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Pikington-aluplast Co-operation Leads to 'First Cost Effective A-rated Window'

Window and door supplier, aluplast, has teamed up with the UK's leading glass manufacturer, Pilkington, to develop the 'first cost-effective A-rated window'.

The innovative design uses normal double-glazing with argon-filling and processing-friendly Pilkington K GlassTM. AG Glass of Barnsley supplies the units, which are constructed using Pilkington K Glass, Pilkington Optiwhite, an Edgetech Superspacer, and filled with argon gas. The profiles are supplied by aluplast (IDEAL 70) and fabricator, Rapid Frame, markets the windows. The complete system sets a new benchmark for accessible energy efficient glazing and lays down a challenge for other profilers to meet.

Andy McDowell, Float Coated Products Manager, Pilkington Building Products UK, said: 'In general, it is encouraging to see so many within the sector using innovation to achieve higher ratings. This illustrates the industry's growing commitment to Window Energy Ratings (WERs) as not just a legislative compliance tool, but as a means of differentiating products and achieving competitive advantage.

'However, there are still challenges ahead. In the main, A-rated windows still come at a high price so volume sales are non-existent as triple-glazing and/or krypton filling add unrecoverable costs to the final window. More cost-effective double glazed options, using argon gas filling, like this one, are in the pipeline, so it is unlikely that triple-glazing or krypton filling will be a practical solution going forward.'

When it comes to the top ratings, cost-effectiveness and accessibility are key, as are the further development of glazing unit components and profiles. The use of Pilkington Optiwhite low iron glass as the outer pane will also achieve simple and economical improvement in WERs.

Andy concluded: 'The C-rating is the perceived standard rating but this represents a significant performance difference over the majority of windows sold, which are mainly E and D-rated. C-rated windows also represent a cost difference so the opportunity to up-sell these higher rated windows to home owners as premium products should be taken to avoid further squeezing margins. This is why effort is now needed to realise the commercial potential of C-rated windows and the benefits of the additional endorsement from the Energy Saving Trust and their Energy Saving Recommended logo.'

For more information visit www.pilkington.co.uk/WERS, email pilkington@respond.uk.com or telephone the Pilkington Technical Helpline on 01744 692000.

Get Focussed on the Glorious 12th!

Make Friday 12th October a night to remember - the date for the G07 Awards Presentation, the industry's most talked about evening, has been announced.

Once again, this official recognition of our industry's achievements and innovation will be held at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole, NEC Complex. The Presentation Gala Dinner - hosted by another top celebrity - is the culmination of the annual industry awards scheme which begins this week.

Event sponsors already include Glass & Glazing Federation, WHS Halo, Laird Security Hardware, FENSA, Glassex and GP&T exhibtions, Pilkington Activ, Rehau, BFRC, SAPA, Bohle and Darby Glass with further sponsors being announced very soon.

This year the categories are:
Fabricator of the Year
Installer of the Year
Conservatory Installer of the Year
Social Housing Project of the Year
Glass Company of the Year
Energy Efficiency Initiative
Training & Development Award
Customer Care Initiative
Health & Safety Initiative
Promotional Campaign of the Year
Glass Project of the Year
Specialist of the Year

The brand new G07 fully functional website will goes live this week giving full details and regular updates about the event as well as the facility for applicants to enter the category of their choice quickly and efficiently on line. The web address is http://www.g-awards.com.

To discuss any of the above or other exciting sponsorship opportunities now available, contact event organiser Tony Higgin at tony@g-awards.com

New Häfele Showroom Opens in Manchester with CPD Presentations

Häfele is celebrating the opening of a new showroom at the company’s Manchester regional office on Salford Business Park on Tuesday April 17th with two CPD presentations to building design and construction specialists.

The new showroom occupies an additional unit adjoining Häfele's regional office on Leslie Hough Way. It was acquired - and has been equipped - to facilitate the presentation of CPD programmes at all levels, including to members of professional institutes.

There will be two CPD seminars presented by Häfele, the first of which has been developed alongside both the RIBA and The CPD Certification Service on sliding door gear for professionals in the construction sector. The What, Why and Where of Sliding Door Gear is one of several such programmes that are currently in the planning stages at Häfele, architectural products manager Gary King explains. The second, which is entitled Frameless Glass Fittings for Doors, Screens and Canopies, is currently under assessment.

The expected presentation time on April 17th is around 60 minutes and lunch will be provided for visitors on the day together with a tour of related products displayed in the new showroom. The latter will be conducted by Häfele regional architectural manager Martin Lees, with whom contact should be made by readers wishing to attend.

Tel: 0161 745 8242
Web: martin.lees@hafele.co.uk

Ultraframe v. Burnden: The Very, Very Final Chapter

According to Burnden Group Chief Exec Gary Fielding: 'We're pleased to announce that the very final matter in the protracted legal proceedings between ourselves and Ultraframe has now been resolved.

'Following The Burnden Group's success in the Court of Appeal (which had confirmed the earlier Burnden Group success in the High Court) Ultraframe had applied for permission to appeal to the House of Lords. That request has been refused by the House of Lords, which brings a final end to the substantive proceedings.

'All that remains now is for the calculation of the amount of costs which Ultraframe has been ordered to pay to Burnden, which is expected to be in the region of £5 million'.

LDG Group Ltd Buys Majestic Windows

On the 9th March 2007 Blackpool based Lancashire Double Glazing Group Ltd purchased Majestic Windows in Goose Green Wigan.

Managing Director, Mr Bill Forsyth commented ‘It's not very often a company of our size gets the opportunity to buy a competitor out like Majestic that has been trading for over 30 years and has passed through three family generations. They say history has a tendency to repeat itself, as we did the very same thing in 1994 when we bought out Raymond Wood Commercial, and now under the LDG Group this company has notched up 29 years of successful trading and the previous Managing Director’s son Alan continues to work with us today. This was a huge success and is now operating from a brand new purpose built 20,000 sq ft building right in the heart of Preston. It is now the largest Commercial Aluminium/UPVC combined Window Company in the North West of England.

‘Our aim is to install the same attitude and work ethic combined with a solid infra structure and customer focus to Majestic as we have done through out the years with LDG. We are confident that the transaction will help to introduce Lancashire Double Glazing into the Wigan and surrounding areas where future customers can enjoy and experience the up to date systems and procedures, along with the latest manufacturing machinery producing the highest quality windows and conservatories along with excellent customer care we pride ourselves on. The main objective here at Lancashire Double Glazing is to ensure we 'continually improve' our product, our technology and at the same time be considerate to the environment. All this along with our excellent customer service team, we pride ourselves on giving the customer exactly what they want. We hold the following accreditations ISO 9001:2000, BS 7412 and BS 7950 and on our latest British Standard assessment we achieved 100% with NO non conformances. This is how high we aim.

‘You will see Majestic Windows in local newspapers and shopping malls including Morrison's, Safeway and Home base stores, however the branch will still operate out of the Conservatory Village at St Stephens Way Goose Green.

‘We are confident we can commit to past and present customers an excellent quality product at a price they can afford and look forward to working with the people in East Lancashire.’

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

Edgetech Supports Senator in the Launch of its Consumer Proposition

At its recent sales conference in Wexford, Senator Windows revealed its new consumer proposition with the help of longstanding supplier Edgetech. As the leading retail company in Ireland, and the first in Ireland to achieve the much sought after 'A' rating, Senator is making the most of its lead. The company is taking its message to market with the launch of a high profile consumer campaign.

The recent announcement of Senator's 'A' and 'B' ratings follow the company's triumph of getting the first 'C' rated window last year.

With over 100 delegates in attendance, Senator invited Edgetech to give a presentation because all its ratings have been achieved using Super Spacer®.

Edgetech and Senator worked in partnership to offer practical advice on how to use Energy Saving Recommended windows to increase sales and make the most of the lead Senator has on the rest of the market.

‘Window Energy Ratings were definitely top of the agenda for most of the speakers at our conference this year,’ explains Kevin Richards, Group Managing Director of Senator Windows. ‘We were thrilled to achieve an 'A' rating in particular, but as far as I'm concerned energy ratings are essential. More and more consumers are asking for energy rated products and as the leading retail supplier in Ireland it's our job to stay ahead of that demand and offer them the best. That's why we're giving all our dealers nationwide all the support they need with a new national radio campaign for our energy rated windows.

‘Our customers expect a premium product from Senator, which is why all our energy rated windows use the very best components,’ continues Kevin. ‘All our energy rated windows use our high specification Senergy units and they've all been Secured by Design accredited.’

Terrance Ruane, Sales Manager of Senator Dublin, could immediately see the benefit he would have over his competitors: ‘Window Energy Ratings are driving the market. Consumers are demanding energy rated products and more energy efficient homes - windows obviously play a big role in this. As a market leader, Senator has to set the standards for other companies to chase.’

Michael Cowman, Sales Manager of Senator Carlow adds: ‘The sales conference this year showed how we can really use energy rated windows to increase sales. It's a fantastic way forward and with the massive media push on environmental issues, it's important Senator, through its dealers, is pushing it too. Awareness is so high among consumers it's vitally important as a company we're seen to offer solutions.’

‘We've all seen the number of windows that are energy rated fast increasing,’ says Andy Jones, ‘but few companies are making the most of the advantage they have over the rest of the market. Senator can see the opportunity open to its dealers and we were delighted to be able to support them, not only from a technical perspective, but by offering practical advice on how to make the most of this fantastic sales opportunity.’

Web: http://www.senatorwindows.com

Industry Pays the Price for Selling Cheap

A new survey by 'super-fabricator' Sierra Windows reveals that despite reporting increased turnover for the vast majority of fabricators and installers profit margins are standing still or falling.

According to the study, while most installers and fabricators said that they had seen an increase in turnover (65 per cent) only 25 per cent reported an accompanying increase in profits, while 30 per cent reported a decrease and 45 per cent no substantial change.

Brian Webb, general manager of Sierra Windows, said: ‘These figures clearly demonstrate that many in the industry are being forced to increase turnover simply to tread water.

‘This supports what many within the industry have been saying for a long time and that is that it has got its pricing wrong and has sold itself short in the pursuit of volume by putting lower and lower prices on increasingly sophisticated products and that simply isn't sustainable.’

That the industry has failed to get its pricing right is also supported by findings pointing to ongoing market consolidation. According to the Sierra State of the Market Study, 60 per cent of installers and fabricators reported that one of their competitors had closed down in the past 12 months, while more than half expected one of their competitors to stop production or installation in the coming year.

Moreover, when asked if they supported the statement that there would not be any let up in this trend in the foreseeable future, 95 per cent of the 100 fabricators and installers questioned agreed.

However, the findings did reveal a silver lining. Although half of respondents said that they believed the market was continuing to decline, a quarter said that they thought it had stabilised and 25 per cent that it was recovering.

Returning to price, 65 per cent of fabricators and installers questioned agreed or strongly agreed with the charge that consumers were paying too little for installed windows. However, when asked if they supported the statement that installers were not passing on increases in the prices paid by the consumer, only 35 per cent said 'yes', while 55 per cent disagreed and 10 per cent disagreed strongly.

Webb adds: ‘The market remains tough and market consolidation isn't going to go away. For smaller fabricators stopping production to buy in products and to concentrate on sales and marketing instead may be an important strategy if they are to avoid becoming another statistic.

‘And despite ongoing challenges there are still opportunities providing that you have the right products and the right support.

‘But whether opting to buy-in your range or to continue to manufacture it we must as an industry get pricing right and to make sure the consumer is paying a fair price for a quality product, if we are to avoid a repeat of the mistakes that have been made on price in the past.’

Companies Sign Up for GlazeKart 2007

Companies are now signing up to be on the grid when the starting flag falls at GlazeKart 2007 at Milton Keynes on Friday, 29th June. This great industry networking event has already attracted a bumper entry and we are looking for more teams to join in the fun.

Everybody had such an enjoyable time at the inaugural event last year that nearly all the teams have signed up again! Returning teams include the 2006 winners, Patterson & Rothwell, together with others from Profile 22, Business Micros, Glass UK, Metal UK, Emplas and Sapa Building Systems.

They will be joined on the grid this year by some newcomers, including teams from Synseal, Winkhaus and Whiteline Group. Shouldn't your company be there?

The event can take up to 30 teams so, if your company is in some way involved in the glass or fenestration industries why don't you join many other major industry names! The cost, including all karting, event management and food and drink for the drivers throughout the day, is just £499 + VAT! Teams consist of up to 4 drivers.

Entry forms are available from Nick Moss at Walnut Motorsport on 01386 710106. There are also some limited opportunities for event sponsorship - ask Nick for details.

For further information on GlazeKart event and more photos from 2006, visit the dedicated pages on Walnut Motorsport's website at http://www.walnutmotorsport.com.

Celuform Promotion will Scoop Lucky Winner Tools Worth £1000

Installers of PVC-ue roofline and cladding products could win one of numerous prizes including plasma televisions, MP3 players, vouchers, and a golden prize of £1000 worth of tools.

Purchasers will be entered into the 'Winning with Celuform' draw when they buy best selling cellular plastic ranges including Vanquish, Esprit, Duoliner, shiplap cladding and multi-purpose board.

Thousands of entry forms are being distributed. All the buyer has to do is complete the form, return it with a copy of their invoice and they will automatically be entered into the draw. Forms are available both on the counter at Celuform stockists and in product packs.

Look out for posters and branch staff wearing special promotional clothing. Voucher prizes can be redeemed at leading high street shops and supermarkets, and for Celuform's City & Guilds accredited training school.

There is a full range of low maintenance, high quality Celuform systems to suit all applications. Product features include plain or decorative choices, square or bull-nosed profiles, as well as a wide selection of white finishes and colours.

The range also includes the recently launched and highly successful Celutex, an embossed wood grain finish that is almost indistinguishable from timber.

Celuform was the first UK manufacturer of PVC-ue building products and today is the largest supplier of roofline and cladding systems.

Contact Celuform on 01622 719199 for more information.

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

Vista Group Named Supplier of the Year for Trade Counters

Vista Group plc, the Wirral - based manufacturer of PVCu door panels and composite doors, has been voted 'Supplier of the Year' by Advantage Windows and Conservatories Ltd, which has opened a national network of trade counters under the company’s Window Installers Warehouse (WIW) brand.

Presentation of the WIW supplier of the year award. Keith Sadler, MD of Vista (left) receives the award from (centre) Ian Moran, Chairman of Advantage with (right) Danny Hague, Advantage's Group Commercial Director.

This inaugural award was the result of a series of consultations with each of the 25 plus WIW depots. They were asked for their opinions on which of several suppliers offered overall the best level of service, quality and value. Vista's range of door panels and composite doors are highly specified and Vista is one of only three English companies to hold BBA, EN ISO9001 and LAPFAG accreditation on its range of PVC-u door panels, while the composite door range holds PAS 23 /24, Secured by Design and the Q mark Scheme certification. It was the quality of the doors together with the excellent customer service that clinched the award.

The award was jointly presented to Vista's Managing Director - Keith Sadler by Advantage's Chairman Ian Moran along with Group Commercial Director Danny Hague. Keith Sadler said: ‘I am delighted to accept this award on behalf of all of the team at Vista Panels. We have been partnering the WIW network since it launched in January 2006 and we have watched it grow into a national chain of around 30 branches with more coming on board all the time. My thanks to Ian Moran and Danny Hague for the opportunity to supply their depots and a special mention to our National Sales Manager, Wesley Buchan, who has done a great job in looking after all the WIW trade counters.’

Tel: 0151 608 1423
Email: sales@vista-panels.co.uk
Web: http://www.vistapanels.co.uk

Positive Signs for the Industry as another Expansion is Announced

Angel Plastics, the trade and consumer supplier, has opened a new store in Sutton, Surrey.

Angel Plastics' new store is dedicated to the full range of Deceuninck building products. This includes products for building envelopes such as the Belface heavy duty cladding system and Twinson cladding and decking as well as fascias, soffits and guttering. For building interiors, visitors to the store will find products including the innovative Decor wall and ceiling panels.

Stephen Cobb, Angel Plastics' Managing Director, said of the store's opening: ‘You read so much in the industry press about the struggles businesses are facing but we're not finding that to be the case at all. Our company has been experiencing considerable growth, especially in the building products area. We decided to open this store to capitalise on this success. These are exciting times for Angel Plastics.’

Angel Plastics puts its success down to the quality of the company’s products and the quality of the service given to all its customers, whether trade or consumer. But Stephen Cobb is quick to give credit to those suppliers who've played a part in his company's growth: ‘We always aim to offer the best possible products and service, but we couldn't do that without a similar commitment from our suppliers. We've always found Deceuninck's products and service to be exceptional. The fact that we've opened a store dedicated to its products is a testament to what we - and our customers - think of the company.’

Angel Plastics’ new store is open Mondays to Fridays 7.00am to 5.00pm and on Saturdays between 8.00 and 12.00. Both trade and domestic customers are welcome. Customers can also shop online at http://www.angelplastics.co.uk.

Arctic Warms to Spectus

Arctic, the Newburn, Newcastle-upon-Tyne based fabricator has made the switch to Spectus and is now fabricating its Elite 70 range.

With over nine years in the glazing business operating in the trade, retail and commercial sectors Arctic has made the change to Spectus because it believes that the Elite 70 system will be ideal for the commercial sector - an area that the company is keen to grow. In fact since Arctic made the switch in October 2006 the company has, with a little help from Spectus, already won a number of new commercial contracts.

Left to right: Eddie Traill, Arctic Windows, Kirk Maxwell, Spectus

Arctic is also very active in the trade and retail sectors and the move to Elite 70, combined with Arctic's fabrication and installation expertise, is generating new opportunities. Says Eddie Traill, Arctic's Managing Director: ‘For our trade customers quality and service go hand in hand, now we have a product that equals our service so we are offering the optimum package - and at very competitive prices.’

Eddie continues: ‘Moving to Spectus has been a revelation in many ways - all the people I've met are professional and very enthusiastic. The change over has been achieved with the minimum of fuss and disruption. In terms of the marketing support we have already collaborated on a folder and a promotional flyer and we are also planning an open day. I'm looking forward to developing the relationship further over the coming months and years.’

Arctic fabricates both the ovolo and the bevelled versions of Spectus' Elite 70, which together make one of the most complete and flexible PVC-U window system available.

The system offers a range of benefits - each of which has been designed to make the fabrication and installation processes easier and more cost-effective than ever before.

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

CDM Regulations Come in to Force

Following extensive consultation with the construction industry, the new Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 (CDM 2007) came in to force on Friday 6th April 2007. Making it easier for duty holders to comply with the requirements, they simplify and clarify existing Regulations.

Through a focus on managing risks on site, reducing paper work, encouraging team work and getting the right people for the right job at the right time, the implementation of these Regulations are expected to see a step change improvement in health and safety performance within the industry.

Construction remains one of the highest risk sectors, with over one fatality occurring each week despite the improvements made in recent years. The revised CDM Regulations aim to improve the level of health and safety performance in the construction industry by clarifying the responsibilities of each duty holder and focusing on effective planning and risk management.

Commenting on what is a landmark for the construction industry this year, Stephen Williams, Chief Inspector of Construction, HSE said: ‘The industry has worked very closely with HSE to revise the CDM Regulations and ensure that there are clear benefits for all competent dutyholders. The Regulations clarify responsibilities of each duty holder and require greater focus on the risks to be managed by all involved in the construction process. Underlying all the changes is one simple aim - to reduce the unacceptable number of fatalities and injuries in the construction industry.’

The revised CDM Regulations will introduce the following changes:
* Clarify construction client responsibilities when they are exercising their influence over the health and safety standards on their projects.

* Replace the role of Planning Supervisor with a new role of CDM co-ordinator. The co-ordinator will act as the client's key advisor on health and safety issues, particularly effective communication and co-ordination of health and safety information.

* Emphasise the importance of competence at all levels in securing health and safety benefits, whilst simplifying the assessment of competence.

* Drive out needless health and safety paperwork and bureaucracy. Paperwork should be project-specific, relevant, proportionate to the risk, and of real use in helping to manage the risk.

* Simplify when a project is notifiable, and formal plans and appointments are required. Projects will be notifiable if they will involve more than 30 days or 500 person days of construction work. No projects for a domestic client will be notifiable. Formal plans and appointments are only required for notifiable projects.

The CDM 2007 Regulations have been developed in line with the Government's Better Regulation principles and will consolidate and revise the main pieces of existing construction health and safety at work legislation, namely: the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994 and the Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996- resulting in a single, simplified set of regulations.

Modernising and Strengthening Building Control

The Government launched on 28th March a major modernisation of the Building Control system with the publication of a paper detailing its vision for how the system can be improved.

'The Future for Building Control' sets out a package of options that the Government is minded to develop further and invites interested parties to provide suggestions on how reform should proceed. The publication follows detailed discussions with key members of industry on the strengths and weaknesses of the current system, which have highlighted the strong case for reform.

The paper recognises a number of important shortcomings with the current system including the lack of a clear future vision for the purpose of Building Control, the current piecemeal approach to regulatory change and the complexity of guidance.
Problems with achieving compliance and with effective enforcement are also highlighted as key areas for action.

Amongst those ideas included in the package are options for:
* providing greater enforcement powers for local authorities to tackle persistent offenders;

* further helping with compliance by providing simple customer focused guidance that helps with specific building work or types of problems;

* moving away from a piecemeal approach to building regulation review and towards a longer fixed-term cycle with planned pauses and a clear indication of future changes; and

* formulating options for making sure that building control bodies are properly resourced into the future.

Angela Smith, Minister for Building Regulations said:

‘There is a clear case for reform of the Building Control System both for industry and for the consumer. Initial talks with stakeholders have proved very helpful in giving Government a steer on the areas we need to modernise to make it as effective and straightforward as it should be.

‘We are determined to ensure that we have a Building Control System that is efficient in its purpose to deliver buildings which are not only safe, healthy and accessible but also sustainable and make a direct contribution to tackling climate change. I invite all interested parties to get involved in the debate and offer any other suggestions that will contribute to making a Building Control System fit for the future’.

Michael Finn, chairman of BRAC said:

‘The present system of Building Regulation has served us well, but more complex construction techniques and the need to achieve greater energy efficiency mean we need to take a hard look at ways of improving and simplifying the technical guidance and setting milestones for future step changes.

‘I welcome this initiative which BRAC wholeheartedly supports and we will work with Ministers to develop a robust system for the future.’

Also published on 28th March was a study document Achieving Building Standards, which has fed into the Government's analysis of the current system. A full consultation document will be published in due course.

The 'Building the Future Paper' can be found here: http://www.communities.gov.uk/index.asp?id=1509043.

Celuform Scoops Housebuilder's Environment Award

PVC-ue building products supplier Celuform has won a top accolade from the nation's leading homes developer.

At the glittering annual David Wilson Homes Construction Awards, Celuform took a prestigious ecological prize, the National Environmental Award for Waste Segregation Management Control.

Celuform was chosen following an assessment of 85 suppliers and their environmental performance. Celuform scooped the award, beating a number of other leading building product manufacturers which participate in the David Wilson Homes Environmental Forum.

Greg Locke (right), chief executive of David Wilson Homes, presents the award to Darren Moles from Celuform.

Jason Woodbine, David Wilson's Group Procurement Manager, says that the award is recognition of Celuform's continuous improvement in all environmental aspects and the company's commitment to drive forward changes to make manufacturing processes more 'green'.

'Celuform is now one of the top 10 suppliers who participate in the David Wilson Environmental Forum,' he says.

A £100,000 dedicated grinding and pulverising machine is a key element in Celuform's waste management strategy. Located at the main UK site in Aylesford, Kent, the grinder has significantly increased the amount of material that is reclaimed and recycled. The cellular plastic roofline, cladding and window products company also invested in a twin cylinder industrial compactor to compress non-recyclable waste for delivery to landfill.

Iain Pirie, Celuform's operations director, says that these developments are key to ensuring that the highest environmental and sustainability standards are maintained.

'Because we process tens of thousands of tonnes of PVC each year, the investment will reduce our environmental impact,' he said.

'Also, as raw material prices have risen by leaps and bounds in recent years, any action that minimises the effects of rising costs has got to be good for our customers. In addition, the installations will improve our self-reliance because all processing operations are now in-house.'

The David Wilson Home national construction awards have been held annually for the past nine years and recognise the achievements of the developer's construction teams, sub-contractors and suppliers.

Celuform produces a full range of fascia, soffit, cladding and windowboards to suit all applications. Features include plain or decorative choices, square or bull-nosed profiles, as well as a wide selection of white finishes and colours such as Expresso Brown, Mahogany, Golden Oak and Ebony. Widely specified Celuform brands include Celutex, Duoshield, Conquest, Elite, Esprit and Duoform.

Tel: 01622 719199
Email: info@celuform.co.uk
Web: http://www.celuform.co.uk

Thirty Years On and Still Going Strong

Thirty years after it began trading, Macclesfield-based fabricator, Central Glass is going from strength to strength with a thriving retail business, a developing trade market and a whole host of long-standing and loyal customers.

Today the company employs over 30 people and produces over 150 windows each week. As Graham Ward, Central Glass's General Manager explains: ‘We have always had a vision of what we wanted to achieve - quality windows and doors at reasonable cost combined with a reliable and efficient service. In fact, the company was originally an installation business which went into fabrication to ensure quality and consistency of supply.’

Left to right: Ken Wheeler, Chris Sherratt, Robert Benson, Graham Ward, Central Glass

Throughout its 30 years, Central Glass has had a special and unique relationship with Spectus, which began because of its location, close to Spectus' head office. In fact, way back when Spectus used to fabricate actual windows, Central Glass supplied all the sealed glazing units.

Central Glass now fabricates Spectus' Elite 70 system and was the trial fabricator for the system before it went into full production. The two companies enjoy a mutually supportive relationship, helping each other to develop their businesses.

Another of Central Glass' passions is fund raising for local charities, and the East Cheshire Hospice and Prostrate Cancer Research in particular. Graham comments, ‘Every year we organise a golf day. This year the main sponsor is Float Glass Industries. It is a great way to raise money and to get to know our customers and suppliers better. Everyone has a fantastic time and we help those people who need it most’.

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

Delchem Announces Exclusive European Agent

Delchem's exclusive European agent, Stephen Collings, of 1279 Supplies Limited (Bristol, England), can be contacted regarding information and the availability for Delchem's D-2000 REACTIVE Hot Melt Butyl IG Sealant, as well as other products and services for the European area fenestration industry.

1279 Supplies Limited represents Delchem, Inc. and D-2000 throughout all European, Middle Eastern and Scandinavian countries.

Stephen Collings demonstrates a comprehensive background along with a wealth of experience in many aspects of the fenestration industry: selecting double glazed unit materials of construction, extensive insights and solutions regarding regulatory compliance, production equipment and engineering, and, development of production efficiency and annual turnover improvement strategies and implementation programs.

Delchem invites you to contact Stephen to learn more about D-2000 and the other products and services available for the fenestration industry via 1279 Supplies Limited.

Mr. Stephen Collings
Tel: +44 7718 744172
Email: info@1279supplies.com
Web: http://www.1279supplies.com

Leading Manufacturer Installs Bystronic Glass Equipment

Dual Seal Glass is an independent commercial sealed unit manufacturer based in Huddersfield which is setting new standards in the architectural market after making a substantial investment in Bystronic Glass equipment.

The progressive Bystronic installation at the company has already increased output and enabled the company to further diversify its product range. The state-of-the-art IG line with robotic sealing enables Dual Seal Glass to produce larger sized sealed units for curtain walling on large architectural projects.

As such the specially tailored Bystronic equipment allows the company to produce units up to 500kgs in many various shapes and sizes. The fully automatic IG production line with a capacity for units up to 2.7 x 4.5 metres has been extended to include a gas press as well as special conveyor that further automates the line to lift the larger units. This continuous improvement process will also shortly see the facility seal with both silicone & Polysulphide from the same sealing robot, additionally the automatic sealing of Schueco structural units will be possible on line.

The Bystronic Spacerbender was another key element to the installation. The first of its kind in the UK the Spacerbender provides a two-way alternate processing system for unfilled aluminium or warm edge stainless steel profiles. This provides Dual Seal Glass with a cost effective method of saving on materials thanks to the endless connection of spacer bars.Dual Seal Glass has an established reputation in the commercial sector and with this investment in Bystronic equipment, intends to further improve its capabilities and on-site efficiency within the company. This installation is one of the largest of its kind and the equipment was chosen by senior management at the company because of the superiority and reliability of the Bystronic brand.

Geoff Hancock Managing Director at Dual Seal Glass considered technical investment at the company of vital importance because of the increasing market demands in product specification, quality and new building regulations whilst continuing to remain competitive. The level of investment was substantiated by the design, engineering and product performance of the Bystronic range.

Mr Hancock comments, ‘This company has developed a reliable standing in the IGU commercial sector throughout the UK and with this installation we intend to further raise our standards. We approached Bystronic because of the formidable reputation the company has in the market, knowing we could achieve excellent results with the machinery.

‘We are now in a position to increase production and diversify the products available knowing that we can attain consistently high standards for our customers at a realistic cost. This investment has extended our size capabilities adding another dimension to our current extensive range and will help to strengthen our market position within the UK’

Brian McDonald, Sales Manager, Bystronic Glass UK comments; ‘Bystronic Glass aims to provide customers with efficient, tailor-made solutions. We look forward to continuing our working relationship with Dual Seal Glass as the company’s corporate position strengthens and its key target sectors expand.’

Web: http://www.bystronic-glass.com

Hurst Steams Ahead with New CNC Machine

Hurst Plastics has made a strategic investment in the region of £100,000 in a state-of-the-art CNC (Computerised Numeric Control) routing machine.

The new Optimat machine from Weeke will enable Hurst to manufacture more than 300 Rhino composite doors a week. It uses the very latest technology to machine all the door cut outs for glazing and door furniture in less than five minutes per door.

Hurst Plastics says that the Rhino is a breakthrough in door technology which offers unrivalled security and weather performance. Thanks to the new machine as well as Hurst's exceptional delivery network and stockholding capacity, the Rhino door is available within five working days.

Samantha Kerr, Hurst Plastics marketing manager, explains: ‘We are always looking to broaden our product range and maintain our position as a leader in the field so we are naturally delighted to benefit from such an advanced machine. It is the first in a string of many investments we have planned in our factory, which will help us to progress the company in line with our strategy for further growth.’

Hurst's product development manager Richard Corke was the driving force behind the acquisition of the CNC machine. Richard, who joined the company in May 2006 and worked for Jeld-Wen for 22 years, brings the industry experience of Hurst's production management team to more than 70 years.

Benefiting from a skin which is as tough as its namesake, the Hurst Rhino makes a smart entrance and is exceptionally safe and secure. The low maintenance door is fitted with the latest Yale multipoint locking system and has a robust core and impenetrable skin to ensure it is capable of resisting a sustained attack from even the most determined intruder.

The Hurst Rhino door is guaranteed not to warp, twist or flake and has been independently tested. The full door set has achieved full accreditation for the stringent PAS 23/24 standard including the new clause 11 that covers severe physical attack on the lock cylinder and door handle.

For further details on the Hurst Rhino or to obtain a copy of the new brochure, please contact the Marketing hotline on 01482 790790.

Hurst Plastics is a manufacturer of high quality PVC-U door infill panels and polymer doors. Based in Kingston-Upon-Hull, the company also supplies a wide choice of unique glazing options and a selection of GRP products, including overdoor canopies, bow canopies and conservatory roofs.

Web: http://www.hurst-plastics.co.uk

Astraseal Bucks the Trend

After 30 years in the business BCE customer Astraseal is still going strong. With sales up 11% year on year and a showroom opening every year for the last three years, it says that it is certainly a company bucking the trend.

Mark McMullan, Deputy Managing Director of Astraseal explains how the company has changed. ‘When we started out 30 years ago we only supplied our products to residential properties, but the markets are changing. Now 50% of our business is in the social housing sector and 5% is in New Build with the remaining 45% in domestic. But whichever sector we're working in we want to provide the best, which is why we manufacture as much as possible in-house. Whether its windows, conservatories, vertical sliders, composite doors or sealed units, we manufacture as much as we can to maintain control over the quality of everything that leaves Astraseal. And where we don't manufacture, we want to use suppliers we can trust.

‘We use BCE for our roofline and window trims because it's good value for money,’ continues Mark. ‘It's got a wide product range and holds a good stock of product. Equally important, BCE is reliable - it delivers when it says it will.

‘Looking forward, we're planning to open a showroom a year to continue to promote ourselves to the end user. We've already opened a showroom in Milton Keynes in May 2005, one in Northampton in May 2006 and in July this year we'll be revealing our latest showroom in Bicester. The aim of the showrooms is to promote our products but also to make it easier for the homeowner to find what they're looking for.’

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

New Build Market Warming to Tremco illbruck Duralite

The wide ranging benefits of Tremco illbruck's Duralite IG sealant system have led to the recently launched warm edge spacer being adopted by a major IG manufacturer for all of its work in the new-build housing sector.

NBW Glass is part of the NBW Group based in Evesham in Worcestershire and produces some 7,000 sealed units each week for clients across a number of sectors, as well as supplying its own in house customers.

Last Autumn, NBW took the decision to switch to the advanced, one-step Duralite process for the company’s production of insulating glass units in order to produce a high performance product to improve performance in relation to Part L of the Building Regulations in domestic applications. Working in co-operation with Tremco illbruck's Technical Advisory Service, NBW has now converted its production equipment and begun manufacturing sealed units using the new Duralite IG system.

NBW Group Director, Ged McCrory, comments: ‘We supply a lot of units to major UK housebuilders such as Taylor Woodrow and Persimmon Homes, as well as to housing associations. The NBW Group of Companies took the decision to change to Duralite because of the lower U-value and superior BFRC Window Energy Ratings that are achievable.

‘The fabricators we have consulted claim they can gain either a 'B' or a 'C' score under the Window Energy Rating System using standard components. Duralite also gives far lower sight-lines which is aesthetically more pleasing and appeals to many fabricators. The gas loss is superior to other IG systems, making for a very high performing and efficient product backed by a 12 year manufacturer's guarantee. The training and support from Tremco illbruck has also been exceptional.’

As an integrated system, Duralite advanced composite laminating technology and innovative materials are combined to ensure improved condensation control and warmer glass perimeter. Futhermore, 'A' rated windows are achievable when Duralite is used in conjunction with other high performance glass components. The system also presents a smoother appearance while its flexibility of use makes it suitable for the widest possible range of applications, including the production of triple-glazed units and all roof glass.

Tremco illbruck Limited
Tel: 01753 691696
Email: sealants@tremco-illbruck.co.uk

NBW Glass Ltd
Tel: 01386 429221
Email: glass@nbwglass.co.uk

Warm Edge Units Ltd Invests

Edgetech is has welcomed on board Warm Edge Units, headed up by familiar glass industry name Mike Whitlam. The manufacturer has recently invested several million pounds to stay ahead of anticipated market demand for superior performance energy efficient sealed units. This technically advanced company will offer window companies cost effective warm edge technology sealed units - enabling fabricators and installers to offer competitive energy rated windows.

Mike Whitlam Managing Director of Warm Edge Units comments: ‘As a team we've been operating for many years as Gilt Edge Glass which gives us a lot of experience and credibility on which to build. We attribute much of our success to researching the market, identifying market trends and then investing in people, technology and product innovation to stay ahead of the curve. It's this philosophy which has underpinned our decision to invest in a purpose built 35,000 sq foot manufacturing facility to house a fully automated Super Spacer® application line from FORel dedicated to the production of warm edge technology units.

‘The factory will officially go live in April running at a rate of about 5000 units per week. Demand indicates that this volume will double by the end of 2007 and continue to grow in 2008. WERs are already proving their importance in encouraging home owners to replace replacement windows, a market driver we want our trade customers to benefit from.’

Web: http://www.superspacer.com

Joinery Company Plays a Key Role in New Composite Window

Derby-based Key Joinery is spearheading the launch of AM Profiles' new Design-5 composite window, featuring PN 500 Combi hardware from Groupco.

The specialist joinery company is one of the first fabricators to offer the new window system and has worked closely with both AM Profiles and PN during its development.

With its extensive manufacturing expertise, Key Joinery can offer a complete and highly competitive Design-5 package. This also includes access to its national installer network and colour-matched ancillaries, such as window-boards and doorsets, from its joinery product range. The company's investment in the new composite window includes the Design-5 range of aluminium profiles has been developed to fix on to external face of the timber windows, thereby combining the traditional beauty of timber on the inside with the durability and colour possibilities of aluminium on the outside.

According to Key Joinery's Business Development Manager, Martin Hodgson, composite windows are a growing market. ‘And timber and aluminium provide the perfect combination of aesthetic appeal and low maintenance for residential projects and retail developments as well as industrial and office units,’ he says.

The new Design-5 window generated considerable interest during its debut at the recent W6 wood industries' supply event at the NEC. Martin Hodgson continues: ‘We manufactured two windows for the Show and they attracted lots of attention and enquires, In fact we are already preparing quotes for orders for up to 200 windows for a social housing project and a major residential refurbishment in central London.’

Key Joinery will be sourcing the PN 500 Combi hardware for its Design-5 windows direct from Groupco, currently the largest UK distributor of the complete PN range. The versatile system is designed specifically for timber windows and doors and uses an advanced profile design for excellent ventilation within the air gap between the two materials, protecting the timber from and providing a thermal break. It also allows side or top hung and fully reversible sashes to be produced within the same outer frame. Like the Design-5 window itself, PN hardware is fabricator-friendly, as Martin Hodgson can confirm: ‘Two of our production staff were able to make their first test window from all the necessary components without any special training from either PN or AM Profiles.’

Key Joinery is currently gearing up to fulfil its first Design-5 orders and expects delivery to be within the customers specific requirements. A computerised
manufacturing system will be used to create 3-D drawings, calculate dimensions and produce accurate cutting lists for the factory.

Established in 1923, Key Joinery is part of Bowmer and Kirkland, one of the UK's leading construction, engineering and development groups, with a reputation for high quality craftsmanship and personal service. In addition to general joinery, Key Joinery is able to supply a range of joinery products such as doorsets, skirting and windows, the company's skilled team can produce special and sometimes unique items, including board furniture, reception desks and cadenzas.

Tel: 01733 234750
Web: http://www.groupcoltd.co.uk

Success with Consumables for Elumatec

Elumatec is enjoying the launch onto the market of the company's new consumables range for fabricators and installers. Interest in the new and extensive range has been unyielding as customers recognise the value of the new service.

‘We've really hit the nail on the head,’ comments Phil Heavey, MD of Elumatec. ‘We saw a gap in the market and we devised a solution after lengthy consultation with our customers as to what would benefit them most. The portfolio of consumables includes saw blades, sanding discs, air drills, gasket heads, and health & safety equipment - in fact everything that the industry requires. And importantly, the consumables are not exclusive to the Elumatec range of machinery. Should a customer want items for other makes and models, we can source the best price and product for them.’

The whole concept behind the launch is to provide a one-stop shop facility for every accessory associated with PVCu and aluminium profile production. ‘This is far more than just another range of products,’ continues Phil Heavey.

‘As one of the leading manufacturers of profile cutting machinery in the world, it is a natural progression to offer a full range of consumables, under the familiar and respected Elumatec brand name that are readily available and accessible. We have also published a full colour catalogue listing the items on offer in detail, with product descriptions and pricing.’

The level of interest in the new range at a recent trade exhibition confirmed the demand within the industry. ‘Accessories for the machinery used in fabrication are often hard to obtain, and if not sourced immediately, can cause costly delays to the overall operation of a factory,’ continues Phil Heavey. ‘By providing this dedicated consumables facility, our customers can be assured that everything they need, from drill parts down to safety goggles, is always available from one reliable source.’

Web: http://www.elumatec.com

Green Pre-treatment Costs Less!

Chemetall says that switching from traditional chromium laden pre-treatment systems to a more environmentally friendly non-chrome system such as the Gardobond X4707 pre-treatment process from Chemetall can actually save costs whilst also benefiting the environment.

Taking an average market price for a chromium pre-treatment system and comparing this with the Gardobond X4707 pre-treatment system from Chemetall shows little or no increase in costs for the architectural aluminium finishing company.

In addition to the chrome free chemicals being no more expensive, the powder coating company also benefits in use of the chrome free system from Chemetall; waste water treatment is simplified as there is no chromate to reduce and precipitate. The Gardobond X4707 pre-treatment system can also be run as a ‘dry-in-place’ system which means it can be a no-rinse process that can reduce the time taken to pre-treat material. If the option of rinsing is included, then the process can also operate within a closed loop system.

The checking of the solution in use, to ensure consistent coating, is similar to that required for chromium systems and consists of the use of a pH meter and optional X-ray fluorescence spectrometer. Bath life in use is also extended using Gardobond X4707 over chromium based systems. Gardobond X4707 is also more widely approved in the powder coating industry carrying both Qualicoat and GSB approval.

Once the change has been made, the benefits are obvious to the sales team and more importantly, for the protection of production staff as chromium is a carcinogen.

Powder coating companies are now beginning to make the change before further directives from government ban the use of all heavy metals in manufacturing over the next few years. So changing to non-chrome pre-treatment is not difficult or expensive and helps the environment.

Chemetall’s technical staff are available for further advice on 01908 649333 or via e-mail on ukinfo@chemetall.com.

Tessenderlo Group: Advance in 2006

The fourth-quarter 2006's recurring operating result - or Rebit - totalled 25.9 million EUR, against 28.8 million in the same period a year earlier. Cumulative end-2006's Rebit of 72.3 million EUR marked a 7.3 % advance against 2005's figure.

This growth was thanks above all to the Chemical segment's improvement, as well as strong performance in Plastics Converting, despite the Specialities business's underperformance.

Group revenue advanced from end-December 2005's 2,149.5 million EUR to 2,238.3 million EUR in 2006, or a 4.1 % improvement, due mostly to Plastics Converting and Chemicals, mainly in pvc and chlor-alkali.

Meanwhile, end-December 2006's consolidated net result equalled a 24.3 million EUR loss. This was after booking 76.9 million EUR in non-recurring items, much of which corresponded to the Target 2007 restructuring plan.

Net cash flow declined by 11.3 % to 142.8 million EUR.

Highlights
* Revenue ahead by 4.1 %
* Net result amounts to -24.3 million EUR after 76.9 million EUR of non-recurring items, including 48.8 million EUR for Target 2007
* Rebit progresses by 7.3 % to 72.3 million EUR
* Net cash-flow of 142.8 million EUR, against 161.0 million EUR in 2005
* Net dividend remains at 0.90 EUR per share


To increase manufacturing flexibility and its environmental efficiency - at the same time as reducing electricity costs - Tessenderlo Group brought its new electrolysis unit into service in September 2006, equipped with membrane technology: Ely III at Tessenderlo in Belgium.

Ely III has a maximum production capacity of 270,000 tonnes of chlorine and 300,000 tonnes of caustic soda. Its entry into operation was accompanied by Ely II's conversion to caustic potash, thus doubling this substance's production capacity at Tessenderlo (Belgium) and becoming as such the European market leader.

Turning to pvc, volumes remained above 2005's levels all year. Prices were generally high, but margins remained insufficient up to the third quarter. The fourth quarter saw an improvement, however, thanks to a stabilisation in ethylene prices and a market pvc shortage.

The natural derivatives business unit performed better in 2006.

2005's efforts to turn margins around - particularly by seeking the optimal recycling of products and a better control of costs, mainly for energy - allowed a significant earnings improvement.

On the regulatory side, France continued efforts to align itself with European standards by allowing a return to the recycling of certain by-products. In addition, the public rendering contracts adopted in July 2006 allow the group visibility in this business for the next three years.

In June, a 50 % stake was acquired in the Ferso Bio group, which has similar activities in southwest France to Caillaud; this now gives Caillaud almost full coverage of French territory.

PLASTICS CONVERTING
The profiles business unit experienced strong growth in continental Europe and particularly Central and Eastern Europe. After a difficult start to the year, the UK situation was considerably better in the second half, thanks notably to an expansion of both the product range - above all for the construction business - and distribution network. Cost reduction measures were also implemented as part of Target 2007. Wymar and Plastival, the two units in Belgium and France, both posted results improvements.

In the construction segment, the decline in demand seems to have levelled off, with even a slight expansion seen.

Genuinely strong performance: large growth in sales of thermoplastic elastomers (tpe) and pvc compounds for the automobile segment, particularly for airbag covers and dashboard skins.

Tessenderlo Group is also constantly seeking new compound applications and markets. It thus strengthened its position in the business of sealing systems for both construction and automobiles.

The last months of 2006 saw healthy activity, particularly in the chemicals segment. This situation has continued in the first few months of 2007, which have also seen the benefits of the first savings measures. We can thus expect the first quarter to post a strong improvement against the same period in 2006, without counting the non-recurring gain on the US divestment announced last month.

Web: http://www.tessenderlogroup.com

Laird Security Systems Reports Mixed 2006

Laird Security Systems' markets were mixed in 2006. In the UK the overall housing market improved somewhat during the second half of the year after a weaker first half, as did the renovation market, although the retail markets for our windows and conservatories remained weak. The UK social housing market, where Laird Security Systems is a major supplier of composite doors, continued its long term growth trend. Overall, Laird Security Systems' total UK revenues returned to positive organic growth in the second half of 2006, compared with the second half of 2005.

In the USA, the new build residential housing market suffered its well publicised downturn during the year, and this accelerated in the second half. In contrast, the replacement and renovation market showed greater stability. Total US revenues for Laird Security Systems, after positive organic growth in the first half of the year, showed a small organic decline in the second half of 2006 compared with the second half of 2005. Against this backdrop, Laird Security Systems demonstrated its resilience and delivered a very respectable performance in 2006, with revenue up 3% to £237.7 million in the year (2005: £230.9 million). Organic revenue growth was slightly negative for Laird Security Systems as a whole, with a year-on-year organic decline of 4% in the UK and 3% in the USA.

UK revenue from continuing businesses in 2006 was approximately £125 million. Of this, 34% represented window hardware, 21% composite doors, 24% door hardware, 17% windows and conservatories and 3% seals. US revenue in 2006 was approximately £108 million. Of this, 53% represented window hardware, 15% seals, 14% door hardware and 17% uPVC extrusions.

Laird Security Systems was broadly able to maintain underlying profits despite its mixed markets and the increases in commodity prices. Underlying operating profits for 2006 were £27.8 million, compared with £28.1 million in 2005. Operating margin in 2006 was 12%.

Commodity prices remained volatile overall. Through carefully managing the relationship between input and output pricing, Laird Security Systems was able to contain fully the adverse effect of higher commodity prices in the year.

Portfolio repositioning
In March 2006 Laird Security Systems enhanced its growing position in the US building products market with the acquisition of Bandlock Corporation in California for £10.4 million.

Bandlock, a supplier of an extensive range of PVC extrusions, supplements Security
Systems' existing extrusion business in the central US, while enhancing its critical mass on the West Coast.

March also saw the acquisition of Balance UK, for £3.3 million. Balance supplies a range of heavy duty window balances used in the manufacture of vertically sliding windows for a growing niche segment of the UK market. These heavy duty balances also provide the potential for Laird Security Systems to enter the commercial window market, and fill its remaining product gap in the US, allowing it to participate in the replacement of traditional windows with heavier, hurricane-proof ones along the eastern US seaboard.

Operational and geographic development
In Laird Security Systems' UK window hardware and components businesses, a headcount reduction of 75 took place in the first half of 2006, following a reduction of some 300, or 35% of the combined total, in 2005. Both of these actions benefited the 2006 results. Emphasis has now been switched to product development and new account targeting, with benefits expected in 2007 and 2008.
At Laird Lifestyle Products, manufacturing operations were consolidated further, to improve efficiencies and allow a greater emphasis on marketing and product positioning.

In the UK composite door business, the three sites resulting from acquisitions in this sector were consolidated into two in the first quarter of 2006, with a capacity expansion at one of the two facilities being completed at the end of the first quarter of 2006. These actions, together with Laird Security Systems' technical capabilities and broad product range, should position the UK business to maintain its return to growth.

In the USA, the window hardware, door hardware, weather seals and uPVC extrusions
businesses all had a good first half, with each product line showing organic growth. Although the revenues from these businesses declined year-on-year in the second half, action was swiftly taken to protect operating margins, with personnel reductions of 135 or 12% of the total.

The long term outlook for the US window and door market remains positive, driven by favourable demographics, job creation and mobility, and expected sustainable economic growth. The replacement cycle lags considerably that of the UK, implying long term growth in that sector. Although market conditions are now more competitive, Laird Security Systems expects to benefit from new product introductions, its industry leading levels of customer service, and market share gains both directly and through the continuing consolidation of its customer base.

Sales of products manufactured in Asia by Laird Security Systems or its partner suppliers grew by over 40% in 2006, on top of an increase of 15% in 2005. 30% of Laird Security Systems' hardware sales in 2006 were sourced from Asia, compared with 22% in 2005. Its own facilities in Ningbo, China, were expanded during the year, while sourcing from partner suppliers also grew; these suppliers are integrated into Laird Security Systems' supply chain, which provides them with engineering expertise, specialised investment and quality control.

Innovation
Laird Security Systems maintained its focus on product innovation and development, and continued to develop its intellectual property portfolio. There were benefits in 2006 from the Springback sealing product range introduced during 2005, innovative new window balance designs, and an increasing range of multipoint locks. A new door seal product has been developed for the US market, as has its first ever range of casement window hardware, a significant US market segment where Laird Security Systems currently has minimal sales. In the UK, the composite doors business will be launching a new glass-reinforced-plastic faced door in 2007, replacing its current product with one which has lower production costs but with a higher specification. Laird Security Systems continues with its product innovation and new designs, both to differentiate itself from its competitors and to provide enhanced functionality for its customers.

Laird Security Systems is targeting its product development to take advantage of three macro trends which it sees emerging over the next few years. The first is more demanding construction standards in North America, to reduce hurricane damage.
The second is higher security allied to ease of use, including electronic access controls, which is seen to be particularly applicable as demographic trends move towards an increasingly ageing population. The third is the expected trend towards even greater insulation and thermal efficiency, as governments and consumers adjust to higher energy prices.

Development of the strategy
Laird Security Systems has continued to provide innovative local solutions to its customers allied to what are believed to be industry leading service levels on a global basis, underpinned by the ongoing expansion of the low cost engineering and manufacturing capability in Asia. Although the year-on-year market decline in 2007 in the US may not be fully offset by the better conditions expected in the UK, within the division there is now a much broader presence in a range of markets, products and sales channels, which should provide considerable resilience during 2007.

MAINTAINING THE MOMENTUM OF THE GROUP
‘Laird had another excellent year in 2006, again delivering good growth in revenue and underlying profit. The strategic decisions which were made to continue to focus the Group, together with the investments that have been made to strengthen and develop it and to broaden its product and market spread, have again allowed Laird to progress strongly. We will continue to implement this strategy as a focused electronics and technology company, and we are confident that Laird will make further good progress in 2007.’

N.J. Keen Chairman
P.J. Hill Chief Executive

FINANCE DIRECTOR'S REPORT

Revenue
Total revenue increased from £508.7 million to £608.3 million in 2006. Revenue from continuing operations increased by 24%. There was no revenue from discontinued operations in 2006.

Revenue from discontinued operations in 2005 was £18.4 million; Permacell Finesse was divested in September 2005.

Organic growth from continuing operations was 11% and is measured by restating 2006 revenue at 2005 exchange rates and comparing it to revenue in 2005 after including revenue in 2005 for the acquired businesses in the equivalent period not in our ownership. On this basis, revenue from acquired businesses was £58.0 million in 2006 (2005, £107.0 million).

Profit before tax
Profit before tax, from continuing operations, was £66.4 million (2005, £34.3 million). The profit from discontinued operations was £0.5 million (2005, loss £5.1 million).

Underlying profit before tax in the year was £73.3 million (2005, £55.1 million).

Underlying profit is defined as profit before tax, exceptional items, amortisation of acquired intangible assets, the gain or loss on sale of businesses and the impact arising from the fair valuing of financial instruments.

There were no exceptional costs in 2006 (2005, £15.5 million). Integration of the acquisitions completed at the end of 2006 together with those completed so far in 2007, are likely to result in some exceptional costs in 2007.

Vitro Reports Record Results

Vitro S.A.B. de C.V., one of the world's largest producers and distributors of glass products, recently announced 4Q 06 unaudited results. Year over year consolidated sales increased 7.7 percent and EBITDA rose 3.6 percent. The consolidated EBITDA margin was down 60 basis points to 15.5 percent for the quarter. Excluding the divestiture of Química M in March 2006 and the acquisition of Vidrios Panameños (VIPASA) in April 2006, consolidated sales rose 7.5 percent and consolidated EBITDA increased 4.3 percent year over year.

Alvaro Rodriguez, Chief Financial Officer, commented 'We closed 2006 with another very solid quarter. On a comparable basis, we achieved the highest consolidated EBITDA for a fourth quarter since 4Q 99.'

Financial Highlights
'This has been an important year for Vitro. Consolidated EBITDA for 2006, on a comparable basis, is the highest since 2000. Glass containers reached another consecutive record year, with comparable sales and EBITDA up 15 percent and 23 percent, respectively.

Flat Glass performance during the year was also strong. On a comparable basis, sales rose 3.7 percent and EBITDA, excluding the effect of the inventory reduction, was up 20 percent.'

'We are also pleased to report that we have delivered on the financial plan established at the end of 2005, which led to the financial transformation of Vitro in 2006. This last quarter we completed a successful rights offering and the sale of land occupied by Vimex for a total of US$150 million. As a result, during 2006 we closed transactions to reduce debt for a total of US$332 million, exceeding our US$300 million target.'

'Today Vitro is a much stronger company. We finalised the sale of non-core assets, reduced gross debt by US$242 million year over year to an all time low of US$1,141 million achieving a net debt to EBITDA ratio of 2.7 times; brought down selling and administrative expenses by 100 basis points to 19.9 percent during 2006.'

'In January 2007 we undertook a major debt refinancing and issued a total of US$1.0 billion in senior unsecured notes, which were more than seven times oversubscribed. This was the largest high yield-rated offering by a non-government owned corporate in Emerging Markets to date. Through this offering we have transformed the company’s capital structure by simplifying it, concentrating debt in a single entity and eliminating structural subordination. In addition, we significantly reduced the cost of debt and extended debt maturities to an average life of debt of nearly 8 years.'

Mr. Rodriguez closed, 'The last year proved to be very productive as we made major progress with the EBITDA turnaround that started in 2003, while constantly refinancing our debt.'

Volkswagen Top Class Service is Key to Luminus Fleet Success

2006 saw Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles achieve record sales for the sixth consecutive year. Fleet sales have been a significant factor in this year on year success story with a growing number of companies and organisations finding the answer to their fleet requirements in Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ versatile range. One such customer is the Luminus Group, a housing management business responsible for approximately 7,000 homes with around 30,000 residents throughout Cambridgeshire.

The Luminus Group currently operates a fleet of 102 Volkswagen vans, made up of Crafters, Transporters and Caddys. The vans are used in a variety of roles but primarily by the organisation’s property maintenance service and its neighbourhood wardens.

All the models in the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ range come with a choice of sophisticated diesel engines designed for power and fuel economy. To provide the backbone for its fleet operation, Luminus opted for the Volkswagen Crafter fitted with a 2.5-litre five-cylinder TDI engine producing 109 PS; the Transporter 1.9-litre four-cylinder TDI 84 PS; and the compact Caddy SDI with a 2.0-litre 69 PS engine.

The performance of these power units combined with the quality build and reliability of all three models results in extended service periods and consequently excellent whole-life costs.

‘Luminus is a dynamic housing business with a commitment to outstanding customer service. To ensure this standard is maintained we also demand excellence from our fleet,’ said Chan Abraham, Group Chief Executive for the Luminus Group.

‘We find that Volkswagen provides great value for money and offers an out of hours service which helps to reduce the amount of time our vans spend off the road,’ he continued. ‘This ensures we are able to deliver a high quality, dependable service to all our tenants and leaseholders.’

The vans have been supplied by Cooks Volkswagen Van Centre in Peterborough, just one of over 80 dedicated Van Centres across the UK. The van centre also maintains and services the Luminus fleet.

For further information on the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ range or to find your nearest Van Centre call 0800 717131 or visit http://www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk.

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