for review and specification directly through Aluprof UK. aluprof.co.uk

Uni-Blinds integral

blinds made with Planitherm One tick all the boxes

Morley Glass says the powerful combination of Uni-Blinds integral blinds made with Planitherm One glass offers window and door installers increased sales opportunities as it taps into homeowners’ growing appetite for improved energy efficiency and year-round comfort.

As all Uni-Blinds are made to

order by Morley Glass using ScreenLine systems, every unit can be tailored to meet the needs of the homeowner. In addition to being able to choose different types of blind – Venetian, pleated or pleated blackout – plus one of five control systems and a wide variety of colours, homeowners have three glass options to choose from.

The type of glass which is growing in its appeal as part of integral blind units is Planitherm One. This enhanced performance glass from Saint-Gobain gives Uni-Blinds integral blinds an extra solar control functionality, enabling installers to gain an edge over their competitors who are selling on the benefits of compliance-level thermal insulation alone.

Ian Short, managing director of Morley Glass said: “New windows and doors can instantly transform a home by making it warmer, quieter and more visually appealing. And that’s a powerful selling point, even with a compliance-level glass, given how many homeowners are seeking a warmer home while at the same time reducing their energy bills during winter. But what about offering even higher levels of thermal insulation and providing a solution that also helps our homes to stay cool when the sun is strong and temperatures are higher?

“This is where Planitherm One comes into its element. Firstly, it offers a higher level of thermal insulation with a U-value of just 1.0 W/m2K – as the name suggests – compared to 1.4 in a double glazed unit made using Planitherm Total Plus. That’s a superior level of insulation that we would expect

to see specified in eco-homes which are usually built to very high levels of energy efficiency.

“Secondly, Planitherm One provides greater solar control because of its low g-value, and this is why it is effective at reducing the potential for overheating in a property.”

Better solar control can mean greater temperature stability inside our homes, resulting in improved comfort all year round. Feedback from many Uni-Blinds installers is that integral blinds combined with Planitherm One can be a winning combination for homeowners, who often see the additional premium for improved thermal insulation, combined with solar control, as excellent lifetime value in the context of their overall spend on their window or door project.

Ian adds: “The difference that Planitherm One can make in terms of maintaining a stable temperature inside our homes is one of the reasons why we often recommend it for integral blind units intended for larger windows and doors, especially on sunnier aspects. It further enhances our integral blinds which already give homeowners the ability to control the amount of heat and sunlight entering their home with ease.

“Specify Uni-Blinds integral blinds with Planitherm One and your customers get dual benefits, whether the blinds are open or closed. The glass works in the background, insulating the home against excessive heat when the sun is strong and, thanks to the low U-value of IGUs created using Planitherm One, ensuring more heat is retained inside the home in winter.”

To find out more about the different types of integral blinds available in the Uni-Blinds range and the benefits of combining them with Planitherm One glass, visit www.morleyglass.co.uk

Go Luxe for less

Ultraframe is offering a FREE upgrade to the new Luxe LeanTo, an aluminium lean-to with square top caps that delivers a premium, contemporary look.

From 9th December to 30th April 2025, Ultraframe customers can order the Luxe Lean-To in grey or white for the same price as a PVCu lean-to (deliveries commence on 2nd January).

Commenting about the Luxe Lean-To promotion, Ultraframe marketing director, Alex Hewitt, said: “Over recent years leanto’s have become increasingly popular with homeowners wanting a sleek, modern look. Our Luxe Lean-To uses our Glass Roof at its core, but with a number of aluminium components to give it that highly desirable ‘luxe’ look. These include square top-caps, end caps, and the cloaking trim. These sleek aluminium

components combine to give a high-end Grand Designs look for a conservatory roof price, and allow our customers to have complete flexibility to create the modern designs that homeowners now demand.”

The Luxe Lean-To is suitable for mono pitch lean-to’s ranging from 2.5° to 31° and is available with the full structural eaves suite for large spans. For those wanting a roof vent, it is compatible with the slimline aluminium roof vent and new vent-to-ridge option. Externally, the contemporary premium look of the roof can be further enhanced with an optional flat cornice in a choice of 1, 2 or 3-tier designs.

To find out more about the new Luxe Lean-To, click here or contact Ultraframe using marketing@ultraframe.co.uk

Bohle sees a rise in interest of FrameTec

Bohle’s FrameTec 2.0 glass partitioning system has seen a surge of interest in Q4, ahead of the ongoing design trend for bright and open glazing, according to the company.

Designed and built to support fast and cost-efficient installation using a modular design and easyfix system, Bohle’s FrameTec system offers the opportunity to create limitless interiors, providing installers with the opportunity to capitalise on excellent margins in the process, says the company.

“We continue to see the taste for ‘bigger and better’ glazing spans, and FrameTec fulfils this brief”, says Bohle managing director, Dave Broxton. “Whether it’s domestic installations in homes that want to break up open plan living areas without cutting out

light, or commercial installations providing contemporary and creative workplace solutions, everyone wants to maximise light and create seamless partitions that enhance the space of their surroundings.”

Highly engineered for ease of installation, FrameTec 2.0 taps into contemporary design trends for flexible, adaptable spaces.

Available in a powder-coated, matt black (RAL 9005) finish, the dry-glazing system can be configured with either a single door or combined with over-panel and sidelight options.

It also delivers a high degree of sound insulation and is proven to block external sound to 39db in testing, claims the company. In a recent installation by Cambridge-

based Clear Glass, FrameTec 2.0 was used in a domestic installation to create a highly-aesthetic, soundproof barrier between a mezzanine balcony, which led to the master bedroom, and a wellused living area.

“The potential to drive additional demand for partitioning systems, in addition to the design trends that are continuing into 2025, makes the use of systems like FrameTec an invaluable weapon in an installers’ armoury”, says Dave.

“Combined with ease of installation, FrameTec is a great way to build margin and bring cash back into your business.

“We have designed the system so that the retainer profiles only need to be secured with two screws, freeing up installer’s time on site. Precision-engineered corner connectors and glazing beads also bring increased stability and safety to installation – it’s a beautifully aesthetic product that is a breeze to install. What’s not to love?!” www.bohle.com

New payment feature integration for Business Pilot

Business Pilot has partnered with Blink Payment to launch a new payment integration feature.

Ryan Schofield, director at Business Pilot said: “This is an impressive new feature which

adds to the extensive list of benefits that Business Pilot brings to installation companies. The API connects Business Pilot and Blink Payment for seamless payment and finance integration.

“When an invoice is created in Business Pilot, users now have the option to create a unique payment link which can be shared with their customers. The customer can then use the secure link to pay their invoice by bank transfer, credit or debit card, Google Pay or Apple Pay.

“Once the link is paid, it feeds the information back to the Business Pilot system for the payment to be recorded in the invoice area of each contract. For users who already take advantage of our Xero integration, the information can then be automatically sent to the accounting platform for reconciliation.”

As well as improving finance management for installers, the new integration could also help reduce payment delays and improve cashflow. A recent study found that invoices containing payment links are paid on average three times faster than those that don’t and 40% of customers who receive a payment link generally pay within 24 hours – compared to just 5% for traditional payment methods.

Ryan adds: “Finding the right partner for this integration was crucial. We needed a provider who could offer competitive rates, varied payment methods, great customer service and would have a high acceptance rate for home improvement companies. Blink Payment fits the bill perfectly.”

Ben Cohen, CEO, at Blink Payment said: “We know from our partnership with individual installers and fitters how valuable payment links have been in simplifying payment processing, managing finances and stabilising their cash flow. We are delighted to now be able to scale this offering to the wider industry through our integration with Business Pilot.”

To find out more visit: https://bit.ly/4gXEBmz

Nolan UPVC first to take delivery of the new Emmegi Classic E saw

Almost twenty five years to the day after it took delivery of its first Emmegi Classic Linea double mitre saw, Carmarthenshire based Nolan UPVC has just become the first company in the UK to have the newest version of the Emmegi Classic installed – the Classic ‘E’.

As the name suggests, the Classic ‘E’ features some significant electronic upgrades – with a totally new sliding controls interface, a faster, soft touch panel unit, more menu options and upgraded network capability to speed up loading times between the machine and any external programming source. There is also a new ‘closed loop’ electronic measuring system which ensures that the saw always knows its absolute position without the need

for start-up/referencing.

For Nolan UPVC, it’s an upgrade to a machine which has delivered outstanding service since 1999. Jason James, the company’s managing director, said: “Our original Emmegi Classic Linea manual double mitre saw has hardly missed a beat in 25 years. It continues to be a fantastic workhorse in our factory and has delivered exactly the kind of quality and durability which you would associate with the Emmegi brand.

“When it came to choosing a replacement, the Classic ‘E’ was the obvious choice, and we’re delighted with the cutting performance it is delivering for our extensive aluminium range”

Alongside the new control interface which makes it easy for operators to load cutting lists and dxf information, Nolan specified its new Emmegi Classic ‘E’ with an optional digital angle display which lets operators see and set cutting angles to an even higher degree of accuracy. They also added the new profile height gauge which means the saw can measure any discrepancy in the profile thicknesses being cut and automatically compensate for that.

Martin Linnell, Emmegi’s sales manager, commented: “Customers like Nolan appreciate the quality and value that we offer right across our range of single and double head saws. They recognise that the payback on a machine with a useful service life of more than 30 years is phenomenal, and we get lots of repeat business as a result –even if it is many years later!”

Nolan’s new Emmegi Classic ‘E’ was one of the first machines in the UK to be supplied in Emmegi’s distinctive new darker grey livery.

More details at: https://bit.ly/3DQqxMS

A Plus Aluminium supplies products for new build garden room

A Plus Aluminium partners with Admiral Homespace to replace an old conservatory with a light-filled garden room with excellent connectivity.

When it came to replacing an out-dated conservatory with a new build garden room, Mr and Mrs Dee sought the expertise of A Plus Aluminium installer, Admiral Homespace. The couple knew of the home improving and extending company and appointed the Huntingdonbased business to deliver a turnkey solution.

“We knew we wanted a single point of contact for the project as it would be far easier than managing the trades ourselves,” explains Mrs Dee. “Admiral Homespace were recommended to us, and we like

that they are a local company.” Hearing about the design service and seeing the products in the company showroom was a deciding factor.

First choice aluminium

“We saw a big window in the showroom and straight away, knew that this was the window for our new garden room.” This product choice influenced the decision to use aluminium windows and doors throughout the new build.

“Thermal performance is important

to us, so we were conscious of this when reviewing the different windows and doors, but ultimately the selling point was the large aluminium window. We like the clean lines, slim frames and admirable aesthetics.”

The Dee’s had selected the Technal Dualframe 75 SI Casement window. Fabricated by A Plus Aluminium, the casement window delivers superior thermal and weather performance and can achieve an A+ window energy rating. For added peace of mind it is PAS 24 and Secured by Design compliant.

The 88mm sightlines of the casement window maximises the viewing area and let’s in lots of natural light. This was an important consideration when configuring the space.

Daylight and Flexibility

“We didn’t want the new build to negatively impact light levels in existing rooms within the house,

yet we also wanted the room to feel warm, cosy and secure,” continues, Mrs Dee.

“The garden room needed to be a flexible space, one that we can use for a range of purposes depending on how many guests we have in the house. I also regularly use the room for business meetings, so we need to be able to zone it off.”

To achieve this and allow natural light to reach further into the home, Admiral Homespace recommended a combination of windows, external sliding doors and two sets of internal bi-folding doors, all fabricated by A Plus Aluminium.

High performance products

Two Plusfold high performance bi-folding doors with 28mm Clear Tuff Softcoat glass were manufactured in A Plus’s Sandy factory for installation in the property’s original exterior wall. The bi-folds open into the lounge and dining room and can be

pulled back to create a more open plan space.

A Plus’s Plusglide 47 sliding door was chosen to connect the garden room with the outdoors. Measuring over 4.6 metres wide, the aluminium sliding door spans the length of the new build extension and adds real wow factor. This is complemented by a feature gable window above.

The Technal Dualframe 75 SI Casement window initially selected by Mr & Mrs Dee is fabricated and installed to stunning effect. Measuring 2.5 x 1.5 metres it frames the view across the patio to the outdoor dining space beyond.

Light transmittance

The external windows and doors are all fitted with 28mm Clear Tuff Softcoat Low Iron glass which, due to lower iron oxide levels is clearer than standard glass and is more transparent. This allows for excellent light transmission.

The aluminium windows and doors are powder coated for a durable and superior finish in Clay Brown RAL 8003M to match the existing windows.

The space we craved

Commenting on the working relationship with Admiral Homespace, Mrs Dee says: “They [Admiral Homespace] advised us throughout, keeping us informed at every stage of the development, promptly responding to any issues that arose, such as underground complications that we were unaware of, and snagging. This was the real value of having a turnkey solution.”

With the garden room complete, the couple have spent time enjoying the space with friends and family. “We are really pleased with the doors,” continues, Mrs Dee, “…they create the flexible living space we craved. Open, they transform the house into a sociable, welcoming home, and closed, they form a cosy, intimate snug – either way, the temperature remains stable. And the amount of natural light is simply amazing. A room for all seasons, we love spending time in there in full sunshine or on a wet, grey day!”

To find out more about Admiral Homespace please visit www.admiralhomespace.com www.aplusaluminium.co.uk

New Fab Aluminium chooses Jack Aluminium Systems’

JD47 commercial door system for latest project

Aluminium systems manufacturer, Jack Aluminium Systems, has supplied its JD47 Commercial Door System for a recent replacement project, in partnership with New Fab Aluminium.

Located in the Victorian Quarter shopping centre, in the heart of Leeds city centre, Wirral-based supplier, New Fab Aluminium, was tasked with replacing the two main entrance doors with a more

modern automatic sliding door that harmoniously aligns with the exterior of the English heritage building.

Looking for a commercial door system that would be able to withstand high traffic, deliver on needs for superior security and offer versatility in design, New Fab Aluminium’s managing director, Michael Cleary, selected Jack Aluminium Systems’ JD47 as the solution, says the company.

Michael discusses the unique values of the JD47 system, saying: “The JD47 system offers a straightforward, fuss-free fabrication and installation. Plus, with the variety in design, we were able to supply the doors in a bronze anodised colour –helping us blend the new doors with the existing aesthetics of the surrounding building. It is the all-round functionality of the JD47 system that aided in our ability to complete the installation in just seven days, helping reduce disruption within what is a very high footfall area.”

“Aside from the product, the support we had from the entire team was second to none. As soon as I spoke to Ash about the project, he couldn’t have been more helpful, and the customer

service team were a fantastic support throughout the entire process,” adds Michael.

Ash Pearson, Jack Aluminium systems’ sales manager, reflects on working with the New Fab Aluminium team, saying: “It’s fantastic to see our JD47 system in the Victorian Quarter, and we were more than happy to be a part of helping the New Fab Aluminium team get this over the line so quickly.

“Our JD47 system continues to be one of our most popular ranges at Jack Aluminium Systems, and it’s no surprise. We have designed the system with the fabricator in mind, so ease of fabrication is a given with JD47.”

www.jackaluminium.co.uk

Fentrade shows installer-focused commitment in commercial refurb project

Trade fabricator Fentrade showcased its expertise and ability to work to tight timescales in a recent commercial refurbishment project at Treorchy Comprehensive School in Treorchy, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Wales.

The project involved replacing the windows and doors in and around the school’s dining hall, all to a tight schedule. Chris Reeks, Fentrade’s managing director, said: “Our customer was awarded the installation contract in July. The work had to be completed by the end of August during the school holidays when there would be no students on site and disruption could be minimised.”

Alongside the tight schedule there were also several complex requirements to manage. These included thermally broken profiles in RAL7015 on white on all windows and doors, fold-over openers to all casement windows, and a mixture of electric door strikes and panic bar operation functionality on all doors. Also required was an AluK Optio BSC94 monorail Sliding Door

featuring internal handles only, that would be reimagined into a canteen serving hatch to enable staff to serve students outside.

Chris noted: “The AluK BSC94 was a great choice for this project. It’s designed for effortless operation so is perfect for busy school canteens.”

The expertise and project management skills of the Fentrade team successfully met the challenge of a complex project with an exacting deadline. All project elements were fabricated to schedule ensuring the customer could complete the installation on time.

Chris commented: “The finished results show the quality of the fabrication and the installation. The school is delighted with the project, as are we.”

The project is one of several commercial school refurbishments Fentrade has worked on this year, with more in the pipeline. educational community centres.”

www.fentradealuminium.co.uk

Oxford period property updated with Residence 7 windows

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

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

The selection of Residence 7 windows was driven by both aesthetic and efficiency

considerations within the R7 window system. With a flush external and internal profile, these windows offer maintenance-free finishes and a variety of styles, meaning versatility without complication.

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

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

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

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

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

https://bit.ly/3rcjYyb

Ventrolla revitalises heritage windows for Bournville Village Trust

Ventrolla, a market leader in heritage restoration and renovation of timber sash and casement windows, has successfully completed a landmark project with the Bournville Village Trust in Birmingham, helping to preserve the charm and functionality of the iconic estate’s heritage sash windows.

Bournville Village Trust, which was established in 1900

by philanthropist George Cadbury and is celebrated for its architectural and cultural significance, approached Ventrolla to restore the windows of 100 historic properties. The scope included an initial technical survey of the windows, assessing issues such as decay, drafts and general wear and tear, upgrading the windows to meet modern thermal standards and implementing rigorous quality control measures.

Ventrolla’s specialists restored timber windows in over 100 properties, significantly improving the energy efficiencies while respecting the estate’s conservation requirements. Each window was meticulously assessed. The project underscores Ventrolla’s expertise in balancing conservation and preservation of period aesthetics with modern performance improvements, demonstrating the company’s commitment to protecting the UK’s architectural legacy.

Daniel Price, survey project manager at Bournville Village Trust, said: “At Bournville Village Trust, we are committed to preserving the character and integrity of our properties while ensuring modern standards of comfort and efficiency. That’s why we chose to partner with Ventrolla for our bespoke, conservation timber windows. Ventrolla’s dedication to exceptional design, craftsmanship, and joinery aligns perfectly with our values.

“Their skilled craftsmen have helped enhance the energy efficiency and overall durability of the properties, whilst also enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the homes. Together with Ventrolla, we are preserving the charm of our properties while providing the highest quality of living for our residents, blending tradition with innovation seamlessly.”

Mark Flanagan, managing director of Ventrolla, added: “Our collaboration with Bournville Village Trust really showcases our dedication to excellence in timber window restoration and renovation. The project exceeded all expectations and led to us discussing future works on additional properties within the BVT estate.”

www.ventrolla.co.uk

Spectus and PatioMaster from Epwin Window Systems

selected for eco-friendly housing development

Spectus and PatioMaster from Epwin Window Systems have been used in a new ecofriendly development called Neighbourhood in Salford. The development was a mix of two, three and four-bedroom homes and one and two-bedroom apartments built on two brownfield sites.

Sustainability was front and centre of the development. As part of this focus, the choice of windows and doors was vital to maximise thermal efficiency. Spectus windows and doors and PatioMaster sliding doors from Epwin Window Systems were

specified thanks to their robust environmental credentials.

Spectus windows can achieve U-values as low as 0.8W/(m2K). They have a 3mm wall thickness and feature a five-chamber insulating system and effective seals and draught-proofing, according to Epwin window systems.

The company also says PatioMaster doors can achieve A+ Door Set Energy ratings, with a multi-chambered construction that provides an effective thermal barrier and seals that protect against draughts.

In addition, Epwin Window Systems brought added environmental reassurance. Epwin Window systems says it was the first UK systems house to achieve the VinylPlus Product Label, and also adopts a cradle-to-cradle approach to material use. The company says PVC-U window and door frames, once they reach the end of their lifecycle, are recycled to recover their PVC-U content. This reclaimed material is then seamlessly reintegrated into the production of extruded building products manufactured across the Epwin Group.

The fabricator selected for the contract was Leeds-based Jade Windows, a highly experienced window contractor with the credentials and track record a development of this scale demanded.

Ryan Fozard, sales manager at Jade Windows said: “When developers and specifiers have a sustainability focus on a project, Spectus and Patiomaster are the perfect choice. The products have been installed in millions of homes, so they’re a tried and tested choice. At the same time, they’re capable of meeting the most demanding of modern-day specifications.”

In total, Jade Windows manufactured 382 Spectus flush casement and flush tilt and turn windows, 132 Spectus single doors and 50 PatioMaster doors. All were manufactured in anthracite grey on white for a contemporary aesthetic. Spring restrictors were fitted to enhance safety and security.

www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

Kolorseal creates ivory cream dream home

Colour coating windows, doors and roofline can be a technical advantage for fabricators and installers, as homeowners may need help deciding what works with different bricks and rendering. This was the case with one Kolorsealed project where the homeowners wanted to ensure that all window frames, roofline and rainwater products complemented the exterior of the property to suit their taste.

Deborah Hendry, managing director comments: “Although red bricks may seem a standard across the UK when it comes to architectural design, they come in many varying shades and sizes.

“Making a property unique could be a challenge in this regard, but if the right tonal colours are used then experimenting with the right shade can really make a home stand out in such a beautiful way.”

For this house, the owner opted for RAL 1015 ivory cream

throughout. All soffits, fascias and rainwater products integrated seamlessly into the overall finish giving a chic appearance on the end result.

As the Kolorseal range has been specifically developed for the building industry, the experience and advice available to customers regarding colour matching is ‘second to none’.

A softer cream or taupe shade can make a home look very distinctive alongside red brickwork, particularly if it is a softer tone. On this project, the homeowner felt white windows would be too sharply defined.

Kolorseal says with the ability to colour coat products in any RAL or BS colour as well as matching alternative colour charts such as Farrow & Ball or the bespoke Kolorseal range, the company can achieve virtually any colour required.

www.kolorseal.co.uk

Telesales

– the tried and tested approach

to sales that yields results

Alex Tremlett, Insight Data’s commercial director, describes how telesales is still a vital force for generating leads and converting sales, despite all the advances in tech…

It seems that with every month that passes, the power of technology more than doubles. And with the rapid rise of AI, we are seeing changes that just a few short years no-one might have reasonably predicted. Robots, we are told, will soon take over the world. And who are we to doubt it?

Yet amid all the tech speculation,

there is one business constant that keeps generating leads and converting effective business sales, not least in the fenestration industry – telesales. Here at Insight Data, we understand that successful telesales campaigns require more than just making calls. Our comprehensive service manages campaigns from inception to completion, including

developing effective scripts, training operatives in company products and values, and providing detailed campaign reporting.

Why does telesales still count?

Jeff Bezos may disagree, but it’s the case that people still prefer to buy from people, particularly in industries where products and services often represent significant investments. Telesales bridges the gap between initial contact and face-to-face meetings, creating valuable opportunities for businesses to showcase their offerings directly to decisionmakers.

The cost-effectiveness of telesales cannot be understated. Face-to-face is still the gold standard for closing deals, but using telesales to qualify leads ensures sales teams focus their time and resources on the most

promising prospects. This targeted approach reduces wasted journeys and increases the likelihood of successful outcomes.

One of the most powerful aspects of telesales is the immediate feedback it provides. It opens direct conversations with potential customers, offering instant insights into their needs, concerns and buying intentions. This real-time information allows companies to adapt their approach swiftly and effectively.

Maximising

your marketing investment

Professional telesales campaigns deliver measurable results that can be tracked and analysed to optimise performance. Modern technology enables detailed reporting on call outcomes, conversion rates and return on investment, providing valuable

data to refine marketing strategies.

The ability to build a strong pipeline of potential customers is another crucial benefit of telesales. Through consistent outreach and follow-up, businesses can develop a steady stream of qualified leads, ensuring a healthy sales forecast and sustainable growth.

Experienced telesales professionals excel at tailoring their approach to each prospect. They understand the nuances of their sectors and can adjust their pitch to address specific customer needs, creating more meaningful connections that lead to better outcomes.

The Insight Data approach

Our experienced team typically handles between 80 and 120 calls daily, depending on script complexity. We create multiple lead touch points, from setting appointments and providing quotes to gathering valuable market intelligence and sending additional information to interested parties.

Flexibility is key to our service offering. Whether clients need a single day of appointment setting or a long-term campaign spanning months or years, we tailor our approach to meet specific business objectives. This scalability allows companies to test the waters before committing to more extensive campaigns.

The human touch in a digital age

While digital marketing and AI continue to evolve, the fundamental truth remains: in the fenestration sector, personal relationships drive business success. Telesales provides the crucial first step in building these relationships, opening doors to face-to-face meetings where products and services can be

demonstrated effectively.

The combination of traditional telesales expertise with modern technology and reporting capabilities creates a powerful marketing tool that delivers consistent results. As we progress through 2025, businesses that recognise and harness the enduring power of telesales will maintain a significant competitive advantage.

The key to success lies in working with experienced professionals who understand the industry, can represent your brand effectively and know how to connect with decision-makers. When executed properly, telesales remains one of the most reliable methods for generating quality leads and driving business growth.

Quality assurance and continuous improvement

At Insight Data, we maintain rigorous quality control measures throughout our telesales campaigns. Regular call monitoring, performance reviews and team training sessions ensure our operatives maintain the highest standards of professionalism and effectiveness. We also implement a continuous improvement process, analysing call outcomes and customer feedback to refine our approaches and scripts. This commitment to excellence has helped us maintain an impressive success rate across various campaign types. Our clients benefit from this systematic approach, seeing consistently strong results that justify their marketing investment.

For businesses looking to enhance their marketing strategy, telesales offers a proven, costeffective solution that combines the best of personal interaction with modern efficiency and measurable results. For more information, contact Insight Data at www.insightdata.co.uk, or give us a call on 01934 808293.

Home improvement influencer event creates 350%

increase in website traffic

Marketing agency Purplex Marketing has delivered a highly successful influencer marketing campaign for external shading specialists, Caribbean Blinds, resulting in a 350% increase in website traffic.

The event, which was hosted at the prestigious Ridgeview Wine Estate in the South Downs, was part of a digital marketing strategy designed to increase brand awareness, reach a wider target audience and boost sales.

For the event, Purplex brought together carefully selected home improvement influencers to showcase the benefits of Caribbean Blinds’ luxury louvered roof pergolas.

During the day-long experience, there were multiple content creation opportunities for the attending influencers who were given comprehensive product demonstrations and were treated to an alfresco dining experience under the Caribbean Blinds’

The campaign not only reached over 137,000 people on Instagram but also delivered exceptional results including a 1739% month-onmonth increase in Instagram engagement and an impressive boost in Instagram followers.

Stuart Dantzic, MD of Caribbean Blinds, said: “Purplex was responsible for organising everything from the concept of the event to the execution and it was seamless – I just had to turn up on the day.

“Purplex is a friendly forwardthinking company. They’ll always listen to your ideas and weave this into their own to create campaigns that suit your

Deluxe Outdoor Living Pod.

brand, meet your requirements and deliver results. They’re a fantastic team to work with!”

Andrew Scott, MD and founder of Purplex Marketing, said: “This campaign is a great example of how influencer marketing can be used to achieve great results for companies operating within the home improvement sector.

“By carefully selecting the most relevant influencers, whose followers aligned with Caribbean Blinds’ target market, and creating an engaging experience, we were able to drive high levels of traffic to the website and significantly increase social media engagement.”

www.purplexmarketing.com

Genius PVC Trade Frames unveils new website to showcase expanded product range

Norwich-based fabricator Genius PVC Trade Frames has launched a new website, reflecting the company’s growth and expanded product offerings. The revamped site provides a comprehensive showcase of Genius’ full range, including its established Kömmerling products and newly added Deceuninck systems.

Peter Dyson, co-founder of Genius, commented: “In just five years, we’ve gone from start-up to serious contender in the trade fabrication market. This new website reflects our ambition to be a major player in the industry. We’re young, we’re ambitious, and we’re not afraid to challenge the status quo. Our goal is to become the go-to fabricator for quality, service, and innovation in trade fenestration, and this website is a

key part of that strategy.”

The new website features detailed product pages for their PVC-U windows and doors, improved navigation for easier access to information, and technical downloads from key suppliers. The site’s design focuses on providing visitors with a userfriendly experience, ensuring that essential product information and specifications are readily available.

Peter added: “We’ve designed the new site with our diverse customer base in mind. Whether you’re a retail installer, commercial contractor, or trade counter, you’ll find the information you need quickly and easily.”

www.geniuspvc.com

Winners announced at the G24 Awards

The G24 Awards celebrated excellence in the UK glass and glazing industry on Friday night, 29 November at a prestigious black-tie gala at the London Hilton on Park Lane. Hosted by the talented comedian and presenter Zoe Lyons, this event shone a spotlight on the finest achievements within the sector.

With fourteen competitive categories showcasing remarkable talent, the enthusiastic audience were part of the 20th G Awards – here are the list of worthy winners for 2024:

Winners List at G24 Awards

Training & Development Initiative of the Year: Sternfenster

Promotional Campaign of the Year: VEKA plc

Unsung Hero Award: Paul Hamilton, BM Group

Customer Care Initiative of the Year: Evander Glazing & Locks

Component Supplier of the Year: Thermoseal Group

Rising Star Award: Anthony Leach, AluK GB

Commercial Project of the Year: Escapade Silverstone

– AluK GB and Arkay Contractors

Sustainability Initiative of the Year: Saint-Gobain Glass

Machinery Supplier Award: Forel UK & Ireland

New Product of the Year: Pilkington Mirai™

Best Business Initiative of the Year: Emplas

Installer of the Year: Clearview Home Improvements

Glass Company of the Year: Tough Glaze UK

Fabricator of the Year: Warwick North West

In addition FENSA presented the FENSA Installation Award 2024 to Concept Glazing.

Tony Higgin, the event organiser said: “What an incredible evening it was at the London Hilton on Park Lane! Heartfelt congratulations to this year’s distinguished winners of the G24 Awards. The entries we received showcased an exceptional standard, both in creativity and execution, truly highlighting the remarkable innovation and professionalism that these individuals and teams bring to our industry.

“The atmosphere inside the hotel was electric, with the venue buzzing as we welcomed a full house of industry colleagues and esteemed guests. It was an unforgettable celebration of talent and dedication!”

Industry colleagues and guests enjoyed a champagne reception sponsored by Emplas and Thermoseal Group. Category Sponsors for the event included: BM Group, Deceuninck, Epwin Window Systems, FENSA, GGF, Saint-Gobain Glass and Veka.

Thanks must go to Emplas for sponsoring the table centres, MiGlass as the trophy supplier, Forel for sponsoring the winners’ interviews, VBH (GB) for sponsoring the 360° photobooth, Reynaers Aluminium as the menu sponsor and FIT Show for the table gifts. The guests enjoyed after show entertainment until the early hours.

The awards enjoy the support industry associations and media including FENSA, GGF, The Glazine, Glass Times and Windows Active. The organisers were keen to thank all the judges who make the event possible including:

• Brian Shillibeer, Editorial Director – ProFinder Magazines

• Bruce Turner, Technical Officer – Glass and Glazing Federation

• Chris Beedel, Head of Government Advocacy and Stakeholder Relations – Glass and Glazing Federation

• Dan Brown, Strategic Relationship Manager – GQA Qualifications

• Danelle Vanstone, Head of Communications –Certass Certification

• Jon Vanstone, Chair – Certass Trade Association

• Lauren Mawford, Head of Operations – Glass and Glazing Federation

• Lee Galley, Technical Manager – RISA

• Luke Wood, Editor – Glass Times

• Mick Clayton, Chief Executive Officer – GQA Qualifications

• Paul Howard, Product Innovation Lead – Research and Innovation Division – BRE

• Rod Appleyard, Principal – Verification Associates Sara Mikunda, Co-Founder – Liaison Communications

• Sioned Yates, Owner & Director – Access Marketing Ltd

www.g-awards.com

Gowercroft Joinery celebrates double triumph at the BWF Awards

Andrew Madge, managing director of Gowercroft Joinery and Lilli-Mae Broadhurst BWF Apprentice of the Year 2024 celebrate their awards.

Timber windows and doors

manufacturer Gowercroft Joinery has scooped two wins in the 2024 British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Awards, which celebrate the brightest and best in the UK woodworking and joinery manufacturing industry.

Wins in the Sustainability and Apprentice of the Year categories have highlighted the company’s commitment to environmental excellence and its dedication to nurturing young talent.

The newly introduced Sustainability Award recognised

Gowercroft’s achievements in minimising its carbon footprint through innovative new product development and energy-efficient manufacturing processes.

The company collaborated with the University of Derby’s ERDF Low Carbon Programme to conduct a comprehensive data analysis of each product’s ‘Cradle to Grave’ Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). This information enabled the company to make targeted improvements from procurement, manufacture, and maintenance to in-use benefits/costs and end-of-life disposal. The

company’s Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) summarise its impressive environmental performance.

Joe Grimley, Gowercroft sales director, said, “Winning the Sustainability Award is a significant milestone and recognition of our hard work to demonstrate genuine environmental performance. We have developed a range of innovative and independently verified sustainable products that have enabled us to secure significant business contracts.”

The Apprentice of the Year prize went to Lilli-Mae Broadhurst, who joined Gowercroft as a sales administration apprentice in February 2023 and rapidly rose to partnerships manager, where her dedication, professionalism, and initiative in supporting a national network of dealers have earned the respect of colleagues, dealers, and industry professionals.

Managing director of Gowercroft Joinery, Andrew Madge, said, “These awards highlight our commitment to transparent environmental stewardship and the training and development of the next generation of talented individuals like Lilli-Mae. We couldn’t be prouder of what our team has achieved together.”

As members of the 5% Club, the company has 11% of our workforce in active training. www.gowercroft.co.uk

Allan Brothers completes a hat trick of awards

Timber window and door manufacturer Allan Brothers is ending 2024 on a high note, having completed a hat trick of wins in regional business awards in the North East of England.

The company recently won the Employer of the Year category of the prestigious 2024 Best of

Northumberland Awards, which recognises companies that have shown commitment to the development and welfare of their employees and creating a fulfilling work environment with good staff relations, retention and training opportunities.

This followed a win in the

Roseview wins Best Sash Window award

Roseview Windows Ultimate Rose has won the Best Sash Window at the 2024 BuildIt Awards. The prestigious national award was presented at the annual gala dinner on Friday 8th November at Hilton Bankside in London, where Keane Grantham, marketing manager, and Emma Hodges, sales & customer care executive, attended and collected the award on behalf of Roseview.

Ultimate Rose was recognised for its exceptional authenticity in the sash window market. The judges praised Roseview’s

ongoing commitment to innovation and traditional British heritage, highlighting how the Ultimate Rose blends classic design with marketleading energy, acoustic and security performance.

Northumberland & Tyneside regional heat of the 2024 North East Business Awards in the ‘Made in the North East’ category, which recognises excellence in manufacturing and production and how it contributes to the broader economy.

Earlier this year, Allan Brother’s apprentice Rafal Krzeminski also won the ‘Engineering/ Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year’ category of the 2024 North East Apprenticeship Awards, which celebrates the achievements of some of the region’s most talented apprentices and the employers, colleges, and training providers who provide those opportunities.

“This has been a very positive year for us,” said Morten Bach Valsted, managing director of Allan Brothers. “We are delighted to have been recognised in these awards as we continue to invest in our workforce, upgrade our product range and make significant improvements to our manufacturing capabilities as a sound basis for the current and future growth of the company.”

www.allanbrothers.co.uk

Richard Burrells, managing director of Roseview Windows, comments: “We are incredibly proud to receive this award. It is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our team, who have perfected Ultimate Rose as the ideal solution for traditional, heritage and conservation projects. This product not only exceeds expectations but also helps installers stand out in a competitive market.”

The BuildIt Award win reinforces Roseview’s position as an industry leader, setting the standard in manufacturing high-quality, authentic sash windows. It also underpins the company’s commitment to offering a complete range of sash windows that cater to all project types and budget requirements. www.roseview.co.uk

L to R: Steven Harrison CEO of Advance Northumberland; Carol Bruce, commercial sales office manager at Allan Brothers; Morten Bach Valsted, managing director of Allan Brothers; Tim Robinson, publishing director of National World (host).

Saint-Gobain Glass wins Design of the Year award

Saint-Gobain Glass has won the coveted Design of the Year Award for its Eden – New Bailey project at this year’s Glass Focus awards.

The awards took place in London on Friday 22nd November, and The Design of the Year Award –Flat (supported by the Glass and Glazing Federation) recognises an amazing feat of flat glass design.

The Eden – New Bailey project is a pioneering 12-storey, 115,000 sq ft office development, where sustainability and net zero carbon principles were prioritised, meeting the rigorous standards set by the UK Green Building Council for operational carbon neutrality.

The Saint-Gobain Glass CoolLite Xtreme product range was used in the project. The solar control glass features a high light transmission value, maximising daylight while reducing cooling loads and potential reliance on air conditioning. With an impressive centre pane U-value of 1.0W/ m2K, it provides excellent thermal insulation, promoting energy savings.

Given the building’s Manchester city centre location, noise reduction was a critical consideration. The Cool-Lite Xtreme range, when paired with Stadip Silence, significantly reduces noise, creating a quieter and more comfortable indoor environment.

Mike Butterick, marketing director at Saint-Gobain Glass, said: “We are delighted to have won the Design of the Year – Flat glass award for the Eden New Bailey project. The project demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility and occupant wellbeing and ensures a futureproof workspace that resonates with the sustainability values of tomorrow. It was wonderful to be involved with, and that its objectives have been recognised categories.

www.saint-gobain-glass.co.uk

FE students give ISO Chemie training seal of approval

ISO Chemie has linked up with an FE college in a new initiative to help current students understand foam sealant tape technology and the need to better seal doors and windows.

Experts from the foam sealants specialist provided a group of masters’ students on courses at Abingdon & Witney FE College’s Construction Skills Academy, with an overview of foam sealant tapes. They also explained why it’s important to ensure windows are properly and effectively sealed to prevent energy loss and protect property against the elements.

The move, an extension of ISO Chemie’s skills development and learning programme, saw UK sales and operations director Andy Swift, cover the benefits of using the latest foam sealant tapes and how to install them with a Q&A at the end of the session.

According to the company, doors and windows account for almost a quarter (21%) of the total air loss of the average house, and adding the joints between walls, floors and ceilings brings the figure up to 50%. Andy Swift explained that while airflow is desirable, you can eliminate 50% of heat loss while still retaining some natural air flow.

Statistics reveal that in most residential properties, heat losses are overwhelmingly replaced by artificial heating rather than through solar energy or internal warmth. This means that reducing heat losses in the home is paramount in the battle to lower energy consumption.

The initiative reflects the company’s wider moves to help young people in the UK looking to pursue a career in construction, building design and architecture related sectors, understand the types of products available and how to specify them.

Following the success of the first event, further events at other technical colleges could be on the cards in the next 12 months to support UK construction and building training syllabuses.

Andy Swift said: “We had a good number attend as the initiative was scheduled into the students’ timetable. Developing links with academic facilities is important in securing the company’s current

and future workforce needs and helping those taking up specification and design roles to understand better what’s involved in protecting properties against the elements and energy loss.

“It also helps us to tap into the fresh insight and academic prowess that students bring as part of our commitment to supporting skills development and learning. We have a strategy to grow and increasing our engineering capabilities through nurturing strong academic links, is a beneficial part of our plans.”

One of the students said: “The session was extremely useful, providing a thorough understanding and insight into important window installation processes, the products and how they can improve efficiencies. This helps us to boost our own core skills and development, which we can then take forward in any future job.”

www.iso-chemie.eu/en-GB/home/

Window Supply Company partners with West Lothian Council’s Skills Training Programme

West Lothian based window and door manufacturers Window Supply Company (WSC) is working in partnership with West Lothian Council’s Skills Training Programme to support 16–24-yearolds move into employment or further education.

The Skills Training Programme is a paid training experience open to 16- to 24-year-old young people in West Lothian. The Programme consists of up to 26 weeks blended learning within West Lothian Council’s training centre in Livingston with practical experience with local employers such as Window Supply Company in Whitburn.

The Skills Training Programme provides an excellent opportunity for young people to develop additional work skills and experience to support career progression. Equipping them with the necessary skills and hands on experience to achieve their goals and meet their maximum potential.

Following a factory tour and introduction to the business four young people have selected Window Supply Company as their chosen work placement. Currently working in the production

department, they are gaining valuable practical experience and developing transferrable skills to help them transition to a full-time job or further education.

Lynne Wishart, programme officer, Skills Training Programme says: ‘We are so pleased to have the opportunity to form a partnership with the team at Window Supply Company. The four young people who are currently attending Window Supply Company as part of their work placement are all really enjoying the experience and talk about the skills they are gaining very positively. They also feel that they are being treated as part of the team which is great to hear’.

Martin Linden, chief operating officer at Window Supply Company says: ‘We are delighted to support the Skills Development Programme which is a fantastic initiative to develop West Lothian’s young workforce. We hope that those who are taking part in the programme find their time at Window Supply Company not only an enjoyable and inclusive experience, but one that will enhance their skillset and equip them for the future.’

windowsupplycompany.co.uk

Christmas generosity from Quickslide

Quickslide’s Christmas festivities ended with a generous bang when the sum of £4765.75 was raised for GM Fundraising to bring joy and support the children and families of the Hope House

Children’s Hospices as they navigate difficult times.

The company’s annual Christmas party hosted some 120 people – staff, suppliers, friends and

Access 360, ERA and Zoo

Raise More Than £6,000 for Movember

Employees at home security, hardware and fenestration component providers, Access 360, ERA and Zoo Hardware have raised more than £6,000 for men’s health through Movember activity.

Members of Access 360,ERA and Zoo Hardware teams showed their support for the annual fundraising drive by either growing a moustache or walking or running more than 60km across November.

More than £3,500 in individual donations were backed up by a £2,500 boost from ERA Home Security, taking the total to just over £6,000.

A total of 766 kilometres were covered across the month, while many grew out beards,

carrying out individual events such as bake sales.

The team’s biggest fundraiser was warehouse operator, Jason Worwood, who raised £410, while warehouse manager, Mike Rathbone covered the largest distance at 179km.

Since 2003, Movember has funded more than 1,250 men’s

family – who dug deep in their pockets for the raffle while being entertained by the world’s fastest hypnotist Chriss Caress – no underhand coercion there of course!

At the end of the evening, no one went home empty handed, with raffle prizes including everything from London West End tickets to pepper grinders and screwdrivers!

A representative from Quickslide said: “We want to take this opportunity to thank our suppliers for the amazing generosity in donating some of the prizes, and to recognise the hard work and commitment of the Quickslide team. Planning for 2025’s party will commence in January!”

Click here to watch the video https://bit.ly/3PIXmhC

health projects around the world, boosting men’s health research and transforming the way health services reach and support men. The campaign has funded groundbreaking projects all over the world, while engaging with men to understand what works best for them to accelerate change.

Stacey Edwards, HR director, said: “We’re incredibly proud of our team and the collective effort to support Movember this year. They’ve raised a fantastic total and put in a huge effort to raise funds and back the cause.

“It’s also contributed to a really positive atmosphere around the workplace, with everyone encouraging each other and doing what Movember is supposed to; raise awareness and open up conversations on men’s health.

“As an organisation, we think it’s crucial to play our part in supporting our employees’ charitable work, so we’re delighted to make a contribution as recognition of their efforts.”

Eliminates glazing slip, resulting in fewer call backs

Driving progress in door hardware

We have been driving progress since 1996. Our award-winning fire door and security hardware – combined with our continual innovation – ensure that our customers are always one step ahead.

Fire Security Innovation

safety regulations with our unrivalled expertise, industryleading training, and top-tier

Secure the places that matter most with hardware at the forefront of door and window security.

Explore what’s next in door hardware with our gamechanging products that are driving progress.