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In a statement released at close of play last night, Pilkington plc 'notes the recent movement in its share price and confirms that it has received a preliminary approach that may or may not lead to
an offer being made for the Company. A further announcement will be made when appropriate.'

In accordance with Rule 2.10 of The City Code on Takeovers and Mergers, the Company also confirms that, as at the close of business on 28th October 2005, the Company's issued share capital consisted of 1,314,661,820 ordinary shares of 50 pence each.

Nippon Sheet Glass, meanwhile, said it was at 'a very preliminary stage' of discussing a cash offer for Pilkington that analysts think could be worth up to £2 billion.

Shares in Pilkington Plc surged 26 percent as news of the bid approach broke and Nippon was touted as the likely suitor because it already owned nearly 20% of the firm. A source said the Japanese firm would offer about 150 pence a share for Pilkington, roughly in line with where the shares closed.

VEKA fabricator, Piper Double Glazing Ltd has achieved a prestigious A rating in the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) Window Energy Rating system, the only window so far to achieve this. Incorporating VEKA Matrix 70mm profiles, Piper’s argon gas-filled triple glazed 16mm casement window achieved a level Window Energy Rating of +4, which is the highest on the scheme to date.

The Window Energy Rating system developed by the BFRC, which is an independent government-supported body established to develop and administer a system of window energy ratings in the UK, becomes part of the revised Building Regulations coming into force on April 6th 2006. It clearly identifies the performance of a window as a whole, rather than concentrating on single components such as the frame or glass. Certified windows carry a label with an A to G grading, (with A the most energy efficient) and values for thermal transmittance, solar factor and air leakage.

The window energy rating assesses the whole window energy performance and covers the frame material, the frame design, the glass type and all the other components that make up the window. The rating is carried out by computer simulation of the product to European Standards and the use of standard climate data and building models. This gives a single number that can be used to compare the energy performance of a window simply and quickly. Exclusively for domestic applications, the scheme helps to significantly reduce energy usage and cost to the consumer, improving comfort and contributing to CO2 emission reduction.

Dr Robin Kent of the BFRC says that the Piper/VEKA achievement shows that the standard is completely attainable and workable: 'The performance of the Piper window is excellent and, perhaps more importantly, demonstrates what can be achieved in a commercially available product that is ready for market now. Piper Windows and VEKA have set a very important precedent for the glazing industry.'

Alistair Craig, Piper Windows General Manager, says that he and his colleagues are delighted at the achievement: 'This places Piper Windows at the cutting edge of window development. In close partnership with VEKA we have achieved a performance that not even the BFRC believed to be possible at this time. We have set the standards for others to follow – quite literally.'

VEKA’s Mark Rogers is equally pleased: 'With the BFRC ratings becoming part of the Building Regulations from April next year, we are supporting our customers to be ready to deliver compliant products in advance of the new standards. That Piper and the VEKA technical team have achieved the very highest rating using the VEKA Matrix 70 system this early in the scheme, is remarkable.' .

PVC Prices Soar 35% Following Hurricanes in Gulf

PVC industry costs are up as much as 35 percent from just a few months ago, with a 10% rise in the last month alone. Many oil refineries located in the Gulf of Mexico area, are still recovering after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita slamming into the region and when oil prices spike, there is a instantaneous price rise in the resins used to make PVC and other plastic products.

Chemical Week magazine has reported that PVC prices in the USA have surged 43 percent from 37 cents a pound in September of last year to 53 cents a pound last month.

PVC prices in Europe this week inched higher, with producers chasing sharp hikes on the back of tight regional avails and firm EDC and VCM input costs.

Post-Hurricane Reconstruction Opportunities to UK Industry

UK Trade & Investment, in cooperation with Louisiana Economic Development and UK regional groups in England and Scotland's Business Gateway, will hold a series of seminars to brief companies on post-hurricane reconstruction opportunities in US Southern States estimated to be worth £140 billion. The events will be held in London, Aberdeen and Manchester during Monday October 31st to Wednesday 2nd November.

Larry Collins, Director of International Services for Louisiana State Government, will brief UK industry on the extent of sector opportunities, contractors already engaged in reconstruction work and their procurement processes, and support available to UK companies wishing to establish a presence in the State.

UK Trade & Investment staff from the US and the UK will also be on hand to discuss further planned activity to assist UK industry access the reconstruction effort and the range of support and services available to companies seeking to get involved. The briefing tour is an initiative linked to a long-standing relationship between UK Trade and Investment and Louisiana Economic Development, in cooperation with UK Regional business groups, Business Gateway International (part of Scottish Enterprise), Aberdeen City Council and other industry partners.

Trade Minister Ian Pearson said:
'Hurricanes Katrina and Rita were a terrible tragedy and the affected communities need our help to rebuild their lives. I am looking forward to meeting the Louisiana Development board to discuss how UK industry can best focus their extensive skills and capability to help in the US reconstruction effort. I encourage UK firms to engage with the seminars as they may find that their expertise is exactly what is required to help speed the process of reconstruction up.

'The UK has expertise in many areas which could help with the rebuilding process. The destruction covers the entire range of infrastructure including oil and gas facilities and pipelines, roads, bridges, ports and levies, private and commercial property, power generation and distribution vehicles and commercial/private furniture and goods.'

Hurricanes Katrina and Rita could be one of the most powerful natural disasters in history, and the most costly. Initial research indicates a likely reconstruction/repair bill of around US$200-250 billion. Opportunities also exist in areas such as temporary accommodation; camp management/catering and general clean up.

Event Registration
UK companies wishing further information, or to register for the event, can do so by email (UKTI@innovision.uk.com) or telephone (020 7034 3295). Places are limited so please book early to ensure participation at these events.

DuPont Launches New Capacity for Safety Glass Interlayers

DuPont Glass Laminating Solutions has announced that new production capabilities for its safety glass interlayers are now operational. The facilities expansions were put in place in response to strong global demand growth for impact-resistant glass. Key to the expansion is opening of the company's new manufacturing line in Fayetteville, North Carolina, which makes DuPont SentryGlas Plus interlayers for global markets.

SentryGlas Plus continues to be used to address the extreme demands of applications around the world including embassies, high-rise building facades, balustrades, and overhead glazing. DuPont's latest glass interlayer offering provides architects with expanded capabilities for meeting increasingly stringent building codes, especially in hurricane markets. It is stronger, clearer and more durable than traditional interlayers.

DuPont also opened a new facility in Wilmington, Del., for making SentryGlas Expressions, a safety glass offering that brings together DuPont inkjet and polymer science to meet the need of architects and designers for decorative architectural glazing. With the new technology, designers now have the ability to customise designs and images with photographic realism, along with the safety and security benefits of laminated glass.

‘The investment in these facilities responds to strong global demand growth and demonstrates DuPont's commitment to this business and to becoming the leading supplier and innovator of glass laminating solutions for a better, safer world,’ said Luigi Robbiati, global business director for DuPont Glass Laminating Solutions. ‘SentryGlas solutions are opening up entirely new applications for the use of glass in buildings where it has never been used before, with many new possibilities for building design.’

DuPont also announced that it has successfully launched additional production capabilities at the company's Retrim safety glass interlayer operation in Zlin, Czech Republic, expanding DuPont's presence in Central and Eastern Europe for automotive and architectural laminated glass markets.

In response to increasing Asian demand for safety glass for automotive and architectural applications, DuPont has added production capability for its DuPont Butacite polyvinyl butryal interlayer for windshield applications with shade bands at its Ulsan, Korea, facility. This will result in improved service levels for these products to customers in the Asia region.

DuPont Glass Laminating Solutions manufactures Butacite and SentryGlas and Spallshield interlayers at sites in the United States, Korea, Czech Republic and Germany. Business sales are reported as part of the DuPont Performance Materials platform.

http://www.dupont.com/safetyglass/

Saint-Gobain Group Sales up 6.8% in Q3

Consolidated sales for the Saint-Gobain Group reached Euro 25,743 million for the first nine months of 2005, representing an increase of 6.9%. At constant exchange rates (based on average rates for the first nine months of 2004), sales were up 6.8% on an actual structure basis and 1.9% on a comparable structure basis. Prices edged up 1.7%, while volumes expanded by 0.2%.

Following the upturn in the second quarter, the Group's organic growth slowed down in the third quarter, due, on the one hand, to the high comparison basis of the third- quarter 2004 (4.0% like-for-like growth) and, on the other hand, to the more difficult economic climate due to the strong rise in energy costs.

In line with the trends observed in the second quarter, the businesses exposed to the new residential construction and renovation markets continued to drive the Group's overall growth up in the third quarter and during the first nine months of 2005. Insulation, in particular, recorded the Group's strongest organic growth rate over the first nine months, at 5.6%.

Each of the Group's five business sectors reported an overall increase in like-for-like sales for the first nine months of the year. The Construction Products (notably lnsulation) and Building Distribution Sectors in particular continued to show sustained growth in the third-quarter, on the back of vigorous construction markets in Europe and in the US. However, businesses exposed to the consumer spending and industrial production markets experienced a fall-off in sales, linked to the current economic slowdown.

The Building Distribution Sector reported a sharp 12.7% increase in sales on an actual structure basis, thanks to the contribution of its recent acquisitions to the nine-month figures, particularly Dahl, Sanitas-Troesch, and Optimera, which were consolidated as from May 1st, 2004, March 1st, 2005, and August 1st, 2005, respectively. Sales increased by 2.3% on a comparable structure and exchange rate basis. Strong French and Scandinavian markets continue to spearhead the sector's growth, while Germany, and to a lesser extent the UK, remain on a downward trend.

The High-Performance Materials Sector generated like-for-like sales growth of 0.6%. The increase witnessed in Ceramics & Plastics and Abrasives, in terms of both volumes and prices, was offset by a fall in Reinforcements sales.

Sales in the Flat Glass Sector were up slightly on a comparable structure and exchange rate basis. Business continued to be buoyed by the building market in Europe and emerging countries, while the automotive market remained stable. Sales prices remained firm over the entire sector.

Packaging Sector sales edged up slightly on a like-for-like basis, with the price increases implemented across the sector offsetting the slight drop in sales volumes in Europe (particularly in Germany). However, rising sales prices still fail to offset the impact, on the Group's operating income, of the considerable hike in natural gas costs in the US.

The Construction Products Sector posted the Group's strongest organic growth, at 3.7%. Building Materials and particularly lnsulation reported excellent growth figures, at 4.4% and 5.6% respectively, propelled by the robust construction markets in the US and Europe (with the exception of Germany) and by the increase in sales prices at the start of the year. Pipe sales evened out over the first nine months of 2005, due to a recent turnaround in sales volumes and further price increases in the third quarter.

By geographic area, like-for-like sales remained healthy in France and the US. Business was relatively stable for the rest of Western Europe, with the dynamism of Spain, Portugal and Northern Europe compensating for sluggish markets in Germany and to a lesser extent the UK. In terms of emerging countries, sales remained robust, especially in Asia and Latin America.

Asbestos claims in the United States: some 2,000 new claims were filed against Certain Teed during third-quarter 2005, significantly below the number filed in the first two quarters of the year. The number of new claims filed during the first nine months of 2005 amounted to 12,000, as against 14,000 in 2004. Over the same period, some 16,000 claims were resolved - of which approximately 3, 000 during third-quarter -, as against 17,000 in the comparable period of 2004. The number of outstanding claims at September 30th, 2005 was therefore slightly lower than at end-June 2005, at approximately 99,000 claims. The average cost of claims settled over the last 12 months was approximately $2,500 per claim, unchanged from end-June 2005.

On the legislative front, discussions among the advocates and opponents of the proposed Asbestos Trust Fund bill have continued since the US Senate Judiciary Committee approved the bill by a bipartisan vote on May 26th, 2005. It seems, however, unlikely that the bill will be put before the full Senate by the end of this year.

Outlook and targets: In a more difficult current economic climate, the upturn in business observed in the second quarter was not carried over to the third quarter with as much vigor as expected, and this trend is likely to continue through the end of the year. In addition, the profitability of some of the Group's businesses, notably Packaging, has been dented by the sharp rise in energy (natural gas, fuel) and transportation costs occurred during the summer, especially in the United States, and which could not be passed through sales prices right away. Owing to both of these factors, the target for the full year increase in operating income at constant exchange rates (average exchange rates for 2004) has now been adjusted to be slightly under the rate of growth delivered for the first-half of 2005 (+4.9%).

Pilkington K Glass Forms an Elite Band

With the widespread adoption of Window Energy Ratings, window companies are busy having their products assessed to ensure they achieve the minimum Rating that is required for replacement windows under the new Building Regulations Part L, which is a band E. However a number of innovative companies have gone even further and achieved a rating of C and in one case, a B. Integral to the success of each has been the use of Pilkington K Glass.

Three companies, Speed Frame, Masterframe and Mcllhattons, have succeeded in creating energy efficient windows with the ever popular and easy to handle Pilkington K Glass.

Speed Frame has achieved a band B by combining 4mm annealed glass, 16mm TPS spacer, argon gas fill and 4mm Pilkington K Glass along with a Speed Frame envirowindow thermally efficient frame. Paul Spencer, Marketing Manager, from Speed Frame comments: 'WERs are the way forward and to achieve a B rating is tremendous. To provide homeowners with a B Rated window with a hard coat low E product such as Pilkington K Glass gives customers a distinct advantage and we are confident it will help them sell more windows.'

A C rating was awarded to Mcllhattons standard casement window consisting of KBE externally glazed three chambered window system, Pilkington K Glass, argon gas filled cavity and Edgetech's Super Spacer. Andy Jones, Sales Director and General Manager of Edegetech UK and Ireland comments: 'We believe Window Energy Ratings are the future of the industry so we‚re pleased to see more companies take on the scheme to differentiate themselves.'

Masterframe was the first company in the UK to achieve a C Rating for its sash window by incorporating Thermix Warm edge spacer bars, argon gas filled units, Pilkington K Glass inner pane and low iron Pilkington Optiwhite outer pane. Ramon Rabett, Technical Manager at Masterframe, comments: 'Homeowners are familiar with the system and the BFRC Ratings make great sales tools for installers. A C rated window provides consumers with instant recognition that the window is energy efficient and can therefore help to reduce fuel costs.'

Pilkington Optiwhite is particularly effective in helping windows to achieve higher Ratings because the BFRC system takes into account the benefit of useful solar gains and Pilkington Optiwhite can improve this without any detrimental effect to U value.

Window Energy Ratings (WERs), developed by the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC), take into account all the factors, which affect the energy performance of a window and enable the window company to use an energy label similar to that seen on white goods. This displays the product‚s Rating on an A to G scale.

The success of these companies is testament to the enduring popularity of Pilkington K Glass. It is the most widely recognised consumer glass brand and it will continue to help windows fulfil the requirements of Part L for many years yet.

For more information e-mail: Pilkington@respond.uk.com or telephone the Technical Helpline on 01744 692000.

Web: http://www.pilkington.com

Pilkington Makes its Mark

CE Marking became a reality on September 1st 2005. Glass used in buildings now has to conform to technical standards called harmonised European Norms (hENs) with the CE Marking label acting as a legal declaration that the product meets certain performance claims. The benefit is that it will allow easier comparison of products across European markets.

The hENs remove technical barriers to trade for construction products and a unique standard will exist for each of the major glass types/groups.

These standards will supersede any previous national standards and the first group of products applicable for CE Marking include basic soda lime silicate (e.g. float, wired, patterned, etc.), coated, toughened and heat-strengthened glass.

Pilkington, as a member of the Association of European Flat Glass Manufacturers (GEPVP), is committed to supporting and enacting the various initiatives and directives required to ensure its products are CE Marked.

While a series of comprehensive series of tests has been undertaken to ensure its products comply with the respective hENs, Pilkington is also raising awareness of CE marking to ensure the implications for its customers are fully understood. As part of the key customer communication process, Pilkington will provide information which explains the requirements of CE marking in some detail. The new standards will provide an opportunity for all to prove the performance of their products on a European scale.

Pilkington has issued a letter outlining its support for CE Marking and to clarify its position. This will be accompanied by a basic Q leaflet, which answers the key questions on the subject. This will be sent to all customers to provide them with information on the standards and what the requirements will be for compliance.
Product performance data will be accessible online and a dedicated email address has been created to enable customers to submit questions on European Standards and CE Marking: CE.Marking@pilkington.com.

GEPVP has produced guides to various aspects of CE Marking to assist the glass industry. Publications can be downloaded from the GEPVP website at http://www.gepvp.org.

Web: http://www.pilkington.com

All Tooled-Up for Roadshow Success

A chance meeting at a trade show last summer has paved the way for a partnership which is bringing a number of benefits to customers of Eurocell Building Plastics.

When Eurocell's Eastern Divisional Sales Manager Kevin Dunderdale saw a stall manned by Transtools of Hunmanby, near Filey, he suggested the company join the Eurocell Building Plastics Roadshow, a new initiative launched this summer.

‘All the tools on display relate to our industry and show what can be done with our products so it was a good opportunity for both of us,’ said Kev. ‘Since then the company has been accompanying the roadshow and supplying tools to a number of our customers. They've done a good job for us.’

Transtools, which has also supplied the raffle prize - a De Walt cordless drill - at the Eurocell open days, specialises in selling hardware and tools via the internet. This includes air tools, automotive equipment, batteries and chargers, builder's tools, clothing and footwear, corded power tools, cordless power tools, diamond and abrasive equipment, electrician's tools, garden and outdoor supplies and door/window accessories.

Company Director Paul Topham said: ‘We have a strong on-line presence, which people can look at at any time to see how competitive our prices are. But it's good to get out and about, make new contacts and meet the customers face-to-face. We had a very good day at the first Eurocell roadshow in Grimsby and are looking forward to building on this.’

Tel: 01773 842395
Email: david.wigley@eurocell.co.uk

Sash UK Unveils First Companies in Fitrite Network

Sash UK Ltd has unveiled the first 15 companies that will form an exclusive network providing UK homeowners with access to a home and garden improvement product that has become a phenomenon across America. 

Hailed as a major breakthrough in landscaping and garden design, the company says that Fitrite® decking fencing combines the latest materials with the modern homeowners desire for high-end luxury design and appearance.

The use of modern materials allows the creation of a luxury outdoor space that can be easily accessed without the necessary rolling maintenance associated with traditional timber products.

Combining strength and flexibility, Fitrite® decking fencing allows the incorporation of the latest garden design trends.

Commenting on the unveiling of the UK network David Ruzicka, Managing Director of Sash UK said:
'We're delighted to welcome all the companies on board at what is a truly exciting time.

'When I became aware of the phenomenal rise of this product in the States, I was completely blown away. For the first time it became possible to create a space in your garden you wanted to enjoy and show off, without the stress and cost of continual maintenance.

'Following the negotiations to secure the exclusive rights for the UK market, we wanted to ensure we had the very best team on the ground to deliver exactly the right design solution for each of our customers. With these companies on board we've done just that.'

Following it's unveiling in the UK for the first time, Fitrite decking fencing received widespread acclaim that saw massive interest from companies, from every corner of the country, keen to be selected as part of the UK network.

Determined to ensure that only elite companies form the network, Sash UK has held detailed and thorough discussions with every applicant resulting in an initial group of chosen organisations that truly reflect the best of the best.

Each of the 15 companies appointed as a member of Sash UK's 'approved fitter' network, has seen staff begin a programme of continual training that will enable them to offer homeowners luxury design through product installation that is guaranteed for five years with a view to introduce the latest 3D-modelling software in the next three months.

Full details of the wide range of the Fitrite® decking fencing products and design solutions are available from Sash UK. Tel: 0845 402 5502.

Flat Glass has Begun to Turn Around says Vitro

Vitro S.A., producer and distributor of glass products, has announced 3Q 2005 unaudited results. Consolidated sales rose 6.1% year on year. Excluding divestitures of Vitro American National Can in September 2004 and Plasticos Bosco in April 2005, consolidated sales rose by 9.5% during the same period.

Consolidated EBITDA rose 9%, resulting in a margin increase of 0.4% to 16.1%. On a comparable basis, consolidated EBITDA rose 11%. Comparable EBITDA rose 33.3% at Glass Containers and fell 14.8% at Flat Glass and 9% at Glassware.

Alvaro Rodriguez, Chief Financial Officer, commented: 'This was a very good quarter, with YoY growth in both sales and EBITDA. In fact, we posted record comparable consolidated sales of US$624 million. Glass Containers continues to outperform, with sales of US$281m and EBITDA of US$63 million, both figures the highest for the division in the Company's history.

'Flat Glass turned in strong QoQ results, with EBITDA up 30%. We believe that the worse is behind us and Flat Glass has begun to turn around. We are now seeing the initial success of our plan to improve profitability.

'Natural gas is still a critical issue that is impacting a lot of companies worldwide, including glass companies. As a result, we continue to focus on maintaining a strict cost management across our business. In fact, in 3Q05 as a result of the steps that we have taken, SG&A as a percentage of sales fell by 1.1% year-over-year on a comparable basis.

'We are moving ahead with our strategic plan aimed at significantly reducing Holding Company debt and continue to make progress. On September 26th, we announced the successful closing of two Credit Facilities for US$150 million with an eighteen month maturity.

'This was the first step of the plan, which provided the immediate liquidity required to continue with the evaluation and further implementation of our strategic plan.

'On October 11th, we offered for sale two buildings and land belonging to our corporate headquarters. Keep in mind that these are just the first steps of our plan. This quarter we reduced debt at the Holding Company by US$55 million to US$454 million from US$509 million in 2Q05, and we are fully focused on reaching our objective of signifrcantly reducing Holding Company debt.'

Schüco Ventilation System is First to Meet New EN Standard

New from building envelope specialist, Schüco International, is Schüco SHEVS, a smoke and heat ventilation & extraction system which the company says is the first complete system offering on the market to meet the EN 12101 standard that will become statutory throughout Europe in 2006.

Schüco SHEVS is expected to be popular with architects wishing to future-proof their buildings against the new, stricter regulations. Schüco's system, comprising the window, actuators and controls, offers extensive choice not only in the range of window systems, but also in types of actuators and accessories. With 50 different options available, Schüco says that its range of EN-compliant SHEVS windows is unrivalled.

In the event of a fire, sensors automatically trigger the actuator and the window opens, helping to remove heat and smoke (the cause of most deaths). In turn this facilitates the work of the rescue services, increasing the efficacy of emergency exits by keeping them smoke-free and reducing the damage to the building fabric.

Also a practical proposition for normal ventilation and building climate control, Schüco SHEVS is applicable right across Schüco's widely specified Royal S and Royal C window systems (including Royal S 106D roof vents) whether inward- or outward-opening, top-, bottom- or side-hung.

A particular bonus of the new Schüco SHEVS solution is the partnership of Schüco with SE Controls, a leader in its field of ventilation control, who is able to offer the company’s expertise to assist in specification, installation, commissioning and maintenance. A 24-hour emergency service can also be provided as part of the package.

For more details of SHEVS including relevant trade literature, contact the Marketing Department. Tel: 01908 282111 or visit the website: http://www.schueco.co.uk

House of Horrors Turns into Dream Home

A Yorkshire couple whose dog was blamed by builders responsible for serious faults with their dream home have been given a helping hand by West Yorkshire Windows and the team at ITV's House of Horrors.

The Wakefield-based window and conservatory company stepped in to help Jayne Jones and her husband Ashley after Oak Lodge Construction, who built their specially designed bungalow, claimed the Jones' Rottweiler Amber was to blame for condensation forming in the conservatory and water gathering on the floor!

West Yorkshire Windows' Managing Director Matthew Glover visited the couple's property and after identifying the problems left by Oak Lodge, set about installing brand new doors, windows and conservatory.

Jayne and husband Ashley had the property in Staincross, South Yorkshire, built with the aid of a six figure compensation package awarded to Mr. Jones after a work accident when a 1.5 ton electric motor fell on him, leaving him wheelchair-bound and suffering from epilepsy.

However, the couple were left devastated when Sheffield-based builders Oak Lodge Construction went into administration owing the couple £79,000 in remedial work for 180 serious faults to their new home.

The couples' plight was picked up by the national press which in turn alerted the team at ITV's House of Horrors TV show, which exposes unscrupulous tradesman and gives consumers tips on how spot a 'dodgy' builder.

The TV show asked West Yorkshire Windows, which has also helped out on DIY SOS and Carol Vorderman's Better Homes, to give its advice on the problems affecting the Jones's property, and what could be done to fix it.

After identifying what was wrong with couple's windows, doors and conservatory, West Yorkshire Windows then set about replacing the entire house with its own award-winning products, helping to get the couple back on the road to repair and absolving Amber the Rottweiler of all blame.

Matthew Glover, Managing Director of West Yorkshire Windows, said: 'The workmanship on the property was very poor and illustrates how careful you have to be when employing people to carry out any work on your property.

'We are delighted to be given the opportunity to help the Jones' get their home on the road to repair with our contribution, and we can guarantee they'll have no problems with our work, and if they do, we certainly won't blame the dog!'

West Yorkshire Windows, JCI Wakefield Business of the Year 2005, was founded by Matthew and Andrew Glover in 1994 out of a small outlet in Middlestown, Wakefield with just £200. It has grown to become Yorkshire's premier conservatory showroom and installer with an annual turnover in excess of £5m. The company has also featured in BBC and ITV DIY programmes, such as Carol Vorderman's Better Homes and DIY SOS.

Tel: 0800 026 44 55
Web: http://www.westyorkshirewindows.com

GRP Composite Doors Attracts Local Authority Interest

New World Developments says that since using Edgetech's advanced Super Spacer® technology in the manufacture of GRP composite doors, it has had a constant flow of interest from various local authorities. Having recently won a contract to install 240 Apeer doorsets with another 400 already in progress for Sefton Borough Council, business is set to increase.

Linda Tomb, Marketing Manager of New World Developments explains: ‘In just one year we have had a great deal of interest from other local authorities including The Northern Ireland Housing Executive, which is Northern Ireland's main supplier of social housing; Offaly County Council and Sefton Borough Council.’

New World Developments was one of the first companies in the UK to see the benefits of Super Spacer. ‘A lot has happened since we started using Super Spacer,’ continues Linda. ‘Our annual turnover has increased 41% on last year. We have increased investment in machinery, our transport capacity has doubled, and we have taken on more staff to stay ahead of the increasing demand. We are continuing to develop products and have just launched our single rebate door, Monno, which we expect to be a winner as well. Future developments include a fire door.’

Tel: 02476 705570

Reflex Uses Super Spacer

'Conservatory roof fabricators have been quick to recommend reflex conservatory roof glass to its customers as the perfect solution for conservatory glazing.' Said Chelsea at Sky-Vent.

'Now customers can have reflex glass supplied direct to site along with their roof kits without the need to source glass sizes and deal with two suppliers. Over 50 reflex roof packs a week are now being distributed in the UK; sales of reflex have been massive this summer.

'Available in Clear and subtle blue tint (not reflective purple) the blue tint is the most popular as the azure tint is easy on the eyes and not too dark.

'With many other conservatory roof fabricators enjoying the benefits of such a strong branded product name reflex is a true conservatory roof glass product with unbeatable value for money and specification. Reflex glass units now use warm edge spacer bar technology, improving U-values and sound insulation from traffic and rain. Condensation is eliminated with the high tech metal free spacer bar system.'

Contact Chelsea @ Sky-Vent Ltd on Tel: 01902 450 815 for more details.

Lister Offers Thermals this Winter

Lister Trade Frames of Stoke on Trent is one of the latest Ultraframe Fabricators to offer customers the new Thermal Chambered Top Cappings on their conservatories.

After record sales showing a 30% increase during the first six months of the year, Listers has now given its conservatory division an even bigger boost for this winter by upgrading the classic roof systems insulation properties.

The new cappings create a conservatory roof that the company says offers ‘increased thermal performance which is some 4°C warmer than 'so called' similar systems when used under the same test conditions. The PVC top cappings trap air in expertly designed air pockets to enhance the thermal efficiency. This virtually eliminates cold bridging and condensation.’

Furthermore, the new profiles offer enhanced torsional rigidity to resist bowing and twisting, which is even more significant when foiled product is specified. This means better thermal performance during the colder months of the year and increased rigidity as temperatures rise in the summer.

Darren Pusey, Listers Production Director, says that ‘this increased thermal efficiency also prepares customers for the anticipated changes to Building Regulations. Our new roofs offer 18% better thermal efficiency (U value) than the old top cappings and up to 40% better than competitor's offerings.’

‘Another benefit’ Says Darren ‘is due to the construction of the new caps, bowing and twisting is resisted, reducing call backs and eliminating the need for the more expensive thermally inefficient aluminium top cappings as recommended on other roof systems.’

Discreet gaskets and a more rigid profile mechanically clamp the glazing material into place for added security and to reduce the chance of slippage. Plus 35mm polycarbonate can now be used.

With the choice of 2 designs: Bevel and Dome, improved thermal properties, and all offered at no additional cost to customers, Listers says that it really has given its customers some extra selling points for this winter.

Tel: 01782 205605
Web : http://www.listertf.co.uk

Karnaval Spreads its Network

Colour coating specialist Karnaval Group Ltd continues to expand its network of approved applicators with additional professional spraying services now available in the South West, Midlands and the North.

New customers in Bristol, Birmingham, Doncaster and Rochdale are among the latest recruits to the national network who have undergone specialist training at Karnaval's Swansea base and are now able to offer coating facilities to clients in their local areas.

‘We are pleased to welcome our latest applicators on board,’ comments Karnaval's Sales Manager Brian Saunders who says enquiries have been steady throughout 2005 as window companies seek to widen their offering and choice of colour to homeowners.

‘Growing trends in the use of colour for PVC-U products, in particular conservatories, are giving window companies fresh opportunities to increase sales in their marketplaces by offering greater choices in the appearance and appeal of their products.

‘This is especially true for conservatories where customers are no longer restricted to the traditional limited choice of white or woodgrain finishes. Instead we are seeing more creams, greens and even blacks, as people become more aware of how the creative use of colour brings a new level of individuality and appeal to all types of installations in both domestic and commercial applications,’ continues Brian.

‘Whether the aim is to blend in or contrast with the home and garden, we are noticing more and more people are considering a variety of options that they were either previously not aware of, nor thought possible. Colour makes for an exciting change.’

Applicators joining the Karnaval network are given full training in all aspects of the durable coating process, from initial preparation to final curing, using the Karnaval Kolor fully weather-resistant product. Quality control is strictly monitored throughout the whole process and extra guidance is always available where required. Karnaval also provides comprehensive sales promotion literature for all its customers.

Applied in a wet-spray operation under quality-controlled conditions, Karnaval Kolor can be used on a wide range of materials, including PVC-U, from doors and windows to roofline products, such as guttering and fascias for a complete co-ordinated exterior appearance.

Because the UV-stabilised finish bonds chemically and physically with the substrate, it will not crack, flake or peel and is guaranteed for ten years. The end result is a low maintenance and smart appearance that will retain its good looks for years to come without the need for time-consuming and expensive re-painting.

Meeting all relevant British Standards in the coatings industry, Karnaval Kolor has superior weathering and colour stability characteristics. Any colour can be created, from RAL or BS colours to unique shades, using advanced colour-matching technology.

Karnaval's customer service also includes full technical support, advice and training. For further information contact Brian Saunders, Sales Manager on 0800 1979700 or visit the website at http://www.karnavalcoatings.com.

Securistyle Secures 10% Austenitic Sales Increase

Latest figures reveal that Securistyle, the UK window hardware manufacturer, has seen its annual sales of austenitic hinges soar by 10 per cent.

This boom in sales signifies that in a tough market the key to success is the right product range manufactured from durable material. Hinges manufactured from austenitic stainless steel are more durable and less prone to corrosion than ferritic alternatives.

Nigel Thompson, sales director at Securistyle says: 'We expect this upwards trend to continue particularly as we have just made some significant improvements to one of our best selling domestic hinges, the Defender Egress Easy Clean hinge.

'We are committed to a continuous product development programme, which is always one step ahead of regulation changes in the market place, and utilises the very latest manufacturing technologies. The changes we have made to the Defender Egress Easy Clean hinge will help it to retain its position as market leader.'

'Customers are increasingly looking for quality products that perform well in the long term and that means products that have been manufactured from austenitic stainless steel.'

Thompson adds: 'Our customers have known for many years that we have the expertise to produce the highest performing window hardware but we know the market demands much more than that. This is why we have committed extensive time and resources to help fabricators and installers to get the full benefit of buying from Securistyle.'

Securistyle provides support for fabricators and installers at every stage. This includes technical advice to help them select the right hardware for the project, high levels of customer service and an aggressive product development programme.

'This, coupled with the highest quality products, our established relationships with systems companies and the technical support from our specification team is becoming ever more important to our customers,' adds Thompson.

Rehau and Window Widgets Sign Supply Agreement

Rehau has signed an agreement with Window Widgets Ltd for the supply of a range of specially designed structural coupling posts for its REHAU-Dimension complete conservatory superstructure system.

The posts will be bespoke to Rehau and will be used in REHAU-Dimension with existing Rehau window and door systems and the new REHAU/Wendland conservatory roof.

Alan Hickman of Rehau commented on the agreement: ‘In our search for provable structural integrity for the whole conservatory superstructure, we recognised very early on the need for these types of posts and realised that Window Widgets' existing products and the design principles they incorporate were very close to what we needed. Rather than running the risk of infringing Window Widgets IP, we approached the company to reach an agreement and naturally we are very pleased that Window Widgets has agreed to work with us.’

Speaking on behalf of Window Widgets, owner and MD Dan Gill said: ‘We are proud and excited to have been chosen by Rehau to design and supply the coupling posts for REHAU-Dimension. The company’s concept for a structurally proven conservatory superstructure system is exactly what our market is missing and we are sure it will be a tremendous success.’

Dan added: ‘Window Widgets had already invested a lot of time, money and effort in designing our unique range of versatile coupling posts for the window and conservatory markets and we were already enjoying great success in selling our products throughout the market - even before this venture with Rehau.

‘Rehau's requirements were demanding, but between us we have solved the technical issues and the resulting posts, although similar to our original range in their fundamental design principles, will be bespoke to Rehau and have been approved by Rehau 's structural engineers.’

The PVC-U cover caps to clad the aluminium posts will be produced in Rehau matched compound and will carry Rehau protective tape, ensuring that they are a perfect match for the Rehau windows, doors and roof. An additional benefit for Rehau customers is that they can also be used in porches, bay, bow and ribbon window construction.

Tel: 01989 762600

Continued Favourable Growth for the Trelleborg Group

During the third quarter of 2005, the Trelleborg industrial Group increased its net sales to SEK 5.846 M (5.460). Organic growth was approximately 4 percent. Operating profit rose to SEK 425 M (383). For the third quarter, all five business areas reported increased net sales and improved operating profits.

During the third quarter, net sales rose to SEK 5.846 (5 460), and during the period January – September to SEK 17.988 M (17.383).

Peter Nilsson was appointed as the new President and CEO of the Trelleborg Group effective October 1st, 2005. CFO Bo Jacobsson has been appointed First Executive Vice President of the Group. Lennart Johansson has been appointed the new Business Area President for Trelleborg Engineered Systems.

Following the close of the period, an agreement was signed regarding the acquisition of the operations of Chase-Walton Elastomers Inc., with annual sales of approximately SEK 100 M and about 110 employees in Hudson, Massachusetts. The company manufactures precision seals, primarily for the aerospace industry.

The focus on growth in Asia has been further strengthened and several initiatives have been taken to increase presence and production capacity. The construction of Trelleborg’s new plant in Shanghai, China has begun. At the same time, production capacity is also being extended in India and Sri Lanka.

As a consequence of successful efforts during the year to focus Trelleborg as a streamlined industrial group with the business concept of damping, sealing and protecting in demanding industrial environments, Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) has reclassified Trelleborg as belonging to the 'Industrial' sector.

EFCO Furnaces Installation at C&S Glaziers

Encouraged by the high demand for toughened glass, the UK tempered glass processing market is currently being targeted by Chinese and European equipment manufacturers. According to EFCO Furnaces, glass processors, tempted into installing low cost imported equipment, may find this a false economy as the latest developments and 'peace of mind' provided by UK manufacturers are bringing significant cost and quality benefits to its customers. Doug Harvey of EFCO Furnaces (2002) Limited illustrates this by following a recent installation at C&S Glaziers.

Brian Clarkson, Managing Director of C&S Glaziers has, through hard work and by keeping abreast of trends in the glass industry, seen business grow since it was formed in 1967. Originally just supplying replacement glass and single-glazed units to the general public and building contractors in Wales and North West England, the company moved into double glazed unit production in the 1980's - taking advantage of the growth in new-build housing.

The demand for glazed units fitted with toughened glass grew steadily but Brian was unwilling to install his own toughening facility because of the noise complaints he knew would inevitably follow. C&S Glazier's facility is surrounded by houses and having visited sites where glass is toughened, he knew the high levels of noise the equipment generated.

Glass was therefore sent out for toughening but controlling production and quality was a problem. Delays, breakages, variable quality, remanufacturing, and delivery/collection costs were damaging the company's reputation and profits.

‘Matters came to a head when Document L began to be fully implemented’, said Brian. ‘This really pushed the boundaries out. Demand for units with toughened float and Low 'E' glass rose dramatically, so I knew we had to toughen our own glass or face the consequences.’

He did not want to move production, so when he visited a glass exhibition last year he made a point of meeting all the glass tempering machine manufacturers. ‘We then received proposals from UK, Italian and Far Eastern manufacturers. Most just wanted to sell us a machine - only EFCO Furnaces seemed willing to work closely with us to first understand our problems, then supply a tempering system that would meet our requirements.

‘As an example, our primary concern was that we must contain the noise. By using its experience and by working with us and acoustic specialists, along with the company’s proposal for a glass tempering machine, EFCO presented us with a customised design for a booth which it was confident would reduce noise to acceptable levels.

‘This is typical of the 'extra mile' the company was prepared to go and although it was not the cheapest tender, its willing attitude, track record and the fact it was a UK company with an excellent nationwide service network, swung it for us. An oscillating glass-tempering system with a 3000mm x 1500mm load area, capable of producing toughened glass from 4 -19mm thick, was therefore ordered.

EFCO was able to assure this customer that the running costs and throughput would be comparable with competitive equipment. As it transpired, throughput was well in excess of that promised thanks to a number of new product developments.

Aspirated Convection System

In order to enable processing of the latest generation of toughenable hard and soft coated Low E glass, at rates almost comparable to float, and increase the quality and processing speed for other glasses, the EFCO machine included a recently developed air aspirated convection system. This comprises an air compressor and receiver which feeds dried and filtered air onto the glass being processed through aspiration tubes located in the upper and lower furnace section. The pressure, position and duration of the air streams is controlled by an integrated software package via proportional control valves.

Operator Interface Screen and Software

The system is supplied with EFCO's newly upgraded graphical Windows based operator control station and system software to optimise throughput and produce high quality glass. Up to 1000 recipes can be identified as descriptive file names and screens provide the operator with information on plant condition with pyrometric graphs assisting quality control. Enhanced and simplified fault alarm and machine condition pages ensure that the operator always has full knowledge and control of plant status.

Insulation and Heating Element Design

Developments in low thermal mass insulation materials and increased side wall insulation where rollers pass through the furnace side walls, has reduced heat losses. This has resulted in more stable furnace temperatures, lower energy costs and quicker heat up times. In C.S.Glaziers’ case, the heating elements automatically switch on at 6am each morning and when operators start work some two hours later, the furnace is ready to start producing toughened glass.

In conclusion Brian says: ‘We are delighted with our new toughener. With EFCO's help we have created a facility which is so well protected, acoustically that even when standing next to the booth, you can hold a perfectly normal conversation - our neighbours don't even know we have a temperer running.

‘We are also achieving throughput well in excess of EFCO's promises. Toughened 4mm thick soft coated glass in just 204 seconds, 'K' glass in 157 seconds and float in 142 seconds.

‘And the quality is so good - Even we find it difficult to tell between our toughened and standard float glass and our breakages are insignificant. When Saint Gobain engineers used the furnace for toughening tests on Solaglas, they couldn't fault the results.

‘We have such confidence in our product that we have decided to mark and sell it under a new brand - Tuff Cymru Glass - with a red dragon logo of course. We expect a return on this investment of under five years, but this is only one issue for us. We were seeking to regain control of our production and enhance our reputation for fast turnaround and quality and we have achieved this.

‘I have only one complaint - Why didn't I talk to EFCO five years ago!’

Contact: Doug Harvey
Tel: 01932 350534

Volkswagen Touareg Wins US Department of Defense Challenge in Mojave Desert

A very special Volkswagen Touareg completed a 130-mile cross-desert race in record time winning one of the worlds toughest automotive challenges. But there was no podium celebration or champagne for the driver - the global competition was for hi-tech driverless cars.

The product of a collaboration between the Volkswagen Electronics Research Laboratory (ERL) and Stanford University, the winning Touareg (nicknamed 'Stanley') covered the course in 6 hours, 53 minutes and 8 seconds - 11 minutes and 42 seconds faster than the nearest finisher.

A total of 23 vehicles began the challenge which took place over 130-miles of desert roads, mountain trails, dry lakebeds and tunnels using only on-board sensors and satellite navigation equipment with no human assistance. The course was revealed on the morning of the start and rules stipulate it must be completed in under 10 hours - the Touareg managed this easily with over three hours to spare.

The mobile laboratory, Stanley, navigated the course using countless devices - numerous sensors around the vehicle tell the seven networked Pentium motherboards with 1.6 GHz processors what the vehicle is doing. Simultaneously, laser detectors, stereo visual equipment and short range 24-GHz radar systems link to the millimetre accurate Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) system.

The networked processors combine all the data to produce the quickest and safest route for the vehicle. This information is fed to newly developed 'drive by wire' systems operating the brakes, accelerator and steering.

Electronics apart, the standard Touareg was more than up to the rugged Mojave terrain, the only differences being underbody protection plates and uprated suspension dampers.

The Grand Challenge hails from the Pentagon and the US Department of Defense offer a $2million prize for the winning vehicle. The first Grand Challenge ran in 2004 with a $1million prize. Despite some strong entries, not one vehicle finished the inaugural race; the furthest travelling vehicle managed just over seven miles.

The research involved in creating Stanley will lead directly to safer and more responsive assistance systems for Volkswagen vehicles, rather than a completely autonomous vehicle. The aim is to make driving even safer in the future.

Components used within Stanley are not far removed from current vehicle technology - the short-range radar system is a development of the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) currently available on Passat. This system recognises dangerous situations using radar measurements and activates the brakes as a precaution.

Linde Q3: Increases Earning Power and Refines Forecast

In the first nine months of fiscal 2005, the technology group Linde achieved a 7.8 percent increase in sales based on comparable prior year figures to 6.833 billion euros (2004: 6.337 billion euros), an 18.6 percent rise in incoming orders to 7.903 billion euros (2004: 6.663 billion euros) and a 17.5 percent improvement in operating profit (EBITA) to 590 million euros (2004: 502 million euros).

Earnings before taxes on income (EBT) increased by 25.3 percent to 496 million euros (2004: 396 million euros), while net income improved by 22.4 percent to 311 million euros (2004: 254 million euros). There was a corresponding increase in earnings per share by 22.1 percent to 2.60 euros (2004: 2.13 euros).

Based on comparable prior year figures, Linde expects that for the whole year 2005 it will achieve an increase in Group earnings of at least ten percent over the previous year and a rise in Group sales.

The following business trends emerged in the individual divisions in the nine months to September 2005. Linde Gas achieved sales of 3.278 billion euros, which was an increase of 10.8 percent on the figure for the corresponding period in 2004 of 2.958 billion euros. EBITA rose 11.9 percent to 519 million euros (2004: 464 million euros).

Sales in Linde Engineering increased by 9.8 percent to 1.136 billion euros (2004: 1.035 billion euros), while incoming orders of 2.002 billion euros also significantly exceeded the figure for the previous year of 1.230 billion euros. EBITA rose by 52.8 percent to 55 million euros (2004: 36 million euros).

The Material Handling business segment achieved a 5.5 percent increase in sales to 2.545 billion euros (2004: 2.413 billion euros), while incoming orders rose 7.7 percent to 2.724 billion euros (2004: 2.529 billion euros). EBITA showed a 14.7 percent increase over the previous year to 125 million euros (2004: 109 million euros).

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