As the UK’s exclusive supply partner of Graf Synergy machines, Haffner delivers the seamless weld machine innovation to take your business to the next level.
• Superior transom welding quality
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“As the fenestration industry continues to face challenging economic pressures and a fast-moving market, businesses across the sector are being reminded that quality products and service alone are no longer enough to guarantee success. With homeowners becoming more research-driven, competition intensifying and buying journeys increasingly beginning online, visibility has never been more important.
For fabricators, installers and suppliers alike, marketing is no longer a “nice to have” but a vital part of business strategy. A strong brand, clear messaging and consistent customer engagement can make the difference between winning new business and being overlooked in an increasingly crowded marketplace.
Now is the time to take a closer look at the role marketing is playing across the fenestration sector, from digital campaigns and social media to brand positioning and lead generation. As market conditions remain uncertain, those willing to invest in how they communicate their value may be best placed to build resilience and drive growth in the months ahead.”
This
Slim sightlines
Available in several configurations
Outstanding thermal performance
Classic matt black finish
Christina Shaw Editor M: 07805 051322
E: christina@fenestrabuild.co.uk
Emma Champion Advertising Manager
M: 07508 263262
E: emma@fenestrabuild.co.uk
Justin Lazenby Finance Director / Press Release Enquiries
M: 07711 828710
E: justin@fenestrabuild.co.uk
Chris Champion Editorial Enquiries
M: 07850 267223
E: chris@fenestrabuild.co.uk
Jordan Beaumont Graphic Design E: jordan@identifywebdesign.co.uk
Independent specialist trade fabricator Fentrade is continuing its growth strategy with a significant 6-figure investment in new Elumatec machinery.
As part of the overall expansion plans following on from the recent announcement about the relocation to larger premises, the South Wales based manufacturer has completed the purchase of an Elumatec SBZ145 Profile Machining Centre to complement the increased capacity of the new premises.
Commenting on the latest investment, Chris Reeks, Fentrade’s Managing Director, was buoyant about the purchase: “The introduction of the SBZ145 into our manufacturing process will allow us to mechanise the process more, providing better production efficiency and also further enhance our already high-quality standards”. Chris continued: “Whilst this is one of the largest machinery purchases we’ve made to date, we’re confident that this will help us to consolidate ourselves as a specialist trade manufacturer and meet our ambitious growth plans for the coming years”.
The Elumatec SBZ145 features 5 processing axes which will perform multiple cutting and routing operations on individual bar lengths or alternatively process pre-cut lengths. A large viewing window allows the operator to monitor the progress of the machining whilst the onboard mobile tool changer with it’s eighteen tool seats allows for quicker tool-change times. Linking to the latest EluCAD software allows the machine to be programmed from both the office and the machine maximising the time the operator spends at the machine.
“The SBZ145 machine purchase reinforces our commitment in the Elumatec range with its reliability and build quality” continues Chris, “and paves the way for further investment in mechanisation as we progress through 2026 into 2027”.
Fentrade has established itself as a reliable manufacturer for the trade and commercial sectors offering a full range of aluminium windows, doors and GFT products from various renowned industry suppliers including Aluk, Kestrel, Jack’s and VBH. The planned relocation to larger premises underscores this investment in new machinery and will further enhance the manufacturer’s reputation as the go-to trade fabricator for high-quality products delivered on-time in-full backed up with their first-class service ethos.
www.fentrade.co.uk
CO Manufacturing has reported a 34% year-on-year increase in leads generated for its Forte composite door range. This high reflects the ongoing success of the Wakefield-based fabricator’s approach to sales and marketing in support of its wider Retail Network.
The uplift in leads represents consistent month-on-month growth since its launch one year ago, and forms part of the company’s wider digital marketing strategy.
At a time when customer acquisition costs across the home improvement sector are rising, this increase demonstrates the effectiveness of CO Manufacturing’s structured and free-to-access approach to product marketing.
The Forté campaign, delivered primarily through paid social activity, is fully funded by CO Manufacturing and provided exclusively to Premium Retailers within the CO Retail Network. Enquiries are geographically targeted and routed directly to the relevant retail partner, ensuring high-intent, appointment-ready opportunities are delivered into defined trading areas. Importantly, these campaigns are not made available outside the Network, reinforcing the value of the closed retail structure.
The rise in enquiries aligns with a 61% increase in Forté composite door sales to Network retailers over the same twelvemonth period, indicating that increased demand is translating into tangible commercial results.
CO Manufacturing attributes the performance to a systemised growth model built around four pillars: continued development of the Forté product range, sustained investment in national brand visibility, precision-targeted digital marketing and the rollout of its Ultimate Sales Pitch training programme. The training equips retail sales teams with structured, consultative selling techniques designed to maximise conversion from the growing volume of enquiries.
Greg Kane, CEO of CO Manufacturing, said: “A 34% year-on-year uplift in lead generation reflects consistent investment rather than short-term activity. Our focus is on delivering sustainable demand for our retail partners through a combination of product strength, intelligent targeting and structured sales support.
Window Warehouse, UPVC and Aluminium window and door manufacturer based on the south coast, prides itself on fantastic lead times. In an industry where delays can often disrupt project schedules, the company’s ability to deliver quickly without compromising on quality is a significant advantage for both trade customers and homeowners.
The UPVC range remains particularly strong, with the VEKA system profiles available in just 7-10 working days for stock colours. This fast turnaround also applies to flush windows within stock profiles, making them an ideal choice for projects requiring both style and speed. VEKA’s Feinstruktur profile also boasts a 7-10 day lead time from Window Warehouse in both the Anthracite Grey and Black stock colours. This new, refined textured finish profile sets installers apart from standardcolour competitors. For more bespoke requirements from customers, non-stock colour options are available within a competitive 7- 8 week timeframe.
Window Warehouse also offers two well-regarded composite door ranges to suit homeowner preferences and budgets. The single rebate range from DoorCo offers a practical and stylish solution with lead times of 3-4 weeks. For those seeking a premium, higher-end composite, the Palladio range features a double rebate design with lead times of 4-5 weeks. Aluminium systems at Window Warehouse, supplied by AluK are equally impressive in terms of efficiency. Bifolds have a lead time of 2 weeks, with windows and doors taking 4-5 weeks, and the Heritage door available in 4 weeks. These lead times apply to stock colours consisting of black, white, and grey, while commercial projects and non-standard specifications are 6-7 weeks.
To start your project with Window Warehouse, visit www.window-warehouse.co.uk, call 02392 327744, or email info@window-warehouse.co.uk.
Associated Steel Window Services (ASWS) has been appointed to undertake the full refurbishment off 78 steel lightwell windows and 43 timber windows for aproject on 21-29 Glasshouse Street, London, working with BAM Construction Ltd and for The Crown Estate.
Construction of the Grade II–listed building which formed part of Sir Reginald Blomfield’s major redevelopment of the Regent Street Quadrant took some 20 years with completion in 1929.
Over two decades ago, ASWS completed a light refurbishment works project across the whole building. Today, after the initial survey was completed, the specialist will undertake the heritage refurbishment of the steel-framed lightwell windows as well as the timber windows on level 5 and 6. The extensive schedule includes an off-site refurbishment scope including full paint strip (in-situ and off-site), reglazing with thermal upgrades to slim double-glazed units with full repairs and redecoration.
ASWS offers a full range of survey, repair, replica replacement and maintenance services for all ages and types of metal and timber windows. For more information on ASWS, please visit asws.co.uk
As a trade-only fabricator, we can focus on giving you the products and service you need to grow your business:
• Veka Windows and Doors
• Flush Sash Windows
• Conservatories
• Leka and Leka Xi Roofing Systems
• Marketing Support
• Profile 22 Windows and Doors
• Patio and Bifolding Doors
• Conservatory Roofs
• Ultraframe and Wendland Roofs
• Technical and Sales Support
Makita has built a global reputation for tools that perform day in, day out, on demanding work sites. That same practical, performance-first approach now defines the new Makita Workwear range – tough, considered and built for real working environments.
Developed by Castle Clothing – the team behind TuffStuff Workwear – and drawing on over 50 years of industry experience, the head-to-toe collection covers everything from base layers to outerwear, trousers, shorts and safety footwear, including dedicated womenswear sizes. Every piece is designed around the realities of site life: kneeling, climbing, lifting, stretching and working through all conditions.
The difference is in the detail – durable fabrics, high-quality components and smart detailing that improve comfort, flexibility and long-term wearability. Performance features are built in where they matter most:
• CORDURA® reinforcements in high-wear areas
• YKK® zips specified for durability
• Ripstop fabrics for strength without unnecessary bulk
• Durable PFC free water-repellent finishes for reliable weather protection
• Dedicated use of recycled fibres and responsibly sourced 100% BCI cotton
• Work-focused fits designed for movement and all-day comfort
Engineered to the same standards tradespeople expect from Makita tools, the range delivers durability, comfort and technical performance without compromise.
Rob Ansell, Managing Director at Castle Clothing, said:
“Every element of Makita’s new workwear range has been developed with trades in mind. They expect their clothing to perform properly on site, and that’s exactly what this range is designed to do. The Makita name stands for quality and reliability, and this collection reflects that – tough, practical and built for demanding environments.”
Window Warehouse strengthens its position within the trade sector by offering installers and homeowners access to two of the industry’s leading composite door ranges, DoorCo and Palladio. With both collections available, customers benefit from a wider choice of styles, colours, and performance features to suit every property type and project requirement.
The DoorCo range remains a popular option for customers looking for versatility, durability, and modern design. Known for its extensive selection of traditional and contemporary styles, DoorCo composite doors allow installers to offer tailored solutions that meet today’s demand for energy efficiency and low maintenance. These composites boast a sturdy LVL core, stiles and rails, 44mm slab thickness, as well as a slam-shut lock and laminated glass as standard. They offer high security and comply with building regulations.
Alongside DoorCo, Window Warehouse also supplies the premium Palladio collection, recognised across the industry for its distinctive monocoque structure and authentic timber- look. Manufactured using a reinforced fibreglass skin, Palladio doors are designed to deliver exceptional strength, thermal efficiency, and weather resistance. Their unique design creates a more traditional aesthetic, making them particularly appealing for heritage and high-end residential projects.
By supplying both DoorCo and Palladio, Window Warehouse gives customers the flexibility to offer solutions across multiple price points and design preferences. Alongside this, both composite ranges involve the integration of the composite slab and Window Warehouse’s frame, meaning any issues can be tackled quickly and efficiently in-house, streamlining their experience with them as a supplier.
Backed by a ten-year guarantee, the DoorCo and Palladio range meets the demand for stylish and highly secure composites. Email info@window-warehouse.co.uk with your project details or visit their website at www.window-warehouse.co.uk to start your quote.
Emmegi has supplied its second Someco machine to aluminium and PVC-U fabricator Mahon Windows in Athlone, Ireland, and in the process demonstrated the benefits to customers of being able to source machines from across the Voilap portfolio direct from Emmegi (UK).
Mahon Windows had already had an Emmegi Phantomatic M3 machine and a Someco 4TVH in-line welder supplied and installed by Emmegi’s specialist sales and engineering team based in Ireland, and had been so impressed by the buying experience that it opted for Emmegi once again when it was choosing a new PVC-U sawing and machining centre.
James O’Connell, Emmegi’s Sales Manager for Ireland, advised the Mahon team on the best machine from the Someco range to suit their needs. He said: “After several years of working together, we have built up a valuable understanding of the Mahon Windows operation and identified the Someco SBZ SM11 CNC as the ideal machine to support their current volumes and future growth plans.
“Being part of the Voilap group means we have access to a vast range of machines from the likes of Someco, Tekna and Keraglass as well as the complete Emmegi range, so we could recommend the ideal machining centre for Mahon to operate alongside their Someco in-line welder.
A team from Forterro (Business Micros) carried out the machine link to Mahon’s Evolution manufacturing software and were particularly impressed with easy it was to link with the integral Someco software. Kevan Howarth from Forterro commented: “This was my first link to this type of machine, and it was a great experience. Really enjoyed working alongside Niccolo and Paul, the engineering team from Emmegi.”
The SBZ SM11 is a 13-axis CNC with centralised modules for milling, cutting and welding prep of PVC profiles. Its advanced through-feed bar design allows for precise handling and positioning of profiles, and ensures high-speed, continuous processing – with inbuilt checks that ensure the profile being loaded by the operator is the one indicated in the machining list. The machine is equipped with 11 electrospindles for working on all sides of the profile and comes with an integrated contouring module, optimised for Seamless® welding preparation via Mahon’s Someco SM4H welder.
• Three-hook locking for enhanced security
• Bi-directional steel claws for strong, consistent engagement
• Adjustable keeps for accurate, hassle-free alignment
• Sprung gearbox as standard for smooth operation
• Twin spindle for lever/lever or lever/pad configurations
• 10-year mechanical guarantee
Hardware specialist VBH has announced that it joined the Glass & Glazing Federation at the end
Established in 1982, VBH is a leading manufacturer and supplier of high quality hardware and ancillaries for windows and
As well as offering its own popular greenteQ brand, the company is also a distribution partner for some of the most widely respected names in hardware. VBH Customers have access to products from AGB, Cotswold, Roto, Securistyle and Yale,
Richard Gyde, managing director at VBH, had this to say on the decision to join the GGF; “The depth of knowledge that the GGF team has is exceptional, and is brought to the fore when representing our industry when in dialogue with outside
“The members themselves, including several of our partners and competitors, also possess vast amounts of experience and we are keen to add the insight gained over our 44 years of trading to the collective knowledge pool.
“We’re very excited to join the GGF and its members at the forefront of driving and shaping standards and legislation for the
On the heels of yet another strong year of growth, REHAU Windows UK has announced a series of structural changes to its senior management team in line with its ambitious Vision and Strategy 2030, taking effect from June 2026..
Most notably, after 38 years’ service, Martin Hitchin has decided to retire from his role of CEO REHAU Ltd and Executive Vice President Window Solutions Northern Europe. Martin will continue as chairman of the REHAU Ltd board and will also act as a senior advisor focusing on development of the company’s commercial windows strategy, strategic partner relationships and continued leadership of trade associations British Plastics Federation (BPF) and Recovinyl.
Taking the helm in REHAU’s Windows Solution sub-group will be Russell Hand who joined REHAU Ltd in 1999 and as of 1st June 2026 will become Executive Vice President Windows Solutions Northern Europe, and a member of the REHAU Ltd board. Russell will help grow the UK business while strengthening relationships with regional partners and reinforcing REHAU Window Solutions as a long-term partner to the trade.
Barry Gilligan will take on the expanded role of National Sales Director Window Solutions UK & Ireland, and will join the REHAU Ltd board, leading the sales organisation with a clear focus on customer success and sustainable growth.
Finally, Matthew Baker, Finance Director, who joined REHAU in 2008, will take up the additional role of UK Country Manager. As a long-standing member of the REHAU Ltd board, Matthew will have responsibility for compliance and legal matters as well as ensuring strong governance across all REHAU’s UK sub-groups as the business continues to grow.
REHAU says these appointments reflect the collective confidence in the experience, leadership and commitment of this team
Martin comments: “Throughout my time at REHAU, the business has been built on stability, long-term thinking, and doing the right thing for our customers and our people. I am extremely proud of the leadership team around me, whose experience and commitment have been central to our success. As the business moves into the next chapter with Vision and Strategy 2030, I have every confidence in both the strategy and, most importantly, the colleagues who will take it forward.”
A new event has been announced to boost the glass and glazing industry following tougher trading conditions and rising costs.
The event is organised by Insight Data, the award-winning supplier of prospect data and the company behind Salestracker, the sales and marketing software.
Andrew Scott, CEO of Insight Data commented; “We know the market is challenging right now. Volume is down, margins are squeezed and costs are up. But while some companies hesitate, others will push forward and take market share. insightEDGE will equip attendees with the knowledge and skills to dominate their existing market and exploit new ones.”
Scott is well known as the industry growth expert and has advised many of the industry’s leading companies. He previously acquired, built and sold several businesses including one company he sold to Sir Richard Harpin, the tycoon who sold Homeserve PLC for £4.1 billion.
“Delegates will walk away from this event with renewed clarity, cutting edge strategies and new skills that can be applied immediately to attract, convert and retain customers.”
“In one day, we’ll help you build a clear, actionable plan to grow revenue, improve margins and outperform competitors using proven frameworks, real-world strategies and live commercial insight.”
insightEDGE is aimed at both hands-on sales and marketing teams as well as business leaders focused on growth.
Taking place in the West Midlands on September 17th 2026, this is a must-attend for teams who wants to drive revenue and margins despite industry conditions or economic uncertainty.
insightEDGE is a one-day conference and workshop focused entirely on sales, marketing and business growth.
Spaces are limited and can be booked at insightedge.co.uk
Choosing machinery is the easy part. It’s what comes after that matters most.
Modern cutting tables, toughening furnaces and IGU lines are all capable of delivering impressive results, and most reputable manufacturers will provide equipment that does exactly what it is designed to do. To choose between them, you can compare performance figures, seek out reviews or recommendations and calculate returns-on-investment. But as Flat Glass Solutions (FGS) managing director David ‘Oz’ Cahill points out, the real test begins once the machine is installed.
“Anyone can sell you machinery that looks great on paper,” says Oz. “The question is what happens when something unexpected stops production? That’s when you find out whether your supplier is genuinely there for you.”
In a glass processing environment, downtime is extremely costly. Production schedules are tight, customers need on-time deliveries and energy-intensive equipment such as toughening furnaces can consume significant amounts of power even when idle.
“When the line stops, the numbers add up very quickly,” Oz says. “You’re losing output, operators are standing around and customers are waiting. Suddenly aftersales support becomes worth far more than any specification sheet.”
Fast, responsive support
FGS has built its reputation on combining machinery sourced from leading manufacturers around the world with responsive technical support. The company’s approach is based on a simple principle: no matter where the equipment is manufactured, support must be immediate, practical and focused on getting lines running again, fast.
“We supply machinery from Europe and Asia, but from the customer’s point of view there is absolutely no impact where it’s from,” says Oz. “If there’s a problem, our customers get the answers they need straight away. Because they don’t want excuses about time zones or language barriers, they just want the issue sorted.”
That commitment was demonstrated recently when Hills Glass, a family business that has been supplying glass products to the home improvement and construction-related industries for 75 years, encountered an issue with the Yuntong toughening furnace it had purchased 11 years earlier. With production halted, the FGS team worked with its technical contacts to identify the problem and communicate a solution within the hour.
