Eclipse
Launches Complete Range of A-E Energy Rated Windows
Just
one week into 2007 and already the Window Energy Rating (WER) scheme continues
to gather momentum with the latest news that Profile 22 fabricator Eclipse
Trade Frames is now offering installers the complete range of A-E energy
rated windows.
Depending on home owner specification, Eclipse customers can now offer
any energy rated window, including the much coveted A rating - the first
achieved using the Profile 22 system. Importantly, this most recent A
rated window, achieved using a combination of P22's 70mm chamfered frame,
Edgetech's Super Spacer®, Planitherm® 1.1 inner, diamante outer
and argon gas, is price competitive.
BBA
Sales and Marketing Director Alan Thomas (right) presents Eclipse Trade
Frames Owner Bill Blunden (left) with a certificate of compliance for
all Window Energy Ratings at the company's recent workshop
Owner
of Eclipse Trade Frames, Bill Blunden is delighted with the result:
'We recognised the huge sales and marketing potential of Window Energy
Ratings early on, and since then have been working closely with suppliers
like P22 and Edgetech to achieve the whole spectrum of ratings across
our windows. It's important for trade fabricators to offer installers
both choice and the ability to differentiate themselves from other window
companies selling in the home.
'We believe this latest development allows our customers to do just this.
We launched the A-E range at a workshop in late December and early feedback
from customers was enthusiastic. They can now offer home owners a choice
of environmentally friendly, energy - and utility cost - saving windows
from a range of A to E to suit their individual budget. By working closely
with suppliers has ensured even our A rated window is cost effective,
so when properly marketed our customers can sell added value product to
improve their bottom line.
'We expect to double our production to 1000 frames per week as the Government
applies more pressure to energy saving measures in the home, and homeowners
start to recognise the ease with which they can make a big difference
by replacing their existing windows with superior performing thermally
efficient products.
'Andy Jones, Managing Director of Edgetech UK adds:
'What a great start to the New Year! I believe Eclipse's achievement and
the enthusiasm with which the company's customers welcomed the launch,
is indicative of a market place ready to push forward with energy rated
windows in the next twelve months. With the support of system and component
suppliers like P22 and Edgetech, the industry will really start to see
demand for energy rated windows snowball as more installers and manufacturers
take the A-E product ranges to market.'
For more information of Eclipse's Energy Rated windows, call James Wilson,
01394 460232
BBA Sales and Marketing Director Alan Thomas (right) presents Eclipse
Trade Frames Owner Bill Blunden (left) with a certificate of compliance
for all Window Energy Ratings at the company's recent workshop. .
Quickslide
Acquires Established Fabricator in the North-East
Quickslide,
the UK manufacturer of UPVC Vertical Sliding Sash windows has completed
the acquisition of established Sunderland based casement fabricator PTF.
‘This
initiative reinforces Quickslide’s ambitious plan to become one of
the UK's major manufacturers of trade frames,’ says the company.
PTF's impressive modern factory can produce over 1,000 windows per week
including the 60 and 70mm casements, residential and composite doors.
This initiative will complement Quickslide’s sliding sash and allow
the company to supply the market with a comprehensive range of window
products at competitive prices with a quick delivery throughout the UK.
The acquisition of PTF made logical sense, as it is already an experienced
fabricator of the 'Renaissance' system, the same system as Quickslide
uses for its Vertical Sliders.
Commenting on the acquisition Quickslide’s Managing Director Simon
Baines (pictured with the Renaissance Casement window) quoted 'the deal
offers a superb synergy, we can now offer our existing clients a more
comprehensive range of products with the same high level of service currently
enjoyed by our existing customers on the Vertical Sliders.'
This acquisition is only part of Quickslide’s growth plans, which
include further planned expansion into the South-East.
Web: http://www.quickslide.co.uk
Vetting
Quality Acknowledged as FairTrades Gains TrustMark Accreditation
FairTrades
– the multi-trade association from HomePro – has been recognised
by the Government-backed TrustMark as an Approved Scheme Operator (ASO).
TrustMark – the award-winning scheme supported by Government, the
building industry and consumer groups – is designed to help consumers
seeking home improvements find reliable and trustworthy tradespeople.
FairTrades
has been promoting its vetted trade professional members for over 20 years.
Members reap the benefits of increased marketing, business support, sales
leads and special offers; while homeowners benefit from access to the
largest directory of quality ranked home improvement professionals who
uphold the values of the Homeowner’s Charter. It is now one of the
largest multi-trade associations in the UK, and is approved to register
builders, roofers, glaziers, electricians, conservatory companies and
kitchen and bathroom specialists to TrustMark.
The TrustMark logo is a sign that a trade association or other certification
organisation meets Government set standards in respect of managing its
memberships. TrustMark now has 18 ASOs and 10,000 registered firms –
with the latest ASO additions bringing another 1,500 firms within scope.
Nick Egdell, Managing Director of FairTrades, says: 'FairTrades has always
maintained and aspired to high standards and we feel that TrustMark is
the first UK single body which is aligned with these same values. By working
together, we will continue to raise standards throughout the industry.'
Whether as a facilitator of more, better work; a source of discounts on
a wide variety of goods and services or as a provider of an enhanced and
more professional business profile; FairTrades has something to offer
all committed trade professionals.
The organisation’s Find-a-Pro directory service is a sure means for
sourcing sales leads, achieving growth and improving business. Free to
consumers seeking to locate quality professionals tackling projects in
their local areas; Find-a-Pro, in 2005, helped match many thousands of
homeowners with tradespeople – resulting in millions of pounds in
project value. This project value is shared between on-line and off-line
activity.
FairTrades also cuts discount deals on behalf of its members – saving
them thousands of pounds on a range of goods and services from vehicles
and plant. Members similarly get the chance to offer Insurance Backed
Guarantees (IBGs) from HomePro Insurance, the UK’s leading provider
of the schemes. Being able to offer IBGs is a powerful marketing tool
that increases consumer confidence the tradesperson’s business, displays
an enhanced level of professionalism and can increase sales conversions
by up to 30%.
Marketing support for members includes vehicle and showroom displays,
ID cards for all customer-facing employees; letters of introduction to
prospects; handy leave-behind cards and point-of-sale literature where
applicable. Furthermore, the organisation also operates highly popular
Yellow Pages and Thomson Local corporate advertising schemes.
To find out more about FairTrades membership, the benefits of Insurance
Backed Guarantees and the Find-a-Pro service and the chance to share in
millions of pounds worth of home improvement projects; call 08707 38 48
58 or visit http://www.fairtrades.co.uk.
Glassex
Looks to the Future from 2007
Glassex
has always been the exhibition that provides the fenestration industry
with a firm platform from which company's products and services can be
tried and tested, where information can be exchanged, deals opened or
completed and where relationships can be developed. In recent years Glassex
has provoked a wide and varied range of responses from an industry never
shy of opinions, with some feeling that the exhibition was out of touch,
others that the show was dominated by the PVC sector and even a few predicting
the industry could not sustain an annual event.
With
this in mind, the organisers of Glassex responded by not only redesigning
the overall look and feel of the show for 2007, but also redefining its
target areas to fully encompass every sector to better deliver a balanced
exhibition that truly reflects the current market place, as well as highlighting
many areas of growth and diversification opportunities.
‘After much research and face-to-face dialogue, we have taken our
lead from the industry and scrutinised the performance of recent shows
in order to make some significant changes to the exhibition for 2007,’
comments Glassex Sales Director, Dave Broxton. ‘By listening to what
our exhibitors and visitors have said about the show whether it be good
or bad, and being open to suggestions on how we can better our performance
across the board, we have made the necessary changes to create a stronger
foundation for the future of the exhibition. Despite tough market conditions,
the industry has responded positively, supporting the changes by exhibiting
at Glassex, which will provide the visitors to the 2007 show with a host
of new products, services and opportunities.’
Moving away from the 'Yee Ha' days, Glassex has indeed developed with
the industry, seeing the profile of the average Glassex visitor moving
dramatically upmarket with the intention of attending the show to conduct
serious business.
With the visitor base increasingly consisting of senior management with
real purchasing power and specifiers from a range of sectors, Glassex
wants to make the 2007 exhibition the ideal environment in which to do
business better.
Wanting to give exhibitors the opportunity to have more control as to
who comes through the exhibition's doors, Glassex has introduced its very
own Gold Club (VIP) area that has been designed to enable exhibitors to
attract the visitors they most want to do business with. Since its announcement
earlier this year, the Glassex Gold Club has received an unprecedented
level of interest from those exhibitors that have already confirmed their
stands for this year, sending in their nominations thick and fast. With
each exhibitor invited to nominate their top prospects to receive a Gold
Club Pass, giving them exclusive access to all areas of the show, The
National Conservatory Company (TNCC - formerly known as PBM Roof Systems),
has seen the potential and benefits that this feature area offers, backing
it with exclusive sponsorship.
‘We were impressed with the overall concept of the Gold Club and
wanted to utilise its full business potential to assist with the re-branding
of our company,’ said Adrian Williams, managing director of TNCC.
‘Glassex and particularly the Gold Club, is all about conducting
business with industry professionals, and we are delighted to put our
names behind it.’
To further broaden its appeal with fabricators and installers that are
looking to, or are currently in the process of diversifying their businesses
into the profitable market of aluminium, Glassex is working in partnership
with the Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB) to underline the growing
opportunities in this sector, as well as increasing the number of aluminium
visitors to the exhibition. This has already seen a number of aluminium
orientated and CAB member companies, including those multi-disciplined
companies that want to reach targeted frame makers within the aluminium
and PVC-u markets sign up to the show, including Haffner, Wegoma UK, Promac
Industrial Machinery, Veratel and Elumatec to name but a few.
With sustainability and energy economy a growing concern with many industry
players, the decision to highlight this major growth area by giving it
a dedicated zone has seen a large amount of interest from an assortment
of sectors within the industry ranging from glass machinery giant Bystronic
to Thermaseal Group Ltd, supplier of double glazing components for the
insulated glass industry taking space.
One company in particular that has seen the importance of the Energy Efficiency
Zone is warm edge insulated glass technology experts Edgetech. Not only
is the company taking a stand in the feature area, but it is also sponsoring
the whole zone and its associated Forum arena. ‘This is an extremely
important feature of the show that is relevant to everyone in the fenestration
industry,’ comments Andy Jones, managing director of Edgetech. ‘Our
decision to back the zone comes from a desire to promote the importance
of window energy ratings and a strong belief that delivering practical
information on all areas of energy efficiency is essential if we’re
to move our industry forward.’ In a similar vein, IGU gas filled
specialist, Inagas, is showcasing its IGA30, IGA60 and IGA200 machines
that are now supplied with Test Counters as standard equipment, the only
machines available in the UK with this feature. The counters significantly
improve ease of use and efficiency by counting the number of fills completed
in addition to daily and accumulative data, at a glance.
The importance of energy efficiency is further highlighted in other areas
of the exhibition floor seeing recycling equipment manufacturer, CK International
taking stand EO55. After exhibiting for the first time at 2006's show,
CK International immediately reserved a stand for 2007 on the back of
the success it received.
Providing complete solutions for the removal and recycling of polythene
and cardboard packaging waste, CK International believes Glassex is the
perfect arena to spread the message about the benefits and financial advantages
of recycling.
Another area of the exhibition that has been under-represented in previous
years is the hardware, security and public sectors. In order to rectify
this, Glassex has formed a partnership agreement with Secure By Design,
to help strengthen its appeal to both companies wishing to exhibit and
to the general visitor base, seeing an influx of hardware and security
companies commit to this years show. These include major brands such as
Yale, Hoppe, J. Banks & Co, Nicholls & Cooke, LJ Pratley &
Partners, Tongling Nextool Technology Company and Shine Fully with the
list still expanding.
With more and more fabricators and installers working in partnership with
local authorities, ALMO's and Main contractors to deliver the Government's
Decent Homes programme, Glassex has designed 2007's show to make it more
rewarding for public sector purchasers and specifiers by bringing the
latest product developments and ranges that comply with the ever demanding
regulations, delivering 'best value' solutions for windows and doors,
under one roof. In order to fulfil the expectations of the public sector
visitor Glassex 2007 has sharpened its focus on the likely product areas
of most interest to these attendees, including attracting exhibitors of
PVCu systems, aluminium systems, hardware, IG manufacturers and companies
with energy efficient products through its highly developed key feature
areas. Glassex is sending out a strong message to the public sector that
it is more than just a plastic windows show.
Again, the Glassex seminar programme is looking extremely healthy with
key issues such as Building Regulations, disability, energy efficiency
and training being highlighted throughout the course of the show. With
a floor plan that emulates these topics of interest, vistors of 2007's
show will not only be able to attune themselves to the latest issues raised
in the seminar programme that effect the fenestration industry as a whole,
but see first hand the many solutions and products the industry offers.
With the Glassex Conservatory Design Competition growing in popularity
year on year, 2007 sees the showcase stand take the centre spot on the
floor plan affirming its status as an important highlight of the show.
To further strengthen this, Pilkington is sponsoring the competition,
seeing the company return to the show after a five-year absence to promote
the environmental and practical benefits of the Pilkington Activ™
range of products. Commenting on their return, Matt Buckley, Marketing
Director for Pilkington Activ™ said: ‘We are also pleased to
be back at Glassex, which we feel has made big strides this year with
the creation of new features such as the Energy Efficiency Zone, something
which is also very relevant for Pilkington. We are looking forward to
being a part of the show again.’
Since going online to receive all entries, as well as to judge the competition,
Glassex has been inundated with submission material matching the quantity
and quality of entries at this time last year.
Glassex has received a wealth of interest from a healthy mix of trade
fabrication, installation and systems companies seeing the likes of Synseal,
Selecta Systems, Tradestyle and Camden Frames participating in the show.
In fact support for 2007 has never been stronger, with many regular exhibitors
committing to the show, coupled with some old favourites returning to
the floor and many new faces wanting a piece of the action.
Glassex 2007 has pulled out all of the stops to deliver a show that fulfils
the market's expectations and with the ongoing support it has received
from the industry, the forthcoming show is sure to be a turning point
for future exhibitions.
Inagas,
the UK supplier of gas filling and testing machines and peripherals is
enjoying further international success following the company's appearance
at Glasstec, with a number of export orders now delivered.
Buyers from all corners of the globe visited the Inagas stand with orders
taken from Korea, Malta and Japan. Three of the company's IGA30 machines
are on their way to Korea, with an IGA30 being exported to Malta and Japan
taking an IGA10.
These latest overseas orders confirm says Malcolm Kemp of Inagas, Britain's
superiority with this type of equipment: ‘Despite Korea and Japan
being such technologically advanced countries gas-filling remains the
forte of Britain, where argon and krypton filling are carried out as a
matter of course in IGU production. Our export sales have become very
significant as more international buyers find their way to our door.’
Web: http://www.inagas.com
SGG
SWISSPACER® Helps Residents stay Warmer
Many
residents will be keeping warmer this winter in the Sir Robert Thomas
Court development in Harpurhey, Manchester, run by Northwards Housing.
This is thanks to the installation of high performance windows from Shepley,
the Manchester based PVCu frame fabricator.
The windows have been developed to achieve an 'A' rating under the Window
Energy Rating Scheme. They combine 70mm Veka Matrix profiles with triple
glazed argon filled sealed units from Solaglas: 4mm SGG DIAMANT, 16mm
SGG SWISSPACER V warm edge spacer bar, 4mm SGG DIAMANT, 16mm SGG SWISSPACER
V, 4mm SGG PLANITHERM TOTAL 1.1.
To date, 300 of these high performance sealed units have been installed
at Sir Robert Thomas Court as part of the Decent Homes refurbishment programme.
‘SGG SWISSPACER® is proving to be of growing interest to our
customers,’ states Kathryn Dalgleish, Marketing Manager at Solaglas.
‘With the market starting to embrace WERS, more companies and occupants
are appreciating the particular performance and aesthetic benefits of
SGG SWISSPACER® units.’
Artizan's
Spectus Success Story
Swansea-based
Artizan Windows is now fabricating Spectus' Elite 70. Having been a Spectus
customer since it began trading in 1995, fabricating SightLine 70, Artizan
has now made the switch to Elite 70 to 'meet market demand for high performance,
easy to fabricate, attractive windows'.
Additionally, with its customer base in the Swansea valley, which incorporates
a number of national parks, Artizan is also seeing a great demand for
Spectus' Vertical Sliders to meet planners' demands for sympathetic replacement
windows for the area's traditional housing stock.
Left
to right: Steve Reynolds, Area Sales Manager, Spectus, Kevin Mort, Managing
Director, Artizan.
Says Kevin Mort, Managing Director, Artizan: ‘Feedback from customers
in relation to the Elite 70 is extremely positive - particularly in terms
of its appearance and ease of fabrication. We are delighted that it has
been such a success. We are equally pleased with the response to the Vertical
Slider, which has been a real growth area for us and proves that the right
type of PVC-u replacements can be used in sensitive sites to improve housing
quality.’
Web: http://www.artizanwindows.com
EAS
Windows Completes a Prize Installation
Selected
from thousands of entries Sarah Parr from Market Harborough has become
the lucky winner of Ultraframe’s Ideal Home Exhibition competition
to win an Ultraframe conservatory. The winning installation was completed
by Leicester-based, Guild Approved Ultra Installer, EAS Windows.
Ultraframe exhibited an impressive 3m x 3m gable fronted conservatory
at the hugely popular show at Earl’s Court, London. The conservatory
formed part of the Ideal Home magazine’s display of eight room sets
which were individually styled to reflect different world styles. The
Ultraframe conservatory was styled in a contemporary fashion, complete
with computer station, lounge area and direct access to a patio garden.
The design successfully demonstrated innovative ways of using the space
and light provided by a conservatory extension.
The competition run on the stand for visitors to win an Ultraframe conservatory
received a phenomenal response. Everyone who entered was sent a copy of
the Ultra Guide to Conservatories from Ultraframe and details of their
three closest Ultra Installers.
EAS Windows, became Ultra Installers in 2005 after passing strict vetting
criteria by Ultraframe and The Guild of Master Craftsmen and passing an
independent inspection by the BBA. Conservatory design experts from the
company conducted a series of consultations with the winner to help make
decisions on which conservatory style would suit her property and how
this would be incorporated with existing conversion plans for the home.
The final installation was a stunning Georgian style hipped back conservatory
which was installed onto a recent extension to provide a relaxing, naturally
light space for dining.
Commenting on the project, Brian Dowdall of EAS Windows, said: 'The installation
was a real winner. We recommended a self cleaning Conservaglass roof because
of the south-facing aspect of the property - the excellent ‘U’
values help maintain a cooler and more comfortable internal environment.
The Conservaglass features an attractive subtle blue tint which reduces
the sun’s glare, whilst also allowing sufficient light to pass through.'
Profile manufacturers Rehau provided the white PVCu for the project whilst
Cristal Glass provided the sealed units. EAS Windows has had a successful
partnership with both suppliers for over 12 years.
Brian Dowdall has been specifying conservatories for over 20 years, he
said: 'As far as I’m concerned Ultraframe is the premier roof. Their
roofs are technically superior, reliable for our fitters and aesthetically
pleasing for our customers. Plus, Ultraframe products offer a flexibility
that allows for more complicated designs that other roofs cannot achieve.'
'As a company we pride ourselves on our reputation for integrity and service,'
continued Brian. 'It is therefore important for us to offer a product
we genuinely believe in. Coupled with our membership of the Ultra Installer
Scheme, which means our standards of workmanship and service are regularly
accessed, we can assure homeowners of complete peace of mind when they
choose EAS to install their conservatory.'
EAS Windows is a family run business that employs up to 40 dedicated staff,
including estimators, fitters and a manufacturing team. The company, which
has been in business since 1989, celebrated the completion of its 10,000th
job this year.
Web: http://www.ultraframe.com
Winter
of Content for Kombimatec
2006
has proved to be both an eventful and profitable year for Kombimatec Machines
Ltd, with the company reporting a particularly strong sales performance
in the latter half of the period, where order intake increased by 100%.
The company's rapid growth during the last six months is seen as a direct
result both of its change of name in August 2006 - the company was previously
known in the UK as GTI-Kombimatec - and a recently re-structured and re-invigorated
management team. Managing Director Derek Parsons comments:
‘Our objective in changing our name to Kombimatec Machines Ltd was
to bring full attention to the fact that we are a manufacturer rather
than just a supplier. It highlights the singular service benefits that
we can offer our customers both here in the UK and abroad. I am delighted
to say that this has been an extremely successful strategy for us in 2006.
This, along with some changes we have made to our management structure,
has allowed us to re-focus our sales efforts, and we have reaped dividends
as a result.’
One of the most encouraging aspects of the company's recent sales performance
is that orders are coming in thick and fast from both UK and overseas
customers. Amongst the most recent sales was an order for three machinery
packages from India, including the newly launched EV470 CNC corner and
transom cleaner. The company has also recently exported new start-up machine
packages to destinations including Lahore, Pakistan and Perth, Australia,
with the PBM1 profile bending kit proving very popular as part of the
package.
Some of the company's new UK customers include the UPVC Centre in Middlesborough
and Apex Windows, based near the Kombimatec Luton HQ, a partnership that
has proved beneficial as a means of demonstrating its machinery in operation
to factory visitors. Orders have also increased from existing customers
such as Evolution Ltd of Biggleswade, Perfect Double Glazing Ltd of West
Bromwich and Buckingham Double Glazing Ltd.
The company's recently launched EV475 6 axis CNC corner and transom cleaner
has featured heavily in the company's order book during the last six months,
with customers such as Radway Doors & Windows and Classic Trade Frames
taking advantage of the fastest cleaner to be built by Kombimatec to date.
The EV475 achieves massively improved cycle times due to its ability to
clean transoms and cruciforms in one complete clamping sequence.
Derek Parsons is feeling buoyant about the company's future:
‘We feel we have achieved some excellent results this past year.
We are currently recruiting more staff to assist with our manufacturing
targets and reduce lead times still further, and I believe we are now
in a very strong position to improve those results for 2007.’
Tel: +44(0) 1582 455934
Email: sales@kombimatec.com
Web: http://www.kombimatec.com
Clearshield
Cleans Up in New Zealand
Ritec's
ClearShield system is proving to be a great success in New Zealand. The
award-winning technology has been the basis for a new business boom in
the country led by Allen Bradey of Specialist Window Cleaning Services
in Dannemora, Auckland. Allen has set up a franchise network which uses
both ClearShield Glass Protect for protecting glass and Ritepolish for
glass restoration with outstanding results.
Allen Bradey formed Specialist Window Cleaning Services in 1991 having
previously received specialist training as a ClearShield System applicator.
The decision to become a franchisor is certainly proving profitable and
the company now has two master and five standard franchises.
The
franchisees mainly use the System, ClearShield for renovating and protecting
glass shower enclosures. In addition, Allen also applies the product to
residential windows and glass in the automotive, marine and industrial
sectors. ‘Taking on the ClearShield System is all part of purchasing
a franchise,’ he explains. ‘We provide three weeks' training,
which covers specialist window cleaning and the ClearShield preparation,
restoration and treatment procedure.’
Based on a special polymeric resin, Ritec's Glass Protect treatment provides
surface protection for all types of glass from the damage caused by weathering
and contamination. Applied as a liquid, ClearShield chemically reacts
with the glass and becomes an integral part of the surface by forming
a strong and highly durable non-stick, surface. Once treated, the glass
becomes ClearShield Low-M (Low-Maintenance) Glass. Specialist Window Cleaning
Services applies ClearShield manually onsite, but it can also be applied
in the factory using manual or fully automatic spraying equipment. The
franchise network also uses Ritec's Ritepolish, a specialist cleaner which
is highly effective for the removal of marks left by suction lifters on
glass. Ritepolish's versatility means it also removes mineral and other
deposits from PVC-u, stainless steel, paintwork, glass, porcelain, aluminium
and tiles.
Allen is now looking to sell more window cleaning franchises throughout
the country. ‘We currently cover Wellington, Hawkes Bay, Hamilton
and Auckland and want to extend our services into three more areas,’
he says. He also wants to continue promoting the benefits of ClearShield
to glass manufacturers and installers. ‘We're getting the message
across and have even managed to get some TV advertising through Bruce
Gay, a top driver in the national Mazda Pro7 Racing series.’ Special
Window Cleaning Services treated the glass in Bruce's Mazda RX-7 cars
with ClearShield, ensuring crystal clear visibility, even in the rain.
In return, Bruce has arranged for a ClearShield banner to run across the
bottom of the screen during coverage of the 2006/07 series, providing
excellent exposure for the ClearShield System across both Islands.
With 25 years of field experience, ClearShield Low-M Glass is now used
for a wide range of applications, including commercial glazing, residential
windows, conservatories, shower enclosures, decorative glass and glazing
in marine vessels and transportation vehicles. ClearShield Low-M Glass
was specified for the Shanghai World Finance Centre, which will be the
tallest building in the world upon completion in 2008.
Tel: +44 (0)20 8344 8210
Web: http://www.ritec.co.uk
The
Linde Group sells BOC's Gases Activities in Poland to Air Products
The
technology group The Linde Group has sold BOC's Polish gases activities
(BOC Gazy Sp z o.o.) to Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. at a price of
370 million euro. BOC Gazy achieved sales of around 126 million euro and
earnings before tax, interest, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA)
of around 38 million euro in the 2006 financial year.
This divestiture was one of the antitrust conditions imposed by the European
Commission arising from the acquisition of The BOC Group plc by Linde
which became effective on 5th September 2006.
Linde and Air Products expect the transaction to be completed in due course,
subject to clearance from the competition authorities and the fulfilment
of the usual closing conditions.
The Linde Group is a world leading industrial gases and engineering company
with more than 53,000 employees working in around 70 countries worldwide.
Following the acquisition of The BOC Group, the company has gases and
engineering sales of approximately 12 billion euro. The strategy of The
Linde Group is geared towards earnings-based growth and focuses on the
expansion of its international business with forward-looking products
and services.
For more information, please see The Linde Group online at http://www.linde.com
Biodegradable
'Greener' Plastics to Help Build Cars and Boats of the Future
The
UK is on its way to developing car doors, boat hulls and baby capsules
manufactured from super-strong, light-weight plastic made from plant products,
which harmlessly biodegrades at the end of its life.
The Department of Trade and Industry is providing £278,000 funding
towards the £777,000 Combine project to develop plastics durable
enough for car doors and boat hulls, which are light-weight, but environmentally
friendly, led by UK futuristic bio-plastic developer, NetComposites
Announcing the project, Minister for Science and Innovation, Malcolm Wicks
said:
‘Normal plastics have a half-life of thousands of years. The plastics
being created in this project will be strong and lightweight, but will
be made from plants, which means they'll eventually be composted into
harmless plant products.
‘Lots of hard work has been done to create greener engines for cars,
this takes us the next step by creating environmentally friendly plastics
for cars, boats and even baby capsules used to protect our toddlers in
medical emergencies.
‘That's not even mentioning the competitive advantage this kind of
technology could have for the UK economy. Through the DTI-led Technology
Programme, we're working with business to develop the products and services
we'll need in the future.’
Gordon Bishop, Managing Director of NetComposites said: ‘The Combine
project aims to develop high performance plant-derived plastics for structural
parts like car doors by using innovative combinations of natural fibres
and bio-plastics. It also aims to create products which are biodegradable,
for the first time creating structural materials and products from renewable
resources.’
.
This project creates the new generation of plastics made from natural
fibres, with current products not strong enough to be used in structural
components like car body parts. The 21/2 year project will develop a prototype
of a boat wheelhouse roof and a mobile baby incubator.
NetComposites is also leading a second consortium, called FuturePlas,
to develop the next generation of stronger, light-weight recyclable plastics,
using high-strength plastic fibres inside plastic products. This 21/2
year, £715,000 project will manufacture and test an industrial safety
helmet and prototype a car front-end, as lighter bodies for cars increase
performance, while reducing fuel consumption. This is also being part
funded with a Technology Programme grant from the DTI of £316,000.
A spin-off company, Aptiform, has already been created to supply components
from these new types of plastic materials.
It's
Stuga ZX4 for Heritage Somerfield Group
Heritage
Somerfield Group of Bolton has chosen the Stuga ZX4 as the cutting and
prepping centre that most suited the company’s production requirements.
Production Manager Bob MacDonald is very experienced in the machinery
business having sold equipment for several leading machinery suppliers,
including a lot of time working with the once market leader Rapid. Needing
an output around 900 windows per week Bob soon discovered that many machinery
suppliers could not live up to their claims and eventually concluded the
only affordable machine that could genuinely offer the output was the
Stuga ZX4.
'The
ZX4 stood out on its own in being able to produce our requirements' Bob
stated. 'We heard many claims from its competition but when asked to guarantee
the output of their machines it became clear that none of them could live
with the ZX4's guaranteed output. In fact we were so surprised at the
apparent superiority of the machine we went to several large fabricators
already using one to see it with our own eyes and we were amazed at what
we saw. Drainage was so fast you could hardly see the machine moving and
the facility to prep on both sides of the profile at the same time made
trickle vents and doors faster than we had ever seen.'
Other factors in Bob's decision were profile recognition, self centring
for arrowheads, random offcut usage and software that measures the width
of the profile to allow for variations in the extrusions. The eight tooling
heads on the ZX4's rotary tooling system created such versatility that
not only was speed impressive but the amount of movement between tools
was minimal. The fact that the rotary system allowed minor angular changes
profile by profile was also seen as a major advantage over fixed heads,
especially when it was realised that the rotary tooling system was not
a special item rather than a standard bought in product that is used on
machine tools in other industries worldwide.
Bob also considered the Stuga ZX3 but although that model was faster than
most of the competition at 700 plus per week Heritage Group wanted that
extra two hundred windows per week more output that the ZX4 offered.
With nearly one hundred cutting and prepping centres installed throughout
the UK and Ireland Stuga was the obvious choice and this was reinforced
by the fact that the company has seven fully trained field engineers geographically
placed throughout the market place who are all only ever working on Stuga
cutting and prepping centres and have the specialist knowledge that this
brings. The benefits of dealing direct with the manufacturer were also
relevant to the decision.
Stuga has a range of three cutting & prepping centres to cover all
sizes of fabricator starting with the Microline for the small to medium
company, with a small footprint and economical price, followed by the
ZX3 which is equivalent to most other competitive machines in the same
price range and finishing with the ZX4 for the fabricator needing 900
to 1,000 windows per week.
For further information on Stuga products call 0800 169 5444 or visit
http://www.stuga.co.uk
Force
8 Tightens its Grip on the Arched Frame
Force
8, the UK window and door manufacturer, noticed that one of the problems
with arched French doors, was the distance between the hinge at the side,
and the shoot bolt at the top, which can be over a metre.
With no fitting along the arch, misalignment would happen, causing gaps.
Without an unbroken seal round the doors the weather could instigate problems
and it could also hinder security.
The new concept developed by Force 8 is to use a tilt and turn espagnolet,
which spans the gap by following the curve. This means that when the door
is closed, it is pulled in at the top and along the curve, creating a
perfect weather proof seal.
Force 8 has also adapted this for the single arched door, which can also
suffer from the same problems. The arched doors themselves are made from
a single piece of profile which is unique to Force 8, using its own specially
developed bending techniques.
Managing Director, Dennis Sumner commented: ‘We are constantly striving
to improve our product range, and as far as we know we are the only company
in the UK with this system, Force 8 can also offer this new innovation
in a fast seven day turn around, and provide glass sizes within 24 hours’.
Force 8 Fabrications is a family-owned and operated business, which manufactures
and supplies windows, doors and conservatories to installers and fabricators
all over Europe.
Its extensive product portfolio includes a range of design variations
to meet every requirement, including arched and unusually shaped styles.
Web: http://www.force8.co.uk
Martindales
Saves a Million Seconds Because of Rounder Holes
Martindales,
the UK supplier of replacement doors and windows to the insurance industry,
saved a million seconds last year - because of a machine that makes rounder
holes.
'It may seem obsessive, but a million seconds of saved time says it all
- that much time saved also means efficiencies in terms of speed and price,'
said Phil Martindale, founder and Managing Director of Martindales.
'In a way we're in the holes business: we drill more than a million holes
a year in the 35,000-plus replacement doors and windows we manufacture
and fit - and with that many holes it can make a massive time difference
if they're not quite right.
'Something that should take a second to do suddenly becomes a minute if
a hole has to be manually finished. It's more than just the length of
time, it's the momentum as well. Precision has a massive impact.
'The industry - and consequently us - is always chasing a volume, and
anything we can do to catch up will make a difference.'
Martindales invested more than £300,000 in several key pieces of
equipment at its manufacturing headquarters in the second half of 2006,
and is planning more investment in 2007.
'It has also meant that we can drive even more competitive prices, because
with an increased volume of raw material purchased comes better buying
power,' added Phil Martindale.
'The new equipment and processes mean that the factory is maintaining
high levels of output for two completely different seasonal markets.
'Things change slightly in winter, because there is a 25% increase in
break-ins with darker afternoons, evenings and mornings. Our capacity
comes in to its own and enhances speed, while we have a different sort
of demand - planned volume - for the building trade and summer construction
projects and contracts.
'On the insurance side, we are on a permanent state of high alert. We
never know what we're going to be asked to replace. It's a bit like a
restaurant kitchen: we get the order, it's given to the production team,
and we have to pull together the ingredients very quickly - and deliver
a perfect job.'
Web: http://www.martindales.ltd.uk
Q-Marked
Polar Windows Wins Major Hospital Contract
Chesterfield-based
Polar Windows has secured a minimum three-year partnership agreement with
Chesterfield Hospital to replace initially more than 600 windows in the
1970's built hospital complex.
Polar Windows produces high performance PVC-u windows in a wide range
of opening configurations and last year achieved BM TRADA Certification's
Q-Mark for enhanced security windows and for both PVC-u window and Insulating
Glass Unit (IGU) manufacture.
Business Development Manager for Polar Windows, Rob Hawkins, said,' The
windows in large sections of the hospital desperately need to be replaced,
including in the wards, intensive care and recovery rooms.'
This poses a tough contract management challenge for the company, as medical
staff will often have to ask the window installers to 'come back later'
as patient needs demand. Mr Hawkins explained, however, 'We had already
replaced the windows in the nurses' accommodation and had impressed the
hospital with the way we managed the project. If we have to stop work
in one area we move to another.'
Other challenges to face include the hospital ban on the use of mobile
phones. To overcome this, Polar Windows has armed its supervisors and
fitters with pagers so that they can maintain two-way contact, especially
when they have to move out of clinical areas at a moment's notice.
Under the rapid start programme agreed with the hospital, the company
will install around 600 windows of different types, but will then replace
windows at need as part of the ongoing refurbishment programme, bringing
the total to around 1,000.
For more information about
* BM TRADA Q-Mark schemes visit http://www.bmtrada.com
or email sbeer@bmtrada.com
* Polar Windows email enquiries@polarwindows.co.uk.
Safestyle's
New Look Window Designs for 2007
Safestyle,
the largest independent replacement window and door manufacturer and retailer
in the United Kingdom, has introduced a new and exclusive design for all
its window frames, which is readily available for the start of the New
Year.
The
new design will see all Safestyle windows marketed with a sculptured styling
of the window frame in 2007 with the old existing style discontinued.
John Ross, Chief Executive of Safestyle UK, explained: ‘Utilising
the latest advanced technology, the window frames will now have a smoother,
more rounded appearance to produce a better aesthetic look while at the
same time ensuring that all frames continue to meet the highest British
industry standards, including ISO 9002, BS 7412, 5713 and 7950.
‘The new windows will continue to include the latest internal beading,
fire escape hinges as standard, energy efficient Pilkington K glass double
glazed sealed units, high security locking systems and, importantly, all
round high performance sealing.
‘Exclusive to Safestyle, the innovative design, with its strikingly
elegant bevelled frame offers customers the chance to set themselves apart
from anything else currently available in the market, whilst at the same
time importantly reducing heating bills and remaining more energy efficient.
‘Undoubtedly the high performance frame will remain one of the most
competitively priced options in the United Kingdom and will continue to
offer our usual 10 year transferable guarantee. Our aim is to ensure Safestyle
continues to be a strong leader in the uPVC replacement window and door
market for many years to come.’
For customers wishing to match up their old styled frames John Ross added:
‘Throughout the last quarter of 2006, we worked extremely hard to
offer all existing customers the opportunity to purchase our traditional
models at incredibly low prices. However, the newly designed windows will
replace those existing designs from the start of 2007 onwards.’
The all-new sculptured design window can be viewed in greater detail on
the company's recently re-launched web site: http://www.safestyle-windows.co.uk
or information can be obtained directly from Safestyle UK on 0800 106
107.
Volkswagen
Recognises Retailer Fleet Achievements
Volkswagen
Fleet Services has recognised the achievements of its top-performing retailers
and staff at a special Fleet Awards event in a luxury hotel in Wales.
As five-times winner and current holder of the Fleet News Manufacturer
of the Year award, Volkswagen puts its success in the company car market
down to a combination of first class products and the quality service
provided by its staff.
According to Volkswagen's Head of Fleet Services, Vincent Kinner, it's
the people serving the customers who really make a difference. That ethos
was the driving force behind Volkswagen's Fundamentally Fleet programme,
which was launched in June 2005 with the aim of educating, motivating
and recognising excellence within the retailer network. This year the
programme has seen an increase in participation with retailers undertaking
various activities, and an Assessment Centre for the top performing 20
Fleet Sales Managers and 40 Fleet Sales Executives.
Throughout the year participating candidates have undertaken a series
of activities designed to measure their capabilities, skills and product
knowledge. The key focus was to understand Volkswagen's competitor models
and launches, the latest Volkswagen innovations including the revolutionary
TSI technology and to take part in activities at Regional Business meetings.
The Awards event was held at Cardiff Bay Hotel in Newport on 15th December,
as a way of recognising retailers' performance as well as looking ahead
and planning for the future. The event began with a business meeting,
at which the department's 2006 performance was confirmed and 2007 fleet
objectives outlined. There was also a presentation on the new models to
be launched next year: the revised Touran and Touareg, Passat R36 and
new Golf Estate.
In the evening a dinner was held for 250 people, including the Managing
Director of the Volkswagen Group UK, Robin Woolcock. Vincent Kinner presided
over the official awards ceremony, turning the spotlight on those individuals
who had demonstrated their passion for Being Volkswagen, that is to say,
'doing ordinary things extraordinarily well'.
Commenting on the event, Kinner said: 'I'm delighted to be able to meet
so many individuals who make such a difference to our business. The quality
of candidates
this year was particularly high, and attending this event has made me
extremely proud of the Fundamentally Fleet programme and what it has achieved.
It has also confirmed my hopes that Volkswagen Fleet Services can continue
its success in the coming year.'
A full list of award winners and runners-up follows:
Fleet
Sales Manager of the Year
Winner:
Carol Kirk, Arthur Prince Limited
Second:
Louise Baker, Ventura Park, Tamworth
Third:
Martin Pye, Breeze Volkswagen
Fourth:
Fiona Birks, Listers Coventry
Fleet Sales Executive of the Year
Winner:
Toniya Smith, Ventura Park, Tamworth
Second:
Rob Selway, Heritage of Bristol
Third:
Steve Robinson, Spirit Banbury
Fourth:
Rachel Martin, Citygate Amersham
Fleet Retailer of the Year
Winner:
Listers, Coventry
Second:
Blade, Gloucester
Third:
Gilders (Hillsborough)
Agency Retailer of the Year
Winner:
Ridgeway Garages (Newbury) Ltd
Second:
Warrington Volkswagen
Third:
Listers, Worcester
Being Volkswagen
Winner:
Warrington Volkswagen
Firm
Pays £1,500 after Man Falls 2.5 Metres in Cumbria
Cumbrian
firms have been reminded of the dangers of working at height following
a prosecution brought by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
On 5th January Clearair Property Developments Ltd paid a fine of £1,500
plus £1,559 costs after pleading guilty to breaching Regulation
6(3) of the Work at Height Regulations 2005 at North Cumbria Magistrates'
Court in Carlisle.
Joiner, Anthony Crack from Newton Aycliffe fell through an unprotected
stairwell whilst working on the conversion of a barn at Warwick upon Eden,
being undertaken by Clearair Property Developments Ltd. He fell a distance
of around two and a half metres and sustained several injuries, including
a spinal fracture and a punctured lung.
Clearair, of Victoria Avenue, Bishop Auckland, Durham, was the principal
contractor on the site and pleaded guilty to a charge under Regulation
6(3) of the Work at Height Regulations 2005 in that it failed to take
suitable measures to prevent Mr Crack from falling a distance likely to
cause personal injury.
HSE Inspector David Charnock who managed the case said:
'These injuries could so easily have been prevented. Falls from height
are one of the most common causes of injury in construction work, yet
with proper protective measures, they are easily preventable.
'The accident was typical of the type of preventable falls which remain
all too common in the construction industry. Had there been adequate handrails
or coverings in place at the stairwell, the accident could not have happened.
'Unfortunately, there was nothing to prevent Mr Crack from falling whilst
he was working next to the opening. The risks are well known, and the
precautions are basic and straightforward.
'In 2005/06, 24 people lost their lives as a result of falls in the construction
industry, and many more were badly injured. Those working in construction
must effectively manage the risk of falls from height, and where they
do not, they can expect HSE to take appropriate enforcement action.'
HSE
Urges Scaffolding Companies to put their House in Order
At
the start of a New Year, when construction sites start up again after
the long Christmas/New Year break, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
is sending out a strong message about the correct and safe use of scaffolding.
Just before Christmas two successful prosecutions brought by the HSE resulted
in fines and costs totaling around £13,500 to the companies involved.
Scaffolding is used on most construction sites and given that the consequences
are serious when it all goes wrong, it is important to get things right
from the start. Two incidents in the North East, both involving collapse
of scaffolding on to a public place, show what can go happen if safe standards
are not followed.
In September 2004 in Bondgate, Darlington a scaffold toppled over on to
the street. In February 2005 scaffolding in Middle St, Consett also collapsed
on to a public area.
Fortunately no one was seriously injured but both could have resulted
in very serious if not fatal injuries.
The HSE took the two scaffolding companies to court. Both pleaded guilty
and were fined £4,000 and £5,000 respectively.
Rob Hirst was the prosecuting Inspector from the HSE. He said:
'Not unusually a number of factors came together, but essentially the
sheeted scaffolds were not secured well enough to the buildings and in
high winds the ties failed.
'More worryingly, perhaps, was the finding that trained scaffolders were
relying on a wholly inadequate method of tying/securing their scaffolds
to buildings. What had been done in both cases was simply to lever scaffold
tubing against window reveals. Although affording some frictional force
and a degree of stability, doing so was simply not good enough. Indeed
both situations were accidents waiting to happen.
'Scaffolds need always to be designed and constructed to recognised standards.
Not only should those building scaffolds know what they are about, but
there needs to be checks on how scaffolding is in fact set up - and of
course scaffolds should be subject to regular inspection.'
And the strong advice from the HSE - scaffolding companies should review
their current practices to make sure that what they are doing is correct.
The need to do so is imperative given that severe wind conditions are
common these days, especially in the North East
Composite
Doors Made Distinctively Simple
'Composite
doors are simple to manufacture, are simple to install, are cost effective,
trouble free and bring substantial rewards’ - that's the message
from Drew Wright, sales director of Distinction Doors Limited. ‘Our
goal is to supply a reliable, high specification product, supported by
our expertise, ensuring that installers and fabricators gain entry to
the retail composite market with ease’ continues Drew.
Determined
to take up the challenges facing the retail market, the team at Distinction
Doors ensures that everything possible is done to help fabricators and
installers supply composite doors that compete in all areas with their
pvc and timber counterparts.
As a totally independent distributor of fibreglass composite door panels,
the company holds a huge stock of door leafs in over 130 variations of
style and colour, including mahogany and oak grained finishes. ‘With
detailed historical sales data, we are able to monitor the popularity
of designs and colours, which allows us to maintain the right stocking
levels to provide short lead times and help fabricators to market the
right product range right from the start’ explains Drew. ‘This
is just a small part of a dedicated service offered to fabricators, created
to provide solid support and offer various routes to enter the composite
market with confidence.’
The service also includes sound advice from Distinction's Technical experts
on how best to make the minimal changes to door production lines as well
as comprehensive training on how to cut to size, route and finish the
door leaf. And as Drew points out, ‘with all the major system companies
now offering a standard rebated outer frame for 44mm, fabricators are
able to integrate the door into their production facilities without any
problem. There are many fabricators that just hate the thought of any
production change over, so at Distinction we go one step further by offering
fabricators contact with experienced producers who can fulfil a prepping
service, either before a fabricator commences composite production or
to help ease the way during the transition period.’
Manufactured by the Nan Ya Plastics Corporation, the high quality composite
door panel supplied by Distinction Doors has proven popular with many
of the leading names in composite door manufacture. ‘Once they've
seen it a prospective customer has no doubt as to the quality and visual
appeal’ enthuses Drew, ‘but the real selling points are those
features which have been developed with Nan Ya specifically for the UK
market and which are exclusive to us, making the finished door unique
and, well, distinctive!’
Amongst these special features are three alternatives with which to cover
the facing after the blank has been trimmed - a lock strip, an aluminium
strip and a beading to match the door leaf, providing a perfect finish.
A Distinction panel does not require any treatment following the cut-to-size
process as engineered composite rails and stiles combine with the composite
sub-frame, completely sealing and waterproofing the insulating core.
But it is a glazing cassette, actually designed by Drew in conjunction
with Nan Ya, which has really made an impact on many door manufactures
and installers. The cassette simply snaps together, eliminating the need
for the traditional, but unsightly, plugs and screws. Through-coloured,
like the Distinction door slab itself, the cassette also eliminates the
lengthy lead times required for spray-painting in situations where the
door has one colour on the internal face and another on the outer. What's
more, the grain on the cassette matches perfectly with that of the door
itself, providing an outstanding finished appearance, whilst making glazing
a breeze.
‘Of course installers like the ease with which the door can be fitted
too’ continues Drew. ‘Installation is fast and simple, providing
great application flexibility, as the leaf can be fitted into a timber
or PVC outer frame, making the door an installer's dream.’
With many years experience of the composite door market, Drew is well
aware that consumers are constantly seeking higher quality and security
for the entrance to their home, yet they are often talked out of purchasing
a composite door because of lead times or perceived high prices. The Distinction
Door product offers high impact resistant GRP skins, which are pre-pigmented
and through coloured for scratch resistance, with a 45mm thick leaf for
increased security. In addition, the compression moulded panel provides
six times the insulation than an actual timber product and can be hand-stained
to match PVC foils.
‘Our product is exceptional and available at affordable prices. At
Distinction we put our money where our mouth is - every panel carries
a 25 year structural warranty!’ exclaims Drew. ‘But it is our
approach to service and support which will enable fabricators and installers,
as well as the end user to reap the true benefits of the composite market.’
Call Distinction Doors on 01709 590035, or see the company on Stand C096
at Glassex 2007.
New
Multi-Million Pound PFI Investment Ensures more Decent Homes
North
Tyneside and Salford City Councils have been given the go ahead for up
to £200m investment to cut the number of non-decent homes by over
3,000 as part of the Government's fifth Housing Private Finance Initiative
(PFI) bidding round.
Bids from Leeds City Council and the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham
will be subject to further discussions in the New Year and the Leeds scheme
will have first call on future PFI credits.
Housing Minister Yvette Cooper, said this was the first time both Councils
have had housing schemes put on to the £2.7bn PFI programme.
'This investment will help build new homes and modernise existing ones
with new central heating, new kitchens and bathrooms for thousands of
families in Salford and North Tyneside. Every family should be able to
live in a decent home and this is why this investment is so important.'
North Tynside and Salford Councils will be able to draw on up to £200m
of PFI credits. A further nine councils submitted proposals to provide
additional social rented housing and a decision on these bids is expected
in the New Year.
The announcement follows the signing of housing PFI schemes last year
in Camden, Sandwell, Islington (Street Properties II) and Oldham (Sheltered
Housing PFI).
As well the Decent Homes Pathfinder schemes are now signed and combined
with the two (latter) second round schemes, these will reduce the number
of non-decent homes by nearly 13,550.
In Croydon last month, a scheme to provide new extra care housing reached
contract signature after 26 months, making it the fastest housing PFI
procurement and the first third round scheme to sign. Further contract
signatures are expected before the end of the financial year.
Hurst
Opens the Door for Blaydon Trade Windows
Tyne
and Wear based fabricator and installer Blaydon Trade Windows and Doors
is the latest in a string of companies to become a customer of Hurst Plastics.
Blaydon
Trade Windows and Doors, which was established more than a decade ago
and fabricates around 300 frames a week, is being supplied with an extensive
range of door panels from Hurst. The company had been working with another
door panel manufacturer for some years, but was attracted to the ‘exciting
new ranges of door panels from Hurst as well as its unique pricing structure
and high levels of service’.
The company has found Hurst's new Platinum collection of triple glazed
designs to be particularly popular. With its exclusively commissioned
triple glazed designs, the Platinum collection benefits from brilliantly
cut, deep glass bevels, which are set using traditional decorative lead
work with every joint soldered and finished by hand. The result is attractive,
but equally practical, insulating the home against noise and poor weather.
Paul Sharpe, Sales Director at Blaydon Trade Windows and Doors, said:
‘We made the decision to switch from our previous supplier after
working with the company for ten years and we've been delighted with the
quality of Hurst's door panels and the high levels of service it provides.
Hurst’s new door panels are great looking, yet practical and are
definitely among the best available in the marketplace (a refreshing change
for our clients and ourselves after selling the same old door panels for
25 years!).’
Mark Atkinson, Sales Director at Hurst Plastics, added: ‘We're delighted
that Blaydon has come on board with us. The company is a quality fabricator
with a business philosophy that reflects our own principles. We strive
to offer the very best for our customers from products through service
and onto sales and marketing support and we're looking forward to a long
relationship with Blaydon.’
Hurst Plastics' range of products features in its new Definitive Door
Collection brochure. The brochure includes many new and some totally exclusive
designs from Hurst, which cannot be found anywhere else.
For further details on any of the collections or to obtain a copy of the
new brochure, please contact the Marketing hotline on 01482 790790.
Web: http://www.hurst-plastics.co.uk