Window News May 2021

Why the Green Homes Grant Scheme Failed to Deliver 34

Finding The Key To Our Hearts 58

Much More Than A Marketing Platform 84

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WINDOWNEWS

CONTENTS WINDOW NEWS

W INDOWNEWS THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS

TRADE NEWS 4

INDOW NEWS WGERALD 36 DEAR INDUSTRY DIRECTORY VIEWPOINT 30

WINDOW

PEOPLE 38 PRODUCT NEWS 44

W INDOWNEWS

MACHINERY 64 THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS

ON SITE 67 MARKETING & INTERNET

82

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

88

W INDOWNEWS THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS

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THE LATEST INDUSTRY N

THE LATEST INDUSTRY N

THE LATEST INDUSTRY N

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13th May edition

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Cover picture: Visoglide Plus Sliding Patio Door from Made For Trade, read more on page 24

WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 3

TRADE NEWS

GGF Advises Caution As Lockdown Eases removed and aligned with the rest of the UK, where working in people’s homes has been allowed since last year.

Compusoft

To Acquire

First Degree

Systems Compusoft Group, a leading global visual CPQ provider, today (20th April 2021) announced an agreement to acquire First Degree Systems (FDS).

Compusoft are delighted to be able to announce an agreement to acquire First Degree Systems (FDS). The acquisition of First Degree Systems, the leading UK provider of software solutions for the window and door industry, will add to the previous acquisition of Soft Tech and further expand their offering in this market.

The acquisition of First Degree Systems is aligned with Compusoft’s aim to become the most recommended visual CPQ solution-provider in the world, by providing innovative software that makes complex processes simple. This further expansion into the window and door industry market will widen that offering, as well as expand their market coverage. www3.first-degree-systems.com www.compusoftgroup.com www.softtech.com 4 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

On the news of the restrictions be lifted, John Agnew, GGF Managing Director commented, “It is with some relief for all consumer facing companies that the restrictions are now being eased.

With all the Government statistics going in the right direction, the GGF advises all companies re-opening retail premises to operate under the GGF and Government COVID-secure guidance.”

James MacPherson, GGF Health, Safety and Environment Manager added, “It’s great to As lockdown restrictions contin- see that the Government testing ue to ease around the UK, the and vaccination programme are Glass and Glazing Federation having a significant impact and (GGF) advises all companies to numbers of cases, hospitalizabe cautious and still adhere to tions and fatalities are coming the GGF and Government’s guid- down. However to make sure ance to make sure that employ- that we don’t slip back into ees and customer stay safe. another lockdown, it is vital that everyone behaves responsible On 12th April, the Government and takes the necessary preguidance was updated to state cautions. If companies need that all retail (including showany support or guidance on this rooms, garden centres and con- I urge them to utilize the GGF cession stores) in England is now website and check our COVID permitted to open. Wales and safe guides.”

Scotland re-opened showrooms earlier in April and in Northern All companies in the industry can Ireland retail is expected to reaccess and download the GGF open by the end of April. In the specific guidance via the GGF Republic of Ireland Government website. Please see links below: will re-open retail on 4th May. GGF COVID Safe guides In addition, the Scottish Government also announced that COVID Safe guide for consumers non-essential work in people’s homes can resume in Scotland COVID Safe guide for Installers from 26th April. The GGF wrote to the Scottish Government COVID Safe guide for manufacregarding this matter in March, turing and the supply chain urging that this restriction be www.ggf.org.uk

TRADE NEWS

Haffner Announces

Exclusive Partnership

With Graf Synergy

Leading machinery experts Haffner has announced an exclusive supply partnership with Italian-machine innovators, Graf Synergy.

The new partnership will give what Haffner says is the largest and most comprehensive machine portfolio in the industry and further consolidate Graf Synergy’s presence in the UK fenestration market.

Speaking on the new exclusive partnership, Dave Thomas, Haffner’s Managing Director, said: “Graf Synergy offers state-of-theart automated machinery at every level. By working with Graf Synergy, we’ll be able to offer even more choice to fabricators and further cement our position as the go-to machinery experts.”

Graf Synergy has an outstanding product offering and delivers a range of machines for both aluminium and PVC-U fabrication. It is well-known for its world class seamless welding technology and

patented welding techniques, increasing both fabrication efficiencies and delivering superior product quality. Dave commented: “The scale of Graf Synergy and the technical innovation behind all their machines complements our comprehensive machine offer perfectly and will help us drive the next level in cutting-edge machine technology for our customers.”

Award-winning Haffner already offers an impressive machinery line up. The company is the sole UK agent of Haffner Machinery, which designs innovative and high-quality engineered products at competitive industry prices. It also supplies a range of aluminium fabrication machines from worldwide machine-giants, Fom Industries. Italy’s Fom Industrie is part of the worldwide FomGroup and has an outstanding product range offering the widest choice of quality machines with competitive lead times.

Haffner is renowned as the company with the expertise and experience fabricators turn to when they want to increase efficiency and output. The company has a team of ten service engineers to help support their customer base and has recently commissioned several large-scale investments, including doubling the size of their Staffordshire headquarters, adding a new 1,990 sqm showroom extension and opening a new 37,000 sqm purpose-built factory in Istanbul, Turkey as part of its impressive growth strategy.

Haffner’s success in offering a comprehensive range of machines that make a tangible difference to fabricators is something that is reflected in their rapidly-growing business. Dave commented: “The new partnership with Graf Synergy along with our level of expansion is a clear indication of our continued success. The new exclusive collaboration will blend the innovative expertise of the two businesses and provide a transformative approach to machine technology to deliver the best in fabrication machinery.”

The Graf Synergy machines will accompany a large-scale range of machinery on Haffner’s 405 sqm stand at FIT 2021.

WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 5

TRADE NEWS a guarantee for up to 15% of a loan, was designed to increase the number of mortgage providers in this market and has already had a positive impact.”

She added: “The number of 95% mortgages has increased from just three a couple of months ago to over 60 today. Not many government initiatives have such immediate, positive results.

95% MORTGAGES WILL KEEP THE UK RESIDENTIAL MARKET ALIVE

The Governments scheme to support 95% mortgages will keep the residential market active after the withdrawal of the Stamp Duty holiday on 30 June, say leading tax and advisory firm Blick Rothenberg.

Heather Powell, a partner at the firm and Head of Property said: “The Help to Buy scheme only supports first time buyers buying a new home. To keep the housing market alive, buyers need to be able to buy ‘second hand’ housing. Families moving to larger homes and retirees downsizing all need buyers.”

She added: “It is not only the current home-owners who benefit from an active housing market. A significant fall in activity in this, the largest element of the housing market, impacts on many businesses. Estate agents, 6 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

surveyors, conveyancers, furniture and home furnishing retailers, their supply chains as well as local builders all depend on an active housing market. These businesses all contribute in turn to their local economy, providing jobs and generating money that is spent on services and in shops, restaurants and leisure venues.”

Heather said: “Anyone buying a family home can apply for a 95% mortgage, but it is first time buyers who are expected to be the major beneficiaries of the Governments guarantee scheme due to the well detailed problems of saving for a deposit while paying rent.

“The ability to access a 95% mortgage almost completely disappeared in 2020. The Government’s scheme, which provides

“Interest rates are settling at just under 4%, with rates fixed for up to 5 years. Whilst these rates are higher than those available to buyers with a larger deposit, fixing the rate for 5 years does allow buyers to budget for confidence over this period, and for many buyers the mortgage repayments remain lower than the rent they are currently paying.”

Heather said: “The generous upper limit, £600,000, is more than double the average house price of £254,606. It is sufficient to ensure support is available to almost all home buyers in the UK, and should prevent a ‘cliff edge’ in all but the most affluent areas.”

Lawrence Henry, a Partner at Statons Estate Agency said: “We saw the impact of this policy change immediately.

“The certainty that a mortgage is available has meant that demand from buyers has increased every month and we are confident that this will continue for the next twelve months and beyond.”

Heather Powell said: “This policy has addressed a critical issue in the housing market, the Government should be congratulated on implementing promptly a policy that has, for once, triggered a response exactly in line with their objectives.” www.blickrothenberg.com

TRADE NEWS

Dekko Maintains Four-Week Lead Time On Residence Collection Despite Supply Chain Disruption

Belfast Based Quint Are Opening

Steel Doors For Trade Partners Across The UK Steelit Internal door and panel supplier Quint AD is branching out as they seek retail partners across the UK.

Despite the ongoing challenges facing the window industry supply chain, trade fabricator Dekko Windows have maintained a four-week lead time on their Residence Collection range, helping their trade customers maximise the favourable market conditions.

According to sales director Kurt Greatrex, a combination of investment in key areas, strong partnerships with key suppliers and general hard graft has enabled Dekko to keep lead times to a minimum.

“It’s a very interesting time for the glazing industry currently,” Kurt comments. “On one hand we’re seeing demand on a par with the double-glazing boom in the 80s – which is fantastic considering the industry is viewed by some as a ‘saturated’ market – but on the other hand there’s huge pressure on the supply chain and a lack of skilled labour, making it difficult for some

companies to take advantage.

“At Dekko we can’t solve the labour shortage unfortunately, but we are working round the clock to keep our lead times to pre-Covid levels, and we’re pleased to still be supplying our popular Residence Collection range in just four weeks.”

Kurt continues: “We’re not immune to supply chain issues of course – like all fabricators, we have had some difficulties – but we have made several adjustments to keep any disruption to a minimum. For instance, we’ve increased our stockholding, invested in people and machinery, put additional factory shifts in place and worked closely with key suppliers to ensure we get the materials we need. There’s been a few bumps in the road of course, but overall its very much ‘business as usual’ here at Dekko.” www.dekkowindows.com

Steelit by Quint is a new product for the UK market and it addresses the need for timeless, handcrafted, high-quality steel doors & panels.

“With the pandemic, and with more people interested in home design we have seen a huge demand for home improvement and interior design products throughout the UK,” says Fergal McAdam, Managing Director of Quint AD. We are expanding our Dealer Network throughout the UK and are looking for partner companies that can take a premium brand to market.”

Quint AD are based in Belfast, Northern Ireland and house all the finishing touches for the home under one roof, from hardware to Steelit doors, flooring and worktops, Quint say they have something for everyone.

Quint AD are part of the Malone and Smyth group of companies based in Northern Ireland.

Tel: 028 9691 9980, email: Info@ quintad.co.uk or visit www.quintad.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 7

TRADE NEWS

Euroglaze Supports Booming Garden Room Market and mechanical transoms.

And, once they do place an order, they can relax knowing that Euroglaze’s bespoke stock management system will automatically alert them to any items which are out of stock so that they can accept a new delivery date or switch to an alternative product or component. They also know that they will always receive all of the fittings and ancillaries they need for every job because these are packed under a despatch camera and bagged and labelled by job number.

With the market for garden rooms booming post-Covid, Euroglaze, the Barnsley based REHAU trade fabricator, has answered the call from local company MCD Home & Garden to keep them supplied with windows and doors.

MCD had previously been buying frames from a company in Germany but when they experienced supply problems towards the end of 2020 just when demand was at its peak, they turned to Euroglaze and haven’t looked back since.

Euroglaze is now MCD’s preferred supplier of PVC-U frames, supplying anthracite grey windows for the company’s range of garden rooms and summer houses on a consistent lead time and guaranteeing regular deliveries on time and in full.

As a new customer, MCD has benefited from the impressive 8 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

onboarding process which Euroglaze has developed to ensure that every single company that signs up to buy from Euroglaze experiences a truly personal service.

That starts with delivery of a tailored new customer pack clearly setting out everything from delivery days and order cut off times to payment terms. Then, as soon as their first order is received, they can expect a call from one of the customer service team to ask for feedback and to identify any areas for potential improvement.

They will be given access to the Euroglaze online ordering system – either via a dongle or as a cloud-based user and guided through the clever bespoke features which sense check every order to eliminate errors and automatically recommend useful additions such as heavy-duty hinges for triple glazed frames

The customer service team checks and tracks every job and every customer – whether they are new or not – can expect to be asked for feedback every six months to ensure that quality and service remains exactly on track.

Martin Blacksell from MCD commented on the service: “It’s a cliché to say that Euroglaze have gone above and beyond, but when I say that the guys in the factory even lent us a special tool so that we could change the glass in a frame from our previous supplier which was causing issues on site, that gives some idea of just how helpful they have been throughout “The service is consistently reliable and unerringly accurate, and we really appreciate the care and attention shown by the customer service team, especially the regular communications which mean we always know when our order will be arriving and even the name of the driver!”

More details at: www.euroglaze.co.uk and https://mcdhomeandgarden.co.uk/

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TRADE NEWS

Builders’ Merchants’ February Sales Increase

As RMI Activity Rises Value sales by Britain’s Builders’ Merchants increased by a further 2.3% in February compared with February 2020, according to the latest Builders Merchants Building Index (BMBI) report.

Despite the total increase, only three categories reported sales growth. The increase was largely driven by the Timber & Joinery Products category, which surged by 18.2% in February.

Landscaping sales remained strong and were up 8.6% compared with February 2020, while sales of Tools (+2.0%) also increased.

Sales in the largest category, Heavy Building Materials, were down 1.8% year-on-year, and indoor trades remained affect10 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

ed by the latest lockdown and showroom closures. Kitchens & Bathrooms (-8.6%), Decorating (-8.4%) and Plumbing Heating & Electrical (-3.6%) all had lower sales compared to February last year.

However, there were positive signs for indoor trades, as sales of Kitchens & Bathrooms, Decorating and Tools were up significantly compared with January 2021. Compared with the previous month, total February 2021 sales were 8.6% higher, with Landscaping recording the highest monthly growth rate at 24.1%.

Commenting on the results, Mike Rigby, CEO of MRA

Research, said: “February’s BMBI index demonstrates the strength of the domestic RMI sector. The latest ONS figures also show that Private Housing RMI outperformed every other construction sector in February with 6.7% growth year-on-year, and is one of very few sectors to have recovered above its pre-pandemic level.

“Overall, builders merchants’ sales performance continues to impress and the overall picture is very positive, but the pace of recovery has varied between product sectors, leading to increasing polarisation. The Timber & Joinery category, for example, has performed particularly strongly in the first two months of 2021.

“Demand for timber and joinery products has been exceptional and there are reports of record-low stocks at some sawmills that closed down earlier in the year, which could lead to further price increases and even potential supply shortages in the sector. Sustainability

TRADE NEWS Bathrooms sales as restrictions gradually ease, and differences should start to even out.”

is a key driver of demand too, and as householders continue to work from home and invest in garden buildings and other projects, demand will likely stay high for some time.

mained closed in February and householders were reluctant to undertake bigger projects such as replacing bathrooms, kitchens or boilers while being stuck at home.

“On the other hand, the Kitchens & Bathrooms and Plumbing, Heating & Electrical categories were more than 20% below last year’s level on a rolling 12 month basis, as showrooms re-

“However, month-on-month growth in a number of ‘indoor’ categories was encouraging.

Latent demand will have a positive impact on Plumbing, Heating & Electrical and Kitchens &

Developed and run by MRA Research, the BMBI – a brand of the Builders Merchant Federation – is a monthly index of builders’ merchant sales, and the most reliable, up-to-date measure of Repair, Maintenance, and Improvement (RMI) activity in the UK. The index is based on actual sales from GfK’s Builders’ Merchant Point of Sale Tracking Data, which captures value sales out to builders from generalist builders’ merchants, accounting for over 80% of total sales from builders’ merchants throughout Great Britain. An in-depth review, which includes commentary by sector experts, is provided each quarter.

February’s BMBI report is available to download at www.bmbi.co.uk.

Award-Winning Company Seeks To Strengthen Growing Team

as well as competitive pay within a booming industry.”

Global Windows specialises in uPVC windows and doors, composite doors, aluminium bi-folds and patio doors.

As well as recently being named a winner in the 2020 GGP Installer Awards, the company is one of the top 3 window fitters in Sheffield under the UK Three Best Billy Hawes (left) and Liam Hulme (right) – Joint Managing Directors Rated scheme, and maintains company is seeking to expand its an impressive 9.91 rating with Despite an unprecedented tradteam and invest in new installers. Checkatrade. ing period brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic, double glazing installer Global Windows Global Windows Joint Managing Global Windows also places Director Liam Hulme comments: great importance on giving back has experienced a record year, to the community, and recently and is now carrying out up to 80 “At Global Windows, we’re looking to grow and strengthen named Bluebell Wood Children’s installations a month. our talented team of installers, Hospice as its Charity of the Year, and in turn, we can offer a great pledging to donate £5 for every And, thanks to a boom in deworking environment, on the job installation carried out. mand for home improvement training with dedicated support, www.global-windows.co.uk products, the Sheffield-based WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 11

TRADE NEWS

Cornwall Glass Moves To Reassure Customers On Laminate Supply

Cornwall Glass has said it expects to be able to guarantee IGU supply to its established customer base in face of global shortages in the supply of laminates.

With two of the UK’s three float glass manufactures already limiting supply of laminated products, Mark Norcliffe, Joint-Managing Director, Cornwall Glass Manufacturing, said that the IGU sector faced a summer of uncertainty.

“We’ve seen massive demand for laminate glass from our own sector, which has placed pressure on supply. At the same time supply has been disrupted by reduced manufacture of PVB resins, particularly by a single US manufacturer and the supply that has existed has been swallowed up a resurgent automotive industry.

“This created significant pressure 12 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

on supply at the end of this month [April], which we expect to continue for the next three months at least”, he said.

“We have been working closely with Saint Gobain, our main supplier and we are confident that we will have enough product to continue to meet reasonable customer demand, but it is tight and for much of the industry, I believe it’s going to be very bumpy in the months ahead.”

Processing glass and manufacturing IGUs across all three sites in St Austell, Plymouth and Highbridge, Cornwall Glass Manufacturing is a division of Cornwall Group.

In addition to the supply of standard IGUs, its Plymouth operation is specifically geared towards the manufacture of over-sized prod-

Mark Norcliffe

ucts with its Bystronic line capable of handling units of up to 2.7m X 5m.

It announced plans to further expand its operational capability in March with a pledge to commit £6m to its Highbridge operation.

This will include the ability to manufacture over-sized units at a second facility, heat soak capability and specialist glass processing operations.

Mark continued: “The challenge that we and everyone else has, is that laminates have become an almost default specification in home improvement and new build since Part Q. Lower availability of PVB means that those products which are reliant on it, security glass but also acoustic laminates, are going to be in short-supply.

“Until that is resolved although we will consider working with new customers, our priority, will by definition be those customers who we have an established relationship with.” www.cornwallglass.co.uk

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TRADE NEWS services and subsidiary commercial companies. All employees of GGF, the trade federation, central internal services and subsidiary commercial companies will report to Anda on all matters relating to the development of the business processes and systems and more importantly Anda Gregory will lead the development of the GGF Group’s products and services to all GGF Group shareholders, stakeholders and customers.

Both John and Anda will continue to report to the GGF President, Tony Smith, acting on behalf of the GGF Main Board.

Changes To GGF Group Management Structure Tony Smith GGF President 2021

The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) Group has announced strategic changes to its management structure, to focus on improving services and further development of the GGF and its subsidiary commercial companies, FENSA, BFRC, Installsure and RISA. The following changes have been made with full approval of the GGF Board and the Senior Management Team of the GGF Group.

With immediate effect, GGF Managing Director John Agnew will assume overall responsibility for the operational activity of GGF (trade federation), GGF’s central internal services (HR, Finance and IT), and all subsidiary commercial companies. All GGF trade federation management, heads of central services & subsidiary commercial 14 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

On the new structure, GGF President Tony Smith stated, “This is an exciting time for the GGF Group of businesses, and these changes will enable us to drive the businesses forward creating excellent opportunities for our employees, customers, and shareholders.”

On her new role, Anda Gregory commented, “I’m really excited by my new role as it will free up time to work on developing the business in a positive way, which is hard to do effectively around business as usual. And it’s great knowing that the commercial businesses will continue to be well looked after with John Agnew at the helm.”

company heads will report to John Agnew in their day-to-day roles.

John Agnew concurred, “The changes that we have made in roles and responsibilities, will position the GGF Group of businesses to really focus on operational activities, whilst also developing the opportunities for business growth. This a very positive change for the whole organisation and I look forward to working with my colleagues as we embed the new structure for the benefit of all parts of the GGF Group.”

Also with immediate effect, Anda Gregory will assume the new role of Chief Development Officer and take full responsibility for the business development activity of the GGF Group, including the trade federation, the central internal

Anda added, “The pandemic has given us the opportunity to reflect on what will work best for the businesses and the group as a whole.

Standing still isn’t an option if we are to retain our leading positions in the glass, glazing and fenestra-

John Agnew, GGF Managing Director

TRADE NEWS

Kubu Go For Marketing

Style And Substance

Anda Gregory – Chief Development Officer

tion sectors. I’m very much looking forward to the new challenges and working on exciting initiatives for our industry.”

Companies who are part of the GGF and its subsidiary commercial companies, should benefit significantly from these changes, with the new and sharper focus to take advantage of the raft of opportunities emerging as the industry recovers from unprecedented times.

The new structure, will enable the GGF Group to grow quicker and improve all aspects of the business, from revenues, profits and investment, through to better processes, systems and a sustainable business that can enable a secure long term future for many in the industry.

Tony Smith concluded by sharing his thoughts from a strategic perspective, “For many years, the GGF and its commercial companies have operated well but often independently. These changes will see the GGF Group make better use of its specialist skills across the organisation to improve the delivery of existing services and be more effective in the joint promotion of the GGF and its subsidiary commercial companies. I am sure all connected to the GGF Group will join me in extending our best wishes to John and Anda in their new roles.” www.ggf.org.uk

Kubu is far more than just a brand as the company explains, it’s a lifestyle product making for a smarter home. It’s also helping to opening up a wealth of sales opportunities for Kubu Pro Installers and manufacturing partners, with marketing right at the very heart of the proposition.

assets required to help make this a mainstream consumer proposition.”

Kubu is a consumer-facing smart home brand and so it’s for good reason that they have put in place a marketing programme at the point of sale at installation level. There’s a showroom Lauren Bromley head of brand branding programme in place for Kubu commented: “We’ve and a wide range of POS malooked far beyond the echelons terials all helping to close more of this industry and into the sales and to help bring the smart-home sector, which is ul- window and door sector into the timately where the brand resides smart home landscape. from a consumers perspective.

If you think that this £multi-bilThere’s little cost throughout lion market includes the likes of the supply chain for Kubu enaGoogle Nest, Amazon’s Ring and bled windows and doors, as the Samsung’s SmartThings, the multi-point locks carry a captive latter boasting over 150million slot for the Kubu smart-sensor users worldwide, then it’s a huge and there are also no additional opportunity for this industry. works at the point of installation.

The Kubu smart philosophy is She added: “Smart-sensor tech- only ignited once the smart-sennology will help revolutionise this sor is inserted into the door or industry and already we’ve part- window after installation and nered up with some of the most activation takes just a matter of successful manufacturers and minutes. installation companies. We’ve also developed the marketing www.kubu-home.com WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 15

TRADE NEWS

Reframe – KÖMMERLING

Pilot Project With 100% Recycled PVCu profine Group’s KÖMMERLING brand, together with their partner company Rolladen Müllers GmbH & Co. KG, have just completed a commercial project with ReFrame windows made of 100 percent recycled PVCu, as part of a pilot project underpinned by sustainability, innovation and quality.

ReFrame windows are made entirely of recycled PVCu and at the same time have a fine, luxurious, UV-resistant surface, as well as high-quality technical properties and a high thermal insulation value. They stand for a closed material cycle and thus for a complete conservation of natural resources, while they have the same functional properties as conventional PVC-U windows.

The project was for a children’s day-care facility in the WohnBau Mönchengladbach area in Ger16 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

many. For the premiere project, fifty seven ReFrame windows and doors in the KÖMMERLING 76 double seal system were installed in stone grey to the outside and white on the inside and were manufactured by partner company Müllers from Mönchengladbach, which is currently also installing them at the day-care centre.

Managing Director Markus Müllers sees the project as ground-breaking for the German market: ‘We were immediately enthusiastic about the ReFrame technology and were very pleased to be able to convince the client and the planners of this solution. Because the future of building clearly lies in energy efficiency and the conservation of natural resources with high product quality at the same time.

Here we pursue the same goals as our partner KOMMERLING,

namely, to create a perfect cycle.’

ReFrame windows are also visually impressive because they are finished with KÖMMERLING’s surface technology proCoverTec, which gives them a luxurious and mat high-quality appearance. In addition, the proCoverTec technology improves the technical properties of the windows, such as UV resistance and IR reflection. Passive house compatible windows can also be made out of ReFrame profiles, which can further help reduce CO2 emissions. ReFrame windows also have a theoretical service life of around 50 years and can be recycled several times.

Dr. Peter Mrosik, Owner and CEO of profine Group, sums up the strategic aspect of the profiles made of 100% recycled material: ‘Sustainability is a cornerstone of our corporate policy, from the use of lead-free stabilisers to comprehensive recycling solutions. That is why we see our ReFrame profiles as a logical component with regard to the goal of a complete circular economy and sustainable solutions for generations.’ www.profine-uk.com

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* Per leaf price is unglazed and may vary depending on size and specification of the door. Lead time is based on a standard colour. Postcode restrictions apply * Discount applies to new trade customers and first, single item purchase only of the Smart Visoglide Plus Sliding Doors | Image for representation ony

TRADE NEWS

5 Star Sales

Performance For Worcestershire Windows And Conservatories Specialist A Worcestershire-based business has recorded the best two-month sales period in its history.

Management at the firm believe a combination of industry-leading new products, proactive marketing campaigns during the pandemic, and the use of technology to provide the best possible customer experience have been fundamental in supporting the growth.

The milestone achievements come at a perfect time, with 5 Star celebrating 10 years as a member of the Conservatory Outlet network of retailers, who design and build ‘exquisite living spaces and install an exclusive portfolio of windows and doors that provide exceptional energy efficiency and security’.

“Covid-19 has meant that people have been unable to go out or book holidays so, as a result, we have seen massive pent-up demand to start projects in the home,” explained Richard Manser, 18 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

The company, which offers an industry-leading 20-year guarantee, also has ambitious plans for further expansion in 2021 as it looks extend the success enjoyed over the last 12 months.

This includes the opening of a new Birmingham showroom in Hall Green, where 5 Star plan to make a significant investment in order to create a boutique retail experience.

Visitors to the new showroom will be able to access a unique 3D design studio, which will provide the opportunity to see their ideas brought to life whilst they relax and enjoy a coffee.

5 Star Windows and Conservatories has secured retail and trade orders worth nearly £2.5m in February and March, a figure that is 125% higher than last year and 53% up on 2019.

The company, which operates from a showroom in Carden Street and a further one in Kidderminster, has created 20 new jobs as a result, with new designers, operations and customer service experts added to the 100-strong team.

orangeries and lifestyle extensions during the last two decades.

Richard went on to add: “Conservatory Outlet has been really supportive over the last decade and especially so during the last twelve months as we’ve all battled through the pandemic.

Tony Smith GGF President 2021

5 Star’s Managing Director.

“This has helped drive unprecedented interest in our products and our rapidly growing team has been outstanding in helping customers explore their choices whilst making the buying experience as engaging as possible.”

He continued: “It is an approach that is certainly working, with the last two months the best in our history. Even with numbers soaring, we have maintained our promise that whilst styles may vary, our standards don’t and we’re proud to still be recommended by 99.3% of people.”

5 Star Windows and Conservatories has established a strong reputation across Worcestershire, the West Midlands and surrounding counties having installed more than 30,000 windows and completed over 3,000 conservatories,

“This includes providing a portfolio of products that is continually evolving with the latest innovations and a marketing team that dovetails with our own to develop new campaigns, brochures and other materials. Its nationwide buying power also enables us to offer our own customers exceptional value for money.”

Greg Kane, Chief Executive of Conservatory Outlet, concluded: “5 Star is a fantastic example of a business that has met the challenges of Covid-19 head-on and recorded some fantastic results despite all of the pressures.

“That’s the way Richard and the team have built the business and we’re delighted to see the progress they are making with record sales, the additional showroom in Birmingham, a newly enhanced trade counter and a sales and training academy at its Kidderminster HQ.” www.5starwindows.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

Widgets To Celebrate

21 Year Anniversary With

Typical Pink Panache

Window Widgets is celebrating its 21-year business anniversary and the company promises to celebrate it in style over the course of the year, with a distinctly pink and fun theme and one in which supports two industry charities.

The business has been highly influential over the last two decades and has grown to be the ancillary and consumable trade partner of choice for many of the most prestigious and trusted window and door fabricators across the UK. Through The Residence Collection brand, the company has also helped spurned the new market for true timber alternative windows and doors and ultimately for flush sash windows, along with igniting everyone’s appetite for

new colour combinations.

In recent years Window Widgets has added solutions for aluminium window and door systems, composite doors and also ancillaries for the vertical sliding sash market. A new 158-page product catalogue showcases the breadth and depth of a product range that extends to over 1,500 items.

It’s also been a fun and engaging brand over the years, and this will be perfectly represented over the coming weeks and months with various birthday celebrations, alongside the launch of a charitable venture supporting GM Fundraising and We Mind & Kelly Matters, under the social media handle of #widgetscomedy. You

can find out more by visiting our fundraising page.

Sarah Hitchings, sales and marketing director of Window Widgets enthused: “Our 21 years is quite a milestone and while we’ve gone through being part of a larger UK group and subsequently been part of an international one, we’re now back to an owner-managed entity that’s run with entrepreneurial flair. We want to celebrate this with customers, staff, business partners and the industry as a whole with our charitable venture launching in early June.

She continued: “We also want to thank everyone past and present that has helped make this business so special and we’re keen to nurture our unique pink culture further in the years to come. But in the meantime, we hope that’ll you embrace our new charitable initiative and enjoy it as much as we do.” www.windowwidgets.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 19

TRADE NEWS this resource for installers and fabricators, to encourage more efficient processes.”

Instant communication is also becoming more of a requirement, with 93% of tradespeople[3] having introduced new ways of communicating in 2020.

New Digital Platform

Helps Enhance Business Communication For Windows Tradespeople With 90% of tradespeople having introduced new ways of communicating in 2020 according to research published

by Yell[2], demand for digital tools that ease communication and simplify quoting processes has grown, says window profile supplier, REHAU. According to the research findings, 46% of respondents claimed that the introduction of a new service was crucial for them to be able to survive the pandemic. Of those new services implemented: 41% have started taking online bookings, 40% are doing online video consultations and 33% have online video tutorials.

Anticipating this shift, REHAU has developed a project platform, called REHAU Connect, 20 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

to streamline the window retrofit process. Within the platform, tradespeople are able to collaborate and create a personalised quote with company logos.

The 3D visualiser enables users to turn and rotate the windows and doors in all directions, providing a 360⁰ impression and realistic visuals, while a configured window sketch with individual prices provides complete transparency to buyers.

Stephen Beresford, Head of Marketing and Communications at REHAU Windows, said: “With the development of REHAU Connect, demand and supply come together faster. The digital platform helps to organise a window project by enabling a central place for plans, visuals and quotes. We’ve taken a digital-first approach when creating

Stephen Beresford continued: “Consumers are researching more now than ever and as a result, businesses are being inundated with requests. This means a more efficient approach to formal processes, such as developing quotes, is required. This is where the digital space can payback dividends. Connect can save time by enabling faster and simpler communication between all parties, which could help to win projects. It’s an added bonus that it eliminates the need for a complex and endless trail of physical documentation, which’s also echoes REHAU’s wider sustainability strategy.”

REHAU Connect links fabricators with installers that have been approved through the company’s Authorised Partner Scheme.

Stephen added: “Part of providing fast and high-quality services to end-users comes from being connected to reliable, specialist and accredited people. By choosing to do business with installers who are reliable, fabricators have reassurance that they can produce high-quality window products with no compromise on installation.”

For more information on REHAU Connect, please visit https://bit.ly/3oipAkK [2] https://business.yell.com/ [3] https://business.yell.com/

Innovation unlocked

Get ready..

Another game changing product from Made for Trade is on the horizon

ALUMINIUM SYSTEMS

TRADE NEWS

Demand For Colour Fuels 40% Growth For

Deceuninck In Q1 2021

sumers for higher value items and especially for colour. The strength of our colour offer, which extends to 30 colourways available from stock, and an additional 20 options in just 15 working days, means that Deceuninck fabricators have been extremely well placed to benefit from this,” he continued.

“We know that, on average, our customers sell twice the amount of foiled product as their competitors. For some, it now accounts for as much as 60% of their total output.”

The first quarter figures coincide with a recent YouGov report, commissioned exclusively for Deceuninck, that reveals fresh insight into the influence of colour and finish on homeowner purchasing decisions.

The survey found that 75% of homeowners said that choice of colour was important when considering new windows and doors, with 96% stating that a match to the overall appearance of their property was also key.

The report also identified specific preferences for colour depending on demographic, for instance for younger homeowners in their 30s compared to those aged 50 or over, as well as for type and age of property and also for other factors including security, energy efficiency and cost.

Deceuninck has reported growth of 40%, year-on-year, for the first quarter of 2021, following high levels of activity in the retail sector and strong demand for premium products including flush casements, colour and finish.

Rob McGlennon, Deceuninck’s Managing Director, commented: “We enjoyed consecutive months of record sales under lockdown conditions in the latter half of last year and that has carried through into the start of 2021.

“This has been fuelled by the 22 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

Rob McGlennon. Sales Director.

Deceuninck. United Kingdom.

home improvement boom created by Covid, but also by increasing demand from con-

“Our survey has reinforced the existing feedback we have on demand for colour,” concluded Rob. “But it has also revealed a gold mine of data that will allow our customers to sell even more effectively, and to fully capitalise on anticipated demand for the remainder of 2021.” www.deceuninck.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

Saint-Gobain

Glass £30m

Investment Secures Long-Term

Glass Supply In The UK

Total Hardware Gives Service And Support

Since 2004, hardware supplier Total Hardware has built its business based on a straightforward business ethos: to offer a comprehensive range of hardware products for all projects at competitive prices and back this up with a strong focus on customer service.

It’s an approach that means many of its customers have been with the business since the beginning.

It’s also helping it to attract increasing numbers of new customers too.

Gary Cox, Director at Total Hardware, says: “Customers appreciate the convenience of having a comprehensive range of hardware products to choose from. As well as stocking our own hardware ranges, we have strong partnerships with many leading hardware manufacturers to provide hardware solutions for any standard or premium applications to help support our customers.”

One example of a long-standing satisfied customer is Mansfield-based fabricator Vale Window Company, which has been working with Total Hardware since 2006. Managing Director Brian Hackett comments: “We use Total’s Quantum hardware range and source both Yale window

shootbolt gearing and Glazpart link-vents from them too. The convenience of having a large and versatile range of stock hardware options from one supplier saves us considerable time.”

The Total Hardware business model is proving so successful that the company is about to expand its Leeds-based premises to carry even greater stock levels and continue to deliver its competitive lead times for customers.

Gary says: “Competitive delivery times are important to our customers, especially with the current increase in demand from the domestic sector. By holding greater levels of stock, we’ll be able to supply more of our hardware ranges to customers quickly.”

The latest addition to Total’s growing portfolio is the new Superior 25 Stainless Steel range of door hardware, which provides elegant aesthetics as well as durability and unrivalled protection against corrosion.

Total Hardware’s success is down to delivering on the two requirements of every good business model: provide the products customers want in a way that adds value. www.totalhardwareltd.co.uk

Saint-Gobain Glass has commenced a £30m investment in its glass manufacturing factory in Eggborough, East Yorkshire.

The company is carrying out a major construction programme to completely re-build and install a new state-of the-art float glass furnace, as well as upgrade other areas of the factory, which will secure the long-term supply of consistently high-quality, high-performance glass in the UK. The project represents the largest industrial investment in the UK by the Saint-Gobain Group since the Eggborough plant was built in 2000.

Due to be completed by late summer, the installation of the enlarged capacity furnace will replace the existing furnace that has reached the end of its design life. The new furnace will use less energy and will help the company to optimise manufacturing efficiency, increase production capacity, and further enhance Saint-Gobain’s already market-leading environmental and sustainability credentials.

For updates and more information visit https://bit.ly/3tBotxn WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 23

TRADE NEWS

Made For Trade Continue To Invest In

Growth With Launch Of

Aluminium Visoglide Plus Sliding Patio Door It is safe to say that Made for Trade (MFT) know a fair bit about bi-folding doors, having spent the last 8 years perfecting the balancing act of price, quality and service. They can now say that they are one of the largest door manufacturers in the UK delivering an ever-growing number of quality checked door sets, direct to site, every single week. Now they have got that down to a fine art they are planning on repeating the process with the Visoglide Plus sliding Patio Door.

Sliding patio doors fill the same spaces, but offer a slightly different 24 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

solution to bifold doors. Sliders can be more suited to smaller spaces which might not have the room for the perpendicular stacking of the bifolds when they are open. Compact opening then, along with the advantages of larger glazed areas make them a great option when choosing between products, and customers like options! MFT says modern aluminium sliders don’t come with any of the bulk and distortion issues associated with PVC options and the product area is enjoying a bit of a renaissance now that properly thermally broken systems are the norm.

Bradley Gaunt, Managing Director of MFT commented “As a leading aluminium systems manufacturer we often get asked for price comparisons on sliding patio doors.

Historically, bifold sales have dominated the market and we favour volume production to deliver the best value for our customers. Over the last year or so though the voices asking for sliders has increased to a point where we believe the demand is there to warrant setting up a dedicated MFT production facility to supply it, and that’s exactly what we’ve done.”

MFT have invested £500,000 on acquiring and kitting out a 50,000sqft facility in Hartlepool, initially creating around 20 new jobs in the process. The new site is capable of manufacturing 100+ door sets per week, with phased expansion plans to quadruple that number as market demand dictates.

MFT’s proven manufacturing recipe comes straight from the bi-folding door factory, with 100% QC checks taking place on every completed product before it is carefully

TRADE NEWS packaged, and finally loaded onto one of MFT’s next generation delivery vehicles for its journey to your site.

MFT’s Chris Wann answers the question Why Visoglide? “We chose to fabricate the Smart Visoglide Plus as the product shares the Visofold reputation for being a hassle-free trade offering, especially when it’s been precision fabricated by us! The company’s mission statement is the best products at the best prices with the best service and we always apply it with the trade customers in mind! When it comes to trade products the customers need to be confident that the product they have chosen will be fit and forget! And of course it’s got to be at the most competitive price point in the market!”

MFT’s initial trade-oriented offering will be 2 track doors of multiple configurations up to 6.4m

wide and 2.5m high, this could be extended if the market demands.

Stock colours include white, grey, black, dual colour grey on white and those willing to wait a little longer for their product can order in any RAL colour they like. Hardware will be offered in white, black, grey or brushed stainless steel.

Julie Warner Product Manager Carl F Groupco

Experts in Hardware

The configuration options chosen allow all doors to be supplied fully assembled, unless you specify a kit form option, and can all be glazed after the door is installed as opposed to having pre-glazed panels. Glass units are available through MFT but will be delivered direct to site from the glass supplier. https://bit.ly/3eDNJ1K

Get in touch and speak to one of our experts today: t. Peterborough: 01733 393330 t. Cumbernauld: 01236 721557

“ We’ve steadily increased the range of hardware we buy from Carl F Groupco over the last 16 years. Their product range, service level and support has proven them to be our preferred hardware supplier…”

Scott Dowling Cairngorm Group

e. sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk w. www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

REHAU Frames

The Future Of Window Recycling Public awareness of the critical impact windows recycling has on the UK’s sustainability agenda needs to increase, according to REHAU. As such, the business has invested £10 million into a state-of-the-art recycling facility located in the North of England, and unveiled ambitious targets to support this broader vision.

• Recycle 100% more waste PVCR by 2024 (doubling its output) Aim to salvage and process 24,000 • metric tonnes of old PVC window frames per year by 2024 (c.2,000 DD buses) • Work with more OEMs to optimise PVC recycling and reduce energy consumption

Millions of windows are replaced in the UK each year on average as frames become time-expired or property owners look to upgrade. In order to significantly reduce the many tonnes that still go to landfill, REHAU says it is committed to the circular economy and a ‘planet before profit’ mantra.

has invested over £60 million in recycling infrastructure across the REHAU Group, with its new window recycling facility in the North of England a shining example of this commitment in action, and key to the organisation’s highly ambitious sustainability targets.

With this in mind, the company

Specifically, over the next few

26 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

years, REHAU aims to:

• Constantly improve its separation process to ensure adherence with continually updating sustainability legislation and minimise by-products • Develop collaborative relationships with trusted partners to most efficiently manage waste streams • Invest in consumer awareness campaigns to drive demand for recycled windows

TRADE NEWS

PatioMaster South East

Reports On Latest Trends

In Sliding Patio Doors

Based in Runcorn, PVCR Ltd. is the largest UPVC recycler in the North West, salvaging and processing 1,000 metric tonnes of postconsumer polymer windows and doors every month. The company recently moved to its new purpose-built site as part of its continued heavy investment into upgrading its PVC recycling capability and improving overall sustainability.

REHAU’s work at PVCR Ltd. is part of its wider efforts to boost the company’s recycling capacities throughout Europe for its windows production operations.

Its long-term efforts in this field, alongside other initiatives, has seen the company selected to join the prestigious 50 Sustainability & Climate Leaders initiative, which is led by Bloomberg in co-operation with the United Nations.

Martin Hitchin, CEO at REHAU said: ”The UK public is becoming more familiar with the benefits PVC windows bring to our buildings, but more work needs to be done to raise awareness of recyclability beyond single-use plastic. In order for window recycling to become commonplace, industry needs to collaborate, inform and educate around its importance.

“Sustainability is much more than a hot topic at REHAU – it is a driving force within our strategy.

It is something we act on and invest in, so we hope industry will join forces with us in making window recycling a mainstream process.”

For more information, visit: www.pvcr.co.uk

With the rise in popularity for sliding patio doors, Simon Spiers, Director of PatioMaster South East, says his company’s sales patterns clearly reflect two of today’s most popular design trends.

to interrupt the view. Homeowners also benefit from an opening that’s up to 25% bigger than a conventional patio door and we have seen a steady upturn in demand for the product.”

He says: “We know that today’s homeowners focus on design-led aesthetics without wanting to compromise on practicality. It’s why the PatioMaster sliding patio door in Anthracite Grey is almost the default choice and accounts for nearly 50% of our order book.”

PatioMaster’s Triple-track system gives homeowners the option of an aperture up to six metres wide, with two or four sliding sashes that stack neatly behind each other when opened, even on smaller frame sizes.

Anthracite Grey is a popular choice for PVC-U products, not only patio doors, because it gives a sleek aluminium aesthetic. At the same time, it has all the practicalities associated with PVC-U such as exceptional thermal efficiency, excellent security and low maintenance.

The other key trend is the requirement for wider aperture openings, reflected in a strong upturn in sales of PatioMaster’s Triple-track system. Simon comments: “The Triple-track system is a great alternative to a bi-folding door, offering wide openings with fewer panels

Simon comments: “PatioMaster doors give homeowners the aesthetics they want. They deliver for installers too because the system is straightforward to install thanks to features such as edge-located rollers that mean they are easy to adjust.”

Simon concludes: “As the economy continues to open up, more and more homeowners are continuing to transform their homes. PatioMaster gives them the solution they’ve been looking for and we’re delighted to be supporting our customers in creating the stunning spaces homeowners now seek.” www.patiomaster.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 27

TRADE NEWS

Senior

Marks

Its 30th Anniversary Douglas Masterson, technical manager at GAI

Architectural Ironmongery Expert Lifts The Latch On Wider Industry Standards

From the end of the Cold War to the introduction of the ‘World Wide Web’ internet browser, 1991 was a notable year for many reasons but for Senior Architectural Systems, it marked the beginning of a successful journey to become the UK’s largest privately owned aluminium fenestration systems house, claims the company.

This year, the company is celebrating its 30th anniversary of successful trading and its growth from humble beginnings back in Bradford in the early 1990s, to today’s strong standing at the forefront of the aluminium fenestration industry with three branches across the UK. As well as growing in size and turnover, Senior has also invested heavily in the research and development of its product range to offer some of the most advanced aluminium window, door and curtain wall systems available. https://bit.ly/2RKEWCa 28 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) is helping to shape the competency frameworks for the wider construction products industry as part of the drive towards clearer and more robust fire safety standards.

Douglas Masterson, technical manager at the GAI, has been appointed as co-chair of Working Group 12, alongside Hanna Clarke, digital and policy manager at the Construction Products Association (CPA). He has represented the GAI in that group since its inception in October 2018 and was appointed as deputy chair of it in April 2020, at which time he also became a member of the Competence Steering Group (CSG).

The Steering Group on Competences for Building a Safer Future and its 12 sub-groups – set up to implement the recommendations of the Hackitt Review – have been continuing to look at specialist areas of construction practice. The groups consist of representatives from installers, fire, housing, construction and professional organisations from within the industry.

Working Group 12 is focussing on competency in the construction products sector.

Douglas Masterson said: “This role puts the GAI at the forefront of promoting increased levels of competency for the entire construction products industry. We have been performing the same role for the door and hardware industry since 1961 and advocating increased skills and knowledge for our membership is at the heart of what we do. It is a great honour to be able to lead Working Group 12, and to also represent the wider industry at the Competence Steering Group.”

The Setting the Bar report, published in October 2020, set out the competence requirements for those working on higher-risk residential buildings. As part of this, Working Group 12 discussed the construction product competency matrix that should be launched later this year.

Douglas and Hanna have taken over the chairman role from Peter Caplehorn, chief executive of the CPA. Joe Cilia, technical director at the Finishes and Interior Sector (FIS), will replace Douglas as deputy chair. www.gai.org.uk/IndustryUpdates

CREATING BRIGHT FUTURES

97mm Sightlines

Designed to redefine

The AluK Luminia F82 bifold door is a new benchmark for highend projects. Cleverly fusing minimalist design with class-leading performance, this stunning bifold door stands out from the crowd.

Minimal aesthetic with slim sightlines, integrated cills, and flush pop-up T-handle Design flexibility with multiple configuration options, including a floating corner Flexible fabrication allows you to produce matching single and double doors Maximise profits with simplified manufacturing and reduced stock-holding Redefine your bifold door offering with the iconic Luminia F82: find out more

and book a virtual product demo at alukgb.com/F82 or call us on 01291 639 739

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from

0.9

U-Values

Made in

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VIEWPOINT

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 developed by installers for installers. To find out more see www.businesspilot.co.uk/barometer

The Business

unprecedented boom.

This is reflected in the figures we’re seeing in this month’s barometer. Average sales were up 9% in April on March – but a staggering 55% on the same time in 2020.

Pilot Barometer

Crunch time for retail?

By Neil Cooper-Smith, Senior Analyst, Business Pilot COVID-19 may still be with us but the world we now occupy today, is a very different one to that of 12-months ago.

In April 2020, things felt apocalyptic. We were in our first national Lockdown, factories had shut their gates and like the rest of retail, installers were forced to close their showrooms.

Fast forward to April 2021, and things look and feel very different! The UK-economy is forecast to see its’ greatest growth since the post-war period and the construction sector is seeing an 30 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

New leads for April 2021 held firm on figures for March – while were 273% higher than April 2020. Conversions also held steady last month, up 3% on March.

This reflects the wider bounce in the UK economy which shows that it is back to where it was pre-COVID-19 and with forecast growth in GDP of 7%, seeing its strongest gains since 1945!

Increased consumer confidence, plus demand generated by the Stamp Duty holiday meant that

VIEWPOINT house prices also grew at their fastest rate for 17-years last month, up 2.1 per cent in April.

According to mortgage lender, Nationwide this represented the biggest monthly rise since February 2004 and 7.1% higher than in April 2020.

There are, however, challenges on the horizon.

The price increases trickling, or perhaps more accurately, cascading through the supply chain, make cashflow forecasting and business management critical.

This pales into insignificance in the face of significant disruption to component supply from PVC-U resins, to laminates and glass, to hardware and steel.

With systems and float glass manufacturers warning of supply chain challenges, it is only a matter of time before fabricators do the same.

This makes effective lead management, increased forward visibility of order books and effective job scheduling increasingly important for installers – things that Business Pilot can and is, helping installers to do nationwide.

Having the right processes in place in your business and the visibility of where leads or jobs are in your sales pipeline or operational schedule – plus financial reporting – is going to be very im-

portant in the coming months as installers juggle continuing high levels of demand and unprecedented pressure on their supply chains.

About Business Pilot

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

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

For more information visit www.businesspilot.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 31

VIEWPOINT “That’s allowed us to streamline our processes, reduce lead times, increase stock-holding and ultimately deliver a better service to our customers.”

The changes introduced at the start of this year mean that Bohle no longer supplies its larger customers direct from Germany but instead via it’s UK distribution centre.

Holding more product in stock in the UK has meant that Bohle has been able to reduce lead times on those products from 3-5 days to a maximum of 48-hours, and in most cases, on 24.

With more than 12,000 products available online, Bohle customers can place orders 24/7 across its hardware, glass handling, cutting, glazing, consumables and tool ranges.

Dave Broxton

Pre-Brexit Planning Pays Dividends For Bohle And Its Customers Bohle has said that its supply chain remains uninterrupted despite wider shortages of components and building materials.

The glass hardware and consumables specialist said that extensive planning pre-Brexit had allowed it to strengthen its supply network, increasing stock-holding and reducing lead times across its offer on a wide range of products.

This meant that it’s stockholding at the company’s UK distribution centre was now higher than at any time in the past, despite pressures on availabil32 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

ity of construction and building materials more widely.

Dave Broxton, Managing Director Bohle, said: “The reality was that on Christmas Eve last year we didn’t know what we would be dealing with come New Year’s Eve and what sort of a deal we would have.

“That meant we planned for a wide range of scenarios, one of which was to introduce direct supply from our European headquarters in Haan, Germany to the UK, rather than getting deliveries as part of a European-wide distribution.

This is in stark contrast to the ‘mood music’ coming out of the construction and building products supply chain more generally. The Construction Leadership Council, publishing a joint statement at the start of April, from the Builders Merchants Federation and the Construction Products Association warning of significant disruption and shortages.

“It’s a much simpler and rationalised system, that ultimately works better for our customers because we have more product on the ground in the UK”, continued Dave.

“With the demand that we’re seeing from our customers, including a record month in March, a robust supply chain is a major benefit to our customers, while increased stock-holding is also evidence of Bohle’s commitment to the UK glass processing, IGU and home improvement sectors.” www.bohle.com

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VIEWPOINT

Why the Green Homes

Grant Scheme

Failed to Deliver

Victoria Brocklesby, COO at Origin, a leading UK manufacturer of aluminium doors and windows, talks to us about the Green Homes Grant Scheme, what was promised and how it didn’t match up.

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time. This was formally recognised by the UK Government when it set itself ambitious, but necessary, targets for the UK 34 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

to be carbon neutral by 2050.

However, for the Government to reach these targets, drastic action must be taken. Upgrading our homes to be more energy efficient has been identified as a key area where savings on carbon emissions could be made, but making these upgrade can be costly. To combat this problem, the Government introduced the Green Homes Grant Scheme in September 2020 to incentivise homeowners and

landlords to make these essential energy-saving upgrades and contribute towards the country’s responsibility of reducing our carbon emissions. The idea was that the Government would supplement the upgrades with vouchers to cover a proportion, or in some cases, all of the cost. However, as great as this sounds, the scheme did not go to plan and has subsequently been scrapped a year early.

VIEWPOINT On the face of it, the scheme solved the issue of our homes being energy vacuums, allowing for vital home improvements to be made to boost the nation’s environmental credentials, with homeowners subsequently saving money on their household bills. There were even hopes the initiative would boost employment amid a difficult time for tradespeople during the coronavirus pandemic. However, despite the theory being perfect, the execution was severely lacking.

A Complicated Proposal When the initiative was first announced, there was very little information made available to explain how it would work in practice. This wasn’t just an issue for homeowners interested in taking part in the scheme, but also for those of us working the industry expected to deliver the work.

It wasn’t just that the information available was limited, but the scheme itself was so convoluted that homeowners often couldn’t apply for the work they wanted to do. For example, the initiative outlined two distinct categories, classed as primary and secondary measures – it is the secondary measures which related to the fenestration industry. However, for a homeowner to qualify for a secondary measure, such as double or triple glazing, secondary glazing or upgrading to energy efficient doors and windows, they would first have to apply for at least one primary measure, which included solid wall insulation, cavity wall insulation, roof insulation, or putting in a biomass boiler.

This meant that any initial excitement those of us working in the fenestration industry had about the Government’s forward-thinking, revolutionary

scheme quickly diminished once it became clear that homeowners would need to apply for at least one primary measure before they could even think about upgrading their glazing, doors, or windows.

Practical Issues Installation was another issue.

Once a homeowner had decided to carry out work to upgrade their home, they needed to search for an accredited tradesperson who was registered under the scheme and could claim for the vouchers to supplement the cost from the Government.

The problem came with finding a tradesperson, because only those registered with either the TrustMark or Microgeneration Certification Scheme accreditations could carry out this particular work. Achieving these accreditations, on top of those that they might have already, is a time-consuming process, and with demand for work under the initiative being limited, many tradespeople didn’t bother registering. This left homeowners with limited options and put many off.

We experienced these short-

comings directly at Origin.

When the scheme was initially announced, we witnessed a significant spike in web traffic as homeowners considered what work they could have done and which suppliers they wanted to use. However, this quickly fizzled out once it became clear that it would be a complicated process and they would have to complete a primary measure before being able to upgrade their doors and windows. This resulted in us receiving minimal enquiries connected to the scheme.

Conclusions These shortcomings meant that the Government had no choice but to pull the scheme a year early, following minimal uptake and criticisms from those in the industry. It’s a shame because, on paper, the scheme was progressive, and in many ways, what the industry has been crying out for. However, its poor execution meant it could not deliver the Government’s promises, and I’m not surprised it had to close early.

For more information about Origin, please visit www.origin-global.com WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 35

DEAR GERALD

Dear

Gerald

Dear Gerald

It was six months ago that I first wrote to the press to sound an early warning about the storm brewing in the freight market.

Booming demand in the west, lack of capacity on container ships and a shortage of the physical containers themselves were already starting to push up the price of shipping. I felt I had a responsibility to inform Mila customers and the wider market about what we were all likely to face over the coming months in terms of increased costs.

Since then, other business leaders have been giving similarly honest updates about the scale of the problem and, like Mila, many have had to introduce freight surcharges to try to share some of the burden of our massively increased costs.

Back in November, I don’t think any of us could have imagined how long the storm would last or just how bad it would get. The price of shipping a 40-foot container from China rose from around $2,000 in October 2020 to more than $8000 in April 2021. There were signs of a slight softening in March which gave us all some hope, but prices have steadily risen again and it’s depressing to have to report that the prices we are being quoted for sailings in May are around 25% higher again.

Pre-COVID, shipping times from China were consistently around 36 days, but now we are working on a minimum of 56 days and the level of demand at our 36 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

manufacturing partners means many of our lead times have doubled as well. The situation obviously hasn’t been helped by the impact of the Ever Given blocking the Suez Canal, which forced many shipping lines to reschedule sailings, and now news that the COVID surge in India is causing crew shortages and various ports even refusing entry to ships with crew from the region.

At Mila, we are obviously doing all we can to ensure continuity of supply and we have already spent more than £440,000 on airfreight since the start of the year to try to keep all those customers who stayed loyal to Mila during the pandemic supplied with stock – and we haven’t passed on any of that additional cost.

There’s no doubt that every business that imports from the Far East is feeling a similar level of pain – whether that’s High Street retailers or fenestration hardware suppliers – and price rises are understandably widespread. By now though, there has been plenty of coverage in the mainstream media about the shipping crisis and consumers have, to an extent, been conditioned to expect to pay more for goods imported from Asia.

While there is no real sign of the situation easing, I would, once again, urge the market to be patient and, wherever possible, pass on the increased costs they are facing from component suppliers right across the market.

Yours sincerely Richard Gyde

www.mila.co.uk

If you want to get involved in the discussion, or would like to air your views on a particular industry subject, then Email me at gerald@windownews.co.uk We cannot guarantee that we will publish everything, but we will do our utmost to make sure that everyone’s voice is heard. Your views and thoughts are imprortant to us.

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PEOPLE periences at MRA has been more than words can explain. I joined in 1997 as a Market Research Assistant and became MD in 2016. Working closely with Mike Rigby, we’ve grown the business into the No.1, full service agency in construction. Mike is a fantastic coach and mentor who encourages learning and development and opens doors to make things happen. I’ve learnt from probably one of the best strategists in the industry!

My time at MRA has been very special and memorable, but it’s the right time for me to make the jump to client-side and develop in new areas.”

MRA Marketing’s MD Switches From Agency To Client-Side After 23 years with MRA Marketing, Lucia Di Stazio is stepping down as Managing Director to explore new opportunities client-side. Her leaving will overlap with other significant changes in the business and will be carefully phased and managed with a developing new team. Lucia’s planned departure should end in the summer, but she will continue to support MRA on a non-exec project basis until a full handover is complete.

MRA Marketing is making a number of changes to the business designed to take the company to the next stage in its development. While the yearlong pandemic hit many sectors of the economy hard, it boosted construction and RMI. It also 38 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

accelerated planned changes at the multi-award winning construction specialist.

CEO Mike Rigby comments: “The announcement will surprise those who know Lucia, but it isn’t a sudden decision. Lucia wants to explore client-side opportunities in the industry, and put into practice what she’s preached, helping to make a difference with winning strategies and plans. I’m sorry to see Lucia go but she goes with my blessing. Over the years we’ve worked seamlessly and successfully together, and it’s one of the most productive working relationships I’ve had, so I wish her the best.”

Lucia adds: “My journey and ex-

Following the recruitment of new people and investment in a number of new products and resources over the last two years, MRA has built up the capability of its three core divisions: marketing, research and data services. “Customers and the market will not notice any sudden changes,” says CEO Mike Rigby, “but we’re gradually separating MRA Marketing into three businesses. As we do, each business will increasingly feel the benefit of a talented team, and a raft of exciting new products. All our products and services are designed to help companies grow by improving their marketing, insights and strategy.

“We have some extremely talented people, who are keen to build the business,” Mike continues, “but with three very different businesses in one it’s too complicated to navigate and drive unless you’ve spent years in the driving seat, as Lucia and I have.

So we’re separating them to make them simpler, so the teams can navigate and drive, and decide themselves what’s best for each one. It will also be a lot faster for the teams to take new products to market. I’m really excited by these new innovations and I think the market will be too.” www.mra-marketing.co.uk

PEOPLE

New Technical

Support Manager

At Kenrick Ryan Holmes

Julie Holmes

Mila’s Sales Team Is Back And Better Than Ever fter almost a year of working from home, Mila’s internal sales team is returning to the company’s Daventry HQ, while the external team is getting out and about again visiting customers safely.

The return has coincided with the promotion of Mila’s National Sales Manager Julie Holmes to a new role as Head of Sales, and the recruitment of Ryan Holmes as a new Area Sales Manager.

Julie joined Mila eight years ago and worked across area sales and key accounts before becoming National Sales Manager in 2018. Her promotion is testament to the commitment and leadership she showed throughout the pandemic, during which time she helped Mila win praise for its unstinting efforts to restore normal service after the first lockdown, stay in regular contact with customers, and, above all, keep customers supplied with as much stock as possible.

Ryan, who is no relation to Julie, has already been in the hardware sector for five years so brings

with him a good deal of knowledge and experience which will really benefit all those Mila customers he can now start to visit.

Mila’s Managing Director Richard Gyde said: “One of the big things that Mila customers tell us they like about our service is the partnership that exists between our internal and external sales teams.

They work as buddies so that every customer always has someone they can contact about their account, and they share insights and customer knowledge so that we can deliver a service which really adds value.

“Like most businesses, over the past year, we’ve definitely made a success of working from home, but blending that now with time for our teams to be in the office together will undoubtedly give everyone a really welcome boost.

Hardware supplier Kenrick has appointed Daran Woodcock as technical support manager.

Daran has joined Kenrick from The Residence Collection, where he was technical support engineer. Daran, who is celebrating 21 years in the industry this year, has also worked in engineering and technical roles for a number of well-known names in the industry, including Epwin, Wintech and Emplas.

Based at Kenrick’s headquarters in West Bromwich, Daran will provide technical support to Kenrick’s nationwide customer base. He will help customers with any technical queries or testing requirements and pro“I know that customers will feel the vide training on any new prodbenefit and I’m sure that all those ucts. He will also be involved in who are receiving visitors will be new product development and pleased to see our team face to will take responsibility for all BSI face again.” and PAS 24 testing at Kenrick.

More details are at: www.mila.co.uk www.kenricks.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 39

PEOPLE

Windowlink Appoint New Sales Executive Harriet Wadeson is the latest addition to the team at glazing software specialists Windowlink. With an extensive background in the car industry, and experience at companies such as Jaguar Land Rover and Heritage Automotive, Harriet has joined in a new Sales Executive role.

Windowlink were so helpful,” says Harriet.

After shifting gears into the glazing sector to join Windowlink, her new role will see her focus on making Windowlink even more customer friendly.

“The way I see it, if I can use it, then anyone can. I managed to pick it all up really quickly, despite being new to the industry.

“Moving from the car to the window industry was a big challenge for me having to learn as much as I could remotely, but the team at

“I’ve been given a bigger role, which goes beyond just sales. My main goal is to increase awareness of the usability of the software by showing glazing companies how easy it is to operate.

“I’m still learning about glazing and my knowledge on windows and doors is still growing, so imagine what someone who’s been in the industry for many years can do.”

Windowlink provide software solutions to the glazing industry to help installers create visual representations of their products and to improve the selling process.

To find out more visit www.windowlink.com and Madison Walker has joined the research team as a telephone researcher who will be focused on updating Insight Data’s fenestration database.

From left to right – Charlotte Kenny, Kelis Mort, Aaron Solomon, Madison Walker

Insight Data Expands Team With ‘Fantastic Four’

Specialist data supplier Insight Data has continued its rapid expansion with the appointment of four new members to its award-winning team.

Former senior marketing executive Charlotte Kenny has joined the 40 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

Email Marketing team, while Aaron Solomon joins the sales team to provide invaluable support to Insight’s growing new business unit.

Customer and sales administration has been strengthened by the appointment of Kelis Mort,

Jade Greenhow, Insight Data’s Operations Director, said: “We are delighted to welcome Charlotte, Aaron, Kelis and Madison to the Insight Data family. They join at a pivotal time for our business as we continue to focus on supporting our existing customers and improve our offerings, products, and services.

“The past year has been a rollercoaster ride for our industry, and we quickly realised we needed to invest in a bigger space, great people, and more resources.

“These new appointments are testament to our ambitious growth plans and show our commitment to providing our customers with the quality data, innovative products and outcome focused services.” www.insightdata.co.uk

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PEOPLE “I’m responsible for the technical team and will be overseeing the support side of the business. My department will provide technical support for the sales team out on the road. We will undertake tooling audits and provide better support for new and existing customers. We will be on site for the customer changeover and provide training on all our product range.

“In the short term, I want to very quickly ensure we have robust procedures in place to enable us to offer the best possible support for our customers. New products will be introduced going forward and we will implement systems that not only help us provide technical training for existing customers, but also support new customers when they come on board. I know we will continue to see lots of new business over the coming weeks and months.

I’m excited to be part of Garnalex and the Sheerline journey.”

Andy Russell

Garnalex Strengthens

Technical Support

With New Appointment Garnalex continues to offer unrivalled support to its Sheerline customers through the appointment of a Technical Services and Support Director.

Andy Russell joined the team in April and will strengthen technical support as Sheerline’s network of fabricators continues to grow. Having worked in the industry since the 1980s, Andy will use his extensive experience and knowledge to bolster technical services and support for Sheerline’s innovative aluminium 42 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

window and door system.

Andy was delighted when the opportunity arose to join Garnalex, having previously worked at window system companies Eurocell and Liniar.

Andy says: “It’s great to be working with a highly motivated group of people, many of whom I’ve worked with before. I’m looking forward to the challenges this new role will bring and to be part of something that’s on an exciting growth trajectory.

Garnalex says award-winning aluminium window and door system Sheerline has already transformed the residential aluminium market. Developed from the ground up by a team of experts, Sheerline is designed with the fabricator, installer and homeowner in mind.

Garnalex CEO Roger Hartshorn says: “We’re really pleased to welcome Andy to our growing team. Andy’s expertise, borne of several decades working in the window industry will help us provide first class technical support and service. Sheerline is a system with innovation at its very heart and that innovation extends not only to our design and manufacturing processes but to the service we provide customers. Andy will play a major part in seeing that service innovation thrives at Garnalex.” www.sheerline.com www.sheerlinevideo.com

PEOPLE

SolarFrame Announce

New Head of Marketing

The SolarFrame marketing team

Kirsten Bolton has been appointed as SolarFrame’s new head of marketing.

Kirsten has worked in marketing leadership roles for over twenty years, ten years of which have been in the manufacturing/engineering sector. Her most recent role was as the marketing director for Willerby, the UKs largest manufacturer of static caravans. Prior to that she led the marketing function at the Advanced Manufacturing Research

Centre with Boeing.

Recognised for her leadership and marketing skills, she was placed on the Financial Times top 100 Most Influential Women in Engineering (UK & Europe) in 2019.

Also joining the team is Natalie Grimshaw, as digital marketing manager. Natalie has worked in marketing for 15 years and worked for companies such as Shell and 50Five, a smart home solutions company.

Central Window Systems Appoints New

Aluminium Customer Service Team

Gemma Turner

Full solution fabricator Central Window Systems has appointed a new Aluminium Customer Service Team to support installers with commercial opportunities and provide them with leads to help them succeed.

A pivotal part of the company’s aluminium division, the new team includes Head of Trade Aluminium

Kirsten and Natalie join Nikki Dunbar, SolarFrame’s marketing and communications manager. Nikki has been in post for just under a year and has already got eight years of industry experience under her belt, having previously worked at Liniar/HL Plastics and Balls2Marketing.

Group managing director Steve Taylor said ‘We have got to the point where we want to shake things up, challenge the norm and grow our brand’s presence in the UK. We cannot ignore the changing needs of the consumer and Kirsten, along with the rest of the team bring an alternative viewpoint and the business acumen to make that happen.”

As head of marketing, Kirsten will be coordinating SolarFrame’s marketing operations. Her responsibilities include building the marketing strategy, continuously optimising ROI, as well as managing and developing the marketing team. www.solarframe.co.uk The team is also working with existing customers to help make them aware of both the company’s Aluminium and PVCu ranges alongside its comprehensive marketing portal, Central Hub, a 24-hour portal providing a range of sales, software, technical and business support.

CEO Gary Morton comments: “Central Window Systems has always had customer support at the forefront of its strategy, which is why Gemma and Andy’s hard work Andy Sheppard has been invaluable in helping our Service Gemma Turner and Alumini- installers benefit from the full extent um Estimator Andy Sheppard. of the products we have to offer.

Together, they are in charge of running Central’s Aluminium Project Support Service, a unique service which sees in-house experts help installers with complex projects, from the design stage through to the final installation.

“With an extensive Aluminium Project Support Service as well as a wide range of marketing tools to offer, I’m confident our Aluminium Customer Service Team will help our valued customers excel.

WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 43

PRODUCT NEWS

Aluminium Fittings

Finessed by

Carl F Groupco

As a long-standing supplier of hardware to support aluminium systems, Carl F Groupco reports significant growth in demand for the stylish, lightweight material. Increasing demand from fabricators for the durable, secure and aesthetically pleasing profile that offers low U-values has prompted a major upturn in demand from fabricators for complementary hardware.

Commenting on Carl F Groupco’s advancements to its aluminium options and the lines that have been expanded, John King, Sales Director for Carl F Groupco said: “We have worked with a number of system houses to develop ranges to meet growth in demand – this has resulted in a catalogue of aluminium sector fittings that is our most diverse to date.

Options include a full range of stainless steel FUHR door locks with a comprehensive selection of U-Rail variants and backsets: additional corrosion resistance is offered by stainless steel and 44 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

the visual finish demanded to complement an aluminium door is also provided.

“A complete suite of locks is also available to cater for all applications including tall doors capable of providing security over three metres high; electronic operation with SmartSecure access control options; panic / emergency exit and French door options. Other popular product lines for the aluminium market include tilt & turn hardware from Roto NT and Roto FRH reversible window gearing continues to be a big seller. Siegenia ALU tilt and turn ranges also feature as high-volume orders.

“Manufacturers’ commitment to aluminium is clear. Taking FUHR as an example, the leading lock supplier has produced a 380 page catalogue dedicated purely to hardware for aluminium – all featured products are available from Carl F Groupco.”

Popularity for aluminium profiles is resulting in corresponding sales for Carl F Groupco’s hardware with demand from both existing fabricators working in the sector and those working in the PVCu market who are diversifying into this expanding market. Growth is confirmed across the company’s client base including one customer who has increased spend on FUHR door locks for aluminium profile by 102% compared to their 2018/19 purchases.

PRODUCT NEWS

P C Henderson Launch New Innovative Sliding Door Drop Seal

P C Henderson has recently partnered up with drop seal manufacturer, Planet, to introduce an acoustic drop seal for sliding doors into its range of products.

The innovative seal solution, designed specifically for sliding doors, offers a range of benefits including soundproofing (up to 44dB), light reduction, prevention against unpleasant smells and draught insulation.

Suitable for wooden and metal doors, the product is ideal for a wide range of applications where door sealing would be of benefit – such as offices, music rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms, nurseries and room dividers.

Andrew Royle, Sales and Marketing Director at P C Henderson commented “As more people are working from home during the COVID-19 restrictions, there is a need for quieter atmospheres as people try to juggle family life and work commitments. Our new Planet Drop Seal is ideal for this type of application due to its soundproofing properties – as well as numerous other applications around the home and workplace”.

Planet Drop Seal is automatically deployed upon door closure and held firmly in the closed position – eliminating the need for a magnet to hold the door in place. Designed using state of the art technology, the accessory is compatible with soft close sliding door systems due to the minimal force required to activate the seal. www.pchenderson.com WINDOW NEWS MARCH 2021 45

PRODUCT NEWS

VBH Receive Kitemark Recognition Hardware specialist VBH has been awarded the new BSI Kitemark in respect of Building Hardware used in Windows and Doorsets. VBH is among the very first companies to have achieved this certification.

To achieve the hardware Kitemark VBH submitted various window and door samples to BSI for testing to all the relevant UK quality standards.

The hardware covered includes products for the manufacture of outward opening, and tilt & turn windows, residential doors, bi-fold

doors, lift slide doors, inline sliding patio doors and the greenteQ Invisifold slide & fold door system.

As well as the company’s own greenteQ hardware, the Kitemark hardware schedule also covers products from many of VBH’s partner brands including AGB,

Rapierstar Consumables Range

Hits The Target With DART Specialist window and door fastener supplier Rapierstar has boosted its range of complementary products for manufacturing and installation with the addition of DART power tool accessories.

DART is a rapidly growing global brand offering superior performance drill bits, screwdriver bits, saw blades and other daily-use consumables, plus equipment such as PPE gloves. Its ‘Your tool, but better.’ ethos sums up the DART approach to product design and quality, with a range that not only matches but often exceeds the performance of leading brands, at a far lower cost, claims the company. As DART themselves say, ‘If it’s the bit that does the hard bit, then add the right bit!’

Rapierstar is partnering with DART as their exclusive supplier to the door and window sector, 46 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

Yale and Roto.

VBH Business Development Manager Rob Norman says “Naturally, it takes a lot to achieve this Kitemark but the benefits to us and our customers are many.

Not only is the Kitemark a badge of quality for our products but it also gives added credence to our Q-secure consumer guarantee, as all the hardware on our Kitemark schedule is also on our Q-secure Approved Hardware list.

“Lastly, it also gives the possibility of us helping VBH customers to more easily achieve their own accreditation. Depending on what steps they take, this can lead to gaining additional business from the new build and commercial sectors.” www.vbhgb.com can be manufactured and assembled with maximum efficiency. That’s why using a quality Rapierstar fastener after drilling with a DART drill bit represents an ideal combination.”

DART products are available for all Rapierstar customers to purchase along with their usual fastener orders, delivered from a single source for easier ordering, invoicing and stockholding.

offering a wide range including DART HSS ground twist drill bits, SDS (slotted drive system) masonry drill bits and high grade screwdriver bits.

Mark Calpin, Technical Consultant at Rapierstar said: “What any window fabricator needs their drill to do is create a clean hole hassle-free every time, so fastener insertion is as simple as it can be, and windows and doors

Keith Johnston, UK Sales Director for DART Tool Group said: “Drill bits, driver bits and saw blades are crucial to the everyday manufacturing and installation of windows and doors so – as with fasteners – choosing the right products has far-reaching benefits. That’s why we’re delighted to be partnering with Rapierstar who share our brand values and dedication to great customer service, ensuring fabricators and installers can access DART everyday consumables with ease.”

Find out more at www.rapierstar.com

PRODUCT NEWS

New Alva Self-Closing

Fitting From Bohle Offers Ease Of Installation And Improved Design Bohle has launched an improved version of the Alva self-closing hydraulic patch fitting, which offers a sleek and stylish solution for the controlled operation of glass doors.

One of the main advantages to the new Alva patch fitting, is that it is now even easier to install as it can be secured with just two screws instead of four. In addition to using fewer components, the updated design means there is now 29mm between the first hole in the baseplate and the wall, which gives fitters more room to position a drill.

Once in place, four grub screws can be used to fine tune the vertical alignment of the door and the zero position setting, with horizontal adjustment offered via a single, easily accessible screw.

Suitable for both interior and exteri-

or applications, a stand-out feature of Alva is that all the technology required for operation is packaged in one slimline unit. Unlike some competitor systems, this means it can be fitted directly onto the floor, instead of creating a recess to house an underfloor box, which presents further time savings for installers.

Manufactured to DIN EN 1154 European quality standards, which includes 500,000 test cycles, Alva is the first self-closing corner fitting on the market to feature an integrated ‘back check’ adjustable damper. This has been designed to protect against any sudden and excessive force against the door, for example a gust of wind, by gently and safely absorbing its momentum. The opening damping starts at an angle of approximately 75 degrees and is infinitely adjust-

able.

In addition, Bohle has also introduced a new design aesthetic with the latest version of Alva, which ensures there are no visible screws or fastening points on the cover caps and base plate. Slightly rounded corners and black inserts, which create the impression of a shadow gap, emphasise a premium, high quality look and feel.

Dave Broxton, Managing Director, Bohle, said: “The previous Alva hydraulic patch fitting was an exceptional product, but we are constantly looking at ways to improve our offering at Bohle and we identified a number of areas in which it could be enhanced even further.

“The addition of the back check damper is a particularly welcome safety feature, as is the cleaner, more contemporary design but one of the biggest gains is in the simplicity and speed of installation.

Making Alva easier to fit, with less components, delivers clear advantages for our customers.” www.bohle.com WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 47

PRODUCT NEWS

Faster, Safer

And More

Accurate Glass Installation With

VetroLevel From Bohle

Safe, Stylish Solutions With Tuffx

Bohle has launched VetroLevel, an innovative, suction mounted device that allows installers to align glass more efficiently, with greater accuracy and with improved safety.

Incorporating a 90mm suction pad, the BO5140450 VetroLevel combines the proven technology of Bohle’s Veribor lever activated suction lifters, with three, independent spirit levels.

Once secured to a glass sheet, VetroLevel allows users to work ‘hands free’ to ensure panels are perfectly aligned, significantly reducing the risk of personal injury or damaged product. Designed for use with all non-porous sheet material as well as glass, VetroLevel is particularly suited to the fitment of Bohle’s VetroMount balustrades, FrameTec partitioning, MasterTrack sliding doors and glass shower installations. www.bohle.com 48 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

When a customer in Leeds required an unobtrusive, safe solution for their client’s large split-level terrace, the answer lay with glass from TuffX. The detached property was finished in stylish light rendering with contrasting dark window frames, including expansive glass sliding doors across the rear which open onto a split-level terrace dropping away to the grounds beyond. A solution was needed to make sure the occupants could enjoy the terrace safely, without compromising on the stunning views enjoyed from both inside and outside the property.

Glass was the obvious answer, and leading specialist glass manufacturer TuffX was chosen to supply 20m2 of 10mm toughened safety glass with dubbed corners.

TuffX, who had worked with the installer previously, was chosen for its proven track record for producing quality glass and for its reliable delivery service.

Once in place, the glass panels were topped off with a stainless steel handrail at the perfect height to rest on while gazing over the open ground beyond.

In addition to being safe and unimposing, the finished balustrade helps protects occupants from the elements. And being low-maintenance means the homeowners will be able to enjoy maximum benefits from their terrace with minimal upkeep, year after year.

“Our glass solutions are perfect for this kind of job – toughened safety glass cut that will just quietly do its job day in, day out,” said TuffX’s Managing Director Graham Price.

“And with TuffX we make the whole process fuss-free. From ordering through to delivery, we’ll keep you up to date on the progress of your order, and we’re always available at the end of the phone.” www.tuffxglass.co.uk

AVAILABLE NOW

PRODUCT NEWS

aluplast Upgrades Flush Casement Offering aluplast has unveiled an upgraded version of its flush casement, further enhancing its aesthetic appeal as well as introducing improved manufacturing efficiencies.

Featuring even slimmer sightlines, the latest offering is also easier and faster to fabricate, the result of research and development by aluplast that has simplified the process of hardware and gasket application.

With a choice of standard and heritage deep bottom rail, and with options for mechanical jointing, aluplast’s flush sash is suitable for a wide range of period and contemporary properties and is available in the system company’s full range of 40 finishes.

This includes aludec, the next generation foil that is designed to 50 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

accurately replicate the appearance of aluminium, and woodec, which is available in four ultra-lifelike woodgrains; Turner Oak Malt, Sheffield Oak Alpine, Sheffield Oak Concrete and Toffee.

It is also compatible with ecotech, aluplast’s ‘green’ solution that isolates recycled material away from structural elements of the profile. ecotech’s co-extrusion process means that smooth, virgin material is used for the surface walls of the profile, ensuring a stable substrate for foils.

“We have enjoyed a considerable amount of traction in the marketplace with our flush casement, and the improvements that the new version brings will build on that success,” said Ian Cocken, Director of Sales and Marketing, aluplast.

“Consumer demand for premium products, such as flush casements, and also for colour has never been higher. Our flush sash brings a whole new level of attention to detail and design flexibility with its aesthetics. On the one hand it can be with specified with an aluminium style finish, such as aludec or a flat anthracite grey, for a clean and contemporary finish,” he added.

“Or, if you apply a 90o mechanical joint, with a deep bottom rail, dedicated hardware and one of our timber effect woodec foils, you can recreate the appearance of a 19th century window – but with all the advantages of a modern, energy efficient PVC system.

“And while its aesthetics, foiling options and compatibility with ecotech make it extremely popular with installers, the design improvements we have made to the latest version of our flush sash make it an even more attractive proposition for fabricators as well.”

For more information, please call 01684 273401 email info@aluplast.co.uk or visit www.aluplast.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

An Edge Closer To Aluminium Windows In response to growing demand for windows that can successfully combine traditional and modern styles in the same property, REHAU is expanding its popular Rio flush fit family with a new square edge low level bead.

With black flipper detail as standard and allowance for 28mm glazing of the Rio flush fit, these features ensure that the installer can achieve clean lines on the inside of the window. This enables customers to compete with aluminium flush alternatives on the market, particularly when paired with REHAU’s coloured foils such as smooth anthracite grey.

One of the key selling points about this new feature is that customers can mix their window styles internally and externally. Clare Higgins, Senior Product Manager for Rio at REHAU Windows explains: “If someone lives in a Georgian prop-

erty but wants to have a minimalistic, industrial style living space, Rio flush fit windows can bridge the gap perfectly. Available as a special-order option, the new square edge bead can be used internally to complement a modern interior design with a grey foil, but keep a traditional timber look externally with a Turner Oak foil.”

Since launching the Rio at the start of 2019, REHAU has seen a marked increase in demand for aluminium-style window frames.

Designed with versatility in mind, Rio flush fit is designed to offer choice to homeowners through design, colour and feature options.

“Rio flush fit has been a huge success since launching last year,” says Clare. “However, we never stop thinking about ways to improve our product ranges. Out in the field our installers are telling us that more people are moving

towards clean-cut modern window styles, so we wanted to add a feature that would make Rio even more indistinguishable from real aluminium.

“Essentially, our windows are designed for modern life and so this new addition fits perfectly within the portfolio.”

For more information on REHAU’s Rio flush fit Square Edge Bead, visit https://bit.ly/3bmUSl3

Devon And Cornwall Windows Bring

Fast-Fitting Stellar To Its Portfolio Devon and Cornwall Windows have recently begun manufacturing Stellar, the triple award-winning aluminium window and door system from Epwin Window Systems.

Adam Page, Owner of Devon and Cornwall Windows, said: “Stellar’s ease of fitting is a huge advantage to our customers. Just as importantly, its superior slimline flush aesthetics are a huge advantage too.”

Mark Austin, Sales Director (Aluminium) at Epwin Window Systems, said: “Devon and Cornwall Windows have a strong reputation

for delivering high-end projects that deliver on style and performance. We’re delighted to welcome them to Stellar.”

Devon and Cornwall Windows began fabricating Stellar in February 2021. The products have already

been a hit with the company’s retail and trade customers alike.

Adam said: “With the growth in domestic aluminium products, most installers now have an aluminium system in their portfolio, especially a bifolding door. We have found that a Stellar bifolding door is 50% quicker to fit than similar aluminium bifolds and this is a great benefit for our customers. Not only does it allow them to fit more doors in a day but, as importantly, they spend less time at a customer’s property which is important at this time.” www.stellaraluminium.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 51

PRODUCT NEWS Thankfully, their local installer, All Seasons UPVC in Milford Haven, had another suggestion – high-performance ECOSlide PVCu sash windows from Victorian Sliders. Once they’d seen ECOSlide’s authentic aesthetics up close, and learned that the system was virtually maintenance free and energy efficient, there was no contest. All Seasons went on to install eleven ECOSlide windows on the property, and, in the process, restore its turn of the century grandeur.

Aesthetics

Or Practicality?

With ECOSlide, You Don’t Have To Choose It’s a dilemma that thousands of home-improving property owners have faced for decades.

Do you pay through the nose for pricey windows that preserve the character of an older property?

Or do you opt for a more cost-effective alternative, but risk spoiling the aesthetics that made you like the house in the first place?

52 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

“However, in the intervening decades, many of those sash windows have been ripped out and replaced with ill-suited replacements. “Others, as in Tom and Emma’s case, still have original timber products, but are now extremely old, and providing very poor performance.

“With ECOSlide, we cover all bases – authentic-looking sash window products made of modern materials, that are much more cost-effective, and require only minimal maintenance. “That’s why three thousand installers around the country use ECOSlide to appeal to homeowners like Tom and Emma.

When couple Tom and Emma of Whitland, West Wales, found themselves in the same situation, they discovered that they could in-fact have the best of both worlds.

The pair’s elegant double-fronted Victorian semi dates back to 1902, and had windows that matched that vintage – old, draughty, single-glazed timber sash windows that were well past their prime. Clearly, they needed replacing. But when it came to choosing exactly what to replace

“This project was a perfect example of exactly what ECOSlide was designed to achieve,” comments Victorian Sliders Group Managing Director Andy Jones. “Nearly six million homes around Britain date back to before 1919 – more than a fifth of the UK’s total housing stock, which means that at least one in five British houses were built at a time when sash windows were the norm.

them with, they were torn. Part of them wanted to substitute like with like, and choose modern timber sash windows. But the options were very expensive, and would require extensive maintenance once installed – which led them to reluctantly consider basic PVC casements instead.

“If you’d like to learn more about how Victorian Sliders can help you break into the lucrative sash window market, don’t hesitate to get in touch.”

For more information visit www.victoriansliders.co.uk or call 01269 846200.

Grow business together Introducing REHAU Connect - the online platform that will revolutionise the way Installers communicate with the Fabricator and Client.

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PRODUCT NEWS

New Aluminium Flush Casement Window From Central Window Systems Following on from booming demand for its Lineal range of PVCu flush casement windows, Central Window Systems has expanded its product portfolio to include an aluminium option – the 58BW flush casement window from AluK. The company says, the 58BW combines weather resistance, advanced performance, incredible versatility and excellent security, and as a durable alternative to timber and steel window systems, it’s ideal for contemporary new-builds and refurbishment projects.

Thanks to its thermally broken design which offers a low U-value of 1.5, the 58BW flush casement

offers excellent protection against bad weather, while the window’s double rebate and friction stay features also add to its advanced weather performance.

With a 45mm sash and internal bead glazing of 24 to 35mm, the PAS24:2016 tested 58BW creates desirable sightlines, and is availa-

ble in either top hung, side hung, multi-light or French casement configurations.

It includes multi-point locking, and comes in single or dual colour, a textured or anodised finish, and can also be complemented with a choice of flat, putty line or stepped edge vent styles to suit a range of building applications and property styles.

Central Window Systems CEO Gary Morton comments: “After seeing the success of Lineal, our range of PVCu flush casement windows, we knew the next step was to expand this into the aluminium market. www.centralwindowsystems.co.uk

to the addition of a slim dummy rail on the opposite side to the sliding operating system.

The SV+ works the same way as the SV System, using a manually operated magnetic slider on either the left or right-hand edge of the sealed unit to raise, lower and tilt the slats of the blind. It is a cordless system that is particularly safe for houses or projects with children or pets.

Morley

Glass & Glazing Adds

New SV+ System To Uni-Blind Range Integral blinds manufacturer Morley Glass & Glazing is giving customers even more choice with the launch of the SV+.

Exclusive to Morley Glass, the SV+ is a completely symmetrical version of the highly popular ScreenLine SV (sliding venetian) Uni-Blind system thanks 54 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

Ian Short, managing director of Morley Glass & Glazing says: “The SV system is one of our most popular systems, as it is particularly easy and smooth to operate.

The slimness of the control device means the system can be used with all types of frames, even sliding doors and windows.

“However, the control device is located on a narrow rail on one side of the sealed unit, and this can make the window look uneven. To create a more symmetrical appearance we’ve added a slim dummy rail to the opposite side of the sealed unit and created the SV+.

“The external control device is also protected with a patented Sanitized® active biocidal substance containing silver ions for long lasting antibacterial protection and peace of mind.”

The SV+ is available in a choice of 10 colours and can be delivered in just 12 working days from orders placed by 10am on a Thursday. www.morleyglass.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS products,” said Graham. “So it gives builders and installers an inexpensive alternative to offer to homeowners who want to achieve that popular sleek, minimalist look, without compromising on safety or performance.”

As with all TuffX products, the components for the All Glass rooflights are made in-house, which has paid dividends across the business this year.

Competitive Pricing

And Pandemic-Proof

Production Secure

Sales For TuffX TuffX’s All Glass Infinity rooflight continues to prove a roaring success with customers – as week-on-week sales of the popular product range go from strength to strength.

“Due to its lightweight, slimline design constructed com-

“It’s meant we’ve been able to continue to grow and gain more additional repeat business from customers right across our Infinity range and all our processed glass products, as our customers have seen for themselves that we have been able to continue to deliver through some tricky times for the industry.”

TuffX’s frameless-look All Glass rooflights have a distinctive ‘floating’ glass appearance that sit lower against the exterior roofline. As with the whole Infinity rooflight range, they are extremely quick and easy for builders and installers to fit – due to their hassle-free design that needs no additional assembly on site.

Along with steady and consistently increasing order numbers each week, TuffX has also seen a rise in the amount of enquiries about its all-glass ‘frameless’ rooflights, from both new and existing customers.

TuffX’s Managing Director Graham Price believes the strong demand is in part due to the product’s competitive pricing, along with the company’s pandemic-proof in-house manufacturing process.

“Having full control over our manufacturing chain in this way means our customers’ orders are not affected by the supply issues that the construction industry as a whole has experienced throughout this pandemic,” said Graham.

pletely from glass and without any aluminium frame, our All Glass rooflight is typically more cost-effective than comparable

Being lighter than other rooflights makes the All Glass rooflight particularly easy to manoeuvre and fit. But the lower weight and cost does not reflect any reduction in the product’s safety and performance, with the All Glass rooflight comfortably conforming to industry standard EN1279. www.tuffxglass.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 55

PRODUCT NEWS

Origin Launches New 29mm Sliding Door In The UK Manufacturer of aluminium doors and windows, Origin, has unveiled its latest product launch – the OS-29 (Patio Slider). The new sliding door is the slimmest semi-dry glaze system in the UK, claims the company, featuring a 29mm sightline and offering wide customer appeal.

The OS-29 offers another sightline option in the Origin Patio Sliding Door range, joining the already well-established OS44 and OS-77 (with 44mm and 77mm sightline options respectively). Its design and launch comes as a result of market feedback wanting slimmer sightlines, easier transport options and a more straightforward installation in comparison to wet glazed systems.

56 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

It offers the same maximum sizes as the OS-44 and OS-77, yet has smaller minimum sizes, meaning it can be installed into a wider range of properties. What’s more, the OS-29 is immediately available for Origin Partners to quote and order on Origin’s revolutionary OSS. Built from a high-grade aluminium, the OS-29 is as strong as it is sleek, designed to maximise light coming into the home.

Like all Origin products, it is manufactured in the UK, offers a guarantee of up to 20-years and is available in over 150 RAL colours.

Daniel Baker, Managing Director at Origin, comments: “At Origin, we always aim to be at the forefront of innovation,

challenging industry norms, and making the lives of our Partners as simple as possible.

When our customers called for a nimble and easily transportable sliding door, we answered.

And the result is a stunningly designed and engineered system that offers incredible versatility, giving the Origin Partner network even more to offer their customers and even greater control over their success.

“In addition, this launch is testament to our ambitions as a business and the work ethic of the team whom, during 2020 and the first quarter of this year, have worked incredibly hard to enable us to bring this product to market. This showcases the gold standard of service that we offer to our Partners, innovating even during a pandemic, just so they can grow their business and stand out from the crowd that little bit further.” origin-global.com

Fast-forward to clear, easy IBG and insurance cover from a broker who’s on your side. installsure.co.uk/apply

PRODUCT NEWS

Finding The Key To Our Hearts We all love a little something that makes a job that little bit easier, right? Often this might be something as simple as having the right screwdriver in your toolbox, or a nifty pair of work trousers with pockets in all the right places, but have you ever thought there might 58 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

be more to it than just the tools.

Maybe we should all be thinking more about the advantages offered by making the right product choice for the job in the first place?

Made for Trade, the company behind the design and manufac-

ture of the award-winning Korniche Lantern roof system, believe this is a really important feature that is often forgotten during the selection or even the recommendation of a product to be used on a project.

Many homeowners could be forgiven for just assuming that all these windows and doors are all just the same sort of things with different names on them!

Made for Trade claim that their products are far from just another “insert product type here”, and that every Korniche branded system product must carry a USP that sets it apart from the crowd. They certainly achieved this with the Korniche Lantern, where their attention to detail on the design and

PRODUCT NEWS

manufacturing front translated into a product that even someone with no experience could confidently fit, but they are now claiming to be bringing a big USP into the bi-folding door arena. If they are true to their word it opens up an opportunity to use a Korniche product on a much larger range of projects.

Ashley Gaunt, Technical Director at MFT tells us more: “For installers, the big innovation on the Korniche bifold door is our patented pre-gasketed clip bead. We have paired an aluminium bead profile with a rolled in polyamide clip.

Aluminium and Polyamide behave in a very similar way under temperature changes, and this is an important factor when designing a composite bead. We have also designed a custom bead gasket that is factory fitted to the bead before its delivered.

Due to the way it is manufactured with a polymer backing, it cannot shrink. The new system is simple, fool-proof and truly upholds our GLAZED IN SECOND’s promise”

will arrive fully assembled. Once everything is on-site it should be a simple case of screwing in the frame, offering up and packing the glass units and then “clipping” in the bead. Job Done!

Made for Trade says all MFT bi-folding door quotes include delivery and unless you ask specifically for kit form all doors

Show ticket links and product updates can be found on both the www.madefortrade.co and www.korniche.co.uk websites.

MFT is inviting installers to be the first to find out more about these ‘new, easy to install doors and the trade marketing opportunities that feature alongside the award-winning Korniche Lantern’.

Korniche Bi-folding Doors will be featuring at the upcoming National Homebuilding & Renovating Show, NEC, Birmingham between the 8th and 11th July.

Anyone that has spent any time on-site fitting an Aluminium bi-fold door will be all too familiar with the struggles associated with fitting, cutting and installing wedge gasket. It is probably one of the most time-consuming parts of the install, and once it’s in, the longevity of the install can depend heavily on the experience of the installer, we’ve all seen shrunken gaskets!

WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 59

PRODUCT NEWS Freefoam’s diverse cladding range is a popular choice for long-term stockist Edge Building Products and its customers. The company has seen a robust increase in sales of Freefoam’s products over the past four years.

Edge Building Products was established more than 25 years ago and sells a wide range of low-maintenance building products across its three branches. It added Freefoam’s cladding range to its offering in 2017, in response to customer demand for a greater range of colours in the cladding market.

Edge Building Products Managing Director Kieran Napthine rates Freefoam’s cladding range, colours and product innovation as “excellent”. He says: “We were attracted to Freefoam’s Fortex range because of its diverse colour options and the excellent range of trims that are included in the system. From our customer sales, we see the strongest demand for grey colours.

“The system is so easy to use and install. It is easy to cut, and handles much better than fibre cement products, which have a similar appearance.

Since Freefoam’s introduction, sales of the brand’s products have been growing for Edge Building Products. This is, in part, due to the expanding home improvement market, which has been going from strength to strength.

Edge Building Products mostly supplies Freefoam cladding products to builders, homeowners, for home improvement projects, and double-glazing companies. It has also supplied several new build properties, with excellent results.

Freefoam’s Extensive And Innovative Cladding Range Hits The Mark With Edge

Building Products 60 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

Kieran says: “We have definitely seen an uptick in home improvements over the past year. We believe many people are investing funds they would normally allocate to holidays and hospitality to improve their homes.

“The ‘New England’ style is very popular with homeowners, particularly in the South, and Freefoam’s Fortex cladding range is a great fit for this style of property. It provides a cost-effective, low-maintenance option for anyone looking to make long-lasting, attractive changes to their property.”

Learn more about Freefoam’s products, service and support by visiting www.freefoam.com or calling 01604 591110. Follow @freefoam. For Edge Building Products, visit www.edgebp.co.uk and call 0845 021 4444.

PRODUCT NEWS

Fast Delivery And Fast To

Build, Says Ultraframe As Garden Rooms have rapidly grown in popularity over the last 12 months, the sector has been hit by long lead times. However, the newly launched range of Ultraframe Garden Rooms are available in all sizes and configurations on a 10-day lead time.

These short lead times have been made possible by the skilled team at Ultraframe developing a modular proposition based on two core styles – The Pavilion and The Studio – which are available in a range of pre-set sizes, and with various options for personalisation such as full length glazed panels, windows and more. Ultraframe Garden Rooms are also fast to fit thanks to familiar components which employ high levels of tech-

nology to ensure a speedy build.

Commenting, Ultraframe Marketing Director, Alex Hewitt, said: “When we were developing our new Garden Room range, we really focused on the speed at which they could be delivered and built.

With a product that is in such demand, time on site needed to be kept as brief as possible to allow installers to quickly complete a build and move onto the next one.

Both styles of Ultraframe Garden

Endless possibilities.

Room use components already familiar to our installers and can be watertight in just one day! As they are familiar components, no additional training is required, although we are running a series of webinars to ensure that anyone who wants further information has a forum to learn and ask questions.”

The Ultraframe Marketing Team have ensured that installers can be up and running to start promoting and selling the new Garden Rooms within a matter of days, with a package of marketing tools on offer. Ultraframe Garden Rooms customers can access a range of tools including stunning high quality imagery, a retail brochure which can be personalised at the click of a button, an online quoting tool that can be added to their website, and an online ordering facility to place their orders with Ultraframe. www.ultraframegardenrooms.co.uk

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WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 61

PRODUCT NEWS

Distinction Doors Leads The Way With Secured By

Design Seal Of Approval Distinction Doors says it is the first stockist and distributor of glass reinforced polyester (GRP) door blanks in the UK to be granted prestigious Secured by Design (SBD) status.

New High Performance

Fire Door

From Endurance Endurance Doors has launched a new high performance FD30 fire door, after a two-year research and development programme which has realised a product solution that exceeds the latest standards.

The physical testing of the doors was carried out by Efectis, who are a global player in fire science, covering all aspects of fire safety through testing and modelling, certification, inspection, education and expertise. To support the launch, there’s a 39-page test report available to download from Endurance Doors at endurancedoors.co.uk/composite-fire-doors The new FD 30 fire door is based on the proven solid timber core composite door from Endurance with the McKinley design initially, with any current colour of slab and a dedicated white Rehau PVCu door frame. Hardware includes the AV2 autolock mechanism, lever / lever handle, high security cylinder with a £2,000 guarantee, with options of fire rated urn and slimline urn knockers and letterplate. www.endurancedoors.co.uk 62 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

The company has gained approval for both standard and fire entrance door blanks. Its 44.5mm nxt-gen blank range, 44.5mm Signature blank range and 45mm FD30 GRP composite door blank have proven specification requirements to meet the certification of PAS 24: 2016.

Secured by Design (SBD) is a police security initiative operated by the UK Police Service and provides a recognised standard for all security products that deter and reduce crime – the Police Preferred Specification. All the products listed have been subject to rigorous testing and are certificated by an independent, third-party certification body accredited by UKAS. “We were the first to introduce volume stocking and distribution GRP composite doors to the UK,” comments Dave Walker, Technical Director for Distinction Doors.

“Ever since, we have upheld a reputation for leading the way, our new SBD status is another example of that.

“In providing door blanks which meet the Police Preferred Specification, we are supporting SBD approved door fabricators in manufacturing the ultimate enhanced security doorset and helping to keep residents safer and reduce the likelihood of opportunist crime.”

Distinction Doors believes that its new SBD status will generate greater opportunities in the new build sector and widen appeal in

the replacement door market as specifiers and homeowners seek high performance security solutions for both standard entrance and fire doorsets.

With PAS 24: 2016 certification the 44.5mm nxt-gen blank range, 44.5mm Signature blank range and 45mm FD30 GRP composite door blank are compliant with Approved Document Q – security in new dwellings.

Secured by Design Technical Manager Alfie Hosker said: “I am delighted that Distinction Doors has become a SBD member, particularly in the light of them being the first door blank manufacturer / supplier to attain SBD membership. This is supported with an exacting testing regime and underpinned with system specifications for enhanced security and fire performance that the door blank meets. It should also be noted that they supply a number of existing Secured by Design door fabricators. I look forward to this being a successful partnership.”

Specification and certification details for each Secured By Design approved Distinction product are available on the Distinction Doors SBD members page. https://bit.ly/3uLqwR5

PRODUCT NEWS

Virtual Home Brings

Touch Vendor

Designs To Life TuffX’s All Glass Infinity rooflight continues to prove a roaring success with customers – as week-on-week sales of the popular product range go from strength to strength.

Along with steady and consistently increasing order numbers each week, TuffX has also seen a rise in the amount of enquiries about its all-glass ‘frameless’ rooflights, from both new and existing customers.

TuffX’s Managing Director Graham Price believes the strong demand is in part due to the product’s competitive pricing, along with the company’s pandemic-proof in-house manufacturing process.

“Due to its lightweight, slim-

line design constructed comproducts,” said Graham. “So it gives builders and installers an inexpensive alternative to offer to homeowners who want to achieve that popular sleek, minimalist look, without compromising on safety or performance.”

As with all TuffX products, the components for the All Glass rooflights are made in-house, which has paid dividends across the business this year.

“Having full control over our manufacturing chain in this way means our customers’ orders are not affected by the supply issues that the construction industry as a whole has experienced throughout this pandemic,” said Graham.

“It’s meant we’ve been able to continue to grow and gain more additional repeat business from customers right across our Infinity range and all our processed glass products, as our customers have seen for themselves that we have been able to continue to deliver through some tricky times for the industry.”

TuffX’s frameless-look All Glass rooflights have a distinctive ‘floating’ glass appearance that sit lower against the exterior roofline. As with the whole Infinity rooflight range, they are extremely quick and easy for builders and installers to fit – due to their hassle-free design that needs no additional assembly on site.

Being lighter than other rooflights makes the All Glass rooflight particularly easy to manoeuvre and fit. But the lower weight and cost does not reflect any reduction in the product’s safety and performance, with the All Glass rooflight comfortably conforming to industry standard EN1279. www.tuffxglass.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 63

MACHINERY

Big Response To First

Fusion Quad Welder Installed By Emmegi The video of Emmegi’s striking new Fusion 4H PVC-U Quad Welder being installed at O’Grady UPVC’s factory in Kiltormer, Galway has already been viewed almost 5000 times on LinkedIn, demonstrating the level of interest which exists right across the market in this innovative, automatically adjustable, fully digital CNC machine.

This is the first installation carried out in Ireland of a machine which made its debut at the FIT Show in 2019. What is generating the biggest response is the quality of the finish that the machine is producing, with reduced cycle times and a weld restriction adjustable from 0.2 to 2mm depending on the top and bottom profile colour.

The team at O’Grady UPVC 64 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

had seen the horizontal welding machine at the FIT Show and felt that the quality of the weld and the flexibility and speed it offered would enhance their operation.

The Fusion offers manual loading and automatic unloading and a fully programmable, variable cycle to carry out the heating and welding automatically. Built-in bright green LEDs on the welder heads show the status of the machine at any given moment and cycle to alert the operator of any actions required.

There is full digital control of the axis and exceptional precision in the welding head movements.

This allows for incremental adjustment of the counterblocks to deliver weld restrictions down to 0.2mm, simplifying and shorten-

ing the subsequent machining cycle.

Alan O’Grady of O’Grady UPVC is confident that he will see a quick return on this investment.

He said: “We used a vertical quad welder previously which we were relatively happy with, but the horizontal Fusion is already giving us a better finish on the frames, a quicker production time and absolutely no compromise on the weld strength. It will definitely give us faster throughput and improved efficiency.”

The installation of the Fusion was carried out by Emmegi’s own specialist engineers in Ireland and ran smoothly and safely in line with the Covid restrictions which are still in place in Ireland.

Looking ahead, O’Grady UPVC will continue to promote the quality of its NSAI WEP accredited windows and doors to trade and domestic customers throughout the west of Ireland.

More details at: https://bit.ly/2RStvZq and www.ogradyupvc.com

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WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 65

MACHINERY

Denval Co Becomes Latest Fabricator To Benefit

From Comet R6 5-Axis Technology

had reached the end of its service life, along with purchasing a new notching saw to increase its cutting capacity; but when I met with the team and explained all the additional benefits they could get from investing in a 5-axis machining centre that could both cut and machine, they were on board with a single machine solution without hesitation.

“The multi-piece/pendular feature of the Comet R6HP with independently controlled clamps gives a much faster throughput than you can achieve with equivalent 4-axis machining centres and means the payback on these models is surprisingly quick.”

Denval Co Ltd is the latest aluminium fabricator to take advantage of the accessible 5-axis technology now available from Emmegi (UK) via its Comet R4i and R6i and HP machining centres.

Based in South Wales, Denval is a leading fabrication and installation business, which has been undertaking prestigious, multi-million pound projects across the UK since 1986. It has just taken delivery of a new Comet R6HP machining centre as part of a capital investment supported by Paragon Bank and Premier Asset Finance.

The Comet R6HP has replaced a 3-axis CNC machine which was in place previously and provides a far greater degree of flexibility for machining on profile edges and on more complex shapes. It is suitable for large curtain walling profiles as well as window and door fabrication, so suits the wide product range that Denval fab66 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

ricates from the likes of Senior Architectural, AluK and Aluprof.

Alex Wysom, Denval’s Operations Director, commented: “Within a week of arriving, the Comet R6HP was already showing us how much more capable it was than our previous machine. It lets us process large and small dimension pieces with exactly the same level of precision and with extremely fast axis speeds and removal rates.

“It also links seamlessly with the LogiKal software we use in our design office so means we can automate more of our processes and increase efficiency and not just capacity.”

Andrew Jones, Emmegi’s Sales Manager added: “Denval is a great example of where the 5-axis technology offered by the Comet range really comes into its own. The company was initially looking to replace an existing 3-axis machine which

Alex Wysom added: “The advice and service we received from Andrew Jones and the team at Emmegi was invaluable in helping us select the most suitable machine for us.

They arranged for us to view a similar Comet R4i model in action and being able to see the 5-axis technology in use at another fabricator was a real help. It meant we could see and hear for ourselves just how much payback we would get from our investment in a real-world setting.

“We were also pleased that they recommended a fully soundproofed cabinet for the machine because it’s already a big benefit for our production teams.”

Since the installation of a Emmegi Classic saw at Denval in 2019, the relationship between the two businesses has gone from strength to strength, with Denval now also relying on Emmegi for all its servicing and engineering requirements.

More details and a video of the machine in action are at: https://bit.ly/3eF1NrK

ON SITE

Grand Georgian Build

Gets The Quickslide Treatment

Frithsden Construction, a family run business specialising in quality high-end residential homes, completed a stunning, Georgian period-style new build with heritage vertical sliders supplied by Quickslide.

The beautiful 5,500ft2, five bedroom brick-and-block build in Little Gaddenden, Herts, was created over three floors using Flemish handmade bricks for the outer wall – just one example of the attention to detail paid to the design and build by Frithsden Construction’s husband-andwife team Anthony and Julie Hayes. The Hayeses readily admit they are obsessed with not only the details but also practicality, which is how they came to choose Quickslide for their fullheight period-style windows.

Quickslide supplied heritage

wood grain-effect vertical sliding sash PVCu windows for the project. The Hayeses originally wanted timber windows, before discovering the wood grain effect PVCu sash made a great, energy efficient, secure and low maintenance modern alternative.

In particular, they praised the authentic look of the wood grain effect and run-through horn details.

Frithsden Construction have been buying from Quickslide for five years, having first discovered the fabricator after researching extensively for a quality supplier that was both competitively priced and offering good aftercare and warranty.

Frithsden highly recommended Quickslide on completion of the project, not just for its quality products, but for the whole buying process, which they

commended as being straightforward and easy – particularly praising their sales manager, Jess, for being very helpful and always available for any queries or advice.

“Our customer service is as important to us as our products,” said Quickslide’s Chairman Adrian Barraclough. “Since we established and popularised the PVCu vertical slider as a real alternative to traditional timer sash windows, more and more customers are discovering our heritage windows give them exactly what they need – authentic, traditional looks coupled with low maintenance, comfortable modern living.

“We offer something to suit every type of build and style.

And our great team of people make the choosing and buying process easy and approachable, so every customer can be sure they’ll get the right products that they want and need.” www.quickslide.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 67

ON SITE

Alutech Collaborates With Tech Aluminium

Systems On The Forge he Forge is a stunning new build apartment complex in Digbeth, Birmingham, that utilises Alutech’s aluminium systems for the windows and doors. Fabricated by one of Alutech’s longest standing commercial fabricators, Tech Aluminium Systems, the steel frame building features Alutech’s SL160 systems for lift and slide doors, as well as Alutech’s W72 and W62 window systems.

The project was self-managed by the development company and what really sets it apart is the way in which the specialist trades were asked to design their own interfaces with the structure of the building and liaise with each other to devise workable solutions. One of the elements incorporated by Tech Alumini68 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

um Systems with Alutech was a special seal that was used on the windows to keep rain out while other construction work was being carried out.

Tech Aluminium Systems Director, Keith Douglas, commented, “Conventionally, where brick built new builds are concerned, the installation of windows and doors is reliant on the construction of the openings, which can often be delayed. But in this instance, the steelwork of the building went up quickly and the window apertures were created, meaning quick progression of the project.”

Keith continues, “We worked collaboratively with Alutech in the UK and Belarus to devise a solution for the project that worked well with the other elements of

the building. The result is an impressive-looking project that all parties were very happy with.”

Selecting the right glazing for a project can be challenging.

Alutech’s SL160 aluminium lift & slide doors system combines state-of-the-art performance sliding hardware with great aesthetics to provide the perfect effortless sliding door solution.

The 72mm and 62mm casement window systems have a single chamber thermal break with bonded foamed insert, which has been designed to be easy to fabricate and install. It is able to meet challenging requirements for thermal and acoustic performances. www.alutechsystems.co.uk

ON SITE

Senior Blends Old And New At Doncaster’s Danum Development With its roots in South Yorkshire and a strong heritage spanning some 30 years, aluminium fenestration solutions provider Senior Architectural Systems has helped make local history by playing a key role in the construction of the new Danum Gallery, Library and Museum in Doncaster.

Designed by leading architects Bond Bryan and built by main contractor Willmott Dixon, the new cultural and learning hub 70 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

has been created following the sensitive restoration of four existing buildings. A key focal point of the scheme, and one that looks even more dramatic at dusk, is the restored frontage of a former Victorian school which has been framed by Senior’s slimline SF52 aluminium curtain wall and showcased within a new steel-frame building.

The striking glazed façade, which was fabricated and installed by Senior’s supply chain

partner Chemplas Ltd, also features Senior’s robust aluminium commercial doors.

As well as accentuating the architectural appeal of the former Doncaster High School for Girls, the scheme has been designed to provide a light, airy and welcoming space for the local community to explore some of the town’s heritage and previously unseen exhibits.

Benefiting from a strong yet slim

ON SITE

aluminium frame, Senior’s SF52 curtain wall system was the ideal choice to minimise sightlines and provide exceptional views of the restored school building’s period features. The system’s enhanced thermal performance will also help boost the scheme’s overall energy-efficiency.

Available as a mullion drained system which removes the need

for visible drainage slots, Senior’s SF52 curtain wall can be specified as capped, silicone sealed or as a combination of the two for even greater design flexibility. Thanks to Senior’s in-house powder coating facility, the SF52 system is available in an almost unlimited range of colours and finishes. seniorarchitecturalsystems.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 71

ON SITE

An Orangery Fit For Kings The King family had a dated conservatory which was in need of a revamp and they also wanted to add extra space to allow them to enjoy open plan living. They were keen to add a large, contemporary glass roof to their extension and worked with their local Ultraframe installer, Niddal Windows and Conservatories, to design a showstopping orangery extension featuring the Ultraframe Classic Roof.

The extension is over 6.5m wide and features several sets of contemporary bi-fold doors in anthracite grey. To complete the modern look, a roof with streamlined good looks was needed, and the Classic Roof with its new slimline ridge was the perfect choice. The new slimline ridge is thermally broken, available in either PVC or aluminium externally, and can be specified on fixed 25° Georgians and double-ended 25° Georgians.

72 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

Commenting about the transformation from tired conservatory, to stunning contemporary orangery, homeowner Mr King said: “When we started to think about demolishing our existing conservatory and creating an open plan extension, we knew that the roof was key. We wanted something that looked modern and after doing our research, we soon found that Ultraframe was the best option, with the Classic Roof and its new slimline ridge fitting the bill perfectly. We love the open-plan space and the light it has brought into the back of our home is fantastic.”

The new slimline ridge was launched in January along with a number of other enhancements to Ultraframe’s Classic system, including a bi-fold support beam, super bolster, chambered box gutter and enhanced structural design guide. Unsurprisingly, the slimline ridge has proved extremely

popular with Classic users since its launch, as it reinforces Classic’s status as the ideal roof for large span contemporary orangeries and extensions.

Commenting about the new slimline ridge, Ultraframe Marketing Director, Alex Hewitt, said: “The new slimline ridge offers a much more modern look than the usual Classic radius end and looks similar to a lantern-style ridge end.

This new slimline look, coupled with the external aluminium option makes Classic a fantastic choice for modern conservatory designs, especially those featuring aluminium bi-folds. We have also reduced pricing on Classic Aluminium by 30% which we’re sure will make this contemporary option even more popular! While the Classic system has been around for almost 40 years, the new Slimline Ridge has brought it bang up to date in terms of aesthetics, while still offering all the configurability and technical benefits that it always has.” www.ultraframetrade.co.uk

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ON SITE

Great Central development

New Windows

Just What The Doctor Ordered

For Two Scottish Hospitals Advances in window manufacturing meant that over 350 timber windows at Victoria and Lynebank hospitals were no longer the most efficient option.

For this reason, contractors M&S Windows were tasked with sourcing a more appropriate solution for the NHS properties, as well as minimising downtime while a new £1.3m MRI scanner was carefully transported through the aperture. Working in collaboration with REHAU and DP Windows, the perfect remedy was provided.

Located in Kirkcaldy and operated by NHS Fife, Victoria Hospital provides a wide range of services to patients across the region including Accident & Emergency and Minor Injuries Services. The hospital contains approximately 300 staffed beds and has a full range of healthcare specialties. Meanwhile, Lynebank, which is also run 74 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

by NHS Fife, was established as a specialist hospital for people with learning disabilities.

tions, during building maintenance, is crucial. With recent global health events further highlighting the UK population’s reliance on the NHS and its hospitals, it is more important now than ever that healthcare buildings and facilities are of the highest of standards.” explains Derek Sinclair, Director at M&S Windows.

A concoction of challenges

In order to address issues with some of the old windows, NHS Fife enlisted M&S Windows to find a suitable solution following a number of successful projects upgrading various healthcare buildings within its jurisdiction. This demanding healthcare environment required expert consideration from a specialist contractor and therefore M&S Windows was selected for both projects based on the team’s familiarity with the sector’s nuances.

Derek initially visited both hospital sites with the estate managers to assess the issues. It soon became apparent that an upgrade from the existing timber windows was required – they were installed in 1965, were making the buildings inefficient, and demanded additional maintenance. Both properties had specific areas of concern, with around 50 windows needed in the main canteen at Victoria Hospital, and 300 new windows for the offices and Learning Disabilities Services wing at Lynebank Hospital.

“24 years working with health organisations has given us a sound understanding of how hospitals work and we appreciate there is no room for error. The health and safety of staff and patients is paramount and therefore minimising disruption to day-to-day opera-

Access to the wards and canteen also presented a unique challenge.

Specifically, safety and security were of high importance to Victoria Hospital due to the purchase of a new MRI scanner worth over £1.3 million. Additionally, Lynebank hospital unearthed a potential asbes-

ON SITE

Victoria Hospital

tos presence in the old windows which posed a health risk. As such the building owners recognised their duty to manage the asbestos problem as outlined in the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.

Framing a remedy Working with REHAU fabricator DP Windows based in Fife, M&S Windows specified, manufactured and installed c.350 of REHAU’s Total 70C casement windows in white across the two buildings.

The versatile window solution was acknowledged for its ability to deliver on each of the hospital’s needs to a market-leading standard. For example, the double-glazed sealed units were able to considerably reduce outdoor noise levels which was critical for units where sensitive procedures and conversations were occurring.

With hospital costs regularly making news headlines – the most recent NHS energy spend estimated to be near £500m last year – any energy saving measures are most welcome in this sector. Again, the REHAU TOTAL70 system has excellent thermal properties achieving an A rating, the highest possible Window Energy Rating (WER) for thermal efficiency, and

so suited this application perfectly.

Additionally, the profiles contain a unique compound with a smooth gloss finish, guaranteeing to retain their pristine appearance and never warp, rot or need painting. This was a welcome update for the estates teams as capacity restrictions meant they needed to be able to focus their time and efforts on other areas of the hospitals when it came to maintenance.

As well as keeping maintenance teams happy, the REHAU TOTAL70 window system promised to provide all staff and patients with peace of mind in regards to safety and security. This is achieved through the British Standard BS7950 and PAS 23/24 security standards.

Derek was particularly proud of how smoothly the two projects went. “40 years of fitting windows has shown us that each job is different and that we need to respond to the specific needs of building occupiers. With support from DP Windows, REHAU and the estate teams, we worked up a phased programme with the staff to ensure facilities downtime was minimised,” says Derek. “Because the Total 70 profile is so easy to work with due to the 70mm depth,

it means there’s no requirement for additional trimming when replacing old timber frames. This meant we could get the job done efficiently without compromising on install quality,” continues Derek.

A healthy outcome Most importantly, the estates teams and end-users have seen a significant improvement to the building environments and have realised beneficial savings in energy costs due to the installation of the new efficient windows. And, upon completion of the projects, many of the staff and patients were complimentary of the two hospitals’ window transformations according to Estates Manager, David Lowe.

He commented: “When it comes to prioritising health and safety of our staff and patients, we had to ensure the project ran smoothly.

M&S Windows went above and beyond our expectations, even working over weekends when required, so that our facilities could be kept open as much as possible.

We are really pleased with the outcome and believe that the REHAU products installed really solved our challenges.”

For more information on REHAU’s commercial window solutions, visit: https://bit.ly/2Rgegtb WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 75

ON SITE

Senior Great Central development

Brings Its Aluminium

Solutions To The ‘Steel City’ Senior Architectural Systems has successfully delivered the full aluminium fenestration packages to two new contracts in Sheffield, South Yorkshire.

Drawing on Senior’s proven track record of work in the student accommodation sector, the company was chosen to provide its high performance PURe® SLIDE aluminium doors, SPW600 commercial doors, SPW600 aluminium windows and SF52 aluminium curtain wall for the new Great Central development. Comprising 131 residential apartments and two commercial units, the scheme ranges from four to nine storeys in height and is named after the former railway line that 76 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

ran behind the site in the Neepsend area of the city, on the north bank of the River Don. The choice of Senior’s slim profile aluminium fenestration systems has provided the scheme with an attractive façade that not only maximises the use of daylight and natural ventilation but also provides exceptional durability, helping to reduce maintenance requirements while withstanding the demands of a high-traffic student accommodation building. The specification of Senior’s patented low U-value PURe® SLIDE aluminium doors to each of the individual apartments is not only an attractive design feature but also

a practical way of improving the building’s thermal-efficiency, lowering the residents’ energy bills and providing expansive views across the city. Designed

by CODA Architects, the scheme was built by Broadfield Construction, with the fenestration package fabricated and installed

by DPS Facades Ltd. MEPs International In another part of Sheffield, Senior has again supplied a range of aluminium glazing products as part of the contract to create a new office extension for MEPs International, a global industrial consultant specialising in the steel market. Designed by Thread Architects and constructed by T H Michaels, the new building benefits from Senior’s high performance SPW501 commercial doors, SPW600 aluminium windows and SF52 aluminium curtain wall which were again fabricated and installed by DPS Facades Ltd. A key feature of the fenestration design is the louvre guards that have been installed to the windows to create an attractive aesthetic detail and to provide additional safety and security. seniorarchitecturalsystems.co.uk

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ON SITE

SageGlass Rio Business Park, Bangalore, India © Bagmane Groupe

Selected For World’s Largest Smart Glass Project

With some companies embracing remote work and others investing heavily in real estate, it begs the question: What will employees demand from post-pandemic workplaces? One high-profile commercial development in India offers a glimpse into how electrochromic glass is shaping the office of the future.

SageGlass, a global leader in electrochromic glass, was chosen by Bagmane Group, one of India’s largest build-to-suit real estate developers, to create what is claimed as the largest smart glass installation in the world.

SageGlass will provide 200,000 square feet of SageGlass Harmony® electrochromic glass, controls, and software for Rio Business Park, a 1.6 million square foot office development in Bangalore, India.

SageGlass Harmony®, the first electrochromic glass to tint on a gradient © Saint-Gobain 78 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

Electrochromic glass — also referred to as smart glass or dynamic glass — uses advanced intelligence to automatically tint

ON SITE throughout the day, reducing glare and regulating temperatures while letting natural light in. This technology offers both energy savings and a luxurious office experience. In a survey of French tech employees in an office equipped with SageGlass, the vast majority of those polled said that dynamic glass has a positive effect on their wellbeing at work.

SageGlass Harmony®, the first electrochromic glass to tint on a gradient © Saint-Gobain “As employee wellness and sustainability become higher priorities for savvy building owners, SageGlass is in a unique position to deliver both,” said Namrata Vora, SageGlass VP of Sales, North America and India/ Asia Pacific. “We are so pleased to partner with Bagmane Group to create a healthy, sustainable workplace for their tenants at Rio Business Park. And this project will benefit from some of our latest innovations, including SageGlass Harmony — the first electrochromic glass to tint on a gradient.”

“We strive to create premiere workplace experiences for our world-class customers,” said Aditya Bagmane, director at Bagmane Group. “For this office development, we are working with a tech customer who expects the best. We chose SageGlass for this innovative building because of their superior smart glass offering, ability to invest in cutting-edge technology, and SaintGobain’s presence in India.”

The SageGlass India team will work with local glazier Glass Wall Systems to install and commission more than 12,000 smart glass panels at Rio Business Park for this project, which is already underway. Google will serve as the primary tenant for the space beginning in August 2022.

300 Optima Casement Windows

Used In Refurbishment Housing Project

Profile 22’s Optima Fully Sculptured windows were chosen for the refurbishment of 38 properties, consisting of a mixture of houses and flats, in Wolverhampton, West Midlands.

The manufacture and installation of the 300 white Optima casement windows was awarded to longstanding Profile 22 Approved Window Contractor Select Windows. Based in Walsall in the West Midlands, Select Windows is an award-winning family-owned business with considerable experience in the commercial sector delivering an outstanding service for its clients across the UK. The project was part of the Nehemiah Housing Project, which is designed to build successful, sustainable and diverse communities by providing housing in a culturally sensitive way to their tenants.

Their properties have been designed for people with disabilities or specific religious/cultural needs and offer energy-efficient homes to minimise the impact of fuel poverty.

Profile 22’s Optima system is an award-winning 70mm system that delivers superior thermal efficiency thanks to features such as a 6-chambered outerframe and 5-chambered sash and unique

innovations such as additional centre seals. The system met all requirements for thermal efficiency and was more than able to achieve the WER A+ rating specification required on this project. Shefeeq Rahman, Property Services Officer at Nehemiah House Project, said:” Profile 22 is an established and considered brand in the social housing sector which gave us the reassurance that their products would not only perform well but would continue to look good in years to come. We had excellent design and survey support from the experienced commercial team and full support with our installation program. Our residents are delighted with the new windows.”

The project was complicated due to working within stringent pandemic protocols. The team at Select were responsible for all appointments and carried out the work on time and on budget whilst adhering to pandemic-safety protocols throughout the fitting process. This meant exceptional project management was required at every stage which Select Windows were able to deliver.

The result has transformed the Wolverhampton properties and delivered greater thermal efficiency for the benefits of the tenants.

WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 79

ON SITE

Optima Casement Windows And Doors From Profile 22 Selected For High Quality Housing Development In Bath

1,667 Optima casement windows and entrance doors from Profile 22 were installed in 170 high quality new build homes at Mulberry Park in Bath, Somerset. The new windows and doors completed the third phase of the development Mulberry Park in Bath is a distinctive, contemporary development of 700 high quality homes, community facilities and open spaces delivered by housing association and house-builder Curo. Located on the former Ministry of Defence Foxhill site, work started on the project in Spring 2016 and is anticipated for completion at the end of 2026.

Curo partnered with Profile 22 Approved Window Contractor Emplas Window Systems Ltd because of their high-quality, commercially-approved products and the extensive experience the company provides.

80 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

Optima from Profile 22 is a fully-integrated 70mm system and is available in sculptured and chamfered variations. Aesthetically, Optima casement windows offer improved sightlines and a higher glass-to-frame ratio, which was important on this project because the design specified light, airy living spaces. The system is suitable for almost any size or layout of casement window because it includes all the components for bay and bow windows and conservatories. The company says the system comes with ‘the widest range of ancillaries in the industry’ while the choice of 28 colours means the system can compete with aluminium alternatives. In this project, Anthracite Grey on white was chosen to create a contemporary look.

The system meets all requirements for thermal efficiency as standard.

Intelligent design features and double and triple glazing options

mean thermal efficiency can be enhanced to meet a project’s specified standards, up to and including 0.9 W/m²K or A+. This was particularly important on this project because energy efficiency was a key feature on the high-quality homes.

Work on this project was undertaken during the Covid-19 pandemic, which raised several challenges including the negative effect on labour and material availability. However, as an experienced commercial contractor, Emplas was able to successfully overcome the challenges at all stages. The company worked closely with its supply partners and customers to manage stock and capacity during both the manufacturing and installation phases of this project. Emplas has now commenced supply and installation of 1925 windows and doors for the fourth phase of the development in a further 149 properties. www.profile22.co.uk

ON SITE

Central Window Systems

Assists With Aluminium Curtain Wall Installation Central Window Systems, manufacturer of aluminium and PVCu products to installers, have assisted Midlands based window, door, and curtain walling installer Excel 2000 Windows in an impressive £2.5 million curtain wall installation in Rubery.

The two companies worked together to design and manufacture an aluminium curtain walling system for a group of five residential housing blocks, which were previously fitted with open balconies and cladding.

Central Window Systems were involved with this project with Excel 2000 Windows from the very beginning, working closely with the architects and main contractors.

Once the original cladding had been stripped off, the solution was a curtain wall system, allowing the architects to give the

building an attractive and contemporary aesthetic of aluminium and glass.

Central Window Systems manufactured the front elevations, while Excel 2000 Windows manufactured the rear of the curtain wall installation.

Central Window Systems Director Paul Woods comments: “As with many existing buildings, it was a challenge to come up with a suitable solution. In this case, we worked closely with Excel 2000 Windows to find something that would suit the irregular slabs that were already in place, as well as the resin floors that needed to be cut out.

“These buildings weren’t originally designed to incorporate curtain walling, so we helped to carefully work out a solution that would not only suit the building itself, but also every other trade

following on from us.

“And of course, the project came with several challenges. For example, we had to work carefully to install around existing ducting for the mechanical and electrical components.

“The angle in the middle where the screens met was also quite complicated and required a lot of thought when we were in the design phase, but it was just a matter of working with that level of detail.”

Central Window Systems is the result of a recent merge between Central RPL, one of the Midlands’ largest fabricators of PVCu products, and Central ASL, a leading manufacturer of aluminium products to installers.

The company have a long-standing relationship with Excel 2000 Windows, having helped them on several installation projects in the past – mainly through their PVCu division. www.centralwindowsystems.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 81

MARKETING & INTERNET

Freefoam Building Products

Launch New Video To Showcase Pilkington Plastics

Based in Horsham, West Sussex, Pilkington Plastics specialise in the supply and fitting of fascia, soffit, cladding, windows and doors. Installation is a busy and growing part of the business and the new video features a recent project on a large four bedroom home with Black Ash fascia and Black guttering. The original white wood roofline had been on the property since it was first built about 20 years ago and needed replacing and the homeowner wanted a finish that complemented the design and style of the property.

Pilkington Plastics are a relatively recent Freefoam customer who started trading in 2017 set up by long- time friends Paul Le Grange and James Etherington. They are a typical example of a Freefoam customer who has started small and, with dedication and hardwork 82 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

by the team, alongside Freefoam’s support, have developed into an established, well respected local business.

James commented “We offer clients a full roof and roofline service, replacing tiles as well as fascia, soffit and gutter. From my experience Freefoam is the best roofline range on the market. They offer a wide range of colours and finishes, and they all come with strong guarantees – 50 years on white products and up to 10 years on colours. We’re also Freefoam Registered Installers, which again helps us grow our business. We receive free leads from Freefoam on a regular basis and plenty of marketing materials which help us to promote the products. This homeowner is very pleased with the installation and we’re now pricing up a relatives property in the same development!”

Prior to starting the business Paul had been involved with selling UPVC for 20 years plus, and during that time had always worked with Freefoam. James had also been fitting Freefoam for many years, so their joint experience gave them the skills needed to run the own business. Paul explained “I think people choose Pilkington Plastics because of our knowledge of products. Having a good understanding of our products and services helps to improve the confidence of our customers.”

Pilkington Plastics has changed and developed a lot already in the last 4 years. It took 2 years to get established, but is now continuing to go from strength to strength. Paul summarised “I do feel that Freefoam want to help my business to grow and find the support we get from Kim, our area sales manager, really useful.

We like the products and have built up a strong partnership, so we don’t see why there wouldn’t be a positive future for Pilkington Plastics and Freefoam.” www.freefoam.com

MARKETING & INTERNET

The Consultancy

Shows Its Strength With Connect Project For Epwin

“We’ve added lots of smart innovations on top of that though, such as bringing everything together into a single customer log-in and creating a filter which ensures that the platform automatically recognises fabricators and their linked installers and only provides information on the Epwin systems and brands that they actually buy.”

Part of the added value element of Connect is that it gives users access to The Consultancy’s web design service so that they can work with the team direct to create their own professional looking trade or retail websites.

They can also link to the new BM TOUCH software platform which The Consultancy has developed in partnership with the Business Micros programming team for lead generation, quoting and ordering online.

The Consultancy has strengthened its claim to be the industry’s number one online specialist by delivering the mammoth Connect integrated digital resource centre for Epwin Window Systems.

The Hartlepool-based business, which is part of the Business Micros Group, mapped and developed what is arguably now the industry’s biggest online portal to give Epwin fabricators and installers access to a vast range of support tools as well as a lead generation mechanism.

It is the company’s most ambitious individual web development project to date and took six months to develop and deliver. Richie Thornton, Director at The Consultancy, says the sheer scale of the project would have overwhelmed many smaller, less experienced providers: “With 6 separate window sys-

tems in both PVC-U and aluminium and around 400 fabricators as well as installers to target, it required a vast amount of inhouse technical resource.

“It is a bespoke solution for Epwin, but obviously draws on all our experience over the last 10 years of creating online customer support portals for some of the leading names on the industry, albeit this is on a potentially much bigger scale.

“As you’d expect, registered users get access via Connect to all of Epwin’s marketing, technical and commercial support tools and the lead generation mechanism passes both retail and commercial leads to fabricators and installers. There are also links to external providers for finance, insurance backed guarantees and training and rolling discount details on everything from fuel to workwear.

Gerald Allen, Epwin’s Marketing Manager, endorsed The Consultancy saying: “We chose the team because we needed a proven reliable partner with experience in this type of project.

We were aware of the upcoming TOUCH platform as well of course and wanted to ensure that both the Portal and Vendor elements of the software were fully integrated into Connect from the outset, alongside all the other fabricator and installer benefits we are offering.”

Richie Thornton added: “What we’ve demonstrated with Connect is that we can successfully manage any size of project and deliver on time and on budget.

As a direct result of that, we’re already working on another large-scale centralised portal for one of the industry’s leading trade associations which we think has the potential to be even bigger than this one.”

More details at: www.theconsultancy.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 83

MARKETING & INTERNET

Much More Than

A Marketing Platform Connect, the fully integrated digital resource centre from Epwin Window Systems, gives fabricators and installers what is believed by the systems company to be the industry’s largest and most valuable online portal which far outreaches comparative industry platforms. It provides a vast range of support tools, discounts, training and more to add value to both fabricators and installers’ businesses.

Gerald Allen, Marketing Manager at Epwin Window Systems, said: “Connect brings together all our technical, commercial sales and marketing support, plus a lead generation mechanism that passes retail and commercial leads to fabricators and installers. There is also access to rolling discounts from our industry partners. It’s a 24/7/365 bespoke-designed integrated platform for the vast value-add84 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

ed benefits that are available to Epwin Window Systems’ customers.”

Explaining the thinking behind the portal, Gerald said: “Connect has purposely been designed to help Epwin Window Systems customers access the extensive range of cutting-edge business support that’s available to them.

It embraces the power of today’s digital technology to help them drive sales, grow profit and simplify all access points.”

Customers can access the system with their unique, secure logins and automatically see content and systems’ brands relevant to them, whether they’re a fabricator or an installer.

There is a dedicated section for technical documentation, and for commercial fabricators, there is free access to Barbour ABI,

the leading provider of building project leads. Marketing collateral includes image libraries, bespoke creative services, brochure downloads, PR and tailored social content to help customers across all marketing touchpoints.

There are also details on the many affiliate programs and exclusive discounts that customers can tap into from Epwin Windows Systems’ approved industry partners. This includes the BM TOUCH software platform for lead generation, quoting and ordering online, training programmes from national industry experts and access to discounted cloud-based job management software through Onsite 7.

Connect was designed and built by industry specialists The Consultancy and followed an exacting brief from the systems house. Richie Thornton, Director at The Consultancy, commented: “As far as we are aware, this is the industry’s biggest ever customer support portal. Its scope has to be seen to be believed.” www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

MARKETING & INTERNET

Innovative Software

For The Home

Improvement Industry

Tech start-up Augmented Reality Creations (ARC) is seeing huge demand amongst the home improvement industry for InPlace, its new innovative app, with installers reporting a large number of customers opting to use its unique features after experiencing the benefits, claims the company.

more sales.

With technology at our fingertips, the company says it’s no longer effective for installers to sell conservatories using generic images from a brochure or online – thanks to smartphones and access to websites like Pinterest, homeowners understand the market better than ever, meaning they’re less likely to commit to a big investment without first clearly seeing the value of their purchase.

Simple to use, the app virtually places an installer’s conservatory design in their customer’s garden or attached to their home, helping them visualise where it will end up and how it will look in real life.

As a result, more and more installers are looking for new, modern ways to help them win

Using augmented reality software, InPlace is an app that allows installers to show their customers virtual, explorable, life-size 3D models of their conservatory, helping them make a decision and ultimately winning more sales.

Installers can also use the app to demonstrate different conservatory designs in their showroom, without the need for any additional space.

ARC COO and Co-founder Andrew Clear comments: “The conservatory market is booming at the moment, but despite that,

INOVYN Launches Showcase

homeowners are still having to rely on simple computer drawings to make important – and costly – decisions.

“InPlace transforms these drawings into immersive 3D experiences using their mobile phone or tablet – installers can offer their customers a much better experience, ultimately increasing their order values and conversion rates.

“InPlace is simple, affordable and easy to use, and as an installer, it’s the app you need to step into the future.”

Download the free InPlace app today from the App Store and Google Play Store. www.arc-solutions.co.uk/

Website For BIOVYN™, World’s First Commercially Available Bio-Attributed PVC

product. In addition, the website demonstrates INOVYN’s commitment to leading the emerging bio economy across global industries looking to reduce their emissions.

INOVYN, the producer of BIOVYN™ – world’s first commercially available bio-attributed PVC – has launched a showcase website, www.biovyn.co.uk which also includes a webinar information series on the bio-attributed PVC, following increased demand across multiple industries including healthcare, medicine, construction, automotive, and retail fashion. The new website marks INOVYN’s strong

BIOVYN™ has been a game-changer since entering the market as the first commercially available bio-attributed PVC made directly for industry.

It offers an RSB-certified 100% substitution of fossil feedstock, which delivers a greenhouse gas saving of over 90% compared to conventionally produced PVC, allowing industries to significantly reduce their carbon footprint. https://www.biovyn.co.uk

commercial success since launching BIOVYN™ and will help new and existing customers better understand this exciting

WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 85

MARKETING & INTERNET

Customers Sight Data

Quality As Main Reason They Choose Insight Data

New Residence

Brochure For Conservation Areas

And Listed Buildings A new 20-page brochure outlining solutions and design credentials for conservation areas and listed buildings has been published by The Residence Collection.

Residence 9, or R9 as it is known, claims to be the most authentic timber alternative casement window thanks to the revolutionary product design and specification.

The profile dimensions perfectly replicate the documented window designs of the 19th Century to the nearest millimetre, while the frame rebate is free of gaskets and it is also fully foiled in the rebate with single and dual colour options.

While R9 may well take the limelight when it comes to period credentials, R2 and R7 have also been used in conservation area applications, given the fact that from the outside they share the same equal sightlines. In these cases, local authority planners are said to have fully backed The Residence Collection as a true timber alternative window and door system. residencecollectiontrade.co.uk 86 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

A customer survey carried out by Insight Data has revealed that data quality is the main reason they use the specialist data supplier over the competition.

The survey also revealed that customer and industry intelligence was also highly valued, with customers recognising the competitive edge and knowledge to target prospects in a better way it provides.

And 90% of customers were more than satisfied with their partnership with the award-winning company.

“And finding out what makes us stand out from other sales and marketing data tool providers is beneficial for both us and our customers as not only does it highlight our strengths but, more importantly, areas for improvement.

The survey also asked customers to describe Insight Data in five words, and the ones that came out on top included ‘Accurate,’ ‘Informative,’ ‘Powerful,’ ‘Experts’ and ‘Industry-Leaders.’

Jade Greenhow, Insight Data’s Operations Director, explained: “As the Industry’s leading provider of marketing and sales intelligence and tools, data is at the heart of everything we do and that includes gaining regular feedback from our customers.

According to the company, helping suppliers in the fenestration, glazing, and building industries get better results from their sales and marketing, Insight Data supplies the UK’s most accurate marketing data with in-depth intelligence to help clients pinpoint new customers and is trusted by over 700 industry-leading companies.

“Understanding how our services, products and solutions impact our customers is important to ensure we continue to offer the right data and the right tools to provide them with the best results.

“We would like to thank all our customers for their feedback, and we are delighted to find out why we are rated so highly by them,” added Jade. www.insightdata.co.uk

MARKETING & INTERNET

Ultraframe Garden Rooms Offer The Full Package

Not only do the newly launched Ultraframe Garden Rooms offer stunning good looks and outstanding technical performance, but they also offer installers a shortcut to sales with a comprehensive marketing support package.

Explaining further, Ultraframe Marketing Director, Alex Hewitt, said: “We didn’t just want to create a compelling product offer, we also wanted to be sure that our Garden Room customers were also fully equipped to sell, with a professional marketing support package that makes selling easy. Working closely with our digital partner, ICAAL, we have created an extremely strong package of tools to help our customers generate and convert Garden Rooms leads and be set up to do so within a matter

of days.”

An online Garden Rooms designer allows a homeowner to walk step-by-step through the process of designing their ideal Garden Room and finally showing them a total price if the retailer wishes to.

This tool would cost an installer thousands of pounds to produce themselves but is offered free of charge by Ultraframe.

A stunning new Garden Rooms retail brochure provides all the information a homeowner needs to reassure them that an Ultraframe Garden Room is the best choice for energy efficiency, brightness, durability, low maintenance, and fade free components, claims the company. The brochure can be personalised through Ultraframe’s

Cuckoo online marketing system where a selection of aspirational imagery can also be accessed.

Commenting further, Alex said: “Our Garden Room customers can very quickly access an online designer, a professionally designed and personalised retail brochure, and beautiful imagery. The popularity of Garden Rooms is through the roof at the moment, and it was important to us that installers could be up and running to sell them in a matter of days.”

Ultraframe also supplies plentiful technical information about the new Garden Rooms in the form of a specification guide and installation guide, along with an installation video that will also soon be available to watch on the Ultraframe You Tube channel, as well as via the Ultraframe Installer App. Finally, a pricing/ordering tool makes it simple for customers to generate a quote for homeowners, place their order with Ultraframe, and clearly see the profit they will make for each configuration based on their own costs. ultraframegardenrooms.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 87

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT training within the fenestration and construction industries.

Working with the head of Quickslide’s Human Resources team, Rachael Doran, GFTS is providing guidance on apprenticeship schemes and strategies for recruitment and training. The organisation will also work with Quickslide to find suitable candidates, carry out initial vetting and assistance with interviews.

Quickslide Collaborates With BOS For Its Apprentice Project When Brighouse window and door fabricator Quickslide decided to create an apprentice scheme as a further means of encouraging young people to join the business, the firm turned to glazing industry skills and career advisory organisation Building Our Skills (BOS) for guidance on achieving the best outcome for its project.

BOS was created to bridge the growing skills gap faced by the industry, by working closely with employers and other organisations to attract young and new entrants and by advising on areas of upskilling the existing workforce to ensure it can meet future challenges and continue to prosper. As part of its quest to ‘inform, encourage, support and inspire’, BOS also works with a number of organisations to enable companies to imple88 WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021

ment recruitment and training schemes, such as that developed for Quickslide.

After contacting BOS for guidance on employing young people to join the company as apprentices, Quickslide was connected with GFTS Ltd, an organisation that specialises in providing

Rachael Doran commented: “Amongst a number of other initiatives that Quickslide is implementing to bring new people to the company and provide training for new and our existing staff, we are determined to bring young people into our business and the glazing industry,” she explained. “As Building Our Skills sets out to demonstrate to young and new people, the fenestration industry continues to be incredibly successful, even throughout the difficult times of the past year and there are tremendous opportunities for careers with various skill sets that will set people up for life,” she added.

Quickslide Chairman Adrian Barraclough is passionate about the development of young people in the business: “Through an introduction by Stephanie Tague at BOS, we are now working with GFTS to find two apprentices initially, to come and join us at Quickslide, specifically in our frame production facilities,” he said. “We have many people with us at Quickslide who took a job with us and now have a career,” he said, “and there are tremendous opportunities at Quickslide for development and progression within a business that is growing very quickly. BOS is an excellent initiative to show people what a great industry this is.” www.quickslide.co.uk www.buildingourskills.co.uk www.gftsltd.co.uk

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

Building Our Skills Signs Partnership With Military Transition Support Agency

Building Our Skills – Making Fenestration a Career of Choice has announced it has signed a partnership with FrontFoot, specialists in re-introducing service personnel into mainstream industry as a part of its aim to bridge the skills gap in the fenestration industry.

It is the latest initiative from BOS following the signing of a similar partnership to engage directly with the education sector to raise awareness of fenestration as a way of inspiring future generations to make the industry a home for their skills and career ambitions.

Announcing the new partnership, Building Our Skills ambassador John Ogilvie said: “Engaging with FrontFoot to bring military service personnel into the fenestration industry is the latest in a growing list of key strategic partnerships we

are forming to help us bridge the skills gap, and we are delighted to bring this one to fruition.

“Everyone recognises the value that service personnel bring to the world of employment, and we are delighted that we have now formed a direct link between our industry and those who can introduce our employers to the talent pool that is available, and most importantly, is available right now.

“As we continue with our longer-term journey to engage with the education sector to impart knowledge of our industry into the minds of the future workforce, we have very high hopes that this new relationship will help those looking to add to their workforce right now.

“Our first initiative with FrontFoot is to ask them to identify service personnel who would

like to become window and door installers.

“We will be building hands-on GQA-accredited practical training courses into the recruitment process, along with 12 months of ongoing support for both the recruit and the employer to ensure that we are delivering a sustainable solution for all parties. We want employers who engage to know they will be getting installers who have been given outstanding basic training in all the key elements and are ready to contribute to their business from day one.”

Tim O’Keefe for FrontFoot echoed John’s enthusiasm: “This is a great opportunity for us to work together with Building Our Skills to support them in their challenge to bridge the growing skills gap in the fenestration industry. For us, working hand in glove with service personnel, it is an ideal opportunity to introduce them to a great industry, where we know there are longterm and ongoing opportunities for career development.

“We are keen to work with the fenestration industry and to bring new blood to it. We know that service personnel bring great attributes to the workplace and we are really looking forward to making an impact which will benefit all parties. A part of our commitment is to ensure that all the personnel we recruit undergo practical training to give them the best start in their new careers, and to give those employers who engage them the best value for their investment.”

For more information about how to go about engaging service personnel or to request a copy of a prospectus detailing this specific offering, in the first instance email sayhello@ buildingourskills.co.uk or visit www.buildingourskills.co.uk WINDOW NEWS MAY 2021 89

CHARITY

GM Fundraising Launches The ‘GMF 100’ Cycling Challenge Industry charity fundraiser GM Fundraising has just launched a new team cycling challenge, which will be held on Sunday 8th August 2021. The event, called the ‘GMF 100’ is a cycling challenge and is being sponsored by Epwin Window Systems. All funds raised will go directly to Hope House Children’s Hospices, which provides palliative care for children with life-limiting conditions and support for their families.

Gary Morton, GM Fundraising’s founder, said: “With so many events being cancelled or postponed in the last 12 months due to the pandemic, the ‘GMF 100’ gives us an opportunity to help raise some much-needed funds for Hope House Children’s Hospices in a safe and fun way.”

Clare O’Hara, Managing Director of Epwin Window Systems, said: “We’re the headline sponsors of the Peak, Paddle, Pedal event but as this has been postponed to 2022, we wanted to find a way to support GM

Fundraising and Hope House Children’s Hospices in 2021.

We’re delighted to be supporting the ‘GMF 100’ Cycling Challenge, which will allow the industry to come together to help raise some funds at this time.”

The ‘GMF 100’ is open to all companies in the industry, with twenty team places available.

To take part, a company needs to submit a team of six people.

Between them, the team members need to cycle 100 miles on Sunday 8th August from their factory or premises. Entries cost £1,000 per team and team members are encouraged to raise sponsorship with a minimum contribution of £200 per rider or £1,200 per team of six.

Gary said: “Every team member will receive a GMF 100 t-shirt and water bottle. We’re also on hand to help with route planning if we’re needed. Certificates for the company and each rider will be issued on completion of the challenge.”

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The mission of Hope House Children’s Hospices is to ensure that no one should face the death of a child alone. It costs £6.5 million every year to run its services and 86% of this is spent on care. Over 95% of Hope House’s annual costs are met through charitable donations and GM Fundraising is its largest single donor. Since it was established in 1995, GM Fundraising has raised over £2 million for Hope House Children’s Hospices.

Gary concluded: “We’re very excited about this event, which is a new format for GM Fundraising and gives us a way to continue our mission of putting the fun into fundraising, even in Covid times. We’d love to see as many teams as possible taking part and helping us continue our support for Hope House Children’s Hospices.” www.gmfundraising.co.uk

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