Pilkington
Activ™ Self-Cleaning Glass Added to Standard Product Range
Pilkington
Activ™, the self-cleaning glass, is now widely available in the UK,
allowing British companies to take full advantage of the sales potential
offered by a product that finally fulfils the promise of virtually 'maintenance-free
windows'.
The move to broaden distribution of Pilkington Activ™ follows a highly
successful launch programme, which saw availability of the product restricted
to a series of carefully selected Launch Partners. The launch programme
was designed to ensure the correct processing and handling of the product
during the first phase of its introduction to the UK. Now added to the
company's standard product range, Pilkington Activ™ will be available
to any company that agrees to observe the handling and processing guidelines
designed to ensure the product receives appropriate care and attention
when installed in British homes.
The potential of Pilkington Activ™, which has a special coating that
uses daylight and rain to continually clean itself, can now be enjoyed
widely throughout the British glazing industry, and particularly in the
replacement window market in which the product has found particular favour
amongst homeowners since its launch in September.
In fact, Pilkington Activ™ requires little more care than other coated
glasses during handling and processing, but nonetheless Pilkington is
taking great care to ensure the product enjoys the success it has enjoyed
in other markets, particularly Ireland.
'Pilkington Activ™ is not just a new product, it is a totally new
invention,' explained David Stoker, National Sales Manager for Pilkington.
'We want to ensure that the product performs exactly as it is designed
to, and for the market to enjoy the full potential of something that has
now been proven as a real sales closer. The guidelines we have issued
are common sense really, and no more onerous than for other coated glass
products, but will ensure Pilkington Activ™ fully satisfies customer
expectations when installed.'
Web: http://www.pilkington.com
Synseal
Wins Jacksons Deal
Synseal
Extrusions Ltd has signed a deal with Jacksons Building Centre to supply
its windows, doors and conservatories. Jacksons 27,000sq ft fabrication
facility supplies 20 of its branches nationwide.
Nick
Dutton, Sales & Marketing Director of Synseal Extrusions Ltd (left)
clinches the deal with Steve Lovegrove of Jacksons Building Centres
'We are hoping to expand this facility to 35,000sq ft in October,' explains
Steve Lovegrove, Branch Manager for Windows at Jacksons. 'Sales are on
target for this move with superb initial feedback from customers on our
new suppliers. And it's not just better for our customers. It's much easier
for us to fabricate and it was a smooth transition away from a supplier
with diabolical service levels, to a company that stands out from the
other five market leaders we talked to. Synseal offer an excellent product
at a competitive price and their deliveries are on time and complete.
Their forward thinking ethos is a refreshing approach and they offer a
wide range of expertise in the product, that we can benefit from.'
Tel: 01623 443 200
Web: http://www.synseal.com
British
Standards Institute Agrees to Grant Online Licence
The
British Standards Institute has granted an online licence to Barbour Index
plc following an investigation by the OFT into an alleged abuse of a dominant
position. The OFT has now closed its case without reaching any conclusion
on whether BSI holds a dominant position or has abused any such position.
Barbour Index had alleged that BSI was breaching the Competition Act by
refusing to grant it a licence to supply BSI standards online.
BSI is the UK's National Standards Body. Standards are the rules, guidelines
or characteristics to which products, activities or services should conform.
For example motorcycle helmets sold in the UK should comply with the appropriate
British standard. BSI sells information on these standards direct to customers
through its joint venture company British Standards Publishing Ltd and
also provides licences to a number of specialist companies, such as Barbour
Index.These specialist companies provide packages of information on BSI
standards combined with industry-specific legislation. This information
is available in print, on CD ROM and online.
Barbour Index alleged that BSI had refused to grant it a licence to supply
information on standards online and was therefore abusing a dominant position
in the market.
BSI has now agreed terms and conditions to supply an online licence to
Barbour.
Welcoming the development John Vickers, OFT Chairman, said:
'It is welcome that this issue has been resolved with BSI agreeing to
supply an online licence to Barbour Index without the need for formal
enforcement action under the Competition Act. This should be good for
competition and innovation in the supply of online standards information.'
Mixed
Fortunes in House Building Market
John
Laing, the UK construction and services company, made further progress
in its strategy to exit the housing business with the sale recently of
its remaining minority stake in US builder WL Homes for $42.5m in cash.
The disposal may give rise to a small loss after costs. The deal leaves
John Laing with just John Laing Partnership and a 30 per cent stake in
Octagon Developments, two housing operations the company is seeking to
dispose of.
In a trading statement John Laing said the market for infrastructure investment
remains strong and there are significant opportunities for organic growth.
It has now integrated the public-private sector projects and assets it
acquired from Amey, the UK infrastructure services group, in March, it
said.
The UK housing market has slowed in the South East of England and that
will dampen first-half housing results, said the company. In the US, house
buying interest was strong.
Taylor Woodrow, which also issued a trading statement last week,
reported the UK housing market had returned to more normal conditions.
It forecasts flat UK volumes for the full year.
The first half saw a low number of sites, planning delays and a slowdown
in London and the south east pull volumes down 8 per cent although these
factors were outweighed cost reductions and higher selling prices. There
was good growth in the US.
Interim operating profits should be well ahead of last year and in line
with expectations, Taylor Woodrow said.
Crest Nicholson too issued an upbeat assessment of the housing market
as it unveiled interim pre-tax profits of £32m, a rise of 32 per
cent on last time, on turnover up 18 per cent at £249.1m. An interim
dividend of 3.5p was declared, a rise of 17 per cent.
John Matthews, chairman, said he welcomed a more stable housing market
and remained positive about the future given a backdrop of low mortgage
rates and shortage of supply. He forecast further strong results.
Costain Group Plc Trading Update
Costain is providing the following trading update ahead of its interim
results for the six months to 30th June 2003, which will be announced
on 3rd September 2003.
At the time of the preliminary results in March, the Chairman confirmed
that the Group was ahead of plan in meeting its objectives of
i) turnover growth of 15% per annum and
ii) a continuous improvement in profitability to a 3% operating
margin for Group operations over the five years of the strategic plan
unveiled in November 2001. This continues to be the case.
Underpinned by the Government's commitment to healthcare and transport
expenditure programmes, the UK infrastructure market remained buoyant
throughout the first half.
As at the end of first half, trading overall has continued in line with
expectations and the Board is confident of reporting further progress.
Restructuring
Heralds New Era for Wright & Offland
Recent
restructuring of the Board at Float Glass lndustries - a member of the
independent Wright & Offland Group of Companies marks the culmination
of a period of recent change for the company backed by 107 years of experience
in the glass business.
Following a busy couple of years, which has included combining all operations
into one large factory, FGI has just announced a reorganisatian of its
Board. Roy Offland will continue as Chairman and Joint Managing Director
with David Offland taking over as joint Managing Director from Ken Offland,
who will still remain a Director of Wright & Offland Holdings Ltd
and act in a consultancy capacity. There are four other Board appointments;
Chris Edwards - Finance Director, Mike Thompson - Operations Director,
Phil Hilton - Sales Director and Alan Nichols - Commercial Director.
(L-R)
Roy Offland, Chairman,
David Offland, Managing Director, Mike Thompson - Operations Director,
Phil Hilton - Sales Director and Alan Nichols - Commercial Director
The appointment of additional Directors is seen as an important step in
strengthening the management team at the heart of the dynamic new FGI,
as Roy Offland explains: 'The changes we've been implementing signal a
clear commitment to the market and promote what we offer today in terms
of a first class supply partnership with our customers. We want to build
on our reputation as a comprehensive source of stock size glass, a reliable
manufacturer of toughened glass and a very experienced glass processor.
Whatever the application, from glass for entrances, doors and partitions
to exhibition stands, shop fitting, furniture and architectural, our customers
can rely on us for a fast and competitive service.'
FGI is also investing significantly in its state-of-the-art processing
facility in Manchester, with a third toughening line due to open in the
autumn. lnvestment in a Tamglass ProConvection plant is in direct response
to increased demand for both toughened 'K' and soft coat Low-E glasses
following the introduction of Document L. The new addition will further
improve FGl's already speedy turnaround service of three days or better
for toughened glass supplies.
Commenting on the new FGI, David Offland sees a bright and positive future
for the independent company which now claims to be one of the most comprehensive
glass distribution, toughening and processing operations in the UK. 'FGI
may be a company with a long history but it's definitely not living in
the past. All our hard work and investment over the past few years is
enabling us to meet the challenges of the modern glass business and to
provide our customers with what I believe is the most best 'one stop'
supply service in the industry.'
Tel: 0161 946 8000
Web: http://www.floatglass.co.uk
BBA
to Certify New Quality Mark Scheme
The
BBA is now involved in administering a new Quality Mark Scheme, recently
set up by the Government. The aim of this scheme is to enable the public
to gain access to independently inspected and approved tradesmen.
The BBA, as an authorised assessment body, has been given the role of
assessing and certifying reputable window companies against the Quality
Mark criteria. Whilst the BBA’s window and door approval process
is appropriate for fabricators, the Quality Mark scheme is ideal for those
who only undertake installation but want to differentiate themselves from
unchecked competitors.
In brief, the assessment is to establish whether an organisation satisfies
the requirements of the Quality Mark code of practice. Details of the
summarised code include:
* Compliance with the law
* Working in a competent manner
* Safe working practice
* Supplying insurance-backed guarantees
* Providing customers with written quotes, with timescales
* Acting in a business like, professional manner
* Managing customer complaints formally and professionally
* Maintaining the standing of the scheme.
As part of its remit, the BBA will carry out inspections to potential
Quality Mark holders, making checks on paperwork and visiting sites to
observe installations, thus ensuring that the code of practice is being
implemented and the organisation is worthy of this award.
The BBA is pleased to be associated with the Quality Mark Scheme. As specialists
in the approval of windows and doors, the BBA has elected to focus on
this large, vibrant sector of the market whose reputation is tarnished
by the practices of a few unscrupulous installers.
If you are interested in being involved in this scheme, then contact the
Quality Mark call centre on 0845 300 80 40 asking for an information pack.
Black
& Decker to Acquire Masco's Baldwin Hardware and Weiser Lock Businesses
Masco
Corporation and The Black & Decker Corporation announced on July 1st
that they have signed a letter of intent in which Black & Decker will
purchase from Masco Corporation the Baldwin Hardware and Weiser Lock businesses.
Baldwin and Weiser, with combined 2002 net sales of approximately $250
million, manufacture and distribute a wide range of architectural and
decorative products for the home, including architectural hardware and
locksets. The transaction is subject to final negotiation of a definitive
purchase agreement, necessary regulatory clearances and Board of Director
approvals. The transaction is expected to close later in 2003.
According to Black & Decker Chairman and CEO Nolan D. Archibald,'The
acquisition of these strong brand names provides an excellent strategic
opportunity for Black & Decker's further expansion of its lock and
door hardware business by offering these products in all price ranges.'
Masco Corporation Chairman and CEO Richard A. Manoogian commented,'We
believe that the combination of Baldwin and Weiser with Black & Decker
will be advantageous for these businesses since architectural hardware
and locksets are core businesses for Black & Decker.'
Web: http://www.masco.com
Web: http://www.bdk.com
MPH
and Sheerframe in Multi-Million Pound Fusion 21 Windows Deal
Preston-based
Sheerframe windowmaker MPH Windows has won a contract - which could be
worth up to £15 million - to supply Sheerframe PVC windows to housing
associations in the region as part of a major home improvements programme.
The deal - one of the biggest partnering contracts of its kind in the
UK - spans seven years and will help secure the jobs of the 100 strong
MPH team based at Lostock Hall in Preston.
MPH
has recently expanded its retail business, building a new showroom which
was officially opened by Coronation Street star Jonathan Wrather last
month. 'Our reputation for quality is probably even stronger in the commercial
and new build sectors where we already supply PVC windows to major housebuilders
as well as housing associations and local authorities,' says MPH contracts
director Greg Kane.
The new multi-million contract to supply Fusion 21 - a consortium of seven
major North West-based housing associations - is the culmination of months
of co-operation between the Preston firm and L.B. Plastics Ltd.
MPH will make around 1500 windows every month for housing associations
right across South Liverpool and the St Helens area, in a seven year programme
to improve the region's housing stock as part of the government's Decent
Homes Standard programme.
'The award of such a large slice of business is great news for MPH, and
for Preston as a whole. We are confident that, on the basis of the quality
and service we provide, we will win many similar partnering deals in the
future,' says Greg Kane.
Says David Strang, Sheerframe product director at Derbyshire-based L.B.
Plastics Ltd., We have an excellent working relationship with MPH and
together provide the ideal combination for Fusion 21 - an excellent window
system, manufactured and delivered by a first class manufacturing team
at MPH.'
Says Mike Brogan, chief executive of Fusion 21, 'We are committed to partnering
programmes which help ensure skills training and secure employment within
the region, as well as improving housing stock for tenants. By working
with organisations like MPH, Fusion 21 will also be achieving excellent
value for money for the RSLs involved.'
Web: http://www.mphwindows.co.uk
Web: http://www.sheerframe.co.uk
Asahi
Glass Purchase Partners Equity and Triple Automotive Safety Glass Business
in China
Asahi Glass Co., Ltd. recently announced plans to significantly expand
its automotive safety glass business in China through a minority buy-out
of its existing joint venture in China - Qinhuangdao Haiyan Safety Glass
(QHSG), and the construction of a new state-of-the-art facility in Qinhuangdao
Economic & Technological Development Zone (QETD Zone), Hebei Province,
China.
The economy in China has been growing at a compound annual growth rate
of more than 8% since 1992, which is likely to be accelerated following
its WTO entry in 2002. The rapid economic growth has led to a booming
domestic automotive market, which registered an annual growth rate of
38.5% and reached total annual production output of 3.25 million units
in 2002. The forecast for 2003 output exceeds 4 million units, which will
place the country at the fourth largest automotive production countries
in the world after the USA, Japan, and Germany.
Continued government investment in highway infrastructures and rising
individual household income will continue to be the main drivers behind
the growth of passenger car market in China. China's large market size
coupled with rapid growth has made it a top priority for all global OEMs,
many of whom have announced plans to introduce a variety of new models
to the Chinese market in the coming years.
To meet rising customer requirements and capture greater share of the
Chinese market, Asahi Glass carefully evaluated various strategic options
to expand its operations in China. This is part of an overall review of
Japan-Asia/Pacific regional growth strategy. Asahi Glass concluded the
most economically attractive option is to expand its existing joint venture
in Qinhuangdao to over 1 million car sets capacity per year (from current
capacity of 400,000 car set per year) after the completion of the first
phase construction, and make it one of AGC's key manufacturing centres
in Asia/Pacific region. In order to keep the Chinese entity being consistent
with AGC's global operating strategy, AGC successfully negotiated and
agreed with Qinhuangdao government to acquire 48% of QHSG currently held
by Qinhuangdao Tempered Glass Factory (QTGF), a state-owned enterprise
based in Qinhuangdao, China.
Upon the closing of its acquisition of 48% of QHSG in July, 2003, AGC
will commence the construction of a new state-of-the-art manufacturing
facility in the QETD Zone. The new plant will be compliant with the most
rigid global environmental standard, and will enable AGC to better serve
its OEM and after market customers in China, by bringing in the world's
most advanced manufacturing equipment and AGC proprietary technology.
Construction of the new plant will be completed by the third quarter of
2004. When fully commissioned, it will employ a total of 1,000 people
in Qinhuangdao area. The total investment amount in the initial phase
is over 50 million US Dollars.
'Our Vision is to be the most respected automotive parts supplier. The
new China project reconfirms AGC Automotive's commitment to serve our
Chinese Automotive glass customers to their highest quality and service
expectation, and our continued confidence and commitment to contribute
to the development of China's overall and Qinhuangdao's local economy',
said Jay N. Strong, President of AGC Automotive Glass Company about the
new investment, 'This is only the first step in our overall effort to
establish a leading position in China's automotive glass market, and going
forward, we will closely monitor the market development and be prepared
to making additional capacity expansion in Qinhuangdao or other parts
of China, to fulfill our commitment to our customers in China. This marks
another important step to fulfill our Mission to create shareholder value
by improving our customer's business.'
EWS
Breaks Monthly Sales Records for Reinforcement and Spacer
EWS
(Manufacturing) Ltd, the UK supplier of steel reinforcement and aluminium
spacer tube, announced record sales of over 4 million metres in June 2003.
Since 1985, EWS has specialised in the production of custom made reinforcement
sections and aluminium and steel spacer tube for the PVCu window and insulated
glass industries, achieving the position of market leader in the UK.
Today the company produces in excess of 100 million metres of roll formed
products, exporting to 20 countries.
'Sales of our new spacer tube produced using new laser technology continue
to grow', explains MD Howard Worthington.
'Significant improvements have been made to the weld and structural properties
which is attracting interest from I.G. producers using bending technology.
Sales of our steel spacer tube are also showing healthy growth with a
large European producer changing exclusively to the product.
'Sales of the warm edge steel conservatory roof system have also exceeded
all expectations. The system, which was launched last year by one of the
UK's leading window and conservatory manufacturers, uses specially designed
cold rolled steel sections. Manufactured using a revolutionary technique,
complicated shapes are able to be produced. Benefits include improved
thermal performance and substantial improvements in structural performance'
Contact Customer Services on 01902-623333
Email: mailto:sales@ews-ltd.com
Web: http://www.ews-ltd.com
Easy
Clean Polycarbonate Roof Sheets: First from Wendland
Conservatory roof manufacturer Wendland now offers a new polycarbonate
roof sheet that helps to keep itself clean, adding the product to the
self-cleaning glass the company showed on its stand at Glassex.
Maintaining
conservatory roofs in pristine condition continues to be a major problem
for conservatory owners and Wendland has been quick to test and include
solutions in its product portfolio. The new product, which has only just
appeared on the market, is the well-proven and popular Lexan® Thermoclear®
sheet with a special coating on the outside surface that provides the
self-cleaning properties.
Suitable for all applications that are exposed to rain or water, Lexan®
Thermoclear® Easy Clean sheet has a special hydrophobic coating that
decreases the surface tension of any water that would otherwise settle
on its surface. This increases the contact angle of the sheet when compared
to the standard product, to ensure that large droplets of water form,
which then wash away dirt as they run off the roof - the more it rains,
the cleaner the roof! During drier spells, the cleaning action may be
accelerated, and tougher deposits removed, by hosing the roof surface.
The manufacturer of Lexan®, GE Plastics, backs Lexan® Thermoclear®
Easy Clean sheet with its usual warranty: it will not break due to loss
of impact strength through weathering, and is highly resistant to yellowing
and loss of light transmission. In addition GE backs the self-cleaning
properties of the product with a three-year warranty, although tests indicate
it will last significantly longer.
Damian Battle, Marketing Director for Gloucester-based Wendland, believes
that Lexan® Thermoclear® Easy Clean sheet will be a highly successful
sales closer: 'We have tested this product and it works! The chore of
cleaning conservatory roofs will be substantially eased when installed
with this product, which in all other respects is the same as the standard
Lexan® range, with no complicated installation or maintenance regimes
to follow. And it's available from Wendland now, from stock.'
Web: http://www.wendland.uk.com
Lindman's
Doors Prove their Durability
Nearly
20 years after Lindman first pioneered the new concept of composite doorsets
in the UK, early examples installed in the 1980s are still living up to
their guarantee of durability, weatherproofing, impact resistance and
high security.
In re-visiting some of its early work, Lindman says that most have received
very little maintenance and look as good as new. Where owners or tenants
have changed, some of the new occupants are even unaware that the door
is not made of hardwood. Conversely, where there is damage from vandalism
or attempted burglaries, this is easily repaired. Just changing the colour
is easy to do with stain or gloss paint.
'Specifiers looking for best value in the long term have been disappointed
with the performance of other door types, particularly through-coloured
thermoplastic ABS/PVCu, which deteriorates more quickly than forecast.
It also has environmental concerns, unlike Lindman's composite doors which
only use thermosetting resins in their construction.' says the company.
Since the 1980s, Lindman's doorsets, including a fire resistant version,
have won the approval of Secured by Design (SBD), the police preferred
specification.
Using a similar thermosetting composite, although processed in a different
way ('pultruded'), Lindman has produced a complete new range of window
systems, Pultec(r), which is guaranteed for 20 years and is available
in any colour including black, yet is still as maintenance free as PVCu.
Web: http://www.lindman.co.uk
Rotherham
Metropolitan Launches into Commercial Supply and Fit
The window fabrication department at Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council
marked its launch into the commercial supply and fit market with an impressive
stand at the recent Windowfab exhibition at Donington Park.
The department, which fabricates windows and doors using Rehau's S706
system, has previously worked almost exclusively for Rotherham MBC but
is currently expanding to supply a total solution for public sector window
and screen walling contracts throughout South Yorkshire and the surrounding
areas.
Rotherham is confident that its many years as an in-house contractor has
given it the right blend of skills and experience to service the needs
of other public sector clients - particularly in the social housing and
schools sectors.
A Rotherham MBC spokesperson said: 'We understand the very specific needs
of the public sector and provide a quality one-stop-shop for PVCu window
and door replacement in social housing and school refurbishment. Our integrated
Secured by Design service ranges from specification advice and kitemarked
manufacture of frames and glass to kitemarked installation by our own
NVQ certified fitting teams. Rotherham MBC provides the 'Total Solution'
to commercial PVCu window contracts.'
Last year Rotherham became the first licensee of the new LAPFAG Kitemark
which specifically addresses the needs of the public sector and encompasses
not only BS7413, BS7412 and BS7950 governing performance and security
of PVCu windows but also survey, installation, Best Value and relevant
health and safety and environmental considerations.
At Windowfab, it added to this success by becoming the first customer
to be awarded BS7950 on an S706 casement window fabricated with the new
Roto Twin Security Lock.
Budget
Windows I.O.W. Ltd (B.W.C.) Aims for Quality
HW Systems customer Budget Windows I.O.W. Ltd, has successfully passed
the accreditation for the Government's Quality Mark and become a member
of HW Plastics' Approved Installer Membership Scheme (AIMS).
'The Isle of Wight is an extremely competitive market,' explains Ian Holbrooke,
Sales Manager at Budget Windows, 'so being part of AIMS which is linked
to the DTI Quality Mark Scheme separates us from the competition and gives
us a competitive edge.'
Budget Windows, which has been trading since 1989, currently manufactures
in its Newport factory on the Isle of Wight windows, doors and conservatories.
In order to gain the Quality Mark and join the AIMS Scheme the company
went through a rigorous inspection by an independent accreditation organisation
to ensure that the company complies with a stringent performance criteria.
The company is confident that being part of an accredited scheme can only
help to increase business sales and give its customers confidence. 'As
we are one of the few companies to manufacture on the Island we can not
only keep trade local and offer our customers a high standard and quality
of our products but give our customers peace of mind that we are a reputable
company. concludes Ian Holbrooke.
Another
Supplier Joins BWF’s Fire Door Scheme
Manufacturing Members of the BWF-CERTIFIRE Fire Door & Doorset Scheme
now have another source of certificated fire door seals available, this
time from newly approved supplier, Astroflame Fire Seals Ltd.
Astroflame manufactures and markets a range of intumescent fire seals,
as well as fire and smoke seals, in a comprehensive set of sizes from
10 to 38mm. In addition to having its own web site, http://www.astroflame.com
and trade literature, Astroflame also has its full range of products,
price lists, spec sheets and installation instructions on a CD-ROM.
Based near Fareham in Hampshire, the company is the latest Member of the
BWF-CERTIFIRE Fire Door & Doorset Scheme’s section of Approved
Suppliers which, in addition to intumescent fire and smoke seals, also
includes suppliers of door closers, glazing systems and hinges. Astroflame
was set up nine years ago and in addition to the UK also exports to 45
countries around the world.
'Since we joined the BWF’s Fire Door Scheme, we have already benefited
from the quality of the Federation’s web site,' said Astroflame’s
managing director, Paul Kieser, 'specifically with regard to sales leads.
'Naturally, we believe we can offer existing Members of the Fire Door
Scheme both excellent products and service, and we will be targeting them
with a marketing pack very shortly.'
For a full list of Certificated Manufacturers and Suppliers in the Scheme,
please contact the BWF on e-mail: mailto:firedoors@bwf.org.uk
or tel: 020 7608 5050.
Hardware distributor, Wagner (GB) Ltd, is now stocking the TSL (Twin-cam
Security Lock) window locking mechanism from Roto.
This new product is an alternative to shootbolts when looking to achieve
a BS7950 test pass.
Pairs of specially strengthened mushroom cams interlock into either end
of their corresponding striker plates, which means that a sash cannot
be forced to one side in an effort gain entry by bypassing the strikers.
If an attempt is made, one cam of the pair simply moves further into the
other side of the striker.
The fact that 2 cams are engaged into either end of a single striker eliminates
any twisting of that striker when force is applied. The net result is
a strong and stable locking point.
As TSL is a one-piece product, no cropping to size is required. A fabricator
simply selects the correct size for the sash and screws it into place
in the same way that he would have done with a standard espagnolette.
However, TSL is not just another espagnolette as both in-house and independent
security testing has proved.
The product has successfully undergone BS7950 testing on a number of PVCu
systems, and is accredited by Secured By Design, which means that it joins
the Roto RA2000, Maco MK1 and Mach 2, Siegenia Favorit and other shootbolts
on Wagner's SBD schedule.
Tel: 01634 263263
Improved
Cornering from Patio Specilaist Sliders UK
In
its drive to constantly improve quality, patio specialist Sliders UK has
chosen a new CNC corner cleaner from Elumatec.
'After
looking at all the options the Sturz machine from Elumatec was the obvious
choice,' commented director Ian Longbottom, 'aside from the speed of the
machine which will fully justify the £30,000 investment, we were
greatly impressed by the quality of the finish, especially on fully featured
profiles where the results were well ahead of the competition'.
Sliders describes itself as a company dedicated to the production of commonly outsourced niche products which represents a valuable service provider to the fabricator market.
'Overstep
that mark however, by manufacturing a far broader range of standard products
and your company will become a threat to the very same market. At Sliders
UK the directors believe firmly in supporting fabricators through the
production of high quality patio doors on reliable short lead times. Moreover
the company believes that encroaching on more commonly produced window
and door products to service smaller volume higher margin installers not
only dilutes the skills and expertise of the specialist but also threatens
any potential fabricator customer base by representing a real conflict
of interest.
'Customers tell us they are very happy with the service we provide and
so it makes no sense for us to become a more general window and door supplier
when our fabricator customers already provide that service very effectively.
We surely wouldn't expect them to appreciate our efforts if we took business
off them!'
Sliders UK has grown dramatically since its launch in November to become
one of the UK's largest specialist suppliers of in-line patio doors. The
company's customer profile is in the main larger fabricators. Typically
this type of customer needs short lead times, competitive prices and reliable
high quality manufacture.
Sliders UK has established itself to meet the demanding requirements of
this market. Patios doors remain Sliders focus although the company is
looking at other niche products which remain outside of the production
scope of the vast majority of fabricators.
'It seems there is a growing trend for the few patio specialists that
exist to expand production into traditional window and door configurations.
As a fabricator the question must surely be asked whether it is right
to support a company who chooses to compete for standard window and door
business - isn't such a company a wolf in sheeps clothing? When exactly
does specialist supplier become a competitor? At Sliders UK the company
prefers and will continue to remain - fabricator friendly!' says director
Mike Spain
Tel: 01772 - 698222
Email: mailto:sales@sliders-uk.com
Web: http://www.sliders-uk.com
Kleentec
Coating Sails to Ireland
When
superferry Stena Adventurer goes into service on the Irish Sea this month
her captain Roy Forsyth will have a clear and safe view from the bridge.
His
vessel has one of the grandest sets of bridge windows on any ferry, but
the glass in them has also been treated with a 'non-stick' coating by
Preston window coatings expert Nigel Whitaker (pictured, left, adding
some finishing touches to the glazing on the bridge of the vessel).
The coating bonds an invisible micron-thick non-stick layer to the glass
surface. It enables the windows to shrug off heavy rain, heavy seas, and
the dirt they contain with equal ease. By doing so it not only prevents
them from getting dirty, but also makes a contribution to safety by maintaining
visibility.
The 44,000-tonne Adventurer, the longest ferry ever to operate on the
Irish Sea, is the latest vessel to benefit from the coating that's currently
taking Irish Sea vessels by storm.
Work done by Nigel, of Kleentec International, on the Fleetwood lifeboat
caught the eye of P&O ferry captain David Eccles of the European Pioneer.
'I could immediately see the safety benefits of a system that would instantly
clear rain and spray from the bridge windows,' said Capt. Eccles.
'Not only that, but treating the windows for a year costs less than the
repair to just one conventional wiper,' he said.
Thanks to Capt Eccles, word soon spread to other captains in the fleet,
and as a result Nigel was kept very busy treating other bridge windows
in the fleet.
Although he was delighted to do all of that work, being asked to treat
windows on the Adventurer was an even better 'window of opportunity'.
'The chance to use the coating on her was a golden opportunity,' said
Nigel. 'It has never been used on a brand new vessel before,' he said.
'I'm confident that the coating is not only very effective, but top up
applications can easily be undertaken by members of the crew to keep the
coating at peak efficiency.
'Furthermore, as David Eccles has indicated, it's extremely cost-effective
too. The captains who've had me apply it to their windows are very pleased
with it,' he added.
'Glazing aboard ship is no different from glazing in buildings,' said
Nigel. 'Dirt on the surface keys to the glass, and becomes resistant to
conventional washing. Glass soiled in this way looks extremely unsightly.
It can be cleaned, but it's a harder and more time consuming job, and
as soon as it's done the whole process begins again,' he added.
To Nigel, the answer was to use a treatment which bonds a completely invisible
polymer layer just a molecule thick to the glass, making it impossible
for water to reach the surface.
This technology had been around in various forms and systems for nearly
forty years. However, Nigel felt they'd been either ineffective or too
complicated and expensive to be practical. He therefore devised a system
he felt was practical and cost effective, and wanted to prove it in a
marine context.
'The process of top-up application is very simple, with first-rate results
achieved after the briefest session of easy-to-learn training,' said Nigel.
'That means on-board glazed areas can be kept sparkling on a permanent
basis, without the need to take the vessel out of service.
'And there's no reason why the same thinking can't be applied to fixed
glazing. If rain falls on it, I can keep it clean,' he added.
Contact: Nigel Whitaker
Tel: +44 (0) 8705 134745
Email: mailto:nigel@kleentec.co.uk
FEWA
- a New Source of Fire Resistant Glass in the UK
FEWA-Glastechnik GmbH Is an independent manufacturer of fire resistant
glasses and framing material and holds all the relevant European building
authority certificates and United Kingdom fire test certificates for 30-60
and 90 minutes. FEWA - Glastechnik products are now supplied exclusively
in the United Kingdom by I.G.A. of Belgium in co-operation with Fire &
Safety Glass UK.
• FEWALITE is a 6mm toughened product for 30 and 6Ominutes fire protection.
• FEWADUR is a toughened gel filled glass for 30 -60 and 90 minutes
giving fire protection and insulation. This product has additional advantages
which includes safety and sound reduction as standard, (47 to 49db reduction).
• Safelite is a framing system with test certification for 30- 60
and 90minutes fire control. This framing system is designed for fast on-site
installation.
• The advantages of specifying and using FEWA-Glastechnik fire resistant
products are:
1) Fast delivery times
2) Can be manufactured with tinted or solar controlled glass
3) Very competitive prices
4) A framing system that is designed specifically for their glasses
Telephone
01246- 568558 for brochures or
Fax your enquiries on 01246 - 567823.
FEWA website is here, but unfortunately it's all in German http://www.fewa.de/home.htm,
IGA website (in English) is here http://www.iga.be/html/e.html
Arnold
Deceuninck Succeeds Roger Deceuninck as Chairman of the Deceuninck Board
of Directors
Deceuninck
N.V., worldwide producer of PVCu window systems and building profiles,
announced on 24th June that Arnold Deceuninck succeeds his father Roger
Deceuninck as Chairman of the Deceuninck Board of Directors.
Roger
Deceuninck (born 1924), and his two brothers Michel and Lionel, joined
the small Deceuninck family business at the end of the fifties. At this
time the company was active the injection moulding of plastic objects
and installed a first extrusion line, for the extrusion of PVCu profiles,
in Roeselare.
In the early stages he took on both the administrative as well as the
commercial responsibilities. In 1974, when the company became a limited
liability company, he took over the direction and laid down the foundations
for the current Deceuninck group. Roger Deceuninck did everything to ensure
that the family company expanded into an international, leading group
with an open, modern corporate culture. 'With a good balance of short
and long-term vision he guided the company onto the Brussels stock exchange.
In addition to being an inspirational strategist, he is also an amiable
and versatile man who is esteemed and respected by all staff. The Board
of Directors, the Management and all staff thank Roger Deceuninck for
his many business and humane contributions and achievements', according
to Clement De Meersman, CEO of Deceuninck.
Roger Deceuninck was Chairman since 1974. After all these years of continuous
commitment, Roger Deceuninck has presented his resignation as Chairman
to the Board of Directors. The Board has accepted the resignation, appointed
Arnold Deceuninck Chairman and Willy Deceuninck Vice-Chairman. Roger Deceuninck
will continue in his post as member of the Board and has been appointed
Honorary Chairman. The resignation and appointments take effect on 1 July
2003.
Deceuninck is an integrated worldwide group, specialised in compounding,
design, development, extrusion, finishing, recycling and injection moulding
of PCVu systems and profiles for the building industry. The company is
active in more than 32 countries, has 22 subsidiaries (production and/or
sales) and employs 2700 people worldwide, of whom 560 in Hooglede-Gits.
Deceuninck achieved consolidated sales of 362.2 million euro in 2002.
Web: http://www.deceuninck.com
OFT
Reviews Home Improvements Payment Protection Schemes
The payment protection schemes administered by Qualitas and used by B&Q,
MFI, the Homeform Group and Magnet are under review by the OFT.
A consumer questionnaire is available covering customer experience
of the scheme and complaint resolution. Consumers' views of the schemes
are sought - both positive and negative.
The schemes were introduced following OFT action to protect consumers
from unfair contract terms requiring them to make full payment in advance
for installation of fitted kitchens, bathrooms or other home improvements.
Under the schemes, Qualitas holds 20 percent of a contract sum whilst
any consumer complaint is resolved. If the dispute is not resolved between
the company and the consumer then Qualitas can provide an informal conciliation
service or ultimately adjudicate on the complaint. The decision will be
binding on the company but the consumer has the right to go to court if
they are still unhappy. The service is free to consumers unless Qualitas
decides that a complaint is unreasonable in which case the complainant
can be directed to pay a £45 fee.
If a complaint is upheld, the company must carry out remedial work or
pay compensation.
B&Q and MFI introduced the scheme in 2000 with Homeform Group Ltd
(which includes Moben Kitchens, Dolphin Bathrooms and Kitchens Direct)
and Magnet signing up to the scheme in 2001.
The OFT is reviewing the scheme to monitor its effectiveness. The
questionnaire will also be available from local trading standards departments.
In addition the OFT will be seeking views from the companies, Qualitas
and local trading standards departments