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BRIAN KENNEDY, whose Latium Group owns Everest, Weatherseal, Wendland, CDW and Space Kitchens & Bedrooms, with a combined annual turnover of £400m, and who also owns the Sale Sharks rugby team, has offered a 30p a share offer for Ultraframe, the struggling conservatory roof designer, in a deal worth £52.m (including £23m debt). So far, the offer has won over some 35.8% of the share capital.

The offer comes only a week after Brian Kennedy watched his Sharks team decisively beat the Leicester Tigers 45-20 at Twickenham to win the Guinness Premiership.

Latium Holdings is a newly incorporated UK company established for the purposes of making the Offer and is owned by Brian Kennedy and Stuart Lees.

Loss-making Ultraframe, which three years ago was worth over £300 million, is encumbered with £23m worth of debt, compared with an equity value of only £29.2m. The debt has to be refinanced in December and a full repayment could be demanded. This debt burden and challenging market conditions for Ultraframe led the board to put the company up for sale last December, when it announced a 'Strategic Review'.

Latium was advised by Altium's Manchester office, and has secured about £44m of debt finance from Bank of Scotland.

Ultraframe's directors, led by Rod Sellers, chairman, and John Lancaster, the founder, have supported Latium's bid with irrevocable undertakings, and have agreed to step down if the deal goes through. The top four executive directors leave with £2.2m. Chief Exec David Moore will receive £774,300 in severance pay and will cash in another £250,000 worth of shares. The directors' options are all exercisable above the current share price.

Finance director Alan Rothwell will get £509,700, UK managing director Vanda Murray £522,300 and technical director Chris Richardson £408,900.

John Lancaster, who founded Ultraframe in 1983, retains a 15% stake, while his charity controls another 19%.

UK trading conditions continue to be difficult. Turnover decreased by 19.9% to £20.8m in the half year ended 31 March 2006, having declined by 20.7% in the first quarter and 19.0% in the second quarter. Gross margin fell further during the 6 month period to 37.1% from 40.8% in the comparable half year. This resulted in a half year operating loss before exceptional items of £0.4m (H1 2005: operating profit before exceptional items £1.1m).

In North America, first half sales were up 6.2% to $36.0m (£20.6m), having declined 0.6% in the first three months and increased by 14.8% in the second quarter.

As a result, Ultraframe Group turnover for the half year ended 31 March 2006 fell 5.9% on the comparable period (down 9.2% on a constant currency basis). The first half pre-tax loss, before goodwill amortisation and exceptional items, for the Ultraframe Group amounted to £2.4m (H1 2005: pre-tax loss £1.1m).

The son of an Edinburgh window cleaner, Brian Kennedy's big break was the acquisition of the Everest double-glazing window business in 2000. Now aged 46, Brian is worth £250m, according to The Sunday Times Rich List.

If the new deal goes ahead, Latium, a firm set up to carry out the Ultraframe deal, will have complete control over the firm, and plan on taking it private and off the stock market. But it is not thought the deal which will include the cost of taking on Ultraframe debts and costs as well as paying nearly £30million for the company's shares will mean job losses, apart from the members of the Board who have agreed to step down.

Rod Sellers, chairman of Ultraframe, said: 'The board has undertaken a full strategic review and has concluded that as trading conditions remain difficult, shareholders and employees will be best served by shareholders accepting this offer.'

If the deal goes ahead, Latium will merge Ultraframe's North American interests, which trade as Four Seasons and Ultraframe North America, with Ever 1951 Limited (a company controlled by Brian Kennedy which is the holding company of Everest Limited). There is a strong commercial fit between these two businesses as Everest is one of the largest direct selling home improvements businesses in the UK and management have a clear strategy to leverage their knowledge and expertise in the UK home improvements market and apply that to the North American market.

It is also intended that an intermediate holding company, Latium Roofing Systems Limited (a company controlled by Brian Kennedy and Stuart Lees), will acquire Latium Holdings, which will, through its holding in Ultraframe, own the UK trading business of Ultraframe. At the same time, Latium Roofing Systems Limited will acquire CDW Investments Limited, which trades as Wendland through its wholly owned subsidiary CDW Products Limited, another company which is owned by Brian Kennedy and Stuart Lees.

The Offer also includes an entitlement to a Litigation Note for each Ultraframe Share. The Litigation Notes will allow accepting Ultraframe Shareholders to share in a proportion of the Net Cash Receivable (if any) arising on the Final Determination of the ongoing Eurocell Litigation and Burnden Litigation to which Ultraframe is a party.

BFRC Operations Transfer to GGF Group

It was announced yesterday that the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) will be managing and developing the work started by the British Fenestration Ratings Council (BFRC) in the area of Window Energy Ratings. The new company will be known as BFRC Ltd.

The hottest topic in the UK glass and glazing industry for the past two years has been Window Energy Rating. Originated and managed by the British Fenestration Rating Council, the BFRC Window Energy Rating scheme has seen a rapid growth in the past months as window manufacturers and installers recognise the benefits and consumer friendliness of the scheme. Consumers are now themselves recognising the scheme and seeing that windows can be selected for energy efficiency in the same way as any other rated and labelled product. BFRC Window Energy Rating is destined to be one of the success stories of the glazing industry in the future.

(Left to Right) Robert Aitken, Ian Chisholm, Kevin Cubbage, Dr Robin Kent

From its inception in 1997 and market launch in 2005, the scheme has been largely administered and operated by the Chairman, Kevin Cubbage and the Project Manager, Dr Robin Kent. The recent rapid growth and acceptance of the scheme and success in the market means that the BFRC now needs extra resources to continue growing and developing the successful Window Energy Rating system.

With immediate effect, the rapidly growing operations of the current BFRC are being transferred to a new company, the British Fenestration Rating Council Limited. All the BFRC's Intellectual Property, logo, Window Energy Label, website, databases etc will be transferred to the new BFRC Limited to allow it to continue the growth of the past. The new British Fenestration Rating Council Limited will be managed by the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) and this will enable increased marketing, technical and administrative support for the future growth of Window Energy Rating and the possibility of its integration into both the Building Regulations approvals systems operated by FENSA and other GGF operations.

The future is bright for Window Energy Rating and the availability of additional resources will inevitably accelerate the success and adoption of ratings in the UK.

Kevin Cubbage of the BFRC welcomed this move and stated: 'The consolidation of the BFRC with the GGF is good news for the UK glazing industry and I welcome the foresight of the GGF in accepting the challenge to continue developing and growing the BFRC and the relevance of Window Energy Ratings to Government and Window Industry objectives.'

Robin Kent of the BFRC also welcomed the new organisational structure and stated: 'Window Energy Rating is the best opportunity the UK Glazing industry has for increasing sales and market growth. Energy efficient products are not only good for the environment but reduce the cost of energy to consumers. The GGF has recognised this and is taking a lead by promoting BFRC Window Energy Rating.'

Ian Chisholm, Deputy Chief Executive, GGF commented 'I am delighted that the GGF was chosen by the BFRC and all of the Trade Associations to help develop it and move it forward both administratively and promotionally, when it was felt that it was time for the initial development to be placed on a more formalised footing. The incorporation of BFRC Ltd into the federations group will strengthen it with its easier access to large sections of the market and reduce any risk of dislocation as administrative procedures already in place within the group can easily be transferred to be used in the new company.'

Robert Aitken, Chairman, Home Improvement Executive, GGF felt that this opportunity should not be lost to thank those who helped bring BFRC to where it was now and in particular he mentioned Richard Lambert and the British Woodworking Federation who had worked tirelessly to ensure the safe transfer of operations to the GGF. Robert continued 'I am proud to be the first Chair of the new BFRC Ltd and I look forward to continuing the pioneering work initiated by Kevin and Robin.'

During this fiscal year, Japan's domestic economy consistently showed a positive growth trend with several critical factors remaining as concerns that adversely affected cost positions and profitability, such as price soaring of oil and other raw materials, increasing competition in some related product sectors.

The market conditions of NSG's consolidated group has picked up with growth of the nation in such areas as housing new starts both in residential and commercial segments, and domestic car production volume. Price increase in crude oil and other key raw materials significantly affected NSG's manufacturing cost throughout this year. In the Information and Electronics business segments, there were mixed signals; Global total production volume of PC and mobile phone increased to the extent that they exceeded last year, which was offset downward by price competition and/or inventory adjustment in supply chains.

Summary of Financial Results
Under these circumstances, despite every possible effort we made to protect our profitability level along the budget, the price impact in crude oil and other key materials was too significant to be absorbed by our own cost reduction activities. As a result our operating income decreased by 29.9% compared to the last year. Income before extra-ordinary items and taxation also decreased in spite of improved non-operating incomes. We booked JPY 5,534 million of extra-ordinary losses on disposal of obsolete inventories and fixed asset, which was more than offset by a JPY 6,644 million of extra-ordinary incomes mainly due to sales of marketable securities.

In consequence, net sales slightly increased to 265 billion and 888 million yen (up 0.3%), operating income declined to 8,429 million yen (down 29.9%), income before extra-ordinary incomes decreased to 10,425 million yen (down 21.4%) and net income increased to 7,764 million yen (up 2.3%).

Dividend
We assume we will keep a total of 6 yen of dividend for this year. (3 at interim and 3 at final)

(1) Flat and Safety Glass and Building Materials Division
Despite a robust increase in sales, 5.3% up from last year, operating income decreased to 5,001 million yen (down 29.6%) due to increased cost impact affected by crude oil and other key raw materials.

Sales in architectural glass and building products sector improved backed up by solid growth in the value-added glass market in Japan such as double glazing and crime prevention laminated glass in addition to healthy overseas operations such as Malaysia where the second float line contributed to sales increase for this year.

Sales in automotive glass sector also improved mainly due to incremental business volume awarded in new models that started production in this year.

(2) Information / Electronics Materials and Devices Division
Despite sales that declined to 42,375 million yen (down 4.1%), operating income this year showed a significant improvement that increased to 1,423 million yen (up 24.5%).

Sales in our optical-electronics devices products were either flat or slightly declined compared to last year affected by increasing competition in light-source products segment, while there was still robust demand in our SELFOC lenses used in multi-function printers. Recovery in photonic telecommunication market became somewhat visible but was not strong enough to contribute for this.

Sales in our display glass sector fell short to last year largely due to a temporary slump in passive matrix LCD market volume that continued throughout the frrst half of this year, although recovery has become visible just recently.

(3) Glass Fibre Division
Sales in our glass fibre businesses amounted to 31,911 million yen (down 11.0%) with operating income of 3,901 million yen (down 14.2%). This was due to a combination of increasing competition in battery separator market and a temporary downtum in air filter market affected by semiconductor industry, while glass cord for engine timing belt still enjoyed stable demand globally.

(4) Others
Sales in others sector was 11,533 million yen (down 17.1%) with operating losses being 1,893 million yen (0%). This was mainly due to increased expenditure in on-going information system upgrade project.

Prospects for Fiscal Year 2007
As is consistent with our previous announcement, acquisition process of Pilkington has been proceeding smoothly with no delay in schedule, and we expect it is around mid June this year when a series of necessary legal steps will be complete for Pilkington to become a 100% subsidiary of NSG's group. This means that Pilkington is still a listed company as of today who is subject to compliance with rules and regulations in London Stock Exchange (LSE), therefore, it is NSG's decision that at this time we hold to disclose our FY2007 forecasting information until a later date. We will make another announcement in appropriate timing to follow this up.

Masterframe Opens Conservation Debate at Revive Conference 7th June

Alan Burgess of sliding sash specialist Masterframe Windows Ltd will speak on the challenges of sustainable refurbishment and regeneration at Sustain magazine's conference, Revive. Held at One Great George Street, London on 7th June, Revive will showcase best practice case studies and examine funding and planning through to on-site practicalities. Seminal issues include Britain's heritage and conservation.

‘Refurbishment, regeneration and conservation areas are key issues for our customers,’ explains Alan, Masterframe's Managing Director, ‘and speaking at this conference will open a lot of eyes to the suitability of available products with the emphasis on design rather than material.

'Our Bygone Collection vertical slider, for example, combines traditional and authentic looks with modern standards of energy efficiency, security and performance. It's the only Energy Saving Recommended sliding sash and the only slider with enhanced security standard BS: 7950. It's just one of our ranges that are increasingly accepted by planners and specifiers.

‘With an estimated 44 million vertical sliders left to replace in the UK, sliding sashes are a massive opportunity for installers. But the product must be right.’

Alan Burgess also represented the window industry at November's Sustain conference 14 Days to Save the World, bringing the Window Energy Ratings to a broader audience.

High level representation is expected at Revive, including the Government, the BRE, house builders, local housing associations, planners and the media. Call Sustain magazine on 0161 8305573 or email events@sustainmagazine.com to book your place at Revive on Wednesday 7th June.

Tel: 01376 510410
Web: http://www.masterframe.co.uk

Wagner and Spilka Agree Supply Deal

Independent hardware distributor Wagner has announced that it has reached agreement with AS Spilka Industri of Norway to be the UK distributor for Spilka fully reversible window hardware.

From July, Wagner will supply all customers of the Spilka 'Classic' fully reversible hinge system as used on the 'H Window' and widely used by timber window manufacturers up and down the country.

In addition, the new Opus hinge system will give UK manufacturers the opportunity to produce reversible windows in timber and aluminium-clad timber and to enter the growing market created by the demand for 'Scandinavian' windows.

Commenting on the deal, Wagner's Commercial Director, Bob Hayes, states 'Both parties are delighted with this deal. We now have access to the proven quality of Spilka products as demonstrated by the longevity of the Classic hinge, as well as the new Opus product. From Spilka's side, they have been impressed by our nationwide distribution network and see us as the ideal partner with which to increase their UK sales.'

The agreement also covers other Spilka products including Spilvent ventilators, espagnolettes and accessories.

Wagner can be contacted on 01634 263300.

Wagner Chairman Peter Kinze Retires

Independent hardware distributor Wagner has announced the retirement of its Chairman, Peter Kinze.

Peter was instrumental in setting up Wagner (GB) Ltd as a subsidiary of Germany's Heinz Wagner in 1982.

He passed the day-to-day running of the company to John Vaux, Steve Sale and Bob Hayes, as Managing Director, Sales Director and Commercial Director respectively, in 2004.

Having moved back to Germany, Peter is looking forward to spending more time with his family, but anyone who knows him will be sure that it is a safe bet that he will be seen within the industry long into the future!

On announcing his decision to Wagner's staff, Peter spoke of his enjoyment of the time spent with customers, colleagues, suppliers and other business partners during more than 40 years supplying hardware to the window and door industries of Europe and beyond.

Wagner's directors and staff wish Peter and his wife, Melitta, a healthy, happy and thoroughly deserved retirement.

Synseal’s Eight New Trucks Take Total Fleet to 50

Synseal has added eight new trucks to its fleet taking the total to 50. 'Our customers are doing well and we now make over 1,000 deliveries a week,' explains Rob Wilkinson, Synseal’s Operations Director.

'We have added the new trucks to cover the increase in demand for Legend70. And since we introduced our three day service on roof kits, the number we deliver has increased.

'We know that in a competitive market service is vital for our customers. Many installers are working on shorter lead times, and in turn every step of the supply chain has to react faster to support them. They need on-time, in full deliveries, every time.

'Having our own trucks is the best way to make sure customers get what they want, when they want it, and these eight new trucks mean we can continue to give our customers the best service.'

http://www.synseal.co.uk

Investing in the Future

Synseal fabricator Future Products has invested in a new 70,000 square foot factory to improve manufacturing efficiencies. Prior to the move there were three separate sites, one fabricating SynerJy frames and Global roofs, another door panels and the third glass toughening. Now, all three are together under one roof.

‘We have increased efficiency,’ explains Paul Kirby, Future Products' Sales Director.

‘We used to move products between the different sites, so we were handling some things twice. Now raw materials go in one end and the finished product gets delivered straight out to our customers.

The whole process is more efficient. And we took the opportunity to add new machinery. We invested £230,000 in a second flow line and we fabricate 900 windows a week, 50 conservatory roofs and 1,500 door panels.

‘Future has made these efficiencies to support customers. We moved each of the factories separately so there would be minimal disruption, but because the move was so smooth many don't realise what we've done!

That's why we're having an open day to show them round the new factory.’

Tel: 01623 443 200

MB Opens New Décor Centre

Deceuninck stockist, MB Distribution, has opened a retail showroom to display the range of Décor wall and ceiling panels at the company’s premises in Middlesbrough.

The new showroom demonstrates the use of Décor in a virtual living environment, demonstrating the elegance and diversity of this wall and ceiling range. On show is a kitchen area, bathroom area, shower cubicles and dining room, all demonstrating an expensive-looking expanse of wall or ceiling in a choice of textures and colours.

Deceuninck says that the Décor range has remained at the forefront of design for some time. Décor flush finish panels are manufactured using water-based inks that gives a depth of colour for the authentic finish to satisfy today's design-conscious consumers. Due to the product's high water resistancy, Décor is a good solution for bathrooms and kitchens where traditional tiles would have been used.

Commenting on the new Décor showroom, Director of MB Distribution, Michael Greenup said: ‘Numerous surveys throughout 2005 demonstrate that nearly five million people are planning to revamp or replace their kitchen or bathroom. Put simply, this market is huge and through Décor we have an opportunity to tap into this arena. The showroom is our window to the consumer and clearly demonstrates the stunning effects you can achieve with Décor in numerous real life situations. Today's home improvers, whether they're planning to do it themselves or 'call in the experts' are shrewd buyers and are looking for products that will give them a unique, bespoke home space whilst creating an exclusive and expensive atmosphere. The Décor range is innovative enough to provide exactly what the discerning consumer needs.’

For more information on all the products and services from MB Distribution visit http://www.mb-distribution.co.uk.

New Mergers and Acquisitions Business

With the Industry facing major consolidation, several players exiting the market and the recent surge in acquisitions, Purplex Consultants has launched a new Division.

Purplex Mergers and Acquisitions provides a professional, confidential service for those seeking to acquire or sell a business, or considering a management buyout/buy in. Andrew Scott from Purplex commented

‘The next few years will see major realignment in the Industry. Acquisitions will create powerful new Groups within the sector and we can no longer assume that the major players today will continue to hold the top spots.’

The M&A Division will be headed by Martin Burgess who has been involved in Mergers and Acquisitions for some 15 years.

A Cambridge graduate and chartered accountant who has held senior roles at ASDA and Dixons, Martin has successfully completed several high-profile acquisitions, disposals and MBO's in the UK and US.

‘The Window Industry still represents significant opportunity for growth and wealth for those companies with ambition’ added Martin.

Purplex is currently compiling a Register of Companies for sale in the UK which will go live in July. This database will be marketed to potential buyers inside and outside the Industry.

For more information on selling or acquiring a business, MBO's or to find out more about the For Sale Register, visit http://www.purplex.uk.com or contact Andrew Scott on 0870 062 5318.

Fireswiss Foam Secures CERTIFIRE Approval

Fireswiss Foam - the new fully insulated fire glass from CGI International - now has the backing of a full CERTIFIRE listing. This makes it even easier for specifiers and contractors to review its use across a wide array of applications in both metal and timber frames and doors up to a size of more than 3000mm x 2000mm - a potential area per panel of almost 7.00 m2.

Phill Millward, CGI's Sales and Marketing Director, believes the real benefit of CERTIFIRE is to provide instant approval - or not - to a comprehensive range of glass sizes, frame styles and glazing methods. He says: ‘In fact, the rigorous assessment process of the CERTIFIRE scheme is not just about size, the use of a 7.00 m2 pane area being limited, as much as anything, by the ability to handle a glass pane weighing over a quarter-of-a tonne!’

As a further benefit, the certification of CGII products covered by the CERTIFIRE scheme can also be viewed on-line and downloaded from the company's recently redesigned web site. This means customers can check at the click of a button if a proposed installation of expensive and life-protecting fire glass is being properly specified.

The company's new website at http://www.cgii.co.uk provides a one stop source of information for anyone involved in specifying and using fire glass, including glazing specialists, door manufacturers and joinery companies. Useful features include a helpful guide to choosing the right fire glass and rating, plus a regularly updated section on current Fire Safety Standards. ‘Easy access to this type of information and advice is crucial in ensuring correct specification and 'best practice' methods,’ continues Phill Millward.

Following its successful launch in the UK, Fireswiss Foam is now readily available for all types of contracts through CGII's stockist network. Fireswiss Foam has already been successfully installed in many projects nationwide, including the Biagio restaurant in Piccadilly and the National Railway Museum in York.

Tel: 020 7078 6660
Web: http://www.cgii.co.uk

Lister Chooses BM TRADA for Energy Ratings

Lister is the first company in Staffordshire and one of only nine in the whole of the UK to have achieved 'A', 'B' and 'C' Energy Ratings on the company’s windows. And that includes both its Linear chamfered and its Sculptor ranges.
To gain this accreditation Lister chose BM TRADA as the company’s certification body.

Ian Johnson, Lister’s Quality Manager says that ‘Energy ratings are going to have a major impact on our industry and we have worked very hard to ensure that we lead the field in this area. So it was vital for us to choose a certification body that we could forge a good relationship with not just for this first stage of accreditation, but also for the long term development of our products.’

Ian Johnson (Lister’s Quality Manager) receiving the company’s new license from Andy Sumner of the assessment body BM TRADA.

So why TRADA? ‘We had a deadline to achieve on this accreditation’ says Ian. ‘We needed to get energy rated products to our trade customers as quickly as we could. We wanted to start offering them before we were asked for them. So the pressure was on. Simply put, TRADA responded very quickly to our request for help, they were efficient, professional and very helpful.’

BM TRADA Certification is a leading multi-sector certification body accredited by UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service). Originally established to develop quality assurance schemes in the construction industry, BM TRADA has since expanded into many other sectors including manufacturing; distribution; local authorities; paper; printing; software; legal & professional services; agriculture and food, to name but a few. BM TRADA's portfolio of services includes certification to quality, environmental, information security, and health & safety management systems, as well as product and personnel schemes.

‘TRADA has helped us to gain the WER standards on our windows along with the backing of the Energy Saving Trust mark, and this has given us a lead in the market. This is great news for our customers and for us. The household is already aware of the importance of an energy rating when choosing an electrical appliance. Now they can see that our windows have a similar rating system, and they have the opportunity to help the environment and save some money on their fuel bills.’

Web: http://www.listertf.co.uk

DHF Lobbying Leads to Building Regulations Rethink

Building Regulations covering the thermal insulation properties of industrial and commercial doors have been rewritten, thanks to successful lobbying by the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF).

The Department for Communities and Local Government (formerly known as the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister) has finally acknowledged that it was impossible to achieve the levels of thermal insulation in doors and shutters laid down in the previous Building Regulations approved document. This was causing problems for door suppliers, contractors and specifiers who were unable to demonstrate compliance with the Regulations.

Revised Approved Document L of the Building Regulations (England and Wales), which addresses the energy performance of buildings other than dwellings, is now in force. It has revised the acceptable levels of thermal insulation in industrial and commercial doors and shutters. Crucially, the new levels are both commercially attainable by door manufacturers yet still make a significant impact on environmental improvement.

Said Ray Nowell, technical officer of the DHF: 'We wholeheartedly welcome this change of heart by the ODPM. It follows several years of campaigning by the federation.

'The original thermal values were set many years ago without consultation with the industry. The DHF has played an active part in the subsequent consultation process, and this has achieved a most positive outcome for the industry whilst giving building designers more accurate information.'

The changes in revised Approved Document L concern industrial and commercial vehicle access doors and similar large doors. The original unattainable area-weighted average u-value for thermal resistance of a door was 0.7 W/m2K which, it was thought, was based on the calculated value of an insulated panel but not the completely installed door. This has now been changed to a more accurate figure of 1.5 W/m2K. This figure applies to buildings with a number of doors. For a single door installation, the new thermal resistance level is 4.0 W/m2K. These new values will give architects and specifiers the freedom to use different configurations of doors and still be able to calculate a total building performance within the Government’s statutory requirements.

The DHF represents all the UK’s leading commercial door, shutter and garage door makers and manufacturers of building hardware and architectural ironmongery.

Tel: 01827 52337
Web: http://www.dhfonline.org.uk

Eurocell Building Plastics opens Flagship Depot

Eurocell Building Plastics (EBP) has recently opened the doors to its flagship depot in Alfreton, Derbyshire. Previously based at Birchwood Way, Coates Park Industrial Estate, the depot has relocated to a new unit one mile away at Cheesborough Ponds, Clover Nook Road.

Eurocell Building Plastics' head office is based in Alfreton and has had a trade depot in the area for more than six years. David Salt, EBP Sales Director explains the move: ‘The new look depot will be the flagship for all of our 70 nationwide depots. Being so close to head office the depot will be responsible for products trials and showcasing new products where we can easily monitor demand and changes in the market.

‘We've given the unit a totally fresh look, there's new signage, extended counters, lots of storage space and we're opening a building products showroom so that customers can really get a feel for what we have to offer.’

Open to trade and the general public, EBP depots stock all Eurocell manufactured building plastics including - fascia, soffits, guttering, and ancillary goods and tools. Customers can find their nearest EBP depot by visiting http://www.eurocell.co.uk.

The Alfreton branch is open six days a week and can be contacted direct on 01773 545810.

Oops! Everest Wrongly Claims ASA Endorsement

A Public Complaint objected to a direct mailing, for windows, conservatories and doors. The text stated ' ... But we do genuinely 'fit the best' - a fact proved in September in an investigation by the Advertising Standards Authority*.' The asterisk linked to a footnote that stated 'With specific reference to windows and doors, conservatories, roofline products and garage doors. ASA adjudication ID 40301, published 21st September 2005 on www.asa.org.uk'. The complainant objected that the mailing misleadingly implied endorsement by the ASA.

Adjudication: Complaints upheld
Everest believed the mailing did not imply ASA endorsement; the company said it had used a factual reference to make clear that its marketing material, in particular the claim 'fit the best', had previously been challenged and the ASA's investigation into it had shown that the company's use of that claim was justified in some circumstances. Everest pointed out that the mailing included a footnote that contained details of the adjudication and where to find it on the ASA website.

The ASA noted the claim 'But we do genuinely 'fit the best' - a fact proved in September in an investigation by the Advertising Standards Authority' was linked to explanatory text in the footnote. The ASA acknowledged that Everest had correctly listed, in the footnote, products for which the claim 'fit the best' had been found acceptable. 'We were concerned, however, that readers were likely to believe the claim 'But we do genuinely 'fit the best' - a fact proved in September in an investigation by the Advertising Standards Authority' implied the ASA endorsed Everest's products, in breach of the Code. We told Everest not to repeat the claim and advised them to seek help from the CAP Copy Advice team.'

The mailing breached CAP Code clauses 7.1 (Misleading) and 14.6 (Implied ASA endorsement).

Double Kitemark Licences Awarded to Advantage

Advantage Windows and Conservatories Ltd, the Cheshire-based trade fabricator, has been awarded two BSI kitemarks. The license certificates were presented to Advantage's Operations Director Glenn Fern on the BSI Product Services stand at Glassex 2006.

The first award is BS 7412 for windows made from PVC-u extruded hollow profile. The general requirements for this standard include safety, operation and strength and weather performance which include air permeability, watertightness and wind resistance.

Advantage's Kitemark presentation at Glassex. (Left) - Dennis Emms-Moss - Emms-Moss Consultants, (centre) - Glenn Fern, Operations Director at Advantage and (right) Mike Foley of BSI.

The second award is BS 7950/7412 - the specification for enhanced security performance of casement and tilt and turn windows for domestic applications.

Advantage manufactures both Rehau 70 and Spectus Elite 70 windows in the company’s factories at Poynton in Cheshire. The license process involved the testing of Advantage's windows by BSI Product Services to determine that they meet or exceed the required levels of safety, operation and strength, security and weather performance.The Kitemark process also involved a thorough assessment of Advantage's quality management systems. In the six months prior to the kitemarks being awarded, leading industry consultant Dennis Emms-Moss worked closely with Advantage's Production Director Glenn Fern.
They assessed all of Advantage's quality control and internal reporting systems and brought them into line to satisfy BSI's rigorous standards. BSI will also be conducting ongoing checks to ensure that the manufacturing process continues to operate to the highest levels. There is also an ongoing programme of product testing to ensure that the high standards of product manufacturing that have already been achieved are continually met.

Elaine Durno, Product Manager for construction products at BSI Product Services, said, ‘BSI are delighted that Advantage Windows and Conservatories have achieved Kitemark certification to BS 7412 and BS 7950/7412 for their windows. The award of these two Kitemark licences is the latest acknowledgment of Advantage Windows and Conservatories commitment to quality. Consumers and specifiers can now have complete product confidence through the credibility and assurance that Kitemark certification provides’.

Upon achieving the two Kitemark awards, Glenn Fern, Advantage's Operations Director said: ‘by achieving the very high standards needed to gain BS 7412 and BS 7950/7412, we as a company have shown a commitment to manufacturing quality products and maintaining efficient internal systems. I would like to pay tribute to all of the technical and manufacturing staff here at Advantage who all played a part in gaining these awards.’

Tel: 01625 856488

Cervoglass and Pilkingtons - Together Make a Winning Combination

Cervoglass says that a steady and considerable increase in sales is clearly demonstrating that more and more companies are choosing products from the Cervoglass range placing the company ahead of the competition for a number of reasons. The flexibility of in-house manufacturing and the service support provided by the Cervoglass team all combined with the reliability of the latest Pilkington self-cleaning products is proving a firm favourite in the glass roof market.

Uncertain industry trading conditions throughout 2005 has left many deliberating about how to move forward with confidence in a hesitant market. For Cervoglass however, the company says that it is confident that there will be continued steady growth in market trends as increase in demand for the product range has continued to grow throughout 2006.

Launched in February the company says that Cervo Activ Blue and Cervo Sol Plus products have invigorated customers inspiring a positive outlook in a stabilising market. Consumer expenditure and positive statistics in the housing market have demonstrated to senior management at the company that favourable trading conditions will return.

With increasing legislative regulatory changes and the new standard guidelines within the industry as a whole Graham Price considers only the most technically advanced and cost effective products will achieve profitable sales results.

‘Incorporating Pilkington Activ Blue self-cleaning glass, the products in the Cervoglass range clearly provide superior standards. The unique properties of the coating react with UV light to break down organic particles on the surface of the glass. Additionally when wet, this coating attracts water making it spread as a thin film across the glass and run off taking the dirt with it. In addition, it dries quickly without any unsightly droplet marks,’ says Graham.

The Cervo range of easy-clean and solar control glass provide 75% heat reflection and 37% light transmission with U-values as low as a true 1.1. Statistics which prove that these products can be relied upon are reflected in the upward trend in sales for Cervoglass.

Customer input is also vitally important and it is imperative to monitor and maintain ongoing service standards at the company.

Graham Price comments, ‘We listen to the feedback from our customers to ensure we meet their specific needs on large or small projects. With the advanced in house production facilities and our own delivery fleet it is evident that customers rely on the products and services we supply.’

He continues: ‘The products we provide are at the forefront of the industry in terms of design and reliability offering radical performance levels which meet all current and future legislative industry performance requirements.’

Matt Buckley, Marketing Director at Pilkington adds, ‘We are delighted with the way that Cervoglass have taken to Pilkington Activ Blue. They are one of the top independent customers for Pilkington Activ and are carving a niche in the glass roof sector. The product performance of Pilkington Activ Blue in combination with Cervoglass' service have proved to be a winning combination for the conservatory roof market’

Tel: 0151 522 6604

Patent Recognition for Franklin Windows

Franklin Windows has just been granted a UK patent (GB2398336) for the company's composite window and door system.

The company says that the composite window and door system is unique in that it has been designed to ensure that no moisture reaches the internal timber cladding. This has been achieved by incorporating a thermal break and upstand before the glazing chamber to maximise performance and longevity.

David Franklin (in the centre of the picture) comments: 'We have spent over 7 years developing our composite products to ensure that they not only look truly stunning but match this with a high level of performance. Our customers have very high expectations and we have been able to surpass these with our products and attention to detail. These products have been designed for the UK market to offer both a traditional and contemporary appearance as our customers have appreciated.'

Not only does the company offer composite windows and doors, but it also offers a composite conservatory roof that has been designed to match the windows and doors in design and material specification. The outside of a Franklin conservatory is powder coated aluminium and the inside including the roof is clad with dark hardwood or Swedish pine. 'The result of these product specifications is both unique and impressive as the Glassex Conservatory Design Awards have shown.' says David

David concludes: 'In a saturated market many people look for something unique that can give them that selling edge and enhanced opportunity and our products do just that. As a business we are committed to offering what we believe is the finest product range in our sector.'

Messe Düsseldorf Enters into Strategic Partnership in Nanotechnology

By joining forces with Olma Messen, St. Gallen, Switzerland, Messe Düsseldorf has entered into the forefront of Nanotechnology marketing. The aim of this collaboration will be to further develop and enhance the standing of Europe's leading Nanotechnology trade fair, the NanoEurope Fair & Conference.

At the previous staging, 105 exhibitors brought 3,570 international visitors from 30 countries up to date on the sectors life sciences, tools, sensors, surfaces, optics and surfaces, services, further education and training as well as research.

From next year ‘NanoEurope Innovation Parks’ will be presented at several Düsseldorf-based technology fairs including glasstec in 2008. These industry-specific parks will act as the ideal complement to the NanoEurope main event.
The next staging of the ‘NanoEurope Fair & Conference’ will take place in St. Gallen, Switzerland from 12th to 14th September 2006. However, from 2009, the fair will alternate venues between Düsseldorf (odd years) and St. Gallen (even years).

For further Exhibitor/Visitor information please contact UK Representative, Messe Düsseldorf, International Trade Shows Link Ltd
Tel: 01442 230033
Email: info@itsluk.com

Irish Market Continues to Boom says Promac

The continued success in the Irish glass and glazing market is providing Cork-based Promac Ireland with a wealth of sales opportunities.

Promac's Irish office is run by Jim O'Connell and supported by three other members of staff who ensure that the specific needs of the Irish fabricator are met. The company has been involved in the installation of a wide number of machines for both the pvc and aluminium window fabricator, though it is the CNC machinery from Promac that has proven to be particularly successful.

TJ Grady in County Mayo and T.S.L. Windows in Dublin have both invested in CNC machinery, the latter investing in the new Rapid Ultratech cutting and machining centre and one of the new Urban SV530S corner cleaners to improve both product quality and efficiencies within their respective factories.

Gerard Nugent, managing director of T.S.L., explains the decision to invest: ‘We have invested in the latest machinery to ensure the highest product quality and to ensure the factory is both efficient and effective. The investment may be significant but the cost savings are immeasurable and we expect a short payback period.’

Sales of aluminium machinery have also profited from the construction boom in Ireland and Comfort Period Conservatories in Waterford has invested in a Phantomatic T4A CNC machine for aluminium fabrication. This compact machine has proven particularly popular for the Irish market thanks to its small size and relatively inexpensive cost.

Promac's dedicated Irish office also boats a full-time engineer who is supported by other UK-based engineers, ensuring that the installation process and on-going engineering support can be carried out on a local basis.

It's also thanks to all this activity in the Irish market that Promac has appointed a dedicated consumables sales person and the company is also actively looking to recruit 2 further engineers to provide the best possible support for the Irish fabricator.

Jim O'Connell concludes: ‘We have some great customers in the Irish market who understand that investment in machinery can yield genuine savings for their business. Yet it is only thanks to our presence in Cork and support from Promac in the UK that we have been able to really support these fabricators.’

West Yorkshire Windows Generates £850,000 Through the Internet

Conservatory Outlet network member West Yorkshire Windows generated £850,000 worth of sales through the internet in 2005 and is expecting this figure to double in 2006.

‘The internet is a very exciting way of attracting new business,’ explains Heidi Cremer, Marketing Manager of West Yorkshire Windows. ‘Homeowners like to check out companies on the web before inviting them round for a quote or calling into the showroom. By using the internet, prospective customers can see exactly what we have on offer. Thanks to Conservatory Outlet we have benefited from internet enquiries and we expect to double sales in the next year.’

According to recent figures, 48.2% of homeowners have internet access and many use it to research their next home improvement project before they decide to buy. ‘Conservatory Outlet uses 'Pay Per Click' to put our dealers at the top of a search engine list,’ explains Matthew Glover, Conservatory Outlet's Managing Director. ‘For example, if a homeowner types in 'conservatories Yorkshire' they see the Conservatory Outlet dealers at the top of the page. If the homeowner clicks on this sponsored link, the enquiry goes straight to the dealer. We are delighted with the success of this system, which is reflected in West Yorkshire Windows sales figures.’

Tel: 08700 802380

Midlands Couple in Conservatory Win

Willenhall couple Sylvia and Allan Walker were surprised and delighted to discover that they had won a fully fitted Easy Fit Conservatory in a recent newspaper competition.

Sylvia, a former administrator at New Cross Hospital and her husband Allan, a retired carpenter entered the competition together. She said 'I always enter competitions, but I never expect to win, so I was shocked to hear that we had won such a valuable prize. It was a joint effort, I filled the in entry form and my husband came up with the slogan, it was something about how we’d use the conservatory for relaxing if we won. A conservatory will be a very welcome addition to our home, and we fully intend to get the best use out of it. We’re retired now, so it will be ideal for us to just relax, take it easy and enjoy the garden without worrying about all this wet weather we’re having.'

Paul Wilding shows Sylvia and Allan Walker what their new conservatory will be like.

Easy Fit Roofs and Conservatories MD Paul Wilding said 'It was a real pleasure to let them know that they’d won. I understand they’re planning a conservatory opening party, so we’ve given them some champagne to get the party started too.'

The Easy Fit Roofs and Conservatories showroom at Tamebridge near Walsall has the largest display of conservatories in the Midlands, which is where Sylvia and Allan Walker were presented with the keys to their prize by Paul Wilding.

Introducing Phoenix Marketing Services

Phoenix Marketing Services is a new business to business specialist established to provide professional marketing and publicity support for companies within the construction and fenestration industries.

Phoenix was created by Richard Sheppard who as a former Marketing Manager at Cego & Laird Security Hardware has a wealth of experience in creating brand awareness, obtaining sales leads and communicating with customers.

With a clear understanding of the industry, access to information sources, media contacts and prospective customers within the private and public sectors; Phoenix will enhance the creditability and the positive aspects of a business.

An effective publicity campaign need not be expensive but the rewards to the business through increased sales and brand recognition can be substantial.
Phoenix's expertise is in delivering innovative, integrated and above all measurable campaigns either as individual projects or as part of a broader range of activities.

It can also provide support in developing promotional campaigns for new products utilizing direct marketing, advertising, literature and exhibition planning where appropriate.

Phoenix can make a real difference to a company's prospects through professional planning and intuitive marketing.

For more information please call:
Richard Sheppard @ Phoenix Marketing Services Tel 07790 167 128

Added Reassurance from Window Widgets

Window Widgets has launched a range of homeowner certificates for its BBA certified frame couplers and baypole systems.

The company has launched these certificates at both the installer and the end consumer. The frame couplers and baypole systems are an integral part of any installation and the company believes that the certificates and BBA certification is an important message to consumers and the trade.

Given that the government driven Home Information Pack (HIP) for home buyers and sellers is very much a talking point, Window Widgets feels that its own offering addresses similar issues.

The government is concerned about the quality of homes and indeed in the improvements and investment people make in them.

Dan Gill, managing director, comments:

‘Our homeowner certificates represent our guarantee of quality in what is an important structural element to any window, door or conservatory installation. Our industry has been plagued with a poor image and we feel that such certificates can give added reassurance to the homeowner and greater sales opportunities for the installer.

‘As the government adds increased legislation through the Building Regulations and the Home Information Packs, installers will need to look at frame couplers and baypole systems in more detail. As the leader in the sector, Window Widgets is in an ideal position to support both the homeowner and the trade with a range of BBA certified products and homeowner certificates.’

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