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OCTOBER 2026

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october 2026 | contents | 1

CONTENTS

OCTOBER 2026

DIRECTOR OF THE MONTH

GETTING IN CONTACT

“As energy-performance requirements become more sophisticated, the role of fenestration within the new-build housing sector is changing. After almost 30 years in the industry, Martin Benn reflects on the knowledge and skills becoming increasingly important to his role.”

EDITORIAL John Cowie Editor E: john.cowie@windowsactive.co.uk

Martin Benn, Sales Director Liniar New Build & Social Housing

Jennie Shoglen - Graphic Designer Emma McCormack - Sub-Editor ADVERTISING SALES

ACTIVE VOICES

Steve Gravestock Sales Director Tel: 07990 671901 E: steve.gravestock@windowsactive.co.uk

We bring you the opinions and views of influential industry figures on key issues. Tim James, National Specification Manager, Veka plc: Tim explains to readers why a headline U-value no longer tells the whole story.

Donna Crockatt Publishing & Sales Executive Tel: 07919 448809 E: donna@windowsactive.co.uk PRODUCTION AND CIRCULATION Tel: 07919 448809 E: production@windowsactive.co.uk WINDOWS ACTIVE is published by: Active Magazines Limited PO Box 627 Rickmansworth Herts, WD3 0BQ

AI HELPS RETHINK LEAD GENERATION

A lively industry panel on AI and lead generation in fenestration laid bare a market that’s tougher, savvier and more complex than before.

DELIVERING RELIABILITY THROUGH ITS OWN FLEET

ISSN No: 1746-6663

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After two decades Didcot Windows continues to turn to Apeer as its sole supplier of composite doors.

Ian Short, MD of Morley Glass, explains how its own delivery fleet helps customers avoid delivery headaches.

Online at: www.windowactive.com X: @windowsactive Instagram: windowsactive

20 YEARS FITTING APEER DOORS IN DIDCOT HOMES

HARDWARE ACTIVE

It’s all about hardware in this month’s in-bound supplement: Replacement window and door hardware from Safeware can provide a valuable additional revenue stream for trade counters; Hallmark and ERA bring a fresh finish to door hardware with their exclusive Satin Gold Bar Handle Collection; Coastal Group has added FritsJurgens’ concealed pivot system to its portfolio, widening options for contemporary doors.

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A complete range from one trusted trade manufacturing partner.

Take our factory tour

Contact our Trade Team below about your next project, product requirements, technical expertise or factory tour...

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✔ Alitherm Heritage – French & Resi Doors ✔ Aluspace – Internal French, Resi, Sliding Doors & Fixed Screens ✔ Invisoglide – Patio Doors ✔ Smart Wall – Commercial Doors/Screens

✔ ASE 60 – Lift & Slide Patio Doors ✔ AS FDS 75 – Bifold Doors ✔ AWS 80 SC – Flush Casement Window ✔ AWS/ADS 70 Hi – Tilt & Turn Windows

✔ Rio Flush – Casement Window Fully Welded ✔ Rio Flush – French & Resi Doors Fully Welded ✔ Total 70 – Casement Windows ✔ Total 70 – French & Resi Doors

✔ Visofold 1000 – Bifold Doors ✔ Visofold 6000 – Bifold Doors

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Kevin Cornwall (East Anglia & Midlands) kevincornwall@chigwellgroupplc.co.uk Carl Ward (Trade Counter Specialist) carl@chigwellgroupplc.co.uk Sam Weber (Central South-East) sam@chigwellgroupplc.co.uk

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ALUMINIUM ARCHITECTURAL WINDOWS

uPVC TIMBER-STYLE CASEMENT WINDOWS

ALUMINIUM FRONT DOORS

uPVC HERITAGE SASH WINDOWS

Manufactured for the trade. Built around installers. LEE MITCHELL (South-East & Home Counties) lee@chigwellgroupplc.co.uk KEVIN CORNWALL (East Anglia & Midlands) kevincornwall@chigwellgroupplc.co.uk

W 2 | editors comment | october 2026

EDITOR’S COMMENT REACHING FOR THE SUMMIT

his year’s Glazing Summit was under pressure to deliver a programme offering hope, inspiration and knowledge that justified attendees’ investment of time and money. I have to admit that the first two sessions were a hard slog. They sought to set out the economic backdrop before examining market trends, challenges and opportunities.

Given the current economic landscape, it is difficult to sugar-coat an economy feeling the strain, with little prospect of improvement in the short or medium term. The opening session somewhat dampened the atmosphere in the room. That feeling was reinforced by the second keynote, which focused too heavily on commercial glazing and gave too little attention to the all-important repair, maintenance and improvement sector. This was disappointing. In previous years, sector-specific data provided by Insight Data had been well received, offering invaluable information and trends for attendees to take away. What did deliver, however, was the content and discussion from within our industry. Panel discussions and keynote speeches featuring leading sector figures offered insight, debate and, crucially, reasons for hope. This is what people expect from an industry summit or conference. There is always room for improvement, but the panel debates I attended flowed with purpose and insight. It is often difficult to glean shared wisdom from social media posts about the event, with many contributors celebrating their attendance rather than sharing meaningful insights. It would do the event and its panellists a disservice if I did not share summaries of two particularly worthwhile discussions. A panel on lead generation brought together three perspectives from across the value chain: Deceuninck UK marketing manager Gaby Handy, Ultraframe marketing director Alex Hewitt and Chris Tahmasaby, founder of AIfirst agency ICAAL Digital Marketing. Their shared verdict was that AI is no silver bullet, but it is already changing how brands are found, how leads are handled and how salespeople perform. Handy described a systems house now speaking directly to homeowners, who reach the enquiry stage having already weighed up websites, reviews and social media feeds. Deceuninck’s energy savings calculator translates U-values into potential savings on household bills, building brand preference through usefulness rather than specification sheets. Hewitt focused on the fragile gap between enquiry and appointment. Ultraframe has replaced national advertising with hyperlocal campaigns, introduced booking services staffed by experts and is trialling instant WhatsApp follow-

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ups. Where appointment services are used, she reported, conversion from lead to booking rises from 5% to 35%. Tahmasaby urged the industry to see opportunities for early movers in a difficult post-boom market: start small, start now and bring staff along. Attendees identified insufficient inhouse skills as their biggest barrier to adoption. Two warnings stood out. Content must be readable by AI agents that increasingly influence which brands homeowners discover, while excessive automation risks generic “AI slop” that erodes trust. For high-value purchases, the panel agreed, people still buy from people. The coming divide is between salespeople who use AI effectively and those who do not. A second panel took aim at the industry’s race to the bottom on price. Manufacturers, systems houses and machinery suppliers agreed that competing on headline cost alone is eroding balance sheets, undermining quality and rewarding the market’s worst behaviour. Jamie Newall, chief executive of Atlas Aluminium, argued that margins should drive prices, rather than the other way round, and dismissed per-leaf bifold pricing as economically incoherent. He was blunter about pre-pack administrations and phoenix companies, arguing that they can leave HMRC as the biggest creditor and the rest of us with the bill. Jade Engineering’s Shaun Mackey offered a simple remedy: stop buying from such businesses and ensure procurement reflects the values the sector promotes, including quality, safety, apprenticeships and sustainability. Business failures also carry wider costs. Dave Cahill of Flat Glass Solutions warned that an influx of second-hand machinery depresses demand for newer, more efficient equipment and slows innovation. On compliance, Newall recalled buying a rival’s bifold rated Uw 1.2 and finding the foam missing. Effective enforcement, the panel argued, creates commercial value for firms that follow the rules, but buyers must verify certification at purchase rather than wait for regulators. Deceuninck’s Peter Dyer urged a shift from price to demand creation, citing research that only 14% of retail consumers are satisfied with the sales process. Stop treating products as commodities, connect the supply chain and educate customers, he said. Better conversion then follows without racing to the bottom. This level of discussion gave the Glazing Summit real value. The most insightful and positive contributions came from within our industry, illustrating the determination of a sector unwilling to let downbeat forecasts define its future. John Cowie - Editor

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4 | industry digest | october 2026

Jeld-Wen reaches key milestone in Sheffield machinery relocation

imber doorset manufacturer JeldWen has reached a major milestone in its Sheffield site transition, with the relocation of production machinery now well underway as operations move to the company’s new facility at Bessemer Park. The new manufacturing facility, which will be fully operational later this year, forms part of Jeld-Wen’s long-term strategy to strengthen its UK manufacturing footprint and support customers with increased future capacity, enhanced operational flexibility and further service reliability. The machinery move represents one of the most complex stages of the transition, with manufacturing equipment being relocated in carefully planned phases across eight operational zones. 18 months of preparation, daily coordination meetings and detailed site management have supported a safe and controlled move while maintaining continuity for customers. The relocation included the transfer of 65 existing production assets, all of which were successfully recommissioned to ensure full compliance with industry operation, maintenance and safety standards at the new facility. To manage the complexity of the move,

Jeld-Wen has implemented a structured programme of machinery relocation supported by daily operational reviews, contractor coordination meetings and regular Gemba walks, enabling teams to identify and resolve issues quickly on the factory floor. As part of Jeld-Wen’s commitment to employee safety, the site was divided into eight operational zones, allowing machinery to be moved safely and efficiently in phases while maintaining access across the wider facility. Employees received daily communications outlining planned activities and temporary restrictions, helping to keep teams informed and

supporting safe pedestrian movement around active relocation areas. Ensuring continuity of supply for its customers was also a key consideration. To minimise disruption, Jeld-Wenimplemented a comprehensive planning framework, including extensive stock building, detailed material management, and a carefully balanced inter-site movement strategy between its Penrith and Sheffield manufacturing sites. Dominic Gaffey, Vice President and General Manager, UK, France and Export, at Jeld-Wen, said: “Relocating an operational manufacturing facility is a significant project that requires extensive planning, communication and teamwork. Every stage of the machinery relocation has been carefully coordinated to maintain safety, minimise disruption and support continuity for our customers. “Reaching this stage represents an important milestone in our move to Bessemer Park. The new facility will provide a strong foundation for future growth and help us to continue to deliver the quality, reliability and service our customers expect.” To find out more about Jeld-Wen, visit: https://www.jeld-wen.co.uk/

Listers invests in FourJaw to support productivity and sustainability targets

isters, one of the UK’s largest window and door manufacturers, has improved productivity by 10% and machine utilisation by 12% after implementing FourJaw Manufacturing Analytics’ machine monitoring technology at its Staffordshire site. Producing more than 3,000 windows a week, Listers installed FourJaw’s plug-andplay system across six production lines to monitor machine utilisation, downtime and energy consumption in real time. The insights have enabled the company to produce over 250 additional windows each week using existing assets and its current workforce. The improvements also benefit customers through more reliable deliveries, consistent quality and a supply chain partner committed to sustainability. By identifying opportunities to operate machinery more efficiently, Listers has reduced wasted energy by 10%, supporting its operational resilience and customers’ sustainability goals. FourJaw also provides machinelevel energy data to support Listers’ ISO 14001 and ISO 50001 certifications. The technology has helped reduce carbon

emissions and save thousands of pounds a month in energy costs, including by identifying a compressor consuming excess power due to air leaks. Listers plans to expand its use of FourJaw to gather data from other critical pieces of equipment in its factory and to integrate FourJaw with its maintenance management system, using real-time data to trigger automated maintenance requests the moment a machine goes down. The system also empowers Listers’ workforce, giving operators real-time data that helps them quickly diagnose issues, reduce downtime, and develop new digital

skills. By integrating technology with teamwork, Listers is building a culture of continuous improvement that benefits both people and processes. Stuart Pickersgill, Director of Manufacturing and Operations at Listers, says: “FourJaw has been a breath of fresh air for Listers. It has become the heartbeat of the business, enabling us to take a proactive and targeted approach to continuous improvement that benefits our people, customers and bottom line. In just a few short months, FourJaw has changed the way decisions are made at Listers and delivered productivity and sustainability gains that are already saving us thousands of pounds a week.” Chris Iveson, CEO at FourJaw Manufacturing Analytics, says: “Our work with Listers perfectly illustrates the tangible and immediate impact that smart technologies like FourJaw can have on manufacturing businesses. We are turning machine data into actionable insight fast and making it simple for manufacturers of all sizes to understand their operations, unlock significant productivity gains, reduce energy costs, and accelerate their journey toward a more sustainable future.”

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6 | industry digest | october 2026

Sheerline marks five years of its award-winning S1 roof lantern

heerline has launched a new campaign to celebrate five years of its award-winning S1 aluminium roof lantern. S1: Still Unmatched highlights the features that have enabled the lantern to stand out in what is an increasingly popular (and crowded) product category. Built from the ground up, the S1 was developed to overcome legacy issues – security, aesthetics, and thermal performance – within the roof lantern market. The experienced R&D team created forward-thinking solutions that are as relevant today as when they were launched, adding to the S1’s longevity. For example, although new updates have been released over the past five years, the chassis and main components have fundamentally remained the same. Another area where things have remained the same is the sleek aesthetics, which have inspired change across the industry. Notable updates include the three-way option for larger spans and SheerVent®. As the only flush ventilation system on the market, SheerVent® demonstrates what can be achieved when applying design principles to a practical solution. Additionally, it shows how the team have been able to further enhance the S1 by offering practical solutions with tangible benefits for homeowners, fabricators, and installers. In line with updates to Part O and F, ventilation is becoming an increasingly important topic. The campaign will be broken down into

different themes each month to spotlight a key feature. This will provide an opportunity to explore the topic in depth and explain the key benefits for different customers. Lee Renshaw, Sheerline’s Marketing Director, commented: “Most systems houses have a lantern, which reflects the growth in demand for this kind of product. For example, we know many homeowners are opting to renovate instead of moving, so a single storey extension with a roof lantern is a great way to extend an existing space without compromising on natural light.” “But the S1 isn’t just a roof lantern. It

offers solutions to longstanding challenges. It has redefined what a lantern could, and I’d argue, should, do. It combines the refined aesthetics homeowners love with an abundance of practical features,” he added. Running until early 2027, the campaign is aimed at both fabricator and installer partners, with all customers having the opportunity to get involved. Later in the year, a competition will be launched encouraging installers to showcase their S1 projects. For more info visit: https://www. sheerline.com/s1-still-unmatched

15 years of safety excellence across Schlegel’s UK manufacturing sites

chlegel is celebrating a landmark safety achievement, with its two UK manufacturing sites having clocked up a combined 15 years without a single lost time accident (LTA). The Quanex company’s European headquarters and main factory in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, has now surpassed nine years without an LTA, while its second UK site in Henlow, Bedfordshire, has reached six years without one. Steve Digby, Vice President of Operations at Newton Aycliffe, said the milestone reflected the strength of the safety culture embedded across both sites. “Reaching a combined 15 years without a lost time accident across our UK operations doesn’t happen by chance,” said Steve. “It’s the result of a relentless focus on safety rules, training and, above all, the engagement of our people.” Both sites, which produce a range of sealing solutions including Q-LON, brush

pile products and extruded seals for timber, aluminium and uPVC windows and doors, hold regular toolbox talks and ‘see and sign’ briefings at least once a month, with teams responding promptly to any safety alerts issued across the wider group. Staff also raise around 55 safety suggestions a month between the two factories, covering everything from housekeeping and blocked walkways to

machinery issues, stacking and leaks, while ten trained colleagues carry out regular monthly safety conversations on the shop floor. Joe Woodcock, who recently joined as Health & Safety Manager at Newton Aycliffe, is helping to build on these strong foundations as the team looks to extend its safety record further. Steve added: “This achievement is something the whole team can be proud of, but we’re not resting on it. Eliminating lost time accidents altogether is a clear objective for Quanex, and safety will always come first at Schlegel. “It’s also a great example of what it means to be ‘A Part of Something Bigger’; our approach to safety is shaped by, and contributes to, the standards and support of the wider Quanex group, and that shared commitment makes us stronger.” www.schlegel.com

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8 | industry digest | october 2026

Insight EDGE 2026 explores new opportunities for business growth

usiness growth took centre stage at Insight EDGE 2026, as Insight Data brought together business leaders, sales and marketing professionals for a day focused on turning opportunity into action. Held during Insight Data’s 20th anniversary year, the event explored how better data, smarter technology and more focused sales and marketing can help businesses achieve sustainable growth, even in a challenging market. Founder and CEO Andrew Scott drew on more than 35 years in business to challenge delegates to think differently about growth, avoid reactive decision-making and build greater consistency into their sales and marketing activity. One of the practical themes was Insight Data’s ‘Attract, Convert, Retain’ growth engine, a powerful model designed to help businesses generate more opportunities, convert more of them into customers and build stronger long-term relationships. The event also saw the launch of the next generation of Salestracker, Insight Data’s software platform containing more than 50,000 trade and commercial prospects. The new platform combines data, CRM, mobile apps and powerful built-in marketing automation, giving customers the tools to drive more consistent and effective sales and marketing activity.

A customer panel featuring Jo Trotman of Window Widgets and The Residence Collection, Steve Collett of Dekko and Alyson Westbrook of FrameXpress explored how Salestracker supports their commercial activity. Keynote speaker Matt Tyler, Director of Dowlas, highlighted the scale of opportunity across the UK commercial and new-build sectors. Delegates left Insight EDGE with a

practical 90 Day Growth Plan, designed to turn the ideas and opportunities discussed throughout the day into focused action. Andrew Scott said: “EDGE was about giving businesses fresh ideas, practical tools and the confidence to act. The opportunity is there, but growth comes from turning that opportunity into consistent action.” www.insightdata.co.uk

Atlas ProQuote simplifies roof sales

tlas Aluminium has launched Atlas ProQuote, a new online platform enabling customers to configure, quote and order Atlas glazed lanterns and flat rooflights 24/7. Designed to simplify the way Atlas Installer, trade counter and online customers do business with Atlas, the platform offers instant pricing and greater flexibility. Installers can access business-specific pricing and generate professional quotes featuring their own branding. They can include multiple roof products in a single quotation, saving time and administration, with the flexibility to amend quotes and place orders when ready. Claire Miller, Commercial Director at Atlas Aluminium, said: “Our customers are out there trying to win work. They might be sitting with a homeowner who wants to know what their project is going to cost at seven o’clock at night. With Atlas ProQuote, they can configure the roof, see their price and produce a professional quote in their own branding there and then. If the customer wants to make a change, they can change it. If they’re ready to go ahead, they can place the order. “That’s what excites me about Atlas ProQuote. It gives our customers more control and removes the waiting and

administration from their day. Ultimately, we want to make it as easy as possible for customers to sell Atlas products and do business with us.” By reducing the wait for manually generated quotations, ProQuote helps installers respond to enquiries more quickly and provide homeowners with the information they need to make decisions. Quotes can be prepared during customer meetings, helping installers move projects forward sooner. The benefits extend to Atlas itself. Orders placed through ProQuote automatically generate information required for

fabrication, including data for CNC machining centres, helping streamline the process from quotation to production. Jamie Newall, CEO at Atlas Aluminium, said: “ProQuote is a big step for Atlas because it changes the way our customers can do business with us when buying roofs. We have listened to our customers and created a system that is designed to aid them to sell more roofs with minimum hassle. “We have invested significantly in the business over the last twenty months, and this is just one of the projects we are running. ProQuote is not only a major development for our roof business, but it’s also a sign of where we are going as a company, listening to our customers and building resources to help them sell more of our products efficiently, effectively and rapidly. There is much more to come both in 2026 and in the years to follow.” Atlas continues to offer its full range of roof products, including the Atlas Roof System for large commercial projects, leantos, conservatories and bespoke designs. Bespoke roofs can still be ordered directly through the Atlas roof technical team. To find out more about Atlas ProQuote, visit www.atlas-aluminium.co.uk/ proquote. For the full product range, visit www.atlas-aluminium.co.uk

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12 | industry digest | october 2026

PatioMaster expands Dealer Network to support installer growth

atioMaster has expanded its Dealer Network, giving installers across the UK greater opportunities to capitalise on continued demand for PVC-U sliding patio doors. The expanded network has been designed to give installers the backing of an established national brand, alongside access to specialist regional supply, marketing support and increased visibility through the PatioMaster website. Commenting on the development, Gerald Allen, Head of Marketing at Epwin Window Systems, said: “The PatioMaster Dealer Network is about giving installers the tools, support and specialist supply they need to make more of the patio door opportunity. We know installers want competitive products, reliable service and straightforward support. By becoming an approved PatioMaster Dealer, they can combine all of these benefits with the strength and recognition of a national patio brand.” Approved dealers benefit from a dedicated profile on the PatioMaster website, helping homeowners find a local PatioMaster specialist and providing an additional platform to promote their business. Marketing support is also available to help generate awareness and maximise sales opportunities. The installer network is supported by PatioMaster’s specialist regional manufacturing partners. PatioMaster doors are manufactured by selected independent fabricators, each trained, supported and approved to fabricate the system to exacting standards. This gives installers access to local product expertise, dependable supply and responsive service.

The recently launched PatioMaster website further strengthens this support. Its online quotation facility takes less than two minutes to complete, with enquiries automatically directed to the nearest PatioMaster specialist, who will make contact within 24 hours. Gerald continued: “Speed and service are critical for installers. The combination of our regional manufacturing network and digital quotation process creates a joinedup proposition designed to help installers win business and support them from initial enquiry through to product supply.” Dealers also have the reassurance of a proven PVC-U sliding patio door system. The PatioMaster range offers two, three, four and six-pane configurations, including

Triple Track options, with maximum sizes up to 5928 x 2360mm depending on configuration. More than 30 foiled finishes, dual-colour options and eight handle finishes provide extensive design flexibility. Performance includes U-values from 1.3 W/m²K with double glazing and 1.0 W/ m²K with triple glazing, while Yale sixhook locking is fitted as standard, with a 10-point upgrade available to meet PAS 24 requirements. Gerald concluded: “The PatioMaster Dealer Network brings together product, expertise, marketing and specialist support under one established brand. For installers looking to grow their share of the sliding patio door market, it provides a strong platform to help them do exactly that.”

Made in Britain status for AluK

luK is making its most definitive statement yet about its status as one of the few aluminium systems companies which is wholly based in the UK by joining the official Made in Britain network of trusted and transparent British manufacturers. AluK can now proudly display the instantly recognisable Made in Britain logo across its products, vehicles, packaging and marketing materials. Trade, retail and commercial customers will be left in no doubt about AluK’s commitment to the UK and the advantages that brings in terms of accessibility, responsiveness and supplychain resilience. Becoming a member of Made in Britain network is much more than a tick box exercise. To qualify, manufacturers have to demonstrate that the products they manufacture undergo ‘a substantial and transformative change’ through manufacturing processes carried out in the Great Britain or Northern Ireland and that

100% of the labour involved in that process is based here. They also have to sign up to a Code of Conduct which covers operating standards, health and safety, ethical conduct and environmentally responsible manufacturing. AluK’s Managing Director Russell Yates commented: “Becoming part of the Made in Britain network is a natural fit for AluK and reflects something that has always been

fundamental to the way we operate. We’re proud that our customers are dealing with a business which is genuinely UK based, with manufacturing, technical, warehousing, sales and marketing all located here in the UK. “That matters because it means we can offer direct access to the people and expertise behind our systems, while also giving them confidence in the strength and resilience of our supply chain. “Made in Britain also aligns with our ongoing mission to campaign for more government support for this industry and the skilled jobs it supports and allows us to join another powerful group which is lobbying for the interests of British manufacturers and promoting sustainable economic growth.” AluK’s products can now be listed in the influential Made in Britain directory, and the company will benefit from increased visibility through Made in Britain’s marketing PR and communications activity.

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14 | industry digest | october 2026

Hörmann builds excitement ahead of its appearance at FIT Show in 2027

örmann UK is well underway with preparations for what promises to be its biggest and most ambitious FIT Show appearance to date, with the company planning a major new stand concept and plenty for visitors to look forward to when the show opens at the NEC Birmingham from 18–20 May 2027. With double the floor space of previous years and a prominent position at the entrance to Hall 9 across two adjoining stands, L20 and M30, Hörmann is planning a fresh approach to how its extensive domestic door portfolio is presented. Work is already proceeding on the stand concepts, with the company developing a new and engaging way to showcase its products. Taking inspiration from the recently launched ‘Hörmann Street’ social media campaign, the stand will bring a distinctive creative approach to the FIT Show, designed to encourage visitors to explore the range and discover the products in a more engaging setting. The main focus will be on entrance doors, with Stand L20 dedicated to the company’s entrance door portfolio. Visitors will be able to see the Hörmann Truedor composite door range alongside Hörmann’s steel and aluminium doors, providing an opportunity to explore the breadth of the company’s offering, from design and aesthetics through to construction, security and performance. The adjoining stand will showcase Hörmann’s market-leading garage door range, including NT60 sectional side doors

and roller garage doors, alongside other key products. The display will demonstrate the range of solutions available to installers and their customers, with a focus on product functionality, performance and design. David O’Mara, Marketing Director at Hörmann UK, said: “FIT Show 2027 is going to be a very important event for Hörmann and we’re putting a huge amount of thought into how we use the additional space to create something that is both informative and memorable. We want visitors to experience our products rather than simply see them on display, and the creative direction we’re taking with the stand will give us a great platform to do that. The success of Hörmann Street has also given us some exciting ideas about how

we can bring that same sense of creativity and engagement into the exhibition environment. There is still plenty to be revealed, but we’re looking forward to giving visitors a FIT Show experience that is very much Hörmann.” And while the show is still some way off, there is already a little intrigue surrounding the Wednesday evening networking event. The company is keeping its plans under wraps for now but have revealed that a celebrity duo will be joining them on their stand and will be taking to the decks for a house music DJ set - promising to turn up the volume and quite literally bring the house down. Further details will be announced in the run-up to FIT Show 2027, so watch this space.

Big launch for GAP’s HomeFrame

AP’s (General All-Purpose Plastics) rapidly growing GRP composite door brand, HomeFrame, is preparing for its biggest product launch to date following another exceptional year of growth. Launched in 2021 from the former Total Glass manufacturing facility in Liverpool, HomeFrame has gone from strength to strength, establishing itself as a trusted choice for installers looking for quality, value and fast turnaround times. The brand’s most recent financial year saw sales increase by an impressive 137%, continuing its remarkable year-on-year growth. Building on that momentum, HomeFrame is now preparing to unveil a major expansion of its range this autumn, delivering more choice than ever before for customers. The latest collection will see the number of available door styles double, including the introduction of a new flush-grain range that brings a contemporary aesthetic to the portfolio. Alongside the new designs, customers can also expect an expanded colour palette, new glazing options, enhanced furniture choices and additional

frame configurations, creating one of the most comprehensive GRP door ranges available. The launch further strengthens HomeFrame’s position as a practical, installer-focused solution, backed by GAP’s nationwide depot network and industryleading service. Customers continue to benefit from rapid lead times, competitive trade pricing and the convenience of sourcing composite doors alongside windows, roofline products, trims, fixings

and other building materials from a single supplier. Richard Lee, Commercial Director at GAP, said: “It’s always been our ambition to establish HomeFrame as one of the UK’s leading GRP composite door brands, supported by the strength of our nationwide depot network. The team has done a fantastic job delivering exceptional growth over the past few years, but what’s even more exciting is what comes next. “Our autumn launch represents the biggest investment we’ve made in the brand since it was introduced. By significantly expanding the range of styles, colours and options available, we’re giving our customers even more choice while maintaining the quick lead times, competitive pricing and service that HomeFrame has become known for. “There’s a huge amount of work happening behind the scenes, and we can’t wait to share the new range with our customers later this year.” The new HomeFrame collection will be available through GAP’s nationwide network this autumn, with further details to be announced ahead of launch.

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16 | industry digest | october 2026

Cortizo’s Infinity billet underlines circular economy commitment

ortizo’s Infinity billet embodies a firm commitment to circular economy and sustainable architecture. Made from 100% post-consumer recycled aluminium, it is produced from windows, doors, façades, balustrades and other aluminium products that have reached the end of their useful life, giving them a second life in the production cycle. This material has an Environmental Product Declaration certifying that its production generates just 0.92 kg of CO₂ emissions per kilogram of aluminium produced. This represents a 95% reduction in CO₂ emissions compared with the conventional aluminium billet. Electricity consumption is also lower, with energy savings of 86% compared with the average reported by European Aluminium Association. As part of its commitment to sustainability and circular economy, Cortizo

operates a large, state-of-the-art recycling plant with the capacity to produce 100,000 tonnes of 100% recycled aluminium billet each year. That way, the company uses windows removed from buildings to make profiles for new systems. Cortizo’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in this project and in a history stretching back to the late 1980s, when the company began recycling aluminium at its first plant. Since then, its commitment to recycling has continued to grow, and today it has facilities that enable it to extend this process to PVC as well.

Cortizo continues to lead the way in sustainable construction, offering clients and architects high-performance systems with cutting-edge designs, made from an environmentally responsible raw material. These products also make a significant contribution towards obtaining sustainable building certifications such as LEED and BREEAM. To further this commitment, the company has launched the Infinity Partner alliance, through which it has reached agreements with various industry stakeholders to promote the use of recycled aluminium in projects around the world.

More than 12,500 UK window and door companies buy in sealed units

ew analysis from Insight Data has identified more than 12,5001 window and door companies across the UK that buy in insulating glass units (IGUs) rather than manufacturing their own. The findings highlight the scale of the addressable market for sealed unit manufacturers at a time when supply relationships across the sector are coming under renewed scrutiny. Insight Data’s specialist Fenestration database distinguishes between companies that manufacture sealed units in-house and those that source them externally, giving suppliers a detailed picture of the market and where potential opportunities exist. The data goes further than simply identifying businesses. Insight Data also records estimated production and purchasing volumes, company size, product activity, key decision-makers and other commercial intelligence, allowing

manufacturers to identify and prioritise the prospects most relevant to them. Andrew Scott, founder and CEO of Insight Data, said: “The IGU sector has consolidated significantly in recent years with the rise of automation and economies

of scale, but there are still thousands of window and door companies buying-in sealed units. Knowing who they are, what they buy and the likely volumes involved is what turns market potential into a genuine sales opportunity. “Markets change quickly. When they do, suppliers need accurate intelligence that allows them to respond immediately rather than relying on historic customer lists or waiting for enquiries to arrive.” The information is available through Insight Data’s Salestracker platform, enabling users to segment the market, identify relevant contacts and target prospective customers through sales and marketing activity. Insight Data continuously researches and updates businesses throughout the UK fenestration sector, providing suppliers with a live view of the companies operating within their target markets. To discover more, visit: https://www.insightdata.co.uk/

october 2026 | industry digest | 17

Natural light drives opportunities for installers says Endurance® Aluminium

he increasing homeowner demand for brighter, more open living spaces is creating valuable opportunities for installers to upsell premium aluminium solutions, according to Endurance® Aluminium. Natural light, open-plan living and a stronger connection between the home and garden continue to influence renovation projects, with large, glazed areas, slim sightlines and roof lanterns remaining high on homeowners’ wish lists when considering glazing. Endurance® Aluminium says this increasingly lifestyle-led approach to home improvement presents an important opportunity for installers, as consumers look beyond straightforward replacement products, and towards systems that can transform not only the appearance, but also the enjoyment of their homes. Scott Foster, Group Marketing Director of the Endurance Group, comments: “Today’s homeowners are becoming much more design-aware in the way they approach home improvement. They’re no longer replacing windows and doors just out of necessity; they’re investing in system upgrades that

transform the way their homes look and feel. “Natural light is now a major purchasing driver. Homeowners want brighter, more open spaces that make their homes feel larger, more comfortable and more connected to the outdoors. This creates a strong opportunity for installers to upsell premium aluminium solutions. Consumers are willing to invest in their homes, particularly when they can clearly see the lifestyle benefits that slimline glazing systems deliver.” Endurance® Aluminium offers a range of aluminium windows, doors and internal

screens designed to help installers meet these changing expectations, combining contemporary aesthetics and slim sightlines with outstanding thermal performance. The company also offers a wide range of marketing support to assist installers with selling aluminium systems, including bespoke content creation and access to professional imagery. Scott adds: “Social media and home improvement programmes mean consumers are constantly exposed to bright, minimalist interiors with expansive glazing and slim frames, and naturally they want to recreate that look within their own homes. “Aluminium systems are perfectly suited to these trends. They maximise natural light while delivering the contemporary aesthetics and performance that today’s homeowners expect. “Despite ongoing economic pressures, the extension and premium renovation markets continue to present valuable opportunities. Installers who can offer premium aluminium solutions are well placed to capitalise on one of the strongest trends shaping today’s home improvement market.”

35 years on, one installer explains why AWG is still their top supplier

n addition to manufacturing high-quality PVC-U and aluminium windows and doors, Affordable Windows Group (AWG) is committed to delivering the best customer service to installers. One company which has benefitted from this service for more than 35 years is David H Miller Window Systems, run by David Miller, a Cumbria-based installer with 45 years’ experience in the trade. David began working with AWG in the early 90s and has watched the company grow into one of the UK’s leading fabricators. “The company has gone from strength to strength,” David said. “I recently visited the factory and it was incredible to see how much the business has grown, especially over the last 10 years.” Dedicated to keeping installers supported no matter the distance, AWG ensures orders arrive on time, wherever they’re based. “I’m 110 miles away from AWG’s headquarters, but two wagons travel to this area twice a week, delivering to local installers,” David explains. “Once you place an order, you get it every week, without fail. It’s that reliability which makes a real difference when you’re running your own business.” David uses AWG’s full range of products, including the Timberlook flush sash and casement windows and the Decorio aluminium range. With a full order book, it’s important his installations go off without a

hitch. “If I ever have a problem, it’s always put right,” David adds. “There are never any issues, the team are incredibly accommodating and will support me with what I need, without any argument. The sales team I deal with are brilliant. If I need something urgently, they’ll bend over backwards for me. That’s one of the main reasons I’ve remained a customer for so long, they’re a great bunch who do what they can to help.” For installers looking to switch supplier, David’s advice is simple: AWG’s combination of product range, delivery reliability and

personal support is hard to match. His loyalty speaks volumes, so do the recommendations he’s made to installers in Carlisle who now order from the company themselves. Amelia Gaughan, Head of Marketing at AWG, said: “We’re delighted to have installers like David alongside us. It’s incredible to think we’ve been working together for more than 35 years. Building lasting relationships like this, with all of our installers, is something we’re incredibly proud of and will continue to be a big focus for us in the future.”

18 | industry digest | october 2026

Epwin Window Systems helps customers get ready for Future Homes Standard

pwin Window Systems has published two new practical guides to help customers understand the forthcoming Future Homes Standard and what the changes will mean for the specification and thermal performance of windows and doors. The new guides cover Epwin Window Systems’ PVC-U brands – Profile 22, Spectus and PatioMaster – alongside a separate guide for Stellar Aluminium, giving customers clear, accessible information on the changes to Building Regulations and the implications for the fenestration sector. The Future Homes Standard sets out the intention that all new-build homes are built with low-carbon heating and high levels of energy efficiency. For fenestration, the key changes are within Approved Document L (Energy and Greenhouse Gas Emissions) Volume 1: Dwellings and include changes to the way U values are calculated, building control notification and how the regulations are enforced. Gerald Allen, Head of Marketing at Epwin Window Systems, said: “The Future Homes Standard represents an important change for the industry and, understandably, customers have questions about what it will mean for their businesses.” He added: “As a systems company, our role goes beyond developing products that meet changing regulatory requirements. It is also about giving our customers the information and support they need to understand those changes and prepare for them. These two guides bring the key information together in a clear and straightforward format.” One of the most significant changes for the fenestration industry concerns how the thermal performance of windows and doors

in new-build homes will be calculated. Under the new regulations, the U value of a window or door will need to reflect its exact size and configuration, rather than being based on a standard window configuration. This means elements including cills and thresholds, frame extenders, dummy sashes, dummy transoms and mullions, decorative glazing bars and non-load-bearing coupling components will need to be incorporated into the calculation where applicable. Gerald commented: “This is a significant change because the thermal calculation will need to reflect the window or door that is actually being supplied. The different elements within a product configuration will therefore become increasingly

important when assessing its overall performance. Our guides explain these changes in practical terms so customers can start understanding what they need to consider well ahead of implementation.” The new regulations come into force on 24 March 2027, with transitional arrangements in place, while those relating to higher-risk buildings take effect from 24 September 2027. The guides also cover requirements for replacement windows and doors in existing homes, building control notification and enforcement, giving customers a useful overview of the key changes they need to understand. Both guides are available to download now via the company’s Connect portal.

Affordable Windows Group’s Decorio now live on Tommy Trinder

ffordable Windows Group (AWG) has announced that its steel-look aluminium range, Decorio, is now available on Tommy Trinder’s Framepoint® app, joining sister brand Timberlook to give installers instant, professional-looking quotes from just £1 a month. The subscription gives installers live pricing and ordering capability, alongside stunning visuals that bring both the external and internal ranges to life on screen. In just a few clicks, homeowners can view the entire range of products, removing the guesswork that often slows down decisionmaking. Instead, accurate, instant pricing speeds up the entire quote-to-order process. Although homeowners can choose from over 200 RAL colours and BS numbers for Decorio systems, to simplify colour

selection, the range will be available in four standard and six premium colours on the platform. Installers can also use Tommy Trinders’ new ‘Bring to Life’ feature which generates photorealistic images of a customer’s home fitted with their chosen glazing. Amelia Gaughan, Head of Marketing at AWG, said: “Adding Decorio to Tommy Trinder alongside Timberlook means our installer partners now have

two heritage ranges available through one easy-to-use, visually stunning platform and it’s available from just £1 a month. The level of detail the app can achieve is incredible. It allows homeowners to choose how many transom bars they want and even brings their glazing to life with photos of their own home, which massively improves the sales process. It is a brilliant tool designed to turn enquiries into orders faster, giving our installer partners a competitive edge in a challenging market. Timberlook installers have already secured more than £7.5million worth of orders through the app, which shows you just how easy it is to adopt and how effectively it converts. We’ve no doubt Decorio installers will see the same success.” www.decorio-doors.com/trade

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22 | industry digest | october 2026

Residence Collection commits to the 2027 FIT Show as VIP Sponsor

remium window and door designer The Residence Collection has announced that it will return to FIT Show 2027 as VIP Lounge Sponsor for the first time. The company will also exhibit at the event, which takes place from 18–20 May 2027 at the NEC Birmingham. The Residence Collection’s stand will be positioned opposite the VIP Lounge, giving the team a prominent base from which to welcome visitors, meet customers and partners, and showcase its R9, R7 and R² window and door systems. Held in Birmingham, FIT Show is the UK’s only dedicated trade event for the window, door, flat glass, hardware, and fenestration industry, making it a significant opportunity to bring the people involved together. In an increasingly digital world, exhibitions offer something that online platforms cannot replicate: genuine face-toface interactions. The event will provide the chance for industry professionals to meet in person, exchange ideas, share knowledge, discover new products, build valuable connections and strengthen existing relationships. The Residence Collection is encouraging the wider sector to support the event alongside them and recognise its importance to the industry’s future. The people involved in the trade sector are what make the event come to life, and without attendance, the show simply won’t carry the same weight. As VIP Lounge Sponsor, The Residence Collection will provide a dedicated space for informal meetings, hospitality and networking throughout the show. The lounge will support the company’s wider presence at FIT Show, creating an opportunity to connect with customers, colleagues, partners and other industry professionals away from the exhibition floor. For The Residence Collection, the

sponsorship reflects its continued support for FIT Show and its belief in the value of bringing the fenestration community together in person. With the company’s stand located directly opposite the VIP Lounge, visitors will be able to move easily between the two spaces throughout the event. Jo Trotman, Sales and Marketing Manager at The Residence Collection, comments: “FIT Show remains an important meeting point for the UK’s window, door, flat glass, hardware and wider fenestration industries. The 2027 event will bring together manufacturers, fabricators, installers, specifiers and suppliers for three days of product discovery, networking and knowledge-sharing. “FIT Show plays such an important role in bringing the industry together, particularly as it is the only dedicated exhibition of its kind in the UK. If you’re involved in any area of the window, door, flat glass, hardware or wider fenestration industry, attending FIT Show is a great way to build

new relationships, share ideas and stay connected with the sector. “Ultimately, the event is only as strong as the people who make up our industry, so we’d encourage everyone to come along, get involved and help make FIT Show 2027 a great success.” Nickie West, Director at FIT Show event comments: “We’re delighted to welcome The Residence Collection back to FIT Show 2027 and to have the company join us as VIP Lounge Sponsor for the first time. The VIP Lounge is an important part of the FIT Show experience, providing a space for informal conversations, hospitality and networking. With The Residence Collection’s stand positioned directly opposite, visitors will have an easy opportunity to connect with the team and explore its R9, R7 and R² systems. We’re grateful for the company’s continued support and look forward to working together to make FIT Show 2027 a successful and valuable event for the industry.”

Website rebrand marks three decades

SF Commercial, the aluminium systems specialist based in Rainham, Essex, has launched a new website and rebrand to mark three decades at its Essex headquarters and manufacturing facility. The refresh brings a consistent style across all elements of the business, giving trade supply, manufacturing and commercial projects a single, unified look. The new website gives equal weight to LSF’s project work and its trade supply offering, which spans manufacturing, powder coating and installation. “We’re taking on more bespoke, highly customised and complex projects than ever,” explained Director Onkar Toot. “We wanted a site that shows that side of the business properly, without losing sight of our trade

customers.” The new site puts a spotlight on LSF’s range of aluminium windows, doors, fire-rated systems, curtain walling and shopfronts, alongside the sectors the company serves, including commercial,

education, retail, residential and healthcare. “We have a reputation for delivering professional products and service to our customers and we wanted a website that reflected those values,” said Onkar. “It’s a great resource for both existing and potential customers to see why we are a leading commercial aluminium systems specialist.” For a company that began producing shopfronts in its very early days exactly 30 years ago, the rebrand also shows how far the business has come, added Onkar. “Thirty years on we’re now delivering complex, bespoke commercial packages nationwide, so it felt like the right time to bring everything under one branding.” https://lsfcommercial.co.uk/

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24 | industry digest | october 2026

Powerful new online platform turns consumer data into clear direction

eystone Market Research has launched Keystone Signal™, a new online software platform designed to transform the company’s comprehensive fenestration consumer research from static reports into actionable intelligence - helping installers apply targeted end-customer data directly at the point of sale and throughout the supply chain for product and marketing development. Developed from Keystone Market Research’s extensive programme of consumer research, Keystone Signal™ brings together more than 22,000 consumer data points into one database, making detailed insight easier to access, explore and apply to real-world business decisions. The platform launches with two distinct applications: Keystone Signal™ Sales, an intuitive sales aid designed for installers and salespeople, and Keystone Signal™ Intelligence, a powerful data interrogation platform for product developers, manufacturers, suppliers and marketing teams. Keystone Signal™ Sales: Keystone Signal™ Sales has been developed to help installers better understand homeowners and guide them through product and style choices during the sales conversation. Keystone’s latest consumer research found that just 7% of homeowners said that, when window or door salespeople visited their home, they addressed what mattered most to them and recommended styles that suited their taste very well. In the same survey, 91% of homeowners said that if two installation companies offered similar products, they would choose the company that better demonstrated an understanding of their needs and style, and 60% said they would still choose that company if it was more expensive. For installers, this creates a significant opportunity. Keystone Signal™ Sales uses insight from thousands of homeowners to help guide the conversation - supporting installers as they work with customers to identify preferences, narrow down choices and arrive at a specification that reflects what matters to that individual homeowner. This is particularly relevant to one of the frustrations repeatedly highlighted in Keystone’s installer research: homeowners often don’t know exactly what they want, change their minds throughout the process and increasingly look to installers to support their decision-making. Rather than relying solely on instinct or presenting homeowners with an overwhelming range of choices, Keystone Signal™ Sales provides a simple, guided way to use consumer insight at the point of sale, supporting installers to build trust, increase sales and profitability. Keystone Signal™ Intelligence: The second application, Keystone Signal™ Intelligence, takes Keystone’s consumer

research beyond the traditional report. Rather than providing customers with a static document to read through, the platform allows users to explore and tailor the data to their own business applications. Users can analyse consumer preferences across a range of demographics, including age, gender, location, property type, property age, tenure and life stage. The data can then be broken down across product categories including windows, doors, glazing and extension roof styles, helping businesses understand the endcustomer, identify growing opportunities, gaps in the market and changing priorities, for more targeted product and marketing development. Charlotte Hawkes, Director at Keystone Market Research, said: “For data to be useful, it needs to be applied as easily as possible. Keystone Signal™ moves consumer data from static reports into a game-changing service that can be used both at the point of sale and at the point of product and marketing development - and tailored specifically to each company’s needs.” “Early on in our research, I could see the potential for this data to be used by installers in the home. As we saw the statistics around homeowners not receiving the support they needed, it became even more apparent how much of an impact this could have if we could make the insight user-friendly and enable it to be tailored at the time of the conversation.” “Our installer research reinforced that

opportunity. Time and time again, installers told us that one of the frustrations in the industry today is that homeowners don’t always know what they want, change their minds repeatedly and look to the installer to guide their decision-making. Keystone Signal™ Sales helps address this by leading the installer and homeowner through the choices that thousands of similar homeowners have made, leading to a confident specification seamlessly.” “At the same time, through our Intelligence model, we’re putting all the data directly into users’ hands. Instead of a static report to read through, users can tailor the data to their exact requirements.” “I’m incredibly proud of this latest launch. Keystone Signal™ Sales is an intuitive sales aid that I believe can be a game-changer for installers - helping them demonstrate a genuine understanding of their customers’ needs and style, build trust and ultimately increase profitability. And Keystone Signal™ Intelligence is an exciting step forward for our wider market data, allowing users to explore more than 22,000 consumer preference data points through a very simple process.” “Together, the Keystone Signal™ platform creates a powerful new way for fenestration businesses to use consumer research, turning complex data into a clear direction for sales, product and marketing decisions.” E: email hello@keystonemr.co.uk www.keystonemr.co.uk

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26 | industry digest | october 2026

Emplas celebrates 25-year milestones for Kevin and Quang

mplas has celebrated the long service of Kevin Mander and Quang Dinh, who have both reached 25-year milestones with the business. Now Operations Quality Control Manager and Head of IT respectively, Kevin and Quang have seen Emplas grow from a small fabricator into a group employing more than 700 people. Their own careers have developed alongside that growth, with both progressing from hands-on roles into positions that are central to the quality, systems and day-to-day consistency of the business. Kevin began in manufacture, working predominantly on door fabrication at a time when production involved far more manual cutting, reinforcing and glazing preparation than it does today. He has since worked across a wide range of operational roles before moving into quality control, where his focus extends beyond checking finished products to developing the processes that help Emplas manufacture accurately and deliver on time. Kevin said: “I have grown with the company. Emplas has invested in me, put me on different courses and helped me develop in the role and as a person. I am proud that I can pass my knowledge on to the people who will be here after me. To have seen the business grow from one small unit to where it is now means a lot, and I am happy to be part of it.” Quang joined as an IT technician when the department consisted of just two people supporting around 25 computer users. At the time, the business was moving from DOS to Windows-based software, email was only beginning to replace fax, and a single server sat on his desk. Today, he leads Emplas’ IT and systems

function, which has grown to support more than 700 users. His team has developed integrated software and the EVA platform, connecting departments and giving the business a single source of data. Quang said: “What makes me most proud is the team we have and the way people across the business are always looking at how a process can be improved. No two days are the same. There are always new challenges, and that has kept the role interesting throughout my time here.” Ryan Johnson, Group Managing Director of the Emplas Group, said Kevin and Quang’s experience, loyalty and willingness to take responsibility had made a lasting contribution to the company. He said: “Kevin and Quang are part of the Emplas

family and the backbone of the business. They have helped to shape our future, and, without their contribution, we would not be in the position we are today. They reflect what we stand for: teamwork, determination, integrity, delivering quality and putting the customer first. We value them enormously, and they have repaid that with loyalty and hard work. “I have enjoyed sharing the journey with them, through all its ups and downs, and I want to thank them both personally. Long may it continue.” The milestone reflects Emplas’ wider commitment to developing its people and retaining the experience that supports dependable quality, service and operational performance.

Deceuninck wins RoSPA Order of Distinction health and safety accolade

eceuninck has been awarded its 15th consecutive RoSPA Award, recognising its sustained commitment to excellence in occupational health, safety and employee wellbeing. Achieving the prestigious Order of Distinction, the award highlights Deceuninck’s dedication to creating a healthy, safe and supportive working environment across its operations. Starting out as a small event to recognise those companies prioritising the safety of workers in UK, the RoSPA Awards have become one of the world’s most wellrespected and sought-after health and safety awards programmes. Celebrating their 70th anniversary this year, the 2026 awards attracted 2,000 entries from almost 60 countries. “The wellbeing of our people, both

physically and mentally, is embedded in everything we do at Deceuninck, day in, day out,” said Darren Woodcock, General Manager, Deceuninck. “Safe manufacturing practices are a huge priority for us. Not only do they facilitate a healthier, happier workforce but they also help to ensure we have the means and the manpower to run our operations at full capacity, avoiding any potential disruption

for our customers down the line. Working in accordance with RoSPA’s framework also helps us streamline processes and improve collaboration across our factory. The result is increased efficiency and ultimately, a better service for customers.” Congratulating Deceuninck on its RoSPA Health and Safety Award, Julia Small, RoSPA’s Growth Director, said: “The high standards Deceuninck has achieved are the result of hard work and dedication, of which it should be rightfully proud and which RoSPA is delighted to honour. 2026 is a landmark year for the RoSPA Awards as we reflect on how far workplace safety has come in 70 years. It is because of the commitment of health and safety leaders like Deceuninck that people today are safer at work than in the past and that sets an inspiring example for the future.”

october 2026 | industry digest | 27

Leads 2 Trade celebrates 18 years partnering with Anglian

eads 2 Trade celebrates its 20th year in 2026, and among the relationships that have shaped that journey, one long-term one stands out. The UK’s leading provider of double-qualified sales leads for installers in the home improvement sector has worked with Anglian Home Improvements, a company marking its own 60th anniversary this year, for 18 years. Over 18 years the partnership has expanded alongside changing homeowner demand, broadening from windows and doors into multiple home improvement categories such as conservatories and Rooftrim (fascias, soffits and guttering) more recently. What has stayed the same, however, is the standard of the leads themselves. “Leads 2 Trade has consistently delivered a strong volume of high-quality opportunities over the last 18 years to meet our commercial objectives,” said Rachael Munby, Chief Marketing Officer at Anglian, explaining why the relationship has lasted so long. “Their commitment to lead quality and consistent performance has made them a valued long-term partner within our lead generation programme. Over almost two decades they have continued to adapt to our changing needs whilst maintaining strong commercial performance. Over the past 12 months, Leads 2 Trade has delivered more than 4,000 opportunities to Anglian, and remains one of the company’s most significant lead generation partners. Their performance has continued to improve, with cost of sale reducing significantly during 2026. Andy Royle, Leads 2 Trade’s co-founder and Managing Director, believes this focus on verification is what separates the

business from other affiliates. “We don’t supply raw web enquiries, and that’s why the relationship has lasted this long,” he said. “We speak to the customer before we send anything over, with all the notes attached. The quality of what we deliver makes us stand out compared to other affiliates.” The two companies keep the relationship on track through regular KPI meetings, where Leads 2 Trade reviews performance against Anglian’s targets and agrees budgets for the month ahead. It’s a highly collaborative approach that has proved hugely successful. The partnership proved particularly resilient during the challenges of the pandemic. Regular communication and a collaborative approach enabled both businesses to respond quickly to changing

circumstances, helping ensure a strong restart when operations resumed. For a relationship formed in 2008 and still delivering results in 2026, it shows what a genuine, long-term partnership can achieve. “Everyone at Anglian Home Improvements congratulates the Leads2Trade team on reaching this milestone,” added Rachael. “They have been straightforward and enjoyable to work with for almost two decades and we look forward to continuing our partnership for many years to come and wish them every success for the future.” Sixty years in this industry says everything about the kind of company Anglian is,” added Andy. “We’re proud to have spent nearly a third of that journey working alongside them.”

Aluprof UK celebrates 20 years

rchitectural aluminium systems house Aluprof UK marked two decades of growth and industry presence with an anniversary celebration at its Altrincham showroom. Hosted by compère Mike Shaft, the milestone gathering brought together key customers, business partners, and team members to reflect on the company’s 20-year history and outline its strategic roadmap for the future. The formal programme opened with a retrospective film tracing Aluprof’s growth across the UK and Ireland, featuring testimonials from some of the long-standing clients, followed by an opening address from Managing Director Wojciech Brozyna. Reflecting on the company’s evolution, Brozyna emphasised that Aluprof UK’s success has been built on trust, reliability, and mutual support through significant industry challenges, including economic downturns, Brexit, supply chain disruption,

and the COVID-19 pandemic. “Products and technologies will change. Markets will change. Buildings and skylines will change. But trust, partnership, and people will always remain at the heart of a successful business,” said Wojciech Brozyna, Managing Director of Aluprof UK. “Over the last 20 years, we have faced extraordinary market shifts, but our partners and team supported one another every step of the

way. Our commitment to the UK and Irish markets remains as strong as ever as we look forward to the next 20 years.” A central focus of the morning was the Recognition and Appreciation Awards ceremony, honouring long-serving Aluprof personnel from both the UK and Polish headquarters alongside 14 long-standing customer companies. Brozyna was subsequently joined by Leszek Szafran for a presentation on Aluprof and Grupa Kety’s future vision, detailing plans for continued investment in technical support, sustainable system design, and deeper partner collaboration to meet rising expectations in building performance. The formal proceedings concluded with an official cake-cutting ceremony and champagne toast. Attendees then participated in a networking lunch featuring tray-served bowl food, live entertainment, and interactive activities before receiving commemorative gifts.

28 | industry digest | october 2026

22 year Morley Glass-Pellini partnership continues to set quality standard

he 22-year milestone in the partnership between Morley Glass and ScreenLine® integral blind systems manufacturer Pellini S.p.A, highlights how loyal, long term supply relationships are instrumental in driving ever higher quality and performance standards for integral blinds. As the UK’s largest manufacturer of bespoke ScreenLine® integrated blinds, Morley Glass is an influential partner to global market-leader Pellini, a position that ensures window and door installers have fast, easy access to products and services that exceed expectations and maximise end-user satisfaction. It’s a mutually beneficial partnership that has also led to the development of ScreenLine® solutions crafted to the tastes of homeowners in the UK market. These included a symmetrical version of the everpopular magnetic slider controlled system – the SV+ system – and a wand control option for the SV and SV+ for controlling the integrated blinds in hard to reach windows. One of the most important factors in Morley Glass’s success developing the UK integral blinds market over 22 years has been its relentless focus on quality and performance. As the brand that still sets the standard for integral blind systems quality by a considerable margin, ScreenLine® systems provide the most reliable foundation for Morley Glass to create finished units that installers can depend on. Ian Short, Managing Director of Morley Glass, said: “ScreenLine® systems represent everything you’d expect from a leading European manufacturer, with added Italian design flair. As windows and doors have become more feature-packed over recent years, discerning buyers are more aware of products like integral blinds – but they are also keen to ensure the products they purchase are going to meet their

expectations. That means quality and aesthetics matter more than ever, making ScreenLine® integral blinds an unrivalled choice.” Prior to Morley Glass entering the market in 2004, one of the biggest issues that installers faced when sourcing integral blinds was the slow or poor service many had experienced. To overcome this, Ian and his team built a business which carefully considers how to optimise every stage of the customer journey. By putting themselves in the shoes of customers, they could put processes in place that meant the speed and quality of service would be a world away from what came before. Alessandro Pellini, Commercial Director of Pellini S.p.A. commented: “As we mark 22 years of partnership with Morley Glass, we would like to take this opportunity to sincerely celebrate the symbiotic relationship that we have built in the supply of our integrated blind systems, which has contributed to the growth of both companies’ businesses and to the increase in the market’s demand for this technology. “The fact that

they have supplied hundreds of thousands of glazed units over two decades to the best window makers and fitters in the country, and developed new solutions and applications for the residential and commercial domains in association with Pellini, shows the contribution that they have made to growing the integral blinds market – both in the UK and internationally. “The partnership between the two companies has always been based on mutual trust, the commitment to excellence and quality, and a shared vision whereby integral blinds can be an effective and exclusive way of protecting buildings from unnecessary heat and light gains, as well as ensuring privacy, hygiene and a look that suits every living and working environment.” When ScreenLine® systems are integrated into IGUs which utilise carefully specified and sourced components and premium glass, the opportunity to create world-class integral blind units presents itself and this is where the company believes it has found the successful formula. Ian Short continued: “For quality products to succeed long term, they have to be backed by excellent service – and that’s always been our other major focus. In addition to ensuring our team are skilled at manufacturing integral blind units using the ScreenLine® systems supplied by Pellini, we work hard to offer first class service at the quotation, ordering, delivery and aftersales care stages. We’ve got to be easy to deal with and be responsive to customer needs, which is why we invest so heavily in training, processes and technology across the business.” www.morleyglass.co.uk.

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30 | active voices | october 2026

ACTIVE VOICES Tim James, National Specification Manager, Veka plc: Tim explains to readers why a headline U-value no longer tells the whole story

or years, one figure has dominated conversations about window performance: the U-value. It remains important, but it has never told the whole story. That is becoming even more relevant as the 2026 edition of Approved Document L comes into effect in England. For new dwellings, the guidance allows window U-values to be calculated using the actual size and configuration of the proposed window, including elements such as frame sections, sills, extenders, dummy sashes, mullions, transoms, glazing bars and certain couplers. The new guidance takes effect from 24 March 2027 for work not connected with higher-risk buildings, with separate timing for higher-risk building work. That reinforces a simple point: The performance of the window being installed matters more than the headline figure attached to a product range. Ask most people to describe a high-performance window and the first figure they are likely to quote is the U-value. It remains one of the most important measures of thermal performance, but it has never told the whole story. As building regulations continue to evolve, understanding how a window performs in its actual installed configuration is becoming increasingly important. The 2026 edition of Approved Document L for England reinforces this shift. For new dwellings, window U-values can be calculated using the actual size and configuration of the proposed window, including elements such as frame sections, sills, extenders, dummy sashes, mullions, transoms, glazing bars and certain couplers. The implication is straightforward: the performance of the window being installed matters more than the headline figure attached to a product range. It also means historic specification assumptions may need revisiting. A window configuration that satisfied previous project requirements is not necessarily the optimum solution when assessed against current thermal, solar gain and ventilation considerations. Part L is only part of the picture At the same time, Part O requires new residential buildings in England to limit unwanted solar gains and provide adequate means to remove excess heat. That can pull design decisions in different directions. A highly insulated building envelope helps reduce heat loss in winter. But glazing area, solar gain, orientation and the effectiveness of openable windows also influence summer comfort. The right answer is therefore unlikely to

come from pursuing one performance value in isolation. A window specification needs to work as part of the building. Configuration matters Consider two windows using the same system. One may be a large fixed light with a high proportion of glazing. Another may be smaller, with multiple opening lights and additional frame sections. They may belong to the same product family, but they are not necessarily the same thermally. The same principle applies more widely. Opening style, glazing, frame arrangement and additional components can all affect the final solution. This is why I think our industry needs to become more comfortable moving away from the question: “What U-value does this system achieve?” and towards: “What does this proposed configuration achieve?” Overheating adds another layer Part O makes that conversation broader still. Glazing specification, glazed area, orientation, shading and ventilation all need to be considered together. An opening window can form part of an overheating strategy, but its effectiveness also depends on how far it can practically open and whether issues such as security, guarding and external noise affect its usable ventilation area. Approved Document O specifically requires these usability and safety considerations to be taken into account. Again, there is no single product characteristic that resolves everything. The challenge is balance. Late changes can have wider consequences This is particularly important during value engineering and procurement. Changing a window size, glazing specification or opening arrangement may appear

relatively minor, but it can alter assumptions made earlier around thermal performance, solar gain or ventilation. That does not mean projects cannot change. It means changes should be treated as design decisions rather than simple product swaps. For fabricators and installers, that also reinforces the value of understanding exactly what has been specified and why, rather than seeing the window schedule purely as a manufacturing instruction. A better question for the industry Part L and Part O are often discussed separately because they deal with different regulatory requirements. In practice, the window does not experience them separately. It has to perform thermally, manage solar gains as part of the wider design, provide the required ventilation strategy, meet security and safety requirements and remain practical for the occupant to use. That is why I believe the next step for fenestration specification is less about chasing isolated headline numbers and more about understanding the complete configuration. The question should not simply be: “How low can the U-value go?” It should be: “Does this window, in this configuration, work for this building?” That is ultimately where compliance, performance and good specification come together. The practical challenge is turning these principles into project-specific decisions. Veka’s specification team supports architects and specifiers with configuration reviews, technical information and tools such as WinDoPlan, which can be used to explore whole-window U-values, wind loads, sections and 3D configurations. Request access to WinDoPlan via Veka Edge here - https://www.vekagroupportal.co.uk/register/

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32 | director of the month | october 2026

DIRECTOR OF THE MONTH

In this month’s director of the month feature, we talk to Martin Benn, Liniar Sales Director for New Build & Social Housing

s energy-performance requirements become more sophisticated, the role of fenestration within the new-build housing sector is changing. After almost 30 years in the industry, Liniar Sales Director for New Build & Social Housing, Martin Benn reflects on the knowledge and skills becoming increasingly important to his role. ‘Specification’ is becoming a discipline in itself “The fenestration industry has always evolved, but the pace and nature of that change feels very different today. After almost three decades in the sector, I’ve seen plenty of changes in products, materials, manufacturing processes and regulations. What stands out now is how much more closely fenestration is connected to wholebuilding performance. “With the imminent introduction of The Future Homes Standard, fenestration becomes part of a much more tightly integrated building-performance strategy. “Earlier in my career, specifications were often relatively straightforward, but nowadays windows and doors are no longer simply products that need to satisfy a specification and arrive on site at the right time. Their performance must be considered alongside the wall construction, insulation, glazing, ventilation, orientation, installation and the wider energy strategy for the home. “That changes the conversations I’m having with housebuilders and other stakeholders. Increasingly, the question isn’t simply, ‘Which window or door should we use?’ but ‘What does this building need its fenestration to achieve?’ “It’s a move away from simply supplying a product, towards providing a more informed technical solution and has required me to develop a more holistic understanding of our industry.”

WORKING LOCATION No two weeks are the same. My role takes me across the UK, spending time with fabricators, installers, developers and national house builders, as well as working closely with my own team to deliver our strategic objectives. I also make a point of spending regular time at Liniar’s head office. Building strong internal relationships is every bit as important as developing customer partnerships. Staying connected with colleagues across the business ensures alignment, engagement and a clear understanding of what’s happening on the ground.

Making the product is only the beginning “There is another part of this conversation that I think sometimes gets overlooked: the difference between what a product can achieve and what is actually achieved in its real-world setting on a project. “A specification might be technically correct and the product may have been tested to demonstrate that it meets the required performance. But that is only the starting point. The agreed configuration then needs to be manufactured consistently, delivered correctly and installed in accordance with the intended design. “All this needs to be done consistently and precisely in every location where manufacturing and installation happens. Helping establish processes to make this possible is becoming an increasingly important part of my role. “That brings more people into the equation. Systems companies, glass manufacturers, hardware suppliers, fabricators, installers, specifiers and housebuilders all have a role to play. A decision made by one part of the supply

WORKING DAY Variety is one of the aspects I enjoy most about my role. Every day is different, but everything is driven by a clear strategic plan with defined milestones and priorities that evolve as market conditions and opportunities change. Currently, a significant proportion of our time is devoted to helping housebuilders, fabricators and installers prepare for the Future Homes Standard. This means working closely with technical and procurement teams to develop next-generation window specifications that meet evolving regulatory requirements. Success comes from collaboration across the entire supply chain. Bringing together manufacturers, fabricators, installers, housebuilders and industry bodies helps ensure everybody is aligned and prepared for change. Ultimately, our role is not simply to supply products, but to help customers navigate challenges, seize opportunities and build for the future with confidence.

october 2026 | director of the month | 33 with members of our Sustainability team as they develop Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs). These independently verified documents provide transparent, standardised data on a product’s environmental impact across its lifecycle, making embodied carbon a more tangible consideration for developers and designers when specifying products. It’s another area where I need to stay closely informed, as Liniar plans to begin rolling out EPDs this year, because we recognise the central role they will soon play in enabling our products to be specified.

chain can affect another, whether that relates to performance, testing, weight, handling or installation. “I see this regularly through my conversations with customers. Something that looks like a straightforward product decision can have wider implications once you consider how it will actually be fabricated, transported and installed. “For me, this is one of the most interesting developments in the industry. Fenestration is becoming less about individual products and more about how those products work together.” Supply chain collaboration must become more practical “That makes collaboration important, but I don’t mean collaboration simply in the sense of having more meetings. The real value is in bringing the right expertise into the conversation early enough to influence the outcome and drive the industry forward in a unified approach. “One of the things I’m enjoying about my role at Liniar is that as a Quanex company, it puts me into contact with all the companies within the wider Quanex family. For example, there are specialist business units within the group operating across areas including spacer technology, gaskets, hardware and fabrication machinery. “That means I’m in an exciting position, able to gain valuable insight across different areas of the supply chain, and over

the coming years I’m really hoping to play a role in facilitating a more unified approach to developing fenestration solutions suited to the more complex environment that’s emerging.” “The important thing isn’t simply having access to expertise. It’s knowing when to bring it into the conversation. From my perspective, that’s where a supplier can add real value - helping connect the different parts of the process rather than simply supplying a component and leaving everyone else to work out the rest.” Working with the Sustainability team “The goal of the Future Homes Standard is to accelerate the UK’s shift towards net zero carbon emissions and champion sustainable construction practices. This means I’m now working more closely

Understanding what the building needs “If there is one thing that has become clearer to me over the years, it’s that making windows and doors is the relatively easy part. The harder part is understanding what the building needs from those finished products and ensuring all the tools and resources that allow specification are in place. “That doesn’t make the role of the fenestration supplier less important. If anything, it makes it more important, but it changes what customers should expect from their supply partners. For me, that is where the real evolution of fenestration is taking place. Windows and doors are increasingly one part of a much more complicated equation.”

FACTS & FIGURES

First job: I started my career in 1986 with Indalex Aluminium Extrusions, part of the global RTZ Group. As a trainee draughtsman, I developed a solid grounding in engineering and technical design while studying for a BTEC in Engineering through day release at college. This combination of practical and academic learning provided the foundations for my future career. I later moved into sales with Alupres Extrusions, part of the Norsk Hydro Group, and from there followed a natural progression through the extrusion industry, moving from aluminium into plastics. At Ravenscroft Plastics, I worked across multiple sectors but always maintained a strong focus on fenestration. One of the highlights of that period was helping to design and develop the market-leading Cavalok Cavity Closer system, which became part of Eurocell following its acquisition of Ravenscroft Plastics in 2008. When did you join your current company? After more than 17 successful years with Eurocell, where I led the New Build division, I joined Liniar in July 2026 as Sales Director for New Build & Social Housing. The opportunity to join a business renowned for its innovation, manufacturing excellence and customer focus was one I simply couldn’t ignore. Most Useful/Favourite Gadget: According to my wife, I own far too many gadgets! If I had to choose one, it would probably be a Leatherman multi-tool. Whether it’s work, DIY projects or one of my outdoor cooking setups, it’s the sort of tool that’s always useful and never far away. Favourite/Most Useful Website: Wikipedia remains my go-to resource for general knowledge, but more recently I’ve become fascinated by the power of AI and knowledge-based platforms. The ability to rapidly gather, connect and tailor information has the potential to transform how we work and make decisions in business. Favourite Restaurant for Business Meetings: Living near Cheltenham, I’ve spent many years entertaining customers at some fantastic local venues. Places such as Airs & Graces and 131 combine great food with a relaxed atmosphere that encourages good conversation. That said, when I’m visiting customers on their home turf, I prefer to avoid the chains and ask for local recommendations. Taking someone to their favourite restaurant is not only a better experience, it shows you’ve taken the time to understand what matters to them. Business Person You Admire: Warren Buffett. I admire his pragmatic approach to business and his ability to simplify complex decisions into fundamental principles. Many of his quotes are timeless reminders of what truly matters in business. Two favourites are: “Rule No.1: Never lose money. Rule No.2: Never forget Rule No.1.” And particularly relevant in today’s competitive markets: “Price is what you pay. Value is what you get.” Most Important Business Lesson Learned Over the Past 12 Months: Never underestimate the influence of geopolitics on your domestic market. Events taking place on the other side of the world can quickly impact supply chains, costs, availability and customer confidence. More than ever, businesses need to protect themselves through strategic partnerships with financially secure and well-resourced suppliers. Resilience, flexibility and long-term thinking have become just as important as price and service. To borrow another Warren Buffett quote: “You only find out who’s been swimming naked when the tide goes out.” Best Business Decision: Joining Liniar and becoming part of the wider Quanex family has been one of the best decisions of my career. It’s a business that genuinely understands the importance of reinvesting in manufacturing, innovation and people. The positive culture is evident throughout the organisation, from the shop floor to the executive team. With major regulatory changes on the horizon and significant opportunities emerging within the New Build sector, having the ability to develop future-focused products and customer solutions is essential. I’ve always believed that “when you stop innovating, you start dying.” Sustainable growth comes from listening to customers, investing in new product development and staying ahead of market change. Other Interests: I love cooking, especially outdoors. What started as a hobby has gradually turned into a passion project. I’ve built my own pizza oven, installed an Argentinian grill and accumulated various fire pits and outdoor cooking equipment over the years. Rather than a man cave, my wife has generously allocated me a corner of the garden where I’m allowed free rein, within reason! When I’m not cooking, you’ll usually find me walking our two dogs, ideally with a country pub and a pint somewhere along the route.

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36 | news dashboard | october 2026

Haffner launches new customer support apps

affner has further strengthened its customer support package with the introduction of two dedicated digital management apps designed to give fabricators greater visibility and control throughout the lifecycle of their machinery investment.The new Project Management System and Service Management apps are available across Haffner’s complete Haffner, Graf Synergy and FOM Industrie machinery portfolio and form part of the company’s ongoing commitment to delivering a connected and responsive customer experience. Matt Thomas, Managing Director at Haffner, said: “Investing in fabrication machinery is a significant commitment and our customers rightly expect high levels of support at every stage. These new digital management apps give them greater visibility, make communication more efficient and provide easy access to the information they need, when they need it.” The Project Management System app is available to customers from the point a new machine is ordered. It provides a clear overview of the order status, allowing customers to track their machinery as it progresses through the various stages, with live status information through to confirmed delivery and installation dates. Matt said: “There are inevitably a lot of moving parts when new machinery is being manufactured, delivered and installed. The Project Management System brings the information together in one place, giving customers greater transparency while ensuring everyone involved is working from the same up-to-date information.”

Disjointed works scheduling undermining Decarbonisation in social housing

Haffner’s second app focuses on ongoing machinery servicing and technical support. Through the secure Service Management app, customers can raise and manage machinery service requests directly through the system. Both customers and the Haffner service team can upload photographs and supporting information, helping engineers quickly understand the nature of an issue and respond effectively. Each request creates a fully traceable, real-time record, providing a clear history of the issue, information supplied and action being taken. It also allows Haffner to maintain an accurate service history for the machinery. Matt continued: “Machinery technology continues to evolve and the support surrounding it needs to keep pace too. By combining high-quality machinery with intelligent digital support, we can give our customers greater visibility from the moment they place an order and continued support throughout the lifetime of their investment.” Both apps are available to download through the Haffner website and are fully responsive across all devices.

Traditional door styles rise in popularity

ndurance® is reporting growing demand for traditional door designs and softer, more natural colours, as homeowners increasingly look to create homes – and entrances - with greater character and individuality. Latest sales data from the Brigg-based composite door manufacturer shows that designs from its Classic range now account for five of its ten most popular doors ordered over recent years. While the Etna remains Endurance®’s best-selling design, other Classic styles, including Pentland, Scafell, Snowdon and Bowmont, feature in the Top 10, alongside strong-performing Country designs, including Tyree, Mardale and Bredon. The data reflects trends across many

aspects of home design and interiors, with traditional spaces featuring natural materials and more character enjoying renewed popularity. Colour preferences are evolving too. Anthracite Grey remains Endurance®’s most popular colour by a considerable margin, but the company has seen a rise in orders for softer shades such as Pearl Grey, Sage and Chartwell Green. Speaking about the recent trends in door design, Scott Foster, Group Marketing Director at Endurance®, commented: “There’s been a lot of talk about the move away from grey, but our figures show it remains extremely popular. What is interesting, however, is the growing demand for softer, more natural colours and the continued strength of traditional door styles.

n expert panel of commercial partners has called for government grant awards to be considered more holistically or risk undermining the social housing sector’s ambitions for decarbonisation. Speaking at the Specify and Build Magazine UK retrofit roundtable, Peter Dyer Head of Commercial, Deceuninck, said that despite a deemphasis on the fabric first approach in the Future Homes Standard, building product choice remained fundamental to the Government’s decarbonisation targets. He said that the Government’s focus on renewables, for example heat pumps without first addressing insulation and airtightness, raised fundamental questions about the social sectors ability to fulfil ambitions for decarbonisation. “Government policy is steering the direction of travel. The emphasis it is putting on heat pumps is indicative of the importance it is placing on renewables”, he said. “That is something we completely support, but it is hard to see how without corresponding investment in improving the performance of the building envelope as a whole, the social housing sector will be able to hit targets for decarbonisation. “The grants process needs to be rethought so that the building is considered as a whole. Not an individual element of building performance in isolation.” He explained that in addition to keeping homes warmer, the building fabric also played a critical role in keeping homes cool in the face of rising summer temperatures. Concluding his call to action he said that if policy for the decarbonisation of the housing stock was to be effective, it had to transgress parliaments and extend beyond party politics. “We’ve seen the Green deal come and go. We’ve spent time training solar engineers, now we’re training heat pump engineers. If we are to be effective in addressing the very real challenge of climate change, while also improving UK housing stock, we need to move towards longer term planning. “This includes a design to delivery approach, which brings the right teams together early to deliver the right products – but equally importantly partnerships – as a foundation for effective delivery.”

october 2026 | industry dashboard | 37

Deceuninck is founding corporate member of WFN

eceuninck UK has become a Founding Corporate Member of the Women in Fenestration Network (WFN), strengthening its commitment to supporting talent and creating opportunities across the industry. The newly formed network brings women from across the sector together through professional development, mentoring, training and networking opportunities. Its programme has been shaped around the experiences and challenges identified by women working in fenestration, including confidence, career development and access to mentoring. The network’s inaugural Professional Development Day was attended by more than 75 women from across the supply chain. The event also marked the launch of the WFN Mentoring Programme, which connects women at different stages of their

careers with experienced industry professionals who can offer practical guidance and support. Alison Plumb, HR Director Southern/ Western Europe at Deceuninck, said: “There is an incredible amount of talent within our industry, but people don’t always have access to the connections or support they need to take the next step in their careers. “The Women in Fenestration Network is creating practical opportunities for women to learn from one another, build useful relationships and have honest conversations about their experiences in the industry. “Mentoring can be particularly valuable. Having someone to offer guidance, share their experience or simply act as a sounding board can make a real difference to a person’s confidence and progression.” Deceuninck’s support for the network forms part of its wider commitment to investing in people and contributing to the long-term development of the window and door industry. As a Founding Corporate Member, Deceuninck UK will support WFN as it develops its programme of professional development, mentoring, training and networking activities. Alison continued: “This is not about supporting an initiative in name only. We want to play an active role and help the network create opportunities that are genuinely useful to women working across the sector.”

20 years of connecting installers with customers

eads 2 Trade is celebrating its 20-year anniversary, marking two decades of helping businesses grow through high-quality, verified leads. Founded in 2006, the company was built on a simple idea: create a trusted system that connects homeowners actively looking for home improvement products with reputable local installers ready to deliver them. Twenty years on and Leads 2 Trade has generated millions of leads across a wide range of sectors, including double glazing and boiler replacements, while continually evolving its services to meet the changing needs of installers. Andy Royle, co-founder and MD of Leads 2 Trade, took the team for a day at the races to celebrate, and said: “Celebrating 20 years in business is a fantastic achievement for everyone connected with Leads 2 Trade. When we started the company, our goal was to create an effective way for installers to access genuine sales opportunities, while giving homeowners confidence that they would be contacted by reputable local companies for competitive quotes.” In the early days, the business focused primarily on double glazing products, building consumer-facing websites and launching the now well-known Trusted Local Supplier brand. A shift to a cost-per-lead model in 2007 helped the company scale quickly, reaching 100,000 leads generated just a year later. Today, the company offers a range of services designed to maximise installers’ conversion opportunities, including its premium leads service which delivers guaranteed, pre-arranged appointments with homeowners in selected postcodes. Reflecting on the company’s journey, Andy said the focus remains firmly on supporting installers for the next phase of growth. “Our philosophy has always been about creating a win-win for both installers and homeowners,” he said. “Twenty years on, that commitment hasn’t changed, and we’re excited about what the future holds for Leads 2 Trade and our members.”

Glazerite strengthens Scottish team with new Area Sales Manager

lazerite has appointed Rhys Carmichael as Area Sales Manager for Scotland, bringing several years of fenestration industry experience to its sales team. Based in Scotland, Rhys will work closely with customers across the region, providing a dedicated local point of contact and drawing on his industry knowledge to support their day-to-day requirements. Billy Hawes, National Sales Manager at Glazerite, says: “We’re delighted to welcome Rhys to the team. He brings valuable industry experience and a strong understanding of the importance of developing lasting relationships with customers. “Scotland is an important market for Glazerite and having Rhys based in the region means he can work closely with our customers, get to know their businesses and provide dedicated support.” Rhys joins Glazerite as the fabricator develops its presence across Scotland, supported by its Northwest manufacturing division and established delivery network. The Northwest site has built significant experience in supplying the Scottish market, including factory-glazed products and higher volumes of tilt and turn and fully reversible windows. Its delivery network serves customers across Scotland, including locations as far north as Peterhead and Inverness. Having completed his induction across the Glazerite Group, Rhys has spent time with teams across the business, developing his knowledge of its manufacturing operations, product range and customer support. He is now looking forward to meeting customers across Scotland and putting that knowledge into practice. Rhys says: “I’m really pleased to be joining Glazerite and I’m looking forward to getting out and meeting customers across Scotland. “Having spent the last several years working in the industry, I know how valuable strong supplier relationships are. My focus will be on getting to know our customers, understanding their businesses and making sure they have the support they need from Glazerite.”

38 | glazing summit | october 2026

AI helps rethink lead generation

A lively industry panel on AI and lead generation in fenestration laid bare a market that’s tougher, savvier and more complex than before Even content realism gets a lift: AI can swap out unflattering interiors or composite more relatable homeowners into scenes, creating authentic-seeming materials grounded in actual project photography. And in the home, Ultraframe is testing coaching apps trained on product specifics to arm salespeople with prompts, objection handling and micro-lessons moments before the call. For agency founder Chris, the moment feels like rare earlymover territory in a sector accustomed to incremental gains. Yes, it’s a difficult market after the post-Covid boom faded, but AI offers compounding advantages: faster qualification, tighter conversionrate optimisation, better process automation and cross-system integrations that remove long-standing bottlenecks. Not all of this is “AI” per se; sometimes it’s a smarter telephony stack or transcripts that enable performance analysis and script refinement. The message is pragmatic: start somewhere, and start now. Whether image generation, SEO tuned for AI agents, or lead handling, quick wins are within reach – provided teams bring their people along, build confidence with proofs of concept, and accept that strategy and critical thinking will differentiate outcomes.

he conversation titled ‘Rethinking lead generation in the glazing sector’ at the recent 2026 Glazing Summit brought together three perspectives across the value chain: a systems manufacturer ( Deceuninck UK , marketing manager, Gabby Handy), a supplier-led lead engine (Ultraframe , marketing director, Alex Hewitt) and an AI-first agency founder ( Chris Tahmasaby , of ICAAL Digital Marketing , a Google Premier partner). The through-line was unmistakable: AI is no silver bullet, but it is already reshaping how brands are found, how leads are responded to, and how sales teams perform. From the factory floor to the front door, Handy outlined a notable pivot. Manufacturers historically trained their marketing energy on intermediaries – fabricators and installers – not homeowners. That’s changing. Consumers arrive with sharper tools and higher expectations, triangulating websites, social feeds and reviews before they ever enquire. To answer this, Deceuninck built an energy savings calculator that translates technical performance (U-values and flush casements) into household economics: what upgrading windows and doors might save on bills. It’s brand preference earned through practical utility, not just product facts. If awareness is the top of the funnel, conversion hinges on what happens next. Hewitt described how Ultraframe shifted from broad national advertising to hyper-local campaigns tuned to individual retailers, backed by heavy data analysis on what converts. The sensitive choke point, she said, is the gap between enquiry and appointment. Response speed and product knowledge in that first interaction can make or break outcomes, particularly with new, higher-ticket propositions like Hup. Ultraframe has introduced appointment booking services staffed by product experts and is trialling “lead engager” automation – instant WhatsApp messages to validate numbers and prompt bookings. The results are striking: in cases where appointment services are deployed, conversion from lead to booking jumps from 5% to 35%. AI across the funnel That immediacy relies increasingly on AI across the funnel. Hewitt’s team uses Copilot to scale copy variants across regions, Higgsfield AI to transform installation photos into richer video narratives, and Claude to interrogate campaign performance.

Insufficient in-house skill Still, the challenges are real. A poll of attendees said the biggest barrier to adopting AI is insufficient in-house skill. Hewitt added a caution from the frontier: building closed, custom language models is costlier and slower than expected. New tech takes time, and underestimating that can derail momentum. Handy raised another frontier issue: AI agents are now gatekeepers of discovery. Marketing content must be legible to machines as well as humans if brands hope to be recommended when a homeowner asks an assistant for solutions. That means clearer value propositions and problem-led messaging, not just specifications. With all the emphasis on automation, each panellist circled back to the role of people. Chris called it augmentation, not replacement: automations compress time-to-contact and qualify faster, but humans are the pilots who add value where it matters – the complex call, the tailored proposal, the trust-building moment. Hewitt was unequivocal: for high-ticket items, homeowners still want to buy from people. The likely shift is a performance divide between AI-enabled salespeople and those who aren’t. Handy warned against “AI slop”, the creeping risk that over-automated, generic content undermines credibility. Thought leadership, real expertise and brand trust remain the fundamentals that spark desire and enquiries. Will AI make salespeople more or less important A final poll asked whether AI would make salespeople more or less important within five years. The room was uncertain. The panel skewed towards “more important”, but more enabled: betterprepared with data, coached by tools, faster at answering wellinformed customers. That matches the market reality: homeowners have AI in their pockets too. Brands must be present across more touchpoints than ever and craft content that answers real questions, not just broadcasts features. If the next 12 months have a watchword, it’s focus. Handy’s advice: use AI to accelerate internal processes, but invest externally in the people behind the brand to build trust. Chris’s: prioritise the funnel – not just filling the top, but squeezing more value from every lead with AI-enhanced conversion. Hewitt’s: guard every lead “from cradle to grave” with the automation and intelligence now available. Amid the noise, the fundamentals hold. Be findable. Be fast. Be human – and be better at being human with help from machines.

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40 | general feature | october 2026

20 years fitting Apeer doors in Didcot homes After two decades Didcot Windows continues to turn to Apeer as its sole supplier of composite doors

wenty years and more than 1200 doors later, Didcot Windows continues to turn to Apeer as its sole supplier of composite doors. The first order from managing director Jodie Jefferson was placed in the spring of 2006 – and those orders are still being regularly logged with the Ballymena manufacturer with no issues, and excellent service. Established in 1988, Didcot Windows evolved as a company that valued the people who worked for it, that committed to the quality of the products it installed, and that put loyalty above all else. Apeer immediately resonated with these principles when it first started working with Jodie and her team back in 2006 – principles that continue to form the foundation of their working relationship. “I first joined Didcot Windows at the age of 18 and quickly understood that the success of the business was founded on the strength of its people,” said Jodie Jefferson. “While the Apeer doors are definitely superior in terms of looks and functionality, the fact that the company itself subscribes to the same principles of people first is why the relationship is so strong.” Didcot is a relatively affluent area, so trade has remained buoyant for the installation company, which runs three teams of fitters. Jodie, who bought out the company in 2020 when the original owner Trevor Jones took retirement, is driven by the desire to create a good working environment for everyone involved in the business. “We are powered by trust, both among ourselves, and with our suppliers too,” continued Jodie. “That trust filters throughout the chain – right through to our customers. We’re even replacing windows today for customers that we had more than thirty years

ago. That is the power of longevity in our industry.” Word of mouth is a crucial element of Didcot Windows’ marketing activity. The company is particularly busy replacing front doors in a number of local new housing developments, where new owners are reporting on several issues with their existing doors – particularly damp and slug infestation, of all things. Apeer’s steel blue colour is particularly popular as a replacement door, and Jodie has a range of colours and styles on display in its showroom. “Despite being in the digital age – and social media is something we do embrace – the showroom remains a crucial element of our marketing,” said Jodie. “From unexpected drop-ins to weekend open days, local homeowners prefer to visit to see and feel the quality of the Apeer doors, and get a tangible experience of their performance. The conversion rate once someone has visited the showroom is significantly higher.” “Jodie and her team at Didcot Windows make the challenge of manufacturing so worthwhile,” added Asa McGillian, managing director of Apeer. “The care and attention they pour into creating a welcoming and stable trading environment for both employees and customers alike must be met by providing them with quality product that performs over and above market comparables. 20 years is a significant milestone in a working relationship, and we will continue to pull all stops out to guarantee another 20 years of problem-free door supply!” E: info@didcotwindows.co.uk

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42 | general feature | october 2026

Delivering reliability through its own fleet

Ian Short, Managing Director of Morley Glass, explains how its own delivery fleet helps customers avoid delivery headaches

an Short, Managing Director of Morley Glass, highlights how important delivery reliability is to integral blind customers and why operating its own fleet of delivery vehicles is key to keeping the business in pole position. Late or incomplete deliveries are a bugbear right across the window and door industry. An occasional issue can be manageable, but when they become a regular occurrence, unreliable deliveries can quickly cost fabricators and installers dear due to disruption in manufacturing and delays in being able to complete customer installations. While there is no specific research showing the scale and cost of the problem in the window and door industry, we can get a good indication by looking at surveys from the UK construction sector as a whole. Surveys by the FMB (Federation of Master Builders) and the CIOB (Chartered Institute of Building) suggest that 95% of all building projects experience delays, with 35% of these delays resulting from late deliveries. The impacts can be significant, whether you operate a multimillion pound factory or you work for yourself as an installer on small domestic window and door projects. Each week of delay can cost thousands and for smaller businesses a single missed delivery can wipe out the profit on a job. Minimising the risk of delays One of the most important ways we maximise delivery reliability is to minimise risk in the final leg of the supply chain for integral blinds – the stage that takes products from our dispatch door to our customers’ premises or the project site. Key to this is our fleet of 28 vans, all owned, operated and branded by Morley Glass. Despite the best intentions of outsourced logistics providers, getting a product from A to B on time can be complex, with many uncontrollable factors. In our view, the risks of outsourcing are too great. A cornerstone of the Morley Glass service has always been industry-leading lead times which requires all stages of the process to be efficient and reliable. Fast quotations and quick turnarounds on the manufacture of bespoke integral blind units become almost irrelevant if the delivery stage impacts the supply chain. Having a focus on how we supply orders is, therefore, crucial to being able to fulfil our commitment to supply our made-to-measure Uni-Blinds® integral blind units in as little as 10-12 working days when ordered by the 10am order cut-off point on Thursdays (subject

to international public holidays). Owning our delivery fleet also means our drivers become an extension of the Morley Glass team. They understand our products, our customers and the importance of delivering complete orders on time, and this embeds a level of accountability that is much harder to achieve through third-party logistics providers. Delivering integral blinds and improved sustainability In addition to ensuring we can have greater control over deliveries, which we can plan accurately using state-of-the-art software to minimise fuel costs and CO2 emissions, operating our own vans is key to our sustainability strategy. Our vans are also used to collect thousands of post-consumer IGUs from our installer customers to be recycled rather than being thrown into the general waste skip – these IGUs are brought to our factory to be crushed into cullet, which we supply as a valuable raw material for the remanufacture of glass for windows and doors. This dual purpose makes our van fleet a valuable asset which is crucial to the success of our business. In a market where delays can quickly become costly, having confidence that products will arrive complete and on time is not just a convenience, we believe it’s a competitive advantage. www.morleyglass.co.uk

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44 | heritage feature | october 2026

Midland Aluminium shows how one supplier can help installers deliver a complete heritage look throughout the home

Delivering a complete heritage look I nstallers are increasingly told to specify from a single trusted range rather than piecing together products from different suppliers, and Staffordshire-based trade fabricator Midland Aluminium believes it has built exactly that: a coherent range that works as well on a homeowner’s front door as it does in their kitchen extension. The company’s heritage aluminium windows and doors are proving popular with installers working on period properties and conservation area projects. Slim sightlines and an authentic steel-look aesthetic replicate the appearance of original steel glazing while modern thermal performance and security keep the products compliant with PAS24, Document Q and Document L. The two heritage door systems, SteelLook External and Steel-Look Internal, are supplied direct to trade with a 24-hour quote turnaround and free nationwide delivery as standard. Each system is designed as a straight replacement for tired old steel windows and doors on renovation projects. What sets Midland apart, according to Director Jason Wootton, is the way the range extends beyond the front door. “Steel-look used to be an external trend only,” said Jason. “Now it has become one of the most requested looks for internal spaces too, and homeowners want a design that runs through their whole home instead of stopping at the threshold.”

A complete package Midland’s internal steel-look range includes room dividers, sliding screens and hinged doors that give installers an easy upsell alongside heritage windows and doors. The systems share the same slim sightlines and finish, letting installers offer a genuine internal-external match rather than two different looks under one roof. “When you can offer a customer the same aesthetic on their new kitchen doors as their internal partition, that’s a real point of difference,” added Jason. Steel-look steps inside Steel-look room dividers have grown quickly in the UK because they let homeowners’ section off space without blocking light, an appeal that has traditionally driven demand for glazed external doors. Midland’s internal steel-look products bring that same industrial chic finish indoors at a price installers can build a healthy margin around, while still meeting a growing demand for open plan homes that can be closed off when needed. “A lot of installers came to steel-look through windows and doors, then realised their customers wanted the same look on a home office partition or a hallway screen,” said Jason. “Being able to supply that from the same place, at trade prices, with a 24

hour quote turnaround, makes their life a lot easier.” One supplier, no compromise The appeal for installers is straightforward; fewer suppliers to manage, fewer inconsistencies to explain to customers and one point of contact for products that share the same design. It also makes life easier at quote stage, since installers pricing a whole-house project no longer need to juggle lead times and specifications from separate manufacturers. “Installers don’t want to become experts in three different ranges from three different companies just to give a customer one look,” said Jason. “Our job is to make it simple: heritage or steel-look, inside or outside, it’s one call to Midland.” With free nationwide delivery, PAS24, Document Q and Document L compliance across the range and trade pricing designed to protect installer margins, Midland Aluminium’s message to the trade is clear: one supplier can cover the whole project, from the front door to the room divider at the back of the house. “We built this range because installers kept asking for it,” added Jason. “They wanted one supplier who could give them a look for the whole house, not just half of it.” E: sales@midlandaluminium.co.uk

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46 | heritage feature | october 2026

Heritage character meets modern performance as Rehau’s Heritage profiles help shape new homes at Welborne Garden Village

Heritage style and modern performance W elborne in Hampshire is a new generation sustainable garden village delivering 6,000 homes designed to blend traditional architectural character with highperforming houses built for the future. As part of the project, Roseview Windows was selected as the fabricator to supply Rehau’s Heritage vertical slider windows, for both domestic and commercial properties throughout Welborne. A perfect match With its focus on creating an authentic heritage aesthetic supported by modern, low maintenance materials, Welborne was the perfect fit for Roseview Windows. It appealed to the team because Welborne sits exactly where they are operating in the market – blending sustainability with visual innovation. Welborne is being built to a Design Code set by the award-winning Architectural Designer Ben Pentreath OBE and reflects the traditions of Hampshire architecture and Garden City styles. Welborne’s homes require windows that deliver traditional sash styling in line with the heritage-led design intent, as well as high-performance PVC-U construction to ensure durability and low maintenance requirements. Heritage, modern performance The Welborne team selected Rehau’s Heritage profile system in Roseview’s Ultimate Rose finish for its ability to replicate traditional timber aesthetics

while delivering advanced modern performance. Providing thermal efficiency, aesthetic authenticity, security and longterm durability are all factors essential to Welborne’s vision and are central to achieving a cohesive heritage feel throughout. Inspired by the Garden City movement, Welborne blends the best elements of town and country life, bringing together a sustainable, thoughtfully designed community that celebrates heritage architecture and is close to nature, while offering the practicalities and comforts of modern life. The Arts and Crafts, Garden City and Queen Anne styles draw on characteristic features of these traditions, ranging from individuality and variety to the use of local materials, along with a deeply rooted connection to nature and the surrounding land.

Bespoke requirements To meet the detailed design specifications, Roseview supplied units built to a defined configuration. This included a white woodgrain finish, eclipse vents, Secured by Design (SBD) protection and VFlex + 4/20/4 soft clear (no-low-iron) glazing on all windows. To secure the contract, Roseview demonstrated its ability to achieve U-values of 1.3 throughout Welborne, which the Rehau Heritage vertical slider window system delivered. Roseview has worked in partnership with Rehau for over 40 years, making them one of the longest-standing fabricators using the Heritage system. This long-standing experience has ensured the smooth and reliable delivery to a highly individualised specification, with zero challenges throughout the fabrication process. Supporting a thriving community Welborne is creating a thriving new community with characterful design and nature at its heart. Using Rehau’s Heritage vertical slider windows, Roseview has been part of realising this vision, keeping authenticity at the forefront and providing the long-term performance benefits expected of modern housebuilding. This partnership highlights how heritage aesthetics and PVC-U innovation can work together to create homes that look traditional, deliver exceptional longterm performance and require minimal maintenance. Keane Grantham, Marketing Manager at Roseview Windows, said: “Welborne has been an exciting project for our team to work on. It’s rare that an opportunity comes along that is so closely tied to your values. It has been fantastic to showcase what we’re all about. The Rehau Heritage profile in the Ultimate Rose specification was the perfect choice for Welborne, delivering not only on style, but on performance too.” Luke Boban, Head of Sales, at Rehau, said: “Welborne provided a strong platform to showcase the Rehau Heritage vertical sash at its best. It proves that PVC-U can work for heritage-led design. It’s a job we’re genuinely proud of, and one we’ve been delighted to deliver alongside Roseview Windows. To find out more about Rehau’s Heritage vertical slider, please visit https://window. rehau.com/uk-en/pvcu-windows-doorscomposite-curtain-walling/pvcu-rehauwindows/rehau-heritage-vertical-slider

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48 | heritage feature | october 2026

Dene Rylands of UK Doors Online explores how heritage-inspired windows blend traditional style with modern performance

Character’s comeback in modern homes O ver the years, I’ve spoken with countless homeowners who felt they were facing a difficult choice when replacing their windows. They either had to preserve the traditional character of their property or opt for modern windows that delivered better energy efficiency, security and ease of maintenance. Thankfully, that’s no longer the case. In my time in the industry, one of the biggest shifts I’ve seen is the growing demand for windows that combine classic styling with modern performance. Whether it’s a Victorian terrace, an Edwardian semi, a country cottage or even a newer property looking to add a touch of heritage charm, homeowners are increasingly looking for products that offer the best of both worlds. For me, this isn’t just a passing trend. It’s a reflection of how people feel about their homes. More than ever, homeowners want spaces that feel personal, authentic and full of character. Homeowners are looking beyond trends A few years ago, contemporary designs dominated the market. Minimalist frames, large expanses of glass and sleek aesthetics were what customers required. While those styles remain popular, I’ve noticed many customers now looking for something with a bit more personality. They want to enhance their home’s original features rather than replace them with something that feels generic. Windows play a huge role in this. They’re one of the first things people notice about a property and can have a significant impact on kerb appeal. The right windows can completely transform a home while still respecting its heritage.

windows. Character without compromise One misconception I still come across is that maintaining a property’s character means sacrificing performance. In reality, today’s systems are designed to provide excellent thermal efficiency, weather resistance and security while retaining traditional design features. As energy costs remain a concern for many households, homeowners understandably want products that can help create warmer, more comfortable homes. Heritageinspired windows can now achieve this without detracting from the property’s appearance. From my perspective, that’s one of the biggest reasons demand continues to grow.

Why vertical slides remain popular One product that perfectly reflects the growing demand for character-led home improvements is the vertical slide window. Long associated with Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian properties, these traditional sash-style windows continue to be a popular choice for homeowners looking to keep the heritage feel of a home. I often speak to homeowners who are impressed by how closely today’s systems replicate the look of original timber sash

Colour choices are driving individuality Another trend I’ve noticed is the increasing importance of colour and finish. White windows will always have their place, but more homeowners are exploring colours that complement the age and style of their property. Shades such as Chartwell Green, Cream and Agate Grey remain incredibly popular, while woodgrain finishes are helping homeowners achieve a traditional appearance without the maintenance associated with timber.

We’re also seeing more customers choose dual-colour options, allowing them to maintain a heritage look externally while creating a different aesthetic inside the home. It’s these choices that help homeowners create something unique rather than settling for a one-size-fits-all solution. The details matter In my experience, the most successful window projects often come down to the finer details. Features such as Georgian bars, astragal bars, period-inspired hardware and decorative finishes can make a huge difference to the overall appearance of a property. These finishing touches help windows feel authentic and in keeping with the character of the home. I believe the comeback of character is here to stay. Homeowners increasingly want homes that reflect their personality while still meeting the demands of modern living. They want energy efficiency, security and practicality, but they don’t want to lose the individuality and charm that make their property special. At UK Doors Online, we’re seeing growing demand for products that successfully achieve this balance. People want windows that improve comfort, enhance kerb appeal and complement the architecture of their home all at the same time, and we can provide just that!

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october 2026 | machinery | 49

Emplas explains how moving beyond ‘one size fits all’ machinery is helping drive a three-pronged strategy for better quality. We report

Machines that fit F or many fabricators, machinery investment has traditionally meant choosing from a catalogue and hoping the new kit delivers the promised gains, but Emplas is taking a different approach. Faced with a limited footprint, rising quality expectations and a complex product mix, the company is re-imagining how it buys, runs and maintains machinery – and using that as a lever to transform product quality and reliability. At the heart of this shift are three pillars: a new manufacturing design strategy, the introduction of a dedicated Reliability Engineering team, and a suite of live qualitycontrol systems that turn data into action on the shop floor. ‘Off-the-peg’ isn’t good enough Senior Operations Manager, Nigel Scott is candid about where Emplas started: “I’m not from the window industry, and I was surprised to find machines that all did the same thing, no matter what manufacturer I went to. I would describe the options as simply ‘off-the-peg machines’.” But that approach didn’t fit a factory running three shifts in a restricted space, with a complex product range and UKspecific fabrication demands. Instead of accepting off the peg machinery, Emplas turned the model on its head. The multi-award winning fabricator has invited engineers from major suppliers into its Wellingborough site to help them understand the real constraints and quality challenges before proposing solutions. “We’re looking for a partner that is prepared to design the machinery around

Team, machinery suppliers and quality department are all working under the same premise to take those failure modes off the table. It’s a simple but powerful expression of Emplas’ new philosophy: don’t rely on someone remembering – design a system that won’t let it pass.

us. Not the other way around,” explains Nigel Investing in engineering expertise Changing how you buy machines only works if you also change how you run them. Emplas has done that by investing “very heavily” in its engineering team. “The team’s objective is to track breakdowns, and how long it takes to fix them; track to see how long it took to receive the spares and plan the maintenance on the machines,” explains Nigel The goal is simple: maximise the efficiency, utilisation, and revenue generated from existing machinery, without sacrificing quality. 2,000 ways to go wrong One of the more striking admissions from Nigel is just how many potential failure modes Emplas has identified, with the number standing at 2,000. But rather than shrug and accept it, Emplas is using it as a roadmap for improvement. The Reliability Engineering

Quality as data Underpinning the machinery changes is the factory-wide Emplas Operating System, linking operators, machines and jobs into a single digital thread. “Information flow is more important than product output on the shop floor,” says Nigel. “There are 375 people working in our factory environment. To ensure that they have the right information to do the right things, at the right time, to deliver a quality product is a challenge.” Every operator now logs in to their workstation with a unique card. Before they can start, they must complete digital safety checks, creating a time-stamped, auditable record, followed by quality calibration checks with on-screen video instructions. When defects are found downstream, the system sends that information straight back to the operator and process concerned. Looked at in isolation, an engineer here or a screw-counting system there might seem incremental. But viewed together, they mark a significant shift in its approach to machinery investment and quality, with positive results for both Emplas, its staff and its customers. Tel: 01933 674880 E: sales@emplas.co.uk

50 | machinery | october 2026

Matt Thomas, MD at Haffner, explains how digital technology is helping to deliver a more connected approach to customer support

Support that goes beyond the machine I nvesting in fabrication machinery is about far more than the machine itself. Today’s fabricators need visibility, responsive support and efficient communication throughout the entire lifecycle of their machines. Machinery has always been at the heart of an efficient fabrication business. But as manufacturing environments become increasingly sophisticated, the support surrounding that machinery is becoming just as important. For fabricators investing in new machines, there are inevitably a lot of moving parts. From the point an order is placed, customers want to know how their project is progressing, when their machinery will be ready and, crucially, when they can expect delivery and installation. Traditionally, much of that information has been communicated through telephone calls and emails. While these remain important, digital technology gives us the opportunity to make the process more transparent, efficient and accessible. Putting digital tools to work At Haffner, we have invested in two new dedicated management apps that give our customers greater visibility and control at every stage, with both available for use across our complete Haffner, Graf Synergy and FOM Industrie machinery ranges. The first is our Project Management System app, which is available for customers to download from the point a new machine is ordered. The intelligently designed app provides a clear overview of the order status and allows customers to track progress as their machinery moves through the various stages, with live status information through to confirmed delivery and installation dates. For the customer, it provides reassurance and transparency, with the latest information readily available whenever they need it. For us, it creates a more streamlined way of managing communication and ensures everyone involved in the project is working from the same up-to-date information. But support does not end when a machine has been delivered and installed.

Fabrication machinery is a long-term investment and, throughout its working life, there will inevitably be occasions when servicing or technical support is required. In a busy fabrication environment, being able to manage those requests quickly and efficiently is essential. This is where our Service Management app comes into its own. Through a secure customer login, fabricators can raise and manage machinery service requests directly through the system. Customers and the Haffner service team can upload photographs and supporting information, helping our engineers understand the nature of the issue and giving them the information they need to respond effectively. Importantly, the app creates a fully traceable, real-time record of each service request. Rather than information being spread across separate telephone conversations and email exchanges, there is a clear history of the issue, the information supplied and the action being taken. This gives customers greater visibility while allowing our service team to manage

requests efficiently and maintain an accurate service history for the machinery. A long-term commitment Fabricators make significant investments in their production equipment and rightly expect the company supplying that machinery to support them throughout its working life. The machinery itself remains fundamental, but the infrastructure surrounding it has an increasingly important role to play too. Both apps are available to download through the Haffner website and are fully responsive across all devices. Whether customers are operating Haffner, Graf Synergy or FOM Industrie machinery, the apps have been designed to make communication simpler, information more accessible and ongoing support more efficient. As machinery technology continues to evolve, the way we support that machinery must evolve with it. By combining highquality machinery with intelligent digital tools and experienced technical support, we can give customers greater visibility from the moment they place an order and continued support throughout the lifetime of their investment. It’s all part of our commitment to taking machinery support to the next level. www.haffnerltd.com

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52 | machinery | october 2026

Kombimatec gives fabricators headroom for larger aluminium profiles and reinforced PVC-U sections with new upstroke mitre saw

Giving headroom for larger profiles M achinery supplier Kombimatec has introduced a new upstroke mitre saw for larger aluminium systems and heavily reinforced PVC-U sections – the MGS600. One of the practical problems facing fabricators as they diversify is that the saw originally purchased for standard aluminium and PVC-U production may no longer have the capacity to handle larger sections. Kombimatec’s new MGS600 addresses that issue with a 600 mm upstroke saw blade, giving manufacturers the additional headroom to cut larger aluminium profiles and heavily reinforced PVC-U sections without immediately needing another saw.

Flexibility to respond “The additional capacity is increasingly important as manufacturers expand into aluminium bifolds and sliders, commercial shopfronts, lantern roofs and hybrid systems”, said Kombimatec’s managing director David Parsons. “It gives them the flexibility to respond to the increasingly challenging market conditions without significant investment, facilitating growth at minimal risk.” The MGS600 allows fabricators to respond to a broader range of work, while helping them avoid the cost and disruption of adding another machine as their product range develops. The 600 mm upstroke format is designed to support a higher blade speed and a more stable cutting cycle. For fabricators, that means smoother mitres and cleaner edges. On PVC sections, cleaner cuts provide a better starting point for welding. On aluminium, they support clean edges for mechanical jointing, where accuracy and consistency are important to the finished frame. Cut at variable angles The MGS600 can be set to cut at variable angles up to 75 degrees left and right. Vertical and horizontal pneumatic clamps help hold profiles securely, while automatic blade feed, a mist spray device for coolant, an adjustable rear fence and an air gun are included as standard. A key feature for manufacturers is that the MGS600 is designed specifically with operator safety in mind. As an upstroke saw, the blade remains below the bed

until the cutting cycle begins. This helps reduce operator exposure to the blade, keeps the work area cleaner and limits airborne swarf. Additional safeguard during use The interlocking safety guard must be closed and the clamps activated before the saw will operate, while two-button safety operation provides an additional safeguard during use. The MGS600 is a semi-automatic

machine intended for fabricators that need the flexibility to work with a broader range of profile sizes without compromising control over the cutting process. Its combination of capacity, angle adjustment, clamping and guarding makes it a practical addition for businesses moving into larger or more varied products. Tel: 01582 562218 E: sales@kombimatec.com

54 | machinery | october 2026

Windows Active takes a closer look at how fast-growing fabricator Coen Glazing Systems has partnered with Emmegi (UK) for it machinery needs

Showcase for Emmegi’s range of machinery F ast-growing Galway-based fabricator Coen Glazing Systems has strengthened its partnership with Emmegi (UK), adding both a 4-axis Comet X6HP CNC and a Precision RS twin head saw to the Phantomatic M3 CNC it purchased in 2024. The company’s 30,000 ft² factory in Ballinsloe, Galway is rapidly becoming something of a showcase for Emmegi’s range of quality, precision machinery, with a solution crimper also completing the line up. Coen Glazing is a real success story. Founded seven years ago by brothers Niall and Darren Coen initially as a domestic and commercial installer, it has enjoyed unparalleled levels of success since switching to commercial fabrication two years ago. It has seen turnover treble during that time, and is rapidly building a reputation as a ‘go to’ supplier of aluminium windows, doors, curtain walling and associated louvres, briese soleil, cills and flashings for schools, student accommodation, build to rent apartments, hospitals and hotels. It was the award of a large uniform curtain walling contract that prompted the Coen Glazing team to invest in their own fabrication set up. They wanted to be more adaptable and responsive to customers and have more control over quality and efficiency When they contacted the team at Emmegi (UK) to discuss sourcing a machining centre, Emmegi already had the ideal Phantomatic M3 CNC in stock, which they were able to deliver and install within two weeks. Coen Glazing were impressed from the outset with that level of service and efficiency; and

has continued to be impressed with Emmegi ever since. Niall Coen commented: “Choosing Emmegi as our machinery partner has turned out to be a great decision. The customer service is excellent. Jim O’Connell, the Area Sales Manager for Ireland is always available to answer the phone and resolve any issues that might arise and we are never waiting more than one or two days if we need a visit from the service team. The head office team are equally helpful, and all the paperwork and admin associated with buying and servicing is seamless. “Unsurprisingly, Emmegi were the only real choice when we needed to invest in more machinery this year to keep pace with our growth, and we were grateful for Jim’s expert advice in choosing the combination of Comet X6HP and Precision RS saw. These two highly advanced machines are giving us a huge step up in volume and efficiency and mean we can now take on virtually any type and scale of project. “We’re forecasting 50% growth again in 2026 and we have absolute confidence that Emmegi will support us in that.” Jim O’Connell added: “I’ve worked closely with Coen Glazing over the last two years and really understand the strengths and ambitions of the business. I recommended the Comet X6 HP 4-axis CNC because it can do exactly what they need in terms of increasing volumes and optimising efficiency. It has a pendular mode which allows profile to be machined in two independent work areas and two supplementary axes to position the vices and reference stops. That means they

can potentially work on up to four separate pieces at the same time, maximising their throughput. “Similarly, the Precision RS is a high speed, high capacity touch screen controlled twin head saw with a 600mm blade and radial cutting functionality. It is the ideal partner for both the X6 and the M3 and represents a real step up in volume and precision. “We delivered and installed both machines, as well as the accompanying Solution crimper, on time, and our team are available to provide any amount of training and support that Coen Glazing might need.” www.emmegi.com/en/from-a-to-z https://coenglazing.ie

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56 | machinery | october 2026

FGS Managing Director David Cahill combines empathy with practical advice to help glazing factories stay competitive

Lending an empathetic ear to factory managers F GS managing director David Cahill happily lends an empathetic ear to factory managers in glazing companies across the UK, bringing much needed added value advice and suggestions to help them maintain competitive edge in an increasingly fractious and unpredictable market. Alongside practically every single person involved in glazing in the UK, the news concerning the restructuring of one of our biggest glass companies earlier in September hit hard. The loss of jobs, the resulting impact across the supply chain, references to a weak trading environment and spiralling operating costs – these are all tangible issues that so many within our sector are battling with day after day. Yet the outlook doesn’t seem to be getting any more hopeful – despite the proclamations of ‘Hope Again!’ made on recent conference stages! So what are we meant to do with this news going forward? Sink into despair and wait for the inevitable swing of the scythe, or stand firm and plan accordingly, working towards what we trust will eventually signal an upturn in trading conditions.

Building resilience together As I travel around the UK visiting different glass factories, I’m privy to a lot of different stories about how companies are faring, and how different personas behave in terms of dealing with the challenges. And while moaning and groaning plays its inevitable (and important?) role in these conversations, they belie an underlying resilience which is an essential element to us forging forward as intact as possible. Meeting that resilience with practical and viable processing solutions is woven into the very fabric of Flat Glass Solutions and how we operate on behalf of our customers every single day. The machinery is half the story. The journey towards commissioning that machinery is the other half of that story. And that story illustrates what a glass processor should expect from a machinery supplier when it needs to respond to a challenging market. Most importantly, trust is paramount. Building resilience requires unbreakable

trust in those who supply you – not just in the performance of the product, but also in the way in which the supplier deals with things that go wrong (as they inevitably do in the real world). Trust is often hard won but easily lost. It requires consistency, open communication, realistic expectations, an in-depth technical understanding of the issues that affect glass processing at every stage, a transparency that demonstrates that understanding. Any kind of obfuscation can eliminate that trust instantaneously. And it is so obvious to all involved. Expertise that delivers FGS trades on the element of trust. We have already gone through our own intensive due diligence with the various international glass machinery suppliers we represent, so are able to serve the UK market with complete confidence – and that confidence is contagious – allowing us to move forward with expert advice across the manufacturing cycle and production flow. As a result, if factories approach us with issues around bottlenecks, product quality, handling, speed of production, maintenance, operator knowledge and safety – in short any issue that factories are dealing with on a daily basis – FGS’ knowledge and expertise not only grasps the problem immediately, we are able to work towards a solution that is founded on both value for money and operational resilience.

Which in turn leads to overall company resilience. Demand for glazing products in the construction and home improvement sectors is not lessening – it’s just getting pushed down the line. And that is what is contributing massively to the ever more challenging trading environment. ‘Hanging in there’, ‘Soldiering on’, ‘Just about keeping our heads above the water’, ‘Muddling through’ are all phrases that are thrown out to me frequently as I chat with factory managers over mugs of tea the length and breadth of the UK. So during these next few months of winter discontent, if you find yourself running on an empty tank of resilience and confidence when it comes to maintaining production flow, drop me a line then stick on the kettle. FGS can potentially give you a steer to making improvements, and it might only cost you the price of a cuppa! (I’ll even bring the biscuits!) And if I leave you with a dose of Aussie optimism as well, then all the better. FGS is small but perfectly formed when it comes to machinery suppliers, which means we can be flexible and nimble to responding to your concerns. But don’t confuse that for lack of experience – we have access to some world class manufacturing methodologies and our purpose is to nurture those long term partnerships which will enable us all to get through these tough times with a strong brew and a sympathetic ear.

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58 | machinery | october 2026

WPR has introduced the new evolution of its PVC profile wrapping machine with the launch of the Strato Evo machine

The evolution in primer application W PR has just presented STRATO EVO, the new evolution of its PVC profile wrapping machine, built around the one variable that decides success or failure on the line: primer application. Anyone who works daily with PVC window profile wrapping knows where the real risk hides. Tooling, temperatures and line speed all matter, but it is the primer — its thickness, its uniformity, its coverage down to the last centimetre — that ultimately decides whether a profile becomes a finished product or scrap. A few centimetres of uneven coating, invisible to the naked eye during production, can turn metres of profile into costly waste. And by the time the defect surfaces, it is almost always too late to act. WPR has designed STRATO EVO starting from exactly this pain point, listening to the daily needs of production teams and plant managers who live with primer-related risk every shift. The breakthrough: visual primer control The most significant innovation in STRATO EVO is also its most ground-breaking: the first visual primer control system ever integrated into a profile wrapping machine. High-resolution cameras equipped with advanced optical filters verify primer application in real time across every millimeter of profile, catching what the human eye cannot. The instant the system detects an anomaly, a clear alert reaches the operator immediately. No more uncertainty, no more late discoveries: the problem is corrected on the spot, before metres of profile become scrap. This technology — protected by a German utility model application pending — turns primer control from a blind spot into a managed, in-line quality process. Primer handling, redesigned The primer system itself has been rethought end to end. (1). The modular primer cabin can be reconfigured to match the primer in use,

without costly technical interventions. (2). Calibration is simpler too: graduated test tubes now stay fixed in position and are fitted with practical taps, making the procedure faster and safer. (3). The integrated primer feed pump, supplied as standard, ensures precise, stable delivery at every stage — minimising waste and guaranteeing reliable restarts after stoppages. (4). The central blower has also been relocated above the cabin, freeing up workspace, while air tubes running from above give operators easier access to the profile. An operator panel built around people Around this primer-first core, STRATO EVO introduces a completely redesigned operator panel, with an interface as intuitive as a smartphone. Key functions stay visible, controls are just a few taps away. The split screen mode lets operators monitor process parameters and machine status at once, each configuring the display to their own workflow — with notifications arriving proactively, before small issues become costly stoppages. A full support ecosystem, right at the machine Directly from the panel, operators reach a complete support environment: interactive video tutorials on production, cleaning and maintenance; WPR’s MyHub

platform, with manuals, spare parts search and ordering, and 3D machine visualisation; and EVA, a virtual assistant trained exclusively on WPR’s internal technical documentation, ready to answer questions and suggest improvements — like an experienced colleague always at the workstation. Smarter safety New LED optical barriers signal errors at a glance and can be managed via smartphone app, no specialist equipment required. Entry and exit guides now slide on dedicated vertical rods, adapting to any profile type — including those with negative development below the transport wheels — without sacrificing operator protection. “Working with STRATO EVO truly becomes natural. Technology adapts to people, not the other way round.” www.wpr-machines.com

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60 | machinery | october 2026

Joedan chooses Haffner for major Isle of Wight manufacturing expansion

eading machinery specialist Haffner has been chosen by Joedan Windows & Doors as its machinery partner for a major new manufacturing facility on the Isle of Wight. The investment marks a significant milestone for Joedan as the longestablished window and door manufacturer brings PVC-U fabrication in-house as part of its ambitious growth plans. The new manufacturing facility is located on Joedan’s 3.5-acre site on the Isle of Wight. It will become the company’s second manufacturing facility and forms part of a wider £3m investment programme designed to support Joedan’s plans to double annual revenues to £35m by 2030. Phase one has seen Haffner supply a comprehensive package of PVC-U fabrication machinery, including a TT405 Double Mitre Saw, TV193 Automatic V-Notch Saw, KB516 Single Head Reverse Butt and Cill Welder, SMR4 Four Head Welder, CA117 Transom Cleaner, CN770/20 CNC Corner Cleaner, TC294/20 Automatic Bead Saw and MS300 Digital Measuring System. The Haffner team has worked closely with Joedan throughout the project, advising on both the machinery specification and complete factory layout. This included optimising machinery positioning and product flow to support an efficient operation from the outset. Bryan Dando, Commercial Director at Haffner, said: “This is a very exciting investment from Joedan and we are

delighted to have been chosen as their machinery partner for this important development.” He continued: “When you are creating a new manufacturing facility from the ground up, there is an opportunity to consider every element of the production process. We have worked closely with the Joedan team to develop a solution that will deliver the efficiency and capacity they need today, while also taking their longer-term plans into account.” Planning permission has already been granted for a further extension to the site, which will provide the additional manufacturing space required for phase two and allow production capacity to increase as the business continues to grow. The expansion is expected to deliver significant economic benefits for the Isle of Wight, with Joedan’s plans expected to grow its Island workforce to around

150 employees, including apprenticeship opportunities. Joseph Purcaro, Managing Director at Joedan Windows & Doors, said: “This is a really exciting moment for Joedan. We’ve always believed in taking a long-term approach to the business, and this new facility is a significant step forward in that journey. It gives us the opportunity to bring PVC-U fabrication in-house, invest in the latest machinery and continue developing our product offering as the business grows.” “Haffner has been a fantastic partner throughout the project. Their team took the time to understand our ambitions and worked closely with us to create a manufacturing setup that meets our needs today and supports our future growth. We’re especially proud to be making this investment on the Isle of Wight, creating new opportunities, supporting local employment and growing our presence in the years ahead.” With over 40 years’ experience, Joedan is one of the country’s longestrunning independent window and door manufacturers. Its established 32,000 sq ft Tewkesbury manufacturing facility produces the company’s Lusso aluminium window and door range, while Joedan already has a strong retail and design centre presence on the Isle of Wight. The new facility will further strengthen its manufacturing capabilities to support its growing customer base.

Automated machinery that boosts output and pays its own way

or busy fabricators who are looking for straightforward ways to increase output, automating manual manufacturing processes is the obvious solution. Increased productivity isn’t the only benefit - automated machinery helps to reduce waste, save on labour costs, prevent operational bottlenecks, eliminate manual measuring errors and reduce unproductive time lost to manual adjustments. “Automating more processes in your factory is a sure-fire way to future-proof your business,” explains Danny Jones, Sales Director at Stuga. “I’ve seen many UK factory set-ups where manual processes such as cill preparation cause operational bottlenecks, particularly for fabricators who produce a large number of bay and bow window styles. “At Stuga, we understand that a machinery purchase represents a significant investment, and fabricators need a clear picture of the impact that a new machine can make. That’s why we take the time to

analyse the output, potential labour savings and waste management figures to deliver a clear ROI figure, based on each individual customer. “If fabricators can see exactly how soon a machine is going to pay for itself, it makes the decision-making process that much easier.” A perfect example of this is Stuga’s Rebuilt AutoCut Cill Saw. In stock now and available in 3-5 weeks, this standalone, single-operator sawing centre bridges the gap between manual processing and highefficiency factory automation. Rebuilt in the UK using repurposed steelwork, everything that moves, powers or controls the machine is new, and it carries the same warranty as any new machine. Danny adds: “The beauty of this machine is in the simplicity of the solution it offers - one operator and one machine for square, mitre and variable-angle bay cills, with no tool changes and no manual angle setting. “On labour savings alone, it can pay for

itself in less than two years. If you’d like me to calculate your exact payback, give me a call.”

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62 | fabrication | october 2026

Joedan partners with Eurocell as it prepares to manufacture Logik products as part of the next phase of its PVC-U growth

Supporting next phase of PVC-U growth F amily-owned window and door company Joedan has selected Eurocell as its PVC-U profile systems partner as it prepares to begin manufacturing Eurocell Logik products at its Isle of Wight operation. Founded in 1985 by John and Nicky Purcaro, Joedan has grown into an established designer, manufacturer and installer of aluminium and PVC-U windows and doors. Three generations of the family are now involved in the business, which operates design centres in Tewkesbury, Winchester and Newport on the Isle of Wight. The new partnership marks an important step in Joedan’s long-term growth strategy, bringing PVC-U fabrication into its own manufacturing operation and complementing its established aluminium capabilities. Joedan will initially manufacture the Logik chamfered system, with Eurocell’s engineering team working alongside Joedan to establish the factory, train its production team and prepare the manufacturing line for full production. This will be followed by ongoing technical, commercial and specification support as Joedan develops its PVC-U offering. Joseph Purcaro, Managing Director at Joedan, said: “Bringing PVC-U manufacturing into our own operation is an important part of Joedan’s next phase of growth. It will give us greater control over quality, supply and customer service while allowing us to offer a stronger combination of aluminium and PVC-U products. “We chose Eurocell because it is a recognised and trusted brand, but equally important was the quality of the people behind it. The communication and support from David and the wider Eurocell team have been superb. “We see this as a long-term partnership that will help us build our manufacturing capability steadily and sustainably, without compromising the quality standards on which Joedan has built its reputation.” The initial focus will be on supporting Joedan’s established retail operation before the company expands its presence in trade supply, new build and light-commercial markets.

Joedan sees particular potential in education, care, local-authority and refurbishment projects, where its ability to manufacture both aluminium and PVC-U products will enable it to offer a broader and more competitive package. The business already operates within a comprehensive framework of independently assessed product, fabrication and installation standards, with accreditations including British Standards certification and auditing, PAS 24, FENSA and Secured by Design recognition. Joseph added: “For a business of our size, the breadth of standards we work to is relatively unusual, but it gives customers confidence in how we manufacture and install our products.” David Woolley, Head of Sales at Eurocell, said: “Joedan is a highly respected family business with more than 40 years of industry experience and a clear ambition for the future. From the outset, it was evident that the business wanted more than a profile supplier. “Joedan’s strong family ethos, commitment to quality and ambition to grow make it a natural fit for Eurocell. Our teams are fired up and working closely with the business to ensure the right people, processes and technical foundations are in place before full production begins.

“We are delighted that Joedan has placed its trust in Eurocell and look forward to supporting the business as the first Logik products come off the line in November and as its future plans develop.” The partnership forms part of Joedan’s wider investment programme on the Isle of Wight. Through a phased programme of development, the business intends to increase production capacity, establish a trade offering and use Eurocell’s specification expertise to grow its commercial and new-build opportunities. Joedan founder John Purcaro said: “Joedan has always been built around family values, trusted relationships and doing the right thing for our customers. More than 40 years after we started the business, it is extremely rewarding to see three generations of our family involved and planning for its future. “The Eurocell partnership gives us a strong foundation for the next chapter. It brings together Joedan’s experience and ambition with Eurocell’s products, people and technical capability. “We have always believed in investing for the long term. Even in a challenging market, businesses must continue to develop their people, products and facilities if they want to create something that will last for future generations.” www.joedan.co.uk/ www.eurocell.co.uk/fabricator-accountbenefits

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64 | fabrication | october 2026

Heritage Trade Frames is entering an important new phase of growth, says Head of Sales and Marketing Lee Darcy

Continuing to invest and prepare for change T here is no getting away from the fact that the fenestration market remains challenging. Costs continue to put pressure on businesses, consumer confidence can change quickly and installers are having to work harder than ever for every sale. Against that backdrop, it would be easy to become cautious, delay investment and wait for greater certainty. At Heritage Trade Frames, we are taking a different approach. We have always believed that you cannot build a business for the long term by standing still. Markets change, products evolve and customer expectations increase. Our responsibility is to evolve too, so our customers have a trade supply partner with the capacity, capability and product range to support their businesses. That philosophy is behind one of the most significant periods of investment in our history. Early next year, we will have moved into our new purpose-built 120,000 sq ft headquarters at Arrow Point in Bolton. For the first time, our PVC-U, aluminium and composite fabrication operations will be brought together under one roof, creating a more streamlined manufacturing operation. The investment reflects the growth we are already seeing. Over the last five

years, Heritage Trade Frames has doubled in size. Today we manufacture more than 2,800 products every week and, once our new headquarters is fully operational, that capacity will increase to 5,000 frames per week. Alongside the relocation, we are making a significant investment in new fabrication

machinery, further increasing output and strengthening our manufacturing capabilities. For our customers, that additional capacity means we can continue to meet demand without compromising on the quality, reliability or service they expect from us. But capacity is only part of the picture. We also need to recognise where the market is heading and make sure our customers have access to the products they need to respond. Energy efficiency is a good example. Changing Building Regulations and the Future Homes Standard are putting an increasing focus on thermal performance, so our approach has been to prepare early rather than wait for change to arrive. Our investment in Regency Triple® featuring Corning® Enlighten™ Glass is part of that approach. Recent testing of our Profile 22 range achieved a whole-window U-value of 0.84 W/m2K for the casement window, while PVC-U doors achieved 1.00 W/m2K and under. It gives our customers access to a high-performance whole-house window and door solution at a time when greater energy efficiency is a key priority across the market. The same thinking underpins our wider investment programme. Whether it’s products or manufacturing, we want to anticipate what the market will require rather than having to catch up when it changes. That matters even more in a volatile market. Installers need continuity of supply and dependable service, while access to higher-performing products gives them more opportunities to differentiate their businesses and compete on more than price. Expansion on this scale is significant at any time, but particularly in the current market. We aren’t immune to the pressures facing the wider industry, but more than 35 years in business has taught us to take a long-term view. The next few months will be focused on bringing our operations together at Arrow Point and managing that transition carefully. For our customers, it will be business as usual, while for Heritage Trade Frames it represents a significant change in the scale of our manufacturing operation. In a market that remains difficult to predict, we believe continuing to invest and prepare for change is the right approach. www.heritagetradeframes.co.uk

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66 | fabrication | october 2026

As AI and digital tools reshape window and door manufacturing, Emplas is leading the way with its use of smarter systems

Driving the smarter future of fabrication A s manufacturing continues to evolve, the role of data and digital technology in window and door fabrication is becoming impossible to ignore. Across the industry, manufacturers are moving away from traditional reactive processes and towards smarter, data-led operations that improve quality, efficiency and consistency. From machine performance and production throughput to operator interactions and product movement across the factory floor, manufacturing data now plays a central role in understanding how a business operates and where improvements can be made. For national, multi-award-winning fabricator, Emplas, the focus is not simply on collecting information, but on using it effectively. “At Emplas, it’s all about managing information and creating reports which are utilised by different departments to help make informed decisions,” says Dawid Hajduk, Operations Support Leader, Emplas. With this information-led approach, Emplas is able to build a clearer picture of how products move through manufacturing and where efficiencies can be gained. Through over 120 scan stations positioned across the factory, the business can monitor where frames travel, which machines they pass through and who has handled them during production. The result is improved traceability and invaluable operational insights.

“We collect a lot of data telling us where frames and products have travelled throughout the factory, who’s touched them and what machines they’ve been on,” says Dawid. “I feel like AI will transform manufacturing in terms of being able to access and analyse data a lot better, provide smarter solutions and generate ideas which people or teams might not think of themselves,” Dawid adds. While artificial intelligence is still emerging within the fenestration sector, its potential within manufacturing is significant. Rather than replacing people, AI gives teams the ability to process large amounts of information far more quickly and identify trends, bottlenecks or opportunities that may otherwise go unnoticed. For Emplas, the practical applications are already in progress. Internal systems and digital tools are being developed to streamline reporting, improve workflow

visibility and replace slower manual processes. This shift from manual reporting to smarter dashboards and automated systems is helping departments access information quicker for a faster response. Instead of waiting for problems to occur, manufacturing teams can identify patterns early, anticipate issues and refine processes to improve performance. Smarter manufacturing also plays a critical role in product quality and safety, as Emplas’ use of documented control tooling technology, adapted from the automotive industry, demonstrates. Behind the scenes, specialised tooling monitors the number of screws fitted into hinges and records the torque applied to every installation. The system ensures screws are inserted correctly and at the right tension, reducing the risk of failure while creating a full digital trace for every sash produced. “A sash falling out of a window can kill or injure a person,” explains Dawid. “The guns help remove human error and make sure the screw goes in straight at the correct tension to hold the hinge in place. That process also gives us peace of mind, because we can log and trace every screw to every sash in the background.” With Emplas manufacturing more than 5,000 windows each week, that level of process control delivers not just operational reassurance, but a stronger quality proposition for trade customers. “The technology has come over from the automotive industry,” Dawid says. “It’s the first time it’s been utilised in the window industry, and it provides Emplas with a real USP because it’s such a significant step forward towards safety and customer quality.” By using data to anticipate issues, improve processes and support continuous improvement, smarter manufacturing supports better quality, smoother production, improved reliability and a stronger service proposition for Emplas’ trade customers. As technology marches on, Emplas’ early adoption of digital tools, data analysis and AI will continue to improve consistency, efficiency and service, delivering tangible benefits for customers that extend beyond the manufacturing process. Tel: 01933 674880 E: sales@emplas.co.uk

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68 | fabrication | october 2026

Transforming a home with a Sheerline S1 Broadland Windows’ Matt Bye replaces his ill-fitting, leaking, dated lantern roof after winning Sheerline’s ‘Ugly Lantern’ competition

fter years of putting up with an ill-fitting, leaking and dated lantern roof, Broadland Windows’ Matt Bye finally got the chance to replace it – after winning Sheerline’s ‘Ugly Lantern’ competition. For most people, winning a competition is a pleasant surprise. For Matt, it was the answer to a home improvement problem that had been on his list for years. The competition, launched by Sheerline to find Britain’s ‘ugliest’ lantern roof, invited entrants to submit a photograph of a lantern they would love to see replaced, with the winner receiving a Sheerline S1 Roof Lantern complete with SheerVent®. Matt didn’t have to look far for his entry. The lantern on his own home had been “a bugbear” ever since he moved in. It was the wrong size, poorly fitted, leaking and suffering from blown sealed units, while heavy sections and bulky internal detailing meant it wasn’t allowing enough natural light in. “In other words, everything you don’t want in a lantern!” says Matt. The right product at the right time Replacing the lantern was firmly on Matt’s home improvement list; he had already been researching options. As an experienced window installer, he knew exactly what he was looking for – and the S1 had already caught his attention. Matt had seen the product in the trade press but wanted to experience it for himself. “Seeing it at the FIT Show confirmed my decision,” he explains. “The S1 has a low profile, looks modern and sleek, and the roof vent is definitely one of the best on the market, so all the boxes were ticked.” So, when his photograph was selected as the winning entry in August 2025, the timing couldn’t have been better.

feels bigger, plus it’s got a really modern look to it.” Matt continues, “It’s definitely become my wife’s favourite room. She’s often found relaxing in her chair with a coffee and a book, and sometimes she’ll take her yoga mat in there and do a yoga flow because it’s the most calming room.”

A dramatic transformation Fast forward a year, and the difference the S1 has made is significant. Previously something of a junk room, the space has been transformed into one of the most utilised and relaxing rooms in the house. The new lantern works alongside French doors and a window to flood the room with natural light, while a large mirror maximises the feeling of space. “The S1 has totally changed the room, to the point where it’s now the go-to room in the house,” explains Matt. “It’s light, airy and

Designed to look good from every angle As well as appreciating the difference the S1 has made to his home, Matt has been particularly impressed by its aesthetics. The slim external roof bars give the lantern a clean, contemporary appearance, while the substantial internal bars provide a contrasting sense of depth and solidity. “The slim roof bars look fantastic,” says Matt. “You’ve also got the deep bars inside the roof, to give almost a timber feel and a feeling of strength combined with classic elegance.”

october 2026 | fabrication | 69 Peace of mind as standard For an installer, ease of installation is only part of the equation. Reliability is equally important – particularly when it comes to avoiding costly remedials. Matt says Broadland Windows has now completed several S1 installations without experiencing any call-backs. “As window installers, the last thing we want to do is get call backs,” he explains. “That just drains your resources and your profits.”

Simple for installers, reassuring for homeowners The S1 in his own home was Matt’s second S1 installation, and his experience of fitting the system has reinforced his confidence in the product. He puts some of that simplicity down to the way the system has been designed and supplied. “Having everything labelled up correctly helped from the start, and obviously the fitters watched the video beforehand to make sure things went smoothly,” says Matt.

A product he can confidently recommend Matt’s experience has left him confident that the S1 is a product that Broadland Windows can continue to recommend to customers. “It’s designed with window installers in mind, and the aesthetics are – as the young ones say – on point.” He believes that once an installer has experienced the S1, the combination of appearance, ease of installation and reliability makes it a product they can confidently return to. “Once you’ve done your first S1 install, and you’ve experienced it, it will become a go-to product for retail companies like Broadland Windows; you’ll be able to sell it again and again, knowing that it’s a product you can trust, and which will give fantastic results at the end.” From competition winner to Sheerline customer What started with a photograph of an “ugly” lantern has resulted in a dramatic transformation.

The all new

AluVent from Glazpart

For more information and to find out more: glazpart.com/aluvent 01295 264533 or call to speak with one of the team.

From “everything you don’t want in a lantern” to a room that has become the go-to place to relax, Matt’s S1 has certainly transformed more than just the roof – and Matt is now using more Sheerline products within the business. Broadland Windows is currently developing a new show site, where an S1 lantern will form part of the display. Matt has also purchased a Sheerline Bespoke flat rooflight, while plans are in place to replace another tired conservatory with an S3 Architectural Glazed Roof in 2027 as the team build for the future.

70 | fabrication | october 2026

Glazerite’s Jeff Dunn explains how data helps the fabricator track colour trends, anticipate demand and maintain quality

Using data to stay ahead of colour trends

olour has become a significant part of the window and door market, giving installers a wider range of options to offer homeowners and creating new considerations for fabricators when it comes to manufacturing, stock and product quality. At Glazerite, data plays a central role in managing that choice. The fabricator regularly analyses colour ordering patterns across the business, using monthly data to identify trends and inform decisions around the colours it offers customers. Jeff Dunn, Group Sales & Commercial Director at Glazerite, explains: “We’ve got so much data coming through the business that we can use it to pre-empt something that could give us a problem further down the line, sometimes months in advance. “We’ll analyse the information, get the key people together and make a group commercial decision about that particular colour or process.” Glazerite reviews monthly colour data from its systems houses to understand how demand is changing. Comparing the figures month by month allows the team to identify colours gaining traction and monitor those experiencing a decline in popularity. That information can then be considered alongside manufacturing data. If a particular colour is creating a bottleneck within production, for example,

the team can assess its order volumes and manufacturing performance before deciding how it should be managed within the product offering. Jeff says: “We look at how colour trends are developing and how each option works within our manufacturing processes. That gives us the information to make commercial decisions around lead times and the range we offer.” The same data-led approach extends to components and manufacturing processes. Non-conformance rates are measured across Glazerite’s divisions, giving the business visibility of components that may be affecting production quality. The relevant teams can then review the information and determine the appropriate action. Product quality is also an important consideration when reviewing colour options. Glazerite assesses how colours perform during manufacturing and the quality of the finished product. Where a particular option creates concerns around cutting or final quality, the business can review its place within the range. “We’ve had occasions where colours have been available to the business and we’ve found them difficult to cut or haven’t been happy with the final quality of the product,” Jeff explains. “If we’ve got anything that jeopardises that final quality, we will pull it.”

The data also helps Glazerite look ahead. When selecting colours for factory showroom displays, the business reviews ordering patterns and insight from its systems houses to identify colours with potential for future demand. This helps the team use business data to guide customer conversations about the products and finishes attracting interest in the market. Jeff says: “If we’re doing a showroom at one of our factories, we’ll look at the charts and take advice from the systems house about the next popular colour to show our customers, so we’re taking them in the right direction for what’s going to sell.” With ordering, production and quality data available across the Group, Glazerite can identify trends early and use that information to guide commercial decisions. For Jeff, having access to that level of information gives the business a clearer picture of how its colour offering is performing and where customer demand could be heading next. “We analyse the data and bring the key people together to make those decisions,” he concludes. “It gives us the information to look ahead and make decisions around colour, processes and quality based on what we’re seeing across the business.” T: 01933 443222 E: sales@glazerite.net

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72 | fabrication | october 2026

UK Doors Online launches internal glass partition and door range

K Doors Online has expanded their product portfolio with the launch of a brand-new Internal Glass Partition and Door range, offering a contemporary solution for creating stylish, light-filled interior spaces. The launch of the Internal Glass Partition and Door range represents UK Doors Online’s ongoing commitment to expanding its portfolio with innovative, market-led products that meet the evolving needs of homeowners, trade professionals and commercial customers. Designed to divide spaces while maintaining an open and connected feel, the systems are suitable for a wide variety of applications, including offices, commercial premises, and residential properties. By allowing natural light to flow freely between rooms, the partitions help create brighter, more inviting environments without sacrificing functionality. Each system is manufactured to order, ensuring every project benefits from a tailored solution that meets exact specifications. Customers can choose from a range of options, including clear or frosted glass and various sizes, allowing the product to complement a wide range of architectural styles and interior designs. The systems are

also available as fixed glass screens, internal glass doors, or a combination of both, providing maximum flexibility for designers and end users. Manufactured using premium aluminium Cortizo systems, the new range combines sleek aesthetics with exceptional durability and performance. The new range has been designed to meet UK building reg-

ulations while remaining installer-friendly. The sleek, minimalist appearance helps maintain visual continuity throughout a property while creating clearly defined spaces, making the products particularly attractive for modern open-plan layouts where privacy and separation are required without the loss of light. Andrew Glover, Managing Director, UK Doors Online said: “We are proud to expand our product offering and launch our new Internal Glass Partition and Door range. As interior design trends continue to move towards open, light-filled environments, we recognised the need for a high-quality, bespoke solution that provides both practicality and contemporary style.” The launch represents another milestone for UK Doors Online as it continues to expand its portfolio of premium glazing and door products. With a focus on made-tomeasure manufacturing, industry-leading customer service and high-quality British-made products, they remain committed to providing innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of the market. Tel: 01924 929600 E: trade@ukdoorsonline.co.uk

74 | fabrication | october 2026

LSF Commercial buck’s fenestration slowdown with busiest summer in years

ommercial aluminium systems specialist LSF Commercial is defying a wider slowdown in the fenestration market, reporting turnover ahead of last year, a growing customer base and a summer so busy it called for significant overtime across the factory floor. While many fabricators report a quieter market, the Essex-based company has taken on more new clients this year than in previous periods, with school project work proving particularly strong over the summer months. Director Onkar Toot puts the growth down to the breadth of service LSF offers on commercial projects, from design and engineering through to fabrication and installation, all handled in-house. “We’re seeing a market where a lot of businesses are quiet, but we’ve had one of our busiest years so far,” said Onkar. “New clients keep coming to us because we can take a project from the drawing board right through to completion ourselves. That’s a difficult thing to offer and it’s paying off.” Schools work made up a significant part of the summer workload, with LSF’s team taking on more education sector projects than in previous years, often working to the tight deadlines that come with the summer holiday installation window. “Schools projects are unforgiving on timescales,” Onkar explained. “Everything

must be installed before term starts. Our overtime this summer reflects just how much of that work landed on our desk, and the trust clients place in us to deliver it on time.” With 45 staff, thirty years of experience at its Rainham headquarters and recent investment tripling manufacturing capacity, LSF Commercial is well placed to keep growing through both its commercial and trade supply.

“We’ve built a reputation for handling complex, bespoke commercial packages,” said Onkar. “This year has shown that reputation still counts for a great deal, even when the wider market is struggling.” LSF Commercial fabricates high-performance aluminium windows, doors, fire-rated systems, curtain walling and shopfronts for commercial projects nationwide. E: sales@lsfcommercial.co.uk

Speed wins: Why it all comes down to speed and then price for installers OPINION Rob Morley Managing Director BSW Window Solutions

ob Morley, Managing Director of BSW Window Solutions, says time, not price, decides who installers call first. Ask any installer what keeps them up at night and the answer is almost always the same; time and price. I’ve been in this industry for 47 years and that’s never changed. What has changed is how little room installers have to absorb delay. Margins are tighter, homeowners are more demanding and a job that slips by even a day can be the difference between a happy customer and a lost one. Speed has always mattered more than most fabricators like to admit. Price gets talked about because it’s easy to measure, but time is what actually determines whether an installer

keeps working with you. A quote that takes a week isn’t a quote; it’s a missed opportunity. A delivery that’s late by 48 hours can unravel a fitting schedule that took weeks to plan. There’s a lazy assumption that fast lead times mean corners get cut. In my experience it’s the opposite. Speed without process is just chaos with a deadline attached. The fabricators who genuinely deliver quickly are the ones who’ve invested in the systems behind the scenes, not the ones cutting steps out

of production. That’s the thinking behind everything we’ve built at BSW. Our pricing team exists so a quote lands the same day it’s requested, not because it looks good on paper but because we know installers are often quoting a homeowner while they’re still on the doorstep. Our aluminium capacity has doubled because demand has, and promising fast turnaround without the factory floor, or the nationwide delivery logistics, to back it up is a promise you can’t keep for long. None of this is about being the cheapest option in the market, the race to the bottom, and I don’t think it should be. It’s about being competitively priced while being genuinely reliable on time. Installers don’t need rock bottom prices nearly as much as they need to trust that what’s promised will actually turn up when it’s supposed to. Get the process right and speed follows. Get speed right and price becomes a much easier conversation. Tel: 01733 459955 E: sales@bsws.co.uk

76 | fabrication | october 2026

AluFold toasts first year with bigger factory and more staff

luFold Windows is celebrating one year of fabrication at its factory at Whitebirk Industrial Estate – a year marked by significant expansion, a growing 35-strong team and the addition of PVC-U manufacturing. The supply-only fabricator moved into its Blackburn facility in August 2025, initially focused exclusively on aluminium windows and doors. Just over 12 months later, AluFold has expanded its manufacturing footprint by more than 60%, from 56,457 ft² to 90,407 ft². The additional space has enabled the business to introduce a dedicated PVC-U factory, increase production capacity and create a new despatch area to support its growing customer base. AluFold now fabricates both aluminium and PVC-U glazing systems, with its PVC-U offering manufactured exclusively using Eurocell systems. This expanded range gives installers and contractors access to a wider choice of products through one supply-only fabrication partner. The business has also grown to a team of 35 people, bringing together the manufacturing experience, technical knowledge and customer focus needed to support its expanding operation. Managing Director, Neal Addison, commented: “There’s a real positive energy within the business. We are one united team with a shared vision for success. “In just 12 months, we have expanded our facilities, introduced PVC-U fabrication and strengthened the infrastructure behind our service. We now have more space, greater capability and an experienced team that understands what our customers need from a fabrication partner. “Our relationship with Unique Window

Systems is an important part of that. AluFold retains its own specialist team and supply-only focus, while benefiting from the scale, expertise and operational support of the wider group. In practice, that gives our customers greater confidence in our manufacturing capability, supply capacity and long-term stability. “It means we can offer the personal service and technical support customers expect from AluFold, with the additional strength and resources of an established manufacturing group behind us. “This first year has given us a strong

platform for the next stage of AluFold’s development. We’re looking forward to continuing to invest in our people, our facilities and the service we provide as we move into year two and beyond.” Backed by Leicester-based Unique Window Systems, AluFold Windows supplies aluminium and PVC-U glazing to installers and contractors across the UK. Its structured, supply-only model is built around reliable service, technical expertise and controlled, repeatable production. https://alufoldwindows.co.uk

Five record years of steady growth reported by Premier Arches

espoke-shaped frame specialist, Premier Arches, is proving the value in consistent quality and service with relentless year-on-year business growth. Since 2021, Premier Arches has seen a 128% uplift in sales, with five record years of steady growth. Joe Trueman, Director at Premier Arches, said: “Premier Arches has grown at an average of 23% every year, showing compounded, consistent growth that’s come from a combination of new customers looking for bespoke shaped frames, and existing customers who benefit from our straightforward supply, meaning they can take on more profitable shaped and bespoke frame projects. “We’re firm believers in making life easier for customers. Just because our

manufacturing processes are complex, it doesn’t mean our service has to be. By keeping things simple and delivering on our core principles of great quality products and consistent service, we aim to be the ideal

partner for any company looking to source PVC-U frames that are out of the ordinary.” Premier Arches specialises in the manufacture and supply of PVCu arched, round, gable-end, D-frames and bespokeshaped frames in ten of the most popular profile systems, including Optima, Rehau, Eurocell, Liniar, and The Residence Collection. They also supply matching shaped glass units so customers can get everything with one order and one delivery. Joe added: “This steady growth allows us to plan for continued growth over the next five years, increasing factory capacity with new machinery and technology to support more companies with bespoke-shaped frames for more profitable projects.” www.premierarches.co.uk

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78 | fabrication | october 2026

Installer adopts two Affordable Windows systems in three years

n just three years, installer MG Window Systems has adopted two of Affordable Windows Group’s most popular window and door systems, all thanks to the manufacturers’ speed, reliability and ease of quoting and ordering. The Northampton business, trading since 1992, now fits both Timberlook and Decorio but the relationship started when it spotted the flush sash windows in quoting software Tommy Trinder, as Matt Munns, Director at MG Window Systems, explains. “When I first spotted Timberlook on Tommy Trinder, we looked closely at the windows and could see they ticked all the boxes. For me, if you’re buying a flush fit window, you want it to look like a timber window, not something with an ugly trickle vent slapped on. Timberlook has mechanical joints and attractive concealed trickle vents complete with a hood. It was a no brainer that we wanted to sell these products to our customers.” Timberlook has become one of the installer’s biggest sellers so when delivery dates from its aluminium supplier started moving, Matt approached AWG about its Decorio range. “Affordable Windows were always so good at accommodating us with Timberlook and providing free leads that when they launched Decorio, it made sense to see what they could do,” he adds.”We really liked the aluminium products, particularly the bi-fold doors. It’s the little things that make the difference - the gasket is built into the beads, which saves us time on site, and that’s not something every supplier offers. “Once we started installing Decorio, we knew we’d made the right decision. We had fewer issues with fitting, our lead times went down considerably and we had more confidence our deliveries would arrive on

time. The fact the system is now available on Tommy Trinder is another bonus as we now use just one platform for quoting our most popular products.” Three years in, Matt rates AWG’s service as highly as its products. “AWG is on another level with how they work with their clients,” he adds. “I’ve been so impressed with their customer service; it’s second to none. That’s why, when we were hired a few years ago to complete a couple of big new build projects, we chose to work with AWG’s Timberlook range. We needed roughly 500 frames for windows and doors that would complement the heritage and contemporary style of the housing development. Not only did we know the products would fit the bill, but we also had every faith that project would be completed on time and to a high standard – and the team at AWG were a big part of that.”

Amelia Gaughan, Head of Marketing at AWG, said: “Matt originally came to us for flush sash, then trusted us with his aluminium too. That only happens when a manufacturer prioritises the installers needs from order through to delivery by providing free leads, installer friendly quoting and ordering software, marketing support and reliable deliveries week in, week out. “We take pride in delivering the best customer service. Building strong and lasting relationships with our installer partners allows us to understand and listen to market demands, which is something we feel really sets us apart from the rest of the competition. We will always go over and above to make sure they can get their jobs done quickly and to a high standard.” www.timberlook.com/trade www.decorio-doors.com/trade

Double celebration for Fentrade

entrade’s recent new factory and showrooming unveiling of their relocated premises proved to be a major hit with all visitors, made all the more successful by the presentation of their ISO9001:2015 Quality Management System accreditation on the day! The relocation took place at the end of May and during the short months before and after the move the team at Fentrade had been working hard to remodel an old building with an outdated exterior and interior. Turning the building into a modern, light and airy workspace now provides the team with the capacity and the efficiency to drive forward their ambitious growth strategy. The Open Day saw the culmination of their efforts to showcase the new factory and showroom facilities to the trade. Chris Reeks, Fentrade’s MD, was thrilled with the impression the Open Day event had had on all the visitors. “it was fantastic to see

so many people on the day and to be able to showcase the building, the machinery and the staff underlining how far we’ve come as a business since 2018. It was great to have the support from our key industry suppliers such as Aluk, Jack Aluminium, Schueco and Coastal and a pleasure to meet existing and potential customers and demonstrate our commitment in our business for the future.” Visitors were able to tour the new premises, chatting with staff from the office and on the factory floor, and view the latest

investment by Fentrade, the Elumatec SBZ145 cutting and machining centre, working through its’ various routines. The new showroom setup also drew praise from customers, who will be able to take advantage of the facility by inviting their respective customers along to view the products before making their buying decisions. The day also marked a significant milestone for Fentrade with the presentation of the Company’s ISO9001:2015 Quality Management System accreditation certificate. The management team had been working tirelessly during the whole relocation operation to write and implement the procedures for the ISO system, aimed at further improving the quality of the product and service through processing to manufacture. With a successful audit being attained it was a fitting testament to the whole team to be presented with the certificate during the Open Day.

THE

VALUE FOR MONEY ROOFLIGHT SUPPLIER ON THE MARKET

Please buy yourself a coffee and take 2 minutes to read below to find out why!

I’ll refund your coffee OFF YOUR FIRST ORDER !!! At Titan Aluminium we spend a lot of time making your life easier, we just aren’t great at telling you what we do. We don’t have a big marketing budget or team to create exciting content for you and we’re sorry if you feel you see the same info on repeat. Unlike many of our competition, we have a personal face to our company and always will, If you call our number (01256 760070) one of our internal sales team Eve or Ellis will pick up the phone, no pressing 1 for sales, 2 for accounts. Every single order matters to us, it always has since day one and always will. We’re a small team (19 of us) but work together to achieve the very best for you. We know that time is money on the roof when installing so we prep your roof before it goes out and do all we can in the factory to ensure ease of fitting. We don’t sell to your customer, We are trade only and strict about it, We have a warranty and we actually honour it, You must have all had that experience where a supplier is trying to squirm out of paying for their mistakes or issues. WE DON’T. Yes we make mistakes from time to time but If we mess up we honestly do go out and fix it. If something is missing, someone will be in a car to rectify it. A single point and time of delivery, no frames one day and glass on another. Our owners are both salesmen, John and Tony and work closely with Craig in the office and Jonathan and Derek on the road to ensure we are on hand to support you throughout your quote to order process. We think we’ve got a really good looking flat roof product that your customer will love and the S1 lantern with its thermal properties and slim sight lines makes this a winning combination of products for your customer. Yes, we’re not always the cheapest but the work we do above will honestly save you money and makes us the best Value for Money rooflight manufacturer on the market.

I guess the question is....................Will you give us a chance to prove it to you ? Written by James, General Manager

80 | general feature | october 2026

20 years with Freefoam by its side

A Poole stockist celebrates two decades of customer service and steady growth with support from Freefoam

lliance Building Plastics is a family-run, independent stockist based in Poole, Dorset. Established in 2006, Alliance had a clear focus on putting customer service back at the heart of the building plastics supply experience – a principle that remains central to the business today. The company serves home improvement builders and installers and DIY customers across the BH postcode and surrounding areas, supplying a wide range of low-maintenance UPVC building solutions including fascias, soffits, guttering, cladding, trims, sealants and accessories. A 20-year partnership Founders Andrew Coshan and Mark Brown opened their account with Freefoam at the very start of the business, choosing the manufacturer as their key supplier partner. When the company launched, Andrew and Mark were looking for a manufacturer that could support an ambitious new independent business. After meeting Freefoam’s then Area Sales Manager, Carl Rutter, and discussing their plans, they felt confident that Freefoam was the right partner. “With the business still in its infancy — we didn’t even have premises to trade from at that stage — Carl could see what we were trying to build and gave us the confidence that Freefoam would be the right partner for a new independent company,” said Andrew Built on customer service and reliable support That customer focus remains central 20 years on. Alliance understands that strong relationships are built on more than simply supplying products. Consistent service, reliability and a willingness to go the extra mile have remained key to maintaining the longstanding relationships it has built with customers over the years. “We never take our customers’ business for granted. With plenty of alternative suppliers in the area, we know our customers have a choice, so we work hard to earn their loyalty every day.” The business also believes that prompt communication and practical problem-solving are essential to long-term relationships, whether dealing with a routine order or resolving an issue quickly. Freefoam’s support has helped Alliance compete and grow, from pricing support on larger contracts to regular deliveries and reliable product availability. Two deliveries each week allow the business to replenish stock quickly and keep customers supplied without needing to hold excessive inventory. “From day one, Freefoam has supported our growth in several ways. Their willingness to provide additional pricing support has helped us compete for larger contracts that may otherwise have been beyond our reach. Equally important has been their consistency.” Reliable product availability, regular deliveries and strong relationships with their team have enabled us to offer the level of service our customers expect. Ben Price is now Freefoam’s Area Sales Manager for the South and is working with Alliance to continue and build on the relationship. Mark explains: “We’ve built up a good relationship with Ben, he’s very approachable and we like his quick response to ideas, requests and feedback. That reliability is important to us and our customers.” A family-run business with local focus Over the past two decades, Alliance has considered opening additional branches, but has chosen to remain focused on what it does best: staying close to customers, making decisions quickly and maintaining hands-on owner involvement. Customers will almost always find either Mark or Andrew at the

trade counter, meaning they can speak directly to someone who can make a decision there and then. Although the company has grown, it has worked hard to retain the same family-run feel that has been part of the business from the beginning. Andrew’s brother, Glen, has been part of the team for around 15 years and spends much of his time on the road looking after existing customers, generating new business and, importantly, helping to raise awareness of Alliance Building Plastics. Glen has become one of the familiar faces of the business and earned quite a reputation with trade customers for arriving on site armed with Freefoam literature and a pack of doughnuts. Many people may not remember his name straight away—but they certainly remember the doughnuts! Like any sales role, there are days when doors do not open as hoped, but Glen’s persistence, personality and enthusiasm have undoubtedly played a significant part in the growth of Alliance over the years. Mark’s wife, Michelle, manages the accounts, while Mark’s daughter-in-law, Eloise, supports the company’s social media presence. “We believe that having family involved throughout the business helps maintain the personal service and values that our customers have come to expect.” Looking ahead Like many businesses, Alliance has seen the industry evolve and has adapted alongside it. Traditionally, much of its customer base came from the double-glazing industry, but the company is now seeing increasing demand from self-builders, loft conversion specialists and property developers. The business is also embracing new ways of promoting itself, with a growing focus on Instagram to showcase products, projects and the people behind the company to both existing and potential customers. While marketing methods may change, Alliance says its core values remain the same: excellent customer service, strong supplier relationships and knowledgeable, reliable support. “After 20 years of working together, the relationship with Freefoam remains an important part of that approach. Knowing we can rely on Freefoam means our customers can rely on us.” www.alliancebuildingplastics.co.uk E: ukmarketing@freefoam.com

october 2026 | hardware active | 81

Replacement window and door hardware from Safeware can provide a valuable additional revenue stream for trade counters

Building a complete trade counter solution R eplacement window and door hardware can provide a valuable additional revenue stream for trade counters, but simply putting products on a shelf isn’t enough. Rob Hartill, Commercial Director at Safeware, explains why a turnkey solution combining the right product range, merchandising and promotional support can help trade counters make more of the opportunity. For trade counters, increasing sales doesn’t always have to mean attracting new customers. There is also an opportunity to generate more value from the customers already coming through the door. Replacement window and door hardware is a good example. Installers are regularly faced with relatively straightforward repairs, whether that is replacing a failed handle, hinge, restrictor, lock or cylinder. Having those products available locally allows them to pick up what they need while visiting the trade counter for other materials. For the branch, that creates an opportunity to increase basket spend and generate incremental sales, without committing significant floor space or stockholding to another product category. It can also give customers another reason to return when the next repair comes up. That thinking is behind Safeware’s replacement hardware proposition. Initially rolled out across 21 trade counter branches in four regions, including Quay Plastics, Shepherds, National Plastics and PBS, the proposition has already expanded beyond the first phase. Rather than simply supplying the hardware, we have developed a turnkey solution that gives branches everything they need to introduce and promote the category. It combines a carefully selected range of commonly required replacement products with dedicated merchandising, pointof-sale materials and ongoing promotional support. At the heart of the proposition are our floormounted carousel displays. Compact enough to work within a busy trade counter, they create a clearly defined replacement hardware area and put the products directly in front of customers.

The carousels are supplied fully assembled and ready to use, removing the need for branch teams to build or merchandise the displays themselves. They can simply position the carousel and start selling. But the carousel is only one part of the overall support package. We have also developed a suite of promotional materials to help branches raise awareness of the range. These include replacement hardware leaflets, countertop leaflets, promotional posters and window vinyls, providing different opportunities to promote the offer throughout the branch and to customers passing outside. Visibility is important because replacement hardware also lends itself well to incremental purchases. An installer may have visited for something completely unrelated, but seeing a replacement handle, hinge or lock on display can remind them of another repair or upcoming job. The product range itself has been kept deliberately

focused. Trade counters don’t need hundreds of specialist lines taking up valuable space. Instead, our approach concentrates on products installers commonly need for everyday window and door repairs, including window and door handles, friction hinges, restrictors, locks and cylinders. It means branches can introduce an additional product category without creating unnecessary complexity, while offering installers convenient access to products they regularly need. The response to the initial rollout has been extremely positive and we have already exceeded the original programme, with additional Safeware carousels now being introduced into a new independent trade counter network. It’s a strong indication that there is a wider appetite for a straightforward, ready-to-go replacement hardware solution, and we are continuing to talk to other businesses interested in developing their trade counter offer. For us, the opportunity is about making replacement hardware as straightforward as possible for trade counters to introduce and sell. By providing the products, merchandising and promotional support as one complete package, branches can make more of existing customer footfall while developing an additional source of sales. E: info@safewarehardware.com

82 | hardware active | october 2026

Hallmark and ERA bring a fresh finish to door hardware with their exclusive Satin Gold Bar Handle Collection

Collaboration delivers exclusive collection W ith more than 30 years’ experience, Hull-based composite door manufacturer Hallmark Doors and Panels has built a reputation for delivering high-quality products and exceptional customer service to customers across the UK. Central to its success has been a hands-on, collaborative approach, helping customers identify market opportunities and respond quickly to changing homeowner trends. This open and forward-thinking approach allowed Hallmark to identify growing demand for premium gold bar handles, driven by increasing consumer interest in luxury, design-led door aesthetics. Recognising a gap in the market, the team set out to develop a high-quality solution that would give customers access to a distinctive new hardware option. Having made the decision to bring a new collection to market, Hallmark turned to long-standing hardware partner ERA. After more than a decade of working together, Hallmark knew ERA had the expertise, product development capabilities and commitment to quality needed to transform the concept into reality. Hallmark currently purchases several Fab&Fix ranges from ERA, including Classic, Architectural, Heritage and Forged hardware ranges and approached ERA to explore how a premium gold bar handle collection could be developed and launched within an ambitious timeframe.

including escutcheons and letterplates, are part of the exclusive Satin Gold collection, ensuring a consistent aesthetic across the entire door set. Hallmark Doors and Panels said: “At Hallmark, delivering high-quality products and outstanding customer service has always been at the heart of everything we do. “We work closely with our customers to understand what they need and ensure they have access to stylish, high-performing products that help them stand out in the market. “Our long-standing relationship with ERA gave us complete confidence when developing this new collection. Their commitment to quality and innovation aligned perfectly with our vision. “Our ERA Technical Account Manager, Lisa, played a key role throughout the project. Her support, product knowledge and our trust in Lisa to coordinate the development process helped bring the collection to market successfully. “The Satin Gold Bar Handle Collection enables us to meet growing customer demand for premium hardware while offering a unique solution that helps differentiate our customers’ door designs.”

From concept to collection Following initial discussions, ERA undertook extensive research, testing and product development to ensure the finished collection met both Hallmark’s quality standards and first-to-market objectives. The result was the Satin Gold Bar Handle Collection: a sophisticated range of 316 Stainless Steel bar handles in a luxury satin gold finish available in 1000mm and 1600mm lengths. Designed to complement contemporary composite doors, the collection provides fabricators and homeowners with a premium hardware option that delivers both visual impact and lasting performance. To create a complete and coordinated solution, matching hardware components,

A partnership that delivers The project represents the latest success in a partnership that has continued to strengthen over the last 12 years, with both companies sharing a commitment to innovation, quality and customer-focused product development. Lisa Lund, Technical Account Manager at ERA, said: “We’ve developed a strong partnership with Hallmark over the past 12 years. Through that relationship, we’ve gained a deep understanding of their business, product portfolio and customer requirements. “When Hallmark approached us with the opportunity to develop an exclusive gold bar handle range, we were delighted to collaborate. Both businesses share the same commitment to

quality, innovation and delivering products that meet evolving market demand. “By combining Hallmark’s understanding of customer trends with ERA’s product development expertise, we were able to bring a unique new collection to market that benefits both businesses and their customers.” Launched exclusively to Hallmark in July 2026, the Satin Gold Bar Handle Collection is available through Hallmark’s online Door Designer Tool, enabling customers to configure their preferred door design and visualise the finished product before ordering. E: info@eraeverywhere.com www.eraeverywhere.com

84 | hardware active | october 2026

Coastal Group has added FritsJurgens’ concealed pivot system to its portfolio, widening options for contemporary doors

Partnership adds pivot door hardware

oastal Group, manufacturer and supplier of premium door and window hardware, has announced a new partnership with FritsJurgens, the Dutch engineer of concealed pivot hinge systems. The partnership adds pivot door hardware to Coastal Group’s range for the first time, giving trade customers access to a system that can support light to heavy doors of nearly any material, with a width of 4 meters and unlimited height. FritsJurgens pivot systems are fitted entirely within the door itself; only a minimal floor plate remains visible. There are no visible floor springs, overhead closers or hinge plates, and no structural work required in the floor or ceiling. Their systems are compatible with underfloor heating and can be specified for new-build or retrofit projects. FritsJurgens offers three systems which are all available through Coastal Group. • System One is a compact pivot system allowing smooth, free-swing movement without self-closing functionality. • System Fx is a free-swing pivot system with hold open positions at every 90 degree, without self-closing functionality. • System M+ is a self-closing pivot system that offers full control over door movement. All systems support doors weighing up to 500kg (depending on door width), and can

be specified for doors made from timber, steel, aluminium and glass. This range of weight and material capability means pivot doors can be designed as a genuine architectural feature rather than being limited by what a hinge can carry, providing maximum design freedom and enabling any creative vision to come to life. Coastal Group will offer the full FritsJurgens range, technical documentation and a configurator to help specifiers select the right system for their project, backed by the

technical support team already in place for the rest of the Coastal Group range. Loren Jenner, Managing Director at Coastal Group, said: “Pivot doors are becoming a real point of interest for architects and self-builders, but the hardware behind them is often the hardest part to get right. FritsJurgens have spent years perfecting systems that disappear into the door while delivering their own distinct motion, and it just works. That is exactly the standard we want to be offering our trade customers. Our handles work well with these systems and this partnership lets us support projects we simply couldn’t before.” Leo Castillejos, Director of Partnerships at FritsJurgens, said: “We’re delighted to have Coastal on board as our partner in the UK. It gives us, as FritsJurgens, a direct foothold in the important manufacturing sector Coastal has proven itself so strong in. As a family business, we feel a real fit with the culture and expertise Coastal brings with them. Together, we’re helping pivot doors earn the recognition they deserve.” FritsJurgens pivot hinge systems are available to view and specify through Coastal Group’s showrooms in Cornwall and London, and via the Coastal Group website (coastal-group.com), where trade customers can download technical documentation and access the FritsJurgens configurator.

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86 | hardware active | october 2026

FUHR has added SmartAccess multiscan to its growing smart access control range, expanding its offering for doors

SmartAccess multiscan biometric access F UHR has expanded its smart access control range with the launch of SmartAccess multiscan, a compact biometric fingerprint scanner designed to unlock FUHR motorised multipoint locking systems securely and conveniently. Developed for aluminium, timber and PVC-U doors, SmartAccess multiscan allows users to unlock their door using their fingerprint, turning the finger into a personal key that cannot be lost, forgotten or shared. The unit can be surface-mounted or flush-mounted into the door leaf, or integrated into a pull handle, giving architects and specifiers flexibility across a wide range of entrance door designs.

A closed security loop SmartAccess multiscan is managed via the FUHR SmartAccess app and communicates via Bluetooth 5 with the SmartAccess Module (SAM), which is fitted inside the door. The system requires no Wi-Fi, internet connection, mobile data or cloud service, providing a closed security loop with encrypted communication between the scanner and the SAM module. All biometric data is stored locally and encrypted within the door itself. No external party can access the data, including FUHR. The fingerprint scanner is also permanently paired with the SmartAccess Module SAM, preventing manipulation through device swapping or unauthorised replacement. Helps prevent tampering Security is further strengthened through liveness detection, which verifies that the fingerprint presented is from a living finger and helps prevent tampering attempts using artificial copies. With a false acceptance rate of 1 in 10,000,000, the likelihood of unauthorised access is comparable to winning the lottery jackpot. By comparison, the false acceptance rate of a four-digit PIN code is 1 in 10,000. The system uses tested European sensor technology from ekey and can store up to 100 fingerprints. It also adapts to gradual changes in fingerprints, including growing children’s fingers or minor fingertip injuries, helping maintain reliable day-to-day use in residential and light commercial

settings. The discreet module is small in size and features a multicoloured LED ring to indicate status. Covers are available in brushed stainless steel or matt black, with an IP56 protection rating when fitted with the cover. The system operates on 12–24V DC, with an integrated power buffer and no battery changes required. Not a bolt-on smart device Paul Balfe, Business Development Manager at FUHR UK, commented: “SmartAccess multiscan brings biometric access into the door in a way that is secure, discreet and practical. For specifiers, the key point is that this is not a bolt-on smart device. It works with FUHR’s motorised multipoint locking

systems and SmartAccess module, so the access control and locking system are designed to operate together.” Proven locking performance With over 165 years of experience in multipoint locking systems, FUHR continues to support architects, specifiers, system houses and fabricators with secure, application-led hardware solutions that combine proven locking performance with modern access control technology.

Tel: 01952 228777 E: pbalfe@fuhr.co.uk www.fuhr.de/en/products/smart-access-solutions/smartaccess-multiscan/

Make more of your trade counter. With replacement hardware from Safeware.

A focused range of replacement window and door hardware for everyday repair applications, including window and door handles, friction hinges, restrictors, locks, cylinders and more. Supported by carousel displays and POS literature to create a professional in-branch offer. Talk to our team today.

T: 07836 262203 E: info@safewarehardware.com

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88 | hardware active | october 2026

A revised BS 8214 treats the fire door as a complete system. A new qualification aims to train the people who deliver it

Fire door standards and the competence gap A fire door is only as good as its weakest component, and the people who fit, check and fix it. That principle runs through two initiatives from the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) this autumn: a Best Practice Guide to the revised BS 8214, and a training programme giving building hardware its first Ofqual-regulated qualification. The guide, published for members during the recent Fire Door Safety Week, unpacks BS 8214:2026. Issued by BSI in March, it replaces the 2016 edition and marks a significant revision. Where its predecessor dealt with timber door assemblies, the new standard covers fire resisting and smoke control doors in timber, steel, aluminium and composite construction. Change in thinking The wider scope brings a change in thinking. BS 8214:2026 insists that a fire door be treated as a complete system rather than simply a door leaf. Its performance depends on the compatibility of its components, and on correct installation, inspection, maintenance and repair throughout its service life. A door is not a fire door merely because of the certificate that arrived with it. DHF’s guide gives members an overview of the changes and flags key considerations for everyone involved across a fire door’s life cycle. It stresses working to a specification from a source with overall responsibility for the building, so that all other requirements are taken into account. It also underlines the competency of those installing, inspecting and maintaining fire doors, with work backed by evidence and record keeping, and relevant information passed to the client in line with current legislation. Important development “The introduction of BS 8214:2026 is an important development for everyone involved with fire resisting and smoke control doors,” says Steve Hill, DHF’s senior training and compliance officer. “Our new Best Practice Guide is intended to help DHF members understand the changes and ensure that the right processes are followed when specifying, installing, inspecting and maintaining fire

doors.” The federation is urging members to review existing procedures, particularly around specification, installation, inspection, maintenance and documentation. Building competence If the standard demands competent people, DHF’s Building Hardware Training Programme sets out to produce them. Launched in July, it is gathering momentum, with Access2 the first member to book places. The programme is the UK’s first Ofqual-regulated, ABBEaccredited qualification for the building hardware industry. Developed by manufacturers for manufacturers, it draws on more than 500 years of combined industry experience. Learners complete a mandatory Core Module, then choose from 12 specialist Product Modules matched to their role. The qualification is mapped against the competency framework in the draft BS 8670-2 standard. For Russell Coldwell, technical director at

Royde & Tucker, it fills a long-standing gap. “Our industry has never had a consistent foundation of knowledge for people coming into it,” he says. “The programme gives employers a structured way to induct and develop staff, and gives learners a recognised, Ofqual regulated Level 2 qualification to build a career on.” Richard Bromley, vice president, chief technology officer and head of residential at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions UK & Ireland, points to the previous lack of formal, in-depth product training tailored to individual businesses. The programme, he says, “enables employers to develop their staff’s demonstrable competence levels towards developing industry needs such as BS 8670-2”. Raising standards Deborah Cannon, product manager at Dormakaba, sees knowledge-sharing as “one of the best ways to raise standards across our industry”, while Glyn Green, technical and operations director at Squire Locks, expects it to produce “a well-informed, skilled and industry-wide compliant workforce”. The programme is open to DHF members now and to non-members from January 2027. At that point the wider supply chain gains its own route to the demonstrable competence that standards such as BS 8214:2026 now expect.

hardware OCTOBER 2026

winkhaus.co.uk

More Than a Door: Why the Hardware Conversation Matters How fabricators and installers can differentiate through security, useability, and smart technology. The door industry has become increasingly focused on

Within Crafted Synergy, low force operation is not just a

aesthetics. Design, colour, glazing and furniture continue to

technical feature, it’s a foundation on which the entire

evolve, but too many doors are still sold with little

ecosystem is built. Lower operating forces improve

consideration for the hardware that ultimately defines

usability, reduce adjustment callbacks, place less strain on

performance, security, usability, and satisfaction.

smart devices, and help deliver the smooth, consistent experience that customers expect from a premium doorset.

This offers fabricators and installers a significant opportunity. In a market where doors are increasingly

Smart technology has struggled to gain wider adoption

similar, standing out is becoming harder to achieve.

across the door industry because most solutions are not

Homeowners may choose a door based on looks, but they

designed around the locking systems they are expected to

judge a door by how it performs everyday.

operate.

When a door becomes difficult to operate, smart devices

When they are added onto a lock, they are not designed to

fail to perform as expected, or callbacks increase due to

drive, they are harder to calibrate, the motor has to work

alignment issues, it isn’t the colour or glazing that’s

harder, battery life is reduced, and any movement in the

questioned. It is the hardware. The real value of a door is

door makes opening more difficult. Instead of improving

experienced every day.

the homeowner experience, smart technology risks damaging credibility and increasing callback for fabricators

When the door closes smoothly. When the homeowner doesn’t have to lift, push, or pull the door just to lock it.

Fabricators need confidence that the smart solution they

When it operates reliably through seasonal movement and

offer will work reliably in real homes. Installers need

changing temperatures. When it reassures the homeowner

products that are straightforward to fit and support.

that their home is secure.

Homeowners need smart functionality that feels simple, secure, and dependable.

That’s why it is time to change the conversation. For decades, hardware has been treated as a collection of

Crafted Synergy is Winkhaus‘ response to that challenge.

components, selected individually, and expected to work

Designed Together. Tested Together. Specified Together.

together later, combined without fully considering how

Crafted Synergy is a system level response to that

they operate as a complete system. The result is higher

challenge, engineered as a coordinated ecosystem. The

operating forces, reduced reliability, increased strain on

lock, cylinder, security protection, and smart technology

smart devices, and an increase in call backs.

are designed to work together, improving usability,

performance, at the top of their priority list, yet much of the industry still tries to differentiate through colour, design and glazing, Crafted Synergy allows fabricators to align their offer with what homeowners’ value most. Homeowner benefits are straightforward. Lock and unlock the door using the Polaris App, Fob, or a key, live visibility of whether the door is closed and locked in the app and control from anywhere when paired with the Polaris Wi-Fi Bridge. Crafted Synergy helps move the sales conversation away security, smart functionality reliability. This is where Polaris changes the smart lock conversation. Polaris is not simply a smart lock bolted to a door. It works with Winkhaus multi-point locking systems, cylinders, and security hardware. Configured for autoLock AV4, AV4 Heritage, and Thunderbolt locking solutions, Polaris delivers smart control to the proven mechanical security at the heart of the doorset. Compatibility is important. Because Polaris is designed around the lock, it is calibrated through the Polaris App in a simple two or three step process, ensuring a smoother and more reliable operation from the start, reducing complexity, and adding smart functionality without layers of complication. Battery performance is also important. Concerns around smart door technology often stem from device performance over time, especially when operating a multi-point locking system. As part of our cycle testing, the Polaris Smart Lock achieved up to nine months’ battery life with AV4, up to 12 months with Thunderbolt, and 12 months for the Polaris Smart Sensor and Remote Fob*. Security Has Changed Homeowners want security solutions that protect against both physical and digital threats. As connected devices become more common, compliance can no longer focus solely on the mechanical lock. Crafted Synergy is designed with evolving security standards in mind, tested against PAS 24:2022 + A1:2024 enhanced security and IASME Level 1 and Level 2 testing requirements for IoT security, for greater confidence that the whole system is secure from a physical and digital perspective. The mechanical foundation is just as important. Crafted

from cosmetic features and towards engineered security performance, usability, compliance confidence, and smart functionality. It gives fabricators a way to explain why one doorset is different from another, and why the value inside the door matters, and delivers real lifestyle benefits for users. Support beyond the product itself. Launching a new product is about more than supplying outstanding hardware. Winkhaus has developed a range of marketing assets to help fabricators and installers introduce Crafted Synergy to their own customers. This includes how to guides, videos, images, graphics, showroom materials, short animations, and digital content that can be used to explain the system clearly and confidently, support the sales journey, reduce homeowner queries, and showcase the benefits of the system in practical, everyday terms. This is where Crafted Synergy can help fabricators sell more than a door. It gives them a stronger reason to lead with the hardware, not hide it. It helps them talk about the experience behind the door: how it locks, how it feels, how it protects, how it supports smart access, and how it gives homeowners reassurance in real life. Today’s customers are not only buying a product. They are buying confidence. They want a door that not only looks great, but one that is secure, works smoothly, and fits the way they live. It gives fabricators the tools to change the narrative, strengthen the value of their offer, and sell more than a door. The future of door security is not about bolting smart technology to a door. It is about designing and engineering every component around a shared purpose. One ecosystem. Working in harmony. *Based on 13.6 uses per day in ambient temperatures.

Synergy uses the award winning autoLock AV4, AV4 Heritage, or Thunderbolt multi-point locking solutions, with the XR6 1-Star cylinder and either the 2-Star armorShield handle or escutcheon to create a robust 3-Star security solution. This layered approach provides the best protection for cylinder, strengthens the doorset, and gives fabricators a clear security story to take to market. Homeowners’ expectations place quality, security, and

To find out more about how Crafted Synergy can help you to sell more doors visit https://www.winkhaus.co.uk/en/ crafted-synergy to book a demo.

Crafted Synergy Time to sell more than a door

Supporting the industry’s move from selling doors on

Helping fabricators and installers to stand out, deliver

appearance to selling doors on performance, useability,

more value per doorset and create compelling reasons to

security, and smart living.

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90 | hardware active | october 2026

Clement Whittle, Principal Design Engineer at Yale, discusses PAS 24:2022+A12024 and what it means for the fenestration industry

Building trust through compliance and security C riminals never stand still – so nor should security. Instead, we should be constantly evolving to meet the challenge of new attack methods, ensuring our buildings remain safe against the burglars not of yesterday, but today. That’s what PAS 24:2022+A12024 is all about. The new standard outlining the minimum performance requirements for doors and windows, keeps pace with a changing security landscape, aiming to reflect modern burglary methods and reduce the gap between laboratory testing and real-world performance. But what exactly does it say, what does it mean for you, and why should we see it as an opportunity rather than a regulatory burden?

Keeping up with the criminals The new UK security standard superseding PAS 24:2022 and PAS 24:2016, PAS 24:2022+A12024 is essentially a more current and consistent testing apparatus for doorsets and windows in homes. Many of the updates are about keeping pace with modern burglary methods to ensure testing reflects how burglars actually attack doors and windows today. As such, front doors, patio/sliding doors, French doors, folding doors, and most residential windows are now physically tested against things like superglue, freezing spray, and water, as well as the more established methods of forced entry, levering, impact attacks, and manipulation of locks and hardware. In addition, manufacturers have greater responsibility to provide clear installation instructions, specify exactly which hardware must be used, ensure site-assembled products match the tested configuration, and maintain traceability between the tested specimen and the finished installation. PAS 24:2022+A12024 also emphasises that security performance belongs to the complete doorset or window system, rather than any individual component. Hardware, profiles, glazing, and installation all contribute to the final result, making tested system performance increasingly important when specifying products.

As specifications and certification schemes transition to the latest standard, manufacturers who fail to update testing or compliance language may find themselves at a competitive disadvantage. However, there is a wider factor at play, too: you need to maintain trust among your stakeholders. This is because, as standards evolve, so do expectations from specifiers, certification bodies, and customers – making accurate language and up-to-date evidence more important than ever. Companies that provide these things are better placed to build and maintain trust with specifiers, fabricators, and installers. On the other hand, companies that do not comply are likely to experience a decline in customer trust, especially among housebuilders and specifiers who rely on certification for assurance. They may be excluded from Secured by Design projects, lose competitive credibility, and be perceived as outdated or unreliable suppliers in an increasingly safety-conscious market. Secured by Design has also outlined a transition process for member companies, while encouraging manufacturers to undertake updated testing against the latest standard.

What the new standard means for you While Approved Document Q sets the legal security requirement for new dwellings in England, PAS 24:2022+A12024 is the recognised standard most commonly used to demonstrate compliance in practice.

Navigating the transition It’s one thing to know that the regulations are changing – but another to grasp, to the necessary level, all the implications for product design, testing, certification, specification, and sales.

Manufacturers, fabricators, and installers will need to review testing evidence, specification language and certification pathways. At Yale, we believe we have an important role to play in supporting customers through that process, translating technical updates into clear guidance so they can make informed purchasing decisions and communicate security benefits more effectively to end-users. In support of this, we have a wealth of experience developing and supporting products used within complete doorsets and windows tested to PAS 24:2022+A12024. This focus on complete-system performance is reflected in our own product development, with the latest example being our new Lockmaster 24 lock. Products such as Yale Lockmaster 24 have been developed in response to evolving attack methods, including attempts to bypass high-security cylinders by accessing and manipulating the lockcase directly. Combining proven mechanical performance with smart capability, Lockmaster 24 supports complete doorsets designed to meet PAS 24:2022+A12024, helping customers stay aligned with changing market and specification requirements. PAS 24:2022+A12024 should be seen not as an administrative hurdle, but as a necessary evolution alongside changing threats and expectations. Those who invest in current evidence, accurate communication, and whole-system performance will be best placed to earn trust and compete in an increasingly demanding market. www.yaledws.co.uk

Kerb Appeal Made Easy with ARRONE ARRONE espagnolette handles are designed with co-ordinated door furniture in mind. Both inline and cranked locking window handles are available in left and right configurations. Designed to complement a comprehensive range of door hardware and accessories, including handle sets, numerals, door knockers, and a TS 008-tested letterplate. With ARRONE, finding the perfect match for your door and window hardware couldn’t be easier.

HOPPE (UK) • Ltd Gailey Park • Gravelly Way • Standeford • Wolverhampton WV10 7GW • Tel. 01902 484 400 • www.hoppe.com • info.uk@hoppe.co.uk

92 | hardware active | october 2026

Evaluating supply chain sustainability Lara Coutinho, Supply Chain Sustainability Manager at Quanex Group, explores the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

ustainability is fast becoming a non-negotiable across the home improvement sector. As regulators introduce stricter requirements, homeowners are more environmentally conscious than ever, with 69% of UK consumers stating that they take sustainability into account when making purchasing decisions. With this, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can provide valuable guidance to door and window manufacturers, helping them to understand the areas where they can make the greatest impact, supporting long-term market resilience. Lara Coutinho, Supply Chain Sustainability Manager at Quanex Group, which includes hardware brands ERA and Zoo, explores the UN SDGS and why alignment with Goals 8, 11, and 12 should be key considerations for manufacturers when assessing the sustainability commitments of supply chain partners. A Manufacturer’s Guide to UN SDGs - Adopted by all UN member states in 2015, the UN SDGs are a set of 17 interconnected objectives designed to address worldwide challenges. Globally recognised, they provide a framework for businesses, governments, and individuals to measure and communicate their sustainability efforts. Increasingly, customers and specifiers want to understand how products they use are made and the values of the businesses behind them. Therefore, alignment with the SDGs can deliver commercial and reputational advantages. Quanex Group’s 2035 Roadmap, approved by the Executive Leadership Team in July 2025, is underpinned by 11 of the 17 UN SDGs. This highlights the growing significance of the goals for the fenestration sector. While no single SDG should be viewed in isolation, some are particularly relevant to door and window manufacturers. The following goals provide a useful starting point when evaluating the sustainability commitments of supply chain partners. What is SDG 8? SDG 8 promotes sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth and decent work for all. In the context of fenestration supply chains, it places emphasis on how businesses can support people whilst ensuring a strong financial performance. Why SDG 8 matters for door and window manufacturers - For door and window manufacturers, SDG 8 is linked to supply chain stability and resilience. A re-

sponsible supply chain reduces disruptions caused by worker shortages, poor compliance, and reputational issues. This resilience holds commercial significance, with procurement teams looking beyond price and performance when specifying doors and windows. These days, developers are selecting partners based on their commitment to responsible business practices. In addition, homeowners are also increasingly concerned with the ethical standards of the businesses they choose to purchase from. Ultimately, suppliers demonstrating strong ethical practices are more robust and are less exposed to risk, offering a strategic advantage to their customers. How to identify supplier commitment to SDG 8 - Manufacturers can assess supplier alignment with SDG 8 through a combination of certifications, disclosures, and governance. These include: • Sedex membership - providing visibility of ethical and sustainable practices across supply chains • META Audits - covering labour standards, health and safety, environmental, and business ethics assessments • Modern Slavery Statement - which should be publicly available and compliant with the UK Modern Slavery Act • Living Wage Foundation Accreditation - demonstrating a commitment to fair pay • Worker representation initiatives including employee engagement • Code of Conduct - supporting transparency around supply chain expectations What is SDG 11? SDG 11 focuses on

making cities and settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable. The goal recognises the role the built environment plays in shaping how people live and work, including the importance of the systems and products used to create safe living conditions. Why SDG 11 matters for door and window manufacturers - Door and window manufacturers play a fundamental role in how buildings contribute to wider community safety. The components they supply and products they develop have a direct impact on how well the built environment serves people. Regulatory changes in the UK are also reinforcing the importance of safe, resilient living spaces. The Building Safety Act 2022 has introduced stricter requirements across the design, construction, and maintenance of higher-risk dwellings. In addition, the Future Homes Standard 2025 has raised performance expectations for new build homes. As a result, manufacturers must prioritise working with suppliers that offer high-quality, compliant products, designed to support safer communities and living environments. How to identify supplier commitment to SDG 11 - Manufacturers can evaluate supplier alignment with SDG 11 through measurable actions and investments in the following areas: • Research and development – focused on improving product performance, safety, and durability • Standard Certifications - evidence of testing against recognised industry standards for regulatory compliance

october 2026 | hardware active | 93 • Transparent documentation – outlining product performance and quality expectations What is SDG 12? SDG 12 aims to ensure sustainable consumption and production. The goal focuses on reducing environmental degradation by limiting resource extraction, reducing waste generation, and encouraging a circular economy. For manufacturers, this means improving efficiencies and committing to transparency around the environmental impact of products and packaging. Why SDG 12 matters for door and window manufacturers - Responsible consumption and production are fast becoming operational requirements for the fenestration industry. Door and window manufacturers face growing pressure to implement better waste management strategies, improve procurement processes, and provide clear evidence of environmental practices. In line with this, Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) are becoming more commonly requested across specification and construction projects. EPDs provide independently verified data about the environmental impact of a product across its lifetime. Not only can EPDs have commercial value by supporting wider sustainability targets for construction projects, they can also contribute towards sustainability assessment frameworks, such as BREEAM. As a result, manufacturers working with suppliers who are working towards obtaining EPDs can gain a competitive advantage. Operational waste reduction also remains a key priority for door and window manufacturers, as evidenced by changing regulations. The UK Plastic Packaging Tax continues to incentivise greater use of recycled content, while Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) encourages businesses to consider the impact of packaging across their supply chains. How to identify supplier commitment to SDG 12 - When sourcing sustainable suppliers, manufacturers can determine a supplier’s contribution to SDG 12, by looking out for: • EPDs – investment in acquiring independently verified lifecycle data • Packaging – innovation focused on materials that support recyclability • Waste reduction commitments – such as clear ‘zero waste to landfill’ targets • ISO 14001 Certification – demonstrating a commitment to minimising environmental impact • Recycled Content Certification – sustainable packaging supported by third-party verification Quanex Hardware Solutions Sustainability Roadmap - As part of Quanex Group’s 2035 Sustainability Roadmap, ERA and Zoo, alongside Quanex Hardware Solutions brands Reguitti and Giesse, are undertaking proactive steps to minimise their environmental impact, while supporting UK customers with innovative products and sustainability services, all in line with the UN’s global framework. ERA and Zoo are already making significant progress when it comes to sustainability and futureproofing their products. In fact, since 2022, around 46% of the brands’ revenue has been generated from innovative solutions that positively support one or more of the UN SDGs. Achieving Supply Chain Sustainability for Manufacturers - Sustainability expectations continue to evolve across the home improvement supply chain. As a result, the suppliers’ door and window manufacturers choose to work with have a direct impact on their overall resilience and business performance. Partnering with supply chain partners, like ERA and Zoo, that demonstrate measurable alignment to UN SDGs gives manufacturers strong evidence to support procurement processes and customer conversations, while also helping to reduce exposure to emerging regulations. It’s imperative that sustainability claims are backed by evidence, including certifications, disclosures, data, and reporting. Ultimately, a transparent, SDG-aligned supply chain builds trust, strengthens reputations, and creates a competitive advantage in a market where sustainability is moving from a differentiator to an expectation.

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94 | hardware active | october 2026

Hoppe’s Andy Matthews explores how coordinated door furniture combines style, security and performance to create a cohesive look

A coordinated approach to kerb appeal K erb appeal encompasses many elements, and the entrance door is one of the most prominent. While the colour and style of a door play an obvious role, homeowners are paying greater attention to the hardware, making it an important part of the overall specification. Handles, letterplates, numerals, knockers and accessories are no longer viewed simply as functional components. They are details that help create a property’s first impression. For fabricators and installers, this shift presents an opportunity. Rather than treating hardware as the final selection before installation, bringing the conversation forward can help customers create a more considered entrance. Coordinated door furniture creates a sense of order and attention to detail, avoiding a mismatched appearance and helping deliver the premium look homeowners increasingly expect. Where function meets design While performance, durability and security remain essential, homeowners now expect products that complement the wider look of their home. The move towards coordinated hardware reflects a wider trend for complete entrance solutions. For HOPPE, this changing expectation has shaped the development of the ARRONE range, providing fabricators and installers with a complete selection of door handles, knockers, numerals, security letterplates, and window handles that combine visual appeal with reliable performance. Combining style and performance While appearance is important, hardware specification is about much more than aesthetics. Door furniture is one of the most frequently used elements of an entrance, meaning long-term reliability, durability and performance are essential. The Arrone range has been designed to meet these demands, combining a choice of finishes with products developed for everyday residential applications. The AR7550 longplate lever handle sets provide a versatile solution for PVC-U and

composite doors, featuring an integrated spring cassette, colour-matched fixings and a 10.7mm backplate depth that accommodates a range of cylinder options. The handle sets have been durability tested to 200,000 cycles and corrosion salt spray tested to Grade 5-480 hours, supporting both reliable operation and a long-lasting aesthetic. The Arrone range also extends across window applications, helping fabricators maintain a coordinated look throughout the property. The AR720 inline and AR722 cranked espagnolette window handles have been designed specifically for the demands of today’s volume window market. Both models feature a positive stop at closed and 90-degree positions and are supplied with the necessary fixings for straightforward installation. With a standard 7mm spindle and multiple spindle length options available, they provide flexibility across a range of sidehung window applications. Security is also a key consideration. The Arrone AR708HS TS 008 tested letterplate combines enhanced protection with a clean, coordinated appearance, allowing fabricators to support modern security expectations while maintaining the overall aesthetic of the installation. Together, these products allow fabricators to specify a complete hardware solution where every detail has been considered.

Choosing the right combination The choice of hardware finish can have a significant influence on the overall entrance, either complementing the door colour or creating a deliberate contrast. Polished brass can provide a more traditional feel and works particularly well with colours such as navy, dark green, black and traditional red, while polished chrome

offers a clean, neutral option for white, light grey, pale blue and black doors. Satin chrome provides a softer alternative and can complement mid greys, soft blues, woodgrain effects and neutral composite doors. For a more contemporary appearance, black hardware can create a strong contrast against white, grey, pastel and timber-effect doors, while anthracite grey works well with various shades of grey. Graphite offers a softer alternative to black and can be paired with dark grey, bluegrey and black doors. Where a more understated result is preferred, white hardware can blend with white and softer neutral door colours. While personal preference will always be the deciding factor, understanding the impact of different finishes provides another opportunity to add value, helping homeowners make informed choices while ensuring the final installation feels complete. www.hoppe.co.uk

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96 | hardware active | october 2026

Safeware helps trade counters make more of replacement hardware

afeware is helping trade counters maximise the sales potential of replacement window and door hardware with a focused product range backed by professional in-branch merchandising and point-of-sale support. With installers, builders, locksmiths and maintenance professionals regularly visiting trade counters for everyday repair products, replacement hardware represents a valuable opportunity to increase choice at the counter and generate additional sales. Rob Hartill, Commercial Director at Safeware, said: “Trade counters are all about convenience. Customers want to be able to walk in and quickly find the products they need to complete a repair or replacement job without having to source them elsewhere. Having the right replacement hardware available creates an opportunity to provide a better service while making more of every customer visit.” Safeware has developed a focused range around common window and door

repair applications. Products include window and door handles, friction hinges, restrictors, locks and cylinders, giving trade counters a practical hardware offer without the need for excessive stockholding. Rob continued: “The key is getting the range right. It isn’t about filling shelves with hundreds of different products. It’s about understanding the replacement market and stocking the products customers are most likely to need. That makes the offer easier for the trade counter to manage and easier for customers to navigate.” To support the range, Safeware provides carousel-style product displays and supporting POS literature, creating a clear and professional in-branch presentation. The floor mounted carousels arrive fully assembled and ready to use straight from the box, making it quick and easy for trade counters to introduce the range with minimal effort. Rob said: “We’ve deliberately made

the whole proposition as straightforward as possible. The range is focused on the replacement products customers regularly need and the eye-catching carousel displays arrive ready assembled, so branches can simply position them and start selling.” Rob added: “For trade counters, it’s about making better use of valuable space. A compact, professionally presented hardware range can broaden the customer offer and create an additional revenue stream without adding complexity.” With more than 35 years’ industry experience, Safeware combines a carefully selected replacement hardware range with the product knowledge, availability and merchandising support trade counters need to make more of every customer visit. Tel: 0845 009 8624 E: info@safewarehardware.com www safewarehardware.com

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98 | hardware active | october 2026

Regal Hardware’s Knurled range expands with two statement finishes

indow Ware has expanded its popular Regal Hardware Knurled range with two new suited finishes: Polished Chrome and Smooth Nickel, available across both inline window handles and matching door handles. Designed to serve as high-end hardware upgrades for PVC-U systems as well as slimline aluminium and heritage steel-look frames, these latest additions combine striking metallic finishes with precision knurled detail - all backed by a dependable 10-year mechanical guarantee, as well as robust endurance and corrosion resistance testing. The result is distinctive, architectural-grade furniture engineered to help fabricators stand out, attract style-conscious homeowners, and secure higher-value projects in a market where premium glazing continues to thrive. These suited new arrivals allow trade partners to deliver total visual and tactile continuity across every opening, regardless of the frame material specified. “Demand for high-end, design-led glazing is stronger than ever,” says Rob Vaughan, Product Manager at Window Ware. “When high-spec homeowners and specifiers test out a window or door, the

hardware creates that crucial handson first impression. The distinctive knurled finish elevates the handle from a standard fitting into a luxury feature that helps fabricators win business and protect profit margins.” Joining four existing finishes to bring the total range choice to six, both the

Knurled door handles and inline window handles in Polished Chrome and Smooth Nickel are in stock now and available for immediate dispatch nationwide from Window Ware. Tel: 01234 242724 www.windowware.co.uk

Looking at why Ultion developed ALPS Plus - its most secure cylinder

hen Ultion ALPS launched, it was the first cylinder to pass the updated PAS24:2022+A1:2024 standard and the Sold Secure Diamond 2024 test. At the time, no other cylinder on the market could say the same. The industry has moved on since then. Other manufacturers have caught up with the standard, which is exactly what should happen. Higher compliance across the board is good for everyone, including homeowners. But at Ultion, meeting a standard has never been the finish line. How testing has evolved: The compliance deadline is approaching and any cylinder supplied into PAS24 applications must meet the updated standard. The same applies to Sold Secure SS312, which has been updated to include the same four additional attack methods. What’s less well understood is that beyond the written standard, the way products are actually tested has also evolved. Accredited test houses in the

UK are now applying more sophisticated techniques within the existing test parameters. A cylinder can pass the standard and still not hold up to the

methods being used in practice. Scott Brittain, Head of Technical at Ultion, explains: “The standard itself hasn’t changed, but the way products are being tested has evolved. We’ve developed ALPS Plus specifically to withstand the techniques now being used by accredited test houses, not just to meet the minimum required on paper.” What ALPS Plus offers: ALPS Plus is Ultion’s most secure cylinder, built on the foundation of ALPS but enhanced to keep pace with how testing and realworld attack methods are developing. It is fully PAS24:2022+A1:2024 compliant, meets the updated Sold Secure SS312 2024 standard and comes with KeyControl as standard to block unauthorised key copies. It is available in keyed alike sets so one key can open every Ultion lock on a property and features a thick dimple key for added resistance to snapping. ALPS Plus is available to trade now. Contact your Ultion account manager or visit https://www.brisant-secure. com/login/ for more information.

october 2026 | hardware active | 99

Carl F Groupco expands portfolio with new Cotswold Prestbury friction stay

ndependent hardware supplier Carl F Groupco has further expanded its product portfolio with the addition of the new Prestbury Egress Easy Clean Restricted Friction Stay from Cotswold Architectural Products. Launched in September 2026, Prestbury is an innovative 3-in-1 friction stay that combines restricted opening, full egress and easy-clean functionality in a single product. Commenting on the introduction, Owen Coop, CEO of Carl F Groupco, said: “Prestbury is a very strong addition to our range because it brings together three important functions within one intelligently designed friction stay. The attention to detail in areas such as the protected restrictor, load-dependent child safety and automatic reset makes it a particularly well-considered product. For our customers, it also offers the practical advantages of a 3-in-1 solution that can help simplify hardware requirements.” Prestbury has been developed with safety at the heart of its design. Its fullwidth restrictor is shielded beneath the third arm of the

hinge, protecting it from lifting, bending or arm clash. Child safety is further enhanced through a load-dependent release mechanism. When the sash is restricted, the weight of the window prevents the release button from being pressed. The sash must first be closed to remove the load before the restriction can be deliberately overridden. When required, Prestbury provides true full egress, with the window opening fully towards the frame to maximise the clear opening for emergency escape and rescue access. Its easy-clean function uses a simple press-and-slide operation, while the high-visibility green release tab is instantly identifiable when needed. Once cleaning is complete, simply closing and reopening the window automatically returns the stay

to restricted mode, eliminating the need for manual repositioning. For fabricators, Prestbury is supplied in dedicated matched pairs, simplifying ordering and helping to prevent stock imbalance. Performance and durability are equally important, with Prestbury tested to 25,000 cycles for long-term reliability. Owen concluded: “Cotswold Architectural Products has a strong reputation for developing hardware around the practical needs of the market. Prestbury is another example of that approach – one stay, three functions and a straightforward solution for fabricators and end users.” Cotswold Architectural Products is one of almost 60 manufacturers stocked by Carl F Groupco. Its broad and carefully curated product range, backed by expert technical and commercial support, ensures fabricators have access to the latest hardware product innovations to meet the demands of today’s market. Tel: 01733 393 330 E: sales@carlfgroupco.co.uk

BJ Waller adds Royde & Tucker Butt Hinge for timber casement windows

edicated timber hardware supplier, BJ Waller, has added the Royde & tucker HI-LOAD H086 lift-off hinge to its range of specialist hardware for timber casement windows, with stock now available for joinery manufacturers across the UK. The H086 butt hinge has recently been tested for use on the Lignum casement window system, supporting the traditional appearance and opening function that timber window manufacturers often need to retain, while providing proven performance from a trusted hinge range. Although tested for the Lignum system, the HILOAD hinge is suitable for traditional casement window applications thanks to its smaller size of 85 x 76 x 2.64mm, making it a practical option for joinery manufacturers looking to maintain classic window aesthetics alongside reliable operation and long-term durability. Manufactured from Grade 304 stainless steel, the Royde & Tucker H086 hinge is available in choice of finishes including

satin stainless steel, dark bronze, black and antique brass. The maintenance free hinge is supplied with a 25-year mechanical guarantee when correctly specified and fitted, giving joinery manufacturers additional peace of mind. Luke Piper, Business Development Director - Timber, BJ Waller, said: “The H086 is a useful addition to our timber window

hinge range because it supports the traditional look and operation that many joiners want to preserve. Testing for the Lignum casement window gives customers working with that system additional confidence but is also a strong option for wider traditional timber casement applications which require a butt hinge with reliable operation and performance.” The hinge is available now from BJ Waller, supported by the team’s specialist knowledge of timber window and door hardware. BJ Waller supplies hardware for timber window and doors to joinery manufacturers across the UK, working with leading brands and supporting customers with product selection, specification advice and practical technical guidance. Tel: 01234 242 725 E: sales@bjwaller.co.uk

100 | general feature | october 2026

Super Spacer after 30 years

Real buildings, real weather, three decades of data; Edgetech makes the case that Super Spacer’s durability is proven, not promised

very spacer manufacturer will tell you their product lasts. Edgetech, leaders in warm edge spacer technology, however, has something most competitors don’t, and that’s buildings that have stood the test of time. Scattered across four continents, in climates that range from Scandinavian winters to Gulf summers, Super Spacer and T-Spacer installations have been used in insulated glass units for ambitious installations for as long as thirty years. “Test data tells you what a product should do in a lab,” explains Gary Shoesmith, Edgetech’s Head of Technical Product Management. “What actually matters to a specifier is what happens after fifteen winters, after twenty summers, after the sealant has been asked to move a thousand times over. We can point to real buildings that have already done that.” Proven, not promised The case for warm edge spacer durability is perfectly demonstrated in projects like Gothenburg’s Våghuset building, where Super Spacer TriSeal, which features an outer silicone seal for structural strength and durability, was moulded into a curved, wave-shaped façade, while enabling outstanding thermal efficiency. It was able to withstand Swedish winters that regularly fall to minus 15 degrees Celsius. And in In Regina, Saskatchewan, the Alvin Hamilton Government Building has carried Super Spacer through Canadian prairie winters and dry summers since the product was fitted, with no reported seal failures. Cold climates punish spacers in a specific way. Rigid, metal-based systems contract at a different rate than the glass and sealant around them which can cause stress cracks and failed seals. Super Spacer’s silicone foam construction was built to move with the unit rather than against it. “A spacer doesn’t fail because of one cold snap,” said Gary. “It fails because it’s been expanding and contracting for years and something eventually gives. Ours doesn’t give, because the whole point of the design is that it flexes rather than resists.” Global capability Cold isn’t the only threat. In the deserts of the American Southwest, spacers in service face a different combination altogether: relentless UV, huge daily temperature swings between

baking days and cold nights, and low humidity that dries out weaker sealants over time. Then there’s Dubai, where the Museum of the Future, considered one of the most architecturally complex building in the world, which carries more than 36,000 metres of Super Spacer TriSeal Premium Plus around 7,000 custom curtain wall units and is exposed to some of the harshest UV and heat loads any building envelope will face. Super Spacer TriSeal’s design includes desiccated silicone foam, acrylic assembly adhesive, Polyisobutylene primary seal and a multilayer vapour barrier to offer outstanding performance. Engineers who worked on the project had first used Super Spacer to make free-form IGUs in Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Mosque 10 years before and Gary said: “That decade of evidence that there had been no problems whatsoever was why Super Spacer was chosen for what was an even more ambitious project.” Owning the conversation Every installation, from the UK to Dubai, is still doing its job thanks to Edgetech’s warm edge technology and its flexibility and outstanding all-round performance have let architects go to the very limits of what’s technologically feasible “You can promise decades of performance,” Gary added. “Or you can look at installations on real buildings, that have been in real weather such as the Gulf sun, for over 10 years that haven’t lost their integrity. That’s what you get with Edgetech.” For a company built on warm edge innovation since 1989, that track record speaks for itself. If you’re interested in learning more, call 02476 639931 or visit www.edgetechig.co.uk

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102 | general feature | october 2026

Flexible spacer gives flexible solutions

IGU manufacturers must choose automated processes that work with their products, production volumes and existing infrastructure

s changing regulations, higher performance requirements, and shifting customer expectations continue to impact the insulated glass unit (IGU) market, it is essential that manufacturing technology keeps pace. Triple glazing is becoming increasingly mainstream, and thinner, more thermally demanding units are placing greater pressure on manufacturers. All the while, a tough economic climate is squeezing operating costs and margins, with manufacturers facing increasingly competitive pricing and growing demand for higherperforming IGUs. To meet these challenges efficiently and cost-effectively, IGU manufacturers must choose automated processes that work with their products, production volumes and existing infrastructure. “This is where flexible spacer technology offers a significant advantage,” says Mark Hickox, Sales Director at Thermoseal Group. “As IGUs become increasingly complex, in line with tightening regulations, integrating the right spacer system can make all the difference to productivity and finished-unit quality.” Flexible spacer systems are applied continuously around the perimeter of the glass, which makes them particularly well-suited to automated production, while also giving manufacturers greater flexibility to handle various unit specifications. Developed in-house in the UK, the Thermoflex foam spacer range is one example of Thermoseal Group’s long-standing investment in warm edge technology. Designed specifically for use with hot melt systems, Thermoflex Premium Standard is ideal for manufacturers looking to introduce or expand automated processing. Alongside it, Thermoflex Premium Dual Seal is compatible with all sealant types, allowing processors to use the spacer alongside different production methods and secondary sealants. For Thermoseal Group, this flexibility is something that is increasingly important to help manufacturers respond to changing market requirements. “Dual Seal can be integrated into a wider range of manufacturing setups, which allows our customers to adapt production as market requirements change,” Mark says. “It’s not ‘one-size-fits-all’ for every business, so having flexible and adaptable spacer technologies is becoming much more important for IGU manufacturers.

“Our high-performing Thermoflex range provides a route into automated production that can improve efficiency and consistency without requiring customers to completely change how they make IGUs, or to resort to a costly automation upgrade. That’s a big plus in a market where streamlined costs are critical.” With its comprehensive product portfolio, comprising not just a broad range of rigid and flexible spacer bars but also sealants, accessories and associated tools and equipment, Thermoseal Group is well-positioned to support IGU manufacturers at every stage of their automation journey. As a world-leading brand, Thermoseal Group products are tested above the market minimum EN1279 testing guidelines, allowing manufacturers to remain competitive and deliver performance simultaneously. Combining its unrivalled product offering and technical expertise with the global reach and resources of the Fenzi Group, Thermoseal Group works with manufacturers in more than 30 countries, offering internationally trusted expertise. “Automation is not necessarily about immediately implementing the most sophisticated or the most expensive option,” explains Mark. “Some manufacturers might just want to automate a particular stage of production, as opposed to a complete overhaul. Existing machinery, product mix, budgets and growth plans will all have an influence on which technology makes the most sense. “Automation should be an investment in the future of the business. It all hinges on what a manufacturer is producing today, where they want to go tomorrow and which products and processes align with that.” This ‘bigger picture’ view is arguably one of Thermoseal Group’s key strengths. “We recognise that different manufacturers have different requirements. Our objective is to work with our customers on a caseby-case basis, to ensure the best possible outcome.” “From our perspective, it’s all about assessing the customer’s needs and finding the right solution for them,” concludes Mark. www.thermosealgroup.com

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104 | product innovation | october 2026

Snap It. Send It. Enjoy – Sheerline launches installer giveaway

heerline has launched a new ‘Snap It. Send It. Enjoy’ giveaway aimed at installers of its popular S1 Roof Lantern. Running from Monday 21 September, installers are being invited to put their best S1 projects forward to win a £10 Greggs voucher. Entering the giveaway is easy. All participants need to do is take a photo of their S1 installation, send it to Sheerline, and once reviewed, they’ll receive a £10 Greggs voucher via email. There are several ways to enter – via the website, social media, or email. Rather than one main prize, installers have the chance to enter – and be rewarded – up to three times. Sheerline’s Marketing Director, Lee Renshaw, commented: “Aside from being a celebration of our S1 Roof Lantern, this giveaway has a dual purpose. We want to recognise the great work being carried out by installers up and down the country.” “Secondly, we sell thousands of S1s each year. We offer 13 different styles, bespoke colours, ventilation, and the ability to

add lighting. But we don’t often see the completed installation, so we want to see as many S1 projects as possible!” he added. 2026 marks five years since the S1 was launched. During that time, the key components have remained the same.

However, updates have been released to ensure the S1 remains competitive such as the 3-way option. To mark this anniversary, Sheerline launched its S1 Still Unmatched campaign, which highlights a different feature or benefit of the S1 each month. The giveaway falls within the campaign and provides another opportunity to highlight how installer-friendly the product is. Jon Crohill, Technical & Design Office Manager, said: “Many of the features that enabled the S1 to stand out – aesthetics, security, strength, efficiency, and ventilation – are as relevant today as when it was first launched.” “This is a testament to the original design brief and illustrates what can be achieved with a bit of time and consideration. This giveaway is a great opportunity to shout about the S1 and its enduring popularity,” he added. To enter the giveaway, visit the website here: https://www.sheerline.com/s1unmatched-giveaway

Saint-Gobain Glass expands solar control range with self-cleaning glass

aint-Gobain Glass has expanded its solar control range with COOL-LITE® XTREME 70/33 II with BIOCLEAN® II, combining solar control, thermal insulation and a self-cleaning coating in a single pane. Suitable for rooflights, skylights, glazed atriums and pitched overhead glazing, the new product helps reduce solar heat gain while maximising natural daylight. It offers 68% light transmission, a g-value of 32% and a centre pane U-value of 1.0 W/m²K. The integrated low-maintenance self-cleaning BIOCLEAN® II coating uses daylight to help break down organic dirt on the external glass surface. Rainwater can then wash away the loosened dirt, helping to reduce ongoing cleaning and maintenance requirements. For the coating to work effectively, the glass must be exposed to daylight and installed at a sufficient angle to allow rainwater to run freely across its surface. Jenni Young, Market Manager at SaintGobain Glass, said: “COOL-LITE® XTREME 70/33 II with BIOCLEAN® II brings together solar control, natural daylight, thermal insulation and easier maintenance all in one glazing solution. “It has been developed for roof glazing applications, where managing solar heat gain and maintaining comfortable internal temperatures are important, but accessing the glass for regular cleaning can

be difficult. The addition of BIOCLEAN® II provides a practical benefit for building owners, homeowners and specifiers looking for a high-performing, low-maintenance solution.” COOL-LITE® XTREME 70/33 II with BIOCLEAN® II helps to create bright, comfortable interior spaces where occupant

wellbeing and building performance are key design considerations. The glass is available on PLANICLEAR® in 4mm thickness, with a maximum stock size of 3210 x 2550mm. Other dimensions may be available on request. www.Saint-Gobain-Glass.co.uk

27 NOVEMBER 2026 LONDON HILTON ON PARK LANE

Join us at this prestigious event to celebrate the achievements that are driving the future of the glass & glazing industry. Be part of the party of the year and book your seats today. Sponsorship opportunities available.

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