Window News Magazine October 2023

6 Safestyle Report 96 JDUK Should Be A Warning, Says Industry Expert

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CONTENTS

W INDOWNEWS THE LATEST INDUSTRY NEWS

TRADE NEWS 4 VIEWPOINT 48 PEOPLE 74 VERTICAL SLIDERS & HERITAGE 82 HARDWARE, SAFETY & SECURITY 86 PRODUCT NEWS 92 MACHINERY 112 ON SITE 116 MARKETING & INTERNET

124

EVENTS 128 AWARDS 132 TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

146

CHARITY 148

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Cover picture: Renson UK contributes to the redevelopment of London’s iconic Perfume Factory: Read more on page 116 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 3

TRADE NEWS

John Agnew, Natalie Little, Ben Wallace and Dave Borland of the GGF, with Amarjit Dhadwal, advisor to Arun Photay, and Arun Photay of the Conservative Party.

GGF Attends Meeting At Number 10 To Make

The Case For Glazing In a bid to effect change by continuing to lobby government, four officers of the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) attended a meeting at Number 10 with Rishi Sunak’s political adviser, Ameet Jogia, MBE, to discuss the role of glazing in reducing the nation’s carbon emissions.

John Agnew, group managing director at the GGF, explains: “The GGF recently conducted a comprehensive piece of research into the part glazing can play in achieving Net Zero, and the results were conclusive.

Despite the fact 86% of homes already have double glazing (the government’s previous argument 4 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

for excluding the sector from the Energy Company Obligation (ECO+) Scheme), we all know that this isn’t the full story. For example, seventy per cent of windows installed since 2002 were C rated and so don’t meet the building standards relevant today.

“On completion, the GGF translated the research into an easy-to-read infographic entitled ‘A Window of Opportunity’ to highlight the difference glazing can make. This is the document we presented to government.”

Four officers of the GGF including Ben Wallace, group head of membership & customer

relations at the GGF, David Borland, head of GGF technical, John Agnew, group managing director at the GGF, and Natalie Little, president at the GGF, attended the meeting to present the facts.

Natalie Little continues: “We successfully highlighted to government that the research calculates a significant 80 million windows would benefit from immediate replacement, saving as much C02 as taking 1.88 million cars off the road. We were also able to demonstrate the timely cost saving benefit to individuals as the research estimates the average annual saving per household for upgrading windows to current standards at £395. The ‘Window of Opportunity’ Document leaves little room for scepticism about the impact of glazing on carbon emissions, but we will continue to support the industry by gathering and collating the facts and presenting them to the people that have the power to make a change.” www.ggf.org.uk

Allan Brothers

TRADE NEWS

Makes A £2.6 Million

Factory Investment

Morten Bach Valsted, managing director of Allan Brothers Ltd

Allan Brothers Ltd, reputedly the UK’s oldest wood windows and doors manufacturer, is making a £2.6 million investment in its manufacturing processes at its factory in Berwick-upon-Tweed.

The planned upgrades will be phased in over a six-month time frame, with existing manufacturing processes gradually migrating to avoid disruption or any loss of production.

The investment from parent company Inwido will include the development of a new timber window and door platform, a new timber shed, general upgrades to the factory and, installation of new manufacturing equipment.

“We have for some time been making improvements across the whole company from streamlining back-office sales and purchasing through to the factory floor and dispatch, including the recent introduction of a brand-new customer showroom. This latest investment is a logical next step designed to deliver greater growth and profitability, better service for customers and ultimately better job prospects and security for our workforce.”

It will include a new £2.1 million state of the art CNC window line along with new cutting and moulder lines, and improvements to the assembly shop with new conveyors, roller tables and ancillary equipment. The first of the new machinery will arrive in Q4 2023.

“This is the company’s biggest investment in the last fifteen years, which aims to deliver 20 – 25% growth for the company over the next three years”, said managing director, Morten Bach Valsted.

“It will make a massive difference to our overall output, speed of production, as well as making us a much more energy efficient and sustainable manufacturer of timber windows and doors.”

Founded in 1811, Allan Brothers currently employs 93 staff and has a long history of manufacturing traditionally crafted timber and Alu Clad windows and doors for the new build, home improvement and general specification/architectural markets.

Jack Aluminum

Expands Its Factory Space

With Added

17,000 Sq. Ft. Jack Aluminium, has more than doubled the size of its premises with the move to a new location on the outskirts of Coventry.

The move has allowed the aluminium systems supplier to expand its factory space by 17,000 ft² to a total of 28,000 ft².

The move comes on the heels of the expansion of several of the company’s product ranges, including the launch of the new ID30 Internal Glazing suite, which moves the company into the domestic market.

In recognition of the quality of its products, the company was voted by customers as ‘Joinery Product Supplier of the Year’ in the 2022 Timber Trades Journal Awards.

The new premises is being used to respond to the increasing demand for stock colour options, highlighting a desire amongst consumers for a broader array of options for architectural glazing.

www.allanbrothers.co.uk

www.jackaluminium.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 5

TRADE NEWS Rob Neale, CEO of Safestyle PLC commented: “The market represented an increasingly challenging backdrop as we moved through the latter stages of 2022 and into 2023.

Market activity has been impacted by rising inflation, which has continued to remain higher than economic forecasters expected, and consequential higher interest rates resulted. This has put even greater pressure on our customers’ disposable income, weakened consumer confidence and increased the cost of providing our market-leading finance products.”

Safestyle Report

Should Be A Warning,

Says Industry Expert Andrew Scott, CEO of Insight Data, gives his views on the recent HalfYear Safestyle PLC report.

On 27th September Safestyle PLC published its half-year results to 2nd July 2023. Despite an upbeat narrative, the results highlighted a worrying position not only for Safestyle, but the industry as a whole.

The company reported a drop in product volume of 15.8% compared to H1 2022, but higher average order values helped mitigate this and turnover declined 5.3% to £74.1m, a half-year drop of £4.2 million.

Safestyle has been impacted by 6 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

rising costs and although it is pursuing cost reductions across the business, gross profit margins were down from 24.75% to 21.92% and the company reported an underlying loss of £6m for the half-year, or a £6.7m loss after non-underlying items.

Cost per lead rises as consumer confidence drops According to chief financial officer Phil Joyner, the drop in margins has been largely attributable to rising lead generation costs due to the overall weaker replacement window and door market increasing online search costs. The additional cost-per-lead equates to a £1.5m year-on-year increase.

The Report states that the market is currently performing at circa 24% below the July and August levels of 2022, while Safestyle reported 11% year-on-year drop in order intake.

As such, Safestyle believes it’s outperforming the market and increasing market-share.

Safestyle set to battle tough trading conditions with increased marketing spend The company has committed to several sales and marketing initiatives to increase market share, including a £1.4m brand awareness TV and radio campaign in February/March 2023, and a new website that it hopes will increase enquiry levels.

A key component of the Safestyle proposition is compelling finance products to help fund purchases, particularly critical for maintaining accessibility for larger purchases.

However, this has come at a higher cost due to rising interest rates.

Safestyle has reported that their order book ended the period down 22.1%, but the company is actively pursuing a number of efficiency and cost-reduction initiatives.

While it is clear Safestyle aim to grab market share, this would be

TRADE NEWS a larger slice of a smaller pie and thus the company must find cost savings and efficiencies to return to profitability.

However, it is still a smart move – Safestyle has increased its lead generation spend and invested substantially in brand awareness via TV and radio, at a time when many competitors are cutting back. Thus, it would be well placed to capitalise on a recovery and capture market share when macro conditions improve.

However, a word of warning – Safestyle’s cash position has dropped from £8m to £1m and the retailer continues to report trading losses. For Safestyle to achieve its stated goals, it will need refinancing and further investment.

Kingfisher Windows Expands Operations

Safestyle Report provides a barometer for the wider industry

Epwin Window Systems’ fabricator Kingfisher Windows has completed a £1 million plus investment on the relocation to new extended premises, marking a significant milestone in the company’s continued growth strategy.

Safestyle PLC’s report broadly reflects sentiment across the industry. While some smaller, niche installers are still reporting good demand, especially for some premium products, the wider market continues to experience a significant slowdown, although this is partially masked by higher order values.

Strategically located just 400 yards from Junction 27 on the M62/M621 and 5 miles south of Leeds City Centre, the move to expanded facilities underscores the company’s commitment to meeting the increasing demand for its products across the North and Northwest of England.

Consolidation further up the supply chain means the impact has not been felt equally across the industry. As the number of suppliers reduce, they have benefited from a surge in new trade customers bolstering turnover.

Deborah Beeley, sales and marketing manager at Kingfisher Windows, commented: “The new premises have been designed to further streamline our efficiencies and this large scale investment, which includes the purchase of several new automated machines, will further increase our production capacity. The expansion is a testament to our dedication to meeting the evolving needs of the market and ensuring customer satisfaction.”

It appears that once again, it is the installer who will face the greatest challenges until the market recovers. The firms who take a longer-term view and invest in their brand and lead generation will emerge stronger, while their competitor will inevitably lose market share or close their doors altogether. www.insightdata.co.uk

The new facility includes modern, open-plan offices and a state-of-the-art manufacturing centre equipped to enhance production output,

streamline operations and continue delivering a highquality service to its valued customers.

Deborah said: “This move marks a significant step forward for Kingfisher Windows and aligns with our vision for sustained business growth.”

The family business manufactures a comprehensive range of products from Epwin Window Systems, including the Stellar Aluminium Window and Door System, the Optima PVC-U Window and Door System and the PatioMaster Sliding Door System.

As Kingfisher Windows continues to grow and evolve, the company remains focused on exceeding customer expectations. Expansion on this scale is significant and Kingfisher Windows remains committed to its core values of quality, reliability and customer satisfaction.

Deborah concludes: “We are thrilled to announce the successful completion of our relocation and company expansion which marks an exciting chapter in the history of Kingfisher Windows.” epwinwindowsystems.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 7

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TRADE NEWS

New Schirmer Installed At Sternfenster Sternfenster has just commissioned its new Schirmer cutting and machining centre that forms an integral part of its PVC-U fabrication line, and which will reduce lead times and improve product quality.

This £800K investment is part of a wider capital expenditure by the Lincoln-based fabricator that will result in efficiencies across all aspects of the business, including IGU manufacture, window and door production, cutting edge IT systems, and transportation.

machining centre is designed with efficiency in mind. A highspeed gripper transports the full-length profiles – or reuseable off-cuts – through the machine with vastly improved accuracy, and a six-axis tooling module performs all necessary routing in a single pass. A three-axis milling unit allows Sternfenster to end-mill the profile online – rather than as a separate process – again improving accuracy, speeding up production, and reducing damage to profiles thanks to reduced handling.

The Schirmer cutting and

“We are all excited with our new

10 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

Schirmer line,” sales director Nathan Court said. “Our key strategy in recent years has been all about putting our customers in control of their window and door supply, and this machine is a vital part of that.

“It makes three key improvements: volume, speed and accuracy.

“This new cutting and machining centre can handle many more profiles in a shift, which means that if we get a spike in demand, then lead times aren’t going to be pushed out. And it is exceptionally quick, so it allows us to offer high-end products with industry-beating lead times, allowing our customers to remain competitive in a tough marketplace.

TRADE NEWS “We’ve also built an enviable reputation for supplying beautiful PVC-U windows – especially the flush, Grafwelded heritage SyleLine Windows – and this new Schirmer line will help us maintain, and build upon, that quality.”

Sternfenster is supporting the machinery investment with a corresponding investment in its IT systems. Central to this strategy is Sternfenster’s EasyAdmin system, which allows businesses to produce professional quotes very quickly for homeowners. It also allows window installation companies

to have complete oversight of their profit and loss. This information is updated daily and allows business owners to see the health of their accounts in real time.

“More than 50% of our orders now come to us via EasyAdmin, and we are in the process of upgrading the software so that will integrate more closely with our other IT services,” Nathan said, “as well as giving them more control over their operations, saving them money in the process.

“It will also be cloud-based, which will give our customers

GGF & Fensa Glass

Recycling Scheme Gets Even Bigger Following the launch of its pilot glass recycling scheme in March, the GGF and Fensa has announced an extension to the programme that will see companies in a significant area of the North of England and the Midlands, now able to take advantage of the resource.

“As with all of our recycling schemes, we spend a lot of time making sure they work as they should, and that we have the capacity to deliver, before rolling them out nationally,” explains Chris Beedel, head of Advocacy & Stakeholder Relations at the GGF. “We can enter the next phase of expanding the glass recycling scheme now because our partners CNC Recycling are adding an operational hub in the North West. This will mean

more freedom than ever before to manage their projects.”

Other new machinery due for delivery in the next two years are: a new £40,000 Atlantic sixbrush vertical glass washer; a new £40,000 glass cutting table; a new £1m 42m glass line; and a new £1.5m PVC-U welding and cleaning line.

Last year, Sternfenster also added four new lorries to its fleet last year, representing an investment of £480K.

www.sternfenster.com North Wales, Cheshire, and areas of Cumbria. Added to our existing programme, this gives us the coverage across the North of England and the Midlands.

“The scheme is operated by the GGF, BFRC and Fensa, in conjunction with our recycling partners CNC Recycling, and has been designed to be incredibly easy to use. The units for collection will need to be deglazed because they will be transported differently to the PVC-U frames, and there is a minimum collection criteria of 20 frames/IGUs, but collection will continue to be free of charge if this criteria is met.”

Chris continues: “Both installers and homeowners want the peace of mind that they can recycle old products responsibly, but it’s not always easy to find a trusted partner.

We’re pleased to be able to offer a reliable solution to this increasingly prevalent issue, to even more installers and look forward to extending the scheme further again in the future.”

availability down to Stoke, across to Halifax/Brighouse,

https://www.ggf.org.uk WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 11

TRADE NEWS and reporting problems that were prevalent, there was also a lack of understanding over the purpose of fire doors and how they function.

More people believed that a fire door aids in stopping the spread of fire (46%) than the spread of smoke (32%). Only a fully functioning fire door will protect property and life from fire and smoke, with smoke inhalation being the main cause of firerelated deaths.

Despite a lack of confidence in their ability to spot a problem with a fire door, there were some positive signs. 60% of individuals would report a faulty or propped open fire door because they would feel responsible if a fire occurred that they feel they could have prevented. Also, the majority (86%) said they would report a faulty or propped open fire door in the future.

BWF CEO, Helen Hewitt

‘Lives Are At Risk’ – Lack Of Knowledge Over

Faulty Fire Doors Leading

To Under-Reporting

Over half (57%) of the UK public couldn’t spot a problem with a fire door, leading to a failure to report issues, alarming new research has revealed.

The survey of 2,000 UK adults found that while awareness over factors that might prevent a fire door performing properly in the event of a fire is high, the majority of people couldn’t identify a faulty fire door.

The theme for this year’s Fire Door Safety Week, which ran from 25 – 29 September, is ‘Recognise it, Report it’ and aims to help people spot problems with faulty doors

so they can be reported, then repaired or replaced.

Helen Hewitt, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) which organises and funds Fire Door Safety Week, said: “Fire doors perform an essential role in the event of a fire – they are the barrier preventing the spread of fire and smoke. They simply must be in working order, and keeping them so relies on everybody who encounters them to spot and report issues, so they can be immediately addressed.

Worryingly, 21% said the reason they wouldn’t report in future is because they don’t think anything would get done. Almost half (49%) didn’t feel it’s their responsibility to report a faulty fire door.

“The fact that so many say they are unable or unwilling to do so is incredibly worrying and puts lives at risk. The problem is two-fold: not knowing how to spot issues, and not having confidence that concerns raised will be acted upon. As part of this year’s campaign which marks 10 years of Fire Door Safety Week, we’re giving everybody the tools to be able to recognise major fire door faults, to boost confidence over reporting them. We need to empower people to play their role in keeping the buildings they live in and occupy safe.”

It wasn’t just issues with spotting

The survey also highlighted that

A lack of knowledge over what constitutes a faulty fire door leads to under-reporting, with 29% of respondents saying they wouldn’t report a faulty fire door for this reason – putting themselves and others at risk.

12 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

TRADE NEWS the level of guidance people receive over how to spot a faulty fire door is higher in their place of work than the buildings where they live. More than a third (38%) of respondents said their employer has explained to them how to spot a faulty fire door in the building, compared to 26% of respondents’ landlords who’ve communicated this.

Whilst it is encouraging that employers are taking fire safety seriously, increased awareness and guidance must also extend to residential buildings to ensure people’s homes, belongings and loved ones are also protected. In residential buildings, fire safety was a second priority to damp or mould, highlighting that hazards that are immediately recognisable and visible are more likely to be dealt with.

Gavin Tomlinson, protection and business safety chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), said: “This research highlights a worrying lack of awareness about the importance of recognising and reporting faulty fire doors. Everyone must understand that fire doors are a vital barrier, not just against flames but also against the deadly spread of smoke during a fire.

We must empower individuals to take responsibility for fire safety in their homes and workplaces.

The theme of this year’s campaign, ‘Recognise it, Report it,’ underscores the importance of Fire Door Safety Week. The week helps raise awareness around critical issues such as faulty fire doors, enabling people to spot and report issues so that immediate action can be taken to protect lives and property.”

Commenting on the findings,

Discussing the role of Fire Door

Safety Week across its 10 years, Helen Hewitt commented: “When Fire Door Safety Week started out, its intention was simple: to raise awareness of the vital role that fire doors play in saving lives. What’s evolved since is a phenomenal network of organisations and individuals who support the campaign each year, in greater numbers, and help communicate its important message. The campaign has forged links between those whose co-operation is essential to maintaining and improving fire safety, while reaching the general public with an impactful message. We thank everyone for their support, and this gives us great confidence that even more can be achieved in the next 10 years.”

For more information on Fire Door Safety Week, visit: www.firedoorsafetyweek.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

Emplas Expands

multi-million investment in machinery.

Emplas has continued its multi-million-pound investment programme with the addition of a new 25,000 sq ft of space at its Wellingborough manufacturing hub.

“We’re at a point of change”, continued Jody. “The market is moving forward at pace and we need to adapt with it.

Into New Manufacturing Space

Part of its infrastructure investment strategy, the purpose-built manufacturing facility will house the fabricator’s expanding composite door offer, new product lines, offices and additional warehousing.

The release of space within its pre-existing 57,000sq ft facility, also triggers a second strand to Emplas’ strategy, including changes to its manufacturing lines to accommodate new machinery and to further optimise production.

Jody Vincent, sales director, Emplas said: “We’re seeing continuing growth and its vital that we ensure that we match that with continuing investment

to allow us to build on our offer but most importantly, guarantee service and quality to our existing customers.

“The addition of a dedicated composite door facility will support us in further expanding our composites offer – but critically, in a sustainable way.

“Our new manufacturing unit also gives us the infrastructure to expand our product offer in the future.”

Due to open later this year, its’ new facility follows the £3million investment in the expansion of its original footprint made by Emplas in 2018. This included a 16,000 sq ft extension of its factory floor with the addition of new warehousing, loading bays and offices.

Emplas also added its’ Padiham IGU facility to its real estate portfolio that year, announcing

14 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

This included the £1million investment in a new Forel Vertical IGU line this year, taking its IGU capacity to 15,000 units a week.

“This includes investment in our manufacturing facilities but also our product and service offer, so that our customers can always get the products that they want, when they need them, at the right price and the right support.”

As part of its continuous improvement strategy, Emplas recently launched dedicated two-hour delivery slots, real-time delivery tracking and 30-minute ‘push notifications’ ahead of arrival on deliveries. This allows customers to plan their day more effectively, freeing up resource.

Jody continued: “Our customers can track exactly where their order is at any time and get a 30-minute push notification on arrival by text and on EVA our

TRADE NEWS

Ultion Bolt As Standard

Across Sternfenster’s

Composite Door Range that on doors with a bar handle or escutcheon a home is fully secured even if the homeowner leaves a property in a hurry.

National trade fabricator Sternfenster now supplies the new multipoint Ultion Bolt lock as standard across its full PAS24-certified composite door range, which, says the company, improves security, reduces callbacks and offers further upsell opportunities

Jody Vincent

customer portal. The benefits that this delivers in potential time saved is immeasurable.

“There isn’t one thing that we’re doing that I’d argue means that installers should want to work with us. It’s a combination – product range, service and customer support.

“In the current climate I’d add stability to that mix. Having a stable supplier that is committed to product and service innovation and investing for the future, gives our customers a tangible commercial advantage. “ www.emplas.co.uk

“Security remains the most important feature of an entrance door, so it makes sense that we offer our customers the most secure door possible, creating a key point of differentiation,” Sternfenster’s sales director Nathan Court said. “We’ve worked closely with Ultion to bring this to market, and all doors now meet PAS24 requirements.”

A key feature of the new Ultion Bolt is that all lock bolts work independently to each other, so the composite door slab will continue to lock securely even if it moves slightly in the frame over time.

The lock can also be engaged without lifting the handle, and rollers in the lock keep provide a perfect seal, even if the door isn’t shut properly. This means

“These features will dramatically reduce the number of callbacks to properties where the door has shifted slightly in the frame,” Nathan said. “Often, it is when the homeowner has difficulty engaging the locks that prompts a call to the installer. Having a lock that engages automatically and seamlessly will result in more secure properties, happier homeowners, and more money in your pocket.”

The lock can also be paired with the Ultion Nuki plus smart lock, creating further upsell opportunities for window and door companies.

A rout is implemented as standard, into which a ‘smart sensor pocket’ is inserted.

The homeowner can insert a chip at a later date, which connects to the Ultion Nuki plus smart features. This allows the homeowner to see if the door is unlocked on their smartphone, and even grant access by unlocking it remotely.

“PAS24 security as standard, fewer callbacks, and a smart home compatible system provides more opportunities for our customers to improve their bottom line,” Nathan said.

“Our range of market leading composite doors, together with the new Ultion Bolt, is the final word in security, while offering new opportunities to modern tech-savvy homeowners.” sternfenster.com/ultion-bolt WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 15

TRADE NEWS

Trade Window Centre

Announce Major Expansion News After a successful first year of operations, South Yorkshirebased Trade Window Centre is currently upsizing into much larger manufacturing premises.

The move comes during a phase of significant expansion for the company, as it continues to increase its production capacity, build its customer base and concentrate on broadening its product range to cater to evolving industry demands.

Launched by two former school friends and industry professionals, TWC has gone from strength to strength since it was established in late 2022.

Now expanding its client base of primarily smaller trade installers, TWC has experienced huge

growth in the last few months, says the company, and as demand has increased, the need for a bigger factory has become unavoidable.

The new 6,000sq ft factory is considerably larger than TWC’s previous facility, increasing the company’s production capacity by an estimated 50-75%, and accommodating its plans to invest in newer, more modern machinery and increase its headcount.

TWC has made attentive customer care its highest priority since the company’s inception, and as two former fitters, the business’s founders understand better than anyone the unique

16 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

needs of trade professionals.

Nationwide delivery, speedy turnaround times, and investing in the recruitment and training of more reliably responsive customer service staff are nonnegotiable for TWC, so the larger premises will enable the team to keep their customers satisfied and their standards high.

Dominic Francis, director of TWC, explains: “The team has achieved so much in the last year, and the company is experiencing such high demand that upsizing is an obvious next step as we keep expanding and providing our customers with the highest quality service. A larger factory means extra capacity and fast turnaround times, which as a manufacturer and supplier is hugely important for our installers.

We also deliver nationwide, so we can be local to everyone. In order to facilitate this level of service, we had to invest in bigger and better resources, while always keeping our customers our top consideration.” www.tradewindowcentre.co.uk

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TRADE NEWS

Sold Out Glazing Summit Another Huge Success A sold out Glazing Summit brought together some of the biggest players and brands in the industry under one roof, at what was another staggering success for the event.

Almost 500 key players, business leaders and industry professionals from across the whole supply chain descended on the worldrenowned Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham for a day of discussion and insight on some of the most important issues the sector is facing.

The Glazing Summit, in it’s fifth year, featured its most explosive agenda yet, with expert panellists discussing the future homes standard and triple glazing, the skills crisis, and the challenges facing installers.

The main message from the event, however, was that the industry can expect a tough year ahead and businesses need to put plans in place now to weather the storm.

A poll carried out in real-time with delegates showed 71% of businesses had seen a significant

18 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

Andrew Scott, founder of the Glazing summit, with this year’s attendees

decline in the market compared to last year.

Andrew Scott, Glazing Summit founder and CEO of Insight Data and Purplex Marketing, presented a keynote on the marketing strategies businesses should be using to mitigate the market slowdown.

“The industry has slowed, and companies once again need to focus on their brand, reputation and marketing strategy,” said Andrew. “Businesses that invest in marketing during challenging times out-perform their competitors and capture market share, meaning they can grow even in a slowing market.”

Andrew also highlighted that the industry must improve its sales skills, after a boom period when many sales people became ordertakers.

TRADE NEWS

Carl F Groupco’s My CFG Online Platform

Celebrates First Anniversary

Other highlights included eyeopening keynotes from Insight Data’s operational manager Alex Tremlett on the company’s ‘State of the Industry Report;’ the GQA’s strategic relationship manager Dan Brown on the implications of the New Building Safety Act and leading economist Ed Johnstone on the UK’s economic outlook.

The day was then rounded off in high-octane style by “the UK’s number one inspiration business speaker” Brad Burton on how delegates can make positive and lasting change faster to shape the future of their businesses.

“Glazing Summit 2023 illustrated the industry’s commitment to exchange ideas, share best practice and drive innovation and we are proud to have created an event that not only showcases the industry but also paves the way for its future” added Andrew. glazingsummit.co.uk

Independent hardware distributor Carl F Groupco is celebrating the first anniversary of its My CFG online platform.

Clare White, marketing manager at Carl F Groupco, says: “We are always looking at ways that we can add value in all areas of our business, not just related to the products we sell. I’m happy to say that we’ve had great success with My CFG. It gives our trade customers the facility to place their hardware orders, access account information, including invoices and statements, and even pay for orders online.”

From the very beginning, the Carl F Groupco team was determined that the system should contribute to the company’s commitment to making all aspects of the buying process as seamless for its customers as possible. Clare comments: “It may seem like a simple task, but we needed to be sure that the service was slick and provided real value to our customers, not be just another clunky online ordering system.”

Take-up of the system has been high, proving the company has succeeded in its aim, says the company For Clare, it’s the details that set the system apart. She says: “Customers can access the portal at any time, view previous orders and quotations and reorder from them too. Products are easily accessible and detail customer-specific pricing and order quantities, saving time and simplifying their ordering process.”

It doesn’t stop there. She commented: “Orders are linked directly to our ERP system.

It speeds up processing time and ensures there are no administrative errors – our customers get exactly what they ordered, first time and on time.”

Clare concluded: “We recognise that almost everything in our product inventory can be found elsewhere, making our distinct customer service and technical support the true differentiator.” www.carlfgroupco.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 19

TRADE NEWS

May-July Builders Merchant

Value Sales +8.5% Up On Previous 3 Months The latest Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) report shows builders’ merchants’ value sales were down -0.4% in July compared to the same month in 2022, with volume falling -7.9% and prices up +8.1%. But the last three months, May to July, value sales were +8.5% higher than in February to April 2023.

Nine of the twelve categories sold more this year than in July 2022. Renewables & Water Saving (+51.2%) continues its strong form, leading the field by a significant margin.

Plumbing, Heating & Electrical (+14.0%), Decorating (+13.6%), Tools (+11.1%) and Kitchens & Bathrooms (+10.1%) all achieved double digit growth.

Landscaping (-7.2%) and

Timber & Joinery Products (-12.1%) were the weakest performing categories.

Month-on-month, total merchant sales were down -5.5% in July compared to June. Volume sales were down -7.5% while prices increased slightly (+2.2%). With one less trading day in July, like-forlike value sales were -1.0% lower. Only three of the twelve categories sold more, led by Renewables & Water Saving (+15.5%). Landscaping (-15.6%) was the weakest category.

Total merchant sales in the twelve months from August 2022 to July 2023 were flat (+0.0%) compared to the same period a year ago, with volumes down -12.2% and prices up

20 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

by +13.9%. Nine of the twelve categories sold more with Renewables & Water Saving (+45.4%) doing best. Plumbing, Heating & Electrical (+13.8%), Decorating (+13.5%) Workwear & Safetywear (+12.9%), and Kitchens & Bathrooms (+10.8%) also hit double figure increases.

Landscaping (-9.9%) and Timber & Joinery Products (-13.3%) were again the weakest categories.

Mike Rigby, CEO of MRA Research which produces this report, said: “The latest figures from BMBI show a slight drop off in Merchant value sales for July, but the rolling three month quarter on quarter comparison is more positive with May to July value sales up +8.5% on the previous three months.

“Housebuilding fell in July, for the eighth month in succession, as higher mortgage rates and cost of living pressures impact demand. Cool, wet and windy weather in July further dampened demand and delayed planned works. After six months of incremental increases, GfK’s

TRADE NEWS Consumer Confidence Index dipped in July (down -6 points to -30) but recovered in August to -25. This renewed optimism was reflected in households’ personal finances and their expectations of the general economic outlook in the next 12 months. More significantly for RMI, there was an +8 point improvement in major purchase intentions.

“All is not doom and gloom.

It’s too easy to be swept along with the gloomy tendency of the national media narrative, a narrative which has had to be reset after the ONS released revised figures for the economy showing Britain to be doing as well and, in some cases (Germany), better than other European economies.

Commercial building and infrastructure projects are

AT Precision Invests £370K In New Extrusion Machine

still going strong, and the Government announced in July a raft of overdue initiatives to unblock bottlenecks in the planning system to speed up developments and build more homes to help meet their (revised) one million homes target.”

July’s BMBI report, published in September, is available to download at www.bmbi.co.uk comments: “The significant investment in a new extrusion machine has been extremely worthwhile – since launching our in-house recycling scheme, we’ve seen more and more of our customers wanting to give us their unused uPVC materials, and thanks to the new machine, we’re able to grind and melt these down at a much higher rate to produce our screw retention profile bars.”

With a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Durham, AT Precision manufactures the Everglide range of bi-fold components such as rollers, guides and hinges, as well as the Everseal range of high-quality gaskets.

They also specialise in security hardware, PVC infill extrusions, and aluminium profile for bifolds.

Hardware supplier AT Precision has announced the installation of a new state-of-the-art extrusion line at its premises.

In addition to 18 dyes, the new machine totals a £370,000 investment, and is capable of extruding 250kg of material per hour compared to an older machine that was achieving 50kg per hour – an impressive increase of 400%.

The investment is part of a wider strategy at AT Precision

to become more environmentally conscious and follows the introduction of a new Recycled Thermal Reinforcement (RTR) system to its production line.

Earlier this year, the company launched its own in-house recycling scheme which involves picking up unused or unwanted uPVC materials from its customers and extruding these for use in manufacturing its own screen retention profile bars.

Sales director Michael Hewitt

Michael concludes: “At AT Precision, cutting-edge technology and sustainability go hand in hand, with the new extrusion machine a testament to both quality and environmental responsibility.

“As we continue to innovate and expand our recycling initiatives, we look forward to providing our customers with even more sustainable solutions while maintaining a competitive edge in the market.” www.atprecision.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 21

TRADE NEWS

Swainstons Sign Up To Stellar Longstanding Epwin Window Systems fabricator Swainstons Ltd has signed a three-year supply agreement to manufacture the Stellar aluminium window and door system. Swainstons’ move into aluminium fabrication signifies its commitment to providing high quality window and door products to its growing trade, domestic and commercial customers.

Liam McClorey, general manager at Swainstons, said: “We have worked with Epwin Window Systems for many years and fabricate its Optima PVC-U window and door system, so we know first-hand the quality of their products and the business support available. Introducing Stellar to our portfolio will allow us to further extend our market reach as the appetite for aluminium products

increases.”

The move into aluminium fabrication has seen the Stocktonon-Tees fabricator expand its operation by opening a second adjacent factory to provide the much-needed capacity to manufacture its Stellar products.

Liam said: “The six-figure investment in the new dedicated Stellar fabrication plant will deliver exceptional efficiencies across the business and ensure we deliver a quick and reliable service for our aluminium products, enhancing our competitive edge in the market.”

Swainstons will manufacture a range of Stellar products including the Stellar flush window, slimline bifold door, tilt and turn window and the Stellar slimline sliding door. Liam said: “We have already

22 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

(L-R) Liam McLorey and Karl Swainston of Swainstons with Avtar Birdi and Nev Gleed from Epwin Window Systems

received interest for Stellar from the commercial sector, which underscores the market’s demand for high-quality aluminium windows and doors. As an Epwin Window Systems’ Approved Commercial Partner, we are confident Stellar will open up additional opportunities for us.”

Commenting on the new agreement, Katrina Earl, sales director at Epwin Window Systems, said: “Swainstons are an established and wellrespected fabricator in the North East, renowned for delivering a superior quality product and pride themselves on working with innovative product partners.

We are delighted they have chosen Stellar for their aluminium expansion and look forward to further developing this longstanding relationship.” www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

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TRADE NEWS

The Cortizo Range

From Hepworth

Sees Sales Soar For Vufold Vufold is a large, family-run window and door company that prides itself on both the overall service and quality of products. A key player in the online retail arena, Vufold also supplies trade installers. With the strapline ‘the difference is in the detail’, they offer an extensive range of high-quality aluminium products to customers UK wide. A year on from adding the Cortizo aluminium system from Hepworth into their range, sales of their sliding patio doors are higher than ever, and, it seems, customers can’t get enough.

David Ross, sales manager at Vufold explains: “We’re delighted with the success of the Cortizo range from Hepworth. We were previously using a singular aluminium system that was quite expensive, but since we introduced the Cortizo bifold and sliding aluminium door system into our offering, sales have increased dramatically as the system is much more cost effective. In particular, we’ve seen a notable increase in the sales of our sliding patio doors in this range, which we believe is because the aluminium

24 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

frame provides a much more aesthetically pleasing finish than it’s PVC-U predecessor, which lends itself to the more modern projects. The sliding patio also enables the customer to have much larger panes of glass, supporting the aspirational desire to bring the outside in.

“Hepworth consistently proves themselves to be reliable and trustworthy in terms of their product quality and service delivery, which makes a real difference when we are managing the day-to-day expectations of our customers.

“We have a great relationship with Hepworth. They have an extremely experienced management team and that experience is felt by their customers. If you have a more obscure question in relation to a bespoke project, if they don’t know the answer straight off,

TRADE NEWS

Hörmann Truedor

Opens Its Doors

morning or afternoon session.

Visitors will have the chance to take a tour of the £60m production area and talk to the Hörmann Truedor experts.

they know where to find it. They keep lines of communication open and are honest and transparent in their approach, which is all you can ask for from your supplier.”

Richard Steckles, managing director at Hepworth concludes: “Vufold is a shining example of a team that understands the need to develop and adapt in order to offer customers what they want and need. Their previous aluminium system was cumbersome and expensive, so they took the opportunity to change their offering and have seen great success with the Cortizo range. We wish them all the best and look forward to supporting them as their aluminium door range continues on this upward trajectory.” www.vufold.co.uk www.hepworthframework.co.uk

Hörmann Truedor have announced that it is opening its doors and inviting the market to join them at their IG Doors manufacturing plant in South Wales for a series of Open Days during November.

The company says, not only will attendees have the opportunity to visit one of the most advanced door manufacturing facilities in the UK, but they will also have exclusive access to discounts worth £1000 on the range of Hörmann Truedor composite doors.

The event is being run over three days – from Tuesday 14th through to Thursday 16th November, with the option of attending either a

Commenting on the forthcoming Open Days, David O’Mara, marketing manager at Hörmann, “Since the FIT show in May we have been busy incorporating the Hörmann Truedor range of composite doors into the Hörmann sales and distribution organisation. We now have the opportunity to invite the market to see our state-of-the-art door manufacturing facility and find out more about us and our doors. Also, there is the added bonus of being able to take advantage of the exceptional discounts being offered to all attending companies. I would advise people to go to our booking website and book early as spaces are limited.”

To find out more and reserve a place at one of the Open Days visit There’s more to Hörmann Truedor – Splash (splashthat.com) or scan the QR code.

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 25

TRADE NEWS

SILKA ‘Smashes’

Sign-Up Targets Following The Launch Of Its Silka Select Trade Partnership

Following two events at the iconic venues of Silverstone Circuit and Manchester’s Concorde Conference Centre, Silka is celebrating the successful launch of its Silka

select trade partnership – and welcoming more than 30 handpicked partners.

Installers from all over the UK were given a Silka select

26 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

Presentation by Asa McGillian and Andy Jones.

masterclass, and according to Silka, learning how the exclusive collaboration can futureproof their business and offer standout support in selling its revolutionary range of aluminium windows and doors. Gathering trackside at Silverstone and beneath the wings of Concorde, guests browsed the stunning range, listened to information and insight from Silka’s core team and were encouraged to offer feedback and opinions, which is a fundamental part of the Silka select concept.

Mike Adderly from The Window Centre, Solihull said of the launch: “I’m incredibly impressed. Our clients are coming to us with a wish list that, at the moment, we are struggling to supply. I’ve realised how important it is to take a range of products back to our showroom that will help us obtain lower U-values for

TRADE NEWS to such respected installers and to see them so engaged in what we are offering, which we truly believe is unique,” says Silka CEO Asa McGillian of the launches’ success. “Our target of 30 partners has been surpassed, which means we now have an inspiring, active community joining us on the journey to deliver future homes, today.”

Alex Moore (centre) with Bon Accord Glass.

clients.”

As well as enjoying a day of industry conversation, companies were asked to pledge their commitment as a Silka select trade partner by holding up a card

declaring “We’re In!” at any point during the day’s proceedings.

“We’re blown away by the sea of ‘We’re Ins’ we’ve seen in response to the Silka select trade partnership. It’s been great talking

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5 DAY LEAD TIME!

Offering exclusive products, free targeted sales leads and protected exclusivity within their showroom area, there is also an online Partner Portal featuring regularly updated marketing assets, news and offers, highlighting Silka select as a simple, supported and integrated solution for installers to sell the Silka range of super-insulated aluminium windows, doors and rooflights. https://bit.ly/48H1ffb

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TRADE NEWS

Deceuninck Cuts CO2 By 21% Deceuninck has cut CO2 emissions from its operations down from 673,095 tonnes in 2021 to 530,836 tCO2e last year – a drop of 21%.

At the forefront of innovation in sustainable PVC-U window and door systems technologies, this puts Deceuninck significantly ahead of its 2022 target.

director of Deceuninck.

“It’s a direct benefit to our customers, because it makes the product that they sell greener, and more sustainable, giving them a distinct commercial advantage.

Made through the Science Based Targets carbon reduction scheme, it sits as part of Deceuninck’s pledge to cut CO2 emissions by 60% by 2030 from a 2021 baseline.

“We’ve done the research – we know sustainability directly influences homeowner purchasing decisions. We’re giving our customers the hard facts to demonstrate to endusers how what we’re doing lowers our own and their environmental impact.”

“We have a long way to go, but the progress that we have made in lowering the carbon footprint of our operations is impressive”, said Rob McGlennon, managing

Deceuninck signed-up to the corporate carbon reduction scheme, Science Based Targets (SBTi), last year. It commits companies to demonstrating

28 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

a tangible and measurable reduction in carbon emissions.

Deceuninck, which last year claimed the G-Awards Sustainability Award, has lowered emissions through a combination of initiatives, including dual strategy of lowering usage and sourcing energy from renewable resources.

These accounted for 17.7% of energy used last year compared to 15% in 2021, contributing to a total 35% saving in CO2 from energy usage.

Deceuninck also increased use of recycled materials, lowering CO2 in raw materials by 23%.

This was delivered in part through increased rates of recycling at its multi-million-pound recycling facility which has the capacity to reprocess up to 45,000 tonnes of post-consumer and postmanufacturing PVC-U per year.

This gives Deceuninck a capacity in real terms to prevent more than three million windows from going

TRADE NEWS to landfill annually.

Rob continued: “A 21% reduction in CO2 gives us an answer to the question that every one of us is going to be asked, which is ‘what are you doing to lower your carbon footprint?’

“We know we have more to do, but it is a foundation for the future and something which we are committed to building on.

“It is also a foundation for our customers own sustainability stories and we are committed to supporting them in telling them.”

Deceuninck launched its Energy Calculator in the spring. It’s been designed to generate retail leads by helping installers to demonstrate the energy savings that new windows and doors deliver.

It’s followed this with this autumn’s launch of the new Deceuninck Carbon Calculator.

This makes it easy for fabricators and installers to work out their carbon footprint using the operational data that they already hold and includes tools to help them lower it.

Deceuninck has also created of an extensive bank of marketing materials to help fabricators and installers to tell that story.

With distinct positioning for b2b and b2c audiences this includes positional statements; sustainability brochures; plug-andplay website content; presenter packs; social media decks; through to showroom stands and door-drop leave behinds.

“The aim is to make it easy for fabricators and installers to realise the commercial advantages that sustainability delivers, to encourage them to embark on their own sustainability journeys”, Rob concluded. www.deceuninck.co.uk

Production Capabilities Surge After Heavy Stream of Investment, Says Comp Door From producing its first door in March 2022, Comp Door has experienced remarkable growth thanks to substantial investments in infrastructure, machinery, and personnel.

The company has expanded its production capacity from a modest starting point to 500 doors per week, claims the company, and what started as a staff of just three has surged into a thriving team of 56 employees, encompassing skilled personnel across various departments.

Comp Door’s key investment areas include the newest machinery, increasing headcount and adding to its vehicle fleet to support its customer care capacity.

Currently, the company is continuously building on its machinery and production processes, including adding 3 CNC machines to its production arsenal; an extra vacuum former; another wrapping machine; a new CNC corner cleaner; and a new edge bander.

Additionally, to cater to growing demand, Comp Door has acquired 4 new vans to facilitate the efficient delivery of their doors which is now available nationwide.

Comp Door’s strategic investments align with its mission to become one of the leading composite door manufacturers in the door and window industry. These efforts are key steps in ensuring the company can meet its ambitious aims. The company is constantly looking for new ways to improve and innovate so they can most effectively cater to market demands and remain competitive, having already concentrated some of

its investments on achieving PAS 24:2022 earlier this year, says the company.

Richard Diliberto, sales director for Comp Door, explains, “Comp Door’s success lies in its innovative approach to solving common issues that were rife in the composite door industry. Common issues like warping, weathering, and bowing, combined with subpar customer care used to be what defined composite doors, and we wanted to change that by making it our responsibility to transform the reputation of the industry. We have set a new benchmark for durability and longevity of composite doors, and our dedicated customer service team has been meticulously trained and deployed to provide a level of service previously uncharacteristic in our sector.

This level of measured, responsible investment and dedication to excellence has been pivotal in reshaping the reputation of composite doors.”

Looking ahead, Comp Door shows no signs of slowing down. The company is steadfast in its determination to investing further, with plans to double its production capacity and expand its premises. www.compdoor.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 29

TRADE NEWS

Victorian Sliders

Victorian Sliders comments: “We’d like to congratulate Vantage on this huge achievement.

Which? Trusted Trader

“They’re exactly the sort of reputable, honourable and customer-focused installer we love to deal with, and so it’s no surprise they’ve been recognised

by Which?

Installer Vantage Named A Victorian Sliders customer has been named the winner of a coveted Which? Trusted Traders award.

Vantage Windows & Doors installs an array of sash windows, casements, composite doors, bifolds and more around Glasgow.

businesses across the home improvement sector.

In doing so, it aims to help homeowners find the reliable, quality-focused tradespeople who will offer them an excellent standard of service.

For many years, it’s seen great success as an installer of Victorian Sliders’ high-performing ECOSlide PVCu sash windows.

Vantage is no stranger to receiving awards. From 2018 to 2022, the company was repeatedly named Scotland’s Best Window & Door Company.

The company prides itself on its honesty, fairness and professionalism, and for providing a friendly alternative to oldfashioned pushy sales tactics.

It’s also been frequently recognised for its excellent products and friendly customer service at the Scottish Home Improvement Awards.

Which? Trusted Traders is an endorsement scheme that seeks to celebrate reputable local

Kevin Smith, regional sales manager (Scotland) of longstanding Vantage supplier

30 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

“I hope the award will introduce many more homeowners in Glasgow in beyond to the excellent products and service they provide.”

Vantage managing director Ernie Rea comments: “We’re absolutely delighted to have been named a Which? Trusted Trader.

“It’s hugely satisfying to have all our hard work acknowledged in this way.

“We’d like to thank Victorian Sliders for all their support. They produce the best PVCu sash windows in the UK, and that’s why we continue to buy them.” www.victoriansliders.co.uk

TRADE NEWS

New Investment

In Fleet And Software By Cornwall Glass & Glazing

helps us to reduce our carbon footprint and send less to landfill.”

Cornwall Glass & Glazing’s new IT platform creates new efficiencies across all seven sites, linking orders, quotes and invoicing. This is the first step in a complete overhaul of the company’s internal processes, which precedes project and contract management, alongside the management of labour and transportation resources.

“We worked very closely with Highway Software to develop this bespoke solution, and we are already reaping the benefits,” Paul said. “For example, all data is only entered once into the system, which reduces the chance of human error, and we have better oversight of all orders, so we can progress them quickly, and keep costs to a minimum.

Cornwall Glass & Glazing has taken delivery of eight brandnew transit vans, and has unveiled a new IT platform across its seven sites in the South West. Together, they represent a £500K investment, and build on the high level of customer service the company is known for.

Glazing, said. “We’ve also invested in the latest safety and comfort features, such as cameras and air conditioning.

The eight Ford Transit vans are a key investment for Cornwall Glass & Glazing, because they are fully kitted out with the latest racking and safety features.

“We returned to Supertrucks for all the internal and external racking, so we are confident that all glass is transported safely and efficiently. We’ve worked with Supertrucks for more than 22 years now, and they are recognised as the leading brand.

It is nice to have the confidence to order products we know will last the lifetime of the vehicles.

“Ford Transit vans have served us well over the years, and we see these new vehicles as a significant investment in our brand,” Paul Garrard, managing director of Cornwall Glass &

“There is an environmental benefit to using the latest frails and racks from Supertrucks,” Paul continued. “Glass is loaded in such a way that requires minimal packaging, which

“They are linked to our accounting software, so invoices are accurate and on time. Also, we have got complete visibility of the whole operation, across all sites, no matter where we are based, which allows us to better co-ordinate resources that ultimately benefit our customers.

“The success of this project is thanks to our strong partnership with the team at Highway Software, including Roger Butler (who sadly passed away earlier this year) and Darron Parker-Redman who has worked tirelessly to support the training and integration of all our branches.”

This investment at Cornwall Glass & Glazing is part of a £20 million investment the Cornwall Group has committed to spending on new property, new machinery, specialist fleet vehicles, and other new equipment over the next two years. www.cornwallglass.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 31

TRADE NEWS

Mercury Adds The Stellar Slimline Bifold Door To Its Range Specialist PVC-U and aluminium fabricator Mercury has signed a three-year supply agreement with Epwin Window Systems to manufacture the Stellar slimline aluminium bifold door.

Mercury, a longstanding fabricator of Epwin Window Systems’ vertical sliding sash window system, has enjoyed a 20-year tenure with the systems house, and this extended partnership further demonstrates the strength of the relationship.

Katrina Earl, sales director at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We have worked with the Mercury team for over 20 years and welcome them as a manufacturer of our Stellar slimline bifold door.

Their commitment to product excellence and extensive aluminium fabrication experience makes them an ideal partner to bring the Stellar slimline bifold door to even more projects nationwide.”

According to Epwin Window Systems, the Stellar slimline

32 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

bifold door has gained immense popularity for its exceptional design, outstanding performance and slimline aesthetics. Features include the slim meeting stile which, at just 117mm wide, creates an attractive slim sightline in the closed position.

Installation is straightforward due its pre-gasketed knock-in beads. And the unique patentpending adjustable locking stile allows ease of adjustment on site, eliminating the need for adjustable door jambs, says the company.

The Stellar slimline bifold door delivers excellent thermal efficiency, and its innovative polyamide thermal break technology delivers low thermal conductivity and ensures this high-quality door is highly insulating, says Epwin. It also exceeds the requirements of the 2022 Part L Building Regulations achieving a U-value

TRADE NEWS

Bereco Spearheads

Drive To Eliminate Plastics From Construction Industry She said: “Our goal by the end of 2024 is to use only plastic packaging where we have to with 100 per cent recycled content, but we continue to look for a plastic alternative anyway.

Nicola Harrison, MD of Bereco

of 1.3W/m²K with standard 28mm double glazing and 0.9W/ m²K with 44mm triple glazing.

Commenting on the new agreement, Steve Cross, director at Mercury, said: “We have enjoyed a strong partnership with Epwin Window Systems over the years and we are delighted to be adding the Stellar slimline bifold door to our range. Adding Stellar complements our existing aluminium offering and reinforces our commitment to providing our customers with the best fenestration solutions available today.“ Katrina concluded: “The addition of Stellar to Mercury’s portfolio not only marks the strategic expansion of our offer but stands as a testament to the strength and value of our relationship. We are delighted.” www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

An initiative to rid the construction industry of plastic packaging and other waste is being spearheaded by sustainable timber window and door supplier Bereco.

The firm, which manufactures its products under strict sustainable processes, has recently taken part in Plastic Free July, a campaign organised by The Alliance for Sustainable Building Products (ASBP).

An online summit was organised by the ASPB Reducing Plastics in Construction Group, which brings together representatives from across the building sector to address the use of plastics in products and packaging.

Bereco is a patron member of both the ASBP and the plastics working group. Managing director Nicola Harrison spoke at the summit, outlining what the company has done to eliminate plastic from its own packaging by reusing timber pallets.

“We have successfully replaced plastic paint pots, handle wrappers and plastic tape, and our banding is made from biodegradable polymer which allows the product to be fully decomposed at the end of its use. Plus, we’ve even replaced 50% of our product wrapping with a 100% recycled option and are actively working towards rolling this out further to the remaining 50%.

“Unfortunately, we’re yet to find a suitable alternative for our shrink wrap because of the nature of our products and their needing protection in transit and on-site.

We’ve found that 100% recycled shrink wrap isn’t strong enough while the biodegradable options stick to the products and damage the finish. However, what we do use has a minimum 30 per cent recycled content.”

Made from naturally renewable materials means that Bereco’s timber products are carbon negative and come from sustainable forests. In fact, since the company first launched almost 20 years ago, the company has successfully saved over 66 million kg of CO2 – the equivalent of taking 22,008 cars off the road in the UK, says Bereco. www.bereco.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 33

TRADE NEWS

75% Of Homeowners

Expect ADR From Home Improvement Contractors,

Says Dispute Assist Three-quarters (75%) of homeowners are more likely to use a home improvement contractor who is part of an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) scheme, meaning businesses who aren’t embracing ADR could be missing out on new business,

according to a new report from dispute resolution provider Dispute Assist.

The Future of Disputes in Home Improvement report found that once given a definition of ADR, 64% of homeowners would consider using it in the future to

34 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

settle their disputes with home improvement contractors. Whilst 31% were still unsure, just 5% of respondents were unwilling to use it.

ADR is a bank of dispute resolution methods which includes mediation, conciliation, arbitration and expert determination. These methods can all help to resolve disputes between home improvement contractors and customers without going down the court route, and they are often significantly cheaper and quicker than filing a claim through the legal system.

According to Dispute Assist, knowing they will have easy

TRADE NEWS access to an ADR provider if something goes wrong can improve customer trust in a home improvement contractor, and if they advertise their involvement in an ADR scheme it can help to boost their reputation and win them new customers too.

The findings illustrate just how fearful customers are of resolving disputes through the courts, with 56% of homeowners admitting that they found it stressful when asked to describe their experience.

Almost half (49%) found the process to be lengthy, 29% said it was expensive, and a similar number of people (26%) said that courtroom resolutions were disappointing. At the other end of the scale, just 21% thought that the court process was easy and only 18% said it was quick.

When asked the same question, tradespeople shared similar negative experiences of the courts, as 63% stated that proceedings were stressful and 40% said they were lengthy.

39% agreed that court was expensive and 29% shared their disappointment with the outcome.

Ciarán Harkin, managing director of Dispute Assist, said: “The potential for disputes between contractors and customers is currently exacerbated by the economic circumstances impacting the home improvement sector, such as supply chain shortages and the increased cost of materials.

“Our findings show that court proceedings are unlikely to be the answer to contractors’ dispute woes, therefore it is crucial that contractors understand how to reach a

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solution with customers at the soonest point possible to protect their businesses financially and reputationally.

“With 33% of contractors also admitting that they aren’t sure how to choose an ADR scheme, greater education is needed to illustrate the value of ADR to businesses operating within the home improvement and renewables sectors. Crucially, businesses also need to know that by joining an ADR scheme, new customers can see they are serious about customer satisfaction and that their finances and homes will be protected if something goes wrong during works. It really is a win-win for both customer and contractor.”

You can read the full findings of Dispute Assist’s latest report here: https://bit.ly/46OHU9S

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TRADE NEWS

Vailancia Rebelo (left) from Ecotec Windows and Nicky Park (right) from Euroglaze initial enquiry, all the way to the now work side by side at the company’s Barnsley HQ delivery to site.”

Meet The Euroglaze Family Having built its reputation over 40+ years as one of the best one-stop shop suppliers of Rehau PVC-U windows and composite doors for the mainstream market, Euroglaze is now introducing trade customers to its sister brand supplying premium products for high end properties.

Martin Nettleton, Euroglaze’s managing director, explains: “This is all about giving existing customers opportunities to expand out of the mainstream and into higher margin sectors, which are arguably better insulated from the cost of living crisis.

“Ecotec Architectural Window Solutions has been a successful part of the Euroglaze group for nearly a decade, supplying products from the likes of

Rationel, Internorm, Solarlux and Velfac. It has its own sales team and its own stylish showroom just off the M1 near Rotherham open to trade, commercial and retail buyers.

“What’s new though is that the Ecotec customer service team, led by Vailancia Rebelo, is now embedded within our customer service department here at Euroglaze in Barnsley, giving our existing installers and stockists a simple way to access these premium ranges.

“The Ecotec products may be new to Euroglaze customers, but the personalised service they can expect from our experts who really care about what they are selling will be very familiar. Both brands share the same commitment to quality at every touchpoint – from the

36 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

Euroglaze says ‘Ecotec products are aimed at high end, often bespoke projects where the emphasis is generally on achieving the wow factor – whether that’s with Solarlux’s panoramic sliders and bifolds, Rationel’s Passive House as standard aluminium-clad timber windows and doors or Internorm’s high performance aluminium clad timber and PVC-U options capable of achieving U-Values as low as 0.61.’

The Ecotec team can advise customers on choosing the right system, specifying the product and on design and planning considerations. Martin Nettleton added: “We can help installers target projects they might previously have turned down because they didn’t have the right supply partner in place.

It’s taking our one-stop shop concept to a whole new level.” https://www.ecotecwindows.com/

Ultraframe Recognised for

Environmental

Performance

TRADE NEWS Ultraframe has been recognised for its commitment to reducing its environmental footprint when it was recently awarded the ISO 14001:2015 certification.

The accreditation specifies the requirements for an environmental management system (EMS) that an organisation can use to enhance its environmental performance. The implementation of the EMS helps organisations to improve their environmental performance through more efficient use of resources and reduction of waste.

Commenting on the recognition for the company

by ISO, Ultraframe operations director, Andy Crowe, said: “Every business has a moral responsibility to ensure that it is doing everything it can to positively influence change and its impact on the environment, and that is something that is of utmost importance to all of us here at Ultraframe. It has taken 16 months of hard work from commencing the project to completing the Stage 2 audit and being recommended for accreditation with a cross-functional team comprising members of the senior leadership team, QHSE Team, and the waste team involved in the project.

Minimising our impact on the environment is a huge part of everything we do, with many of our systems using manufacturing processes that eliminate or minimise waste. The core concept of ISO 14001 is that organisations must develop a clear set of environmental policies and then use a set of best practices to proactively monitor whether those policies are being adhered to, and continuously improve the system based on ongoing feedback and results.

We are now on a 3-year surveillance cycle with 2.5 days’ worth of external auditing by BSI per year which will form a key part of our environmental journey. We are thrilled that this ongoing commitment to minimising our impact on the environment has been recognised with us being awarded the coveted ISO 14001:2015 certification.”

ISO is a leading international standard-setting organisation. Since the introduction of ISO 14001 in 1996, it has been adopted by over 300,000 organisations, ranging from small businesses to some of the world’s largest firms. ISO 14001 is one of around 23,000 standards that have been put forward by the ISO since its formation in 1947.

As with all ISO standards, ISO 14001 is not a specific set of instructions to be narrowly executed by the participating firm but is more a set of guidelines and standards that must be tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of each individual organisation.

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 37

TRADE NEWS

Alunet Systems

Hosts Successful Open Day Alunet Systems hosted an open day event on the 4th of October to unveil its latest innovations and emphasise its continued growth and development in the field.

The event offered attendees a firsthand look at Alunet Systems’ products, including the brand-new Aluna rooflight and the innovative clip-in bead design for their versatile BF73 system.

Alunet Systems says it is committed to staying at the forefront of market trends and customer demands.

With a focus on delivering

contemporary, sleek, and functional designs that seamlessly integrate into modern homes.

The Aluna rooflight offers a modern design that enhances natural light while providing easy maintenance. According to Alunet Systems, with its sleek aesthetics and advanced functionality, the Aluna rooflight ‘is set to become a musthave addition to contemporary homes’. The innovative bifold clip-in bead design addresses both aesthetic and functional concerns. This design not only enhances the visual appeal of the versatile BF73 system, but

38 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

also simplifies installation and maintenance.

Managing director of Alunet Systems, Steve Kendrick commented, “Our commitment to delivering top-tier products that meet the evolving needs of our customers remains unwavering. The open day was an opportunity to not only showcase our latest innovations but also connect with industry leaders and partners who share our passion for excellence.”

The presentation of the new products was also in addition to the showcasing of other popular products from the range launched earlier this year, including the contemporary and energy efficient ACW81 window and ESS47 sliding patio door systems. https://www.alunetsystems.co.uk/

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TRADE NEWS

Sternfenster Launches New Delivery Tracking Service Sternfenster has launched a vehicle tracking service, which gives customers greater visibility of their deliveries, and feeds through to improved

profits and opportunities, claims the company. This announcement comes as the national fabricator’s transport division is posting on-time-in-

40 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

full figures of more than 99.5%.

Sternfenster was the first PVC fabricator in the UK to use barcoding tracking all the way through to delivery. It has used barcoding to track frames and glass through production, on to vehicles, and out to customers since 2008.

“Our two-hour delivery window has been our standard for years,” sales director Nathan Court said. “Drivers plan their journeys several days in advance, so they can give our

TRADE NEWS (13.7%), all were early so there were no negative repercussions for the customer. None were late.

“We are proud of this achievement because it demonstrates that we have been investing in the right areas of the business for our customers’ benefit.”

54 NBP Customers Win

Cash Prizes During Women’s World Cup

“Time spent on site is expensive,” he said. “If our customers know that we will be arriving on site in a two-hour window, it allows them to plan their day productively, either by scheduling time on another job, or by finishing on site early.

“Time spent unnecessarily waiting is wasted profit, so we are putting money directly in the pockets of our customers!”

Sternfenster has invested heavily in IT in recent years as the company creates closer working relationships with its customers.

This results in greater visibility of operations so efficiencies can be made in manufacturing, ordering and installation.

customers a two-hour window for delivery, which allows them to plan their days more effectively.

“If we look at a recent fiveweek window over the summer, our drivers were achieving an average on-time-in-full figure of 99.88%.

“If we take the latest week’s figures, we can see that the vast majority of deliveries (83.1%) arrived in the first hour. And of those that arrived outside of the agreed two-hour window

Central to this strategy is Sternfenster’s EasyAdmin system, which allows businesses to produce professional quotes very quickly for homeowners. It also allows window installation companies to have complete oversight of their profit and loss.

This information is updated daily and allows business owners to see the health of their accounts in real time.

“More than 50% of our orders now come to us via EasyAdmin, and we are in the process of upgrading the software so that will integrate more closely with our other IT services,” Nathan said, “as well as giving them more control over their operations, saving money in the process.” www.sternfenster.com

Customers of Northern Building Plastics have been hitting the back of the net this summer thanks to their World Cup Giveaway competition. Every working day during the Women’s World Cup, NBP gave away £20 for each match played that day to a customer who ordered online. They also doubled the prize, whenever England won, and tripled the prize whenever a hat-trick was scored, resulting in £1,680 worth of cash prizes given away to 54 customers.

This was the second time that NBP ran their World Cup Giveaway competition following the 2022 World Cup last winter, which went down a storm with customers, says the company.

Stephen Jones, sales director at Northern Building Plastics, said: “We’re always looking at how to reward our loyal customers, and after the success of the World Cup Giveaway last year we decided to run it again this year for the Women’s World Cup. “Competitions like this are one of the many perks of being an NBP customer, alongside our huge product range and incredibly efficient service”. www.nbp.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 41

TRADE NEWS

TuffX Expands Premises In Response To Demand TuffX has extended its factory by 10,000ft, making room for new machinery to support the on-going growth in production of its Infinity roof lights range.

The Knowsley premises has expanded into an adjoining unit, with the additional space dedicated to the production of Infinity products. The premises are being increased to meet growing demand for the toughened safety glass specialist’s range of roof lights, walk-on units, fire-rated walk on units and roof lanterns.

As part of the expansion, in what will be a £1m investment in total, TuffX has purchased more new machinery to support its growing output. This includes a new TK heat soak oven and a Dip-Tech digital printing

machine, which will be used not only to print opaque borders onto Infinity glass products but also to allow patterns to be added to other TuffX products, such as personalising balcony glass with company logos, for example.

TuffX has also purchased a fourth Bovone straight line edging (SLE) machine, which is used to finish edges on popular processed glass products such as balcony and balustrade glass at varying thicknesses.

This machine will go into the original factory site where more space has now been created after the relocation of Infinity’s production.

“Demand for our infinity roof lights has grown year on year since their introduction, as

42 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

they’ve proved popular with homeowners and installers alike thanks to their easy ‘straight from the box’ installation,” said TuffX’s commercial director Paul Higgins.

“Demand for laminated glass has also grown, due to the popularity of glass balustrades and balconies in both commercial and residential properties. So increasing our premises will ensure we have the room and equipment we need to meet these demands.

“Our factory expansion is the latest part of our planned schedule of on-going investment which has included more machinery, space, staff and fleet vehicles. So we can ensure we have what and who we need to make sure our specialist products get to the people who want them – on time, anywhere in the UK, all produced and delivered with the consistently high quality our customers know to expect from us.” www.tuffxglass.co.uk

TRADE NEWS and regulators to Framexpress Joins The Association authorities influence the future direction of the Of Composite Door Manufacturers composite door industry.

Framexpress, trade supplier of PVCu and aluminium windows, doors and conservatories, has announced its membership of the Association of Composite Door Manufacturers (ACDM).

Jonny Green, principal roduct manager says: “We are delighted to join the ACDM and to be part of a network of like-minded professionals who share our passion for quality and excellence in composite doors. We are always By joining the ACDM, Framexpress looking for ways to improve aims to gain more insight into our product range, and to meet the latest developments and the needs and expectations of innovations in composite doors, our customers. By being part as well as to stay updated of the ACDM, we will be able on the upcoming changes in compliant composite doors for to access valuable information, fire door legislation, with their their projects and help to keep their and resources that will help us to recently launched Fire Doors residents safe. achieve the right results for our

By Framexpress range. The customers, especially with many company believes that being The ACDM was established in upcoming changes to fire door part of the ACDM will help it offer 2018 to promote the benefits of legislation. Framexpress looks better products and services to composite doors and to ensure forward to a fruitful partnership its customers, especially window that they meet the highest with the ACDM and anticipates installers, social landlords, standards of quality, performance, using its membership to benefit contractors, and passive fire and safety. The association the wider glazing and construction companies who need reliable and also works closely with relevant industry.” www.framexpress.co.uk

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TRADE NEWS

Comp Door

And Emerald Windows And Doors:

A Year of Successful Partnership

Staffordshire manufacturer and supplier Comp Door have recently marked the one-year anniversary of their partnership with Swindon-based installer Emerald Windows and Doors.

The milestone signifies phases of impressive growth for both companies as they continue to expand their businesses.

Established in 2004, Emerald Windows have been serving homes in the South West with window and door installations for almost two decades, building a loyal base of customers.

Emerald Windows and Doors are said to have managed to continuously provide a personal, dedicated service to their customers despite their impressive growth over the years. Prioritizing customer care means Emerald has had to be selective about choosing reliable suppliers with shared values, so when they grew increasingly dissatisfied with their previous supplier, they knew it was time for a change. At the 2022 FIT

44 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

TRADE NEWS Show, Emerald Windows and Doors were introduced to Comp Door and soon after, the decision was made to make them their sole supplier. Now, a year since their introduction, Comp Door and Emerald have built a successful partnership.

Managing director of Emerald Windows and Doors, Martin Brett, explained “We managed to find Comp Door at the perfect time, and have been really happy with our decision to make them our sole supplier since. There were so many things that drew us to Comp Door, from their impressive product range to their dedicated customer care, they a refreshing change from their competitors.

Working with Comp Door means we have a composite door that we are truly proud of.

We love it, our installers love it, and most importantly our customers love it. With Comp Door, there is so much we can offer our customers, and know that there is so much more to come! Comp Door are extremely accommodating and pleasant to work with and allow us to offer our customer the best composite door on the market, at a very competitive price.”

Commenting on the partnership, sales director of Comp Door, Richard Diliberto says, “As a company, we value integrity, quality and customer care above all else. It was evident almost immediately that these values were shared by Emerald Windows, which has made this partnership so successful this past year. Reflecting on what we’ve achieved so far and what our collaboration has brought to the industry, I’m really looking forward to developing the partnership and supplying Emerald Windows and Doors with our ever-growing product range.” www.compdoor.co.uk/ www.emeraldupvcwindows.com/

Reduced Lead Times From DoorCo Across

Standard And Painted Doors DoorCo has announced reduced lead times for standard and painted prepped doors from 4th September 2023.

The move follows a period of consolidation which has seen a restructured and revitalised team combined with renovation of their Macclesfield hub for added capacity.

“DoorCo is a customer-centric organisation, meaning our customers are at the heart of everything we do”, says Dan Sullivan, DoorCo MD. “Our products, services and innovations are driven by their feedback to ensure that anything we invest in will directly benefit them. It’s key that we can enhance their composite door offering to help them grow.

“In a recent survey, one of the key areas where customers wanted to see improvement was the turnaround on prepped doors so they could better meet the demand from their customers and service them in a timely and efficient manner.

This was already in focus for the team as part of our consolidation project, following our well documented journey to market leadership and our G22 Component Supplier of the Year award”.

Aaron Williamson, head of manufacturing at DoorCo continues: “We are determined to make the customer experience of DoorCo the best it can be and in order to deliver, we’ve made significant investment in assessing, amending and updating the business. Our aim was to keep building on our strong foundations and ensure that

we continue to consistently deliver against our compass and values, now and in the future.

“From our team – getting the right people in the right roles – to a full redesign of the shopfloor, we’ve opened up capacity, improved communication and most importantly, reduced manufacturing lead times.

Standard prepped doors will now be delivered in 7 days and painted doors in 9.

“Customer retention is at the heart of our service-driven approach, to be best in class and to support customers in as many ways as possible. Our focus going forward is to deliver yet more value to our existing customers. All departments are involved in identifying and developing ways in which we can deliver at every step, putting the customer at the heart of what we do. We have big plans and with the people we now have in place, who believe in our values, we can demonstrate that we are serious when we say our customers are at the heart of everything we do and their positive experience of us, as a supply partner, is paramount.” trade.door-co.com WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 45

TRADE NEWS

UAP Boosts Door Pack Range UAP, the specialist in locks and hardware for doors and windows, has extended its range of door packs.

Manufacturers and end users can now choose from 17 different finishes, including matt black, gunmetal grey, brass, matt-antique brass, pearl, satin nickel, polished nickel, and bronze. To match more contemporary interiors a variety of dual finishes are also available.

Manufactured under UAP’s Intelligent Hardware brand, the door packs offer customers a choice of more than 90 handle styles and are designed to

simplify both the selection and installation process.

To meet diverse needs, there are four types of door pack available, including a latch pack, lock pack, bathroom pack, and fire door pack. Compatible with any internal door, the packs can also be customised providing customers with bespoke options, including branded packs.

“Doors packs provide a very convenient option for our customers as they come complete with everything that is needed for a specific door application across both the residential and commercial

46 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

sectors,” explained Simon Marr, Intelligent Hardware general manager.

“From the door hardware to the accompanying screws and fixings, all the essential components are bundled together in a user-friendly box.

“Thanks to the ease and convenience offered by our vast range of door packs, we have seen sales rapidly rise in recent years. During the 2022-23 financial year alone, we supplied more than 78,000 packs demonstrating the popularity of these products and our commitment to the highest levels of customer service.”

Intelligent Hardware’s door packs form part of UAP’s Product of the Month campaign which shines a light on the products in most demand across the fenestration industry. uapcorporate.com

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More information: www.uapcorporate.com/flexi-lock WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 47

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.To find out more see www.businesspilot.co.uk/barometer

The Business Pilot Barometer Back up to speed?

By Neil Cooper-Smith, Senior Analyst, Business Pilot As we head into the final quarter of 2023, the industry is in much better shape than at the start of the year. Looking back to my forecast for the year ahead in January, I was realistic about the market pressures, while highlighting opportunities for those companies looking to diversify.

Today, many of those squeezes on household finances that I detailed, are now starting to ease.

For example, inflation continues to fall. It may still be at 6.7%, above the target of 2%, but it was above 11% a year ago. This downward trajectory reassured the Bank of England enough for them to keep the interest rate at 5.25% in September, and they expect inflation to fall to around 5% by the end of the year.

This is good news for homeowners who are seeing that confidence filter down to reduced high street mortgage interest rates. And as the cost of borrowing starts to come down, homeowners – as well as businesses – should look to increase investment.

The biggest impact on inflation was the war in Ukraine and the spiralling energy costs. While the war continues, energy costs have come down and seemingly stabilised. The energy regulator 48 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

VIEWPOINT Ofgem subsequently reduced the energy cap for the final quarter of 2023, bringing the average dual-fuel bill down to below £2,000 for the first time since April 2022. Energy shortage also seems unlikely this winter.

We are seeing this steady return to confidence play out in the Business Pilot Barometer, as we have done for the last couple of months.

The headline figure is that the average number of leads remains strong. While September was marginally up on August at 99.5, it was 27.2% higher than the same period last year. I think this is remarkable because this final quarter will lay the foundations for how we expect 2024 to look in January, and this is a good start.

Finally, we continue to see the average conversion rate continue to rise. This time last year, it stood at 34.8%. In September 2023, that figure was 44.3%, which is approaching the territory of companies converting one in every two leads.

I’ve argued that this may be down to the fact that homeowners are conducting more research before approaching fewer window companies for quotes, but don’t forget that these figures are taken from companies that use the Business Pilot software to help manage leads, quotes and conversions. So, if you are not a Business Pilot customer, and your conversion rate is below 44.3%, maybe now is the time to look systemising your processes?

September’s average sales figures follow a similar pattern: at 47.6, September was marginally up on August, but 29.3% up on the same period last year. Together, these demonstrate that industry is in a more positive place that it was heading into the difficult winter of 2022.

One figure that caught me slightly off guard was the average order value. I had been expecting to see this figure increase as we head towards the end of the year, as in previous years. But, at £3,860, it is down 10.1% on August, and 20.4% on September 2022.

On closer analysis, this reflects the positive shift in behaviour we detailed above. For most of 2023, the market for new windows and doors has relied heavily on the upper end of the market, and homeowners who have spare cash to invest in home improvements, thus pushing up that average order value.

Instead, we are seeing increased interest from the rest of the market. I don’t think this means you should ditch the coloured flush casements, but rather give equal billing to your standard products when it comes to marketing.

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 49

VIEWPOINT

Antique Black Hardware Issues Sorted

The trend for black antique door hardware is showing no signs of slowing down as period properties and historic buildings are enhanced by its effortless elegance and class. However, the more traditional base material of malleable iron can lead to endless problems for homeowners, manufacturers and fitters.

In response to growing demand, Coastal Group has developed an innovative range of hardware that incorporates traditional design and modern performance with none of the drawbacks.

“We all love the look that’s achieved with black antique hardware,” explains Coastal Group’s managing director, Loren Jenner. “But in the past, it often comes with an apology that rust and droopy handles are inevitable. It was a great project for our new product development team who got stuck in to finding an alternative.”

The resulting Duratique range addresses the following key issues raised by customers.

Hardware rusting and failing No-one wants to see their stylish new front door ruined by rusting hardware.

Those brown streaks running down door panels are never a good look but rusting is a massive problem with antique hardware and one of the most common causes of site callbacks.

The most common problems of rust, corrosion and droop have been resolved with an innovative range of door hardware from Coastal Group, as the company explains.

50 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

As well as the expense of fixing these issues, it’s not great for any door manufacturer’s or installer’s reputation.

Coastal Group’s Duratique range delivers the same aesthetic with none of the rust:

VIEWPOINT • The base material is cast stainless steel, so even if the top coat is damaged the hardware won’t rust • The hardware is coated with a durable electrostatic polymer top-coat in an antique finish for protection • All fixings and components are also stainless steel, with their external face finished to match the hardware so no more nasty rust streaks ruining the door • Handles have been successfully Salt Spray Tested to Class 5, so even in seaside environments they resist the elements and keep their stylish good looks Inconsistent finishes making it time consuming and awkward to fit Door manufacturers prioritise quality, ensuring the highest standards for their customers. But when it comes to adding the finishing touches with black antique door hardware, the handles, knockers and fixings may all be slightly different sizes; not ideal for speed and efficiency.

Fixing locations on Duratique products are CNC machined so door manufacturers can batch-produce, saving time and making it much quicker and easier to fit the door hardware.

Handle droop and spindle rattle How many times have you seen play in a black antique door handle? The handle droops, the spindle rattles and you have to move it a few degrees before it operates the lever?

The Duratique door handle range is fitted with a high quality dual sprung mechanism. This, combined with the high quality spindle, ensures a nice positive action, returning the handle consistently to its original position, every time.

YOUR DOORS.

MADE BETTER The Duratique range of black antique hardware brings all the style, quality and class of traditional black hardware with none of the challenges y Made from stainless steel so no rust or corrosion y Quality dual-sprung mechanism to prevent handle droop y Suitable for use with all multi-point locks

They’re even independently tested for durability, to BS EN 12217, achieving 200,000 cycles.

For use on timber, aluminium, PVC and composite doors

For a consistent elegant feel across doors and windows, installers can now offer customers a suited range, complimenting Duratique door hardware with matching black antique window handles.

Take your doors to the next level with the hardware they deserve – get in touch to discuss pricing and find out more.

Physically seeing and feeling the robust quality of Duratique hardware makes the decision easy for homeowners, so Coastal Group can provide stunning showroom display boards. These impressive displays simplify the selection process for customers and give door manufacturers and installers an easy upsell.

E: sales@coastal-group.com T: 01726 871025

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Find out more about the Duratique range and showroom display boards at www.coastal-group.com WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 51

www.coastal-group.com

VIEWPOINT

Past, Present

And Future During a centenary year, it is not just about celebrating the past, it is about planning for the future, explains Dave Broxton, MD at Bohle. We report.

Bohle was founded in 1923 by Josef Bohle, which makes 2023 the glass consumables supplier’s centenary year. But Bohle’s MD Dave Broxton believes the company’s strength is not just its longevity, but its ability to keep

reinventing itself and remaining relevant for its customers.

Prospering

“Right now, I think the key challenges for the UK glass processing industry is purely and simply the economic situation,” Dave says. “I think we’re at a time when inflation is high, GDP growth is nominal, and everyone is trying to hang

52 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

Dave Broxton

on to market share.

“And the danger is that we will find ourselves in a race to the bottom. But – I can speak with 40 years’ experience under my belt – it is the companies that diversify, and those that stay at the quality end of the marketplace, which survive when the conditions become difficult.”

Dave says that staying calm, controlling costs, and maintaining high levels of quality and service are what leads to success.

“It’s not the centenary, or the longevity of the business that makes the business great, it’s all the stuff that has led to Bohle

VIEWPOINT

Progress “Today, we are not just a distributor of glass hardware,” he says. “We are now a manufacturer of glass hardware with our own brands, our own R&D, and our own designs.”

remaining in business and thriving, prospering, growing over all those years – that’s what defines us as a business.

“That’s very much down to the people that run the business, and the people that work within the business. We are a company that is about knowledge sharing – we don’t just sell you a product, we will give you training on that product for free. And we have a great field sales team who can come out and teach you in your own premises.”

In return, this investment in people, Dave says, leads to customer-led product development and the agility to adapt the business according to the needs of the industry.

Developed and designed by Bohle, the Juna shower door hinge combines aesthetics and functionality with quality.

Minimum shut lines and concealed screws emphasize the supreme aesthetics of this swinging shower door hinge.

In terms of performance, this premium hinge is made of brass and stainless steel. Juna also guarantees a long service life with 100,000 test cycles to DIN EN 14428 and a load capacity up to 50 kg.

In May 2023, Bohle attended the FIT Show, where it targeted home improvement companies with a range of easy-to-install products, including: its new Juliet Balcony System, Lyon; the FrameTec 2.0 internal glass partitioning system; and the MasterTrack FT high-end sliding door system.

“We really feel confident that the Bohle business will still be here in 100 years’ time,” Dave says.

“It may be very different because I think in the 14 years that I’ve been at Bohle, I’ve noticed a

number of changes. We used to be very dependent on the turnover in machinery, but the machinery market has moved on and we’ve moved on. Now we are much more about glass hardware.

“But we can still give you expert advice on things like UV bonding, suction lifters, glass cutting. Customers trust Bohle because we always give them the best advice. They can call, speak to anyone and know that the answer that they will get to any question will be accurate and in that way they can progress their business, too.”

In that regard, Dave concludes, much has stayed the same: investing in people, focusing on customer support, and promoting quality and professionalism.

“We are rightly proud of the history and the legacy of Bohle,” Dave concludes. “But Bohle is a business that is always looking to the future. Our strategy – and everything that we do – is geared to moving the company forward, which in turn creates new opportunities for our customers.”

For more about Bohle’s product and service offer, including the latest Home Improvements brochure, visit www.bohle.com email info@bohle.ltd.uk WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 53

VIEWPOINT Once the door is installed, customers can purchase a Home Hub from the Kubu website. They can then connect this to their home wi-fi, download the Kubu app to their smartphone, and fit the Kubu door module into their door lock.

Embracing The Future Dekko Window Systems sales director Kurt Greatrex discusses the smart home revolution and why installers need to upgrade and innovate.

water shut-off valves that can prevent costly water damage by alerting homeowners to leaks and automatically turning off the water supply.

In the age of digital transformation, the smart home revolution has fundamentally changed the way we interact with our living spaces.

The missing piece

From thermostats that learn our preferences to voice-activated lighting systems, the concept of a connected home is no longer the stuff of science fiction, and as technology advances at breakneck speed, our homes are getting smarter by the day.

But one area seems to be lagging behind – windows and doors.

The plumbing and heating lead When it comes to integrating smart tech into our homes, plumbing and heating systems have certainly taken the lead. Smart thermostats like Nest Learning and Hive have become household names, allowing homeowners to control their heating and cooling systems remotely, adjust temperatures based on their schedule, and even save on energy bills through adapted learning.

Likewise, plumbing systems have seen significant advancements with smart leak detectors and

Despite these impressive strides in plumbing and heating, the windows and doors of our homes seem to have been left out of the smart tech revolution.

In most households, these vital components remain static, offering little more than protection from the elements and intruders.

But in an era where convenience, energy efficiency and security are paramount, it’s high time installers step up their game and offer a unique product that homeowners won’t refuse. At Dekko, we supply Kubu, the smart security sensor from Avantis hardware, in order to help our installer customers get ahead of the competition.

How does it work?

Kubu smart security sensors can be incorporated into the design of almost any Dekko entrance door – a smart sensor is attached to the door, which is then linked to the homeowner’s smartphone. The homeowner can then check the status of the door at any time, from any location.

54 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

A sensor inside the Kubu door module is then activated every time the door is locked or unlocked.

The activation sends a signal to the user’s smartphone, and the app lets them see the security status of their door from wherever they are.

Fitting doors that work with Kubu doesn’t require any extra installation time – simply fit the door as normal, as the Kubu smart security sensor is supplied ready to be activated.

In addition, once set up, installers won’t have to worry about it again – with a dedicated Kubu support team at Dekko to answer questions, they won’t have to take on any technical queries from customers.

Getting ahead As the smart home revolution continues to shape the way we live, installers have an opportunity to play a pivotal role in this transformation.

Innovations in energy efficiency, security, integration and userfriendliness are key to meeting the demands of modern homeowners who seek comfort, convenience and sustainability, and installers who embrace this challenge are not only positioning themselves for success in a rapidly changing market, but are also helping to make our homes smarter, safer, and more efficient places to live.

If you’re an installer looking to get ahead in rapidly evolving market, Kubu smart security sensors are the latest in smart home tech that your customers won’t be able to turn down. www.dekkowindows.com

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VIEWPOINT

Rapierstar: 30 years of raising the bar Rapierstar is the largest specialist designer and supplier of window and door screws in the UK and Ireland with a turnover of more than £12m.

The company started life 31 years ago at the home of founder and MD David Furness as Architectural Supplies Limited, who spotted an opportunity to challenge the market’s established players. At that time, David believed that window fasteners were too often either low grade, cheap and poor quality products, which were causing huge problems for fabricators and damaging consumer confidence in finished

windows and doors, or overengineered and phenomenally expensive.

His vision was to bring to the market a uniquely innovative, technologically advanced and keenly priced branded range of fastener solutions, and it proved a success with the rapid development of its customer base.

After 13 years as Architectural Supplies Limited, David believed the next stage in their development was to encapsulate all the products it offered, backed by a strong customer support ethos, to be much more than ‘just a

56 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

fastener supplier’. Hence, in 2005 the Rapierstar brand was launched, along with its family of trademarked product ranges, including StarPVCU window screws, StarTurn universal timber screws, StarFix masonry fixings and StarPin polymer headed pins and nails.

Today Rapierstar operates from a 100,000 sq. ft HQ and bonded distribution and technical centre near Macclesfield in Cheshire, where more than 20 people are

VIEWPOINT

employed and stock of more than one billion individual items is held at any time. By holding many months of stock, the company is able to absorb the impacts of disrupted global trade, as observed in both the pandemic and Brexit, to offer stability to customers across the UK and Ireland.

How Rapierstar is different One of the company’s greatest assets and differentiators is its technically skilled, customerfocused team. They provide a unique specialist advice service rooted in fastener expertise with a focus on the fenestration market.

Rapierstar’s skilled and knowledgeable team supports fabricators, installers, systems companies and hardware manufacturers. By working right across the industry, they are in an excellent position to help

customers achieve more, whether that’s improving the quality of their products, getting new products through tough testing regimes, overcoming technical issues or boosting productivity efficiency and health and safety in their factories.

and construction of every building element, including doors and windows. This is necessary because they are often taken for granted due to the fact that they are so small and – per unit – by far the lowest cost component in the finished product.

Over three decades Rapierstar has established long term partnerships with outstanding manufacturers across the globe, which ensures it is in full control of product design, manufacture and supply, to deliver consistently high-quality fasteners to customers. This is maintained and checked by the rigorous testing of every batch of fasteners arriving at its UK HQ in its own technical centre.

As the team has seen on numerous occasions, however, one failure such as a friction stay screw breaking and causing the casement to fall loose, can have costly consequences in terms of call-backs and reputation.

Achieving technical excellence Rapierstar works constantly to highlight the crucial role that fasteners play in the assembly

The quality and performance of the highly engineered PVCu and aluminium window systems in today’s market depends upon the weakest link in the chain – which can be the fasteners used in assembly. This is one of the reasons why the vast majority of the UK’s fenestration industry Continued on page 58 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 57

VIEWPOINT

Continued from page 57

rely on Rapierstar for the correct advice in selecting the best screw for each application and consistently reliable delivery.

How have fasteners evolved in the past three decades?

Today’s window screws are vastly superior in every way versus those of the early 1990s. The plating and passivation performance of Rapierstar products helps to provide increased corrosion resistance to exceed extended guarantees and the products are far stronger, but also more forgiving.

Point technology has increased speed of insertion and, therefore, fabricator efficiency, capable of meeting the high demands of modern production. This is why leading hardware manufacturers recommend Rapierstar screws, and why the company works with all the major profile manufacturers to develop Recommended Fixing Manuals (RFMs) – these are available to all fabricators to download at www.rapierstar.com.

long term strategy of re-investing profits. This means it continuously improves the way it operates, and it is able to innovate with new products.

design to develop new products and enhanced cybersecurity protection. All these provide a solid platform for the business to thrive in the digital age.

In the last two years Rapierstar has implemented many major upgrades behind the scenes, including cloud-based solutions, a world-class ERP system and fully integrated business management systems on a par with, if not ahead of, many multinational businesses. The latest digital technology is at the core of everything Rapierstar does, such as the latest version of Microsoft Business Central as its business management platform, increased use of Solidworks computer aided

Running parallel to this has been on-going investment in its R&D programme. A number of patented new product developments are in the pipeline for different applications across the construction industry. These reflect Rapierstar’s design capabilities and offer new potential for the business in its next era alongside its position of market-leadership in the fenestration market.

The next era for Rapierstar The business is in excellent shape for the next 30 years thanks to its 58 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

Find out more at www.rapierstar.com.

VIEWPOINT the initial questions for their own window journey.

As well as the home, focus the photography on the parts of the products that the customer could have questions about, such as coloured frames, hardware and Georgian bar.

Installers should access permission from the homeowners of their projects to capture before and after shots to showcase the window transformation. If budget allows, invest in a professional photographer to capture the project.

Customer experience

Jo Trotman

Attract New Business With The Use Of Customer Testimonials

Jo Trotman, marketing manager at The Residence Collection and Window Widgets, says positive customer testimonials are key for installers to drive new and repeat business.

In a world where consumers search for products and services for almost every aspect of their lives, it’s vital for brands to stand out positively from the rest, and be seen as a trusted and credible company.

Our recent research found that more than a quarter of British homeowners (27%) had never installed new windows, but for one in five (20%) this was the home feature that was in the biggest need of replacement.

With consumers struggling to define the good from the bad online, they are searching for a brand that is humanised and has a stamp of approval from existing customers, especially with higher priced purchases – this is where testimonials come in and installers have them right

at their fingertips.

Positive testimonials instil a level of trust with potential customers browsing the websites and social media channels of installers, while also creating a point of difference from competitors who offer alternative products and services.

Likewise, testimonials demonstrate an installer’s knowledge and awareness of the need for a good customer experience throughout the installation process, giving new customers the satisfaction that their journey will be smooth sailing.

Visuals are key Being able to show previous window installation projects to potential customers through high-quality photography is key. Consumers will be able to visualise how a product could look if installed in their own homes, and also might initiate

A new window installation is set to transform a homeowner’s property and is a huge investment with the potential to lower energy bills and boost customer’s home value.

Installers should talk to their customers and find out their thoughts on their experience and journey throughout the project.

Take on board their feedback and ask for their permission to use this alongside the photography of their installation to use on the website and social media channels.

Positive feedback against highquality imagery is a fantastic way to catch the eye of new customers.

Project partners Installers are customerfacing but it takes a team of companies to complete a window transformation. Within the content of the customer testimonials, don’t forget to give the fabricators and designers a mention as it offers cross brand awareness and represents the team effort required across the fenestration industry. residencecollectiontrade.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 59

VIEWPOINT

Always Prepared It’s time to think big, says Thermoseal Group’s managing director Gwain Paterson. We report.

Sealed unit manufacturers appear to fall in one of two distinct camps, according to Thermoseal Group’s owner and managing director Gwain Paterson: those

60 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

Gwain Paterson

who are aware of an increase in demand for triple glazing, and are doing something about it; and those who are aware, but choosing to sit still.

“I’ve genuinely had conversations

VIEWPOINT its manufacturing division, then developing its export strength.

This, Gwain says, means the company’s ability to meet the expected increase in triple glazing demand is taken it is stride.

secondary sealant, and cloth tape. All components are tested at the company’s laboratory before distribution, guaranteeing that they all work together effectively for a long-lasting sealed unit.

“The business will continue to grow regardless of the move to triple glazing from double glazing,” he says. “But since we expect it to happen (and are already seeing it happen) then it makes sense to factor those requirements into our plans.”

Recent investment includes new injection moulding machines at the company’s large warehousing facility in Birmingham, new solar panels, new electric vehicles and new product development.

The most popular width of Thermobar is 20mm for a standard double glazed unit, and Thermoseal Group is installing new lines and storage facilities to manufacture and distribute Thermobar in 12mm, 14mm and 16mm widths in preparation for the increase in demand for triple glazing.

with customers who have stopped me mid-sentence because they don’t want to think about what they need to do to change their operations if the demand for triple glazing goes through the roof,” Gwain says. “I suppose they think that if triple glazing is specified more to meet the expected tightening of the regulations in 2025 – where we could see windows having to achieve U-values as low as 0.8W/m2K – then they will be able to make the necessary adjustments. But I have to question that strategy.”

Thermoseal Group’s growth strategy has been a continuous one since it was established 44 years ago, first expanding its product range, before growing

According to Thermoseal’s figures, Thermobar is the glazing industry’s most popular warm edge spacer bar. Manufactured and distributed from its modern new facility in Wigan, Thermobar frames can be cut and joined with corner keys, processed on labour saving automated bending equipment, and is PassivHaus approved thanks to it ultra-low thermal values.

Thermoseal also manufactures Thermoflex flexible spacer bar from the same site, and has recently invested in a third twinstrand extruder, which can produce all thicknesses including 4.8mm, 6.3mm and 7.3mm, and air spaces up to 28mm in twin strand. And because it is quicker than the company’s existing equipment, it can produce more than double the quantity of product per shift on certain product types.

Thermoseal also supplies a range of other products required for the manufacture of sealed units, including corner keys, Georgian bar, desiccant, primary and

“We now have upwards of 100,000ft2 of factory space in Wigan,” Gwain says. “And along with new tooling, lorries and stillages, we are prepared to keep our customers stocked with the components required to manufacture triple glazed units.

“But we are also growing our export division because regardless of what we expect the triple glazing market to do, we need to keep expanding the business.”

Thermoflex is especially suited to the export market because there’s a growing global demand around the world for flexible spacer bar, according to Gwain.

“There are not many companies producing products like that around the world,” he said. “We see governments bringing in legislation to have more efficient windows to keep the heat in and to keep the heat out. This presents a fantastic opportunity for us.

“And with flexible spacer bar, you have the added benefit of automated production, which many overseas customers are developing.

“So, while I’d say that our customers may fall into one of two camps, we sit in a third: continuous growth and expansion that will allow us to service the increased demand for triple glazing as and when it occurs.” www.thermosealgroup.com WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 61

VIEWPOINT

Look For Partners,

Not Suppliers

Sternfenster’s MD Mike Parczuk shares his views on companies staying afloat as leads slow.

It has been turbulent few months in the PVC-U window fabrication sector, as one major profile supplier exited the market, and some fabricators folded as they struggled to balance the books due to falling order numbers and high overheads.

I think we are through the worst

Mike Parczuk

administrators, all eyes turn to those left exposed financially – the suppliers. Little consideration is given to the window companies who relied on those products to make a living.

of it now, but it is an unfortunate situation to be in, and it is sad to see people’s jobs put at risk.

Many businesses – especially the bigger ones – tend to be key regional employers, and their withdrawal from the market will likely have serious repercussions within their communities.

They would have built up a suite of marketing literature, maybe even invested in a showroom, the employees will have learned about all the products’ key features and benefits, and the installers will have trained for many years to make sure each completed job is the best it can be.

What people often forget to consider is the impact this has on retail companies.

When a company calls in the

There will be many now surveying the market to see which fabricators offer the best product ranges with the

62 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

VIEWPOINT best support. And I do enjoy discussing everything we have to offer.

And that’s because we’ve so much to offer. For one, we have invested heavily in designing and building systems that help our customers operate more efficiently, reduce the chances of error, and sell more. This includes our online EasyAdmin service, which gives our customers access to a virtual showroom, along [with] the tools required to quote and submit orders into our manufacturing process. They are given a twohour delivery slot, and can track the lorry as it completes its journey.

But I do scratch my head when one of the first things other fabricators do is drop their prices to win new business.

I’d be naïve to think that the unit price isn’t important, but I know that it isn’t the only reason why one supplier is chosen over another. In fact, retail companies stand a better chance of being – and remaining – profitable if they form a strong partnership with their suppliers, and look at the whole package, and not just the price.

We are convinced this is the best approach, and we will walk away from new business if the conversation doesn’t move beyond the issue of price.

This isn’t just a nice-to-have.

This allows our customers to control their working day, so that time isn’t needlessly wasted waiting for deliveries.

And combined with the other features, they get greater control over their relationship with us.

This frees up their employees’

time, could give them greater confidence to pursue more work, and build in more margin as overheads are reduced.

It’s a virtuous circle: more orders, happier customers, increased profit.

Now, compare that to the supplier who is selling only on price, and has to cut back on all services to make that viable.

Where does that leave you?

Sadly, some companies will never move beyond that race to the bottom, especially when times get tough. But you don’t have to be a part of that race.

Look for partners and not suppliers, and you could benefit from modern ways of working that allows you to work efficiently and profitably. www.sternfenster.com

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VIEWPOINT

How Window And

Door Solutions Impact Energy Efficiency In Housebuilding Martin Benn, head of new build at Eurocell, takes a look at how effective window and door solutions can help deliver the energy efficiency and sustainability enhancements that housebuilders are looking for – and consumers want – as the current regulatory landscape alters.

The Future Homes Standard (FHS) is set to be introduced in

2025 and, with it, a step change for all stakeholders charged with transforming the UK’s housing stock so it is more energy efficient, more sustainable and, ultimately, low carbon.

An immediate focus for housebuilders has been the introduction of changes to Part L 2021 of the Building Regulations, meaning many are now looking

64 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

for the simplest and most costeffective way to meet the new carbon reduction obligations.

To make significant contributions to energy efficiency and sustainability progress, housebuilders can be supported in additional ways alongside emerging renewable technology

VIEWPOINT

Future Homes Standard, but also exceed the usage requirements of the house buyers for years to come.

Key benefits from using effective window and door solutions to deliver energy efficiency include: Use of energy efficient materials From manufacturing right through to installation, effective window and door products require less energy and provide opportunity for recycled material use.

systems, such as with window and door solutions. At Eurocell, we already have our Modus system, which is Future Homes ready and continues to lead the market.

Removing the need for complex and expensive glazing specification, Modus, helps to lower the cost and impact of tackling the net zero carbon agenda for housebuilders and homeowners.

Crucial in the journey to achieving net zero is a holistic approach from inception to completion, and forward thinking planning for how the end user will use the space.

This means window and door solutions that not only meet the

All Modus main profiles feature a minimum of 36%* post-consumer recycled PVC-U as standard.

This helps to achieve a lower carbon footprint compared to products made or containing recycled material sourced from outside of the UK. The system deploys cutting-edge dual material extrusion technology (DMET) which layers post-consumer recycled and ‘virgin’ material simultaneously with high precision. The recycled material is concentrated in the central core of the profiles, where it is completely invisible in an installed window or door.

Reduced air leakage Designing with better insulation materials and techniques can reduce heat and air leakage, resulting in less energy required to

heat or cool the building. Modus is proven to deliver thermal insulation excellence, as well as air tightness and noise reduction benefits due to the uniquely designed 75mm six-chamber profile system which can achieve very low U-values with triple-glazed units.

This improves the energy efficiency of a building as a whole because energy is being stored appropriately throughout the seasons, thus reducing the need for constant heating and cooling management.

Altogether making the decision to install energy efficient window and door solutions particularly appealing for house buyers.

Durability and longevity Modus Window White External When products are designed to be more durable, this increased lifespan extends the benefits of lower energy consumption to also reduce the need and cost of labour for replacement.

A key consideration when creating durable, long-lasting products is visual appeal to reduce product lifecycle when tastes or modern functionalities change. Creating timeless but contemporary designs are vital to allow the sector to build the homes people want to purchase and live in. www.eurocell.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 65

VIEWPOINT

Are You Making The Most Of

Aluminium?

Don’t be fooled into thinking all aluminium window and door suppliers offer the same opportunities to boost profits, warns Sternfenster’s sales director Nathan Court. We report.

For many high-end home refurbishments, aluminium windows and doors are preferred to PVC-U alternatives because the slim lines and sharp detail fit the aesthetics the homeowners are looking for.

But this presents a dilemma for some window companies because sourcing aluminium products may not give them the profit opportunities they were expecting, according to Nathan Court, sales director at Sternfenster.

“Done right, aluminium can offer a perfect opportunity to build-in a healthy profit margin into your product and service offer,” he says. “Unfortunately, it is easy to do it wrong, and find yourself eroding that margin because

66 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

Nathan Court

of the many inefficiencies that some suppliers have not ironed out.”

Nathan points out that while aluminium products are now supplied by many more fabricators than were supplying the market ten to 15 years ago,

VIEWPOINT can result in lost components,” Nathan says. “Knock-in beads with co-extruded beads means there is no time spent hunting for parts, and hours can be shaved off a job. Our customers can spend less time on site, which means getting paid quickly.”

The Lincoln-based trade fabricator promises delivery to site in just five days – complete with the glazing, and other aluminium products and PVC-U casement windows. Building on this Sternfenster has launched a vehicle tracking service, which gives customers greater visibility of their deliveries, and feeds through to improved profits and opportunities.

Sternfenster was the first PVC fabricator in the UK to use barcoding tracking all the way through to delivery. It has used barcoding to track frames and glass through production, on to vehicles, and out to customers since 2008.

there are still many suppliers that operate inefficiently that could negatively impact their customers’ performance.

“We approach aluminium supply in the same way we do our PVC-U operation, “Nathan says.

“This means we build-in lean manufacturing techniques, and pass on the benefits of that approach to our customers.”

Sternfenster manufactures and supplies the Visofold 1000 Smarts Bi-fold to the trade, which has had recent a design upgrade to include time-saving knock-in beads and co-extruded gaskets.

“On traditional aluminium bifolding doors, fitting the gasket separate to the bead is a faff and

“Our two-hour delivery window has been our standard for years,” Nathan says. “Drivers plan their journeys several days in advance, so they can give our customers a two-hour window for delivery, which allows them to plan their days more effectively.”

Sternfenster’s latest improvement gives customers real-time tracking of their vehicles so they can see where their delivery is, how many deliveries the driver needs to make before getting to them, and provides an update delivery window so they can spend more time working and less time waiting.

“Time spent on site is expensive,” Nathan says. “If our customers know that we will be arriving on site in a two-hour window, it allows them to plan their day productively, either by scheduling time on another job,

or by finishing on site early.

“Time spent unnecessarily waiting is wasted profit, so we are putting money directly in the pockets of our customers.

“Many aluminium suppliers still take weeks to turn around orders,” Nathan says. “Not only do we do it in days, we give full visibility of the process via Sternfenster-Plus (SF+) and EasyAdmin.”

EasyAdmin allows businesses to produce professional quotes very quickly for homeowners. It also allows window installation companies to have complete oversight of their profit and loss.

This information is updated daily and allows business owners to see the health of their accounts in real time.

“More than 50% of our orders now come to us via EasyAdmin, and we are upgrading the software so that will integrate more closely with our other IT services,” Nathan says, “as well as giving them more control over their operations, saving money in the process.”

EasyAdmin works with SF+, which improves communication with customers and gives them greater insight into the fabricator’s manufacturing capacity, and the new virtual showroom, which was completed earlier this year.

“Aluminium still offers great opportunities for homeowners to improve the look and feel of their homes,” Nathan says. “But it only provides real benefits to installers if efficiencies in selling, ordering, delivering and installing are also maximised.

“Thanks to our investment in IT and infrastructure, that perceived high value aluminium is renowned for can be reflected in a healthy bottom line.” www.sternfenster.com WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 67

VIEWPOINT ADR in the fenestration sector, and in 2022 it made up 8% of all disputes handled by dispute resolution experts Dispute Assist. Fenestration also came into the larger 58% share involving renovations, extensions and conversions.

With regards to high volume products such as doors and windows, overwhelmingly the root cause of cases was workmanship (75%). This was followed by product issues (16%), contractual problems (5%), design (3%) and service delivery (less than 1%).

Under current plans, free mediation will be incorporated in civil disputes valued up to £10,000. Customers and fenestration businesses can also access ADR services through an accredited provider, and doing so could save them significantly on time and money.

How ADR helps fenestration businesses

Is your business compliant?

Tackling disputes under

ADR regulations

By Ciarán Harkin, managing director of Dispute Assist Businesses operating within the fenestration sector are bound by lots of rules and legislation.

But when it comes to providing excellent customer service and protecting consumer rights, the Alternative Dispute Resolution for Consumer Disputes Regulations of 2015 is hugely important and cannot be ignored by businesses operating in this space.

Traders have a duty to inform consumers about alternative dispute resolution (ADR), a bank of methods which aim to resolve disputes between businesses and customers away from the courts. Disputes surrounding cost, quality of work or products are commonplace in the home improvement industry, so the government is keen to encourage ADR to reduce the waiting times associated with the legal system.

There is definitely demand for

68 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

Alternative dispute resolution allows for issues to be resolved more informally through methods like mediation and conciliation.

But at the legally binding end of the scale, there is also arbitration and expert determination, which can both be used when required.

The latter method sees a trained expert well-acquainted with the field of the dispute, which in practice speeds up the review of the evidence provided by both parties. A ruling will then be passed and case notes will not be provided, which speeds up the process all around.

ADR is usually a cheaper way of getting a dispute resolved as it side-steps expensive court fees and legal costs, not to mention it is often a significantly less stressful option too. With court waiting times spanning around a year on average for small claims, ADR is often much quicker,

VIEWPOINT with Dispute Assist’s average resolution time standing at 5.6 days.

Sorting out access to an ADR provider can give installers peace of mind that any disputes which arise with customers in the future will be handled by experts for a fair fee, allowing them to get on with their jobs.

But is also important for home improvement businesses to embrace ADR from a compliance perspective.

ADR – a legal requirement Some businesses may be overlooking ADR, as Dispute Assist’s report into the scale of home improvement disputes in the UK found that 28% of installers don’t know what ADR is. There is also a lack of awareness among the public, with 67% of homeowners

unfamiliar with what ADR is and Preparing for the future how it can help them settle issues with installers.

Staggeringly, swathes of home improvement businesses are not This is concerning given there signed up to an ADR scheme. is a requirement on businesses But discussions are ongoing to signpost ADR providers to about whether participation in their customers in the case of a an ADR scheme should be made dispute. This is necessary when a mandatory across sectors to trader cannot settle the complaint ensure consumer need is being as part of internal complaint met. For many fenestration handling. businesses, embracing an ADR scheme now may help them to Traders must provide the name keep ahead of the curve of any and website of an ADR entity future policy changes. on their website and in the general terms and conditions of But the value of ADR extends the contract they enter with a beyond merely compliance, and customer. The consumer must be fenestration installers get the signposted to the ADR provider peace of mind of knowing any in the case of a dispute that future customer complaints will cannot be handled by the trader be handled with care by trained internally, and the trader must experts quickly and effectively, state whether they are obliged keeping their reputation intact or prepared to submit to the and preserving their business for procedures operated by the ADR the future. provider. https://www.dispute-assist.co.uk/

VIEWPOINT

Does Seasonality Still Exist In Window

And Door Sales?

There is context to this, average house prices remain at £279,569. That compares to £215,352 in September 2019, putting today’s average house price almost 30% higher than it was only four years ago.

The headlines, and with them perception and consumer confidence have, however, changed from record lows in inflation to record highs and falling rather than increasing house prices.

For my money, I believe that we will see some return to seasonality this autumn, but it won’t be as pronounced as it has been in the past and we need to work harder to win sales.

Mark Atkinson, sales director at Hurst Doors argues that retailers can no longer rely on seasonality to deliver sales.

I saw a lot of colleagues from right across the industry at the start of this month [Sept].

Among those I spoke to, there was a general sense of hopefulness that September, October and November would deliver sales – a cautious optimism.

While you couldn’t exactly set your watch by it, pre-Covid, there was always a seasonality to window and door sales.

Summer delivered slimmer pickings ahead of a more rewarding autumn. Covid of course, blew that away.

For the past three years everyone has just been busy. We were riding the crest of that Covid wave, that seemed for a very long time that was never going to fall – but now has.

Are we now going to go back to

the pre-covid cycle, a seasonality to sales?

I know a lot of retail companies are hoping that that’s the case after a relatively lack lustre summer. And there is an argument that suggests some return of seasonality to retail sales according to those window and door retail businesses that have been tracking their performance this year, against 2019.

But there are also some big differences between then and now.

The first is inflation.

In September 2019 inflation was 1.7%. The current rate of inflation may be falling but at 6.8%, albeit down from a peak of an eyewatering 11.8% in January, remains in comparison, high.

The reverse is true of house price inflation. House prices for the quarter July to September 2019 were up 4%. In comparison UK house prices have according to the lender Halifax suffered their biggest fall in 14 years – down 4.6% yearon-year in August.

70 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

We’re certainly working hard to support our customers and help them win more business through our sales support offer.

This includes launching our new composite door collection lifestyle brochure ‘You’re Home With Hurst’.

It showcases door styles and glass options and is packed with lifestyle imagery designed to inspire homeowners. It also explains door performance in simple and easy-to-understand terms, with additional explanation of performance delivered in short professionally created videos, accessed via a QR code.

Think of it as having an extra salesperson in your retail sales team but someone who always sticks to the script!

This is where we need to be as an industry. People will still spend but we need to rethink our approach and maximise sales through a successful marriage between established sales and marketing tools and new platforms. www.hurstdoors.co.uk

VIEWPOINT

“The market is changing, regardless of Duraflex pulling out of the market,” Greg says.

“Creating and maintaining an efficiently run business has never been more important, and more fabricators are realising this. And for us, it is about demonstrating how we can help speed up production, reduce overheads and create more margin.

“And because Window Designer can offer a subscription-based model, you can select the appropriate tier for your business to get the most from the product, rewarding you with the corresponding increase on your bottom line.”

New Beginnings?

Fabricators have a golden opportunity to future-proof their businesses, argues Greg Beachim, sales manager at First Degree Systems. We report.

“This means orders only need review before being added to the system: you don’t need someone re-processing it; you are not risking fat-fingered mistakes; and you are not risking all those processing errors and those processing delays,” he says.

“I’ve never seen the window fabrication industry in such a state of flux, and it doesn’t look as though it will settle any time soon.” This is the view of Greg Beachim, sales manager at First Degree Systems, who believes the market is facing a perfect storm of challenges and opportunities.

The key challenge facing several fabricators is the withdrawal from the industry of systems house Duraflex. Earlier this year, the company announced that it was stopping extrusion in the UK, giving fabricators until September to find an alternative supply of profile and adapt their processes accordingly.

“This has opened up a lot of conversations with fabricators because, as they switch suppliers, they are taking the opportunity to upgrade other

A cornerstone of Window Designer is Cloud Retailer, which allows retail companies to submit window designs straight into the manufacturing process, according to Greg.

Greg Beachim

areas of their business too,” Greg says. “And in the case of subscribing to Window Designer from First Degree Systems, it is an opportunity to build in a significant amount of flexibility which will help them to grow.”

Greg points out that many of the fabricators he is talking to were already reassessing their software options, because they were looking to create further efficiencies in their operations.

And with Cloud Retailer, the quotation can be done by the customer without any delays, which makes winning business faster, Greg says. When converted to an order, this can then be sent directly to the fabricator and accepted straight to manufacture within hours, if not minutes, so there is no delay in reprocessing.

“In another example where you can expect an almost immediate return on your investment, the Stock Assistant programme allows you to keep your stock levels keen,” Greg says. “Cash is king – it always has been. We are now in a world where everything Continued on page 72 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 71

VIEWPOINT Continued from page 71

is costing much more, so having things delivered to you efficiently for manufacture is essential. And staying on top of your cash flow is fundamental for the success of your businesses.”

Greg points out that these features only scratch the service of the benefits Window Designer offers, but more importantly for fabricators is the confidence they have in moving over to a new software platform.

“Our technical teams are fully resourced to help make switching over to Window Designer painless and rewarding,” Greg says.

“Window fabricators are fully geared up to making modern high-performing windows, and we want to help them achieve their goals with no disruption to their production processes.

“Also, with Window Designer, you are not just investing in what we can provide now, but what is on the horizon.

Being part of the international software powerhouse Cyncly allows us to invest even more into research and development, and we have some exciting new products in the pipeline, including a module for designing corner bi-folds, the ability to view cross-sectional drawings, and an improved plug-and-play customer-facing tool called Window Designer Mobile, which will make the quoting and selling process quicker and easier.

“It’s and exciting time,” Greg concludes. “My message to window fabricators is to talk to us about how developments within Window Designer can help you build a serious foundation for growth.” www.firstdegreesystems.com

Succession Succession planning is a big challenge for the window and door industry. We speak to Ryan Johnson, Group Managing Director, who led Emplas successfully through a senior management restructure and find out what it means for the fabricator’s future.

future.

Succession planning is going to be a big issue. It has to be. The industry loosely has been around in its current form for about 45 years.

A lot of those owner entrepreneurs who started up fabrication and installation businesses are coming to retirement age.

Emplas has been on that [succession] journey for a while now. In a sense we reflect much of the industry. Emplas is a familyowned business, which was set up by my father Kevin Johnson in 1979.

Not everyone’s children want to go into the family business, which leaves a lot of companies being run by owners who are planning more for their retirement than the future of their businesses.

That has consequences for their individual businesses but also the industry more generally because succession planning isn’t being considered early enough and we’re not necessarily attracting the people we need with a skills set to carry the industry forward into the

72 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

Unless something changes, that will inevitably mean those companies will close and the number of players in the industry will shrink.

A continuing process

In 2014 he stepped into a chairman roll and I moved to managing director, having previously been deputy. That was after an extended ‘apprenticeship’ working on the factory floor, fitting windows, working sales with T&K and then management roles with Emplas.

Rather than being the end of the process that was, however, only the start. Since then, we’ve built a young team – and importantly, one which combines a lot of sector experience with expertise

VIEWPOINT and Phil [Harrison, Operations, Director], assumed over-arching responsibility for the operational side of the business, while Jody [Vincent, Sales Director] assumed responsibility for sales and marketing, with Phil Brown, our FD retaining his lead on finance.

And it’s not about them either, it’s about the operational and customer services teams working alongside and with them; our departmental heads, our team leaders – and our apprentices.

My involvement as Emplas Group Managing Director, isn’t critical.

Casting a wider net from outside it – and focussed on creating the infrastructure and processes which support us in delivering a continuously improving service to our customers.

The importance of stepping back The aim we had was always to build a management team, a young, hungry management team, with broad range of skills, who could take this business forward, yes, with me as a part of it, but certainly not with me at the centre of it.

For me this is one of the biggest risks that a lot of the businesses in our sector face. They centre around a single or perhaps couple of business owners.

That is not to negate the part that owner-entrepreneurs have in this industry – in a sense they make it what it is – but not letting go, not stepping back, creates inherent risks.

Emplas doesn’t need me to run – and that’s the way it should be. It makes us more stable. It’s not about individuals, it’s about collective culture and process.

Last year, we got to that point, when Kush [Patel, Managing Director, Emplas]

Not always doing things the same way is also very important. That’s another risk in the owner-centric model. There may be exceptions but you tend to fall into the same way of doing things. They may work, but in our experience, they can always be done better.

We wanted skills from outside the sector to help us to grow and scale but do so sustainably. We’ve invested massively over the past few years in our capability, our product offer but most importantly people, because they have brought with them the impetus for change.

We’ve seen a 25% growth in turnover in the last year. We couldn’t have achieved that sustainably without changing how we did things ahead of time.

This includes major investment in our IT infrastructure, which provides a foundation for innovation throughout our operation and a step-change in customer experience.

We had to go outside of the industry and have the patience to find that patience has paid off in innovation including more efficient manufacturing processes through to the real-time notifications on deliveries that we launched in the summer.

This isn’t stuff that’s necessarily synonymous with the window industry. It’s about bringing new ideas from other sectors to benefit our customers.

The benefits of planning ahead The over-looked benefit of succession planning is that you bring people into your business who are by definition, looking towards a future where they can go and what they can achieve. It creates a forward-looking culture.

This is one of the things that has perhaps benefitted us most. We have continued to invest.

With more than £1m committed to the expansion of our manufacturing capability, including the addition of two new cutting and machining centres, and the addition of new product lines, we’re also building for the future, with a relentless focus on product quality and service innovation.

Be prepared for dead ends but push through I’d be lying if I said the succession process had been plain sailing all the way. What we have done has not always been successful and there have been moments when in the pursuit of the changes we have made we took our eye off the ball on the day-to-day.

Succession planning costs you money, and it cost you time.

On balance, however, we’re in a good place. We’re secure.

We’ve got a very young, youthful, energetic, intelligent management team and leadership team.

Any customers or prospective customers can have confidence that Emplas is here for the future.

We’re focusing on one thing and one thing only, and that’s providing the best possible service. www.emplas.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 73

PEOPLE

Matthias Bach Is New CEO Of Swisspacer Matthias Bach, previously the technical director of Swisspacer, has been CEO of the Swiss company since 1 October. He follows Francis Cholley, who becomes general manager of EuroKera within the SaintGobain Group.

Matthias Bach has worked at Swisspacer for 8 years. Initially a supply chain project leader, he took on the remit of technical director in 2017. “I am proud to be able to lead the familiar, talented Swisspacer team into the future, and look forward to continuing the successful internationalisation programme pursued by Francis Cholley,” says Bach, who, in addition to a master’s degree in industrial engineering, also holds an

executive MBA since the beginning of this year.

Bach is perfectly familiar with the manufacturer of warm edge spacer bars. He helped build up the new locations in England and France and was significantly involved in restructuring the production network in 2021. “Owing to the company’s high level of success, we have been able to almost double production capacities through investments and efficiency increases since I joined. The automation and digitalisation of production processes as well as the introduction of innovative logistics concepts played a key role in this,” reports the new CEO.

74 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

Francis Cholley (left) with Matthias Bach (right)

The graduate engineer looks to the future with optimism: “Our innovation roadmap promises many new products as well as new services such as load carriers or digital interfaces, which will further expand our position as a reliable, global partner. I am certain that we will continue to write the success story of Swisspacer together with our capable team, our customary commitment to Swiss quality and our closeness to our customers.”

The previous CEO Francis Cholley becomes general manager at EuroKera, a joint venture between Saint-Gobain and Corning. “Swisspacer has a fantastic team, brilliant products and enormous growth potential,” says Cholley at the baton handover. “I am fully convinced that Matthias is the right leadership personality to take Swisspacer to the next level.”

PEOPLE

Melanie Hickman Joins Glazpart’s Sales Team

Conservatory Outlet’s new Retail Specialist, Emily Watmough

Conservatory Outlet Expands

Its Marketing Team Conservatory Outlet has expanded its marketing team with the appointment of Emily Watmough as the company’s dedicated Retail Specialist.

Glazpart has announced that Melanie Hickman has been appointed as area sales manager for fenestration, for the south of England.

Melanie joins Glazpart with almost ten years of sales and account management experience including four years in the construction products distribution sector.

On her appointment, Melanie commented: “I am delighted to join the Glazpart team at such an exciting time of growth and product development.

Having worked on the product distribution and retail side of the construction industry, I am aware of some of the issues affecting the sector but I am now really looking forward to continuing to operate in the supply chain on the manufacturing side.”

Looking after the entire south of

England is also a challenge that Melanie is relishing, she adds, “This is the largest territory I have been responsible for in my career to date and it is packed with many companies of different types, sub sectors, sizes and levels. Handling such a diverse range of accounts is something I am positive I will enjoy.”

Dean Bradley, sales director at Glazpart said: “We are delighted to recruit Melanie in this vital role covering all our customers in the south of England. Her appointment follows our sales team restructure this year and I am sure Melanie, with her sales experience and skill set will be a great asset to the company going forward as we continue to develop our resources and growth in the fenestration sector.” www.glazpart.co.uk

Based at Conservatory Outlet’s main facility in Wakefield, Emily will work closely with the company’s Premium Retail Partners to help shape marketing strategies and provide tactical advice and support.

Speaking about her arrival, Karen Clough, Conservatory Outlet’s marketing director, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Emily to Conservatory Outlet.

“We place huge emphasis on the growth of our Network and Emily’s appointment as retail marketing specialist will undoubtedly help our customers achieve their sales targets and ensure the Network continues to grow year-on-year.”

“Emily’s experience of working with national retail brands and delivering campaigns directly to end users will only strengthen our marketing department further and ensure that it remains the envy of the industry,” Karen added.

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 75

PEOPLE

Russell Yates Returns To AluK AluK has announced that Russell Yates has been reappointed as UK Managing Director. Olivier Vincent, AluK Group’s head of europe, commented: “We are delighted to have him back at the helm in the UK. His knowledge and experience are virtually unparalleled in this industry, and we know that he is a popular and respected figure amongst customers and colleagues alike.”

Russell added: “I spent 17 years at AluK before I left in 2020 to head up a major aluminium fabricator and obviously still care passionately about this business.

I’m excited to be back, particularly with such strong backing from the board.

“I had a really valuable experience in fabrication, helping to transform that operation and at

acquired there back with me to inform our plans for the months and years ahead.”

Russell’s immediate focus is on customers and on ensuring AluK is a great company to do business with.

Russell Yates

the same time seeing the reality of the industry from a different perspective. It was a unique opportunity to see AluK as our customers do and I’m bringing all the knowledge and insight that I

Debar Appoints Technical Sales Manager For South East Bi-fold door systems and hardware manufacturer Debar has appointed a technical sales manager to boost customer relations in the South East of England.

Mike Sillwood has joined Debar to help the Bradford-based firm continue to support both its existing customers and partners in the region.

Mike has more than 25 years’ experience within a sales and account management environment across different sectors and in his new role he will be responsible for liaising with customers and building relationships to develop the South East market.

Upon starting his role with the company, he said: “It’s great to be joining Debar at such a pivotal time of growth and expansion.

76 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

He also says he wants to see AluK leading the aluminium sector’s response to the challenges and opportunities which will come from the government’s Future Homes agenda, adding: “I want to see us really influencing the market, with innovative new products from a strong and trusted brand. The next few years are crucial for the aluminium sector if it is to cement its position as the most sustainable solution to Future Homes and I’m determined to put AluK at the very heart of that.” https://uk.aluk.com/ “Debar sets the bar incredibly high by constantly looking at how best it can innovate to deliver a fantastic service and quality products on behalf of its customers. My role will involve developing stronger relationships with our clients based in the South East and I can’t wait to get stuck in. It’ll be incredibly interesting to see if there’s any improvements we can make to better meet their needs.”

Peter Sutcliffe, managing director at Debar, said: “We welcome Mike to Debar and we’re pleased to have on board someone with his quality and length of experience. We’re an ambitious organisation, headed up by an experienced and dedicated management team and a workforce that is passionate about what we do and how we do it.” www.debarhardware.com

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PEOPLE

Roy Reaches 25Th Year At Window Ware

Richard Sellman

Last month, senior warehouse operative, Simon Field celebrated his 20th year with Window Ware and this month it was the turn of senior warehouse team leader, Roy Sturgeon, who received his remarkable 25-year long-service award.

At a special lunchtime presentation held at Window Ware’s Bedford HQ earlier this week, Roy was presented with his well-deserved award by managing director, Sam Nuckey. She was joined by all his colleagues and co-workers who were keen to offer Roy their congratulations and extend their thanks and appreciation for his hard work and support over the years.

Sam says: “A quarter of a century is no mean feat in anybody’s book and demonstrates Roy’s amazing staying power and enduring success throughout his advancing role with Window Ware.”

She adds, “As you might expect after 25 years in the job, Roy’s knowledge of warehouse processes and best practices is second to none. Not only that, but Roy is also a long-standing member of our health & safety committee too and instrumental in maintaining a safe working environment for all.” www.windowware.co.uk

Richard Bate

New BFRC Management Team To Develop Industry Support For Energy Efficiency The British Fenestration Ratings Council (BFRC) is entering a new phase of development with a strong management team in place, including two industry experts: Richard Sellman as managing director and Richard Bate as technical director. Both are well known in the industry and BFRC says it is delighted to have them on its team to further support the sector in a time of significant change.

Richard Sellman explains how he will be using his insight and that of the team to further develop BFRC: “I am immensely looking forward to taking on this new role, and working to build on the strong foundation that has been laid by my predecessors. Richard Bate and the BFRC team, are currently finalising plans to introduce new offerings and solutions for the fenestration industry. These are designed to support the product offering for manufacturers and installers and aid the drive towards reducing carbon consumption and improved energy efficiency. The new offerings and solutions will exceed the expected building regulation requirements over the next 5 – 10 years, helping to safeguard the industry for the future.”

78 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

Richard has over 30 years of experience in the IGU and window industry working in multinational organisations as well as smaller UK based enterprises.

Richard joined the BFRC in April having served on several GGF committees, including as chair of the joint Glazing Components/ Insulating Glass Manufacturers Group and chair of the Glazing Executive (GE). He then represented the GE on the main GGF board. Richard has also been a member of the Standards committee and both B520 and CEN TC 129 WG4 (IGU EN 1279).

Richard Bate embarked upon his career working with marketleading companies within the Testing Inspection and Certification sector. In 2004, Richard co-founded Build Check, bringing to market a shared vision of a fresh approach to building regulation compliance testing and product certification, underpinned by excellent customer service.

As co-founder and technical director, Richard was instrumental in leading the successful growth of the Build Check business and is well-recognised throughout the industry for his technical expertise, working closely with key industry groups. www.bfrc.org

PEOPLE

Premier Arches Strengthens Workforce keeping customers happy.

Managing director Sean Greenall comments: “We’ve always operated on three core principles – exceptional manufacturing quality, clear and honest customer service, and making our customers’ lives as easy as possible. With a commitment to continual recruitment and training, we’re ensuring all three tenets are met, and that our customers are always provided with the best.

Premier Arches has strengthened its workforce with the recent recruitment of seven new fabricators, bolstering both production and capacity, and spearheading business growth, says the company.

With a team of nearly 40, the St Helens-based company now has a skilled range of fabricators, delivery drivers, warehouse operatives, order processors, administrators and directors, all dedicated to the end goal of

“With the recent recruitment of seven new team members in the past three months, we’ve significantly boosted our production capacity and overall expertise, and eliminated any room for error.” www.premierarches.co.uk

Reynaers Boosts Commercial Projects

Team With Two New Specialists every level.”

Bob Snelling

Jordan Kingsman

Joining the aluminium windows, doors and facades manufacturer as national frameworks and supply chain manager, Bob Snelling brings a wealth of industry experience, having worked in strategic roles in the industry for four decades. Bob will work within the commercial consult team to provide a dedicated focus on developing relationships with strategic partners in the supply chain.

He said: “Working in true partnership closely together with trusted strategic partners is absolutely essential in maintaining the highest standards through strong communication to keep projects on track. Reynaers is a company with an excellent reputation for the systems it creates and the service it provides.

I’m looking forward to getting on board with the developments Reynaers is involved in and supporting service excellence at

The commercial projects team will be further bolstered by the addition of Jordan Kingman, who joins the team as consult manager for the South West and London. Bringing in-depth knowledge and expertise of the facades sector, Jordan holds an MSc in Façade Engineering and has worked in specialist roles in the aluminium industry for the past 17 years. He will work with key stakeholders to provide design, technical and specification support on architectural projects.

Jordan said: “Reynaers creates industry-leading façade systems for projects that help to transform skylines and I’m looking forward to being a part of this – and supporting customers with the technical expertise I have to offer.”

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 79

PEOPLE

Distinction Doors Strengthens Marketing Team (L-R) Jonathan Brewer, head of sales and Jeremy Wetherall, managing director at Tradeglaze (Lincoln) Ltd

Lincolnshire’s

Rising Star Takes Charge As Head

Of Sales At Tradeglaze Lincolnshire fabricator and installer Tradeglaze has announced the promotion of Jonathan Brewer to head of sales.

The Lincoln Law School graduate who joined the business in 2019 as trade sales representative, Jonathan was voted Lincolnshire’s Rising Star of the Year and is Lincolnshire’s 30 Under 30 award recipient from 2022. Jonathan was also selected as one of ‘30 Under 30’ at last year’s FIT Show. He has now been elevated to lead both trade and retail sales departments of the fast-growing manufacturer of bespoke Aluminium and uPVC window, door and curtain walling solutions for new builds, commercial and domestic projects.

Jeremy Wetherall, managing director at Tradeglaze, said: “Jonathan has been a driving force for innovation since he joined Tradeglaze. He has a great entrepreneurial mindset, has provided steady leadership for our trade sales team and delivered growth during challenging trading conditions of the recent years. www.tradeglaze.co.uk

Distinction Doors has further strengthened its marketing team with the appointment of digital marketing executive, Tristan Royle. Emma Fowlds has also been promoted to marketing executive.

Tristan is tasked with creating and implementing the company’s digital strategy and delivering short- to mediumterm objectives to meet longterm marketing and business goals.

With a First-Class degree in Fashion Buying and Merchandising and four years’ luxury brand experience, Tristan has many transferable skills which benefit Distinction Doors and its premium brand status.

of the company’s day-to-day marketing activity and is the key marketing contact for customers, suppliers and press.

Through its long-established in-house marketing department, Distinction offers customers many complementary services, including graphic design, showroom support, PR, the online door-designer, and lead generation.

The team is headed by associate director of marketing, Bethaney Larkman. Senior graphic designer, Lorna Lockwood, alongside Emma and Tristan, completes this experienced and proactive marketing quartet.

Supporting Tristan in his endeavours is Emma Fowlds whose commitment, hard work and dedication have been rewarded with a promotion to marketing executive. This comes after Emma successfully passed her Level 3 marketing assistant apprenticeship in summer 2022.

Associate director for marketing, Bethaney Larkman, comments: “We are very pleased to welcome Tristan to the team.

With his enthusiasm for digital marketing and premium brand experience, he has hit the ground running delivering several successful consumer campaigns and generating a significant amount of data which we will harness for future projects.

Emma now manages much

www.distinctiondoors.co.uk

80 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

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V E R T I C A L S L I D E R S & H E R I TA G E C O N S E RVAT I O N

The Most Significant Investment In

Quickslide’s History Yorkshire-based window and door fabricator Quickslide has successfully installed and commissioned a fully bespoke, state-of-the-art machining centre that it says will not only set new standards for performance and manufactured quality within its business, but within the vertical sliding

window sector itself.

With a total investment of £1.71 million, the machining centre, manufactured to Quickslide’s precise specifications by Schirmer, based in Verl, Germany, is twice as big as Quickslide’s existing Schirmer machining centres with a

82 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

Ben Weber, managing director

V E R T I C A L S L I D E R S & H E R I TA G E C O N S E RVAT I O N for the development of the Schirmer.

Ben continued: “Quickslide was certainly pioneering in the development of the affordable replacement vertical sliding sash window and as such we have continually developed and improved the authenticity of our frames over the last 20 years. This is vitally important for an audience that places a great deal of emphasis on historical accuracy, whilst the windows must also comply with the latest Building Regulations and performance standards.

The Schirmer allows us to deal with all these factors, improving quality whilst boosting throughput and therefore lowering lead times.

footprint of 4,120 feet2.

Installation required the clearance and reorganisation of the company’s sash window manufacturing area, within Quickslide’s 150,000 feet2 factory space.

Having taken three days to be delivered from Germany and two months to install, including assembly, commissioning, software installation, and training, Quickslide – and its customers – are now enjoying the benefits of precision, quality and efficiency that the firm required from the Schirmer. Ben

Weber, Quickslide managing director and the driving force behind the investment and specification of the Schirmer, says the results from the first few weeks in operation, are impressive: “A vertical sliding window is complex, perhaps more so than any other type of window frame. It has always required precision manufacturing, and this equipment now allows us to bring a lot of the preparatory processes online enabling us to produce consistent quality and output all the time,” explained Ben, setting the background

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

By comparison with conventional casement windows, some processes in the manufacture of VS frames are considerably more intense, such as fully mechanical joints and the inclusion of the new slim mid-rail, which Quickslide will offer from the end of 2023. These complex and labour-intensive options have previously required capacity limitation due to how difficult and labour intensive they are WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 83

V E R T I C A L S L I D E R S & H E R I TA G E C O N S E RVAT I O N

to mass manufacture, but this has now been lifted with the new machining centre, says Ben cautiously: “It is still early days, but we have achieved a capacity increase in true heritage frames which we expect to see increase further as we get better acquainted with the machine and it’s operation.”

Ben is hesitant to announce statistics at this stage, with the sheer complexity of the Schirmer requiring ongoing assimilation: “Whilst I will not make them public at this stage, we do have stats and the machine is easily outputting significantly improved volumes, even with sporadic downtime throughout the 24-hour working cycle.

“Labour reduction has been achieved by removing our reinforcing station. Critically,” insists Ben, “this is not the primary reason thaat we introduced the saw, but less reliance upon recruiting and training high quality staff is a key consideration these days.

“Better material utilisation on steel reinforcement has already been achieved with the switch to 6-metre lengths rather than cut sizes with steel optimisation directly matching profile optimisation of profiles, which is better than 96% plus.

We have also trialled the use of RCM [recycled composite material] reinforcement and it works very well. The RCM is around 35% of the cost of steel, is sustainable, is as effective

84 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

and runs through the saw as usual and suitable for windows on the smaller size without compromising on performance or quality. The flexibility of the Schirmer allows us to trial and experiment freely.”

Ben has been at the heart of production and product development for this type of frame: “The length of time that it takes to produce a VS window now compared to 15 years ago has reduced significantly, and with our new Schirmer we are setting new standards for quality and complexity whilst further improving lead times, and doing much to at least stabilise costs, despite the pressures everyone is experiencing.”

V E R T I C A L S L I D E R S & H E R I TA G E C O N S E RVAT I O N Quickslide has invested more than £2.7 million since February 2022 and intends to continue with further upgrades to the company’s production infrastructure early in 2024.

“We’re here for the long term and by re-investing we’re automatically strengthening our trade partners and our future growth as supply partners. We were voted Fabricator of the Year in the 2022 G-Awards which was recognition of our commitment to excellence and to improve our status as one of the market-leading fabricators for heritage-style PVCu vertical sliding frames. This is further proof of our long-term commitment to doing things how we believe they should be done,” concluded Ben. https://www.quickslide.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 85

HARDWARE, SAFETY & SECURITY

Mila Makes A Move Into

Aluminium

Advance is a new high performance, precision engineered hardware range from Mila – with every product designed and manufactured exclusively for the aluminium market.

This ‘advanced’, forward-thinking range launches in October, starting with a magnetic hold open system for bi-folds, complete with patented self-aligning technology. More Advance products are set to follow Mila MD, Richard Gyde – all with clever design features, and all said to be with Mila’s reassuring guarantees on quality, value and a particular problem that aluminium stock availability. fabricators encounter with their existing mechanical hardware solutions, and each will represent Mila MD, Richard Gyde a step change from what has gone Richard Gyde, Mila’s managing before. director, is confident that Advance brings something new and exciting “Crucially, the range challenges to the aluminium hardware sector: the preconception that aluminium “This is the first time that we’ve hardware has to be premium focused on the aluminium market priced to deliver premium levels and we’re doing something very of innovation and quality, so we’re different to the ‘me too’ products expecting high levels of demand.” which have predominated over recent years.

Mila’s Advance range has been in development for almost two years “Every product in the Advance and during that time Mila has been range has been designed to solve working with some of the leading 86 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

aluminium systems companies and fabricators to deliver innovative solutions to their hardware challenges – particularly around bi-fold and sliding doors.

Richard added: “Our design team, led by product design director Paul Pearson, have applied the same clever design thinking which has helped us build our reputation in the PVC-U market to aluminium, and there is lots of ‘only from Mila’ technology in these Advance products – much of which is already being patented. Our technical director Strafford Cooke has also been working directly with customers to ensure that they are as easy to fabricate as our PVC-U products and that they meet all the most testing quality criteria.

“The feedback we’ve already had is that we’re bringing something truly ‘advanced’ to aluminium fabrication and that our ‘dedicated to aluminium’ approach is really refreshing.”

Mila already supplies a comprehensive range of door furniture products for aluminium windows and doors and, with the launch of Advance, will be able to offer fabricators a complete one stop shop for aluminium and PVC-U, says the company. www.mila.co.uk/

HARDWARE, SAFETY & SECURITY ‘snap’ protection has been Total Hardware Adds Federal The intelligently designed to snap in way with a sacrificial 3* Cylinder Lock To Its Range acut.controlled It has five hardened double

pins with a magnetic pin system and a trap pin for anti-bump and anti-pick capabilities. It is anti-drill and Iron Guard technology is used to protect the cam.

Independent hardware supplier Total Hardware has just introduced the new Federal 3* Cylinder Lock to its range.

General Manager Chris Pell, said: “The Federal 3* Cylinder Lock is an intelligently designed TS007 3* anti-snap security product that provides maximum protection against cylinder attack.”

With options for PVC-U, aluminium, timber and composite door applications, the Federal 3* Cylinder Lock has a wealth of features that mean it is TS007 3* approved and Secured by Designcompliant. It is also Sold Secure Diamond Grade tested by BSI and the MLA.

The horizontal key lock is available as a standard cylinder, Keyed Alike and Thumb Turn variations, and there are more than 50,000 key differentiations. It is supplied with three keys and a registration card for key duplication security.

It has a dual nickel and brass finish to complement a large range of handle finishes and comes complete with an M5 fixing screw.

The Federal 3* Cylinder Lock is the latest addition to Total Hardware’s portfolio, which includes its own Quantum, Superior 25, Duration, Guardian and Quad Lock ranges. www.totalhardwareltd.co.uk

Yale Lockmaster 25mm Bi-Fold Door

Lock Arrives At Window Ware Window Ware, has strengthened its range of Lockmaster multipoint bi-fold door locks with a new 25mm backset option perfectly suited to today’s everslimmer aluminium systems.

When it comes to bi-fold doors, it seems ‘less’ is definitely more as cutting-edge aluminium systems providers work to develop yet slimmer profiles to reduce sightlines, maximise light levels and achieve impressive opening apertures.

Building on the success of the Lockmaster 28mm bi-fold door lock, which was brought to market back in 2018, this newest 25mm addition to the Lockmaster range reflects this growing market preference for reduced sightlines.

by Yale’s 10-year mechanical guarantee.

The Lockmaster 25mm backset includes hook and anti-lift pins, a deadbolt centre and precompression roller cams for superior security, slick operation, robustness, and optimal weather sealing, claims the company.

With options available for both the traffic and passive doors, this lock has been security tested to PAS 24, corrosion tested to BS EN 1670: 2007 Grade 4 and endurance tested to 100,000 cycles, plus it comes backed

Window Ware’s product manager, Rob Vaughan, explained: “From commercial applications like restaurants and hotels to domestic installations in the home, there is huge market potential for these slimline bi-fold systems.”

“By stocking this new 25mm backset bi-fold door lock from industry-leaders, Yale, we are actively responding to the way the market is moving and making sure we’re able to support fabricators with hardware that’s designed to work with the very latest must-have super-slim aluminium systems.” www.windowware.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 87

HARDWARE, SAFETY & SECURITY

Window Ware Has Garnalex Fabricators Hardware Needs Covered Independent fenestration hardware provider, Window Ware has spent the last 5 years expanding its aluminium hardware provision to create a comprehensive offering that works with some of the most prominent aluminium profile systems including AluK, Smarts and Cortizo to name but a few, with the Garnalex Sheerline system becoming the latest addition to the list.

Garnalex fabricators will be spoilt for choice at Window Ware! They’ll find locking systems for doors and windows from Yale and Maco,

plus Part F-compliant trickle vents, cylinders, window and door handles and more – all guaranteed to work with Sheerline systems, says the company.

Maco’s Lift & Slide solution is specifically tested on the Garnalex Sheerline Prestige and Classic systems, along with the fabricator favourite Maco MKV telescopic for the Prestige Casement window solution.

Rich Fraser, Window Ware’s business development manager for Aluminium and Commercial, said: “Today, aluminium doors

88 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

and windows are proving increasingly popular among architects and homeowners because they are strong, stylish, energy efficient, and more sustainable than uPVC. And there are lots of new and established aluminium systems poised to meet this rising demand. Window Ware is working hard to grow its aluminium hardware offering accordingly and make sure we’re right on the money with a broad choice of competitively priced, industry-preferred, and compatible products to suit.”

Rich continues, “In June, we processed and picked thousands of orders with +99% accuracy and over 97% of these orders arrived with the customer on time and in full. We also answered 100% of calls within just three rings and responded to 99.4% of email sales enquiries the same working day.” www.windowware.co.uk

autosafe 833

autotronic 834

multitronic 881

automatic locking via magnets immediately on closing the door with key opening

automatic locking via magnets on closing with key, panic or access control opening

motor driven locking on closing the door with key, panic or access control opening

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

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

HARDWARE, SAFETY & SECURITY door function of the 834P is compatible with the CISA Fast Touch Panic Exit Push Bar, allowing unimpeded escape from the inside of the building at any time on either the active or inactive door leaf. The hardware set is BS EN 1125 and BS EN 179 accredited for panic and emergency exit doors and is also UKCA approved.

The 834P lock is suitable for aluminium, composite, PVC-U and timber doors and is available for single and double doors. The lock is fitted into the eurogroove, which unlike face fit alternatives, make is particularly suitable for education and commercial settings where the risks of tampering may be higher, claims the company.

On closing, two latching deadbolts simultaneously extend and lock in place.

Unlocking is motorised, allowing access control to be added or integration into existing building management systems. A PAS 24 and Secured by Design option is available too.

Automatic Door Lock With

Built-In Panic Function

From Carl F Groupco Independent hardware supplier Carl F Groupco is highlighting the benefits of its popular SmartSecure Fuhr autotronic 834P Hybrid Automatic Door Lock for educational and commercial settings. One of the product’s key differentiators is its built-in panic function that provides an effective emergency escape.

John Crittenden, managing director of Carl F Groupco, explains: “The 834P offers a practical hybrid solution for

multiple occupancy buildings or dwellings that need the security and convenience of an automatic locking system with access control options. But what sets this product apart from other market offerings is its emergency exit or panic function, which is a critical safety feature for use in such settings. It’s a step change in intelligent hardware design that is proving popular with our commercial customers.”

The emergency exit and panic

90 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

The CISA Push Bar is also suitable for installations that need to comply with Scottish Building Regulations, because at just 75mm from the door, it is well under the requirement that hardware on panic exit doors should protrude no further than 150mm for Category 1 doors and 100mm for Category 2 doors, says the company.

John concluded: “We’re committed to offering products with added value benefits to support our customers, and the SmartSecure Fuhr autotronic 834P is the perfect example of this. It offers an intelligent, practical solution that meets the needs of educational and commercial settings.” www.carlfgroupco.co.uk www.smartsecure.co.uk www.carlfdirect.co.uk

HARDWARE, SAFETY & SECURITY

Siegenia Secures BBA

Certification Once Again

Siegenia’s Titan AF tilt and turn hardware range has once more successfully achieved the respected BBA standard. After originally having gained the certification in 2018, the hardware company was audited in the UK and at their German factory this year before being granted renewal.

Their Titan AF range remains the only tilt-before-turn gearing on the UK market that has achieved this certification, doing so for both their face-fix and concealed versions, claims the company.

For over 50 years, BBA has provided product and system

certification to demonstrate the specialist formation, capability and uniqueness of products in

the construction industry. This is a valuable tool for specifiers, giving them security in their choice of products. Furthermore, BBA certification is a requirement for specification for new-build and NHBC sites.

Siegenia UK general manager Ryan Thompson said “BBA remains the gold standard certification and further bolsters our reputation to specifiers, designers and contractors as a provider of the highest quality hardware. I am extremely proud that we have once more passed their rigorous auditing process both here and at our facilities in Germany, demonstrating that we maintain high standards across all areas and sites of our business”. www.siegenia.com/en

Axim Achieves UKCA Marking Standard before the UK left the European Union. By affixing the standard mark onto any appropriate product sold in Great Britain, Axim is able to declare it meets the stipulated UK regulations.

Axim says it supplies most major UK and European aluminium systems houses with its comprehensive hardware solutions including but not limited to emergency and panic exit devices, transom closers, electric strikes, floor-springs, flush-bolts, locks and handles.

Axim Architectural Hardware, part of TPG (The Parkside Group), has recently achieved the UKCA marking standard on a number of products in the company’s range.

According to Axim, as one of the first companies in the UK to achieve this, Axim has met the stringent technical requirements for the industry standard that has replaced CE marking previously used by

manufacturers.

Axim hardware standards include: BS EN 1125:2008, BS EN179:2008 which complies with the Regulation (UK) Statutory Instrument 2019 number 465. The new UK standard is clearly displayed on all relevant products, packaging and paperwork.

The UKCA marking system is very similar to those required

Axim is a member of The Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB) and The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers. Membership and association with these bodies provides reassurance that all Axim products conform to latest building regulations and trade association guidelines, says the company.

For more information contact Rachel Appleyard 020 8685 9685 www.axim.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 91

PRODUCT NEWS

Hurst Redefines Its Composite Door Offer Hurst Doors has launched a new campaign aimed at changing the way the industry approaches composite door sales, launching an innovative new offer and wealth of tools to help its customers win more business.

Launched this month, Hurst is rolling out its new composite door collection ‘You’re Home With Hurst’.

The campaign is built around a

wealth of new marketing tools integrating print, video – and new digital tools.

“Our customers include retail specialists to independent installers”, explained Hayley Barker, head of marketing at Hurst.

“Some have seasoned sales professionals within their teams, others are selling and doing the fitting themselves.

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TV presenter Amy Burrows, who is fronting the new Hurst video campaign

“What we’ve tried to do is create something for everybody, with new literature and QR codelinked sales videos, using professional presenters to communicate everything from thermal performance to colour options and security.”

Filled with stunning lifestyle imagery, the new ‘You’re Home with Hurst’ 65-page lifestyle brochure sits at the centre of this fully integrated retail sales campaign.

It features Hurst’s extensive range of composite door styles

PRODUCT NEWS

walk-through.

“It’s a great tool to complement your own sales process or do the heavy lifting, if you’re a smaller business without so many salespeople on the road, because it helps to level the playing field.” including Classic, Cottage, Contemporary and Designer collections, plus its extensive choice of furniture, colour and glass options.

It also explains door performance in simple and easy-to-understand terms, with additional explanation of performance delivered in short professionally created videos, accessed via a QR code.

“It’s almost like having an additional sales team on the ground”, continued Hayley.

“Homeowners can access a wealth of information in the brochure but also if they want further explanation, they can scan the QR code and access a professionally created product

Hurst announced significant investment in its composite door offer in the summer with the addition of a new beam saw and two edge-banders to its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.

The new beam saw moves door cutting-to-size to a dedicated process, freeing up capacity across Hurst’s three pre-existing CNCs, also reducing wear and tear on parts.

The two new automated edgebanders, further improve quality and support product development including the addition of the SFS Dynamic 2D-C Hinge, to Hurst’s composite door ranges.

Hayley Barker

Hayley continued: “People know us for PVC-U panels but we also manufacture more than 500 composite doors each week.

“We want to make it easier for every one of our customers to tap into those opportunities by helping them to sell their composite door offer more effectively to the homeowner.” www.hurstdoors.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 93

PRODUCT NEWS slabs, the composite doors have been meticulously engineered to incorporate the standard security features and locking mechanisms inherent in conventional composite doors. This fusion of unconventional sizing and toptier security underscores Force 8’s commitment to marrying practicality with security.

Over time, Force 8 has carved a niche for itself by specialising in the supply of unusual doors and frames. This individuality has propelled the company into an emerging market, with a growing demand for solutions that diverge from the ordinary. Lisa Mottershead, the operations director at Force 8, highlights the scarcity of competitors willing to delve into projects that deviate from their established processes.

“Most door manufacturers prioritise the mass production of standardised composite doors, inadvertently leaving a void in the market for bespoke oneoff projects. This is particularly evident with our arched and part-arched doors, the fact that we manufacture the frames as well gives Force 8 a competitive advantage”.

Force 8’s capability lies in its comprehensive manufacturing facility, augmented by a complete paint facility, which enables the company to fulfil orders of varying dimensions according to precise specifications.

Force 8’s proficiency in delivering these distinctive composite doors not only demonstrates its technical prowess but also its adaptability to diverse customer requirements. The success of this recent undertaking stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to addressing unmet needs within the realm of door solutions. As the industry leans towards tailored and unique products, Force 8’s strategic focus on such ventures positions it as a pioneering player in the market, catering to the evolving demands of both housing authorities and individual customers alike.

Crafted from standard door

www.force8.uk

The Long And The

Short Of It

Force 8 has recently exhibited its capacity for innovation by delivering an array of distinctivesized composite doors to a local housing authority, which are considerably smaller in size. These unique doors serve a crucial function as service access points within flats and apartments. The hallmark of

94 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

PRODUCT NEWS

Distinction Doors Helps Select Windows Acheive PAS 24:2016 elect Windows (Home Improvement) Ltd has achieved PAS 24:2016 with its Liniar Composite Residential Door System which uses the Distinction Doors 44.5mm GRP faced composite door blank and Liniar composite door profile.

The composite residential door system now meets the performance expectations required for Secured by Design and has been awarded ‘Police Preferred Specification’ status. It joins a suite of Secured by Design window and door products available from the Walsall-based fabricator.

Sample doorsets were independently tested by UL Solutions.

Nigel Court, operations director for Select Windows said: “We are incredibly proud of this

achievement. We worked closely with our suppliers and the test house to ensure the door system passed robustly. The fact the Distinction Doors blank holds Secured by Design status gave confidence. As a fellow Secured

by Design member, we appreciate what it takes to achieve this, and as a Distinction Doors fabricator, we are grateful for the reassurance it brings.”

Certification and accreditations are integral to the Select Windows business model. The company invests in those most relevant to its products and demanded by customers in both the residential

and commercial markets, including social housing providers and the Ministry of Defence.

“We strive for excellence, and this means upholding the standards we work hard to achieve,” said Nigel.

“By attaining them in our own right our customers are assured of the consistent high quality of our products, workmanship and service.”

Select Windows uses the Distinction Doors SBD approved door blank as standard. “We find it extremely beneficial,” continued Nigel. “End-users benefit from the inherent strength and security of the SBD door blank while we stay competitive with a top-quality entrance doorset. We even use laminated glass as standard. The only variant is the barrel; we use a 3* for Secured by Design specified jobs.”

This model, to use SBD components as standard, is used throughout the business with just one exception Select’s bi-folding door. The only difference in most instances is the omission of safety glass. www.distinctiondoors.co.uk www.selectwindows.co.uk

Apeer ‘Barbie’ Door Takes Centre Stage For Residence

Door Collection Retailer Aperture

When Cheshire based Aperture Doors received an invitation from the town council to participate in its ‘Family Fest’ fun day in August, the firm’s owners responded by creating a ‘Barbie’ themed window display at its town centre-based showroom. Inspired by the door shown on the FIT Show stand for the launch of The Residence Door Collection by Apeer, a specially produced pink entrance door featuring a heart-shaped glazing cassette, was highlighted by bold, pink Barbie-themed window graphics to create fun and interest

as part of the event.

Aperture Doors’ Lillie Pragnell said “Knutsford Council organises a number of events in the town centre and we always try and participate. And with the Barbie movie just being shown in cinemas at the time we decided to have fun and create this display.

“We only had a few days’ notice and Apeer responded really quickly to supply us with the special pink door with the heart-shaped glass cassette, to produce a door that

Barbie herself would be proud of,” No Barbie doors were sold but Lillie added “the display attracted a lot of attention generally, which of course is the point of this and other displays and promotions that we participate in. It drew people in to the showroom and actually, we did take two orders from people attracted by the window display, and interest from a number of others that we are following up,” www.apeer.co.uk WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 95

PRODUCT NEWS

JDUK Adds Nexio Design To Their Range West Yorkshire-based door systems specialist JDUK announces the addition of the new Nexio door design by Wisniowski to their range.

The design by Wisniowski has been carefully crafted by a team of dedicated door specialists that want to bring an element of style and strength to any home, while remaining within an affordable price range.

Always prioritising customer satisfaction. Reinforced with steel and designed with a 5-chamber PVC opening frame, the doors have been vigorously weather tested, boasting

U-Values of 0.88 W/m2K and achieving classes 3A and 2A for watertightness, class B5/C5 for wind resistance, and class 4 for air permeability, says the company.

fortune. The Nexio door strikes an impressive balance between providing functionality and durability, without compromising on appealing designs. Our customers can choose from a vast palette of colour options and decorative accents, along with wood effect film coatings.

JDUK wants to instill peace of mind within our customers, and with the Nexio’s optional three-point lock and impressive weather resistance, they can be reassured that their homes will be both secure and energy efficient.”

Jason Wade, sales & marketing director of JDUK explains, “It’s really exciting for us at JDUK to be supplying this new model from Wisniowski because of what it offers in terms of practicality and increasing kerb appeal. We strive to offer our customers the best, and that involves supplying them with reliable products that personalise their homes without costing a www.jdukltd.co.uk

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PRODUCT NEWS

aïr 400SS And 700LS

Slide Into Everglade Window’s Product Range

Everglade Windows has added the aïr 400SS Inline Sliding Door and air 700LS Lift & Slide Door to its product portfolio, helping its trade customers expand their offering to homeowners.

With an increased desire for indoor: outdoor living, both new additions are built to deliver an on-trend minimalist design without compromising on performance – seamlessly connecting homes to the outdoors while modernising its glazing system. Plus, with PAS 24 certification, wind resistance up to 1200 Pa and U-values of 1.4 W/m2k, the 400SS and 700LS performsa on everything, from design to aesthetics, says the company.

The aïr 400SS is a first of its kind

in the aïr range, available without the need for factory bonded glass with a slim 25mm interlock which can be glued on-site.

Manufactured to withstand a 250kg weight limit, the aïr 700LS benefits from 50mm interlocking sightlines and sash sizes up to 2.4 x 2.4m, meaning all options are perfect for creating large expanses of glass.

Joining the aïr collection alongside the already popular 500LS and 600LS, both new additions are a result of months of research and development from the Everglade Windows’ team, which has helped create a more affordable alternative for its trade customers.

Bhavik Dabasia, technical

director at Everglade Windows says, “We’re excited to add the aïr 400SS and 700LS to our product portfolio, as it opens up countless opportunities for our customers. While the aïr 500LS and 600LS have been a hugely popular options, these new additions have expanded the range and provide our customers with a simplified door for everyday use.

“When we launched the products at our trade customer conference back in June, the reception was incredible. Many of our installers have been with us for many years, so delivering a new suite of products that will elevate their offering and grow their business has been a meticulous process we have worked really hard to achieve.

“We’ve got a fantastic track record of staying on top of current trends and predicting future ones, and these products are just another example of that.” www.evergladetrade.co.uk/

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 97

PRODUCT NEWS

Appetite For Light

Drives Rehau’s Latest Modern Sliding Door Design Rehau has launched the latest solution in its polymer windows and doors portfolio, the Slinova sliding door.

Rehau’s Slinova sliding door is in answer to up-to-the-minute home improvement trends and feedback from consumers, says the company. According to a survey that was reported on

by House Beautiful, one in six people focused on increasing additional sources of light when renovating their home, while 42

percent stated overall wellness levels grew with access to sunlight at home. Meanwhile, in Homes and Gardens, ‘establishing an indoor-outdoor feel in the home’ is one of its top ten interior trends for 2023.

conducted by PwC found that 55% of employees would prefer a hybrid model of working postpandemic, while a report by McKinsey found that 20-25% of workforces are likely to work remotely between 3-5 days a week post-pandemic.

With consumers seeking more choices to satisfy distinct tastes and interior designs, the Slinova is available in 20 colour combination finishes that can be matched to the inside Alongside home improvement and outside of the property. trends, the Slinova sliding door This means installers and also responds to the rise in hybrid fabricators can offer a solution working and people’s desires to that is customisable to occupant have spaces that improve their specifications. productivity and well-being while working from home. A survey “We know that homeowners are

98 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

PRODUCT NEWS

constantly on the lookout for products that can enhance the look and architecture of their home, while awareness of how more natural light contributes to wellbeing and productivity is ever-increasing. This means sliding doors are quickly climbing up the home improvement list,” said Russell Hand, head of product management and technical at Rehau UK. “Our latest sliding door makes the transition from indoor to outdoor much smoother, thanks to its dual and triple track roller door system which means it’s a single, simple and light movement to open the door. Expertly engineered with a discreet 80mm frame

depth, Slinova helps maximise natural light through its large glazed area. Slinova caters for a large number of sliding door combinations and can be configured in two, three, four and six pane options that open from either left, right or even from the centre for complete flexibility.

“Slinova has a minimalist discreet design, and the appeal lies in its customisation options.

Fabricators can help achieve the look that consumers want through a wide range of colours and finishes, from elegant, timeless whites to more modern slate or anthracite greys. The extensive glass surface allows rooms to have a stream of natural light and offers improved airflow and circulation for homes, which is a major benefit for health and wellbeing, especially with hybrid working on the rise.”

The Slinova sliding door is available in a welded sash,

welded frame, or mechanical frame assembly. Alongside this, the hardware is speciallydesigned, so that the locks are completely invisible within the sash, thus providing aesthetic appeal. The six-point locking mechanism, three-star lock cylinder, and stainless steel hooks give added layers of protection and guarantee peace of mind, while the door is also tested to the highest weather and performance standards, claims the company, “Whenever we design a new product, it is crucial it meets the extremely high standards people expect of Rehau solutions,” Russell concludes. “Slinova will appeal to homeowners from a visual, flexible and secure standpoint.

For more information on Rehau’s new Slinova sliding door, click here: https://bit.ly/3Fo6m6g WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 99

PRODUCT NEWS

Jack Aluminium Systems Unveils New Features To ID30 Range Following the successful launch of its internal glazing system, ID30, Jack Aluminium Systems has introduced new features to further elevate the range.

this. It also allows for a range of glazing options, including panels and frosted glass, both above and below, that helps deliver added privacy.

Jack aluminium says that while the existing ID30 range is delivering a sleek aesthetic with its slim sightlines, the new features mean the specialist aluminium systems supplier can cater for all tastes, setting it apart from competitors.

Jack Aluminium’s managing director, Andy Short, talks about the new ID30 features and says: “The initial response to the ID30 range has been incredible. We saw an opportunity to jump on to the rise in ‘broken plan’ living spaces, are we’re proud to say we’ve really bucked the trend – delivering to our customers screens and doors that separate interior spaces, while maintaining high-levels of

For those looking to create a more traditional heritage door, the introduction of a lockbox and transom profile helps achieve

100 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

natural light.

“The addition of the lock box and transom will help us take this range even further, offering installers a brilliantly manufactured door that caters to a more traditional design.

We’re confident that these new features will work well in a variety of interior spaces, for both commercial and domestic projects and we can’t wait to see them finally being installed after months of hard work and preparation.”

ID30 has been purposely engineered for interior use.

According to Jack Aluminium, the system offers minimal sightlines with no extra bulk.

Locking mechanisms and hinges are housed within the slim framing and sash profiles, and

PRODUCT NEWS

Surge In Demand For Fentrade’s ID30 Range Fentrade Aluminium has reported a strong surge in demand for its ID30 Internal Door and Screening System since its unveiling at FiT Show earlier this year.

along with fixed screens, the company says the system can be utilised for a range of door configurations, including single and double hinge doors, single and double sliding doors, bifolding doors and pivot doors. www.jackaluminium.co.uk

ID30 can divide or delineate both residential and commercial spaces with a range of internal inset door options for easy access. The product line, featuring single and double hinged entrance doors, as well as single and double sliding door sets, has quickly become a popular choice with Fentrade’s customers, claims the company.

The ID30 Door and Screening System provides various customisable options suitable for a range of sector applications. The hinge doors, available with two handle choices, present an architectural colour-coded pull handle affixed to the front edge of the sashes. Alternatively, a lever handle option is available that, when combined with a cylinder escutcheon, facilitates a secure locking mechanism.

This unique feature expands the potential use of the internal doors and screens to office partitions, whether in retrofitting existing spaces or creating new ones.

The internal aluminium system is available in a choice of colour options, with Fentrade reporting RAL 9005 black matt finish as the top colour preference among its customers, establishing a dominant trend in contemporary colour aesthetics.

Fentrade’s ID30 offers flexibility in glazing too, accommodating up to 8.8mm laminated single glazing. However, customer

preferences often gravitate towards 6mm toughened or 6.8mm laminated options.

Obscure glass can also be incorporated into the system, creating private areas within living spaces. This adaptability broadens the scope of consumer applications, making it suitable for areas such as shower spaces or bathrooms.

Understanding the urgency in project timelines, Fentrade guarantees a reliable 4–5week delivery period for its ID30 products, delivered on its own transport fleet, ensuring a seamless and efficient delivery process.

Commenting on the success of the product introduction, Chris Reeks, director at Fentrade Aluminium, said: “We are delighted to witness the strong demand for our ID30 Internal Door and Screening System.

The positive response from our customers is a testament to the product’s quality, versatility and the commitment of Fentrade to deliver innovative products to the market.” fentradealuminium.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 101

PRODUCT NEWS significant was that rooflights had exactly the same positive impact on results as windows.

It was the light coming into the classrooms rather than the views looking out which mattered most.

Since then, the benefits of daylight on everything from academic scores to retail sales, industrial outputs and personal wellbeing have been extensively measured and documented; and it now has a major impact on the way buildings are designed – both in principle and in practice.

The 2018 standard BS EN17037, for example, focuses on the quality and quantity of daylight for building users in homes and commercial buildings. It acknowledges that occupants don’t just prefer daylight to artificial light, but that it benefits their circadian rhythms, physical and mental health, and comfort.

The standard also recognises the energy savings that can come from minimising the requirement for artificial light inside, alongside the need to balance heat loss and solar gains from large areas of glazing.

Brain (And Mood) Boosting Daylighting Solutions From

Whitesales More than two decades ago, the Heschong Mahone Group published what has since become a seminal study into Daylighting and Human Performance. It focused on the importance of daylighting in schools, via both windows and rooflights, and the positive impact that had on improving student performance.

Whitesales has a team of daylighting experts available to advise on the implementation of BS EN 17037 and help architects apply best practice when it comes to ‘daylight design’ principles.

They can support fabricators, contractors and rooflight sales and installation companies as well, helping them remind architects, developers and clients just how easy and cost effective it is to use rooflights and lanterns to deliver brain (and mood) boosting levels of daylight.

The results were pretty compelling – in some US school districts, students with the most daylighting in their classrooms progressed 20% quicker in maths tests and 26% quicker in reading tests than those with the Working with the latest software least. tools, Whitesales designers can provide light simulations And, from a Whitesales for glass and polycarbonate perspective, what was also rooflights in almost any type

102 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

PRODUCT NEWS

New Light Duty S2 Bar From Prefix of building, whether that’s a house, a school, a hospital or a shopping centre.

This includes data based on using either direct or diffused light. Direct light is useful for where strong light is needed for close detailed work such as painting, or where the designer wants as natural an internal environment as possible or for users to be able to see the sky through the roof. On sunnier days though, it does result in shadows and glare.

Diffusing light through a rooflight using etched, patterned or tinted light or even polycarbonate can give a much more even distribution of daylight and is useful where the requirement is for ambient lighting over a large area with minimal shadows below. This is most typically in sports centres, industrial and commercial settings.

Both options can easily achieve the light levels (Lux) recommended by CIBSE for commercial buildings (typically a minimum of 200 Lux for occupied internal spaces and 500 for retail and manufacturing areas), but users will need to take into account things like material thickness, diffusing or colour tints.

Whitesales’ team can advise on this as well, and on how to use tinted glazing, blinds or shades most effectively to prevent overheating in line with the new Part O of the Building Regs. https://www.whitesales.co.uk/

Prefix has introduced a new light duty bar for the S2 glazed roofing system, helping to provide a lower cost option.

The new light duty bar integrates with the existing square aluminium and PVCu cappings and is perfectly suited for smaller lean-to, Edwardian and Victorian designs and also incorporates the standard jack rafters. When combined with the low pitch eaves beam from 10 right down to 2.5 degrees, it helps create a very cost-effective studio type roof with a modern design approach, yet with high performance and longevity in mind, says the company.

The S2 system that’s been designed, engineered and supplied

by Sheerline has streamlined the supply chain for Prefix Systems.

Sheerline are both the systems company and extruder, in doing so this enables Prefix to access better leads times, leaner stock control and importantly access to competitive prices.

Prefix says the S2 offers a number of unique design features too, thanks to the considerable

investment made. ‘It offers a one-piece wallplate that doesn’t require a separate top capping, which is easier to fit and less fiddly than other systems. There is also a lean-to/gable end cloaking trim provided in aluminium rather than PVC for greater structural integrity and to help eliminate any risk of warping.’

Chris Baron, director of Prefix Systems commented: “The new light duty bar for S2 makes the smaller glazed roofs more competitive and all this within a total system design that’s moved on immeasurably from the older systems that are prevalent in the market. With minimal components, yet maximum performance with the proven K2 chassis, it’s a solution that will help re-ignite the market for glazed roofs through better design.

“Sheerline have been a pleasure to work with since the launch of the S2, it’s a real partnership and one where they are keen taking on board feedback and ideas to keep the S2 at the forefront of glazed roof development.” www.prefixsystems.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 103

PRODUCT NEWS

Alunet Unveils Aluna Rooflight Aluminium systems house Alunet Systems has announced the most recent addition to its Aluna Range; the Aluna Rooflight.

The new design is just one aspect of a significant phase of development and innovation for Alunet, as the company continues to expand its product range and establish themselves firmly as leaders within the industry.

With its new Rooflight design, Alunet Systems says it is demonstrating its dedication to providing homeowners with a product that is equipped with a multitude of modern features that combine both style and function.

The Aluna Rooflight has been designed with functionality, efficiency, ease of installation and seamlessness in mind, tying in with the rest of the Aluna Range’s contemporary aesthetic.

As with other products in the Aluna range, the Rooflight is designed for easy cleaning and maintenance, to give a ‘hasslefree’ experience for homeowners.

To underscore Alunet’s commitment to quality, the Aluna Rooflight comes with a 10-year guarantee.

One of its key features – among its concealed drainage, ease of installation and dual colour

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option – is its thermally broken design, to ensure optimal thermal performance and energy efficiency.

Managing director for Alunet Systems, Steve Kendrick, explains: “We’re constantly striving to evolve and innovate at Alunet, and we don’t believe in sacrificing style for functionality.

With the new Aluna Rooflight, we haven’t made any compromises.

Instead, we are providing our customers with a product that offers the effortless elegance of natural light while seamlessly integrating contemporary design and effective functionality.

“The Aluna Rooflight was conceived to meet the increasing demand for simplicity, sleekness, and uncompromising design in architectural solutions.

Its innovative features and contemporary aesthetics make it an ideal choice for those seeking to elevate their living spaces.” www.alunetsystems.co.uk

PRODUCT NEWS

Easy Does It With TuffX

First came TuffX’s Infinity roof lights, with their easy to fit, drop and seal installation. Then came TuffX’s simple instructional video, showing just how straightforward installation is. And now TuffX has created a dedicated QR code to make this instructional video even easier to find online.

The QR code will be displayed on the packaging of all Infinity roof light products, making it quickly accessible when products are

delivered and ready to install. The code directs the user straight to the installation video on YouTube.

TuffX says the short animation shows just how easy infinity roof lights are to fit. Infinity products are designed to simply slot over and be secured onto a pre-built upstand using multiple screws.

It’s a fast and easy process, says the company, as the roof lights are delivered ready to be installed straight from the box, with no

additional assembly required on site.

“Everything about our Infinity roof lights is easy – from ordering and delivery to installation and maintenance,” said TuffX’s commercial director Paul Higgins.

“That’s why we’ve made the instructions for its installation super easy to follow, with our short video that will tell you all you need to know in less than a minute. And the video is also easy to find, with a QR code displayed on all our packaging that will take you straight to it. It couldn’t be simpler.

“We want everyone to see how easy it is with Infinity to install a roof light that will transform an interior from a space that is dark and lacking in natural daylight to a light, airy and modern one. Scan the QR code, watch the video and see for yourself just how straightforward it is.”

To watch the video, visit: https://bit.ly/3M51tD3

PST’s Software Revolutionises

Manufacturing Processes, Says SupaLite Software solution provider PST is celebrating six successful years of serving tiled conservatory roof supplier SupaLite, having significantly streamlined the company’s manufacturing processes, says the company.

SupaLite roof systems, as well as our ILite Flat Roof Orangery System.

Since 2017, SupaLite has been utilising Virtual Shopfloor, PST’s manufacturing-based software that allows fabricators to choose from a library of 3D model templates or create custom designs from scratch using a free form tool.

“Prior to our partnership with PST, our processes required us to flat-pack only about 75% of our roofs, which entailed physically assembling the roof on the shop floor to ensure all components matched up accurately. With the introduction of Virtual Shopfloor, we’ve been able to bypass this physical assembly step and significantly boost our productivity.

Alan Watters, SupaLite’s technical director, comments: “Our initial discussions with PST took place at the FIT Show, and since then our partnership has flourished. We now use Virtual Shopfloor primarily for fabricating our signature

“Alongside Virtual Shopfloor, we’ve also implemented their Cast software, a cloud-based centralised management solution that allows for multi-user access and editing of centrally stored contracts. Cast has also facilitated

SupaLite’s Technical Director Alan Watters

the batching of multiple roofs together, optimising our processes even further.

“The tangible benefits of using PST’s software solutions have been evident in the material savings and time efficiencies we’ve experienced, and we would certainly recommend a collaboration with this dynamic company to others.” www.pstonline.co.uk www.supaliteroof.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 105

PRODUCT NEWS

A Winning Combination With The Heritage Collection From

Regal Aluminium

Installers seeking access to more lucrative projects can acquire the necessary products through the Heritage Collection offered

by Regal Aluminium. Managing director Jason Bamford said: “The Heritage Collection gives installers a portfolio of high-end aluminium products to expand beyond the mass market offerings. Add in our hands-on tailored support that can help them realise the opportunities, and you have a winning combination for ambitious businesses.”

The Heritage Window, Single Door, and Double Door models present

an optimal solution for renovating listed buildings and executing extensive refurbishment projects constrained by conservation requirements or planning constraints.

Within the aluminum Heritage Windows category, options include fixed, tilt & turn, side-hung, or tophung casements, all with a choice of heritage or art deco hardware to complement the products.

Meanwhile, the heritage doors are available in both single and doubledoor configurations.

All products within this collection

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can be customized in standard or non-standard colors, offering a range that includes metallic, dualcolor, textured, and anodized effect finishes.

The system incorporates polyamide thermal break technology, ensuring exceptional thermal efficiency in compliance with the latest regulations specified in Part L of Building Regulations, according to the company.

Additionally, the Interior Screening System seamlessly complements the heritage windows and doors, fostering well-lit and airy internal environments. It serves to partition and define residential and commercial spaces of varying dimensions while serving as an effective acoustic barrier. The flexible and versatile system provides virtually limitless design possibilities, offering hinged single

PRODUCT NEWS

Alunet Systems Unveils 73mm

Window Profile As Newest Addition To The Aluna Range West Yorkshire-based Alunet Systems has announced the latest addition to its Aluna Range; a new 73mm window profile. This newest profile option has been developed with product compatibility in mind, now available as an option to order and pair with the existing bifold system and in the familiar colours already on offer. The production of a new profile signifies further growth and development for Alunet Systems, a direct result of closely monitoring evolving market demands and listening to consumer feedback, says the company.

and double-door options, as well as pivot and sliding configurations to accompany the fixed-glazed screen.

Regal’s Heritage Collection encompasses products crafted by skilled operatives within the company’s cutting-edge facilities located in the East Midlands, ensuring consistent, top-tier quality. Jason commented: “Quality is always important – and we always deliver.”

This commitment to quality is mirrored in the robust business support services offered. Jason said: “I have over 30 years’ experience in the industry and it’s exciting to be able to use this experience to work with businesses that want to move to the next level.” regalaluminium.uk

Steve Hudson

The Aluna systems are among the most popular of Alunet’s aluminium residential range, so customers can still expect the same characteristic high quality, lightweight design and ease of installation with the new 73mm profile. This latest design, however, is said by Alunet to be ideal for homeowners’ larger projects and was developed to be used in conjunction with Aluna’s bifold system for a seamless aesthetic.

The Aluna Range was unveiled at this year’s FIT Show and was very well received, with attendants commenting on the sleek design and small sightlines to allow for uninterrupted views.

According to Alunet Systems, customers familiar with the quality of the Aluna range can be assured that the new window profile has been developed to the same standard, and with all the same features as the original products on offer. For example, the 73mm profile has a U-value as low as 1.4W/m2K, it is PAS24 compliant, it comes with a 10-year guarantee, optional integral blinds, and is available in any RAL colour upon request.

Managing director of Alunet Systems, Steve Hudson says of the new profile: “Innovation and seamless design are what define Alunet, so incorporating these characteristics was the keystone in developing the latest addition to the Aluna Range. The success we’ve had with Aluna has been phenomenal – it’s among the most popular of our aluminium ranges – so we didn’t want to make any changes to what we knew was a good thing. The 73mm profile is just an extension to an already phenomenal range that extends the sleek design options we have on offer at Alunet, providing customers with more flexibility when making their design dreams a reality.” www.alunetsystems.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 107

PRODUCT NEWS

Glass With 50%

Less Embodied Carbon Launches In New Milestone For Decarbonising Buildings Pilkington United Kingdom Limited, part of the NSG Group, has pioneered a new glass range with 50% less embodied

carbon when compared to standard float glass* ‒ representing the lowest carbon product of its kind on the

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market, claims the company.

The manufacturer introduces Pilkington Mirai as four in five (79%) architects say clients are more concerned about the embodied carbon of building products than they were five years ago, according to a new study by the glassmaker**.

Pilkington Mirai can be offered as a low carbon alternative to regular float glass, with no difference in performance, quality, or aesthetic appearance.

PRODUCT NEWS an exciting journey. The new range will be instrumental in providing architects with the solutions they need for reducing the carbon intensity of their projects.

“We aim to expand our offering through further collaboration and technological advancements in the near future on our journey towards achieving carbon neutrality.”

Pilkington Mirai is available in various thicknesses, for uncoated and coated specifications, as well as having the ability to be laminated.

The glass can be combined with other high-performance low emissivity, solar control, and acoustic coatings in the Pilkington product family*** ‒ enabling building owners and design professionals to proactively reduce embodied carbon while meeting other building performance and compliance requirements.

The name Mirai, meaning ‘future’ in Japanese, was chosen to mark the start of the next generation of low carbon glass products.

Kristian Chalmers, global strategic commercial manager at the NSG Group, said: “The launch of Pilkington Mirai represents the beginning of

Aston Fuller, general manager at Glass Futures, an organisation researching innovative new solutions and technologies to help the global glass industry

It’s been pioneered using a combination of alternative fuel, high recycled glass content, and green electricity sources.

Sustainability in glassmaking The company’s ambition is to work together to combat climate change, strive for social equality, and to protect the environment.

Last year, the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) recertified the NSG Group’s increased ambition aims to reduce its emissions by 30% by 2030 compared to 2018 levels.

The glassmaker also has Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for selected glass ranges, to provide building designers with greater transparency over the carbon lifecycle of building materials.

Dave Dalton, chief executive at industry body British Glass, said: “Pilkington UK’s new low carbon glass is an exemplar for what can be achieved when a manufacturer collaborates with its partners and innovates.

Driving sustainability in the built environment represents a huge challenge, but products like this will make an important contribution in how we tackle decarbonisation across the glass supply chain.”

to create greener products, said: “We work collaboratively with our members to complete groundbreaking trials and demonstrate the feasibility of industrial scale alternative low carbon fuels like hydrogen and biofuel. To see the application of this technology and cut half of the embodied carbon of glass is a major technical achievement, with an abundance of research well underway on how the industry can ultimately cut all carbon ready for 2050.”

The company further aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and continues to work proactively to make a positive impact on the environment through activities such as its world-first proof-of-concept trials of alternative fuels in glass making. This specific program led to the development of Pilkington Mirai.

Further initiatives include a focus on ensuring a sustainable supply chain via the introduction of a new Supply Chain Charter, which outlines eight key areas of environmental and social protection for suppliers to demonstrate evidence towards achieving. It’s also become a member of the SPP (Sustainable Procurement Pledge) League of Champions, which aims to unite the efforts of procurement leaders in reaching the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). www.pilkington.co.uk/mirai

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 109

PRODUCT NEWS

Alunet Systems Unveils

The Aluna Super

Slim Bifold System

Alunet Systems has announced the launch of its Aluna Super Slim bifold system. The company says this revolutionary design represents a significant leap forward in the expansion of Alunet’s product range, offering homeowners a seamless blend of style, space, and sustainability.

The new Super Slim bifold system is designed to provide homeowners with an unobstructed view of the outdoors while maintaining superior thermal efficiency and security standards.

Alunet says unlike traditional bifolding doors, the system reduces the need for visible framework, maximising the space for glass panes.

The system has U values as low as 1.4 U/m2K, offers enhanced security and meets PAS 24 standards, says the company.

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PRODUCT NEWS

According to Alunet, the new design can also be tailored to suit homeowner preferences, with options for up to 7 leaves that open inwards or outwards, ensuring a perfect fit for any space.

Alunet Systems says it places customer care at the forefront of its mission, and to achieve this it uses LogiKal software from Business Micros. This software facilitates the processing of single or multiple profile systems at all stages of the ordering process, from estimations and quotes to production. By calculating precise and efficient quantities for orders, LogiKal reduces waste and streamlines the packing and delivery process, ensuring Alunet’s customers receive the highest level of service and value, says the company.

Managing director of Alunet Systems, Steve Kendrick, says of the new Super Slim bifold design: “This new addition to the Aluna Range is really exciting for us at Alunet because it signifies our successful efforts to continue expanding and developing the company through innovation and development, offering our customers the most efficient and stylish designs.

“At Alunet, we don’t sacrifice quality or efficiency for aesthetics. The technical expertise and industry knowledge throughout our team means that we can provide our customers with the most advanced products in the industry, and the new Super Slim bifold system is another example of this. It combines style, energy efficiency, and security in a way that truly enhances the living experience. We are thrilled to offer this innovative solution to homeowners who value aesthetics and performance.” www.alunetsystems.co.uk/ www.bmaluminium.co.uk/logikal/

CRL Louvred

Pergolas Create A Stylish

Outside Garden Room

As the weather turns towards autumn, CR Laurence is helping maximise the use of outside spaces, extending its Outdoor Living Collection with the launch of freestanding Louvred Pergolas.

Providing a comfortable environment to enjoy an outdoor area, while protecting the user from the changing seasons, whether it be sun, wind or rain, CRL Louvred Pergolas with a bioclimatic roof, are ideal for a stylish garden room.

With the ability to span large areas, the freestanding structure can cover outdoor kitchens, hot tubs and pools for year-round protection from the elements.

The remote-controlled bioclimatic slats are easily adjustable to let light through and promote airflow while keeping out harsh glare or can be completely closed for

protection from the rain.

CRL Pergolas can span areas of up to 6.5 m by 4.5 m, with a maximum height of 3 m, with a modular design that enables multiple structures to be combined to cover larger spaces, ideal for commercial purposes.

The sleek lightweight attractive aluminium design, available in a choice of four on-trend RAL colours, is both aesthetically pleasing and robust. The inconspicuous drainage is cleverly integrated into the post, with rainwater channelled through the gutter into the drainpipe. The front profile of the post can be easily removed using a clip system to allow easy access to the drain. www.crlglassrooms.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 111

MACHINERY

Bespoke Aluminium Manufacturing Invests In Kombimatec

To Secure 24 Hour Production Line Winchester manufacturer Bespoke Aluminium Manufacturing (BAM) have kept up their customer promise to hit the ground running on orders with an extensive purchase of machinery from Bedfordshire supplier Kombimatec.

Having made the decision to expand the company’s direction and start cutting frames in house, managing director Ben Turner and business partner Matt Goss invested in the range to ensure maximum, 24-hour output from BAM’s new factory, established in January 2022. Along with windows and facades, the collection will also support the production of aluminium bi-folds to the south and south west.

With years of combined expertise in sales, plus a mutual frustration with the quality and service from competitors, the pair chose to

take on new premises and fill it with five Kombimatec pieces. Ben explained the difference they hope BAM will make to the industry landscape: “Matt and I have always liked to get our hands dirty and share a determination to offer the very best to our customers.

When we talked about expanding into cutting the products on site, we immediately had Kombimatec recommended to us due to their reputation for simple, straight forward transactions and great customer service.” Ben continued: “We knew our spend would be big, and we were keen to move quickly, so it was vital that whoever we

112 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

went with could support us in what we wanted to achieve.”

The list includes the CC124 Pneumatic Corner Crimper, the DGS530 Electronic Double Mitre Saw, which boasts a series of automated features and routines, an AMC308 Axis Machining Centre with automatic tool change cabinet and touch screen control, an AFV362 Variable Angle End Miller with quick change arbour and the MGS460 Variable Angle Upstroke Mitre Saw with 400mm blade.

From order to delivery was just two weeks, something which Matt and Ben were highly impressed with: “Kombimatec’s David Parsons has been superb to work with.

Aside from the recommendation, we searched online for potential suppliers, and it was an easy choice once we saw the vast range of equipment Kombimatec offered. One conversation with David and we knew we were in safe hands. We’re very pleased to be working with such a progressive and forward-thinking company and look forward to seeing both businesses grow.” www.kombimatec.com

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 113

MACHINERY

Emmegi Apprentices Strengthen The Team The Emmegi (UK) engineering team has been given a major boost with the company’s two young apprentices Dan and Will successfully completing their four-year training programmes to become NVQ qualified Mechanical and Electrical Engineers.

They are both now carrying out machine servicing and repairs independently and are already out visiting customers across the UK. Ian Latimer, Emmegi (UK)’s managing director, said: “Dan and Will are great apprenticeship success stories. They’ve done well at college and in the practical training they’ve received here.

They particularly benefited from the fact that we gave our experienced engineers time and space to train them on jobs where they could learn and practice their skills.

“The whole team here has been invested in their progress and they’ve been immersed in our positive work culture, so they have also learnt all those other important life skills such as time management and customer communication.

“One of the biggest strengths of Emmegi (UK) is the stability and vast experience of our team, but we do recognise that we need to invest in bringing on new talent as well. Dan and Will have proven that, done properly and with the right level of commitment on both sides, apprenticeships are a good way to do that.”

The Emmegi (UK) team is arguably one of the most experienced in the UK machinery sector, with the sales team boasting a massive 100+ years’ industry experience between them, the servicing department boasting 150+ years,

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and the business management team an impressive 20+ Ian Latimer added: “Emmegi (UK) was established in 2010 and many of us, including sales managers Martin Linnell and Andrew Jones have been here since the very start. In terms of industry experience through, all the other key figures, such as Jim O’Connell, our sales manager in Ireland, Wayne Hunter, our operations manager, Giulia Furgeri, our business manager, Tracey O’Callaghan, our service administrator, and Craig Smith, our spare parts manager have also spent the majority of their careers in machinery.

“That’s really important when it comes to understanding the market, building and strengthening relationships with our customers, and being able to share knowledge with newcomers to the business like Dan and Will.

“We’re already looking to repeat the apprenticeship programme and grow the team still further.” www.emmegi.com/en/home

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WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 115

ON SITE

Renson UK

Comprising of five buildings, including a 31-storey tower, the development consists of over 600 bespoke student rooms and 85 build-to-rent apartments, along with a seven-storey commercial office space with Designed by UK architecture and retail units on the ground floor. interior design firm Carey Jones Chapman Tolcher and managed All five towers are constructed

by Ardmore Construction, the using traditional brickwork, redevelopment at the site of the including the 96m central former Elizabeth Arden Perfume structure, which forms the site’s

Contributes To TheRedevelopment Of London’s Iconic Perfume Factory Ventilation louvre specialist Renson UK has supplied its systems to the infamous Perfume Factory in London, contributing to an overall redevelopment project.

Factory marks a significant milestone for the site.

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ON SITE

iconic identifier.

It was critical to Carey Jones Chapman Tolcher that all parties involved in the project had experience in the construction of high-rise developments, and with 50 years of experience in designing, developing and manufacturing highperformance ventilation products, Renson UK was chosen for the supply of louvres.

For this project, Renson UK

supplied its 414 glazed in louvres, which are made from extruded aluminium sections and stainless steel 304 insect screen.

414 louvres have a blade pitch of 33.3mm and can accommodate most glazing thicknesses. They also have a nominal free area of 50%, and are weather and aerodynamically tested to EN 13030, having achieved a class A weathering classification, says the company.

Renson UK national sales manager Martin Daniels comments: “At Renson UK, we’re very proud to see our market-leading ventilation systems contributing to the transformative redevelopment of the iconic Perfume Factory in London. This project exemplifies our commitment to delivering high-quality, fully tested louvres for even the most demanding applications.” https://bit.ly/46SJU0O

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 117

ON SITE

“The Only Way

Is hup!”

Tony & Liesel inherited an old conservatory when they moved into their home and felt that at around 20 years old, it had seen better days. As part of a largescale renovation project on their home, the couple decided to transform their conservatory into an energy efficient, new

extension using the hup! system – and are absolutely delighted with their decision.

The couple explained more about transforming their conservatory with hup!: “Our old conservatory wasn’t working for us – it was dated, we struggled to achieve a

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comfortable temperature, and the old polycarbonate roof was very noisy when it rained. As there were lockable doors between the conservatory and the house and due to the issues we had with it, it just remained unused and locked off from the rest of the house.

“We had a vision when we set about transforming the conservatory and that was that we wanted a modern open plan space that would connect with our kitchen and allow us to enjoy our garden without being in the garden. It was important to us that the new space was energy efficient, because as part of our home renovation project, we installed solar panels, and so wanted to ensure that this energy

ON SITE

Before: the previous conservatory

efficiency/environmental focus was also carried through into our new extension.

“Our builders, Fairway Construction, told us about the hup! system and it seemed the perfect solution for our project.

We loved how when we were discussing design options, we could put new walls, windows, and doors wherever we wanted on top of our existing base. Our builders explained that had we built the new extension from bricks and mortar, the new walls would have been too heavy for the existing base. This meant we would have had to create a new base which would have added considerably to the cost.

We chose a solid wall against our boundary wall, a gable style

tiled Ultraroof with huge skylights, picture windows in the gable end, and bi-fold doors opening onto our garden.

“When it came to the build it was very quick to take down the old conservatory and then we were amazed that the new hup! was built in just over 4 days! The speed of the transformation was quite incredible.

“Our new extension is now everything we dreamed of. It’s a beautiful modern room that is open plan to our kitchen, making the whole space very family orientated. We love all

being together when cooking, entertaining etc and the amount of light in the extension and the kitchen is fantastic. On the outside we chose render so that the new extension ties in perfectly with the rest of our home and we are delighted with how it looks, both inside and out.

“When hup! came along there was an absolute trust right from the start that this was going to be a fantastic product from start to finish and we’re really, really happy with it, in fact, it’s been lifechanging! The only way is hup!” https://bit.ly/3Qi3MVI

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 119

ON SITE

A Plus Aluminium

Frames View For Homeowners Technal bi-folding doors and casement windows supplied

by A Plus Aluminium have been used in the renovation of a 1960s family home in rural Berkshire.

When Mr and Mrs Wood first purchased their home in 2012, they agreed to wait until their two young boys were older before embarking on a complete renovation. The house was built in 1967 and had been updated over the years. The previous owners had made some improvements, including a new kitchen but “…the house lacked the wow factor,” comments Mrs Wood. “We knew we could give the house the wow factor by knocking down the single storey extension to build a double height replacement, with an open plan kitchen, boot room, utility, downstairs and a new master bedroom with ensuite

and dressing room, upstairs. All designed to take advantage of the view.”

Mr and Mrs Wood appointed a retired technical designer who had been involved in the original build, to agree what they wanted versus what was feasible and within budget.

An important design detail was blending the extension with the existing building to not look like a bolt-on. “In the year prior to the build we spent hours looking at different cladding materials and properties in the area, collecting samples and leaving them outside over winter to see how they weathered. We eventually agreed on black charred timber for the whole extension. We replaced the existing tiles with the timber and combined with a new stone cladding on the lower part of the existing house.”

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The secret to creating the wow factor was to maximise on the view at the rear of the property.

This has been achieved using Technal bi-folding doors and casement windows supplied by A Plus Aluminium and installed by local business, S.E.A. Windows and Doors.

The owners approached A Plus Aluminium for guidance on product selection. “Visiting the showroom was invaluable; in fact, we visited twice which really helped to cement which products we wanted,” continues, Mrs Wood.

“A Plus were brilliant in helping us through those early stages,” concludes, Mrs Wood. “Then Brett from S.E.A. spent an enormous amount of time helping us decide on what would be best, aesthetically, and working with the architect to find solutions. A Plus was great at prioritising deliveries to suit the build programme and the S.E.A fitting team went above and beyond.” www.apluswindows.co.uk

ON SITE

Liverpool Landmark Refurbishment A Success

customisable solutions to suit projects of varying demands, including those that involve sensitive restoration like this development in Liverpool. PVC-U is an energy efficient, durable, safe and highly technical choice for residential properties and we look forward to working on similar projects in the future that require sustainable and forwardthinking fenestration options as we continue to lead the market.”

John McDonough, Warwick Developments commented: “It is thought of as unusual to install PVC-U windows in buildings under conservation rules. However, due to the intricate, customisable design options of Vertical Sash Sliders, as well as Modus, we have been able to present a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing option which both have low maintenance and cost effective benefits, whilst not compromising energy efficiency.

Eurocell has made a challenging refurbishment project in an area with conservation restrictions possible with its bespoke window and door solutions.

Located in a lively area of Liverpool, 44 Parkfield Road had fallen into an unmanageable condition before being picked up at auction by specialists in building and renovations, Ballpark Developments, in a bid to restore the landmark property and create upmarket apartments to suit the cosmopolitan area that surrounds it.

Some of the many challenges faced when refurbishing a building of this age, was that it had historically been fitted with timberframed vertical sliders which the architect and conservation planning were specifying a replication of and, there was the added request from the Conservation Office to specify in the extended part of the building

aluminium windows and doors.

These challenges presented further difficulties with aesthetics, energy efficient and noise pollution – resulting in Ballpark Developments reaching out to local specialist Warwick Developments and subsequently being introduced to the team at Eurocell.

After specification review and consultation, Eurocell’s vertical sash sliders were presented as an alternative for the timber framed windows combined with Modus windows as an alternative for the aluminium window. Utilising the contemporary clean lines and U-Values as low as 0.7, made Modus the obvious choice. With both offering an added cost benefit, energy efficiency and aesthetically pleasing result.

Kelly Hibbert, head of commercial sales at Eurocell commented: “Our wide variety of windows provide fabricators and developers,

“We have worked on several similar projects in areas with conservation restrictions within Merseyside, that have seen PVC-U vertical sliders as the credible option. This meant that we had case studies the conservation team and architect could review for inspiration and guidance on specifying for Parkfield Road.

The addition of being able to manufacture with sash horns and a deep bottom rail to align with the heritage features secured the decision.”

Tony Ditchfield, owner of Ball Park Developments said: “It has been fantastic to work collaboratively on this project and bring the property back to life. The use of innovative and durable products helps reduce waste and the need for constant maintenance and replacements, which is of great importance as we work toward net zero. We look forward to seeing the building let with new tenants and for further projects with this team.” www.eurocell.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 121

ON SITE

The Residence Collection

Updates 1970S Home With Residence 7 Range

Window and door designer, The Residence Collection, has had its popular Residence 7 windows installed into a 1970s property, using its Corse Lawn and Chalk White colourway.

Partnering with installer, Andy Glass Windows, and fabricator, HS Trade, the Residence 7 range was manufactured using the Timberweld jointing method and installed throughout the property, including a bay window.

The Residence 7 range provides flush windows internally and externally for a modern and versatile aesthetic as well as superior acoustic and thermal properties. The range has A++ energy ratings with this doubleglazed installation reaching a u-value of 1.2Wm2k as standard, claims the company.

and Chalk White. With green and grey undertones, Corse Lawn was chosen externally to complement the modern character of the home, while internally Chalk White supports with projecting natural light. The installation was completed with Regal Antique Bronze pear drop window handles.

This collection is available in 24 colourways with this particular project using Corse Lawn

Jo Trotman, marketing manager of The Residence Collection, said:, “At The Residence

122 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

ON SITE

Luxury Lodges Excel With

Optima And Stellar From Epwin Window Systems

The premium aesthetics of Optima and Stellar products from Epwin Window Systems were on full display in a luxury lodge showcased by premium park home manufacturers Aspire at the Great Holiday Home Show.

Collection we take pride in providing homeowners with new windows that complement their properties, but that are also high-performing for years to come. This customer chose fantastic colourway options for their home which really showcases the benefits of alternating colours externally and internally.

“Quality partnerships are essential to provide the premium design, manufacturing and installation service that we have to our customers, and we’re pleased to have completed another successful project with Andy Glass and HS Trade.” https://bit.ly/46zAxnk

The Great Holiday Home Show, which took place at the Great Yorkshire Showground in Harrogate on 8-14 September, is the UK’s largest outdoor holiday home, caravan and motorhome show. It was the perfect showcase for Aspire Park and Leisure Homes’ aspirational lodges.

The lodge’s window and doors were manufactured by longstanding Epwin Window Systems fabricator Heritage Trade Frames. The company is a long-term partner for Aspire Park and Leisure Homes, and Helen Scott, sales director at Aspire, says: “We have been proud supporters of Heritage Trade Frames for the past six years. The build quality complements our luxury lodges that have attracted a huge amount of interest at the Great Holiday Home Show.”

The high-spec show lodge was fitted with PVC-U Optima windows and an aluminium Stellar slimline bifold door that ran across the full width of the rear elevation for a dramatic visual flourish, capturing the attention of visitors and enthusiasts alike.

The products were manufactured in anthracite grey on white for a sophisticated and elegant aesthetic. They featured Yale SensCheck window and door sensors offering a seamless and connected living experience, further demonstrating Aspire’s highquality credentials. Lee Darcy, sales and marketing manager at Heritage Trade Frames, commented: “Our longstanding partnership with Aspire Park and Leisure Homes continues to exemplify the perfect blend of quality manufacture and luxury living. We were thrilled to work with them on this stand-out project and delighted the lodge attracted so much positive interest.” www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 123

MARKETING & INTERNET

Conservatory Outlet Launches Social Media

Training Sessions Conservatory Outlet has continued its commitment to providing specialist support and valueadded services to its Network of Premium Retailers by launching a brand-new Social Media training and development programme.

Dubbed ‘Social Media Socials’, Conservatory Outlet’s in-house marketing team will run monthly virtual get-togethers for individuals who are involved in the day-to-day running of its retailers’ social media channels.

Participants will be involved in roundtable discussions, share best practices, undertake tailored training sessions and network with members from other businesses across the UK. The first virtual meeting was

held on 25th August, with representatives from the majority of Conservatory Outlet’s retail Network in attendance.

Topics covered in the opening session included design principles, branding, emerging trends and idea generation.

Further training sessions are scheduled monthly throughout the rest of the year and into 2024 and will continue to feature a mixture of open forums and specialist training modules.

Talking about the launch of Conservatory Outlet’s social media training sessions, Karen Clough, group marketing director, said: “In our industry, you can’t stand still.

We want to help our customers build their brand and provide them

124 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

Nikki Lewis (right), Conservatory Outlet’s marketing manager, delivers the first of the company’s social media training sessions for its Premium Retailers.

with the support to do so.”

Siobhan Bird of the Highlandsbased retailer and installer ERG was one of those who attended the initial session and had this to say: “The session was incredibly useful.

It’s great to have the opportunity to discuss ideas with people in a similar position to me and learn how to continuously improve our presence on a variety of different social channels. The fact that Conservatory Outlet offers extra training and support like this is a real benefit to myself and ERG.” Karen Clough concludes: “Feedback from our first session has been really encouraging.

Conservatory Outlet is always looking to add value to our retail customers and these bespoke training sessions are another example of how we help businesses within our Network grow.” www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk

MARKETING & INTERNET

Senior Launches Online Brochure Trio

Senior Architectural Systems has developed three new product brochures to provide an online resource for the specification of aluminium windows, doors and curtain wall systems.

Showcasing Senior’s commitment to sustainability through its energyefficient and fully recyclable product ranges, the brochures are set to provide a useful tool for meeting the new requirements of Part L of the Building Regulations on a variety of commercial projects

from education and healthcare to retail and leisure, says the company.

The comprehensive windows brochure focuses on two of Senior’s most popular products, Pure and Ali Vu window systems.

Both suited to a variety of commercial requirements and thermally efficient for Part L compliance, the Ali Vu range provides a slimline aluminium window with a polyamide thermal break while Pure offers

a system featuring an expanded polyurethane thermal barrier. Each product range is also available in multiple configurations.

Also available in a series of versatile styles is Senior’s door collection, as highlighted in its doors and commercial low-rise solutions brochure. The brochure features Senior’s offering of shop front glazing systems and folding, sliding and commercial doors, including the Pure door suite system. An extension of its Pure window collection, this collection was designed for achieving ultralow U-values and maximum security without compromising on style, claims the company.

Senior has also launched its curtain wall brochure which features a collection of aluminium curtain wall solutions including its SF62 and SF52 curtain wall systems.

All three of the new brochures also contain key company information and examples of Senior’s previously complete contracts.

Copies can be requested from Senior’s regionally based sales team or can be downloaded directly from the resources section of the website. www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk

therefore delighted to help DoorCo Supports Vista Panels With were Vista’s Ian Smith to create a new

brochure for the County New County Collection Brochure unique Collection, a perfect asset for his Fabricator Vista Panels has launched its brand new County Collection under its XtremeDoor brand, featuring some of the most popular traditional slab styles available from the company’s supplier, DoorCo. Vista has created a new brochure in support of its launch and worked closely with the DoorCo team to bring the vision to life.

Ellie Pool, DoorCo’s marketing manager comments: “It’s important to DoorCo to enable our fabricator customers to own their

team to have available to them to promote their fabulous new range.

share of the market, delivering them the products and services they need to be successful. This includes marketing support. We

“We really relish the opportunity to work closely with our customers on their new marketing ventures and thoroughly enjoyed supporting Ian throughout the process of designing this new brochure. Ian had a great vision for the finished product and we were pleased to be able to share some additional knowledge and ideas with him to bring the final version together”. https://bit.ly/3ZZcWd3 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 125

MARKETING & INTERNET

Ultraframe Launch New Trade Brochure

Ultraframe has launched a new trade brochure, designed to help Ultraframe customers make the most of the entire Ultraframe product and service offering.

Detailing everything from the hup! lightweight building system, to Ultraframe’s many roofing systems and ancillary options, through to the extensive technical and marketing support offered by the company, the comprehensive guide really is ‘the bible’ for any Ultraframe user.

Explaining more about the new trade brochure, Ultraframe marketing director, Alex Hewitt, said: “While we already have a range of brochures detailing our products and services, this new trade brochure brings everything

together in one place and so it is a really handy guide for anyone wanting to access information about what’s on offer from Ultraframe. Each product section features an exploded diagram that explains the role of every component within that particular product, along with information about ancillaries such as structural support options, decorative ancillaries such as cornices, and key facts such as U-Values and more.”

Along with detailing key information for hup! and each of the company’s roofing systems, the new trade brochure also summarises the vast array of support on offer to Ultraframe users – from site support for first builds, through to marketing and more.

126 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

Continuing, Alex said: “We are every bit as proud of the support that we offer our customers as we are of our product range, and towards the back of the brochure you can discover the vast support offer that we have created. This includes the marketing toolbox, designed to help Ultraframe users generate and convert sales leads with everything from website content and online configurators, to samples and selling tools – all available and ready to personalise through our Cuckoo online marketing portal. We also provide on-site training for new products to give confidence to fitting teams when installing for the first time and have a team of experts on hand at Ultraframe HQ to help customers design and build right first time from a technical point of view.”

To download a copy of the new Ultraframe trade brochure click here: https://bit.ly/46SZ6LM

MARKETING & INTERNET

Warwick North West

Website Showcases New Product Ranges Warwick North West has launched a new website, enabling customers full access to information about the wide range of products the company has to offer.

As a long established Eurocell uPVC fabricator, a big development for Warwick has been the introduction of aluminium, opening up new opportunities for existing customers and attracting new customers to the business.

Managing director Greg Johnson comments: “After reviewing the market carefully, we chose to partner with Sheerline for windows and lantern roofs and Cortizo for

patio doors and bi-fold doors.

These products have proven a big hit with customers for multiple reasons, and we of course wanted to showcase these new additions with a brand new, state-of-the-art website.”

The business also has a commitment to tackling the skills shortage and has partnered

Global Windows Supports Local Martial Arts Academy

Sheffield based installer Global Windows has sponsored the kit for 12 children from the Sheffield Dragons Academy as they prepare to compete in the Unified World Martial Arts Championships this October.

Registered members of both the World Traditional Karate/ Kickboxing Association (WTKA) and the British Kickboxing

Council (BKC), the Academy has dedicated itself to nurturing talent and fostering the holistic growth of its students.

The Sheffield Dragons’ commitment goes beyond training, as they also operate the ‘Active Education, Alternative Provision’ programme, accommodating students from diverse backgrounds.

with local community interest companies in order to upskill young people, as well as a dedication to helping local children, as seen through recent partnerships with children’s charity Ykids, as well as with Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.

“The focus of our new website is of course our products and services, but we also wanted to provide our customers with an easy way to learn more about us as a company and the values we stand by,” Greg continues.

“From our point of view, the new website and the analytic tools behind it are incredibly valuable in helping us identify our customers, how they found us, and what they’re looking for – and using this information to adapt the business and maximise on potential sales. www.warwicknorthwest.co.uk The Academy’s elite team, comprising of 12 children aged 10 to 17, have qualified to represent Great Britain in the Unified World Championships, taking place in Carrara, Italy, from the 26th to the 29th of October.

Academy spokesperson Terry Johnston said The Sheffield Dragons were immensely grateful to Global Windows for their generous sponsorship of the kits, commenting: “At Sheffield Dragons, we believe in the transformative power of martial arts and its ability to have a positive impact on the lives of young people from all walks of life.

“The support from Global Windows will undoubtedly play a significant role in boosting the morale and confidence of our young athletes as they step onto the global stage of the Unified World Championships.” www.global-windows.co.uk www.sheffielddragons.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 127

EVENTS

Conservatory Outlet Celebrates Its 10th Annual

Network Gala Dinner Conservatory Outlet recently celebrated its 10th annual Network Gala Dinner by spoiling its premium retailers with an exclusive and luxurious weekend retreat in North Yorkshire.

Guests were also treated to a ‘fantastic’ day in York, with many taking advantage of the chance to visit the city’s numerous attractions, such as the Minster, Clifford’s Tower and the Roman walls.

Held at Aldwark Manor, key stakeholders from the Conservatory Outlet Network joined to celebrate their achievements over the past twelve months and to hear about the manufacturer’s plans for 2024 and beyond.

They learned of Conservatory

Outlet’s continued investment in its marketing and sales initiatives, further enhancements to the company’s range of Forte composite doors and the impending launch of smart sensors on its Extreme UPVC collection.

The weekend’s highlight came on Saturday night, as the historic Aldwark Manor hosted the showpiece Gala Dinner and Network Awards ceremony.

During the celebrations, unique gifts were given to Network members Bon Accord Glass, TWC Home Improvements, TradeMark Windows, County – The Home Improvers, Mid Wales Windows & Conservatories and Premier Windows & Conservatories, with the latter two companies being honoured for their fifteen-year membership of the Conservatory

128 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

Outlet Network. These anniversary awards showcase a testament to the longstanding relationship that Conservatory Outlet has with its key regional retail partners.

Awards for Outstanding Customer Service were also given to those rated excellent (4.5) or above on public review platforms such as Google and Trustpilot.

Greg Kane, Conservatory Outlet’s CEO, noted that the event was another huge success and showcased the Network’s growth over the past twelve months.

“The weekend has been outstanding, arguably our best yet,” Greg began.

“The Network Gala Dinner allows us to thank those we work closely with for their continued support. This year’s event was our tenth such celebration. It speaks volumes about the close relationship[ we have with our retail partners that we can celebrate together as friends year after year.

“Trading conditions across the industry continue to be tough, with

EVENTS

UAP To Reveal Expanded Product Range At MLA Expo

inflation continuing to impact on consumer spending. However, our shared values and togetherness have delivered tangible results that ensure our Network members remain ahead of the competition.”

The night closed with an exclusive afterparty featuring live music and a DJ, with guests soaking up the atmosphere into the early hours.

Conservatory Outlet managing director Michael Giscombe added: “Aldwark was the perfect venue for this year’s celebrations. After visiting bustling cities such as London, Barcelona and Paris in recent years, we wanted to provide a change of pace.”

“It’s always an honour to host our guests and recognise their fantastic achievements,” Mick added.

UAP will be showcasing its latest innovations on stand numbers H2-76 and 77 at MLA Expo 2023, Europe’s largest locksmith exhibition.

Now home to seven leading brands with more in the pipeline, UAP offers locksmiths some of the UK’s most advanced locking systems.

in 2022, Security Hardware will add to the stand with a taster of its domestic PVC-U door and windows hardware comprising products offered under the Schlosser Technik brand.

Kamila Kasperowicz, marketing director for UAP, said: “UAP’s growth strategy has seen us significantly bolster our product range, providing locksmiths with more choice than ever before.

With a focus on innovation, we will be demonstrating how the skills of our inhouse team have created outstanding security features and the benefits both for locksmiths and their customers.

On display will be the Ionic, an ultra-secure electronic lock enabling access via a smartphone App. Simple to install and easy to use, the Ionic has been manufactured for timber and composite doors on properties ranging from individual homes and social housing through to student accommodation.

But for us and our guests, it’s not just an opportunity to network or an awards ceremony; it’s more like a family reunion! We’re already looking forward to next year’s event.”

Locksmiths will also be able to view and sample the Fullex Kinetica K4 3-star cylinders.

These include the horizontal version of the Kinetica+ K4, which is designed with additional security features such as a smaller keyway, making it even harder to attack.

www.conservatoryoutlet.co.uk

After being acquired by UAP

“As one of the latest companies to join the UAP family, Security Hardware will be raising awareness of products new to our portfolio such as a highquality window lock, different types of window handles, and security hardware for vans and garages.”

The UAP team can be found at stand number H2-76 and 77 at MLA Expo which takes place from 20 – 22 October 2023 at Telford International Centre.

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 129

EVENTS

Ten Years On, The Triple Glazing Question

To Return In March 2024 A decade on from the original event, warm-edge experts Edgetech will again be asking the Triple Glazing Question.

clear – the industry wasn’t ready for a large-scale shift to triple glazing. ‘Clever’ doubles seemed a much more viable solution.

On Wednesday 27th March 2024, the Quanex company will bring hundreds of leading figures from across UK glass and glazing to Coventry’s CBS Arena.

Now, the landscape has shifted dramatically. Soaring energy prices and Britain’s net zero commitment have seen triple glazing put back in the spotlight.

Over a day packed with discussion and debate, attendees will assess whether triple glazing is now destined to become the new normal in British fenestration.

With the government’s Future Homes Standard fast approaching, some believe an industry-wide transition is now inevitable.

It was on the 10th April 2014 that the sector’s senior figures first gathered at the same venue (then known as the Ricoh Arena) to tackle the issue.

Back then, the consensus was

For Edgetech, it meant the time felt right to return to the Triple Glazing Question, as managing director Chris Alderson explains: “Ten years ago, Edgetech held a landmark event that sought to clarify the future of the glass and

130 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

glazing industry.

“Triple glazing had existed for decades, but it remained a niche product. At the first Triple Glazing Question, Edgetech asked whether that was liable to change.

“As anyone who attended that day will remember, the answer was a resounding ‘no’.

“Now, we feel enough has changed to warrant asking that question again.

“In March 2024, we’ll be inviting fabricators, installers, IGU manufacturers, component suppliers and others to join us in Coventry to share their views on one of the biggest topics facing our industry.

“We’d be delighted if you would join us to help shape the future of British fenestration.”

More details about the event, including the agenda, ticketing, sponsorship and exhibiting opportunities will be announced in the coming months. www.edgetechig.co.uk

EVENTS

GGF Members Day

Delivers Practical Information,

Healthy Debate And Formula 1 Fun offered specific insights into what the industry is doing to improve sustainability in terms of carbon footprint, recycling and other related issues.

The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) holds a Members Day every year to update members on new legislation, discuss industry issues and provide a valuable opportunity to network, however this year the event went above and beyond. Attendees were furnished with useful information and a safe space for some serious industry discussion, as well as a chance to unwind with some fun activities making the most of the venue at MercedesBenz World in Weybridge.

John Agnew, GGF group managing director explains why this year was a standout event: “This year’s Members Day was an exceptional success thanks to the level of attendance, the quality of presentations including from our special guest speakers Paul Nash and Graeme Leach, and the enthusiastic engagement from delegates. There were some hot topics up for analysis on the day including a panel discussion on the Future Homes Standard and Sustainability. These topics captured the interest of delegates and sparked some serious discussion and healthy debate,

which when done respectfully in a productive space like this, is invaluable for all involved.”

Two highly topical panel discussions created a great deal of interests amongst delegates.

The Future Homes Standard was discussed by Kevin Jones, senior technical officer for the GGF; Phil Brown, who is technical advisory service manager for the UK and Ireland and European regulatory marketing manager for Pilkington UK; and Jon Palethorpe, joint managing director at A Plus Aluminium were hosted by Chris Beedel, the GGF’s head of advocacy & stakeholder relations. This high level of expertise clarified some of the mixed messages that are circulating in the marketplace ahead of an anticipated launch of the standard in 2025.

The Sustainability Panel comprised Dave Borland who heads the GGF’s technical department, Richard Hilson from sustainability advisors Gemserve, and Mike Butterick, marketing director at Saint Gobain Building Glass, with the GGF’s Tom Butler coordinating a session that

Chris Beedel added: “Delegates also enjoyed hearing our two guest speakers share their expertise. Paul who is a previous president of the Chartered Institute of Buildings (CIOB) talked about ensuring quality industry wide and building safety, while Graeme who is CEO and chief economist at Macroeconomics discussed the challenges and opportunities the UK economy is facing.

“As well as the scheduled presentations and panel discussions, there was plenty of time to network with industry peers on the day.

There was also ample time to enjoy the surroundings of the fabulous venue, including the Formula 1 simulators that were unsurprisingly popular (congratulations to Paul Miller from Bohle for achieving the fastest lap on the day!).

“Every GGF Members Day is meticulously planned with delegates in mind, covering current issues and delivering useful advice, but with our special guest speakers and the level of engagement from our fantastic delegates consisting of both existing and new members, this year was one of the best in recent years. We’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who attended and made the day such a success.” www.ggf.org.uk

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 131

AWARDS

Finalists

Announced For G23 Awards The organisers of the G23 Awards have announced the shortlist for this year’s event.

“After a thorough judging process of the huge number of high-quality entries, the companies and individuals that have been shortlisted this year reflect the innovation in the UK glass & glazing industry. We can’t wait to celebrate with you all on 24 November,” said Tony Higgin, Event Organiser. The finalists are: Best Business Initiative of the Year • CNC Recycling • Comp Door • Epwin Window Systems • Eurocell 132 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

• Kubu Smart • Sheerline • The Residence Collection Commercial Project of the Year • AluK & Arkay Windows, Canada Street • CB Solutions U.K., Rapid Deployment Cells • Dempsey Dyer, Essex University • Pilkington UK, Glass Futures Centre of Excellence • REHAU, Lutley Windows, Midland Heart, Dartmouth Street • Saint-Gobain Glass, The Black and White Building • The Residence Collection and HWL, Old Beech Farm Development • Touchstone Glazing Solutions, Ledston Hall Component Supplier of the Year • Edgetech • Kubu Smart • ODL Europe • Smart Glazier Software • Thermoseal Group • Window Widgets Customer Care Initiative of the Year • Bluemanor Windows

AWARDS • CNC Recycling • Epwin Window Systems • Everglade Windows • Reynaers Aluminium UK • Ultraframe Fabricator of the Year • Emplas • Everglade Windows • Glazerite UK Group • Lancashire Trade Frames • Masterframe Windows • Roseview Windows Glass Company of the Year • ESG Group • Go Glass • Pilkington UK Y • ES Glazing Solutions Installer of the Year • Clearview Home Improvements • Global Windows • Kingfisher Windows • Nationwide Windows & Doors • Sherborne • Tyneside Home Improvements Machinery Supplier Award • Avantek Machinery • Haffner • Stuga Machinery New Product of the Year • Touchkey, ERA • Tatra Sliding Sash Window, Gowercroft Joinery • Kubu Floating Window Sensor, Kubu Smart • INSTINCT, MACO Door & Window Hardware (UK) • hup!, Ultraframe Promotional Campaign of the Year • Bifoldshop • Deceuninck • Deceuninck Aluminium • Liniar • MACO Door & Window Hardware (UK) • Reynaers Aluminium UK • The Residence Collection • Whitesales Sustainability Initiative of the Year • Deceuninck • Reynaers Aluminium UK • Saint-Gobain Glass and Morley Glass

• Sternfenster Training & Development Initiative of the Year • ESG Group • Eurocell • Nationwide Windows & Doors • SolarFrame Holdings • Sternfenster • UAP Rising Star Award • Chris Bennett, UK Doors Online • George Boardman-Lee, Touchstone Glazing Solutions • Clodagh Driscoll, Emplas • Morgan Fisher, Kubu Smart • Ben Hartshorn, Sheerline • Daniel Hodges, BM Aluminium – Business Micros Group • Brent Tromp, Sternfenster • Joe Ward, Siegenia-Aubi Unsung Hero Award • Peter Eatough, VEKA • Steve Greenaway, Listers • Jeremy Hedger, Sherborne • Lisa Liddle, Bohle • Claire O’Connor, Clearview Home Improvements • Maxine Ryder, Shelforce • Clive Sparkes, Go Glass • Kev Wallis, Sternfenster The judging panel for the awards this year were: Andy Cassie, Brian Shillibeer, Brian Smith, Charissa King, Chris Beedel, Dan Brown, Dave Borland, David Mechem, Douglas Masterson, Jon Vanstone, Kevin Jones, Luke Wood, Mick Clayton, Phil Heavey, Rod Appleyard and Steve MayRussell.

Now in their 19th year, the G23 Awards have firmly established themselves as the ultimate event recognising and rewarding excellence in the glass and glazing industry. This year looks to be a huge celebration of the UK glass and glazing business and will take place on Friday 24 November 2023 at the London Hilton on Park Lane.

Leading names sponsoring the G23 Awards include AluK GB, Business Micros, Carl F Groupco, Deceuninck, DoorCo, Emplas, Epwin Window Systems, Eurocell, Listers, Pilkington, Saint-Gobain, Sheerline, Thermoseal, UAP, VBH and Veka. The event is supported by FENSA and GGF. To book your place at this gala event go to www.g-awards.com WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 133

AWARDS

Haffner Achieves Finalist

Status At The G23 Awards

of Graf Synergy which brings world-class seamless welding technology and patented welding techniques to its customers. It also the sole UK agent of Haffner Machinery and the UK’s strategic partner for FOM Industrie.

Matt said: “Haffner has seen exponential growth in the past few years thanks to the depth and breadth of our outstanding machinery offering. We also have an exceptional inhouse team of industry and technical experts who are committed to adding value to all customers’ businesses.”

Machinery innovator Haffner Ltd has been named a finalist in the highly coveted Machinery Supplier of the Year category at the G23 Awards. The announcement comes as a testament to Haffner’s commitment to excellence, innovation and dedication to supporting its customers.

Matt Thomas, managing director of Haffner Ltd, expressed his delight, saying, “Everyone at Haffner is thrilled to have been shortlisted for the G23 Machinery Supplier of the Year award. Over

the years, we have continued to invest across the business, and we are now the industry’s leading machinery supplier thanks to the dedication and commitment of our team.”

Haffner’s remarkable growth over the past few years, marked by substantial investments, demonstrates the company’s commitment to machinery innovation.

The Staffordshire-based company is the exclusive UK supply partner

Haffner, which took the title of Machinery Supplier of the Year at the G22 Awards, is delighted to be again recognised amongst the industry’s best. Matt said: “Winning the title of Machinery Supplier of the Year at the G22 Awards was an incredible achievement. To reach finalist status for a second year in succession is a huge achievement and celebrates the hard work and efforts of everyone at Haffner.

We are looking forward to joining our fellow finalists and the wider industry on the night.” www.haffnerltd.com

Ultraframe ‘hup!’ For Two G Awards The hup! lightweight building system from Ultraframe has been shortlisted for New Product of the Year and Customer Care Initiative of the Year at the ‘Industry Oscars’ – the G Awards. The system, which was launched in 2022, has grown rapidly in popularity ever since, with homeowners and builders alike being delighted by its many benefits.

Commenting on the news of the shortlisting, Ultraframe marketing director, Alex Hewitt, said: “We’re thrilled that our hup! building system has been shortlisted for two G Awards. The system really is revolutionising the way that people extend their homes and

transform old conservatories and to be given a chance to highlight this at such a prestigious industry event is a great honour.” hup! uses highly energy efficient and BBA approved Ultrapanels in place of brick walls and can be combined with any Ultraframe roofing system to create any

134 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

shape or style of extension.

Entirely prefabricated with no cutting required on-site, and able to be built in any weather, hup! features unique rapid wall and roof connections. These features combine to make hup!

5X faster to build than bricks and mortar, while its ‘impeccable’ energy credentials mean that it offers 5X the energy efficiency of the average UK home, says Ultraframe. The lightweight, slim nature of hup! walls means that full builds can take place on existing conservatory bases, with a typical increase in floor space of 10-15% vs. a traditional build. www.ultraframetrade.co.uk

AWARDS

Deceuninck Double Short-Listing At G23 Separate research by Deceuninck shows that while fabricators and installers want to lower their carbon footprint, many struggled to know where to start and were put off by the complexity involved in the process.

Deceuninck has been short-listed as a finalist in the Sustainability Initiative of the Year and Promotional Campaign of the Year categories at this year’s G-Awards.

Deceuninck claimed the highly contended Sustainability Initiative of the Year at G22 in recognition of the commitments it has made to lower its operational impact on the environment through the corporate carbon reduction scheme, Science Based Targets.

Since then, it has successfully lowered the carbon footprint of its operations by 21% compared to its 2021 baseline.

Deceuninck has also committed to support fabricators and installers to become greener, launching the Deceuninck Energy and Carbon Footprint Calculators as well as developing a raft of own-brandable marketing tools.

Drawing down on Deceuninck’s lead on sustainability, this includes sustainability brochures; website content and social posts; sustainability explainer videos; presentations and point of sale tools; segmented across b2b

and b2c audiences, forming the foundation of its entry in this years’ Promotional Campaign of the Year category.

Rob McGlennon, managing director at Deceuninck, said he was delighted that Deceuninck’s track record on sustainability had been recognised for the second year in a row.

Deceuninck has created a unique Carbon Calculator which allows window companies to work out their headline carbon footprint simply and easily, using metrics that they should already be collating.

For its part the systems house has committed to cut the CO2 emissions from its own operations (Scope 1&2) by 60% by 2030 from a 2021 baseline under the corporate carbon reduction scheme, Science Based Targets (SBTi).

He said: “Sustainability and the journey to Net Zero will define our sector for the next decade.

We are working hard to lower our carbon footprint and to lessen the impact of our business, while also investing in the creation of tools, which support Deceuninck fabricators in doing the same.

It has also pledged to cut emissions from within its supply chain (Scope 3 emissions) by 48% per tonne by 2030, as part of its wider journey to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

“This includes giving fabricators and installers the marketing and lead generation tools to convert a track record on sustainability into a commercial advantage.”

Independent research commissioned by Deceuninck and conducted by YouGov, shows that lowering their carbon footprint is a factor in purchasing decision for almost 70% of UK homeowners.

Rob McGlennon concluded: “Sustainability is fast becoming a prerequisite for growth and profitability.

“We are committed to making sure our customers are part of that journey, something which we are delighted has been recognised in our finalist status across two categories at this year’s awards.” www.deceuninck.co.uk

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AWARDS

Sternfenster Up For Four G-Awards Sternfenster has been shortlisted in four categories at this year’s G-Awards, recognising the trade fabricator’s strength in depth, as well as being a leading force in the discussions surrounding sustainability in the glass and glazing industry.

“I want to congratulate the whole team here at Sternfenster, because these shortlisted entries only scratch the surface of the hard work and commitment they show each and every day to make the best products with the best service for our customers.”

Mike Parczuk

The four categories are: Training and Development of the Year; Sustainability Initiative of the Year; Unsung Hero of the Year; and Rising Star of the Year.

In October 2022, Sternfenster achieved IIP Gold, something only 23% of assessed businesses globally can claim. The company has now embarked on its ‘Pursuit for Platinum’, which – if achieved – will put it in the top 3% of all IIPassessed companies.

Sternfenster has developed a comprehensive sustainability strategy, which influences every part of the business, including: manufacturing, waste, power generation, transport, customer engagement and knowledge sharing.

“Making tomorrow better than today is a fundamental value at Sternfenster, and one that underpins training and development within the company,” Mike said. “It helped us achieve IIP Gold, and will support us on the IIP Platinum journey, which is our next

“Being sustainable is crucial for the success and longevity of Sternfenster and Starglaze,” Mike said. “By adopting sustainable practices, we can save costs, build a positive brand reputation, comply with regulations, attract and retain employees, and future-

“Sternfenster is a forward-thinking dynamic business that invests in all areas of the business,” managing director Mike Parczuk said. “This is evident in the awards we have been shortlisted for, which demonstrate how we put our people at the heart of everything we do, while developing leading sustainability initiatives for the future.

136 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

milestone in 2025.”

AWARDS proof our operations. And we are determined to take our suppliers and customers with us.”

Technical support specialist Kev Wallis and retail operations manager Brent Tromp are both outstanding members of the Sternfenster team. Kev has been shortlisted for the Unsung Hero of the Year award, while Brent is a finalist in the Rising Star of the Year category.

Emplas In The Finals

At The G-Awards For

Third Year In A Row Emplas has made it through to the finals in the Fabricator of the Year Category at this year’s G-Awards.

Having won the Fabricator of the Year title in 2015 and 2021, Emplas entered the category this time around on the strength of a 25% increase in turnover, and a multimillion-pound IT and operational investment programme.

Kev Wallis

“Both Kev and Brent have made outstanding contributions to the success of both Sternfenster and the retail division Starglaze,” Mike said. “It is an absolute privilege to see them shortlisted for the G-Awards.

Emplas has also launched allocated two-hour delivery slot, plus a 30-minute push notification on arrival of deliveries – something which is giving its customers time back to run their business rather than wait for deliveries.

Ryan Johnson, group managing director at Emplas, said: “We’re delighted to have made the shortlist. It’s a very competitive category and there are some very good businesses sitting alongside us as finalists.

“We have had a very successful couple of years with sustained growth but what we’re most proud of is the work that has gone in behind the scenes to make that growth sustainable.

Brent Tromp

“I also wish all shortlisted companies and individuals the very best of luck on November 24. I know the lengths that some businesses go to, to be the best they can be, and to make the industry a better place. So, whoever lifts the trophies on the night, I think we all benefit as a result.” www.sternfenster.com

“This includes multi-million-pound headline investments, but equally importantly, the investment that we’re making in our people and teams because ultimately they define the service which we give to our customers.”

Emplas committed to the multimillion-pound expansion of its manufacturing capability in the summer. This includes the addition of two new cutting and machining centres, alongside the launch of new product lines.

This includes becoming the first window and door fabricator in the UK to offer a ‘Works with Kubu’, Secure Connected Device and Secured by Design accredited – as standard – window range.

It’s also created new quality champions across the business, reviewing and refining its operational processes to drive product quality and to lower its environmental impact.

“We’ve successfully brought together three pillars – people, innovation and investment – bringing new levels to our customers”, continued Ryan.

“We have a genuinely dynamic offer, which is redefining standards of service, product quality and customer support in trade window and door supply, and most importantly we will continue to build on that and invest as we move forward.

“Regardless of the outcome on the 24th November, what the team here is achieving is a very significant accomplishment and we’re very proud of what has been achieved so far.” www.emplas.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 137

AWARDS

Finalist Status Confirmed For ODL Europe At The G23 Awards

Comp Door Announced As Finalists In G23 Awards Composite door manufacturer and supplier Comp Door has been named as a finalist in the G23 Awards for the second year in a row, this time in the Best Business Initiative category.

The category recognises businesses that have experienced impressive development through sustainable initiatives that not only contribute to the success of the business, but the wider industry.

ODL Europe has been confirmed as a finalist at the G23 Awards in the Component Supplier of the Year category. This recognition underscores ODL Europe’s commitment to product excellence and the continued pursuit of delivering exceptional composite door solutions to the industry.

The G23 Awards, celebrated for their recognition of industry excellence, are a platform that acknowledges and applauds outstanding contributions across the sector. Suzanne Nicholl, head of sales and customer services at ODL Europe, said: “Everyone at ODL Europe is delighted to have been shortlisted for this award. The G23 Awards celebrate excellence in the industry, so we are thrilled to have been named finalists. This nomination is a testament to our continued innovation and the hard work of our dedicated team.” www.odleurope.com

Comp Door has made customer care, innovation and ambitious growth its main priorities since its inception in late 2021, with the eventual aim of becoming industry leaders by ensuring it is constantly implementing customer feedback and monitoring market trends. It’s as a result of this, says Comp Door, that the company has achieved the successes it has, all before celebrating its second birthday.

company was the first composite door manufacturer to achieve PAS 24:2022 and to produce solid timber core composite doors to earn a U-Value of 1.4 W/m²K in 2022. These achievements, says Comp Door, have been made possible because of the company’s careful investments and dedication to improvements, which have resulted in a business initiative that has created an industry-leading product and a customer care team that defies what was previously the standard in the sector.

Raising industry standards and leading the way through innovation is integral to Comp Door’s identity, and according to the company, can be most clearly seen by its implementation of the Touch online ordering portal, robust materials and solid timber core designs – and its meticulous quality control that prevents any door leaving the factory before it has been checked.

Richard Diliberto, sales director for Comp Door, says of the nomination, “Comp Door was established because we knew that the composite door industry wasn’t fulfilling its potential and standards were dropping.

Customers were disappointed with the quality of the products and the lack of any effective customer support. We had the industry knowledge, the technical understanding and the genuine determination to fix the reputation of composite doors and provide customers with a product that we could be proud of. With Comp Door, we have achieved just that.

This company has brought so much in terms of innovation and development to the industry, so to receive this nomination means a lot to the Comp Door team.

According to Comp Door, the

www.compdoor.co.uk

138 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

Sheerline’s

AWARDS Lantern to the Prestige Bi-Fold Doors, and the newly launched Classic Heritage Door. It will enable the company to offer a one-stop, fully matched wholehouse solution.

S2 Conservatory Roof System Sheerline has been named

Is A Finalist At G23 Awards

Sheerline has been announced as a finalist in the Best Business Initiative of the Year category for S2, its new conservatory roof system, at this year’s G23 Awards. Since being unveiled at the FIT Show in May, it has become a popular option for installers looking to differentiate their roof offering.

The new roof system was introduced in response to what the company saw as the stagnation that had beset the conservatory roof system market, leading to a lack of choice and a drying up of innovation. Launching S2, through partners Prefix and SupaLite was a strategic decision for the company, which had already enjoyed success with its award-winning S1 roof lantern.

To ensure S2 is as practical as it is innovative, the development team at Sheerline worked closely with its launch partners to refine the

a finalist in not one but two award categories this year. As well as being shortlisted for the Best Business Initiative of the Year, Ben Hartshorn has been announced as a finalist in the coveted Rising Star category.

Since joining the team in 2019 Ben has quickly progressed from assisting with designing and testing physical prototypes in the early product cycle stages to heading up major product development projects and has recently been promoted to head Sheerline’s team of technical support engineers. His successes to date includes the development of a clip-in bead option for the popular ultraslim Classic Window. As well as the recently introduced Classic Heritage Door.

product. Ensuring it offered the thermal performance, ease of installation and outstanding aesthetics the market was looking for.

As well as providing solutions to installers’ frustrations, S2 also offers greater choice for consumers, says Sheerline, adding that ‘the latter is important because it will remove dependence on suppliers who have a monopoly, good for the market as a whole’.

According to Sheerline, advantages of Sheerline’s S2 when compared to other conservatory systems is the fact homeowners will benefit from the company’s revolutionary approach to thermal performance. For instance, S2 features multi-chambered top caps and ridges that help retain heat.

In addition, S2 can be matched with every product offered by Sheerline, from the S1 Roof

Sheerline CEO Roger Hartshorn said: “We’re delighted to be finalists in two categories for the G23 Awards this year.

It’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase the breadth of work we’re undertaking. The S2 is already proving popular, which isn’t a surprise given the success of the S1 and the latest addition to our roof range, SheerVent.”

“There is clearly demand for reliable, thermally efficient, customisable conservatory and lantern roof systems. It’s also great for the company to be recognised for our people. For us, it’s important team members gain a broad work experience so they can specialise while developing their knowledge and working their way up, which is precisely what Ben has done,” he added. www.sheerline.com/s2

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AWARDS

Epwin Window Systems Achieves Double Finalist

Status At G23 Awards

Gerald Allen, head of marketing at Epwin Window Systems

Epwin Window Systems has achieved finalist status in two categories at the G23 Awards.

Its Connect digital platform has been nominated for Best Business Initiative of the Year and for Customer Care Initiative of the Year, indicating the platform’s ambitious scope and the opportunities it delivers.

Gerald Allen, head of marketing at Epwin Window Systems, said: “We are delighted to be recognised in two categories at the G Awards this year. As a business, our unwavering commitment to driving innovation within the industry is exemplified by our Connect platform.”

Connect was developed as a digital platform aimed at elevating customer support across all business touchpoints. It empowers

users to conveniently access and download resources from various devices including desktops, mobiles, iPads and tablets.

Through continued investment, Epwin Window Systems says the intelligently designed platform has continued to evolve into the industry’s most comprehensive customer resource hub.

With over 1,000 registered users, over 2000 direct downloads per month and an extensive library of 1,700 downloadable assets, the site continues to deliver added value benefits to fabricators and installers. Notably, Connect demonstrated its advantage during the recent updates to the Building Regulations last year, offering a wide range of practical guidance and hosting live stream Q&A sessions to assist customers in navigating the complexities of the new legislation.

Gerald concluded: “The G Awards are dedicated to rewarding innovation and business excellence across the industry. As a company dedicated to pushing boundaries and setting industry standards, we are looking forward to celebrating with all the other finalists at the ceremony.” www.epwinwindowsystems.co.uk

Emplas’ Clodagh Driscoll Named Finalist G-23 Clodagh Driscoll, Emplas’ head of customer services, has been named a finalist in the Rising Star Category at this year’s G-Awards.

you and I’m fortunate to work with some very talented and committed people, so this really a nomination for the whole customer services team.

Clodagh, joined Emplas in May 2008 in a telesales role, progressing through the business to become head of customer services in June this year.

While her journey has included a number of roles, what has been consistent in each is her willingness to go the extra mile and commitment to customer service excellence.

Clodagh Driscoll

Commenting on her short-listing she said: “You’re only ever as good as the team around

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Clodagh continued: “It is, however, incredibly flattering to have made the finals at the G-Awards, and I’d like to say thank you to Ryan, Kush, Jody and the team here, who nominated me, but who have also supported my career development and always given me the backing to develop and to grow.” www.emplas.co.uk

AWARDS

Window Widgets Announced As A Finalist In The G23 Awards For Component Supplier Of The Year

Ancillaries firm Window Widgets has been named as a finalist in this year’s G Awards’ Component Supplier of the Year category, which recognises businesses who are successfully serving a niche market. With more than 1,400 product variants across a choice of 36 colourways, Window Widgets boasts a diverse range of ancillary products for the glazing and fenestration industry, making a name for themselves in a small market.

With its extensive range of products, Window Widgets is a trusted market leader within its 1000+ network of customers, among which are some of the UK’s most trusted and respected window and door manufacturers

in aluminium, PVCu and specialist sectors of composite doors and vertically sliding sash windows.

Sustainability is also at the core of Window Widgets values, with a waste management programme achieving zero landfill mark while working to build impressive green credentials. The programme has 19 recycling processes for different types of waste to ensure all materials can be disposed of correctly.

baypole jacks from Window Widgets

“We’ve worked extremely hard to have a versatile and universal range for our network for customers that makes us the country’s largest range of window and door ancillaries. While also dedicating our efforts to improving our environmental impact through a robust recycling process for our business which can be passed down through our fabricators and installers, alike.

Jo Trotman, Marketing Manager at Window Widgets commented: “We’re thrilled to be finalists in the G23 Awards for the Component Supplier of the Year category for another year.

www.windowwidgets.co.uk

AluK Shortlisted At The G23 Awards scale installation of AluK’s new thermally efficient, slim sightline C70S 70mm window system and demonstrated just how easily it can be integrated into a design scheme alongside AluK’s residential doors, curtain walling and commercial entrance doors to achieve a uniform look and finish.

The successful collaboration between AluK and Arkay Windows and Contractors on the £77m Canada Street mixed use development in London’s docklands has just been rewarded with a nomination in the Commercial Project of the Year category at this year’s G23 Awards.

As well as the spectacular finished building with its 4600m2 of glazing, the nomination recognises the way that AluK and Arkay worked together to overcome every challenge on the project – from the tight timescales to a lack of space on site.

Canada Street was the first large

It has been showcased in a specially created video which includes drone footage, flythroughs and interviews with the key players on the project: https://ow.ly/QiVZ50PNKCy The G23 Awards take place on Friday 24 November at the Hilton, London Park Lane. AluK is hoping for a hat trick of wins, having been winners for the past two years in the Customer Care Initiative of the Year category. https://uk.aluk.com/

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 141

AWARDS lines, accounting for £3 million of investment, with a further two additional Thermobar auto lines due in December.

The company has invested £240K in a new twin-strand Thermoflex extruder. Together, they will give it the capacity to produce greater volumes of different thicknesses of spacer bar, helping it to: meet increased demand for standard 20mm spacer; meet the needs of the triple glazing market; and help grow its export sales.

Thermoseal Is G-Award Finalist

Thermoseal Group is a finalist in the Component Supplier of the Year category in the G23 Awards, in recognition of its investment in infrastructure, sustainability, new products and export markets.

“We are excited about being shortlisted for this year’s awards,” sales director Mark Hickox said.

“The G-Awards is a huge date in the diary, and just by being shortlisted is a great recognition of all the hard work we’ve done over the last year.

“One major focus for us has been the expected increase in demand for triple glazing. This is not something that can be turned on overnight, and requires detailed preparation by all parties up and down the supply chain. Not only have we invested in the latest equipment to supply spacer bars and accessories that meet triple

A further £150K has been invested in new injection moulding equipment at both Thermoseal Group’s new Wigan site and its site in Birmingham. These produce a range of IGU components, including corner keys and Georgian bar fittings.

The company has also installed a Solar PV System, which now produces 420MW of electricity per year. This is used directly by the Thermobar and Thermoflex manufacturing process, and electric vehicle charging points have been installed at all sites so that employees and visitors can charge vehicles during working hours.

“Investment is ongoing at Thermoseal Group,” Mark said.

“We are moving more of our operation over to a manufacture and supply model, rather than just supply, which gives us greater control over product quality and lead times.

Mark Hickox

glazing requirements, but we are also working closely with our customers to help them prepare for changes.”

Thermoseal Group now occupies an additional 50,000ft2 site in Wigan, where it has five Thermobar lines and two Thermoflex lines. Of these, three are new automated

142 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

“For us, this is what a leading component supplier looks like – a business that is prepared to invest in its operations, and work in partnership with customers so no-one is left behind, and everyone benefits.”

The winners of the G23 Awards will be announced at a gala dinner at the London Hilton on Park Lane on Friday November 24. www.thermosealgroup.com

AWARDS

Bohle’s Unsung Hero Finalist

Lisa Liddle

Lisa Liddle, Bohle’s operations manager, is a finalist in the Unsung Hero of the Year category of this year’s G-Awards, recognising the valuable contribution she makes to the smooth running of the business.

This year, Lisa celebrated 40 years with Bohle. She joined Berlyne

Bailey on a Youth Opportunities Programme in July 1983, aged just 16, and was originally described as ‘shy’ and a ‘slow typer’. Forty years later, and Lisa is today widely regarded as one of the most influential and respected people in the company, almost single-handedly responsible for the smooth running of the operational side of the business – which is everything except sales and finance.

Dave Broxton, Bohle’s managing director, said: “Within Bohle Group, Lisa is now recognised as the de facto number two. She has come a long way from the shy, 16-year-old typist who first joined the business.

I have seen her as comfortable entertaining the directors of our top customers at the Glass Times Raceday as she is whipping up an impromptu buffet in the canteen

Everglade Windows Shortlisted

For Two Awards At G23 Everglade Windows has been shortlisted for both Customer Care Initiative of the Year and Fabricator of the Year at the G23 Awards, following a year of significant product innovation and growth.

The Fabricator of the Year award nomination recognises Everglade’s hugely successful 2023, which has seen the company launch eight new trend-led products, to help its customers evolve their business, as well as hold its biggest ever Trade Customer Conference – Evolve 23.

Director at Everglade Windows, Jay Patel, said: “The Fabricator of the Year category is always tough competition and being recognised among the best of the best is an honour. Our customers are at the heart of what we do at Everglade

Windows and our continued reinvestment into the business over the past 43 years is what enables us to have such a strong business model that continually innovates, evolves, and grows – all while delivering the highest quality products.”

The G Awards, which celebrate the success of the glass and glazing

for unexpected visitors to Bohle.

“Lisa is someone who gets the job done, whether it is developing a planned strategy for warehouse expansion or applying forensic attention to cost planning.

“I am proud to be associated with her shortlisted entry to the G Awards. After 40 years, she is simply irreplaceable and conducts herself at all times with a smile on her face and a kind word for everyone. Although she is not widely known outside the company, Lisa Liddle is the glue that holds our business together.

In fact, when she goes, it will probably take two people to replace her.

“Everyone at Bohle wishes her all the best of luck!” www.bohle.com industry, has also shortlisted Everglade Windows for Customer Care Initiative of the Year.

Jay continued: “Not only did this year mark our most successful Trade Customer Conference to date, but it’s also been a showcase of our dedication to the future market with our new product launches, quarterly TECHtalk sessions and continued excellence in service, which all support our customers in adapting to the evolving market conditions.

“Taking home two awards would be a great indication of our remarkable team, loyal customers, and supplier partners. Together, we have navigated through the challenges of the past few years, and this recognition would be a testament to our collective resilience and commitment to excellence.” www.evergladetrade.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 143

AWARDS

Reynaers Aluminium Secures Triple

G-Award Nomination Reynaers Aluminium UK has been shortlisted for three prestigious G-Awards. The doors, windows and facades specialist has been nominated for Sustainability Initiative of the Year, Promotional Campaign of the Year, and Customer Care Initiative of the Year.

The sustainability award nomination recognises Reynaers’ commitment to cutting carbon emissions in its own operations and the wider supply chain through its Reynaers Act strategy. This includes the introduction of more cradle-tocradle products and creating thermally efficient systems.

This is backed by the company signing up to the Science-Based

Targets Initiative to demonstrate how it is setting and working towards its goals.

The Promotional Campaign of the year recognises Reynaers’ commitment to promoting sustainability within the industry – including its own sustainability strategy, as well as the need for change, and issues surrounding regulatory changes.

Furthermore, the work that Reynaers has done to ensure its customers receive a high level of service has been recognised by the Customer Care Initiative of the Year.

Samantha Hill, head of marketing at Reynaers Aluminium UK, said:

144 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

“We’re delighted to be shortlisted in three G-Awards especially as they are in categories that we, as a company, are so passionate about – sustainability and customer care.

“Customers are at the heart of everything that we do and making sure they receive the service that they expect, along with products that are fit for a more sustainable future has been our focus.

“Innovation and product development are cornerstones of the Reynaers’ brand and in Reynaers Act we have combined this with a pledge to support sustainable building design to help create a better future for the people in our company, our customers and communities around the world. Sharing this message through our promotional work has been a privilege as we play our part in helping to cut carbon emissions.

“It is with thanks to the continual drive of the whole Reynaers team that we have been shortlisted for such highly regarded awards.” https://www.reynaers.co.uk

AWARDS

Dual Celebration For Saint-Gobain Glass –

Finalist In Two Categories

At The G23 Awards

the 17.8 metre high Black & White Building in Central London has been recognised in the Commercial Project of the Year category.

The 17.8 metre high structure is the tallest mass timber office building and the first fully engineered timber structure in the city since 1666. Embracing innovative construction processes and sustainable materials the six-storey property is powered by 100 per cent renewable energy sources and has over a third less embodied carbon than equivalent concrete structures.

It is framed by a glazed curtain wall featuring Cool-Lite SKN183 outer pane with a bespoke digitally printed wood effect inner pane of glass to continue the natural wood effect used throughout the exterior and interior of the building.

Black & White Building, London

Saint-Gobain Glass has been named as a finalist in two categories at the G23 Awards.

The business has been shortlisted in the Sustainability Initiative of the Year and the Commercial Project of the Year categories.

It is in the running for the Sustainability Initiative of the Year award after joining forces with integral blinds manufacturer Morley Glass & Glazing to create the first successful closed-loop post-consumer glass recycling scheme that turns old glass units into new high-performance window glass.

The two companies have together saved over 1 million tonnes of raw materials from the flat glass manufacturing process, plus vast amounts of energy and CO2 emissions, and

donated thousands of pounds to environmental and social good causes.

Mike Butterick, marketing director at Saint-Gobain Glass said: “The initiative involves collecting old insulated glass units, removed during window replacement projects, and converting them into cullet (crushed glass) using a patented automated crushing machine. The cullet is then used in the manufacture of new highperformance window glass.

“It is important that as an industry we embrace the opportunity to remanufacture old poorly performing first-generation double-glazed windows into new high-performance windows that contribute to improving the comfort and thermal performance of our housing stock, and by doing so help to meet our net zero climate change targets.”

Saint-Gobain Glass’ work on

Mike adds: “We’re thrilled to have been shortlisted in two categories.

Being named as a finalist in the G23 Sustainability Initiative of the Year category alongside Morley Glass & Glazing is a testament to our commitment to help the UK window industry move towards a position where glass recycling is the norm, in line with the way that fabricators collect and recycle old PVC frames, metal and timber.

“We are also very proud of the Black & White Building which is a super low carbon building that embraced efficient and sustainable building materials and processes despite the central London location with difficult access and site restrictions.

“Both these award shortlistings further enhance our reputation and credibility as a glass company that is ‘making the world a better home’ with our commitment to the environment and more sustainable business practices.” www.saint-gobain-glass.co.uk

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 145

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

Building Our Skills

Garners Backing From

Industry Supporters

Fenestration, Glass and Glazing – 50 Careers in one day Having announced its intention to launch a series of bespoke industry careers fairs in 2024, Building Our Skills – Making Fenestration, Glass and Glazing a Career of Choice has garnered backing from an array of industry supporters.

Launch partners for the initiative include many key industry names including Rehau, Schuco, GGF, Bohle, FIT Show, GQA Qualifications, Liniar, CNC Recycling, CORGI Fenestration and Veka among many others.

The aim of these fairs is to engage directly with the education sector and show school children aged 14 upwards the vast array of career opportunities that the sector can offer. In fact Building Our Skills is aiming to showcase 50 distinct careers at each of its fairs.

Two pilot events are to be held in March 2024 as a part of National

Careers Week in South Yorkshire at the Oakwell Stadium, home of Barnsley FC, and in Manchester at the Etihad Stadium, home of Manchester City Football Club.

Building Our Skills is working in conjunction with the local authorities in South Yorkshire and Greater Manchester to bring these events to fruition.

Advocates include Lyndsey Morgan and Helen Brown, Department for Works & Pensions ‘Support for Schools (S4S)’ Schools Advisers in South Yorkshire, who agree that the introduction of bespoke careers fairs co-ordinated by Building Our Skills is a great idea. They say: “Having met with Building Our Skills at the FIT Show earlier this year, they helped to open our eyes to the breadth of career opportunities offered by the Fenestration, Glass and Glazing industry. People tend to associate the industry only with manufacturing and installation,

146 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

but really there are so many more career pathways in the industry, from marketing, IT and customer services through to finance, sales, social media and much more. Building Our Skills’ idea to introduce a series of bespoke careers fairs is a great idea so that youngsters can find out more about what the industry is all about and hopefully be inspired to join it. In our roles we’re aiming to assist young people in choosing the right career path for them, and in so doing bring them into closer contact with real-life companies and industries so that they can make informed choices. This means that our aims are aligned with those of Building Our Skills, and we are delighted to be involved with these events.”

Mark Handley, Building Our Skills’ partnerships manager adds: “Our aim is to show the industry to over 1,000 school children and their teachers over the course of the two events. If the two pilots are successful, these will become annual events enabling us to keep in touch with those who attend as they get closer to thinking about their careers. It is also our intention to expand the number of events into other areas of the country where we are working with other local education authorities”. www.buildingourskills.co.uk

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

DGCOS Teams

Up With National Home Improvement Council For Launch

Of New Mental Health Podcast

The Double Glazing and Conservatory Ombudsman Scheme (DGCOS) has teamed up with the National Home Improvement Council (NHIC) to create a new podcast series that delves deeper into our industry’s pressing mental health and wellbeing challenges, and with the help of experts, to offer insight and support.

new series of six podcasts now available.

DGCOS chief executive, Faisal Hussain, explains more. “Building on our two-year campaign for better mental health and wellbeing for those who work tirelessly in our sector to deliver home improvements, we decided that there was so much more we can do to help. So, along with our other Schemes, we started a collaboration with the National Home Improvement Council (NHIC), to bring together medical experts, frontline charity workers and DGCOS representatives to prioritise and shine a light on mental health and wellbeing, in a

• what does a good work life balance look like

“I’ve personally been encouraged to see how much mental health and wellbeing have become more comfortable topics of conversation in our sector and are on the agenda now for many businesses.

Rewind even five years and you’d see a totally different picture. We may not have totally broken down the taboo, but we’ve certainly started to chip away at it, something that DGCOS is determined to continue to do. If these podcasts help just one person, then our job is done.”

Anna Scothern, chief executive of the National Home Improvement Council (NHIC) comments: “We’re excited to announce this new podcast series which addresses the crucial issue of mental health awareness in the home improvement sector. Through this series of engaging podcasts, we are reaching out to diverse audiences, fostering creativity, and promoting well-being in the home improvement community.

I applaud DGCOS for taking this initiative in partnership with NHIC.”

“During this carefully researched and structured series, the six episodes cover the following topics: • mental health support in the sector and its effects on productivity

• managing loneliness working away from home • the importance of a holistic approach and training • how to manage common mental health problems like anxiety and depression • accessing debt support for better financial health “We’d like to say a huge thank

you to our own team members who took part, as well as the esteemed guests we spoke to including Hannah Vickers, chief of staff at Mace and head of productivity at the Construction Leadership Council; Martin Lockham from Mates in Mind; George Jones from Cahill Renewables; Tony Steel from Band of Builders; GP Dr Rachel Cooper MBBS MRCGP; and Greg Jenkinson, from Step Change.

The series running throughout Autumn coincides with Suicide Prevention Month during September and depression and mental health awareness month in October, and is available here: nhic.podbean.com installers.dgcos.org.uk

WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023 147

CHARITY

ADSA Charity Golf Day ‘Best by Par’ A golf day organised by the Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA) turned out to be its ‘best by par’ raising approximately £3,500 for charity.

The event, at Branston Golf and Country Club, Staffordshire, saw 28 teams – made up from 34 of ADSA’s members – battling to take the top spot Winners of the ADSA Cup were SDG Access, of Lincoln, who were delighted with their achievement – one member was so thrilled that he stood on his chair to enjoy a moment of celebration when the winning team was announced. Runnersup were new ADSA member Hephaestus Solutions (HSL), who played on home turf, based in nearby Burton upon Trent. And in third place, were last year’s

breakfast prior to tee-off on an 18-hole championship course and culminated with dinner at the Pavilion, attended by 140 people.

A raffle was held following dinner.

All funds raised are being donated to ADSA’s chosen charities:

champions, Copperjax Contract Maintenance, from Kent.

Golf Fanatics – a charity that provides mobility equipment to young people Lighthouse Construction Charity Changes, Tamworth ADSA MD Ken Price said: “The ADSA charity golf day is always a much anticipated date for the diary and this year, it was bigger and better than ever before. In the main, we were blessed with good weather and everyone had a great time.

Individual awards were presented for ‘nearest the pin’ on the 16th, 17th and 18th holes, longest drive on holes three and ten and a novelty putting competition on the practice green. Some of the holes were sponsored by ADSA’s corporate members.

“One of the highlights of the event, was the raffle from which we managed to raise a serious amount of money for our chosen charities and we would sincerely like to thank members, suppliers and partners who generously donated prizes.”

The day started with a golfers’

www.adsa.org.uk

Golf Day 3 – Winning Team

148 WINDOW NEWS | OCTOBER 2023

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