Window News Magazine March 2026

W INDOWNEWS

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Cover picture: MasterPatio Bi-Part door system achieves PAS 24 certification, © photo Marc Sourbron, fabricator VAMA, read more on page 54

Glyngary reports 95% revenue increase in 2025

Following a successful rebrand, premium timber window and door manufacturer Glyngary Joinery has reported significant business growth, closing 2025 almost double its 2024 size, with a 95 percent year-on-year increase in top-line revenue. The results underline the company’s strengthening position within the timber window and door fabrication sector.

The Cheshire-based manufacturer attributes this growth to a steady stream of new trade customers

– particularly installers and trade counters – alongside increased demand from existing partners. Central to this momentum is the company’s ongoing mission to re-educate the sector on the benefits of targeting the premium end of the market and selling highperformance timber products.

“Accoya, a scientifically modified pine, has completely transformed timber’s proposition in the UK fenestration market,” explains Joe Trueman, director of Glyngary Joinery. “Accoya is our

standard offering. It comes with a 25-year warranty and a 70-year life expectancy. It’s thermally efficient, achieving full window U-values of 1.2 with standard double glazing and as low as 0.68 with triple glazing. At the end of its long lifespan, it’s also fully biodegradable and recyclable.

“Despite the industry’s best efforts, much of the old uPVC removed still ends up in landfill. Because of this – and the clear performance advantages of Accoya – we’re seeing timber make a strong comeback in the UK market.

“Over the last 18 months, we’ve invested heavily in our brand, marketing assets, software and manufacturing machinery. This has enabled us to scale confidently and sustainably, almost doubling in size within a very short period of time. Operating from our 40,000 sq ft manufacturing facility in Cheshire, we also have significant capacity to support continued growth over the next five years.”

Quote intake in January and February reached record levels, reflecting growing confidence among Glyngary’s trade customers. As more installers recognise the value of targeting the premium market – rather than competing in a race to the bottom on price – they are seeing stronger, more profitable returns.

Glyngary delivers nationwide and, unlike most timber window manufacturers in the UK, does not install. By staying focused purely on manufacturing, the company says it is able to “dedicate 100 percent of its energy to supporting its trade partners’ growth, rather than competing with them”.

In November 2025, Glyngary says it made further significant investments in production capacity, ensuring the business is well positioned to build on its recent 95 percent growth.

sales@glyngary.co.uk

AluFold Windows sets out structured supply-only model from 70,000

sq/ft

Blackburn base

AluFold Windows has detailed the structured, supply-only operating model now embedded at its manufacturing facility in Blackburn – purpose-built to support repeat residential and commercial aluminium work at scale.

Eight months on from the acquisition of AluFold Direct by Unique Window Systems in June last year, AluFold Windows is continually refining its prominently positioned factory within one of northwest England’s most recognised manufacturing hubs. The 70,000 sq/ft space can be found at Whitebirk Industrial Estate, near the M65 corridor

in Blackburn, and the scale and visibility of the site reflect the structured operation now embedded inside.

“The new factory has been a defining step for the business,” says managing director, Neal Addison. “Moving machinery into a facility that’s genuinely fit for purpose has allowed us to improve production flow, strengthen operational control and create an environment that has been designed for long-term scale from day one.”

AluFold Windows says it operates strictly as a supply-only fabricator,

committed to working alongside customers rather than competing with them. The business has simplified its aluminium offer around core, repeatable systems, working more closely with partners at specification stage to reduce complexity before orders reach the factory floor.

“Aluminium can feel complicated because of the number of systems and options available,” says commercial director, Rhodri John. “Our role is to simplify that – agree the right solution early and work with installers and contractors from the outset, so they move forward with the confidence of a truly expert, extended team behind them.”

Supported by Unique Window Systems at every stage, AluFold Windows says its focus is on disciplined production, earlystage technical collaboration and dependable aluminium fabrication for customers seeking a longterm, supply-only partner.

http://alufoldwindows.co.uk/

Emplas CORE event brings customers and suppliers together

Trade fabricator Emplas has hosted its fourth annual CORE customer focus group, bringing together fifteen key customers and supply chain partners to discuss the latest industry developments and preview new product innovation.

Held at the prestigious Holland & Holland Shooting Grounds in Northwood, Middlesex, on 29th January, the event provided an opportunity for open discussion around the market outlook for 2026, emerging consumer trends,

and the collaborative initiatives helping customers maximise opportunities in the year ahead.

The day’s presentations included an economic outlook from HSBC, offering valuable insight into the wider financial landscape and what it could mean for the home improvement sector in the coming year.

Phil Parry of Epwin also delivered an update on the Closed Loop Recycling initiative, revealing that 245 tonnes of PVC-U have been

recycled by CORE members since the scheme went live.

Emplas used the event to provide an update on its operations, alongside the launch of Snug Windows & Doors, outlining how continued investment and strategic development will support customers in a competitive market.

“We established CORE to bring our key customers together with our supply chain partners to review market drivers, share best practice, and keep customers informed of the latest developments shaping our sector,” said Ryan Johnson, Emplas’ group managing director.

“The nature of the event means much of what we discussed stays under wraps for now, but we shared an exclusive preview of forthcoming product innovation, along with updates on software development and

ongoing initiatives that will help our customers stay ahead in what remains a challenging market.”

Ryan continued: “None of us work in isolation, and the challenges we face will be managed far more efficiently if we continue to listen, share knowledge, and work in partnership with our customers and key supply chain partners.

“A lot of what we develop needs feedback and buy-in from our customers, and the CORE focus group gives us the perfect platform to share our strategy and obtain this feedback.”

Following the day’s presentations, customers also had the opportunity to take part in clay pigeon shooting at the renowned venue, providing a relaxed setting for further networking and discussion.

www.emplas.co.uk

Dekko set to unlock new commercial aluminium opportunities

Dekko Window Systems is poised to capitalise on significant new growth opportunities following Inwido’s recent acquisition of Fast Frame, strengthening its position within the UK fenestration market, according to the company.

Fast Frame, a specialist manufacturer of uPVC windows, doors and patio doors for the trade and commercial markets, joins Inwido as a bolt-on acquisition to Dekko.

While Fast Frame has an established commercial presence, it does not manufacture aluminium, creating a natural opportunity for Dekko to support and expand this offering, says the company.

Kurt Greatrex, managing director of Dekko, commented: “There’s real excitement around Inwido’s recent acquisition of Fast Frame. It’s a strong bolton for the group and one that

creates immediate opportunity for Dekko.”

“Fast Frame operates successfully in the commercial market but doesn’t manufacture aluminium. That’s where Dekko is ideally placed to add value, supplying high-quality commercial aluminium systems that complement their existing offer.”

For installers, the acquisition opens the door to confidently expanding into commercial aluminium projects, supported by the combined expertise of Fast Frame, Dekko and the wider Inwido group, claims the company.

“This isn’t just a growth opportunity for us as a fabricator,” added Kurt. “It’s about giving installers a clear route into commercial aluminium, backed by trusted manufacturing, proven systems and the reassurance of a major European group.”

dekkowindows.com

UKO Glass announces manufacturing upgrade with new IGU production line

UKO Glass has announced the installation of its latest high-performance manufacturing asset, the LIVA 1-LCYM-S 25-321/6. This cutting-edge system marks a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing investment in efficiency, quality, and advanced glass production technology, says the company.

Designed to transform the way insulated glass units are manufactured, the new machine delivers production speeds up to 3x faster than previous processes. With the ability to produce up to 500 square metres per day and handle glass from 3mm to 19mm thick, manufacture triple glazed units up to 70mm thick and oversized units up to 3.2 x 2.5 metres using the built-in tilt table,

this investment introduces a new era of capability for the business.

The machine incorporates an advanced press and washing system and one of the system’s key innovations is its automated gas-filling functionality. By filling units inside the press using built-in calculations, the system eliminates the need for manual gas filling, reducing labour time, and ensuring each unit is ready for sealing once exiting the press. UKO Glass says this enhancement significantly accelerates production while maintaining consistently high quality.

In addition, the machine’s intelligent detection technology automatically identifies whether the glass is coated and confirms

correct orientation before processing. This feature is said to dramatically reduce the risk of human error and allow a more streamlined workflow.

With the new line performing nearly every step except sealing, the factory can now operate with fewer standalone machines, freeing up valuable floor space. This additional room has enabled UKO Glass to expand its dispatch area and increase daily product output, supporting the company’s long-term growth strategy.

Tony McAspurn, production manager at UKO Glass commented: “This machine represents a major leap forward for our production capabilities. Its speed, precision, and automation allow us to deliver higher volumes and even better quality while improving workflow across the entire factory. Investing in technology like this helps us continue meeting the growing demands of our customers.”

www.ukoglass.co.uk

ERA and Zoo strengthen sustainability commitments as part of Quanex 2035 roadmap

UK hardware brands ERA and Zoo, as part of Quanex, are helping to shape progress towards the group’s wider 2035 Sustainability Roadmap.

As part of Quanex’s Hardware Solutions division, the two brands contribute to a shared annual sustainability action plan, alongside brands Reguitti and Giesse. The plan outlines proactive measures aimed at minimising environmental impact, while supporting UK customers with innovative products and sustainability services, says the company.

According to the company, the brands will contribute to the Quanex 2035 Sustainability Roadmap through three core pillars: Sustainable Products, focused on providing innovative, sustainable solutions for customers; A Healthy Planet, aimed at delivering world-class environmental performance throughout their operations; and Thriving People and Communities, supporting an inclusive and safe workplace, while positively contributing to the communities they serve.

Supporting these pillars, ERA and Zoo will action a range of initiatives over the next nine years, reflecting key customer and operational priorities. This will include the expansion of innovative and sustainable products and services for UK customers, alongside ongoing packaging and material improvements.

Wider priorities will also include the continued transition towards more environmentally responsible operations. In addition, the brands will also maintain a strong focus on the highest safety standards, fostering an inclusive workplace culture, and positive community involvement through volunteering initiatives.

Striving to consistently exceed the expectations of their customers, ERA and Zoo will draw on Quanex’s extensive global expertise and resources to deliver on their continued commitment to sustainability, innovation and customer support, as part of

the ambitious roadmap, which aligns with 11 out of the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), claims the company. The SDGs are objectives set out by all UN member states to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure peace and prosperity.

Already making significant progress towards their plans, since 2022, around 45% of ERA and Zoo’s revenue has been generated from products that have positively impacted one or more of the UN’s SDGs. In addition, the brands have committed to eliminating waste to landfill and all ‘single-use’ plastic packaging on products supplied to their customers by 2030, says the company.

ERA and Zoo, as part of Quanex Hardware Solutions division, are also working towards gaining Environmental Product Declarations for their products, offering the transparency required to drive forward sustainable change within the construction sector, allowing their customers

to better understand the environmental impact of their products.

Lara Coutinho, supply chain sustainability manager, at Quanex Group, says: Sustainability at Quanex is about building long-term value through practical action, not ambition alone. With that, we’re pleased to announce our new outcome-driven 2035 roadmap.

ERA and Zoo play an important role within our Hardware Solutions division, contributing to a shared approach, through an action plan that integrates sustainable product innovation, responsible operations, and positive social impact.

Combining Quanex’s global scale with ERA and Zoo’s local expertise, as a team we’re able to support our customers with solutions that meet the highest standards of performance and sustainability.”

www.eraeverywhere.com

www.zoohardware.co.uk

Steel reinforcing supply unaffected by Middle East unrest

Important message from Paul Sullivan, managing director, Anglo

In light of the current unrest in the Middle East, we want to reassure our fabricator customers that there will be no disruption to the supply of steel reinforcing products. Anglo will continue to supply its full range of steel reinforcements at guaranteed fixed prices.

“I recommend that any concerned fabricators contact us as soon as possible to secure a guaranteed steel price for the remainder of the year,” said Paul Sullivan. “We have created a stable and secure trading environment for UK fabricators, and that stability is being successfully stress-tested at the moment. I want to reassure window manufacturers that their bespoke fixed prices are safe with Anglo, now and well into 2026.”

To fix your steel prices with Anglo, contact us on 0161 231 2354 or email enquiries@anglometal.com

Glass Partition

Ultimate Aluminium Internal Glazing System

The Korniche Glass Partition gives you more than just room separation. It’s a design feature, and a practical solution that delivers the perfect balance of beauty and functionality.

Key features:

Heritage aesthetics with multiple configurations

Pre-assembled frames crafted from ultra-slim, durable 6063 T-5 aluminium and finished in RAL 9005 matt black

Korniche SpeedBead technology for fast, secure fitting of glass and aluminium panels

Toughened or acoustic laminated glass options or aluminium kick-plates.

Matching handles, hinge accent caps and escutcheons - available in a choice of colours and finishes.

Domestic or commercial use

10 year Manufacturer’s Warranty

ISO9001 Quality Manufacture

Warwick North West backs Liverpool housing ambitions

Liverpool-based fabricator Warwick North West has welcomed the Liverpool City Region Mayor’s newly announced housing ambitions, describing the plans as a vital step towards tackling housing need while creating long-term opportunities for regional manufacturers and suppliers.

The £2bn housing pipeline, unveiled by Mayor Steve Rotheram, sets out proposals to deliver more than 63,000 new homes across the city region, including a significant focus on social and affordable housing.

For Warwick North West, which manufactures windows and doors for residential and social housing projects, the announcement reflects both a social priority and a

commercial opportunity.

“As a Liverpool business, this is exactly the kind of joinedup thinking our region needs,” said CEO Greg Johnson.

“Housing delivery at this scale has the potential to transform communities, but it also underlines the importance of a strong, local supply chain that can support housing associations and developers with quality, compliant products.”

With Warwick North West based in Bootle in the Metropolitan Borough of Sefton, Greg highlighted the particular significance of the proposals for his local area. “The pipeline identifies 48 sites and 7,723 units in Sefton alone, which is hugely encouraging for the borough

and for businesses like ours that already work closely with social housing providers.”

Greg also believes that a renewed focus on social housing can unlock benefits well beyond the construction phase.

“Fabricators are critical to delivering homes that are safe, sustainable and built to last,” he added. “And a clear pipeline gives confidence to invest in everything from people to machinery and innovation. That’s how you build capacity across the supply chain, not just units on the ground.”

“Liverpool has always been a city that gets things done when there’s a shared ambition. We fully support this move and look forward to playing our part in delivering homes that genuinely serve the communities of the city region, now and for generations to come.”

www.warwicknorthwest.co.uk

FENSA:

“We’re an advocate, not an obstacle”

FENSA has clarified its role in the glazing industry, emphasising that it is not a rule-maker, but a structured support system that helps installers operate compliantly within a regulated market.

In periods of legislative change, certification bodies can become the visible face of compliance, and therefore the focus of frustration.

However, Building Regulations are set by government bodies, not by competent person schemes.

FENSA, as a Governmentauthorised scheme, monitors compliance with those regulations and provides installers with a recognised route to self-certify their work – helping them to meet legal requirements efficiently and confidently.

“The misconception we still hear is that FENSA creates the rules,” says Sam Davies, technical manager at FENSA. “That simply isn’t the case. Regulations are introduced at Government level. Our job is to help installers understand them, implement them, and stay ahead of them.”

Even without competent person schemes, compliance would remain mandatory – but enforcement would sit directly with local authority building control.

Schemes such as FENSA offer an alternative model designed to streamline processes, reduce administrative burden and provide practical technical guidance in one place.

Alongside certification, FENSA provides day-to-day support to help installers interpret changes, complete paperwork correctly, and avoid costly compliance errors.

“Regulation isn’t optional,” Sam adds. “What matters is how installers manage it. Our role is to give them the framework, tools, and support they need to operate compliantly and focus on running their business.

As the sector continues to adapt to higher standards and increased scrutiny, FENSA is positioning itself not as an obstacle to growth, but as part of the infrastructure that supports long-term professionalism and stability.

www.fensa.org.uk

Eurocell issues replacement window specification to

technology and design being overlooked – creating avoidable compliance and performance risks.

all social housing providers

Eurocell has issued a replacement window specification directly to every social housing provider in the UK, designed to help providers improve compliance, reduce risk and bring greater certainty to window installation and retrofit programmes.

Eurocell says the exercise responds directly to the growing regulatory and operational pressures facing registered providers, particularly where legacy window specifications are still being reused and may no longer meet current standards for upgrades.

This specification forms part of Eurocell’s wider SureSpec initiative, which was recently launched to ensure that what is specified at design stage is exactly what is manufactured,

delivered and installed on site.

SureSpec is a fully audited, end-to-end specification approach for both windows and doors, supporting social housing providers with clearer accountability and a stronger audit trail across new-build and retrofit projects.

The move comes at a critical moment for the sector, following the introduction of the Social Housing Act 2023, Awaab’s Law and the Building Safety Act, alongside ongoing updates to Approved Document L and other Building Regulations .

Eurocell says many window replacement programmes continue to rely on outdated specifications, often lifted from previous projects, which can result in the latest advances in

The replacement window specification has been designed so it can be taken and dropped straight into existing documents. The company says it is suitable for all housing stock, including hard-to-treat upgrades and properties requiring internal or external wall insulation.

Gary Doxey, commercial manager at Eurocell, said: “Social housing providers are under huge pressure to deliver compliant upgrades at scale, while balancing cost, resident satisfaction and longterm asset performance. By issuing a replacement window specification, we’re responding directly to that challenge and helping providers reduce risk at specification stage.

“The aim is to remove ambiguity, close compliance gaps and support better outcomes across both retrofit and new-build programmes.”

Each specification includes

verified performance, reinforcement, carbon, hardware and testing data. This is designed to lock in clarity from the outset, preventing the risk of non-compliant substitutions later in the supply chain which can lead to delays and additional costs.

Eurocell says the system is also designed to support upcoming changes to energy modelling, including the government’s incoming Home Energy Model (HEM), which will require accurate, product-specific performance and carbon data. Generic or recycled window specifications are unlikely to meet future compliance thresholds, adds Eurocell.

SureSpec has been developed to support all stakeholders involved in the supply chain of

fenestration:

• Asset managers and technical teams receive a specification that can be lifted and dropped into existing documents, supported by Technical Specification Managers and drawing office support.

• Surveyors and contractors benefit from clearly defined reinforcement, loading and integration requirements, reducing risk at quotation stage. Fabricators and installers receive window-by-window drawings and practical guidance, supported by Eurocell’s approved fabricator network.

• All SureSpec projects are underpinned by an on-site audit carried out by Eurocell, verifying that installations match the original design intent – providing

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an additional layer of assurance for social housing providers and regulators.

In addition to compliance, Eurocell says SureSpec strengthens sustainability reporting by embedding accurate carbon and recycling data within each specification, supported by Eurocell’s closed-loop PVC-U recycling capabilities.

Gary added: “The focus now is consistency in delivery. Whether providers are upgrading a single block or rolling out programmes at scale, getting the specification right upfront helps avoid rework, delays and disruption later on.”

For more information about SureSpec, or to request a replacement window specification, visit: www.eurocell.co.uk/surespec

Euroglaze stock control system helps deliver 3-day lead time

Euroglaze has made more investments in its Eurostock stock monitoring tool, which so far this year has helped to deliver a 100% OTIF on its threeday lead time for white PVC-U frames, says the company.

The Barnsley based Rehau fabricator says it routinely delivers the kind of service that most other trade fabricators can only aim for – and that’s partly because Eurostock gives both its customer service and its production teams 100% round the clock visibility of actual stock levels.

Euroglaze customers are informed at the point of order – whether that is online or via the customer service team – if any component on their order is unavailable, so that they can be offered an alternative, and no order can ever enter the factory unless it can be completed in full. The result is that Euroglaze customers don’t ever have to worry about orders turning up late or incomplete and they can plan their own work schedules with absolute certainty, says the company.

Rolling stocktakes are now being done digitally at Euroglaze’s

Barnsley factory throughout the year and quantities uploaded directly into the software tool, so there is no risk of errors, no downtime and no time being wasted entering or transferring data, claims the company.

Martin Nettleton, Euroglaze’s managing director, explained: “Any reporting tool like Eurostock is only ever as good as the data behind it, so adding rolling stocktakes and digital inputting means we now have even better data than before – and that is obviously being reflected in our market leading 100% OTIF score.

“Of course, Eurostock is only one part of the wider Euroglaze efficiency story. Our three-day turnaround on white PVC-U frames is achieved because we have a highly advanced, lean manufacturing environment, which maximises output per operator and a Quality Circles philosophy, which ensures we have close to zero QC rejections in the factory.

“That combination also helps us keep prices competitive and makes us a very easy and rewarding partner to do business with.”

www.euroglaze.co.uk

Schüco and Jansen extend long-standing partnership

Schüco International and Jansen AG have renewed their long-standing agreement that grants Schüco UK exclusive distribution rights for Jansen steel systems in the UK. In doing so, both companies affirm the success of their collaboration.

The two family-owned companies have worked together for almost 50 years, with Schüco holding exclusive distribution rights for Jansen steel systems in the UK and several other European markets since the year 2000.

Jansen’s steel profile systems for windows, doors, fire protection and façades form an important part of the Schüco UK portfolio and are widely specified for their quality, design

flexibility and high performance, according to the company.

The partnership is rooted in shared values, explains Andreas Engelhardt, managing partner and CEO of Schüco International KG:

“This year, Schüco is celebrating its 75th anniversary. Partnerships with companies that share our high standards of quality, service and innovative strength have always been important to our long-term success. We have shared these values with Jansen, a family-owned company just like Schüco, for more than 45 years. I am delighted that we are continuing and further expanding our trusted partnership into the future”

Entrance Composite Door Solutions doubles down on stock with major

warehouse

Entrance Composite Door Solutions is expanding its Nottingham headquarters with a new 6,000 square foot warehousing facility, bringing its total site footprint to 22,000 square feet.

The expansion will significantly increase stock holding capacity and enlarge the company’s CNC machining department, directly addressing the lead time and availability pressures that trade installers face during peak demand periods.

The investment forms part of a wider programme of site development that has already exceeded £1.6 million, with a further £1 million earmarked for continued growth.

expansion

“For trade installers, stock availability is not a nice-to-have – it is the difference between keeping a project on track and having to manage disappointed homeowners and slipping schedules,” says Entrance CDS managing director Gregory Kelly.

“Our expansion has been planned with that reality squarely in mind.

“The increased warehousing will allow us to hold substantially higher volumes of finished and semi-finished product, meaning shorter lead times on standard orders and greater resilience when demand spikes.

“The expanded CNC machining department will also boost our capacity to process stock-

held product for bespoke specifications without creating bottlenecks.”

The expansion reflects Entrance CDS’ broader commitment to supporting the growth ambitions of its installer network. As composite door sales continue to strengthen across the UK residential market, installers need supply partners who can scale with them rather than become a constraint.

“We’re not just adding square footage for the sake of it,” Gregory added. “This is about making room for further product development as well. We want to give installers access to a wider range, backed by stock they can actually get hold of. The days of eight- and ten-week lead times should be behind us, and we’re putting our money where our mouth is to make sure that’s the case.” www.entranceway.co.uk

Joedan celebrates 40th anniversary

with perfect £3m birthday present

A manufacturer and installer of aluminium windows and doors is celebrating 40 years in business in style after signing off on a £3m investment drive.

Joedan, which was founded by husband and wife John and Nicky Purcaro at their home in Cheltenham, is setting its sights on doubling annual revenues to £35m by 2030 as it looks to open a second manufacturing facility and increase its retail arm.

Named after their children Joseph and Daniella, the family-run business has enjoyed consistent growth over the last four decades, with more than 120 people now employed at its head office in Tewkesbury and across its design centres in Winchester and on the Isle of Wight.

Designing and producing its own ‘Lusso’ aluminium window and door range has been crucial to the firm’s longevity and complements

founding values of the highest manufacturing quality, attention to detail, excellent customer service and, on the retail side, no pressure selling, says the company.

“The business was literally setup on our kitchen table, so we’ve come a long way since we made that decision in 1985,” explained John, whose first employee – Ian Churchley – has only just retired after 39 years of service.

“Nicky gave us three rules to follow. Firstly, there was no pressure selling and that has not changed. Secondly, we would never open on Bank Holidays or at Christmas, as we still believe people deserve to spend time with their families.

“Finally, and most importantly, the business had to be in the names of our children…that way we knew

we wouldn’t fail as I could never see us failing our children!”

He continued: “These values have stood us in good stead and remain a vital part of the business. We are also committed to moving to the next level and that’s why we’ve just signed off on a £3m investment plan in new machinery, our network of design centres and, tellingly, in a second manufacturing facility in the Isle of Wight.

“The deal has been completed on this, but it will be a perfect 40th birthday present to ourselves and our team.”

(l-r) John Purcaro (Founder), Dan Cowl (Executive Director) and Joseph Purcaro (Managing Director) at Joedan’s Tewkesbury manufacturing facility.

Joedan in 2026 is a designer, manufacturer and installer of its aluminium windows and doors to residential and commercial clients, including long-standing customers in education, healthcare and industry.

It’s ‘Lusso’ range is produced at its 32,000 sq ft site in Tewkesbury, whilst its ‘Portofino’ UPVC window collection is supplied through its relationship with CO Manufacturing (previously known as Conservatory Outlet), a relationship that has been in place for more than ten years.

Whilst commercial counts for 60% of its current £18m turnover, the retail side of the business is also growing strong following a series of acquisitions that saw Wessex Window Systems (Winchester), Micron Windows and Doors (Orpington), Coastline Home Improvements and Topline

Windows (both Isle of Wight) join the Joedan family.

Its latest venture has involved taking a stake in Eden Windows Doors & Conservatories, a trusted and well-established home improvement retailer operating across Kent and Orpington in Greater London.

This move will drive the company’s further expansion into the retail market and delivers access to a new geographic customer base across the strategically important area of the South East.

“It’s great to look back at what we’ve achieved, but we are also passionate about developing the next generation of professionals in our sector. This has seen us create our own Apprenticeship Academy in 2000, which gives each apprentice specialist training and the chance to spend time in all areas of the business before deciding on the career they want to choose,” continued John.

“Over the last twenty-five years, this investment has created more than 100 members of staff for Joedan, two of whom who are now on the board of directors.”

Managing director Joseph Purcaro, who has been working with his dad since he was 17, added his support: “There is a real family feel to our business and that flows through the way we manufacture windows and doors, the way we have created our design centres and the way we install products in people’s homes.

“It has stood the test of the time and helped us complete more than 500,000 installations over the last forty years – that is some achievement.

“Now the focus is on building for the next generation, and we are looking forward to putting the £3m expansion plans into action over the coming months.”

www.joedan.co.uk

Jack Aluminium’s

SD70 Door achieves PAS 24

Jack Aluminium’s SD70 Heritage Door has successfully achieved PAS 24 testing on a large-format doorset measuring 2100mm wide by 2500mm high, says the company.

The test was carried out on a full-scale doorset representative of real project specifications, reflecting the growing demand for larger door sizes across residential and light commercial applications.

According to the company, the latest PAS 24 result incorporates recent refinements to the SD70 system, including a bespoke hinge design developed by Jack Aluminium and updated hardware configurations. Importantly, these enhancements have been achieved while maintaining the slim sightlines required for heritage-style

aesthetics.

The result forms part of Jack Aluminium’s ongoing programme of system development and independent testing, ensuring its products continue to meet evolving performance and compliance requirements.

The SD70 Heritage Door is part of Jack Aluminium’s wider portfolio of aluminium systems designed for residential and commercial projects where both design and performance are key considerations. With highperformance U-values from 1.3 W/m²K and versatile single or double door configurations, the SD70 Heritage Door is compatible with Jack Aluminium’s RD70, TW70, and SW60 systems.

www.jackaluminium.co.uk

GGF welcomes ROI government’s commitment to

windows and doors in national

home energy upgrade programme

The Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF) has welcomed the announcement by Ireland’s Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, Darragh O’Brien TD, of a new package of enhanced grants supporting homeowners across the Republic of Ireland to invest in energy efficiency upgrades, including replacement windows and doors.

The measures represent a clear recognition by the Irish Government of the critical role that building fabric improvements play in delivering meaningful reductions in energy demand, carbon emissions and household energy costs.

The announcement stands in contrast to the UK Government’s

recently published Warm Homes Plan for England, in which windows and doors were notably absent from the core package of nationally funded measures.

The GGF continues to liaise with the government in its calls for a fabric-first approach in England, arguing that effective decarbonisation of homes cannot be achieved without addressing heat loss through the building envelope.

Under the Irish scheme, homeowners in the Republic of Ireland can apply for grant support for replacement windows based on dwelling type, with grant values of €1,500 for apartments, €1,800 for mid-terrace homes, €3,000 for semi-detached or end-of-terrace

Chris Beedel, head of government advocacy & stakeholder relations at the GGF

properties, and up to €4,000 for detached homes. External door upgrades are also supported at €800 per door, up to a maximum of two doors.

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has confirmed that homeowners may apply for window grants, door grants, or both, subject to eligibility criteria including a valid MPRN and a property built or occupied prior

to 2011. Detailed requirements, including BER conditions for window upgrades, are published by SEAI.

Applications for the scheme will open on Monday 2nd March 2026. Importantly, homeowners who commenced or ordered window and/or door upgrades following the Government’s announcement on 27th January may still be eligible for grant support, provided works are carried out by SEAI-registered contractors.

“This announcement from the Irish Government provides welcome recognition of the important role that windows and doors play in delivering energy efficiency at scale,” said Chris Beedel, head of government advocacy & stakeholder relations at the GGF. “Ireland’s approach reflects a strong, evidence-based understanding of how building fabric improvements contribute to lower energy demand and improved home performance, and offers a valuable reference point for ongoing policy discussions.”

“The GGF is actively engaging with SEAI to further clarify requirements and to make sure that glazing is treated in the same way as other fabric measures. We will continue to work to support the effective delivery of this scheme and to ensure the expertise of our sector is fully reflected in its implementation.”

The GGF continues to work at the forefront of industry-government relations across the UK and Ireland, advocating for policy frameworks that recognise the importance of building fabric improvements as a foundation for successful decarbonisation.

The Federation encourages contractors operating in the Republic of Ireland to register with SEAI to enable homeowners to access grant support through qualified, compliant providers.

www.ggf.org.uk

AWG shines a spotlight on its female workforce this International Women’s Day

To mark International Women’s Day, Affordable Windows Group (AWG) is celebrating the women who contribute to every corner of the business – from manufacturing and production through to sales, marketing, and the boardroom.

AWG, one of the UK’s leading trade suppliers of uPVC and aluminium windows and doors and home to heritage brands Timberlook and Decorio, currently employs 37 women in a broad range of roles.

Two female members of the senior management team have each served an average of 36 years, while women in the uPVC production office average 11 years and those in sales average a decade. Across the aluminium and uPVC shop floors, female team members bring between five and eight years of hands-on production experience.

Director Paula Cocker, who is one of the company’s longestserving team members, said: “We need to see female figures across every department and at every level. When the next

generation of workers can see someone like them – in the roles they hope to achieve – it inspires real confidence. That visibility matters.”

Head of marketing Amelia Gaughan, who will mark 12 years with AWG this July, added: “The length of service among our female staff speaks volumes. Women aren’t just present at AWG – they’re embedded in the fabric of how we operate, and many have helped shape the company into what it is today.”

Amelia noted: “Many of the women on our team have an extraordinary eye for detail, and provide the patience and steady hand needed for more intricate jobs. We have incredibly talented women right across this business, and International Women’s Day gives us a moment to properly recognise their impact. Their skill and commitment are central to everything we deliver – from Timberlook flush sash to our Decorio range and beyond.”

Timberlook.com

Industry webinar inspires new direction for entrepreneur

A recent webinar hosted by marketing expert Andrew Scott has sparked an exciting new chapter in the business journey of one of its attendees.

Duncan Wright, managing director of London-based Lindenwood Home (UK) Limited and Timber Windows, gained far more than he anticipated after attending the session led by Andrew, Founder and CEO of Purplex Marketing.

Duncan commented: “I joined January’s webinar, looking forward to the advice and strategies Andrew would share with the industry. He didn’t disappoint –Andrew knows his stuff and not only gave us all some fantastic ideas and strategies, but it also really inspired me. To be honest, any time with Andrew is incredibly inspiring, whether he’s delivering a session to a group or speaking to you on a one-to-one basis.”

Duncan also took advantage of the two-hour strategy session that Andrew offered to five business leaders that attended the webinar.

“When Andrew offered this session at the end of the webinar I jumped at it – who wouldn’t,” Duncan added. “And true to his word, we met for more than two hours and went through my business top to bottom – sales, marketing, business operations and finance. We even discussed business fundamentals and the importance of getting those right.

“One thing that really stood out to me, from our conversation, was Andrew’s experience in acquisitions. This is part of my own mindset but talking to someone, like Andrew, who’s been there and done it many times was incredibly valuable and I really appreciated his thoughts and guidance on the acquisition process.”

Andrew Scott commented: “The glass and glazing industry has faced some challenging times but there is still plenty of opportunities for growth, regardless of economic uncertainty or market conditions, and I’ve spent the last 20 years helping businesses capitalise on those opportunities.”

Following the success of the January webinar, Andrew Scott hosted a second session on Wednesday 25 February at 11.00am.

During this focused, onehour presentation, he delivered an overview of the industry, highlighted emerging opportunities, and outlined the key strategies that every business needs to adopt to defy prevailing trends and achieve sustainable growth.

www.purplexmarketing.com

Veka strengthens product testing capability with dedicated in-house weathering facility

Building on its established technical and testing infrastructure, Veka plc has enhanced its research and development capability with the addition of a dedicated inhouse weathering rig within its workshop facility. The equipment, supplied by ift MessTec, part of ift Rosenheim, enables controlled environmental evaluation of window systems as part of Veka’s technical support service.

Supporting early-stage

performance evaluation

The facility is used for indicative performance testing, allowing Veka to work collaboratively with customers to assess system behaviour under simulated wind, rain and pressure conditions before progressing to formal testing with an accredited certification body.

For fabricators, this early-stage evaluation can provide practical

commercial benefits. By generating recorded performance data under defined parameters, customers are better positioned to review system configurations, consider alignment with target market requirements and prepare for projects where specific performance standards are required.

Simulating demanding weather conditions

The rig is designed to replicate demanding weather scenarios in a consistent and measurable way. A fog system visually identifies potential air leakage paths, while air permeability testing measures airflow through a product under pressure in line with recognised classification standards.

Water tightness testing simulates wind-driven rain with increasing air pressure, measured in Pascals, to assess resistance to water ingress. Wind deflection and pressure pulse

testing monitor how frames and glazing respond to sustained loads and repeated gust simulations, recording structural movement and behaviour.

Together, these assessments provide insight into how a complete system performs under controlled conditions. Internal evaluation does not replace formal third-party certification but is intended to support preparation for it.

Reducing risk before formal certification

By identifying potential areas for review earlier in the development cycle, customers may make adjustments prior to attending a UKAS-accredited test facility. This supports informed preparation for formal testing and may help reduce the likelihood of unexpected outcomes that could result in additional time or cost.

Collaborative development for specific market sectors

Veka’s technical team works collaboratively with customers to review hardware selection, configuration details and system combinations to suit their intended application, while maintaining focus on production efficiency and

practical manufacture.

Recently, Veka worked with a long-standing fabricator to review the performance of selected hardware on a Veka window system. The assembled system was evaluated under defined environmental conditions, with air permeability, water tightness and structural response recorded throughout. The documented results provided the customer with performance data ahead of formal external certification testing.

Phil Gregory, design & development manager at Veka, comments: “The weathering facility enables us to collaborate closely with customers during product development. By carrying out indicative testing under controlled conditions, we can generate recorded data that supports informed technical decisions before systems move forward to accredited certification testing.”

The workshop facility forms part of Veka’s ongoing investment in technical infrastructure and customer partnership, providing controlled environmental evaluation and collaborative development expertise to support customers in preparing for formal validation routes.

Premier Arches reports strong growth following successful 2025

Premier Arches has reported continued business growth, closing 2025 with an 11 percent year-on-year increase in top line revenue, underlining the company’s strengthening position within the specialist window and door fabrication sector, says the company.

The St Helens manufacturer attributes this growth to a steady stream of new trade customers, particularly fabricators and trade counters, alongside increased demand from existing partners. Central to this momentum is the company’s ongoing mission to simplify the ordering and manufacture of arched, angled and other complex frame designs for the trade.

Premier Arches believes specialist products such as arched and angled frames represent a valuable opportunity for fabricators, installers and trade resellers looking to increase margins in a competitive marketplace.

The company reports that 2026 has already begun strongly, with a number of new trade partnerships established in the early weeks of the year. Ongoing investment in machinery, staff training and company culture has positioned the business to support further expansion.

Fentrade relocates to expanded premises to support growth strategy

Independent trade fabricator Fentrade has completed the purchase of a new 10,539 sq ft facility, marking a significant step forward in the company’s ongoing growth journey.

The move to the new premises, with a planned completion by May, will mark an important milestone for the Newport-based fabricator, providing the space and infrastructure needed to support rising demand and the next stage of its growth strategy.

Chris Reeks, managing director of Fentrade, commented: “This purchase is a direct result of the progress we’ve made over recent years. Demand for our products continues to grow and the new premises gives us the capacity and flexibility to build on that success while maintaining the reliability our customers expect.”

According to the company, the increased footprint allows for higher production capacity alongside improved operational flow, helping to safeguard dependable lead times as volumes increase. Chris added: “Consistent delivery is nonnegotiable for our customers. The additional space ensures we can continue to deliver on time, in full and without pressure on quality as the business grows.”

Alongside manufacturing improvements, the relocation also brings expanded office facilities to support more streamlined internal workflow. Chris commented: “Our customers rely on us to make their supply chain simpler. That responsiveness and availability will always be central to how we operate.”

A dedicated showroom is also

being incorporated into the new premises, extending Fentrade’s customer support offering. The space will allow visitors to view products up close, explore specification options and demonstrate finished products to their own clients. Chris said: “The showroom will create a more collaborative environment, giving our customers the opportunity to showcase quality and innovation, helping them add value and unlock new upselling opportunities.”

The new premises at 2A Adelaide Street, Newport, are located just a few miles from Fentrade’s current site, allowing the business to retain its strategic position close to the M4 motorway. This ensures continued rapid access to the national transport network and supports the company’s fast turnaround and delivery performance.

Fentrade was acquired by Aluminium Vision in 2025, a move that unlocked investment and provided the platform for further expansion.

www.fentradealuminium.co.uk

The Business Pilot Barometer offers a monthly analysis of the key trends defining window and door retail. It draws on real industry data collated by Business Pilot, the cloud-based business management tool.To find out more see www.businesspilot.co.uk/barometer

The Business Pilot Barometer

The calm after the storm

By Neil Cooper-Smith, Senior Analyst, Business Pilot

February’s figures suggest the market is beginning to settle into a clearer rhythm after January’s seasonal reset. While the new year often brings a surge of early enquiries followed by cautious decision-making, February shows signs of strengthening momentum: particularly in sales performance and order values.

Conversion rates stabilised, remaining consistent at 38.7%, compared to January’s 38.4%. While still below December’s peak, this stabilisation is important. January often sees a temporary dilution as fresh enquiries enter the pipeline, but February’s small recovery indicates that those early-year prospects are now progressing more decisively. In context, this reflects a market that is not overheating but quietly consolidating.

Lead activity softened slightly compared to January, easing by around 8%. That cooling is not unusual after the sharp post-Christmas rebound and does not suggest weakening demand. In fact, when viewed alongside the sales data, it points to a healthier funnel: fewer speculative enquiries, but stronger intent among those who do make contact.

That intent is most evident in sales volumes, which increased by approximately 11% monthon-month. This marks a second consecutive rise and signals that installers are successfully converting opportunity into confirmed work. Importantly, sales growth has now outpaced lead growth, reinforcing the idea that February was less about volume and more about efficiency and quality of engagement.

Average order values rose significantly again in February, increasing by nearly 18% to £4,694, compared to January’s £3,962; this represents a meaningful acceleration in spend per project. Rather than trading down, homeowners appear willing to commit to higher-value installations. That pattern suggests confidence among those proceeding, even if broader consumer sentiment remains measured.

The wider UK economic backdrop helps to explain this measured but positive progression. The rate of inflation dropped to 3% in the year to January, down from 3.4% in December, moving closer to the Bank of England’s 2% target.

Meanwhile, interest rates remained at 3.75% in February, significantly lower than their 2024 peak, with further gradual reductions expected across the year. Stabilised borrowing costs are particularly supportive for younger homeowners and those with mortgages coming up for renewal, improving affordability for larger discretionary purchases.

At the same time, UK wage growth has remained ahead of inflation, gradually restoring purchasing power, and consumer confidence – while still negative overall – has shown incremental improvement since the start of the year.

These factors in tandem – easing inflation, stabilising interest rates, and real wage growth – create a cautiously supportive environment for home improvement investment.

For installers, the implication is clear: February was less about chasing sheer enquiry volume and more about capitalising on committed buyers. In an environment where overall confidence is improving slowly rather than surging, success depends on understanding which opportunities are ready to convert and ensuring follow-up is timely and targeted.

This is where tools like Business Pilot become particularly valuable. By tracking conversion trends, monitoring order value shifts, and analysing pipeline movement in real time, installers can focus effort where it delivers the greatest return. When demand is selective rather than universal, precision matters more than ever.

As we move into March, February’s data suggests the foundations for 2026 are steady. Growth is not explosive, but it is structured, value-driven, and increasingly efficient. For businesses that remain data-led and responsive, that is a platform worth building on.

Advocating for a fabric-first foundation

As the UK accelerates towards its Net Zero targets, the debate around how best to decarbonise the nation’s housing stock is intensifying. For the Glass & Glazing Federation (GGF), the message is clear: meaningful, long-term energy efficiency must begin with a fabric-first approach.

Fabric first entails prioritising improvements to the building envelope –windows and doors, walls, roofs, floors, –before installing low-carbon technologies such as heat pumps or solar panels. It is a principle grounded in building physics and practical delivery.

If a home continues to lose heat through poorly insulated walls or outdated glazing, adding renewable technologies risks addressing the symptom rather

than the root cause.

The GGF has consistently argued that effective decarbonisation cannot be achieved without addressing heat loss through the building fabric. Windows and doors, in particular, play a critical role in reducing energy demand, improving comfort and ensuring heating systems operate as intended.

“Energy efficiency must start with the building fabric,” Chris

Chris Beedel

Beedel, head of government advocacy & stakeholder relations at the GGF, says. “If we electrify heat in homes that are still leaking warmth through inefficient windows and doors, we are simply making lowcarbon technologies work harder

than they need to. That’s not cost-effective for households or for government.”

The UK’s housing stock is among the oldest in Europe, with millions of properties built before modern energy standards were introduced. In many of these homes, ageing double glazing or poorly fitted frames allow

significant heat to escape.

Upgrading to modern, highperformance double or triple glazing can substantially reduce heat loss, cut draughts and lower household energy bills.

Reducing heat demand first also makes low-carbon heating technologies more viable.

Heat pumps operate most efficiently in well-insulated homes with lower heat loads, and installing them in properties that still suffer significant fabric heat loss can lead to higher running costs and consumer dissatisfaction due to systems being oversized.

“We’re certainly not saying that solutions like heat pumps aren’t an important part of the solution,” Chris continues, “but they perform best in homes that are already thermally efficient. A fabric-first retrofit ensures we create the right conditions for these technologies to succeed, rather than setting them up to struggle or fail.”

The importance of building fabric has been recognised elsewhere. In the Republic of Ireland, the government’s national home energy upgrade programme includes support for replacement windows and doors, reflecting an understanding of how fabric improvements reduce energy demand and emissions.

By contrast, in England, the GGF has sought greater clarity on how glazing upgrades will be supported under the Warm Homes Plan, where references to windows and doors have so far been limited.

For the GGF, this distinction matters:“Windows and doors are not cosmetic upgrades,” says Chris. “They are fundamental components of a home’s thermal envelope. Recognising their role in policy frameworks is

essential if we are serious about delivering whole-house retrofit at scale.”

Beyond carbon savings, fabric-first measures deliver immediate and tangible benefits for households. Improved glazing enhances thermal comfort by eliminating cold spots and draughts. It reduces condensation and associated mould risks, contributing to healthier indoor environments. It can also improve acoustic insulation, particularly important in urban settings.

There is also a system-wide benefit. As heating becomes increasingly electrified, overall electricity demand will rise. By reducing heat loss first, fabric improvements help limit peak demand pressures on the grid, making the broader transition to Net Zero more manageable and cost-effective.

The glazing sector itself has invested heavily in product development, from glass with improved solar gain, to ultrathin triple glazing, with these solutions readily available and supported by competent, qualified installers.

For policymakers, the conclusion should be clear. A whole-house approach – starting with the building envelope and then layering in low-carbon technologies – maximises the return on investment and protects consumers from suboptimal outcomes.

“As we move towards Net Zero, we have to get the fundamentals right,” Chris concludes. “Fabric first or Fabric Now aren’t just slogans, they are practical frameworks for delivering warmer homes, lower bills and genuine carbon reductions. If we build on strong foundations, everything else works better.”

www.ggf.org.uk

What you need to know about BS 6375-1

By Kevin Underwood, technical director at the British Woodworking Federation (BWF)

In conversations with customers around external windows or doorsets, you may be asked to confirm that products meet the BS 6375-1 standard. It’s a familiar reference across the sector, but what does compliance involve, how is performance assessed, and how does it support declarations of performance?

What is BS 6375-1?

BS 6375-1 classifies performance for air permeability, watertightness and resistance

to wind load. The standard applies to vertical windows and doorsets, including designs where opening lights are not fully framed, such as adjustable glass louvres.

BS 6375-1 links performance requirements to established European test and classification standards.

Performance characteristic Test standard Classification standard

The three characteristics covered by BS 6375-1 are also essential characteristics under BS EN 14351-1, the designated standard for external windows and doors.

As a result, test outcomes for air permeability, watertightness and wind resistance must be declared on a Declaration of Performance (DoP). Under the Construction Products Regulation (CPR), almost all external windows and doorsets on the UK market will require a DoP.

Exposure categories and performance levels

One of the key functions of BS 6375-1 is to help determine the required performance class for a window or doorset based on its exposure category. This applies to products installed in buildings up to 15 metres in height.

A chart gives the basic wind speed for a UK location. This is used to determine the wind load at sea level, which is then shaped by several factors including:

• Height above sea level

• Whether the site is in an exposed (coastal) or built-up area

• Topography (such as hills, cliffs or escarpments)

• Local effects, such as wind funnelled between buildings or dormer installations

For example, a dormer window on an exposed coastal building in Scotland will experience greater wind pressures than a bungalow window in Oxford.

As exposure increases, BS 63751 helps ensure that products can resist wind pressure, prevent water ingress and limit uncontrolled air infiltration when correctly installed.

Why BS 6375-1 matters for compliance

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How the tests are carried out

All three tests can be carried out on the same test specimen at an accredited laboratory using a test rig.

Air permeability: The specimen is subjected to increasing levels of both positive and negative air pressure with the volume of air leakage is measured. To achieve a given classification, average leakage values must not exceed specified limits.

Watertightness: Any trickle vents may be temporarily sealed for the test. Water is sprayed onto the external face of the product at a 24O angle for 15 minutes, initially at zero pressure and then at increasing pressure steps. The test ends when water penetration occurs on the internal face or areas not intended to get wet. The classification is based on the maximum pressure achieved before water penetration.

Resistance to wind load: This test has three stages. Firstly, the deflection test – positive and negative pressures equivalent to the in-service wind load are applied and deflection is measured. Limits are typically set at length/150. Then a cyclic loading test where 50 cycles at half the design pressure assess durability and damage, before a safety test applies pressures equal to twice the design wind load, and the product must remain closed with no components detached.

Demonstrating real-world product performance

BS 6375-1 links location, exposure and building design to realworld product performance. As homeowners and customers increasingly focus on energy efficiency, BS 6375-1 provides homeowners with confidence in their product selection and evidence that windows and doors will perform as intended.

What does true OTIF really mean?

Jonny Green, Principal Product Manager at Framexpress, talks about why honest measurement matters more than perfect percentages.

Every installer knows the feeling. A fitting team is booked, the customer is expecting you, and the delivery arrives missing a key item or running late. Suddenly the day – sometimes the whole week – needs reshuffling, with costly knock-on effects.

That’s why delivery performance – measured through OTIF, or On Time, In Full delivery – has become such an important indicator of supplier reliability. But while OTIF is widely quoted, it isn’t always widely understood. Increasingly, installers are asking what OTIF actually means in practice, because a percentage alone doesn’t always tell the full story, especially when suppliers

Green

measure performance in different ways.

When a number becomes a marketing tool

Many suppliers promote OTIF figures of 98 or even 99 percent. On the surface, those

numbers sound reassuring. But measurement varies across the sector, meaning companies can report similar figures while delivering very different customer experiences.

example, is a delivery still considered on time if it arrives late on the scheduled day? Does an order count as in full if small items follow later? And how are post-delivery replacements handled?

Without consistent standards, OTIF risks becoming a marketing statistic rather than a genuine reflection of service performance.

What installers really need from OTIF

For installers, OTIF simply means deliveries arrive when promised, complete and ready to install so jobs can proceed without disruption.

A late or incomplete order can leave fitting teams idle, force installations to be rescheduled and frustrate homeowners, creating additional visits and lost margin. Delivery reliability directly affects profitability and reputation, making it a key factor when choosing a supply partner.

Why honest measurement matters

At Framexpress, OTIF is treated as an operational discipline rather than just a headline figure.

Manufacturing bespoke products at scale is complex, and supply chain pressures, specification changes and transport challenges can all affect schedules. Ignoring those realities helps no one. Addressing them transparently allows installers and suppliers to work together when challenges arise.

By tracking performance carefully, Framexpress can pinpoint where improvements are needed and invest in solving problems at source, whether in production, scheduling or logistics. Honest measurement drives accountability internally and supports continuous improvement across operations.

How operational OTIF supports flexibility on site

Monitoring OTIF performance isn’t just about reporting figures. It allows Framexpress to provide the flexibility installers often need in the real world.

By closely tracking production and delivery performance, teams can spot issues early and respond quickly. When plans change on site or an item is missed from an order, that operational visibility helps the business step in to find solutions wherever possible, keeping projects moving.

Flexibility is something Framexpress prides itself on. Installations don’t always run to plan, and being able to adjust, accommodate changes or help resolve last-minute issues can make a real difference to installers managing customer expectations and tight schedules.

Installers aren’t simply buying products – they’re protecting their reputation with homeowners. Supporting customers when challenges arise turns the relationship into genuine partnership, built on collaboration and trust rather than simple supply. Strong operational control therefore reinforces Framexpress’s role as a reliable partner working alongside customers to help them keep projects on track.

Part of a bigger service picture

Delivery performance is also about communication and accountability. Even efficient operations occasionally face challenges, and early communication allows installers to adjust schedules and manage customer expectations, minimising disruption.

Service, however, goes beyond systems and processes. Installers deal with people who know their names, understand their businesses and are accessible when support is needed. That personal connection helps resolve issues quickly and builds long-term relationships based on trust.

Reliable service therefore combines realistic lead times, accurate order processing, proactive communication and swift resolution when issues arise. OTIF should reflect real customer experience rather than simply internal reporting.

Beyond the Numbers

Ultimately, installers need dependable partners who understand the pressures they face and work consistently to support them.

True OTIF performance isn’t about winning a numbers contest. It’s about delivering orders when expected, complete and ready to install so installers can complete projects efficiently and maintain customer confidence.

By measuring performance honestly and using those insights to keep improving, Framexpress focuses on what matters most – helping customers deliver successful installations every day.

Because in the end, reliability isn’t defined by a statistic – it’s defined by experience.

The cost of poor quality – and why it’s never worth the saving

In the glazing industry, price pressure is nothing new. Installers, fabricators, and specifiers are all being asked to do more for less, often with tighter timescales and higher customer expectations. Against that backdrop, it’s understandable that cost can become the deciding factor when choosing a supplier.

But after years working in this sector, I’m convinced of one thing – poor quality is always more expensive in the long run.

The real cost of sub-standard products rarely shows up on the original quote. It appears later – in call-backs, delays, remedial work, reputational damage, and strained customer relationships. And once those costs start stacking up, any initial saving quickly disappears.

One of the biggest issues with poor-quality glazing products is inconsistency. When tolerances aren’t tight, materials aren’t properly selected, or manufacturing processes lack control, the result is a product that may look fine on paper but causes problems on site. Frames that don’t sit correctly, glass that

doesn’t align as expected, or components that simply don’t marry up as they should all lead to wasted time and frustration for installers.

Time, of course, is money. Every additional hour spent resolving an avoidable issue eats into margins. Worse still, it disrupts schedules, pushes back other jobs and creates knock-on effects that are difficult to recover from. For installers trying to run efficient, profitable businesses, this is where poor quality really hurts.

There’s also the customer experience to consider. End users may not understand the technical reasons behind an issue, but they do understand delays, repeated visits and visible imperfections. Even when problems are caused by a third-party supplier, it’s often the installer who bears the brunt of customer dissatisfaction. Over time, this can damage trust and undermine hard-won reputations.

At Premier Arches, we’ve built our business around the belief that quality has to be designed in from the very start. That means investing in the right materials,

maintaining strict manufacturing controls, and ensuring every arched frame we produce is made specifically to order. Arched and shaped products leave far less room for error than standard frames – which is precisely why attention to detail matters so much.

Quality also extends beyond the product itself. Clear communication, accurate lead times, and proper quality checks are just as important as the frame leaving the factory. When those elements are missing, problems are almost inevitable. When they’re in place, everyone in the supply chain benefits.

It’s worth acknowledging that higher-quality products may come with a higher upfront cost. But that cost reflects the reality of skilled workmanship, robust processes and accountability. More importantly, it buys peace of mind. Installers can fit with confidence, knowing the product will perform as expected. Projects run more smoothly. Customers are happier. Businesses become more resilient.

In contrast, chasing the lowest possible price often means compromising somewhere –whether that’s on materials, manufacturing time or quality control. Those compromises may not be obvious at first, but they always surface eventually.

As an industry, we should be having more open conversations about the true cost of poor quality. Not just in pounds and pence, but in time, stress and reputation. When you take all of that into account, quality isn’t a premium option – it’s the most cost-effective choice there is.

In my experience, investing in quality isn’t about spending more. It’s about spending wisely. And in the long run, that’s what keeps businesses moving forward.

http://premierarches.co.uk/

Why every installer should know RISA

In the glazing industry, disputes rarely begin in a courtroom. They begin with something small. A flush casement that doesn’t look quite right, a bay window that has moved a few millimetres, a composite door that doesn’t close as smoothly as the homeowner expected.

Left unchecked those small concerns can quickly gather momentum.

Questions turn into complaints, complaints turn into withheld

payments, and before long the conversation shifts from technical performance to contractual disagreement.

“A lot of the disputes we see aren’t about poor workmanship,” explains Lee Galley, inspection manager, at RISA. “They’re about misunderstanding, expectation, or a lack of independent evidence to explain what’s actually happening.”

That absence of clarity is often what causes issues to snowball.

RISA’s role is not to appoint blame or inflame a situation. Its approach is evidence-led and rooted in technical assessment.

Inspectors gather the facts, assess compliance against relevant standards and regulations, and present findings in a robust, defensible report. No speculation. No exaggeration. Just evidence.

“We concentrate on what we see and how the installation complies with the applicable standards. We don’t express opinions where evidence doesn’t exist.”

That distinction is important. In many cases, an independent inspection confirms that the installation is acceptable and compliant. Homeowners who may have struggled to accept reassurance from the installer are often willing to accept it from an accredited independent source.

That reassurance can be enough to draw a line under a dispute and allow payment to be released.

Where issues are identified, RISA does more than simply list defects. Its reports set out proportionate, practical remedial actions. Replacement is not recommended where a reasonable and achievable solution exists.

“As a rule, we will never recommend replacement if there is a practical remedial route,” the team explains. “That specialist knowledge can make a significant difference to cost.”

Specialist knowledge is at the heart of RISA’s value.

Glazing is a niche discipline within construction, and modern products demand tight tolerances and technical understanding.

Flush systems, composite doors, bi-folds and coastal installations

all present specific challenges.

General construction professionals may not always recognise the nuances of load transfer in bay windows, the visual tolerances of flush casements, or the performance ratings required for exposed locations.

Collectively, RISA’s inspection team brings together more than 500 years of experience within the window and door industry. That depth of knowledge allows issues to be assessed in context, not in isolation.

Crucially, RISA is not only a resource for when things go wrong.

Early involvement can prevent repeatable problems on larger developments, particularly in social housing or multi-plot schemes where specification errors can multiply quickly.

Desktop reviews, quality assurance inspections, and compliance checks are at the outset can save significant remedial cost further down the line.

“The earlier we’re involved, the easier and more cost-effective it is to resolve issues,” adds Lee. “Once installations are finalised, everything becomes more difficult.”

Ultimately, knowing RISA is about more than dispute resolution. It is about protecting margins, maintaining professional reputation, and ensuring decisions are based on evidence rather than assumption.

For installers navigating increasingly complex products, tighter tolerances, and heightened consumer expectations.

Access to RISA’s independent, specialist expertise is not a last resort, it is a sound commercial practice.

Giving homeowners what they want without blowing the budget

Steve Collett, Sales Director at Dekko Window Systems, looks at why installers must be able to provide the right solutions to win more business.

In today’s climate, installers are working harder than ever to close sales. Homeowners are still spending, but they’re shopping around more and expecting real value for money before committing to any home improvement project.

One trend we’re seeing consistently is the growing aspiration for aluminium. When homeowners picture a dream extension or a stylish renovation, it’s often the big-ticket items that come to mind first, sleek aluminium bifold doors or wide-span sliding patio doors that bring in light and create that coveted open-plan feel. These products are impactful, and they remain extremely popular.

But here’s the challenge; not every homeowner has the budget to carry that aluminium look throughout the entire property. And this is where installers can really add value. It’s about demonstrating that homeowners don’t need to kit out the whole house in aluminium to achieve a cohesive, high-end finish.

At Dekko, we’ve long championed the idea of smart, blended solutions, and right now, they’re resonating more than ever. Our

Infinity flush sash windows, for example, provide the perfect complement to aluminium doors. They deliver that clean, modern aesthetic homeowners are after, but at a far more accessible price point. In many cases, they also offer superior U-values, giving customers an upgrade on both looks and performance.

Likewise, Residence 7 with a full Graf weld is proving a strong alternative for homeowners wanting a contemporary, seamless finish without the full aluminium price tag. Both Infinity Flush and our fully Graf-welded Residence Collection integrate effortlessly with aluminium bifold doors and patio doors, giving installers the flexibility to create an integrated design while helping customers stay within budget.

The truth is that homeowners want choice and installers want products that sell. By offering high-quality uPVC flush solutions that pair beautifully with aluminium doors, installers can give homeowners the premium look they desire, the performance they expect, and the financial comfort they need in tougher economic times.

Right now, the winners will be the installers who guide their customers, show them the smarter alternatives, and deliver solutions that blend style, efficiency, and value. At Dekko, we’re here to help you do exactly that. www.dekkowindows.com

GGF appoints Lauren Mawford as Director

The Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) has appointed Lauren Mawford as its Director, marking a significant step in the organisation’s continued evolution and long-term strategic development.

Lauren has been with the GGF for almost four years, working across a range of functions within the Federation. During that time, she has developed a detailed understanding of the

needs of the Federation’s diverse membership.

In her new role at the helm of the GGF, Lauren will focus on strategic leadership, decisionmaking and long-term planning. She will lead the Federation team and oversee all key operational areas, including membership, technical, training, consultancy and advocacy.

Working closely with the CEO

and Board, she will ensure organisational alignment and delivery against the GGF’s strategic priorities.

“I’m incredibly excited to step into the role of Director”, says Lauren. “A key part of this role is making sure everything we do is aligned and delivering value to our members, while maintaining the high standards the GGF is known for.

“For members, this means a more joined-up experience, clearer communication and a continued focus on technical excellence and standards. It also allows us to think more strategically about how we grow, innovate and deliver long-term value.”

A central focus for Lauren will be to ensure the GGF remain the voice of the industry, while strengthening collaboration across the wider GGF Group, ensuring closer alignment between businesses, sharing expertise and maximising value for members across the whole organisation.

Lauren is also the first woman to hold the position of Director at the GGF.

“It’s something I’m really proud of”, Lauren explains. “The industry has traditionally been male dominated, but we are seeing positive change: not just in representation, but in how we think about leadership and diversity of perspective.”

Her appointment comes at a pivotal time for the glass and glazing sector, as regulatory, environmental and commercial pressures continue to reshape the built environment. With a strong internal track record and a clear strategic focus, Lauren’s leadership will play a key role in shaping the next phase of the Federation’s development.

www.ggf.org.uk

Glazpart appoints new managing director

Glazpart has announced the appointment of Wes Ball as managing director of the Glazpart Group.

With a formidable background in senior management roles across the Automotive manufacturing sector, Wes brings proven leadership skills, strategic vision and fresh business acumen to the Glazpart Group.

On his appointment Wes commented: “I’m delighted to be stepping into the role of managing director at Glazpart. While our industry is new to me, within my

first month it’s already proving fascinating.

I’ve been hugely impressed by the commitment and expertise

Allan Brothers appoints new production manager

Timber window and door manufacturer Allan Brothers is celebrating Women in Construction Week (March 1 – 7) with the appointment of Linzi Jo Watson as its first female production manager at its factory in Berwick upon Tweed.

In her new role, Linzi is responsible for all factory operations, from the delivery of raw timber to the operation of the machine centre, assembly, and finishing, and managing a team of over 50 operatives.

Having started her career in women’s fashion, Linzi joined Allan Brothers as a customer service assistant 17 years ago. Since then, she has worked her way up, gaining broad-based experience of the business as Planning and Logistics Manager, Internal Sales and Planning Manager, and latterly Production Section and Planning

Manager.

Linzi said, “My younger self would never have dreamt that I would end up in charge of factory operations for a busy timber window and door manufacturer.

“I really love the hands-on nature of production, with the day-to-day challenge of juggling the logistics of tight schedules, managing stock, and maintaining strict health and safety standards, whilst making sure that our products leave the factory gate in top condition. It’s been a huge learning curve, and the team’s supported me every step of the way!”

Allan Brothers managing director, Morten Bach Valsted, said: “We’re really proud of Linzi’s achievement. Her leadership qualities, dedication and deep understanding of the whole business from initial quote to delivery have more than earned her

of our people and their constant drive to achieve high levels of customer service; this is reflected in the strength of our longstanding customer and supplier relationships.

Over many discussions with the Glazpart Group ownership ahead of joining, it became really clear that we had a very strong alignment on our desire to continue to build a strong long-term future for the Glazpart Group – I’m truly excited by the journey ahead.”

With the Glazpart team, Wes is looking forward to meeting customers and potential customers, in the coming months at various events where Glazpart will be participating as sponsors and exhibitors.

www.glazpart.com

this promotion to one of our most demanding senior roles, which will be key to this year’s ambitious growth plans.”

Allan Brothers manufactures approximately 15,000 window and door wings per year and, with the introduction of new product lines, has growth targets of 15–20% in 2026.

www.allanbrothers.co.uk

Purplex commercial director to spearhead supplier and trade partnerships

Purplex Marketing has expanded its partnership-led growth strategy with commercial director Sam Cross taking on an enhanced role focused on developing strategic industry partnerships.

Sam, who has been with Purplex for 17 years, will continue in his role as commercial director while leading the agency’s

growing network of partnerships with manufacturers, trade organisations, accreditation schemes and industry bodies across the construction and glazing sectors.

The move reflects increasing demand from suppliers and trade organisations seeking to support their customers with professional marketing, lead generation and

business growth – without the resource or infrastructure to deliver these services in-house.

Sam commented: “Across the construction and building products sector, we’re seeing more suppliers and trade bodies being asked by their customers for help with marketing and lead generation. These organisations want to add value, but marketing isn’t their core business.

“My role is focused on building partnerships that allow them to support their customers’ growth in a meaningful way, while creating sustainable routes to market for Purplex. When B2B suppliers, fabricators or trade members grow their businesses, it drives increased demand back through the supply chain, so everyone benefits.”

Purplex’s partnership model typically includes marketing support packages, educational resources and advisory services such as website health checks, providing partners with a lowpressure way to help their customers improve performance and generate more enquiries, according to the company.

The agency already works in partnership with a number of leading manufacturers, trade bodies and accreditation schemes, helping them increase member value, improve engagement and drive measurable commercial growth, claims the company.

Andrew Scott, CEO and founder of Purplex, said: “Sam has an exceptional understanding of both our clients and the wider industry. This enhanced focus on partnerships allows us to scale our impact, support more businesses across the sector and continue delivering tangible growth for our clients and partners alike.”

www.purplexmarketing.com

Crittall Windows appoints Casey Gardener as head of manufacturing

Crittall Windows has announced the appointment of Casey Gardener as head of manufacturing, marking a new chapter for the Essex-based steel window and door specialist.

Casey joined the business in 2024 as production engineer and has since played a central role in refining the company’s manufacturing processes. His promotion follows the retirement of Darren Joyce, a long serving member of the team whose contribution helped shape the modern production operation at Crittall.

With experience gained in both the automotive and medical device sectors, Casey has led the introduction of lean manufacturing principles across the factory, reviewing workflows and supporting the adoption of new equipment to improve quality and consistency. His work over the past year has laid the foundations for a more agile manufacturing environment as demand for steel windows and doors continues to grow, says the company.

www.crittall-windows.co.uk

Jade forms two strategic new roles for growth

up conversations and exploring opportunities with all existing and new customers.”

After a year of consolidation and stabilisation since moving into new 30,000 square foot premises, Jade is now gearing up for ‘massive’ growth. To achieve this, the company is strengthening its core management team with the appointment of two key roles –Stephanie Tague has taken on the newly formed sales and marketing manager, and Harry Heer has stepped into the role of design engineering manager to lead the company’s existing technical and design team.

Having worked across the fenestration sector supply chain in a variety of sales and marketing roles, Stephanie brings with her extensive experience and knowledge that will help elevate Jade’s current position as a core supplier to the industry.

“Jade fulfils a key function right at the start of the supply chain, and the company’s input into improving manufacturing processes in the industry has so much potential,” said Stephanie. “I’m looking forward to opening

Harry Heer brings with him worldleading skills developed through his previous role as CAD engineer manager with the Polestar UK R&D team.

“Jade has an existing team of four CAD engineers who all demonstrate a remarkable range of talent and knowledge,” said Harry. “It is my job to bring them together and, through training and further investment in design tools, the potential in what we can develop is limitless. Coming from a corporate automotive background, it’s a perfect opportunity for me to instil knowledge to help take Jade to the next level of design and provide technical advice in helping our customers to continuously improve their own production efficiencies.”

Jade designs and manufactures precision tooling and specialist machinery for the production of PVCu and aluminium systems, delivering practical solutions to complex machining challenges.

http://jade-eng.co.uk/

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The high cost of cheap leads

Pioneer Trading’s Danny Williams has a thing or two to say about bad leads, costly distractions and why the fundamentals of business matter more now than ever

Scroll through LinkedIn or Facebook for five minutes and you’ll see it: lead generation companies promising to triple your sales in a month. Thousands of leads. Guaranteed growth. Slick graphics, big claims.

What they don’t show you is how much money the industry is quietly wasting chasing them.

“Because let’s be honest,” says Danny Williams, MD of Pioneer Trading, “most of these so-called opportunities are crap leads. And installers are wasting time and money chasing them.”

Danny believes there are actually two distinct issues at play. The first is obvious: genuinely poorquality leads that were never going to convert. But the second is more uncomfortable.

“Sometimes however the lead is fine – it’s the follow-up that’s rubbish. Slow responses, halfarsed phone calls, no structure. Then everyone blames the lead generator instead of looking in the mirror.

“But you care more about your business than any lead company ever will. You’ve got the local knowledge, the reputation, the experience. No algorithm can replace that. And you’re the one who has to live with the callbacks or enjoy the referrals.”

“The world moves on and of course digital marketing has its place, but it’s an addition not a replacement. Too many installers have become overly reliant on digital to do the heavy lifting. Automated responses, templated emails and fancy funnels will never close a sale for you. So ignore the basics at your peril.”

Back to the living room

Those fundamentals, Danny says, haven’t changed in decades. Selling still happens in someone’s home. It’s about trust, confidence and reading the person in front of you.

“You can generate all the leads you want. But eventually it’s just you, the homeowner and the product. And you either close it or you don’t.”

Which is precisely why Pioneer Trading is doubling down on

long-term brand building for Gerda doors, including a new TV advertising campaign launching this spring. Not as a silver bullet — but as support.

“Everyone talks about cutting through the noise. Then they add another platform, buy in another ‘solution’, another promise of a shortcut. But that’s not cutting through, that’s adding to it.”

Instead, the aim is to drive homeowners directly towards the brand, giving installers warmer conversations to start from.

“We’re not the ones sitting on that sofa closing the deal, that’s just the reality. But we’ll do everything we can to support the process: quality consumer marketing, proper brand awareness, support materials and sales tools.”

Know when to walk away

Another expensive mistake, Danny says, is chasing the wrong customer altogether.

“Not every lead is worth having. You need to know when to walk away.”

That means understanding your target audience and being comfortable sticking to it. In Gerda’s case, that’s homeowners who value quality and aesthetics and are prepared to pay a fair price.

“They want a door that looks sharp, performs exceptionally and won’t cause problems six months down the line,” Danny says. “Steel and aluminium doors that won’t warp or bow, with serious thermal efficiency and security. Premium, yes, but still affordable and at a price people are willing to pay.”

“Gerda doors are only fractionally more than a decent composite. But trying to sell a Gerda door to someone shopping purely on price is a waste of everyone’s time. So ask the right questions. Qualify properly. And don’t be afraid to say ‘we’re probably not for you’.”

Raise your standards

Danny’s underlying message is simple: installers must raise their own standards as much as suppliers raise theirs.

“We can strengthen the foundations of the brand all day long,” he says. “But installers have to strengthen their own foundations too.”

In an industry often distracted by quick wins, that advice might sound old-fashioned. But as Danny puts it, the basics endure for a reason.

“Forget discounts, gimmicks and endless incentives. Instead let people see what Gerda offers, feel it, hear it close. Then sell it properly. Because despite what your social feed tells you, particularly for a product as strong as Gerda, that’s still what works.”

https://www.gerdadoors.co.uk

MasterPatio Bi-Part door system achieves

PAS 24 certification

Reynaers Aluminium has announced that its MasterPatio Bi-Part door has achieved PAS 24 (Performance Assessment Specification – PAS 24:2022).

After undergoing extensive testing to assess the resistance

of the doors to forced entry, the MasterPatio bi-parting door configuration is now PAS 24 certified ensuring it can meet enhanced security requirements, says the company.

The robust testing behind this

certification ensures that it is approved for use in new build projects, demonstrating that the doors can resist a level of attack from opportunist burglars. Now with enhanced security certification, the MasterPatio BiPart also offers high performance and design flexibility thanks to its space-saving benefits and a modern, sleek aesthetic, according to the company.

John McComb, technical director at Reynaers Aluminium UK, said: “We understand that modern architecture demands more

than a premium appearance –designing for safety, security and sustainability is crucial.

“Through responsible engineering and innovative design, the MasterPatio Bi-Part door system offers slim sightlines and long-term peace of mind thanks to its highperformance security properties and sustainable and efficient production methods.

“The slimline design of the MasterPatio Bi-Part allows architects to specify a four-pane door in a shallow wall structure, where a standard sliding door would not normally fit. With PAS 24 certification, new build residential schemes as well as renovation projects can maximise the feeling of open space, safe in

the knowledge that the technical quality of this system stands up to stringent security certification standards.”

Approved Document Q of the Building Regulations mandates that all new build homes in England must feature appropriate security protections robust enough to resist force and stop unwanted entry. MasterPatio has been tested to and achieved PAS 24:2022 to meet this requirement.

Both the MasterPatio Bi-Part monorail and two-rail frames systems have been awarded PAS 24 certification offering refined aesthetics with security and performance for safe, beautiful homes. MasterPatio is also robust enough to be used in commercial

Hörmann Truedor

makes door choice simple – ten styles, ten colours, ten days

The Tremendous 10 promotion from Hörmann Truedor provides installers and dealers a compelling opportunity to capitalise on fastturnaround composite doors that combine strong consumer appeal with excellent value for money, says the company.

The Tremendous 10 promotion offers a carefully curated range of 10 best-selling composite door styles, available in 10 popular colour options, all delivered in just 10 working days. With prices starting from £450.00 plus VAT, the promotion has been designed to help trade customers win more business while protecting margins, according to the company.

The door styles have been specifically selected to reflect current market demand and include designs from the Hörmann Truedor Cottage, Traditional and Contemporary collections.

This focused range makes it easy for installers to offer homeowners genuine choice without unnecessary complexity, supporting faster sales decisions and smoother ordering, says the company.

All doors are supplied with standard glazing where applicable and are available with white frames or Anthracite on white frames, alongside low aluminium

settings where its very strong sustainability credentials can support in meeting strict projectspecific requirements for the specification of highly sustainable solutions, says the company.

“The MasterPatio Bi-Part system with PAS 24 certification represents a no-compromise approach to design and security for architects and specifiers looking for centre opening doors that meet in the middle.” added John.

“The product offer also enables fabricators and installers to meet customer desire to maximise open space from door areas with a PAS 24 compliant solution, backed by technical support and high-quality engineering from Reynaers.” www.reynaers.co.uk

thresholds as standard. Installers can also choose from three sill sizes, providing flexibility for a wide range of installation requirements.

Hardware specification is equally strong, with every door supplied complete with a multi-point locking system, chrome lever handle and letterbox, and Hörmann Truedor has recently enhanced the package further with the addition of a chrome knocker and spy hole at no extra cost.

Colour options have been chosen to reflect what homeowners are asking for most, ranging from classic Black, ever-popular Anthracite Grey and Chartwell Green, through to bold statement colours such as Ruby Red.

The 10 working day lead time applies as standard for factorydirect deliveries, while customers receiving doors via Hörmann despatch can expect delivery within 10 days plus their next scheduled run, providing reliability and consistency that installers can plan around with confidence, claims the company.

https://hormanntruedor.co.uk

Eurocell moves into premium timber-core doors

Eurocell has launched the Peak Collection, a new range of 48mm solid timber-core composite doors, giving installers access to a high-end entrance solution designed to deliver enhanced security, thermal efficiency and standout kerb appeal.

Available across Eurocell’s network of over 210 branches from 24 February, the launch enables installers to source a complete entrance door offer from one supplier, supporting upsell opportunities while simplifying ordering.

Eurocell says the introduction of the timber-core option means it now offers a solution for every homeowner’s requirement and a range of budgets, from PVC-U panel doors and the foam-core Dales Collection, through to the new flagship Peak Collection.

At the heart of the Peak Collection is the 48mm solid timber core, cross-laminated for enhanced

strength and dimensional stability. Manufactured using highly sustainable Albasia Falcata timber, the core is designed to offer exceptional thermal performance while supporting sustainable material sourcing.

“The launch of the Peak Collection is about giving our customers total choice,” says Beth Boulton, marketing director at Eurocell. “Installers can now access a fully tiered entrance door offer from one supplier, whether they need a cost-effective PVC-U option or a premium solid timber-core solution.

“Peak represents the top-end of our door range. It allows installers to compete confidently in the high-end composite door market, while benefiting from the convenience and support of our nationwide branch network.”

The range incorporates advanced manufacturing techniques to ensure longevity. Each door

is wrapped in next-generation CoolSkin technology, engineered to resist extreme temperature fluctuations and preserve a flawless finish without cracking or peeling.

Additionally, the doors feature concealed colour edge technology, which guarantees a seamless colour edge to the door faces and, according to Eurocell, ensures up to 100% moisture resistance, preventing the water ingress issues often associated with timber products.

The Peak Collection has three distinct styles to suit any property:

Traditional: Featuring classic designs like the Idris and Aran, which offer refined detailing and charming glazing options.

Contemporary: Including the Walla and Logan, focusing on clean lines, bold proportions, and modern architectural flair.

Cottage: Including the Elias and Elbert, bringing countryside character and warmth to the entrance.

The collection also addresses the needs of pet owners and families. It features a versatile stable door option (available in the Elbert style). This design allows the top half of the door to open independently, letting in fresh air and light while keeping pets and young children safely indoors.

Eurocell says the Peak Collection is supported by in-branch expertise and marketing materials to help installers promote the premium range to homeowners. The doors are available in a wide palette of colours, from timeless white and black to trending shades like agate grey, duck egg blue, and Chartwell green.

For more information about the Peak Collection, visit: https://bit.ly/4b3Ng4T

Quality that counts

With bowing continuing to impact the composite door sector, Apeer is helping to raise standards by improving manufacturing efficiencies, and with the introduction of a new Anti-Bow Warranty, a guarantee that is designed to allow installers to sell with confidence.

‘Quality’ is one of the most overused words in the window and door industry. It appears in brochures, on websites and in sales pitches and it’s applied liberally to everything from products to levels of customer service.

But as we all know, ‘quality’ can often be a subjective term, especially when product and service that is billed as market leading falls short of expectations.

For Apeer doors, quality is much more than just marketing jargon. It’s the result of a long-term investment into raising the bar on composite door performance, the motivation to confront issues head on and the capacity to engineer real solutions to those challenges.

Crucially, it’s also the willingness to be open and honest about

product performance, whether that’s U value figures or bowing, which as Apeer managing director, Asa McGillian explains, is still one of the most concerning issues impacting the composite door sector.

“Bowing in composite doors is not a new problem, in fact with increased demand for colours, especially greys and blacks that can really absorb the heat on south facing properties, it’s probably even more of an issue today than it’s ever been,” says Asa.

“You can see it in the industry Facebook forums, which are full of complaints on doors that are twisting and warping and how that’s creating reputational damage and costing time and money to rectify. Composite doors should be an easy win for installers, because they instantly improve a property’s

kerb appeal while upgrading security and energy efficiency – all the things that homeowner’s want.

“But instead, what presents itself as a quick, easy and profitable install – one that could potentially lead to further sales down the line – ends up having the opposite effect.”

For Apeer, the solution to warping and bowing begins on the factory floor. The Ballymena based firm has always prided itself on high standards of manufacturing, but is now committed to raising the bar higher still with the introduction of lean manufacturing processes.

While lean manufacturing has traditionally focused on efficiencies, eliminating waste, simplifying workflows and empowering teams to drive change, Apeer has introduced the concept of ‘the two second improvement’.

This encourages employees to find small improvements in their workflow, marginal increases that can save time, reduce reworks and improve quality that – when combined – help to deliver exponential gains.

It’s a strong period of change that is already delivering measurable results, with 98.7% of orders delivered and installed without issue to Apeer’s customer base.

“We’re already starting to see how consistently identifying small improvements across production can have a really positive impact,” continues Asa. “Our customers are taking advantage of more efficient processes, of improved quality control and consistency, as well as enhanced customer service.

“And it’s not just on the factory floor, we’re implementing the same principles across the entire business – if we can find a way to improve, then we’re going to do it.”

Regarding the issue of bowing in composite doors, Asa is quick to underline that Apeer doors have always been engineered specifically to protect against movement once they are installed, but adds that the company will soon be ‘doubling down’ on its quality assurances with the introduction of a new, anti-bow warranty.

“Over the last 30 years we’ve always led the way with composite door innovation, but what’s most important for installers currently is a product that can combat the negative perceptions on bowing,” he says.

“Our new anti-bow warranty aims to do just that, by giving our customers the confidence and trust to win sales, enhance their own reputation and grow their business.”

https://www.apeer.co.uk

Adding AI for accuracy and improved productivity

Rhonda Ridge, managing director of Ab Initio, looks at how AI is now helping installation businesses and explains why full integration is imperative for the greatest positive impact.

AI is without a doubt now a mainstream part of our lives. We have moved beyond simply ‘playing’ with it to see what it can do. Businesses around the globe have seen its benefits and are implementing it to boost productivity and profitability. In a study conducted by S&P Global Market Intelligence last year, 83% of companies said they expected to increase their use of AI workflows over the next two years. The same study found that 55% of businesses are already using the technology for customer data management, 51% for customer

service and 50% for personalising marketing campaigns. But regardless of how mainstream AI is, its success still lies in whether it is actually useful to a business, or whether it is AI for the sake of AI.

We knew from customer feedback that installation businesses were experimenting with AI functions to see whether they are genuinely helpful. Simultaneously Ab Initio’s talented development team started looking at whether these AI assistants could be integrated into AdminBase, so that if customers did want to use them, they

wouldn’t have to switch between tools. It has been a more intricate process than some of our other collaborations or integrations because the assistants need to be embedded into different AdminBase functions, but we are pleased that we have been able to design and implement a new feature that does exactly that.

Ensuring successful AI integration

The AI assistants our customers have been focused on are designed to improve accuracy, reduce errors and increase efficiency across the business. But if information then has to be

transferred from these standalone assistants into the central CRM, it creates an additional process and a new opportunity for error. This is precisely what AdminBase was designed to eliminate, which is why it was so important for us to develop this new feature, and develop it quickly. The finished feature offers the ability to connect the task-specific assistants that users have created into their existing AdminBase processes.

An example of how an embedded assistant can now help in an installation business is when an order is entered into the system. An AI assistant can validate all required information in real time. Measurements, product selections, specifications and supporting documentation can be checked automatically to ensure all data is complete and correct before progressing with the contract. This saves time as this process can be

INTERNET, IT AND SOFTWARE

completed quickly, and even more importantly, ensures accuracy.

Complete confidence

The AI assistants being utilised by installation businesses are designed to check the details being entered as the work is being done. That means mistakes are picked up quickly and effectively and users can be confident that orders and contracts are completely correct before they move onto the next stage of the process. This is hugely valuable as the longer a mistake is in the system, the more problematic it can become.

If an error is made in an order or in the creation of a contract, for example, and it isn’t picked up straight away, it can cause delays to the project later down the line. Instead of eliminating admin processes for greater efficiency,

it adds processes which end up being more costly and more timeconsuming. By creating structured, built-in checklists with real world workflows, the system supports users through complex tasks while maintaining consistency and accuracy throughout.

Getting ahead of the competitio n

AI assistants are no longer theory. They have a place in real world business environments to make processes easier and to make the customer’s experience even better. But they need to be researched and managed correctly to ensure they are genuinely helpful to users. By integrating AI assistants across AdminBase, we are helping installation businesses to get ahead of the competition by working more consistently, accurately and efficiently across every stage of the installation process. abinitiosoftware.co.uk/

Building confidence through calculation

– Liniar’s next step in technical compliance.

As regulatory scrutiny increases and project timelines tighten, window and door fabricators are under more pressure than ever to demonstrate compliance

while maintaining efficiency. Structural performance, barrier and wind load calculations are complex, but fundamental to safe, compliant manufacture. Yet

for many businesses, accessing accurate data quickly remains a challenge.

Making Calculations Accessible

Following the recent release of its Energy Performance Calculator, Quanex brand Liniar continues to invest in developing tools that help customers simplify complex processes. Liniar says its upcoming Barrier and Wind Load Calculator will greatly simplify Building Regulations Part

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K and BS 6180 compliance – and crucially it has been underwritten by a structural engineer.

As Liniar design manager, Tom MacKenzie-Roberts explains: “We’re committed to raising awareness of how important it is to make barrier and wind load calculations before manufacturing. Getting this right upfront ensures regulatory compliance, avoids potential for costly remedial work and even legal ramifications in event of structural failure. Safe

buildings mean peace-of-mind across the board.”

User-friendly, Practical Accuracy

Designed with user-friendliness in mind, “The calculator’s interface is very intuitive, while delivering impressive functionality” says Tom. “Fabricators can calculate stiffness and deflection values for a member being assessed in a window or door. It includes integrated peak velocity pressure by post code, for greater performance accuracy in

any location across the UK,” he adds.

For fabricators, this means faster decision-making and greater confidence in specifications. Being able to make calculations quickly and accurately also has the benefit of reducing the time it takes to prepare quotations, ultimately shortening lead times – a great competitive advantage!

Compliance Starts with the Right Components

Of course, calculations are only part of the picture. There’s a wide variety of components available on the market of varying quality – choosing only those that have been fully tested and certified is crucial to achieving finished products that deliver on performance reliably.

Tom continues, “At Liniar we adhere to stringent testing processes in developing regulatory compliant products. Our PVCu Thermal Reinforcements range, for example, has been tested in vital areas such as screw retention, barrier loading and security.

“By following strict testing practices for all our products, both in-house and through independent 3rd parties, we have complete confidence when advising our customers on which components will deliver to the required specifications under a wide range of conditions.”

Supporting Safer Construction

Liniar’s Barrier and Wind Load calculator will be available to its customers free and will be supported by training during the initial roll-out phase scheduled to commence at the beginning of March. Tom concludes, “By giving fabricators the tools they need to work accurately, compliantly and efficiently, we’re supporting safer construction and stronger businesses.”

https://www.liniar.co.uk/

John Fredericks invests in new Haffner machine

John Fredericks Plastics has further enhanced its manufacturing output with the installation of a new Graf Synergy Single Head CNC Cill Welder, supplied by machinery specialists Haffner. The investment follows a visit to Graf’s headquarters near Modena, Italy, last year, where

the John Fredericks operations team explored advanced cill welding solutions.

During the visit, Graf demonstrated how the machine could streamline fabrication processes by delivering seamless, high-quality welds while removing several time-

intensive finishing stages. The patented technology eliminates the need for corner cleaning, sanding, polishing of cills and penning in, significantly improving workflow efficiencies and reducing production time, according to the company.

Mark Dicconson, managing director of John Fredericks Plastics, said: “Having the team visit Graf to look at cill welding options, it quickly became clear that this was the right solution to resolve a bottleneck in our fabrication process. Not only would the cill welder reduce production time and save on costs, but the finish quality of the end product was exceptional. From an investment point of view, it was an easy decision to make.”

Since the machine has been in operation at John Fredericks’ fabrication facility in Huddersfield, customer response has been overwhelmingly positive. Mark added: “The feedback from our customers has been fantastic. They’ve particularly noticed the quality of the seamless weld, which really enhances the overall finish of the product.”

Mark also highlighted the collaborative approach taken throughout the project. He said: “Working with Haffner has been a pleasure. Both Matt Thomas and Mike Moulds have been great to work with from start to finish, and the whole process has been seamless in every sense of the word.”

John Fredericks Plastics has built up over 50 years of continuous trading, underpinned by a strong record of product innovation and a loyal customer base. The company’s management team attribute its longevity and growth to a consistent focus on quality, delivery and innovation. www.haffnerltd.com

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Carl F Groupco renews Secured by Design membership

Hardware distributor Carl F Groupco has renewed its membership of Secured by Design (SBD), the official police security initiative, reaffirming its long-standing commitment to delivering high-quality, secure hardware solutions to the market.

Carl F Groupco has been a member of Secured by Design for many years and continues to recognise the value the scheme brings to both the business and its customers. By renewing its membership, the company reinforces its focus on product performance, security standards and best practice across its extensive hardware portfolio.

John King, technical director at

Carl F Groupco, said: “Security is fundamental to everything we do. Renewing our Secured by Design membership reinforces our commitment to recognised security standards and providing reassurance to our customers that the products we supply meet the demands of today’s market.”

As an authorised supplier of Secured by Design accredited products, Carl F Groupco distributes solutions from a wide range of leading manufacturers including Cotswold, Dynamic Hardware, Fuhr, GT Window Products, Hoppe, Kenrick, Maco, Roto, Siegenia and Yale.

The renewal of its Secured by Design membership is one of

many ways Carl F Groupco continues to add value to its customers’ businesses. The company holds substantial stock levels across its wide portfolio and offers a next-day delivery service with a target OTIF rate of 98%. Operating nationally from distribution centres in Peterborough and Cumbernauld, the company offers a UKwide delivery service including the Scottish Highlands and offshore islands. Carl F Groupco also provides value-added consultancy, testing support and works closely with customers and hardware partners to develop and transition new product solutions.

John concluded: “Our focus on product quality, service excellence and industry knowledge sets Carl F Groupco apart. Renewing our Secured by Design membership supports these

principles and ensures we remain aligned with evolving security requirements and emerging crime trends.”

www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

In nursery and early years settings, door hardware plays a critical role in safeguarding. Beyond basic security, doors must prevent children from leaving unnoticed, restrict unauthorised access from outside and maintain fully compliant emergency escape at all times.

Fuhr’s autosafe 833 and 835 KiGa multipoint locking systems have been developed specifically for these sensitive environments, providing a certified, applicationled solution that removes the need for adapted or improvised hardware, says the company.

The multipoint locking system incorporates two interconnected lock cases linked via a drive rod, enabling independent operation of two lever handles positioned at different heights. The lower handle, set at 850mm, is accessible to children, while the upper lever at 1570mm allows staff to retain controlled access at all times.

In an emergency, the secured lower lever – or integrated GfS e-Bar – can be activated, triggering an alarm and alerting supervisory personnel immediately. This configuration ensures compliant

Safeguarding starts at the door: Compliant locking for nursery environments

escape while supporting safeguarding protocols during dayto-day operation.

Suitable for aluminium, steel, timber and PVC-U doors, the 833 and 835 KiGa locks meet the requirements of EN 179 and EN 1125 for emergency and panic escape routes, with panic function B or E options available to suit project specifications. These function types determine how the door can be accessed from the outside, allowing controlled entry for authorised adults while maintaining free and compliant escape from the inside

in an emergency, which can be specified depending on the application. This balance between access management and life safety is essential in childcare buildings.

For fabricators and installers, the system operates mechanically as standard, requiring no electrical installation. Where enhanced monitoring or access control integration is required, an autotronic motor can be fitted, enabling connection to wider building management systems.

https://bit.ly/3Nn5erg

VBH expands Velocity hinge range

VBH has announced that its popular greenteQ Velocity door hinge range has been further expanded with the addition of two new colour options.

The hinge is now available in RAL 7038 agate grey and antique black finishes from UK stock.

VBH advise that Velocity is a twoknuckle ‘T-Hinge’ designed for rebated doors with a sash upstand dimension between 16 – 24mm, making it ideal for PVCu single and double doors.

Greater rebates can be achieved with the addition of packers

beneath the frame bearing.

Ample 3D adjustment is available on site to ensure that the finished door can be installed quickly and working perfectly every time, says

VHB.

VBH advise that Velocity is extremely quick to fit to the door, as a jig is only required to drill two holes in the frame. A recent time trial saw a hinge fully fitted in under a minute.

The two new painted colours bring the number of finishes available to fifteen, all of which are available from VBH stock here in the UK.

More information on greenteQ Velocity door hinges can be obtained by contacting VBH direct or visit www.vbhgb.com for a download.

Conserv-A-Tech

delivers standout flat roof and S1 lantern with Sheerline Bespoke

Conserv-A-Tech has completed a striking flat-roof extension featuring Sheerline Bespoke’s S1 Roof Lantern and Flat Roof System.

The flat roof project, which features a 3000mm x 1670mm S1 lantern in Anthracite Grey with Ambi Sunshade Blue Low E glass installed at a 25° pitch, demonstrates the premium performance and installer-friendly engineering the Stevenage installation experts have come to rely on from Sheerline Bespoke, says the company.

For Conserv-A-Tech managing director, Eric Knappett, the S1 remains the go-to choice for roof lanterns on high-performance projects, according to the company.

“On this installation, as with

many others, we chose the S1 Lantern because it delivers the perfect balance between cuttingedge thermal performance and sleek architectural design,” Eric explained.

“From the moment we unbox the components, it’s clear why the S1 has become a leading choice in high performance lanterns. We’ve tried the rest and undoubtedly this is the best and we are proud to promote it across our projects.”

The flat-roof extension presented several technical considerations, but the S1’s precision-engineered design helped simplify the build.

“The S1 is incredibly installerfriendly,” Eric said. “It eliminates the big issues we see with alternative lanterns on the market, like future glass slippage, drip-end distortion, and even drop-offs.

Knowing the product won’t create problems further down the line is a major advantage for us and for the homeowner.”

The project combined the S1 with Sheerline Bespoke’s Flat Roof System, a pairing that created a clean, contemporary look while delivering exceptional thermal performance, claims the company. The Ambi Sunshade Blue Low E glass provided the homeowner with effective solar control, ensuring comfort throughout the year while enhancing the modern appearance of the extension. Homeowner feedback was equally positive.

“They were very impressed with the progress and the speed our team progressed the installation,” Eric added. “They were delighted with the finished result, particularly the S1 roof lantern, which really lifts the whole space.”

For Eric, the technical excellence of the products is matched by the service he receives from the team at Sheerline Bespoke.

“I’ve known Chris Baron (operations director) and Chris Cooke (commercial director) for many years, and their knowledge and commitment to any design is what sets them apart. The personal communication and the speed of response to any technical help we need is why I’ve stuck with them for many years.”

Chris Baron at Sheerline Bespoke, said: “Their craftsmanship and attention to detail make Eric and the Conserv-A-Tech team the perfect partner for showcasing the performance and design benefits of our S1 Roof Lantern and Flat Roof System.

“We’re delighted to support them on projects like this and look forward to helping them deliver more premium solutions throughout 2026 and beyond.”

www.sheerlinebespoke.com

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Sternfenster introduces the Regency Vertical Slider

Sternfenster has expanded its portfolio with the launch of its PVC-U Regency Vertical Slider; a next-generation sash window that combines timeless aesthetics with modern performance.

Designed to replicate the classic charm of traditional timber sash windows, the Regency Vertical Slider is available in three distinctive finishes: Standard Regency, Smoothline, and Timberline.

According to the company,

each option delivers a different take on heritage styling – from seamless welds to mechanically jointed profiles – ensuring homeowners and specifiers can achieve the perfect look for period properties or contemporary projects alike.

“Installers are increasingly looking for products that not only meet high technical standards but also deliver real kerb appeal”, said Nathan Court, Sternfenster’s chief sales officer. “With the Regency Vertical Slider, we’ve combined

traditional styling with the very latest in energy efficiency and security, giving them a product that homeowners will love.”

The system has been developed to offer installers and endusers a highly versatile solution, says the company. With widths ranging from 460mm to 1500mm, and heights up to 2500mm, the Slider provides flexibility for a wide range of applications.

Decorative features such as run-through horns, Georgian bars, and deep bottom rails can be specified, while an extensive palette of colour and hardware options allows for complete customisation.

Performance has also been a priority. The Slider can be manufactured as A-rated, even with laminated glass, and inward tilt restrictors and pre-tension spiral balances make operation safe and simple. Meanwhile PAS24 certification can be

achieved through features such as SBD chimneys and sash through-bolts, according to the company.

“The Regency Vertical Slider has been designed to give installers a product that delivers on every level – authenticity in design, outstanding thermal efficiency, and modern security”, added Nathan. “It’s about giving our customers a window that’s as practical as it is beautiful, while opening up new sales opportunities in the heritage and premium sectors.”

Developed with Sternfenster’s established manufacturing capabilities and supported by its digital business tools such as EasyAdmin+ and EasySales, the Regency Vertical Slider has been designed to meet the growing demand for products that balance traditional style with modern performance, says the company.

www.sternfenster.com

Edwardian house benefits from sealant tape

Winframer units have been retrofitted as part of an initiative to bring the poorly insulated solid walled house built in 1909 in Oxford, up to current energy efficiency standards, providing better quality accommodation for the homeowner along with long-term cost savings, says the company.

Passivhaus certified and fire rated to up to 30 minutes, Winframer is a prefabricated installation frame, manufactured to accommodate cavities up to 250mm that allows windows to be supported independently from the face of the wall regardless of any external cladding being in place, according to the company.

Quick and easy to install, the product’s application in Oxford is seen as part of a solution to meet a wider Government strategy to reduce carbon levels in housing that has single skin walls or noncavity walls – these buildings have a reputation for leaking considerable amounts of energy, heat and sound.

Nikki Lambert of development contractor Lambert Home Builds, said the project was a whole house retrofit and added: “Using the Winframer system is a game changer for us as the existing windows are being replaced with new high performance triple glazing. They are then moved into the external wall insulation system, where it’s integral to have a secure

fixing system as well as a means to mitigate thermal bridging.”

Andy Swift, Iso-Chemie’s sales and operations manager – UK and ROI, added: “Using Winframer as a platform for the windows to be moved forward, allows a cavity wall to be created outside the existing one. This can then be filled with insulation to massively improve thermal efficiency. As it’s thermally efficient and airtight, Winframer is proving to be an easy and cost-effective way to improve the quality of properties.”

The composite Winframer brackets can bear heavy window loads, including bi-fold doors, to provide a reliable, strong and highperformance support frame, claims the company. Installation is quick with windows attached directly and secured mechanically using either standard fixing screws or fixing lugs in the usual manner.

A hinged insulation core combines with the composite structural bracket to become an integral part of the overall wall structure, providing compliance with Building Energy Act requirements and the RAL quality assurance association, says the company.

www.iso-chemie.eu/en-GB/home

Sheerline’s Classic door transforms home pool/gym space

Bill Butters Windows has completed a stunning installation of Sheerline’s Classic heritage door at a property located in the seaside town of Lyme Regis.

Installed to separate the swimming pool and home gym, this internal partition looks so striking, it’s won Sheerline’s Installation of the Month competition. It includes the Classic heritage door with side screens finished in jet black textured with clear laminate glass on both panes.

Sheerline says this kind of

textured finish is increasingly in demand, arguably because of the rise in popularity of heritagestyle products, as it adds depth and makes the frames stand out. For Sheerline, the popularity of this finish has increased 155% from 2024 to 2025.

When discussing the project with Bill Butters Windows, whom they had worked with before, the homeowners had one simple request: the product used had to be slim. The team instantly recommended the Classic system because of its slim sightlines.

As the homeowners had previously worked with Bill Butters Windows when they installed Sheerline’s Prestige bi-fold door in another part of the house, they trusted their judgement and were happy for them to install the Classic heritage door.

When asked why this particular product has become their go-to Bill Butters Windows’ aluminium manager commented: “The product is very good, we’re pleased with it. With the heritage style products like this, it meets our client’s needs – it just works for us.”

Since switching to Sheerline around a year ago, the team at Bill Butters Windows have gained practical, hands-on experience with Sheerline’s products as they act as both the fabricator and the installer.

Based in Sherborne, the family-run company has been

supplying windows and doors in the south west region for over 30 years. Everything is fabricated on the premises, with PVC in one factory, and aluminium in another.

Martin Hepburn, area sales director at Sheerline, said: “Wow! What a stunning

project, congratulations to Bill Butters Windows for winning our Installation of the Month competition – it’s well deserved.”

“What I particularly love about this installation is the fact it highlights another way to utilise the Classic heritage door all

Timber products 100% sustainably sourced, says Jeld-Wen

Jeld-Wen, a leading manufacturer of specialist timber doorsets, has confirmed that wood used in its manufacturing comes from 100% responsible sources in all its UK operations – placing it well ahead of targets to demonstrate sustainable wood sourcing by 2030 as part of net zero goals, says the company.

Both of Jeld-Wen’s UK sites in Sheffield and Penrith use timber from forests awarded with Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification, placing UK operations at the forefront of sustainable sourcing within the Jeld-Wen portfolio, claims the company.

This is the latest sustainability milestone achieved by the manufacturer, helping to protect

against deforestation as well as ensuring Jeld-Wen products are not produced at the expense of ecosystems or other natural resources – and that the rights of local communities are protected, says the company.

The commitment to demonstrating responsible wood sourcing includes implementing a specialist software system to ensure compliance with the European Deforestation Regulation to provide traceability of all timber used in Jeld-Wen processes.

Ensuring responsible timber sourcing is a key goal for Jeld-Wen as part of its wider ESG policy, which includes reducing carbon emissions and ensuring that zero waste goes to landfill by 2050.

Jeld-Wen has also secured Cradle

thanks to our zero-threshold option, which makes it ideal for internal installations. The reason this product is so popular, apart from its looks, is because of its versatility,” he added.

To find out more, visit the website here: https://bit.ly/47v4kQi

to Cradle Certification for its core products made in the UK, demonstrating its commitment to supporting a circular economy.

Marcin Bacik, EHS manager at Jeld-Wen, said: “Protecting the Earth’s natural resources and playing our part as a manufacturer in taking action to help to mitigate climate change is a priority for JELD-WEN. Taking action to protect against deforestation lies at the heart of this.

“Creating products made with timber that is carefully managed is an absolute priority as this ensures the longevity of the world’s forests, which play such an important role in addressing climate challenges, but also ensures protection of natural resources.

“Low impact construction is the model that we need to adopt more widely, having a minimal impact on the natural world. Environmental responsibility informs every part of our organisation, and in the UK sustainability has been a lynchpin of development to allow us to build a sustainable supply chain, seeing considerable investment in more sustainable operations.

“Timber is at the very heart of what we do here at Jeld-Wen making supporting sustainable wood sourcing second nature. Operating very much ahead of the curve, we have successfully ensured all wood used is from a certified source while we are in a position to already demonstrate the traceability required for the enforcement of the EUDR, which is still yet to come into force.”

Senior supports landmark West Yorkshire regeneration scheme

The regeneration of a historic industrial building in Wakefield is anything but ‘run of the mill’

thanks to an inspired design by Hawkins/Brown and a fenestration package supplied

by Senior Architectural Systems. Part of the group of buildings formerly known as Rutland Mills, which are located close to The Hepworth art gallery, the once derelict property has been given a new lease of life and a new name, with Gradient Mill now providing five-storeys of modern commercial office space.

The new Gradient Mill office building in Wakefield is the latest addition to the ambitious Tileyard North regeneration scheme which has created the

UK’s largest creative industries hub outside of London, says the company.

The new building has been delivered by Morgan Sindall Construction, with Wakefield based specialist contractor NeuGlass fabricating and installing Senior’s SF52 aluminium curtain wall system, alongside the manufacturer’s patented Pure aluminium windows and doors.

Combining a slim frame with strength and thermal efficiency, Senior’s SF52 aluminium curtain wall system has been installed to the ground floor level alongside robust Pure Commercial Doors that provide safe and secure access to the building. On the upper floors, large glazed openings have been created using Senior’s low U-value Pure aluminium windows which help to minimise heat loss and flood the offices with natural light to create a more comfortable interior space. Smaller window units have been installed to the top floor, which is open to the underside of the steel truss roof, echoing the character of the adjacent mill buildings and providing a dramatic, light-filled workspace.

The project team, led by Hawkins/Brown, has worked hard to repair and retain as much of the fabric of the original buildings as possible. It was vital that the new glazing units complemented the nineteenth century architecture and a provided an efficient interface with the existing structure.

As a Yorkshire based business, Senior was well placed to meet the demands of such a large and complex contract as all of the company’s products were manufactured in nearby Rotherham and Doncaster, for timely transportation to the site in Wakefield, says the company.

www.seniorarchitectural.co.uk

Reynaers secures low carbon commercial project with Thames-side retrofit

Reynaers Aluminium UK has recently secured the St Magnus House low carbon commercial project thanks to the excellent environmental credentials and design flexibility of its ConceptWall 50 (CW 50) curtain walling system, says the company.

The nine-storey St Magnus house, a 1970s Richard Seifertdesigned office block on the North Bank of the River Thames, is being reinvented as a contemporary work-place destination, making the most of its enviable position at the heart of London’s iconic landmarks.

A key demand for this retrofit project was to improve the building’s environmental credentials in line with modern sustainability requirements. As such CW 50 curtain walling from Reynaers Aluminium UK was chosen to replace the existing brutalist façade with the low carbon, high performance system to create bright and comfortable spaces flooded with natural light.

Inspired by Reynaers’ sustainability-led products and working with architect Buckley Grey Yeoman (BYG), Mace Construct Ltd has chosen longstanding Reynaers’ partners Century Facades, which appointed Aluminium and Glass Facades (AGF) to help reinvent St Magnus House for a new generation. As part of the face lift,

the building will be renamed as Fresh Wharf.

With practical completion scheduled for mid-2026, the retrofit project will provide a significant new amenity for local residents, workers and visitors with 70,000 sq. ft of Grade-A office space, 5,000 sq. ft for retail, and a riverside restaurant. The building will also feature a first-floor podium terrace with panoramic views over the Thames, as well as a roof garden for a healthier built environment.

John McComb, technical director at Reynaers Aluminium UK, said: “The challenge with this retrofit project was sourcing products that will not only enhance the aesthetic of the building but can also deliver low-carbon and energy efficient performance. The targets were extremely challenging, and these were met with our low-carbon offering.

“Reynaers low carbon aluminium CW 50 curtain walling has been specified for its stand-out combination of high performance and recyclability, as well as compatibility with green technologies. It was developed for easy fabrication and installation, reducing complexity, project time, and minimising the overall carbon footprint.

“The CW 50 is the ideal choice

for making the most of the location of the project, with its slim 50mm width and ability to support glass up to 700kg. The system delivers unobstructed views and maximises natural light, opening up the façade to the river, giving panoramic views of the South Bank, Tower Bridge and the Shard.”

Tim Lovell, managing director at Century Facades, said: “The use of Reynaers low carbon aluminium is integral to the reinvention of St Magnus House as an example of circular design principles.

“Replacing the monolithic cement facade with Reynaers’ CW 50

enhances the modernity of the building while minimising its environmental impact.

“Working closely with the architect to meet the design specification, Aluminium and Glass Facades, in partnership with ourselves has been able to rely on Reynaers as a trusted

partner to ensure the integration of design and sustainability are fully realised. Once completed, the high-performance facade will continue to reduce energy consumption and lower carbon emissions, reducing the building’s environmental impact long-term.”

https://bit.ly/4rjmuMf

Dekko’s

Infinity flush delivers seamless match with aluminium doors

Dekko Window Systems says installers looking to deliver the clean, contemporary aesthetics

homeowners increasingly demand now have the perfect solution, thanks to the

company’s Infinity flush sash windows.

A recent project by long-term Dekko customer Bespoke Frames has highlighted how Infinity flush sash blends with aluminium doors, while delivering outstanding thermal performance.

The ultra-modern property, fitted throughout with Infinity flush sash windows supplied by Dekko, stands as a perfect example of how uPVC can blend completely with aluminium. The homeowner opted for aluminium bi-folds to maximise glazed areas, pairing them with Infinity flush sash windows for a consistent,

minimalist look across the whole property.

According to Steve Collett, sales director at Dekko, the project perfectly demonstrates the system’s unique appeal: “This stunning and ultra-modern property really shows what Infinity Flush can do,” Steve said. “The windows blend in perfectly with the aluminium doors, giving that sleek, architectural look customers want, but with far better U-values. Infinity Flush is the ideal choice when homeowners love the aluminium aesthetic but don’t have the budget to go full aluminium across the whole house.”

Dekko’s Infinity flush sash windows come Graf or seamlessly welded as standard, ensuring clean joints that fits seamlessly with aluminium’s smooth lines.

Dekko also offers the Residence Collection fully Graf welded. “R7 with a Graf weld is also a perfect alternative for this kind of installation,” Steve added. “Whether it’s Infinity Flush or Residence, installers can give their customers a sharp exterior look that matches aluminium bi-folds and sliding patio doors, often with better thermal performance, and at a significantly more competitive

price point.”

Bespoke Frames’ recent installation showcases that with the Infinity Flush windows sitting flawlessly alongside dark aluminium doors for a high-end aesthetic.

“The finished product looks great, and it is a great example of what installers can achieve,” Steve added. “Our Infinity flush sash windows blend in beautifully with aluminium bi-folds and patio doors and sliders. It’s a win-win for both installers and homeowners.”

www.dekkowindows.com

Listers Windows & Doors launches

2026 Welcome Pack

Listers Windows & Doors has released its Welcome Pack, a resource provided to new customers as they begin working with the company. This pack sets out key information about how Listers operates and how customers can engage with the business. It forms part of a wider initiative under the Clarity programme, designed to strengthen communication and support with partners across the trade.

Putting partnership and responsibility first in 2026

Listers is focusing on taking responsibility for how it works with trade customers, installers, developers and commercial partners. The Welcome Pack supports those new to working with the business by providing essential information about the company’s heritage, how innovation has been implemented over time, and how Listers has grown.

It also introduces customers to key people within the organisation, including individuals they may not often

see or speak to but whose roles are fundamental, from those involved in product development and innovation to leaders in customer service and operations.

By setting out who does what, and how to connect with the appropriate teams, Listers aims to reduce uncertainty and help customers engage more effectively from the start.

The Welcome Pack also acts as a marketing booklet for trade partners to understand the support available and to reach out to the marketing team with clarity on what Listers can assist with in the marketing field.

This welcome resource is shared with customers when they begin their trading relationship and helps orientate them to the most important facets of the business.

Operational improvements and production updates

In addition to the Welcome Pack, Listers has continued to invest in improvements on the factory floor, including programming its machinery to access innovation data more effectively. Listers says these upgrades are designed to improve lead times, make working with the business more straightforward, and ensure that trade customers continue to receive solutions that are both reliable and costconscious. The company says it recognises how important it is for trade partners to maintain competitive pricing, and these operational enhancements help the company balance efficiency with value for its customers.

These enhancements support a range of uPVC and aluminium window and door solutions supplied to trade projects throughout the UK. By

focusing on predictability and consistency in production and delivery, Listers aims to build stronger working relationships with its customers.

Strengthening support and growing teams

Under the Clarity programme, Listers says it is actively working to grow its customer service, operational, and quotations teams. While this is an ongoing process, as the teams develop and new talent joins, customers will gradually benefit from easier access to clear guidance and support, as well as practical assistance through key stages of working together.

New Initiative Launching Soon

Listers has confirmed that a further resource under the Clarity banner will launch within the next week. Existing customers will be notified before wider release. This additional initiative is intended to further support trade customers with clearer tools and information that align with Listers’ communication goals.

More details will be released once the initial customer notifications have been sent.

Welcoming customers and looking ahead

The 2026 Welcome Pack is a practical resource that introduces new customers to how Listers operates and how they can engage with the business. The manufacturer says that by placing partnership and clarity at the centre of its approach, and taking responsibility for clearer communication, it is reinforcing its commitment to being a supportive partner in an evolving marketplace.

https://www.listerwindows.co.uk

Industry Marketers Launch DoBetter Marketing

Well known fenestration marketers Michelle Wright and Lauren Edwards have joined forces to launch DoBetter Marketing, a marketing partner built to support manufacturing and trade businesses by delivering genuine value at a realistic cost.

Between them, the duo bring extensive hands-on experience across the full fenestration marketing journey, from supporting fabricators and installers through to driving effective homeowner marketing. Having worked inside the sector, they understand the commercial realities at every stage of the route to market.

Michelle Wright, strategic lead of DoBetter Marketing explains: “We have launched DoBetter Marketing to give businesses access to senior level strategic thinking combined with day-to-day delivery that fits operational capacity, sales priorities and growth ambitions. This includes the full breadth of brand positioning, website development, PR, advertising and trade media management, installer marketing programmes, content development and social

media to deliver integrated trade or homeowner campaigns.”

At the heart of DoBetter Marketing is a senior led approach, with Michelle and Lauren personally leading and delivering every client engagement to ensure full accountability and continuity.

“Marketing is more important than ever for businesses, but how its managed and delivered is a huge part of the value you see in it and what sets you apart.” adds Lauren, digital lead of DoBetter. “We start by fully understanding the business, then translate that into practical marketing that genuinely supports sales, operations and growth. By strategically steering the process end to end and covering all areas of marketing, we take full ownership, removing the headaches and inefficiencies that often come with managing multiple agencies.”

Whether you’re a manufacturer, fabricator or installer looking for a strategic approach to marketing, DoBetter says they are here to help. Visit dobetterbusiness.co.uk for more information.

Aluminium Shapes celebrates strong SME debut in landmark 40th year

Aluminium Shapes has reported a highly successful exhibition at this year’s Southern Manufacturing & Electronics show, using the event to strengthen industry relationships and showcase its latest sustainability-driven innovations –all in the company’s 40th year of trading.

The specialist aluminium extrusion manufacturer met with OEMs, engineers and procurement professionals from across the South, highlighting its bespoke extrusion capabilities and its commitment to responsible manufacturing.

A key talking point on the stand was Ali4 – Aluminium Shapes’ new low-carbon aluminium billet which is now their standard offering for all extrusions. It’s designed to help customers reduce the carbon impact of their aluminium supply chain without compromising on quality or performance.

“Southern Manufacturing gave us a fantastic platform to have meaningful conversations with both existing customers and new prospects,” said Spencer

Melia, sales director at Aluminium Shapes. “There’s a real appetite in the market for high-quality UK extrusion backed by transparency and sustainability – and that’s exactly where we’re focused.”

Throughout the three-day exhibition, the team discussed how its in-house technical expertise, flexible production capabilities and customer-first approach continue to differentiate the business in a competitive market.

“With 40 years behind us, we’ve built our reputation on reliability and long-term partnerships,” Spencer continued. “But we’re equally focused on the future. Innovative products like Ali4 demonstrate that sustainability and performance can go hand in hand.”

The event marked another milestone in what is already a landmark year for Aluminium Shapes, as the company continues to invest in innovation, customer service and responsible growth.

To find out more about Ali4, go to: www.alishapes.co.uk/ali4/

group

teams from Edgetech UK, Liniar and Schlegel

Edgetech, experts in warm edge spacer technology, will showcase alongside Quanex brands Liniar and Schlegel at Fensterbau Frontale 2026, booth 7A-525.

Taking place in Nuremberg from 24-27 March 2026, the trade fair for window, door and façade construction will see the three brands showcasing practical, future-ready solutions that elevate energy efficiency, durability and functional reliability in modern window and façade systems, according to the company.

Tony Palmer, head of sales at Edgetech, said: “Fensterbau Frontale is the perfect stage to demonstrate the collective strength of Quanex. By bringing

Edgetech to join forces with Liniar and Schlegel at Fensterbau Frontale Exhibitions

Edgetech, Liniar and Schlegel together, we can show visitors practical solutions that take the energy efficiency, durability and reliability requirements of modern windows and facade systems to the next level.”

At the heart of the stand will be Edgetech’s Super Spacer technology. Visitors will see how the latest developments, including triple insulating glazing with Super Spacer, are

now market-ready and ideally suited to both residential and commercial applications, says the company.

“One of the most exciting areas we’ll be highlighting is the costeffective production of ‘skinny triples,’ said Tony. “Working with partners such as Forel, we’re proving that thin triple glazing can be manufactured on existing, fully automated, high-speed lines, without costly

investment, while maintaining exceptional quality and accuracy.”

With growing demand for largescale glazing and contemporary aesthetics, Edgetech will also be focusing on the commercial sector at the fair, including precise robot-assisted application on XXL formats and colour design, with spacers increasingly being specified in grey to complement the transparency of modern glass facades.

“From precision application to long-term durability, everything we’re presenting is about delivering tangible benefits for manufacturers, specifiers and end users alike,” added Tony. “We’re looking forward to welcoming visitors over what should be a fantastic four days.”

www.edgetechig.co.uk

Webinar reveals practical tools to boost performance across the glazing sector

More than 200 business leaders from the glazing and allied trades turned up online to hear industry expert Andrew Scott share tips and tricks for growth in his latest webinar.

Andrew, CEO and founder of Purplex Marketing and Insight Data, presented the webinar

on February 25 to an audience hungry for advice gleaned from more than 30 years in the glazing industry.

While he acknowledged that the sector has faced challenges over the past year, Andrew explained that now is the moment for firms to take a good look at ways

to improve performance and achieve growth.

The session focused on practical strategies for business growth, framed around the Purplex Success Model: Purpose, Plan and Execute. Andrew explained that defining a clear long-term purpose, translating it into a structured plan and committing to disciplined execution are essential for sustainable expansion.

Andrew also highlighted tools such as the Product Market Quadrant and the Business Growth Wheel to help companies identify opportunities and convert them into measurable results.

“Brand equals recognition plus reputation,” he said. “When you get that right, everything multiplies – enquiries increase,

conversion improves and customers come back time and time again.”

The webinar concluded with three exclusive offers for attendees: a free marketing audit and review, and a trial of the Insight Data Salestracker platform and, for a limited number, a complimentary two-hour growth strategy session with Andrew Scott.

These offers give businesses the tools to grow faster, sharpen their marketing and reach new customers.

Andrew added: “This was a great session and I’d like to thank all those who attended. I truly hope that everyone left with practical ideas they can put into action straight away.”

www.purplexmarketing.com

Yale sponsor Women in Fenestration Network event

Yale Door and Window Solutions says it is proud to stand behind women in the fenestration industry this International Women’s Day as it sponsors the Women in Fenestration Network’s (WFN) first-ever Professional Development Day.

Taking place on 25th June 2026 in Bristol, the event has been organised by Sarah Ball, Founder of the WFN who has more than 20 years’ experience in the industry. She aims to create a space where women can be heard, supported and empowered, while enabling the industry as a whole to benefit from stronger collaboration and broader perspectives.

Alongside the formal sessions on the day, including headline speaker Sara Harling, author of Why Won’t You Let Me Speak, there will be valuable networking opportunities and a clear focus on supporting women’s progression.

Gemma Diratzonian, Assa

Abloy’s head of brand & fenestration lead, residential, comments: “I’m extremely proud to be a woman working in the fenestration industry and movements like International Women’s Day are critical to help challenge outdated perceptions and inspire the next generation of female talent.

“At Yale, we believe that women belong at every level across the industry and that’s why we’ve chosen to sponsor the inaugural WFN Professional Development. The women-only event looks set to be a standout date in the calendar this summer, bringing together industry professionals for a full day of insight, inspiration and connection. The event also coincides with PIGs Bristol event, which Yale are once again an annual sponsor of, so the networking will be able to continue into the evening.”

To book a ticket for the WFN Professional Development Day please visit: https://bit.ly/4bewsbF

New sensory room

creates calming, inclusive space for young people at Castle Vale

Children and young people with additional needs in Castle Vale are benefiting from a newly redeveloped sensory room designed to provide a calming, inclusive environment tailored to their needs.

The new space has been created through a collaboration between The Pioneer Group and Nationwide Windows & Doors, helping transform an existing room into a modern sensory environment that better supports local families and young people accessing services in the area.

The project builds on work first started several years ago when funding from Children in Need enabled the creation of an initial sensory space. While the original room provided valuable support, it became clear over time that it no longer fully met the needs of children and young people using the facility.

Following new investment secured through Nationwide, Pioneer carried out a consultation with parents, carers and young people to understand how the space could be improved. Feedback gathered helped shape everything from equipment choices to colours and atmosphere, ultimately inspiring a calming seaside and sunset theme designed to promote relaxation, comfort and engagement.

The refreshed sensory room now offers a welcoming space where children and young people can regulate emotions, develop confidence and access inclusive activities in a safe and supportive setting.

“In a world that can often feel busy and overwhelming, we immediately recognised the meaningful impact this facility will have on the community’s

long-term wellbeing,” said Kevin Caveney, director of commercial sales at Nationwide. “It has been a real privilege to work alongside The Pioneer Group on this project. Seeing everyone come together to help shape an inclusive space – one that offers a calm, creative, and safe environment in which individuals can find balance – has been genuinely heart-warming.”

Leonie Hammond, contracts manager at The Pioneer Group, said: “Since the windows and doors programme began in 2024, we’ve been working closely with Nationwide to make sure there was a successful rollout of their social value commitments across Castle Vale. From the outset, we wanted this investment to create a long-term impact not only for our tenants, but for the wider community. We’re incredibly proud of the new sensory room and pleased that Nationwide’s programme of works will leave a lasting legacy on the Vale, giving our community continued benefit for years to come.”

The project marks another step in the ongoing partnership between Pioneer and Nationwide, demonstrating how collaboration and targeted investment can help strengthen community services and create lasting positive impact for local families.