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Security redefined.

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Yale’s latest innovation in window security, the Dual Lock Window Lock Range, sets a new standard with its smart design, effortless installation, and exceptional versatility. Engineered to suit PVC, aluminium, and timber window systems.

Choose from two high-performance options:

• Twin Cam Espagnolette

• Shootbolt Window Lock

Both are designed for easy, single routing preparation reducing installation time while maintaining top-tier performance. The Twin Cam Espagnolette offers bi-directional locking for enhanced protection, and features Quadcoat corrosion resistance rated up to 1,000 hours (BS EN 1670 Grade 5,480hrs), ensuring long-lasting durability even in the toughest environments.

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Cover picture: Senior anchors success at Manchester’s new Island development, read more on page 104

Door hardware specialist UAP acquired by Allegion

UAP Group Limited (UAP), a leading Manchester-based door hardware specialist, has been acquired by Allegion plc, a leading global security products and solutions provider, through one of its subsidiaries for an undisclosed sum.

UAP designs solutions around its customers’ needs, equipping them to navigate the ever-changing fire and security landscape.

Headquartered in Manchester, UAP serves customers in all corners of the UK. Through its comprehensive portfolio of door hardware, it is creating a safer, more resilient built environment, according to the company, which is highly aligned with Allegion’s vision for creating a safer and more accessible world.

UAP holds nearly 200 patents, trademarks, and registered designs, including for its pioneering

Armasmart range, the industry’s first door hardware range to eliminate 99.98% of viruses, including COVID-19, claims the company. Its strong reputation for innovation is also closely aligned with Allegion’s values and strategic goals.

Another testament to its innovation, UAP has won several industry awards recently, including winning “Hardware Company of the Year” in 2023 and 2024 at the National Fenestration Awards and the 2024 Guild of Architectural Ironmongers’ Community Award for Company Innovation.

Following the acquisition, UAP will report into the Allegion International segment. This will strengthen Allegion’s presence in the region and complement its UK’s non-residential portfolio, while expanding its breadth of solutions to the companies’ combined customers. David

Jennings, CEO of UAP, will join Allegion to facilitate a smooth transition and support accelerated growth for the combined organisations.

David Jennings, UAP’s CEO, said: “Bringing together UAP and Allegion adds great value for our joint distribution and customer base. We’re broadening our highquality portfolios and creating meaningful opportunities to innovate together.”

Allegion produces mechanical hardware solutions, offering everything from door closers and exit devices to door furniture and residential and commercial locks, as well as software and services that support them.

“This is a natural extension of Allegion’s core mechanical portfolio with highly specifiable products that will leverage our existing solutions offerings and capabilities,” said Tim Eckersley, Allegion senior vice president and president of Allegion International. “Through our go-to-market alignment, complementary channels and sales expertise, we’ll fuel additional growth for both UAP and Allegion.”

uaplimited.com

www.allegion.com

profine GmbH acquires Bulgarian systems provider Profilink

profine GmbH, a global provider of window and door systems, has announced the acquisition of Profilink, a company based in Plovdiv, Bulgaria. As part of the transaction, profine is taking over the aluminium and PVC operations of the company, including all system brands as well as employees from the marketing, sales, and engineering departments.

Profilink’s operations will be continued under the umbrella of profine GmbH and the internationally recognised Kömmerling brand.

With this acquisition, profine is consistently pursuing its strategy to significantly expand its product segment of aluminium window, door, and sliding systems. The Profilink portfolio is a strong addition – complementing both the aluminium systems developed in-house and the expertise and solutions gained through the acquisition of EFP Facades in October 2024, according to the

company.

Dr. Peter A. Mrosik, owner and CEO of profine GmbH, commented: “The acquisition of Profilink is a further strong signal of our commitment to expand our aluminium business across Europe. We are broadening our product range and strengthening our development expertise –both in aluminium and PVC. This enables us to offer our customers an even more comprehensive and powerful systems portfolio from a single source.”

Profilink has many years of market presence and expertise in developing and marketing aluminium and PVC window, door, and sliding systems. Existing customer relationships and market shares – particularly in Southeastern Europe – will now become part of the profine network, says the company.

www.profine-group.com

www.profilink.eu

Trade fabricator Dekko Window Systems is celebrating a decadelong partnership with aluminium systems specialist Reynaers Aluminium.

Since 2015, Dekko has supplied the trade with a range of aluminium products manufactured using Reynaers’ high-performance systems, from bi-fold doors and sliding patio doors to slimline window systems suitable for both commercial and residential installations.

In 2020, Dekko underlined its commitment to aluminium with the opening of a dedicated 25,000 square foot aluminium manufacturing facility. More recently, Dekko’s aluminium range was expanded further with the addition of Reynaers’ CW50 curtain walling system, catering to larger-scale architectural projects.

“This is a significant milestone with Reynaers,” said Kurt Greatrex, managing director at Dekko Window Systems. “It’s a partnership built on trust and a shared drive for excellence. We’re looking forward to continuing this journey with Reynaers and delivering even more value to our trade installer customers through exceptional aluminium products and service.”

www.dekkowindows.com

Liniar expands PVCu thermal reinforcements range

PVCu systems house Liniar, is once again paving the way for sustainable construction with the latest addition to its pioneering PVCu Thermal Reinforcements range, says the company.

Design and Fabrication director, Daryl Fradley (Daz), explains, “The decision to enhance the range follows impressive market uptake since its initial rollout and underscores Liniar’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-performance, future-ready solutions for fabricators, installers and specifiers alike.”

Designed as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional steel reinforcements, Liniar’s advanced PVCu Thermal Reinforcements are playing a key role in supporting the shift towards more environmentally responsible construction methods, claims the company.

Daz continues, “We developed the range with performance, sustainability and practicality in mind. Our PVCu Thermal Reinforcements are manufactured using recycled materials and are themselves fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan. The system can be used to reinforce both window and door frames – including transoms – and achieves the same reinforcement requirements as steel.”

From the range’s inception, the real challenge lay in replicating the strength and resilience of steel using a polymer-based product. That goal has been emphatically achieved – the PVCu reinforcements have undergone rigorous third-party testing by UKAS-accredited bodies and have been certified to BSI standards BS 6375 parts 1, 2 and 3, as well as PAS 24. The result is a product that matches steel for performance

in critical areas such as structural integrity, screw retention and security while offering a host of additional benefits, claims the company.

“It’s not just about matching steel it’s about improving on it. Liniar’s PVCu solution offers enhanced thermal performance, delivering

tangible energy-efficiency gains in final installations. Fabricators also benefit from considerable cost savings and a cleaner, more streamlined manufacturing process. Unlike steel, the PVCu reinforcements don’t require specialist cutting equipment and result in less wear and tear on consumables,” explains Daz.

“Manufacturing operatives will also appreciate the ease of handling, without sharp or burred edges, the risk of injury during fabrication is greatly reduced. While installers will find the finished frames much easier to drill as PVCu requires less force than steel.”

www.liniar.co.uk

Deceuninck named

one of the world’s

greenest companies

Deceuninck has been ranked among Newsweek’s 2025 World’s Greenest Companies–an international accolade recognising the top 750 publicly listed companies across 26 countries for excellence in environmental sustainability.

Based on independent research conducted by GIST Impact and Plant-A Insights Group, the ranking evaluated over 8,000 companies – all of whom had to have publicly available sustainability disclosures and align with the EU’s highest environmental standards –against stringent criteria.

Companies were assessed across four key categories:

Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions, water usage, waste generation, and sustainability data disclosure and commitments.

“This is a huge achievement and a powerful endorsement of the work that both we in the UK, and our European Deceuninck counterparts, have done to reduce our environmental impact,” said Darren Woodcock, general manager at Deceuninck UK. “We’re delivering measurable reductions in carbon emissions, using clean energy, and supporting our customers with practical tools to help them become more sustainable too.”

Deceuninck’s inclusion builds

on recent sustainability milestones in the UK, including a 21% reduction in CO₂ emissions and a 60% reduction target by 2030 under the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). Additionally, the company’s Calne site now operates 2,200 solar panels, generating nearly 900,000 kWh of renewable energy annually.

It has also achieved RecyClass certification for recycled PVC traceability and processes and renewed its VinylPlus Product Label for sustainable manufacturing across the UK and Europe.

“These achievements show that sustainability isn’t just a goal – it’s embedded in every part of our business,” added Darren. “Recognition like this strengthens our commitment to lead by example and support a more circular, lowcarbon future for our industry.”

www.deceuninck.co.uk

UK & Ireland Colour Trends for 2025 so far

The latest industry data in the UK and Ireland has shown some interesting insights into the colour landscape for 2025.

Renolit have supplied 93 different colours into the market yearto-date 2025, marking a slight increase from the 90 colours sold at this stage last year. While this variety in colours would typically indicate a highly segmented market, it is in fact the opposite. The top 10 colours now account for 90% of total market demand, underscoring the continued dominance of a select group of foils.

Within the top 10 finishes only two woodgrains appear, highlighting a continuing shift toward clean, uniform finishes. Overall, solid colours now account for over 80% of the market demand, according to Renolit.

Agate grey is a standout story in 2025. Once a mid-tier contender,

it has increased in popularity to become the sixth most popular colour, surpassing long-time favourites such as golden oak. Its rise aligns with broader industry preferences toward neutral, contemporary aesthetics.

But there are signs of changes in demand for colour and surface texture to indicate shifts are beginning to occur, when typically demand has been dominated by the same colour palette for extended periods of time.

Renolit Exofol PX Ulti-Matt has seen a 39% year-on-year increase with black and sage particularly strong performers. Meanwhile Renolit Exofol PFX Super-Matt woodgrains has recorded a remarkable +234% growth. This rise of next-generation finishes suggests consumer appetite for improved aesthetics is stronger than ever.

Should demand continue to

driven, industry stakeholders will need to keep a close eye on emerging favourites and invest in flexibility and speed-to-market to stay competitive, says Renolit.

Renolit’s ability to respond to changing demands positions the company, and the industry, well for continued success in the second half of 2025 and beyond.

This trend suggests growing consumer appetite for contemporary, modern tones with minimalist appeal.

The subtle shifts in colour preferences and variations in surface finish suggest emerging trends within the exterior market, which has traditionally been dominated by a consistent colour palette for prolonged periods. Renolit’s capability to adapt promptly to evolving demands with precision and diversity strategically positions the company, and the industry, for sustained success in the latter half of 2025 and beyond.

For further information please contact Renolit UK Ltd on 01670 718222

Aluprof launches UK homeowner range: Aluprof Living

Aluprof, Europe’s supplier of aluminium building systems, has announced the launch of Aluprof Living: a specialist range

for UK homeowners.

For the first time in the UK and Ireland, a range of Aluprof’s

aluminium products for the home and garden will be available to homeowners through a network of nationwide installers. The launch of Aluprof Living includes a new jargonfree website for homeowners, installers and fabricators to browse, featuring downloadable content on products and customisable options, and expert insights. The website also features a handy tool for homeowners to find members of the new Aluprof Living’s Partner

network and their details.

Aluprof Living’s Partner network – for fabricators and installers – has been developed to create “more work and better work” for fitters across the UK. By signing up, Partners can enhance the offering in their showrooms; take advantage of training resources to support business development and collaborate on media and event opportunities. Partners in the network will also be granted early access to new

product information and can get hands on with the brand’s innovations at face-to-face events.

The launch of Aluprof Living represents a significant step for Aluprof – which has been serving the European and US building sectors for over 70 years. The firm branched out into the UK & Ireland market in 2006, and this is its introduction into the UK domestic sector. The range includes aluminium windows, doors (entrance, sliding, balcony), façades, pergolas, sun shading systems and accessories with customisable finishes and security features.

Shaun Cartwright, Aluprof’s national sales manager for Domestic & Residential Systems, stated: “With this brand, we have developed a range of windows, doors and pergolas specifically for the home improvement market, with products that will enhance homes and gardens, whilst offering the best value for their investment.

“We can’t wait to work collaboratively with homeowners to help achieve their renovation goals, whether that’s achieving a design goal or increasing the energy efficiency of their homes to reduce the energy bills. I’m also incredibly proud to be heading up our Partner Network, which will provide a vital means to secure more work and better work.

“Aluprof Living installation partners will have innovative products with tangible demand in their showrooms – but they’ll also have training as well as marketing support, and the benefits of joint promotion across social media and events.”

UKO Group increases transport flee t

UKO Group, the umbrella company of UK Doors Online, Trade Window Centre, UKO Glass and UK Rooflights, has committed to further investment across the businesses following a period of huge growth and innovation, according to the company.

Starting with increasing its transportation fleet, the company is growing its delivery network, to meet increasing customer demand across the United Kingdom, and investing further to upgrade machinery across each of its sites to increase output, and provide even better quality and service to its customers, claims the company.

This strategic investment will see the addition of new vehicles to the group’s logistics infrastructure, enhancing delivery capacity and service reliability across all five of its specialist brands, says the company.

“As our brands continue to grow and diversify, it’s essential that our logistics capabilities evolve in tandem,” said Andrew Glover, managing director at UKO Group. “This fleet expansion ensures we can continue to deliver exceptional service, reduce lead times, and support our customers and partners with even greater flexibility.”

https://www.ukogroup.co.uk

Dekko Window Systems expands product portfolio with Alunet bi-fold and sliding door

Trade fabricator Dekko Window Systems has strengthened its aluminium offering with the launch of the Aluna Bi-fold and Aluna Sliding Patio Door, manufactured using Alunet Systems’ high-performance aluminium profiles.

Dekko says the addition of these ‘sleek, high-spec systems’ means Dekko now offers customers three distinct aluminium bi-fold and patio door solutions: the Reynaers range, Decalu range, and now Aluna from Alunet.

Steve Collett, sales director at Dekko, Window Systems, comments: “Aluminium continues to be a strong

growth area. Even with cautious consumer spending, homeowners are still looking for aspirational, high-end products that enhance their living space – and that points directly to aluminium.

“Expanding our aluminium portfolio allows us to give installers the choice and flexibility they need to win more business.”

The Aluna Bi-fold boasts ultraslim sightlines of just 107mm frame-to-sash, smooth opening and closing, and exceptional thermal performance. It’s designed for flexible living, offering up to 14 sashes with inward or outward opening configurations.

Meanwhile, the Aluna Sliding Patio Door delivers a sleek architectural finish, with an interlock of just 25mm and sash sizes up to 2.5m wide. Available in sliding or lift-andslide versions, it offers excellent weather performance, PAS24 compliance, and ‘effortless’ operation.

“Bi-fold doors remain incredibly popular, but there’s been a clear shift towards sliding patio doors, particularly those with ultraslim sightlines,” added Steve. “With the introduction of Aluna, we now offer three premium aluminium systems that cover all project types – giving our customers a real competitive advantage.”

Dekko’s Alunet range also includes the Aluna+ window (Slim Flush/Standard/Tilt Turn Window) the Aluna entrance door and Aluna internal screens.

www.dekkowindows.com

Conservatory Outlet achieves record-breaking service satisfaction scores in its Customer Journey Survey

Retail specialist fabricator, Conservatory Outlet, has achieved its highest-ever Customer Journey Survey score in the latest round of feedback from its premium retail network.

The Customer Journey Survey is a quarterly survey designed to capture, in a structured way, how customers think and feel about the performance of Conservatory Outlet as a supplier. Feedback is sought from all 28 Conservatory Outlet

premium retailers, including directors and senior department heads.

This unique and in-depth survey provides an opportunity for businesses to share detailed feedback on service and quality across all the manufacturer’s front-facing departments. The scores and comments are then reviewed by all the fabricators’ directors and heads of department, where an action plan is developed and shared

with the network, emphasising the steps that will be taken to address specific feedback.

Greg Kane, CEO at Conservatory Outlet, said: “We believe this survey is one of the most thorough in our sector –nobody else drills down to this level of detail across every part of the customer journey. Our internal measures may show we’re doing a great job, but if our customers have a different opinion, then we need to know about it.

“An 90.9% score is a huge achievement for the entire team, and a reflection of our relentless focus on improvement. The insight we gain here is priceless, and it’s what allows us to keep evolving in ways that genuinely

make a difference for our retailers.”

Broken down into six core categories, the 34-point survey is one of the most comprehensive of its kind in the fenestration sector. First launched in 2017, it captures honest, actionable insight that shapes Conservatory Outlet’s business aims and objectives, while enabling the team to quickly address any issues flagged.

Unlike many industry feedback mechanisms that tend to focus on isolated stages of the supply chain, Conservatory Outlet’s survey monitors the entire customer journey in detail. This consistent, whole-business approach has contributed to year-on-year improvements, with annual averages steadily increasing.

This quarter’s score not only marks the company’s highest overall result to date but also includes record individual scores for the transport and order processing departments, both achieving scores in the high 90%.

The result follows a series of incremental customer-driven improvements, including enhanced vehicle tracking with live data, ongoing training courses, supplier-led quality upgrades, and best practice recommendations on workflows and systems.

“The real value of this survey lies in the involvement and honesty of our customers. Their feedback is what drives change,” adds Mick Giscombe, Conservatory Outlet’s managing director.

“It’s a genuine partnership – the more insight they share, the better we can support them. This result is just as much theirs as it is ours.”

Nova Trade Frames adds Kömmerling to portfolio

Specialist manufacturer Nova Trade Frames says it is delighted with the early response from customers after adding the Kömmerling C70, O70 and flush sash window and door systems to its portfolio.

Nova Trade Frames was established 43 years ago and remains a family run business with the 3rd generation now at the helm, so maintaining its reputation for quality is imperative. Scott Lawrence explains: “With such a longstanding reputation for excellence, we have high standards to uphold. Our customers expect the best from us and so we are always looking for ways to help them stay ahead of the competition. Kömmerling is well-known for its quality and well-engineered systems, so we recently added the C70, 070 and impressive Flush Sash systems to our range and have already gained more customers as a result.

“Customers have been particularly impressed with the Kömmerling flush sash windows because they have a small frame to sash gap which is the best on the market. We

are getting no callbacks on the product, which is obviously a huge advantage. Kömmerling has also managed to achieve a u-value of 1.2w/m2K while still using full steel reinforcement so our customers don’t have to compromise when selling energy efficient flush sash windows. We’re also excited about the Kömmerling flush sash door system that looks like it will be packed with clever features too, which maybe added to our product base in the near future.

Scott Lawrence concludes:

“As a family business Nova Trade Frames has always been driven by providing exceptional customer service. And with family values at the core of everything we do, we need to work with suppliers that deliver excellence so that we can maintain our outstanding reputation for reliability, professionalism and transparency. Kömmerling has already proven to be a strong addition to our offering and we’re looking forward to working closely with the team for the long-term to deliver market-leading products for our customers.”

Sternfenster records record COTIF in July

Sternfenster has logged a record Complete & On Time In Full (COTIF) score in July, encompassing data from across its in-house production of PVC-U, aluminium and glass products, as well as its internal functions.

With a variety of metrics measured, Sternfenster’s COTIF analysis spans the entire manufacturing chain; from maintaining stocks to ensure industry-leading lead times, to the delivery of the full order once complete.

“Our impressive COTIF reinforces our commitment to quality service for our customers,” said Nathan Court, Sternfenster’s sales and marketing director.

“In the current climate, conditions are tough, margins are tight, and end customers can be unforgiving, so installers need to work with partners that they

can rely on. We’ve appraised our internal systems and made some key changes to ensure just that. And we know that it’s working; in July, we saw individual COTIF breakdowns of 99.58% in transport, 98.03% in glass, and 99.57% from our customer service team – just to name a few.

“We’re proactively making changes to ensure we are delivering the best customer service possible, every time.”

Having previously worked with team members to identify key sticking-points, extra staff training and machinery investments were among the measures taken to drive production improvements.

“With PVC-U, we saw an opportunity to strengthen skills in areas such as welding, so we enhanced skillsets through our award-winning training and

development initiatives, such as the Starglaze Trainer programme,” added Nathan. “With aluminium, we’ve removed issues associated with stretched gaskets by switching to co-extruded gasketed products, and with glass, we’ve implemented accountability standards.”

“We’re fully committed to continuous improvement, and we’re always focused on training, upskilling and utilising the latest tech to deliver the stability and consistent quality our customers have come to expect.”

In addition, investment in innovations such as EasyAdmin+ – Sternfenster’s cloud-based business management platform –helps installers to manage quotes, track leads, and monitor orders, to increase efficiency and streamline their business operations.

It’s this approach, over more than five decades in business, that has seen the company remain as a steadfast and reliable partner, despite growing supply chain instability.

For more information visit www.sternfenster.com

Outdoor living by Aluprof

By Wojciech Brożyna – MD Aluprof UK

For the homeowner, outdoor living refers to the design and use of exterior spaces, such as patios, decks and gardens, an extension of the home’s interior living areas. It encompasses everything from seating and dining arrangements to outdoor kitchens, fire pits, pergolas, and garden features, all thoughtfully arranged to create functional and comfortable

environment outside. The goal is to blur the line between inside and outside, allowing people to enjoy nature while retaining many of the conveniences and comforts of indoor spaces. By integrating durable, weather-resistant materials such as aluminium, brick, paving stone and all-weather fabrics, alongside amenities such as lighting, heating elements and

shade structures, outdoor living spaces can be used year-round, even in the UK’s climate.

Beyond aesthetics and functionality, outdoor living supports lifestyle and well-being, it encourages social gatherings, family time, and relaxation in

a natural setting. Even simple design choices, like adding potted plants, a water feature, or ambient lighting can transform a garden into a retreat that invites outdoor cooking, al fresco dining, or quiet reading. Moreover, spending time outdoors has been linked to reduced stress, improved mood,

and greater physical activity, making well-designed outdoor living areas not only attractive but also health-promoting. Whether in a small urban courtyard or a spacious rural garden, outdoor living turns ordinary outdoor spaces into extensions of personal style and daily life.

Aluprof’s outdoor living portfolio is anchored by its state-of-the-art pergola systems, the MB-OpenSky 120 and MB-OpenSky 140, which feature motorised, rotating aluminium slats that can be angled from fully closed to fully open (0°–135°) for precise control over light and ventilation. Both free-standing and wall-mounted configurations are available, each integrating concealed drainage channels and custom seals to ensure water-tight performance even under heavy rain or snow loads. These pergolas can be enhanced with Aluprof’s SkyRoll side-screens or MB-OpenSlide glazed sliding panels for added weather protection, and offer options for integrated LED lighting strips and infrared heating modules to extend usability into cooler evenings, claims the company.

According to the company, beyond pergolas, Aluprof broadens the concept of “outdoor living” with modular outdoor kitchen frameworks and architectural aluminium elements. Through its Flexocube collaboration, Aluprof supplies fully customisable, weather-resistant kitchen modules built on robust aluminium profiles, allowing homeowners to mix and match components for BBQ and prep areas with “screw-not-weld” assembly simplicity. Complementing these are decorative facade slats from the ‘Earthline’ range, available in multiple widths, in finishes such as wood or stone sublimation, complete with LED lighting options that unify interior and exterior design themes across walls, screens and garden structures. Aluprof ensures homeowners are fully supported from the

earliest planning stages through to completion by offering comprehensive specification and design consultancy. Potential buyers can access tailored guidance via Aluprof’s website, dedicated UK offices in Altrincham and London, or by phone, where experienced technicians advise on the optimal product configurations to suit each project, including tips on minimising thermal bridging and ensuring seamless integration with existing structures. For those who prefer an in-person experience, Aluprof’s flagship showroom in Greater Manchester, with virtual tour options also available, allows homeowners to see and handle products firsthand while discussing bespoke requirements with aluminium experts. Additionally, an online configurator streamlines the process of obtaining quick, accurate quotations for pergolas, shutters, and other outdoor living systems.

Once installation begins, homeowners benefit from Aluprof’s network of certified installers, who have been trained and assessed to ensure high standards of workmanship and minimal disruption on site. After handover, ongoing support is maintained through extensive technical documentation with installation and maintenance manuals, troubleshooting guides, and product datasheets readily available online. Should any issues arise, Aluprof’s technical support team offers real-time assistance by phone or email, while scheduled maintenance services and warranty coverages help preserve performance and extend the lifespan of outdoor living installations. This end-to-end support framework guarantees that homeowners can enjoy their Aluprof outdoor living spaces with confidence, knowing expert help is always at hand, claims the company.

aluprof.co.uk

aluprofliving.com

Edgetech partnership key to innovative thin triple solution

Edgetech, a Quanex company, has played a major part in the thin triple solution that is set to revolutionise triple glazing, according to the company.

Edgetech partnered with machinery manufacturer Forel to deliver the step forward in energy-efficient glazing: a fully automated production line for thin triples – ultra-thin, triple-glazed insulating glass units that offer the performance of conventional triple glazed units without the weight, cost, and complexity, claims the company. And at the heart of the innovation is Edgetech’s flexible warm-edge Super Spacer.

Eighteen months ago, Quanex approached Forel in Italy to work together on the encapsulation of a central thin pane of glass within a sealed unit, with the flexibility and precision of Super Spacer allowing for the central pane to be assembled with sub-millimetre accuracy, ensuring structural integrity and thermal performance regardless of whether the centre pane is as thin as 1 mm. This will allow IGU manufacturers to produce a triple glazed unit with a single outer seal, as in a double-glazed unit, rather than the traditional double sealing process, says the company.

“This is where we see the industry heading,” said Tony Palmer, head of sales at Edgetech. “Triple glazing is essential to futureproofing window systems against future thermal regulations and consumer demand. But until now, its widespread adoption in the UK has been held back”

“We believed the flexibility of Super Spacer could be key in unlocking thin triples. As manufacturers of Super Spacer we can provide a spacer that is fit for purpose for different cavities, whether the central pane is 1mm or 1.5mm – there aren’t any restrictions. We approached Forel because we knew they had the expertise to help make it happen, and it’s been incredibly exciting to work with them on this.”

The modified Forel High Speed Line enables production of thin triples for high performance triple glazed units compatible with existing 70mm window systems so fabricators and installers don’t need to change how they operate, says the company.

Brian McDonald, CEO of Forel UK & Ireland, explained the decision to partner with Edgetech: “We’ve worked closely with Edgetech on numerous lines over the years, so we were delighted when they asked us to work with them on this. As a brand Edgetech have always led the way in innovation and together we’ve been able to bring a solution to market that could remove the final barriers to triple glazing adoption in the UK.”

With the first UK thin triple line expected to be operational by the end of 2025, the partnership between Edgetech and Forel marks a pivotal moment in delivering lighter, highperformance, and productionfriendly triple-glazed IGUs, says the company.

www.edgetechig.co.uk

Country Hardwood: Premium timber at competitive prices

the perfect fit for your next project with Country

We combine cutting-edge CNC technology with traditional joinery techniques to create bespoke timber solutions for any project. Our efficiency allows us to offer competitive pricing – without sacrificing the premium quality your clients expect.

For competitive pricing on premium joinery, choose Country Hardwood.

• Bespoke designs to suit any project

Sustainable FSC-certified timber including sapele, oak & idigbo

• Beautiful oak-lookalike hardwood available

• Nationwide delivery & reliable lead times

Unique wraparound locking system

• Bespoke orangeries and conservatories also available

Explore our range today at www.countryhardwood.com or get in touch for a consultation.

Stars align for the winner of Sheerline’s Ugly Lantern Competition

Sheerline has announced Matt Bye of Broadland Windows & Conservatories as the winner of its Ugly Lantern Competition. It provided an opportunity

for those within the industry to share the ugliest lantern installations they could find, so they could be in with a chance of winning an S1 Roof Lantern.

Matt didn’t have to look too hard as the winning entry is installed in his home. He explained: “We moved into the house 5-6 years ago, and the lantern has been a bugbear ever since – it’s the wrong size with heavy sections, poorly installed, with blown sealed units, and it leaks – everything you don’t want from a lantern.”

As with all home renovation projects, Matt had ambitions to change the lantern, and although he’d been looking at the options available, he had already decided Sheerline’s award-winning S1 was the right choice for him, particularly after

attending the FIT Show.

As part of the Sheerline Bespoke stand, there was an S1 in Jet Black (RAL 9005) featuring striking ultra grey glass. Aside from the low profile and stylish, modern looks, being able to add intelligent ventilation was a real selling point for Matt, as he describes SheerVent as “one of the best ventilation systems on the market.”

After hearing about the competition on Facebook, Matt decided to enter as he felt his lantern met the criteria perfectly. And although he had already seen the S1 at the FIT Show, it would be another few weeks before he found out he had won the competition.

When asked about his win, Matt said: “I’m really pleased. It’s perfect – it’s exactly what we wanted anyway, and as you can imagine, my wife is over the moon. When you work in the industry and you know what it’s capable of, you realise what a poor solution my ugly lantern really was.”

Chris Cooke, Sheerline Bespoke’s commercial director, commented: “Matt knows his lantern is very ugly! But it’s not his fault, many roof system companies use their standard conservatory components for their lanterns.”

“The issue is that a lantern is typically much smaller than a conservatory roof and so the components look out of proportion. Many people find themselves in Matt’s situation where they inherit an ugly lantern or conservatory, which leads to people remodelling. We’re thrilled Matt has won the competition and the S1 has fixed the problem for him,” he added.

http://bit.ly/469gbmM

Eurocell relocates to ‘bigger and better’ Keighley branch

Eurocell is relocating its long-established Keighley branch to a brand-new site at Beckside Park.

Eurocell has been part of the Keighley community since 2006, with a strong network of local trade customers. The move – just a five-minute drive from the former site – allows the team to expand its offer with more stock on-site, a streamlined ‘fast in-and-out’ format for quicker collections, and the same trusted service that customers rely on.

From PVC-U windows and doors, conservatories, composite doors, roofline and rainwater systems to decking, fencing, cladding, guttering, fascias, Skypod Lantern Roofs and solid conservatory roofs, the new Beckside Park branch is a one-stop destination for home improvement products.

Tradespeople will also find everyday essentials such as fixings, sealants, and tools.

The new site officially opened on Thursday 21st August. Opening hours remain unchanged: Monday to Friday, 7:30am – 4:30pm, and Saturday, 8:00am – 12:00 noon, with delivery and clickand-collect services available to help customers save time on the job.

The Keighley opening is part of Eurocell’s nationwide branch network of over 210 locations. Local trade professionals are encouraged to sign up for a Eurocell Trade Account, giving them consistent pricing and credit options across the UK.

For more information about the new branch, visit: eurocell.co.uk/branch-finder

WindowMaster and Veka present new system of smoke evacuation

Ventilation specialist

WindowMaster has announced a new collaboration with Veka. The collaboration involves certifying smoke ventilation windows using the latter’s systems by EN 121012, enabling these systems to comply with UK law.

To enhance the Halo System 10 and M70 window systems, Veka profiles are being utilised in collaboration with approved Veka partners, Teal Products and L J Pratley & Partners. Each system will be fitted with WindowMaster’s proprietary actuators for smoke control,

This latest development will not only help these systems comply with UK law, but will also make it

easier to specify and install VEKAmanufactured solutions within this market. It also offers significant advantages to window fabricators, who will be able to sell UPVC systems for smoke ventilation, according to the company.

Smoke ventilation systems in buildings serve multiple critical functions. The first and most important objective is to effectively and efficiently remove smoke from emergency-critical, high-traffic areas including stairwells and corridors during evacuation during fire incidents.

Products have been UKCA marked according to BS/EN 12101-2, covering:

• Annex C, Reliability testing 1000 + 10000 dual purpose ventilators

• Annex E, low ambient temperature test, T (-15)

• Annex F, resistance to wind load, tested to 1750Pa

• Annex G, Resistance to heat, testing to class B300

• Annex H, Reaction to fire to class E

These tests have all been undertaken using WindowMaster’s automation components.

“Fire safety is a non-negotiable and should be the ultimate priority from specifier through to facilities manager, regardless of setting, says Erik Boyter, WindowMaster’s CEO. Occupants and visitors of any type of building need to know they’re protected from any hazard, and asset owners have a duty to ensure this is the case. It’s well-known smoke that is one of the biggest fire-related killers, so proven, advanced solutions that can quickly remove it need to be baked into the design from day one. VEKA shares our forwardthinking approach to make the UK built environment as safe as possible, and we’re excited to partner with them on this project which will enhance the fire-safe qualities of its UPVC window systems.”

Jack Scullion, product and innovation manager at Veka says, “At Veka, innovation goes hand-in-hand with responsibility, particularly when it comes to safety solutions. This partnership with WindowMaster is a significant step forward in enabling our window systems to meet the highest standards of smoke ventilation compliance. By integrating NSHEVs into our trusted profiles, we’re giving fabricators, installers and specifiers a reliable, fully tested PVCu option that supports safer buildings across the UK.”

A NEW ERA FOR TRIPLE GLAZING

CHOOSE

THE WIDTH OF DOUBLE. THE POWER OF TRIPLE.

An ultra-thin centre pane is placed with sub-millimetre accuracy, using our leading flexible warm-edge spacer, allowing for the production of high-performance triple-glazed IGUs that are compatible with 70mm systems and require just one outer seal.

Thin triples, powered by Super

deliver exceptional energy efficiency in a smarter, lighter package

U-VALUES AS LOW AS 0.7-0.9 W/(M 2 K)

DESIGNED TO FIT STANDARD 70MM FRAMES

MORE THAN 40% LIGHTER THAN TYPICAL TRIPLE GLAZING

accelerates digital transformation with GS1 UK and NBS partnership

NBS, a leading specification and product information platform for the construction industry, has announced a landmark partnership with GS1 UK to embed globally recognised product identifiers across the sector.

This strategic collaboration is said will improve the quality, traceability, and visibility of construction product data across the supply chain. For the first time manufacturers will be able to assign Global Trade Item

Numbers (GTINs), a globally recognised standardised product identification approach, to their products on NBS Source. By creating a unique digital identity for every product, this initiative addresses longstanding challenges related to fragmented and inconsistent product data in construction.

Supporting a single source of truth

Underpinning a single source of truth, this collaboration is closely

frameworks, including the Golden product passports (DPPs).

Dr Stephen Hamil, innovation director at NBS, commented: “Our aim at NBS is to make structured, high-quality product data available where and when it’s needed. That starts with consistent identification. By incorporating GTINs into NBS Source, we’re helping to remove ambiguity from specifications and make it easier for manufacturers to manage their digital product information at scale. The adoption of open standards like these is essential if we want to build a more transparent and connected industry.”

GTINs are already widely used across the logistics, retail, healthcare, and food sectors to enhance supply chain efficiency and data accuracy. Now, GS1 UK and NBS are bringing this global standard to construction, unlocking better discoverability of products in digital environments. Early adopters on NBS Source, include Knauf Insulation, Aico, Devi, Ibstock, Armitage Shanks, Fischer, Wallbarn, Permavent, Fire & Acoustic Seals, URSA, and C-TEC.

Ryan Ferguson, head of product & innovation at Knauf Insulation said, “We’re now able to assign

a single, globally recognised product identifier, that travels with our data from internal systems into specification platforms like NBS, through procurement and distributor platforms, and right through to end-of-life stages like disassembly. Even years later, if disassembly is needed, that same unique code still links to vital product information –helping teams carry out the process safely and sustainably.”

Integrating GTINs into NBS Source enables manufacturers to showcase their products across Google, procurement platforms, online marketplaces, asset databases and even AI tools like ChatGPT. This wider exposure not only amplifies visibility but also gives project teams fast, reliable access to verified product information.

Shervin Yousefzadeh, head of construction at GS1 UK, said: “This is a significant moment for the construction industry. We’ve seen how identifiers like GTINs unlock better supply chain visibility in other industries, and now construction has the chance to benefit in the same way. Wider adoption of these will provide the clarity and consistency the sector has needed for years. The beauty of GTINs is that they’re open, globally recognised and ready to use. They will help construction product manufacturers prepare for upcoming regulation and allow the wider industry to access trusted product data at every stage of a project.”

Over the coming months GS1 UK and NBS will deepen their collaboration, launching educational resources, hosting targeted outreach sessions and providing best-practice guidance to drive GTIN adoption among both manufacturers and specifiers nationwide.

https://www.thenbs.com/

Sheerline now offers 1.4 DG

U-values

across all products

Sheerline’s Classic window range now offers U-values of 1.4 W/(m²K) with double glazing. This is thanks to the addition of a self-adhesive glazing seal from Q-Lon, which offers ultra-low thermal transmittance and is hidden within the glazing chamber, underneath the glazed unit, claims the company.

The update reflects Sheerline’s commitment to simplified compliance as Classic now offers the same double-glazing U-values as the Prestige range with 1.4 U-values, according to the company.

As part of Sheerline’s commitment to transparency, an independently verified U-value report is available to

download via the website for every product. Each report explains the test conditions that were set as part of the simulation and outlines the performance of the product when tested against those parameters.

Ben Hartshorn, technical and design director, said: “This is a great update to be able to offer our customers. Not only do we offer straight forward compliance our fabricators can rely on, but we’re also saving them money. As our U-values are independently verified, our customers can use these reports instead of paying for a BFRC subscription to have them verified.”

www.sheerline.com/trust

A fresh approach to resolving disputes

Qure Group is helping tradespeople manage customer disputes with ease, approachability, and professionalism. Through effective and impartial mediation, Qure Group enables businesses to focus on what they do best, while they help resolve unpaid invoices and customer disputes fairly and efficiently.

We spoke with Tracy Dilworth, Qure Group’s dispute service controller, to learn how her team is supporting tradespeople, helping them navigate disputes and achieve fair outcomes when payments are withheld or issues begin to escalate.

Tracy explains: “The Qure Group is taking a fresh approach to dispute resolution. Our goal is to deliver positive outcomes for both tradespeople and their customers, without costly subscriptions or long-term contracts.

“Our clear pay as you go model,

is designed to offer professional, reliable support exactly when it is needed most.”

“We understand that reaching out for support can feel like a difficult step. That is why we have made our service simple, supportive, and non-judgemental from the outset. Our mediators are trained to work with professionals across multiple sectors, and we treat every case with respect and care.

“Most importantly, we don’t take sides. Our role is to provide a fair, balanced, evidence-led approach to every case. Whether it is resolving unpaid invoices or helping communication breakdowns, we are here to guide both parties to an agreeable and workable outcome through our structured and impartial mediation process. Our free initial triage session helps you understand whether there is a case to pursue, how our process works, and the steps involved in moving things towards a fair resolution

The Hidden Cost of Unpaid Invoices

“At first, a dispute might seem like a few awkward emails or missed calls. But the real cost often runs deeper, from cashflow disruption and reputational harm to the personal stress placed on business owners and installers.

“Take one recent case: a customer refused to pay for a £20,000 extension due to a minor snag and denied the installer access to the property. The installer was ready to cut losses and move on, wasting time that could have been spent on new work.

“Instead, they called Qure Group. We began with a triage call to understand the situation, then offered a neutral platform for both parties to speak openly. With our guidance, they reached a fair and positive outcome, avoiding legal fees, delays, and further stress.

On the Frontline

“I speak to tradespeople every day and one thing that comes up time and again is how stressful and disheartening it can be when customers withhold payment or disputes start to escalate.

“It’s easy to see why so many professionals think about walking away from the issue altogether, until they speak to us and see how we can help. We understand that when payments are withheld or communication breaks down, both sides can quickly feel stuck. That’s why we create a safe, neutral space where both parties feel heard, and where fair, lasting resolution feels achievable.”

If you have an ongoing dispute or a customer withholding payment, why not try a FREE 30-minute call with Tracy or speak to the resolution team on 0800 211 8000. For more information visit www.quregroup.co.uk

Rooflight Association named official partner of UK Construction Week Birmingham 2025

The Rooflight Association says it is pleased to be an official partner of UK Construction Week Birmingham 2025, bringing its expertise and insight to the show. The trade organisation is working with UKCW to promote good practice across the sector, raise standards, and improve safety.

Representing rooflight installers, specifiers, distributors and manufacturers, The Rooflight Association is particularly proud to champion the UK’s only dedicated roofing event Roofing, Cladding & Insulation (RCI Expo)

which returns to UKCW in 2025.

Neil Gaisford, divisional director, construction, commented: “Roofing, cladding and insulation are all key elements of any building project, so RCI Expo plays a fundamental role at UK Construction Week – not least keeping visitors up to date with the latest legislation, technology and products.”

You can visit The Rooflight Association at stand A18 to get expert advice on compliance and performance and, says the association, connect with the

Jon and Kayleigh Shooter

Jon and Kayleigh Shooter

specialists shaping the future of the rooflight industry.

The Rooflight Association will also present its white paper –The Benefits of Rooflights for the Daylighting of Buildings, as part of the RCI Expo’s programme of CPD-accredited seminars, expert-led workshops, panel discussions and interactive sessions.

“We’re extremely pleased to be partnering with UK Construction Week,” comments, Jon Shooter,chair of The Rooflight Association’s Marketing Committee. “As our industry continues to evolve, events like this are more important than ever.

“Strategically, it’s a great fit for

the association; especially RCI Expo. As the voice of the UK’s rooflight industry, we represent and support those in rooflightrelated businesses. Our members benefit from advice, support, representation, early insight, and the opportunity to influence standards and decision-making. We’re excited to inspire and connect with attendees.”

Opened by architect and TV presenter, George Clarke, UKCW Birmingham is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2025. In addition to RCI Expo, the show will feature three key specialist areas: Onsite On Hire, Digital Construction and Build X, alongside 300 leading brands, 200 speakers, and over 150 hours of CPD-accredited seminars.

Fabframes signs with Stellar Aluminium

Devon-based Fabframes has signed a three-year supply agreement with Stellar Aluminium Systems, marking a significant investment in its aluminium window and door offering.

Previously buying in Stellar products, the family-run business has responded to strong customer demand by bringing production in-house. This strategic step is backed by a major expansion, with the addition of two new dedicated Stellar manufacturing units and a showroom showcasing the complete Stellar Aluminium range.

After reviewing the market, Fabframes says it chose Stellar Aluminium for its ease of fabrication and the popularity of its knock-in, pre-gasketed beads.

Mike Taylor, managing director at Fabframes, said: “We pride ourselves on delivering quality and efficiency for our customers, and Stellar ticks every box. The system is simple to fabricate, the pre-gasketed beads save time in production and installation and our installers value them because they don’t shrink or overstretch, ensuring a neat, consistent finish every time.”

Fabframes was also impressed

To get your free ticket visit:

http://bit.ly/47LcW6i

Event details:

UK Construction Week NEC Birmingham 30 September – 2 October

The Rooflight Association –Stand A18

by Stellar’s competitive colour lead times, offering a five-day turnaround on stocked colours, a service comparable to the PVC-U sector that enables the South-West business to maintain its own fast delivery commitments.

Mike added: “Our customers know us for fast turnarounds, competitive pricing and exceptional service. Stellar’s five-day colour lead time means we can keep our aluminium projects moving and deliver on those promises.”

As part of the transition, Stellar delivered comprehensive onsite training to the Fabframes team, ensuring a smooth switchover to in-house fabrication. From September, the company will manufacture the complete Stellar Aluminium range, including flush casement windows, heritage windows, casement windows, flush Residential doors, slimline bifold doors and the popular Stellar inline sliding door.

Jon Foulds, key account manager at Stellar Aluminium, said: “Fabframes is exactly the type of quality-focused, customer-driven partner we want representing the Stellar brand. Their expansion shows real ambition and we’re delighted Stellar is at the heart of their growth.”

Warringtonfire invests

further $5.4

million

to help bring safety-critical products to market faster

Warringtonfire, a global leader in the provision of fire testing, inspection, and certification (TIC) services and part of the Element Materials Technology group, is now entering the next phase of development at its Birchwood Park laboratory, investing $5.4 million to add two new furnaces to increase testing capacity.

The additional furnaces take the total investment at Warringtonfire’s state-of-theart facility to over $35 million. It follows an initial outlay of $30 million to construct one of Europe’s largest fire resistance testing laboratories, which was launched earlier this year.

The new furnaces mark Warringtonfire’s ongoing commitment to supporting the construction industry’s safety needs. The expanded facility will bring the total number of operational furnaces at Birchwood to seven, allowing

safety-critical products to be brought to market faster. Meanwhile, the extra capacity supports manufacturers transitioning from the BS 476 suite of standards to EN 13501 standards.

Natasha Bambridge, divisional director at Element, said: “We’re proud to be investing in the future of fire resistance testing here at Warringtonfire. The new furnaces will enhance our ability to deliver fast and accurate test results that help keep people and buildings safe. With greater capacity, we can help customers bring essential products to market faster, allowing the industry to comply with ever-changing regulations at the necessary speed.”

To support the new operations, approximately 25 new staff members are being recruited before the end of 2025 and will join Warringtonfire’s existing

200-strong team of fire safety experts. Additions to the team will include technical officers, technical assistants, CAD specialists, and business support positions. Each new hire will undergo 12 months of training, highlighting the project’s complexity and the business’s long-term investment in technical expertise.

“This investment in new equipment represents our commitment to reducing bottlenecks across the industry and supporting manufacturers as regulations evolve,” said Natasha. “By expanding our capabilities, we’re helping clients achieve compliance faster and more efficiently.”

The installation of the furnaces is set to begin in Q3 2025, with commercial testing scheduled to commence in Q4 2026. As part of the expansion, Warringtonfire is extending the scope of testing it provides, enabling it to support testing programmes that currently require UK-based clients to ship products internationally.

For further information on materials testing, please visit: http://bit.ly/47Ua1bA

Morley Glass IGU recycling scheme passes major milestones

The success of the postconsumer IGU recycling scheme launched by Uni-Blinds integral blinds manufacturer Morley Glass in 2021, now means it has saved the need for around 4,000 tonnes of virgin sand in new glass manufacturing and cut the CO2 emissions resulting from the process by over 1,800 tonnes, claims the company.

The initiative, which was codeveloped with Saint-Gobain Glass and represented the UK’s first successful end-of-life IGU recycling scheme of its kind

when it began, involves Morley Glass collecting double and triple glazed units that installers remove during window and door replacement projects, and crushing them into cullet. This is then used as a high-quality raw material for making new building glass by Saint-Gobain, enabling them to save the need for raw materials such as sand and reduce the amount of energy used in the process, according to the company.

The latest data released by Morley Glass shows that up to

the end of July 2025, 3,730 bags of cullet have been generated using its dedicated crushing and bagging machine. This equates to 2,469 tonnes of cullet in just four years, reducing virgin sand extraction by 3,978 tonnes.

The total energy savings to date achieved in the glass remanufacturing process are equally significant, according to SaintGobain’s calculations. The cullet generation has now enabled 1,340 ‘energy years’ to be saved, based on the fact that 1 tonne of cullet saves enough energy to power an average home for 6 months.

Ian Short, managing director of Morley Glass said: “Our postconsumer IGU collection and recycling scheme continues to go from strength to strength, which is clearly demonstrated in these latest figures. To put our cullet volumes to date into perspective, 4,000 tonnes is equivalent to the weight of 650 elephants – that’s a

huge amount of glass recovered in a relatively short period.

“It is also extremely encouraging to see post-consumer IGU collection and recycling become more widespread across the industry. We are delighted to continue to play our part in helping Uni-Blinds integral blind customers, as well as any local window and door installers, divert their post-consumer glass away from landfill and demonstrate their businesses are operating more sustainably.”

All the revenue that Morley Glass generates from producing cullet as a raw material for new glass manufacture goes into is GreenVision fund. This is used to provide grants to charities, groups and individuals working on projects that will benefit the local community socially or environmentally and, to date, 349 grants have been provided. http://bit.ly/3JCl2Ep

Direct Window Co celebrates 30 years & 23-year Eurocell partnership

Direct Window Co is celebrating 30 years in business – and more than two decades of innovation, growth and collaboration with Eurocell, supplier of home improvement products.

Since forming their partnership in 2002, window and door manufacturer Direct Window Co has built its supply chain rooted in reliability, innovation, and shared ambition, according to the company.

From humble beginnings in 1995 with just £46 in the bank and an 800 sq. ft factory, Direct Window Co produced one window and one door in their first week. Today, the company operates across 14 industrial units and supplies products nationwide via Eurocell’s branch network.

Tony Morrison, head of national key accounts at Eurocell, added: “Direct Window Co’s success is a testament to what long-term partnerships can achieve. Their dedication to innovation and quality aligns

perfectly with Eurocell’s values. We’re proud to have supported them for over 20 years – and we’re excited for what’s next.”

Direct Window Co’s expansion has been fuelled by bold decision-making and a commitment to continual investment in both operations and customer experience. In 2005, the company undertook a major transformation with a multimillion-pound investment in robotic manufacturing, significantly boosting efficiency and product consistency, claims the company.

This was accompanied by a 16,000 sq. ft factory extension, laying the groundwork for future scale. Recognising the importance of customer engagement, Direct Window Co went on to open Blackpool’s first major window and door showroom in 2006. The focus on customer experience continued with the launch of a second showroom in Preston in 2019.

Throughout, Eurocell has provided the technical expertise, supply chain support, and innovation to enable Direct Window Co’s continued growth.

Craig Goss, owner of Direct Window Co, said: “We’ve come a long way from those early days – no racks, no kettle – just hard work and ambition. Eurocell has been a key part of our journey, helping us scale, innovate, and keep our promises to customers. We’re proud of what we’ve built together.”

Noise pollution data points to need for high-quality window frames

Following the European Environment Agency’s latest noise pollution report, Rehau has called attention to the importance of windows that offer strong acoustic performance when specifying for retrofit and new-build residential projects.

The report, Environmental noise in Europe 2025, reveals that over 20% of Europeans are exposed to harmful levels of transport noise, with road

traffic identified as the primary source. As the document states, long-term exposure is linked to cardiovascular disease, sleep disturbance, and reduced cognitive performance in children, making noise pollution a public health issue as well as a planning concern.

Here, Rehau UK CEO Martin Hitchin has highlighted the role that high-performance windows can play in reducing external noise in homes.

He said: “In many regards, windows are the make-or-break component when it comes to keeping out noise. Factors such as the type of glazing specified, the quality of the frame, and how well it has been fitted can be the difference between a good night’s sleep and a restless one.

“This can be a particular challenge for social housing developments, which are often situated in urban areas where there is more noise, and many vulnerable people occupying them. Here, windows have a key role to play in ensuring that transport noise levels do not impact tenants’ long-term health.”

Progress towards this goal can already be seen in the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund, which has allocated £1.29bn to modernise properties in line with the nation’s net zero targets. This includes upgrades such as high-performance windows, insulation, and heat pumps.

Recent projects across the UK have demonstrated what is possible when noise mitigation is built into the design process alongside these decarbonisation aims.

For example, in County Durham, homes near a main road and industrial estate were fitted with acoustic glazing and sound-attenuated trickle vents, reducing internal noise levels by up to 40dB. In a separate commercial-to-residential conversion near Heathrow Airport, developers met a strict 41dB acoustic rating through careful collaboration with suppliers and fabricators.

Martin concludes: “Windows are obviously vital to all residential properties but they can be significant sources of heat loss and a major way that external noise enters a

home. However, with informed specification practices, fenestration professionals can identify cost-effective solutions that can significantly impact both a building’s overall energy efficiency and acoustic performance.

“Whether upgrading social housing or building new residential properties, thirdparty expertise is key to noise reduction for current and future homes. Retrofitting also offers great potential for future public and private housing, and fenestration professionals that leverage supply chain knowledge will stay ahead of the curve as building work intensifies in line with elevated residential construction targets.”

Find out more about highperformance windows for social housing: http://bit.ly/45J4ZNP

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

Seasonal dip or sentiment shift?

By Neil Cooper-Smith, Senior Analyst, Business Pilot

August marked a shift in momentum for the window and door retail sector, with all five key indicators softening after July’s steady performance.

While seasonal trends play a part, the data hints at growing caution among homeowners: a reflection, perhaps, of broader economic jitters as we head

into the final quarter of the year.

Leads dropped from 110.3 in July to 95.4 in August, a 13.5% decline; this is a notable shift given the strength of July’s figures, which had suggested a recovering appetite among consumers.

Sales activity echoed this decline more sharply, down 15% to 44.2 – the lowest level since December 2024. Combined with a slight dip in conversion rates, from 41.7% to 40.8%, the figures point to a market where homeowners are still enquiring but more reluctant to commit, possibly due to tightening budgets or broader financial uncertainty.

Average order values also slipped, falling from £3,852 in July to £3,735 in August. This 3% decline may reflect more smaller-ticket jobs, or a tilt towards narrower margins in the pursuit

of sales. While a softening in sales is generally expected during the end of the summer period, it nevertheless underscores the importance of maintaining margin discipline heading into autumn.

All of this plays out against a backdrop of persistent economic pressures. The UK inflation rate unexpectedly jumped to 3.6% in July – its highest rate since January – fuelled by price hikes in food and fuel.

And while August saw The Bank of England cut interest rates to the lowest level in more than two years, reducing monthly mortgage costs for some homeowners, the reduction could also result in smaller returns for savers.

With all of this said, we expect sustained cautiousness until the Autumn Budget, with homeowners continuing to tread carefully. For installers, this means working harder for every lead but also making the most of every opportunity. While volume may be down, the chance to deliver margin and build pipeline remains.

Strong sales follow-up, quick quoting, and efficient delivery – all supported by Business Pilot – will separate those who weather the storm, from those who struggle.

Dixon

Staying ahead of the curve:

Innovation and security in a changing world

By Adam Dixon, Senior Technical Manager, UAP

In today’s security landscape, the role of a hardware manufacturer goes far beyond simply producing components. It demands foresight, agility, and a deep understanding of evolving risks.

At UAP, these principles are at the heart of everything we do. The launch of Kinetica Freezeguard, our latest innovation in highsecurity cylinders, exemplifies this approach. It’s more than just a response to updated standards - it’s a step towards redefining what’s possible in security hardware.

Product innovation in response to updated standards

In recent years, the pace at which security standards have evolved has accelerated. From the tightening of PAS 24 requirements to the introduction and revision of TS007, the landscape is shifting in response to changing criminal tactics and increasing consumer demand for robust protection. For manufacturers, the challenge is twofold: to not only meet these standards but to anticipate what comes next.

Kinetica Freezeguard is a product born from this thinking. Designed to address emerging vulnerabilities identified by both industry standards bodies and our own security testing, it offers a unique freeze-resistant mechanism - a key advancement in deterring thermal and chemical attacks aimed at compromising cylinder integrity. Alongside this, it integrates the proven anti-snap, anti-bump, anti-pick and anti-drill features that specifiers, fabricators, and end users increasingly expect as standard.

But compliance is the baseline. True innovation looks beyond it. By embedding features that go further than current requirements, we provide peace of mind to our customers that they’re investing not just in hardware for today, but in security that will stand the test of

tomorrow’s threats.

What’s next for high-security hardware in the age of hybrid threats?

The nature of security threats has changed. We are witnessing the rise of hybrid threats, where traditional physical attack methods are combined with digital reconnaissance and increasingly sophisticated techniques. Opportunist burglars are learning from organised crime groups. Criminals share knowledge online. Attack tools, once confined to professional circles, are now easily purchased or 3D-printed. This convergence means the vulnerabilities we protect against must be reassessed and addressed with new urgency.

High-security hardware can no longer operate in isolation. It must work as part of a layered defence – one that integrates with wider security systems, from alarms and smart locks to surveillance and access control technologies. At UAP, our focus is on creating hardware that offers resilience in this new environment. That means robust physical design that resists tampering and forced entry, but also compatibility with connected

technologies without creating additional points of failure or risk.

While Kinetica Freezeguard is primarily a mechanical security product, it is engineered to fit seamlessly into a modern, holistic approach to securing homes and commercial properties. The question for the future is clear: how do we continue to innovate without compromising simplicity, reliability, and user confidence? For UAP, the answer lies in collaboration across the security ecosystem.

The R&D challenge: staying ahead of criminal techniques

Innovation is not a one-off achievement; it is an ongoing process. The techniques used by criminals to bypass security hardware are evolving at a rapid pace. At UAP, our R&D teams dedicate significant time and resource to staying aheadstudying emerging attack patterns, learning from real-world incidents,

and stress-testing our products in conditions that simulate the most determined of intrusions.

Kinetica Freezeguard is the result of this investment. Its development combined deep technical expertise with intelligence from across the security sector, including feedback from locksmiths, fabricators, and even law enforcement. Every design choice, from its unique freeze-resistant feature to the configuration of its anti-snap sections, was informed by insight into how attacks occur and how they’re changing.

But this work never stops. We understand that as soon as a new standard is set, or a new product hits the market, criminals will look for ways to defeat it. That’s why UAP’s innovation pipeline is driven by proactive research. We look at what’s happening not only here in the UK, but globally. We monitor how technology is changing the tools at criminals’ disposal - from lock impressioning techniques to the potential use of AI in attack planning. Our mission is clear: to stay one step ahead, and to help shape the standards that define security for the future.

The opportunity ahead

For those of us working in this space, the challenge of evolving security threats is significant, but so is the opportunity. The opportunity to redefine what effective security looks like in the modern age. The opportunity to set benchmarks that raise the game across the sector. The opportunity to protect not just property, but people’s sense of safety and peace of mind.

At UAP, we are proud to play our part. With Kinetica Freezeguard, and with every product that follows it, we will continue to push the boundaries of innovation, so that our customers can be confident they are always one step ahead.

https://uaplimited.com/

Selling the difference

Fabricators must do more than manufacture quality products; it’s all about helping installers sell the difference, says Steve Collett, sales director at Dekko Window Systems.

The B2C landscape is changing quickly. Despite the growing amount of choice available, today’s consumers are more informed, more selective and, as a result, far more demanding than ever before.

A few clicks online and they’ve already researched the product, the performance, the colour options. That means by the time they speak to an installer, they’re often not looking to be sold to, what they want is validation, expert insight, and a compelling reason to buy your product over someone else’s.

And, as fabricators, this is where we need to step up.

It’s no longer enough to simply

manufacture quality products and deliver them with a smile. Yes, friendly service and reliability are a given, but the real value now lies in how well we help our customers communicate what makes our products different. Because that’s essentially what the consumer is listening for – the difference.

As successful fabricators, it’s our responsibility, not just to innovate and bring great products to market, but to make sure the installer fully understands the features and benefits in a way they can confidently pass on to their customer. Whether it’s thermal performance, security, aesthetics, sustainability, we have to equip our customers to sell with clarity and confidence.

Steve Collett

It’s about more than brochures or technical specifications, which are a big help of course. It’s about helping installers understand what the consumer is looking for, helping them to communicate the benefits they need to, whether that’s explaining why a particular sash design or finish matters or demonstrating why a locking system provides more peace of mind, to the person standing in front of them.

That’s how trust is built. It’s how value is added. And ultimately, that’s how more sales are won.

There’s a well-used phrase in the industry: we have to be more than just fabricators. And I think that’s truer now than ever before. We need to act as sales partners and educators as our customers stand in front of a more discerning consumer base.

And that’s exactly what we’ll continue to do at Dekko – not just to be a reliable manufacturer and supplier to our customers, but to help them win more business in an ever-evolving market.

www.dekkowindows.com

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Trickle vent moisture build-up.

A ticking time bomb for the industry?

CAB has reported a growing number of window installation problems since trickle vents were made compulsory in new build applications under Part F in June 2022, creating a potential ticking time bomb for installers.

Also, a requirement in some replacement applications, CAB has been approached by a growing number of installation specialists, who have been repeatedly called back to site to address moisture- related remedial works.

This includes damage to cill boards, internal plasterboard and oxidisation of internal window profiles.

Dale Pegler, technical director, explained: “We have a number of members who have reported a significant increase in the number of times that they have been called back to site since the since trickle vents were made compulsory, because of ‘moisture-related’ problems.

“The theory is – and I want to emphasise that at this point it remains a theory – is the trickle vent cut-outs, allow air to circulate around the external permitter of the window frame between the frame profile and the structure.

“The external air then acts as a cold bridge to the internal aluminium profiles increasing the risk of condensation on the internal face of the profile.”

Approved Document F in June, introduced a new requirement for replacement and new build windows to either put back the same level of ventilation in new windows as was there before, where trickle vents were previously present; or to make sure that windows achieved a 8,000mm2 equivalent area (EA) background ventilation in kitchens and habitable rooms.

The requirement for replacement windows in bathrooms is 4,000mm2 EA, while in utility rooms and WCs, there’s no minimum requirement.

“Part F was controversial in that it was introduced a requirement to cut through a window at the same time as introducing new standards for energy efficiency”, Dale continued.

“But this is an unforeseen impact. In every window that we’re currently fitting, we could be creating a future problem.

“The challenge is that moisture damage often takes a long time to be visible. The reports of moisture-related callbacks from our members are increasing, and there are patterns, with more complaints in winter when homes have more moisture build up and the outside is cold.”

CAB is collating information from members and appealing to the industry more widely to establish the cause of the problem.

“On some occasions it could clearly be about the quality of the installation but my hunch is that we’re seeing far too many complaints and that there is more of an underlying issue. The only way for us to establish causality is to track and develop a data set which proves things one way or another. If you have encountered problems, we’d encourage you to get in touch as your input will be vital in developing a full picture”, Dale said.

He added that CAB was already in discussion with trickle vent manufacturers for their input and dependant on findings, the development of a solution.

“The positive here, is that the solution doesn’t need to be expensive or complex. It may be simply about sealing the trickle vent so that cold air can’t escape down the profile channels or an adaptation of drainage.

“We can, however, only get to that solution, if we get to the root cause, and we need input from installers to do that.”

www.c-a-b.org.uk

A changed landscape

In a period of industry transition, Matt Thomas, managing director of Haffner Ltd, explains why the business is positioned to provide continuity, investment and customer focus.

The sector has been undergoing a period of considerable change, with consolidation, acquisitions and restructuring shaping the competitive landscape. Against this backdrop, the recent news that Stürtz, parent company of the UK brand Stuga, has entered insolvency proceedings in Germany is another significant development, highlighting how quickly circumstances can shift even for established names in the industry.

Moments like this inevitably

create questions for customers and the wider supply chain.

At Haffner, I want to take the opportunity to provide clarity and reassurance about our own position. Haffner Ltd is a solely owned UK entity. We are not part of a wider group structure and operate independently under our own management. Whilst we work closely with our three core suppliers – Haffner, Graf Synergy and Fom Industrie – our business is financially secure, operationally strong and fully focused on supporting our customers.

But let me be clear, the demand for automation in our sector remains extremely strong. We have a buoyant order book, a strong pipeline and we continue to invest across our machinery portfolio, service infrastructure and people. This strategy ensures our customers benefit from the latest machine automated technologies whilst having the complete confidence of continuity of supply, service and support, which is absolutely business-critical particularly in times of market changes.

While we remain aware of wider industry developments, our attention is firmly on our customers, not our competitors. Our focus is to provide the stability, expertise and machine innovation that fabricators of all sizes need to remain competitive. It is this customerfirst approach that defines our business and underpins our long-term success.

The insolvency at Stürtz is a reminder of how quickly circumstances can change, even for established industry players. But it does not change the fundamentals of our market. The drive towards automation continues to accelerate at pace as fabricators seek efficiency,

resilience and growth. At Haffner, we are well placed to meet that demand and we will continue to invest to make sure our customers are future-ready.

In times of change, the businesses that thrive are those that stay focused, invest wisely and put their customers first. That has been Haffner’s commitment for over 35 years and it will continue to define the way we do business in the years ahead.

Matt Thomas, Managing Director, Haffner

Ltd

https://haffnerltd.com/

National

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Cut-to-size savings

With suggested savings between £30k and £120k per year, Anglo says its cut-to-size service is a sure-fire way to regain control, as fabricators battle spiralling costs. We report.

With the UK’s fabricators forced to bear the financial burden of rising employment and energy costs, Anglo is more determined

than ever to support window and door fabricators in lowering their overheads.

Returning to the steel reinforcement specialist after a two-year hiatus, managing director, Paul Sullivan’s mission is clear: “As someone who is very passionate about the window and door industry, driving down costs and

maximising margin for fabricators is very high on my agenda,” says Paul.

“Buying in steel reinforcement from us, particularly cut-to-size, is an excellent way to bring down costs, increase efficiency, and make some significant savings. We’ve offered a cut-to-size service for more than 25 years now, and its longevity speaks for itself,” he adds.

Designed as a fuss-free reinforcement solution, delivered within 4-6 days from point of order, Anglo’s cut-to-size service makes expensive saws unnecessary, reduces handling requirements, and removes the need to manage and dispose of offcuts. With convenience a high priority, regular deliveries on a short lead-time also enable fabricators to minimise

stockholding, freeing up space on the factory floor.

According to Anglo, businesses producing between 1,500 and 2,000 frames weekly can save more than £100,000 annually, and even smaller fabricators, manufacturing a few hundred frames per week, can see savings ‘in the five-figure range’.

“Labour costs have risen considerably since April,” says Paul. “Employing someone, even at entry-level, now costs almost £30,000 per year following the National Insurance and National Living Wage increases. Labour-intensive tasks, such as cutting steel, all take their toll on fabricators’ bottom line, so removing these elements from your workflow means that more cash stays in your business.”

As a newly accredited ISO9001 company, Anglo ensures its customers receive reinforcement products that meet strict specifications. Branded with the AngloGlav stamp for added peace of mind, the steel supplied as part of its cut-to-size service is no different.

“Our cut-to-size service drives cost-efficiency but that doesn’t come at the expense of standards and quality,” confirms Paul.

“Our steel is precision cut, which means you are streamlining without compromising on performance,” he adds. “That’s because we’ve invested significantly in our processes and equipment, including our £1m double-sided roll-forming line, to deliver quality, while keeping costs competitive.”

“For extra reassurance, our steel is branded with the AngloGalv shield to confirm its trusted credentials. In light of ongoing economic pressures, Paul is urging fabricators across the industry to take decisive action and switch to Anglo; “Now is the time to make the change and unlock meaningful cost savings.”

“We want our customers to thrive, because their success is our success,” he says. “Taking up our cut-to-size service is a great way for fabricators to take back control and increase margin when costs are running away. I’d encourage anyone interested in making big savings and streamlining their business operations in the process to give us a call today.”

www.anglometal.co.uk

Reynaers claims focus on embodied carbon is too narrow for sustainable change

Reynaers Aluminium is calling for a wider focus on sustainability, challenging the established view in the construction sector that embodied carbon is central to achieving long-term sustainability.

In a new campaign ‘Sustainability. From Every Angle’ the aluminium windows, doors and curtain walling manufacturer calls for a more holistic view to sustainable building design considering all factors through the lifetime of the building.

Embodied carbon is often central to industry discussions on sustainability, measuring the carbon footprint of the materials used in the construction of a building. However, Reynaers’ new campaign suggests this intense focus misses important complexities inherent in what makes buildings sustainable longterm.

Challenging the industry’s tendency towards a myopic view of sustainability, Reynaers’ campaign looks at the bigger picture, revealing the importance of taking a wider view of sustainability,

defining it as a holistic challenge that is constantly evolving.

The campaign suggests a more holistic focus is needed for decarbonisation in the long term, to support a more sustainable built environment into the future.

This includes giving greater weight to energy efficiency, resilience to climate change, durability, affordability, recyclability, circularity, eco-design and compliance with regulation at the design stage of all construction projects.

John McComb, technical director and UK Sustainability Champion at Reynaers Aluminium UK, said: “The view of sustainability seen through the singular lens of embodied carbon is creating a barrier to progress in how the industry frames sustainability.

“There are many dimensions and considerations in sustainable building, and low-impact construction materials are just one part of it. It is essential to understand that sustainability is

evolving at a rapid pace in our industry, and this itself demands a continuous process of learning, adapting and questioning. At Reynaers we are committed to an open dialogue, challenging assumptions and asking questions that lead to long-term sustainability benefits.

“Reynaers new campaign challenges the prevailing view of what is a fundamentally complex subject and outlines that, for longterm sustainability to be achieved, the industry needs to establish a wider perspective. That is not to say discussions on embodied carbon are redundant, however, we would argue that it is vital to see the subject from every angle to ensure true sustainability of buildings long-term.

“To us, sustainability starts with asking the right questions and as our new campaign demonstrates, we are committed to opening the discussion to enable the industry to create solutions that are thoughtful, well-rounded and built to endure. By taking a collaborative approach to sustainability solutions Reynaers is leading the way –showing that ‘together’ really is ‘for better’.

Reynaers ambitious sustainability goals are guided by The ScienceBased Targets Initiative (SBTi) and include reducing its entire carbon footprint by 50% by 2030.

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Setting the standard

In today’s competitive and fastmoving construction landscape, success isn’t just about quality products, it’s about having the right partner behind you. And for Cornwall Group, that means delivering more than just glass; it means providing customers with the confidence, stability, and capability to thrive.

“We’ve always seen ourselves as an enabler,” says Cornwall group chairman, Mark Mitchell. “Our role is to make sure our customers have the tools and the support to go after the work they want – and win it.”

With commercial demand returning and energy performance climbing the priority list for developers and

specifiers, Cornwall’s customers are increasingly competing for high-spec projects with demanding technical requirements.

Whether that’s oversized architectural glazing or complex triple-glazed units with integrated solar control, Cornwall is already delivering them, day in, day out.

“The work our customers are bidding for isn’t straightforward,” Mark explains. “They need product consistency, reliable delivery, and the technical backup to pitch with confidence. That’s exactly what we’re here to provide.”

It’s an approach that has been carefully built over time. While others may have focused on

reacting to short-term price pressures, Cornwall Group has spent the last few years investing in future-ready infrastructure and forging long-term supply chain partnerships.

The result is a business already prepared for tomorrow’s needs.

“We don’t wait for the demand to arrive, we prepare for it,” says Mark. “That’s why our production lines are already geared up for what the market’s asking for: larger sizes, higher performance, and quicker turnaround.”

Behind the scenes, Cornwall’s internal logistics network plays a crucial role in giving customers a competitive edge. With seamless product movement between sites and close coordination across the Group, lead times are kept short, and fulfilment remains consistent, even when wider supply chains are under pressure.

But perhaps most importantly, Cornwall’s investment in its people, systems and relationships means customers can plan with certainty, in an industry that rarely offers it.

“We know what it’s like when you’re pricing a big job and trying to control costs,” Mark says. “That’s why we’ve worked hard to shield our customers from the worst of the volatility. We’re absorbing costs where we can, holding pricing stable where it matters, and giving our partners a platform they can rely on.”

That platform includes more than just production capacity. Cornwall’s collaborative, partnership-driven model means customers aren’t just placing an order: they’re tapping into a support system that understands the pressures of specification, margin, and delivery.

“We’re not just a glass supplier,” Mark continues. “We’re part of our customers’ growth journey. When they succeed, we succeed, and everything we’ve built is designed to help them get there.”

With further investments planned across the Group – including two additional multi-million-pound furnace installations, following a successful first installation at Forward Glass – Cornwall is continuing to push forward with optimism and intent.

The market may still face challenges, but Cornwall Group’s focus is firmly on opportunity.

“There’s so much potential out there,” Mark says. “The projects are coming. Energy performance, oversize glazing and architectural design are all driving demand for what we do best. And we want our customers to be ready for it.”

As the glazing sector gears up for what is hoped to be a busy second half of the year, Cornwall Group is standing behind its customers with clarity and confidence. In a landscape shaped by change, one thing remains constant: Cornwall’s commitment to helping others succeed.

www.cornwallglass.co.uk

Framexpress says installers need more than just product from their fabricator to boost their bottom line

With pressure continuing to mount against time, costs, and customer expectations, Framexpress says that supplying high-quality products is just the beginning of what today’s installers need.

In addition to its complete ‘Club’ of products that enables the Telford-based fabricator to deliver every product under one roof, Framexpress recognised early on that its customers need more than just frames.

“We’ve always believed that every great product requires the same level of support behind it. High specification windows, doors or rooflights are the fundamentals of what installers should expect in today’s market. What they really need is to partner with a supplier that helps them run a more efficient, profitable business,” says Stuart Green, Framexpress’ managing director.

Recognising the needs of modern installers, the Telfordbased fabricator has built a comprehensive service model designed to support its installer customers at every stage, from quote to completion. Its full-service solution not only

prioritises quick responses and a dedicated sales, processing and customer care team, it commits to short lead times, personalised marketing literature and sales support to give installers all they need to get ahead.

“Installers are under constant pressure to deliver quickly, accurately and professionally – especially as market challenges continue – and so we recognise our role in helping our customers get the job done, no matter what,” Stuart continues. “We’ve always taken a proactive, partnership-led approach with our customers and it’s why we’ve invested so heavily in our infrastructure, team and customer support. We not only have fully trained individuals who understand the needs of our customers, but they have the resources to deliver for them too.

“It’s not just about what products we can offer anymore,” he adds. “Having all of the products installers need is, in itself, a testament to the work we have put in over the past 27 years to ensure they have everything they need under one roof. Taking that one step further to deliver a network of support and advice means they don’t need to look anywhere else. It’s all part of our long-term commitment to helping installers win more work and build resilient, profitable businesses.” www.framexpress.co.uk

Winning business in person: the lost art of showing up

Andrew Scott, MD of Purplex Marketing, explains why face-to-face selling still opens doors and how traditional sales tactics remain essential in a digital world.

Is the age of the travelling sales rep dead? Some of us (and in the digital age, it really is just some of us) will recall the days of the salesman in his Ford Sierra, a half-eaten service station pasty gently easing past its ‘best-before’ date on the passenger seat as our man wrestles with a battered UK atlas and a bout of chronic road-weariness.

The arrival of email and virtual meet-ups meant there was less need for salespeople to be out and about. What was the point of travelling from Bristol to Aberdeen in the hope of clinching a sale, and taking three days to do it, when the same negotiations could be held via the web in a matter of minutes? Companies with one eye on costs

Andrew Scott

quickly grounded their sales staff, saving a fortune in pool cars, budget hotels and yes, service station cuisine. And so began the death of the salesman. Or did it?

In the early days of Purplex, I was constantly out on the road, talking up our consultancy (and later) marketing services to anyone who’d listen. I spent days and weeks flogging my old BMW along the highways and byways of the UK and, slowly but surely, I began to pull in work and build my business.

There’s an old saying that 80 per cent of success in any field is simply showing up. In business, I’ve found it’s more like 100 per cent. Being present, in person, is often the single most important thing you can do to win new customers and build lasting relationships.

It’s a simple idea, but one that’s been neglected. Although the fenestration industry is often a notable exception, with reps still travelling to in-person appointments, sales teams across many industries have become comfortable hiding behind screens. Video calls, emails, LinkedIn messages – they all have their place. But none of them replace the impact of shaking someone’s hand, looking them in

VIEWPOINT

the eye and having a real conversation. And then sealing a deal because of that human contact.

At Purplex, we believe in going back to basics. I like to see our salespeople out on the road, knocking on doors, visiting customers and prospects. It’s a philosophy that has served us well. While others have been waiting for the phone to ring, we’ve been out there making things happen.

During the pandemic, demand for the construction and fenestration sectors was high, and many salespeople became order takers. But now the landscape has shifted. Markets are tougher, competition is fiercer and businesses need to work harder to secure every opportunity. It’s time to remember what sales is really about – people, relationships and persistence.

I really think we underestimate how valuable personal contact still is. People want to do business with those they trust, and trust is built through human interaction. Without a relationship, all you’re left with is a transaction, which doesn’t necessarily guarantee loyalty when things get difficult.

There’s another layer to this approach – direct marketing. A personalised letter, a well-designed brochure or even a simple postcard can lay the groundwork for a face-to-face meeting. It’s about creating familiarity before you arrive and reinforcing it afterwards.

Blending traditional sales techniques with targeted marketing is a powerful formula. It’s not about abandoning digital tools but using them to support real-world relationships. For example, our sister company Insight Data has Salestracker, a marketing intelligence tool that gives subscribers the ability to track company performance and verify businesses, making sure that no physical journey is wasted on a company that isn’t performing.

I’ve always believed that business is won in person. It’s how you build trust, earn referrals and create partnerships that last beyond a single sale. At Purplex, this approach has been central to our success, and I see it working every day.

In uncertain times, going back to basics is often the smartest move. Get out there, meet people, and make yourself known. Because when you show up, good things happen.

For more tips about face-to-face sales, visit about Purplex Marketing visit https://www.purplexmarketing.com/news

Handles That Make An Entrance

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Little things, big difference

As advanced manufacturing technologies deliver big rewards for its customers, Universal Trade Frames says it’s the smaller details that really make the difference. We report.

“When you’re selling into a premium market, attention to detail is really important, and that’s definitely what gives our installers a competitive edge,” says Richard Hamond, sales director at Shrewsbury-based fabricator, Universal Trade frames. “Combine that with the right products, and the absolute precision that can be achieved with cutting-edge automation, and you’ve got an extremely strong offer.”

Richard Hammond, sales director at Universal Trade Frames

As the consumer appetite for all things high-end remains strong, Universal maintains that targeted investment in technologies that deliver ultra-precise detail and next-level aesthetics have played a key role in winning business for its customers.

One example is its Residence Collection product offering. Already revered for its superior quality and good looks, Universal has taken things a step further with the implementation of its HeritageWeld manufacturing system.

Applied across the complete Residence Collection including

the new Entrance door, HeritageWeld brings new precision to a traditional 90° joint, with manufacturing tolerances adjustments as low as 0.1mm.

That’s down to the fabricator’s use of the latest CNC technology, including a state-of-the-art Haffner MAC 345 CNC machining centre, a standalone CNC corner cleaner,

and a dedicated 2-head sash welder, recently purchased as part of a six-figure investment strategy.

Different tools and programs are automatically selected and run for different profiles, accommodating tolerances and foiled finishes to fractions of a millimetre for a cleaner finish, and ultimately, a stronger weld.

“HeritageWeld offers unmatched precision in fabrication,” explains Richard. “It also delivers a traditional 90° joint inside and out, and with no glass bonding required, installation is much easier too.”

With authenticity a big draw for the most discerning homeowners, Universal recently added a slim sash meeting rail option to its Spectus Vertical Sliding window, a product detail which is already paying dividends for Universal and its installer customers populating the premium heritage market.

Featuring narrow sightlines of just 37mm, it perfectly replicates the dimensions of a traditional

timber sash window, without compromising on security or energy efficiency performance.

“The slim sash meeting rail option on our Spectus VS creates an aesthetic that is almost indistinguishable from a traditional wooden sash window,” continues Richard. “If you combine that with features such as ovolo moulding to the frame; sashes and beads; and the mechanically jointed deep bottom rail and realistic foiled finishes, it’s hard to believe it’s made from PVC-U and not timber.”

As the largest supplier of Solidor composite doors, aside from Solidor itself, Universal manufactures the complete Traditional and Italia Collections in-house, with the added benefit of exclusive, extra-value touches. These include expanded glass and hardware options, custom colours and spraying for true personalisation and differentiation.

“With these extra touches, we’re really helping our customers to stand out from the crowd when

it comes to composite door options,” confirms Richard. “Ultimately, this equates to added value and increased sales for them.”

Combining smart security with high-end aesthetics and 21st-century functionality, Yale SensCheck is another significant detail, recently introduced to Universal’s offering.

Available on Residence Collection windows and the new, openin, timber-alternative door, SensCheck alerts homeowners to window and door position (open/closed) and security status (locked/unlocked) via the Yale Smart Living app.

Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, it’s also Secured by Design accredited for both physical and cyber security.

“Also available across our Residence window offer, SensCheck uses magnetic sensors to detect and relay realtime information about the open/ closed locked and vented status of a window,” explains Richard.

“It can also integrate with other household smart tech to create a fully connected security system managed through a single platform.It’s another detail that can genuinely add value for installers and we’re really excited to add this product to our portfolio.

“All our premium products are made by our dedicated ‘special ops’ team, with hand-finished quality assurance and world-class OTIF scores of 98%,” Richard adds. “These products, combined with the unrivalled precision delivered through our state-of-the art, automated manufacturing process, combine to create a lucrative commercial proposition for installers that’s hard to beat,” he concludes.

www.utfl.co.uk

Why going local is essential to sustainable glazing

By Nigel Leivers, Managing Director, Frame Fast UK

Sustainability is no longer a buzzword in construction –it’s a requirement. Whether you’re working on a new-build housing scheme or replacing windows in a period property, energy efficiency, carbon impact and responsible sourcing are now central to specification decisions.

Glazing plays a huge role in that conversation. Windows and doors are key contributors to heat loss in a building, and upgrading to high-performance glazing can cut household CO₂ emissions by up to 4 tonnes a year. But to achieve truly sustainable results, it’s not just the product performance that matters – it’s how, and where, those products are made.

That’s where local fabrication comes in. Choosing a local glazing manufacturer doesn’t just make logistical sense – it’s an environmentally responsible decision that supports a more circular, accountable and transparent supply chain. At Frame Fast, we’ve been championing local, high-quality manufacturing in the East Midlands for nearly 30 years, and we believe its importance has never been clearer.

The carbon cost of distance

Transport is one of the biggest contributors to carbon emissions in construction. Moving heavy, fragile products like windows and doors across the country – or even internationally –increases the carbon footprint of a project significantly. Choosing a local fabricator like

Frame Fast, based in Derby, cuts down those transport miles considerably, reducing emissions before a product even reaches site.

It also means faster lead times, fewer delays, and a better service experience overall. But the environmental benefit is the headline act: sourcing closer to home is a simple yet highly effective way to bring down embodied carbon in glazing.

Local means traceable

With sustainability comes the need for accountability. More and more homeowners, developers and contractors want to know where their products come from, how they’re made, and whether the claims being made stack up.

When you buy from a local, established fabricator, you’re not just getting a finished product – you’re getting full visibility of the supply chain behind it. At Frame Fast, we manufacture all our PVCu and aluminium products in-house at our Derby facility, as well as DGUs, with strict quality control and traceability built into every stage. Our materials are sourced from reputable UKbased suppliers, and we recycle aluminium, PVCu and glass waste wherever possible.

It’s a model that minimises waste, maximises resource efficiency, and gives our customers confidence that what they’re installing genuinely supports sustainable construction goals.

High performance starts with high standards

As the industry moves towards stricter energy regulations –including the upcoming Future Homes Standard – the pressure is on to achieve ever-lower U-values. That puts even more importance on the quality of the glazing products themselves. A poorly fabricated window or door, even if made from premium components, will struggle to perform to spec.

Local fabrication isn’t just about geography – it’s about standards. At Frame Fast, we don’t outsource or batch jobs to distant hubs. Everything is made to order, with a focus on precision and reliability. We’ve invested in a dedicated aluminium department and two on-site showrooms –one for aluminium, one for PVCu – where customers can see firsthand the quality and performance of what we produce.

That local control means consistency, compliance and confidence – not just in meeting today’s sustainability requirements, but in being ready for tomorrow’s.

Sustainability isn’t a trend. It’s a commitment.

For us, being local is part of a wider belief in doing things properly. We don’t take shortcuts, we don’t mass-produce, and we don’t compromise on materials or manufacturing. That ethos has always served us well – but it’s especially relevant now, as more people recognise the environmental and economic value of buying closer to home.

If sustainability is a priority on your next project – and it should be – choosing a trusted, local fabricator should be top of your list. It’s a straightforward decision that reduces carbon, increases quality, and strengthens the supply chain from start to finish.

Podcasts ADAM JONES JADE

ENGINEERING

In this episode I talk with Adam Jones Co-Owner of Jade Engineering about his fenestration journey. You can watch the video or listen to the podcast here.

JADE ENGINEERING’S £4 MILLION INVESTMENT

Jade Engineering has announced a £4 million investment into new machinery and infrastructure.

You can watch the video or listen to the podcast here

GREG KELLY

AMK HARDWARE & ENTRANCE COMPOSITE DOOR SOLUTIONS

Greg Kelly shares his remarkable journey in the fenestration industry.

You can watch the video or listen to the podcast here

NICKIE WEST UNPACKS FIT SHOW

Nicky West, the event director of the Fit Show, discussed the success of the 2025 edition.

You can watch the video or listen to the podcast here

APEER DOORS

ASA MCGILLIAN

Asa McGillian talks to Richard Lannen of Glazing Insider concerning a serious issue.

You can watch the video or listen to the podcast here

John Warburton ER Certification Ltd

John Warburton joins Richard Lannen to share his remarkable journey in the fenestration industry.

You can watch the video or listen to the podcast here

APEER DOORS

ASA MCGILLIAN

Asa McGillian shares his remarkable journey in the fenestration industry.

You can watch the video or listen to the podcast here

Ventrolla MD joins BritishWoodworking Federation Council

Ventrolla, a market leader in heritage restoration and renovation of timber sash and casement windows, has announced that managing director, Mark Flanagan, has joined the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Council.

The BWF is the trade association for the woodworking and joinery manufacturing industry in the UK. With over 500 members comprising manufacturers, distributors and installers of timber doors, windows, conservatories, staircases and more, the expertise covers the entire industry. The BWF is also a community, bringing together individuals

and companies to share issues, experiences and to find solutions together.

Mark, who first joined Ventrolla in 2022, brings valuable experience to the table, especially in the specialism of heritage and historic properties. Under his leadership Ventrolla is undergoing a threeyear business transformation programme, with aggressive ambitions to grow revenues across both residential and commercial sectors. New initiatives have also launched, such as the Ventrolla Consult, which is a dedicated planning advisory service for both homeowners and professionals,

and CPD courses continue to thrive.

Mark Flanagan said: “BWF play a vital role in the industry, and I am delighted to be a part of the council. The work they do in improving sustainability standards and ensuring best practice is applied throughout the industry is admirable. It is also important that we support the current and next generation of skilled craftsmen, so to be able to support them via the council activity is fantastic.”

Helen Hewitt, chief executive of the BWF, added: “We were delighted to welcome Mark to the council. Ventrolla is considered an industry leader when it comes to retrofitting and the refurbishment of timber windows in heritage and historic properties. We’re excited to see how his position in the council will help us continue to raise standards and ensure that best practice continues to be applied to all aspects of the industry.”

www.ventrolla.co.uk

Obituary –Simon Coleman

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing away of Simon Coleman, technical manager for profine UK on Friday 8th August 2025.

We have lost a cherished colleague, friend and a highly valued member of our technical team and his loss has resonated across the business and indeed the profine group since the news was received over the weekend.

Simon played a pivotal role in the development of products including WarmCore, supporting customers and in providing hands on expertise for exhibitions both in the UK and further afield. A keen fisherman, he also enjoyed time away in his caravan along with his love for his family and granddaughter.

Our sincere condolences go out to his family and network of close friends at this time. Once arrangements have been finalised by the family, we will share the necessary funeral details for those wishing to attend.

Robert Thiroff Managing Director profine UK

Carl F Groupco announces Adrian Gale as sales director

Independent hardware supplier Carl F Groupco has announced the appointment of sales director Adrian Gale. Adrian is recognised for his experience within the industry, with over 30 years in the fenestration sector, including a successful tenure at VBH (GB).

Owen Coop, CEO of Carl F Groupco, said: “Adrian is a well-known and trusted figure in our industry. His appointment represents a significant step forward for Carl F Groupco as we continue to invest in the future of our business. Adrian’s extensive knowledge, customer-centric mindset and proven commercial leadership will further strengthen our sales operation.”

Adrian said: “I am delighted to be joining Carl F Groupco. The company has an outstanding reputation for service, quality and integrity, so my focus will be on further strengthening our market position and driving new business opportunities. I am looking forward to working

closely with our customers, hardware supply partners and colleagues to deliver even greater value.”

Adrian’s appointment underscores what Carl F Groupco says is its “ongoing commitment to customer engagement and commercial excellence. His deep understanding of the hardware market and insight into the evolving needs of fabricators will be instrumental in shaping future new business opportunities”.

Carl F Groupco also says it remains committed to being a trusted and proactive hardware supply partner to fabricators across the UK. According to Carl F Groupco, Adrian’s sales leadership will ensure the company continues to deliver the tailored product solutions, responsive support and product expertise that define its industryleading reputation.

www.carlfgroupco.co.uk

Sternfenster invests

in growth with Andy Reynolds’ promotion

ternfenster has promoted Andy Reynolds to southern regional sales manager as part of its ongoing investment in people and long-term regional growth strategy.

Andy has been with the business for eight years, initially joining as technical trade sales manager before moving into the role of national key account manager. Over this time, he has built a deep understanding of Sternfenster’s customer base and developed strong relationships across the trade sector.

In preparation for his new role, Andy successfully completed Sternfenster’s management development programme, which

is aligned with the Investors in People (IIP) framework. This has equipped him with the leadership and operational skills to support his team and maintain high levels of service for customers in the region.

“Growing with Sternfenster, I’ve seen first-hand the importance of listening to customers and adapting to their needs,” says Andy. “The training I’ve undertaken has been invaluable in giving me the tools to lead effectively, while ensuring customers continue to benefit from practical innovations such as EasyAdmin+.”

Sternfenster’s sales director, Nathan Court, says: “Andy’s

promotion reflects both his commitment to the business and our focus on developing talent from within.

“The southern region is an important area of growth for us, particularly the southeast, and Andy’s experience and customer focus will be key in building on the strong foundations already in place. As we expand, we’re also keen to bring new people into the business who can grow with us, just as Andy has.”

Andy’s appointment highlights Sternfenster’s approach of combining internal development with selective recruitment, ensuring it can meet the needs of customers while supporting long-term stability and growth.

www.sternfenster.com

The Rooflight Association appoints new board member

The Rooflight Association has announced the appointment of Velux commercial sales director Paul Reid as a new Board Member.

Paul brings energy and a fresh perspective to the role, backed by over 25 years’ experience in commercial sales and strategic leadership within the building materials industry. At Velux Commercial, he plays a key role in steering business growth, developing daylight solutions, and building relationships with major stakeholders across the commercial construction sector.

Paul Reid, board member for The Rooflight Association and Velux commercial sales director, comments: “It is a privilege to join this vital and established association. Rooflights are an essential means of bringing daylight and ventilation to buildings, creating healthier spaces for people and our planet – promoting this is an important driver for change. I am looking forward to using my experience and skills to raise awareness, help the association grow, and add value for members and the wider industry.”

Mark Wilcox, chairman of The

Eurocell appoints Joy Naylor as manufacturing & recycling director

Eurocell has appointed Joy Naylor as its new manufacturing & recycling director.

Following a year of transformational work within Eurocell’s operations team, Joy’s appointment recognises her instrumental role in stabilising production output, improving safety and quality performance –while driving a cultural shift across the business’ manufacturing and recycling operations.

Bringing more than 25 years of experience across aerospace, automotive, engineering, and industrial manufacturing, Joy has taken a “back-to-basics” approach to improvement by empowering teams to solve problems collaboratively and championing a culture of openness, agility, and continuous learning.

Joy said: “My approach to driving operational excellence is quite simple – it comes down

Rooflight Association, says: “We’re very pleased to welcome Paul to the Board. His leadership experience and time in the rooflight industry will serve the association well; supporting our continued focus on advocating for quality and compliance and reinforcing the technical and environmental benefits that rooflights bring to the built environment.”

www.rooflightassociation.org

to consistent daily habits, empowering those closest to the work, and ensuring everyone understands their role. When we focus on safety, quality, and delivery, the rest naturally falls into place. We’ve laid strong foundations through dedication and teamwork, and now it’s time to build on that and move forward with confidence.”

Joy’s focus for the future includes improving operational efficiency, investing in skills, and supporting Eurocell’s ESG ambitions through innovation in closed-loop recycling and extrusion technology.

On Joy’s appointment, Eurocell CEO Darren Waters said: “Joy has proven herself to be a dynamic manufacturing leader, bringing a refreshing, people-first leadership style that reflects the culture we’re building at Eurocell. She grabbed the opportunity to lead our manufacturing and recycling teams with both hands and has had a significant impact already – I’m confident she’ll take our capability to the next level and beyond.”

https://www.eurocell.co.uk/

New look for AluK’s trade sales team

There is a new look to the AluK team supporting customers in the trade and residential markets, with a well-deserved promotion for Paul Greenaway, a new face in the form of Paul Roberts and the welcome return of Wayne Richards.

Between them, the three have almost a century of experience in fenestration. That encompasses everything from fabrication, installation, technical development and testing, to hardware, thermal break and profile sales, so they know all the headaches and frustrations that fabricators and installers face, as well as how to make the most of opportunities in almost every market condition.

Paul Greenaway has been promoted from key account manager to head of trade and residential sales, reporting directly

to AluK’s managing director Russell Yates. Paul is managing the dedicated UK trade sales team, focused on both existing and new customers, and making sure they get access to all of AluK’s extensive training, marketing and technical support services.

Paul explained: “We know conditions are challenging for many in the trade and residential market at the moment, but the AluK support offering really can make a difference in terms of bringing in new products, generating new sales enquiries and even optimising fabrication efficiency. We’ve got the resources and the people in place to help AluK customers not just survive but actively thrive.”

Paul Roberts is a newcomer to

AluK, but already very familiar with the business and the products, having worked for AluK’s thermal break supplier previously and before that for one of its hardware partners.

He commented: “I worked extensively with the technical team at AluK on the development of their innovative range of HI profiles and have been really impressed with the range of products and the whole approach to customer service.

“Over my 38-year career in fenestration, I’ve also had plenty of aluminium systems sales experience as well, so I have lots to share with customers and lots of ideas about how they can develop new opportunities with new products.”

Wayne Richards has been tempted back to AluK after a four-year break into a new role as business development manager, alongside looking after existing AluK customers in the Southwest and Wales.

While he has been away, Wayne has worked elsewhere in the industry as a technical manager and will be sharing all his knowledge and experience with both fabricators and installers.

He added: “It’s really nice to back with the AluK team, and I’m really looking forward to catching up with existing customers and making the most of all the new enquiries generated at FIT Show, at our Exploration Day and from our ‘Upgrade Your System to AluK’ campaign.”

AluK now has two separate teams of specialists looking after customers operating in the trade and commercial spaces –each with specific expertise and experience and offering tailored packages of support.

More info at: https://uk.aluk.com/

Matthew hits the ground running in new RegaLead role

Since joining RegaLead’s sales team in March, industry veteran Matthew Yates has hit the ground running – bringing nearly four decades of fenestration experience and already making a strong impact with customers and colleagues alike.

Covering the south of England, Matthew’s role is focused on supporting existing customers and building new relationships across the region. His appointment came as part of RegaLead’s continued investment in strengthening its team with proven industry talent.

In just a few short months, he’s embraced the challenge of learning ‘the other side’ of the sector, having previously worked in

hardware, and has already seen a positive response from customers.

“Moving from the functional to the decorative – the required to the desired – has been a steep learning curve, but a really enjoyable one,” said Matthew. “The support from the team has been fantastic, and I’ve had some great conversations with customers who are excited about what RegaLead has to offer. There’s a lot of pride in representing such an innovative business.”

April’s FIT Show proved to be a highlight, giving Matthew the chance to meet many customers face to face while supporting the RegaLead stand.

UKO Group announces team growth and operational expansion

UKO Group has announced the graduation of one of its talented apprentices, Celia Brook, who has successfully completed her apprenticeship in Business Administration and joined the team in a permanent role. This milestone highlights the group’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent and creating longterm career pathways within the organisation.

In addition to this achievement, the marketing department has welcomed several new team members, in what the Group says strengthens their creative and strategic capabilities. These additions are said to mark a significant step forward in their mission to elevate brand presence, enhance customer engagement, and drive growth across all UKO Group divisions.

Matthew’s strong start reflects RegaLead’s ongoing commitment to building a knowledgeable, customer-focused sales team – one that’s ready to support continued growth and innovation across the UK.

www.regalead.com

Operationally, both UKO Glass and UK Doors Online have scaled up to meet increasing demand. UKO Glass has seen the addition of new production team members to meet growing demand. UKD, again to meet increasing demand

and improve efficiency, have transitioned to a double-shift system, operating both day and night shifts. This change has brought in a wave of new team members and unlocked substantial extra capacity, allowing them to better serve customers with faster turnaround times and greater flexibility, according to UKD.

Natasha Erskine, co-founder and marketing director at UKO Group said: “These updates reflect the momentum we’re building across the group. From welcoming new talent to expanding our production capabilities, we’re focused on sustainable growth and delivering excellence at every level. We’re proud to see our apprenticeship programme supporting real career progression, and equally proud of the teams who are helping us scale to meet growing demand. It’s an exciting time for UKO Group, and we remain committed to empowering our people, evolving our services, and exceeding expectations.” www.ukogroup.co.uk

How Glazerite and Veka’s partnership elevates installer choice

From an extensive, high-performance portfolio, underpinned by technical expertise, to an ongoing commitment to innovation, Glazerite’s Michelle Wright shares how installers can benefit from the fabricator’s longstanding relationship with Veka.

Michelle Wright

Customer choice, product quality, and access to game-changing technical advice and marketing support are just some of the reasons installers choose to work with Glazerite.

And, with easy access to Veka’s entire portfolio, from the classic VS and the Imagine patio door to the ground-breaking Omnia, Glazerite installers have a competitive edge in the market.

Veka are constantly pushing the boundaries, and with Omnia - their most advanced system yet - they just broke the mould. Available in a suite of double flush casement and tilt & turn windows alongside French and residential doors, Omnia combines timeless aesthetics with cutting-edge performance.

With its true flush appearance, Omnia replicates the sleek detailing of traditional timber frames that are increasingly sought after by UK homeowners. Indeed, research from Veka reveals that one-fifth of all uPVC windows installed in the UK are flush sash. For those Glazerite installers looking for a way to tap into burgeoning heritage opportunities, Omnia delivers everything, and then some.

Engineered to comply with 2025 building regulations and beyond, Omnia achieves U-Values as low as 0.79, delivers outstanding acoustic and weather performance, and comes with double rebates as standard for superior resistance to the elements.

A 70mm frame depth allows for straightforward retrofits, while flexible beading options, invisible mullions and the choice of Timberweld or mitre weld construction give installers design flexibility.

Add in Veka’s new Feinstruktur foil finishes and an extensive colour

palette, and installers can meet the needs of even the most demanding of customers.

Glazerite’s 25-year-long partnership with Veka is testament to shared values and close collaboration, which includes the development of Omnia. Together, we deliver what installers need and what homeowners and commercial customers want, with Veka getting ahead of market trends with their standout product range and Glazerite ensuring high-quality fabrication, short lead-times and UK-wide delivery.

Today, Glazerite is proud to deliver the full Veka portfolio, including casement, tilt & turn and fully reversible windows, the Vertical Slider, and the Imagine range of patio, residential and French doors, alongside the next-generation Omnia and the Halo range, meaning our installers always have the right solution for every customer.

It’s these solutions that really help set installers apart from the

competition and which deliver confidence on every project. For commercial customers - often working with the Veka M70both Glazerite and Veka consult with installers on jobs as early as possible, discussing how best to support them to deliver a high-quality install as the project unfolds.

This can involve consultation at the initial quote stage to ensure the architectural designs can be replicated in uPVC and, critically, meet the current testing guidelines for all accreditations, as well as technical advice on everything from frame design to wind-loads. By working together closely, we can help prevent the risk of issues developing on site.

For installers focusing on home renovations, it is the marketing support offered by Glazerite, and backed up by Veka’s range of marketing materials, that helps installers stand out. From distinctive imagery to ready-made content for social media, the might of our joint marketing means we

can help installers to showcase Veka’s portfolio and fuel new business.

For installers across the UK, partnering with us - and by extension, Veka - means more than just access to great products. It means being equipped with the innovation, support and reliability they need to grow their business now and for the next 25 years. www.glazerite.co.uk

Aluprof introduces the Next-Generation casement window

Combining minimalist design with advanced thermal performance, Aluprof has introduced the MB79N CSF aluminium window system — a slim-profile, outwardopening solution designed to meet the demands of today’s residential and commercial markets.

The new system offers fixedframe sightlines as narrow as 35.2mm, while operable casements start from just 60.5mm, maximising glazed area without compromising structural integrity. Designed to suit a wide variety of configurations, the

MB-79N CSF accommodates fixed, side-hung, and top-hung openings, allowing for flexible composite designs.

The three-chamber, thermally broken aluminium profiles are available in two insulation variants: the cost-effective ST option, and the high-performance SI version featuring dedicated insulating inserts. The ST variant achieves U-values of 1.42 W/ (m²K) with double glazing and 0.97 W/(m²K) with triple glazing. The SI variant improves further, with U-values of 1.37 W/(m²K) for double glazing and 0.93 W/(m²K)

for triple glazing.

Designers can opt for either a flush sash and frame appearance for a sleek, monolithic look, or a slightly extended sash to introduce more defined shadow lines.

More than just a refined aesthetic, the MB-79N CSF system delivers practical benefits for fabricators, architects and homeowners. A patented hybrid hinge supports sash weights of up to 80kg, enabling larger glazed areas without affecting smooth operation or weather resistance. Fabrication is simplified with dedicated tooling and streamlined assembly methods.

The system can accept double or triple-glazed units up to 63mm thick and is compatible with a wide range of finishes, including marine-grade powder coating and anodised options in a full RAL colour palette. Security and durability are built in, with options for RC1–RC3 burglary resistance and hurricane-impact testing certified to Florida Building Code standards.

The MB-79N CSF forms part of Aluprof Living — the company’s residential range of high-performance aluminium framing systems. Designed to bring expansive glass and contemporary aesthetics into the home, the range features polyamide thermal breaks and innovative insulating inserts to ensure excellent thermal efficiency and minimal thermal bridging.

Slim sightlines, a broad selection of colour and woodeffect finishes, and optional smart-home integrations offer homeowners and designers the freedom to create bespoke, highperformance window solutions. Support is provided through Aluprof’s UK-wide dealership network, from specification to installation.

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From factory to frame: how Eurocell’s Insite system, and a new low-carbon milestone, are helping to shape the future of window systems

In a construction industry where time, sustainability, and compliance are increasingly interlinked, the tools and systems that tick all three boxes can feel few and far between.

Eurocell has made headlines in recent times for two major

advancements that could have a lasting impact on both timber frame construction and the future of sustainable fenestration: the introduction of the InSite window system and the integration of Neovyn, a low-carbon PVC resin, into its premium Modus range.

Both developments reflect a commitment not just to innovation, but to practical, scalable improvements across the build lifecycle - from factory floor to installed frame.

Meeting changing homeowner priorities

The UK windows and doors market alone was worth over $8.2 billion in 2023 and is set to grow steadily to nearly $9.7 billion by 2030, highlighting continued demand for home upgrade products. And according to recent Eurocell research, 70% of homeowners are planning upgrades, with better use of space, energy efficiency, and sustainability in mind.

With affordability challenges still prevalent it could be that the desire to create a better home environment is currently outweighing the desire to move for those 7 in 10. This is in part, driving the demand for products that add tangible, long-term value - whether through energy savings, low maintenance, or improved functionality.

This shift in homeowner behaviour is accelerating demand for smarter, more sustainable solutions, both in retrofit and in new build too. For developers and fabricators, innovations like the InSite system and the enhanced Modus range are helping meet those evolving needs, offering speed, compliance, and environmental benefit at scale.

Installing smarter, not slower

Traditional window installation in timber frame properties has often been a time-consuming, weather-dependent process. But Eurocell’s InSite system is turning that on its head by enabling windows to be fitted into timber panels off-site, during the manufacturing stage, rather than after the structure has been

erected on-site.

On a recent project in Stratton, Inverness, a block of four terraced homes had all windows installed in just two days, a job that would normally take more than a week using traditional onsite methods.

The InSite system combines a specially designed hinge, sealant, cavity barrier, and either Eurocell’s Logik or Modus window profile. The glazed units are fixed securely into the timber panels at the manufacturing stage, before being transported flat to site and craned into position. This not only accelerates the build process but also eliminates working at height, reducing onsite disruption and improving health and safety outcomes.

Angus Cowie, business development manager at Eurocell, says: “The efficiency throughout the construction process has been remarkable. Not just down to the system itself, but also the collaboration between all partners involved. InSite offers a faster, safer and more sustainable way to fit windows - and it’s been tested to prevent the spread of fire and smoke through the cavity, which is a critical factor in timber frame construction.”

The Stratton development, a collaboration between Places for People, Kirkwood Timber Frame, and Pinefield Glass, demonstrated how InSite can be a vital part of modern construction schedules, particularly where rapid delivery and cost control are a priority.

A new benchmark in sustainability

While InSite is helping save time and labour, Eurocell is also making major strides on the

Continued on page

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sustainability front, most notably with the integration of Neovyn, a low-carbon PVC resin, into its Modus windows and doors system.

Already Eurocell’s most sustainable window range, Modus now delivers even lower carbon emissions while retaining its industry-leading energy performance (with U-values as low as 0.76 W/m²K) - and all at no additional cost to fabricators.

Neovyn is produced using renewable energy and features a 37% lower greenhouse gas footprint than the European industry average for PVC. Eurocell has absorbed the cost of this more sustainable material, underscoring its commitment to supporting fabricators and installers on their own net-zero journeys, without compromising on quality, performance, or margin.

Darren Waters, CEO of Eurocell, explains: “This marks a major milestone in our longterm strategy for sustainable innovation. By integrating Neovyn into our Modus profiles, we’re offering customers a highperformance product that also significantly lowers their carbon footprint.”

What’s more, the use of Neovyn doesn’t alter the recyclability of the product. In fact, with Eurocell’s recycling plant located less than 10 miles from its main manufacturing facility, the company is reinforcing its circular economy credentials by keeping waste and transport emissions to a minimum.

Ian Kernaghan, head of products, design and development at Eurocell, adds: “Our integration of Neovyn follows rigorous technical due diligence. We’re proud to lead the way in combining low-carbon innovation with the high standards

of durability and energy performance our customers expect.”

One step ahead

In both InSite and Modus, Eurocell is offering more than just incremental product upgrades. It delivers solutions that address some of the biggest challenges in the industrybuild speed, carbon reduction, compliance, without adding complexity or cost.

For developers, fabricators, and contractors looking to stay ahead of incoming regulations and performance standards, systems like these don’t just support the build — they shape the future of construction.

For more information about Eurocell’s InSite system or Modus range with Neovyn integration, visit www.eurocell.co.uk

Shaping the future with lasting success, ARTEVO has excellent thermo-acoustic

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Sheerline launches S3 architectural roof system

Sheerline has officially launched the S3 architectural roof system, its new single pitch roof and a smarter take on the traditional lean-to, says the company, which will be initially available direct from Sheerline Bespoke, Sheerline’s new product focussed division.

The S3 is the latest innovation in Sheerline’s S Series, engineered to simplify installations while delivering a modern architectural finish, according to the company.

Fully thermally broken using Sheerline’s Thermlock technology,

the S3 also features 135mm deep and 50mm wide aluminium rafter bars and shallow rafter caps.

Delivered in pre-configured kits with fewer components, the S3 significantly reduces installation time compared to a traditional lean-to system. It also includes clever features such as a factoryset pitch and a triple-lock wall plate for superior sealing and thermal efficiency, claims the company.

Sheerline Bespoke’s commercial director, Chris Cooke, said: “The S3 is of the moment and exactly what the market needs right now; it’s cleaner, more squared-off, and perfect for contemporary aluminium glazed extensions.

“The system works flawlessly with Sheerline’s aluminium windows and doors, and its versatility means it’s perfect for everything from glazed

extensions to outdoor living structures.”

Chris Baron, operations director, added: “There’s nothing else like the S3 on the market. The thermal performance is incredible, around 230% better insulated than a traditional conservatory roof thanks to Thermlock. Combine that with its modern looks and ease of installation, and we genuinely believe this system is going to

change the game.”

Installers can also offer customers better ventilation with optional SheerVent roof vents, while an integrated guttering system with concealed fixings and insulated eaves beam delivers a polished finish from top to bottom.

The S3 is available to pre-order now from Sheerline Bespoke www.sheerlinebespoke.com

Whitesales

rebrands popular rooflight range to target residential market

Whitesales, a UK rooflight manufacturer, has rebranded its em.glaze Economy rooflight to em.glaze Resi in a move to help highlight its position as a product perfectly suited for the residential market. It comes after a comprehensive review that found the term “economy” no longer reflected the high-performance qualities of the product, according to the company.

em.glaze Resi combines modern aesthetics with outstanding performance, making it an ideal choice for homeowners seeking rooflight solutions. Its glass-to-

edge design, combined with a thermally broken aluminium frame, provides excellent thermal insulation, achieving low U-values of 1.3 W/m²K, claims the company.

Pre-glazed at the factory for fast and hassle-free installation, em.glaze Resi is available in fixed, manual, and electric opening options to meet diverse project requirements.

Steve Pickering, sales & marketing director at Whitesales, said: “em.glaze Resi delivers the kind of quality that discerning

homeowners expect. We felt the original name undersold the product’s high performance and contemporary aesthetics.

“The rebrand to em.glaze Resi aligns with Whitesales’ continued commitment to offering highperformance solutions that meet the evolving demands of the residential market. We’re confident that em.glaze Resi will provide homeowners with the premium solution they deserve.”

To ensure seamless integration into various residential flat roof designs, the em.glaze Resi range is compatible with Whitesales’ proprietary timber sloping curbs and uPVC vertical upstands, says the company.

The product is available in 11 standard sizes with delivery in 3-5 days, with bespoke units available for more complex projects.

www.whitesales.co.uk

Coastal Group launches Classic Collection

Coastal Group has launched the Classic Collection of lever door handles, bringing a new level of flexibility and finish for external door hardware, says the company.

The newly engineered range of interchangeable lever handles and

backplates is designed to give door and window manufacturers, fabricators and installers more choice and greater ease of specification.

The Classic Collection includes two backplate options – 092 (slim with bevelled edges) and

095 (clean and traditional) –compatible with three distinct lever handle designs: the curved Opera, the paddle-inspired Regent, and the smooth, tapered Pera.

Each component in the range is fully interchangeable, offering flexibility to suit any setting, home or business. And from a practical side, fixing points remain consistent with previous backplates, making it easy for manufacturers to upgrade without any disruption to their processes.

All products are available in five premium finishes: Satin Stainless Steel, Polished Stainless Steel, PVD Satin Brass, PVD Polished

Brass, and Matt Black Lacquer.

“This range was developed in response to feedback from fabricators and joiners who wanted more choice without compromising on performance,” said Phil Walklett, design and engineering manager at Coastal Group. “We re-engineered the backplates to include a replaceable spring cassette and extended cylinder wall, then we focused on precision manufacturing to ensure consistency across all finishes. It’s designed to be as pleasing to use as it is to look at.”

Designed and built in the UK, the Classic Collection is CNC

machined from 316 marine-grade stainless steel, ensuring durability, corrosion resistance and longterm performance, even in coastal and exposed environments.

Key features of the range include:

• Interchangeable levers and backplates – up to 30 combinations

• Universal fixings compatible with Coastal’s previous 090 and 095 plates

• Replaceable spring cassette for smooth, sprung operation

• Extended cylinder wall for enhanced water resistance and

security

• Matching window handles available for a coordinated finish

• Supplied in new eco-friendly biodegradable packaging

“Our customers want hardware that performs in harsh environments, looks great across a range of styles, and is easy to fit,” says Loren Jenner, managing director of Coastal Group. “The Classic Collection delivers on all three. We’re proud to launch the new range and are already hearing positive feedback from the trade.”

coastal-group.com

New lift & slide hardware system from VBH

Hardware supplier VBH has introduced a new hardware system to suit Sheerline Prestige aluminium lift and slide patio doors.

greenteQ Clearlift Slim has been developed with Italian hardware expert AGB and is described by VBH as ‘the ideal hardware for slimline lift and slide patio doors.’

It accommodates sliding sashes weighing up to 250kg as standard, with the option to increase capacity to 400kg with the addition of just one item. Clearlift Slim allows the creation of sliding panels measuring up to 3.6m wide and 2.75m high, designed to flood any room with natural light, according to the company.

Brisant Secure has unveiled Ultion Nuki 2025, the latest generation of its smart lock that fuses fullstrength mechanical security with next-level connectivity. The new model adds built-in Wi Fi, faster or quieter motor options, and Matter over Thread compatibility, all in a sleeker body that fits most UK doors in less than 5minutes, claims the company.

Alex Dutton, sales director at Brisant Secure, says: “Built-in Wi Fi means no more extra hubs, the dual-finish kit cuts shelf space in half, and the Ultion 3 Star PLUS core keeps the security conversation simple: fit it, lock it, job done.”

Key highlights include:

• built-in Wi Fi for remote control and firmware updates without a bridge or hub

• a smaller, more modern design

Security is provided by two sturdy hook bolts, with the option to add additional hooks in the middle and at the top of the door if required

The hooks retract into the sash when the door is open, and the striker plates are flush to the frame. This provides a neat finish to the door and eliminates the risk of items snagging on any projections into the opening, says the company.

Marketing manager at VBH, Gary Gleeson, says “We’re very excited about the development of Clearlift Slim. It’s easy to use and is built to last, as demonstrated by successful testing to 25,000 opening cycles and a top grade 5 under BS EN1670 for corrosion protection.

“In fact, many components are protected by AGB’s excellent Activeage surface protection treatment, which has achieved 2000 hours in a neutral salt spray test.”

Gary concludes, “A Sheerline Prestige door is a high quality product that deserves the best hardware. Clearlift Slim is the ideal choice, as it provides effortless operation and a host of optional features. Style, performance and operation are perfectly matched.”

Brisant Secure launches Ultion Nuki 2025

that takes up less space on the door

• 3x faster locking and an optional low-noise mode

• USB-C charging on or off the door

• single-box packaging that cuts stockholding while covering every fixing and colouroption

• Matter over Thread compatibility for instant integration with Alexa, Google, Apple, Samsung, and more

• the Ultion 3 Star PLUS core tested to Sold Secure Diamond 2024 and backed by a £5,000 security guarantee

Ultion Nuki 2025 can be fitted with a single screwdriver, giving installers a high-margin smart upgrade that demands minimal labour. For merchants, the onebox approach can reduce shelf stock by up to 40%, says the company. http://bit.ly/4mJNKBY

Bohle adds new hydraulic swing door hinge to its offering

Bohle is now supplying the Biloba hydraulic swing door hinge, innovatively designed to balance functionality with elegant design, for both single-action and swing doors.

“The popular Biloba hinge offers high-performance features with a sleek and modern design, creating a unique selling point for installers” explains Paul Miller, national sales Manager at Bohle.

“The invisible screw connections and hydraulic mechanism provide seamless and controlled function, while the adjustable zero position guides precise and efficient installation”.

ensure long-lasting durability, the Biloba hinge is tested for

500,000 closing cycles in line with DIN EN 1154 standards. Thanks to the hydraulic system, doors close automatically at a pre-set speed and offers minimal resistance during opening for added convenience, according to the company.

In addition, the hinge is compatible with toughened safety glass and laminated safety glass, supporting glass thicknesses from 8mm to 13.52mm.

And with the ability to accommodate glass weights of up to 100kg for glass-wall versions, and 80kg for glass-glass versions, claims the company, installers have the flexibility to create visually stunning designs, in an

architectural-style finish. Available in black, anodised and stainless steel effect, the Biloba hinge delivers an attractive, minimalist solution for modern interiors.

“Biloba is the perfect choice for installers looking to upsell highquality hardware that is simple to install and delivers on impressive performance” Paul added.

“Complementing our existing range of high quality, innovative door hinges, it is the ideal addition to any installer’s arsenal.” www.bohle.com

Experience

Exceptional Service

Discover service that goes beyond hardware supply. Our team of experts are on hand to advise, source and deliver the hardware you need, when you need it.

Fail-safe vs fail-secure: Get it right first time

With more than 165 years of German engineering expertise, Fuhr is recognised as a leading manufacturer of multipoint locking systems. The company supplies fabricators and system houses across the UK and Europe with solutions that combine performance, flexibility and compliance. As smart locking and powered access control continue to rise in popularity, one issue is becoming increasingly important: understanding the difference between fail-safe and fail-secure

locking – and knowing when to use each.

In simple terms, a fail-safe lock will automatically unlock in the event of a power failure, ensuring safe exit for occupants. This is critical for life safety applications such as escape routes in public buildings, where building regulations or EN 1125 and EN 179 standards may require it. A fail-secure lock, by contrast, will stay locked without power, protecting against unauthorised entry. This is often the preferred

choice for securing high-value areas or residential doors.

Paul Balfe, Fuhr UK’s business development manager, explains: “The key to getting this decision right is understanding how the door will be used – both in day-to-day operation and in an emergency. The wrong choice can lead to costly retrofits, delays, or worse, non-compliance with building regulations.”

Real-world scenarios vary widely. A staff entrance to a secure facility might require fail-secure operation, while an adjacent fire escape door could need fail-safe release. In multi-door projects, both may be needed – which is why Fuhr ’s motorised locks can be configured for either mode, sometimes even within the same installation.

Paul continues: “The conversation needs to happen at the start of the project, ideally when access control, automation and integration with building management systems are first being considered. It’s far easier and more cost-effective to choose the right lock early than to redesign later.”

According to Fuhr, their product range is designed to make this process simpler for specifiers and fabricators. Whether the requirement is for a fully motorised multipoint lock, automatic locking, or a panic exit system. According to Fuhr ’s modular designs mean the same basic routing can be adapted for different modes and standards without redesigning the door.

From helping to interpret building regulations, to advising on access control compatibility or providing guidance on installation, Fuhr offers technical support at every stage. The aim is simple: ensure the right locking solution is specified first time, every time for projects of any size.

https://www.fuhr.de/en/

Safeware brings Yale Postmaster TS008 Slim Letterplate to its portfolio

Hardware supplier Safeware has expanded its portfolio with the addition of the Yale Postmaster Professional TS008 Slim Letterplate, giving customers access to a secure, compliant and installer-friendly solution, says the company.

Rob Hartill, Safeware’s commercial director, said: “The Yale Postmaster Slim Letterplate combines sophisticated security features with the exceptional quality Yale is known for. Add in straightforward installation and it’s a product our customers value both on-site and in use.”

Designed for timber and composite doors, the Yale Postmaster Professional Slim Letterplate

Mila has expanded its premium door hardware offering with two new 220mm handles across its Supa and SupaSecure ranges, providing a sleek design and enhanced security. Responding to the growing demand for shorter backplate handles that fit modern door profiles without compromising on security, Mila’s new 220mm models deliver both performance and style, says the company.

Designed to achieve PAS24:2022, Secured by Design approved, and featuring the TS007 2 Star Kitemark, the 220mm SupaSecure handle features an integrated cylinder guard. This, combined with an anti-drill disc that spins if attacked, provides complete protection of the cylinder. Chamfered backplate shoulders further resist mole-grip attacks, reinforcing its security credentials, claims the company.

delivers full TS008 compliance, with an adjustable channel design that accommodates door thicknesses between 44mm and 63mm. Dual side plate shields automatically extend when the internal flap is opened, blocking external access to the door’s thumb turn or key, while Yale’s CombShield technology obstructs visibility through the letterplate to prevent intruders from locating keys or valuables. Together with a positive

stop flap, these features provide strong defence against fishing attacks, claims the company.

According to the company, the letterplate has been rigorously tested and meets the requirements of TS008:2022 accreditation, PAS 24:2022 and Approved Document Q. It also meets the stringent requirements of FD30 fire ratings when tested as part of a doorset, in line with BS 476-22 and EN 1363-1 fire resistance standards.

Manufactured from Austenitic 304 stainless steel, the external flap has been tested to BS EN 1670 Grade 5 for corrosion resistance, withstanding more than 1,000 hours of neutral salt spray testing. The unit has also been endurance tested to 20,000 operational cycles which is equivalent to more than five decades of daily use, ensuring long-term reliability. A full gasket provides complete weatherproofing, according to the company. The letterplate comes with a 10-year mechanical and a 25-year surface finish guarantee.

Mila adds 220mm Supa and SupaSecure door handles to its premium hardware range

The 220mm version complements the existing 240mm model and offers increased compatibility with timber, aluminium, composite, and PVCu doors.

Both the Supa and SupaSecure 220mm door handles feature a modern, minimalist design

crafted from premium-grade 304 stainless steel. Engineered for exceptional durability, they exceed industry standards with proven resistance to over 1,000 hours of salt spray testing—significantly outperforming the BS EN 1670 Grade 5 (480-hour) corrosion standard. Fully weather-tight (BS EN 6375) and extremely durable (BS EN 1906), these handles are suitable for both left- and righthanded doors and compatible with most popular lock sizes. Ergonomically designed, their sprung levers ensure smooth operation and consistently return to 90 degrees, effectively eliminating handle sag, according to the company.

ERA partners with Veka on hinge for flush fit Omnia door range

Home security and fenestration component provider ERA have launched a new fully adjustable Fab&Fix hinge exclusively for Veka’s Omnia profile.

Working closely with Veka, ERA’s team of experts developed the new hinge to support the double flush door system.

The development of the new hinge is the latest addition to ERA’s portfolio of products suitable for the Omnia range, which offers a unified flush appearance for casement windows, residential doors, and French doors, says the company.

With a slim sightline, full

adjustability and fabrication support, the Fab&Fix Lift Off

Hinge perfectly supports easeof-fabrication, function and style, according to the company.

It is also one of the first products designed for the Omnia profile to achieve the latest PAS 24: 2022 standard, which sets out requirements for enhanced security performance of doors. The hinge has also been tested to over 200,000 cycles, ensuring a reliable performance and corrosion resistance, claims the company.

Suitable for inward and outward closing doors, the hinge is supplied in two halves, allowing its sash and frame parts to be fabricated separately and then lifted into position on site, while the handed design removes timely re-handing changes and allows for easy installation, says the company.

Aesthetically, the Fab&Fix Hinge can be finished with a choice of painted and Hardex cover caps to suite with over 200 door and window furniture options in the Fab&Fix range.

Paul Benn, key account manager at ERA, said: “Working alongside Veka on this has been a really positive collaborative experience – we’re excited to be launching a new hinge designed to seamlessly support products across the Omnia range.

“Our commitment to quality, innovation and reliability is evident in the final product, which is easy to install, fully 3D adjustable and meets the highest security standards.”

Jack Scullion, product innovation manager at VEKA, said: “It’s all in the detail and thanks to ERA, homeowners choosing Omnia will benefit from windows and doors that are both stylish and secure right down to the hinges.”

www.eraeverywhere.com www.veka.co.uk

• Uncompromising Security – Independently certified to BSI TS007 2-star standards, rigorously tested to meet the demanding requirements of Sold Secure Silver status, and approved by Secured by Design

• Built to Endure – Stainless steel construction for lasting strength

• Effortless Style – A premium finish that stays beautiful for decades

• Peace of Mind – Backed by 25-year mechanical and surface finish guarantees

• Suited Design – Perfectly matches a wide range of

Installers are winning premium projects with

Everglade Windows’ aïr 400SS minimal frame sliding door, says the company

Everglade Windows says it is helping installers close high-end jobs with its aïr 400SS minimal frame sliding door.

Launched to meet homeowner demand for slimmer frames, expansive glass, and high performance, the aïr 400SS minimal frame sliding door has quickly become a favourite with installers, according to

Everglade Windows. Its beaded and site-bonded design makes transportation, installation, and aftercare far quicker and easier, says Everglade – allowing installers to fit its premium product more efficiently, without compromising on finish or performance.

“We designed our aïr 400SS to make high-end installations simpler for our customers, so it’s

fantastic to see it delivering both practical and commercial benefits”, says Mike Wilson, regional sales manager at Everglade Windows. “As demand grows for light-filled, architecturally styled spaces, our installers are saving time on site while offering homeowners a door that performs brilliantly and complements modern interior design.”

After having recently completed several residential projects that featured the aïr 400SS, Sussex Glazing, one of Everglade’s long-standing partners, knows firsthand the value Everglade’s sliding door has delivered to its business. Patrick McInerney, director at Sussex Glazing, says: “The bonding process for the aïr 400SS is really straightforward – it’s just like

installing a standard patio door, with the simple added step of applying the bonding agent. For our team of installers, it means quicker fitting times and a much sleeker result, especially with the slim 34mm and 20mm interlocks. It’s been a real win for us, and we’re still seeing a similar demand for the product now.”

As well as its 34mm and 20mm ultra-slim sightlines, the aïr 400SS minimal frame sliding door comes with PAS24:2022 certification; U-values from 1.2 W/m²k; a weight limit of 250Kg per panel; configurations up to 6 panels wide; maximum sizes of 2 metres x 2.5 metres per panel, as well as a triple track option.

www.evergladetrade.co.uk

Norseal partnership enhances fire door performance

When door manufacturer DoorCo set out to develop a highperformance fire door system that could deliver consistent performance across a wide range of designs and configurations, they knew it would take technical rigour, robust testing, and the right partners.

Norseal collaborated with DoorCo and Winkhaus UK to develop the new Firecore fire door range. With fire, smoke, and security performance at its core, Firecore is now fully tested to EN 1634 and available for both internal and external applications.

As specialists in fire, smoke and acoustic sealing, Norseal supported the project with advice, technical input and highperformance sealing solutions throughout the 18-month development and testing process. The result is a fire door set that performs reliably across multiple configurations, including top lights, side lights and glazed designs, with no compromise on fire safety or aesthetics, says the company.

“Norseal’s expertise in sealing was vital to achieving the consistent test results we needed,” explains Ian Glenister, technical and sales manager at DoorCo. “Working with knowledgeable, proactive suppliers was key, and Norseal were instrumental in helping us ensure compliance across every detail of the specification.”

Firecore can demonstrate an extensive portfolio of test evidence. The complete door set includes a phenolic foam slab, hardwood subframe, and DoorCo’s signature GRP skins. Norseal’s tested sealing solutions integrate seamlessly into the system, ensuring that Firecore meets strict fire, smoke and security standards.

“This kind of collaborative development is where Norseal adds real value,” says Norseal’s Simon Sutton. “Our job is to make sure the seals don’t just perform in isolation, but as part of a complete, compliant system. That means working closely with fabricators, hardware manufacturers and door designers from the earliest stages.”

New Cruciform option for Sheerline’s

classic heritage door

Sheerline has expanded the range of styles available for its Classic Heritage Door. The newly launched Classic Cruciform Kit allows for cross-shaped bars to be fabricated as part of the frame, adding versatility to an already popular range, says the company.

It can be used to match a new installation with existing cottagestyle windows, or alternatively, the kit can be used with Classic windows, enabling homeowners to achieve consistent styling. The Classic range is ideal for heritage properties because of its super slim sightlines, according to the company.

Ben Hartshorn, Sheerline’s technical and design director, commented: “At Sheerline, we’re always looking at ways to improve our existing product range, and the new Classic Cruciform Kit is the perfect example of this. It gives our customers (and their customers) even more choice.”

http://bit.ly/47isG0z

DoorCo sees 98% of all glazed doors using own brand cassette system

DoorCo’s Flip cassette system is now used for 98% of all doors glazed through the company’s in-house prep service, with the other 2% being accounted for by the metallic finished Inox system, according to the company.

DoorCo’s strategy director, Mark Towers, the mind behind the Flip system, tells us more:

“The Flip glazing cassette system was created to plug a gap in the market. The first of its kind, the Flip system bucked the trend of using glazing tape and features a prefoamed gasket which improves the ease and speed of install, as well as enhancing the performance of the finished product.

“Launched in 2021, the Flip system is well-loved for being weatherproof and secure, achieving over 1000pa throughout the glazing aperture, as well as being tested to BS6375-2015 and in accordance with EN1027. Designing products that don’t just fulfil their purpose but offer an enhanced level of performance is what we do, and the Flip system was no exception.

“Available in 3 profiles and our entire range of standard colours and stains to fit every prepped door style we offer, this glazing cassette system is built to combine style and substance on every level.”

Discussing how the system has made DoorCo’s in-house glazing service easier and more effective than ever, Glazing Cell manager Kayley Woods tells us:

“The Flip system has been engineered to offer straightforward, speedy glazing and the benefits of this are huge for how we operate our in-house glazing cell.

“Timed and tested, a twin vertical door can be glazed using Flip in just 7 minutes, over 50% quicker than the same door can be glazed using a traditional glazing tape system. The fact that 98% of all doors passing through our glazing cell are using Flip allows us to glaze high volumes of doors to a quality standard in a timeframe that helps keep our lead times low and consistent.

“The ease of fitting the system and the fact it can be easily detached and reglazed also minimises the chance of error or failure within the cell. The training we are able to provide our team members, thanks to the fact we use a system we designed ourselves, is far superior to what we could provide for an external system.

“All these factors combined are the reasons our glazing service is a streamlined part of the overall prep offering, finishing each door to perfection just before it hits the wrapper and heads off to our customer.”

DoorCo introduced their in-house Glazing service 7 years ago and with the use of their Flip system are able to offer customers prepped doors completed up to the point of requiring hardware and frames, says the company.

www.trade.door-co.com

Security redefined.

The Dual Lock Window Lock Range. Advanced security, effortless installation, lasting durability.

Yale’s latest innovation in window security, the Dual Lock Window Lock Range, sets a new standard with its smart design, effortless installation, and exceptional versatility. Engineered to suit PVC, aluminium, and timber window systems.

Choose from two high-performance options:

• Twin Cam Espagnolette

• Shootbolt Window Lock

Both are designed for easy, single routing preparation reducing installation time while maintaining top-tier performance. The Twin Cam Espagnolette offers bi-directional locking for enhanced protection, and features Quadcoat corrosion resistance rated up to 1,000 hours (BS EN 1670 Grade 5,480hrs), ensuring long-lasting durability even in the toughest environments.

Dekko expands premium door offering with Comp Door range

Trade fabricator Dekko Window Systems has strengthened its highend door collection with the launch of its new Comp Door range of composite doors.

The new collection joins Dekko’s flagship Infinity composite door, which features a DoorCo slab with a seamlessly welded Deceuninck outerframe and sits alongside the company’s established Solidor range.

Manufactured with a solid timber core, the Comp Door range combines traditional aesthetics with modern composite materials and is enhanced by a protective layer of innovative CoolSkin technology to maintain optimal performance through extreme temperature changes and weather conditions.

The range includes the SleekSkin collection, which showcases innovative designs that seamlessly integrate CoolSkin technology for enhanced thermal insulation and durability.

Kurt Greatrex, Dekko’s managing director, said: “While our Infinity

composite door remains our premier offering, we’re delighted to introduce Comp Door to our trade customers as another highend option to help them win more business and meet growing consumer demand.

“The composite door sector continues to be a significant growth area, and we wanted to provide our customers with a product that delivers both outstanding performance and aesthetic appeal.”

Offering superior impact resistance, Comp Doors are engineered with densely designed composite panels for excellent thermal efficiency and draught prevention and available in a variety of door designs, colours and styles, while a robust locking system and ABS security cylinder provide enhanced security, notes Dekko.

The Comp Door range also features French doors, stable doors, and both standard and Discovery ranges.

www.dekkowindows.com

Bohle has launched a standalone black Alva fitting, as well as an Alva with back check, providing installers with additional versatility and efficiency to win more projects and maximise their margin.

The black colourway of the Alva self-closing patch fitting, which was previously only included in the PT20 and PT24 sets, has now been released as a single product.

“At Bohle, we know that margins are tight for installers”, explains

Bohle expands its Alva range of patch fittings

Paul Miller, national sales manager at Bohle. “By offering the black Alva as a single product, rather than as part of a set, we are giving installers the products that their customers are demanding, at a price that will help them to succeed.”

As well as the introduction of the standalone black colourway, a back check will also be available to add on to the brushed stainless steel and black RAL 9005 matt Alva finishes, incorporating an innovative design that intercepts and slows down the rapid opening of a door.

The back check protects the door from hitting a wall if thrown open too quickly, in strong gusts of wind, for example.

“This function for a hydraulic, self-closing fitting is truly unique”, adds Paul Miller. “It adds an extra level of safety and provides a unique selling point for installers.”

The Alva self-closing patch fitting enables quick installation without the need for time-consuming floor recesses. The entire hydraulic system for the selfclosing function is housed in a

slim fitting, and the fitting is fixed to the floor with screws using a base plate.

And encased within a sleek and contemporary cover, it ensures a clean appearance while still delivering high-quality performance.

“Significant investment has gone into developing Alva, and we truly believe it to be a market-leading fitting. Its mounting plate has been designed to be exceptionally accurate, giving it a perfect fit and excellent aesthetics.

“It’s also certified to DIN EN 1154 standards, delivering durability and long-term performance. It really is an unmissable asset to your installation toolkit.”

www.bohle.com

Alunet launches Aluna+ luxury

aluminium entrance door system

Alunet Systems has launched a “carefully engineered” aluminium entrance door system to the UK market.

Door leaves are available in two formats: a 75 mm triple-glazed profile and a 90 mm quadrupleglazed version, delivering U-values as low as 0.80 W/m²K.

This thermal performance is matched by security, with PAS24 certification across the range and reinforced laminated glazing provided as standard. Every component, from colourmatched hinges to smart access control options, has been designed not just to meet specification, but to elevate it,

says Alunet.

“Aluna+ isn’t just another door system,” says Steve Kendrick, managing director at Alunet Systems. “It’s the result of stepping back and asking what a truly advanced, luxury entrance experience should look and feel like. For both the homeowner and the installer, it needed to deliver aesthetic precision, technical performance, and fabrication ease. But it also needed to feel different. Better. More complete.”

According to Alunet, Aluna+ has been developed to integrate everything into a single, coherent offering. From its tailored colour palette and handle designs to its

modular smart access options and glazing configurations, the company says the system gives installers full control without the ‘friction’ of custom development.

Its compatibility with Alunet’s broader Aluna range allows for seamless continuity across bifolds, windows, and rooflights. This, says Alunet, offers a strategic advantage to fabricators and trade professionals who want to simplify their supply chain while elevating their offering.

Steve added: “This is what the modern market demands: systems that deliver design excellence, meet the toughest

regulatory standards, and install as smoothly as they sell. Aluna+ was created to be the new flagship of that movement.”

For more information about Aluna+ or to request the full product brochure, visit www.alunetsystems.co.uk/

Reynaers’ Vision 7 thermal commercial door with concealed

panic hardware

achieves PAS 24

Reynaers Aluminium has announced that its Vision 7 thermal commercial door with concealed panic hardware has achieved its Performance Assessment Specification (PAS 24:2022).

This milestone marks the next

certification

stage in Reynaers’ evolution of the Vision 7 door, increasing its applicability as an enhanced security solution, ideal for ground floor use in commercial and light commercial settings.

Developed specifically for the UK commercial market, Vision

7 is an aluminium commercial door and framing system that has been designed for use in high-traffic areas, making security a high priority.

Featuring anti-finger trap technology, Reynaerss says it is ideal for use in settings such as schools, hospitals and hospitality venues that require a long-lasting and secure solution.

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.

The aesthetic finish of Vision 7 is backed by a high-level performance with a key feature being the use of a unique post-installation adjustable bottom pivot that allows it to be adjusted without being removed from the door frame. In addition, it can achieve a U-value of 1.1W/m2K, says Reynaers.

Ian Osborne, Reynaers UK product development manager, said: “Reynaers Aluminium is committed to creating projects that achieve the highest standards of performance, which requires continual product development and updates.

“Already the Vision 7 door has seen panic hardware added, which is now backed by PAS 24 certification, as well as various additional locks and accessories, whilst durability testing has seen the door complete one million open and close cycles.

“This allows specifiers, contractors and installers to use this commercial door across a wide range of settings with absolute confidence.”

For more information on Vision 7 visit reynaers.co.uk/vision-7

Roseview adds foiled trims to its product range

Sash window manufacturer, Roseview Windows has launched a new range of foiled window trims, designed to simplify ordering and installation for trade customers.

The trims are available in nine styles and three carefully selected colours: white woodgrain, crystal white, and Roseview’s popular chalk white finish. Trims are ordered at the same time as the company’s sash windows so that everything is delivered together, reducing hassle and streamlining logistics for installers.

The move comes in direct response to feedback from customers, particularly those specifying the company’s Ultimate Rose window in chalk white. Installers reported that sourcing trims to match this colour could be both difficult and expensive, with limited availability from their usual trim suppliers, according to the company.

Roseview is in a unique position

among fabricators to address this challenge, thanks to its in-house foiling company Foilit Northampton. By handling the foiling process internally, says the company. Roseview can produce matched trims using the same Renolit foils and processes as its windows.

“Typically fabricators don’t get involved in window trims; installers source them separately from specialist suppliers or trade counters.” comments Roseview director Mike Bygrave. “However, as the choice of colours and finishes for windows

Sheerline launches new 300mm cill

Sheerline has added a new 300mm cill to its product range that is compatible across the range. It comes at a time

when demand for larger cills is increasing due to new methods of construction, says the company.

grows, trims don’t always keep up.

“Because we foil in-house, we’re able to do things differently.” Mike continues, “We asked customers for their opinions and then brought samples of foiled trim samples that match our windows to the FIT Show. The response was overwhelmingly positive, so we knew we had to proceed.

“We’re starting small, but if this proves to be popular with our customers, there’s plenty of room for us to expand our range of colours and styles. It’s a practical solution that offers our customers simplicity, choice and convenience.” Mike concludes.

Trims are ordered from Roseview in the quantity required for each job and delivered in 2.5 metre lengths at the same time as the windows. Roseview believes the new offering will be particularly welcomed by installers working on high-end or conservation projects, where precise detailing and colour matching are essential.

The new trim range is available to order immediately. For more information, visit www.roseview.co.uk/trims

This includes SIP panels and external insulation solutions, which increase the window reveal depth. But that isn’t the only reason, aesthetic enhancements such as rendering can also require a deeper cill, according to the company.

Sheerline’s technical and design director, Ben Hartshorn, commented: “Adding the 300mm cill to our range will ensure our fabricators have even more choice. It reflects our commitment to supporting our customers, continuous improvement, and remaining competitive.”

https://www.sheerline.com

TFM invests £100,000 in Kombimatec technology

Narberth based fabricator TradeFrame Manufacturers Ltd has invested the best part of £100,000 in a Kombimatec DGS450E electronic double mitre saw, and an AMC328 automatic sawing centre. The purchase has enabled TFM to effectively double production in its existing fabrication unit, enabling it to guarantee continued high levels of service to its customer base while it searches for new premises as part of its long term growth strategy.

An important element of the purchasing decision was the fact that Kombimatec has always given that personal touch when it came to providing service excellence. Having worked with the machinery supplier in the past, TFM managing director Russ Evans always experienced high levels of after sales care –something that is not always a guarantee with other suppliers.

“When you have an issue impacting production the last thing you want is to be waiting

weeks for it to be resolved, which has happened to us in the past. Kombimatec’s managing director David Parsons can often solve a technical problem for us, straight away, over the phone,” said Russ. “Equally, when sourcing a machinery supplier, we recommend that you check if they have any universal shut downs. When this happened to us, we were unable to get any solution for the best part of a month, which significantly affected our own production schedules.”

Prior to buying both machines, Russ had done his due diligence in looking for alternatives and comparing and contrasting on the basis of cost alongside performance and service. And while many imported machines matched Kombimatec’s offerings in terms of alleged production improvements and efficiencies, there was no guarantee in terms of providing convenient and accessible aftersales.

“The more I did my research, the stronger I believed buying

Kombimatec made not just overall production sense, but sound commercial sense too,” continued Russ. “We have a strong trajectory for growth over the next few years, and the decision to invest in machinery had to fit in with our long term strategic plans. It came as no surprise then that we returned to Kombimatec – and it is important to us that we share this due diligence with other window companies across the UK, in view of the current turmoil within the economic climate.”

David Parsons continued: “Our full range of machinery products includes both British and overseas manufactured products, but ultimately Kombimatec is founded on its customer support, rapid response and comprehensive training, no matter what the provenance of the product itself. Any disruption to manufacturing cycles is money down the drain, so our focus is always to minimise downtime and ensure our machines keep running – we are perfectly positioned to achieve that aim.”

The Kombimatec AMC328 Automatic Machining Centre incorporates a centrally located tool change cabinet that helps to optimise machine cycle times. The distance to collect or park a tool is half the machine width, rather than having to travel the full length.

A total of five axes provide accurate and robust positioning of the tooling, profile and clamps as it is processed through the centre, eliminating human interference, for consistent, repeatable quality.

The Kombimatec DGS450E positions automatically to the size required, with saw heads rotating from 45 to 90 degrees, and a further option to extend to 22.5 degrees. Optimised cutting lists can be downloaded via USB for further automation.

https://www.kombimatec.com/

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Watford regeneration project becomes first to specify new low carbon glass

A new residential development in Watford bringing forward 278 homes, is setting a benchmark for sustainable construction in the UK, becoming the first project in the UK to install Pilkington Mirai, the lowest carbon alternative to

Pilkington UK’s standard glass.

Pilkington United Kingdom Limited part of the NSG Group, provided Pilkington Mirai Suncool 70/35 for the 1 Sydney Road scheme, developed by Signia. The project,

which includes residential apartments along with amenity spaces, marks the debut of Pilkington Mirai in a UK residential setting.

Pioneered using a combination of alternative fuel, high recycled glass content, and green electricity sources, Pilkington Mirai has 52% less embodied carbon when compared to Pilkington

UK’s Pilkington Optifloat clear glass, without compromising on performance, quality, or aesthetic appearance, claims Pilkington.

Glass unit manufacturer Crystal Units and window fabricator Prime Glaze partnered to deliver 4,500 m2 of 6 mm Pilkington Mirai Suncool 70/35 to the scheme. This installation forms part of a wider regeneration programme aiming to create high-quality, environmentally responsible housing in Watford.

By incorporating a highperformance Pilkington Suncool 70/35 coating to the glazing residents can enjoy multiple benefits. With advanced solar control and low emissivity properties, Pilkington says the glass allows high levels of natural daylight into the homes while reflecting solar heat, preventing overheating in warmer months and improving thermal insulation in colder ones. This translates into reduced reliance on artificial heating and cooling, supporting

lower energy costs and increased comfort.

Bhavin Halai, managing director at Prime Glaze said: “By incorporating the lowest embodied carbon alternative to regular float glass on the market, we’re not only enhancing the sustainability of the Watford regeneration but also setting a new standard for future developments.

“As the industry continues to evolve, products like Pilkington Mirai will be crucial in driving environmentally friendly development practices and demonstrating how the built environment can make the move towards decarbonisation without compromising on the quality of materials.”

Arne De Ceapog, specification manager at Pilkington UK said: “We’re excited to debut Pilkington Mirai at 1 Sydney Road, not only because it provides much needed affordable housing and community spaces but also recognises the importance of considering sustainability.

“Pilkington Mirai represents a significant step forward in the glass industry’s efforts to decarbonise the entire built environment. This project is a great example of how we’re helping developers and asset owners move closer to meeting the 2030 and 2050 carbon reduction targets.”

Phil Hallworth, technical & sales director at Crystal Units said: “This project sets a strong precedent for future developments that aim to balance environmental responsibility with the need for high-performance building materials.

“Our commitment to innovation with solutions like Pilkington Mirai Suncool 70/35 demonstrates our dedication to reducing environmental impact while delivering high-quality glazing solutions.”

Senior anchors success at Manchester’s new Island development

Senior Architectural Systems has supplied a range of aluminium fenestration solutions for Island, a new commercial development located in the heart of Manchester’s St Peter’s Square.

Designed by architects Cartwright Pickard and delivered by main contractor Bowmer and Kirkland, the 10-storey building offers 100,000 sq ft of Grade A, net zero carbon office space and features a bold, contemporary aesthetic. While the curved and rolled curtain walling on the lower storeys was supplied and installed by Acorn Aluminium using bespoke insulated glazed units, Senior’s systems were used throughout the main elevations to deliver consistent performance and visual impact across the rest of the building envelope, according to the company.

Senior’s thermally broken SF52 aluminium curtain wall system has been used throughout to create the large glazed elevations and maximise natural light. Offering enhanced thermal performance, says the company, and slim sightlines, the SF52 system was specified alongside Senior’s SPW600 aluminium windows and SPW501 commercial doors, with the full fenestration package fabricated and installed by Acorn Aluminium.

All systems were finished in an ultra-matt dark bronze powder coating to complement the design and meet the required performance standards. The Island is one of the first major projects in the UK to feature this new paint finish, which is a cost-effective alternative to anodised aluminium and which gives a more consistent finish, superior colour retention and enhanced durability, claims the company.

Working closely with Acorn Aluminium and the wider project team, Senior’s experienced technical advisors provided design support and guidance throughout the development, ensuring efficient integration of the fenestration systems within the building’s complex façade.

Developed by Henry Boot in partnership with the Greater Manchester Pension Fund, the £66 million scheme is one of the city’s most ambitious net zero carbon office projects. Boasting a range of environmental credentials, Island has been constructed in accordance with the UK Green Buildings Council net zero carbon buildings framework and has a BREEAM rating of ‘excellent’, according to the company.

Residence 7 windows transform farmhouse-inspired new-build homes

A selection of new-build properties in Austrey, lying mid-way between Tamworth in Staffordshire and Ashby-de-laZouch in Leicestershire, have been elevated with the installation of Residence 7 windows in Painswick and Corse Lawn colourways.

Installed by Swadlincote Window Company Ltd, this installation contained 78 windows in total, with the configuration featuring side openers throughout.

Working in partnership with Lychgate Homes and architectural designers David Granger Architectural Design Ltd, the Austrey Fields project required careful consideration to ensure the windows complemented the rural setting, all while delivering the modern comfort and efficiency expected in a new home. The development itself has been thoroughly designed to fit into its surroundings, so the choice of The Residence Collection’s R7 system was therefore a natural fit for both aesthetic and performance reasons.

Manufactured using welded joints, the windows feature 6.4 laminated, planitherm glazing with argon – a specification selected for energy efficiency, acoustic control and enhanced security.

Natasha Vandaele at Swadlincote

Window Company Ltd, explained: “The whole development at Austrey Fields has been carefully thought out to fit seamlessly into this lovely village setting –so ensuring that the windows were in keeping with that was really important. We regularly work with Lychgate Homes, and they contacted us as they were looking for flush windows to tie in with the contemporary aesthetic of the development. R7 was deemed the best choice for all of the new properties due to the sleek design and the fact they are flush externally and internally. They are delighted with the finished result, as are we!”

Jo Trotman, marketing manager at The Residence Collection, added: “This is another stunning example of how the R7 system can elevate both heritage restorations and newbuild properties alike. The combination of classic styling, high-performance glazing and meticulous detailing ensures the homes look timeless, while offering everyday comfort and security once the homeowners move in. We have enjoyed working closely with the team at the Swadlincote Window Company on this installation and are delighted that they are so thrilled with the end result.”

http://bit.ly/4g3hRSo

EYG Commercial completes latest projects for Mulgrave Properties

East Yorkshire glazing specialist EYG Commercial continues to enhance its reputation for the supply and installation of highquality windows and doors to the housebuilding industry with the completion of its latest contracts for Mulgrave Properties.

The business, part of the Hull-

based EYG Group which was established in 1971, has now completed installations on four sites for the York-based developer.

Mulgrave Properties says it has returned to EYG because of its high-quality products and installations, and its reliability to complete works on schedule.

Richard Saunders

The latest projects completed are Mulgrave’s ‘Coast’ development in Burniston, near Scarborough, and its luxury ‘Urban Renaissance’ site in Fulford, near York.

Richard Saunders, sales and estimating director at EYG Commercial, says being repeatedly chosen to manufacture, supply and install windows and doors for the independent and award-winning developer, which prides itself on raising the bar in terms of new house builds, is something the business is proud of.

“Mulgrave Properties has forged a reputation in the housebuilding sector for building high-specification homes in desirable villages across Yorkshire, and so as a business it naturally demands the highest quality of partner for its windows and doors,” he said.

“As a business with our own manufacturing facility and long-established relationships with industry leading system suppliers, we have been able to offer Mulgrave a wide range of options on products, from configuration, size and style of windows, to a huge range of colours and options on doors. We’ve also been able to provide bespoke products to meet unique home designs.

“This is something which really has appealed to them given their commitment to ensuring that not only each development has its own particular character and theme, but also giving them peace of mind that their customers are benefitting from high-performance products in terms of energy efficiency, safety and longevity.

“In any business you’re only ever as good as your last job, and we’ve been in the business long enough to know that commercial customers will only keep returning to you if you offer quality products, at a sensible price, and provide a reliable service.

“We’re hugely proud to be trusted by a company like Mulgrave Properties and feel their confidence in our products and team is the highest possible testimonial of our work.”

Properties now on market

For Mulgrave’s ‘Coast’ development of 50 two, three and four bedroom homes, the EYG team installed around 600 cream, agate grey and ‘moondust’ coloured windows, as well as composite front and back doors. Properties are now on the market ranging from £199,950 to £509,950.

In Fulford, on the ‘Urban Renaissance’ development, the EYG Commercial team installed bespoke anthracite

grey aluminium windows, doors and sliding patio doors on a small development of four and five bedroom luxury detached homes, which are currently on the market for £1.5m, £2m and £2.1m.

Combined alongside refined brickwork, contemporary timber and zinc cladding, the anthracite aluminium windows have created a modern and sophisticated appearance.

Previous projects which have seen EYG Commercial complete the installation of windows and doors for Mulgrave have included the ‘How Beck’ site of five homes in Morton-onSwale and the four home ‘Maple Court’ development in Tholthorpe.

Will Cowley, area manager at Mulgrave Properties, says the business has been delighted with the work carried out by EYG Commercial on each development.

“We choose EYG because they are honest and reliable,” he said.

“Their high-quality windows and doors are delivered on time and installed by skilled and friendly fitters. Together we have created some fantastic homes.”

EYG Commercial has forged an impressive reputation with specialist housebuilders, particularly on high-end developments in desirable locations.

Previous projects have included installations for East Yorkshirebased Church Gate Homes, and on a number of large sites for Beal Homes, including the ongoing ‘Ferriby Meadows’ development in North Ferriby, where 115 new homes are being built as part of a £40m project.

eygcommercial.co.uk/

Glyngary wins major

contract for historic Rylands building restoration in Manchester

Glyngary Joinery, a leading manufacturer of handcrafted timber windows and doors, has been awarded a significant contract to supply more than 400 bespoke timber window subframes for the landmark Rylands building on Market Street in Manchester city centre.

Formerly home to the largest Debenhams department store in the North, the Rylands building is undergoing a major transformation

that will restore its historic grandeur while introducing highspecification modern amenities. The redevelopment, led by construction specialists Domis, is set to be completed in 2026.

Glyngary will manufacture and supply the timber sub-frames, which are designed to work in conjunction with classic Crittall steel frames to achieve a refined and authentic fenestration aesthetic.

“Being based close to Manchester, it’s a real privilege to be part of such a significant restoration project,” said Joe Trueman, director at Glyngary Joinery. “The Rylands building is iconic, and Domis have a strong track record of delivering outstanding developments. After fine-tuning the specification with a series of trial orders, we’re pleased to say that the first phase of production is now underway.”

While Glyngary is best known for supplying high-end domestic products to premium installation companies across the UK, its flexible manufacturing approach also makes it ideally suited to bespoke commercial projects.

“Because we’ve stayed true to our roots as a specialist joinery company – rather than becoming a

heavily automated production line – we’re able to tailor every product to suit each individual project,” Joe continued.

“Our time-served craftsmen can replicate complex profiles with precision, ensuring complete alignment with both technical and aesthetic requirements. It’s this adaptability and attention to detail that makes Glyngary the perfect fit for projects like Rylands.”

Strategically located at the heart of Manchester’s retail and business district, and bordering the vibrant Northern Quarter, the Rylands building will soon offer a new kind of city centre workspace. Upon completion, it will feature a range of amenities including fitness studios, social lounges, and leisure spaces. glyngary.co.uk

Ventrolla brings Umberslade Hall windows back to life

Ventrolla, a market leader in heritage restoration and renovation of timber sash and casement windows, has recently completed a refurbishment of 19 sliding sash windows at Umberslade Hall, a 17th century mansion in the Warwickshire village of Tanworth in Arden.

Umberslade Hall is a Grade II listed mansion, once known as the ‘manor of Umberslade’ The old manor house was replaced between 1695 and 1700, with the new mansion built in its place. It stands as a testament to centuries of English architectural prowess.

A total of 19 wooden sash windows and three wooden doors were renovated at the property, which has now been converted into office space and a number of residential apartments. The conditions of the sashes varied, with several sills being completely rotten. Thanks to Ventrolla’s time-honoured restoration techniques, the sashes were meticulously brought back to life. The installation of the Ventrolla Perimeter Sealing System (VPSS) also improved the Window Energy Rating (WER) by up to 30%, claims the company.

Simon Hateley, project manager for Touchstone Consultants, said: “Initially we thought we would have to replace all the sashes, but Ventrolla worked on a single test window to show the quality of the finish achievable through renovation and we were very impressed.”

“Replacement windows would have been costly as well as time consuming to install and as the office was still operational the project needed to be completed quickly and effectively. We are extremely pleased with the service Ventrolla provided.”

Mark Flanagan, managing director of Ventrolla, added: “When Simon first got in touch to discuss this project, they were looking to replace the windows. However, we knew we could get a top-quality product from restoration, for a much better cost. Umberslade Hall holds a lot of architectural importance, so it was great to be able to bring it back to its former glory. As the property embarks on its next chapter, the legacy of the timber windows will stand as a testament to the enduring value of preservation.”

www.ventrolla.co.uk

Emplas makes lead generation simple with ‘Snug’

Emplas has launched a retail leadgeneration initiative designed to deliver high quality and qualified retail leads to participating Emplas customers.

Going live this month [August] Snug is a new national retail brand designed to make the window and door buying process simple for homeowners – and as part of that process, generate quality leads for Emplas customers, says the company.

In addition to the launch of a dedicated new website, Emplas will market Snug through social media ad campaigns, consumer case studies and influencer collaborations.

The new brand will also focus on monthly giveaways and competitions, while Emplas will also create point of sale literature and local branding tools.

Jody Vincent, sales director,

Emplas, said: “Retail lead generation is expensive and not always effective. We’re taking the strain for our customers by creating a distinct consumer facing brand.

“Snug will tap into consumer home improvement channels online and across social platforms.

“Creating high value marketing assets, and building collaborations with leading home improvement influencers, Snug is designed to connect homeowners with our approved Snug installers.”

With leads exclusively available to Snug approved installers only, the fabricator is also setting up a consumer contact line and email channels, with customer services resources in place to answer enquiries and qualify leads.

As part of the initiative, Emplas has grown its internal marketing team to include the appointment

of a dedicated brand manager, social media executive and graphic designer.

Leads will be automatically distributed by Emplas on a postcode area basis, with a push notification to Snug installers as an enquiry is made. These will be managed via a dedicated lead generation portal.

Approved Snug installers have the option to either accept the lead or decline it, in which case it’s passed to the next nearest Snug partner.

Jody continued: “We spend a lot of time talking about energy efficiency but just as important is that sense of coziness and comfort.

“We’re shifting the conversation a little, so that the language of the Snug is geared around the consumer.

“Homeowners can ‘get snug’ by visiting getsnug.co.uk and connecting with an Emplas installer, who can support them in improving the energy efficiency and the security of their home.”

www.emplas.co.uk

Gerda goes viral on a Preston street corner

A Gerda door in Preston is getting thousands of views every week without a penny being spent on generating traffic.

Installation company Lee Kelly uPVC Ltd fitted the Gerda door on the side of its Preston based showroom, close to some traffic lights. As a result, the door is in full view of every single person in every single vehicle that stops at those lights. Considering the busyness of the road, that can add up to hundreds, if not thousands, of people every single day.

“Sometimes the simplest solutions are the best, and the position of the door has been instrumental in encouraging more people to ask after the Gerda brand in our showroom than some of the more expensive advertising we have invested in,” said Lee Kelly,

PR and marketing agency Nix Collective is celebrating its third birthday – and another year of strong growth and evolving client partnerships.

Since launching, Nix has continued to grow its client base and its team, now proudly three members strong. The collective includes Nikki Dunbar, founder of Nix, alongside Simon Owen and Cassie YardleyHorne, who joined in November 2023.

Built on a foundation of flexibility, collaboration and responsiveness, Nix Collective was created as the “agency with a difference” to break away from the constraints of traditional agency models. With no rigid deliverables or restrictive contracts, the team works closely with clients as an extension of their business – offering regular checkins, on-the-ground involvement and support that flexes with their needs.

managing director, Mark Lee.

Lee Kelly took on the Polish Gerda door range, which is distributed in the UK by Pioneer Trading Company, after seeing them at the FIT Show a couple of years ago. The company was looking for a premium door supplier that offered the level of superior performance it was after at a reasonable price that wouldn’t be off-putting to their customers.

“We primarily work with homeowners, but still supply

to a small number of premium housebuilders who are looking for something a bit special,” continued Mark Lee. “As soon as we met Danny and his team at the FIT Show we knew that we had found the door we were looking for. It ticked every one of our boxes and gave us the reason to access a sector of the market that was willing to spend that little bit more on something that was markedly different to the standard front door offerings on the market”.

Pioneer’s managing director Danny Williams added: “Lee Kelly was one of the early adoptees of the Gerda door range, and it has been edifying to see them committed to helping us bring the brand to the market. Developing brand recognition can be a slow and painful journey, but all at Lee Kelly have understood where we stand from the start, and have been persistent in making sure the name is put in front of the right people at the right time. Indications are that Lee Kelly is on track to be one of our highest performing trade partners this year!”

Nix Collective celebrates three years of redefining agency life

“I think the reason we’re still growing is because we don’t see ourselves as a typical agency,” said Nikki. “We support our clients however they need – from developing strategy, to hands-on delivery, to jumping in with lastminute ideas. It’s a partnership, not a service.”

That personal approach continues to resonate with clients, many of

whom have grown alongside Nix over the last three years.

“Our clients know they can just pick up the phone or drop us a message anytime,” said Nikki. “Whether they want to bounce around a new idea, share what’s going on in their business, or even just have a quick catch-up, we’re really part of their team. That kind of trust and connection means a lot to us.”

Looking ahead, Nix remains focused on delivering the personalised, transparent and collaborative experience that has set them apart since day one – continuing to challenge the traditional agency model, one partnership at a time. www.nixcollective.co.uk

Conservatory Outlet launches retail sales process in six-figure Investment

Conservatory Outlet has pioneered an exclusive new retail sales process for its Network of Premium Retailers, launched as part of a substantial six-figure investment into training and development, according to the company.

Kicking off the long-term programme with its Forté Door collection, the first in a series of national roadshow events, the sessions combine a consultative sales process with digital assets and comprehensive sample kits designed to offer a more immersive experience for the homeowner.

Developed and delivered collaboratively by Conservatory

Outlet’s in-house team alongside a renowned sales coach from the industry, the sessions combine technical product training with structured, psychology-based sales coaching.

The goal is simple: to arm sales consultants with the knowledge, confidence and tools they need to position Forté doors effectively, overcome objections, and ultimately convert more customer enquiries into confirmed orders. The combination of tools and techniques really brings to life the features and benefits of its products and helps the homeowner to understand how they could enrich their home, says the company.

Karen Clough (Conservatory Outlet’s Group Marketing Director) and Nikki Lewis (Conservatory Outlet’s Marketing Manager) at one of Conservatory Outlet’s first Forté training events. The national product and sales roadshow aims to upskill 200 salespeople across the fabricator’s retail Network.

The coaching programme, along with a range of physical samples and digital assets, is being offered free of charge to Conservatory Outlet’s customers as part of a longterm investment. This significant commitment will upskill sales professionals from across the UK and accompanies the release of new materials, tailored oneto-one sessions, and physical sample kits to support the sales process.

The rollout began with a launch event for its retail partners in Yorkshire before heading over the Pennines for further sessions in Lancashire and Cumbria.

More events will be delivered across the UK in the coming months, with the business aiming to engage more than 200 individuals by the end of the year.

“We know that great products alone don’t guarantee strong sales,” said Greg Kane, CEO at Conservatory Outlet.

“Our exclusively designed sales process is all about giving our Premium Retailers the edge in a competitive field. We’re committed to equipping our customers with a deep psychological understanding of buying behaviours and the confidence to explore a customer’s needs, then introducing how our collection of products might address their requirements.

“This is the first in a series of tailored training programmes that will include our other exclusive product ranges, the Extreme, Envisage and Eclipse collections.”

During the training, consultants are guided through the door’s construction, performance credentials, and hardware options – before exploring proven techniques to pitch those features effectively in a customer setting.

Early feedback has been very positive.

“The training was fantastic,” said Jo-Ann Bowles, sales director at West Yorkshire Windows.

“The team received a great deal of practical and actionable information. With the day being split between product knowledge and sales coaching, there’s something for everyone.

“Having a great product to sell helps, which the Forté is. But having that backed up with enhanced training and tailored sales coaching is a massive benefit to both our salespeople and to us as a business.

Universal Trade Frames launches new website

Shropshire-based fabricator, Universal Trade Frames, has launched a new website to reflect its product and service offer, and better serve its customer network.

Designed with usability and trade accessibility in mind, the redesigned platform has been streamlined to improve the user experience. Key upgrades include easier navigation, updated product pages, new trade tools and downloadable resources, including technical guides and specification sheets, as well as a faster quote request function.

A clear and intuitive layout, featuring an abundance of highquality imagery, assists users to quickly and effortlessly find the information they need, saving time and supporting specification accuracy, says the company.

“As a provider of game-

changing solutions such as our HeritageWeld mechanical-style joint, Spectus VS with slim meeting rail, and enhanced Solidor composite range, we needed an online presence to match the product quality, professionalism, and unrivalled service we’re known for,” said Richard Hammond, sales director at Universal Trade Frames.

“Having recently invested a sixfigure sum in the latest, cuttingedge, automated technology to elevate our production process, it was only fitting to raise the bar with our website too. The new site is perfectly aligned as a highcalibre, digital resource for our trade customers, and an accurate showcase of what we do here.

“It’s also another way to highlight our commitment to continual improvement and supporting our trade partners to make life easier for them,” Richard concludes. www.utfl.co.uk

From Soho to Sheffield: Crittall announces House of the Year 2025 winner

Crittall Windows has named a Sheffield renovation as the winner of its 2025 House of the Year Award.

Completed in partnership with Barnsley-based KJA Services, the project was inspired by a stay at London’s Soho Hotel, where homeowners Katie and Andy first encountered Crittall’s steel-framed glazing. That moment sparked a full-house transformation which impressed

the judges for its clarity of design, cohesive use of steel and confident architectural language, according to the company.

Set in an elevated position with views across the countryside, the contemporary property has been reimagined through the addition of Crittall glazing. What began as a modest upgrade quickly grew into a comprehensive scheme once the impact of the initial installation became clear.

“We were just blown away by the Crittall glazing,” said homeowner Katie. “It gave our space presence and personality. Once we saw how it changed the light and flow of the house, we knew we wanted it everywhere.”

The final design includes steelframed windows, doors and an internal shower screen, all finished in RAL 7021 Black Grey. The installation brings rhythm and light into the heart of the home, while complementing its clean, modern lines.

Russell Ager, managing director at Crittall Windows, said: “This exceptional project demonstrates the perfect blend of architectural vision and Crittall’s renowned craftsmanship. It shows how

our steel systems can elevate a residential space, creating a design narrative that feels both distinctive and timeless.”

Danny Murphy, managing director of KJA Services, added: “We’re honoured to win Crittall House of the Year for a second time. To deliver a project of this calibre so close to home makes it even more rewarding.”

The runners-up included a sensitive restoration of a listed property in Sussex by Lightfoot Windows and a technically ambitious South West London scheme by Bespoke Glazing Design. Both were praised for their quality, creativity and thoughtful use of steel.

www.crittall-windows.co.uk

A winning combination: Sheerline’s Classic Heritage Door & S1 Roof Lantern

A project in Northampton that combines two of the most popular Sheerline products –the Classic Heritage Door and the S1 Roof Lantern – has won Installation of the Month for June. The winning entry was submitted by Fenster Glazing, who worked with fabricator, BSW Window Solutions.

The installation replaced an outdated white PVC-u bi-fold and lantern. The homeowner specifically requested a steelstyle aesthetic for a modern, refined look, which made the Classic Heritage Door the ideal solution, according to the company.

Fenster Glazing used a 3D visualisation to illustrate what the installation would look like, which gave the customers confidence they’d love the end result. As

they were updating the bi-folds, they decided to also upgrade to a sleek S1 lantern to maintain a consistent aesthetic.

Both products have been specified in Jet Black (RAL 9005) inside and out. The S1 features Pilkington Activ Blue glass, which is self-cleaning and offers solar control as well, says the company.

Nick Baker, director of Fenster Glazing, said: “We’re big fans of Sheerline – it’s the aluminium profile of choice for BSW, and we have a great relationship with them, so when we had the chance to switch around four years ago, it made sense. We’ve had really great product feedback from our customers – they love it.”

www.sheerline.com

Quickslide wins FIT Show social media award

Quickslide has been named Winner of the FIT Show Awards Best Use of Social Media category. Despite it being a last minute decision to attend this year’s FIT Show, the Brighouse fabricator brought its usual high levels of energy and commitment to broadcasting highlights of each day through its social media channels.

The culmination of the FIT Show social media postings was a

stand ‘dance off’ on the last day, featuring some decidedly suspect dance moves from Quickslide employees and stand visitors alike.

“So much of social media these days is not about having something to say, but having people take part and join in,” said Quickslide’s marketing manager Sandra Berg. “Our social media executive Lucy Chisem is brilliant at encouraging participation – literally dragging people out

of their comfort zone at times – and the resulting energy that comes through the captured footage matches the energy that drives Quickslide every day. FIT Show was just an opportunity to showcase what we do best, but in a very concentrated way.”

This award is on top of the recognition Quickslide received from FIT Show organisers for driving and converting the most visitors during the show.

“Marketing is truly the lifeblood of everything we do, and has the commitment of everyone – from the factory floor to the boardroom – to take part,” continued Sandra Berg. “And ultimately this adds fuel to the drive to help and support our trade partners. The challenge now is to take it all that step further again.”

www.quickslide.co.uk

Rave reviews for Business Pilot training event

Business Pilot, the business management system, has kicked off its Open Training Days tour in London, to widespread success.

The first of four regional events took place at the Hilton, London

Heathrow, with further dates in Birmingham, Glasgow and Bristol locked in for later this year.

Designed to help Business Pilot users get the most from the innovative CRM system,

a tailored agenda of practical guidance included valuable insights, tips and best practice from Business Pilot trainers, Rebecca Taylor and Arwen Van Wyk.

Training day attendee and managing director at Silent View Windows, Rose Evlat, said: “Going digital with Business Pilot has helped us streamline our entire process and completely changed the way we work as a team.

“Several of us attended the London Open Training Day and even after four years of using the system, we still came away with new ideas and features to implement. The support and expertise we received from Rebecca and Arwen was incredible.”

Among the tools and features covered on the day was BP Sign, a digital tool that enables quotes, contracts and installation documents to be signed electronically.

“It’s quicker, more secure, and perfectly aligned with our future growth plans,” added Rose.

With Birmingham the next stop on the Training Days tour, Business Pilot users keen to attend are encouraged to book as soon as possible, to avoid disappointment.

The remaining Open Training Days events for 2025 will take place on:

• September 11, Crowne Plaza, Birmingham NEC

• October 1, Hilton Garden Inn, Glasgow

• October 22, Clayton Hotel, Bristol City

To find out more please visit www.businesspilot.co.uk

CAB gets into the summer spirit with CABfest

The Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB) launched its first-ever CABfest on June 19 at the De Vere Wokefield Estate in Berkshire – a mansion house set in 250 acres of parkland – where 120 members and their customers gathered for a midsummer party involving golf, street food, live music and glorious sunshine.

The day began with a round of golf, which was followed by a relaxed evening where guests were treated to live music and a choice of street-food-style stalls. A DJ kept the party atmosphere going well into the night.

“CABfest is the first event of its type in our industry,” CAB’s CEO Nigel Headford said. “It’s designed so that everyone come to have a round of golf, to treat their customers, and to get together afterwards in a relaxed atmosphere where they can have a drink, chat, network, and enjoy the sunshine.

“It’s important to bring our members together. We’re a tightknit community, and it’s great when we all get together.”

The festival-style members’ day is a departure from the traditional black-tie event that CAB hosts in the summer, and it was very well-

received by members, according to the company.

“I had people phoning me about the dress code, and I was pleased to tell them that shorts and Hawaiian shirts would be more than welcome,” Nigel said.

The Golf tournament was held on the 6,996-yard, par 72 Championship course that is designed to US PGA standards and one of the leading golf clubs in Berkshire.

The golf day winners were:

• 1st place – Lewis Pratley (Pratley & Partners)

• 2nd place – Allan Barr (Technal)

• 3rd place – Paul Armstrong (WSW Group UK)

• Best Front Nine – Paul Greenaway (Aluk)

• Best Back Nine – Richard Chapman (CCL Facades)

• Nearest the Pin – Ash Pearson (Jack Aluminium)

• Longest Drive – Lee Jones (Finish Facades)

www.c-a-b.org.uk

Veka plc recently welcomed its fabricator partners for its annual Partner Day. Set against the elegant backdrop of Burnley’s Crow Wood Hotel, the day was filled with collaboration, celebration and entertainment.

Following the success of last year’s event that saw the introduction of the trailblazing Omnia suite, this year’s gathering once again brought partners together in fivestar surroundings situated in the heart of Lancashire to reflect on a year marked by successful product launches and industry challenges. The event sparked valuable dialogue between Veka and leading fabricators, reinforcing their ongoing partnership and shared commitment to innovation.

The day opened with energy and insight as Neil Evans, managing director at Veka plc, delivered realistic but encouraging words confirming that as an industry, pulling together, supporting each other and driving the right change will create opportunity.

Josef Beckhoff, Veka Group’s sales and marketing director flew in from Germany to offer

Veka gathers with

fabricator partners

for

a day of collaboration and innovation

a global perspective on how Veka’s innovations are resonating across markets. UK board members followed, sharing product performance, forecasts and technical developments that underlined Veka’s place at the forefront of fenestration and the strength of interaction with industry partners.

World-renowned economist

Professor Joe Nellis offered a sharp look at the economic landscape ahead, prompting thoughtful conversations about where opportunity lies in a changing world.

After a networking lunch, the room transformed into an immersive walk-through experience, showcasing Veka’s latest innovations including a

live demonstration of the Natural Smoke and Heat Exhaust Vents (NSHEVs). Every station was interactive, every concept tangible, providing partners with the opportunity to explore and give valuable feedback.

In one corner, a ‘Veka Difference’ area played video and audio case studies, real stories from real installers, sharing how Veka’s systems help them win business, delight customers and deliver confidently.

Throughout the day, Veka partners engaged in meaningful conversations with Veka’s product experts who were prepared to dive into technical queries and discuss future concepts.

As evening approached, guests retired to prepare for an evening of dining, networking and celebration. Veka also arranged a dose of inspiration courtesy of keynote speaker Sir Clive Woodward, whose insights into leadership and teamwork were welcomed by rapturous applause and nods of agreement throughout the room of business leaders.

As managing director Neil Evans put it, “You are the beating heart of our company, and we all succeed together. Events like this are vital to our collaboration and understanding of each other.”

Jessica Cooper, marketing director, echoed the sentiment: “It’s always a fantastic occasion when we get the opportunity to be in the same room as Veka partners. The discussions, feedback and conversations we can have together are invaluable.”

Veka says the Partner Day is a unique event that celebrates industry collaboration which underpins how Veka is committed to being more than a systems house to its partners.

vekauk.com

Warwick North West welcomes Labour’s skills shortage plan

Managing director Greg Johnson, Warwick North West, has welcomed the government’s announcement of 120,000 new training opportunities and 30,000 new trade apprenticeships as a crucial step toward addressing the construction industry’s persistent skills shortage.

According to the company, the Liverpool-based window and door manufacturer has pioneered its own innovative approaches to workforce development under Greg’s leadership, and he sees the £3 billion apprenticeship investment as validation of strategies he has already implemented.

Greg comments: “The government’s commitment to creating 30,000 new apprenticeships over the next four years is exactly what our industry needs. At Warwick North West, we’ve used apprenticeships to create pathways for young people into our business and the industry, lowering our average age and finding talented people who we might have missed without giving them a chance to learn while working. Our partnership with Hugh Baird College has been massive for us in developing this pipeline of talent.”

Greg, who began his own career on Warwick’s factory floor before working his way to the top, has been a vocal advocate for creating alternative pathways into the fenestration industry. Under his leadership, Warwick North West has established partnerships with organisations like Nobody Left Behind and Inside Connections to create opportunities for young people and those who might otherwise be overlooked.

“We’ve discovered that looking beyond traditional recruitment channels addresses the skills shortage and brings fresh perspective and talent into our business,” Greg explained.

“Our partnerships with these organisations have helped us find so many skilled, motivated, and loyal individuals. Our staff retention is over 90%, and I credit finding young people and

integrating them into the business as a big part of that.”

The announcement by Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson also includes a 32% increase in the Immigration Skills Charge to fund up to 45,000 additional training places, alongside refocusing funding toward lower-level apprenticeships.

“The industry faces a massive challenge in delivering the homebuilding targets the government has laid out,” Greg notes. “With one in eight 16–24-year-olds currently not in education, employment or training, these apprenticeship opportunities can transform lives, something we’re passionate about, while building the workforce we desperately need.”

Greg believes the shift away from higher-level apprenticeships to focus on lower-level training is the right approach for addressing immediate industry needs.

“While higher-level qualifications are valuable, our sector urgently requires skilled workers who can hit the ground running with practical, hands-on abilities. The government’s rebalancing of apprenticeship funding mirrors what we’ve found works in our own business,” he added.

Greg believes that other businesses should embrace the government’s apprenticeship drive and create employment opportunities for young people.

“The skills shortage won’t be solved by the government alone, and it isn’t clear exactly how many of these apprenticeships will affect fenestration and construction. That’s why business leaders need to step up and create their own pathways and opportunities to show young people that our industry offers rewarding, well-paid careers with real progression,” he concluded.

www.warwicknorthwest.co.uk

ECDS invests in apprenticeships to secure skills and support trade growth

Entrance Composite Door Solutions (ECDS) has launched a new apprenticeship initiative aimed at securing long-term skills development within its team, while continuing to deliver the high levels of quality and service trusted by trade installers across the UK, according to the company.

As part of the programme, Scott Ellward, head of the paintshop at ECDS’ Nottingham premises, has successfully completed his Level 3 team leader and supervisor apprenticeship. The training has helped sharpen Scott’s leadership and operational skills, contributing to smoother workflows and consistent production standards in the paint and finishing department.

The business has also welcomed two new apprentices, Oliver Roberts and Konrad Taraszkiewicz, through Glass and Fenestration Training Solutions Ltd (GFTS), as part of its continued commitment to building a skilled, dependable workforce that can meet the growing demands of the composite door market, says the company.

Gregory Kelly, managing director at ECDS, commented: “We are continuously evaluating our current situation to ensure our customers’ quality and service is exceeding expectations, along with bringing them new and innovative products

and designs to suit the changing market. This apprenticeship programme is another step in making sure we’re always moving forward.

“For our trade partners, this means continued peace of mind – knowing the people behind the products are developing their expertise and contributing to reliable, top-quality manufacturing processes.

“Apprenticeships remain one of the most effective ways to tackle the industry’s skills shortage, providing real-world experience and formal training that benefit both businesses and their customers.

“With a clear focus on craftsmanship, consistency and long-term growth, ECDS’ investment in apprenticeships underlines our role as a supplier committed to supporting installers with products they can depend on – now and in the future.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see team members like Scott progressing through formal training and making a real impact on the business. We’re also excited to welcome Oliver and Konrad as the next generation of talent – their enthusiasm and fresh perspectives are already proving valuable.”

www.entranceway.co.uk

Cornwall Group welcomes four new apprentices to Forward Glass

Cornwall Group has welcomed four new apprentice glass operatives to the team at Forward Glass, marking a significant step in its commitment to training and developing future talent in specialist glass manufacturing.

Joining the team are four young recruits: Charlie, aged 18, Dylan and Junior, both 17, and Irslan, aged 16.

The appointments come as part of Cornwall Group’s long-term strategy to invest in people, processes, and performance at Forward Glass, following its acquisition in December 2023, with £3million already having been invested during its first two years under Group ownership.

Now the independent toughened glass manufacturer and stock distributor, Forward Glass employs almost 90 people, with all four apprentices joining the dedicated toughening team –working hands-on with some of the most advanced glass processing equipment in the UK.

This includes its newly installed Glaston toughening furnace; the first of three such furnaces to be installed across Cornwall Group sites this year, forming a £3m investment programme across the Group.

With installation having begun in May, the new furnace will be capable of processing glass up to 4.8m in length, with increased efficiency, precision and quality, says the company.

The Glaston will also significantly reduce energy consumption, cutting electricity use by nearly 300,000 kWh annually and lowering CO₂ emissions by over 62 tonnes. Designed to handle complex glass types, such as the toughening of thicker structural glass, as well as efficiently processing standard configurations, the furnace positions Forward Glass at the forefront of UK toughened glass supply, claims the company.

“These apprentices are joining at an exciting time”, said Cornwall Group chairman, Mark Mitchell.

“With state-of-the-art equipment now in place, Forward Glass is building upon its reputation for supplying industry-leading quality and capacity.

“Our apprentices will gain invaluable experience working alongside seasoned professionals, building the skills needed to support our next chapter of growth.”

By Chris Mansfield – Qualicoat Chair

It is important that Qualicoat lab technicians are properly trained to ensure that all coating processes and materials meet the rigorous standards required for architectural applications. Qualicoat certification is a globally recognised mark of quality for architectural powder coating on aluminium and its alloys, and maintaining this standard depends heavily on the accuracy and consistency of laboratory testing of production output. Trained technicians understand how to correctly perform tests such as adhesion, gloss, colour uniformity, and resistance to corrosion or weathering, which are essential for confirming compliance with the Qualicoat Specification. Their expertise ensures that any deviations or potential issues are identified early, preventing substandard products from reaching the market.

Trained technicians contribute to the credibility and reliability of the entire certification system. When technicians are knowledgeable and skilled, it minimises human error and variability in test results, leading to consistent, reproducible outcomes. This

Technician Training

consistency reinforces trust between manufacturers, applicators, architects, and endusers specifying the Qualicoat label. In an industry where product durability, aesthetic quality, and performance in harsh environments are critical, the role of well-trained lab personnel is fundamental to upholding the integrity and reputation of the Qualicoat standard.

In July, Qualicoat UK & Ireland, the regional General Licensee for the global Qualicoat label, held a two day member training workshop for Laboratory Technicians at Bragborough Hall, near Daventry.

Essentially setting up a complete temporary laboratory at the venue, over 60 delegates from the region attended the workshop, which is a prerequisite of maintaining a Qualicoat licence. The first day’s training offered Laboratory Technicians who have not attended a training day before, the basics of production testing with hands on product testing using the recommended testing equipment and record keeping. The second day was for experienced Laboratory Technicians who have attended previous training days and concentrated on more advanced testing techniques and management issues.

Since the mandatory Laboratory training was added to the global Qualicoat Specification a few years ago, all coating licensee’s must now ensure that their Laboratory Technicians attend a training session at least every two years. The training workshops set up by Qualicoat UK & Ireland are recognised by Qualicoat to be the most successful and best attended to date. Feedback from delegates has been very positive.

From Martin Froggatt, HSEQ manager at Garnalex: “We always get very positive feedback from our employees who attend the Qualicoat training days. The training not only shows how the tests are conducted but, importantly, why they are done. As a company, we support the continued professional development of all our employees and will always take advantage of having subject matter experts to deliver training. The Qualicoat Technician Training, whilst mandatory for membership, is an essential part our employee training program. It also provides a good opportunity for attendees to meet and talk to others who do a similar role and share their experiences. The recently introduced advanced training (day 2) has been particularly well received, and we look forward to putting employees who have attended the basic course through the advanced course. We feel the knowledge gained from the basic and advanced courses has a very positive impact on product quality when applied in the workplace and ensures ongoing compliance with the Qualicoat Specification.

Paul Ryan, Red Shift Paint Plant process leader at Kawneer UK Limited commented: “The training session was very informative, and well presented. The Qualicoat 3.0 presentation was very good, with a lot of detail and gives an insight to what may be needed from the extrusion side of the process. It will be interesting to have more information on this with regards to such things as expectations, specifications and any form of testing that will be required.”

Qualicoat UK & Ireland would like to thank members of IFO, their independent test house and equipment suppliers for helping set up the two days of training, without their enthusiastic support these well received training sessions would not be possible.

qualicoatuki.org

UKO Group complete Tough Mudder and raise over £3,800 for charity

UKO Group has completed the Tough Mudder challenge and raised over £3,800 for various charities. The team took on the Yorkshire Tough Mudder at Broughton Hall on Saturday 26th July, with half of the group taking on the 5k challenge with 12+ obstacles and the other half tackling the 15k route with 20+ obstacles.

They took on the notoriously tough challenge in aid of various charities including: Action For Children, Andy’s Man Club, Cancer Research UK, Dementia UK, Make A Wish Foundation UK, Mental Health Foundation, RNIB, Royal British Legion, The Football Foundation and Weston Park Hospital, each chosen by those taking part in the challenge.

Natasha Erskine, co-founder of UKO Group and brave Tough Mudder participant, spoke on the event, “I am so proud of the team for putting themselves forward for a challenge like this and raising vital funds for charities that do

incredible work. The atmosphere on the day was great and kept us all going, even when the mud got tough and the obstacles tougher. It was a brilliant reminder of what we can achieve when we support each other and push beyond our limits for a good cause.”

The team raised £3,877, over 3x the original goal of £1,000. The initiative is part of UKO Group’s commitment to employee engagement and corporate social responsibility. This challenge bonded the UKO Group team and reinforced the values of collaboration, and community.

UKO Group extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported the fundraising efforts and looks forward to continuing its commitment to making a positive impact, whether through innovative fenestration solutions or muddy obstacle courses.

If you wish to still to donate to the muddy mission, the donation page is http://bit.ly/45Jj3XC

Local employer gives

£4,000 to charities chosen by staff

A Bracknell-based company has donated £4,150 to 13 charities this summer—thanks to a longstanding employee recognition scheme that celebrates loyalty and community spirit.

The initiative at timber window and door specialist The Sash Window Workshop, which rewards staff for reaching key work anniversaries, offers more than just a gift voucher. Employees are invited to nominate a charity close to their heart, with the company donating on their behalf. This year, 35 team members were recognised for their long service, a total of 495 years between them.

The beneficiaries included:

Macmillan Cancer Support, Alzheimer’s Society, Cancer Research UK, Foyle Hospice, Princess Alice Hospice, Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity, Swings and Smiles, British Heart Foundation, Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice, Mind, Daisy’s Dream, 52 Lives, Pine Ridge Dog Sanctuary

“We’re proud to celebrate the commitment and loyalty of our long-serving employees by giving something back to the charities they care about,” said Richard Dollar, managing director of The Sash Window Workshop. “This initiative is a meaningful way for us to recognise staff contributions while also supporting incredible organisations doing vital work across the UK and locally.” www.sashwindow.com

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