Glass News April 2015

THIS MONTH!!

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The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing NewspaperIssue 49

April 2015

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Glazerite was chosen as one of the country’s ‘fastest-growing and most exciting and dynamic small and medium sized businesses’, according to London Stock Exchange Group Chief Executive Xavier Rolet, who added: “This report is a significant part of London Stock Exchange’s broader campaign to support UK high growth companies in their journeys from Start-up to Stardom and to create an entrepreneurship revolution. I’m delighted that a strong alliance between

UK Government, financial market participants, investors, entrepreneurs and companies has been created to support these inspiring businesses.”

Chancellor George Osborne, writing in the foreword to the report, added: “This is a remarkable list of outstanding companies …businesses built by the drive, commitment and vision of Britain’s entrepreneurs and business leaders. It is my privilege to be able to congratulate them all.”

Glazerite Director Jason Thompson replied: “It is a great honour for us to be chosen among the best of the best of the country’s small and medium businesses but we really must share the credit with all of our customers, suppliers and staff who have done so much to make Glazerite the success it is today.

“We have always tried to do our best so it is very rewarding to see our efforts recognised in this way. Now that we have gained this accolade, we will go on doing our best to make sure we continue to live up to it.”

Glazerite is VEKA’s largest trade fabricator in the UK as well as a long-standing Network VEKA member. It offers a fully nationwide service based on manufacturing units in Northants and Greater Manchester as well as its South West distribution hub in Bristol serving South Wales and The West of England.

The report, now in its second year, can be seen in more detail at www.1000companies.com.

www.glazeritewindows.co.uk

REaDER ENQuIRY No: 0415/0001

Windows

Trade fabricator Glazerite Windows Ltd has earned a place on the London Stock Exchange’s ‘1000 Companies To Inspire Britain’ list, recognising high-growth companies that have outperformed industry peers and played a part in creating ‘an entrepreneurship revolution’.

GlaZERITE NAMEd IN STOck EXcHANGE TOP 1000 ‘iNSPirerS’ liST

SEE PAGE 42

Bison introduces... THE NEW GENErATION OF bI-FOldING dOOrS IMAGINE

SEE PAGE 4

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2 April 2015 | www.glassnews.co.uk

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3www.glassnews.co.uk | April 2015

APrIl 2015The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

4 Bi-fold Doors

8 Window Expert

19 Doors

27 New Products

28 Installer Focus

36 Installer Insights

40 Conservatories

44 Machinery

48 Case Study

50 Hardware

58 Glass

60 Glass News Interview: The Window Company

62 Software & IT

66 Colour Expert

68 Aluminium

69 Trade News

84 Glass News Interview: Quotatis

86 Voice Of The Industry

88 Face To Face

89 Recruitment

93 Face To Face

94 Time Out!

95 Find A Supplier

cONTENTS

cONTAcT dETAIlSPublisher & owner: Christina Shaw 9 The Paddock, Tickhill, Doncaster, DN11 9HS M: 07805 051322 T: 01302 759096 E: [email protected]

advertising Enquiries: Christina Shaw M: 07805 051322 T: 01302 759096 E: [email protected]

Editor: Chris Champion T: 07850 267223 E: [email protected]

Features Editor: Sheilah Reed M: 07880 990144 E: [email protected]

Sales: Kathy leeming T: 01405 947279 E: [email protected]

Trade Counter Distribution Department: Roz Worgan E: [email protected]

Graphic Design: hook-a-duck

Deadline for copy: 28th of each month

Please recycle this newspaper so we can continue to use recycling in our effort to help the environment.

March 2015 crossword solution:

By the time this April edition of Glass News hits your desks we’ll be well into Spring and the hour will have gone on. We’ll be enjoying the lighter evenings and the hedgerows and trees will have burst into that brilliant fresh and vibrant green that promises a summer to come. All very poetic: but it is undoubtedly a time of year that is full of anticipation.

Even now, as I write this in mid-March, it is past 6.00 pm and it is still light. I can hardly hear myself think for the incessant bird song and the machine gun ticking of a garden full of blackbirds at dusk!

This is the time of year when, what I call ‘social promotion’, comes to the fore. In fact it has already started with a number of events that launch products or promote companies that couple work with play. And this is no bad thing. For those who think, as I do, that people buy from people, allying work with some social bonding helps that process enormously. We are fortunate in that the fenestration industry does this so well. People join the industry and, largely, stay within it, albeit maybe moving to different sectors as their careers develop. This was brought home to me at the People in Glazing Society event held in Manchester. It was the largest turn out I’ve seen at PIGS with around 160 plus people gathered together, many of whom had travelled long distances to support the event in the ‘frozen North’. With attendees from every facet of our industry and with so many quite obviously knowing each other or, at least, being on nodding acquaintance terms with each other, it was no great surprise that from a 5 o’clock start

the socialising continued into the small hours of the following day. A photographic round-up of the event is on Pages 76 and 77 – a dangerous thing to do, I know. But all photographs were openly taken and no candid or sneaky shots included!

My Page 3 Leader this month is what you might call ‘fluffy’. No politics or gripes – just centred on the social side of our industry. In fact the talk of Spring makes me think of our call to those in the industry who play golf to join the Golf Register. The days of temporary greens and tees are nearly behind us – true there’ll be some hollow tining and top dressing but soon the courses will be in top condition again. The response has been excellent and it has been nice to see a lot of unfamiliar names registering themselves in the hope of gaining an invitation to an industry golf tournament, or two. In fact some well-known golfers haven’t registered at all, presumably on the basis that they are known to play the game! So far, some 71 people have registered so, if you are a company that is looking for golfers to play in your tournament, give me a shout and I’ll furnish you with the register.

You may have no interest in golf whatsoever but, if you are holding an event for your customers, or prospective customers, take some photographs and send them to me with a brief write up on the event. We shall be happy to consider it for publication and, let’s be fair, we all quite like having a browse through a paper or magazine and see people we may know, and what they’re up to, even if it is only to comment on how well, ill, old, bored or drunk they look!

Spring IS IN THE AIR...

/GlassNews

Christina Shaw

@GlassnewsMag

Chris

Got SomethinG to Say? Email Chris at: [email protected]

‘TIME OuT’ WINNErS – MArcH!

Crossword: Yvonne Latter, Evans Building & Plant Hire, Dorset

Eye Spy: Lee Atkin, Lancashire

Spot The Difference: Steve Branker, Rossall Window Company, Cleveleys

Sudoku: David McCabe, Scarva

Congratulations to all our winners! Good Luck in this months Time Out pages!

“For those who think, as i do, that people buy from people, allying work with some social bonding helps that process enormously. We are fortunate in that the fenestration industry does this so well.”

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The views contained herein are not necessarily those of glassnews™ and whilst every effort is made to ensure information throughout is correct, glassnews™ does not accept liability for errors. The views expressed by contributors and the content of letters, are not necessarily those of glassnews™ and therefore cannot take responsibility.

The paper we use is 100% recycled.

hot on the heels of its ground-breaking Genesis vertical slider, fabricator Bison Frames has just announced a new addition to the Genesis Range: the imagine Fold and Glide bi-folding door.

Mark Tetley of Bison said, “Our Genesis vertical slider broke the mould for PVCu sash windows and with the new Imagine Fold and Glide we’re are confident it will do the same for bi-folding doors.”

The Imagine Fold and Glide certainly brings something new to the market. The first thing you will notice is the aesthetics. It has clean and contemporary looks, with slimmer sightlines and flush exterior finish eliminating the need for flying mullions. The inline design says goodbye to the usual face fixed hinges and offers improved weight distribution and enhanced performance. The PVCu sash and outer frame not

only mirror the appearance of the aluminium alternative, but offer a choice of double or triple glazing beads with bevelled or sculptured options. The Imagine Fold and Glide is also available in more than 18 woodgrain and coloured foiled combinations so buyers can choose the look that best suits their project.

The thermal efficiency of the Imagine Fold and Glide door is another key selling point. It offers superb thermal performance and it can achieve a U value of less than 1.0 – an astonishing figure for a bi-fold door. It has been fully tested to BS6375: Part 1 Weather and BS 6375: Part 2 Durability to add further evidence of its qualities in this area.

The Imagine Fold and Glide door is PAS 24 and Secured by Design accredited, providing a tick in the security box and proving that the door measures up where other

bi-folds don’t. It also uses high performance custom designed hardware throughout for added peace of mind and carries the ERA 5 star guarantee.

The Imagine Fold and Glide bi-fold is suitable for all sectors, commercial and domestic, offering a choice of wheelchair, flush room divider and standard thresholds. Available with a maximum width

of 6000mm, a maximum height of 2400mm and a maximum sash width of 1000mm. Imagine Fold and Glide is just what we’ve all been waiting for.

Mark concludes, “We believe it is important to bring products to the market that are genuinely new, different and innovative. It’s good for our business and it’s good for our customers’ businesses, as the

success of our Genesis vertical slider has already shown. We are confident that the Imagine Fold and Glide is about to do the same for the bi-fold door market and are proud to include Imagine to our Genesis range of products.”

Tel: 0800 138 3838 www.bisonframes.co.uk

Bison introduces THE NEW GENErATION OF bI-FOldING dOOrS IMAGINE



bI-FOld dOOrS The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

The imagine bifold door from VeKa was launched last year and has proved itself a big hit with installers and homeowners everywhere. Chris Reeks, Sales manager at leading VeKa fabricator modplan is clear why, “it combines all the aesthetics of an aluminium door with the thermal efficiency and easy-to-sell homeowner benefits you’d expect from a PVC-u product. it’s the perfect combination and more and more customers are adding it to their portfolios.”

The Imagine bifold door was designed from scratch with custom profiles and hardware to ensure the homeowner benefits from the latest in product design, development and technology.

The stunning and elegant design is enhanced with flush fitting sashes that maintain the door’s clean lines. All components are contained within the profile,

meaning no unsightly tracks need to be screwed onto the outerframe. There is a choice of 16 door style configurations, sculptured or bevelled sashes and standard, slim or room divider thresholds for the ultimate in versatility. The door is Secured By Design approved and meets PAS24 requirements plus comes with an ERA Hardware 5 Star Homeowner guarantee, which is one of the most comprehensive available. It is available in an A rated version and is triple glazed ready. And because it comes in a wide range of woodgrain and coloured foil options from the Variations range, the door will complement and enhance any home.

Also available in the Imagine suite is a French door. It combines the aesthetics of the flush finish profile with the versatility of a French door to provide an alternative for homeowners.

With all the credentials that the Imagine bifold door offers plus the reassurance of Modplan’s partnership approach to its customers, it’s hardly surprising it’s proving such a hit with customers old and new.

Modplan manufactures and provides a comprehensive range of products that includes three VEKA profiles, composite doors, PVC-u and aluminium patio and bifold doors, conservatories, the new Open Canopy, the Vertex solid tile-effect roof and glass and polycarbonate conservatory roofs. For more information on any of Modplan’s products and support, simply Ask the Man from Modplan.

Tel: 01495 246844 www.modplan.co.uk

MoDPlaN’S IMaGINE bIFolD OFFerS The aeSTheTicS OF alumiNium & all The beNeFiTS OF PVc-u



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Available in 18 colours and woodgrains from the Variations range

Homeowners can choose to have a midrail for letterplates and house numbers - perfect for porches

Two, three or four pane con� gurations with multiple sliding sashes

Double or triple glazing

Fitter-friendly

Low threshold options

PAS 24 and Secured By Design-ready

Flush inner frame provides neat plaster line

The VEKA UK Group Farrington Rd, Rossendale Rd Ind. Est., Burnley, Lancs, BB11 5DA.

Tel: 01282 716611 Email: [email protected] www.vekauk.com/imagine

The VEKA UK Group

The VEKA UK Group

As with the entire Imagine suite, the Patio Door’s thermal insulation has been achieved with triple chamber sashes, double brush seals on all four sides and a unique quadruple-seal interlock combine to keep the warmth in and the cold, wind and rain out!

This Patio Door joins the technically-advanced Bi-Fold and Flush French Door in the stylish, secure and simple-to-� t Imagine range.

Suite dreams are made of this...The VEKA UK Group has unveiled the technically-advanced Sliding Patio Door, which completes the Imagine suite of doors.

0415/0008


bI-FOld dOOrS The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Leading trade fabricator Frame Fast (UK) is one of the biggest names in window, door and conservatory fabrication in the midlands.

Its range covers both PVC-U and aluminium and both parts of the business are seeing considerable success. Nigel Leivers of Frame Fast (UK) explains, “We are consistently the biggest PVC-U window fabricator in the region but it’s our aluminium business that’s really taken off recently. Sales are at an all-time high and are showing no signs of slowing down. We’re delighted so many contractors and installers are recognising the quality we offer.”

Frame Fast’s aluminium range includes bi-fold doors and casement windows. Nigel says, “Sales of our aluminium bi-folds are extremely positive – bi-folds are an aspirational lifestyle product and there’s no doubt that an aluminium version has the designer aesthetic so many people are looking for. What’s also interesting is that aluminium windows are taking off as well, especially in the new build market. Again, I think it’s because aluminium has a design-led feel that’s important to many people.”

The hallmark of Frame Fast’s aluminium range is quality. All products meet building regulations for security, weather, thermal and structural performance and are tested and certificated to BS 7950 and BS 4873. The

company’s bi-fold doors can be fully customised in terms of security and functionality and are suitable for domestic, medium and heavy duty commercial applications. Its casement windows offer a highly durable solution with outstanding insulating properties and low maintenance style.

The quality of what Frame Fast has to offer is clearly proving attractive to the industry. The range of PVC-U and aluminium products is backed up with a professional approach to service and delivery. The strength of this package is undoubtedly why sales of its products, especially its aluminium products are booming, and the company has recently taken on 15 new members of staff, expanded its manufacturing facility in Derby and invested in £500,000 of machinery.

Tel: 01332 344459 - www.framefastuk.com

Already a standout performer in the home improvement market, the BiFold door sector is forecast to reach over 70,000 installed units in the next few years as more homeowners look for well-designed, premium solutions to add value and space to their properties.

With aluminium set to share a third of this volume, national trade fabricator Direct Trade is ensuring its customers are in a position to benefit from this growing market with the launch of its ALUK bi-fold range.

Steve Green, Managing Director of Direct Trade, explains what this means for customers: “Just like the composite door market, bifolds have provided a welcome growth area over recent years and some fabricators have tried to satisfy installer demand with the addition of aluminium bi-folds to their PVC offering. But aluminium isn’t the easiest material to add to your range as a PVC-U fabricator, and in fact several companies have tried and failed because the differences in the materials, lead times and even the mind-sets of the two sectors are bigger than you’d think.

“That’s why Direct Trade’s R+D team undertook comprehensive research before choosing to manufacture the ALUK bifold door system, which is widely regarded as one of the best available for the domestic market. The key features and benefits of this high security, thermally efficient range

include slim-line profiles for a contemporary look, a wide range of choice from chamfered and square bead options, a complete range of hardware including a unique flush line pop-out handle option and a huge choice of standard and bespoke colours including inside and out dual colours.

the DiReCt tRaDe DiFFeRenCe “As you’d expect, we’ve spent several months perfecting the manufacturing process so our customers can rely on the accuracy and technical durability of our bi-folds. We’ve even installed our own in-house rig to ensure consistent quality. But perhaps most importantly, it’s the service associated with bringing aluminium bifolds to the traditional PVC door and window market on which we’ve focused. By adopting the quick turn-around order to delivery mentality that the PVC trade sector has perfected, we have significantly reduced the lead time on our bifold doors, and can offer a range of colours in a timescale to suit

you. We also deliver direct to site.

“With a fully-trained team of bi-fold specialists, Direct Trade customer services are already helping installers across the country with technical know-how and bespoke advice at the planning and design stages and even during installation. We understand that some installers may not have fitted aluminium before or will only do a few jobs in it each year, so it’s important that they have a helpful point of contact for advice which is all part of the Direct Trade ethos. We look forward to supporting even more installers this year to make the most of the opportunities for sales and added value offered by the expanding aluminium bifold market, backed up with the service, reliable quality and helpful support that’s underpinned our business for the last 16 years.”

For more information call Direct Trade today on 0800 288 8828 or visit ww.directtradeltd.co.uk.

FrAME FAST’S AluMINIuM PrOducT SALES HIT AN ALL-TIME HIGH

THE bEST OF bOTH WOrldS: aluMINIuM bIFolDS wITh PVC-u aTTITuDE

REaDER ENQuIRY No: 0415/0009 Direct trade’s in-house rig to ensure accuracy every time.


PrIzE!Circle three differences in the boxes above, fill in your contact details below and send your competition entry to: FAO: Miss Christina Shaw, Glass News Competitions, 9 The Paddock, Tickhill, Doncaster DN11 9HS. Entry deadline: 30/04/15.

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bI-FOld dOOrSThe UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

made for tradewww.madefortrade.co

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Over 99% of deliveries on time and in fullQuick quote turnaroundVery competitive glass optionsAvailable in any colour, alongside stock colours; White, Black, Grey, Grey on White

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Aluminium Bi-Fold & Patio

Doors

Long-established commercial and domestic aluminium manufacturer tWR trade Frames has expanded its product range to include aluminium vertical sliding windows and wide-span patio doors.

Director Terry Richardson says that the move is due to increased demand for these products. Terry also says that TWR bi-folds – the dedicated bi-fold division of the business - is looking to partner with bi-fold manufacturers and suppliers that may want to offer other aluminium products to their customers, but don’t have the capacity to make them in-house.

TWR Trade Frames – which incorporates TWR bi-folds – is a family run business and a long -established manufacturer and supplier of commercial and domestic aluminium products; and is known for its super-fast lead times on aluminium bi-folds; and installation support programme.

Terry Richardson, Managing Director of TWR Bi-folds comments: “The commercial and domestic aluminium market is a lucrative one for installers and expanding our range of products will allow our installer customers to win more profitable business in it.

“We don’t just supply to installers either. We also partner with single product fabricators to

offer them extra aluminium products, allowing them to expand their product range without incurring additional manufacturing costs.”

TWR Bi-folds can supply aluminium bi-folds on super-fast lead times. Recent investment in an in-house colour coating facility means the company offer aluminium bi-folds in any RAL colour, on a six-day lead time. The move has seen the company named the ‘Usain Bolt’ of the industry.

Terry concludes: “The number of non-residential new builds is at its highest since 2007 according to recent reports. Couple this with rising domestic demand for aluminium products and installers have market share to take. What we’re doing is about helping them to take advantage of these growth opportunities.”

multi-award winning Thistle Windows and Conservatories is making the most of two of the industry’s most innovative new products in its newly updated showroom. Both unveiled by trade fabricator Glazerite Windows Ltd at the Fit Show, the new Wave slide-swing door now features as the aberdeen site’s main entrance while the Residence 9 Flush Sash window takes pride of place inside.

“Residence 9 is the only window we have seen that would appeal to the smart residents of the West End of the city,” said Hugh Bain, Head of Sales, “and the New Wave is really attracting attention from visitors. It’s something in a class apart from some of the Bi-Folds we have seen. They are fantastic products and we know both will be very popular.”

The New Wave and Residence 9 ranges are two of the unique products introduced by Glazerite since the launch of its

new Specials factory built alongside its Wellingborough HQ. Also joining them are the fabricator’s acclaimed Vertical Sliding Sash, making use of the extra space due to ever-growing demand, as well as the new VEKA Imagine Bi-Fold.

Thistle is one of Network VEKA’s most prolific trophy winners, holding no fewer than 13 of the organisation’s all-UK and all-Scotland Customer Satisfaction Awards.

Glazerite Director Jason Thompson said: “Thistle has always been among the first to introduce its customers to new and innovative products and we know the New Wave and Residence 9 ranges will go down well there.”

The New Wave may form a superb entrance for the showroom but then, as Hugh Bain concluded; “This is Aberdeen after all – we can’t wait for the better weather when we can open it up

and show customers how versatile the system really is.”

Glazerite is VEKA’s largest UK trade fabricator and a prominent Network VEKA member, with a reputation for unsurpassed customer service as well as a comprehensive product range. The company offers a fully nationwide service based on manufacturing units in Northants and Greater Manchester and a distribution hub in Bristol.


TWr EXPANdS PrOducT raNge

NEW WAVE MAkES AN ENTrANcE FOr THISTlE – ANd rESIdENcE 9’S rEAdY FOr THE ‘WEST ENd’



terry Richardson.

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Heating bills at a Cheshire school were cut dramatically as soon as its windows were replaced with high rated energy efficient units from Cheadle Glass and Glazerite Windows Ltd.

Marple Hall School had been getting by with its original metal framed single glazing for many years but the resulting heat loss became all the more evident as soon as the new windows went in – and lower bills began arriving, according to Cheadle Glass Commercial Manager Karl Minter.

Cheadle Glass was not the cheapest bidder, he said, but with the support of Glazerite, the installer was able

to show the right credentials and the right product specification to win the contract. More than 600 windows were installed in four phases over 22 weeks. As well as overall energy-efficiency for all the frames, low solar glass was used to combat heat build-up on large expanses of south-facing glass and lower floors were laminated for added security.

According to Karl, it was not only the windows that needed the right accreditation to win the contract. The length of the contract period meant much of the work had to be done in term time so on-site every member of the workforce had to undergo DBS (formerly CRB) vetting before working among the students.

Karl added: “It is always a pleasure to do a good job for anyone but it was especially satisfying when the client could see the benefits so clearly straight away.”

Glazerite is VEKA’s largest trade fabricator in the UK as well as a prominent and long-standing Network VEKA member. It offers a fully nationwide service based on manufacturing units in Northants and Greater Manchester as well as a distribution hub in Bristol serving South Wales and The West of England.


new modus® window profiles. It meant that, because the windows were fabricated in Frame Fast’s 30,000 sq ft, purpose-designed production facility in Derby, fitting the windows in the Middleton properties helped Wheeldon Homes achieve an exceptionally low carbon footprint on this element of the development – a total of just 53 miles travelled.

The contract was made slightly more complicated by the location in a conservation area, which meant that planners had to agree on all external elements of the 47 properties, including the windows. The modus® flush sash window was specified because the planning authority felt that the windows offered a genuine alternative to timber, which helped to retain the traditional aesthetic integrity of the village.

“The planners had a clear vision of creating traditional-looking limestone homes and of course the windows had to complement this,” said Louise Greenhoff, Quantity Surveyor at Wheeldon Homes.

“Timber windows were considered, but we were conscious that these would leave homeowners with maintenance issues in the long-term.”

“As soon as we presented the modus® flush sash to the planners, they agreed that it was suitable for this development,” Louis continued. “The planners liked the fact that modus® retained traditional aesthetics that complemented other properties in the village.”

Nigel Leivers, Sales Director at Frame Fast (UK) Ltd, said: “The modus® windows have managed to achieve a great balance between contemporary performance and traditional aesthetics. modus® is a real game changer for housebuilders looking for high performance windows with aesthetics that really help sell a property.”

To find out more about the benefits of sourcing modus® windows from Frame Fast (UK) Ltd., visit: www.framefastuk.com or call: 01332 344459.


WINdOW EXPErT The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

For the most part sash windows complement the appearance of traditional properties and they are a style which many frameXpress customers are incorporating more frequently into renovation projects.

Renovating and fitting sash windows is a skill that requires installers to have professional affiliations or accreditations, which reflect the craftsmanship involved in restoring period homes in accordance with Building Regulation stipulations.

Most recently frameXpress was contracted to supply all new sash windows for a renovation project in Essex where it was stipulated by the local authority that aesthetics must match the style of the property and surrounding area.

For the end users it was considered a major investment in a property that they wished to fully restore before looking at selling in a housing market that is starting to look buoyant.

Sash windows were introduced from France originally in the mid 17th century, after the Restoration period and have become increasingly popular as a style since then. Early sashes had the box frames exposed and finished with an architrave surround, which was set flush with the outer face of the wall. This was a style that remained common in house design until the mid 18th century before being revived again in the early 20th century.

Since then the evolution of the sash has introduced many styles of window including those with sash horns and less panes, which became popular from around 1840 onwards.

Ian Davis Sales Manager frameXpress comments, “Today, replacement sash windows make a stunning finish to period homes and it does not have to be a hugely expensive investment to give windows a new lease of life.

For modern homeowners it is also all about investment in a property that they are lovingly restoring to a former glory, and as such they want only the best in terms of appearance, thermal performance and ease of use.”

In the south of the country it is noticeable how sash windows are increasing in popularity, with large-scale refurbishments being completed such as those of the Savoy and Connaught hotels. Equally homeowners in general want to retain a little old world period charm and authenticity, which is proving a very positive selling point for frameXpress customers.

Ian Davis concludes, “Our range lends itself well to restoration projects and enables customers to broaden their business, giving them scope to offer a little more than just the standard window styles and colours. Certainly, there is no shortage of enthusiasm regarding the benefits of installing sash windows.”

frameXpress fabricates only the very best in quality windows, doors and conservatories

from the company’s head office in Telford that encompasses a 30,000 sq.ft production facility. Competitive pricing together with years of manufacturing experience gives customers complete peace of mind.

For more information on the range of styles and colours please call 01952 581100.

ThE PERFECT SaSh FRoM FRaMEXPRESS


When Frame Fast (UK) announced it would be the first company to manufacture and install eurocell’s modus® system, it predicted the system would be viewed as a game changer. it seems the company was right: it is fast becoming the system of choice for a growing number of major housebuilders.

One recent example was Wheeldon Homes’ Hopton Rise project: 47 new-build homes in a conservation area of Middleton, near Wirksworth in Derbyshire. The contract was a tricky one to fulfil: not only did the appointed supplier need to be a modus® fabricator, they also needed to have the capability to supply 450 windows. What made it even trickier was Wheeldon’s preference for using local suppliers where possible.

Only one company fitted the bill: Frame Fast (UK) Ltd. As the region’s largest trade fabricator of PVC-U doors, windows and conservatories it had the credentials Wheeldon was looking for and was more than capable of demonstrating it could supply and fit the windows to the agreed schedule.

What was also particularly relevant in this case was the use of post-consumer recycled materials in modus®. Fifty per cent of every modus® frame is made from post-consumer recycled PVC-U produced at the dedicated Eurocell recycling facility in Ilkeston which is then made into

FRAME FAST (UK) SUPPLIES OVER 450 MODUS® WINDOWS for prEStigiouS ConSErvAtion ArEA projECt in DErbySHirE



SCHooL WArMS TO cHEAdlE GlASS & GlAzErITE


The Georgian Bar Company Ltd

The ONLY snap-onGeorgian Bar SystemCall us today to learn about Geofast from theGeorgian Bar Company or visit www.geofast.co.ukto see the best solution for Astragal Georgian Bars.

Head Office (Unit 1), Warehouse & Distribution (Unit 8),Clifton Business Park, Preston New Road,

West Preston. PR4 0XQTel: 01772 631441 Fax: 01772 679886

Email: [email protected] Web: www.geofast.co.uk

Geo-fast is also available to buy direct from your system company:

13x31.5cm Glass News Advert_Layout 1 20/02/2015 14:00 Page 1

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WINdOW EXPErTThe UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

The insulating profile made of electrostatically modified material ensures improved attraction of paint particles during powder coating of the aluminium window assembly.

Perfect painting results for the metal frames used in windows, doors and facades require the use of ultrafine powder particles.

If electrostatically charged, they adhere to surfaces charged with the opposite polarity during application, forming a paint layer after curing. However, the challenge here is to ensure an even coating of materials with different conductivity levels, where for instance the outer and inner shells of a metal frame are joined to an insulating bar made of plastic.

Plastics specialist Ensinger has developed its insulbar ESP insulating profile made of electrostatically optimized material specifically for what is known as “coating in the finished assembly”. The plastic TECATHERM 66 ESP attracts the paint particles more effectively than conventional less conductive polyamide, so ensuring a more even paint layer. Particularly in the case of metal constructions with visible thermal

insulating profiles, and when working with non-standard solutions whose design makes them difficult to coat, insulbar ESP ensures excellent optical appeal and quality.

oPtimizeD FoR CoatinG in the FiniSheD aSSemBLy“For our customers, the facility for coating in the finished assembly means considerable process and cost optimization”, explains Frank Killinger, Head of Sales for insulbar at Ensinger.

“Time-consuming and expensive additional work steps such as foil covering of already painted aluminium shells to protect the surfaces during manufacture of the assembly are no longer necessary. Any optional quantity of assembled profiles can now be produced in advance, with colour selection and painting taking place at a later date. This simplifies stocking and at the same time guarantees maximum colour diversity”.

To allow optimum paint adhesion, Ensinger offers insulbar ESP insulating profiles which have been additionally dust blasted. Dust blasting increases the surface tension to around 70 mN/m by roughening. As a comparison: Conventional polyamide 66 profiles have a surface tension of around 30 mN/m, while for reliable paint adhesion the recommended surface tension is over 50 mN/m.

Like all other insulbar insulating profiles, insulbar ESP profiles are capable of withstanding curing processes of up to an object temperature of 200°C without damage.

For more information, go to the website: www.insulbar.de/en.

A HIGHlY ATTrAcTIVE cHOIcE: INSulbAr ESP FOr AN OPTIMIzEd PAINTWOrk rESulT


During powder coating, the electrically charged paint particles are attached by the electrostatically modified insulbar eSP insulating profile. even when working with ready assembled profiles which are difficult to coat with only a metal shell, this ensures an even powder coating.

“Time-consuming and expensive additional work steps such as foil covering of already painted aluminium shells to protect the surfaces during manufacture of the assembly are no longer necessary.”



innovative fabricator Whiteline created a new UK market segment when it launched its totally unique, 70mm-framed PVCu “FlushSaSh” Window and Door designs in 2012. The traditional look of timber, re-created with all the benefits of modern materials, has really struck a chord with savvy householders with an eye for detail and retail installers with an eye for extra sales potential.

Now Whiteline are opening up another great new opportunity with a unique “Deep Bottom Rail” feature, exclusively available

on their FlushSASH windows. At 95mm, contrasting with the standard 62mm width of the side and top rails, the Deep Bottom Rail is mechanically jointed to replicate the authentic details and look of timber sashes. FlushSASH windows with Deep Bottom Rail can be fitted into either of two frame options, their original 70mm slim frame or the brand new and exclusive Whiteline 85mm Revival frame (as pictured), to perfectly match the homeowner’s needs.

FlushSASH windows with Deep Bottom Rail may reflect good looks from times past

but they are bang up to date on specification and practical supply. Colour foil finishes and attractive furniture options can create the perfect finishing touches. Optimum security can be achieved by calling up shootbolt locking and because FlushSASH sashes are all internally glazed, they can be supplied as unglazed, loose glazed or factory glazed, to suit your installation needs.

Tel: 01323 723724 www.whiteline.co.uk www.PlatinumNRG.co.uk

The new year saw a fresh start for one of the UK’s largest fabricators, Garrard Windows, as it switched to using Liniar profiles for its PVCu products.

With a turnover approaching £20m and 170 staff operating out of an 86,000 ft² factory in Buckinghamshire, Garrard’s window and conservatory trade customer base spans the whole of the South of England. This successful firm has grown substantially since it was formed in 1997 and its changeover to Liniar looks set to help take the business forward even further in 2015.

Managing Director Steve Leek explains why: “To change profile supplier is one of the biggest decisions a window manufacturer will ever make. The thought of having to change so many settings on so many machines, re-train factory staff to different working practices, update computer software, re-train the office and sales staff on the new products and so much more, is very daunting. So daunting, in fact, that many companies who consider making the change will end up staying with ‘the devil they know.’

“At Liniar, things are different. I’ve known Roger and many of his team for over 20 years. He has what he calls a ‘flat management structure’, which means there is an absolute minimum of management ‘layers’ – enabling faster communication and speed of response.

“In my experience, profile companies in general aren’t great at responding to customer opinions, but at Liniar they actively seek out feedback – a real breath of fresh air!”

“Garrard’s values are similar to Liniar’s in that it really does try and treat the customer as King – to the extent that I frequently give out my mobile number, and as many can testify, even answer it whilst on holiday. So, as much as I didn’t want to force such a major change onto what is an incredibly loyal customer base (thank you all!), I felt it was a case of ‘move on or get left behind’ for Garrard.

“Despite my fears, changing to Liniar has actually been a lot smoother than we anticipated. We brought in engineers to

manage the process and switched over the Christmas period, so we were ready to hit the ground running in January.

“And thankfully, since switching, the feedback from our customers has been overwhelmingly positive. The windows and doors have been very well received and we have had no end of praise about the ModLok™ bi-fold and ModLok™ patio doors.”

Garrard has a forward thinking approach within the industry. Unusually, it gets on well with most of its competitors – and just three weeks after changing to Liniar, was already attracting overspill orders from other Liniar fabricators.

Steve concludes: “Our busiest month is always November, and last year we peaked at around 2,800 windows per week, but Liniar is quicker to fabricate so we expect to increase this to over 3,000 next November. Roger and his team at Liniar have the same aims as Garrard – striving to continually innovate and improve, both in terms of product and customer service – so our customers can be confident that we will keep them at the forefront of the industry.”

Fabricators wishing to find out more about dealing with Liniar can download a copy of ‘10 questions to ask your PVCu systems house’ from the Liniar website at: www.liniar.co.uk/downloads - or contact a sales representative on: 01332 883900. Garrard Windows can be contacted at: www.garrardwindows.co.uk or by phone on: 01296 668899.

Not many window companies can claim a 44-year reputation for quality and service so when VEKA approved installer Charles Grosvenor Ltd decided to move into retail and launch its first showroom, it was a natural step to look for a fabricator with the same track record.

The Redditch-based family business had been manufacturing windows for three years, mainly in support of its long-established core function of loft conversions. But when the decision came to develop the window retail side and open a showroom, the company turned to Glazerite Windows Ltd because of its all-round package of products and support, as Manager Jim Adcock explained:

“We were planning a major shift towards retail, including investing in a showroom for the first time. We already had experience of Glazerite through a few products we had bought in so we knew we could depend on them for the kind of support we would need as well as the quality and range of the products.

He continued: “We started to see benefits from the showroom as soon as it opened. As

well as getting a few walk-ins as expected, we now have somewhere to show our products directly to our existing customers, including a few new ones we had just quoted for. It’s early days yet but the new side of the business is showing great promise.”

The company is not stopping at launching a showroom to promote its retail business – it has already booked space at four consumer exhibitions, including Grand Designs.

Giovanni Sangiovanni of Glazerite’s South West division added: “It is always rewarding to see our products and service playing a part in such a success. Charles Grosvenor is another example of what can be done when a fabricator offers the right product quality and range backed by the kind of service and support that can make such a difference.”

Charles Grosvenor began carrying out loft conversions in 1971 and later added staircase manufacture and installation as well as more recently stand-alone window and door installation.



FluSHSASH – dEEPlY dETAIlEd




LiniAr – A brEAtH of frESH Air for gArrArD WinDoWS

cHArlES GrOSVENOr GOES rETAIl WITH GlAzErITE SuPPOrT PAckAGE


Follow @DeceuninckUK

WHY DECEUNINCK?

Building your brand, builds ours

Call Sales Director Rob McGlennon 07818 383 385

www.WhyDeceuninck.com

It’s not just great products

“I’ve worked closely with Deceuninck for 14 years. Technical and marketing

support is exceptional. They’ve given us a great digital presence. They’re always

there if we need them.”

Dave Richardson Managing Director, Diamond Windows

0113 255 3377www.diamondwindowsleeds.co.uk

Diamond windows ad Glass News.indd 1 3/26/2015 4:43:19 PM

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frameXpress Ltd enjoyed very positive trading figures through 2014 which has led to the senior management team investing heavily in new machinery, bigger premises and a larger team.

As one of the UK’s most well established and well recognised fabricators, the company has instigated this extensive development programme to accommodate increase in demand for the entire product range and to streamline production.

Investment in new machinery totalling approximately £1m as well as expansion and refurbishment of the 35,000 sq. ft factory, enables the company now to produce over 1000 windows every week.

This is the latest in a number of substantial investment programmes that have been initiated by senior management over the last few years due to the company’s steady growth, and there is more promised for customers. Already, these developments have helped to strengthen the frameXpress brand throughout the industry in respect of quality, durability and performance.

FrameXpress Ltd has an extensive portfolio which incorporates PVC-u Windows, Doors and Conservatories, with “A” rated windows manufactured as standard in a variety of PVC-u from Profile 22 Systems. Composite Doors, Biflold doors and Aluminium products add to the comprehensive range available.

Directors Mark Westbrook and Stuart Green have over 55 years combined experience in the window industry which has established the company as the success it is today.

After major investment in machinery from Winmac UK Ltd, which includes a new SCHIRMER BAZ-1000-G6-VU2-VO “Tandem” Cutting and Machining Centre that is recognised as one of the fastest and most accurate machines of its type on the market, the company is set to further raise the benchmark. Two new ROTOX SMK 505 In-Line Five and Four Head Welders, were also installed along with an SEK701 Butt Welder and an LA 396PC Electronic Measuring system for Bead Measuring.

This equipment complements 3 other ROTOX CNC Corner Cleaners, a Crucifix Welder

and a Quad Welder already installed at the company.

frameXpress is now set to reinforce its corporate position with a 61 strong team and national delivery fleet which underpins the corporate ethos of providing premium quality standards and customer satisfaction.

Mark Westbrook, Managing Director comments: “Since the equipment has been installed we have seen faster manufacturing speeds and greater accuracy. I wish we had made this investment with Winmac UK years ago. Their overall support and technical advice during installation demonstrates why this is a positive Partnership.”

At times when many companies have struggled to maintain positive trading results, frameXpress has sustained a strong corporate position. More recently, this has been validated further by the team being bolstered. Recruitment and internal restructuring has been initiated recently with the establishment of a number of key middle management positions to reinforce customer services

Ian Davis, Sales Director comments “frameXpress has a notable reputation for high quality standards and a progressive approach to the industry with the entire portfolio proving very popular. Bolstering the team as well as expanding facilities gives us even greater scope for development.”

Stuart Green, Managing Director concludes, “Expansion is an essential aspect of growth which enables us to provide customers with fast and efficient services. By investing in modern equipment we can provide faster turnarounds that our customers can rely upon.”

Sales Director of Winmac UK, Kevin Noray, says: “it has been a pleasure to work with all of the team at FrameXpress and to be part of their success. I am sure that there will be more improvements over the coming years as they strive to remain – “ahead of the game.” “

For more information on the products available in the frameXpress portfolio please call 01952 581100 or visit www.frameXpress.co.uk.




GLaSSoLUtionS’ latest generation of advanced multi-functional glazing has delivered the optimum balance of thermal, solar and acoustic control for two high-end refurbishment projects in the shadow of St Paul’s Cathedral.

The stunning One St Paul’s Churchyard re-fenestration and facelift projects at the heart of the capital’s business district comprises extensive office space and 23 guest rooms from the five-star Grange St Paul’s Hotel.

Partnering with External Envelope Contractor Euro Windows, GLASSOLUTIONS designed a glass specification featuring the new SGG Cool-Lite Xtreme 60/28 to compliment the bespoke window system being used and to achieve the demanding requirements of the clients, The Co-operative Insurance and Grange Hotels. Over 600m2 of double glazed units were crafted for the new complex, which takes on a neutral aesthetic appearance to complement its famous neighbour – St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Given its bustling prestigious setting, the need to provide adequate noise insulation for both the users of the offices and the residents of the hotel was paramount to the specification. Sales Executive for GLASSOLUTIONS, Ian Snow, said: “St. Paul’s Cathedral attracts up to 5,000 visitors per day, making this a very busy location. That makes acoustic control inside the building crucial, so for this application the asymmetry and thicknesses of the inner and outer glasses, combined with a SGG Stadip laminated inner glass, ensured that the noise insulation

requirements of both the offices and the hotel within One St Paul’s Churchyard were met.”

Ian explains; it was the introduction of a revolutionary new coating that made this job so unique: “This was the first time that we had the opportunity to apply the recently launched SGG Cool-Lite Xtreme 60/28 glass product on such a large scale. It enables the occupants of the building to receive 60% of the sun’s natural light, while reducing the heat gain to less than 30%. Coupled with a 1.0 W/m2k U-value, the glass ensures the best possible thermal efficiency for a double glazed unit.”

Euro Windows’ Joe Thompson, who managed the project, said: “The replacement window projects at One St. Paul’s Churchyard offered numerous challenges; from meeting stringent planning requirements to working with numerous contractors to complete a time-critical installation in one of the busiest parts of London.”

“One of the most vital challenges we faced was sourcing a glazing proposal that satisfied the solar control and sound attenuating requirements whilst still providing the thermal and safety performance required to comply with building regulations.”

“Working closely with GLASSOLUTIONS, we were able to propose a solution incorporating the newly available SGG Cool-Lite Xtreme which was approved by the client and contributed greatly to the scheme’s successful delivery.”

SGG Cool-Lite Xtreme 60/28 is part of the wide range of advanced solar control glazing solutions for commercial buildings and facades developed by GLASSOLUTIONS enabling the management of solar radiation combined with exceptionally high thermal insulation and superb aesthetics in the most challenging locations.

Find out more at www.glassolutions.co.uk.

GlASSOluTIONS’ AdVANcEd APPrOAcH cHANGES THE FAcE OF ONE ST. PAul’S cHurcHYArd

PoSITIVE RESulTS FOr FrAMEXPrESS THrOuGH MAJOr EXPANSION PHASE


“frameXpress has a notable reputation for high quality standards and a progressive approach to the industry.”

The VeKa UK Group, based in Burnley, has been chosen to provide the high-quality PVC-U profile for Burnley manager Sean Dyche’s home renovation.

The VEKA windows and doors will be fabricated by long-standing VEKA customer, Glazerite, and fitted by Network VEKA member MG Windows. This guarantees an outstanding ‘chain of quality’ from raw materials right through to the finished project.

The windows have been carefully chosen to give the authentic look of traditional timber, without the maintenance. Bowater Doors, a

company of The VEKA UK Group will provide the composite doors for the refurbishment.

Tel: 01282 716611 www.vekauk.com

EXcEllENcE FrOM burNlEY - ON ANd OFF THE PITcH



Vertical Sliding Sash Windows / Flush Casement Windows / Fold & Glide Doors

Tel: 0800 321 7284 Fax: 01226 707 947 Email: [email protected]

The NEW Genesis VS SASH WINDOWS

A new generation of vertical sliders

Introducing the New GENESIS VS with traditional jointing methods taking aesthetics to the heart of the design process.

Unique joint design to both sash and outer frame replicates a timber window for a truly authentic appearance, setting your windows apart from the rest. Combined with period hardware and a complete range of heritage finishes, the Genesis VS pushes the boundaries of modern PVC-U sliding sash windows.

Visit our website: www.bisonframes.co.uk

/BisonFrames

@bisonframes

Traditional Genesis recreates the timeless beautiful styling of a traditional timber sliding sash window like no other. With its authentically jointed frame and sash it replicates the windows of yesteryear that are found in period cottages, older properties and conservation areas.

Modern With its elegant styling and precision design, the Genesis vertical sliding sash will enhance any modern home as well as a traditional property. Designed for modern living, Genesis combines cutting-edge technology with the traditional character of a box sash window. Precision-engineered for smooth, simple operation, Genesis effortlessly complements your modern lifestyle.

Home to the range of products

CONSERVATION APPROVED!

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West yorkshire based Deceuninck fabricator, Diamond Windows, recently opened its new factory and 1,000 square foot showroom. The expansion is a clear indicator of its recent growth, backed by Deceuninck’s support and service.

“Deceuninck’s got a damn good product!” says Diamond Windows Managing Director, Dave Richardson. “I’ve worked with Deceuninck for 14 years, and I’m not interested in shopping around. I know it’s the best.

“But Deceuninck isn’t just great products. Its technical support and marketing tools

are exceptional. We work really closely with Deceuninck’s team, and they are always on hand if we need them. We even had a new website built through Deceuninck’s web builder, which has given us a great digital presence.”

Deceuninck Sales Director, Rob McGlennon, says: “Deceuninck is all about boosting its customers, and helping them grow. It’s our Customer First Strategy.”

“We give them a reliable service, an unmatched level of support and a range of products that can’t be beaten. And we are always adding to our offer, to give our

customers the tools they need to stay ahead of the competition.

“Getting feedback from our long term customers is really valuable for us. They say more about Deceuninck than we ever could. It’s great to know our hard work is paying off. We’ve worked closely with Dave for 14 years, and hope to continue working with him and Diamond Windows for years to come.”

To find out how Deceuninck can support your growth and boost your brand call Deceuninck Sales Director, Rob McGlennon on 07818 383385, follow @Deceuninck_Rob and visit www.WhyDeceuninck.com.

Yale Door and Window Solutions is encouraging its fabricator and installer partners to ‘Yale it’ in 2015.

This is the theme of a new Yale consumer marketing campaign, which will run across both print and online, along with videos and social media, generating greater consumer awareness of home security.

With the recovery of the consumer economy in UK, the prospects for the replacement door and windows market are looking brighter and so Yale Door and Window Solutions is using this opportunity to link in with the consumer campaign more closely, to help increase sales for its partners in the retail door and window installation market.

Kevin Hill, Managing Director of Yale Door and Window Solutions, comments:

“During recent years Yale Door and Windows solutions has seen the integration of the Securistyle business in Cheltenham and a strong focus on product innovation, with new product launches such as Yale Blade.

“Yale has always been known as the most trusted name in home security, but we recognise that now is the time to really harness the power of the brand by putting together a true retail focused campaign that will benefit our customers.

“We are working tirelessly to highlight the importance of home security to UK house owners, creating 1.7billion opportunities to see the Yale brand through marketing activities in 2014. We are now looking to build on this platform with the new ‘Yale it’ campaign, which works seamlessly across all sectors of the industry, and reinforce the power of the Yale brand to our fabricator and installer partners.”

The campaign message is simple…Fit it. Trust it. Yale it. By choosing Yale products, fabricators and installers can capitalise on the trust and quality inextricably linked with the Yale brand.

For further information on the comprehensive choice of door and window hardware available from Yale Door and Window Solutions, please visit www.yaledoorandwindowsolutions.co.uk or follow @YaleDWS on Twitter.

A new way of manufacturing uPVC windows and doors has been introduced by the Lincoln-based fabricator, Sternfenster, with the launch of their new product range, StyleLine.

Mike Parczuk, Sternfenster’s managing director commented on the new development: “StyleLine represents a new milestone in the uPVC manufacturing, delivering products of a previously unseen quality. We are using state of the art machinery that enables us to replicate a unique, seamless finish throughout our uPVC portfolio, giving our clients an unparalleled advantage in the current tight market.”

Sternfenster’s exclusive range comprises uPVC windows and doors manufactured with Deceuninck 2800 and 2500 profile systems in a choice of woodgrain foils, Spectus vertical sliders and patio doors, as well as the popular high-end Residence 9 window. Featuring a seamless corner joint, the StyleLine windows and doors are stronger and more durable thanks to the high quality corner weld of the sash and outer frame.

But the most striking feature of the new StyleLine range is, undoubtedly, the impeccable finish, previously unavailable for uPVC products, as Mike explains: “uPVC windows and doors are generally finished with unpleasant grooved corners as a result of the corner cleaning process. This stage is necessary in order to remove the excess plastic sprue produced when two sections of the frame are heated and welded together.

“But our StyleLine range uses the latest technological advances in window manufacturing, reducing the need for human intervention and greatly increasing

productivity. Our revolutionary machinery actually pushes the excess plastic inside the chambers, making the corner cleaning process completely redundant”, added Mike.

The StyleLine range is available solely from Sternfenster and is unlike anything else currently available on the market: the woodgrain uPVC windows, for example, have been described by some of the fabricator’s clients as “looking more like timber than timber itself”.

Managing director Mike concludes: “This truly represents uPVC’s next stepping stone and we’re delighted to be leading the way. We have a relentless investment strategy that is positioning Sternfenster at the forefront of uPVC advancements, enabling us to offer our clients the very best products that will give them a strong competitive edge.”

Sternfenster operates from an 80,000sq.ft. factory in Lincoln and employs over 140 staff. The company has always been a family-run business and is currently headed by the original founders’ sons, Mike and Simon Parczuk. Aside from their exclusive range of uPVC windows and doors, StyleLine, Sternfenster is also a fabricator of the whole range of Smart aluminium products, including bi-folds and shop fronts.

For more information contact Sternfenster on 01522 512525, or visit www.sternfenster.co.uk.

dIAMONd WINdOWS GrOWS WITH dEcEuNINck’S SuPPOrT




FIT IT. TruST IT. YAlE IT.

STErNFENSTEr LAunCH StyLELinE

“We are now looking to build on this platform with the new ‘Yale it’ campaign, which works seamlessly across all sectors of the industry, and reinforce the power of the Yale brand to our fabricator and installer partners.”

Dave Richardson, mD of Diamond Windows.

The StyleLine range features unique, seamless corner welds


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With an ever-increasing demand for coloured PVCu windows and doors in the UK marketplace, short lead times are critical.

Many of Liniar’s beautiful range of coloured and foiled lead-free profiles are available from stock, resulting in quicker fabrication and faster delivery to your customers.

With a huge range of colour choices across different styles of A+ rated, energy efficient windows and doors, including the new flush sash window, isn’t it time to choose Liniar?

A world of colour...

For more information call us on 01332 883900 or email [email protected] | www.liniar.co.uk/worldofcolour

Untitled-3 1 20/03/2015 15:49

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As Quickslide announces its foray into the fabrication of aluminium trade frames the company’s chairman Adrian Barraclough explains how World Class manufacturing processes are being applied to ensure service levels that conform with customer expectations for its other products.

When Quickslide decided to enter the market for aluminium windows the company did so against a reputation amongst aluminium systems houses for customer service that lagged behind that broadly accepted as the norm from the PVC-U sector. This is not to say that service levels from the aluminium suppliers are poor per se, but standards in the sometimes brutally competitive PVC-U market had outstripped them.

If Quickslide were to supply their customers with aluminium windows they could not afford to offer new products with service levels that were inferior to those accepted as the norm for their other products. However the demand from its customers for high quality aluminium windows could not be ignored. Quite simply, Quickslide had to

ensure that its own processes would guarantee consistent service levels across all of its product ranges.

Adrian explains: “The product is excellent: we have a long relationship with Smart Systems through their bi-folding doors and sliding patio doors and therefore they were the natural supplier when we decided to offer an aluminium window. We use the Alitherm 800 system that is designed for customers seeking a premium product and which has superb aesthetics and performance. Generally Smarts service levels are the best amongst the aluminium systems suppliers, but we had to develop processes to ensure that the high standards for which Quickslide has become known could be guaranteed. It is a process

that we go through for every product that we take on as a fabricator.”

All Alitherm 800 profiles are extruded from 100% recycled aluminium billet and utilise extended, chambered polyamide thermal breaks. These help to achieve excellent thermal performance including Window Energy Rating and BRE Green Guide A ratings, with a U Value of 1.6 W/m²K or better using an appropriate IGU. Aesthetically the window is well regarded, including Ovolo or square profiles and such important detailing as flush trickle vents. Frames may be double or triple glazed with the ability to achieve U-values as low as 1.1 W/m2K.

So what has Quickslide brought to the party? Adrian explains: “We order stocks

substantially in advance of the standard order-to-completion cycle to ensure we can maintain our commitment to 100% on-time-and-in-full for all window styles we offer. We have large volumes of profile stocks including all fittings and accessories, which will give us a buffer of at least 8 to 10 weeks. We continuously order ahead to top up this feedstock.

“What really sets us apart however is our ability to offer any colour with a lead-time of just two weeks, three weeks for more complex orders, setting new standards in the sector for aluminium trade frames. We have created a factory dedicated to aluminium frame production, including the bi-folding doors, all of which operate to our World Class manufacturing protocols.”

For more than a decade now Quickslide has operated the manufacturing system based upon the process invented by Toyota more than 50 years ago, Lean Manufacturing, which is based upon the principles of the elimination of waste within the manufacturing process. “Lean Manufacturing has enabled us to remain competitive with our pricing whilst retaining the ability to continuously invest in our systems and processes, including the continuous training of our staff in every department,” says Adrian. “Few other organisations serving the UK window and door market are able to operate to such standards, which are matched against the best in manufacturing industries generally, not the window industry.”

“The net result of this of course is measured by our customers not in understanding complex manufacturing systems, but in the simple language of ‘when can I have my windows?’ ‘how much?’ and receiving their orders when they expect them, without anything missing. Through our commitment to the highest levels of service to our customers, they can make that commitment to theirs. These days that is crucial,” asserts Adrian.

AluMINIuM WINdOWS WITH AN AddEd EXTrA – GrEAT SErVIcE



Become a Quickslide Trade PartnerEnjoy benefits such as:

• Wide range of bespoke manufactured windows and doors

• Choice of PVC-u, Aluminium and Timber

• Dedicated Account Manager

• Nationwide Delivery

• Online Ordering

• Marketing Support

WINDOWS & DOORS&0333 0146 250 www.quickslide.co.uk

OFFICIAL SUPPLIER OF:

SLIDING SASHWINDOWS FROM

Excl. VAT£167

From£495

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From£70+VatALSO AVAILABLE:

Casement Windows

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Bi-Fold Doors

From£812

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internorm, the leading window brand in europe, launched its new PanoRama hX300 at this year’s ecobuild. This new timber / aluminium window glazing system can be integrated completely into the brickwork meeting the growing on-trend requirement for frameless glass architecture.

Creating open bright living environments, the HX300 boasts a number of innovative technical details. Slim glass joints allow the inconspicuous transition of large glass areas, almost making the frame disappear completely into the façade so that literally only the windows and doors are noticeable, maximising the scale of views to the outside.

Additional innovative glazing technology, like the 97mm wide glass dividing transoms, ensures increased structural integrity, allowing for large-scale glazing solutions and continuous glass areas of up to 10.5m2. The HX300 system also allows for all Internorm timber/ aluminium windows (one or two sash) to be integrated where required.

Toughened glass panes protect from injuries when glass breakages and offer a thermal insulation of Uw up to 0.73 W/m2K with soundproofing up to 40 dB. Furthermore, the HX300 features strong multi-layered laminated frame construction with the facility for window sills and patio floors to be connected neatly and tightly.

Internorm’s I-tec Glazing and FIX-O-ROUND technology is incorporated as standard. The continuous, all around fixing of the glass pane, also ensures better stability for higher life span, increased sound insulation, in addition to further burglary protection.

Commenting on this UK launch, Thomas Hagen, Internorm’s Technical Manager says, “We’re delighted to have revealed the PANORAMA HX300 to the UK market. The transition between the frame and glass pane is virtually invisible offering both architects and self-builders unlimited design freedom. This system will be particularly suited where an open, bright space is being created or for situations where you want to make the most of the view.”

For more information on Internorm, visit www.internorm.co.uk or follow us on Twitter @InternormUK or Facebook at www.facebook.com/InternormUK.



Spectus Window Systems has launched a brand new range of thermal inserts, designed to improve thermal performance and help customers fabricate even more energy efficient windows and doors.

For use across its Elite 70 range, the inserts are manufactured from 100% recycled content and are a cost-effective way of delivering better insulation without pushing up production costs. Internal webs take the number of insulating chambers from five to eight, helping fabricators achieve higher Window Energy Ratings and U-values.

Light-weight; easy to use, cut and handle the inserts have receptors which improve screw retention and help with accurate hardware positioning. Working alongside steel or

aluminium reinforcements, they provide significant thermal benefits without affecting the strength of the window.

Commenting on the new development, Spectus brand manager Carmen Velilla said: “We were already doing our bit with multi-chambered frames but we were looking for a simple, cost-effective way to achieve even better thermal performance without compromising the structural integrity of our frames. Our new inserts do just that.

“The difference may be on the inside but this advancement is still a valuable selling tool for our customers. Once completed, the homeowner won’t know about the inserts but they’ll be sure to know about the benefits;

a more efficient, better insulated home!”

Tel: 01952 283344 www.spectussystems.co.uk

Everglade’s family is growing. In its 35th anniversary year, Everglade has added 10 new team members.

The new jobs have been created to increase capacity and flexibility for manufacturing both PVCu and aluminium windows and doors, as well more support for customers.

New members of Everglade’s fabrication team started several months in advance to ensure they were fully trained before its second factory opened in January. “We’ve learned over the years that investing in training makes all the difference. It gives us a greater depth of knowledge and creates outstanding levels of dependability,” says Everglade’s Operations Director Yogesh Gopal.

“Having a greater product range means customers expect the same level of

service whatever they order. We believe this is the most flexible and responsive window and door manufacturing facility in the UK. The second factory is kitted out with advanced machinery and software systems to make sure its running at maximum efficiency. Both sites have the capability to manufacture all products in the range. Aluminium fabrication required more hand finishing, so having a highly trained and focused team is vital for high levels of reliability.”

The vibrant office-based team is quick to respond to customers’ needs. “Whether it’s a quote, an order or a query, we’re here to help customers. We know that getting the detail precise at this point means things flow through the factory with greater ease. And that’s good for all our customers.”

Tel: 020 8998 8775

SPEcTuS lAuNcHES NeW Thermal iNSerTS

EvErgladE’s family is growing



Crystal Direct has launched a fully reversible PVC-U window.

The new reversible window system is designed to reduce heat loss and improve weather tightness, enhancing the thermal efficiency of the window.

The fully reversible window from Crystal uses precision technology to ensure exceptional air and water tightness. Technological advances affecting the sealing system and the profile construction make it an ideal product for reduced heat loss.

Crystal Chairman, Martin Randall, says: “Fully reversible windows are ideal for medium to high buildings, as the windows can be cleaned internally and externally from inside the building. Our window is fully recyclable, and meets Part L regulations, security standard BS7950 and egress requirements.

“The main section profiles have five independent chambers, not the conventional three. This gives the profile greater strength and, importantly, enhances the thermal efficiency of the frame by up to 15%.”

Crystal’s wide product range is available in 15 colours as standard and includes casement windows, energy rated windows, vertical sliders, bi-fold doors, composite doors and now reversible windows.

For more information call Crystal on 01462 489 900 or visit www.crystal-direct.co.uk.

CryStAL DirECt

NOW WiTh reVerSible WiNdOWS

Crystal Direct’s new reversible window.


INNOVATION IN lArGE ScAlE gLAZing froM intErnorM



dOOrSThe UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

RegaLead LimitedColumbus House I Altrincham RoadSharston I Manchester M22 9AFTelephone 0161 946 1164Email [email protected]

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Decorative Door Products (DDP) by RegaLead is pleased to announce that, nine months after their official launch to the industry, demand for the contemporary Matrix and Modena DoorGlass options has gone from strength to strength.

Launched officially at last year’s FIT Show, Modena combines hand-made fused glass tiles with a traditional manufactured zinc art to create an attractive fusion of heritage appeal and modern style. Matrix provides a contemporary feel to both cassette glazed doors and those incorporating the Inox glazed system, with its laser-cut stainless steel elements in a modern, polished zinc, linear design.

Paul Edwards, Sales Manager for the DDP division comments: “It’s clear that the appetite for standout glass designs in composite doors

is not slowing down – quite the opposite. What we have seen however is a shift in popularity of style. Some 10 years ago designs such as Abstract, Clarity and Elegance were launched and quickly became the height of fashion for doors. While there is certainly still a market for these styles, there has been a move away from glue chip glass designs in favour of the sleek, modern effects achieved by Modena and Matrix.

“We’re delighted that so many of our customers have chosen to incorporate these fantastic new designs into their glass options for doors, and we’d be pleased to speak to anyone who would like to do the same for their product offering. Matrix and Modena are now included in the DoorGlass Collection catalogue, along with all of the technical and ordering information that you would need. The catalogue is available now to download from our website as a PDF, desktop version or smartphone friendly format.”

Visit www.decorativedoorproducts.co.uk to get your copy of the DoorGlass Collection catalogue.

cONTEMPOrArY dOOr glazing in dEmand


The composite door is the most popular door in the UK, with 40% of homeowners opting for this type of door for their homes.

It’s a trend that composite door supplier Distinction Doors says its customers are capitalising on. Chantel Roach, Distinction’s Marketing Director, comments, “Our customers are reporting that composite doors are increasingly popular and that homeowners are well educated in the benefits of what they have to offer. Our customers know that a Distinction door gives them

a huge advantage in the marketplace because of all the benefits it offers, not least that it’s the most thermally efficient door available.”

As Chantel says, Distinction’s door is the most thermally efficient on the market, with independent tests proving it’s up to 19% more efficient than other doors. It also has exceptional aesthetic credentials: the Nan Ya blank that Distinction uses is renowned for the authenticity of its woodgrain, something that’s continued onto the glazing cassette for a seamless and sophisticated finish. There are numerous door and glass designs and a huge range of colours to choose from so the homeowner can truly personalise their choice. Security is unparalleled too, thanks to the impact resistant GRP skin with rigid polymer subframe, high-density, CFC-free polyurethane foam core and high quality multi-point locks.

As well as knowing they’re selling a composite door that’s packed with all these benefits, Distinction

Doors’ customers also benefit from exceptional marketing support that helps them communicate to homeowners what a Distinction door has to offer. Distinction’s suite of retail literature comprises a 48 page product brochure, a RAL guide and a unique Explore Colour skin guide that shows all the bespoke colour options on woodgrain skin swatches to help give homeowners a clear picture of the effect that’s created.

Distinction Doors is the UK’s largest composite door supplier, a position the company wants to consolidate in the coming months and years. With such a compelling product and support package it’s hardly surprising the company has reached its market dominance and also places it in an exceptionally strong position to achieve its stated ambition.

Tel: 01226 352265 www.distinctiondoors.co.uk


dOOrS The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Bowater Doors, the specialist composite door manufacturer and a company of The VEKA UK Group, has celebrated the launch of a new, flagship showroom at its Midlands base in Minworth.

Attended by building and glazing industry publications, staff, company directors and customers, a ribbon-cutting, overseen by The VEKA UK Group MD, Dave Jones officially opened the showroom.

Welcoming all those in attendance, especially those who were new to Bowater’s Minworth home, Dave said: “It’s a pleasure to present to you the fantastic range of products produced here at Bowater Doors, including the striking new range of DUO Contemporary composite doors that many of you will be seeing for the first time. I’m particularly proud to introduce them alongside Bowater’s team of talented staff who make each door, to measure, here on the premises. I’m sure you’ll agree that the several months’ hard work, designing and building this striking new showroom has been time well spent and

you will join me in exploring the beautiful products on display.”

Flanked by Bowater Doors’ Chief Operating Officer, Anita van Vuuren and Head of Sales, Alan Hague, the ribbon-cutting met with cheers and applause from the assembled audience. Attendees then enjoyed refreshments as they browsed the ten full, walk-through composite door units on display, showcasing a diverse range that includes specialist Fire Doors and DUO Guard Flood Defence Doors. The most was made of the space available with different colour and hardware options featured on either side of the doors on display.

Anita commented: “Having joined Bowater Doors last May, the showroom project has been under development for much of my tenure. It’s great to see it come to fruition, particularly for our Sales team

who now have an exciting new string to their bow.”

Alan added: “Being able to display our doors realistically and demonstrate how they might look in a home installation really allows the products to speak for themselves. We had a small, ‘feature’ showroom before this, but by expanding into areas of previously redundant office space, we can now tell the complete Bowater Doors story.

Sales Support Coordinator, Emma McDonald continued: “Customers, like those here today, can experience our full range of products in situ, including unique offerings like our new DUO Contemporary suite of composite doors. We can already see how customers are inspired by the displays and there’s clear potential for that to be passed on to homeowners, boosting awareness of the Bowater Doors brand.”

Visitors to further open days throughout the showroom’s inaugural week will be treated to tours of Bowater Doors’ adjacent factory where they can see, first hand, the combination of machine-cut precision and human attention to detail that has made the company one of the UK’s leading composite door manufacturers.

To arrange a visit or for further information e-mail [email protected].



cElEbrATIONS AS dOOrS OFFIcIAllY OPEN ON bOWATEr dOOrS EXTENSIVE NEW SHOWrOOM

alan hague and emma mcDonald.

anita van Vuuren, Dave Jones and alan hague.

dISTINcTION dOOrS ENHANcES ITS crEdENTIAlS AS THE GrP cOMPOSITE dOOr SuPPlIEr OF cHOIcE

“Our customers know that a distinction door gives them a huge advantage in the marketplace.”


m a n a g e r

m a n a g e r

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Hurst Plastics is well on course for its best year ever in composite doors after making a significant investment into new machinery and additional production space to satisfy growing demand.

The Kingston-upon-Hull based company has almost doubled its dedicated floor space for composite door processing and has just taken delivery of an additional CNC machine to increase production capacity to 600 doors a week.

Hurst is one of the first companies in the industry to commission the Biesse Rover A 5-axis machining centre – an upgraded 2015 model. The Rover A is able to machine from a vertical or horizontal axis to ensure precise routing to within a millimetre, whilst minimising manual handling for Hurst’s production team. More energy efficient and quieter in operation, the new machine will speed up the processing of Hurst’s range of standard composites and composite fire doors to between 7 and 10 minutes per slab. The router is linked to a sophisticated software programme to accurately manage and plan throughput either on-site or remotely.

The installation of this top specification machine is part of a major investment strategy at Hurst, which is designed to enable the firm to keep pace with its future growth plans. Under the programme, Hurst has commissioned a new triple head welder to double its welding capacity, a corner cleaner, a copy router and an additional extraction

unit. The company has also invested in new high bay racking to re-organise its second production facility and create extra floor space. New fabricators, warehouse operatives and apprentices have been brought in to help Hurst to stay ahead of demand, maintain lead times and assure consistently high standards in product quality.

Darren Glew, Operations Director at Hurst, said: “It is important for us to continually invest both in new equipment and our manufacturing facility to help us meet our ambitious plans for further growth. A significant rise in sales prompted us to extend our manufacturing capabilities with this high performance machinery and we are really looking forward to achieving record-breaking production targets as a result of this investment.”

Tel: 01482 790790 www.hurst-plastics.co.uk

North Lincolnshire based Rocal has re-launched its range of composite doors by rolling out 10 new door designs and three more locking options supplied by hardware specialist Winkhaus.

The door range is called Endurance Solid & Secure and will incorporate the key less AV2-B battery operated and AV2-E electronic multi-point lock, as well as the AV2 Heritage automatic multi-point locking system, designed for both replacement period doors, and high end new-build doors.

To mark the occasion, the manufacturer produced a new 46 page brochure to help installers promote the benefits of its composite doors to the end-consumer.

Rocal is one of the UK’s leading composite door fabricators, providing over 1,000 installers throughout the UK with high quality doors from their exclusive range.

Manufactured with a solid lumber core of laminated veneered Kerto Q, the Endurance composite doors offer unrivalled strength.

Tests have shown these doors can easily withstand a prolonged sledge hammer attack. At 48mm, the Endurance door leaf is almost 10% thicker than other composite doors on the market. A door so strong needed a lock to match, which is why the Endurance range is fitted with the Winkhaus STV Trulock as standard.

Rocal Managing Director, Stephen Nadin, comments: “We have been in an excellent partnership with Winkhaus for over a decade now, and have always benefitted from flawless service and reliable supply of products. Winkhaus provide high quality locks that are composite door specific and perfectly complement our Endurance range.”

With one of the largest choices of colour and door design options, and the most permissive flexibility on door widths available on the market (600mm to 1035mm), Rocal has increased the versatility of its composite door range even further, with the addition of AV2-B, AV2 Heritage and AV2-E locking system options.

Justin Harris, Commercial Director at Winkhaus, comments: “The AV2 range of products delivers a very diversified range of solutions for fabricators wanting to meet the whole spectrum of demand. Keyless locking systems represent a fast growing market, as they can make a tremendous difference in terms of comfort and security for the end-user.

Fabricators can now add triple glazing to the high security commercial Jack Door with a new triple glazing bead from aluminium systems company, Jack Aluminium.

The triple glazing bead can accommodate glazed units up to 44mm when manufacturing the Jack Door TD68 suite of doors.

Sales and marketing director, Jeff Pearson says: “Speaking to customers we know that more and more commercial projects are now specifying triple glazed doors to improve energy efficiency. But they also require stringent security measures.”

“That’s why we’ve designed a triple glazed bead for the high security anti panic and mag lock doors to provide a proven, cost effective solution for customers.”

Jack Door incorporates a thermally broken threshold to help achieve one of the best U-value of commercial doors available. Coupled with triple glazing, this makes the doors ideal to specify and install in busy footfall areas where the highest thermal performance is required.

Jack Aluminium anti-panic and mag lock doors are designed for hospitals, schools, hotels, apartment blocks and a whole range of public sector buildings where there is potential for lock tampering and forced entry. The doorsets have achieved the PAS 24 security standard and both the standard hook lock and Mag Lock doors have a BM TRADA Q-Mark certification under the Enhanced Security Door Scheme, which complies with the Police initiative to reduce crime by incorporating crime prevention measures at the design stage.

NEW cNc MAcHINING cENTrE INcrEASES ComPosiTE ProdUCTion aT HUrsT

TRIPlE EFFICIENT & SECuRE FRoM JaCK



“With an excellent reputation for quality, Rocal also offer one of the most versatile composite doors on the market. Endurance is made with market leading components and delivers the very best in terms of durability, energy efficiency and security.

“Rocal’s choice to add our AV2 range of products to their composite door offering reflects their focus on the future of the market, as well as their commitment to help satisfy their clients and the home occupier whose tastes now require a more discerning and visually pleasing door.”

Engineered and manufactured in Germany, the AV2 range of locks from Winkhaus deliver increased security for a property, by engaging two high tensile steel hooks as soon as the door is closed.

This means “instant security” for the homeowner immediately after the door closes behind them. It also means there’s no need to use a key when leaving the property, as the door will automatically secure itself when closed.

For more information visit http://winkhaus.com/en-gb or call 01452 348575.

endurance Solid & Secure composite door with Winkhaus lock.

ENDURANCE COMPOSITE DOORS NOW eVeN mOre VerSaTile WiTh WiNkhauS aV2 lOckS

“The aV2 range of products delivers a very diversified range of solutions.”


www.purplexmarketing.co.ukFollow us @purplexuk #GetSomeBite

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Tel: 01642 610798 Fax: 01642 671026* 2 week lead time based on standard, RAL & BS colours.

NEWfor 2015! Aluminium

Patio Doors0415/0048

When Distinction Doors launched its 70mm Elite over rebated composite door last year, Marketing Director Chantel Roach said the new product would open up plenty of new opportunities for fabricators and installers. And she’s been proved absolutely right – sales of the door have been unprecedented.

Chantel said, “When we launched the door at the FIT Show last year it attracted a great deal of interest and we’re delighted to see that this interest has translated into sales.”

Chantel is clear about why the Elite over rebated composite door is proving so popular: “It’s packed with benefits for fabricators, installers and homeowners.” For fabricators and installers, the key selling point is that it can be over-rebated meaning it can be a direct replacement for the PVCu equivalent. And for homeowners, it offers an easy upgrade and

superb thermal efficiency with a typical 37% improvement over a timber door.

The Elite over rebated composite door uses Distinction’s Nan Ya blank, which means it has all the advantages you would expect from a Distinction door. It has an impact resistant GRP skin with rigid polymer subframe, high-density, CFC-free polyurethane foam core and high quality multi-point locks, so it offers security that far exceeds both PVCu and timber doors.

It also offers superb aesthetics, with beautifully authentic woodgraining that is repeated on the glazing cassette for a seamless finish. It is available in the complete range of Distinction Doors’ colours and homeowners will also be able to choose from five glass ranges to personalise their choice.

Distinction Doors is the UK’s largest composite door supplier and is renowned for the quality of its product and service. Products such as the Elite over rebated composite door which fill a gap in the market will help to further enhance that reputation and add value to an already attractive proposition.



diSTiNcTiON’S eliTe OVer rebaTed cOmPOSiTe dOOr iS PrOViNg

a clear winner


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Bowater Doors, a brand of the industry-leading VeKa UK Group, has unveiled a brand new Contemporary Doors range.

The investment in the development of these new style composite doors, as well as a brand new showroom further demonstrates the Group's ongoing commitment to Bowater Doors.

A stylish, full-colour brochure has been produced to support the launch and customers can benefit from a range of further marketing assistance, including new photography, pull up banners and consumer adverts that can be personalised for each customer.

Bowater Doors' Head of Sales Alan Hague explains:

“We're extremely proud of the new Contemporary Doors in the DUO Composite Door range. We officially opened our new showroom recently - with VEKA Group MD Dave Jones cutting the ribbon - and the eye-catching range of Contemporary Doors certainly attracted a lot of positive attention.

“The demand for composite doors has been steadily rising for the last ten years thanks to their low maintenance benefits. They won't swell, rot, warp or crack and they'll never need repainting. As with our existing DUO Composite Door, the Contemporary Doors range will be covered by our ten-year

guarantee, which even includes the hardware. Previously, hardware was guaranteed for five years, so this is a real sales benefit for our customers to offer homeowners and specifiers.

“These energy-efficient doors have U-Values between 0.89 - 1.2 depending on the chosen style. Available with a choice of thresholds, including low aluminium and Part M compliant options, they are made-to-measure and supplied ready to fit, fully framed with glazing and hardware.

“The new DUO Contemporary Door is available in 39 styles and can be supplied with different colours on the interior/exterior if required. Your customer's door can be painted with a lacquered gloss finish in any of the Halo/VEKA Variations colours, or any specified RAL colour! This makes the options for personalisation virtually limitless and we're looking forward to seeing what shades prove to be the most popular.”

Find out more at www.bowaterdoors.com or call 0844 815 6591.

braNd NeW aNd baNg uP-TO-daTe for boWAtEr DoorS!


Endurance Solid & Secure composite door manufacturer Rocal tells Glass News how a solid customer service reputation has seen them enter their third decade in business.

“Rocal’s long term success has been built upon a constant focus on customer service,” stated Ruth Kitching, Office and Customer Service Manager. “Whatever business you are in you will always come up against problems. What’s important is how they are dealt with. Our team at Rocal endeavour to resolve our customer issues as quickly and as effectively as possible with our customers’ interests put first.

“Customers are our lifeblood and we need to know that they are continually happy with the Rocal experience for business success.”

Putting customer service first has been the result of

core decisions at Rocal, one of which was the recent recruitment of Suzanne Turner. Suzanne was brought aboard the team as Rocal’s customer service co-ordinator, after a long history of great experience in that area of business. Suzanne previously was the head of a branch customer service department of Argos.

Ruth said: “Suzanne has bolstered our clear focus of customer service and has brought great experience to the company, making a significant difference to the way we communicate and deal with our customer issues.

“Too many companies feel that the customer experience

ends when the product is delivered, but with Rocal this is not the case. Suzanne is helping to ensure that the customer experience is continuous. Our customers appreciate this, that’s why we have kept such a loyal base over the past 22 years.”

Rocal continue to manufacture the Endurance Solid & Secure composite door through their network of installers throughout the UK. The company is looking ahead to many more years in the business.

EnDurAnCE DoorS MAnufACturEr putS 22 yEArS of buSinESS DoWn to grEAt CuStoMEr SErviCE


The results were very positive, with 83% of customers rating Vista’s product quality 5 out of 5, while the remaining 17% scored Vista 4 out of 5, proving that all customers think very highly of the premium product range on offer. Service was given top marks, with 85% rating Vista

5 out of 5 in this department. 98% of customers meanwhile believe Vista’s products are always delivered in a timely manner.

Commenting on the results, Keith Sadler, managing director of Vista said: “At Vista we take customer service very seriously.

Customers pay the wages, so it’s vitally important you listen to their needs and evolve your products and services with the times. We learn something new every time we speak to customers and this survey was no different - some interesting points we raised and we will look at ways we can address the comments. Overall though the results were extremely positive.”

Aside from asking customers to rate them in key areas, Vista asked a number of open ended question to find out if there’s anything they do differently. A wide

range of suggestions were offered, all of which Vista will take into consideration and take action accordingly. There were some pleasing comments relating to Vista’s monthly composite door competition. As part of their 20 year anniversary celebrations, Vista are giving away a free XtremeDoor every month to two lucky customers that have ordered online and several customers made positive references to this.

Vista have given away an XtremeDoor to four companies so far this year – Rapid Frames, York

Trade Frames, UK Building Plastics Direct and Titan Trade Windows – with 20 more companies in line to receive a prize.

“The feedback was invaluable and I would like to thank all who took time to fill out the survey” Keith concluded. “We will be making further improvements to our products and services over

the coming months and the results will help steer us in the right direction.”

For more information call 01516081423 or visit www.vistapanels.co.uk.

VISTA ScOrE TOP MArkS IN cuSTOMEr SurVEY


‘Continuous improvement’ is a key ethos at Merseyside based composite door and PVC-u panel specialist Vista. As part of this commitment Vista recently conducted a customer survey, asking customers what they thought of Vista’s quality, service and to find out if there was anything they could do to improve.

“Vista are giving away a free Xtremedoor every month to two lucky customers.”

KATpod is the advanced engineering solution in lantern design, allowing in an unrivaled amount of light and providing a feeling of space, uninhibited by bulky roof spars. KAT only make niche products to a superior specification and KATpod is no different. It is a thoughtfully engineered roofing solution with ultra slim sightlines, excellent structural integrity and unrivalled thermal performance.

The choices are simple; choose the frame colour combination, the glazing tint and the roofkit size. The

roof is delivered by KAT ready to be quickly assembled on-site and includes an optional bespoke timber upstand kerb, handmade in the KAT joinery shop. KATpod offers solutions for all property types; from sensitive period buildings in conservation areas, spa’s and atriums, to modern new build properties, extensions or refurbishment projects. KAT customers have a passion for stylish aesthetics, structural integrity and enhanced thermal performance and KATpod meets all these requirements.

KATpod has been designed to allow consumers to use their orangery or extension all-year round with almost zero maintenance. The KATpod Lantern roof is supplied with industry leading thermal efficiency as standard and ‘BioClean’ self-cleaning glass. Designing and ordering is simple – up to a maximum of 5 metres wide, with almost no length limitation.

KATpod is available in White or Anthracite Grey as standard and any RAL colour to special order. Glazing is stocked in either clear glass or with a blue tint.

Chris Powell, Commercial Director comments, ‘KAT prides itself on manufacturing products that have a combination of innovation and market leading design. Lots of time, effort and consideration went into developing KATpod. We are confident that we have a very desirable engineered Lantern solution that allows our customers to benefit from the very best product available in Europe’

If you would like more information on the KATpod Lantern Roof or Sliding Patio Doors, Bi-fold Doors, Box Sash Windows and any of KAT’s other aluminium, PVCu or timber ranges, please call KAT, one of the customer service team will be on hand to help.

KAT has manufacturing facilities in Macclesfield (Cheshire), Hazel Grove (Stockport) and Newhaven (East Sussex), all with factory showrooms.

For more information contact KAT on 01625 439666, [email protected], www.katuk.co.uk.

NEW PrOducTSThe UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper


ContaCt us:t: 01625 439666w: katuk.co.uke: [email protected]

kat-ukKaTuK_1998KaTuK.1998

pod

THE SLIMMEST ROOF LANTERN IN EUROPE

2015

NeW

KaTpod

visualelegancesupremeperformance

Stock sizesStock colours

Stock glass tintsBespoke roofs to order

Roof Lanterns Flat roof lightsBifolding doorsPatio doorsEntrance doorsWindowsBox sash windows Flush casement windows

KATpod half page Glass News.qxp_Layout 1 3/26/15 11:18 AM Page 1

NEW 2015 – kATPOd – THE SlIMMEST THErMAllY brOkEN rOOF lANTErN IN EurOPE

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INSTAllEr FOcuS The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Leading VeKa trade fabricator modplan has long been an advocate of its customers being network VeKa members. VeKa products offer best-in-class quality and membership of network VeKa helps customers make the most of this quality and helps build businesses.

Chris Reeks, Modplan’s Sales Manager explains, “Working in partnership with Modplan and Network VEKA has proved to be a winning formula for many of our customers. Not only can we support them with a wide range of quality products and valuable marketing support initiatives but adding Network VEKA membership into the equation makes a big difference. So much so that sales from businesses that are Network VEKA approved members are considerably higher than from businesses that aren’t members.”

The bigger sales from Network VEKA members demonstrate that Network VEKA’s package of a local company backed up with national strength and stability is a very appealing proposition and one that clearly brings results.

Network VEKA actively generates leads thanks to national and online advertising campaigns designed to drive enquiries from homeowners. As evidence of the success of this approach, over 1,000 online enquiries were generated centrally last year while those members investing in the range of web tools generated for themselves collectively around 1000 additional unique enquiries per month. These leads translate into sales too. Network VEKA-registered sales were up 18% last year and on average, member companies grew 2.5 times more than the market growth.

Modplan’s comprehensive marketing package, Marketing Matters, was developed to help customers drive sales and achieve a competitive edge. Supporting customers seeking to achieve Network VEKA membership is a part of that package.

Chris concludes, “Working in partnership with Modplan really gives your business a welcome boost. We have the products, the marketing and the tools to help you be more successful. Add membership of Network VEKA to the package and you really have got yourself a business that can beat the competition!”

Modplan manufactures and provides a comprehensive range of products that includes three VEKA profiles, composite doors, PVC-u and aluminium patio and bi-

fold doors, conservatories, the Vertex solid tile-effect roof and glass and polycarbonate conservatory roofs. For more information on any of Modplan’s products, including the New Open Canopy, simply Ask the Man from Modplan.

Tel: 01495 246844 - www.modplan.co.uk

A PARTNERSHIP APPROACH WITH MODPLAN




The VEKA UK Group's Approved Installer Scheme is continuing to grow in popularity as an introduction to the fantastic range of support available from The VEKA UK Group.

The Approved Fabricator and Installer scheme was launched at the FIT Show in 2014 and has already seen around 400 companies sign up to its package of professional marketing support and lead generation.

As part of the scheme, Approved Installers make a commitment to only sourcing high-specification VEKA systems from Approved Fabricators, reassuring customers that their products and installations are of the industry's highest standards.

There is also an online Marketing 'Hub' as National Sales Manager for the Approved Installer Scheme, Amy Grundy, explains: “the advantages of Approved status include access to a dedicated online Marketing Hub, loaded with professionally designed marketing materials that can be customised with the company's own logo, contact details and more.

“In the last four months alone, more than 5000 items have been personalised and ordered through this fantastic facility!

“This is a sure sign that we're offering exactly what our installers and fabricators want and we're very proud of the system.

“As if all this marketing support wasn't enough, the Approved Installer Scheme proved its worth, once again recently, by being the differentiating factor that secured a substantial contract for one of our Approved Installers.

“For Modplan customer Ultimate Window Systems, being an Approved Installer made the crucial difference in winning a particular retail job. Apparently, membership of an Approved Installer scheme had been one of the homeowner's main criteria in choosing a company to work with.

“We're delighted that our offering is making such a positive difference for our customers, especially considering that it is entirely free of charge to join the Approved Installer Scheme!”

Find out more at: www.vekauk.com/approvedinstaller or e-mail [email protected].

Sometimes it works to sell on price, says Martyn Bradley of M&R Glass & Glazing – he admits he once lost a job by £6 – but then there are the other times.

The Spalding installer has just started work on its biggest ever contract, potentially for over 100 houses, which it won by having the full Secured By Design certification as well

as the right U-Values, thanks to trade fabricator Glazerite Windows Ltd.

“We have regularly used three suppliers in the past but only Glazerite had all the certification for this job and the main contractor insisted on all the proper paperwork so it was an easy decision. In this case, as it happened, Glazerite was also the most competitive but that wasn’t the reason for the choice.

“I admit, I have often sold on price because it’s sometimes what’s needed. When you lose a job because somebody else was six quid cheaper,

as I have done, you learn that the hard way. But if you need the right spec’ and the right technical back-up, you have to choose your supplier carefully and for us that meant Glazerite.

“Apart from the products, they are people you can talk to and you know that if you’ve got a problem, they’ll do their best to get it sorted as quickly as possible.”

The contract, for housebuilder Haycroft Homes, is for casements, vertical sliders and composite and French doors, initially in 56 new properties with potentially another 50-plus to follow, in a development in the Lincolnshire town’s Station Road.



VEKA’S APPROVED INSTALLER ScHEME WOrkS FOr cuSTOMErS

PriCE v sPEC? NOT AN EASY ANSWEr

Paul evans of Ultimate Window Systems.


The VEKA UK Group

The VEKA UK Group

Call today: 01282 [email protected]

www.networkveka.co.uk/trade

Could your business benefi t from being part of theindustry’s leading installer organisation?

Enjoy theNetwork VEKA eff ect

So rewarding is Network VEKA’s off ering, we’ve tempted a fantastic 99.2% of our member companies to renew their membership for the year.

With exceptional marketing support, technical assistance and the industry’s leading insurance-backed guarantee, it comes as no surprise that members

should want to stay right where they are! The end of 2014 saw members’ cumulative weekly sales top £1m and registrations

reach an eight-year high!

Can we tempt you?

0415/0058

Atlas Glazed Roof Solutions has celebrated a record high in sales with the launch of a new programme which aims to reward its skilled installer network and encourage members to showcase their best orangery, conservatory or rooflight installations.

The company, which has doubled production of its range of aluminium conservatory and lantern roofs in the last 12 months, is inviting network members to submit worthy Atlas roof installations into the brand new Atlas Installation of the Month scheme.

Gareth Thomas, Sales and Marketing Director at Atlas Glazed Roof Solutions, explains: “Demand for our products has really intensified, particularly since the launch of our Skyroom mock Orangery roof earlier this year. We know that our installers are creating some very imaginative installations up and down the country and we’re eager to award them for the high standards of design and workmanship that they put into them. We hope that this scheme will become a regular date in the calendar for our growing installer network and we’re looking forward to seeing some outstanding installations of the whole range of Atlas products.”

Every month, a lucky installer will scoop a £200 Screwfix voucher and a £50 Majestic Wine voucher, plus entry into the award finals where one overall winner will be chosen as the coveted Atlas Installer of the Year.

The scheme will honour good design, creative

flair and high standards of craftsmanship across the full spectrum of Atlas conservatory products, which includes orangeries, lanterns, conservatories, verandas, Lean-Tos and the new Skyroom. Entrants are encouraged to submit ‘before’ and ‘after’ photos to illustrate the impressive results of their installation.

Entries can be submitted via Twitter to @Atlasroofjohn or on email to [email protected].

With less visible profile and more glass, demand for the Atlas Glazed roof has doubled in the last year and the company now fabricates over 100 roofs a week. Slimmer, stronger

and more thermally efficient than many of the other roof systems on the market, its appearance and performance is unsurpassed. Eliminating the need for boss and hood fittings, the roof features a slimline ridge, which is 70% thinner than the competition, and 40mm aluminium box rafters, which are 30% slimmer than

any other rafter.

Atlas Glazed Roof Solutions is part of the £32 million turnover Customade Group. The group, which employs 250 people, also includes PVC-u and aluminium window and door fabricator Customade, the Bi-Fold Shop, Fineline Aluminium, which supplies designer architectural aluminium products with very slim sight lines, and Hourglass Seal, which manufactures glass and sealed units.

For further information, please contact Atlas on 02838 327741 or visit www.atlasroofsolutions.co.uk.




ATlAS INSTAllErS TO rEAP rEWArdS IN NEW ScHEME

0415/0060


0415/0061



CWG Choices installer, install Direct Ltd, recently completed a renovation project for harrow Council through main contractor Thomas Sinden Ltd, using KBe’s award winning System 88 window system for the refurbishment of nearly 80 flats.

The ageing council estate on Francis Road, Harrow has been given a new lease of life following the £2 million investment programme by the local council, which included the installation of 104 aluminium clad, triple glazed KBE System 88 windows, supplied by CWG Choices. The system that is part of Kömmerling’s product portfolio in the UK, offers incredible levels of energy efficiency, down to a 0.6W/m2K and also provides significant sound reduction too.

The 88mm optimum frame depth for energy efficiency inherent in the KBE System 88, also allows for a standard triple glazing bead and there’s also a range of reinforcement options including foam-filled steels, along with the adoption of standard UK hardware. The system’s credentials for the commercial market are impressive too, as it’s co-extruded with a Greenline leadfree skin with a fully recycled internal construction. The external aluminium AluStar cladding option was used in this

project, but there’s also over 40 other foiled finishes available.

Tony Jones, contracts manager of Install Direct commented: ‘This was a great project to work on both from the resident’s point of view and also from our own, given the product we’ve installed. The KBE System 88 is an incredible piece of product design, that both performs way ahead of standard UK window systems and is also easy to manage on site.’

Kevin Warner, head of sales and marketing for Kömmerling concludes: ‘We’re actively increasing our presence in the commercial sector and this latest job from CWG Choices and Install Direct, shows what our impressive product range is truly capable of. We’re already experiencing an increase in demand from the commercial sector for our products, including the new AluStar solution for our C70 and O70 Gold™ systems.’

For a free copy of Kömmerling’s new specification guide including the KBE System 88, call 01543 444900, e-mail [email protected], or download it from www.kommerling.co.uk.

You can also add to their following on Twitter @kommerling_uk.

cWG’S kbE SYSTEM 88 PrOJEcT


PVC-U glazing industry standards organisation, Network VEKA has capitalised on the launch of its new-look website by revamping the process involved in activating its hallmark insurance-backed guarantees.

The ten-year cover, which represents one of the industry's most fail-safe packages of customer support, is instated as soon as homeowners have submitted a completed feedback form evaluating the standard of work and service they received.

Previously administered solely in hard copy by post, homeowners now have the option to submit their feedback online, saving time and postage costs and providing instant reassurance that the process is complete.

Network VEKA MD, John Ogilvie explains: “The process of gathering customer feedback serves a dual purpose, both instating the

ten-year cover that protects homeowners' installations against virtually any eventuality and providing us with a true and, crucially, up-to-date picture of how well our member companies are performing.

“Network VEKA wouldn't be held in such renown if we hadn't constantly monitored the standard of our installers' work from day one. We only retain the best companies, helping us - over our 19-year history - to achieve average customer satisfaction ratings of 97% compared to an industry average of just 83%. When you consider that we achieved that average over 230,000 installations with a combined worth of over £860m, you can see it's no fluke!”

Companies interested in learning more about what it takes to become a Network VEKA member should visit the organisation's new-look website: www.networkveka.co.uk.

NETWOrk VEkA OFFErS ONlINE GuArANTEE AcTIVATION, GATHErING cuSTOMEr FEEdbAck IN THE PrOcESS


Finding a supplier who gives the type of great service and consistent quality that makes you stay loyal to them for more than two decades is unusual in any industry, but not for Swish authorised Fabricator and installer, martindales Windows Ltd.

The family run business in Shrewsbury has been a loyal and happy customer of Swish Window and Door Systems for 24 years. Martindales sell windows, doors and conservatories direct to the trade, public and DIY customers.

Managing Director Keith Martindale says: “Staying with Swish Window and Door Systems for 24 years isn’t an accident. The brand is recognised for quality amongst homeowners and the trade, so being an Authorised Fabricator and Installer and

using the Swish logo on our website and brochures has always been part of the trade and retail business.

“Homeowners are happy buying Swish windows and doors from Martindales Windows Ltd because they’re a good price and they know the brand. Trade customers and builders trust our quality and like that they get given free, professional looking Swish brochures and advice. We’re about to launch our new website, which Swish has built for us as part of the support we get as a Swish Authorised Fabricator and Installer. It will feature our own bi-fold door. We introduced this using slimline Swish PVC-u profile and we’ve seen a 50 percent increase in sales over the past year.”

www.epwin.co.uk

THE SEcrET TO 24 YEArS OF SErVIcE IS NO SEcrET


Leading Lancashire network VeKa installer, aWC Windows and home improvements has reported a high number of leads being generated from the life-size cut-out figure of network VeKa Brand ambassador, Steve Davis in the window of its oldham showroom!

The six-times World Snooker Champion has worked with leading industry installer organisation Network VEKA for around ten years, playing an active role in increasing brand awareness through advertising, marketing campaigns and public appearances.

AWC’s Managing Director and owner, Michael Griffiths explains: “We’ve been lucky enough to work with Steve directly through our Network VEKA membership. A couple of years ago he agreed to join us and take on all-comers in a Charity Pool Challenge at the Saddleworth Summer Show – a local event that we’re proud to partner.

“AWC was celebrating its 35th anniversary year and Steve’s presence

really helped us to mark the occasion in style. Besides raising donations for Doctor Kershaw’s Hospice with the pool competition, Steve helped us generate sales of £42,000 over the weekend. People really connect with him and, I dare say, they’re intrigued to learn what his connection is with the PVC-U glazing industry!”

Colin Torley, Sales and Marketing Director for The VEKA UK Group adds: “Steve, both personally and as a sportsman, demonstrates all the hallmarks that we aspire to with Network VEKA – longevity, reliability, consistency, success, pride and attention to detail. At first people can seem a little confused as to a snooker champion’s link with a glazing industry organisation – seeing his image on the liveries for Network VEKA members’ vehicles and showrooms, for example - but it makes perfect sense when you think about it!

“The fact that AWC is generating leads purely off the back of the company’s link with Steve shows

just how beneficial the relationship is for Network VEKA members and we look forward to continuing to work with him in the years to come.”

Steve’s most recent promotion for Network VEKA has seen him front a series of radio adverts for member companies throughout the country, with AWC among the many businesses that jumped at the chance for such a recognisable voice to promote their services.

Michael continues: “Marketing opportunities like these free radio adverts represent just one of the many reasons we value our Network VEKA membership so highly. If the cut-out of Steve in our showroom window can generate leads alone, we can’t wait to see what the response to the radio campaign will be like!”

Steve also voiced two passages of audio targeted at homeowners and installers that Network VEKA installers and fabricators, respectively, can use on their websites. Interested parties can download the audio directly from the ‘trade’ page of the new-look Network VEKA website, here: www.networkveka.co.uk/trade.


INSTAllEr FOcuSThe UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper


The VEKA UK Group is proud to offer what is arguably the industry’s MOST extensive range of installer support.

Sales and Marketing Director Colin Torley explains: “Boasting both Network VEKA and the VEKA and Halo Approved Installer Schemes, we offer support to suit businesses of all types and sizes.

“Network VEKA was the first UK-based organisation of its kind - committed to guaranteeing quality and service for homeowners from day one. Supporting members for almost 20 years, it remains the industry’s leading installer organisation.

“The VEKA and Halo Approved Installer Schemes enhance our support offering, launching at last year’s FIT Show to instant and continuing success, with Approved companies now numbering over 400 and counting.

“The Approved Installer Scheme complements Network VEKA, acting as an introduction to support from The VEKA UK Group. It’s a unique, two-tiered offering that recognises one size doesn’t necessarily fit all and we’re pleased with how it works.

“VEKA and Halo’s Approved Installer Schemes offer a straightforward way for installers to begin boosting their business with The VEKA UK Group’s support while demonstrating an ongoing commitment to fitting PVC-U products of the highest quality. It’s free to join and there’s dedicated sales support from our talented team of staff.

“Network VEKA – even as it heads towards its 20th year - still offers the industry’s ultimate package of installer support! Its benefits include: training and auditing in technical surveying and installation, MTC seminars, optional sales training, consumer finance packages and a customer satisfaction questionnaire for independent quality standards reporting. There’s even direct multi-source lead generation at no added cost.

“One of the Network’s biggest installer benefits - its comprehensive package of Insurance-Backed Guarantees – protects customers’ deposits and staged payments as well as products. There’s also a full arbitration and conciliation service, for added customer reassurance. No wonder 99.2% of members continued their Network VEKA membership

this year! Our research even shows that members grew their businesses at 2.5 times the rate of the market last year.

“Both Network VEKA and the Approved Installer Scheme offer customisable vehicle liveries, exhibition supplies, printed promotional items, advertising and PR campaigns and, with Network VEKA, there’s the instantly-recognisable endorsement of Brand Ambassador Steve Davis.

“The VEKA UK Group has invested in state-of-the-art online marketing ‘portals’, allowing Network VEKA members and Approved Installers access to an unrivalled suite of brochures and other marketing materials – completely customisable to feature their logos, text and USPs.

“With an installer support offering that has a breadth and depth far surpassing anything else in the industry, The VEKA UK Group has marketing and business support packages to suit companies of any size. We couldn’t be more proud of all the support available, and in such a competitive marketplace, tools that help you boost your business are more valuable than ever!”

www.networkveka.co.uk

www.vekauk.com/approvedinstaller

uNrIVAllEd INSTAllEr SuPPOrT FrOM THE VEkA uk GrOuP

NETWORK VEKA BRAND AMBASSADOR STEVE DAVIS geNeraTeS ‘iNTereST’ FOr aWc!


“Veka and halo’s approved installer Schemes offer a straightforward way for installers to begin boosting their business with The Veka uk group’s support while demonstrating an ongoing commitment to fitting PVc-u products of the highest quality.”

“Network Veka was the first uk-based organisation of its kind - committed to guaranteeing quality and service for homeowners from day one.”

truemans Windows recently completed the relocation of its Sheffield branch to larger premises in response to phenomenal growth experienced over the past few years.

The move allows Truemans’ Sheffield outlet to double its volumes from 300 to 600 frames per week, a much needed increase, according to managing director, Joe Truemans: “The growth we’re experiencing is a direct result of our strong focus on the customer and the added value services we provide. Our comprehensive sales and marketing support is really helping installers win more orders and drive business forward.

“As a trade counter, we can also offer a much wider product choice - clients come to us because it is convenient to buy what they need, when they need it, rather than having to worry about delivery times and storage. It is paramount for us to be able to

always deliver on this promise, which is why we felt it was necessary for our Sheffield branch to double its capacity.”

The Sheffield location is now as big as Truemans’ newest and largest outlet, Doncaster, at 6,000 sq. ft., and accommodates a brand new showroom featuring an extensive range of Rehau and Residence 9 windows, as well as a wide selection of Solidor composite doors.

“Our outlets have built a very loyal base of customers, which have grown significantly over the past few years. With the market booming at the moment, and more installers finding

out about the benefits of trade counters and becoming a Truemans client, we are looking to expand our current locations, as well as adding new ones in geographical areas we are not currently covering,” Joe concluded.

Truemans have recently been announced as finalists in the Construction Business of the Year category of the Red Rose Building Awards, confirming, yet again, the company’s essential role as a key driver in the supply chain for the construction industry at large.

Steve Davis presented the awards and passed on his congratulations: “To win Fitter of the Year and go from being Best Newcomer, to winning Best in Eastern England and Overall National Winner really is a fantastic achievement!”

“In the Network VEKA awards, you're competing against the best of the best - so to come out on top says a lot about your customer service. Congratulations.”

PUttinG the FUn in FUnDRaiSinGNetwork VEKA managed to raise more than £700 for The Encephalitis Society by requesting donations from member companies to take advantage of the 1970s props available! There was also an envelope collection, and the membership proved its generosity once again.

BLame it on the BooGieThe evening was rounded off with a 1970s tribute band and disco until the early hours, with many members changing out of their black tie attire and into their grooviest glad rags!

John Ogilvie said: “The Awards Evening always has a fantastic atmosphere because we celebrate the successes of all our members and highlight the companies that are going even further above and beyond. Then it offers all our hard-working member companies the opportunity they deserve, to let their hair down and have a great night. We’re already looking forward to next year’s event.”

The network VeKa aGm wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the event’s sponsors:• ERA• Dugdale Ltd• Assure• Renolit• Euroseal• Glazpart• Chick Plastics• Glazerite Windows Ltd• IKA• B&I Fabrications• The Image Works Ltd • Prefix Systems


INSTAllEr FOcuS

Around 240 people attended Network VEKA's ever-popular AGM and Awards Evening in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Attendees were able to visit the day's specially-built 'Business Centre' where numerous companies and industry bodies were on hand to answer questions and give suggestions on all aspects of business; from finance and training to marketing and more. Visitors were particularly interested in Network VEKA's new training offering - the Network VEKA Academy.

Network VEKA's MD John Ogilvie was joined on stage by Compere John Meredith to present the official AGM. John was quick to praise the many successes of the membership: “It was a record year on a number of measures... £64 million pounds worth of products fitted, in almost 18000 installations, which is up 9% over the previous highest registration total. That’s £1.25 million fitted per week!

“Installations of VEKA products are up around 18%, which is more than two and a half times the market growth rate.

“Around £880 million has been installed since Network VEKA was formed and average installed values are the highest for six years. All of this.... and still customer satisfaction rates remain around 97%!”

John explained that The VEKA UK Group's MD,

Dave Jones, had been welcomed as Chairman of the Network VEKA Board and invited him to say a few words.

Dave Jones also congratulated the membership and articulated how proud he was of the support offering from The VEKA UK Group: “As Managing Director of The VEKA UK Group, people might say I'm biased.... but I genuinely believe that - between Network VEKA and the Approved Installer Scheme - we offer a scale of support that can't be matched in the industry.

“Network VEKA is the pinnacle organisation for installers in the glazing trade. Myself and the team at VEKA remain committed to helping promote the Network and to building upon its sterling reputation. I couldn't be more impressed by all that has been achieved over the last 12 months: record-breaking sales.... record registrations.... and more milestones than ever before. You should all be very proud of yourselves. We couldn't promote the Network in the way that we do, without all your hard work.”

With the day's event rounded off - flower power, flares and platforms were the order of the evening!

The evening began with a Champagne Reception

before the Awards were announced by Network VEKA Brand Ambassador Steve Davis.

a full list of regional winners follows below:

• Best in Scotland: Norscot Joinery

• Best in Ireland: Betterhomes

• Best in the Midlands: Goliath Homeworld

• Best in the North West: Cheadle Glass

• Best in the South: KJM Group

• Best in the South East: Oakwood Windows

• Best in the South West: Heavers of Bridport

• Best in Wales: MPN

• Best in Western England: Shane Howells

• Best in Yorkshire: David Brunskill

• Best in Eastern England: Frames Conservatories Direct

• Best in Central England: Lewington and Son

FRom BeSt neWComeR to nationaL WinneR anD FitteR oF the yeaR!This year's Overall National Winner was Frames Conservatories Direct.

The team were delighted to have gone from Best Newcomer at the last AGM, to National Winner at this year's event!

Alongside this impressive feat, the FCD installation team also won Fitter of the Year after being observed carrying out a series of practical and written exercises.

The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

NETWOrk VEkA HOSTS ANOTHEr FANTASTIc AGM & AWArdS EVENING!



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northamptonshire-based VeKa approved installer, nuVex is taking applications that, this summer, will entitle one lucky homeowner to an entire exterior refurbishment for their park home, free of charge!

NuVex's Kelly Flynn explains: “In the three years since we've been established we've been called to numerous homes where previous contractors had left the owners with terribly finished, unprotected work, often leaving our technicians truly shocked.

“With this offer our aim is not only to improve someone's quality of life and provide them with a safe and comfortable home, but to highlight NuVex as being synonymous with quality park home refurbishments that can be relied upon for years to come.”

Placing equal emphasis on excellent customer service and commitment to using products and materials of the highest quality, NuVex was an ideal member and ambassador for The VEKA UK Group's renowned Approved Installer Scheme.

Amy Grundy, National Sales Manager for the Approved Installer Scheme commented: “With this offer, NuVex is not only showcasing its own commendable approach to quality, dependable home improvements but the values

at the heart of the Approved Installer Scheme too.

“Their team realises that homeowners, quite rightly, should feel reassured that any work an installer carries out will stand the test of time and, as VEKA Approved Installers, they have the expertise and tools to do just that.

“All our Approved Installers commit to using CE-marked products from VEKA Approved Fabricators, achieving the legal requirements that come with Minimal Technical Competencies and providing an insurance-backed guarantee.”

Kelly continues: “There's unlimited access to a really easy-to-use online Marketing Hub. The quality of the designs is amazing and, when personalised with our company details and logo, they've helped to present us in a really professional light.

“We're looking forward to demonstrating the skills and products of a Nuvex and VEKA Approved installation with our free home refurb offer. Interested park homeowners should visit www.nuvexltd.co.uk before the closing date of 31/05/2015 to find out more.”



INSTAllEr INSIGHTS

In our second Installer Insights column six months ago I looked at Registered Installer Schemes, with particular reference to how the right one can add real value. Since then the Installer Scheme has shown no signs of abating. In fact, you can barely open the trade press without reading about a new scheme or the ‘best’ existing scheme in one form or another. But how many of these are actually tailor made with customer requirements in mind and how many simply serve as a Me Too service?

We launched our Synseal Registered Installer (SRI) scheme at the inaugural FIT Show, where it was extremely well received. Two years on, take-up has continued to grow, which we are told is thanks to the added value provided by our tailored solutions which can incorporate support for our Global or K2 roofs if required. So what should you look for in order to find the right Installer Scheme, made to measure for you?

We previously advised to look for one offering third party association options reaching right up to the Government-endorsed Trustmark to offer credibility. There are plenty out there so you can choose to partner with the one that means something to your business. Lead generation should also be provided, whether that be via a dedicated homeowner website with a ‘find your local installer’ function, or through third party websites. Training is equally important in order to ensure continuous improvement.

SUitS yoUOf course, many Registered Installer Schemes offer some or all of the benefits highlighted above, but how many additionally provide real tailored support to suit you? These

are the ones which go above and beyond to help to set you apart from your competitors, and which will include the following:

taiLoReD maRKetinG • Website design and hosting

support• High quality logo van stickers for

promotional use • Professional retail brochures

for PVC-U windows and doors; residential, patio and bi-fold doors; conservatory roofs; orangeries; vertical sliding sash windows and high performance sealed glass units

• Advertising and drop-card templates - designed to help your local promotions and highlighting value-adding aspirational products with true consumer appeal

taiLoReD BUSineSS SUPPoRt• Dedicated scheme management

personnel• Online consumer feedback

mechanism• New product training events• Log-in access to your systems

partner’s trade website in order to access downloads and technical information

• Access to a professional product photo library

• Special offers and prize draws• Local fabricator sponsorship and

hands-on support

Everything we do at Synseal is tailored, so as you would expect, our Registered Installer Scheme offers all of the above and more. We have built over 100 bespoke customer websites over the last 3 years. Our REaDER ENQuIRY No:

0215/0071

made TO meaSureinStALLEr inSigHtS

give Synseal a call today on 01623 444 390 for more information or visit www.synseal.com.

business support package is one of the most comprehensive marketing and sales development schemes devised for installers, with features and benefits designed to allow our members to compete professionally, even against the resources of big direct-selling home improvement retailers. The scheme is delivered through our fabricator network, so additionally helps to strengthen relationships between installers and their principal local suppliers.

ConStant innoVationIt doesn’t stop there, we are about to announce some exciting new benefits which will be available to our loyalty club members very soon, focussing on the all-important digital arena because online is the No.1 place where consumers go to search for installers these days. If your systems partner does not constantly re-evaluate and develop their Installer Scheme to meet your specific needs, it’s probably time to look for one who will.

In the latest in a series of installer focussed articles, Synseal’s Head of Marketing, Mark Schlotel, revisits the Registered Installer Scheme, examining how a truly tailored solution benefits parties at every level of the supply chain.


VEkA APPrOVEd INSTAllEr NuVEX SHOWcASES PArk HOME rENOVATIONS WITH FrEE rEFurb

INSTAllEr FOcuS


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Parkgate. Rotherham. S62 6JG

www.connaughtroofs.com

0415/0072


cONSErVATOrIES The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

First quarter sales for 2015 are ‘going through the roof ’ reports Aztec Conservatory Roof Systems.

And the customer base is expanding apace, with several new fabricators now fully functioning around the country, including Dover, Wolverhampton and Mansfield.

“It seems that over the traditionally quieter early winter, a lot of window fabricators have ‘got’ our message: if you are making windows, there is little to stop you adding a profit opportunity by making conservatory roofs,” observes Tim Frank, Aztec managing director.

“You’ll have a unit, and the equipment, and probably the space…..The advantage of choosing the Aztec system over others is that we protect our customers, we don’t work against them: we refuse to take any jobs direct, and guarantee a protected, realistic area in which our partners can trade without competing against other people fabricating the same system. In our 20+years, we have never had so many new fabricators at the start of a year, nor existing customers with such full order books.”

The Aztec roof is now the most widely-used independent system available to fabricators. It is the only conservatory roof system originally developed by roof fabricators and installers, to overcome the common issues faced when building a conservatory roof. Its design features mean it can be fabricated and fitted in a fraction of the time required by alternative systems, and, if properly executed, eliminates incidence of remedial snagging.

Uniquely, the company requires no stockholding, no minimum order quantity, and promises fabricators protected sales areas, with next working day delivery on even a single bar length. Aztec provides a full technical service, and what it believes is the best customer support in the sector.

Full details are available on the company’s website www.aztecsystems.net.

Synseal’s popular Global conservatory roof, which has been the UK’s best-selling conservatory roof since 2005, can now be enhanced with orangery style retro-fit solutions on both the inside and outside which are good-looking and straightforward to install.

With over 4 million existing conservatories currently gracing British homes, many of which will be in need of refurbishment to replace weathered frames and original polycarbonate glazing, there is no doubt that the installed park of conservatories is getting older every day and presents a substantial sales and marketing opportunity.

The new Global retro-fit solutions employ product elements from Synseal’s proven and market-leading hybrid orangery design, Global Summer.

On the outside, a high-strength replacement cast aluminium gutter bracket and discreet top frame horizontal fixing clip are all that is required to enable fitting of the shapely Global Summer decorative aluminium fascia extrusions to enhance the external appearance of a Global conservatory roof. The original PVC-U guttering components can then be put back in-situ, now neatly hidden behind the impressive orangery fascia.

On the inside, a Global Summer full height internal soffit can be fitted to provide a perimeter ceiling detail for that substantial built-in orangery look, incorporating audio speakers or feature downlights as required. This internal design improvement option is easy to fit and will give an existing Global conservatory a new lease of life.

“Global Summer is a winner because it delivers affordable style,” comments Steve Brown, Synseal’s Products & Customer Service Director, “and now existing Global conservatory roof installations can be easily upgraded to include eye-catching elements from our best-selling orangery on either the interior or exterior, or both.”

For further information contact Mark Schlotel on 01623 446207 or 07764 229694; email [email protected].

Conservatory Outlet has expanded its presence in Scotland with the addition of a new member to its retail network, Hamilton-based Crystal Clear Home Improvements.

With 26 years’ experience in the industry, Crystal Clear is now Conservatory Outlet’s exclusive retailer in Glasgow and the South West of Scotland.

The family-run Scottish company decided to join Conservatory Outlet as part of a strategy to focus on the retail installation side of its business, having previously also manufactured UPVC products in-house. Managing director, Robert Sinclair, said: “We wanted a supply partner that could truly help us grow to be the region’s leading installer and I believe that Conservatory Outlet’s business model will help us to achieve this, not just with its marketing and lead generation support, but the overall strategic consultancy that is available.’

Conservatory Outlet MD, Greg Kane, also commented on the network expansion: “We were looking for a partner that would further strengthen our presence north of the

border and it quickly became apparent that Crystal Clear would be the perfect company to help us do so. Their experience, passion, and dedication to their business’ success go hand in hand with our ethos. We’re delighted to welcome Robert and his team to the Conservatory Outlet family.”

As part of the transition, some of the company’s manufacturing machinery was acquired by Conservatory Outlet, allowing the retailer to considerably expand and refurbish its showroom.

Located in an affluent business area, near the McLaren and Bentley dealerships, Crystal Clear’s totally revamped showroom required a seven-figure investment in renovation and is now boasting an impressive product selection: 7 fully furnished conservatories and orangeries, including a solid roof unit, 10 composite doors, 2 aluminium bi-folds, as well as a comprehensive window display.

Robert said: “Online shopping has somewhat reduced the significance of brick-and-mortar outlets in many industries, but in the home improvement sector, they are more important than ever. Conservatory Outlet was heavily involved in the design and planning of our new showroom, as well as supporting us with means to stimulate footfall, including a fully responsive website to greet those who begin their search online.”

Crystal Clear Home Improvements is Conservatory Outlet’s third retail partner in Scotland, and covers an area previously unexplored by the fabricator. The network’s newest addition won’t be the last, as Conservatory Outlet is aiming to achieve full national coverage with new members in the few remaining “unclaimed” areas of the UK.

For more information visit http://www.conservatoryoutletdealers.co.uk/ or call 01924 239813.

buSiNeSS gOiNg THrOuGH THE rOOF...

GlObAl cONSErVATOrIES

gAin EASy orAngEry rEtro-fitS

CONSERVATORY OUTLET WELCOMES ITS NEWEST MEMBER IN SCOTLAND



REaDER ENQuIRY No: 0415/0075Crystal Clear’s brand new showroom.

“conservatory Outlet was heavily involved in the design and planning of our new showroom, as well as supporting us with means to stimulate footfall, including a fully responsive website to greet those who begin their search online.”

With a comprehensive training and

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0415/0078


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cONSErVATOrIES The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Joe Leeming Sales Manager for Supalite Roofs shares his excitement about the future of the solid tiled conservatory roof market.

Perhaps it is the start of spring, those first signs that daylight is more prominent than darkness but I can’t help

feeling that this is a great time to be in the solid tiled conservatory roof market.

For us as roof system designer and manufacturer it feels like there are just so many great opportunities ahead. Sales of our Supalite products are at an all time high, and the number of fabricators manufacturing our system, and installers fitting it are growing by the day – literally!

My excitement for them is even greater than the excitement I feel for us as a company. We are all in a growing market, but for

them the sales opportunities are even bigger. If it is a new-build application every solid tiled conservatory roof of course brings with it the sales of windows and doors, often bi-folding doors with the added financial value that they contribute, and if it is a replacement roof it is a brand new opportunity in itself which would not come along if they were not in the market.

The market for solid tiled conservatory roofs is estimated to be around 1 million and as a sector we have not scratched the surface of the demand yet.

It is why those companies who have already discovered solid tiled roofs and have chosen a quality supplier are already in such a great position to maximise the sales opportunities the better weather will bring.

But for those companies not already taking a solid tiled roof product there is still time to get on board. The Supalite network is expanding all the time and there are still areas of the country where we are looking for fabricators and for installers…. but the gaps are closing!

I wouldn’t leave it too long if you are thinking about getting involved in the solid tiled roof market.

Our existing range of products outstanding, but the great news is that there will be more to come! We are a company which will not stand still, we will be looking to introduce new and innovative products to support our existing fabricators and installers and those who choose to join us in the very near future.

It really is a great time to get involved.

you can contact us on 01772 828060 or via www.supaliteroof.co.uk

WHAT A GrEAT TIME TO bE IN THE SOlId Tiled cONSerVaTOrY rOOF markeT!


“Sales of our Supalite products are at an all time high.”


www.promac.co.uk3c Hadrians Way, Glebe Farm Industrial Estate,

Rugby, Warwickshire CV21 1STT: 01788 577577 F: 01788 567938 E: [email protected]

For Spares & Consumables www.promacshop.co.uk

Introduced through the very latest machining centres from Rapid and in conjunction with Andras control systems, Promac has developed an upgrade that existing Rapid clients can retro-fit to their cutting & machining centres delivering a guaranteed 20% improvement in production output. At Promac we are proud of our long standing relationship with Rapid Machinery and the partnership we have both developed through sales, service and technical support.

For more information please visit our web site www.promac.co.uk

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MACHINERY

0415/0080


MAcHINErY The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Following the purchase of a Stuga Flowline-3 in 2003 Direct Trade of Doncaster were so pleased with the results that they purchased a Stuga ZX3 in 2007.

Being the latest machine in the Stuga range at this time the ZX3 proved even better than the Flowline-3 due to newer technology and a higher output so that, with business expanding quickly, another ZX3 was purchased in 2008. Further ZX3 purchases followed in 2012 and at the end of 2014 making a total of five. With all five sawing & machining centers running Direct Trade are well set for further expansion.

QUote FRom the CUStomeRSteve Green, MD of national Halo fabricator Direct Trade comments: “Putting quality products and service at the heart of our business has been key to Direct Trade’s 15 years of consistent growth. In order to achieve this day in and day out to keep our customers happy and ahead of their competition, we rely on strong partnerships with our supply chain. Stuga

has been one such integral partner over many years.

“With around 2000 products including frames, composite doors, roofs and bifolds leaving our manufacturing facility every week, automation is critical to keep deliveries fast and service OTIF levels as near to 100% as we can. Following a substantial recent investment to increase our total manufacturing space to 87,500 sq feet, our drive to introduce new products also means that our automation needs to keep apace. Stuga help us achieve this too and we are now one of only two fabricators in the UK to house an impressive 5 Stuga cutting and machining centres.

“For us to continue to deliver consistent quality on time every time, it’s critical that our suppliers perform too. Stuga has never let us down in this regard, and are great at advising on the latest innovations in automation

options for consistent quality. Essentially they offer the complete package to help us ensure our customers continue to get the high quality products they expect from us, when they expect them.”

Stuga operate Service contracts on all automatic sawing & machining centers at Direct Trade in order to create peace of mind for the customer who knows they can get hold of a technician by phone quickly, or on site within 24 hours. Spare parts are all in stock for fast response whenever needed and each machine comes with internet diagnostics as well as on-board cameras with microphones and recording facilities.

For further information regarding all Stuga products please call 01493 742348 or visit www.stuga.co.uk.

Haffner launched the Italmac range of aluminium fabrication machinery in the UK market last year and the range is already proving very popular with fabricators.

Dave Thomas, Managing Director of Haffner says, “All the machines in the Italmac range represent incredible quality and value, but the one that’s proving to be particularly popular is the Italmac Turn 4 Axis CNC Machining Centre. It’s a flexible machine offering excellent value for money, plus comes with a two year warranty for additional peace of mind, making it the ideal starter machine for any company wanting to produce PVCu or aluminium doors.”

The Turn 4 Axis machine has been especially designed to mill and drill aluminium and PVCu bars and work pieces. The machine is especially useful for machining operations involving three sides of a work piece and the electro spindle can be set at any angle from 90° to – 90 for the ultimate in flexibility. It also comes with an automatic tool changing facility as standard, avoiding the need for expensive upgrades to get the features you need.

The machine is manufactured from electro-welded steel that is tempered and

worked with CNC machine tools, so offers exceptional build quality. The 3-4 axis movement is controlled by high precision motors for superb accuracy every time. The tool magazine attaches to the back of the moving portal, for ease of use and compact storage, while health and safety is covered by a safety light curtain system at the front of the machine.

Dave Thomas concludes, “Increasing numbers of fabricators are enquiring about new machines, reflecting growing confidence in the economy. We work closely with all our customers to ensure they make the investment that’s right for their business. The Turn 4 Axis machine represents an excellent investment that will deliver long term benefits for many companies looking to automate parts of the fabrication process.”

Tel: 01785 222421


STuGA cOMMISSION FIFTH AuTOMATIc SAWING & MAcHINING cENTEr AT dIrEcT TrAdE IN dONcASTEr

ITALMAC TURN 4 AxIS CNC MACHINING CENTRE PROVING A POPULAR CHOICE FOR HAFFNER CUSTOMERS

Machinery


Magden Ltd, a supplier and distributor of SWISSPACER warm edge spacer bars, has added new automatic eco brand machines to its list of products.

The ‘ecomac eco spacerbend’ is an automatic bending machine for SWISSPACER warm edge spacer bars and aluminium bars. The automatic bender can produce a wide range of shapes. With Siemens PLC system touch screens and a Panasonic CNC servo controller it can be used with four different dimensions of spacer. It significantly boosts production efficiency in insulating glass.

An automatic desiccant dispensing machine, the ‘ecomac eco automatic-spacerfill’, is also available. It is designed to automatically fill spacer frames of different forms and sizes with desiccant. The two automatic machines can be used together to produce spacer frames with reliable quantities of desiccant quickly and cost effectively.

Jim Smith, Magden Commercial Manager, says: “SWISSPACER has the same external dimensions as traditional aluminium spacer bars so sealed unit makers can use the bar

‘out of the box’ with cut and corner keys on existing machinery or by hand. Now sealed unit makers have another option.

“The new ecomac machines are far less expensive than other machines, making them ideal for smaller manufacturers looking to speed up production time. Used with SWISSPACER it means the best warm edge technology is available to all rather than just to the largest manufacturers.”

SWISSPACER, the UK and Ireland’s leading warm edge spacer bar, offers the best thermal performance and long lasting performance. All SWISSPACER spacer bars are available in 17 different colours and can be substituted for any other warm edge spacer bar.

To find out more about SWISSPACER call 0845 601 1265 or visit www.swisspacer.com. Follow SWISSPACER @Ultimate_Spacer. For Magden call 0161 796 2030 or visit www.magdenltd.com.


magden's new bender machine.

nEW AutoMAtiC SWiSSpACEr bEnDEr froM MAgDEn


0415/0084


MAcHINErY The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

One of the UK’s largest fabricators, Wellingborough based Astraseal, has significantly increased its manufacturing capabilities with a £3m investment.

Over the past 18 months Astraseal have invested in a new Tamglas toughening plant, a Stuga machining centre, a five headed welder, a bead saw, an aluminium saw, and a crimper. Astraseal has also expanded its logistical division, adding an additional 12 ton and 18 ton lorry to its fleet of 80 vehicles.

Mark McMullan, managing director of Astraseal comments: “The investment increases our capacity to over 4,000 frames per week and is part of a strategic move to put more resources into our trade supply division. We’ve been experiencing increasing demand from the trade and scaling up the business means we can continue to fulfil large commercial contracts and provide installers with the kind of quality and service they have come to expect from Astraseal. We welcome any

installers who would like a factory tour to see the new machinery in action and to discuss how Astraseal can help their business grow.”

Astraseal operates from three manufacturing sites, totalling 110,000 square feet, and fabricates a comprehensive product range including the REHAU S706 system in chamfered, semi sculptured and fully sculptured profiles; the REHAU Geneo system; REHAU bi-folding doors, vertical sliders, fully reversible windows, curtain walling and composite doors set in a REHAU outer frame.

As well as manufacturing all sealed units in-house, Astraseal also offers Smarts and Reynaers aluminium windows, doors, curtain walling, bi-folding doors and shop fronts; along with Global conservatory roofs, Synseal inline sliders and

vertical sliders.

Sales and marketing manager Zachary Nedimovic explains what the new investments mean for the future of Astraseal: “Following our increased manufacturing and delivery capacity, we plan to add new products to our range in the near future such as a flush sash system and Synseal’s WarmCore folding sliding door. These are two high-value, innovative products and installers can use them to keep up with industry trends and win profitable business. We are also in the process of revamping our installer marketing support package which will give our customers a major advantage over the competition.”

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

Birmingham-based trade fabricator Calibre Windows & Conservatories has just had a Haffner SMR-4 welder installed.

Calibre’s Co-Managing Director John Goody said, “Haffner was recommended to us both for the quality of their machines and the quality of the service and it has more than lived up to expectations. We have been delighted by the service to date and although the machine has only just been installed we can already see what a difference it’s going to make to our efficiencies.”

As John says, one of the biggest benefits of the SMR-4 is the increased efficiency it provides. This can be attributed to three key features. Switching between frame styles is quick and easy thanks to the touch screen technology, so production planning becomes much simpler. No operator setting or alignment is needed because the welder replaces all the existing tools and set squares that a conventional

machine needs. And quick release tooling reduces cycle times, increasing frame output by up to 30%.

Calibre manufactures and supplies windows, doors and conservatories to the trade in Birmingham and the West Midlands. The company prides itself on the quality of its product and service. Its commitment is perhaps best demonstrated in its decision to open its own glass shop in order to guarantee quality in this area.

John says, “We are well-respected in the local area and our reputation means

we are steadily growing. Investing in the SMR-4 welder will help us keep pace with growing demand without compromise.”

Dave Thomas, Managing Director of Haffner says, “We were pleased to receive the call from Calibre, not least because it came from a referral, which is testament to the quality we provide. The SMR-4 welder has the ability to revolutionise a fabricator’s production processes and I’m looking forward to checking back in with Calibre to see how it’s helping the team there.”

haffner and murat Tel: 01785 222421 www.haffnergb.com

Calibre Windows & Conservatories Tel: 0121 359 4412 www.cwcwindows.com



aSTraSeal iNcreaSe caPaciTY WiTh £3M INVESTMENT

cAlIbrE WINdOWS cHOOSES HAFFNEr

Sales and marketing manager zachary nedimovic (left), managing Director mark mcmullan (centre) and operation Director Colin Stanley (right) next to the new tamglas toughening plant.

“investing in the Smr-4 welder will help us keep pace with growing demand without compromise.”

Flair Plastic Products have recently invested in an additional Stuga zX4 – mK2 cutting and machining centre which will further increase capacity at the Kömmerling fabricator to help cope with demand from their thriving customers.

In the last few years Flair have grown significantly and this latest investment is all part of a longer-term strategic plan, with Kömmerling chosen as their preferred long-term profile partner. Flair not only manufacture the renowned C70 and O70 Gold® systems, but also their PremiLine patio door and impressive lift and slide PremiDoor.

The new Stuga ZX4-Mk2 cutting and machining centre at Flair can produce all required saw cuts and preps profile by profile

and operation by operation. Preps can be placed anywhere within 360 degrees and this is controlled by the software, while the graphic interface makes adjustment of the position accurate and simple.

The new cutting and machining centre measures each length of profile and instantly re-optimizes the batch if random offcuts are added meaning that offcuts are always tightly controlled. For Flair this means that they can operate more efficiently and across a large number of profile variations and colours.

The fact that Flair carries a wide range of foiled options in stock has proven to be a real catalyst for their sales success. In addition to the latest Chartwell Green and Irish Oak options, they can also offer products in

Golden Oak, Rosewood, cream, white foil, grey and black in all of the Kömmerling systems.

Adrian Keegan, sales manager of Flair Plastic Products commented: ‘This latest investment will help us boost our production capabilities and makes us more operationally efficient. Our enhanced installer package and impressive showroom is really helping us to stand out in the marketplace and we’ve bold expectations for the year ahead.’

Installers looking to switch to Flair are promised first class products, excellent customer service and a free showroom support package. For further information contact Flair on 0121 624 5001 or e- mail [email protected].

iNVeSTmeNT WiTh Flair

From left to right: David Bick (Flair), John england (Kommerling), adrian Keegan (Flair).



The Accolade Building, Common Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 3EQ

Tel: 01785 222421www.haffnermurat.com • [email protected]

Call Dave Thomas today!

SBA-2 MACHINE CENTRE

SVK-2

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TT405 COMPUTERISED SAW

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• Increased output with reduced labour to enable you to produce approximately 450 windows and doors per week with one operator. (750 on the SBA-4).

KEY FEATURES

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(Machine shown is the Haffner SBA-2 Machining centre)

The fastest and most accurate welder on the market today!

• Touch screen operation • Automatic head positioning via turret stop location • Automatic corner and back fences increases accuracy of the finished frame • Retracting middle corner fence ensures all 90 degree corners are set

correctly • Drop down support arms • Automatic self centering of transom and mullions • No tools required for setting corners, transoms and cruciform welding • Two year warranty

• Suitable for bevel and radius profile • 2 axis machine, fully programmable for white and woodgrain profiles• Profile recognition via linear transducers and photo electric sensors• Touch screen display for ease of operation with jog teach facility • Omron plc control with Hiwin bearings and SMC pneumatics • Rotary tool post for radius and internal cleaning with groove and

woodgrain knives as standard• 2 year parts and Labour warranty with the exception of worn parts

CNC Corner and Transom cleaning machine

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ITALMAC aluminium machinery

available nowThe Accolade Building, Common Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 3EQ




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available now

0415/0088


cASE STudY The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

glassHUS, a fast-growing Sunderland firm has moved into new premises and invested almost £170,000 in new machinery.

The company, which manufactures bespoke facades for the construction sector, was able to do this following an upsurge of new contract wins.

This robust order book offered glassHUS the opportunity to expand the business and the team has moved from premises on Rivergreen Industry Centre

to a 10,000 square foot facility - three times the size of it’s previous premises - on the same estate.

glassHUS’ managing director, Simon Tuckwell, said: “We initially outsourced the product from an accredited fabricator. In 2013, with an ever-growing order book, we decided to undertake our own manufacture. After only a year we were already looking to relocate to larger premises and felt it was a good opportunity to expand all areas of the business in order to increase our competitive edge while maintaining our high quality standards. The business plan for 2014 and 2015 included the move to larger premises and the

commitment to make a significant investment in machinery.

“After considering the manufacturing needs of our secured contracts and those we were tendering for we decided the investment

should be in: a CNC machine centre, a state of the art compound mitre saw and an additional bead saw. We chose machines from elumatec as the build quality is exceptional and they produce finished products to a very high standard. These new machines compliment our existing machinery, which was also purchased from elumatec.”

elumatec installed the new machines in December 2014. Simon comments: “Since we began manufacturing using the new machinery we have seen significant

improvements in our fabrication times. Given that our sector has been buoyant throughout the last twelve months the machinery has enabled us to increase our turnover and quality of product without increasing overheads, proving our investment has been worthwhile.”

glassHUS is currently working on a projects across the country, carrying out façade work on a Sainsbury’s store in London as well as student accommodation in Bristol. With further work already in the pipeline not only in England but also North of the Border in Scotland glassHUS opened an office in Dundee at the start of 2015. Scotland Divisional Manager Derek Morgan commented: “Given the capacity of glassHUS’ new facility, and its strategic location in the North East, it was a very straight forward decision to expand the company into Scotland. We feel we offer unrivalled service and products thanks to the quality of the workforce and the machinery we have in our Sunderland factory.”

Leader of Sunderland City Council, Councillor Paul Watson, said: “glassHUS is a fantastic example of a growing Wearside business which is selling bespoke Sunderland-designed and manufactured products across the UK.

“The company has grown quickly despite starting out in the midst of recession in 2009 and has ambitious

plans for further expansion. We were happy to help glassHUS with its new premises and investment and I’d urge any other businesses seeking new space to expand to consider Sunderland as a base. The city is centrally located with good transport links, and we offer advice and support which can make all the difference to growing businesses.”

Simon Tuckwell added: “We’re always aiming for and benefitting from repeat work, based on the quality of our design, products and installation. From the estimating department, through to the design, fabrication and installation teams, we have quality people who all share the company’s vision which is ‘to be the best we can in our business sector’.”

glassHUS estimates, designs, manufactures and installs architectural glass, aluminium facades and curtain walling for commercial clients and bespoke private developments. Initially starting out as a design company in 2009, the business began fabricating its own products in the middle of 2013 after securing a strong order book. This growth continued throughout 2014 and the company now employs 21 staff. 2015 started at a record breaking pace, so much so the company is revaluating both its 2015 budgets and staffing requirements.


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“We’re always aiming for and benefitting from repeat work, based on the quality of our design, products and installation.”


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“Replacement double glazing on prescription may not be as daft as it sounds if a Clinical Commissioning Group in Sunderland has anything to do with it,” says Gerald allen, marketing manager at Swish Window and Door Systems.

“A small pilot project was carried out to see if spending up to £5,000 per home on boilers, double glazing and insulation can improve the health of patients with chronic chest disease and cut the cost of their medical care in

winter. Initial results are exciting with a 28 percent decrease in GP attendances and a 40 percent drop in hospital attendances. Home heating costs dropped by £30 a month too. Is this the first case of the Government taking a joined up approach to improving the thermal efficiency of housing stock to help the vulnerable?

“Not yet, but it should be according to the leaders of eighty charities, businesses and unions. In a letter to the Telegraph they

have called on ministers to spend £8.5 billion over the next 5 years on insulation and other energy efficiency measures to save lives, cut £335 a year on energy bills and create 100,000 new jobs.

“Unlike the Green Deal, it’s being driven from the bottom up by local health trusts and authorities as well as prominent figures from industry and charities. As well as the health benefits achieved in the Sunderland trials, the savings on energy costs are also

impressive. They demonstrate a big reduction in cost that is often quoted but seldom proven. It’s certainly a good figure for installation companies to quote when explaining to homeowners the ongoing cost benefits of fitting new energy efficient windows, adding insulation and possibly replacing a tired old boiler. The knock on effect of saving lives, reducing admissions to hospital and creating better living conditions is a powerful message.

If our industry can get behind this influential campaign and window companies support it at local level it could be good for everyone.”

For details about Swish Windows and Door Systems visit www.swishwindows.co.uk.

wINDowS oN PRESCRIPTIoN


HArdWArE The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

hull-based Vulcan Windows has upgraded its composite and uPVC door ranges with high quality stainless steel hardware from leading supplier for the trade, total hardware. The move reflects Vulcan’s commitment to provide customers with the best possible products, as well as its strategy to eliminate callouts due to hardware finish issues.

Vulcan Windows has been manufacturing and installing windows and doors since 1973, and is now offering a wide range of aluminium and uPVC products to the trade on a nationwide basis.

Working in geographical proximity to the coast, the company’s installation division used to encounter regular problems involving corrosion of their door hardware. Vulcan operations manager, Paul Walker, commented: “We are obsessed with quality, and needed a hardware solution that would reflect our high standards. We turned to our supplier, Total Hardware, and they’ve recommended a range of door furniture manufactured in 304 stainless steel from Trojan, that offers ultimate corrosion resistance and comes with a 25 year guarantee on all finishes.

“We took their advice and they made sure the transition was very swift, with no disruptions to the production activity. Switching to stainless steel was definitely the right decision for us, as it makes

With triple glazing attracting more and more attention in the industry it comes as no surprise to the trojan Group that sales of their mega egress hinges have more than doubled in the last twelve months. The long established mega egress hinges can carry up to 40kg which is more than sufficient for the additional weight of the triple glazed unit.

Like all Trojan products, the Mega Egress offers a wealth of benefits. Aside from being triple glazing-compatible, it also offers a true full 90 degree opening, so it easily meets egress compliance requirements.

The innovative patented mechanical design also solves frequent gasket compression problems traditionally associated with conventional hinges. Because of its patented design, it does not move inwards on opening and consequently restrict the window aperture, as with conventional scissor type hinges.

The Mega Egress hinge is available in two lengths 220mm and 345mm with two stack heights, 13.5mm and 16.5mm and is a genuinely versatile hardware product as its

weight carrying capacity means you need minimal hinges in stock.

Tony Chadwick, Managing Director of the Trojan Group comments, “One of the impacts of triple glazing is the need for heavier duty hardware to be able to cope with the additional weight of the units.”

“The Mega Egress hinge can be used on all side hung applications up to a maximum sash width of 900mm but more importantly it can carry up to 40kg, making it ideal for all heavy duty applications, including triple glazed windows. The hinge also achieves high security (PAS 24 as part of a window system) and offers excellent compression characteristics.”

It is the intelligent-design and multi-purpose nature of the Mega Egress that caters for both double and triple glazed units without tying up excessive capital in stock that demonstrates why Trojan’s sales of the product have more than doubled!

Tel: 01922 713 933 - www.trojangroup.com

VulcAN SOlVES cOrrOSION PrOblEM WitH totAL HArDWArE

SALES of trojAn’S MEgA EgrESS HingES HAVE MORE THAN DOUBLED!

Vulcan Windows operations manager, Paul Walker (left), and total hardware managing director, andy Cunningham (right).

more economical sense to invest in high quality products, than to deal with service calls due to hardware finish problems.”

Total Hardware managing director, Andy Cunningham, said: “By fitting stainless steel Trojan hardware on all their doors as standard, Vulcan are positioning themselves very competitively in a tight market. These benefits are also transferred to their trade customers, who can capitalise on being able to offer a product that stands out through improved quality.”

Vulcan Windows fabricate Nan Ya composite doors, as well as the full range of uPVC doors and windows using Synseal Synerjy and Sheerframe 8000 series profile systems, and have a weekly output of 500-600 frames. The company has been a Total Hardware client for almost 9 years, and are currently sourcing approximately 70% of all their hardware from the Leeds-based supplier. Aside from stainless steel products, Total Hardware also provide Vulcan with window hardware, including their own range of premium window handles, Quantum.

“There’s a reason we have been in a partnership with Total Hardware for nearly a decade – they’re very focused on customer service and supply an extensive range of high quality products from many leading manufacturers. The entire team at Total Hardware respond quickly and effectively to any request we might have, so we never experience stock shortages or delays,” concluded Paul.

For more information call Total Hardware on 0113 243 2255.





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The MACO C-TS Stable Door Lock system is the latest addition to the C-TS ‘combined’ door lock range available from hardware specialist VBH.

The bottom lock features a key operated (wind up)

lock case so no handle is required on the lower door; just a profile cylinder and escutcheon cover are needed. The top door features C-TS lock which can be used as a standard lift/lever (lever/lever) or a split spindle (lever/pad) lock if preferred.

The new stable door lock features steel hooks on both leaves as standard and manufacturers can choose to order locks with or without ‘intelligent security’ IS cams.

The lock has a true stable door function, offering the choice of opening just the top door or opening both leaves together as one unit. This is achieved through a steel vertical coupling shootbolt that locates into a port on the top door when the lower door is unlocked. This connects the two halves together when the top door is opened. The shootbolt is available in two lengths to ensure it is long enough to pass from the lower door, through the transom, and into the top door.

VBH Marketing Manager Gary Gleeson advises ‘This new MACO lock is a superb solution for PVCu, timber or composite stable doors. As with all C-TS locks the solid steel tapered hooks provide supreme strength coupled with a very smooth closing action. The choice of coupling shootbolt lengths on the lower half means that only a small hole needs to be drilled through the transom for the bolt to pass through. This represents great time, effort and cost benefits to door manufacturers used to fitting other products that require the lock itself to be fed through the transom.’

The MACO C-TS Stable Door Lock is available from VBH in a choice of 35mm or 45mm backsets.

Call VBH on 01634 263300 for further information or download it from www.vbhgb.com.

The sight of corroded, failing door hardware is becoming increasingly common on homes all over the country. and while the appearance is unappealing for homeowners, it’s even more unappealing for installers needing to fit replacements when the hardware hasn’t lived up to its guarantee or expectation.

But for customers of leading hardware company the Trojan Group, the trouble caused by failing or pitting hardware can be a thing of the past. Tony Chadwick, Trojan Group Managing Director, explains, “Hardware finish failure is something that’s constantly on installer’s agendas because it’s increasingly a problem. Quite simply, zinc or aluminium based plated or painted products will corrode sooner or later as a result of salt or acid erosion attack especially if the surface coating is damaged. Our recent cold winters have accelerated the process for many products and this has a detrimental effect to the bottom line.”

As Tony points out, increasing numbers of call outs affect not only your bottom line but also your reputation. Call-outs, replacement costs and reputational damage will all have an impact on your

business especially in an economic climate where everyone is still choosing their suppliers carefully.

As a result of this industry problem more fabricators and installers are turning to high grades of stainless steel as the answer. The Trojan Group’s stainless steel range of door hardware has witnessed an unprecedented increase in sales over the past couple of years. Stainless steel products are extremely durable and more than capable of withstanding the most ferocious of winters without losing their good looks or functionality. In fact, so confident is the Trojan Group in the corrosion resistance of its stainless steel products that they all come with a 25 year anti-corrosion guarantee.

It was the commitment to product longevity and elimination of costly call-outs that attracted Hull-based Vulcan Windows to recently make the change to Trojan’s stainless steel range on its composite and PVC-u door ranges. Andy Cunningham , Total Hardware’s Managing Director and a main distributor for the Trojan Group says they were easily able to demonstrate to Paul Walker, Operations

Manager at Vulcan, the benefits of stainless steel and the positive effect for their business.

Similarly, customers switching over to stainless steel products have found that they have been able to dispense with costly on-site repair teams as the hardware products have not failed.

The Trojan Group’s Elite stainless steel door range comprises T-hinges, letterplates, door knockers, door numbers, numerals and handles. The company has also launched three new contemporary products into the range: high grade stainless steel T Bar Handles , Escutcheon and Central Door Knob. Every product is suited for a perfectly co-ordinated approach and comes with a no quibble, 25 year anti-corrosion guarantee.

The Trojan Group’s stainless steel hardware gives all sectors of the market a product with corrosion resistance that allows you to ‘fit and forget’ at highly competitive pricing. As Tony says, “Can your business afford not to use Trojan stainless steel products?”

Tel: 01922 713 933 www.trojan-hardware.com

VbH OFFErS NEW lOckING SOluTION FOr STAblE dOOrS

The real cOST OF dOOr hardWare Failure!

network VeKa, the pioneering UK glazing industry installer organisation has taken a further step in consolidating its market-leading position by announcing a new partnership with building law experts, haS Resolution.

The Wigan-based firm of private practice Chartered Building Engineers, Building Surveyors and Expert Witnesses will provide advice and guidance to Network

VEKA member companies on dispute resolution, consumer law, contract terms and conditions, construction, technical and building regulation problems and matters requiring Expert Witness and litigation support, in the unlikely event that such services are required.

Network VEKA’s MD, John Ogilvie commented: “Besides our members’ commitment to a continual process of auditing and assessment -

ensuring they meet Network VEKA’s exacting standards for home improvement installations - we always strive to secure the best support packages to further raise them above the competition. The services provided by HAS Resolution offer an invaluable resource for our members – in fact, their team have already assisted a Network VEKA member company in resolving a dispute that had run for six

months prior to their input. The successful resolution was eventually turned around in just 14 days.

Don Waterworth, Founder of HAS Resolution added: “Over the last 25 years, we have resolved over 2,000 disputes of various types and values. Disputes can come in all shapes and sizes - from a disgruntled customer with a ‘condensation problem’ to a customer who will not pay for a £20,000 conservatory.

In most cases, a quality installer such as a Network VEKA member company will probably never have experienced such problems. Therefore, the challenge in knowing what to do if such a situation arises can be worrying and overwhelming. This is where HAS Resolution comes to the rescue! As we say to all our clients - you look after your business; we will resolve your problems.”

www.networkveka.co.uk

NETWOrk VEkA SuPPOrTS MEMbErS WITH lEGAl EXPErTS HAS rESOluTION



online | mila.co.ukphone | 01327 312 400 social | @milahardware_uk

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Glass News’ Editor, Chris Champion, reports from the UK launch of AGB’s Imago Lift & Slide Door. A door that combines style and technology to produce something truly beautiful.

If you are Italian and, in design terms, mentioned in the same breath as Ferrari, Maserati and Ducati, then you are part of a very special family. And AGB’s Imago Lift & Slide Door has achieved just that, joining these great Italian names as being listed as one of the best industrial designs by the ADI Index 2014.

So who are AGB? This is not a new company and has a pedigree going back to 1947 when it was established in Bassano, producing accessories for doors and windows. From relatively humble beginnings, the company continued to expand, adding additional plants in Italy and, in the 2000s, branching out with facilities in Spain, Serbia and China.

The accessories that AGB specialise in include locks, cylinders, hinges and bolts and multi-point locks, plus hardware for windows sliding systems and shutters. They pride themselves on designing products that

are both technologically advanced as well as being beautiful and their new Imago Lift & Slide fits that bill, perfectly. Imago is the definitive timber wide-span door for design led homes. The super-slim wooden frame makes it an exciting choice for extensions, sunrooms and orangeries where style and performance is paramount.

Imago frames the view with a sightline down to just 2cm. Unlike most wooden doors, Imago has a sash slimmer than even some aluminium lift and slide doors. The hardware disappears into the frame and the silky smooth slide mechanism is invisible. The result is a huge glazed window door that offers an uninterrupted view. The combination of elegant style and industry leading thermal and weather performance has redefined what is possible from a timber door. Our British weather means large doors stay firmly shut for most of the year. Open or closed, Imago’s slim design means there aren’t multiple frames to break up the view, creating a light filled space.

AGB is Italy’s largest window and door hardware manufacturer and is widely specified. The Imago product is a leading wooden sliding door in mainland Europe

and has 130 companies within Italy alone, installing Imago Lift & Slide Doors, and 600 architects subscribing to its online design and specification service.

Installation companies and timber manufacturers who target the premium market will find Imago Lift & Slide Doors a big attraction for homeowners and designers. AGB has everything architects need with easy to download drawings and specifications to add straight into their design project. Manufacturers are given all the high performance test certification needed to produce fully CE compliant doors. Companies can find out more about Imago Lift & Slide Doors by emailing [email protected].

imaGo ReDeFineS timBeR SLiDinG DooRSPerfect for the UK climate, Imago Lift & Slide is the definitive timber wide-span door for design led homes. The super-slim wooden frame makes it an exciting choice for extensions, sunrooms and orangeries where style and performance is paramount.

Imago is the stunning timber lift and slide door system from AGB, Italy’s largest window and door hardware manufacturer. Widely specified, Imago is a leading wooden sliding door in mainland Europe. In Italy there are 130 companies installing Imago Lift & Slide Doors and 600 architects subscribing to its online design and specification service.

Imago frames the view with a sightline down to just 2cm. Unlike most wooden doors, Imago has a sash slimmer than even some aluminium lift and slide doors. The hardware disappears into the frame and the silky smooth slide mechanism is invisible. The Imago Lift & Slide Door is so innovative it has been selected as one of the best industrial designs by the ADI Index 2014, alongside an impressive line-up of new offerings from luxury brands renowned for beauty and performance including Ferrari, Maserati and Ducati.

The result is a huge glazed window door that offers an uninterrupted view. The combination of elegant style and industry leading thermal and weather performance has redefined what is possible from a timber door. Our British weather means large doors stay firmly shut for most of the year. Open or closed, Imago’s slim design means there aren’t multiple frames to break up the view, creating a light filled space.

Installation companies and timber manufacturers who target the premium market will find Imago Lift & Slide Doors a big attraction for homeowners and designers. AGB has everything architects need with easy to download drawings and specifications to add straight into their design project. Manufacturers are given all the high performance test certification needed to produce fully CE compliant doors.

Companies can find out more about imago Lift & Slide Doors by emailing [email protected].


rEdEFINING TIMbEr SLiDing DoorS

imago frames the english countryside.

Fredi Piotto, marco zen and Rob Sherwood - aGB hardware.

“The super-slim wooden frame makes it an exciting choice for extensions, sunrooms and orangeries where style and performance is paramount.”


HArdWArEThe UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Avocet Hardware has welcomed the RISCAuthority’s decision to incorporate an explanation of lock-snapping and the importance of TS007 and SS312 in the fight against it in its latest “Guidance to Occupiers”.

Avocet, which manufactures ABS snap-secure locks, has long campaigned for the insurance industry to play an active role in helping to curtail the rise in lock-snapping and is delighted with what it describes as a major step forward.

“Lock-snapping is a significant issue across large swathes of the country and what makes it so frustrating is that it’s easily preventable,” said Rythm Jain Saigal – CEO of Avocet. “All we need in order to stamp it out is for insurance companies to add TS007 3-star BSI Kitemark or SS312 Diamond accredited locks to their list of Minimum Security Standard products – and maybe take the customer friendly step of compensating those who have to upgrade by offering a reduced premium. But to date they have maintained the preposterous stance of insisting on like-for-like replacements for snapped locks, meaning homeowners are doing nothing to prevent a repeat attack.”

“We are extremely hopeful that the RISCAuthority’s publication is the first sign of a change in attitude – one that will benefit not just the British public, but the insurers themselves as a result of the significant decrease in break-ins such a measure would deliver.”

Avocet uses Leeds as an example of the impact TS007 3-star and SS312 Diamond accredited locks can have on crime figures.

• In 2012 Leeds City Council fitted over 10,000 of Avocet’s ABS snap secure locks in the east of the city. Alongside other initiatives this led to a 36 per cent decrease in burglaries in the area in the year to October 2012 – which equated to 3,200 less victims in just one year.

In addition, locksmiths across the country have been quick to praise the safety of such

locks. Most recently, Bob Callard OBE – a director of Sheffield-based Callard Security said: “I specified them (ABS) for a client earlier this year, who sadly was burgled last week, or rather he wasn’t. His entire street was hit by a team of ‘snappers’ who made successful entries against a range of properties, apart from his. The sacrificial element of the cylinder parted company in accordance with its design leaving his property safe. His neighbours have all asked him why they were unsuccesful, with the resullt that I have now specified Avocet for them all.”

“There is no doubting the effectiveness of ABS and other TS007 3-star and SS312 Diamond accredited locks,” added Rythm. “What has been in doubt is the commitment of the insurance industry to take the steps needed to broadcast this message in suitable fashion.”

“I firmly believe that the RISCAuthority’s publishing decision signals the beginning of the end for the lock-snappers.”

The RISCAuthority is an annually funded research scheme supported by a significant group of UK insurers that conducts research in support of the development and dissemination of best practice on the protection of property and business. To find out more visit www.riscauthority.co.uk or call 01608 812 500

Avocet Hardware is the security sponsor for Neighbourhood and Home Network Watch. To discover more about it and its snap-secure products visit www.abs-secure.co.uk or call 01484 711700.

Available in 12” (300mm) and 10” (250mm) sizes, the all-new, highly innovative DOORMASTER® letterplate range from UAP is ideal if customers are looking for something contemporary and modern.

The DOORMASTER® letterplate has been designed to fit 20mm-40mm uPVC doors and 40-80mm composite and wooden doors, and consists of an enclosed, rounded flap set against a shallower frame. This gives a less intrusive but sleeker feel to the door. Every DOORMASTER® letterplate is engineered to provide features which cannot be found on any other letterplate.

David Jennings, MD of UAP, explains, “The DOORMASTER® letterplate comes with a range of unique qualities which sets it apart from similar products on the market. Unlike the UAP Framemaster letterplates, it has a robust central sleeve, which means it is suitable for waste (mid) rails, and can easily replace any existing letterplate without the need to re-jig your CNC machines. This makes it incredibly versatile and consumer-friendly. The sleeve has been manufactured to protect against the elements, and can withstand even the harshest of environments.”

David continues, “All of our letterplates open 180 degrees, meaning that they will not snap off when opened too far, which is a common problem with all 90 degree-opening letterplates. Each letterplate has ultra-flexible springs which can withstand thousands of openings without breaking or becoming affected by daily wear and tear, making them incredibly cost-effective.”

An internal water seal prevents water from getting into the door, as water instead travels down the side of the DOORMASTER® letterplate and along the cavity, meaning post

remains dry at all times. Blind bolts to the exterior of the letterplate prevent the outer frame from becoming unscrewed from the door externally.

UAP are one of the only suppliers in the industry to have the brushes on their letterplates outward-facing on the exterior flap. By doing this, it has three huge advantages. The first is that it makes it far easier for letters to be posted through the door, as the brushes can immediately be located. This automatically prevents letters from being scrunched up or damaged. Secondly, DOORMASTER® letterplate also acts as a visual deterrent against vandals who want to gain access to the cavity, as the brushes are located at the front. They will be unable to place unwanted items in there, such as fireworks or other explosives. Thirdly, the letterplate allows for far better draught installation, as it stops the draught at the point of entry instead of allowing it to get into the central cavity before trying to stop it.

David concludes, “We are constantly fully stocked with a wide range of colours for the DOORMASTER® letterplates, so there is no more waiting between 4-8 weeks for your letterplate order to arrive! If you order with us before 3pm, we will usually dispatch your order the same day on an overnight carrier!”

For more information regarding the revolutionary DOORMASTER® letterplate, get in touch with UAP today at [email protected]. Alternatively, you can get in touch with their friendly sales division on 0161 796 7268.

AVOcET HErAldS rISc AuTHOrITY GuIdANcE AS A MAJOr STEP FOrWArd IN THE FIGHT AGAINST lOck-SNAPPING

The reVOluTiONarY dOOrmaSTer® leTTerPlaTe

DESIGNED To laST



Guidance welcome – the RiSCauthority’s Guidance to occupiers.

“We are extremely hopeful that the riScauthority’s publication is the first sign of a change in attitude – one that will benefit not just the british public, but the insurers themselves as a result of the significant decrease in break-ins such a measure would deliver.”

“We are constantly fully stocked with a wide range of colours for the dOOrmaSTer® letterplates, so there is no more waiting between 4-8 weeks for your letterplate order to arrive!”

“unlike the uaP Framemaster letterplates, it has a robust central sleeve, which means it is suitable for waste (mid) rails, and can easily replace any existing letterplate without the need to re-jig your cNc machines.”


GlASS The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

TuffX Processed Glass has added another stunning roof glass option to its Ambience conservatory roof glass range.

The striking Ambi ULTRA is a dark, tinted glass which increases the recreational possibilities for conservatories, especially in conditions with strong sunlight.

This new option in the Ambience portfolio offers exceptional glare reduction and UV solar control with up to 91% solar heat reflection.

Ambi ULTRA’s market leading solar heat reflection capabilities, coupled with its exceptional light transmission properties, gives a distinctive appearance and provides an even cooler more shaded environment, beyond that of the best, existing high performance conservatory glass. It can also be incorporated into bifold doors.

As with all products in the Ambience range, Ambi-ULTRA is available in sizes up to 4000mm.

For more information please visit www.ambiglass.co.uk or call 0845 3 400 200.

Liverpool John Lennon airport has started to develop its international connections and is expanding as an airport, with some help from tuffX Processed Glass. over the next twenty years, focus will be placed on making the airport a new transport corridor and World Cargo Centre.

As part of this major expansion project, TuffX Processed Glass has been contracted to supply 19mm polished, clear toughened glass in various shapes, which most recently has been incorporated into new staircases at the airport.

New terminal buildings are also part of a new master plan that is due to be completed by 2030, with plans for the airport to grow

significantly by introducing permanent long-haul services.

TuffX is a leading processed glass supplier with an extensive product portfolio that is suitable for commercial and domestic projects, including balustrades, curtain walling and partitioning as well as glass furniture. For more information please call 0845 3 400 200 or visit the website www.tuffxprocessedglass.co.uk.

JOHN lENNON AIrPOrT bENEFITS FrOm TuFFX PrOducTS


TuffX Processed Glass was contracted to supply a number of products from its leading, processed glass range for the renovation of Manchester Town Hall.

The project has received the regional award for Refurbished or Recycled Workplaces, 2014, from the British Council for Offices (BCO). Here the key challenge was to ensure that the new building was remodelled using 21st Century, eco-friendly design and construction principles.

Consequently, TuffX supplied polished and drilled, clear toughened laminate glass in a 21.5mm thickness, which was then incorporated into a staircase inside the historic building.

Thanks to products such as those from the TuffX range, the challenging renovation now preserves the historic Victorian architecture and unique appearance of the hall, whilst balancing the look of the grade 2 listed building against modern workplace functionality and environmental standards.

For more information on the TuffX Processed Glass range please visit the website www.tuffxprocessedglass.co.uk or call 0845 3 400 200.

TuFFX HElPS TO rENOVATE MANcHESTEr TOWN HAll


“here the key challenge was to ensure that the new building was remodelled using 21st century, eco-friendly design and construction principles.”

An Essex based company that specialises in sunken gardens and striking glass pond designs, is incorporating a variety of toughened laminated glass products from the TuffX Processed Glass range into its instant pond portfolio.

The company provides beautiful ornamental pools which can be dismantled and reassembled should homeowners decide to relocate and move home.

Dependent upon the size of the project, TuffX provides a variety of glass thicknesses including 17.5mm clear toughened, 21.5mm clear toughened or 25.5mm clear toughened laminate which is then incorporated into the pond framework.

Primarily developed for people who keep koi, the range of garden ponds is laser cut from 3 mm thick 316 stainless steel and is offered with a lifetime guarantee. The glass is fixed into each frame as are the brick slips that fit above and below the windows.

A number of designs are available with a bespoke option for consumers with specific ideas for their gardens. The ponds do not need footings to be reinforced or 9” block work, as the strength and rigidity of the finished product is in the framework itself.

For more information on the Instant Garden Ponds please call TuffX Processed Glass on 0845 3 400 200.

TuFFX keePiNg kOi WiTh iNSTaNT gardeN PONdS


THE ulTrA IN GlASS PErFOrMANcE FrOM TuFFX



GlASSThe UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Products from the tuffX Processed Glass portfolio were chosen as part of a multi-million pound renovation project at Beckenham Kent County Cricket ground. The project which was near completion at the end of last year will dramatically improve facilities at the club.

TuffX was contracted to supply approximately 40m2 glass from its range as part of a new balustrade that overlooked the pitch. 33mm Clear Toughened Laminated glass rectangles were installed as part of a new spectator stand for 2,000 people that will increase the cricket ground’s capacity.

Other developments at the club include an indoor cricket school as well as physiotherapy treatment rooms, a gym, Pilates studio, and a

conference and banqueting area that seats 160 people, with bar and kitchen facilities.

The contractors were delighted with the installation which has now turned the cricketing facilities into a true centre for excellence, where cricket can be run at every level.

For more information please call 0845 3 400 200 or visit the website www.tuffxprocessedglass.co.uk.

as part of its strategic growth plan northampton-based Cet Glass has invested in a new Bystronic high-speed iGU line. helping to increase capacity by 30%, the new line will further enhance the fast and reliable production of double and triple glazed units. to complement this improvement in its manufacturing processes, Cet has also embarked on an expansive development programme for its employees, including the introduction of a nVQ qualification in customer services.

Developed to maximise efficiency and achieve the highest level of quality and accuracy in sealed unit assembly, the Bystronic high-speed IGU line is equipped with sensors, and four sets of brushes sequenced to work on all known coatings. A scanning system detects marks on the glass while any defects are displayed on-screen, allowing for pin point accuracy during manual inspection. The glass is transported along the machine with the aid of a back board air flotation, minimising potential glass contamination after the washer.

Alongside the NVQ qualification and an internal training programme, employees at CET are also being encouraged to take a pro-active approach to work. As part of this initiative both the internal sales and customer service teams will be able to identify potential opportunities for the company’s area sales managers to talk to customers about how CET can help them further with their product needs.

Later this year the company will be introducing the Outbound Call Hour. This simple yet effective tool will mean that contact with existing customers is maintained, no matter the demands of the business, and time will be dedicated to developing new opportunities. The calls will cover everything from feedback on deliveries to enquiring about customer requirements and will provide invaluable feedback for the company’s centralised customer database.

CET has also introduced and rolled out Manufacturing of Excellence lean training to all staff personnel.

Maria Ludlow, customer operations manager at CET, said “This investment is proof of how serious we are about developing CET, raising our profile and most importantly, providing an outstanding service for our customers. By increasing our manufacturing capacity we are able to not only improve efficiencies, producing a high-quality, energy saving glass unit but it will also have a positive effect on customer service levels. On top of that, our investment in people, training and customer services mean that we have a strong foundation on which we can build the business; make the most of the opportunities that are out there and provide the right kind of support for our customers.”

Over the last 12 months CET has strengthened its senior management team with the appointment of Chris Trinder as general manager and Stuart Marks as operations manager. David Papworth also joins the business in his role as divisional sales director. Bringing a diverse range of skills and experiences this new-look senior team marks the start of a new era for CET as it develops and extends its market reach.

Tel: 01604 596000 - www.cetglass.co.uk

kENT cc bOWlEd OVEr bY TuFFX

INVESTMENT drIVE FOr cET GlASS



An innovative new thermally-efficient curtain walling system developed by leading fenestration systems designer and manufacturer Senior Architectural Systems has proven to be the clear choice for use on a major superstore development for Sainsbury’s.

The new store in Wadsley Bridge, Sheffield, is the first completed project to showcase Senior’s SF52 structural silicone glazed curtain walling system which has been installed by Insight Architectural for main contractor McLaughlin & Harvey (formerly Barr Construction). Boasting enhanced thermal performance, the SF52 system was specified for use on Sainsbury’s first steel and timber hybrid store that features a number of sustainable design elements including rain water harvesting.

The new SF52 curtain walling system has been installed to the main entrance elevation, providing the new store with a dramatic façade that is easily recognisable from the main road and which creates a welcoming sense of light and space. Available fully capped, capless or a combination of the two, and with an almost unlimited range of colours and finishes both inside and out, the SF52 curtain wall offered Insight Architectural plenty of design flexibility.

Commenting on the project, Shaun Booth, Insight Architectural contracts director said: “Having worked with Senior on a number of previous contracts, we are delighted to be the first UK installer to showcase the company’s

new SF52 curtain walling system. The new store for Sainsbury’s was a fantastic project to be involved with and the new SF52 system was the ideal choice for use on a building where energy efficiency and sustainable design was paramount”.

The new SF52 system is fully compatible with Senior’s portfolio of windows and doors, offering visual consistency with slim 52mm sight lines to help any project achieve a uniform appearance. The system is also capable of holding double or triple glazed units ranging from 24mm to 50mm in thickness via the use of various gaskets and thermal breaks.

SF52 has been carefully designed and developed to ensure that high aesthetics are equally matched by consistent and reliable construction quality, with no special machinery or tooling required for ease of fabrication. Suitable for ground floor or high rise or projects, full design support and technical back-up is available and the range has now been uploaded to the NBS National Building Information Modelling (BIM) Library.

SF52 is fully CWCT tested, has excellent weather performance, is durable, recyclable and has a life expectancy of more than 40 years. It is available in an unlimited choice of colours and finishes both externally and internally.

For more information about Senior, visit www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk.


SENIOr’S SF52 SYSTEM MAkES ITS dEbuT dISPlAY AT NEW SAINSburY’S EcO STOrE

Shows the sheer size of the high speed iGU line.


GlASS NEWS INTErVIEW: THE WINdOW cOMPANY The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Glass News’ Editor, Chris Champion, visits The Window Company (Contracts) Ltd. in Chelmsford, Essex.

As I visit companies around the country, it strikes me more and more that we have a fair proportion of family owned businesses within our industry. And when I say family owned, I mean companies with multi-generations of family members working within them. A case in point is The Window Company based in Chelmsford. I talk to David Thornton, the founder and owner of The Window Company (Contracts) Ltd. about life as an installer.

So tell me about life as an installer, david? Not just any installer but the g14 installer of the Year…

I must admit to be being thrilled at winning the G14 Award…

i think everyone saw that with the enthusiasm when the result was read out, and the fact that the whole table went up to receive the award!

It was a very special moment for us. We didn’t expect to win: we aren’t well known and not part of the ‘in crowd’ but we decided to enter the awards and were impressed with the whole process and the detail involved in the judging.

It is certainly a proper competition and not a case of pulling someone’s name out of a hat!

What is your background, and why this industry….and installing, particularly?

Some people have said I’m an entrepreneur but I just like building businesses. I have had a variety of businesses over the years including sunglass imports, so carrying on in glass seemed sensible. A bit flippant, I know, but it just seemed there was a real opportunity in the window and glass industry. We looked at

fabricating but quickly realised that space for machinery would be needed and if I was to fabricate, I wouldn’t want to do it in a small way. Installing appealed as it is right at the front of the action: where you can make a real difference between being an installer or a really good installer.

but you can’t just set up and be a great installer, straight out of the box…

That’s very true. But you can set out to do it properly from day one, without cutting any

corners. You follow the proscribed way of installing and you train your installer teams to ensure they learn best practice.

Training is an absolute necessity and, to do it right, it will cost a lot. Training is really marketing and should be treated as a marketing cost. You will spend money on advertisements and brochures, so why not training? In 2014 our staff were involved in 137 individual training courses and to me, it was money well spent.

is there a danger that you’ll train your teams only to find them go elsewhere?

There’s always that danger but we have had installation teams for a long time – plus we’re constantly adding to the team. We have 15 teams of 3 people at the moment and each team is expected to fit 8 units….whether windows or doors, each day. Mind you we look after them, too! For instance we pay for Bank Holidays and we kit their vans out with Winter tyres. It may not sound much but you try and treat people as you would like to be treated.

i thought the norm was 2 man installation teams?

The 3 man model works for us. The 3rd person is learning the intricacies of installing and covering the carpets, cleaning the windows and so on. They will then move up to their own team. We can do this because the

buSINESS IS FuN! Do it right and you can really enjoy yourself! David Thornton with the G14 installer of year award.

all ready for installation.

The Window Company (Contracts) premises in Beehive Road Chelmsford.

The office.


GlASS NEWS INTErVIEW: THE WINdOW cOMPANY The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

installation team are also our sales people…

i was going to ask about your sales strategy…

We don’t have any sales people at all!

So how are you getting work?

Basically, it’s word of mouth. When we started out we had a call from a lady with a window problem. We went out to see what the problem was: tightened a screw, thanked her for the tea and left! She knew the Managing Direcrtor of a local builder and told him how

helpful we’d been and he asked us to fit his windows. We’re still doing it for this builder some 15 years later. So the majority of our domestic work came through tightening a screw!

What’s the split in business terms?

To be fair, only about 5% is domestic installations. 65% is social housing and 30% commercial and we would count hospitals and schools in that commercial work. We install for a lot of new build with national builders such as Keepmoat and do a lot of work for Essex Police.

and here’s a curve ball…the green deal?

The Window Company has full Green Deal accreditation….

and?

We’ve never installed anything under the Green Deal! Funnily enough I don’t see that as a problem. I count it as another accreditation that confirms that we are a good and competent installer. We support the GGF and follow every guideline, as well as sitting

on a variety of groups and committees such as Marketing and Communications, Heritage Window Group, and the Window and Door Group. It’s important to be involved and to give something back to an industry that has been good to you.

and how good has it been? What is your turnover?

The 2013/14 year saw a turnover of £3.2 million and the growth trajectory has been pretty steep from 2011 onwards.

i presume that, as an installer, you will be prey to every hungry fabricator…

Yes, we are. But we are very loyal to our suppliers. We have been fortunate in finding excellent fabricators for the various products and, as an installer, you are in a privileged position in being able to work with the right people to supply a specific product. For instance, different people for GRP composite doors to PVCu Windows, and different again for bi-fold doors or conservatories.

With the range of products and installations, how is all this tracked?

We can go back to every job and every product we have supplied…when I say ‘we’ I mean Katie can! We have a bespoke computer system that logs pretty much every breath we take, and it’s invaluable.

katie is your daughter isn’t she? i believe the Window company is more than just a family owned company, you actually have a high proportion of relatives working with you…

I hasten to add that we also have a lot of employees who aren’t related to me, too!

For the sake of good order, my wife Sheila is Accounts Manager; my son Martin is Contracts Manager; Katie, my daughter, is Compliance and Project Coordinator; my daughter Rachel Petre is Office Manager and son-in-law Rob Petre is Projects Director.

You obviously love the business. are you building a dynasty here?

Not at all. We’re definitely building a family business that will continue, hopefully, for many years to come with me retiring gracefully to a position of Chairman!

david, it’s been a real pleasure to come see a real installer, and a g14 award Winning installer at that!

I think you can tell that we love the business. Business is fun! Do it right and you can really enjoy yourself!

REaDER ENQuIRY No: 0415/0110Loading up for the day.


SOFTWArE & IT The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Just 72 hours after taking delivery of a brand new Graf Synergy machining centre, Business Micros customer Fineline Windows of Burntwood was up and running cutting windows.

The company had originally been given an estimate of three weeks to install and commission the machine, but with the help of Business Micros installation team, that estimate was totally transformed.

The machine was the first of the new Synergy models to be delivered into the UK by machinery suppliers Promac, so it was even

more impressive that the Graf, Promac and Business Micros team managed to get the machine operational in just three days.

Fineline Windows works exclusively in the new build housing market, fabricating and installing up to 400 windows per week in the Duraflex Diamond Suite. Previously it had been using a manual saw but had decided to invest in an automated machine to increase the speed and accuracy of its output.

Managing Director John Shaw said: “Volumes are increasing for us and we are looking at further expansion as the new build sector continues to grow.

“The machining centre and the associated Business Micros software will give us the platform we need to sustain that expansion and to increase our efficiency at the same time.”

Fineline Windows has been a Business Micros customer since the company was set up in 2003. It had been using the original Winstar software package since then with full Business Micros support but, because it was using only manual cutting, it was in no particular hurry to upgrade.

However, once the company decided to invest in a machining centre, Business Micros advised that the company needed to switch to its standard Evolution manufacturing and processing software.

Evolution was installed at Fineline at the end of 2014 and support technician James Hunt visited the company’s premises to train the team on how to use the software and to set up the bespoke processing defaults which would make it as user friendly as possible.

James went back to Fineline last month with Business Micros’ Sales Manager Chris Bailey

to help complete the machine links required for the Graf Synergy machine.

John Shaw was very impressed with the service. He added: “The machine arrived with us on the Tuesday and Chris and James arrived on the Thursday. By Friday afternoon, the software was talking to the machine, all the machine links were in place and we were able to start cutting PVC-U.

“We were amazed by how smooth the whole process was and how quickly Chris and James got the machine doing exactly what we needed. They worked really well with Tommy from Graf and Gian and Jeff from Promac and delivered us a textbook installation in record time.”

Now that the machine is fully operational at Fineline, the team are enjoying learning about the capabilities of Evolution and the many benefits it offers over Winstar. John said: “The new software gives us so much scope – not just in terms of linking with the machining centre but also in terms of order processing, pricing, quoting and batching. We’re enjoying exploring the features and the team at Business Micros are giving us all the help and support we need.”

Chris Bailey added: “Even by our standards, this was a very quick install. It demonstrates though just how efficient and well organised we are and how much we appreciate how important it is to every customer to get their machine up and running and earning money for them as soon as possible.”

Tel: 01925 296105 www.businessmicros.co.uk


buSINESS MIcrOS HElPS FINElINE GET TO WOrk ON NEW MAcHINE IN JuST THrEE dAYS

Chris Bailey, Sales manager at Business micros, putting the finishing touches to the software set up.

L-R Jeff Rooke from Promac, Chris Bailey from Business micros and John Shaw from Fineline.

“The machine arrived with us on the Tuesday and chris and James arrived on the Thursday. by Friday afternoon, the software was talking to the machine, all the machine links were in place and we were able to start cutting PVc-u.”

“We were amazed by how smooth the whole process was and how quickly chris and James got the machine doing exactly what we needed. They worked really well with Tommy from graf and gian and Jeff from Promac and delivered us a textbook installation in record time.”


0415/0112


SOFTWArE & IT The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper




Anyone who doubted Mila’s claims that its new ProSecure hinge could really be fitted straight from the box in less than a minute can now see the proof for themselves via a video which the company has posted on its own You Tube channel (https://www.youtube.com/watch).

The newly recorded video shows Mila’s Technical Manager Strafford Cooke fitting the new hinge onto a PVC door in just 58 seconds – a time which Mila says is faster than any other hinge. The video was recorded under test conditions at Mila’s Test Centre in Daventry and now sits alongside the other ProSecure video on the channel which focuses on the product’s features and benefits.

Strafford Cooke said: “There are no tricks or shortcuts on the video – it’s just me using the jig to drill the two holes needed on the frame and then fitting the hinge straight from the box. We wanted to show fabricators just how easy the whole process is and to give them some idea of just how much time they can save in their fabrication set up if they switch to ProSecure.”

In fact, Mila is so confident that the ProSecure hinge will give fabricators ‘free time’ that it is running a social media campaign (#freetime) asking them to show off how they are spending the extra minutes and hours which they gain.

Tel: 01327 312400 - www.mila.co.uk

Decorative Door Products (DDP) by RegaLead is delighted to announce the launch of a new custom sidelite service to provide the same great glazing styles for side panels as for composite doors, regardless of the size.

This new service can be achieved following a partnership with industry software specialist Business Micros for the provision of bespoke software which ensures that sidelites can be perfectly matched, sized and lined to the glass in the door itself.

Paul Edwards, Market Manager for the DDP division explains: “We already offer composite side panel glass to match our most popular designs, and our complementary glass option for custom sized sidelites incorporates the same feature glass as that used in the decorative design. Thanks to the partnership with Business Micros, via our new extended custom service, we can now offer a full custom sidelite solution to perfectly match the design within the door. This range includes our Signature zinc and brass art collections, for which product can be manufactured at one of our Asian factories and still delivered within two weeks to the fabricator.”

Graeme Bailey, Managing Director at Business Micros adds: “We were very pleased to work with DDP on the software package for custom sidelites. To ensure a side panel is truly matched to the glass in a door it is essential to make sure that the design is correctly lined from the start of the process to avoid discrepancies coming to light when the panel is first seen on site. With the bespoke software we have provided, DDP customers can choose doors from most of the UK’s top slab suppliers, be it Door-Stop, Distinction Doors or DoorCo, and if they use DoorGlass, can be sure that everything is matched and lined through with no issue.”

Paul concludes: “Initially the system will be launched for dual and half glazed styles only, but over time we will expand the system with more door options and the addition of more slab suppliers.”

www.decorativedoorproducts.co.uk

Specialist prospect data supplier Windowbase has unveiled a new website at www.windowbase.info.

“It has a clean, fresh look and is easy to navigate,” comments Database Manager Neil Parsonson, “and it also includes essential tips for marketers in the window industry on using direct mail and email for maximum impact.”

Neil adds: “2014 brought Windowbase a move to new premises, new staff and growth in both subscriptions to our prospect data and one-off purchases for individual campaigns. This year we’re celebrating our 25th anniversary with a series of new initiatives, starting with our website!”

Windowbase is the only prospect data supplier 100% dedicated to the window industry. It has pioneered the accurate researching and presentation of prospect data for window fabricators and installers in the UK and has

been supplying the industry for 25 years.

For more information contact Neil Parsonson on 01453 845717 or visit www.windowbase.info.

SEE FOr YOurSElF - MIlA’S PrOSEcurE HINGE FITTEd IN 58 SEcONdS

ddP lAuNcHES cuSTOm SideliTe SerVice

WINDOWBASE CELEBRATES 25TH ANNIVErSArY WITH NEW WEbSITE


Saint-Gobain Glass UK has launched SGG LiVe, a powerful new online tool to empower users of its products with a wealth of technical, marketing and specification support.

SGG LIVE is a business support hub designed for Saint-Gobain Glass’ direct purchasing customers, their customers and architects and specifiers. Membership of SGG LIVE is available via an online application form and special invitations have already been sent to many with access logins to preview.

Craig Dodsworth, Head of Marketing for Saint-Gobain Glass said: “It is vital in an industry as fast-paced as ours that our customers all have instant access to all the information they need to make decisions quickly and run their business more effectively. SGG LIVE brings together a range of tools that are instantly available, whenever the customer wants them, wherever the customer is, all entirely free of charge.”

Among the resources available to SGG LIVE members are technical assets like BIM objects, acoustic calculations, mechanical calculation forms, performance tables and glass processing support as well as a range of innovative apps. It will also enable customers to order samples and literature seamlessly and access extensive digital marketing support among many other features.

SGG LIVE members will also be able to request training sessions and CPD

seminars, all of which can be 100% tailored around their individual needs.

Craig Dodsworth concluded: “This very versatile and innovative resource is another way of ensuring that our valued customers and partners remain at the forefront of the industry through providing their customers and other supply chain members with unrivalled support”.

For more information about Saint-Gobain, visit www.saint-gobain.com or www.saint-gobain-glass.com and the twitter account @saintgobain.

sainT-goBain goEs ‘livE’ WitH MAJor onLine suPPort initiAtiVe


SOFTWArE & ITThe UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

With Saint-Gobain celebrating its 350th anniversary this year the company’s glass division, Saint-Gobain Glass UK Ltd continues the innovation that has made them a world leader in the manufacturing of flat glass by launching six new apps designed to improve the purchase and specification experience of its customers.

Saint-Gobain Glass has always been dedicated to providing the best in customer service & support and these new apps are testament to this. Available on both Android and iPhone, users can pick up Glass Compass, Glass Vision, Glass Design, Glass dBstation, Glass Façade and GlassPro in the app store now.

Glass Compass determines the best performing glass for your windows based on the geographical location of your home and its orientation. With a “Savings & Economies” module

that helps you choose the best glazing to suit your requirements there is also an Energy Calculator that illustrates indicative savings you could achieve.

Glass Vision virtual app aids you in choosing the right interior glass for your home and office through augmented reality.

Covering products from Saint-Gobain Glass’ premium range - SGG DECORGLASS (patterned glass), SGG MASTERGLASS (contemporary glass), SGG PLANILAQUE EVOLUTION (lacquered glass), SGG SATINOVO (acid-etched glass) – the application features a 360 degree holistic view of the glass with a full screen simulation mode.

As well as offering you the aesthetics of the glass in terms of pattern and colour, it also offers a look at the privacy it provides by looking at the transparency and translucency of the glass.

Glass Design is a visual showcase of interior projects where Saint-Gobain Glass products have been used. A portfolio of creative interior design, users can browse either by building types, applications or by products. “Bringing you a step closer to your dreams,” you can bookmark your favourite interior projects for future reference and if you’re feeling inspired you can contact SGGUK using the form in the app.

For more information about Saint-Gobain, visit www.saint-gobain.com or www.saint-gobain-glass.com and the twitter account @saintgobain.

Solidor has completely redeveloped its Door Design app, creating a fresh new environment designed to inspire and engage consumers and enable trade partners to demonstrate the feature rich, unique Solidor range of composite doors.

The update is in effect a complete re-design, with much improved functionality and many additional features.

There’s a totally new user friendly interface which allows you to find out more about Solidor products, find a local Recommended Installer, create your own door design and you can even build and keep your own, Solidor gallery.

The door design engine features the full Solidor range, the many hardware options, incorporates the unique glass designs and delivers the ability to view 18 colours inside and out, using the new inside view feature. The combinations are infinite, the possibilities are endless. It also features the broadest range of door frame options available, including the exciting Solidor colour pallet, a vast range of side panels and the facility to design French and stable doors. Add all this to simple use door positioning and you can see the enhancement a Solidor can make to any property.

The Door Design App is available for iPad and iPhone with the Android version for tablets and phones just a few weeks away. It also represents the first of a number of exciting new marketing tools, which will be launched throughout the year.

Joe Martoccia, managing director of Solidor commented: “This re-development is a direct result of listening to our customers and delivering exactly what they want. It’s another sales enabling tool to help drive sales for our network partners by selling more effectively against their and our competition.”

To find out more about Solidor including their Recommended Installer campaign then log on to their new website at www.solidor.co.uk, call their sales office on 01782 847300, or add to their Twitter following @solidorltd. You can download the free Solidor App at Apple’s App Store by searching for Solidor.

siX neW GLAss APPs NEW dOOr dESIGN APP

Building Information Modelling (BIM) promises to create the most radical change in decades to the way construction projects are designed and executed; prompting specifiers to work with those manufacturers and suppliers who have embraced the new technology early and in a coherent manner.

Alistair Inglis, National Sales Manager, of construction sealant and waterproofing systems specialist, tremco illbruck, considers the implications.

The advent of AutoCAD, arriving in the closing decades of the 20th century, represented a revolution in the design process and the way the project team interacted; leading to improvements in speed and accuracy, while in some ways also simplifying specification.

Very much 21st century in its concept and the almost limitless interconnectivity offered, BIM is viewed by most people in

the industry as representing an even more radical change to the way consultants, contractors and even their clients will work in the future. Driven by Government targets and offering multifarious benefits to almost everyone involved with the construction industry, it does, however, demand a major investment of time and resources to facilitate its smooth introduction throughout the supply chain.

As a world renowned manufacturer of waterproofing and sealant systems for facades and other parts of the building envelope - including roofs and sub-structures - tremco illbruck was one of the first in the UK to recognise the importance of BIM, and to comprehend the wider implications of the Government’s timetable.

The company quickly embarked on a technical appraisal of the new standard, as well as the potential providers and partners it might work with.

Such is the breadth of tremco illbruck’s portfolio that it was decided to prioritise or fast-track certain product groups, to help it respond to customer demands for the type of properties and projects which were identified as being in the vanguard of BIM.

These have inevitably been the high value public sector contracts, including new prisons and MOD facilities, while the deadline for all Government contracts

to be BIM compliant at Level 1 is 2016. Meanwhile, the new approach is also having a significant impact on some landmark commercial projects, with the Walkie-Talkie office building in London being a stand-out example.

eDUCatinG the inDUStRy anD ShaRinG inFoRmation There is synergy between the introduction and adoption of BIM and the ambitions of the Fabric First Academy: an educational alliance of principle players in the construction industry, of which tremco illbruck was a founding member. The academy and its members are fully supportive of the latest revisions to the Building Regulations, which now incorporate Fabric Energy Efficiency Standards (FEES); marking a switch from relying on renewable energy and ensuring the building envelope performs correctly in respect of conserving energy.

Other members of the Fabric First Academy include steel as well as timber frame specialists and a leading window manufacturer, meaning tremco illbruck is ideally qualified to offer its expertise on sealing the all-important junction or interface details across the building envelope.

Indeed, several of the companies involved have experience of utilising the i3 system on

demanding projects, where it was essential to have an integrated solution able to offer excellent airtightness as well as weather protection. Uptake of the system is expected to rise as more building projects target near-to-zero carbon performance standards.

For further information on tremco illbruck, please visit www.tremco-illbruck.co.uk.

tHE SHApE of tHingS to CoME

alistair inglis, tremco illbruck’s national Sales manager.





cOlOur EXPErT The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Freefoam Building Products, are delighted to announce the addition of two new sizes to its full replacement fascia range in anthracite Grey.

The company has seen sales of colour roofline products grow year on year with an unbelievable 55% increase in 2014.

With these changes in the market and the continuing popularity of colour PVC window frames and doors Freefoam has added an 18mm fascia board in 150mm and 250mm to its existing range.

These additions further underline Freefoam’s position as the colour specialist. Freefoam manufacture an industry leading range of co-extruded fascia, soffit and trims in ten colours using its patented ColormaxTM technology. Featuring built in colourfastness, colour variety, and reliable colour matching, all with a ten year guarantee, the range offers choice to architects, specifiers, property developers and homeowners. Anthracite Grey is consistently one of the most popular colours with sales increasing three fold in the last 12 months.

Colin St John, UK General Manager, summarised “We have established ourselves as leaders in the manufacture of colour PVC roofline so monitor the marketplace to ensure our product range is meeting new trends and demands. Research and customer feedback has led us to add these two new sizes of fascia which will ensure that our range gives housebuilders and domestic installers the products they need to meet this growing demand.”

All products are listed in online. Go to www.freefoam.com.

FrEEFOAM Add NEW ANTHrAcITE GrEY PrOducTS

Distinction Doors’ state-of-the-art paint plant only opened a few weeks, but the 1000th door has already been painted and despatched.

Distinction’s Marketing Director, Chantel Roach, said, “We have a policy of continuous investment in our business and the paint plant was part of that. Bringing our painting in-house has given us a wealth of benefits for our customers and we are already seeing the advantages of improved quality, lead times and cost in this area. Crucially, it also means that the colour warranty on our doors comes from us, as the door and cassette provider, rather than a third party.”

Chantel also highlights another benefit of the in-house paint plant: a much clearer insight into colour trends: “Because we’re much closer to the painting process we’re much more aware of trends, which is giving us great market insight that we can use to support our customers. The most popular colour of our first 1,000 doors was Gunmetal, reflecting the trend for understated sophistication.”

The £185,000 paint plant investment at Distinction’s Tankersley headquarters in South Yorkshire has been equipped with state-of-the-art equipment to give quality and efficiency benefits. This includes a gas catalytic drying system with infrared

panels and control system that will speed up the drying process without damaging the product. It is also equipped with a breathing air unit that operates at minus 40 degree dew point, which will ensure that all contaminants are removed from both the spray gun and breathing equipment before use, improving finished quality as well as health and safety procedures.

The plant is also helping Distinction Doors to increase its commitment to the environment. It includes a heat recovery system that uses the waste heat generated by the site’s compressors to create a thermostatically controlled environment in the paint booth, preparation area and offices above.

Distinction Doors is the UK’s largest composite door supplier and the company is committed to strengthening that position and continuing to grow its market share. The decision to bring the paint plant in-house proves that the commitment is underpinned by an approach based on providing what the customer wants. By providing a value-added service and valuable market insight, the company is demonstrating that it is a reliable, quality-focused partner that is an asset to any business.

Tel: 01226 352265 - www.distinctiondoors.co.uk

TruFrame have recently expanded their range of foiled colours and woodgrains in response to customer demand, including a number of additional stock Liniar options exclusive to them.

The market for colours and woodgrains has increased considerably over the last 5 years, thanks to the increase in demand from homeowners for more choice and this has helped ignite sales at TruFrame. There’s a short 5-day lead time for rosewood/rosewood on white, golden oak/golden oak on white and black foil on white, along with a larger range of options available on just a 7-day turnaround. All of these options are offered with the usual TruFrame efficiency and backed with a comprehensive 10 year warranty.

The 7-day foiled options include white and cream foil, black foil (both sides), Chartwell green on white, anthracite grey (RAL 7016) on white, mahogany/mahogany on white and ivory cream, with Irish oak both sides

currently on a 10 day lead time. In addition, there is also a wide range of premium colours available on an extended lead time for specialist projects, including dark red, blue and green, antique teak, Winchester and swamp oak, along with many more.

David Firmager, managing director of TruFrame commented: ‘It’s important for us to look at the longer-term trends in the market and to support our customers with the products necessary so they can thrive in a busy market. Our expanded range of foiled colours and woodgrains are giving them a real sales edge, along with our exclusive hand finishing process.’

For further information log on to www.truframe.co.uk where there’s a complete set of product downloads or call the sales office on 01664 410140 for a free copy of their 68 page guide to windows, doors and conservatories. You can also add to their growing following on Twitter @TruFrame.

1000tH Door LEAvES DiStinCtion’S StAtE-of-tHE-Art pAint pLAnt MoRE ColouRS

& leSS lead Time WiTh TruFrame




3D Laminates have built an impressive reputation for their next generation CoolSkin door skins and they are now the sole UK agent for hornschuch, who offer an enhanced range of window grade foils with Cool Colors technology, which have been proven throughout europe.

The relationship between 3D Laminates and Hornschuch goes back over 10 years through the CoolSkin product, but now the company looks for an increase in demand for the Hornschuch foils, who are a major player in many European markets, including Germany. There has already been an increase in enquiries particularly for their Altweiss TP60, Creme TP60 and Beige TP60 foils for window profiles, each available with several embossing designs.

The on-going testing and development programme from Hornschuch has seen their new foils offered with an extended warranty of 10 years. Whilst remaining a PVC based foil with an acrylic protective top coat, the

new Hornschuch foils with Cool Colors technology can be laminated with the usual industry standard primers, adhesives and machinery, using the same parameters for wrapping.

The new generation Hornschuch foils benefit from a 20% thicker acrylic top coat at 60 microns, up from the conventional standard of 50 microns, which improves colour fastness and scratch resistance considerably. Long term weathering and colour fastness trials have resulted in a comprehensive 10 year guarantee across all Hornschuch foils, which are also designed to match the industry standard foils currently available. The foils are suitable for window profiles, soffit and fascia boards and other exterior PVCu building materials.

Mark Lofthouse, managing director of 3D Laminates commented: ‘Now there is a real alternative range of foils in a market dominated by one player. The Cool Colors foils from Hornschuch have been exhaustively tested, are backed by a 10-year warranty and can be used using the standard industry materials and processes.’

For further information or a free sample swatch call 3D Laminates on 0113 273 6281 or e-mail [email protected].

You can also find details on their website at www.3d-laminates.com.

Leading manufacturer nW Rooftech and its sister brand nW alutech are capitalising on the growing trend of coloured products that have entered the mainstream in the past few years. The company, who invested two years ago in their on-site paint spraying facility, is perfectly placed to offer a comprehensive range of colour options for both its PVC-u and aluminium product ranges.

Director of NW Rooftech and Alutech, Andy Ingman says, “Our in-house facility means we can ensure that our sprayed products have the same high quality as our standard products, as well as keep turnaround times to a minimum. We know it’s something our customers’ value and over the past twelve months we have witnessed a growth in coloured products.”

From its premises in Southport, Lancashire, NW Rooftech’s on-site paint plant offers a powder coating finish in any RAL colour for its aluminium products and a range of PVC-u paint coatings for its PVC-u products. Not only is a spray finish fantastically versatile it also means that products can be coloured on every surface for a seamless and sophisticated look.

NW Rooftech is a K2 key dealer and one of the UK’s largest K2 conservatory roof manufacturers. It manufactures the K2 PVC-u roof, the K2 Aluminium Roof and

the Capella Conservatory Roof. All roofs can be fitted with glass options including Clearview, Pilkington, K2’s Celsius, opening up a wealth of options for fabricators and installers. The company also offers a range of solid roofs for those looking add a new dimension to their portfolio.

NW Alutech specialises in aluminium products, in particular bi-fold doors and sliding patios. It manufactures the Smarts range which suits a wide variety of markets and is a popular choice amongst fabricators and installers.

Andy concludes, “Coloured products are an aesthetically appealing option for homeowners , specifiers and architects. We are proud to be supplying high quality, durable finishes for both PVC-u and aluminium and are looking forward to helping our customers make the most of what colour has to offer.”

Tel: 01704 222 707 - www.nwrooftech.co.uk

beTTer germaN FOilS, lONger WarraNTieS

NW rOOFTEcH lIVES lIFE IN cOlOur

Distinction Doors, the UK’s biggest composite door supplier, has just launched its Explore Colour brochure.

The brochure is a first for the industry because it shows the complete range of colours all on Distinction’s woodgrain skin so homeowners choose their door colour with confidence. Chantel Roach, Distinction’s Marketing Director said, “Our Explore Colour brochure has been designed to make it much easier for customers to choose a colour, especially when they’re looking at a colour that’s different from the perennially popular white, red, blue, green and black.”

The brochure features all of Distinction Doors’ 43 colours, including five standard colours, two woodstains and 36 bespoke colours. Distinction Doors is the first company to take the decision to feature its colour range on woodgrain skins, but for Chantel it was an opportunity to differentiate. “Selecting the colour is one of the most important decisions to make when choosing a door, so it’s important to get it right. But a difficult decision is made even harder when you’re looking at a flat colour swatch and trying to picture it in a woodgrain finish. By showing our colour range on the actual woodgrain skin finish, we’re helping homeowners to make the decision that’s right for them.”

Explore Colour completes a suite of new literature that Distinction has produced in the past few months. The new retail brochure is Distinction’s flagship customer-focused brochure. It’s a high quality, 46-page brochure with a contemporary look and feel that showcases all the company’s products and what they have to offer. Also available is a RAL guide that will be indispensable for companies looking to offer something a little bit different because it introduces homeowners to the concept of a personalised shade for their Distinction door and encourages them to think a bit differently when it comes to colour.

Tel: 01226 352265

uNIQuE Tool FoR MaRKETING SuPPoRT




cOlOur EXPErTThe UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper


Phoenix Doors, part of the MASCO UK Window Group Ltd, has opened a new paint spraying facility at its Cambridgeshire-based composite door manufacturing site.

As well as supplying popular paler shades, such as Chartwell Green, Duck Egg Blue and Dove Grey, the in-house service can cater for a full range of bespoke RAL colours, says Phoenix Doors’ Sales Director, Haydon Statham.

Customers will also benefit from reduced lead times and improvements in quality and competitive cost for both standard and non-standard colours.

Haydon comments: “Our in-house painting service means there will be a beneficial impact on costs and lead times as we are not relying on a third party; thereby controlling our own destiny in this area. We have recruited a key skilled member of staff with 20 years’ paint spraying experience and the door finishes are outstanding – we are all very impressed.

“In following the general market trend for colour, we believe this is a sound investment backed by the MASCO Group and ensures we can continue to offer market-leading, high-performance door products designed for the 21st century,” he adds.

Established in 1993, Phoenix Doors is the complete door solution company for the retail replacement market offering one of the widest ranges of GRP composite doors and PVC door panels on the market.

Contact Phoenix Doors on 01487 740469, email [email protected] or visit the website at www.phoenixdoorpanels.co.uk.

PHOENIX dOOrS cAN SuPPlY ANY cOMPOSITE dOOr cOlOur YOu WANT



AluMINIuM The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

With £2.4 billion being raised in new affordable housing investment thanks to the Government’s Right to Buy scheme, originally launched in 2012, never has the focus on efficient building been more important to homeowners.

In April 2015 more people will have the chance to buy their home thanks to further Right to Buy discounts, with maximum discounts rising in line with inflation, to £77,900 outside of London and £103,900 in the capital. All of which is excellent news for installers and builders.

Ian Davis, Sales Director at frameXpress believes that as the GGF steps up and urges the Government to boost our industry further, by encouraging growth for local and national economies, it is obvious that housing will once again become a main focus in the political world.

Ian comments, “Energy efficient buildings are an incredibly important part of tackling the world’s energy crisis, being a fundamental part of keeping draughts out and therefore energy bills down, which are major selling points to consumers.

Furthermore, with the Mortgage Advice Bureau currently suggesting that homeowners are giving themselves up to £2000 extra cash in the bank by remortgaging to a cheaper deal, it is very possible that these types of measures are being made by them to reinvest in the home.

The UK housing market saw a spring and summer boom in 2014, particularly in London and the South of England, before activity dropped away a little at the end of the year. It has been suggested that investment in property will continue to increase and that

UK house prices will grow on average by 4%, which will keep the renovation market busy.”

With three window systems available in 16 colours as well as colour bond finishes available on both pvc-u and aluminium products, framexpress has placed energy efficiency, security and aesthetics as key areas for recent development within the range, to ensure customers can buy from under one roof.

Furthermore, frameXpress has an established reputation for quality and high standards which is reflected in the extensive accreditations achieved by the company. This gives frameXpress customers additional selling advantages, particularly within the domestic market where more and more often accreditations such as Secured by Design and PAS 23, 24 are stipulated on projects.

For homeowners, this gives added reassurances in terms of security, with the accreditations and performance guarantees now being recognised and trusted by them.

Whilst frameXpress maintains a stronghold within the fabrication sector, the commercial division also has increased considerably over recent years, with the introduction of a broader product range including aluminium, bifold doors, composite and commercial entrance doors, all having been well received by both existing and new customers.

Already projects for the company this year have been steady and varied, with the team working on installations that have required a complete technical understanding in

respect of both specifiers’ and customers’ requirements.

frameXpress took a very progressive approach to the industry during the dark days of recession by stepping up diversification and streamlining production methods – a step which has paid off.

Customer satisfaction remains a top priority at the company and consequently it has established excellent business relations with both customers and suppliers.

Understanding renovation and being sensitive not just to aesthetic options but being able to advise on the most appropriate products for an older or listed property, are also key elements that frameXpress customers can rely upon and discuss with the team.

Ian comments, “Whilst retrofit and regeneration are incredibly big business, it is essential for us to offer a range that will not only offer the best in terms of thermal efficiency but that will not create problems further down the line. Understanding how older properties breathe and what products will be the most appropriate for a renovation project are important aspects that have to be considered. The last thing our customers need is call back a few months later.”

Conservatories, garden rooms and orangeries continue to be a popular product of choice for the leading fabricator, with consumers still looking to add space and make optimum use of light. The company has three styles of thermally efficient roofing available as well as a Guardian Roof option, to ensure that year round living is possible for those looking to create a lighter and larger living environment.

Looking at the potential for investment in the housing market, Ian Davis believes that diversity and flexibility are the keys to success for the company.

He concludes, “frameXpress has remained strong and reliable even through dark years of recession, which gives value to our guarantees. Another part of our strength lies in the quick turnarounds along with the ability to make site deliveries on different days. For customers working to tight schedules as the market gathers pace, we give them total reassurance.

Whilst it is said that the general election could dampen the housing market activity until the result is known, we believe it will remain buoyant and steadily grow. By offering quality, choice and stability, through investment, not only in technology but also in staff, ensures that our customers can only gain from our products and services.

For more information on the range of products available please call 01952 581100.

RooM FoR GRowTh FROM FRAMEXPRESS


“frameXpress has remained strong and reliable even through dark years of recession, which gives value to our guarantees. another part of our strength lies in the quick turnarounds along with the ability to make site deliveries on different days.”

“Whilst frameXpress maintains a stronghold within the fabrication sector, the commercial division also has increased considerably over recent years, with the introduction of a broader product range including aluminium, bifold doors, composite and commercial entrance doors, all having been well received by both existing and new customers.”

Glazerite installers have beaten all-comers yet again, scooping half of all the Regional trophies in the annual Network VEKA awards – plus the coveted all-UK customer satisfaction trophy once again.

Customers of the trade fabricator took no fewer than five of the ten Regional awards, plus the national trophy and Fitter of the Year, as well as numbering 12 of the total 30 finalists and gaining three new entries into the organisation’s elite 100% Club.

Overall champion this year was last year’s Best Newcomer, Frames Conservatories Direct of Bury St Edmunds, also winning top Regional for the East of England.

Shane Howells held the West of England title and KJM Windows retained the South – both for the sixth time – while Goliath Homeworld had a fifth win for the Midlands and Cheadle Glass won a second time for the North West, and Fitter of the Year went to Ronnie Pym and Mark Barnfield of Frames Conservatories Direct.

Glazerite Director Jason Thompson said after the awards: “Once again, our customers have

shown that they are among the best of the best in Network VEKA and we are proud of them all. We have always encouraged our customer members to commit themselves 100% to everything the organisation stands for and to make full use of everything it offers. With such a superb showing on the trophy table, they have proved this to be the only way to go.”

All the trophies were presented by Network VEKA brand ambassador Steve Davis at the organisation’s AGM and Gala Dinner at the Holiday Inn, Stratford-upon-Avon on Saturday (Mar 21).

Last year, Glazerite customers took six Regional trophies as well as UK Champion, Best Newcomer and 13 of the 30 finalist slots. In 2013 they took four Regionals and 10 of the finalists.

Glazerite Windows Ltd is VEKA’s largest UK trade fabricator and a prominent Network VEKA member, with a reputation for unsurpassed customer service as well as a comprehensive product range. The company offers a fully nationwide service based on manufacturing units in Northants and Greater Manchester and a distribution hub in Bristol.



AluMINIuM TrAdE NEWS

While everyone is well aware of the steady march of aluminium products in the commercial arena, domestic products too, are gaining momentum. And that’s something of an understatement because the bi-fold and sliding door market is largely dominated by aluminium. However, some companies are moving faster than others and Dutemänn is a case in point.

Martin James, Dutemänn’s Managing Director, has a tiger by the tail with his range of aluminium doors and when questioned about the development of other aluminium products, says: “Dutemänn is a door company. We are often asked about aluminium windows but Dutemänn is a door company, pure and simple. Doors are our expertise and is where our efforts are directed. We don’t want to dilute our efforts in anyway and would rather be known as an innovative and good supplier of all aluminium doors.”

The fast development of the door range at Dutemänn is highlighted by their new Glide-S, a reinvention of the inline sliding door. Quite simply, it is beautiful to behold, with its 47mm mullion and a fully weathered 28mm up stand threshold. It’s the Glide-S system that’s the key, with no bonding requirement, narrow sight lines and enormous structural integrity. Add to that a unique gearing system and you can understand its popularity, even before it is officially launched! Already customers have taken delivery and repeat orders are being made….that’s the tiger by the tail bit!

This gearing system lifts the sash to deliver effortless opening and closing - and we’re talking about up to 400 kilos per panel! The inherent structural integrity allows for spanning apertures of 6.7 metres and 3.2 metres in height with just two panels. This provides for an impressive amount of glass with negligible quantities of mullions.

Manufactured to Dutemänn’s exacting standards and boasting a 10 year guarantee, the Glide-S appeals to a range of contemporary new build projects as wells as high rise, roof top and traditional applications.

The Dutemänn story continues and with innovations like the Glide-S, the company is fast becoming the fabricator of choice for contemporary aluminium doors.

GlIDE-S FrOM duTEMäNN Acquires A foLLoWinG Before its officiAL LAuncH



GLAZERITE GANG SHINE AGAIN WITH NEAR-RECORD NETwoRK VEKa TRoPhY wINS

Steve Davis congratulates overall winners Frames Conservatories Direct, including the winning fitters.

“Once again, our customers have shown that they are among the best of the best in Network Veka.”


TrAdE NEWS The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

The new waste framework legislation came in on 1st January 2015, which mean that certain waste types need to separate at source before offering upto the recycler.

F and L Glazing are a manufacturer and installer of double glazed units in the South East based around Chatham. All process and installation waste was being thrown into an open top 35yd skip emptied once a week. There had been significant increases in prices over the last year and something had to change. The profile off cuts were being recycled as were some timber.

Layne the production director asked Landfill Alternatives to pop in to target any cost reductions that could be achieved. Doug Barrons went to site and recommended a baler with stuff frames to recycle cardboard and plastic film. The baler is sited inside by the stores area where the bulk of cardboard is generated. This is put directly into the baler as whole boxes with no flat packing and the baler generates 40kg bales which are collected free of charge. The stuff frames are positioned at those points where plastic film is taken off the

profiles. This is then also processed through the baler to make a bale of plastic film.

There is a significant quantity of both sealed units and off cuts of glass which Landfill Alternatives recommended to be recycled. A 12 yard skip has been delivered which will generate a 4 ton load. This is still lifted at a cost but significantly less than landfill.

“We should have done this ages ago” said Layne. “Not only does it save money, but it also keeps the yard tidier saving labour time picking it up from off of the floor.”

If saving your company money and recycling more of your waste would be a benefit to you?

Tel: 01295 816733 Email: [email protected]

yorkshire based PVCU and aluminium fabricator, Conservatory outlet, is amongst 1000 companies “to inspire Britain in 2015”, according to the latest edition of the London Stock exchange Group report.

The document recognizes UK’s fastest-growing and most dynamic businesses that are spearheading the country’s economic growth through job creation and innovation in their fields.

Conservatory Outlet managing director, Greg Kane, says: “We’re delighted to have been included in the best performing list of companies that are behind the UK’s economic revival. The nomination is yet another confirmation of our successful business model and comes after our record-breaking results obtained in 2014, when we reported our best calendar year yet.

“We owe these fantastic results, as well as all recognitions received, to our retail partners who are the network’s driving force, and I’d like to use this opportunity to thank them and all of our other stakeholders once again for their efforts.”

Manufacturing, construction and financial services are the best represented sectors in this year’s LSEG list, which is showing many positive signs of a healthy, balanced economy.

“The document highlights a strong growth across a variety of sectors, but to see several names from our industry joining Conservatory Outlet on the list is extremely

encouraging, and highlights the strength-in-depth that we have,” concluded Greg.

Now at its second edition, the London Stock Exchange Group report nominates companies that have “significantly outperformed their peers”, and showed consistent revenue growth over a number of years.

Xavier Rolet, Chief Executive of London Stock Exchange Group, said: “This report is a significant part of London Stock Exchange’s broader campaign to support UK high growth companies in their journeys from Start-up to Stardom and to create an entrepreneurship revolution. I’m delighted that a strong alliance between UK Government, financial market participants, investors, entrepreneurs and companies has been created to support these inspiring businesses.”

For more information visit http://www.conservatoryoutletdealers.co.uk/ or call 01924 239813.

Window and door fabricator Quickslide are proud to announce their new partnership deal with huddersfield town aFC.

The company, who were recently selected as a member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen, is happy to be working with the football club in a partnership that benefits both parties in the quest to help local businesses.

With Huddersfield Town known as ‘The Yorkshire Club’ and Quickslide proud to be ‘Made in Yorkshire’ it only made sense and was something the club’s Commercial Director Sean Jarvis had been trying to make happen for quite some time.

“It’s great to have Quickslide on board as partners,” said Sean. “They are a large and well respected local employer who we’ve been trying to forge a relationship for years. We have already taken the opportunity to involve Quickslide’s Chairman Adrian Barraclough in a local initiative where we ask local business leaders to speak to invited guests about their business and have a deep Q & A session, and it was very well received.”

The partnership between the two isn’t all business. Following Quickslide’s G14 win for the Best Training & Development Initiative, Huddersfield Town sent their ambassador, former player Andy Booth, over to Quickslide with a congratulatory bottle of champagne.

“They’re a great club to be associated with,” added Adrian. “They’re the hub of the local community and have many networking events and initiatives to support local businesses. We’ve already held some meeting at the state of the art stadium and sound some connections invaluable.

“In addition to the business side of things we are delighted to be able to watch matches, it gives us an opportunity away from the workplace to socialise with staff, suppliers and clients.”

TuffX Brand Ambassador and Heavyweight boxer, David Price continued his comeback with a win over Irineu Beato Costa Jr on 22 February 2015 when he scored a 6th round stoppage over the Brazilian in Berlin .

David Price, who became Brand Ambassador for the TuffX Processed Glass range in 2013, had been out of the ring for nearly nine month’s with

an injury but looked keen to make his mark. The 31 year old boxer, was as impressive as ever with his long raking jab, keeping his opponent at a distance whilst his considerable height advantage dictated the pace throughout.

After stepping things up in the 4th round, David Price began to back up the South American who had no answers to Price’s long accurate shots. Costa Jr eventually submitted to Price’s front foot pressure and ended up hitting the canvas three times prompting his corner to throw in the towel after a final right hand.

The victory sees Price extend his professional record to 19 wins from 21 outings.

Tel: 0845 3 400 200

cONSErVATOrY OuTlET TO INSPIrE brITAIN IN 2015

QuickSlide & hudderSField TOWN aFc FOrM THE PErFEcT YOrkSHIrE PArTNErSHIP

TuFFX brANd AMbASSAdOr WinS figHt in bErLin




Conservatory outlet managing directors, michael Giscombe (left) and Greg Kane (right).

huddersfield town’s Commercial Director shakes hands with Quickslide Chairman adrian Barraclough.


lEGISlaTIoN “ENCouRaGES” RECYClING


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“The PVC window, door and conservatory market is growing overall and as a result there is a renewed confidence spanning the industry, but we can’t quite relax yet,” says David Amos, Principal of D&G Consulting.

“In the main the news is good for the next few years. Thanks to the increased confidence in the market, we have already seen a renewed interest from investors in M&A activity. But there do remain risks as the Government warns that austerity is still with us. This report details of all of this as well as some cold hard statistics and analysis about market value and volume.”

“The report also highlights particular growth areas, because although by the end of 2017 total industry volumes should have recovered to pre-recession levels, the growth will come from a completely different product mix. Foiled coloured windows for example, as well as composite and bi-fold doors.”

“We’ve split the report into sectors too, so whether you

are interested in finding our more about the Social Housing, Private Housing, Private New Build Housing or Non-Housing sectors, we can help give you a bird’s eye view of the market and how it is likely to develop over the coming years.”

This all-inclusive report is produced by two well respected industry experts is filled with detail, figures, analysis and forecasts to 2017 and used correctly is a powerful tool for any business in our sector.

Call D&G Consulting now on 01424 773134 or visit www.dandgconsulting.co.uk to order your copy.

D&G oFFERS CRYSTal ball VIEw oF ThE MaRKET To 2017


D&G Consulting Ltd are pleased to announce the release of their latest market report, ‘The PVC Window, Door and Conservatory Report’ which offers readers a crystal ball view of each of these markets for the rest of this year and beyond.

“Thanks to the increased confidence in the market, we have already seen a renewed interest from investors in m&a activity.”

Prefix Systems have become the first company ever in the history of the prestigious Red Rose Awards for Lancashire businesses, to win in three separate categories.

The conservatory and extended living space specialists won Construction Business of the Year, Manufacturing Business of the Year and Medium Business of the Year categories, an unprecedented achievement. Prefix Systems has in recent years evolved from a conservatory roofing specialist into a broader role, helping to redefine the market for extended living. This includes their proven tiled GardenRoom solution,

which has truly captured the imagination of their customer base.

The Red Rose Awards was held on the 12th March 2015 at the impressive Empress Ballroom at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens, with over 1,000 guests in attendance. This was an event where

Lancashire business, commerce and industry was celebrated in style and the Red Rose Awards is an achiever in itself, having been named the best B2B awards event of 2014 at the PPA Connect Awards.

According to the judges, ‘Prefix’s products,

which they design and manufacture themselves, are highly innovative and are unrivalled within the construction sector making it a true market leader.’ They also went on to say that ‘this business is on a terrific trajectory’ and that ‘they listen to their

customers, they innovate, they invest and re-invest in infrastructure, they have an eye on the environment and they just “get it”.’

Chris Baron co-director of Prefix Systems commented: ‘We’re quite staggered to receive three awards, the first time ever in the history of

the Red Rose Awards. This is a true reflection on all the hard effort each and everyone involved in Prefix has put into the business and we’re overwhelmingly proud of this.’

Chris Cooke, co-director of Prefix Systems concludes: ‘Prefix is now taking a leading stance in the development of the market for extended living and we believe that the future for our customers and Prefix looks quite incredible. These awards show just how much we’ve achieved over the last three years and the next three really do look just as exciting, given the product developments planned.’

For further information contact the sales office on 01254 871800, e-mail [email protected] or add to their considerable following on Twitter @prefixsystems.

PREFIX aChIEVES a RED RoSE TRIPlE



TrAdE NEWSThe UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

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The first quarter of 2015 has seen hurst Plastics’ urst plasticshexport division gather further pace with the shipment of the company’s largest ever international order for door panels. The Kingston-upon-hull based firm has just exported 430 door panels to a major PVC-u and aluminium window and door supplier more than 3,500 miles away in Dubai.

This latest shipment of door panels to the United Arab Emirates marks Hurst’s growing presence in the Middle East. Hurst has been catering for an increasing demand for door panels as construction rates soar in the region, particularly within high rise domestic apartments.

“It’s been a busy few months for the export team at Hurst. As our biggest international order, this shipment heralds another exciting phase for the business as we supply to a growing number of large building projects overseas,”

says Tony Appleyard, Hurst Plastics’ Export Sales Development Manager. “Until recently, many Middle Eastern companies would source door panels from Eastern Europe. Whilst these products are often cheaper, the quality can however be inferior. This latest order indicates that the market isn’t just price driven, but that it values good product design and quality as well as reliable service.”

Hurst currently exports to six continents, shipping its Definitive Collection of door panels from its nearby coastal port of Hull. The range brings a wide variety of door and glass styles to the international market, including bespoke triple glazed panel options. It includes many exclusive

designs and features the Modern Collection of contemporary styled continental door panels in coloured, white or woodgrain PVC-u.

Tel: 01482 790790 www.hurst-plastics.co.uk

HurST SHIPS bIGGEST EXPOrT OrdEr



yet again, Solidor stole the show when it came to The Sentinel Business awards,with them winning Business of the year for the second year running, while Ceo Gareth mobley was awarded entrepreneur of the year for the third year in succession.

More than 400 individuals from North Staffordshire and South Cheshire’s most prominent businesses were in attendance at the event, which was held on 24th March, 2015 at the King’s Hall in Stoke-On-Trent. Now in its 19th year, The annual Sentinel Business Awards celebrate the region’s best business achievements rewarding growth, innovation and development in the local economy, something which Solidor has achieved and embraced in abundance for a number of years.

Their innovative approach to product design and marketing also looks set to continue under the stewardship of managing director, Joe Martoccia and the new management team, with exciting new product development and marketing plans ready to be launched in April. The Composite door market is currently one of the most exciting and dynamic of the home improvement sector, with a broad range of installation companies and specialised distributors helping to drive growth.

Joe Martoccia, managing director of Solidor commented: ‘I’m absolutely thrilled for Gareth and for everyone associated with Solidor, these awards are for them. Winning back to back awards against some excellent local companies is an incredible achievement, businesses from this region really demonstrate some of the best manufacturing and commercial principles I have experienced.”

Gareth Mobley, CEO of Solidor and DW3 Products Group concluded: ‘I’m still humbled by the recognition that the team at Solidor and I have received over the years. It’s been very much a team success and one in which I believe will achieve further recognition in the years to come.’

To find out more about Solidor, then log on to www.solidor.co.uk, call 01782 847300 or e-mail [email protected]. To keep up to date with all of their developments follow them on Twitter @solidorltd or look them up on Facebook.


Slenderpane Ltd has installed 450 slim sash windows using edgetech’s Super Spacer® heritage for award winning developer, Linden homes’ refurbishment of ashlar Court into luxury apartments in hammersmith.

With apartment prices starting at £750,000, Linden Homes demanded traditional timber windows in keeping with the 1930s Art Deco Grade II listed building that would also deliver better energy efficiency. Using Super Spacer Heritage from Edgetech UK, a Quanex company, Slenderpane was able to replicate the aesthetics of the existing single pane windows with new slim double glazed timber sash windows from sister company Herald Joinery.

The development has won high praise and has been commended in The Sunday Times British Home Awards 2014 and What House? Awards 2014.

David Weston, Managing Director of Slenderpane explains: “By combining bespoke joinery with

Super Spacer Heritage slim insulated glass units we were able to closely match the original windows. This helped us to beat the competition offering standard window designs.

“Customers like the aesthetics of what we do and a big part of that is down to the slim design, low sightlines and neutral appearance we can achieve using Super Spacer Heritage. Since completing Ashlar Court we have won a second contract with Linden Homes for 80 slim double glazed sash windows for new housing in the regeneration of Battersea Police Station.”

There’s growing demand from architects and developers to improve thermal efficiency of windows in conservation refurbishment.

David adds: “With Super Spacer Heritage we can offer glass units down to 11mm wide. We have used it since Slenderpane started making slim units in 2010.”

Edgetech has now launched a white version of Super Spacer Heritage to create the most authentic appearance possible for period style windows.

Tel: 08700 566844

Deceuninck, one of the world’s leading PVC-U Systems Companies, has released its 2014 annual report, which confirms that the UK has been one of its strongest performers around the world. Consolidated 2014 group sales increased 3% to €552.8 million (€536.5 million in 2013) including consolidation of Pimas which it acquired in 2014. Capital expenditures in 2014 also increased year-on-year by € 4.6 million to € 31.3 million.

In the report Deceuninck CEO, Tom Debusschere, commenting on the UK, says: "Deceuninck UK outperformed the market trend with double digit growth resulting from a combination of organic growth of existing customers and new customers. Growth was supported by a new marketing approach with new tools to help customers differentiate themselves and support their business growth at a sustainable pace.”

Deceuninck UK Managing Director, Roy Frost, adds: “We’ve worked hard to support our customers and help their businesses grow with our customer-first strategy. As a result Deceuninck UK grew 27% year on year – considerably faster than the market. We’ve developed MyBrand, our bespoke marketing

service, so customers have access to professionally tailored brochures, eshots, websites, animated videos and much more. But it isn’t just outstanding support, we also give our customers unbeatable products and reliable service. Our ‘all-in-one’ windows are secure, energy efficient and renowned for being pretty. And with Deceuninck Online our customers know they can get the profile they need on time and in full. 2015 will see more new product releases, reaffirming our commitment to the UK.”

To find out how Deceuninck can help you build your brand and grow your business call Roy Frost, Deceuninck UK Managing Director, on 07808 365234. Follow @DeceuninckUK and visit www.WhyDeceuninck.com.

See the full annual report corporate press release online: http://www.deceuninck.com/en/show-press.aspx?id=313&language=EN

ANNuAl rEPOrT: dEcEuNINck uk OuTPErFOrMS THE MArkET

SuPEr SPAcEr HErITAGE MOVES INTO MIllION POuNd APArTMENTS

Roy Frost, Deceuninck UK managing Director.

ashlar Court luxury apartments in hammersmith.


“deceuninck uk outperformed the market trend with double digit growth resulting from a combination of organic growth of existing customers and new customers.”


The Solidor team celebrate their double!

A dOublE & TrIPlE AWArdS NIGHT


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Although very different when it was founded some 11 years ago as a forum for the trade press and marketing professionals, the People in Glazing Society has had a name change in recent years but retains its acronym of ‘PIGS’.

alan Fielder, edgetech and Kathy Wilkinson, Wilkinson PR.


PIGS oN TouR in Manchester

Valentina Warren and Sean Scott. Purplex.Keiran Costello, Glassparts, and Chris Kemp, inagas.

Luke Wood, GGP; Gemma Bradley, Balls2marketing; and Christina Shaw, Glass news

Paul edwards, RegaLead; Daniel Wheeler, Danvac; Brian eddlestone, tony mallick and ian Duckworth, all RegaLead

Peter Dyer, Dempsey Dyer, Jason Wootton and matthew Glover, Fit Show, andrew Green, Greenway home improvements

if you’d like more information about attending or becoming a sponsor, please call 07540 049655 or email [email protected]

175 people registered for the event on 5 March that took place at the Castlefield Rooms, Manchester and it looked as if most of them attended!

There are two more events planned for 2015 in London and Birmingham, details of which will be announced shortly on social media. For updates, you can follow PIGS on Twitter: @PeopleInGlazing, like the ‘People in Glazing’ page on Facebook, or join the ‘PIGS: People in Glazing’ group on Linked In.

PIGS is not a company. It does not make a profit and its existence relies solely on the fact that the industry supports it. It is sponsored by companies from within the industry with different ones contributing to the free bar that is a feature of each event. On this occasion those companies included: Avantis-International, Balls2 Marketing, Bohle Group, Business Micros, Edgetech UK, Emplas, Glass and Glazing Federation, Glassparts.co.uk, Glass Times, National Fenestration Awards, Quickslide, RegaLead, Solidor, Stuga, Ultraframe, Universal Arches, The VEKA UK Group and Windows Active.

Sarah Ball at Balls2 Marketing is the organiser of PIGS.

Christina Shaw, Glass news; martin James, Dutemann, and John Westhead, Glass times.

Jason Grafton-holt, , Double Glazing Blogger, and Christina Shaw, Glass news.



@GlassnewsMagemma hayes, Future PR; Dawn tucker, GGP, Claire Shilling, one Shilling marketing.

Wayne Rogerson, Cen Solutions; helen Savage, Brouha; Rob Small, Cen Solutions; John Warburton, BRe; Keely Portway, Brouha.

andy, mandy and John Westhead, Glass times.

Charlotte Cheney, halo, and Rebecca Clegg, Veka.

Rob Sherwood, marco zen, Fredi Piotto, aGB hardware.

emma martoccia, Future PR; Steve mcintyre, Ultraframe; and mark Schlotel, Synseal. Joe martoccia, Solidor; Steve mcintyre, Ultraframe, and Colin torley, Veka. Jenna Fordie, John Bowes and alice newsham of Citypress.

helena with adrian Barraclough, Quickslide.Guy hubble, Regalead, and Chris Champion, Glass news.

Louise Kenny and Graeme Bailey, Business micros.

John Warburton, BRe, and andy Ball, Balls2marketing.

For updates, you can follow PigS on Twitter: @PeopleInGlazing



The data for the list was compiled by financial technology company, Duedil, and blended P&L performance indicators, balance sheet analysis and credit health checking. The companies on the list are the ones that have most outperformed their sector averages. Chantel comments, “To be able to say that we’ve outperformed the rest of our sector is a recognition of the hard work of our staff and the success of our business strategies.”

The second consecutive listing in the 1,000

Companies to Inspire Britain report is another significant indicator of the success of Distinction Doors. The company was also recently named in the Sunday Times Fast Track 100 list, which ranks Britain’s private companies with the fastest-growing sales over three years.

Chantel concludes, “These accolades are very important to us and drive us to work even harder to achieve further success in the future. It is our intention to do that by continuing to deliver an

exceptional product with exceptional service that ensures we remain the go-to supplier of composite doors in the UK.”

Distinction Doors was founded in 2004 and has grown from a standing start to a company that turns over in excess of £30 million per year. It is also the UK’s largest composite door supplier.


For the second year running MRA Marketing has been ranked No. 1 in the Construction Marketing Awards’ Agency League. The league is compiled by the Awards’ organisers, the Chartered Institute of Marketing’s Construction Industry Group (CIMCIG).

Fifty-nine marketing agencies working in the construction industry are ranked by CIMCIG based on their performance at the Awards over the previous three years. Another consistent performance in the 2014 awards, with four finalist nominations and a win for Door-Stop International, ensured MRA retained its position as number one.

“The CMA Agency League is an independent ranking, decided by CIMCIG based on measurable performance,” says Lucia Di Stazio, Director of MRA Marketing. She puts MRA’s success down to strategic thinking and creative insight. “We offer fact-based marketing solutions – big ideas based on quality research and expert analysis and

we’re delighted to have that recognised by CIMCIG,” says Lucia.

“Over the years we’ve been shortlisted 15 times and won 10 Construction Marketing Awards. We promise to help ambitious companies grow – and we do.”

To find out how MRA can help you grow visit www.mra-marketing.com or email Business Development Manager Tom Rigby [email protected].

Distinction Doors is proud to announce that it has just been named as one of London Stock Exchange Group’s 1,000 Companies to Inspire Britain for the second year in a row.

The report is described as “a celebration of some of the fastest-growing and most dynamic small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK.” Chantel Roach, Distinction’s Marketing Director, said, “We are delighted to have been named in this list for the second year running. We are very proud of our achievements in growing the business in recent years and it is wonderful to see our efforts being recognised like this.”

trade and consumer advertisements have been appearing featuring the claim ‘a-rated glass as standard’ or similar. This is incorrect because – as BFRC registered companies will know - there is no such thing as ‘a-rated glass.’

“There is no scheme in the UK that rates glass in isolation,” explains BFRC technical director, Dr Gary Morgan. “All WER schemes operate in an identical way - rating the whole window including glass, frames, spacer bars and gaskets. It is not possible under current European Regulations to provide an energy rating for glass in isolation from the other window components. Whilst it is true that certain glazing specifications are widely used in ‘A’ and ‘A+’ rated windows, the glazing itself does not guarantee an ‘A’ or ‘A+’ rating for the whole window. The frame system also has to be thermally efficient to enable the complete window to obtain a favourable rating.”

Morgan adds: “Claims of ‘A-rated glass’ and the like are obviously designed to give the impression that the window itself is ‘A’ or ‘A+’ rated, which is misleading.”

BFRC managing director Chris Mayne adds: “BFRC’s wants to correct erroneous claims regarding window and door energy ratings. When such

misleading claims are used in marketing then Trading Standards and the Advertising Standards Authority can get involved.”

“An advertising claim that a type of glass is A energy rated is likely to breach the Business Protection from Misleading Marketing Regulations 2008 (and / or Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading 2008) if, as BFRC has outlined, the claim is meaningless in relation to glass but is likely to be understood as indicating a more energy-efficient product than other types of glass,” explains a Trading Standards spokesperson.

Misleading advertising is described as material that in any way, including its presentation, deceives or is likely to deceive the traders to whom it is addressed or whom it reaches; and by reason of its deceptive nature, is likely to affect their economic behaviour; or, for those reasons, injures or is likely to injure a competitor.

Trading Standards adds: “An offence under the

Regulations can attract a £5,000 fine if heard in magistrates’ court, or an unlimited fine and/or 2 years’ imprisonment if heard at crown court. Enforcement is by local authority trading standards officers.”

The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) also has a view. “The ASA is reminding advertisers in the glazing sector of the importance of ensuring their ad claims can be substantiated and don’t mislead. Misleading ads give an unfair advantage to businesses who don’t play by the rules, they also erode consumer trust. Having your ad investigated and subsequently banned by the ASA can be time consuming and costly as well as damaging your reputation. We urge advertisers to seek free, expert advice from the Committee of Advertising Practice on how to stick to the rules and avoid misleading would be customers,” commented Matt Wilson, ASA Communications & Marketing Manager.

BFRC is available to advise glazing businesses on any aspects of window and door energy ratings and how they can be correctly described. Please contact us on 020 7403 9200 / [email protected]

Lucia Di Stazio, Director of mRa marketing.

MrA MArkEting no.1 AGAIN IN cMA AGENcY lEAGuE

dISTINcTION dOOrS lISTEd AS ONE OF lONdON STOck EXcHANGE GrOuP’S 1,000 cOMPANIES TO INSPIrE brITAIN FOr THE SEcONd YEAr IN A rOW

BFRC WARNS ABOUT MiSLEADing MArkEting






“a call for windows to have an a+ Wers rating can’t be far away! everest claim that the 2015 range of windows will be their warmest, quietest, safest and toughest.”

Chris Champion, Glass News’ Editor, reports from the press launch of the new Everest Spring Range of products from their Sales Academy in St Albans.

Having attended the grand opening of Everest’s Sales Academy at St Albans last year, it was nice to be able to see the facility in action at the launch of their Spring Range of products.

Everest has much celebrate, not least the fact that 2015 sees their 50 year anniversary as a Home Improvement company. Not an inconsiderable feat to make it to such an august anniversary, despite a number of hiccups along the way. Now Everest is continuing its own development, and that of its product range, and they are keeping their PVCu windows at the very top of the WERs range with double glazed products hitting the A + 12 mark – close to the rating for triple glazing in 2014, while their triple glazed products move to A + 21. A call for windows to have an A+ WERs rating can’t be far away! Everest claim that the 2015 range of windows will be their warmest, quietest, safest and toughest.

The timber products have developed further too, and this applies to both windows and doors. Jointed Laminate Redwood is now being used for softwood products providing more stability and fewer knots. A full FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) Red Grandis is being employed for hardwood and is ideal for either painting or staining. Both these new materials have been engineered to create a solid construction, resistant to twisting and they benefit from the latest paint technology to achieve a smooth finish. Manufactured from sustainable timber, all these softwood

and hardwood products boast a thirty year guarantee against rot and fungus, a ten year guarantee on the hinge mechanism and five year guarantee on paint or stain finishes. Colour too, is important, in line with customer demand. New paint colours that include agate grey, light oak and chartwell green, line up with stains that include dark walnut, mellow teak and rich mahogany.

Probably most impressive of the new products shown was the Exclusives Premium Windows range. These feature the latest technology that allows for smoothwelding, creating an almost invisible corner joint. Add to this new colours and finishes as well as new handle designs to augment the traditional Monkey Trail and classic Tear Drop and you have a top of the market PVCu range that is already proving popular.

It’s easy to think of Everest as a leading window manufacturer and forget that it is much more than this. Its products span the breadth of the home improvement market with conservatories, roofline products, garage doors, security systems, timber windows, flat roofs and driveways to add to their window and door products. The team at Everest is proud to have helped over 2 million customers throughout the UK to have more comfortable homes and they are also extremely proud of their approval rating. Much work goes in to surveying their customers after every installation and their Net Promoter Score methodology indicates a consistent score of above 70%.

There is no doubt that this Sales Academy is helping the whole approach to training. With its comfortable classrooms mimicking the home environment where most of the sales are made, and the whole range of products, not just on show but also in use, the academy is an impressive environment in which to learn or improve ones skills.


EVEREST CELEBRATES 50 YEARS wITh ITS NEw SPRING RaNGE oF PRoDuCTS

The whole product range is shown at the everest Sales academy.

Detail of everest’s new smoothwelding on the exclusives Premium range.

Product ready for delivery from the St albans distribution centre.

adrian Warren, head of Communications, everest home improvements.



So how do you whip up a 70 mph to 90 mph wind, just like that? Glass News’ Editor, Chris Champion, finds out by visiting Wintech Engineering’s test facilities at Telford.

Well, if you happen to have, hanging around, a Wright R-1820 Cyclone 9 aircraft engine, made under licence by Pratt and Witney for the Douglas D6, Dakota aircraft; that should whip up a storm! Harness it to a frame held down with concrete blocks, add a waterframe, and start it up…first checking that you actually have planning dispensation, in what was green belt, to run a 9 cylinder single row supercharged air cooled radial engine that

knocks out around 1,000 hp at take-off speed. Oh! And it’s noisy…..very noisy!

So, the mixture of wind from the 3 bladed propeller and water from the waterframe will give a pretty good imitation of hurricane conditions; and test your windows very nicely!

But at Wintech it isn’t just about testing windows and doors. The outside laboratory consists of rigs capable of taking vast areas of glass and curtain walling, providing test facilities that I certainly haven’t seen before. From the outside laboratory, that reminded me of a back lot at Universal Studios, to the indoor facilities, Wintech offer our industry testing for windows, doors and glazing for PAS 24 and Secured by Design testing as well as façade testing, bespoke services and on-site testing.

That’s all pretty clear with the exception of “bespoke”: just what does that mean? Wintech pride themselves on being inventive and working with clients to devise tests for their products and work for companies around the world. A good example is devising wind, noise and vibration tests for Coca Cola’s European HQ in Madrid. Others include vandal testing for Arsenal FC’s Emirates Stadium or an ice loading dynamic fabric test for the Westraven building in the Netherlands.

Wintech Engineering Ltd. is an independent UKAS accredited testing laboratory and

part of the Wintech Group that also incorporates Wintech Design, Wintech Ltd., a consultancy business and Wintech Dubai that concentrates on business in the Middle East. As a notified body, the testing facility is kept completely separate from both the design and consultancy arms but is able to offer these services to clients when they are required.

The projects that The Wintech Group work on, worldwide, reads like a ‘Who’s Who’ of building projects. The Petronas Tower in Kuala Lumpur and the Mall of the Emirates in Dubai to a rash of UK based projects that include Birmingham’s Bullring and Rotunda, London’s Paddington Station and a list of the capital’s high rise buildings that have all had Wintech’s hand in the design or testing. But Wintech seemingly get on with their very successful business in a quiet and ordered fashion. It is probably one of the lesser known testing facilities simply because they don’t shout about it from the rooftops – or maybe the company is perceived to be high-end with its worldwide business?

This is definitely not the case. Certainly testing can be performed at Telford to UK, European and US standards but straightforward waterleakage and air testing for windows and doors, PAS 24 testing and curtain wall testing, is the company’s staple diet. The only difference to be found at Wintech is that it can be likened to testing in a hospital surgery. The laboratory is run by Mark Swanborough, who admits to being borderline OCD when it comes to cleanliness and good order. Watching a toughened glass test that was taken to destruction, resulting in glass being deposited over a wide area: no sooner than the test was over, there wasn’t a shard of glass to be seen!

Can you test my windows in a hurriCane forCe gale? CERTaINlY, SIR, wE haVE JuST ThE ThING…

Pressure testing for door hinges.

Start up with an eruption of smoke.

Whipping up a storm...

PaS24 soft body impact test.



So What teStinG Can yoU eXPeCt FRom WinteCh’S UKaS aCCReDiteD teStinG SeRViCeS? The laboratory based testing includes weather resistance, security, impact and durability

testing of windows, doors, glazed curtain walling and rainscreens. There is onsite installation testing/verification and Air Leakage testing to demonstrate compliance with Building Regulations and NHBC requirements and, of course, the bespoke testing which is

developed for a particular set of project requirements.

But for all the facilities that Wintech afford, it’s the approachability and easy access to the company’s staff and managers that impressed me most. Wintech prides itself on having the right staff available to answer a query

or handle an enquiry and we all know how much more satisfying it is to actually be able to speak with the right person, straight away. This approach by Wintech has helped customers over the issues of both the testing and CE marking of products and it is certainly not just the big companies that have benefitted. CE marking has been, arguably, more onerous for the small companies and Wintech has done more than its fair share in guiding many companies through the CE marking process.

As Gailord Nepp, Wintech Engineering Ltd’s Managing Director says: “We are more than just a testing centre. We consult, examine, assess and help our customers to become familiar with international market requirements. The Wintech Group of Companies have a long-standing history as service providers for the industry.”

And, as you travel the world, (watching your child lean against a glass partition and hoping it isn’t going to collapse), you can feel safe in that that balustrade will have been tested, if not by Wintech, then by another notified body. Whether you’re in the Criminal Courts in Dublin (and we don’t wish to speculate why you might be there!) or Dublin Airport as you escape the country; Selfridges in Birmingham for a bit of shopping; staying at the Radisson Hotel in Docklands; browsing the New Acropolis Museum in

Athens; watching the horse racing at Ascot or departing from Heathrow’s Terminal 5 on your holidays, you can feel safe that Wintech have had a hand in either designing or testing components that have been used in the construction of these facilities.

And how easy is it to speak with the right person to organize your testing? Pick up the phone and ask for Michael Wass…

Tel: 01952 586580 www.wintechtesting.com


a snapped lock cylinder.

Gaining entry against the clock... Glass impact testing.

Glass testing....going, going...

Gone.

Water permeability testing.



in an impressive get-together of Lancashire’s most successful businesses, truemans Windows stole the spotlight at the Red Rose awards, winning the highly regarded Publisher’s Choice award, which recognises and honours a company’s rapid growth and unique achievements in recent years.

The event took place in one of Blackpool’s most famous landmarks, the Winter Gardens’ Empress Ballroom, and united 150 businesses. Now in its fifth edition, the Red Rose Awards gala celebrates the fastest-growing and most innovative businesses in the Lancashire area.

Delighted with the award, MD Joe Trueman said: “We’ve worked very hard over the last 4 years, and we’ve experienced very rapid growth to show for it. Concentrating on our customers’ needs, and giving them tons of free support to help them to grow has been the key to our success.

“Being recognised for this achievement by the RRA is lovely, and myself, as well as all of my dedicated team, are over the moon. We have so much planned for this year at Truemans, and we’re constantly recruiting smart thinkers to join our team, so watch this space!”

Rose Awards founder and Lancashire Business View publisher, Richard Slater, said: “The Red Rose Awards are very hotly contested, so all winners truly deserve their awards. And for me, Truemans deserved special recognition for their work.

There is so much about this company that I like, and I love the way they are going about it. This is a company that is going to be huge, we will hear a lot more about them in years to come.”

The Red Rose Awards were launched in 2011 by the Lancashire Business View magazine and quickly became one of the country’s most reputable B2B award events.

In a bold move that is bucking the trend amongst the leading composite door manufacturers in the UK, DOORCO has announced that it is fixing prices whilst also offering significantly improved security performance, across the company’s entire range.

Offering substantially increased resistance to forced entry and violent attack as well as a more substantial feel, the modified, thicker skins that have been added as standard across all products anticipate the introduction of Approved Document Q of the Building Regulations and steal a march on most other door manufacturers that have yet to react. In addition the complete DOORCO range, including fire doors, has been tested and passes the ‘key thumb’ test, specifically PAS24 B.4.4.4. Thus, says DOORCO, the performance of its products is effectively future-proofed as they now meet all current and anticipated standards.

On DOORCO’s decision to maintain prices the company’s Dan Sullivan explains: “We are able to guarantee prices for the whole of 2015

because of the significant efficiencies that we have introduced into our processes over the past 18 months and through substantial growth in the volumes we are selling. So as sales to homeowners are continuing to improve we believe that our customers – and of course DOORCO in turn - will benefit through the ability to confidently plan and predict business and margins for their door sales at least until the end of this year.

“Commercial specifiers will be able to write specifications confidently knowing that their costings will not be affected, at least for composite doors, when they choose our products. We are affected by currency fluctuations just as any other importer of complete products or components, but we have the confidence to take this step because of good planning.”

Insight Data, the specialist supplier of business data for the glazing and construction industry, has seen its Local Builders database soar to 23,000 contacts and 15,000 emails.

Jade Greenhow, Insight’s operations manager said; “The window industry is changing rapidly due to the growth of trade counter outlets. Builders can now source the same range of products as double glazing companies, but without the big advertising costs or sales commissions they can be more competitive. Some builders are now fitting as many frames as window companies.”

Insight Data has worked relentlessly on compiling information on builders, and now has the largest and most comprehensive database of general builders in the UK.

“Previously manufacturers and distributors had around 12,000 window installation companies to market to, now there is an additional 23,000 builders active in home improvements. This is great news for suppliers, whether supplying direct or through trade counters.”

The database provides suppliers with key sector information, such as home improvements, new-build projects and refurbishment. In the last 12 months the email list has grown from 8,000 to a landmark 15,000 verified email addresses, overtaking window companies (with 14,800 email contacts) for the first time.

Suppliers can access the database online via Salestracker, Insight Data’s online database portal, with information updated live in real time. It means every campaign is using the freshest, most accurate marketing data for better response rates.

For more information, call 01934 808293 or visit www.insightdata.co.uk.

everest home improvements are celebrating two award wins at the British excellence in Sales & marketing awards this week. everest picked up the Sales team of the year runner-up award and tom Devine was named Sales Director of the year runner-up.

With the highest number of nominations ever submitted from a range of companies including Virgin Media, E.ON, Pitney Bowes, and British Gas to SME’s the prestigious Awards by the Institute

of Sales & Marketing Management (ISMM) recognise individuals and teams for outstanding sales performance and achievements in 2014. The winners were announced in front of over 600 business leaders by England Rugby Champion, Martin Bayfield.

Everest have made significant changes to their sales structure to refresh the sector’s traditions. By bringing on Tom Devine previously of BSKYB, launching a new sales training academy and replacing 144 self-employed

area agents with 46 managers who are employed, Everest is emphasising that they expect certain standards of customer service and behaviour.

Marcus Lamont, HR Director at Everest, said: “We are really proud of these two fantastic award wins granted by the ISMM. Winning a British Excellence in Sales & Marketing Award raises the stature of Everest and all individuals involved. It’s an honour to have our hard work, in innovating the way we do sales, recognised.”

lANdMArk VIcTOrY FOr buIldErS iNSTalliNg WiNdOWS & dOOrS

EVErEST EXcElS IN brITISH EXcEllENcE in SALES & MArkEting AWArDS




TruEMANS GAIN rEcOGNITION AT rEPuTAblE LAnCASHirE buSinESS AWArDS

truemans team celebrates success at the Red Rose awards gala.


dOOrcO FIXES PrIcES ANd FuTurE PrOOFS PErFOrMANcE

The modified, thicker skins that have been added as standard across all DooRCo products anticipate the introduction of approved Document Q of the Building Regulations and steal a march on most other door manufacturers that have yet to react.

edgetech UK, a Quanex Company has chosen Burnley for the site of its first iGU Component Centre. edgetech will distribute its rapidly expanding range of products to iGU manufacturers, fabricators and installers across the northern region.

All the IGU components needed to manufacture warm edge glass units are available from Edgetech’s new 5,200 sq. ft. centre. Top performing desiccant TruSieve™, TruPlas® SDL and Bostik’s IGU sealants are available alongside the full range of spacers from Edgetech.

Heading up the Burnley IGU Component Centre is Nigel Toyne. Well known in the region for his previous position supporting customers at a building plastic and insulated glass products depot, Nigel brings to his new role 24 years of technical expertise in IGUs. He is joined by a team of drivers, warehouse staff and administration support.

Edgetech is recognised as the leading warm edge spacer manufacturer in the UK and is now also established as one of the main suppliers of sealants. Last year it expanded its products to create the comprehensive ‘Just Add Glass’ IGU components range.

“The IGU Component Centre is an exciting venture that brings stock of Edgetech’s growing range of products for glass units into the heart

of a fast growing region,” says Nigel. “Holding products on the ground means we can provide local delivery, as well as creating a base for customers to collect from. We’re well placed just off junction 9 of the M65 in Burnley.”

There are extra sales opportunities on offer for IGU manufacturers, window fabricators and installers as the centre is stocking TruShield™ glass protection system and TruFit™ expanding foam edge tape for thermally efficient window and door installation. Customers can also benefit from business and marketing support with new Edgetech Dealership Plus.

Tel: 08700 566844


nigel toyne, manager at edgetech’s iGU Component Centre.

EdGETEcH’S IGu cOMPONENT cENTrE OPENS IN burNlEY




The chancellor threw a lifeline to first-time buyers with the announcement of the Help to Buy: ISA during the last Budget before the general election.

The Help to Buy: ISA will allow first-time buyers to save for a home. For every £200 saved, the government will provide a bonus of £50.

Rico Wojtulewicz, policy advisor for the House Builders Association, said: “Help to Buy: equity loan which provides help with the deposit on a new home, is due to end in 2020. This savings scheme gives a higher rate of return than current savings options and gives first-time buyers a few years to save before the current scheme runs out.”

Accounts are available to individuals, rather than to properties. So, two people saving for a home may each have an account and collect the bonus when they purchase a home.

The bonus is available on properties valued up to £450,000 in London and up to £250,000 elsewhere.

Rico continued: “Not only are first-time buyers the lifeblood of the industry but for every pound spent on construction, there is £2.84 of economic activity. Also, for every property built, two jobs are created so this has the potential to benefit more than first-time buyers.”

HElP TO buY: iSa helPS FirST-Time buYerS aNd The ecONOmY

This savings scheme gives a higher rate of return than current savings options and gives first-time buyers a few years to save before the current scheme runs out.”

RehaU is congratulating truemans Windows on its success at the recent Red Rose business awards, where it received a special publisher’s award.

Truemans, which supplies a complete range of REHAU window and door frames from its trade counters in Burnley, Sheffield and Doncaster, was recognised by Richard Slater, the publisher of Lancashire Business View, for its ambition and its dynamism.

Barry Gilligan, REHAU’s Sales Director, said: “Truemans is a really impressive business which is growing fast and making waves in the market with its innovative approach and focus on customer support. We are excited about how our partnership with Truemans is developing, and were delighted to hear that they had won this special award at such a prestigious event in their own region.”

The Red Rose business awards were held at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool and were a celebration of the work of more than 150 Lancashire based businesses.

There were 24 different category awards announced on the night, with the Truemans special publisher’s award announced at the very end.

Managing Director Joe Trueman added: “We were described at the awards as a ‘real Lancashire success story’ and a company that is ‘going to be huge’. That was a fantastic accolade for us and with so many exciting things planned for this year, this is just the beginning.”

Further information is available at http://www.truemanswindows.co.uk/



rEHAu cONGrATulATES TruEMANS WINdOWS ON

awaRDS SuCCESSThe team at industry-leading PVC-U giant The VEKA UK Group were delighted to present The Royal British Legion with a cheque for £5100 - the largest amount the company has yet raised in a six-month period.

Each year, the company chooses two charities to focus on for a six-month period each. In the second half of 2014, all fundraising activities were carried out in aid of The British Legion.

Head of Human Resources Gabriela Hammond explains: “We were very proud to do our bit for such a valuable cause, especially as 2014 marked 100 years since Britain

entered the First World War.

“We were able to raise our biggest charity contribution (to date) via a number of events. We held a sponsored golf day, Operations Director Paul Armstrong did a sponsored slim, we sold pin badges and wrist bands, we had a 'wear it red' day, Network VEKA held a collection at the AGM, a number of us took part in a 5k Poppy Run, we sold cakes, we had a Christmas jumper day and made a charity contribution instead of sending Christmas cards. We even fined the Managers for any reports that were submitted late!

“Everyone really pulled together to support the British Legion and we were thrilled to be able to present a cheque for £5100.”

This year, for the first time ever, The VEKA UK Group will be dedicating a full year's fundraising to a charity close to its heart: The Encephalitis Society.


The Veka uk grOuP PrOudlY PreSeNTS biggeST eVer chariTY cheQue

helen mason (Community Fundraiser for Lancashire) and tom norris (Burnley British Legion) collect the cheque from The VeKa UK team.


GlASS NEWS INTErVIEW: QuOTATIS The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

For the UK glazing industry’s biggest lead generator Quotatis customer service is key to its business – for both the homeowner and their customers. Glass News asks Quotatis MD, glazing veteran Peter Jervis, about the role customer service plays within Quotatis.

Peter Jervis has headed up the UK division of Quotatis since 2008 and has an in-depth knowledge of the glazing market having worked with George Williams at his post-Anglian Aspen Windows. He also spent time in charge of group business development at Anglian and as a product group director at Jewsons. With Quotatis’ recent acquisition by French home improvement group ADEO, which includes DIY retailer Leroy Merlin, we wanted to understand what has been the impact on the way the business is developing.

In the UK Quotatis receives over 30,000 homeowner requests every month via its network of 350 websites for a range of home improvement projects from guttering to conservatory installations. With an annual marketing spend in excess of £3.5 million Quotatis has a unique view of the home improvement market.

“Quotatis has always been focused on customer service” explained Peter, “which for our business has two sides; we have the homeowners who are looking for us to find them the best installers - who can give them a great price and even better service; and our network of clients who are looking for us to match them with these homeowners to whom they can sell their services.

“The Quotatis model is based upon implicit trust, between the homeowner and Quotatis; between Quotatis and our contractors; and of course, between the homeowner and contractors that we connect.”

We asked Peter about the difficulties of ensuring the balance of customer service for both the homeowners and the contractors: “To ensure that every customer enquiry receives the correct service we check that all our contractors are qualified and capable of doing the job, and of doing it well! The future of Quotatis is based upon ensuring that homeowners get the service they expect and our network of contractors get a service that works for them. If any element isn’t in-line it all falls down and we have two unhappy parties.”

ADEO is known for its high level of customer service and we asked Peter if that philosophy

has influenced Quotatis yet: “Customer service has always been a key consideration for us. ADEO wants us to keep this at the forefront of any decision we make when developing the business.”

“For example our National Sales Manager, Janet Small, has regular face-to-face meetings with our contractors to ensure we are meeting their expectations and our dedicated customer service team are constantly encouraging feedback from both homeowners and clients.”

Ultimately Quotatis is an alternative and complementary form of advertising. Contractors using the service require sales enquiries to expand their business and feed their sales team without having to invest as much in their own marketing. Clients simply advise Quotatis how many sales enquiries they wish to receive each week and for which postcodes and when appropriate enquiries are received they are distributed accordingly. It is then in the hands of the contractor to get in touch as quickly and professionally as

possible and of course, to win the customer over in the usual way.

“Quotatis exists to match consumers wanting home improvements completed with installers capable of completing the work to the customer’s satisfaction,” explains Peter. “The exercise is a marketing service rather than sales and perhaps some within the industry misunderstand this. Our services are more precise than almost every alternative form of reaching consumers – advertising by any means including print, radio and even TV is imprecise and without guarantees – with Quotatis you only pay for what you receive. Where the disconnect sometimes occurs is when our contractors believe that they should only pay for an enquiry that they convert and of course, that simply is not possible; we cannot be responsible for how the contractor deals with each sales enquiry, their sales ability, pricing and so forth.

“The most successful companies understand this of course and average the cost of the sales enquiries against the overall business gained. If they convert one in three, as an example, the enquiries might cost £75 in total but for a return of work gained, even modest contracts, of say £3,000. Most are far more successful than that.”

Customer service is at the very core of what Quotatis offers to contractors says Peter: “We don’t believe that one-size fits all. Each contractor is treated individually and not only can they be set up to precisely get the type of enquiries they want but also our customer accounts team develops ongoing relationships with them to ensure that the service offered is tailored to their business. It’s a partnership with loyalty and trust at its core.

“Our Head of Customer Accounts Scott Wilson has a team of dedicated account managers. Our successful clients see them as business advisors, tailoring the service to what that particular glazing company needs. Some may need customer enquiries over a larger geographical area, others are setting up a new sales team and need sales enquiries in the new area whilst others are local companies that need leads within just 30 miles of their office. It’s all about ensuring contractors are successful and homeowners get matched successfully to quality companies.”

Peter summarises it this way: “Customer service and in particular building an ongoing relationship with our clients is at the core of Quotatis, and is what our parent company ADEO have built their business on.” With a firm philosophy of helping to provide the best service for both the homeowners and the contractors it’s clear that Quotatis provides a service that the Glazing industry requires.

http://www.quotatispro.co.uk/?spn=355

cAN I QuOTE YOu?

Peter Jervis.


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VOIcE OF THE INduSTrY The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

SO, WhaT iS YOur aTTiTude TO cuSTOmer care? iS iT JuST aN eThOS Or SOmeThiNg YOu WOrk VerY hard aT? hOW dO YOu eNSure ThaT YOu are lOOkiNg aFTer YOur cuSTOmerS TO The beST OF YOur abiliTY?

WHAt’S your opinion?Vo

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We all know how important customer care is, after all the most expensive thing we do is get customers in the first place! however good we are none of us get everything right 100% of the time – so, what is your attitude to customer care? is it just an ethos or something you work very hard at? how do you ensure that you are looking after your customers to the best of your ability?

Having a good product and backing this up with great customer service is key for any business. Providing the best service means listening to our clients, at Quotatis we have a team of dedicated account managers who understand the glazing market. By working closely with our clients we ensure they get consumer enquiries in the areas they need, so they can secure and grow their business year-on-year. Watching our clients grow by making sales from the enquiries we supply is what drives us.

everglade is a family business that cares about precise manufacturing and giving customers the reliable service and loyalty they deserve. For 35 years everglade has offered customers an outstanding level of support.

Day-to-day that support comes from our vibrant office-based team. We’re quick to respond to customers’ needs. Whether it’s a quote, an order or a query, we’re here to help customers. We know that getting the detail right at this point means things flow through the factory with greater ease. And that’s good for all our customers.

The highlight of our year is our customer conference. It gets bigger every time. We always base it around practical business support to make the day valuable to customers. New legislation, product developments, marketing support, and health and safety have all been useful subjects in our conferences. Using our experience in how to get the best from a changing market is a great way to help customers.

We treat customers as guests. After the conference there’s time to relax and talk with other customers and members of Everglade’s team.

Customer care is a culture, not just a buzzword. it’s an attitude that should run throughout the company from top and bottom, and start (at point of recruiting the right people) to end (final delivery to the customer).

It should be in the DNA of the whole organisation including manufacturing, IT and logistics, not just the obvious customer-facing departments like the sales office – that’s just playing at it. As with any deliverable, customer care needs to be measured and monitored so everyone in the company knows that it’s taken seriously. Our key staff report daily every morning on any issues. Continuous improvement in quality and service standards are also vital.

Perhaps most importantly, as we all know, nobody is perfect, so speed and flexibility to put things right if you’re not performing is crucial. Admit if you have an issue and keep the customer informed on actions to rectify and progress. True customer care can only be guaranteed if you communicate openly and honestly with your organisation and your customers and consistently measure it.

Like train times or deliveries, customer care is only noticed when something goes wrong. an ‘ethos’ only gets you so far – customer care doesn’t just happen. it requires ongoing commitment and needs to be planned with objectives, training and systems so everyone gives customers what they expect – and what you’ve promised.

At Door-Stop we try hard to deliver the best customer care, first time. We promise a lot – guaranteed 3 day delivery (if it’s late, it’s free) and quick, easy online ordering for example. But every business has the occasional hiccup and it’s important to react quickly and effectively to put things right. So last year we introduced our Customer Charter. It sets out what Door-Stop customers can expect, and what to do if things go wrong. We promise to acknowledge a problem within 2 hours and resolve it within 72 hours. And if the customer isn’t happy they can call me directly. That’s how much it matters.

We all know how important customer care is, after all the most expensive thing we do is get customers in the first place! however good we are none of us get everything right 100% of the time – so, what is your attitude to customer care? is it just an ethos or something you work very hard at? how do you ensure that you are looking after your customers to the best of your ability?

Great customer care for us is minimal contact and interaction with them, once the deal is agreed. That is because if we’re doing our job properly then we become an invisible part of their business. They just want their waste to be collected efficiently and quietly and that I believe we do very well. We slip in discreetly and with minimal disruption to the business, thus making their waste disappear and literally removing a problem for them, week in, week out.

tom Crosswell head of marketing, Quotatis

Reena Gjoci marketing Director, everglade Windows

Steve Green managing Director, Direct trade Ltd

martin Dickie Business Unit Director, Door-Stop international

Simon Scholes Business administration manager, VeKa Recycling

We all know how important customer care is, after all the most expensive thing we do is get customers in the first place! However good we are none of us get everything right 100% of the time.


VOIcE OF THE INduSTrYThe UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

edgetech has a proven track record for customer care. From the start we helped fabricators and installers with energy rated windows. in 2007 we launched Super Spacer® Dealership to support iGU manufacturers, fabricators and installers. Benefits included a simplified lower cost route to WeRs, powerful marketing materials aimed right through the supply chain down to homeowners, and the 20 year guarantee which members could pass on to consumers. This guarantee has never been matched and remains unrivalled in the industry.

Today Edgetech is a comprehensive IGU component supplier, as well as offering new opportunities with TruFit™ insulating foam expanding tape and TruShield® glass protection system. So now we’re launching Edgetech Dealership Plus which gives extra support and benefits to customers using products from the range. Business support includes access to personalised WERs, testing and auditing, there’s also cost savings on installation registration. The new scheme supports customers manufacturing and installing Edgetech’s growing product range.

all companies will claim to be truly customer focused, yet it’s often their approach and discipline to this business process that that will truly set them apart. The use of carefully monitored KPi’s throughout our whole organisation of 197 staff are harnessed to improve on what we do, while quarterly customer satisfaction surveys ensure we listen and respond to the needs of our customers.

The delivery date for our products is currently communicated by the order acknowledgement that goes back to the customer, however we are developing a unique order management system that has been specified based on feedback we’ve received from customers. The software will be slick and user-friendly, feeling familiar to anyone that has used a modern e-commerce consumer portal.

Our internal quality management processes ensure we are customer focussed and it underpins everything we do. This business was built on family values and the premise still remains today, that we are in a people driven business. The combination of internal resources with effective communication should delight any customer, regardless of need.

Unlike the majority of the glazing industry, we manufacture bespoke products with a good degree of human skill and this also reflects in the way that we deal with customers. We’ve over 2,000 customers each of which will order the most exacting and individual of products, yet our customer service department is blessed with a number of staff who are well trained and overwhelmingly knowledgeable.

As a market leader and innovator in profile bending it’s been important for us to build considerable expertise in house, which in turn supports our customers. Communication is fundamental from response to enquiries to notification of deliveries. Indeed we have an investment programme in place for 2015 which will further improve our links and communication with customers, as it’s a business process that not only we have to be constantly reviewing, but everyone in the modern business world.

Mistakes are very rare in our ISO9001:2008 environment and on occasion lead times do get extended, but we communicate everything with our customers with truth and honesty.

Customer care is a fundamental business process whether you are a manufacturer of glazed and tiled roofs as we are, or a global entity such as amazon. The point is each and everyone of us is a customer and we should remind ourselves as such.

Talk to our customers and they will tell you that we are perhaps more hands on than most and that includes on site work for surveying and installation and it’s also a reflection of who we are. In our 19 year history the ability to satisfy the needs of our valued customers in a more personal manner has been paramount and a lot of this has been down to communication, a process and philosophy cascaded throughout our organisation.

Collectively we all fulfill the customer service promise each and every day in everything we do, after all lasting business relationships are built on trust and communication. We can employ technology to help send messages, yet their content and the intangible empathy and emotion can only come from a person.

as a systems company, our business only grows if our fabricators, and their installer customers grow. So supporting our customers and helping build their brand is essential.

To make sure we remain at the leading edge, we are constantly adding new tools and services to our package, such as:

• Extending MyBrand – our print-on-demand bespoke marketing tools to help our customers establish and build their brands

• Testing our products in different hardware and glass combinations, so it’s easy and cost effective for our customers to achieve PAS24, SBD and A* energy ratings

• Developing PricePad – an instant quotation and pricing tool that makes it easy for installers to sell and look professional

My retail experience and our close working relationships with customers means we know our market and their needs. We’re always improving our products and expanding our marketing tools to help boost their business. It’s the basis for our industry leading customer care: Building your brand, builds ours.

i am not of course an exhibition man by trade but i am told that our exhibitor and exhibitor Staff training days are the exception amongst organisers, even a rarity. We have run them across two events so far and for entirely pragmatic reasons. We want to support our exhibitors to sharpen them and their staff up for the show; to help them in the run up to the event and of course to help them and their staff perform to their best at the Fit Show itself.

We reckon that if our exhibitors do well and get a great return from their investment with us, then they will come back time and time again. So far it’s a policy that has worked: most of the stands for 2016 have sold out with more than a year to go.

We will run other workshops for 2016 though we accept have to change the format, something that we are already working on. We have to remain fresh so that our exhibitors get the most out of the FIT Show every time they take part.

alan Fielder Director of Sales and marketing at edgetech UK, a Quanex company

Patrick Firmager marketing Director, truFrame

Leon Day managing Director, Universal arches Ltd

Chris Baron Director, Prefix Systems

Roy Frost managing Director, Deceuninck UK

matthew Glover Chairman, The Fit Show


FAcE TO FAcE The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

IT’S All AbOuT YOuWhere you were born and live, currently…I was born in the foothills of Table Mountain, Cape Town, South Africa, a place that does not need much introduction with its amazing culture, food, beauty and the great Wine Route. I’ve been calling the UK home for 21 years now and currently live in a tranquil village just outside the hustle and bustle of Brighton, with the sea view to my right every time I walk to my car. It is truly a safe haven and the calm in my storm.

Your education and the subject or activity in which you excelled…I loved Business Economics and History and I always thought for some reason I would be teaching thanks to my love of people and talking! I was blessed to be quite a fast and strong swimmer when I was younger and hold competitively broken records standing strong since 1967.

Your favourite sports or interests…I love to go to National Trust Houses, as UK history really interests me. I aspire to one day own a DN-01 Honda motorcycle and cruise along the coast with like-minded enthusiasts. I love to read, in my native tongue as well as writing songs/lyrics for my own library. I was approached by a Swedish record label for one of my dance tunes, but I like to do it as a hobby for my own pleasure. I am also the proud “mom” of a Schnoodle girl”

Your biggest regret in life…Now that could be a song and a half!! One I am happy to share (we all have our little secrets) is not sticking at swimming as I had the opportunity and talent to progress much further, but time got in the way!

Someone or something that inspires you…On a personal note, I am one of many that are truly shaped and inspired by our mothers. In general terms, I meet so many interesting people in different circumstances from whom I can take something and make my own. There are amazing people out there inspiring my thoughts, ideas and actions.

The temptation you can’t resist…Galaxy Chocolate is one of many! A racing day on a track just to prove us girls can drive too. Doing something people would not expect, surprising people…. In a good way!

YOur cArEErWhen and how you joined this industry…I was fortunate enough to make my debut in this industry with a well renowned and respected manufacturer of Door and Window Hardware just over 10 years ago. I worked hard securing that role based on no experience of the product or its customers at the time, but I believed that my personality and the fact that I loved a challenge was perfect for me. The idea of developing and nurturing relationships is one of my core

strengths and with that drive and passion, I steamed ahead.

After a break from hardware, I was delighted to return to the industry at the end of 2014 to join VITA as I believe with its combination of relevant, value for money products and its commitment to quality, the brand will be a force to be reckoned with in hardware. It’s a company that’s going places which is exactly where I want to be.

The job you do in 25 words…Talking to fabricators, system houses, specifiers and door manufacturers about “Fitted to Last” hardware for PVC/Timber & Aluminium doors and windows……. CALL ME!........

I am not counting the commas, full stops, forward slash or exclamation mark! ;-)

Your greatest achievementVersatility. I am very lucky in my life to believe in my ability to adjust to various circumstances and different roles, from sales to specification, and I am blessed to have had some amazing Managers throughout. In fact, I’m now re- employed by a great man I worked for before for over 5 years. During my career, I’ve also managed to bring back lost high value in-house accounts to some of my employers and motivated a cold, unloved

group of people and got them fired up and loyal as can be through making the time.

The mistake you’d like to correct…Well, I would rather say the following…let’s face it, we’ve all been there with different aspects of our lives, be it personal or professional….the art is to learn from it, trying to not make it again

The talent you would like to enhance…Playing my guitar like Brian May… not going to happen but I will do my best. I love talking to people. I hope that they can always see me as I am and find that trust is part of the parcel. I hope in the future that I never lose that spark, drive, passion and approachability, so I am hoping to always remember to take it out of the box all new and fresh every day. You do not need to play an instrument to have a talent; you do not need to make something to have a talent….. you are the talent!

ANd YOur FuTurEWhat you would like to do if you weren’t in this industry…I would like to teach in some way, maybe offer guidance, be supportive and make people aware of their ability, their strengths, to have faith in themselves , not in an airy fairy way, but the stuff that matters and that makes them better people. To work through problems, resolve issues, fight fires, whether it be personal or in a professional capacity. Even though it seems like I

am a half glass full type of woman, I can see it from both ways

A particular ambition…Professionally, I would like to continue gaining more sales experience and learning more about the Industry as time goes on and new things develop. Eventually I hope to combine what I have learned with part of what “I would like to do if I was not in the Industry question as written above” (Got you… you have to look again now!)

On a personal note, have PINK sing one of my songs. They say if you are going to dream, dream big!! However also realise, we do not all belong on X Factor, no matter what we think!

The way you want to be remembered…A likeable, caring, funny, good friend that is willing to be there. Professionally I would like to be remembered as reliable, trustworthy and a do-er that got to know a customer or colleague not just professionally but if they allowed, personally to a comfortable degree of course! A personality they wouldn’t forget easily and that they were always welcoming to have me visit

P.S. I know Glass News doesn’t normally have a P.S. section in this Face To Face feature, but I really want to take the opportunity to thank the VITA management team from the bottom of my heart for their support following my recent accident. Having severely broken my leg, I just want to say thank you for their flexibility and support in helping me make my way back to work

THIS MONTH: cindy else Southern regional Sales manager, ViTa hardwarea great believer in the saying “People buy from People”. On a personal note, a uk Song Writing contest Finalist 2013, an aspiring hobby writer in her native afrikaans tongue, with a personality not to be missed.

if you would like to appear in ‘Face to Face’, or would like to nominate someone else to be featured, simply email [email protected].

“i am very lucky in my life to believe in my ability to adjust to various circumstances and different roles, from sales to specification.”

89

rEcruITMENTThe UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Kenrick is set for a period of exciting new product developments, having bolstered its design team with the appointment of a seasoned product designer. Tracy Fletcher has joined Kenrick as Design Engineer and is already working on a raft of new hardware innovations for the company.

Tracy has more than 30 years design experience within the window industry and joins Kenrick from Grouphomesafe, where he was Design Engineer. Tracy is working closely with Design Manager Brian Corbett, Operations Manager Andy White and Managing Director Steve Jones to develop new window and door hardware solutions that satisfy the demands of the market.

The new products are being designed and prototyped at Kenrick’s headquarters in West Bromwich and will manufactured both in-house and in collaboration with long standing manufacturing partners.

Steve Williams, Sales and Marketing Director at Kenrick, says: “Last year Kenrick celebrated its strongest year in the last decade so it’s a natural progression for us to build on that success and invest in new product development to strengthen our brand. Tracy has an abundance of technical knowledge and industry experience and we are delighted to welcome him as we embark on this exciting new chapter in the business.”

Tracy added: “Kenrick is recognised for the quality of its extensive product range and the team has a unique background in manufacturing, design, engineering and manufacturing. I’m really looking forward to enhancing the company’s offering with the design and development of some exciting new hardware solutions.”

Performance and durability are designed in to Kenrick’s products and six of the company’s product ranges satisfy both PAS 24 and Secured by Design accreditation. The Centurion four point locking system, Centurion Fast-Fit ‘non crop’ shootbolt, Excalibur multi-point shootbolt, Interceptor high security espagnolette, Easi-Fit multi-point locking system and Excalibur high security door lock - also carry their own comprehensive security guarantee.

Kenrick is a leading supplier of hardware solutions for PVCu, aluminium and timber window and door systems. The company has a proud heritage spanning more than 200 years, having been established by Archibald Kenrick who manufactured buckles and livery fittings. Kenrick’s range of top quality products includes the market leading Excalibur multi-point locking system, the four-point Centurion system and the Easifit and Espagnolette locking systems.

Tel: 0121 553 2741 www.kenricks.co.uk

Chase Taylor has quickly become the recruitment company of choice in the glazing and fenestration industries, something they believe is primarily down to the professional way in which they work through The Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) and their ability to effectively place candidates.

Some recruitment companies have earned themselves a poor reputation in the way they source candidates and place them for interview with clients, often without a credible recruitment background. Chase Taylor remains the only recruitment company in the glazing and fenestration industries that’s a member of the REC and operates to their detailed code of professional practice.

The REC represents 3,349 corporate members who have branches across all regions of the UK and above all, it’s wholly committed to raising standards and highlighting excellence throughout the recruitment industry. It’s one that’s now worth £28.7bn, some 6.3% higher than on previous record and according to research by the REC, 630,000 people were helped to find a permanent job during the period 2013/2014, which represents 9% of the recruitment value at £2.7bn.

The glazing industry has been in need of a professional and diligent recruitment company for a number of years, a void now filled by Chase Taylor and their exhaustive activities through social media and industry networking have seen them build an impressive candidate database. The company has also recently re-developed it’s website to make for a better intuitive and interactive experience and it’s also full compliant with tablets and smart phones.

Mat Gibson, managing director of Chase Taylor comments: ‘It’s important that we raise the standards for recruitment in the glazing and fenestration industries. Things are on the up and companies need the re-assurance that they are dealing with a recruitment professional, it can save clients time and money as week seek to find the perfect candidate each time.’

To find out more what Chase Taylor can do for either companies seeking a new position to fill or for individuals looking to enhance their career then call 01543 897800 or e-mail [email protected] in the strictest of confidence.

Alternatively look at the new website at www.chasetaylor.co.uk for the latest jobs or follow them on Twitter @Mat_Chasetaylor.

NEW dESIGNEr ErA AT kENrIckrAiSing rECruitMEnt

STANDARDS

See more positions online at: www.glassnews.co.ukrEcruITMENT

if you are looking to recruit, contact us today for prices! email: [email protected] or Tel: 07805 051322

Helping you find & place positions.

NEW APPOINTMENT



www.glassnews.co.uk | April 2015


rEcruITMENT The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Purplex Marketing, the specialist window industry marketing agency, has made a further senior appointment.

Steve Jennings has been appointed Head of Creative and will strengthen the company’s graphic design, creative and branding team.

Steve joins Purplex from Clifton Creative, a high-end design agency in Bristol. He previously worked with House of Fraser and his career spans both B2B and B2C consumer branding.

He said; “Purplex is a really dynamic and innovative agency with unrivalled expertise at helping companies grow. Heading up the creative team as the company enters the next phase of growth is really exciting.”

Purplex Managing Director Andrew Scott commented; “The days of specialist agencies in PR, digital or design are gone. Today marketing is all about brand engagement across multiple channels and companies need an agency that can deliver powerful, integrated campaigns that produce results. Steve’s appointment now adds expertise on par with any London or International advertising or design agency.”

Purplex employs over 40 people and operates across trade, commercial and retail markets with 5 dedicated divisions – PR, Creative, Digital, Direct and Video. Each division works on individual projects or integrates seamlessly together to provide powerful campaigns.

Steve Jennings heads up a talented team of graphic designers and will be responsible for branding, advertising and design; “beautiful and original design work sends a clear message to your audience whether it’s in print, online or large format such as signage or exhibition displays.”

www.purplexmarketing.co.uk

Forward-thinking halo fabricator Direct trade is delighted to welcome Bill Greaves to the team as part of a drive to further streamline processes in readiness for several exciting new product launches in 2015.

The company recently invested in an additional 40,000 square foot facility in line with its aim to stand customers out from the crowd thanks to better lead times, more efficient manufacturing processes to pass on great value for money and a wider product range. As part of this investment, Bill Greaves joins Direct Trade as Technical Manager, bringing with him an impressive pedigree spanning some 30 years’ in the industry, with previous employers including Sternfenster, Polyframe and Avocet Hardware.

Steve Green, Managing Director at Direct Trade comments: “We’re really pleased to welcome Bill to the team. As well as investing in our products and production processes, our people are an essential part of our success in doing what we are best at - delivering quality windows, doors and conservatories to the trade with minimum fuss. Bill’s impressive achievements throughout his extensive career lend themselves perfectly to the Technical Manager role at Direct Trade.”

Of his new position, Bill adds: “It’s great to be associated with a company that puts quality and customer service at the heart of what it does, so I’m very excited to bring my technical skills in manufacturing and quality management to Direct Trade. I’m already enjoying the new role, it’s great to be part of a business which really listens to both its employees and its customers in order to constantly improve. I look forward to being a part of the fantastic new product launches planned for this year.”

For more information call Direct Trade today on 0800 288 8828 or visit ww.directtradeltd.co.uk.

PurPlEX APPOINTS NEW HEAd OF crEATIVEdIrEcT TrAdE

WElcOMES bIll GrEAVES



NEW APPOINTMENTNEW APPOINTMENT NEW APPOINTMENT

NEW APPOINTMENT

Faye Tompkins and Phillipa Edmunds have joined REHAU’s Communications team, both focused on generating new opportunities for customers.

Faye is the new Communications Coordinator with specific responsibility for the commercial sector. She is developing information programmes for architects and specifiers designed to challenge the remaining perceptions about the limitations of PVC-U, and is working alongside REHAU’s commercial sales team to generate new opportunities for fabricators and installers.

Faye is also supporting customers with bespoke marketing activity and is putting together integrated campaigns for fabricators incorporating literature, websites, showroom makeovers, events and social media.

Having previously worked in a diverse range of sectors – from music festivals to bill payment systems - Faye is bringing new ideas and a fresh perspective to the industry.

Working alongside her is Phillipa Edmunds, who is now a Communications Assistant. Phillipa is coordinating REHAU’s Authorised Partner scheme and, after 13 years as a secretary in the company’s Marketing department, is bringing extensive knowledge of REHAU and its customers to her new role.

Phillipa is responsible for providing Authorised Partners with marketing support material to help them promote their association with REHAU and providing them with databases for targeted sales campaigns.

She is also using her outstanding organisational skills to manage online and printed mailings, process orders for technical guides and manuals, and fulfil image library requests.

Faye and Phillipa’s appointments are part of the restructuring which REHAU announced at the start of the year aimed at making the company more focused on customers in the UK. They join Kate Whitehead and Edward Kodia who have recently joined the Marketing and Technical department.

RehaU has expanded its product and technical marketing team with the appointment of Kate Whitehead as Product assistant and edward Kodia as applications engineer.

The two graduates are working alongside the rest of the team led by newly appointed Marketing and Technical Director Gareth Jones and are helping to

deliver REHAU’s ongoing new product development and technical services programmes.

As well as working in product marketing, Kate has already made an impact with customers by organising the first ever REHAU Installation of the Year competition which was such a success that it will be running again in 2015.

She is also the new face of REHAU’s social media activities, managing REHAU’s presence on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Pinterest.

Edward is working in REHAU’s technical department developing new product solutions in response to market, customer and legislative demands.

With a Masters degree in Computational and Software techniques in Engineering from Cranfield University, Edward’s skills lie in technical design and he is already applying those skills in new product development and in supporting REHAU customers through providing the latest product drawings.

www.rehau.co.uk

neW fAces in reHAu’s cOmmuNicaTiONS Team

rehau eXPaNdS PrOducT & TechNical markeTiNg Team

Steve Jennings.

Bill Greaves.




rEcruITMENTThe UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

Purplex Marketing, the specialist window industry marketing agency, has launched a new video division in response to customer demand.

The new division will deliver the latest in video production including corporate filming, streaming and live broadcast, regular video blogs and animated video ideal for training and ‘explainer’ purposes.

Sam Cross, Account Director of Purplex, comments; “Like other agencies in the industry we have used freelance video people, however we had to bring this service in-house to provide the level of service and integration that fits with our company ethos and client focus.”

Purplex has made a significant investment in the new service, including state-of-the-art studio, equipment and editing facilities. The division is headed by Andrew Sykes, who holds a B.S.c (hons) in media and video production. Andrew is an accomplished

videographer, with extensive experience in film making, digital video and post-production.

He said; “Having worked in the media industry for several years across Europe and Asia, I am delighted to be joining Purplex at a very exciting time. Video is a powerful, multi-sensory tool for audience engagement – whether it’s to raise your business credibility, explain a product or service, or as part of an SEO strategy to improve search rankings.”

Joining Andrew in the new division is Jo Greenberry, who will work on creative and animation, client liaison and project management.

Sam Cross added; “We are delighted to launch this important new division. Clients no longer need to ‘make do’ with freelancers and marketing agencies taking a cut.”

“We can manage the entire process and seamlessly integrate video as part of an overall marketing strategy.”

Purplex is a full service agency providing PR, creative design, web and online marketing.

The company was founded by window industry marketing expert Andrew Scott in 2004, and now employs over 40 staff.

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ADVERTISE YOUR VACANCY HERE!From as little as £150 +VaT, per month.

For print and online recruitment marketing and an effective media mix, email christina for further details: [email protected]

The UK’s largest processor, distributor, installer and repairer of glass and glass systems GLaSSoLUtionS has welcomed adam taylor to the business as its new marketing manager.

Adam is an established marketing professional with over 10 years’ experience from both manufacturers and distributors within construction. He was Assistant Product Manager at Polypipe before joining the global Saint-Gobain group in 2007 as Product Manager at Artex, rising to Senior Category Manager in July 2010 where he helped develop the British Gypsum brand within B&Q & Trade Point. He moved to Travis Perkins in January 2013 where his role as Category Manager focused on developing targeted customer propositions both in-branch & externally with full responsibility for a category of over £150 million.

GLASSOLUTIONS, part of the Saint-Gobain Group which celebrates its 350th anniversary this year, recently installed two stunning glass walkway floors at Tower Bridge in London. One of the commitments made by GLASSOLUTIONS in its anniversary year is to continue to invest in innovative materials, new ideas and new techniques for those involved in creating a better built environment. It will also continue to put customers first and has just released the results of a 12-month customer research programme.

Adam said: “It’s great to be back at Saint-Gobain working within GLASSOLUTIONS. It’s an exciting time for GLASSOLUTIONS as we work on differentiating our offer and adding real value for our customers. I’m really pleased to be part of the future of this business.”

Mike Butterick, Marketing Director for GLASSOLUTIONS, said: “Adam has joined the senior management team and his focus is on GLASSOLUTIONS’ national glass processing and distribution activities. He brings a wealth of experience from the boarder construction industry, supporting customers with initiatives to help them differentiate and grow their businesses profitably.”


GlaSSoluTIoNS aPPoINTS

NEW MArkETING MANAGEr AdAM TAYlOr



LigHtS, CAMErA, ACtion! PurPLeX LAuncH neW Video diVision

NEW APPOINTMENT


NEW APPOINTMENT

Fenestration recruitment specialists, Chase taylor, have just launched a dynamic and responsive new website at www.chasetaylor.co.uk, which is a complete information hub for candidates and clients alike.

Chase Taylor are convinced that it’s the most comprehensive and complete recruitment website in the sector and has been design to be responsive to PC’s/Macs, tablets and phones. For candidates there’s a live job board, private log in area with a list of shortlisted jobs and the opportunity to register online with your CV, or indeed the team at Chase Taylor will help you create one.

Similarly, clients can have a private log in area where they can see various updates on the roles that they are looking to fill, along with a new and dedicated executive recruitment programme. It’s a complete recruitment hub for anyone in the fenestration sector, from the industry’s only professionally recognised recruitment consultancy.

On the new website is also the first of a number of regular polls, the first one asking website visitors ‘how often do you utilise video interviewing?’ and each period these results will be published in full. There is also a Live Chat facility so whether people are browsing on a mobile device or from a PC/Mac then they can interact with a professional recruitment specialist in privacy.

Mat Gibson, managing director of Chase Taylor comments: ‘This new website is a big investment for us, but for the betterment of our clients and candidates. We’ve quickly become the recruitment specialist of choice for the glazing industry and the new responsive site will further set us apart. There’s also new initiatives detailed, such as our executive recruitment programme and short-term installer sourcing facility.’

To find out more what Chase Taylor can do for either companies seeking a new position to fill or for individuals looking to enhance their career then call 01543 897800 or e-mail [email protected] in the strictest of confidence.

Alternatively look at the new website at www.chasetaylor.co.uk for the latest jobs or follow them on Twitter @Mat_Chasetaylor.

chaSe TaYlOr’S NEW ONlINE PrESENcE

andrew Sykes and Josephine Greenberry.


Readers may be excused from thinking that the Tar & Feathers is a pub, rather than a medieval punishment which saw criminals publically humiliated as they were processioned through the streets looking like an oversized goose.

The ‘Call Saul’ column in Glass news is brand new and, unlikely as it seems, we have a lawyer in the shape of Philip harmer who is giving his advice to our readers, free of charge! Now I know you will be gasping at the thought that a lawyer isn’t going to sting you with a large bill, but it gets better… if you have any queries about the subject he is talking about in his column, Philip is happy for you to contact him by ‘phone or email and he will impart his wisdom absolutely free. So please, take Philip up on his offer. The ‘Call Saul’ column will try and bring you news and views on current and impending legislation to help you keep ahead of the game.

And why ‘Call Saul’? Those aficionados of TVs Breaking Bad will understand!

Chris Champion Editor

TAr ANd FEATHErS

Legal EaGlE

Call Saul...

PhiliP harmer

About Philip HarmerPhilip Harmer is a Business Lawyer and partner at Stormcatcher Law specialising in employment and business legal services.

His real world experience in construction and property as well as car sales, repair centres, and finance and leasing, give him a true commercial outlook to the business of law pertaining to commercial and company law including employment, anti-bribery, competition and ethics, anti-money laundering , consumer law and trading standards, for the small and medium sized businesses, as well as PLCs and large firms.

contact PhilipTel: 0333 700 7676 [email protected]

But that’s what the Consumer Rights Act intends to reintroduce as the ultimate remedy for those supplying faulty goods and/or shoddy workmanship.

At face value the Consumer Rights Act gives customers a three stage recourse process, including the right to:

• Reject within 30 days.

• Repair or replacement.

• A price reduction or final right to reject.

Exercising the full scope of the law with replacement windows or an entire conservatory poses obvious practical difficulties, leading installers to struggle to see how the new law is going to clean up the industry.

Beyond the fundamental customer remedies are the “Enhanced Consumer Measures”, which aside from financial recompense, can compel firms to comply in the future through staff training and/or the appointment of an in-house compliance officer.

It all seems fairly innocuous. However, unlike those ‘struck off ’ from the Green Deal, firms flouting the new rules may not only be named and shamed, but tarred and feathered; having to publically display their breaches on their website and review sites for all to see - something that will have measurable consequences.

rEcruITMENT lEGAl EAGlE


NEW APPOINTMENT

Glassolutions is ringing the changes to its customer service department with the appointment of Lorraine Bell.

Lorraine has been with the company for eight years and takes on the newly created role of National Customer Service Manager for external glazing. She has previously held roles in the company’s commercial sales

team in Scotland and has a natural desire to seek continuous improvement.

She said: “I’m excited to take on the new role and being involved in helping to make Glassolutions a force to be reckoned with in terms of outstanding customer service.”

Ian Davy, Group Commercial Director at Glassolutions says: “Lorraine’s promotion reflects the importance we place on customer service. Her role is to proactively lead our customer services team and to continually improve our systems and processes to ensure excellent customer communication and service across the business.

“Gaining high levels of customer satisfaction is important to our business because satisfied customers are most likely to be loyal, to make repeat orders and to use a wide range of our products and services. But also, if we can improve the way we do business with our customers then they will reap the rewards too; they will be better placed to improve the service to their own customers. It makes sense that we shape our business around what matters most to our customers.”

Glassolutions is in the UK’s largest processor, distributor, installer and repairer of glass and glass systems. It is part of the Saint-Gobain Group, which is this year celebrating its 350th anniversary.


RINGING THE CUsTomEr sErviCE CHangEs aT glaSSOluTiONS

“gaining high levels of customer satisfaction is important to our business because satisfied customers are most likely to be loyal.”



FAcE TO FAcEThe UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

IT’S All AbOuT YOuWhere you were born and live, currently…I was born in Newcastle upon Tyne, but moved to Reading when I was 12, hence the lack of a Geordie accent. I currently live in Swindon with my husband and two grown up girls, one of which has recently married.

Your education and the subject or activity in which you excelled…I was a general all-rounder, but did particularly well in English, Business Studies & Geography. I also enjoyed playing sport, especially netball.

Your favourite sports or interests…In the last 5 years I’ve become a very keen cyclist which led to me taking part in a series of charity

bike rides. We have been to Jordan, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Sri Lanka and this year I’m off to Kerala in South West India!

I was never much of a cyclist when I was younger but clearly it’s my thing. Once I get on the bike there’s no stopping me! I still don’t like the hills though.

Your biggest regret in life…I don’t believe in regrets, life has to move on regardless. We all find our own path in the end.

Someone or something that inspires you…People that overcome adversity, like those who lose a limb and still get on with life. Individuals like that make me take a step back, re-evaluate my life and help me keep check with reality. And of course my family.

The temptation you can’t resist…Shoes, handbags and coats. I have too many but it’s never enough!

YOur cArEErWhen and how you joined this industry…I joined Deceuninck in June 2002 and after six months I knew I wasn’t leaving. The people and the industry surprised me and I loved the challenge. Twelve years on and I’m still flying the Deceuninck flag.

The job you do in 25 words…Providing excellent customer service, supporting external sales and field staff, coordinating marketing activity, active member of the Deceuninck management team. All keeps me very busy.

Your greatest achievement…Getting on a bike after 25 years and taking it as far as I have.

The mistake you’d like to correct…I only ever see mistakes as the great art of learning.

The talent you would like to enhance…I was always very good at art and would love to learn water colour painting.

ANd YOur FuTurEWhat you would like to do if you weren’t in the industry…Run my own events business, specialising in weddings and parties. Failing that, or for a bit of an easier life, I would love to run my own little shop/café in a lovely little country village, chatting away with everyone who comes through the door.

A particular ambition…To write a book!

The way you want to be remembered…As someone who always did their best, works very hard and never judged anyone.

THIS MONTH: carol hearn customer Services manager, deceuninck ukcarol joined deceuninck in 2002. She is responsible for building long working relationships with customers and supporting deceuninck’s field staff. Within six months of joining deceuninck, carol knew she wasn’t leaving. Twelve years on she has become integral to ensuring customers get the service and support they need.

if you would like to appear in ‘Face to Face’, or would like to nominate someone else to be featured, simply email [email protected].

“i joined deceuninck in June 2002 and after six months i knew i wasn’t leaving. The people and the industry surprised me and i loved the challenge. Twelve years on and i’m still flying the deceuninck flag.”


TIME OuT! The UK’s Leading Glass & Glazing Newspaper

PrIzE!

PrIzE!PrIzE!

Win £30 CASH priZE!!Fill in all the answers in the grid from the clues below, fill in your contact details below and send your competition entry to: FAO: Miss Christina Shaw, Glass News Competitions, 9 The Paddock, Tickhill, Doncaster DN11 9HS. Entry deadline: 30/04/15.

Spot which page the image below appears on and enter to be in with a chance of winning!

Name: Tel:

Address:

Postcode:

Email:

across

1 One in charge of an abbey of nuns (6)

5 Sounds like it’s a relief there aren’t many (3)

7 With nothing he will shortly get a greeting (5)

8 Having the will to succeed (7)

9 Observe the timekeeper (5)

10 Not sleek, in a way, that’s the bones of it! (8)

12 Open a paper to make it happen (6)

14 Top ten turns out to be very powerful (6)

17 Absolutely clean but you may not see it (8)

18 In between terms, come in (5)

20 Theatre company hits the roof when scaly creature appears (7)

21 A previous deed, perfect in every detail (5)

22 A song in a chair without tea! (3)

23 To consent or agree to (6)

Down

2 Part company (5,2)

3 A guy with a job that is out of this world (8)

4 Horses sweat and men perspire but ladies only... (4)

5 In favour of a melody making a lot of money (7)

6 In the absence of (7)

7 A wading bird that gets on with that female (5)

11 A flaming good idea? (3,5)

12 A name is mixed up in this condition (7)

13 Guy Fawkes is a famous one (7)

15 Snuggled down like birds are? (7)

16 In various ports you find a good chap (5)

19 If it’s true it’s for this (4)

Win £10 CASH priZE!!Fill in all the answers in the grid, fill in your contact details below and send your competition entry to: FAO: Miss Christina Shaw, Glass News Competitions, 9 The Paddock, Tickhill, Doncaster DN11 9HS.

Entry deadline: 30/04/15.

Win £10 CASH priZE!!Fill in your answer and your contact details below and send your competition entry to: FAO: Miss Christina Shaw, Glass News Competitions, 9 The Paddock, Tickhill, Doncaster DN11 9HS.

Entry deadline: 30/04/15.

3 4 7 5

9 1

8

2 6 9 4 7

8 5 2 4 9

1

8 9 1 2

1 7 9 2 8

Name: Tel:

Address:

Postcode:

Email:

Name: Tel:

Address:

Postcode:

Email:

Answer:

compiled by Tony lazenby


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building Research Establishment (bRE) Tel: 01923 664000

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Double Glazing & Conservatory ombudsman Scheme (DGCoS) Tel: 0845 053 8975

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Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF) Tel: 0207 939 9101

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health & Safety Executive (hSE) – Glass & Related Industries Phil Smith, HM Principal Inspector Tel: 01782 602300 David Appleton, HM Inspector Tel: 0115 9712800

Proskills – head office Tel: 01235 833844

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account or for more information

0415/0203

We know the trade

Massive Range & Colours

Available

CALL OR GO ONLINE TO FIND YOUR NEAREST DEPOT

Windows & doors made to order

*Rec

eive

FR

EE

DE

LIV

ER

Y o

n or

ders

ov

er £

25 in

Eng

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& W

ales

nationalplastics.co.uk0800 0113503

‘A-rated availableVertical slidersBifold doors & more

NEW! Livin'ROOF & RealROOF - ask for details

0415/0204

Documents

Glass News April 2015