Window News Magazine March 2024

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Cover picture: UAP Expands Into New 120,000ft² HQ read more on page 12

Hup! Announces laura jane clark

as new brand ambassador

Ultraframe has announced that leading architect and interior designer, Laura Jane Clark from BBC’s Your Home Made Perfect, is the new Brand Ambassador for its hup! building system.

Laura, who has also appeared on Channel 4’s Amazing Spaces and Ugly House to Lovely House, is renowned for helping homeowners to reconfigure and extend their homes to create amazing yet highly functional living spaces.

Commenting about her partnership with hup!, Laura said: “For homeowners, hup! is completely game changing. People often ask how they can add an extension or rebuild their unusable conservatory in the most efficient way possible – hup! is definitely the answer. I’ve been totally blown away by the engineering behind the whole thing. Not only is it just a brilliant system, the great thing about it is it’s so quick.

“Basework is usually the biggest minefield and the biggest headache for homeowners, so having something where you can use the existing base, and don’t need to start digging down and just build, getting watertight in two or three days, it’s an absolute game changer. The quality and level of detail is extremely impressive – from the engineering of the panels which make it extremely quick to build and energy efficient, through to how easy it is to add the finishing touches, which offer homeowners complete design flexibility. There is nothing that hasn’t been considered, and it takes away so many of the headaches associated with a traditional extension.

“hup! will make getting sustainable, energy efficient, hassle free and beautiful home extensions so much more accessible for homeowners – plus they can be built so much faster than traditional

building techniques. What’s not to love?”

Since its launch in 2022, the hup! system has been used to build extensions and conservatory transformations across the UK with homeowners and installers alike raving about its speed, energy efficiency and flexibility. Claimed to be five times faster to build than bricks and mortar and five times more energy efficient than the average UK home, it has also been announced recently that hup! is 60% more carbon efficient than a brick wall – meaning it is the sustainable way to build.

Commenting about the new partnership, Ultraframe marketing director, Alex Hewitt, said: “We’re extremely excited to announce Laura Jane Clark as our new hup! Brand Ambassador. Laura is all about helping people transform their homes and she was blown away by the possibilities and benefits of the hup! system after spending time with us at our hup! manufacturing facility. We want to transform the way people extend their homes and upgrade their old conservatories, and we believe hup! is already triggering a revolution in that direction.

“We love the fact that Laura talks so much about the importance of light as our history has always been about bringing light into people’s homes and this is a key feature of hup!. Laura will be the face of our new consumer-facing PR campaign to drive awareness and leads for hup! and we are also keen to develop a range of hup! designs with Laura’s input, bringing her incredible experience to the hup! range. We’re looking forward to working closely together with Laura, to help people across the UK create their dream home.”

The news about hup! being 60% more carbon efficient than a brick wall was recently announced on the brand new website for the system, www. hup-home.co.uk. The website allows homeowners to explore hup! technology in more detail and get inspiration for their own projects. An interactive configurator allows visitors to the site to design their own hup!, demonstrating the incredible flexibility of the system and inspiring them as to how they could transform their home with hup!. The website also features stunning hup! photography and homeowner case studies in both written and video formats so that potential hup! homeowners can hear first-hand how simple the process of adding a hup! to their home is. Ultraframe says the website will continue to be updated with new case studies and photography and is a ‘fantastic’ resource for hup! installers when they are speaking to homeowners about their hup! project.

Ultraframe will be investing in lead generation activity on the new hup! website to generate homeowner leads for hup! installers to coincide with the Laura Jane Clark PR campaign across 2024. Installers can register their interest in receiving hup! leads in their area by emailing marketing@hup-home.co.uk

Insight Data Expose

Glazing Industry Insolvencies

In a bold response to the unprecedented challenges faced by the glazing and wider construction industry throughout 2023, Insight Data has announced the launch of a revolutionary new offering – monthly insolvency reports. Leveraging their cuttingedge market intelligence, these reports are strategically designed to keep companies informed of industry dynamics. In turn, businesses are supported in both navigating challenges and identifying new opportunities for growth.

The events of 2023 underscored the need for real-time insights to help businesses stay ahead in an ever-evolving landscape. Insight Data’s monthly insolvency reports provide a comprehensive overview of market trends, potential pitfalls, and emerging areas of opportunity within the fenestration and building products sectors, says the company.

At the heart of this initiative is Salestracker, Insight Data’s live business intelligence software, arming customers with the tools

needed to push back against concerning industry trends. The monthly insolvency reports will contribute towards their expansive catalogue of free resources, including the annual State of The Industry report, whitepapers, and seminars.

By delivering timely and actionable information, Insight Data helps companies to proactively address challenges, fortify operations, and identify avenues for sustainable business growth. According to Insight Data, these insolvency reports will serve as a strategic resource for decision-makers, allowing them to stay ahead of industry shifts and make informed choices that will shape the future success of their businesses.

As businesses strive to adapt to the evolving landscape, Insight Data say these reports serve as an indispensable tool for staying well-informed and primed for success.

For insolvency report inquiries or further information, please contact 01934 808293 or email hello@insightdata.co.uk

FDM Opens UK’s First Practical Fire Door Training Centrer

The UK’s first practical training centre for the fire door industry opened on 8th February 2024 in Bury, Greater Manchester.

Purpose built, the 3,000ft² Training Academy has been launched

by Fire Door Maintenance (FDM) to raise safety standards across the industry. Comprising different types of fire doors and components from a range of manufacturers, the facility will provide a dedicated space for

hands-on training plus classrooms for theory-based learning.

Accredited by GQA Qualifications, an awarding body for specialist and occupational roles, the Academy will offer a variety of courses. The first to launch will be a fire door inspector course, followed by a course centred on fire door maintenance, and another focusing on fire door installation. After completion, participants will receive a GQA skills card.

As well as ensuring compliance with the latest fire safety regulation, the accredited training will respond to the Hackitt report’s recommendations following the Grenfell Tower fire. The inquiry into the tragedy revealed fire doors didn’t perform as expected. Out of the 120 doors in the building, 106 had been replaced and comprised different hardware from the tested door.

The Mayor of Bury, Cllr Walmsley, cut the ribbon to officially open FDM’s Training Academy. Cllr Walmsley was joined by Bury Council Leader, Cllr Eamonn O’Brien; Nicola John, MD of FDM; and David Jennings, CEO of UAP.

The Training Academy features different types of doors for practical training and assessment. Manufactured by a range of suppliers, the doors are constructed along 2 corridors reflecting a multi-occupied building.

A variety of fire safety awareness courses will also be on offer for anyone wishing to learn more about the latest legislation and how to raise safety standards such as merchants, architects, facilities managers, locksmiths and representatives from housing associations, local authorities and the fire rescue service.

Owned by UAP, FDM is led by former business consultant Nicola John who has two decades of experience in the door manufacturing and construction industry.

Commenting on the opening Nicola said: “The Training Academy is the first to offer practical fire door training in the largest centre of its kind. The Hackitt report underlined the importance of the ‘golden thread’ and this is at the centre of our specialist training. Each course will underline how vital it is to source primary test evidence and the risk of changing or substituting components in a fire door.

“Providing access to fire doors and components from a range of manufacturers is a key element of the training. All fire doors

are made slightly differently which means they need to be inspected differently too. Training participants will learn the nuances of each product and how to identify and fix any issues.”

The Training Academy was formally opened by Councillor Sandra Walmsley, Mayor of Bury at a ribbon cutting ceremony. The event was also attended by Bury Council leader, Councillor Eamonn O’Brien.

Dan Brown, strategic relationship manager at GQA Qualifications said: “The launch of FDM’s Training Academy is exceptionally timely, coinciding with a significant phase of introspection within the construction industry. This introspection, fuelled by the demands of the Building Safety Act 2022, aims to enhance overall quality, compliance, and competence following a series of tragic events resulting in devastating loss of life.

“GQA Qualifications is proud to support FDM as it embarks on its mission to deliver rigorous training and qualifications to the industry. These offerings, awarded by GQA, are designed with meticulous

assessment and learning content to address the life-safety risks associated with fire safety doors in buildings.

“The Training Academy serves as a model of accomplishment, showcasing what is possible with the appropriate determination, concentration, and commitment to enhance training in a specific yet vital sector.”

As part of FDM’s offer, the Academy will also be used to provide bespoke training for the company’s own operatives. This workforce is available to housing associations and local authorities seeking to outsource fire door inspections, maintenance and installations.

Before any work begins, details of the manufacturers of the fire doors within a building are sourced. This information is provided to FDM’s operatives at the Training Academy ensuring they know exactly what to look out for during the inspection, including any potential risks.

A total of 400 operatives are available across the UK for this ‘boots on the ground’ service. With extensive experience of the door manufacturing industry, the operatives can also work alongside software providers, complementing their service and providing additional information such as the test evidence, for reporting purposes.

Doors and components in the new Training Academy have been provided by Harlow Timber Group, West Port, Latham’s Steel Doors, Unity Doors, Permadoor, Strongdor, The Sovereign Group, NSG Group, DoorCo, Rutland, Mann McGowan, Lorient, PDS, and Contactless Check Solutions, IG, GGF, Pilkingtons, Nordan, PWIDF and Specialist Door Solutions.

fdmltd.co.uk/training-academy uapcorporate.com

More than 90 guests, including local councillors and representatives from the fire safety, door manufacturing, and hardware industries, attended the official opening of FDM’s Training Academy.

XL-Size Contracts Push Cumbernauld’s Cube Glass Revenues Skywards

In one of its strongest trading advances on record, Scottish glass and aluminium specialist Cube Glass reports it has boosted its revenues by ‘well in excess of £1 million’ as well as developing lucrative new international partnerships.

The Cumbernauld-based tech pioneer has pushed its turnover to a record £4.5 million in the year to October 2023, up from £3.25 million the previous year. It now hopes to consolidate future revenues in the region of this level.

The main driver of the exceptional growth in 2022/23 was a single, unusually large contract for screens for flats and retail units on a massive community benefit programme led by one of Scotland’s foremost social

housing developers.

According to Cube Glass, in its now-accepted role as one of the country’s leading precision manufacturers, Cube Glass is also steadily introducing new and international industryleading products with a view to maintaining its value to the market.

Gary Thorn, founder and managing director of Cube Glass, said: “Last year was probably the most exceptional year for Cube Glass since the company was established 20 years ago, driven by new levels in contract size.

“But, while our main competitors concentrate almost exclusively on commercial deals, we also have a strong pipeline of residential

work and we are building strong relationships with smaller, highend architectural practices which specialise in this field.

“In domestic work, there is a significant move towards slimmer sightlines and doors with bigger panels and more glass – a trend which is being led by the international partners with whom we now regularly interact.”

Cube Glass has had a fruitful relationship with high-end French design and engineering specialist Bel’M, as well as its prestigious existing supplier relationships with industry-recognised specialists such as Senior Architectural Systems, Metal Technology and Schüco.

Thorn said the company was now sitting in a comfortable niche in which it had demonstrated the capacity to take on large contracts but also maintained the ability to undertake smaller and more challenging projects.

He said: “Some larger competitors are essentially running production lines, but we now have so much experience and expertise in the factory, in project management and especially in design that we can contemplate more challenging individual projects.

“The flexibility and experience of the fabrication teams is also quite unique, in that they can turn their hands to anything and are happy to undertake challenging work from which other, larger manufacturers might shy away.”

Thorn said the company’s aim for 2023/24 was to maintain market share, improve quality and spread the word about its capabilities and ambitions. It is also giving back to the community with support for three local football teams as well as sponsorship of Ladies’ Night at Hamilton Park, the Lanarkshire racecourse’s biggest social event of the year.

www.cube-glass.com

Gary Thorn

Sternfenster’s New Green Investment

Sternfenster has just invested a further £400K in photovoltaic panels that will provide more than a fifth of the energy that the Lincoln-based trade fabricator consumes.

The new PV array is estimated to produce 490,000kWh per year, offsetting 115,000kg of carbon in the process.

“This is a major investment for us, and it demonstrates our ongoing commitment to reducing our impact on the environment,” managing director Mike Parczuk said. “These new panels will join the PV array we already have in operation, and together they will produce around one third of all

our electricity needs.

“To put our new investment into context, it is the equivalent of planting 11.5K trees, or driving 852,000 fewer miles per year in your average family saloon.”

Before the new solar panels were installed, Sternfenster measured its current impact on the environment. It found that: 100% of its manufacturing waste is recycled; 100% of postconsumer waste is recycled; 24% of its aluminium used is from recycled aluminium; 20% of our current fleet is electric; and it had made a 7% overall reduction in carbon emissions in 2022.

“The key to a successful sustainability strategy is measurement,” Mike said. “How can you determine how successful your investment in sustainability is if you don’t measure its effectiveness?”

The company then set itself a set of sustainability goals, which included a commitment to: reduce carbon emissions at all stages; completely move to energy efficient lighting and heating; work with sustainable supply partners; increase the use of green energy; increase the use of electric vehicles; promote energy saving products to reduce CO2; and help customers follow a similar sustainable journey.

“We also buy our powder coating material from 100% recycled suppliers,” Mike said. “It’s vital that we don’t just look at the big-ticket flagship sustainability commitments, but everything that

we do. All our decisions affect our impact on the planet, and it is that mentality that is driving our sustainability strategy.”

As a result, Sternfenster was shortlisted for the Sustainability Initiative of the Year category at the G-23 Awards, in recognition of its ongoing comprehensive sustainability strategy, which now influences every part of the business.

“Being sustainable is crucial for the success and longevity of Sternfenster and Starglaze,” Mike said. “By adopting sustainable practices, we can save costs, build a positive brand reputation, comply with regulations, attract and retain employees, and future-proof our operations. And we are determined to take our suppliers and customers with us.”

www.sternfenster.com

DoorCo Expand UK Operations with New Facility in Doncaster

n its latest, and potentially biggest move yet, composite doors supplier DoorCo has unveiled plans to open a new manufacturing factory in Doncaster. Head of operations, Mark Towers, discusses the new facility.

“DoorCo is known for leading the way with innovation, so creating a space where we could manufacture new products right here in the UK felt like a natural next step for us. Our new facility in Doncaster, spanning across 20,000 square feet at present, is a space for us to create,” says Mark.

“Doubling as both a manufacturing factory and R&D space, this new facility allows us to have a UK-based location to produce new products on a full-time basis whilst also testing new concepts and working on bespoke projects.

“One of the most exciting parts of the new DoorCo Manufacturing space is that it will become the home of a new brand which is yet to be released. We’re the proud owners of Original, Gripcore and Flip but we knew there was an obvious opening for the addition of a new product and we’re in

the final stages of bringing this to market now.

“Due to be in full production this Spring, with the entire operation taking place out of Doncaster, we’re excited to add this UKmade brand to our portfolio.”

Discussing the recruitment opportunities that this new facility has provided, Mark explains “One of the greatest parts of opening a new facility in a new location is the ability to be able to provide the area with job opportunities.

“We’re proud to be one of Macclesfield’s largest employers, so it’s great to be able to now expand our reach into Doncaster. We’ve hired for a number of positions including production operatives and management roles, and it’s exciting to have fresh new faces in the business to help us progress this new step in our journey.

“Our HR team are working closely with our new team members to fully integrate them into the world of DoorCo and ensure they feel part of our core team, as any member of our Macclesfield office does.” trade.door-co.com

UAP Expands Into New 120,000ft² HQ

UAP, the specialist in locks and hardware for doors and windows, has expanded into a new 120,000ft² headquarter building in Bury, Greater Manchester.

The £750,000 investment has seen UAP relocate from sites in Radcliffe and Whitefield, bringing all its processes under one roof. As well as improving efficiency and connectivity between departments, the Orbital 60 building in Dumers Lane has more than doubled UAP’s stockholding capacity.

Order fulfilment for all seven UAP brands has been streamlined

through specialised racking as well as new picking systems and software. The building also houses the company’s production lines, testing centres, and training facilities.

The move follows a year which has seen UAP’s overall business grow by more than 50 per cent. Strategic acquisitions with Maher London and Security Hardware helped to fuel this expansion.

UAP also invested in two new businesses in 2023 – Fire Door Maintenance (FDM) and Armadillo Metal Coatings. Both are located at the new site, including FDM’s

3,000sq. ft. Training Academy.

A total of 80 employees are based at Orbital 60 with teams at Security Hardware and Locking Systems remaining at their existing locations in the West Midlands and Tyne & Wear respectively.

David Jennings, CEO of UAP, said: “Our move to Orbital 60 is fundamental to our growth strategy. We have shifted from a labour-intensive warehouse system to a lean way of working and more modern facilities which will see future automation and less waste.

“With significantly more storage and streamlined processes, we can also hold extra stock for our UK customers and are working with our suppliers to maximise economies of scale for every product we buy.

“Another benefit of our new site is that it can better accommodate our growing workforce. Our acquisitions, diversification and new headquarters will count for nothing without significant investment in our people. At all levels, we have added depth and strength to our teams. This includes the arrival of highly experienced and knowledgeable people from across the industry thanks to our targeted acquisition strategy.”

Established in 1996, UAP has been based in Bury since 1999 and operates across seven brands: UAP Fullex, UAP Locking Systems, UAP Intelligent Hardware, UAP Firemongery, UAP TradeLocks, UAP Security Hardware, and online specialist X-Fort.

uapcorporate.com

Staff gather in UAP’s new reception area

Coastal Group Opens New Brand Centre

Coastal Group has announced the opening of its impressive new Brand Centre, which, says the company, is set to revolutionise the way customers explore and select door hardware.

Based in the heart of Cornwall just minutes from the stunning Cornish coastline, Coastal Group’s new centre showcases the latest trends and designs in door and window hardware.

“As part of our continuous improvement, we’ve invested heavily in creating an immersive

experience for visitors,” explains Coastal Group’s managing director, Loren Jenner. “The whole space has been designed to showcase the best of our products, including pull handles, door furniture, multipoint locks and sliding door systems.”

The new Brand Centre features:

Suited hardware display boards showcasing BLU and Duratique ranges

Fully operational doors and windows featuring Coastal hardware and the latest

multipoint locks from Winkhaus

Folding and sliding door systems from PC Henderson and Roto

Doors from Endurance and Turmacher

Weatherseal from Deventer and pre-machined beading from Durodeen

With the latest products on show, customers can browse the wide range of finishes, and take in the quality of the materials in a way that is difficult to appreciate online or from a brochure.

“We’re lucky to have worked with some amazing partners throughout the design and build,” adds Loren Jenner. “Dale Joinery, Affordable Aluminium, Westbury Joinery, Medina and Sheerline are just some of the partners who have been incredibly supportive while local

tradespeople have helped bring it all together.”

With over twenty years’ experience in the hardware industry, Coastal has developed a comprehensive range of products, styles and finishes that combine quality, durability and aesthetics.

“We are thrilled to invite

customers to experience our brand new showroom,” continues Loren Jenner. “Our goal is to provide a space where homeowners, architects, door and window manufacturers and joiners can explore our extensive range of hardware firsthand and gain inspiration for their projects.”

The Brand Centre features

PatioMaster

South East Adds Stellar Aluminium To Its Portfolio

Simon Spiers, director of PatioMaster South East, said: “We’ve manufactured the PatioMaster PVC-U door system for 22 years. As the market for high-end

interactive displays, allowing visitors to touch, feel and test the quality of each product.

Knowledgeable staff are on hand to provide expert guidance to assist customers in finding the perfect solution for their needs.

“The new show room, with its modern design and curated collection of products, will offer a unique experience for our valued customers,” Loren concludes. “It represents a significant milestone for our company, reinforcing our commitment to providing exceptional products and service.”

The Coastal Group Brand centre is open daily by appointment from 8am until 5pm. To find out more and make an appointment to visit, call 01726 871 025 or email sales@coastal-group.com

products continues to grow, by adding Stellar to our range, we can give our customers the very best in door products across both PVC-U and aluminium.”

Paul Hinds, national sales manager at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We are delighted that PatioMaster South East, with its longstanding track record of success with PatioMaster, is expanding its reach and diversifying into aluminium. By choosing Stellar Aluminium it benefits from all the award-winning features the system has to offer – and the ease of working with one systems company across both its PVC-U and aluminium ranges.”

PatioMaster South East began manufacturing the Stellar Aluminium Slimline Bifold Door and Inline Sliding Door in February. Simon said: “The design of the PatioMaster door makes it the best PVC-U inline sliding door in the industry. The same applies to Stellar in the aluminium space. We are impressed by Stellar’s flush aesthetics and slim sightlines and we know our customers will be too. The fact that the products are as quick and easy to install as their PVC-U counterparts is also a huge selling point.”

All PatioMaster South East’s products are manufactured to order from its manufacturing centre in New Romney in Kent. To accommodate the new aluminium division, it has expanded its premises by 50%. www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

PatioMaster South East has just signed a three year supply agreement to manufacture the Stellar Aluminium Inline Sliding Door and Bifold Door from Epwin Window Systems.

(l-r) Gavin Prowse, Simon Spiers and Ben Spiers

Stellar Aluminium Achieves PAS24:2022

Epwin Window Systems has confirmed that all products in its Stellar Aluminium system have achieved PAS24:2022.

This includes the Flush Tilt & Turn Window, Flush Casement Window, Fully Flush Casement Window and the Bay Window, as well as the Flush Residential Door, Flush French Doors, Lift & Slide Door, Slimline Bifold Door and the new Inline Sliding Door.

The announcement comes soon after Epwin Window Systems confirmed that all its multiple PVC-U window and door systems have all achieved PAS24:2022 certification, demonstrating the company’s commitment

to remaining at the forefront of industry standards.

Phil Parry, technical director at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We are delighted to confirm that our Stellar Aluminium window and door system has achieved PAS24:2022 certification across all products. It means our entire product portfolio across both PVC-U and aluminium complies with the latest requirements.”

PAS24:2022, which officially came into effect in September 2022 and replaces the previous PAS24:2016, helps specifiers meet the requirements of Building Regulations and the police’s

Secured by Design scheme. It applies to all new windows and doorsets as manufactured and prior to installation.

The accreditation promotes security and denotes enhanced security performance intended to resist the type of attack normally associated with casual or opportunistic burglars.

Epwin Window Systems has a robust track record in delivering systems that meet or exceed regulatory requirements. As well as the PAS 24:2022 accreditations, the company claims to have the industry’s largest choice of Part L-compliant window and door systems. This includes Stellar Aluminium, which Epwin Window Systems says makes it one of the only complete aluminium window and door systems that is new buildcompliant by design.

Phil concluded: “We’re committed to adopting and meeting the latest industry standards to deliver secure and reliable solutions for our customers. It ensures we can deliver industry-leading solutions that help our customers secure a market advantage across every sector.”

www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

Reynaers’ Sustainability

Goals Secure SBTi Approval

Reynaers Aluminium’s global emission reduction targets have officially been validated by the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi).

The climate action organisation has confirmed that both the company’s 2019 baseline targets, as well as its ambitious 2030 goals, meet the strict standards and have been approved following a 15-month process.

Reynaers Group’s sustainability

goals are among the most ambitious targets within the SBTi programme and include reducing scope one and two ‘direct’ carbon emissions by 46.2%, and scope three ‘indirect’ carbon emissions by 55% per tonne of product by 2030, starting from a baseline of 2019, claims the company.

The Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is an environmental partnership between the WWF and the United Nations that sets emission reduction targets for businesses all over the world to

support companies with clear-cut, science-based goals that help them operate more sustainably. Reynaers’ targets are in line with the 2015 Paris Agreements that state that global warming should be limited to 1.5°C to prevent the worst consequences of climate change. Only 4,263 companies across the world have had

Richard Hall

reduction targets approved by the SBTi, and Reynaers Group is one of them, says the company.

Richard Hall, managing director of Reynaers Aluminium UK, said: “Reynaers is committed to taking action to support climate change targets, not just talk about them, and having our targets validated by the SBTi clearly demonstrates our determination to achieve real, quantifiable change in our operations.

“Through promoting the need for more sustainable solutions in the fenestration and construction industries, introducing thermally efficient, Cradle to Cradle products and taking steps towards operating more sustainably, including through our supply chain, Reynaers Aluminium UK is committed to supporting these ambitious targets and will work hard to continue to do so in the future.”

www.reynaers.co.uk

Modplan Reports Continued Demand For Coloured Products

Trade fabricator Modplan, has reported continued growth for coloured products across its windows, doors and conservatory roof offering.

Heidi Sachs, managing director at Modplan, said: “Our continued growth in coloured products underscores our dedication to meeting the diverse needs of our customers. With a selection of 30 coloured foil combinations available from stock and the ability to personalise roofing colours in-house, we can provide a high-end tailored solution that gives our customers a market advantage.”

Modplan offers from stock a diverse selection of solid and woodgrain finishes on both its Veka and Liniar window and door ranges. Additionally, the company offers an inhouse painting service for its conservatory roof customers, ensuring they can achieve the

desired colour aesthetic for their roofing projects.

Modplan’s dedicated paint plant opened in 2014 and sales of the manufacturer’s coloured roofing products have increased since then. Heidi, said: “Having our own dedicated paint plant means we have competitive turnaround times on our coloured roofing products and are not reliant on third parties. Feedback from our customers tells us that this has made colour a lot more accessible and aligns perfectly with our stocked foils for a coordinated approach.”

Heidi continued: “We’re passionate about adding value to installers’ businesses. Our flexible colour offer that taps into all market trends and helps them to stand out in a competitive market is just one of the ways we do this.”

www.modplan.co.uk

The Sash Window Workshop

Celebrates 30 Years in Business

The Sash Window Workshop is this year celebrating 30 years in business.

Established on the 11th February 1994, the company has grown substantially and today operates from two large purpose designed workshops in Bracknell. The business was established by Richard Dollar, who is still the majority shareholder in the company today.

The Sash Window Workshop started from a small, converted pig shed in Ascot, primarily working on repairing and draught proofing timber windows. Today, the company has over 80 employees and had sales of around £11 million in 2023, with much of their work focusing on replacing timber windows and doors.

Several of the company’s employees have worked for

The Sash Window Workshop for over half of the company’s 30 years, with loyal and dedicated staff being the backbone of the business.

The Sash Window Workshop says

Richard Dollar

Premier Frames Celebrates 25 Years In Business With Ultraframe

The senior management team at Premier Frames celebrated their 25th anniversary recently with a visit to their main supplier, Ultraframe. The Leicester-based company has fabricated over 40,000 Ultraframe roofs since it opened its doors in 1998.

The company is one of Ultraframe’s largest and most dynamic fabricators, manufacturing the full suite of Ultraframe products, along with aluminium windows and doors through their sister company Innovation Aluminium, and covering most of the UK.

Founder Dean Ward and directors Josh Ward and Andy Berrington have worked closely with Ultraframe to take the Premier Frames business from strength to strength across the years.

Commenting, Dean said: “We began life as a small roof only fabricator in a tiny back street unit in Leicester. With a very handson approach and experience in conservatory, design, fabrication, and installation we quickly set about becoming the ‘go to’ expert Ultraframe trade fabricator in the East Midlands area. Providing exceptional service and support to local installers initially was key in developing a strong footing to then be able to expand the business into other areas.

“We have seen so many changes and challenges over the years, and working closely with an agile and innovative supplier such as Ultraframe has meant that we have been able to meet the expectations of both installers and homeowners. This is more

important than ever today with the needs and demands of both parties changing rapidly.”

The team at Premier Frames believes that Ultraframe’s hup! building system offers a fantastic new opportunity to fabricators and installers. Explaining further, sales director, Andy Berrington said: “Homeowners are now realising the benefits of off-site constructed products and we are delighted to be partnering with Ultraframe to lead the way in this lucrative new market sector by offering the hup! building system. We are finding that once installers have experienced the incredible speed and efficiency of a hup! build they are coming back for more every time and as we all know there is no better accolade than repeat orders!. hup! really does make anything possible – from modern conservatories through to orangeries and extensions with any choice of Ultraframe roof. We have always embraced change

from left to right – Josh Ward, Dean Ward, Julian Slade (Ultraframe CEO), Andy Berrington, Mick Rowley (Ultraframe).

by offering the latest technology available and this has been demonstrated most recently by our expansion into a one-stop-shop for hup!.”

Commenting about the 25-year partnership between the two companies, head of fabrication and trade intermediary sales for Ultraframe, Mick Rowley, said: “Ultraframe is extremely proud to have partnered with Premier Frames for the last 25 years and we are now looking forward to seeing them go from strength to strength over the next 25. Their dedication to offering their customers the latest technology is aptly demonstrated by their commitment to hup!. As our leading hup! trade partner they have really embraced the system and are leading the pack on sales. They offer huge amounts of experience along with excellent friendly service and it is no surprise to see them continuing to grow after such a long time in business. Huge congratulations from all at Ultraframe on this impressive milestone.”

www.premierframes.co.uk

Kömmerling At Home Partner Programme Announced

profine UK Ltd is set to make a major impression in the window and door market in 2024, with the launch of Kömmerling At Home, a partner programme aimed at manufacturers, installers, and other business associates.

With Kömmerling At Home, partners will gain access to more than just consumer leads, as it is comprised of a unique digital hub that delivers support tools and useful assets for marketing, technical and business needs, up-to-date industry-related news, and access to a greater understanding of Kömmerling’s extensive product range, says the company.

Arguably, the Kömmerling At Home Training Academy is likely to be one of the most important elements of the partner programme. This will provide certified online training for the partners’ employee learners, free live monthly online coaching

webinars and access to an ‘Ask an Expert’ enquiry forum, among other functionality.

Kevin Warner, sales and marketing director of profine UK and Kömmerling commented: “Kömmerling At Home has been part of our strategic vision for the last 12 months, with the view to gaining strong insights into our complete supply chain. It is important that Kömmerling products stand out for our customers and meet their needs and the high expectations from consumers of what to expect from a global brand.”

He added: “We feel the programme will provide key benefits for our partners to help them grow and succeed. It is designed to educate, impart knowledge and strengthen their ability to work with Kömmerling in order to enhance their longterm relationship with us.”

www.kommerling.co.uk

AluFold Direct Invites

Installers To Its Aluminium Glazing Design Centre

AluFoldDirect’s newly-launched Aluminium Glazing Design Centre is giving installers ‘the ultimate’ location to see, feel and understand the fabricator’s full range of aluminium solutions, which outperform current Building Regulations, and increase their opportunity to work on projects across a full spectrum of thermal requirements, says the company.

Said to be the only facility of its kind outside of London, the Aluminium Glazing Design Centre sits within AluFoldDirect’s 90,000sq/ft site, based in Blackburn. The state-of-theart showroom features fullsize working product displays, including AluFoldDirect’s Solution series of ‘top-level’ energy efficient aluminium windows and doors.

Open to customers from 8.30am to 5pm from Monday to Friday, installers can also book a private appointment for

a curated walkthrough, product demonstration and tailored project advice on Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings, subject to availability.

Rhodri John, commercial director at AluFoldDirect says: “There is nowhere better for installers to be introduced to our products than the Aluminium Glazing Design Centre, and we encourage them to arrange a no obligation visit as soon as they can.

“In a time of industry uncertainty over U-values and the Future Homes Standard, our team is on hand to explain our Solutions. Our 0.8 W/m²K U-value windows, bifold and sliding doors, as part of the Solution series, set a new benchmark for energy efficiency.

“AluFoldDirect remains committed to innovation in the face of the latest Part L proposals, leading the charge to exceed standards with our 0.8 W/m²K Solutions,

as part of our enduring pledge to keep our customers confidently ahead of the curve.

“Homeowner demand is already here, and our focus is to support installers to meet it.”

AluFoldDirect’s Solution series is on display at the Aluminium Glazing Design Centre, where installers can experience its ‘Warm Welcome to 0.8’ initiative first-hand.

Pioneered by the A-BiFold, A-Slider and A-Window, the Solution series is available to installers at passive performance 0.8 W/m²K U-value, a new buildready 1.2 W/m²K U-value, and Building Regulation compliant Solution at 1.4 W/m²K U-value –meaning AluFoldDirect now offers ready-to-fit window and door systems that meet any thermal requirement, with delivery in as little as two weeks, says AluFold Direct.

To find out more about the AluFoldDirect Aluminium Glazing Design Centre and book an appointment visit: www.alufolddirect.co.uk

Shepley Completes A Year Programme Of Investment

Trade fabricator, Shepley has completed a 12-month planned investment programme across the business including the factory, transport and IT.

The investment of more than £1million is key to Shepley’s continuous improvement plan to provide customers even greater product choice on standard lead times, superior finish and the service they need to compete in a tighter market.

A newly optimised factory layout provided the best flow for a total of 12 new machines. This includes two quad welders and eight custom designed highspeed welders, as well as a corner cleaner and a wrapping machine.

In transport, Shepley has upgraded and expanded its fleet with three new large artic truck trailers, two trailers, two lorries, and two vans, all incorporating the newly designed livery.

Investment in IT has created a unique window and door online ordering system that is tailored to the requirements of Shepley customers and a full virtual server to provide a faster, seamless ordering process that is available 24/7. Shepley’s portal system has also been updated with more marketing and technical support for installers and trade counters.

Ian Griffiths, managing director at Shepley Windows, says: “Now our 12-month investment programme is complete, the offering to

installation companies has never been better. We understand the wide range of product and options needed, which is why we upgraded and improved every touch point for customers across order, manufacture, and delivery of Shepley’s wide range of products to give window installation companies the edge over their competition.

“Great quality is key for our customers. For example, our custom designed welders are designed to provide an enhanced quality joint detail across our whole range of casement and flush sash PVCu windows and doors in 25 colour options from natural wood foils to smooth foiled finishes.

“From final quality check, products are immediately loaded onto our specially fitted trucks for delivery. This streamlined process means products are never stacked or stored, arriving in top condition ready for fitting.

“Supporting customers is our top priority for Shepley, and this completed investment programme gives increasing sales and margin opportunities for our installer partners.”

www.shepley.com

VBH Joins Secured By Design

VBH has announced that it has joined Secured by Design (SBD).

SBD is owned by Police Crime Prevention Initiatives (Police CPI), part of the UK Police Service. Its aim is ‘design out crime’ through a number of prevention and reduction initiatives across the UK. In the glazing sector, this includes a scheme to ensure the adoption of independently tested security hardware products on windows and doors for new build projects. These products, which must be proven capable of deterring or preventing crime, are known

as being of a ‘Police Preferred Specification’.

At the time of VBH’s membership commencing, 32 products from the greenteQ range and from selected VBH supplier partners have achieved Police Preferred Specification and appear on VBH’s list of approved hardware. VBH advise that this number will grow steadily as more products are developed and are independently tested to the relevant security standards.

VBH’s UK based new product

development team, led by technical director Rob Norman, designs greenteQ products to meet the requirements and tastes of UK fabricators, installers and consumers. The range is extensive, covering hardware, furniture and ancillaries for PVCu, aluminium, composite and timber residential entrance doors, patio doors and windows.

All products are fully guaranteed for a minimum of 10 years, with some guarantee periods extending to 20 or 25 years. In addition, the company offers Q-secure, its own consumer security guarantee that is brought to market through a network of approved manufacturers and installers.

Of the new relationship with SBD, Rob says, “VBH has long worked in partnership with industry leaders to help raise the bar on product quality and performance, to the benefit of everybody in the supply chain. This dovetails perfectly with the excellent work that SBD does, both within our industry and on a wider basis.

“SBD will only accredit quality products that have successfully been through rigorous test criteria, ensuring genuinely secure hardware products, an ethos that is at the heart of all greenteQ product development.

“Having SBD approval of our products lends further weight to our own Q-secure consumer hardware guarantee.”

Hazel Goss of Secured by Design, said, “It has been a pleasure to have VBH join us as a member of Secured by Design. VBH (GB) is part of the VBH Group, Europe’s leading supplier of window and door hardware and ancillaries. I’m looking forward to working alongside them for many years to come.”

www.vbhgb.com

www.securedbydesign.com

UK Doors Online Launches Exclusive Partnership Programme

West Yorkshire door and window manufacturer UK Doors Online has announced the launch of the company’s new partnership programme. The initiative is said to “provide exclusive perks and discounts, enabling trade partners to expand their product offerings and enhance their operations.”

UK Doors Online says that by joining the partnership programme, partners gain access to a wealth of expertise from a dedicated team that is always ready to provide support and guidance. And that the company’s highly trained team boasts decades of combined experience in manufacturing top-quality doors and windows,

specifically tailored to meet the unique requirements of their customers.

As part of this bespoke support, customers are being told they can expect regular marketing resources, including social media tips to help develop their businesses. Trade partners will also be able to expand and diversify their product range, catering to a wider audience.

According to UK Doors Online, “the programme provides access to an extensive selection of high-quality doors and windows, meticulously crafted to seamlessly complement projects of all sizes.”

As part of the partnership programme, trade partners will

also receive extensive assistance from the UK Doors Online sales team. With a wealth of product knowledge and business development expertise, the sales team are eager to help trade partners to maximise their operations and make full use of the partnership programme to achieve their business goals, says the company.

Andrew Glover, managing director of UK Doors Online, explains: “The team at UK Doors Online have combined their decades of combined industry expertise to curate and manufacture some of the best products and services currently on offer. We understand what quality is, in every facet of this industry, and we want our customers to receive the best care possible. This partnership programme is an effective way for us to connect with our trade partners, strengthening our relationships by sharing exclusive offers and valuable industry insights.”

www.ukdoorsonline.co.uk

Recommended by Laura Jane Clark

“For homeowners, hup! is completely game changing. People often ask how they can add an extension or rebuild their unusable conservatory in the most efficient way possible - hup! is definitely the answer.”

Laura Jane Clark

Leading architect & star of BBC’s Your Home Made Perfect

Endurance Doors Marks National Apprentice Week 2024

Endurance Doors has joined employers across the UK in marking National Apprentice Week 2024.

The manufacturer of composite doors used the week, which took place from the 5th to 11th February, to celebrate its apprentices and to acknowledge their contribution towards the brand’s continuing success.

Stephen Nadin, managing director at Endurance Doors, is a major advocate of the positive impact apprentices can have on an organisation.

He says: “At Endurance Doors, we are committed to offering rewarding career paths to people

at all stages of their professional lives. Our apprentices bring fresh ideas and a new perspective to our business. They ultimately make an important contribution to an eclectic culture which is instrumental to our ability to innovate.”

Endurance Doors currently employs 12 apprentices who are gaining hands-on expertise and experience at various levels – from level 2 (intermediate) to level 7 (equivalent to a master’s degree).

These individuals, who work in departments such as maintenance and production, cite many different benefits to developing their careers at

Endurance Doors.

This includes the chance to learn from experienced industry leading professionals and to constantly expand their skill set, as well as the opportunity to enjoy continued challenge and to develop their practical knowledge whilst obtaining formal, recognised qualifications.

Stephen Nadin adds:

“Endurance Doors is committed to being a dynamic and progressive employer because we recognise that to offer exceptional products and service, we need to recruit and retain an equally high calibre team.

“Employing apprentices creates a win-win situation both for the individual and for us as a business. It enables us to shape a next generation of talent with skills and experience that are uniquely tailored to our commercial needs and continued growth.”

https://endurancedoors.co.uk

Sheerline’s Range Helps D & I Windows Achieve Sustainable Business Growth

D & I Windows has been announced as one of the latest companies to add Sheerline’s premium aluminium range to its’ product offering. The Barnsley-based fabricator and manufacturer pivoted from UPVC to aluminium because of rising costs and increased competition post-pandemic.

Since deciding to fabricate Sheerline’s whole-house aluminium systems, D & I has gone from strength to strength, even launching a new company called Radius Aluminium, which

is dedicated to supporting trade customers.

The launch of the new trade business comes after a busy period, which has seen the company grow and enabled business owners and directors, David Saxon and Ian Haddock, to achieve their goal of creating a sustainable long-term business.

Having both previously been made redundant, they decided to utilise their expertise to offer customers the best products

and services, while also supporting the local economy.

According to David and Ian they chose Sheerline because it is efficient to manufacture, which has helped them streamline their operations. In addition, it’s fitterfriendly and offers customers a stylish, thermally efficient alternative to traditional UPVC options. Another factor is the branding and marketing support Sheerline offers as standard.

One of the biggest benefits to fabricating the aluminium range in-house is the control D & I has over its supply chain. This has added to the company’s longterm sustainability and reliability as it no longer waits as long for deliveries and has enabled it to reduce customer lead times.

D & I Windows director, David Saxon, said: “We’ve got big plans. We see this as a longterm partnership, and this is just the beginning. We’ve achieved sustainability, so now it’s time for our business to grow.”

“We’re taking our aluminium offer nationwide – something we know is achievable given the support Sheerline provides. Hence why we have opportunities with our dedicated trade business, Radius Aluminium. We welcome enquiries from anyone looking for a new stylish, thermally efficient, reliable, aluminium window and door system to install,” he added.

Sheerline Sales director, Tony Basile commented: “What David and Ian have achieved is huge. Not only for themselves but for the local area too – they’re providing jobs and building a sustainable business for future generations. We’re delighted that Sheerline has played a role in this and look forward to supporting D & I’s ambitious plans.”

www.sheerline.com

Alunet AnnouncesSystems New Partnership

with Malplas uPVC

Aluminium systems supplier, Alunet Systems, has announced its strategic partnership with award-winning doors and windows specialists, Malplas uPVC. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Alunet’s growth strategy, as Malplas uPVC becomes a key partner in Northern Ireland.

The partnership, which began in January 2024, came about when Ryan Mallon, the operations manager for Malplas uPVC, discovered Alunet Systems on LinkedIn. Impressed by Alunet’s comprehensive service offering, Ryan recognised the potential for collaboration, particularly in expanding Malplas uPVC’s product line to include aluminium

systems. This led to a mutual agreement to join forces, with Malplas uPVC.

Ryan Mallon commented on the new partnership, explaining, “Malplas are always looking to expand their product offering and tap into new markets to provide a competitive service. I was initially impressed by what I had seen on LinkedIn, but after speaking with Mike and Steve and hearing about their future aims and their competitive lead and delivery times, I knew a partnership would be the next step. The training and the support we’ve received from the Alunet team can’t be faulted. It was in early February that we were officially set up with

the new products, and already orders are flooding in, which is really reassuring to know that our customers trust us to provide the best service.”

Mike Moulds, key account & product development director of Alunet Systems, says, “The loyal customer base Malplas uPVC has built speaks for itself. The team have earnt their strong reputation through providing thorough, personalised customer care that ensures efficient lead times and quality. At Alunet, we share a lot of these same values, so it’s really exciting to partner with Malplas uPVC to provide the market in Northern Ireland with a dependable service and high-quality products.”

www.alunetsystems.co.uk

www.malplas.net

Operations manager of Malplas uPVC Ryan Mallon (left) with key account & product development director of Alunet Systems Mike Moulds (right)

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

Sales up!

By Neil Cooper-Smith, Senior Analyst, Business Pilot

Average sales increased again in February. It may have only been by 1.2% to 59.1, but it demonstrates that the big leap in January wasn’t a one-off. It is also worth noting that this figure is 25.7% higher than the same period last year.

Leads have fallen back marginally – down 9.9% to 126 – but they are still 15.8% higher than the same period a year ago.

In most years we see both average sales and average leads drop back in February, most likely because January is a correction following a quiet December. Only in 2021 did we see both sets of figures increase in February, and that was when demand went through the roof following Covid.

This year, many people are expecting a difficult year, but so far this isn’t reflected in the data –especially from a retail point of view.

When we take the other metrics into account, an interesting picture starts to emerge. Remember, when looking at this data, that the current mood music is one of negativity and concern that 2024 is going to be a tricky year.

First of all, the average order value for February 2024 fell by 3% to £3,054. And this figure is 34% lower than the same period last year –which itself was actually a small increase on the previous month.

But this time last year was characterised by a fall in demand in the volume market, which is why we saw average order values remain high. The fact they are lower this year – and currently falling month on month – suggests that either demand is driven by distress purchases, or the volume market is picking up.

The fact that average leads are considerably higher this year makes me think that it is the latter.

I can understand why some people are jumpy when we continue to see companies enter administration. Take fabricator Euramax for example, which manufactures and supplies PVC-U windows and doors for sectors including modular construction, leisure and DIY.

It entered administration following the collapse of a major customer, and reports reveal that profitability had dropped considerably since the beginning of 2020; for the year ending June 30, 2022, it reported a turnover of £26.5 million, with pre-tax profits of £129,000. That’s a profitability of less than 0.5%.

There have been – and will be – others. Euramax isn’t the best example, because they are a commercial fabricator, but it does serve to remind us that we all need to keep an eye on profitability, and that cash is king.

The most effective way to do that is to keep a daily finger on the pulse of your operations. With Business Pilot, you can feasibly check every job to ensure that a healthy margin is built in because you can see the cost of everything – labour,

materials, transportation, office overheads – as well as the overall value.

If we learned anything from the aftermath of Covid, it was that fantastic sales can often mask poor profitability, especially as the cost of raw materials rise. We know that if business leaders don’t keep a constant eye on this, then it could spell trouble.

But Business Pilot can give you the numbers you need to keep on top of your business, so there is no excuse to be in the dark.

For more information visit www.businesspilot.co.uk

Mark Hickox

Red Herring?

Thermoseal’s sales director Mark Hickox argues that the Future Homes and Buildings Standards were an opportunity missed, but are they just a red herring?

On December 13, 2023, the government finally opened the consultation on the Future Homes and Buildings Standards, which will run until March 6. At the heart is a significant shift away from a ‘fabric first’ approach to improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions, and towards mechanical services, such as heat pumps.

To say this was a missed opportunity would be an understatement. We know from the work we’ve done with our IGU manufacturing customers that many had prepared their operations for an expected increase in demand for triple glazing.

As a key supplier to the window industry, we have invested heavily in triple glazing, including new machinery and tooling, which will produce spacer bar in more thicknesses – ready for units with varying cavity depths.

And we know other suppliers –to varying degrees – had gone some way to preparing for more triple glazing. After all, we have been talking about it for long enough.

So, as an industry, we were as prepared as we were going to be, and this (apparent) last-minute decision to backtrack on the 0.8W/m2K U-value requirement for windows going into newbuild properties is an opportunity truly missed. Put it this way: do you think we are going to take the government seriously if/when they indicate they are going to lower U-values in the future?

Hot box

As it happens, all this will do is slow down the move to triple glazing. Demand will still increase – it just won’t happen as quickly as if the government had legislated for it.

Two things will ensure this is the case.

For the first, I would like to draw your attention to this paragraph in the consultation document:

“For new dwellings, the U-value of a window should be determined using one of the following: a) calculated using the actual size and configuration of the window; b) measured using the hot-box method set out in BS EN ISO 12567-1 for windows and in BS EN ISO 12567-2 for roof windows.”

In other words, the government is proposing to move away from the standard window configuration (1230×1480 open/fixed) to measure the U-value of windows, and to improve the accuracy of window modelling.

So, if your windows currently only just scrape a 1.2W/m2K U-value, and they are typically smaller than the previous standard window configuration, then you may need to incorporate triple glazing into your designs just to meet the current regulations.

The second thing is that we know from customers who supply products into the newbuild market that some developers are choosing to specify triple glazing in order to meet the target fabric energy efficiency rate without designing in more expensive insulation options. Furthermore, the triple glazed windows also act as a positive marketing tool.

And if one developer plans to go down this route, it won’t be long before others follow suit.

Continued on page 38

Continued from page 36

Red Herring

Don’t forget that the government had previously set 2016 as the date when new buildings should be ‘net zero’ – a ‘zero carbon home’ was defined as achieving a Level 6 of the Code for Sustainable Homes. In 2015, a year before it was due to come into force, the government scrapped this commitment.

In some ways I think the whole Future Homes Standard – and the expectation that we would have to move to triple glazing to meet U-values of 0.8W/m2K – has been something of a red herring.

There are many products on the market that are not made to the current building regulations, let alone fanciful improvements that we should have guessed would never to come to fruition.

There are glass units being sold today that don’t have the correct warm edge spacer bar, don’t have the correct depth of seal or sealant type, contain non-conforming desiccant and incompatible edge tapes that can degrade the unit’s integrity. This means U-values and energy ratings will not match specifications, as well as leading to premature failure of IG units that could have easily been avoided.

If we want to make a real impact on windows’ performance, and the long-term energy efficiency of buildings, we should start with getting the basics right. It will be difficult to confidently produce triple glazed units if our double glazed units are not up to standard due to use of cheap imported unproven components.

Talk to any one of our technical sales team, and they will give you an audit of you production methods and the compatibility of the components used.

www.thermosealgroup.com

Bumpy Ride?

Cornwall Group’s Chairman Mark Mitchell argues that you will weather what will probably be a difficult year if you’ve invested. We report.

Cornwall Group – which includes Cornwall Glass Manufacturing, Mackenzie Glass, Cornwall Glass & Glazing, and the recently acquired Birmingham-based Forward Glass – has its eyes set on a profitable year, even though the challenges facing the industry are significant.

“If you look at the commercial sector – which is the source of a lot of work for companies like Cornwall Group, and indeed many glass companies in the UK –many short-term investment decisions have been put on hold,” Cornwall Group’s chairman Mark Mitchell says. “Which means many project starts have been delayed.

“One significant challenge for us all is the rate of inflation, which we hope will level off

and perhaps settle at 3% or 4% before Christmas. The same goes for the cost of borrowing and interest rates, which we hope will follow a similar path to that of inflation.

“Right now, they are barriers to short-term investment, and as a result we are anticipating a challenging year.”

Despite this, Mark expects the Group to maintain a turnover similar to what it posted in 2023, even if other factors will contribute to an overall level of uncertainty and instability.

“I’m sure other glass companies are experiencing what we are experiencing, which is lower-than-projected order levels, and glass prices dropping,” he says.

“There is a lot of glass stacking up, and that means that the prices have softened. It would be a sad day if we see one of the float tanks in the UK being mothballed or taken offline, but currently it is hard to justify the three glass manufacturing plants that are in the UK currently.

“And that’s concerning, because it’s not sustainable and we need healthy competition.”

But the situation would be much more worrying if you were a company dealing with problems as they occurred, and didn’t have a five-to-tenyear plan in place, according to Mark.

The decision to acquire Forward Glass, for example, was made months ago, and it fits Cornwall Group’s medium to long-term strategy. Furthermore, the company is already committed to buy new plant and machinery at the Birmingham site, and will be introducing an apprenticeship programme.

“This will make us stronger for when the market improves in a year to 18 months’ time,” Mark says.

This is a strategy that Cornwall Group is already following across its other sites. Recent investment across Cornwall, Devon and Somerset include: a new sealed unit line, a new heat soak oven, a new cutting table, and new vehicles, to name just a few.

“If you order a new toughener, then it will take a year to arrive, and a new purpose-built lorry will take at least nine months,” Mark explains. “So, you’ve got to be one step ahead.

“If you don’t constantly invest in your business, then when the market picks up again in 2025 – when we expect to see a return to normalised trading – then you won’t be prepared to make the most of those opportunities.”

Mark admits the Cornwall Group of companies is in a stronger position than many other glass companies of a similar size, because of the way it is structured.

“We are still family owned, and we plough all our profits back into the company,” Mark says. “This is why we own all the buildings we operate from, and why many colleagues stay with us for most of their careers –from apprentice to MD in some cases.

“For those companies that are owned by private equity firms, often there isn’t the same longterm commitment. If the shortterm growth isn’t forthcoming, there may be some awkward conversations at board level.

“Yes, 2024 will be a bumpy year for most of us, but if you can keep one step ahead of your requirements, then you’ll be ready for a more positive 2025.” www.cornwallglass.co.uk

Mark Mitchell

A Resurgent AluK Is Good News For Customers

By Russell Yates, Managing Director, AluK

When I rejoined AluK in September 2023, I made it clear that my priority was to make AluK a great place to work and a great company to do business with, and I’m staying true to both of those.

In terms of being a great place to work, there’s real excitement around here again as we start to roll out new product plans and new service initiatives; and it’s no coincidence that we’ve seen the likes of sales manager Paul Greenaway and specification guru Jordan Kingman rejoining AluK in the last few months to be part of

our new chapter.

We’ve also got a dynamic new finance director on board in the form of James Schools, and we’ve scored a major coup with the recruitment of industry heavyweight Paul Booth as our new R&D Director.

With our new product development programme, our aim is to give customers all the tools they need to make the most of both current and future opportunities in aluminium. Flexibility and choice will be at the heart of that, so we’re focusing on developing a clearly defined suite of easy to fabricate and easy to sell products that can be adapted to suit different markets.

In the short term, we’ve just announced the launch of Quik Clip, a new clip-in bead for our tested, tried and trusted BSF70 bifold, which takes just seconds to fit either by the fabricator in the factory or the installer out on site.

We’ll be rolling Quik Clip out across many of our other systems over the coming months, and the good news is that customers will be able to use the same bead for all of them.

The BSF70 bifold is getting a new handle and some competitively priced new hardware as well, so AluK customers will have an even sharper offering for the trade sector.

We’re also launching a stylish new 70mm slider shortly to sit alongside the BSF70 as a comparable alternative for all those buyers who prefer a slider to a bifold.

We’ve shown this new product to 15 AluK customers so far, and all 15 of them have said they want to start fabricating it. That’s just about the best endorsement we could hope for, and it will be in

Continued on page 42

Continued from page 40

going into lots of their showrooms over the coming weeks. Again, it’s been designed with a view to helping our customers win new business. As well as a competitive price point, there’s a 70mm frame depth, which makes it ideal for refurbs, a 1.4 U-Value double glazed, which allows it to compete head on with PVC-U, and a fast to fabricate/fast to install design.

That doesn’t mean we won’t still be offering the BSC94, now that it has certified DER ratings. The BSC94 will remain as our entry level system, with the new 70mm slider sitting firmly in the midmarket and a new, more premium lift and slide door to come in the next few months. All have clearly defined target markets, and our aim is to ensure that AluK customers don’t miss out on any opportunities.

In the medium to long term, I’m determined that a resurgent AluK will once again be setting the pace when it comes to innovation, particularly now we all have a clearer picture of what the market will look like post Future Home. I know that’s one of the reasons why Paul Booth was so keen to come on board with us, along with the fact that we have such strong backing from the AluK group to invest in design and development.

I was obviously pleased that there was a positive response from customers to the news that I was rejoining AluK. What really matters though is the great response I’m getting now to the new product and personnel announcements I’m making. Customers can obviously see how these will directly benefit their businesses and our partnerships with them will be stronger as a result.

uk.aluk.com

New Kid On The Block

While new to the glass industry, owner of Thermoseal Group customer Glass Express Midlands, Arun Photay, is focused on driving up quality –rubbing shoulders with ministers in the process. We talk to him to find out more.

Oldbury-based IGU manufacturer Glass Express Midlands is undergoing a period of significant investment

following its acquisition by Arun Photay, after its previous owner Bill Singh semi-retired.

While new to the industry, Arun explains that his key strategy is to concentrate on professionalism, focus on quality, and to surround himself with professionals.

“I’ve only been in the glass industry for the last 18 months,”

factory, to make sure they were working at an optimum level, before turning to product quality.

Arun explains. “Before that, I was in investment banking, and I’ve been in the corporate finance world for all my life.

“I know that some investors target the glass industry and promise to double – or even triple – turnover, but I know from my time in the city that this is vanity.

“Some of the drivers for a successful business that I brought with me from the city are: branding, work-life balance, and maintaining a high quality product and good margins. And they are what I am focusing on initially.”

Off the bat, Arun audited all of the machinery in the Oldbury-based

“It is vital we stay on top of innovation, so that we aren’t at risk of being left behind,” Arun says. “That’s why we’ve got a very clear five, 10, and 15-year strategy for this business going forward.

“Another important distinction is that we are ‘made in Britain’, and that we have a low carbon footprint, because we insist on buying locally sourced material.”

This includes partnering with Thermoseal Group, which has a manufacturing unit in Wigan, and a vast injection moulding and distribution facility just seven miles away in north Birmingham.

“Not only are Thermoseal’s products produced here, but they are also made to a high standard,” Arun says. “And if I want to make a high-quality unit, then I need to make sure the components used to make it are of the best product quality as well. These include the spacer bars, the desiccant, and the sealant.”

Arun’s close working relationship with Thermoseal Group’s sales director Mark Hickox also initiated a trip to Number 10 Downing Street for members of the GGF.

“Mark and I were talking about the gap between the vast knowledge within the industry and some of the things that the government was proposing,” Arun says. “And I told Mark that I firmly believe that government should be surrounding itself by experts in their fields, so they have all the information to hand before making decisions.”

This was following Arun’s first meeting with the GGF as a member in early 2023, where he quickly realised that there was a barrier between the industry and the government.

“Setting up a meeting between the GGF and government ministers was the right thing to do,” Arun says. “Government would then have access to experts, and the GGF could get their message to the people who mattered.

“Since then, key documents have been read by government ministers, and I’m aware of future meetings to build on that relationship.

“Looking ahead, the glass industry can concentrate on making the best products without worrying that it will be undermined by uninformed legislation,” Arun concludes.

www.thermosealgroup.com

Arun Photay

Bedfordshire Windows Says Demand For Higher Energy Efficiency Glazing Is Here To Stay

Trade fabricator, Bedfordshire Windows says demand in higher energy efficiency glazing is here to stay, and it’s backed up by the latest research from Selfbuilder and Homemaker Magazine, which showed that 64 per cent of homeowners want to reduce their carbon footprint and avoid contributing to climate change.

Gary Walker, joint managing director of Bedfordshire Windows says: “We agree with the Selfbuilder and Homemaker results, especially when it comes to our products going into extensions and self-build homes. We know that homeowners want to reduce their future heating costs and choosing higher performing energy efficiency glazing helps deliver long term

savings.

“We have created a complete range of PVCu and aluminium products to offer higher performing options to ensure our trade customers can choose higher performing options.

“Our range includes the best performing PVCu system on the market today with its revolutionary multi-chambered profile that achieves an A+ Energy rating as standard and U-values as low as 0.8 W/ m²K. It is also 100 per cent lead-free and fully recyclable, which makes it one of the most environmentally friendly products available.

“We also offer the top levels of energy efficiency with our

aluminium range of windows, bifold and sliding doors. In fact, we believe we have one of the best ranges of products to support our trade customers, especially those looking for higher performance glazing.

“In the latest round of Building Regulations, the Government didn’t make many changes to glazing, instead it looked at the total performance of buildings and retrofit, so that energy performance of the glazing element is taken into consideration across the whole project. We think this is a bonus for installation companies, as they can choose how to tackle how the glazing fits into the overall performance.”

Gary adds: “We always look for suppliers that can deliver products that look great and offer top levels of energy performance to give Bedfordshire Windows’ trade customers the best choice.”

www.bedfordshirewindows.co.uk

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How To Provide Choice Without The Investment

Agility is key to growing your business, believes Mark Herbert, joint managing director of Mackenzie Glass.

The glass industry should be less worried about volumes, and more concerned with getting their product offer right to make the most of the opportunities when they arrive, believes Mark Herbert, joint managing director of Bristol-based glass merchant Mackenzie Glass.

“The first half of January is always slow,” he says. “But nothing is grinding to a halt. I think what is more interesting is analysing what people are buying, and how that reflects the changing demands we are seeing in the wider market.”

Underpinning these changing trends, Mark believes, is the

quiet housing market. With fewer people moving home, more people are renovating the properties they are living in.

“Antique mirror is very popular, and our customers who supply the domestic market are ordering that in greater quantities than ever before,” he says. “I think homeowners are paying closer attention to what they see around them when they visit hotels and restaurants, and they try to recreate that look at home.

“We are also seeing increased orders for other types of mirrored glass (such as coloured), glass for balustrades, and printed splashbacks.

“I think the key thing to realise is that if you partner with us, you can react quickly to market demands because you don’t have

to try to predict which products are going to be popular. You can rely on the fact that Mackenzies is always sourcing new glass products from around the world so that demanding requirements can be met.”

Mackenzie Glass cuts specialist glass to size, and delivers orders to site in any quantity. This puts its customers at an advantage, Mark says, because not only do they have access to high value work with potentially high margins, but they don’t have to invest in stock that may sit unused in racks for months at a time.

“It means that glass companies can order according to demand, and not have to risk buying in valuable stock which ties up cash,” Mark says. “This is particularly key today because we are seeing trends change as people’s circumstances change.”

Mark points out that Mackenzies is often referred to as a supermarket for glass, which highlights the focus the company has on stocking glass that companies require, and in being able to provide a wide choice.

“In addition to quantity and quality, we are also obsessed with variety,” Mark says, “and we’ve had considerable success in supplying specialist glass that has been unavailable elsewhere. This could simply be unusual thicknesses, but it could also extend to such as products as decorative, etched, multicoloured mirrors, antique silvers, heat and fire-resistant products, and bespoke restoration glasses.

“We make it our duty to seek out the specialist glass, which our customers’ competitors will not have access to, thus giving them a commercial advantage.”

This is coupled with ongoing reinvestment in the business, making sure the processing

Mark Herbert

equipment is up to date, and that the fleet is among the most modern on the roads. Since the Cornwall Group acquired Mackenzies from Pilkington in 2017, it has spent almost £2m in vehicles and machinery, including a new fire saw to handle the increased demand for specialist laminate glass, such as fire glass.

“This is another area where we’ve seen an uptick in demand,” Mark says. “Commercial work is picking up pace, and we are seeing an increased requirement for laminate glass for shopfronts. Again, we are investing in our product range and capabilities so that we can offer a valuable niche service to our customers.

“It also means that valuable commercial opportunities are available to those smaller glass companies who wouldn’t be able to invest in the machinery and stock themselves.”

It is this kind of flexibility that will put glass companies on a competitive footing throughout 2024 and beyond, Mark argues.

“Some companies are reluctant to invest because there is so much uncertainty at the moment,” Mark says. “The cost of borrowing is still high, and the unstable political situation in Ukraine and the Middle East is having a noticeable effect on the movement of goods – including glass – around the globe.

“If you are a small company, how do you know that the machinery you invest in, and the glass that you stock, will be the right choices?

“Fortunately, Mackenzies’ business model is built solely on providing that choice, in quantities that is required, so that our customers can remain agile enough to move with market demands.”

www.mackenzieglass.co.uk

Total Hardware Highlights The Value Of Its Supply Chain Relationships

In an industry marked by recurring challenges, Chris Pell, general manager of independent hardware supplier Total Hardware, emphasises the importance of strong supply chain relationships in its customer value proposition.

“Here at Total Hardware, maintaining an open and proactive dialogue throughout the supply change is paramount, ensuring we anticipate and address any potential issues swiftly whether it’s a time of calm or a time of crisis. It allows us to foresee any issues at the earliest opportunity and react accordingly. It’s an approach that adds huge value to our customers’ businesses because it puts us one step ahead.”

The recent string of global disruptions, from the impacts of Covid-19, geopolitical tensions and the current Red Sea problems, has highlighted the fragility of the global supply chain. This has underscored the need for a shift from ‘just in time’ to ‘just in case’ working

practices. Chris notes, “’Just in case’ has long been our ethos at Total Hardware. Our steadfast commitment to maintaining substantial stock levels ensures our customers receive the dependable supply they rely on.”

This commitment to supply chain relationships is just one facet of Total Hardware’s drive to continually exceeds its customers’ expectations. Alongside its own product ranges, the company offers a comprehensive selection of hardware products from leading worldwide hardware manufacturers. It also continuously invests in technology, equipment and training.

Chris concludes: “Our ongoing collaboration with supply partners and customers is a fundamental aspect of our business, irrespective of supply chain challenges. Together, we navigate obstacles and respond promptly to ensure seamless operations.”

www.totalhardwareltd.co.uk

Are You Choosing The Right Supplier?

When you specify products, you should also be taking a close look at the supplier, according to Fraser Caithness, sales director at IGU manufacturer Glass Express Midlands. We report.

The correct glass specification will have a big impact on the success of a project, from the desired aesthetics through to the performance, including insulation and solar gain, according to Glass Express Midlands’ sales director Fraser Caithness. But choosing the right supplier will also play a key role in that project’s success.

“Using glass suppliers as valued glass businesses is massively important,” Fraser says. “I believe that when you specify products, their value is improved significantly if the supplier you’ve chosen can also add value.

“Glass Express Midlands is very careful in terms of how we select a supplier. For example, we buy from UK sources wherever we can. Not only because that helps in terms of a shorter supply chain, but the bigger glass companies are based here in the UK.”

Like all glass processing companies, Glass Express Midlands is aware of the many cheaper glass options

that are available in the UK, especially as the global demand for glass has dipped over the past year to 18 months.

“We avoid this source of cheap glass, mainly from a quality perspective,” Fraser says. “By working with the main UK manufacturers – as well as some of the bigger European sources – you are not only getting access to their high-quality products, but also their significant investment in research and development.

“We have an open dialogue with them, and they regularly come to us with new products and new opportunities – things we can bring to the market for our customers’ benefit, such as low-e glass, solar control glass, modern laminated glass, anti-reflective glass, and toughenable mirrored glass.”

Fraser points out that the ultimate beneficiaries of this relationship are Glass Express Midlands’ customers and their clients.

“Architects and specifiers spend a great deal of time choosing the right glass, so that it is both aesthetically pleasing and high performing,” Fraser says.

“We are responsible for ensuring that they have the widest choice possible, and that through us, they have access to market-leading research and development.

“Not only that, but our technical team is on hand to offer the necessary support to ensure that the

project is completed without a hitch – something that isn’t always on hand with suppliers of cheaper alternatives.

“And because we have those connections at the upper end of the industry, we can act proactively by providing our customers with technical updates via CPDs and seminars.”

Ultimately, Fraser says, it’s about being able to provide exactly what is required, rather than offering alternatives.

“Where architects and specifiers are already talking to the specification teams of the large glass manufacturers, then we can offer complementary technical support,” he says. “So, when our customer comes to us and askes for a particular product, we can say ‘yes, we can supply that,’ rather than trying to switch them over to something else.”

Architects will also benefit from a sustainability point of view if they partner with the right suppliers, Fraser says.

“Reducing your impact on the environment, and building in sustainability measures into every project, is a key concern for all our clients,” he says. “And it is something that resonates clearly with our suppliers.

“For example, Glass Express Midlands’ sustainability strategy is constantly being updated, and it currently includes a cullet return scheme where all our offcut glass is return to the manufacturer to be recycled. This significantly reduces the amount of energy needed to produce the glass, and well as reducing the amount of raw material used.

“The leading glass manufacturers are also looking at new and innovative ways of reducing the embedded carbon in their products, including using renewable energy in the manufacturing process.

“Together, these measures allow us to deliver innovative products with lower carbon footprints, which our clients can build in to their own lowimpact projects. This is something many other suppliers cannot offer.”

Fraser says that by choosing the right supplier – as well as the right product – glass is more than just a component part of a building.

“Glass is so versatile and, by choosing the right supplier, it is more than just a component part,” he concludes. “You have access to industry leading opportunities.”

glassexpressmidlands.co.uk

Sustainability Baked In

Sternfenster claims to have taken a holistic view to sustainability –building it into everyday working practices. We talk to Sternfenster’s Managing Director Mike Parczuk to find out more.

Energy efficiency and sustainability are often seen as the two sides of the same coin, with both being flagged by homeowners as key features when buying new windows and doors. Yet, when it comes to selling new products, energy efficiency tends to be an easier sell, according to Mike

Parczuk, managing director of Lincoln-based trade fabricator Sternfenster.

“Whether you have specifiers meeting the low U-values required for newbuild properties, or homeowners reducing their energy use, how energy efficient a window or door is, is often more important than how sustainable it is,” he says.

“But you can’t really discuss one without the other. Part L of the Building Regulations is designed

to reduce carbon emissions, and most households will already be doing their bit to reduce their impact on the environment.”

Mike Parczuk

It is this mindset that underpins Sternfenster’s sustainability strategy, which earned it a shortlisted spot in the G23 awards. Mike said that he wanted to use Sternfenster’s influence as a national fabricator to provide the tools to customers and suppliers so they can plan their own sustainability journey.

“Key to our success, since we started mapping out the strategy in mid-2022, is the commitment to do the best we can at every stage,” he says. “It isn’t about creating a nice story to tell, but to help improve the image of the industry, and to ultimately drive sales of energy efficient and sustainable windows and doors.”

One headline development is a recent £400K investment in photovoltaic panels, which will provide more than a fifth of the energy that the Lincoln-based trade fabricator consumes.

The new PV array is estimated to produce 490,000kWh per year, offsetting 115,000kg of carbon in the process.

The new panels will join the PV array Sternfenster already has in operation, and together they will produce around one third of all the fabricator’s electricity needs.

“To put our new investment into context, it is the equivalent of planting 11.5K trees, or driving 852,000 fewer miles per year in your average family saloon,” Mike says.

Before the new solar panels were installed, Sternfenster measured its current impact on the environment. It found that: 100% of its manufacturing waste is recycled; 100% of post-consumer waste is recycled; 24% of its aluminium used is from recycled aluminium; 20% of its current fleet is electric; and it had made a 7% overall reduction in carbon emissions in 2022.

“The key to a successful sustainability strategy is measurement,” Mike said. “How can you determine how successful your investment in sustainability is if you don’t measure its effectiveness?”

The company then set itself a set of sustainability goals, which included a commitment to: reduce carbon emissions at all stages; completely move to energy efficient lighting and heating; work with sustainable supply partners; increase the use of green energy; increase the use of electric vehicles; promote energy saving products to reduce CO2; and help customers follow a similar sustainable journey.

Since the company already works with its suppliers to develop energy efficient products – its Styleline windows achieve a WER of A as standard, for example – Sternfenster is developing initiatives with companies like

Deceuninck, Smart Systems, Saint-Gobain Glass, and Edgetech to work together to place greater importance on the environment and communicate this to the end user.

The company also introduced a buy-back scheme through Starglaze (its retail arm), where frames are recycled via its downstream partners.

These initiatives are supported by a dedicated sustainability landing page on its website, developed to simply and effectively communicate Sternfenster’s commitment to sustainability, and which provides the foundation for its continuing sustainability story.

“As one of the largest trade fabricators in the UK, our operations affect many corners of the glass and glazing industry, from raw materials, through suppliers, used by us in manufacturing, distributed across the UK, which are then installed by our customers and relied upon by homeowners,” Mike says.

“We take this responsibility seriously.

“We know that not only do we have to make energy efficient products (which reduces energy use over their lifetime), but we must ensure that our operations are run as efficiently as possible (including partnering with likeminded businesses) and that we educate our customers – providing them with the tools to improve their operations.

“When you talk about sustainability, you don’t say things because people expect you to say it. Like any message connected to your brand, it needs [to] be there for a reason.

“And, ultimately, I think we’ve got a real opportunity here to make the world a better home for all of us.”

www.sternfenster.com

Supplying Support

It’s one thing having a supplier who offers the highest quality products to their customers. But having a supplier who also offers a skilled technical team to support their customers, is a much rarer thing, says aluplast. We report.

We all know the adage of ‘people buy from people’ – whether the business is a B2B or B2C enterprise, the ability to speak to a real person and ask for help is vital.

That’s why the majority of businesses have an in-house customer service team who can

support their clients in helping them to generate quotations and place orders.

But what about after the order is secured?

Our industry is highly nuanced and scientific in its approach to producing the exacting quality that is required, so what does a customer do if they are unfamiliar with the particulars of a product, or need help setting up their machinery?

This is where a team of highly

qualified technical experts, based in the UK and able to visit site, is vital: people who know their products inside and out and can work in partnership with customers to take them to the next level.

100 years of knowledge

“One of the biggest changes I’ve seen over the 40 years I’ve worked in the industry is the degree of professionalism that customers now expect,” says Graham Colls, aluplast’s newly appointed Head of Technical Applications and Operations. “And that includes end users, installers and fabricators.

“They expect to see professionalism in terms of certification, proven testing, and the general way that products are presented to them. The whole subject can be quite complex and we need to guide and steer

Continued on page 54

Graham Colls

Continued from page 52

our customers through those processes.”

Graham is just one of the newly strengthened aluplast technical team that was brought together at the end of 2023.

Alongside Graham, Andrew Stafford was brought on board to serve as External Technical Applications Engineer and Andrew Ballinger as Product Application Support Engineer. With over 100 years’ experience in the window and door industry between them, the technical team are providing that vital personal touch to support both new and existing aluplast customers.

A helping hand

“We’re on hand to support customers on a wide range of

issues, including switching over to aluplast from other systems, providing technical advice to architects and specifiers, and designing and testing products so they comply with Building Regulations”, says Andrew Stafford.

And what makes the technical team so invaluable to aluplast customers, according to Andrew, is their agility.

“We spend the majority of our time at site, helping customers in person. Customers value technical support very highly, and they need to know the miniscule details of the profile and how the different elements work together.

“This can’t be done over email or on the phone. Equally, we help with setting up machinery

and training fabricators whilst we’re on site – these are all vital services to customers in making the transition to aluplast as smooth as possible.

“When it comes to helping a fabricator move over to the aluplast system, we offer a very comprehensive support system internally and externally. We try to give them as much help and assistance as we can, starting by providing an audit, so they know what to expect, and there aren’t any unknowns.”

Long-term solutions

Andrew Ballinger is tasked with supporting customers with technical drawings, technical manuals, BFRC ratings, thermal simulations, and wind loadings. Andrew also provides architects with the correct technical information during the design process, which creates leads for aluplast customers as projects are put out to tender.

“The need for thermal simulations is on the rise again,” Andrew says. “We can help our customers prove they manufacture some of the best thermally rated windows and doors by supporting them through the testing process.

“It’s been to clear to me since I started at aluplast just how far they are willing to go to support their customers”, Andrew says. “Our products are industry-leading in their quality and performance, and are being backed up by significant investment in their manufacture.

“Our customers now also have the technical expertise and people on the ground to complete the jigsaw, and it’s been a real pleasure for me and the rest of the team, partnering with them and their businesses.”

www.aluplast.co.uk

Andrew Stafford

Andrew Ballinger

Winning Ways With Wayne Windows

With 40 years of partnership under their belt, we talk to Scott Wayne, director of Wayne Windows, about why their relationship with Sternfenster has stood the test of time.

Bognor Regis-based Wayne Windows has been installing windows, doors, and conservatories across West Sussex since 1975, and still operate as a family business. When Scott took over the business from his father in the mid-80s, the relationship with Sternfenster was born.

“We were looking to go in a new direction with the quality and choice of our products when I took over, and we chose Sternfenster to do that with”, says Scott. “That was 40 years ago, so you can guess that the change was a success!”

For Wayne Windows, one of the key factors in the longevity of their relationship with Sternfenster has been their service.

“Over a 40-year period, it would have been impossible for us to have never had an issue with a product”, says Scott. “But the key thing for us, is that in the rare times that we have experienced an issue, it has been fixed immediately by Sternfenster.

“The service is second to none, and because of that I wouldn’t want to change suppliers, even if it meant I was getting the products for less – that’s how good it really is.”

Wayne Windows purchase a range of windows and doors across Sternfenster’s extensive product range, but according to Scott, the winner for them is their PVC-U

casement window, fabricated from Deceuninck’s 2800 profile. “That is probably my favourite product of Sternfenster’s because it is the simplest window to install”, says Scott. “It’s not heavy, so it means we don’t have to dedicate extra guys on site to support with the installation, and we can be in and out of the customers’ home nice and quickly.

“That’s the product we would recommend to most people in the industry.”

50 years of innovation

Wayne Windows are one of around 75% of Sternfenster’s customer base that take advantage of the trade fabricator’s pioneering SF+ system.

Using Sternfenster Plus, customers can check on the status of quotes, contracts and deliveries with the touch of a button.

It is also home to an extensive library of downloadable training and marketing material,

Continued on page 56

Continued from page 55

accreditations and technical data, plus a live production capacity feed. This provides real time data on the capacity of individual products, across Sternfenster’s aluminium and PVC lines, and gives installers a unique overview of the fabricator’s production schedule from the moment an order is placed.

“I think SF+ is a fantastic platform. We can see the status of our orders, our quotes, any information that’s required on products – all in one place. It’s so useful for us because we don’t have to spend time chasing things up on the phone: it’s all there on the platform.”

In Sternfenster’s 50th year of continuous trading, sales director Nathan Court believes that partnerships such as the one with Wayne Windows, show why Sternfenster continues to be an industry-leading fabricator.

“Scott has been trading with us for 40-years, and this is a reflection of the continuous innovation that we are committed to. We are constantly investing in the latest technology and products to support our customers; whether this be through infrastructure such as SF+, or new machinery like our Schirmer to enhance our product quality.

“Our partnerships stand the test of time because our products, service and reputation also stand the test of time.”

As for Scott, he isn’t looking to part with Sternfenster any time soon.

“I wish Sternfenster, especially Mike and Simon, the happiest 50th anniversary to you both and your teams. And here’s to another 50, if we survive that long!”

www.sternfenster.com

The Bigger Picture

Greg Beachim, sales manager at Cyncly business First Degree Systems, says a measured approach to investment will lay the foundations for tomorrow’s growth. We report.

Investment in infrastructure and systems should begin yesterday, or at least that’s how it feels when you realise that your business operations are not ready for an sudden change in market demand. This is the view of Greg Beachim, sales manager at Cyncly business First Degree Systems, supplier of the Window Designer suite of software.

“We’ve had a lot of conversations with companies who are reviewing the way they are run, to improve efficiencies and customer service,” Greg says. “This is great news, because the right software, used in the right way, can reduce errors while maximising output for less cost.”

Since software forms a critical component of a manufacturer’s infrastructure, upgrades are unlikely to have an immediate effect, Greg believes.

“Window Designer can play an important role from quoting, through to design processing,

and back out to delivery,” Greg says. “This isn’t a sticking plaster approach. This is a fundamental investment by a fenestration business into its future.”

Significantly, once Window Designer is installed, it can help companies adapt quickly to changing conditions, while preparing the ground for future opportunities.

Cyncly is a leading provider of software solutions, which has teams of dedicated professionals who help customers identify the challenges of tomorrow, and deliver solutions that will help them thrive, according to Greg.

Key to Cyncly’s strategy from 2024 onwards, he says, is a recognition of the part the consumer – or the end user – plays in the life cycle of a product.

“Many of our conversations may exist in the B2B space,” Greg argues, “but we’d be foolish not to factor-in the consumer in the design and manufacturing process.

“At a simple level, homeowners

Continued on page 59

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CAB Reviews The Year Ahead

With construction output expected to decrease by 2.1% in 2024, according the latest report from the Construction Products Association, how will aluminium fenestration fare in the year ahead?

It is fair to say that 2024 will be a challenge for some, but for many it will be business as usual and the companies who remain nimble and can change quickly to capitalise on new technology and opportunities will be the winners. The recession in our industry, forecast by some at the beginning of 2023, did not materialise but there were some noticeable business failures that we can all learn from.

Over the years CAB has been supporting the aluminium fenestration market, 30 years this year to be precise, and we have seen many changes. One thing we have learnt is that as one door closes, another opens. In the residential market we have seen new build cut by onethird in 2023, but this has gone hand in hand with homeowners staying in existing properties and refurbishing and extending what they have, often utilising new thermal efficient windows and doors. A similar trend occurs in commercial offices, rather than moving or demolishing, building refurbishment occurs when faced with a market downturn.

In commercial circles, a cut of 2.1% in construction across the industry, followed by a forecasted 2% rise in 2025 will hardly affect the fenestration market which is predominantly aluminium based. But there are trends that continue to influence the market. City living is very much with us and has been for few decades now, many commercial premises have been converted into lofts and

apartments specify slim, steel look, thermally efficient aluminium windows. This trend continues now on old commercial properties on the outskirts of cities and increasingly specified on new projects.

Curtain walls, dominated by stick systems, are giving way to unitised curtain wall systems. Once the realm of large office developments, unitised systems are now being specified on medium sized projects where off-site construction and short build times are being specified to reduce costs and further improve quality.

Trade magazines, once the domain of high performance PVC systems have given way to aluminium as being the aspirational material of choice. There seems to be a move towards more glass and less frame as large sliding doors are now competing once again with the sliding folding door format. Front doors on homes are now being offered in a wide range of bespoke designs in aluminium. Flush fitting with hidden hinges complete with a high thermal performance, these doors options are a welcome addition to the traditional UK door styles offered by composite door companies.

A rapidly growing trend at the moment is the residential application of the slim, steel look, thermally efficient aluminium window doors in home improvement. A trend to offer older homes something more in keeping with the age of the building. We are also seeing these slim door systems and windows installed internally to create spaces within buildings that allow light airy spaces to be formed.

Outdoor living continues to develop with a growing number of companies in the UK offering stand-alone structural aluminium systems, often including outdoor kitchens and lounging spaces, to enjoy the rising temperatures expected in the UK. Rooflights

Phil Slinger

and canopies are also on the rise, many of these designs utilise aluminium as a structural component that when powder coated can offer decades of life expectancy.

Whilst the Future Homes consultation languishes in England and Wales, Scotland takes the lead and introduces a Passivhaus construction standard later this year. Aluminium is already set to take advantage of these developments with systems from various manufacturers certified on the UK’s Passivhaus Trust website. Some sizeable commercial projects are increasingly using this standard across the UK as real, quantifiable savings in energy usage can be realised which offer payback within a few years of operation.

In commercial applications aluminium is usually the only material of choice and the development of these high performance systems continue to make their way into our low rise residential properties. This is trend that will continue over the foreseeable future and CAB will remain on hand to support it’s membership in both commercial and residential markets. The Association offers free to attend webinars and training schemes for its members and continue to be a voice of aluminium in the UK & Ireland.

With the upstream production of aluminium making huge steps towards reducing carbon content, aluminium’s near 100% recyclability and its long ‘in-use’ life expectancy, the Association believes that homeowners will continue to embrace aluminium as the material of choice for future sustainability. On the cautionary side, the association agrees that 2024 will be a challenging year for many, but the opportunities are there for many of our members and the wider industry.

c-a-b.org.uk

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are conducting more of their research and purchasing online, which is encouraging increasing numbers of window companies to move more of their operations in to the virtual space.

“With the right software tools, we can help create a single journey from quote, to order, to design processing, to the factory floor, to dispatch, and ultimately back to the homeowner.

“At each point, you are reducing the need for double entry, which removes human intervention, and reduces the possibility of errors. You are also speeding up the processes, which can help window fabricators meet their promises for shorter lead times.”

From this initial software-driven framework, other processes and efficiencies can be built in, which can offer further benefits, Greg explains. These can include tracking orders through a factory, managing stock levels, closer communication with suppliers.

“This isn’t about what software can do, it is about what our customers want to achieve, and how we can help them do that most efficiently,” he says. “Many companies have already invested in high-end machinery, such as cutting and prepping centres, welders, corner cleaners, and bead saws. We are creating solutions that help them maximise the potential that investment offers.”

Greg says that he is talking to more fabricators who are taking on greater automation within the window, door and glass industry as a strategic response to overcome external pressures.

For example, as window retail companies look for a single supplier of window products, window fabricators are adding in new production lines across PVC-U and aluminium in response. This in turn requires larger or multiple premises, greater stockholding, and more employees.

“Where companies are scaling up to meet the requirements of their customers, they are exposing themselves to increased costs that could put pressure on their cash flow,” Greg says. “Stock control is an excellent case in point. If you are introducing new product lines, in multiple systems, in a wide range of colours, then you have to allocate space in your warehouse for the stock required to make them. And you are talking about profile, gaskets, glass, hardware –all of which ties up money in stock.

“Cyncly provides the digital intelligence to speed up fabrication, reduce waste, reduce stock holding, reduce reliance on human intervention, improve profit margins, and put the business on a secure footing to win new business – now, and into the future.”

www.firstdegreesystems.com

Greg Beachim

Dan Cope

FDM Appoints New Sales Director

Fire Door Maintenance (FDM) continues to expand with the appointment of Dan Cope as sales director.

Owned by UAP, FDM offers fire door inspection and maintenance services as well as fire door safety training accredited by GQA Qualifications, an awarding body for specialist sectors and occupational roles.*

With more than 25 years’ experience of the construction industry, Dan began his career with Travis Perkins before moving into sales in 2006. He has since gained specialist expertise across the merchant and door manufacturing industries, including spending six years at Permadoor, part of Epwin Group.

He spent five years looking after the social landlord market before moving on to head of Trade Sales.

At FDM, Dan will be responsible for growing the company’s client base, including landlords across the public and private sectors, housebuilders and developers. His role also involves raising awareness of FDM’s Training Academy, the UK’s first practical training centre for the fire door industry.

Commenting on his new position

Dan said: “Throughout my career, I’ve worked with a wide range of organisations which are key to FDM’s growth, including local authorities and housing associations. With more than 400

operatives at our disposal, FDM is ideally placed to help these organisations deliver fire door inspections and maintenance more efficiently and to a higher standard.

“Our Training Academy also has a vital role to play in raising safety standards and this is something I’m really passionate about. One of my key goals is to encourage as many people as possible to take part in FDM’s accredited, hands-on training courses to build their knowledge and skills. This affordable, high-quality training will benefit all those responsible for selling, installing, inspecting, and maintaining fire doors ranging from contractors of all sizes, housebuilders, social and private landlords, commercial property owners and builders merchants.

Nicola John, managing director of FDM, added: “There are two strands to our business and Dan brings specialist knowledge and experience to both. His contacts in social housing will be particularly beneficial as this is a sector most impacted by changes to fire safety regulation and offers huge potential for us to expand FDM’s inspection and maintenance services.

“At the same time, Dan’s passion for upskilling across the fire door industry will fly the flag for our newly launched Training Academy. We’ve already developed three accredited courses with GQA for fire door inspections, maintenance and installation. With Dan’s input, we’re developing ideas for other fire door safety training which will benefit targets such as merchants and the emergency services.”

Dan will be based at Orbital 60 in Dumers Lane Bury, which is also home to FDM’s 3,000ft² Training Academy and UAP.

https://fdmltd.co.uk

JDUK Appoints

Jack Walker As Area Sales Manager For The South

JDUK has announced the latest addition to its team, Jack Walker, who has joined the company as the new Area Sales Manager for the South. With an impressive background in sales spanning nine years, Jack brings a wealth of experience from the roofing and roofline products, as well as bathrooms industry.

After researching the business, Jack’s decision to join JDUK was motivated by the company’s ethos, values, dedicated staff, and its extensive product range. His expertise in sales, combined with a fresh perspective from his previous industry exposure, makes him an invaluable asset to the team.

Commenting on his new role, Jack explained, “It has been a really exciting transition joining JDUK as I’m completely new to this industry and learning very fast! I really enjoy a challenge, though, and the team have been very supportive. I have an extensive background in sales and have come from industries that have equipped me with a lot of transferrable skills, so I’m thrilled to be bringing those with me in my new role, along with enthusiasm and outside-the-box thinking!” www.jdukltd.co.uk

Eurocell Appoints

New Director To Spearhead People First Strategy

Eurocell has appointed Cat Hambleton-Gray as its People Director to drive forward the company’s People First strategy.

Cat joins Eurocell with 27 years of experience in people and HR roles across several businesses, including retail, hospitality & the veterinary industry. She has led a number of long-term strategic cultural changes, employee engagement, talent management and wellbeing projects.

She joins Eurocell as it embarks on a new vision for its people strategy, with four pillars at its core. These are talent development, employee value proposition, engagement and health and safety. Eurocell has also updated its values and communicated a new purpose across the business.

Headquartered in Alfreton, Derbyshire, Eurocell has more than 200 trade branches and employs more than 2,000 people in the UK. It offers a range of products for home renovations and new

build projects under a single brand with more than 10,000 products including PVC-U windows and doors, conservatory replacements, garden rooms, decking and roofline solutions.

Cat Hambleton-Gray, people director at Eurocell, said: “Employee engagement is critical to Eurocell and embedding our new purpose and values will be key this year. We will review our engagement cycle and be considering how we can enhance this and especially how we can be “always listening” to our colleagues’ views and ideas.

“Another key focus area will be wellbeing. We already offer a number of brilliant wellbeing benefits and our intention is to create a full wellbeing strategy which is relevant for our colleagues and will increase awareness and understanding of all elements of wellbeing. This in turn will support our colleagues to build resilience and be a support network for each other.”

Cat Hambleton-Gray

Carlia Corras Recognised With Long Service Award

Sales Coordinator Carlia Corras has received a 20-year long service award in recognition of her commitment and longstanding contribution to independent hardware distributor Carl F Groupco.

Carlia, who joined Carl F Groupco in February 2004, has been an integral part of the sales office, consistently delivering exceptional customer service and support. Throughout her tenure, Carlia has acquired widespread recognition from customers across various business regions. She currently works alongside Paul Dunn, regional sales manager, supporting the growing fabrication network throughout

the North East of England.

Commenting on Carlia’s milestone achievement, Owen

Vanquish Hardware Appoints New MD

Vanquish Hardware Protection has appointed David Sutcliffe as its new managing director.

David takes over from his father Keith Sutcliffe, who is semiretiring after more than 30 years in the passive fire protection industry and has been a driving

force behind the company’s rise to the top.

With 14 years’ experience, he moves from his position of managing director at Firestop Manufacturing Ltd, a UK manufacturer of passive fire protection products.

Coop, CEO at Carl F Groupco, said: “Long service recognition is an opportunity for us to thank colleagues for their dedication, loyalty and hard work. Carlia’s extensive experience, knowledge and exceptional customer service skills are an asset to the business. Her dedication and contribution are a testament to the strong team ethos we have at Carl F Groupco, where longserving employees like Carlia add significant value to our customers day in and day out.”

Speaking on her milestone recognition, Carlia said: “I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities and support I have received during my time at Carl F Groupco. The strong team focus, and supportive culture have made my journey immensely rewarding, and I look forward to continuing to support our customers.”

www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

Excited to jump in full-time, David said: “Having been a part of Vanquish since its conception, the team already understand my values and vision. The business has a strong foundation and I’m looking forward to building on that and working closely with our customers.

“I’m also looking forward to working alongside my brother Mike, who is head of sales, and continuing the close-knit, family feel that has always been a core part of our company.”

Vanquish manufacture FlexiFire, the leading graphite based intumescent and was the first UK company to secure third party IFC (International Fire Consultants ltd) accreditation for both – FlexiFire and its other hardware protection product, Fire Protectors phosphatebased intumescent, claims the company.

www.vanquish-hp.co.uk

Keith and David

Senior Appointments At AluK

AluK has made two appointments to the UK Board, with industry heavyweight Paul Booth joining as R&D Director and manufacturing specialist James Schools joining as Finance Director.

They are both bringing valuable experience and expertise to AluK, to help the aluminium systems company deliver on its ambitious plans for 2024 and beyond.

Paul Booth is an award winning product designer with more than 40 years’ experience in aluminium system design. He says the opportunity to join AluK and lead a complete transformation of its product range ahead of the challenges presented by Future Homes was

one he couldn’t turn down.

Paul commented: “Under Russell Yates’ leadership, AluK is a reinvigorated business in the UK with exciting plans and substantial backing from the European Group in terms of investment and resources. I’m delighted to be a part of that, and

I’m already working with Russell and the rest of the engineering and technical team to remodel the new product development programme so that it is quicker, more streamlined and more customer focused.

“One of the key things that attracted me to this role was AluK’s philosophy of being a global company but retaining local market influence in product design, so that we design products which meet local market needs, rather than trying to force a one size fits all product onto the market. In line with that, I’m already getting out and about meeting customers to ensure that we are delivering on exactly what they want, and I can promise some welcome announcements soon on our slider and bifold offering.”

James Schools is a relative newcomer to the window and door market but has 14 years of finance experience working extensively with manufacturing entrepreneurs. He is promising to shift the focus of AluK’s finance offering, so that it better supports the needs of the company’s fabricator customer base. He said: “I want to see us working more closely in partnership with our customers, focusing on how to improve the customer experience, whilst also reinvesting into the continued evolution and growth of the business, and I have lots of new initiatives in mind to help us to do that.”

Russell Yates added: “This is an exciting time to be an AluK customer. As Paul and James’ appointments demonstrate, we’re committed to leading the way in aluminium, giving both established aluminium fabricators and newcomers to this sector really compelling reasons to do business with us.”

uk.aluk.com

Paul Booth, AluK R&D Director

James Schools, AluK Finance Director

Iron Guard 3* Cylinder

Scan to View the Iron Guard 3* Cylinder Range

T: 01733 393330 (Peterborough)

T: 01236 721557 (Cumbernauld)

E: sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk

@carl_f_groupco

Carl F Groupco

Carl F Groupco

New Appointment For Warmcore

Andrew Charlesworth, the previous technical director for Kömmerling in the UK, has been promoted to the new role of Director Global Category Management – WarmCore. This move will see a renewed focus on this revolutionary aluminium/ PVC hybrid system that includes casement, flush and tilt and turn windows, along with feature-rich patio and bi-folding doors.

WarmCore is a product platform with the future in mind and by that definition it’s been designed to accommodate triple glazing right from the outset. Windows can achieve 1.3 (W/m2K) double glazed and down to 0.80 (W/ m2K) triple glazed as standard

UK Doors Midlands Appoints Ryan Hayes as Production Manager

Roller garage door manufacturer and supplier UK Doors Midlands has announced the appointment of Ryan Hayes as Production Manager. With a strong background spanning over a decade in manufacturing and production management, Ryan brings a wealth of experience and technical knowledge to his new role.

Prior to joining UK Doors Midlands, Ryan built ten years

of invaluable experience as a manufacturing/production manager, following seven years of service as a social worker and four years as a Mechanical Engineer. The company says his diverse professional journey uniquely positions him to tackle the challenges and opportunities within the manufacturing industry.

Commenting on his new role and what drew him to UK Doors Midlands, Ryan explained: “The

with 44mm units. Residential, double, patio and bi-folding doors also provide impressive thermal insulating properties, 1.4 (W/m2K) double glazed and down to 1.0 (W/m2K) triple glazed, again as standard with 44mm units.

According to a spokesperson, trade partners and consumers will testify that WarmCore is a premium product with the looks and finish to match, thanks to premium bespoke hardware and careful manufacturing processes, including foil lamination options. There’s already been considerable interest from Australia, Italy, Spain and even Chile and the system platform will be showcased at Fensterbau in March 2024 through five different product displays. www.profine-uk.com www.kommerling.co.uk

exciting challenge presented by the company’s operations was really appealing. It is an opportunity to apply my skills and experience to enhance production processes, increase efficiency, and drive improvements in overall business performance. My goal is to leverage my past successes in similar roles to contribute to the growth and success of UK Doors Midlands by implementing strategic initiatives, optimising resources, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. I’m really excited about working with a dedicated team to generate innovative solutions and continue the company’s successes.”

Simon Perks, managing director of UK Doors Midlands, says of Ryan’s appointment with the company, “It’s been such a positive experience welcoming Ryan to UK Doors Midlands. The company is looking to continue developing and building its successes in 2024, and with his strong background and experience, I know Ryan will play a key role in this.”

ukdoorsmidlands.co.uk

Andrew Charlesworth

Edgetech’s Parent Company Quanex

Appoints Global Market Director

Edgetech’s parent company, Quanex, have appointed a new global market director to help drive far-reaching plans for growth.

Mike Moran brings over two decades of sector experience to the role, having previously served as commercial director at Sanglier, and spent 18 years in commercial leadership roles at Bostik.

Reporting directly to Chris Alderson, Edgetech managing director, Mike will play a crucial part in expanding the company’s

reach into new markets and regions.

Mike holds a Master’s (MSc) degree in Polymer Science, from Manchester University, and has gained further qualifications from Wolverhampton University, Stafford College and Ghent University Management School.

Chris Alderson comments: “I’m delighted to be welcoming Mike to the business. I had the pleasure of working with him for many years at Bostik and have seen his dedication and commercial

expertise first-hand.

“He’s a vital addition to the company’s senior team and will be a huge asset as we seek to achieve our ambitious strategic objectives in the years ahead.”

Mike comments: “I’m extremely excited to be joining Quanex. It’s a superb business I’ve known for many years, and I’ve always been hugely impressed by its dynamic and forward-thinking culture.

“It’s great to be back in the IG industry. As governments, businesses and households around the world strive for greater sustainability, I believe the sector has a bright future ahead of it.

“I’m looking forward to working with our global team to drive Edgetech and Quanex forward as part of something bigger.”

www.edgetechig.co.uk

Clima63

– Engineered For A Sustainable Future, Says Hörmann Truedor

Hörmann Truedor have launched their Clima63 thermally efficient composite door which is able to achieve a U value of below 1 W/m2k, fully addressing the requirements of both the Future Homes standard and end consumers looking to make their homes more energy efficient, claims the company.

Produced at the company’s IG Doors manufacturing plant in South Wales, Clima63 consists of a 63mm insulated GRP door slab with a door frame featuring a thermally efficient reinforcement and a unique triple seal system for added insulation. Triple glazed units which are fitted via a unique Hörmann Truedor cassette system further aid thermal insulation, together with protecting against water ingress and improving sound insulation.

All doors are fitted with Kinetica K4 cylinder locks and the latest multi-point locking systems as standard. For added peace of mind, Clima63 doors have been awarded Secured by Design accreditation – enhancing security and minimising the risk of crime.

Available in three feature designs, traditional Panelled, Cottage and Contemporary, Clima63 doors can be supplied with a choice of side lights and fanlights. The range is offered in twenty-one standard styles, some of which can achieve a U value as low as 0.80 W/m2k and there is an extensive selection of glazing, hardware, and accessories. With an unrivalled selection of colours,10 classic and 26 premium options, consumers have the opportunity to select a

door that will subtly co-ordinate with the exterior of their property or create a real impact.

Gareth Burgess, sales manager for Hörmann Truedor comments, “Clima63 represents a real opportunity for installers to offer a competitively priced, thermally efficient door to the market. It’s fully compliant with all of the latest building regulations and will appeal to housebuilders and to end consumers looking to save money on their energy bills.

According to the company being the only manufacturer of composite doors to produce their own slab in the UK, customers can be assured of delivery security, an issue that is being highlighted by the continued disruption to worldwide shipping in the Red Sea. The decision to produce such a key factor of the door in the UK, together with a policy of sourcing from local suppliers wherever possible and a focus on sustainable manufacturing, also results in a range of composite doors which can boast as being the ‘greenest’ in the market.”

Clima63 thermal doors – IG Doors igdoors2023.co.uk

Origin has unveiled the first launch of its new generation of products – the Soho External Door (OB-36+).

Launches New Generation Door

According to the company, the aluminium external bi-fold and French door system features highly sought-after glazing bars and ultra-slim sightlines of just 36mm. Plus, it’s 2025 compliant, a year earlier than required by the new building regulations.

Designed by Origin’s in-house R&D team and handcrafted to customers’ exact specifications in the UK, it marks the beginning of a new era for fenestration products, says the company

The Soho style is tailored to homeowners’ interior style demands for 2024, and this is backed by Origin search data. Its glazing bars mimic the look of steel doors, yet offer thermal performance.

Tailored to complement clients’ aesthetics, the bi-fold and French door can be specified with more bars to provide a heritage design or fewer to create an industrial or minimalist look.

The Soho External Door perfectly complements Origin’s popular Internal Door to provide a seamless look.

Made from high-grade aluminium, the exterior door effortlessly

supports the weight of large expanses of glass, so homeowners can seamlessly bridge the gap between the interior and exterior of their homes.

According to Origin, the Soho External Door has been engineered to meet the demands of the UK market. Notably, it complies with the 2025 Future Homes Standard by achieving U-Values as low as 1.0 W/m2K. Plus, its use of sophisticated weathertight seals ensures protection against the elements, keeping rooms cool when it’s hot and warm during cold spells, says Origin.

Daniel Baker, managing director at Origin, comments: “Origin’s ethos is founded on continual improvement and the desire to consistently offer the UK’s best quality products, and for it to be backed by unrivalled levels of service. Our latest launch epitomises this philosophy. The Soho aesthetic and performance is the right product at the right time for our Partners, as it allows them to meet modern consumer style demands and buyer priorities. The design is the result of our in-house R&D team’s meticulous attention to detail to deliver a product that is not only visually stunning, but uncompromising on energy efficiency, security, and overall performance.

“We pride ourselves on always delivering more for our Partners. Now, they can offer a 2025 compliant system a year earlier than required to have even more to offer their customers and even greater control over their success.

“With more product launches on the way, 2024 is going to be an exciting year for Origin and our Partners.”

The Soho External Door is now available for Origin Partners to quote and order on Origin’s OSS on a two-week lead time. To open a trade account with Origin, please visit https://bit.ly/48OJ2Lg

Endurance Doors Adds New Lever Rose Handle

Endurance Doors has extended its range of hardware.

In line with its focus on offering homeowners maximum design freedom, the business has launched a new lever rose handle.

Available on all new Endurance and Avantal Doors, as well as suitable for retrofitting to existing Endurance doors which use the AV2 or AV3 locking system, the new handle features fixings hidden behind the rose cover and a completely flush finish.

This ensures a sleek, minimalist appearance which is ideal for contemporary interior design themes, says the company.

On the exterior side of the door, the stylish appearance of the new handle is maintained with

the simple addition of a discrete escutcheon enabling normal key access.

The new handle is available in three finishes – standard stainless steel, premium stainless steel and an ontrend, premium matte black.

Aside from its impressive aesthetic appeal, the new lever rose handle from Endurance Doors also offers some equally attractive functional benefits.

This includes the need for reduced energy and effort to open the door from the inside compared to a door with a thumb turn cylinder.

The handle is also easier to grip and operate than a thumb turn. This makes it especially advantageous to those who may have limited dexterity in their

fingers due to health or other issues. This innovative product can easily replace a thumb turn, providing a convenient retrofit option for individuals with reduced mobility.

In addition, the stainless steel construction of the new handle provides exceptional corrosion resistance, ensuring greater durability and suitability for use in all environments, including coastal applications, says Endurance Doors.

Commenting on the launch of the new lever rose handle, Russell Hensman, group marketing manager at EnduranceDoors, said: “As a business, we have an immensely active programme of product development and the introduction of the new lever rose handle is evidence of that.

“Its launch also highlights our deep commitment to helping our installer partners to maximise sales. We do this through a variety of different and equally dynamic ways including offering them products that accommodate the widest range of homeowner tastes, as well as ever-evolving design trends.”

endurancedoors.co.uk

SLINOVA® The slimline sliding door

Stylish, minimalist and sustainable.

SLINOVA offers slim sightlines and the flexibility of a dual and triple track door system, as well as a large number of sliding door combinations. With a minimalist discreet design, SLINOVA provides outstanding performance and design, for today’s modern contemporary homes.

rehau.uk/slinova enquiries@rehau.com

Tel: 01989 762600

Epwin Window Systems Launches Stellar Aluminium Inline Sliding Door

Epwin Window Systems has just launched the latest addition to its Stellar Aluminium range, the new Stellar Aluminium Inline Sliding Door.

Phil Parry, technical director at Epwin Window Systems, said:

“The Stellar Inline Sliding Door continues Stellar’s track record of products that set new standards across the industry and redefines product excellence at every level.”

It has a slim aluminium profile and a slimline interlock of just 35mm. Each sash can be up

to 1675mm wide, so there are fewer sashes and wider glazed expanses. And because the outerframe seamlessly aligns with the sash, the door delivers a flush appearance that perfectly matches with other products in the Stellar Aluminium range. It’s available in 2, 3, and 4-pane configurations with a maximum total width of 6500mm, so it’s a solution for the largest of spaces.

Intelligently designed polyamide thermal breaks deliver a U-value of 1.4 W/m²K with 28mm double glazing and as low as 0.9 W/

m²K with triple glazing. At the same time, effective seals and bespoke design features provide performance to BS 6375 standard, claims the company.

The Stellar Aluminium Inline Sliding Door is available in a standard range of stocked colours or in any other made to order RAL finish. Textured, non-textured and dual colour options are available too, reflecting the latest colour palettes for project personalisation. All doors are Qualicoat-approved and come with a 25-year colour guarantee.

Two- and 3-pane doors feature Yale’s 6-hook locking system as standard. For 4-pane doors, there’s a specially developed Yale 10hook locking system. As a result, the Stellar Aluminium Inline Sliding Door is a PAS 24:2022 accredited system and meets Approved

Document Q requirements as standard. With the correct glazing specification, it can also meet Secured by Design standards if required., says the company.

The Inline Sliding Door also benefits from Stellar’s renowned ease of installation. It uses pregasketed knock-in beads, which make sashes quick and easy to glaze, whilst providing a neat, highend finish on the gasket line.

Phil concluded: “The new Stellar Aluminium Inline Sliding Doors is the perfect solution for any fabricator or installer seeking to offer a standout aluminium sliding door. And because it’s part of the Stellar Aluminium system, it’s part of a comprehensive flush window and door suite, providing elevated aesthetics for today’s modern interiors.”

www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

ODL Europe Launches

ts New Trisys Modern Frame System

ODL Europe has launched its new TriSYS Modern cassette, a contemporary design variation of its market-leading TriSYS three piece frame system.

Bryan Bultema, managing director at ODL Europe, said: “The new TriSYS Modern cassette is a sleek framing system that combines the unique fitting properties of the original TriSYS three piece frame system with streamlined contemporary styling that’s perfect for modern doors.”

The new TriSYS Modern cassette has a sleek, low-profile aesthetic with a subtle texture, which the company says ‘blends seamlessly with any door finish’. It’s offered in a range of sizes and colours including white, black and grey.

The system utilises the TriSYS three part framing system. The outer frame and inner cassette screw together, allowing the same system to be used for a wide range of door thicknesses, while the inner frame snaps on for a uniformly clean look.

No preparation, no adhesion promoter and no special primers are needed, plus the clip system eliminates screw hole covers, providing a clean, modern finish. A pre-sealed variation is also available.

Bryan said: “The TriSYS cassette system has been a cornerstone of our business for many years, and we have built on this proven foundation with the new TriSYS Modern frame system. It offers the sleek modern aesthetics that are so popular without compromising on the performance, serviceability and assembly convenience.”

The TriSYS Modern’s design is claimed to make it easy to glaze in both the vertical and horizontal positions, while also making it easy to deglaze from the inside if required.

Security is said to be assured because the cassette is PAS 24-compliant when fitted as part of a complete door assembly.

https://europe.odl.com

Innovation From Aluk With New Quik Clip Bead For Bifolds

AluK says that fabricators and installers have yet another reason to choose the company’s ‘tested, tried and trusted’ BSF70 bifold, with the launch of a brand new clip-in bead option.

The new AluK Quik Clip bead takes just seconds to clip securely into place, with no need for force or special tools, and it doesn’t impact on the sightlines of the door.

A key benefit in terms of installation is that Quik Clip works with a sliding gasket which can be fitted either by the fabricator in the factory or the installer out on site. If the glass is out of tolerance, there is flexibility to replace the sliding gasket with a standard wedge gasket, without needing to change the Quik Clip bead. It clips out just as easily as it clips in and

there is no risk of damage to the glass, says AluK.

Priced in line with the existing, standard AluK bead, the new Quik Clip bead is said to represent value for money, with no compromise on quality or performance.

Russell Yates, AluK’s managing director, says it will save time and hassle for customers: “This new bead is a fool proof design which redefines simplicity in bifold installations. I think the time that fabricators and installers will be able to save on every single BSF70 they make or fit will surprise even the most experienced teams.

“We’ve already had great feedback during the development and testing stage, so we plan to roll out the Quik Clip bead option to many

of our other systems over the coming months.”

The new BSF70 Quik Clip clipin bead for 28mm sealed units is the first product innovation from AluK to go live since Russell Yates returned to the business in September, and is very much true to his stated mission to make AluK the first choice for fabricators and installers.

He added: “Our focus is on delivering products and services which make our customers’ lives easier – whether that’s a clever innovation like this clip-in bead or operational OTIF scores which mean they never have to worry about a delivery again.

“We’re full steam ahead now with an exciting new product development programme and we have more new fabricator-friendly features to announce soon for the BSF70, as well as completely new sliding and Heritage doors.”

There is a side by side video showing how quick and easy the bead is to install compared with standard glazing at https://ow.ly/xgOX50QAgCc and more details are available at: https://uk.aluk.com/

Sheerline Highlights Consequences Of A UK Carbon Levy

Sheerline says that sustainability has always been a core pillar of its business, but that it has never been more important than now considering the UK

Government’s plans to introduce a carbon levy, which has big implications for importers of carbon intensive products like aluminium.

Reports in December 2023 suggested the Carbon Levy may come into effect by 2027. Sheerline says while systems companies around the UK should not have been surprised by the news, many have been caught flat footed – scrambling to get themselves ready, as decarbonisation climbs the agenda, powered by a probable change of government later this year.

In terms of aluminium, it’s not just large-scale manufacturers that could be affected by the changes –this has the potential

to affect businesses of all sizes. Fabricators within the fenestration industry must carefully review their suppliers ahead of time to avoid increased costs, says Sheerline.

Imported aluminium looks set to be hit with an additional charge through the Carbon Levy. Costs that, according to Sheerline, systems companies who rely on overseas supply will look to their fabricators to cover.

However, Sheerline says for its fabricators, there is no need to worry about the prospect of

smaller margins or additional unexpected costs. This is because of the company’s strategic vision, which was developed with supply chain security and long-term sustainability in mind.

The company adds that not only is this to protect the business and ensure its longevity, but also to protect Sheerline’s customers. For example, sustainability means many things at Sheerline, encompassing everything from green business practices to where the materials are sourced

from.

The latter is important for supply chain resilience and enables the company to proudly bear its Made in Britain membership. Sheerline’s aluminium is also sourced from within the UK to keep its carbon footprint low while removing the potential for shipping delays or import taxes.

Another element of Sheerline’s sustainability strategy is recycling. All the aluminium offcuts that can’t be used get sent back to the supplier so they can be melted, reset, and reused. This forms part of the closed-loop manufacturing process.

This approach to business operations will arguably increase in importance in the coming years. Decarbonisation is not an issue that is going to go away, and it’s not something that can be overcome halfheartedly. There are likely to be stringent targets, and consequences for those who cannot comply, says Sheerline.

Ross Hartshorn, technical production director, commented: “Sheerline is ready for the future, but many manufacturers will struggle in the coming months and years because the carbon levy has the potential to shake up the UK aluminium market, which extends to the fenestration industry.”

“Our priority is ensuring our fabricators know that when they choose Sheerline, they’re choosing simplicity. We are a one-stop supplier of wholehouse premium aluminium solutions that are designed, extruded, moulded, painted, and assembled in-house. We’re the obvious choice for fabricators who want to embrace simplicity,” he added.

www.sheerline.com

Capitalising On New Build Opportunities With Stellar

Think Outside The box With Fentrade’s ID30

System

Fentrade’s design flair has come to the fore with a series of projects displaying its innovative use of aluminium for interior finishes, says the company. Chris Reeks, managing director at Fentrade, commented: “The ID30 internal door and Screening System is a fabulously versatile system. We’ve recently created several projects for homeowners who want to achieve a modern, contemporary aesthetic.”

In one recent example, Fentrade’s design team developed a specification for a project involving an ID30 door and internal staircase. Chris commented: “The ID30 offers scope for experienced designers to think outside the box. In this project, for example, we complemented the ID30 doors by creating a stylish set of internal bannisters from standard aluminium.”

Chris continied, “as well as the more innovative projects, our customers have used the ID30 system across domestic and commercial settings, as internal door and screens, as office partitions and to create shower and bathroom spaces.”

The versatile system features single and double hinged entrance doors, as well as single and double sliding door sets. All options can be customised with colour, glazing choices and door furniture options fentradealuminium.co.u.k

Specialist fabricator Capital Windows is leveraging the advantages of Stellar Aluminium from Epwin Window Systems to advance its presence in the new build sector.

Peter Adams, general manager at Capital Windows, explains: “All Stellar windows and doors are compliant with Part L of the Building Regulations, enabling us to provide customers with a complete new build solution utilising a single aluminium system. This simplifies the process and ensures consistent quality and aesthetic appeal throughout the entire construction project.”

Stellar’s windows and doors can achieve a U-value of 1.2 W/(m²K) with triple glazing, the regulatory standard for the new build space. This includes the Stellar flush tilt & turn window, flush casement window, fully flush casement window and the bay window, as well as the flush residential door, flush French doors, lift & slide door, slimline bifold door and the new Stellar inline sliding door.

Peter commented: “We offer a complete portfolio of Stellar Aluminium window and door products, leveraging its seamless

compliance capabilities to gain a competitive edge in the market.

“Stellar’s sleek and modern design resonates well with housebuilders. Installers also appreciate its user-friendly features such as its pre-gasketed clip-in beads which speed up installation. It’s become our go-to aluminium system.”

Capital Windows has secured many lucrative contracts, including several high-end new build projects. Notably, the company supplied multiple Stellar windows and doors for a prestigious £2.5 million bespoke new build property. Peter said: “The high-end specification on this project was exacting, but Stellar more than delivered.”

Commenting on the success of Stellar in the new build space, Phil Parry, technical director at Epwin Window Systems, said: “Stellar, along with all our systems, offers inherent compliance with Part L regulations, presenting a valueadded proposition for fabricators like Capital Windows operating in the new build sector. We are delighted to see the remarkable success of the Capital team.”

www.stellaraluminium.co.uk

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The Popularity of the Heritage Window

By Wojciech Brożyna – MD Aluprof UK

Before aluminium’s emergence as the material of choice for high performance window and door systems, back in the 1920’s steel framed windows and doors were extensively used across the globe in both commercial and residential projects. These single glazed

systems consisted of solid rolled steel sections, welded together, hot dip galvanised and then painted. Set in putty, glass was fixed into position using a nib and bead arrangement. Due to the limitations in the size of sheet glass at the time, large windows could be created with multiple mullions and transoms, which typifies this style of window.

MB Slimline specified on Kampus, Manchester

Wojciech Brozyna

When aluminium window and door systems entered the market in the 1940’s, steel window systems rationalised their range of profiles to compete with aluminium and since then the ‘W20’ range has become synonymous with steel framed window specifications. Due to their age, these slim systems have become collectively known as ‘Heritage’ windows.

One of the benefits of this ‘heritage’ style is that installations offer a large expanse of glass due to their slim sight lines for any given opening, allowing good levels of natural daylight to enter a building. Steel framed window systems are still used today in new and renovated properties, however, slim aluminium systems continue to gain popularity as they can offer several advantages over their steel counterparts.

Performance is a key specification benefit, whilst aluminium also offers a slim sightline, it is designed with a deeper frame that accommodates efficient polyamide thermal breaks and accommodates wide insulated glazed units. Not restricted to the limitations of a rolled steel profile, an aluminium profile can contain undercut grooves for the installation of high performance glazing gaskets and opening light weather seals. With these efficient thermal breaks and EPDM seals, these slim aluminium systems offer high thermal performance for refurbishment and new properties.

As with steel systems, aluminium systems can also be made into single and double doors sets, complete with sidelights, with both open in and open out options. Together with open out window vent options, aluminium systems can also include open in, tilt turn options complete with multipoint locking arrangements for high weather performance.

One system that is being specified on refurbishment projects is Aluprof’s MB-Slimline which offers high thermal performance, down to a Uw of just 0.8 W/(m2K) with sightlines much slimmer than a traditional aluminium window. MB-Slimline offers two vent frame options, a visible vent frame and a hidden vent frame. The hidden vent frame is situated behind the glass, so from the outside the vent frame appears to be invisible. Both vent frames are designed with ‘Euro’ grooves which allows a wide range of hardware options to be fitted to the opening windows. Three recently completed projects in Manchester demonstrate this system in use:

Positioned at the heart of the city centre, adjacent to the ‘Village’ and ‘Piccadilly’, the Kampus development has been created following the consolidation of Manchester’s Metropolitan University faculties. The project sees the creation of a vibrant and creative neighbourhood, distinguished by its mixed use, but with significant residential

accommodation in addition to new leisure and retail outlets. The MB-Slimline system used on this project utilises the visible vent option.

The luxury apartment development at One Silk Street is a Vincent Kompany backed project in Manchester offering 24,000 sq ft of offices alongside 75 apartments. The ninestorey building was designed by Falconer Chester Hall and Mecanoo for M4nchester Two. Alongside 24,000 sq ft of offices on the ground floor there are 23 one bed, 47 two bed, and five three bed apartments on the upper floors. The completed project sits within the Ancoats conservation area, close to Oldham Road, and faces south onto a grade two-listed Victoria Square tenement block. The MB-Slimline system used on this project utilises the hidden vent option.

North of Piccadilly in Manchester once accommodated a thriving textile industry and some of these buildings have been restored into residential apartments. Crusader Mills dates from the late 1840s and includes a number of listed cotton spinning mill buildings. The special architectural interest of Crusader lies in its scale, industrial character and the aesthetic effect of the repetitious bays and windows along its four storey facade. The MB-Slimline system used on this project utilises the visible vent option.

A wide range of standard profiles offered by the MB Slimline System allows specifiers to create a window or door design which is in keeping with a refurbishment project, or that can emphasise a modern design concept from the outset. Aluprof UK offer specifiers guidance in the design and detailing of these unique window systems.

aluprof.co.uk

MB-Slimline specified on One Silk Street, Manchester

Tomorrow’s Growth Starts Today

Fabricators are turning to systemised processes in greater numbers than ever before, according to sales manager of Cyncly business, First Degree Systems, Greg Beachim. We talk to him to find out why.

It is an almost universal truth that many window fabricators begin life as small operations, established to fill a niche requirement for quality made

windows and doors.

“Within our team, we regularly see businesses start up with as little as a chop saw and fabrication bench,” First Degree Systems’ sales manager Greg Beachim says. “The trade sector serving the home improvement market is all bespoke, which encourages many small businesses to run a fabrication shop alongside an installation business.

“But those businesses can rapidly grow, and potentially outgrow even the most basic systems such as spreadsheets. In fact, they can become a millstone around their neck.”

Greg argues that in many cases, businesses starting off with a modest throughput won’t even consider a systemised approach to manufacturing, because systemisation and automation are words and ideas associated with large businesses handling thousands of orders a week and

employing hundreds of people on multiple shifts.

“But that’s a myth,” Greg says. “Systemisation is less about size and more about scale. It’s also about staying in control of your operation as you grow, and not letting the tail wag the dog. The danger is that you can lose sight of the important things and be weighed down by processes.

“We designed Window Designer to allow fabricators to remain in control of processes so that quality of product and service remains the focus, and not the bits in between.”

For example, Window Designer is offered on a subscription-based model, so businesses only ever pay for what they need. So, as they grow, they can add on more modules as and when they see fit, and which will help them remain efficient and profitable.

“Actually, this year has been almost unprecedented,” Greg says. “More of our customers than ever before have expanded their automated processes and their systems because they’ve recognised that they want to be the best that they can be in the industry.

“And the only way to do that is to look at automation to improve not only accuracy of product, but the amount of product they can fabricate.

“Going into Q1 of 2024, our professional services team were working hard on an extensive order book, which is great because it means customers are recognising the fact that they need to make those investments if they want to keep ahead of the game, ahead of the curve.”

Window fabricators are also putting more control in the hands of their customers by putting more information and tools in the cloud.

Greg Beachim

For customers wishing to take out a site licence, our Zandi platform allows the manufacturer to create an account for their customer where they can log in, see any conversations, answer questions, pull up order confirmations, confirm production dates, set delivery dates, and issue invoices,” Greg says.

“This gives window manufacturers a lot more control, which not only speeds up their operations and reduces error, but improves processes at the retail end. This means window companies are not isolated from the manufacturing process, and everyone benefits from a joined-up approach.

“You don’t want a constant dayto-day battle with the system. We look at the processes that make our customers work well and we systemise those into our own solutions so they can adopt them without too big a change, while improving them.”

Greg points out that First Degree Systems is taking a leaf out of its own book, by keeping one eye on the future, and investing in products and services that will keep it relevant and efficient.

“Being part of the international software powerhouse Cyncly allows us to invest even more into research and development, and we have some exciting new products in the pipeline, including a module for designing corner bi-folds, the ability to view cross-sectional drawings, and the upcoming Window Designer Mobile application (which will make the quoting and selling process quicker and easier) and SQL additions,” Greg says.

“Ultimately, we want to always think bigger, because, like our customers, we will outgrow where we are now and need to be ready for the next stage of growth – and that journey starts today.”

www.firstdegreesystems.com

Latest Premier Arches Update Puts You In Control Of Arched Frame Quotes

Arched and angled frame manufacturer Premier Arches has updated its online pricing and ordering platform to allow customers to add their own logo and selling price to quotations for a more personal and professional customer experience.

Through the platform, fabricators, installers and trade counters are able to price and order complex arched and angled frames in a wide range of profile systems in a matter of seconds.

They are also able to save their quotes and view their orders through a unique portal on the Premier Arches’ website, taking full control of their ordering process.

Managing director Sean Greenall comments: “Quoting for arched and angled frames can often be complex, but our online pricing and ordering platform helps customers simplify this process by showing all the technical

information needed, including an image of the frame.

“This is a fantastic tool for fabricators, installers and trade counters – not only are they able to get instant quotes for angles and arches, but they can now also provide their customers with instant quotes for the same products, branded as themselves, and with their unique selling prices.

“At Premier Arches, we’re dedicated to making our customers’ lives easier, and this latest update to our online platform is a perfect example. From instant quotes and personalised branding to complete order management, we’re streamlining the process every step of the way. It’s all about empowering our customers to succeed, and that’s something we’re truly passionate about.”

www.premierarches.co.uk

No More Muddling Through

When Ken Rhodes took over the family business – The Ken Rhodes Group – one of his priorities was to sign up to Business Pilot. Here he explains why.

When I took the business over from my mother and father (also call Ken) in 2016, everyone still used paper files which were kept in filing cabinets. So, every time a customer rang, they’d say, “Oh, hold on, let me just get the file.”

You’d be surprised at just how many businesses still operate that way.

And the database they used was Microsoft Access, which was built back in the 1990s. It sort of worked for them, and they’d always just muddled through. But there were inconsistencies and limitations.

My first task was to make

everything digital. At that time, the company was just a shared drive, like a RAID-central sort of database system. But it too had limitations. For example, a fitter would ring me at home and say, “I haven’t had my work through this week, can you send it to me?”

Well, I couldn’t. I would have to go all the way back to the office, scan it, email it over. So, quite tedious. And again, if you were away from the office during the day, you couldn’t access the files.

When I originally looked at CRM solutions on the market, I thought a lot of it was quite complicated. I’m quite young, have grown up with technology, and even I had difficulty getting my head around them. So, I couldn’t really expect my office staff and reps take them on board.

Business Pilot, on the other hand, was different. We signed up and haven’t looked back.

Take the Fitters’ App, for example. Every fitter who has joined our team has loved the amount of information at their fingertips, and they’ve really engaged with it. They’ve got access to all the customers’ information, including surveys, without me having to trek into the office at all hours.

And it’s been a game changer from a customer service point of view because before we took on Business Pilot, if a customer called, and if the person who had been managing the project was ill or on holiday, then nothing could be done to assist them. That’s not very impressive, is it?

Now, whoever speaks to the customer has all the information at their fingertips, such as account information, project start dates, engineer’s details etc.

Business Pilot also allows us to be proactive. We can phone the customer to see if they have received their quote, for example. We can also make sure leads are passed on to our sales reps in a timely fashion, and not left forgotten at the bottom of a pile of messages.

We can also analyse the data that we gather. We can see which homeowners in which areas are

Ken Rhodes (right)

replacing their windows and doors, which products they are buying, and what colours and level of security they are choosing. This means we can be much more targeted with our marketing, rather than shooting the wind.

We can also see how sales compare from month to month, if we are getting enough leads, and if not, why not. Business

INTERNET, IT AND SOFTWARE

Pilot is not just a handy centralised database, but you can run your business off it, especially as it is specific to the fenestration industry, while other sales tool such as Hubspot and Salesforce aren’t.

Business Pilot has been a real game change for the Ken Rhodes Group because no matter what your role in the business – sales rep, survey

New Customer Portal Opens Its Doors

Hardware manufacturer, VBH, has launched its new VBH24 Customer Portal.

VBH advise that the Portal builds on the success of the previous VBH online shop, but offers users a number of very useful additional benefits.

As well as placing orders, VBH24 users can view and download supplementary information including drawings, literature, guarantee information and safety data sheets through the Portal.

VBH marketing manager Gary

engineer, fitter – we all have access to the same data, which helps us to run efficiently, and it means the customer is getting the best service possible.

You can watch a discussion between Ken Rhodes and Business Pilot’s MD Elton Boocock here:

https://bit.ly/434nN78

www.businesspilot.co.uk

Gleeson says, “The percentage of orders arriving at VBH via our previous online shop was high at around 35%, but we wanted to offer users more reasons to buy online as it is easy for them to use, and gets their orders to our picking teams quicker. The new features have struck a chord with many people who were previously not that keen on ‘online shopping’, with many additional customers now being willing to give it a go.

“Once they see how convenient it is, and see some of the new features including Order Templates, Cost Centres, Item Sharing and Budgets, they quickly become VBH24 converts.”

VBH describes the VBH24 Customer Portal as more than an online shop, as it is a source of information for purchasing and specification teams, as well as having useful tools for other departments, including Bought Ledger and Cost Control.

Gary concludes, “The range of customers using the Portal extends from sole traders spending £100 a month, right up to our very largest customers, who spend millions of pounds with VBH. Something that they have in common is that they find ordering is easier through VBH24, so I would urge anybody to try it. It really is a 24 hour doorway to our stocks.”

www.vbhgb24.com

New Business Pilot App A Hit With Installers

BPsite – the new Business Pilot App – is already a hit with installers, despite being operational for less than six months, says the company.

Installers can upload images, notes and voice notes via the App, all while on the move. And if they don’t have a signal at the time, the App will save the information and upload it to the cloud as soon as they’re reconnected.

Despite only being released on the App stores in late October 2023, the Business Pilot development team has already released a number of updates, adding extra features and functionality in response to customer feedback.

Business Pilot customer Rakeem Porter-Young,

director of Signature Home Improvements in Chichester, said: “I’ve been on the road and using the App extensively. It’s a super impressive piece of development from you guys!”

Meanwhile, Jon Dennis, director at Sureseal Windows in Carmarthenshire, said: “The new improved one blows the old one out of the water!”

Ryan Schofield, technical director at Business Pilot, said the team is delighted with the response they have received since the launch of BPsite.

“It’s designed to help fitters, engineers and site managers access everything they need on site,” he said. “The Google Map integration takes fitters straight to where they need to be and all documents, installation

instructions, product information and customer details are there at their fingertips, just a few taps away.

“We spend a lot of time constantly improving Business Pilot and this improved App deserved a new name: BPsite. It’s a free benefit for all Business Pilot users, but is especially useful for fitters, sales teams, and anyone else who spends a lot of time on the road or away from their desk.

“As with all of our developments, the new App is helping us to create the most integrated and useful business management system for window and door installation companies, to make life easier for them. It’s great to see BP users embracing all of the new features and functionality we make available.”

Users can download BPsite from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

To find out more please visit www.businesspilot.co.uk

Klic Home Improvements

Receives

4.8 Excellent Rating,

Thanks To Adminbase

Window and door installer in East Anglia, Klic Home Improvements, is pleased to be the most trusted double glazing installation company in the region with a 4.8 excellent rating on Trustpilot, according to the company. The business puts a lot of its success down to the use of the installer management system, AdminBase.

“We have ambitious growth plans for the next 12-18 months,” says Stewart Grand, director of Klic Home Improvements, “and customer service is central to these plans.

We had to make sure we had the necessary solid infrastructure and strong online presence in place to manage this additional demand before actively seeking new business and have found AdminBase to be a fantastic tool to help us to do just that. The system allows us to streamline processes within the business and improve communication with customers, which has contributed to our online ratings. The system’s checklist with automated reminders helps to keep projects on track, and the customer portal gives us everything we need to keep

customers up to date at every step of the way.

“The AdminBase customer portal helps customers to track their installation online, which gives them more confidence that we are working on their order, even when we’re not physically in the home or on the phone. We have also found that customers really appreciate being able to interact with us via e-mail or text message, because it’s so much more convenient for them. This works from our perspective too because unlike sending texts from individual mobile phone networks, we can send and receive this communication from the central system, so that anyone working on that order is kept in the picture.

Stewart concludes: “We have been working hard to boost our digital footprint and online profile to attract new business, but with customer service central to our success, it is imperative we look after our customers through any future growth. AdminBase has already given us a competitive advantage to make the most of new market opportunities and to become the most trusted double-glazing installer in our region, and we are confident that it will enable us to maintain our high level of service while we expand.”

Rhonda Ridge, managing director of AdminBase

comments: “It is fantastic to see quality conscious companies like Klic Home Improvements making the most of AdminBase and all its features to improve customer service and grow the business. The system was designed with installation businesses in mind and so works seamlessly in every department to streamline processes and make lives easier. I’m thrilled that Stewart and his team are finding it so useful and wish them all the best for their ambitious growth plans.”

www.abinitiosoftware.co.uk

Stewart Grand, director, Klic Home Improvements

UAP Expands Slim Pull Handle Range

UAP is bolstering its range of slim pull handles with new colour options for residential and commercial properties.

The first to launch is the Black Pull Handle. Made from marinegrade stainless steel and finished with a black powder coating, the handle provides a contemporary appearance and exceptional durability. A further two handles are currently in development offering the same qualities with either a granite or rose gold finish.

To enhance aesthetics, all slim handles in the range feature 32mm

diameter bars, are available with matching accessories, and can be paired with complementary hardware, including the Fullex Flexi Lock.

Each pull handle has two fixing points with an individual plate on each and comes with an Allen key and two Allen bolts on the upstands. To maximise flexibility, three methods can be used for installation – hidden fixings, bolt through and back to back. For customers, these options also mean the door can be sent to site without the pull handle, preventing the risk of any damage in transit.

Kamila Kasperowicz, marketing director at UAP said: “These products have been designed to meet the demand for more modern hardware with sleeker handles and a choice of contemporary, stylish colours. The use of 316 grade stainless steel combined with the quality of the coating will prevent any rusting or water damage, ensuring minimal maintenance.

“The different fixing methods are another key benefit providing further options for end users, which can enhance the overall appearance of the handle as well as durability. The bolt through and hidden fixings can result in a neater finish while the backto-back method can reduce fitting times to just seconds while offering a very strong fixing.”

uapcorporate.com

Dynamic Hardware Introduces The Patent-Pending Dynamic 3D Door Hinge

Dynamic Hardware has just launched the patent-pending Dynamic 3D Door Hinge for PVC-U door profiles.

Dynamic Hardware’s CEO Tony Chadwick said: “The Dynamic 3D Door Hinge showcases the product design strength that is the hallmark of our range.”

The Dynamic 3D Door Hinge is part of Dynamic Hardware’s Premium Door Hardware Collection and features a patentpending ‘anti-lift’ security feature with a 2.5mm steel sash plate that gives enhanced product performance and security, claims the company.

The outer packaging comes in various options designed to facilitate both high and low volume assembly whilst minimising wasted labour and materials, all while considering

the environmental impact. It is non-handed and is available in 19mm and 22mm height options with a variety of hinge packers, as well as a choice of colour options and painted finishes to make it suitable for all door colours and finishes.

The hinge is constructed from high-strength Aluminium, Zinc alloys, Steel and 304 Stainless Steel. It is manufactured in Dynamic Hardware’s own state-of-the-art 50,000 sqm manufacturing centre in SouthEast Asia, ensuring control and quality. The hinge achieves PAS24 accreditation as part of a complete door assembly. It is corrosion tested to BS EN1670 and comes with the reassurance of a ten year mechanical guarantee, says the company.

dynamichardware.co.uk

The Significance Of Carl F Groupco’s Hardware Package Offering

When industry-leading fabricators and system houses choose to source their hardware components directly from Carl F Groupco, it demonstrates the strength of their offer and the willingness to go above and beyond to support its customers, says the company.

This is the view of Julie Warner, product manager at Carl F Groupco who said: “Our bespoke hardware package service is just one of the many facets of working with us. Customers appreciate our value-added support, whether it’s profile-related components or mixed manufacturer parts to complete a window or door set. This service, particularly for profile system houses, reduces hardware picking requirements and streamlines their distribution.”

Carl F Groupco supplies Senior Architectural Systems, one of the largest and most respected aluminium fenestration systems companies in the UK, with many

different bespoke kits.

Craig Turner, purchasing manager at Senior Architectural Systems, comments: “Items from Carl F Groupco can sometimes consist of multiple different components, which could mean we’d need two or three locations in our warehouse. This is where Carl F Groupco’s bespoke kitting service comes into its own. One box, one location. Simple.”

He adds: “They don’t stop there, either. Each box is supplied labelled displaying our part number. This aids our internal stores department and has reduced our pick errors stats, ultimately helping us to deliver a better service to our customers.”

Carl F Groupco’s technical expertise enhances the value proposition significantly. Every component within the kit undergoes rigorous testing to meet PAS24 requirements, ensuring

complete compliance across the spectrum. Extending to the most extreme tolerances and maximum door heights, these tests guarantee that Senior Architectural Solutions can consistently deliver top-tier products that meet the most stringent performance and durability standards.

Senior Architectural Systems has been working with Carl F Groupco since 2015, and Craig values the independent hardware supplier’s approach. He says: “Month on month, year on year, our relationship has gone from strength to strength. Over the years we’ve thrown “grenades” –sorry, requests – in their general direction. Nothing’s ever been a problem.”

Owen Coop, chief executive officer at Carl F Groupco, said: “Our approach is simple. We seek to provide our customers with the best hardware solutions and support to allow their businesses to flourish. In short, we’ll do anything and everything we can to make the hardware element of a job run smoothly. It’s great to see customers such as Senior Architectural Solutions benefiting from this.”

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

AT Precision: “Turn Bi-Fold Dreams Into Profitable Realities”

In the fast-paced world of bifold doors, where sleek design meets functional brilliance, profit margins can be extremely delicate.

Yet, for many fabricators, the allure of booming installations often clashes with the harsh reality of squeezed margins, compatibility headaches, and slow assembly times.

This is where AT Precision enters the scene, who says it is not just as a hardware supplier, but a ROI ‘revolutionising powerhouse’.

squeeze a decent profit from bifold projects. AT Precision’s inhouse manufacturing eliminates compatibility nightmares – their Everglide range of bi-fold hardware is manufactured with streamlined processes, and their competitive pricing efficiently cuts through inflated costs.

But AT Precision goes beyond just hardware. Their Everseal range of gaskets offers highperformance seals, keeping draughts and dust at bay while ensuring exceptional thermal insulation, says the company.

And to complete the package, AT Precision offers their own Everglide aluminium profile. This sturdy yet lightweight material is claimed to provide the perfect foundation for bi-folds, ensuring strength, durability, and a sleek, contemporary aesthetic.

Sales Director Michael Hewitt explains: “Our goal at AT Precision has always been complete customer satisfaction, and we achieve this in several ways – the first being seamless integration and high-quality hardware that slash material waste and eliminate timeconsuming adjustments, boosting profit margins.

“With us, you can also say goodbye to the days of lengthy manufacturing processes – our efficient components significantly cut production times, freeing up your team for more projects and unlocking your revenue potential.

“Finally, by coming to AT Precision for your hardware needs means you no longer have to deal with the inflated prices of big systems companies – our commitment to cutting out the middleman translates to huge savings for our customers, giving their end profits a healthy boost.”

According to AT Precision, gone are the days of struggling to

www.atprecision.co.uk

Everglide aluminium profile

AT Precision’s Everglide range of bi-fold hardware

Everglide aluminium profile

New Smaller Packs For Glazpart’s Premium Finish Link Vents

Glazpart has announced that its Link Vent premium finish ranges are now available in handy packs of either 10 canopies or internal vents to help companies only buy the stock they need and add more value, both in terms of revenue and kerb appeal for homeowners.

The premium finishes available in the new handy sized packs are the premium woodgrain range, premium vac foiled range, premium sprayed colours, super matt finishes.

Dean Bradley, Glazpart sales director explained the rationale behind the new packs. “We are constantly listening to our customers and found that with

the average number of windows per property being approximately ten, many companies only require Link Vents with premium finishes for just a few jobs a year. So rather than tie up stock, space and cash in excess stock, the new 10 packs mean that companies can order almost per job. This means they will not need to carry large stocks of Link Vent premium finishes and woodgrains. The new 10 packs will be ideal for fabricators who only need premium finishes occasionally.”

The Link Vent range sizes include 5000, 4000 and 2500 EQA. The vents are designed to fully comply with Building Regulations, Approved Document

New Fortex Natura Cladding From Freefoam

New from Freefoam Building Products, Fortex Natura cladding is manufactured using cutting-edge digital printing technology, so it’s virtually indistinguishable from natural wood, says the company.

“It has the look and feel of quality planed timber,” says Colin St John, Freefoam’s commercial director. “But unlike natural wood, it doesn’t fade, and is guaranteed to look as good in 10 years as it does the day it’s installed. The development of this unique cladding product has taken a significant investment of time and equipment, but the results are beyond our expectations.”

Colin adds: “The feedback from our stockist and registered Installer customers so far

has been incredibly positive, describing it as ‘just beautiful’ – and a market-disrupting product.”

There are six wood finishes

F1 (means of ventilation).

Glazpart says the Link Vent follows a clever design that is simple and user friendly for both opening and closing – the innovative closing action allows the closure plate to be positioned so that it reduces draughts by directing air away from occupants.

The Link Vent 4000 and 5000 closure plate is split to allow for partial (50%) opening and greater ease of opening of the ventilator.

glazpart.com/colour-options/

available in the Fortex Natura range: aged padauk, barnwood oak, grey cedar, greyed oak, malted oak, and Siberian larch. Each features a non-repeating pattern from expertly edited photographs of real timber. This is printed onto Freefoam’s foam PVC cladding boards using a special ink for external use, and a laquer topcoat for extreme durability.

A complete set of aluminium finishing trims is available in colours that perfectly complement the six cladding options, all RAL number referenced for accurate matching to windows, doors, and roofline.

The premium V-groove cladding can be installed horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. Low maintenance, it’s also easy to store, fit and handle, and is 100% recyclable, says Freefoam.

freefoam.com/professional

‘Peak Sales Opportunity’ For Summer-Ready Pleated Blackout Integral Blinds

With the late winter and early spring period being peak period for homeowners preparing their homes for summer, now is the perfect time to promote the benefits of pleated blackout integral blinds according to Morley Glass.

The manufacturer of Uni-Blinds integral blinds has offered a pleated blackout variant for several years now, and every year the company sees an increase in enquiries and quotes for the system in the first quarter. It enables homeowners to switch a room from light to complete darkness in an instant, even during the strongest sunshine, given its design which means there is no light ‘bleed’ around the edges of the blind or along the cords.

Pleated blackout Uni-Blinds

are manufactured in the UK exclusively using ScreenLine integral blind systems, and can be fitted into all kinds of new windows and doors as well as for retrofits. It is available in a variety of manual and motorised control systems and customers can choose from eight different colours

for the internal face of the high quality blackout fabric.

Importantly, the integral blind units are produced in what Morley Glass claims to be the industry’s shortest lead times, just 10-12 working days when ordered by 10am on Thursdays, and all UK mainland customers benefit from complimentary delivery. This rapid turnaround means installers can respond to customer requests well ahead of the arrival of the long summer days.

Ian Short, MD of Morley Glass, said: “This year British Summer Time begins on 31st March which many of us will welcome as we can start to enjoy the great outdoors much later into the evening. But for parents of young children whose early bedtime isn’t so compatible with lighter evenings, shift workers who need to sleep during the day, or for those with a cinema room or other space where bright sunshine affects its use, the April to September period comes with its problems.

“That’s where our pleated blackout integral blind can help. It is designed to provide darkness in an instant due to how it blocks light transmission in a way that Venetian blinds and standard vanity blinds won’t. The system has proved really popular since we introduced it to the range, with end-users not only choosing it for children’s bedrooms or nurseries, but also for bedrooms which face out on to busy streets where streetlights and car headlights can be a nuisance through the night.”

The Uni-Blinds pleated blackout integral blind is ideally suited to retrofitting into existing window or door frames because it can be specified for slimmer double glazed units which have a 20mm cavity. This is exclusively available from Morley Glass and makes the system more compatible with many older profile designs.

https://bit.ly/3uMFnQt

Pleated blackout integral blinds operated using a magnetic slider are ideal for bedroom windows such as casements.

Uni-Blinds pleated blackout integral blinds installed in French doors, sidelights and a nearby window, powered electronically with the MB brushless motorised system.

Top Integral Blind Colours Of The Year Revealed

Morley Glass, manufacturer of bespoke ScreenLine integral blinds has revealed anthracite as 2023’s most popular customer colour choice for Venetian blinds, narrowly pipping white to the post.

Anthracite accounted for over a third (34.5%) of all sales of Venetian Uni-Blinds from Morley Glass, with white coming a close second at 32.4%. Both these colours have dominated for several years now, but the sales data does suggest the arrival of a new kid on the block – black.

Whilst pleated Uni-Blinds have been available in black for a number of years, it was only in 2023 that a new black (B160) Venetian blind was introduced to the ScreenLine range. And, given the orders already received in the first 12 months of manufacturing black Venetian units, this colour appears to have captured the

imagination of property owners, already accounting for nearly 6% of all sales.

Grey and silver blinds are also still highly popular, with standard silver (S157) taking third spot with nearly 1 in 10 of Venetian integral blind sales, and light grey (S155) seeing similar volumes to black.

Ian Short, MD of Morley Glass said: “We continue to see white and anthracite windows and doors dominating across the market, whether that’s for PVC-U, aluminium or timber frames. But that doesn’t mean homeowner tastes are not changing, which is why we continue to work in conjunction with ScreenLine systems manufacturer Pellini S.p.A. to add new colour options to our portfolio.

“The rapid growth of black Venetian Uni-Blinds sales shows how customers respond

positively to colours that enable them to achieve an ‘on trend’ contemporary look in their home. Black fixtures and fittings have become hugely popular in interior décor in recent years, and now we are seeing the appeal of black integral blinds grow too.”

One of the stand-out advantages of choosing Uni-Blinds with ScreenLine integral blinds inside is that all the colours are developed to the highest standards, which means they will resist fading and stay in pristine condition throughout their lifetime. Pellini’s R&D process for new colours is extensive, designed to replicate prolonged periods of the strongest sunshine and temperature extremes over a period of five years.

Whichever colour or control system is specified for Uni-Blinds integral blinds, Morley Glass will supply them with complimentary delivery. Venetian and pleated integral blinds, including pleated blackouts, can be delivered in as little as 10-12 working days when ordered by 10am on Thursdays.

https://bit.ly/49VxEyn

Hurst’s Bold Investment In Colour Choice

Hurst is helping its customers meet the increased homeowner demand for colour by investing in a new state-of-the-art paint shop at its site in Hull.

The new £200k dedicated paint facility comprises of Downdraft preparation bench, bunded paint mixing room, fully enclosed spray shop with forced air input system, dedicated Atex-rated flash-off area, and Schubox Catalytic IR drying system.

The whole facility is supported by an overhead track system allowing products to be loaded from the prep area and suspended throughout the whole process to the despatch area.

The new paint facility will give the door supplier greater control over the manufacturing process, while minimising error and reducing lead

times in the process, claims the company.

“This is an exciting development for us,” sales director Mark Atkinson said. “Our recent customer research found that the majority of our customers have seen an increase in demand for bespoke colours, and it is important that as a key supplier we can react quickly to those demands.”

Hurst surveyed its customer base at the start of 2024 to learn more about how the latest trends among door specifiers and homeowners were feeding through to supply and installation.

It found that 62% of respondents consider the appearance and design of the door to be the most important factor in selling entrance doors. It also found that four in five

respondents had seen an increase in demand for bespoke colours.

“We know that colour has become really important for our customers,” Mark said. “They use colour to differentiate their offering, and we can supply them with over 1600 RAL colours now.

“Our new paint shop will give us greater control over product development, including new colours, that will allow homeowners to make bold statements with their entrance doors.”

When it comes to popular colours, Mark said that being unique is a key trend of the day.

“They’re going for every shade of grey, pinks and blues,” he said. “And they are taking greater care to match the colour of the entrance door with the interior design.”

Hurst’s increased colour capability dovetails neatly with its investment in its marketing support, including its new augmented reality (AR) sales tool, which fully integrates with a new composite door brochure and professionally created sales videos.

The door styles featured in the new Hurst AR Composite Sales Tool include options drawn from across its Classic, Cottage, Contemporary and Designer Collections.

And Hurst’s new aluminiuminspired Designer composite collection taps into the demand for the aluminium aesthetic but without the heavy price tag, according to the company.

“We know definitively that our customers want to be able to offer a wide range of colours to their customers,” Mark concluded. “Not only have we invested in the infrastructure to allow us to do this on a quick turnaround, but we are also providing the modern marketing tools to help them sell.” www.hurstdoors.co.uk

Sliders UK Turns To Kolorseal For Colour Coating Services

Aluminium and composite door manufacturer Sliders UK, has returned to colour coating specialist Kolorseal Ltd for its bespoke window and door colouring needs.

Alex Murphy, managing director at Sliders-UK, had evaluated and instigated in-house spraying at the company’s Preston based facility when demand for the range increased substantially.

In a bid to control all aspects of output and further build resilience into the operations, there was a belief that colour spraying internally would prove more cost effective and efficient. When that did not work out, the company contacted Deborah Hendry at Kolorseal Ltd.

According to Alex it quickly became apparent that stock holding for over 200

colours, as well as increased insurance costs, health and safety requirements alongside significant capital outlay, was simply not a viable option financially.

Kolorseal Ltd offered a simpler route to achieving greater profit margins and broader business scope with vast colour choice, its 5-day turnaround guarantee and delivery.

With a product portfolio that includes the popular and highly accredited Ultimate Door Collection, the range offered by Sliders-UK boasts over 2500 colours with matching colour frames, it was essential therefore that a colour coating supplier could meet and match the necessary exacting standards.

Alex comments, “From quote to order to delivery, the colour coating team at Kolorseal has the expertise and market understanding to provide quality products that can effectively support Sliders UK.

“Colour choice is virtually limitless, which helps to keep our business ahead of the competition and has allowed us to expand the company’s range. In place of the spraying and drying rooms we have now allocated the space to manufacturing new products including uPVC patio doors.”

The increased number of RAL chart and other colour options for plastics has had a huge influence on consumers and their colour choice for their windows and doors.

Deborah Hendry, managing director of Kolorseal Ltd, comments: “Instead of just standard reds, blues, greens, blacks or whites, homeowners have far more choice and they know it. Where Kolorseal excels is colour matching and we

believe that detail counts. This is a pressure for those without access to colour coating options.

“The effects of the turbulence caused by Covid and more recently the recession have forced many companies to evaluate their supply chains. Regarding colour coating, however, the need for higher overall stock levels, more storage space and greater staffing requirements, creates a high level of investment that is not always attractive to fabricators as it does not generate a fast ROI.”

With prompt, reliable delivery part of Slider UK’s guarantee, using a supplier that could meet the demand of their customers was essential.

Alex continues, “Despite doing initial costings, far from being a profitable decision, in-house spraying quickly became a loss leader.

“Once the decision was made to outsource all our spray work to Kolorseal, we’ve never looked back. High quality products, delivered on time, every time, backed up by the Kolorseal guarantee, has certainly saved us money. Also, Deborah and her team have improved the flexibility of our delivery planning and its implementation. We wouldn’t go anywhere else!”

Deborah concludes, “When it comes to colour coating, Kolorseal provides customers in the sector with smarter ways to keep inventory, staffing and equipment maintenance costs under control. Supplying to Sliders-UK is a wonderful testament to the team and we are very proud to be working with them.”

www.sliders-uk.co.uk www.kolorseal.co.uk

A Solution To Unusual Bay Window Angles, Says Window Widgets

Window Widgets boast a perfect solution for both common and unusual bay window angles with their extensive baypole range

One of the leading manufacturers in glazing solutions for the fenestration industry, Window Widgets manufactures a wide range of baypoles for fitting bay windows of all different angles. The baypoles range accommodates 58mm to76mm deep frames as well as covering a range of angles. Not only do they offer the most common angles, they offer a solution to the unusual ones too.

Most products within the range can also be used universally, not just with the one brand, however Window Widgets manufacture more than 1,400 product variants across a choice of 36 colourways, many that can be used alongside the baypoles.

A vast majority of the baypoles are load bearing and accommodate a jack, meaning if a Window Widgets jack is used in conjunction with the baypole it ensures you are fully CE Mark compliant, according to the company.

Sarah Hitchings, sales and marketing director at Window Widgets, said: “At Window Widgets, we are proud of our extensive selection of Baypoles. Our commitment lies with developing products that cater to all the needs of fabricators and installers, irrespective of the window systems they work with.

“Window Widgets’ development of a diverse range of baypoles ensures that the fenestration industry has a versatile product available. As a leading ancillary firm, we stand as a formidable competitor in the market.”

https://bit.ly/3Tncnaj

Pilkington Mirai: Lowest Embodied Carbon Glass Of Its Kind

The Pilkington Mirai glass has been independently verified as having 52% less embodied carbon, certifying it as the lowest carbon glass of its kind.

The independent verification comes from a new Environmental Product Declaration (EPD). Pilkington Mira has 52% less total embodied carbon when compared to standard float glass produced by Pilkington UK. The glass offers the lowest carbon alternative to regular float glass on the market, with no difference in performance, quality, or

aesthetic appearance.

Pilkington UK will showcase Pilkington Mira to architects and specifiers at Futurebuild 24 at London’s ExCeL 5th-7th March 2024. The team will be on hand to provide technical guidance to attendees interested in low carbon glass.

EPDs provide data about the global warming potential (GWP) of products by assessing the carbon emitted at each stage of a product’s lifecycle. Manufacturing and transport, emissions generated while the product is

in use, and the disposal of the glass at the end of its lifespan are all evaluated when procuring the EPD.

EPDs not only empower architects and specifiers to make more informed, environmentally conscious decisions when purchasing materials but also to calculate a building’s embodied carbon.

This allows architects to have their project certified to demonstrate it meets certain standards in sustainable building design, such as LEED or BREEAM certification. Pilkington UK’s EPDs will also enable processors selling full units containing glass, such as windows or doors, to calculate the total embodied carbon of their products.

Kristian Chalmers, global strategic commercial manager in Architectural Glass SBU, said: “In our latest industry polling, four in five architects told us that their clients are more concerned about embodied carbon than they were five years ago. EPDs provide the crucial transparency they need to make informed decisions on what materials will help to enhance the sustainability of their projects.

“With EPDs for Pilkington Mira and many more of our glazing products, we are offering architects and specifiers architectural glass that helps them meet their carbon objectives.”

The EPD for Pilkington Mira joins 21 additional EPDs already available for Pilkington UK product ranges, including float, coated, laminated and toughened glass varieties as well as Insulating Glass Unit combinations.

All of Pilkington UK’s EPDs have been prepared by sustainability consultant EuGeos and independently verified by a third party, Studio Fieschi & soci.

www.Pilkington.co.uk/epd

SheerVent

Now Available For S2 Glazed Roofs

Sheerline has announced that SheerVent roof vent, is now exclusively available for S2 conservatory roofs, alongside the company’s award winning S1 lantern.

SheerVent is offered as the perfect solution to the longstanding challenge of adding reliable ventilation to glazed roofs without creating weaknesses for water ingress. It does this through an integrated muntin bar, and fitting directly into the ridge baffle, thus eliminating the possibility of leaks, claims the company.

In addition, it offers thermal efficiency as it is fully thermally broken using high-performance 24mm glazing, ideal for keeping conservatories warmer in winter and cooler in summer, says the

company.

With powered actuators and a full range of automated sensors, this clever system utilises discreet light, wind, and rain sensors for comfort and additional convenience and peace of mind.

SheerVent sits lower down than traditional roof vents and avoids the look of a frame that protrudes beyond the rafter cappings.

SheerVent is available in sizes up to 1.1 wide x 1.2m, and is purposed designed to fit the S2 roof, making it the obvious choice for homeowners, fabricators, and installers alike.

Jon Crohill, project design manager for Sheerline, said: “After investing so much time

in to S2 and evolving it through the development stage into the product it is today, adding proper purge ventilation was the next logical step. Customer response to SheerVent® for our lanterns was overwhelmingly positive, so it made sense to bring this proven system to S2. What we’ve achieved is precisely what we set out to: a functional solution, that doesn’t compromise on style –something that we pride ourselves on at Sheerline.”

Tony Basile, Sheerline sales director, added: “There are countless ways in which the S2 stands out within the glazed roof market, but adding SheerVent® will undeniably set it apart from the other solutions currently available. Our customers no longer have to make do with ugly vents that don’t match, or worse, allow the ingress of water. Conservatory season is coming up and now we’re able to offer the winning combination of the S2 and intelligent ventilation, we’re looking ahead to a busy summer.”

www.sheerline.com

The Residence Collection Updates Bespoke Conservation Area Development Near Wakefield

The Residence Collection features in a new-build development in the conservation area of Woolley, near Wakefield.

The luxury development, named Old Beech Farm, features more than 200 Residence Collection windows across six newbuild properties. Alongside fabricator HWL Windows and

an independent housebuilder, the traditional R9 windows were added in the Painswick colourway, to compliment the stone exterior of the homes.

The original timber alternative window, Residence 9, is widely accepted in Conservation Areas and for Grade II Listed Buildings across the UK as the collection was designed

according to the key principles, shapes and dimensions from the Article 4 Conservation Area guidelines for windows. This particular window system was chosen by the developer due to their low maintenance superior performance features and highend finish which fit with the premium development, claims the company.

The selection of windows, which meet Part L requirements with a u-value of 1.2W/m2k, surpassing British Building Regulation requirements and already below the changes that come into effect in 2025, was based on their thermal

efficiency, heritage, and attractiveness to end-users.

The windows also achieve a certified A++ window energy rating and attains Passive House standards with u-values of 0.74W/m2k with 44mm triple glazing, says the company.

The Timberweld jointing technique was used in the fabrication of the Residence 9 windows. This jointing method creates a seamless butt-joint appearance on both the exterior and interior of the windows, offering an authentic timber look and enhanced strength.

The Residence Collection

windows are available for delivery without glazing, making on-site handling more convenient. In the case of Old Beech Farm, the windows were initially supplied with pre-fitted Georgian bars. However, to offer installers the flexibility to source glass locally, HWL also provided Georgian bars in kit form.

Jo Trotman, marketing manager at The Residence Collection commented: “At The Residence Collection, we prioritise offering a selection of new windows that not only enhance the aesthetics of properties but also deliver long-lasting performance. This particular

project opted for a colour that perfectly complemented the exterior of the building, while still capitalising on all the other performance qualities that the R9 boasts.

“Establishing quality partnerships is crucial in the delivery of our superior design, manufacturing, and installation services that we consistently provide to our customers. We are delighted to have successfully concluded yet another project with HWL Windows and look forward to many more in the future.”

https://bit.ly/3ToNhsN

Fast Forward To The Future

If you want to make a stunning impression on clients, customers and visitors to your commercial office space, sometimes only glass will do.

TuffX supplied 89 panels – a total of 145m2 – of 21.5mm EVA toughened and laminated safety glass for a substantial glass stairway in a business premises in the South East of England. The glass was chosen for both its quality aesthetic as well as to

provide enhanced safety, with the Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) interlayer ensuring robust bonding for greater impact resistance and structural strength, says the company.

Complementing the building’s glass atrium roof and light glossed marble effect flooring underfoot, the glass stairways create a dramatic, futuristic vision, with light bouncing around the space even on the most overcast days. Clear sightlines

throughout the building from top to bottom emphasise the sense of grandeur and elevation.

To complete the project in time,

the finished glass panels – which included drilled holes for secure side fixing and CNC polish finish on the edges and dubbed corners – were needed fast. And TuffX were happy to help make it happen.

“We’re delighted to say this is another tight project that we delivered on time and in full to a satisfied customer,” said Paul Higgins, TuffX’s commercial director.

“This is a fantastic example of where only quality glass will do, and the stunning finished result is great to see. Furthermore, our 10-year guarantee against discolouration and de-lamination means our customers can be assured their glass will look as good as it does on day one for years to come.”

www.tuffxglass.co.uk

Stedek & The Residence Collection Support Eco-Friendly Houses Of The Future

Stedek & The Residence Collection have helped a newbuild development achieve outstanding thermal efficiency.

71 Old Penk in Cannock, Staffordshire, consists of three high-tech, eco-friendly homes that have been designed to be exceptionally sustainable.

They incorporate solar panels, electric charging points, groundsource heat pumps, and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery.

Crucial to their fabric first approach to energy efficiency, however, were the windows, as Alex Page of Stedek explains:

“To deliver the thermal requirements the developers wanted, we provided 44mm tripleglazed Residence 7 windows, capable of achieving U values of just 0.9.

“That’s the brilliance of The Residence Collection – the way it can balance looks, versatility and first-class energy efficiency.

“Residence windows can look perfectly in keeping with heritage

properties. They can also excel on contemporary newbuilds like these.

“But wherever you install them, they’re guaranteed to provide years of superb performance.”

Since 2016, Stedek has established itself as one of Britain’s premier Residence Collection fabricators, renowned for its quality and attention to detail.

It’s an approach that Stedek call Residence Excellence.

Alex continues: “Eight years ago, we were delighted to partner with The Residence Collection, and begin offering their revolutionary R9 window.

“In the years since, they’ve continued to produce fantastic products, and we’re passionate about making them the best they can possibly be.

“On the 71 Old Penk project, you can see Residence Excellence in action.”

For more information visit www.stedek.co.uk

The Residence Collection

Windows Installed In £7 Million Cotswold Housing Development

The Residence Collection, has been part of a housing development in the Cotswolds with the installation of 70 windows and 10 French doors all in the grained Painswick colour.

Partnering with installer, The Worcestershire Door Company, fabricator, Lister Windows, and developer, Lockley Homes, the new windows installed on the £7 million, seven-home development are The Residence Collection’s R7 collection.

Featuring flush profiles both externally and internally, these windows provide hassle-free maintenance and come in various styles. This example highlights the adaptability of these windows, suitable for use in a range of properties from city apartments and country cottages to luxury housing developments, as exemplified by their installation at Old Manor Farm, says the company.

All the windows are made using the mechanical jointing method, offering the windows a timber look both externally and internally. In addition to its desired design

features, these windows not only excel visually but also offer outstanding energy efficiency, boasting A++ energy ratings and achieving a u-value of 1.2W/ m2k with double glazing as standard, and up to 0.79 with triple glazing, claims the company. The Residence Collection is available in 24 different colours with multiple colourways.

Ashley Smith, director of The Worcestershire Door Company explained: “We have been working with Lockley Homes for over 10 years, The Lockley Homes brand is to build luxury homes that don’t compromise on quality, which is exactly why we chose the Residence 7 windows on this project. We also chose the R7 product because The Worcestershire Door Company sees this product as the best UPVC timber alternative on the market.”

“We are so pleased that we could work with The Residence Collection products on this project and look forward to many more projects to come in the future.”

Jo Trotman, marketing manager at The Residence Collection, added: “This project perfectly highlights the versatility of the R7 windows for use in luxury housing developments just like these by Lockley Homes.

“At The Residence Collection, our commitment lies in providing a diverse selection of windows for various residences, including newbuild developments. Our windows not only harmonise with the architectural style and the surrounding locale but also ensure enduring performance.

“We are delighted with the result and clearly highlight a great partnership with The Worcestershire Door Company, Lister Windows and Lockley Homes and we look forward to future collaborations with them.” https://bit.ly/3T3cDLp

Fentrade Reports Commercial Sales Growth Amid Estate Refurbishment Project

Aluminium trade fabricator Fentrade has reported a 21% year-on-year increase in commercial sales following a successful start to 2024. Chris Reeks, managing director at Fentrade, said: “This growth is a sign of the underlying strength of the commercial sector and the quality and reliability of our commercial product offer.”

The sales upturn coincides with a current commercial project led by Fentrade’s landlord at its operating site in Maesglas, near Newport, Gwent. Chris said: “The landlord of our industrial estate has initiated an extensive refurbishment program covering all business units on the site. The project’s primary aim is to enhance the thermal efficiency of the windows and doors and improve the various buildings’ aesthetics. They approached Fentrade to help deliver the project.”

Chris continued: “Having run through the detailed specifications and timeline, we have manufactured and supplied 22AluK 58BW casement windows

and five GT55 doors for this stage of the project.”

The selection of AluK 58BW casement windows was driven by their thermal performance capabilities, achieving a U-value of 1.4W/m²K with 28mm doubleglazed units. All 27 windows and doors were manufactured in anthracite grey, aligning with the contemporary aesthetics sought by the landlord for the ongoing estate-wide renovation.

One of the project’s key challenges is the need to align with the installation contractor’s exacting timescales to minimise disruption to the daily operation of the various businesses on the estate. Chris said: “Even though the project is right on our doorstep, hands-on project management and tight communication is critical at every stage. We supplied all products in full and on time, to meet the phased installation schedule and worked closely with the installation teams to avoid any disruption to the businesses.”

www.fentradealuminium.co.uk

Endurance Doors Highlights Power Of Online Reputations

Endurance Doors says with the home improvement sector continuing to experience challenging trading conditions, the company is urging installers to consider additional ways of ensuring sales success.

In particular, the business, which manufactures composite doors, is highlighting the power of online reviews in converting leads into actual orders.

Scott Foster, sales and marketing director at Endurance Doors,

comments: “In today’s internetenabled, hyper-connected world, consumers have a greater voice than ever before.

“Whether they’re looking to compliment or complain about a product or service they have received, they can now do so quickly, easily and to an audience that can potentially amount to millions.

“As a result, online reviews have become the ultimate form of word-of-mouth marketing. The

buying process for all manner of products now begins online with purchasers looking at the experiences of other customers before making their own final and informed decision.”

He continues: “Endurance Doors, in close collaboration with our network of professional installer partners, has gone to great lengths to develop an online reputation that can facilitate sales. As a prime example, Endurance Doors has over 2,300 independent consumer reviews on Trustpilot, of which more than 87% award us the maximum five out of five stars.”

The composite door manufacturer is keen to point out that online research was important to

consumers before the cost-ofliving crisis and has grown even more significant in the current economic climate where most households are seeing their budgets stretched.

Consumers at the mid to highend of the market are still buying composite doors but, with disposable income in short supply, they are purchasing much more prudently and want the reassurance of knowing any expenditure will be money well spent.

“The positive online reputation enjoyed by Endurance Doors

has not happened by chance” adds Scott Foster. “Instead, it’s part of a wider and concerted effort to get closer to consumers and to help our installers sell.

“At every stage of the consumer journey, we are taking steps to turn prospects into advocates. This includes establishing our own bricks and mortar showroom as well as offering virtual design consultations, which enable people to explore different door options from the comfort of their own home.

“Not content to stop there, we

Sierra Windows Unveils New Stylish Rebrand

Sierra Windows, a leading PVC-U and aluminium fabricator, has unveiled its new sleek logo and refreshed visual identity across all platforms. The comprehensive rebrand is part of Sierra’s ongoing efforts to better align its image with its value proposition as one of the UK’s premier fabricators, known for its customer-centric approach and commitment to delivering high-quality products and service.

The updated branding is being rolled out across Sierra’s website, social media channels, vehicles,

signage and marketing materials, marking a significant milestone for the longstanding trade fabricator.

Kay McGrady, trade marketing manager at Sierra Windows, said: ”We are delighted to introduce our new branding, which reflects Sierra’s evolution as a business. As a leading trade fabricator, we are dedicated to providing innovative product solutions and exceptional customer service. This new visual identity reaffirms our commitment to excellence and positions us for continued success in the market.”

even have a specialist consumer facing sales manager and a dedicated consumer phone line.

“Combined, these elements help to ensure the homeowner feels valued and front and centre in everything we do, rather than like an afterthought. This customer-centric approach is reflected in our online reviews and continues to pay enormous dividends.

“It’s been said that a good reputation is the most powerful form of advertising – and we’re inclined to agree.”

https://endurancedoors.co.uk

The decision to refresh Sierra’s branding was made after careful consideration, with a focus on maintaining the company’s core values of trust, quality and integrity. While the established colour palette has been retained for its symbolic representation, the typeface has been updated to give the logo a more modern and professional look.

Kay commented: “We are proud of Sierra’s longstanding heritage and the reputation we have built over the years. This rebranding presents a refreshed and refined image to our customers and partners. We are still the same Sierra, dedicated to delivering excellence in everything we do.”

Sierra Windows is a part of the Epwin Group, a leading provider of building products in the UK. Based in Paignton, Devon, Sierra has been a trusted trade fabricator since 1976, with a reputation for providing high-quality PVC-U and aluminium frames to customers nationwide. Kay concludes: “As a forward-thinking business, we felt it was the right time to refresh Sierra’s corporate image to reflect our present-day business ethos. We are delighted with the new, modern image that aligns with our innovative approach and commitment to excellence.”

Which Quickslide Customer Day Will You Be Going To?

Want to meet the Quickslide team? Get close up with their products, discover market insights, find out how they can help grow your business in these competitive times and chat to other installers doing the same? And all served up with a breakfast roll and a friendly face?

Join Quickslide for one of their new ‘Customer Days’ and do just that. In April and May, Quickslide will take to the road, travelling the country to bring their trade partners together for a day of interactive workshops and networking.

It’s a chance to hear first-hand how Quickslide work with their trade partners to grow business together, developing brand presence and attracting new customers.

You’ll discover the latest innovations including Quick-Glide, Quickslide’s new slim slide and stack door system, and the new Legacy vertical slider with slim midrail and accompanying Legacy On-Screen marketing web tool. There’ll be technical expertise on-hand during the day and the team will also be sharing plenty of market insights and insider info –including the chance to be one of the first to test-

drive Quickslide’s new online ordering system.

As a trade partner, the day is your opportunity to quiz the Quickslide team. Whether you have questions about installations, products or marketing and brand support, all you’ll need to do is ask.

Quickslide’s Customer Days will be held at:

London South – Wednesday 10th April at the Lensbury Resort, TW11 9NU

London North – Thursday 11th April at the Delta Hotel Waltham Abbey, EN9 3LX

Birmingham – Thursday 18th April at the Moor Hall Hotel, B75 6LN

Leeds – Thursday 25th April at the Woodlands Hotel, LS27 7LY

Bristol – Thursday 2nd May at Berwick Lodge, BS10 7TD

Glasgow – Thursday 9th May at the Dakota Hotel Eurocentral, G2 4DP

To book a place for yourself and your colleagues at what promises to be an insightful and rewarding event, contact Sandra.berg@quickslide.co.uk with your chosen venue. The Quickslide team look forward to hearing from you.

www.quickslide.co.uk

Conservatory Outlet Hosts Launch Event for New Living Space System

Home improvement companies from across the United Kingdom attended a private launch event to learn about new conservatory transformation products that will change how existing structures can be converted into new yearround spaces, according to the company.

The new system offers homeowners flexibility when it comes to design and is also five times more energy-efficient than current construction methods. Crucially, for the installers, the system is far quicker and easier to work with, compared to using traditional bricks and mortar,

claims the company.

Organised by Conservatory Outlet, the day included introductory seminars on several new living space products, their competitive advantages, and an overview of bespoke marketing campaigns. Attendees also got the chance to take part in product demonstrations and speak with key personnel from the company.

“It’s great to see our Premium Retail Network come together to learn more about our plans for the year ahead and see our new conservatory transformation products first-hand,” begins Greg

Everglade Windows Unveils TECHtalk Schedule For 2024

Everglade Windows, named Fabricator of the Year at the G Awards 2023, has announced its TECHtalk calendar for 2024, featuring three sessions. Since 2020, Everglade’s TECHtalks have been a cornerstone of its customer

support. The company won the Customer Care Initiative of the Year at the G Awards 2023. They’ve hosted 11 sessions, providing over 200 attendees with insights and updates. The first session, on March 15, 2024, in partnership with

Kane, Conservatory Outlet’s CEO.

“Our partners enjoyed a successful 2023, with many of the businesses we work alongside recording year-on-year growth. We’ve been working hard to develop new and exciting products and services that will benefit our customers and allow them to provide homeowners with the solutions they need.”

“We aim to provide our Premium Retail Network with the tools they need to thrive – which is why days like today are so important. We don’t just launch new products, we give everybody unique access to training and development events like this, so that everybody is equipped with the tools and knowledge needed.”

Andy Hill, director of TWC Home Improvements, who attended the event, added: “It was another fantastic example of the level of support that Conservatory Outlet provides.

“Lots of people want to upgrade or redevelop their existing conservatories. Now more than ever, homeowners are concerned about energy bills. They also want to maximise the amount of space they have and increase the value of their property.

“The systems and products that were introduced today will help people achieve all these things. We’re really excited to bring these to market this year.”

the Glass and Glazing Federation, will address rising industry failure rates. Bhavik Dabasia, Everglade’s technical director, emphasizes the importance of these sessions in supporting customers. Two more sessions are scheduled for June 28 and October 4, 2024. Topics for these sessions will be announced later. To register for TECHtalk sessions, visit

evergladetrade.co.uk/techtalk/

Unique Teams Up With Leicester City In The Community For Outreach Project

The business donated two sets of white PVCu French doors towards a project which involved the construction of a new classroom at Gorse Hill City Farm.

Unique’s installer team, who typically work on high volume projects for large commercial clients, also carried out the installation of the doors free of charge. Located on a 20-acre site on the edge of Leicester city centre, Gorse Hill City Farm is a working farm and visitor attraction.

Operating as a registered charity and home to over 100 animals, it enables visitors, and children in particular, to learn more about farming, conservation, and animal welfare in a hands-on, fun, and interactive way. One of the official charities of Leicester City Football Club (LCFC), LCitC harnesses the power of football and LCFC to inspire individuals to achieve their full potential.

Committed to ensuring everyone it engages with receives the support they need, either directly or through a network of partners, LCitC’s core activities entail education, community outreach and targeted interventions with football and inclusivity serving as underlying themes. uws.co.uk

Epwin Window Systems’

Employees Lace Up For London Marathon

Two Epwin Window Systems employees will be running this year’s London Marathon, which takes place on Sunday 21 April. Commercial director Ray McGrady and customer service advisor Tony Lloyd will both be running the 26.2 mile course to raise funds for two inspirational charities.

Ray is running on behalf of the British Heart Foundation. Ray says: “If it was not for the amazing work British Heart Foundation does in developing and supporting medical research, my dad would not be with us today. It’s inspiring to see the positive difference that can be made through supporting such crucial work and I will forever be grateful for the incredible work they do. I’m trying, in a small way, to give back by attempting the London Marathon.”

Tony will be running on behalf of SpecialEffect. Tony says: “As someone who has benefited from the help of SpecialEffect and is an ambassador for the charity, I couldn’t be prouder to

take on this challenge for them. SpecialEffect assesses a person’s needs and adapts technology to harness whatever controlled movement they have, and creates bespoke gaming setups to enable them to play to the best of their abilities. Being included hugely benefits mental wellbeing and quality of life – bringing much needed independence, fun and escapism.”

Gerald Allen, head of marketing at Epwin Window Systems, said: “Everyone at Epwin Window Systems wishes Ray and Tony the very best of luck. The London Marathon is an impressive feat, not just because of the 26.2 miles on the day but also the months of training that go into getting to the start line. We salute you both!”

To donate to Ray’s fundraising for the British Heart Foundation, visit https://bit.ly/43bdJt1

To donate to Tony’s fundraising for SpecialEffect, visit https://bit.ly/3T52ttz

www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

Leicester City Football Club legend and former captain, Steve Walsh (left), and Gary Burrows, senior project manager at Unique (right), at the handover of the new French doors installed at Gorse Hill City Farm.

Recommended by Laura Jane Clark

“For homeowners, hup! is completely game changing. People often ask how they can add an extension or rebuild their unusable conservatory in the most efficient way possible - hup! is definitely the answer.”

Laura Jane Clark

Leading architect & star of BBC’s Your Home Made Perfect