News @ The GL@ZINE

The Directors of Planet Group Ltd have announced the sale of the retail and trade division to the management team, led by Dean St John, after a company re-structure.

The retail division will consist of 8 retail showrooms throughout the North West, the Midlands and a substantial manufacturing plant at Walton Summit in Preston.

The business will consist of over 250 dedicated staff. Customers who have placed orders, or who were previous customers of the above business are unaffected by the transaction.

The decision was taken after business re-organisation specialist Deloitte was approached in December.

Unfortunately as part of this re-organisation the Group went into an administration process on 22nd December 2005 which resulted in the loss of jobs at a secondary franchise manufacturing plant and the glass business in Accrington. It is anticipated that these business units will be sold in the near future.

Commenting on the position Dean St John said ‘the well documented reduction in customer spending on discretionary purchases such as conservatories hit our franchise network very badly. Three had ceased to trade throughout 2005 and all the rest, with the exception of South Lakes, were finding trading very difficult. Having built the production capacity to serve this side of the business, we were significantly over-stretched when it started to fail’.

Dean St John in happier times, winning an award at the North region finals of the 2004 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year awards.

Dean re-emphasised that the resultant business was now in a strong position for the future and reiterated that no Planet customers were affected by the move. In fact the Group now intended to pursue a rigorous trade policy in addition to its retail business and anticipated sales of over £30 million in the coming twelve months.

Should any customers have a query, please contact Head Office on 01772 648 800.

A new £100m Yorkshire-based fund which provides turnaround investment for companies has completed its first deal with a £13m investment in a window and door manufacturer.

Endless, a Leeds-based fund launched by former Ernst & Young insolvency partner Garry Wilson, has acquired a majority stake in Barnsley firm Speed Frame, one of the largest PVCu door, window and conservatory makers in the UK.

Representatives of Speed Frame contacted Mr Wilson after reading about the launch of Endless in the Yorkshire Post.

Within 24 hours of meeting Speed Frame chairman Ian Harrison, Garry Wilson said he had signed heads of terms to invest in the business, which employs more than 450 people at its modern manufacturing plant on Goldthorpe Industrial Estate in Barnsley.

The deal provides Speed Frame with working capital, allows it to reduce its bank debt and puts in place funding for future expansion.

Speed Frame has a turnover of £32m and while its UK business is growing it has had troubles at its loss-making Portuguese subsidiary.

‘We completed the deal in seven days and 16 hours from meeting the management team to completion,’ said Garry Wilson.

Mr Harrison, who founded the firm in 1994, remains as executive chairman with a large shareholding, while Malcolm Smith has joined as chief executive and Mr Wilson said a finance director will soon join.

‘We intend to seek other acquisition targets in this sector.

‘It's a tough sector which is going through consolidation but our intention is that Speed Frame will come out of it as the market leader in the UK certainly - to start with. It has got one of the most impressive manufacturing facilities and glass plants in Europe.

‘There has been a huge level of investment in recent years and it is now very well placed to come out of this phase of investment as one of the winners.’

Garry Wilson launched Endless with former E&Y colleague Darren Forshaw to plug a gap in the market providing funding of between £500,000 and £20m in both struggling companies and management buyout opportunities across the region.

‘It's about doing deals in days and hours, not weeks and months, and Speed Frame is the perfect example of that,’ added Mr Wilson.

Debbie Jackson, of Walker Morris, provided legal advice. Endless, which was only recently officially launched, is already looking at several more deals.

‘By the end of January, I will be disappointed if we haven't spent £30m of the fund,’ said Garry Wilson.‘And I'll be disappointed if we haven't spent the £100m in six months. We're already working on tranche two of the funds which will be bigger than the first.’

Endless' funds have been provided by a ‘high net worth individual’ from Yorkshire and from a ‘financial institution’.

Garry Wilson, one of the region's most successful insolvency specialists, was a corporate restructuring partner at accountancy firm E&Y who advised former Leeds United chief executive Trevor Birch on the sale of the club last year and was appointed administrator of its plc parent.

Originally from Belfast, Garry Wilson joined Ernst & Young in 2002, through the firm's acquisition of Andersen's Corporate Restructuring Practice.

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

Eurocell has announced the acquisition of South West based Brunel Plastics in a transaction which provides mutual benefit to both parties. Finalised in late December the acquisition was officially completed on 3rd January and sees Eurocell taking ownership of Brunel Plastics' six depots.

Brunel Plastics has been a well-established division of the AGS Home Improvements group for over 13 years and has built up a good reputation and customer base within the region; a foundation that Eurocell Building Plastics is keen to build on.

This is a significant move forward for Eurocell, as the acquisition will see the company breaking into the South Western market with depots based in Bridgwater, Exeter, Newton Abbot, Plymouth, St Austell and Truro.

Now with 70 trade depots countrywide, Eurocell is dedicated to offering an efficient and cost effective service for the window and building industry. The acquisition, which has been positively negotiated throughout, is part of the company's growth strategy for the coming year.

In conjunction with the acquisition, Eurocell has secured a three-year window profile supply contract with AGS Home Improvements Ltd. Eurocell's CEO, Patrick Bateman comments: ‘I am delighted with the recent acquisition of Brunel Plastics. This is a landmark achievement for Eurocell and we are eager to build on the business of the six depots and to minimise disruption for Brunel's existing customers and workforce.

‘Securing the 3-year supply contract with AGS Home Improvements Ltd gives both parties a significant foundation on which to develop our activity within the South West region.’

Eurocell is part of the Fairbrook Group, which is a subsidiary of the Plastics Converting Business Group of Tessenderlo Group.

Eurocell is one of the largest producers of PVC-profiles in Great Britain and employs some 900 people.

Tessenderlo Group is an international chemicals group with 105 branches in 21 countries. Around 8,300 people work for the group, 1,430 of whom are located in Great Britain. The company's consolidated revenue totalled 2,078 million EUR in 2004 from its three Business Groups (Chemicals, Specialities and Plastics Converting). The group is a world and European leader in most of its product areas.

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

Jim Rawson Hands over Reins at Epwin Group

Paul Hazel has been appointed as Group Managing Director for Epwin Group, the vertically-integrated manufacturer and supplier of maintenance-free home improvement products and the UK's second largest PVC-U and PVC-UE extruder.

Mr Hazel (pictured), who joined as Group Finance Director in 1995, will be responsible for managing the privately-owned business which covers over 30 separate brands and employs in excess of 2200 people across the UK.

He takes over day-to-day duties in the newly-created post from founder A J Rawson, who remains as Group Chairman.

Mr Rawson says: 'Epwin has had many successes and has experienced tremendous growth over the past 30 years. I am fortunate to be able to hand over day-to-day responsibilities to a trusted and respected colleague, allowing me to focus on the strategic direction of the Group.'

Since introducing PVC-U windows to the UK in 1976, Epwin has grown to operate market-leading brands covering extrusion, product manufacture, installation and recycling. These include Profile 22, Swish Building Products, Permadoor, Quantal and Sierra.

http://www.epwin.co.uk

Just days before Christmas, Veka plc announced the signing of an agreement with the London Borough of Hackney under Phase II of the council's Decent Homes Programme, worth £40 million over 4 years. Negotiations have been successfully concluded by Veka in partnership with three companies from its fabricator network, Sovereign, Pipers, and Ashford, with the work commencing immediately after the New Year break.

Hackney has been negotiating with various organisations for 2 years for the project; Veka and partners signed the framework agreement on December 20th after 12 months of negotiations.

Trade fabricator Shepley Windows has recruited Kevin Warner, former Sales Director of Deceuninck-Status, to head up its Specialist Products Division.

Commenting on his appointment Kevin said,

‘I have long admired and respected Shepley Windows so I am delighted to be joining such a dynamic company. Shepley’s ambitious plans for expansion presented me with the kind of challenge I was seeking. I am looking forward to playing my part in delivering further growth.’

Speaking on behalf of Shepley Windows, Sales Director, Tim Walker said,

‘Attracting Kevin to Shepley has been a real coup. He is highly respected within the industry and his experience, contacts and market knowledge will undoubtedly add further strength to our team’.

Kevin Warner can be reached by email at kevin.warner@shepley.com

Superfabricator Speedframe has added Global roof and the SynerJy suite from Synseal.

‘We fabricate between 7,000 and 10,000 frames a week,’ explains Ian Harrison, Speedframe's Executive Chairman. ‘But that's just part of our business. Recently we have seen an increase in the number of orders for conservatory roofs. We knew we wanted to switch suppliers for roofs and looked at Global. And while we were looking at Global we saw the benefits of having the windows in the same colour profile. So we've added the SynerJy suite too.

‘Adding a new profile supplier is a big decision for us. We wanted to deal with a British company who understands the market. And we wanted to benefit from the increase in conservatory sales. With Global and SynerJy we can provide a full service - and the Global roof and the new top specification EnerJy window from Speedframe is available now.’

Tel: 01623 443 200

Against an extremely challenging UK market, Yorkshire-based Style Group UK, the independent replacement PVCu windows and doors manufacturer and supplier, has bucked industry trends and announced a record operating profit of £7.1m for 2004, a 24.6 per cent increase on the previous year's figure of £5.7m.

The profits growth comes on the back of a consolidated turnover increase of 4.5 per cent and marks the fourth year in succession that performance has improved reflecting the new structures, philosophy and focus being followed by the senior management team. For the second year running sales exceeded £100m.

The underlying profit before tax and dividends shows an impressive and continuous growth for one of Yorkshire's fastest growing companies from £1.493m in 2001, £2.693m in 2002, £5.691 in 2003 to the latest figure for 2004 of £7.090m.

The Style Group UK is the parent company of three specialised subsidiaries including Safestyle UK, the retail arm operating on the back of its award winning celebrity-fronted television and radio advertising campaigns, Windowstyle UK, the constantly developing manufacturing arm and Tradestyle LTD, the supplier to the non fabricating retailers and installers market.

Safestyle's operating profit during the year improved by 4.23 per cent as its brand was further developed. Customer recommendations increased, customer standards improved and a reduction in trade debtors in 2004 confirmed the company is meeting and exceeding customer expectations.

Tradestyle had an excellent year with turnover increasing by 50 per cent taking it to £6m together with a significant increase in profit.

Windowstyle has seen investment continue with the introduction of a glass toughening furnace. The new unit should improve gross margins, shorten lead times and reduce reliance on external suppliers. Glass unit manufacturing equipment has also been replaced and upgraded. The company has increased its profit margin at a time when there is real upward pressure on raw material costs.

John Ross, the Chief Executive of Style Group, outlines the company performance: ‘Another year of solid progress with the results being achieved against an industry background of uncertainty and reduced consumer confidence. This undoubtedly illustrates the determined efforts of our management team to focus on profit rather than sales’

He continued: ‘Unlike our competitors, the Group uses television and radio advertising as one of its prime means of securing leads and our success justifies this route to market. We shall continue to grow market share by producing memorable and creative advertising.

‘Safestyle is now well established as one of the largest and best known replacement window retailers in the United Kingdom and that has been reaffirmed this year with increased margins, improved efficiency in our manufacturing processes and tighter control of our overheads. The overall trading performance is highly satisfactory and yet the management team has not relaxed its efforts and we can expect improved results in the future.’

Style Group UK's Chief Executive John Ross oversees plans for future developments that will ensure continued success for the company.

Mr. Ross looked at the company's investment projects and commented: ‘This year also saw increased capital expenditure and we invested £2.8m in new capital projects. By far the largest investment was in the installation of a toughened glass facility at our Barnsley plant and we are confident that this will not only increase our control of the production process by replacing the amount of work undertaken by suppliers but also provide rapid payback and sustainable cost reductions.

‘Our Consumer Credit Licence is an important part of our business and in 2004 it was renewed for a five-year term. As part of that application we reviewed our policies relating to product quality, customer service and support facilities for staff, including health and safety training. This has all resulted in significant changes to improve customer service standards and create a better working environment for our staff.’

John Ross summed up the year: ‘The Style Group has always operated a culture of meritocracy by rewarding and promoting our best performers. This year was no exception and a record number of employees advanced their careers. The Group has reached a size where we are creating a large number of career opportunities for top performers in our industry and we continue to attract the best. The Style Group is in good hands and I confidently expect further progress in future years.’

The owners or occupiers of more than 80 per cent of the UK’s industrial premises are risking substantial losses and could be breaking the law because they do not have preventative maintenance programmes in place to protect their doors and shutters.

They have an even poorer record when it comes to maintaining and testing fire resisting doors. The Door and Hardware Federation (DHF) estimates that between 85 to 90 per cent of industrial buildings have no fire door maintenance and testing procedures in place whatsoever.

The federation is warning that the Workplace (Health, Safety & Welfare) Regulations 1992 oblige employers to ensure that industrial doors in workplaces are regularly and competently maintained. Other legislation contains additional provisions requiring regular maintenance of powered doors and fire resisting doors.

Said Michael Markham, chairman of the DHF Repair and Service Group: 'In every well-run factory or industrial premises of any sort, preventative maintenance programmes protect key elements of the manufacturing line. But a production line can be brought to a complete halt by vital doors jamming shut, and the cost in terms of lost production could run into many thousands of pounds.'

Under current legislation, employers, building owners and managers are liable to ensure all machinery, and that includes industrial doors and shutters, is fit for purpose, is in good repair and is subject to a programme of maintenance by competent persons with records kept, warned Mr Markham.

He added: 'It doesn’t need to be an accident involving a door that alerts the authorities to non compliance under this legislation. When health and safety inspectors visit a factory after any workplace accident they are very likely to want to inspect the whole building, including the doors and shutters.'

He said the lack of planned maintenance and operation testing programmes for fire doors in so many industrial premises is extremely worrying.

'Fire doors are designed to prevent fire spreading, so saving lives and preventing valuable stock and property being destroyed in flames. Building managers must familiarise themselves with the location of fire doors and ensure regular maintenance procedures are in place. From April 2006 Fire Officers will no longer certify industrial buildings, instead there will be a self certification obligation on the building owner/occupier to declare that correct maintenance procedures are in place.'

The DHF has a detailed a Code of Practice on repair and maintenance of industrial and commercial doors and shutters that is available to all owners and managers of industrial premises. To order copies, visit the DHF website: http://www.dhfonline.org.uk

Conservatory roofing systems company, Ultraframe, has held a series of workshops for members of its Guild Approved Ultra Installer Scheme across the UK. The events introduced Scheme members to the Scheme's new Insurance Backed Guarantee and presented an opportunity to preview and trial new product developments.

The new Insurance Backed Guarantee from Ultraframe is exclusively available to Ultra Installers. Alongside a Certificate of Authenticity for all Ultraframe roofs, the Insurance Backed Guarantee (IBG) gives homeowners peace of mind by covering them financially should their installer cease to trade.

The IBG is fully comprehensive and comes at the extremely competitive price of £18.50 + Insurance Premium Tax per conservatory up to a retail value of £25,000. This includes 25% deposit protection and work in progress cover.

Ultra Installers attending the events also had the benefit of receiving an exclusive preview of Framelock, Ultraframe's new product to be launched at Glassex 2006. Framelock is a new side frame fastening system which connects to the Ultraframe roof using easy-to-fit Clicklock technology. It ensures the structural integrity of the complete conservatory by integrating the load bearing capabilities of both the roof and side frames for the first time.

Ultraframe also introduced installers to its new Tie Bar Replacement Kit which offers an alternative to the traditional tie bar. 'While giving a greater level of structural stability than available with any competitor tie bar alternatives, it also offers simple installation for the fitter and a more pleasing aesthetic for those consumers who do not like the appearance of a tie bar in their conservatory,' says the company.

Marketing Director at Ultraframe, Linda Doughty commented: 'The workshops were a great opportunity to introduce and talk our Ultra Installers through Ultraframe's new product and service offerings. They also created an ideal venue for Ultraframe staff to meet our customers face to face and encourage a flow of communication from both sides. We can listen to feedback from Installers regarding the Scheme and Ultraframe products, which ultimately means we can respond better to their needs and help them offer the best possible service to their customers.'

Members of Ultraframe's Guild Approved Ultra Installer Scheme have undergone independent inspections by the BBA, which gives them a head start in advance of any Building Regulations introduced and increases their credibility with homeowners. Benefits of the Scheme include immediate communication about 'hot' sales leads, monthly updates on consumer referrals through the Ultraframe call centre and website, as well as outstanding marketing support to help boost business.

Mark Ashwell of Trademark Windows attended the London workshop. He said: 'The event was really useful. It enabled me to network with people in the business and we were able to discuss how we are finding the Scheme and share our ideas and comments with fellow Ultra Installers and Ultraframe representatives.'

Installers were also reminded of the advantages of using Ultraframe's Marketing Toolbox service to assist them with ideas and production of their own promotional activities. The Toolbox is designed to take the stress and time burden out of marketing their company by offering easy-to-use templates for personalisation to produce items such as radio campaigns, promotional literature and advertising.

Linda Doughty concluded: 'The workshops have been of great value for everyone involved and Ultra Installers can look forward to similar events in the near future.'

For more information on the Guild Approved Ultra Installer Scheme and Ultraframe products or the Insurance Backed Guarantee Scheme call 0870 756 0173 or visit http://www.ultraframe.com

Cheltenham-based Portal Products is celebrating a 'record breaking' quarter, with sales of its range of PVC-U panels and Paladin Composite GRP and Steel doors reaching new heights.

The company had double cause for celebration as the record sales results were achieved in conjunction with a consistent 99.2 per cent on time delivery performance in terms of orders despatched.

Sales and marketing manager Haydon Statham says: 'We have made several service improvements and efficiencies across the business during the past 18 months to ensure that our customers get the best quality product, at the best price, in the best possible time. This means that we are able to help them take on the business challenges and opportunities ahead with increased confidence.'

The company attributes some of the sales increase to its ever-expanding product range, as well as its new suite of 'lifestyle' literature.

Haydon says: 'Many companies subscribe to the stack them high mentality, selling a limited range of basic styles. Our customers, however, are looking to give their customers that little bit extra, which is why we have seen increased interest in our inverted PVC-U panels, bespoke glass design service and new GRP Composite Door products.

'A door should make a statement about a property and, at Portal, we believe in offering something different, giving customers both choice and value for money.'

Portal Products customer, Quality by Design of Cheltenham, says: 'We chose Portal Products because the company offers great lead times, second-to-none product choice and the best sales-support package going. It is a testament to the hard work the Portal team has put in over the last few years that it celebrates this record quarter and we would like to take this opportunity to be the first to pass on our congratulations.'

For further information about Portal's range of products or to request one of the new Portal brochures please contact the sales team on Tel: 01242 267000 or visit the website, http://www.portal-products.co.uk

Spectus fabricator Secure Window and Door Systems of Halesowen, says that it is bucking the trend. At a time when many trade fabricators are feeling the squeeze, the company is moving to bigger premises on the back of growing sales.

‘We were just getting too big for the old factory’, says Managing Director John Wakeman. ‘The new premises are three times bigger than the old and we have also invested in new plant and machinery to ensure we can continue to meet or exceed our customers requirements.’

A big new factory needs big business to keep it busy and running efficiently. John and his team, with support from Spectus, have been working to ‘secure’ new business and have had considerable success. The company has recently won an order for Spectus Vertical Sliding windows, which is probably the biggest single contract the company has ever won. The windows are to be installed in a new development of executive houses being built in the Leicestershire area. Secure was alerted to the opportunity by Spectus' Sales team, which includes Area Sales Manager Andy Meakin.

John Wakeman MD of Secure Window and Door Systems (left) with Andy Meakin of Spectus Window Systems.

‘The houses are being built by a large housebuilder from Leicestershire. The VS windows are in keeping with the high standard of construction and fixtures and fitting through out’, says John. ‘We were aware there was a lot of competition for this work so we had to work hard to demonstrate that we are the best people for the job. I think what swung it for us in the end were our observations on the job and our suggestions regarding how to organise production and installation. That helped the client feel comfortable with us - confident that we will do a good job.

‘The Spectus Vertical Slider is an excellent window and ideal for new build. Sliding sashes are good for meeting Part B egress, depending, of course, on the overall size of the window. The opening sash slides completely out of the way so there is no obstruction. The Spectus vertical sliding window has also been hot box tested and the results conclusively show that the requirements of Approved Document L can be fully met. The housebuilder will be fitting the windows using Spectus' former, which we are also supplying.’

John concludes, ‘There are lots of things that make these exciting times for us. As well as the new premises and all the new work we are generating, we have brought glass unit manufacture in house for the first time. With so many good things going on I feel the future for Secure is secure!’

Long established North Wales and Cheshire based window, door and conservatory manufacturer and retailer, John Williams Group, has recently signed up with hardware supplier, Trojan Hardware and Designs.

Trojan offers a full range of hardware solutions all designed and manufactured to assist the time-pressed fabricator. ‘Innovative, well designed products have never been more important to fabricators who are looking to ensure they can improve their manufacturing efficiencies and to do this, they need fabricator-friendly products,’ says the company.

Having studied the market for some time, John Williams Group chose Trojan. Managing Director of John Williams Group, Mike Williams explains: ‘We needed a hardware supplier that offered innovation coupled with exceptional product quality which we found with Trojan. We are currently working with the company’s Stallion II shootbolt which is undoubtedly the best shootbolt on the market. Being a BS7950 registered company, we needed to re-submit our window with the Trojan Stallion II Shootbolt fitted. The product passed first time which has to be an endorsement to the quality of Trojan's hardware.’

John Williams Group has also adopted Trojan's Pegasus side locking mechanism. Pegasus offers a design which seals medium to large top hung windows and provides an extra locking point on the vertical midpoint of the sash. This prevents the common problem of bowing in this area, which can cause draughts and leaks.
The Pegasus is particularly suited to conservatory applications where large top hung windows are vulnerable to bowing.

All Trojan's products are manufactured and accredited to the highest possible quality ratings which includes the company’s salt spraying test. This was extremely important to John Williams Group as the majority of the company’s applications are undertaken within hostile coastal salt air environments. Trojan's Stallion Shootbolt II has achieved 1000 hours salt spray corrosion resistance, so was a good choice for the company.

Mike Williams has been delighted with Trojan's products and concluded by saying: ‘Both Pegasus and Stallion II are fantastic products and deliver exactly what they claim. Furthermore, we have been pleased with the service received from the company. Unfortunately, many companies pay lip-service to customer care, but with Trojan its service is second to none. It is a professional, friendly supplier which offers some superb products.’

For more information on Trojan's products call 01922 713933.

For more information on John Williams Group visit http://www.johnwilliams.co.uk

To safely and efficiently handle a throughput of 240,000 tonnes of float glass at a new Russian facility, Pilkington Plc has invested over one million Euros (about £700,000) in advanced overhead cranes from UK specialist Street Crane Company.

UK glass manufacturer Pilkington has constructed the float glass plant in the Ramenskoye district in Moscow. This is one of the most advanced of its kind in the world and the most modern in Russia. Street equipment is often the first choice for both glass plants and for downstream distribution because it is engineered to give speed-controlled movement for greatest load stability and precise low-speed placement.

The Moscow contract included the supply, delivery and commissioning of 11 cranes. Installation was undertaken by Pilkington's own engineering teams. Cranes range in capacity from five to 25 tonnes safe working load and include double girder, single girder and wall travelling jib cranes. Some of the cranes span bays of 40 metres and all have remote radio operation.

All equipment was built in the UK and shipped overland to Russia. Sales director Keith Rainford commented, 'We have collaborated with Pilkington on UK and international projects for many years. This is the first project we have completed in Russia and we are pleased that the programme ran to schedule.'

The Ramenskoye plant began operations in November 05. It is a joint venture with the Emerging Market Partnerships (EMP) but Pilkington will operate the plant on behalf of the joint venture partners.

Contact: Keith Rainford
Tel: 00 44 1298 812456
Email: admin@streetcrane.co.uk
Web: http://www.streetcrane.co.uk

Alfreton based Eurocell, one of the UK's largest manufacturers of PVC-u profiles for windows, doors and conservatories, is lighting up a route to success for those employees who made it their New Year's resolution to give up smoking. Starting on 4th January, employees based at Eurocell's manufacturing and administration plant in Alfreton can leave their work station to attend Fresh Start counselling and support sessions to make this year's resolution a success.

Human Resources Manager Glenn Parkinson, who has organised the initiative, said: ‘It's not just about New Year resolutions, there are so many issues being raised about passive smoking there is no better time to offer support.

‘We started looking at this many months ago and contacted Amber Valley NHS Trust to help us put a programme in place. The Fresh Start Campaign offers counselling and practical help in the form of props and actions that can help smokers - for example, nicotine patches and how to change your habits so that you don't associate certain times and occasions with cigarettes.’

By making the initiative available during work time Eurocell hopes that it will give the added benefit of full-time support amongst employees taking part. Glenn added: ‘It's important to stress that we're not trying to alienate Eurocell employees who smoke - we're simply looking to help and support those who want to give up and haven't been able to do so on their own.’

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

Rehau and Astraseal marked 15 years in partnership recently with the presentation by Rehau of an engraved crystal rosebowl and framed certificate.

Martin Hitchin, Rehau’s Sales and Marketing Director, made the presentation to Astraseal's Corporate Director Mark McMullan at a ceremony held at Astraseal's new retail conservatory showroom near Milton Keynes.

Since it began manufacturing in the Rehau system in 1990, Astraseal has grown to become one of Rehau's largest fabricators.

It manufactures a comprehensive range of products for the trade, retail and commercial marketplaces in Rehau's S706 70mm, REHAU-Tritec 60mm and S719 Heritage vertical slider systems.

At the presentation, Martin Hitchin commented:

‘Astraseal is a real success story, excelling in all the markets in which it operates. We are proud to have played our part in its success and hope the relationship between the two companies will continue long into the future.’

Tel: 01989 762600

Berkshire-based trade stockist, First Choice Plastics & Window Centre, is well into its second year of working with Deeplas by Deceuninck and says that it couldn't be happier with the relationship.

Having been involved in the trade supply market for some years, First Choice Plastics & Window Centre says that it chose Deceuninck due to the company's reputation for quality products and consistency of supply. Managing Director of First Choice, Don Dwane said: ‘We selected Deceuninck as our sole supplier for roofline and cellular products as its Deeplas range are some of the highest quality products on the market - and we haven't been disappointed. The company’s quality and supply consistency is second to none and small details - such as the high density of the boards ensures they cut well without snapping - this makes certain their products handle well, transport well and are extremely installer friendly.’

First Choice Plastics & Window Centre stocks a full range of Deeplas roofline and cellular products at its dedicated trade counter based in Reading, Berkshire. The fully stocked trade counter also offers Deceuninck windows and a full range of rainwater systems to complement the full product offering.

In addition to offering a fully stocked trade counter, First Choice says that it offers a refreshing approach to customer service. Dwane sums up: ‘Just like our supplying partners, Deceuninck, at First Choice we take customer service very seriously. All our staff are fully trained and we help our customers throughout the purchasing process. From initial advice down to full plan call off, we ensure that our customers receive the best service possible. The combination of Deeplas products combined with the First Choice service makes the choice easy for every installer or contractor. It has to be First Choice Plastics & Window Centre every time.’

For more information on First Choice Products contact 0118 939 4503, or fax your requirements to 0118 939 4503.

Advantage Windows and Conservatories Ltd, part of the Moran Group Plc, has launched Window fitters Warehouse - a new trade counter support package.

The company – a large trade fabricator based in Cheshire, manufactures Rehau 70 and Spectus Elite 70 frames and is one of the largest manufacturers of K2 conservatory roofs.

After extensive research into the UK wholesaler market, Advantage says that it has recognised that trade counters are one of the fastest growing sectors of the PVCu industry with a potential market value of 500 million pounds.

Danny Hague (Group Commercial Director) and right - Ian Moran (Chairman) of Advantage Windows and Conservatories Ltd

Danny Hague, Advantage's Group Commercial Director says: ‘the Window Fitters Warehouse initiative is like a franchise but is not a franchise. It has been set up to fulfil a much needed supply source for wholesalers that are looking to expand and to provide a route to market for retail window companies looking to gain entry into trade supply’. He continues: ‘It's about time that independent operators in our marketplace were given the chance to go head to head with the multiple chains and we will give them that chance.

‘Advantage has the buying power to negotiate some of the best possible prices on a whole range of products from trade frames to roofs, doors, panels, plastic building products, tools, silicones and sealants. These discounted prices will be made available to WFW depots and would be beyond the reach of the independent trader.’

There is also a full support package including bespoke pricing software, point of sale material, literature packs, advertisements, flyers, van stickers and signage. The company will also supply and install the counter unit and has negotiated an exclusive deal with a skip hire company to provide a special discount for WFW customers.

Despite the fact that the WFW initiative has been kept largely under wraps until now - it's already off to a flying start. There are plans to open the first twelve new branches in Stratford, Newbury, Blackpool, Caerphilly, Kidderminster, Slough, Maidenhead, High Wycombe, Tamworth and three in the North East of England by the end of March. A promotional campaign will be running in the trade press during the first quarter of 2006 and interest is sure to be high.

Danny Hague and his team are ready for a very busy year. He says: ’ We at Advantage have spent the last two years preparing for Window Fitters Warehouse. With the backing of Chairman Ian Moran and my co directors, we are now in a position to support and supply a new generation of trade counters. This is without doubt one of the most exciting new initiatives that this industry has seen in years. With the opportunity to access a market worth around 500 million pounds per year - my advice is talk to us soon or you may miss the boat!’

RFT Trade Ltd (Right First Time) based between Southampton and Portsmouth, says that it has developed a solution to the problem of end-users who want non-standard designs. The company has switched to the Aztec conservatory roof system, and utilised the system’s flexibility to produce its own version of a splayed lean-to, which is already proving popular with fitters and end-users alike. Using a standard Aztec lean-to system, the usual boss has been cut in half and engineered to be fixed at an angle, allowing the rafter fingers to fit easily and create interest to the roof.

Pete Bevis, RFT managing director, explains, ‘People increasingly want something a bit different, and this provides one solution. We have used other conservatory roof systems, but in our experience, such adaptability is only possible with the Aztec system because of the way the core components are designed, and because unlike other systems it uses twin cappings as standard. That in itself enables the capping to be cut easily to accommodate the different angles at the ring beam abutment, giving a neat and tidy finish.’

The splayed lean-to can accommodate up to 4m depth and pitch as low as 4°. Every RFT roof- splayed lean-to or other design-is fabricated and delivered flat-packed to site within five working days, regardless of complexity: that level of service was achieved even with a lean to with an apex at the front and two valleys, and a 9.2m P shape roof.

Adds Pete Bevis, ‘We WILL get it right first time. We treat our customers with respect, and do out utmost to achieve whatever design is required, in discussion with our customer, and make his life building the conservatory on site as easy as possible.’

To that end, RFT has developed an adjustable frame for the conservatory brickwork. The system comprises two metal oblongs which are adjusted and set to the required angle, enabling the ‘bricky’ to build accurately to that line, and check as the wall height progresses. Pete Bevis explains, ‘Most fitters will tell you that the majority of the time the brickwork is out of line, which means lots of time consuming adjustment when the frames arrive to get them to fit. Our device helps ensure the brickwork is right, so the frames fit right first time.’

Frank Coenen and Albert Vasseur have joined the Management Committee of Tessenderlo Group, assuming leadership of the Chemicals and Plastics Converting Business Groups respectively.

They succeed Philippe Pôlet and Matteusz Dubinski who retired at the end of 2005 and at the beginning of 2006 respectively.

Frank Coenen was previously Director Asia Pacific for Surface Specialities at Cytec, the former chemical activity of UCB. Prior to that he was manager of various business units at UCB.

Frank Coenen is Chemical Engineer and holds an INSEAD Advanced Management Programme certificate.

The Chemicals Business Group, comprising the Inorganics, Chlor-alkali and PVC Business Units, generated 40 % of the group's revenue in 2004.

(L-R)Frank Coenen, Director Chemicals, Albert Vasseur, Director Plastics Converting

Albert Vasseur is currently in charge of Plastics Converting. He was previously general manager of Thermoplastiques Cousin-Tessier, a French subsidiary of Tessenderlo Group.

Albert Vasseur graduated in Chemicals and obtained an INSEAD Advanced Management Programme certificate.

The Plastics Converting Business Group, comprising the Profiles, Plastic Pipes & Fittings and Compounds Business Units generated around 32% of the total revenue of Tessenderlo Group in 2004.

Tessenderlo Group is an international chemicals group with 105 branches in 21 countries. Around 8,300 people work for the group, 2,200 of whom are located in Belgium. The company's consolidated revenue totalled 2,078 million EUR in 2004 from its three Business Groups (Chemicals, Specialities and Plastics Converting). The group is a world and European leader in most of its product areas.

Tessenderlo Chemie NV is listed on Eurolist by Euronext Brussels and is part of Next 150, NextPrime and BEL Mid.

Web: http://www.tessenderlogroup.com

Through its Engineered Systems business area, Trelleborg has entered into an agreement to acquire the CRP Group, an engineering company with annual sales of slightly more than SEK 1,000 M and 500 employees, primarily in the UK and the US. This will make Trelleborg a global market leader in polymer systems and solutions for offshore oil and gas projects.

'With CRP, we will be gaining a significant foothold in one of our prioritised growth segments, which we view as highly attractive for the future,' says Peter Nilsson, Trelleborg’s CEO. 'We have been following CRP for some time and are delighted to now reach an agreement regarding the acquisition of this global leader and its extensive technological and market expertise. This acquisition will additionally increase our focus on profitable segments and further improve the balance in the Group.'

The purchase price totals approximately SEK 970 M in the form of cash and through the assumption of loan-repayment obligations.

CRP was founded in 1974 and is currently controlled by Barclays Private Equity. The company has five production units in Skelmersdale (also head office) and Barrow-in-Furness, in the UK, as well as in Randolph and Canton, Massachusetts, and Houston, Texas, in the US. Sales and marketing offices are located in important offshore areas.

• Trelleborg´s acquisition of the remaining 70 percent of Elastomer Compounding s.r.o. (ECS) of the Czech Republic from Rado of Germany has now been concluded. Trelleborg has owned 30 percent of ECS since 1998. ECS’s mixing unit is located in Lesina.

ECS produces rubber mixtures primarily for profile manufacturers focusing on the construction and industrial sectors. Annual sales are approximately SEK 75 M and the unit has 40 employees.

Synergies will be generated in the form of shared purchasing and cost-efficient supplies to existing units, primarily in the Trelleborg Building Systems and Trelleborg Automotive business areas, and the acquisition also supports Trelleborg Automotive’s projected manufacturing plant in Romania, plans for which were recently decided.

Web: http://www.trelleborg.com