Stewart
Dutton, one of Synseal’s original directors, sadly lost his 12 month
battle against illness on 21st August. In the late 1980s Stewart left
Synseal to start his own fabrication business, Bettaprice Window Systems.
Bettaprice was one of the first to fabricate Synseal profile, and today
remains a Synseal customer. The success of the company was built on Stewart’s
meticulous standards of fabrication. Bettaprice is now managed by Stewart’s
wife, Linda and General Manager, Norman Gent.
Stewart is survived by his wife, Linda, step-children Mark and Karen,
his brother Gary and parents, Hugh and Delphine.
Alcoa
Sponsors Ferrari Panamerican 20,000
Alcoa
is a sponsor of Ferrari's Panamerican 20,000, an 84-day test drive featuring
the new, 12-cylinder 599 GTB Fiorano. The Panamerican 20,000 will cover
16 countries in South, Central and North America. It is designed to show
the toughness and reliability, as well as the performance of the 620 horsepower,
two-seat Fiorano, which features an aluminium space frame manufactured
by Alcoa.
Alcoa is hosting the Panamerican 20,000 team at three stops along their
15-stage tour, which began August 24th, 2006 in Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
The first will be in Sao Paulo, Brazil, headquarters for Alcoa of Brazil.
The second will be at the company's largest U.S. smelter located in Rockdale,
Texas. And the third will be at Alcoa's plant in Cleveland, Ohio, which
makes forged and cast products for the automotive and aerospace industries.
(Left)
The two Alcoa Ferraris, (right) the route as of today, after 2709 miles
'The
Panamerican 20,000 offers us a chance to demonstrate the shared passion
for performance that characterises the partnership between Ferrari and
Alcoa in the most meaningful way possible - on the road in one of the
most challenging test drives ever devised,' according to Misha Riveros-Jacobson,
president of Alcoa Auto and Truck Structures, the Alcoa business who makes
space frames for all Ferrari Granturismo vehicles at its plant in Modena,
Italy.
'The fact that we also get to show these scintillating vehicles to our
employees and plant communities along the way is also a great way to link
Alcoa's aluminium products, employees and stakeholders to one of the world's
highest-performance automobiles,' Ms. Riveros-Jacobson added.
Alcoa is Ferrari's strategic partner for the creation of advanced aluminium
space frame technology. The companies began working together in the 1990s
and have collaborated on four successful generations of space frames,
beginning with the Ferrari 360 Modena and including the 612 Scaglietti,
F430 and the 599 GTB Fiorano.
Those wishing to keep pace with the progress of the Panamerican 20,000
may do so through www.alcoa.com/passionforperformance.
This site will also link directly to Ferrari Panamerican web site.
The
Freefoam Roofline Report - More Installers and Builders Turn to Roofline
A
net balance* of 27% of roofline stockists and installers reported better
sales in May to July 2006 compared with February to April 2006.
A net 14% of stockists and installers increased sales in May to July 2006
compared with the same period of 2005 (chart 1). Firms of all sizes saw
a rise. By region, companies in the North (net 29%) and South (18%) reported
growth but a balance of 7% of those in the Midlands, slipped back.
Specialist stockists (net 30%) saw an improvement but, specialist installers
(12%) sold less.
* The net balance is the difference between the percentage of companies
reporting an increase over those reporting a decrease.
Sales
forecasts
Expectations for the next three months are good with a net 32% of stockists
and installers anticipating better sales in August to October compared
with May to July.
Year-on-year forecasts are also positive. A balance of 44% of stockists
and installers expect higher sales in August to October 2006 compared
with the same quarter of 2005 (chart 2). Mid-sized firms (48%) are most
confident but small (44%) and large companies (38%) are also bullish.
Stockists and installers in the Midlands (net 63%) are more optimistic
than those in the North (39%) or South (33%).
Prospects
A net 18% of stockists and installers are more optimistic now about the
overall prospects for the roofline market than three months ago. Large
and mid-sized firms (22%) are more confident than small companies (11%).
Across the country, firms in all regions are upbeat (net 18%). Specialist
stockists (32%) are significantly more positive than specialist installers
(8%).
Comment
‘Recent months have been a roller coaster ride for the roofline industry’,
says Tony Walsh, Managing Director of Freefoam which sponsors this report.
‘Rising raw material prices and weaker consumer confidence have undoubtedly
had an affect across the supply chain. Combine this with significant changes
among suppliers, increasing stockist concentration, and increased competition
among roofline installers: the market has truly been shaken.
‘However, amidst all these changes, roofline remains a young and
growing market and many have recognised the potential. But in an aim to
drive the market and fuel growth it is critical to develop good relationships
between suppliers, stockists and installers.
‘The survey shows that stockists are doing better and are more confident
than specialist installers - who are battling against rising prices and
margin squeeze as more installers and builders turn to roofline. When
PVC-U windows became main stream, builders added them to their menu. Now
they are waking up to PVC-UE roofline. At such times specialist installers
will greatly depend on stockists to provide the right product at the right
price and a good, consistent service so that they can meet their customer
needs. In turn, stockists will look to manufacturers to consistently provide
them with the right product range, service and support so that they can
meet the needs of installers.
‘Building that confidence and trust in trading partners up and down
the chain has never been more important, and those who do will be the
true winners.’
For a copy of the full report call: Lucia Di Stazio on 01453 521 621 or
visit http://www.521621.com/research/quarterly/readreport.php?roofline
The Freefoam Roofline Report, a quarterly trends survey, is produced by
Michael Rigby Associates, and sponsored by Freefoam Plastics Ltd.
The survey covers a representative sample of 100 roofline installers and
stockists, including builders' merchants, of PVC-UE cellular foam. Telephone
interviews took place between the 2nd and 11th August 2006 across a balanced
spread of size of firm and geographical area.
(c) Copyright Michael Rigby Associates 2006
Deceuninck signs Down
Down
PVC has just become Northern Ireland’s premier stockist and distributor
of Deceuninck’s successful Deeplas Building Products range.
The
company was looking to expand its product portfolio and increase its market
share in Northern Ireland. It chose Deceuninck because the company’s
Deeplas Building Products range was extensive with known high quality,
enough to add considerable weight to Down’s own portfolio without
the need to manage several different supplier relationships.
The company hasn’t been disappointed. Paul McKibben, Down PVC’s
Managing Director, says ‘We were impressed with Deceuninck’s
Deeplas range; the support we’ve received from the company has been
fantastic too – just what you’re looking for from a new supplier.’
As Paul says, the Deeplas product range is a comprehensive offering. Deeplas
products offer rigid, warp-free and rot-free benefits in easy-to-fit and
low maintenance solutions. Down PVC will stock the entire range, which
includes rooflines, fascias and soffits for building envelopes, Décor
wall and ceiling panels for interiors and new Twinson cladding and decking
for gardens. All come in a wide range of colours designed to suit every
setting.
Down PVC has two depots, its head office in Banbridge and a trade centre
in Newtownards. They open from Monday to Friday between 8.00am and 5.00pm
and on Saturdays between 9.00am and 12.00pm. They offer a delivery service
throughout Northern Ireland, so trade customers will have easy access
to the Deeplas range.
Paul concluded, ‘We’re delighted with Deceuninck so far. The
combination of its products and our service is a recipe for success, which
is evident in the way our business is growing.’
For more information on Down PVC contact 028 406 28855.
Anders
Reflects on the Bomb Legacy as it Celebrates a Happier Anniversary
Ten
years after the Manchester bomb, one local company which was heavily involved
in the immediate clean-up after the bomb damage, Anders Glass, is celebrating
a much happier anniversary - 75 years in business.
As
a glass processor and glazing specialist based in Salford, Anders was
ideally placed to respond to the bomb devastation which wrecked large
parts of the city centre. Since then the company has also been involved
in much of the city's extensive regeneration, working on key projects
such as Piccadilly Plaza and the Manchester Transport Interchange as well
as other Manchester landmarks including Old Trafford football ground,
Terminal 2, The Trafford Centre and The Lowry Centre.
It's all a far cry from the company which was founded in 1931 by Thomas
Arthur Anders and manufactured automobile screens and door glasses for
the specialist commercial motor body builders. During the 1950s the company
changed direction believing the future lay in merchanting flat glass and
offering a glazing service to the local community and business interests.
In 1952, managing director Maurice Anders, the son of the founder, took
over and moved the company to larger premises in Salford and in 1978,
having recognised the benefits and potential of PVC-u as a window material,
it diversified into manufacturing frames and sealed units.
Today, Simon Anders is the family's third generation managing director.
He commented: 'The company has come a long way in the past 75 years but
one thing we've always done is move forward and identify new market opportunities
within glass and glazing wherever we can.'
Anders Glass is now a major distributor and installer of Pilkington fire
glass and specialises in glass processing, glazing contracts, aluminium
shop fronts and PVCu window fabrication and installations nationwide.
Its ability to produce high quality bespoke glass designs in a range of
complex shapes, sizes and thicknesses has in the past couple of years
opened up new opportunities in the glass furniture market, supplying,
for example, vanity units, splashbacks and work surfaces to the kitchen
and bathroom sector.
Continues Simon: 'Our involvement in much of Manchester's redevelopment
work following the 1996 bomb means we are intrinsically linked with some
of the city's major construction projects of recent years. However, we
now see ourselves as a national player.
'Whilst we're very proud of our involvement in the Manchester projects,
we're equally proud of the UK-wide customer base we've established over
the past 75 years and delighted that, as we celebrate this landmark anniversary,
our business continues to expand on several commercial fronts.'
Eric
Davis, ex Plastmo Sales Director joins Synseal
Eric Davis, ex Sales Director of Plastmo, joins Synseal as Sales Manager.
‘Synseal is the biggest player in the market, and I am delighted
to join the company. My new role will focus on winning new business. Since
leaving Plastmo I have kept in touch with the industry through my consultancy
business. I have seen the rise of Synseal to market leader in windows
and roofs. I like the people in this industry, they are prepared to work
hard and get on with it. And you can't ask for more than that. It's a
great opportunity to work with the market leader, and I'm looking forward
to renewing acquaintances.’
Shepley
Celebrates its 20th Anniversary
2006
is a landmark year for Shepley Window Systems as it celebrates its 20th
year of trading. Shepley has come a long way since 1986 when the company
operated out of a small unit in Manchester and used a single van to supply
PVCu windows and doors to local installers.
Shepley
soon began to flourish, relocating in 1991 to new purpose-built premises
and manufacturing over 2000 frames a week. The following years saw Shepley
focus on providing a market-leading system, the specification of which
is still above the market standard with its 70mm profile (in 1992), shootbolt
locking (in 1994) and stainless steel locks on windows and doors (in 2005).
Continual dedication to customer service and efficiency have earned the
company many accolades over the years including Glassex Fabricator of
the Year (twice), Window Industries Manufacturer of the Year (twice) and
Window Industries Double Award Winners. It’s the benefits these awards
give to its customers that the company likes to focus on and not simply
how many frames it can make.
In 2000 an MBO from the existing management team left Shepley in the capable
hands of Gary Torr (MD), Tim Walker (Sales Director) and Tony Fry (Production
Director). Their ongoing drive has seen Shepley develop a culture that
is professional, friendly and ambitious, whilst remaining courteous and
responsive to the changing demands of the market. In 2003 the board of
directors masterminded the acquisition of Interframe, a manufacturer distributing
via their extensive network of trade counters right across the South of
England. As a result production capacity increased substantially and current
levels for the Group stand at 6000 frames, 60 roofs and 60 composite doors
per week, supplying small, medium and large customers nationwide.
In the face of an increasingly tough market, 2006 has seen Shepley undertake
a number of projects, where customer service is paramount, to help consolidate
its position as one of the UK’s leading trade fabricators. The benefits
offered to customers also come with a wide choice of products:
* 70mm bevelled and fully ornate windows and doors;
* Conservatory roofs;
* Vertical sliders
* Composite doors
* Inline patios
* Electronic opening front doors
Backed by the ‘Visage’ marketing package, Shepley is constantly
striving to help its customers create more leads and convert them.
‘Shepley would like to take this opportunity to thank our customers
for their support over the last 20 years, and look forward to providing
retailers with PVCu products and support services for the next 20 years.’
Tel: 0161 339 2433
Web: http://www.shepley.com
Expansion
of Solaglas' National Distribution Centre
Solaglas
Sittingbourne, which has supplied the UK market with laminated glass for
over 30 years, has been re-structured to manufacture and/or supply a vastly
extended range of laminated and also monolithic products in flexible quantities.
The monolithic products include many of the specialist 'design' glasses
which are used to create visual impact. This significantly improved availability
is good news for the market. Companies can be supplied with stock sheets
and processed product via their local Solaglas branch, or with stock sheets
and processed product directly from Sittingbourne subject to volume. The
types of products now available in these flexible quantities include:
all ten SGG PLANILAQUE® (lacquered glass) colours; the SGG MASTERGLASS®
contemporary patterned range; the various colours of the mirrored, acid-etched
SGG SATINOVO® CONTRAST; the thicker SGG SATINOVO® products (10
-15mm); and SGG DIAMANT® low-iron glass (4 -19mm).
In addition to the well established specialist laminates, such as SGG
STADIP COLOR® and SGG STADIP SILENCE®, Solaglas Sittingbourne
is now also manufacturing bullet and blast resistant laminated glass.
Download a PDF version of the brochure here
Solaglas Sittingbourne: 01795 421 534
Email: solaglas.msn@saint-gobain-glass.com
Web: http://www.solaglas.co.uk
Record
Number of Window Companies For Sale
Purplex,
the Window Industry Consultants, has recorded a rise in the number of
Window Companies for sale in the second quarter of 2006.
‘There is significant movement in the sector at present. In previous
years this has resulted from disposals or MBO's driven by shareholder's
retirement, but we have noted a number of owners selling for other reasons’
commented chartered accountant Martin Burgess from Purplex.
Adding further that market trends were a primary driver, senior partner
Andrew Scott commented ‘Some companies have been reluctant to invest
in growth, and recognise they must either invest or sell. There has also
been a shift in sellability; retail installation companies that previously
had little real value are attracting buyers if they can demonstrate sustainability
and strong volume.’
The market for acquisitions has also risen according to Purplex, which
has recorded a significant number of individuals and businesses in the
hunt for acquisitions ‘Surprisingly, several enquiries have come
from installation and trade-counter chains wanting to acquire a trade
fabricator, to secure upward integration’ commented Scott, ‘We
have also seen a significant number of companies targeting competitors
as a means to increase volume.’
For further information on selling or acquiring a business in the Window
Industry, contact Purplex on 0870 062 5318 or online at http://www.purplex.uk.com
Bennett
Glass and Frames Makes the Move to Veka
Bennett
Glass and Frames of Hull has joined the Veka team and is in the process
of adapting its operations to cater for the new profiles. The company
originally dates back to the 1860s and is one of the oldest established
glazing businesses in the Yorkshire and Humber area. The busiess changed
its name to Bennett Glass and Frames four years ago after merging with
FrameTec - a frame manufacturer which had been operating as a sister company
for the previous two years.
‘The business has done extremely well for the last 12-18 months and
that has increased turnover by about 30 per cent,’ said Phil Williams,
recently appointed Managing director of Bennett Glass and Frames. ‘The
decision to move to using VEKA Matrix 70 profiles in our fabrication is
a strategic move to fit in with our expansion plans within the commercial
sector. Veka was chosen for its reputation of support towards commercial
framemaking.’
So far the transition is going well with the production lines being adapted
to accommodate the Veka profiles, backed up by constant and comprehensive
support from the Veka team. Veka says that Matrix 70 has an excellent
reputation within the industry as one of the most versatile profiles on
the market, with less than 40 profiles able to be used to create virtually
any style or design of windows and doors in any kind of building. The
fully integrated PVC-U system with a fully integrated design is the result
of massive investment in development, tooling and extrusion technology.
‘We see this as a natural progression given the expansion of the
company and our commitment towards our customers to provide the highest
quality components,’ concludes Mr. Williams. ‘So far the response
from both our customers and our team of operatives has been extremely
encouraging and positive and we are looking forward to a long and beneficial
relationship with Veka supplying our products to both the trade and the
commercial markets in the future.’
Rockdoor
goes Fully Computerised with SAP
Rockdoor,
composite door manufacturer, has invested thousands of pounds in a SAP
computer programme to fully computerise the manufacturing process from
order to delivery in a further drive to increase efficiencies.
‘SAP is a bespoke business operation programme used by many blue
chip companies,’ explains Mark Simm, Rockdoor's Sales Director. ‘We
wanted a programme to maximise the computerisation process, so now we
only have to input the order once and everything else follows through.
It is important to have a programme that can deal with every door being
bespoke - all the door dimensions, styles and designs are input into the
computer for every customer. The new programme will mean everything can
be bar coded, so it can be easily tracked and monitored throughout the
manufacturing process. We are always looking for innovative ways of improving
our service, and with this new software in place, our job of delivering
what the customer wants, when they want it, will be made much easier’.
•
When Reading based Home Improvement Company, The Splash Group noticed
that the quality and service of their composite door supplier had begun
to deteriorate, they switched to composite door manufacturer Rockdoor.
Peter Colton, Sales Manager of The Splash Group (pictured right), looked
at seven different door suppliers before selecting Rockdoor:
‘Rockdoor stands out above the rest because of its quality as well
as the thickness of the door skin, reinforcement mesh and the security
hardware available: it is a serious door.’
‘Customers want the peace of mind that comes with a secure door but
they also want it to be pleasing on the eye, creating a proper entrance
to their homes.
And because Rockdoor looks good we have given it pride of place in our
showroom.
That's why in our view Rockdoor comes out on top.’
Tel: 01254 662999
Total
Glass Close to World Class Status
As
part of its on-going commitment to a programme of continuous improvement,
UK fabricator Total Glass is set to achieve World Class Manufacturing
Status - a position held by an elite top few per cent of UK companies.
World Class, put simply, describes a commercial operation that is the
best in its chosen marketplace. In manufacturing terms, this means making
products with the highest quality at the lowest cost, while delivering
them as a customer wants them. It's an exclusive club, with only around
three per cent of UK manufacturing companies truly claiming to be World
Class.
Already
a local business award winner, Total Glass is close to attaining World
Class status, having worked with specialists from the Agility Centre,
part of Liverpool University's Management School to identify and implement
recommendations for improving productivity, efficiency and quality. Analysts
were impressed that many of the required systems were already in place.
‘As Total Glass was already working very efficiently compared to
other companies, it was doing many things right. This impressed us,’
comments Dr Ivan Arokiam, Agility Centre Project Manager. ‘Agility
is a business strategy that enables companies to respond, at short notice,
to changes in customers' requirements.
‘Total Glass is an SME with attitude - the right attitude towards
thinking and willingness to change. Companies like these adopt all the
best practices that are available; something that supports their efforts
to remain 'World Class.' On full implementation of any recommendations,
the company gains WCM status which recognises the planning, control processes
and levels of business excellence,’ explains Dr Arokiam.
‘In return, World Class companies enjoy myriad benefits in terms
of higher profits, high flexibility in production and high employee retention,
to name just a few.’
The five-month project examined all aspects of the manufacturing operation
from order processing to despatch, initially focussing on door manufacture,
to create a 'process map'. From this, a simulation model was developed
to aid in the implementation of new manufacturing practices and procedures
that minimise waste, enhance manufacturing efficiencies, and speed-up
throughput. Work focused on identifying key areas of waste and how procedures
could be altered in the drive for optimum efficiency.
From
this a series of recommendations were drawn up relating to areas such
as quality control procedures, product labelling, multi-skilling and optimised
machine use.
Managing Director Frank Deary is convinced of the benefits, saying: ‘Delivering
a world class level of service and product quality is central to the philosophy
of Total Glass. Our programme of continuous improvement ensures that we
constantly measure and monitor our performance to drive improvement through
innovation. Hence pursuing World Class Manufacturing Status is a natural
next step for us.‘It has been a very valuable exercise, in not only
confirming what we have been doing right, but pointing out where we can
do even better in our quest to be the best. Ultimately, our response to
orders will be even faster, bringing our turnaround times down even further.
This can only be good news for our customers who want competitively-priced
quality products on time, every time.’
Named Knowsley Business of the Year in 2004, Total Glass has taken its
business to new levels of growth since its move to a 100,000 sq ft state-of-the-art
manufacturing facility last year. Investment of £10 million alone
in the last 12 months is set to continue as its automation programme takes
shape. The company prides itself on 98.7% of orders reaching their destinations
on time with its 'Right First Time' ethos.
Created in the US in the 1980s, World Class Manufacturing appeared in
the UK in the early nineties since when it has been adopted by companies
such as Coca-Cola, Proctor & Gamble and Caterpillar.
For more information on Total Glass, contact Stuart Waring or Julian Wetherall
on 0151 549 2339 or visit the website at http://www.totalglass.com.
Contact the Agility Centre on 0151 795 3641.
Mighty
Oakland as Strong as its Namesake after 20 Years in Sealed Units
Oakland
Glass celebrated its 20th year of trading on 14th July – and 18 months
of using Edgetech’s Super Spacer®. One of the UK’s leading
independent glass processors, it manufactures argon gas filled, Kite Marked
sealed units with toughened safety glass.
Ahead of much of the market it has passed EN 1279 Part 2, and uses Super
Spacer in around 50% of its units. ‘Our energy efficient units help
our customers move forward,’ Tina Birkenshaw, Part Owner and Sales
Director of Oakland observes, ‘as the window industry sees increased
demand for energy rated windows. We already have the technology to comply.’
Part-Owner
Tina Birkenshaw with Operations Director David Scholefield
Dewsbury
based Oakland is one of the biggest manufacturers of glass units using
warm edge technology. It produces 12,500 units per week with a capacity
of double that throughout all shifts. Tina continues: ‘We want to
give our customers the best units we can possibly make. We’re investing
heavily into new machinery – in particular an Arissing line and a
Coupling/Gas press. The Arissing machine, part of a fully automated Promac
For.El line, was installed to remove the sharp edges from the glass units
making them less harmful to handle, and the whole production line more
efficient.
‘We’re growing year by year. We began as a four man operation
and now employ 150 over three shifts – from little acorns indeed!’
Edgetech - Tel: 02476 705570
The
First 'A' Energy Installation for Lister?
Having
achieved 'A', 'B' and 'C' accreditation in the new Window Energy Ratings
standards, and after making 'C' its standard window product, Lister Trade
Frames of Stoke on Trent says that it seems that it is the first company
to have an 'A' rated product installed into a domestic property by one
of its customers.
Sterling
Windows and Conservatories of Cannock has just completed the 'A' rated
installation in Baswich, Staffordshire. This 4 bedroomed property now
stands as the first home in the UK to benefit from new windows which will
actually perform to a higher energy standard than the insulated walls
that they were fitted into, actually adding heat to the home through solar
gain.
The home owners Mr and Mrs Clarke are over the moon with their new windows.
Although the house is only 6 years old, they needed to replace the original
softwood windows which were draughty and starting to rot and they wanted
to take advantage of the energy savings that these new windows could give.
‘We now have new windows which not only look great but they will
start saving us money on our fuel bills, that's great for us and it also
helps the environment too’ says Mrs Clarke. Helping the environment
and saving money are certainly on the minds of the Clarkes as they have
just added twin baby girls to their family.
The 'A' Energy Rated windows included triple glazed krypton filled sealed
units using low iron and Pilkington K glasses along with Super Spacer
warmedge technology. Listers combined this with its Elitis Sculptor 5
chambered window system from Bowater Halo to produce the energy windows.
Sean McGann, Sterling Windows MD, says that ‘the installation was
simple and trouble free. We had to take a little extra care with the sealed
units because of the increased specification, but they fitted fine and
our customer is very pleased indeed.’
The Window Energy Ratings are now set firmly on the map by this first
domestic installation. People are looking for this product now and willing
to invest in the technology. Sooner or later all window installations
are going to conform to this standard and those taking the lead in this
field have a definite advantage.
‘It's great for the home owner, it's great for the environment and
it's great news for our industry. Installing the first 'A' rated domestic
windows under the new BFRC (British Fenestration Ratings Council) standards
is certainly benefiting Lister and our customer Sterling Windows,’
says the company.
Contact Lister Trade Frames http://www.listertf.co.uk
Tel: 01782 205605
Change
of Name for GTI Kombimatec
GTI
Kombimatec Machines has changed its name to simply Kombimatec Machines
Ltd from 1st August 2006.
The change of name is to reflect the growing worldwide recognition of
the Kombimatec brand name. The name GTI has been serving us since 1984
and is well known in the UK.
'Outside the UK the brand name Kombimatec is more widely recognised because
of our past sales of machines through agents and representatives together
with our attendance at international exhibitions under the name of Kombimatec,'
says the company.
'We believe our change of name will demonstrate more clearly our focus
as a machinery manufacturer particularly as we develop and produce more
complex, sophisticated machines necessary to meet the needs of window
fabricators worldwide.
'Our product development programme is ongoing and has been non stop whatever
the ups & downs of the market. We will be launching some exciting
new and innovative products in the coming months designed to improve the
efficiency and competitiveness of uPVC window fabricators here in the
UK and around the world.
'Parallel to our development programme we continue to modify and improve
our existing products to maintain the competitive advantage of being a
local producer together with the obvious service benefits from buying
direct from a manufacturer of machines.'
Kombimatec is a worldwide registered trade name.
Tel: +44(0) 1582 455934
Email: sales@gtikombi.co.uk
Web: http://www.kombimatec.com
Kestrel-BCE
Boosts Customer Service with Improved Pricing System
With
more than 1,300 PVC-U and PVC-UE roofline, cladding, window board and
trim products in stock, Kestrel-BCE is laying firm foundations for high
levels of customer service by launching a new easy-to-use pricing and
quotations system.
Kestrel-BCE has begun a new drive for responsive customer care and speedy
availability of its comprehensive product range, delivered via the company's
state-of-the-art warehouse and distribution hub in Stoke on Trent.
The end result is a reader-friendly document for stockists and installers
which, it is hoped, will help to eliminate potential pricing errors and
make handling account queries easier.
Kestrel-BCE's Sales and Marketing Director Tony Crutcher said: ‘With
over 1,300 products it's important that we present our quotations in a
concise and reader friendly way.
The new pricing system is one of a number of initiatives signalling the
renaissance of Kestrel-BCE as one of the country's leading manufacturers
of PVC-U and PVC-UE building products, under the leadership of a new senior
management team with Managing Director Paul Neilson at the helm.
The company believes it is well placed to achieve the highest level of
customer satisfaction for sales, distribution and product quality. All
Kestrel-BCE products are manufactured at Kestrel's 140,000 sq ft state-of-the-art
factory in Scunthorpe. By keeping 100% control of production, raw material
sourcing and blending of its PVC-U and PVC-UE profiles, Kestrel strives
for consistent high quality and value through lean manufacturing to ISO9000
quality management standards.
Tel: 01724 400440
Email: info@kestrelbce.co.uk
Web: http://www.kbp.co.uk
Precise
Panel Solution from Hurst Plastics
Hurst
Plastics - the UK manufacturer of PVC-U door infill panels and polymer
doors - has signed an exclusive deal with Jacob Holdings Ltd to supply
door panels and composite doors to the company's new conservatory, window
and door trade counter Precision Glaze and Plastics.
Hurst has supplied door panels to Jacob Holding's domestic operation Jacob
Glazing for three years and, based on the high quality of its products
and service, was invited to exclusively supply to Jacobs trade division
Precision Glaze and Plastics.
Precision Glaze and Plastics provides a one-stop-shop for trade customers
for windows, doors and conservatories and associated accessories, including
trims, fascias, soffits and silicones. The operation, which benefits from
a 2,500 square feet showroom as well as generous office space and depot
facilities, prides itself on offering excellent customer service and a
quick turnaround on orders of between five and seven days.
Steve Sampson, managing director, of Cheshire-based Precision, will also
personally visit sites and survey them for builders as well as offering
training if required. Precision also provides a fitting service for any
customers who require it. As well as selling Hurst Plastics' door panels
and composite doors, Precision also supplies Veka frames and Saint Gobain
glass.
For further information on Precision, please contact: 01270 567600 or
e-mail steve@sampson10.wanadoo.co.uk.
Tel: 01482 790790
Web: http://www.hurst-plastics.com
Monno
Accredited by Housing Executive
Monno,
New World Development's new flush fit GRP composite doorset and sister
to Apeer, has now been registered with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
This means it has passed the rigorous tests, PAS 23 & 24 that the
procurer demands for an external door product and can be specified for
Local Authority homes.
Established in 1971, the Housing Executive has responsibility for the
care of public authority housing throughout the Province. Among other
responsibilities, the Executive is tasked with keeping its stock of houses
maintained and refurbished to a high standard. Both Monno and Apeer doorsets
fulfil its criteria in every respect.
New World has designed Apeer and Monno to the highest standards. They
are both endorsed by Secure by Design and Apeer also has a Kitemark. The
glazing cassette is totally secure because of a unique patent pending
feature. With a grain as lifelike and warm as timber and all the thermal,
durable and security advantages of modern materials, Apeer and Monno’s
eight styles are manufactured with a sculptured integral framing unit
for perfect fit and aesthetic appeal.
Tel: 028 2563 2200
Email: linda.tomb@nwd.uk.com
Web: http://www.nwd.uk.com
Freefoam
Now Available from Newstead's Building Plastics Division
Newstead
Trade Frames now stocks a wide range of Freefoam's PVC-UE cellular profiles
at its Building Plastics Division. Products include high quality fascias,
bargeboards, soffits and cladding. Newstead's Building Plastics Division
has welcomed new customers every month from both trade and DIY sectors
since it was launched two years ago.
‘More and more installers are branching into home improvements to
differentiate themselves,’ comments Newstead's Managing Director
Adrian Locker. ‘Offering a wide range of building plastics means
our customers can give homeowners exactly what they want.’ Newstead's
Building Plastic Division also stocks hardware from Winzer Würth
and sealants from Siroflex.
Tel: 01782 641 642
70%
of PMW’s Projects Finished Ahead of Time Since Switching Supplier
'We’ve
been in the window industry for 10 years, and found that using the wrong
supplier quite simply hampers business,’ comments Matthew Sutton,
Partner of PMW Construction Ltd, a home improvement company based in Newcastle,
Staffordshire. ‘We used a local company which was just unreliable
as we had to wait two weeks or more for deliveries and then they’d
be incorrect. We changed to Newstead 12 months ago, and it’s made
a significant difference. Now, 70% of our projects are finished ahead
of time.
‘With the right products delivered on time, we’ve found a supplier
we can rely on. Since April PMW has been a limited partnership and we’ve
had to set – and keep to – work schedules for our customers.
Our annual turnover is £250-300,000, and we’re looking to expand
in the near future. In order to succeed you need the support of a reliable
supplier – and Newstead is just that.’
Tel: 01782 641 642
Maco
Celebrates 20 Years in the UK
2006
sees Maco celebrating 20 years in the UK. ‘With a track record demonstrating
excellence in both engineering and concept, the company is entering a
new phase of innovation and the creation of products to support the fabricating
industry and take the specifier solutions to even higher levels,’
says the company.
The
Maco team are a dedicated group, from senior management to junior staff,
the same philosophy of service and 'Delivery' runs through the company.
The development of market leading products and the attainment of the highest
standards is part of the overall professionalism of the company. Seen
as solutions rather than sales, Maco provides its fabricating customers
and specifiers alike with full in-house testing, technical support and
a committed stock-holding. Testing enables the development of finished
products by fabricators that can be taken through the rigorous demands
of testing to standards such as PAS23 and PAS24 (Doors), BS7950 (Windows),
BS7412 (Air and Water). When the product is right it can then be taken
through the official procedures and successful achievement of standards
becomes the norm. Products have been assessed by BBA, attaining certification,
Maco implements Quality Management Systems and are certified EN ISO 9001.2000.
The company follows two major design concepts; to make its products easy
to use in fabrication thereby giving greater efficiencies of production
and profitability for the fabricator; secondly, to make its products high
performing, both in terms of functionality, security, low maintenance
and long-life, to the benefit of the specifier and end-user.
Maco hardware is developed as profile specific and in that respect the
market will appreciate the development required behind the scenes. The
research and development is ongoing and will see new high specification
products launched during the year.
Web: http://www.macouk.net
Securistyle
Guarantees Partnership Working
Window
hardware manufactured from austenitic stainless steel by Securistyle and
backed by a 10-year performance guarantee has been specified by Newark
& Sherwood Homes in a five-year project to refurbish 5,500 council
homes in Nottinghamshire.
Chris Gold, cyclical maintenance manager at Newark & Sherwood Homes,
which is undergoing the £45 million refurbishment work as part of
the requirement to meet Decent Homes standards, said: 'We have specified
Securistyle's full suite of austenitic hardware, which is backed by its
Partnership Pledge audited warranty scheme. This means that we have a
10-year guarantee that brings peace of mind, cost savings in terms of
products and maintenance and helps us to achieve Best Value, which is
a key performance indicator.'
The Partnership Pledge initiative also benefits the main contractor Connaught
and window fabricator KEB Fabrications. Sarah Rudderham at KEB says: 'This
is a great example of partnership working throughout the supply chain.
Securistyle has provided advice about the latest window hardware and how
best to meet regulatory requirements with regard to
issues such as emergency egress, child safety, the DDA and British Standards.
We are confident that the most appropriate hardware is being fitted and
will perform well in the long term.'
Neil Rabbitts, northern specifications sales manager at UK manufacturer
Securistyle said: Around half of the homes being refurbished are for the
elderly so it was important that the appropriate hardware was specified
in order to meet the needs of the elderly residents. Window hinges for
example are not all the same and there is so much product choice - in
terms of quality and functionality - so we work with the specifier and
the fabricator to help them make the right choice for the right application.
As key members of the supply chain, the Partnership Pledge scheme demonstrates
our commitment and accountability to our partners.'
Securistyle offers a free CPD-certified seminar covering all aspects of
safety, security, emergency egress, corrosion resistance and Best Value
in relation to window hardware specification. Further details are available
from Securistyle on 01242 221200 or visit http://www.securistyle.co.uk.
Another
Glass Company Signs On to Use NGA's On-Line Training Programme
The
National Glass Association announced on 25th August that one of the largest
independent glass companies in the southeast, Lee Cates Glass, has become
the latest subscriber to its on-line training programme, MyGlassClass.com.
The company will send more than 100 technicians through the programme.
'In order for our company to remain successful, we need to ensure that
our employees are the most skilled in the industry, and MyGlassClass.com
is the best way for us to do that,' said Tom Lee, President of Lee Cates
Glass and Chairman of the NGA. 'Because of my involvement with the NGA,
I know that this programme is absolutely the most comprehensive and convenient
way to train and certify technicians.'
MyGlassClass.com was launched in June and offers dozens of courses specifically
designed for the automotive commercial and residential glass industries,
ranging from safety instruction to professional development to individual
certification. It was developed in partnership with leaders in the glass
industry and will be continually updated and enhanced to reflect industry
needs, with more than 100 course offerings planned for the first year.
'Our subscription to MyGlassClass.com will not only provide the best training
out there for our technicians, it will also make my job easier by giving
me the ability to monitor and track their progress,' said Bob Garner,
Vice President and Director of HR for Lee Cates Glass.
'To have an industry leader like Lee Cates embrace MyGlassClass.com is
truly gratifying for us because it indicates that they have the utmost
confidence in our training and certification programs,' said Phil James,
President CEO of the NGA. 'It also is indicative of the tremendous pride
in craftsmanship that is the hallmark of our industry.'
Dave Walker, NGA's Vice President for Association Services agreed, adding,
'The best glass companies know that they need to continually look for
ways to help them become ever more responsive to the needs of their customers.
We are pleased that they recognise MyGlassClass.com as a tool to help
them in those efforts, and we hope more and more companies continue to
sign on.'
For more information on MyGlassClass.com, contact the NGA's Debi Schneider
at 703/442-4890, ext.126 or visit http://www.MyGlassClass.com