Another
Record Year for Epwin Group
Sustained growth in the home improvements market and a successful market diversification policy contributed to another record results year for the building products specialist, Epwin Group, in 2003. Operating profit increased by 13% to £16.4 million and turnover rose to £177 million - again a record high in its 28-year history.
The Group's strong performance last year was a reflection of its approach
to the market; a broad range of maintenance free building products supplied
by specialist companies to specialist markets.
2003 saw the sale of Epwin's rubber extrusion company, D J Profiles to
Trelleborg as part of an emphasis on core business activities.
The robust figures also reflect the effects of recent substantial capital
investment in manufacturing efficiency and new products, including additional
manufacturing capacity at the Group's companies based at Stafford Park,
Telford. A total of £2 million has been invested to boost efficiency
at Profile 22 and foiling specialist Foilex. Profile 22 has seen good
growth, assisted by continuous product improvement and an investment in
customer service.
Among Group companies benefiting from market trends is Plaslyne that has
contributed to the Group's powerful presence in the PVC-UE roofline, cladding
and PVC-U ancillaries sectors where it is well represented among plastic
stockists.
Epwin's Cheltenham-based leading door panel manufacturer, Portal Products
expanded its existing decorative glass shop into a new 5,500 sq ft unit
next to its Kingsditch Lane site to boost production efficiency and meet
rising customer demand for glass designs.
‘Our policy of broadening market activities into related areas such
as roofline and ancillary building products is proving highly successful
and is a key reason for Epwin's success in recent years,’ comments
Epwin Group Chairman, Jim Rawson.
With over 30 separate brands, Epwin is a vertically integrated manufacturer
and supplier of maintenance free home improvement products to the refurbishment
and new housing sectors via trade, retail and commercial routes. Founded
in 1976, the Group is the UK's third largest manufacturer of PVC-U and
PVC-UE extrusions employing over 2,300 people.
With sites across the UK from the South West to the Midlands and North
East, the Group's activities cover recycling, extrusion, manufacturing
and installation.
Expansion
Underway at HansenGlass
In
line with the company’s continued growth, European specialist glass
processor HansenGlass has began the expansion of its offices and manufacturing
facility in Kirkby, Merseyside.
The £500k refurbishment includes new production offices, canteen
and toilets. Other elements of the expansion will involve extending the
ground floor and first floor to increase the sales office capacity and
provide more meeting rooms.
The finishing touches of the refurbishment will include a new façade
with products supplied from the HansenGroup. This includes Millenium™
from MagHansen, fire screens and doors from FendorHansen, feature entrance
doors by PollardsFyrespan and steel doors from AccentHansen.
Contact: Graham Chung
Tel: 0151 545 3000
Email: mailto:sales@hansenglass.co.uk
Interbuild
Registers Major Interest in Mobile Phones
Interbuild
aims to move the exhibition world forward by offering its visitors the
chance to complete their pre-registrations by text messaging.
The construction industry's largest trade event has joined forces with
communications experts Mobilespark to offer mobile phone services ahead
of the event which runs from April 25th to 29th at the NEC in Birmingham.
Mobilespark Director Rob Clegg said: 'To the best of our knowledge this
is the first time that visitors have been able to properly pre-register
for an exhibition by texting.
'So far the call to action to potential visitors to text their details
to a short code number has has only been promoted in a limited number
of places but we have already received several hundred responses.
'I definitely see this as the way forward for exhibitions. We have the
technology to send people a 'barcoded virtual ticket' direct to their
mobile phone that can then be scanned directly off the screen and linked
into a database.
'We can then also run prize draws, competitions, allow access to VIP or
restricted areas and run special offers using this barcode on the phone.'
Once registered the details are added to Interbuild's list and a reminder
message is sent out close to the opening date informing visitors about
key highlights at the show.
'We can even send them real-time information on show days like travel
news alerting them to any rail problems or traffic jams to avoid on their
journey to Interbuild,' added Rob.
Interbuild Event Director Steve Webb said allowing visitors to pre-register
using their mobile phones for free tickets seemed a natural progression.
'It's difficult to find anyone working in the construction industry who
does not carry a mobile phone these days so, with the technology in place,
it would be mad not to use it,' he said.
'We strive to make the lives of our visitors as easy as possible and this
is just one more way in which we can achieve that goal.'
More than 1,000 exhibitors are expected at the 50th Interbuild this year.
Entry is £20 per person on the day of the show but FREE for anyone
who pre-registers either at http://www.interbuild.com,
or by calling 0870 429 4558 or by texting 'IB <your full name>.<company
name>' to 88600.
Planet
Light Years Ahead for 2004 with Pilkington Activ™ Promotion
Planet
PVC Group, the UK installer of conservatories, windows and doors, has
kicked off its 2004 growth plans with a major promotion featuring Pilkington
Activ™ self-cleaning glass. During the months of January and February,
the company's North West branches in Leyland, Bolton and Holmes Chapel
offered the product free of charge with any windows sold during that time,
a campaign that was 'extremely well-received' according to the Group's
Chairman.
Early feedback from Planet sales staff points to considerable successfor
Pilkington Activ™ as a differentiating product, with the self-cleaning
glass having proved highly influential in helping Planet's Retail Division
to kick start its 2004 sales push for windows.
Chris Mitchell, Sales Director for Planet Retail Division, is impressed
with the product:
'Planet is poised to significantly grow its window and door sales during
2004. We were looking for something different to help us achieve our goals,
and Pilkington Activ™ struck me as being a good choice. I have had
the product installed on a bay window in my own home, and it is extraordinary
- I know myself that it really does work.
'We advertised the promotion on regional Granada television and in the
local press and it has certainly gained us a great deal of interest. We
have worked hard to make our customers aware of what Pilkington Activ(tm)
and Planet windows can do for them.
'It's early days, but I believe we have gained a lot of new business as
a result of the promotion. As a value-added product, I think that Pilkington
Activ™ will just grow and grow.'
Dean St. John, Chairman of Planet PVC Group, comments: 'Offering Pilkington
Activ™ in combination with our high quality windows has proved a
good match. It's a very interesting product and the promotion has been
very well received, resulting in an exceptionally busy January for our
Retail Division.'
Tel: 01772 452225
Web: http://www.planetpvc.co.uk
The
British Plastics Federation has responded to London Metal Exchange's announcement
that it will commence trading in plastics raw material before the end
of 2004.
Philip Law, BPF's Public and Industrial Affairs Director commented:
'We welcome this innovation and the extension of selling and buying options
available to plastics raw material suppliers and their customers; the
plastics processors. Some plastics raw materials, which are high volume
use lend themselves to this approach.
'We are hopeful that for some sectors of the industry some of the risks
attendant upon future price fluctuations will be reduced.
'We are pleased that the UK which is a front-rank player in the world's
polymer industry is the launch pad for this innovation'.
Mega-Warehouse
Move for Bohle UK
A
new, purpose-built warehouse and office complex for Bohle
UK will open this summer as the company moves its Oldham operations
to a new site in north Manchester. The warehouse, nick-named ‘Mega’,
is needed to accommodate Bohle UK’s ever-increasing range of products
for the glass industry.
A machinery showroom will be a feature of this new state-of-the-art warehouse,
and some popular machinery lines will be available ex-stock, rather than
having to be pre-ordered.
The 22,500sq ft building, which has opportunities for further expansion,
will also include an art glass showroom, where the company will be able
to continue with its art glass training programme.
Gary Dean, Managing Director of Bohle UK, says, ‘We have just launched
our even larger 2004 catalogue for the Glass Industry at 618 pages, and
will soon be distributing new catalogues for Window Fabricators, Picture
Framing, Material Handling and Art Glass. All this means we have a requirement
to increase our UK warehousing capacity beyond that of our current two
sites in Manchester and London.’
In total, Bohle will soon be offering almost 20,000 different items across
its range, which the company says will make it the largest specialist
tools supplier in the country. Most of the core Bohle tools are made in
Germany at its own factories where a tradition of 80 years is focused
on precision manufacturing.
Bohle has rolled out its product portfolio programme in the UK step by
step over the last few years. By the end of this year, all its product
lines should be available in the UK.
Gary says, ‘Our strategy was to go for a phased introduction coupled
to an acquisition plan – Bohle bought VV Agencies in 2002 –
and an increase in UK personnel and warehouse capacity. The final stage
of this is the full introduction of all the product catalogues and, of
course, our new ‘Mega’ warehouse.’
Tel: 0800 616151
Web: http://www.bohle.ltd.uk
Glaston
Technologies Grew Strongly in 2003
Kyro
Group’s main business area, Glaston Technologies, achieved strong
growth in 2003 despite the economic cycle and the strong euro. Net sales
grew by 68% to EUR 198.4 (117.8) million. Operating profit before amortisation
of goodwill grew by 27% to EUR 19.7 (15.5) million. Glaston Technologies
received a record amount of EUR 23.5 million in new orders in December.
The order book grew, to stand at EUR 58.8 (45.2) million at year the end.
In 2003 Bavelloni and Tamglass launched close co-operation in sales, maintenance
and logistics. The companies introduced the One-Stop-Partner concept,
offering complete machinery package deliveries, which were received positively
in all markets. Both companies serve glass processors worldwide with the
most versatile and extensive product range from pre-processing and safety
glass machines to complete production lines with factory planning and
services.
Strong approval among customers of the One-Stop-Partner concept
The sales organisations of Tamglass and Z. Bavelloni have now worked one
full year in close co-operation. This co-operation has widened the customer
base and brought new customers to both companies. Glaston Technologies
strengthened its market share as the leading supplier of glass processing
machines, increasing sales volumes in a challenging market climate.
'Our success at Vitrum with record high orders in July was beaten again
in December by a new record amount of orders. The good order intake in
December indicates strong approval of the One-Stop-Partner concept among
our machinery customers,' says Pentti Yliheljo, CEO and President of Kyro
Group, the ultimate parent company of Tamglass and Bavelloni.
Use of glass will continue to grow in the long run
The popularity of glass in architecture, the higher profile of value-added
glass products, the increasing area and diversity of glass surfaces in
vehicles and new safety glass regulations all contribute to a greater
demand for glass, especially for safety glass and glass processing machines.
These factors form the basis for long-term business growth in safety glass
machines. The economic cycle slowed demand for glass processing machines,
at the beginning of the year in the US and Central Europe. The investments
in the US, however, took a clear positive turn during the last quarter.
Integrated production lines needed for efficient glass processing
In 2003 Tamglass received significant orders for its success products
ProBend and ProConvection, particularly from Europe. Tamglass also launched
a new HTF Super version of the world’s most sold and used HTF flat
tempering machine, and Bavelloni introduced new CNC lines for large glass
sheets and a new cost-effective grinding machine.
'The productivity of glass processing means high integration through the
whole glass processing value chain. In high capacity processes changeover
times must be cut to a minimum. These capabilities require flexible pre-processing
and safety glass processing machines provided by technology leaders such
as Z. Bavelloni and Tamglass. Glaston Technologies´ One Stop Partner
concept helps to increase the productivity with matching production line
packages,' says Dino Bavelloni, President of Z. Bavelloni.
Glaston Technologies is the leading supplier of glass processing machinery,
with a complete product range of pre-processing and safety glass machinery
as well as tools. The division’s customer service network is the
largest in the glass industry, with 230 customer service personnel. Glaston
Technologies comprises Tamglass, the technology and market leader in safety
glass machinery, and Z. Bavelloni, the leading manufacturer of pre-processing
machinery for glass. Glaston Technologies is Kyro Group’s Glass and
Stone Technology Division. Kyro Corporation is a solid and growth-oriented
technology company, which is listed on the Helsinki Exchanges.
Further
Investments at Profoil
PVCu
profile lamination specialist Profoil Ltd has increased its factory space
to cope with increasing demand for its colour foiling skills. The company
has added a further 9000 square feet to its Kettering based premises,
to provide more production, warehousing and distribution facilities.
In addition, Profoil has invested £20,000 in three state of the
art specialist quick release doors that help provide a consistent air
temperature which is crucial to the overall finished quality of the lamination
process. The installation of these doors makes a significant contribution
to maintaining the temperature consistency required to maximise the bonding
process.
Profoil managing director Colin Deans commented:
'Demand for our foiled products is set to rise steeply over the next year
as the market place looks for ways it can add value to their products.
Factor in the growth in building products and the subsequent demand for
foiled building products, and the forecast for our own growth is very
promising.'
Capacity is just one area that Profoil has been developing. The company
has also restructured its production facilities to ensure lamination runs
are carried out seamlessly and cost effectively.
'Because we are lamination specialists, we have a much deeper understanding
of the trends and patterns of lamination demands. This experience helps
us to forecast potential bottlenecks and organise ourselves accordingly.'
Profoil offers an extensive range of colours and finishes, from the most
popular woodgrains, to the most obscure greens, reds and blues.
Tel: 01536 310900
Email: mailto:sales@profoil.sagehost.co.uk
Web: http://www.profoil-ltd.co.uk
First
ProBend™ in the UK Commissioned at European Glass Group
Tamglass,
a Glaston Technologies company, has successfully commissioned its first
ProBend™ in the United Kingdom for European Glass Group. ProBend™
represents the latest technological innovations in bending and toughening
large glass panels required by designers and architects. This toughening
and bending furnace using a combined bending and quenching section, has
already been sold to several countries worldwide. European Glass Group
is a family owned business, which has become one of the UK's leading independent
glass processors.
Now approaching a decade of trading, London based European Glass Group
has maintained strong growth by anticipating and some cases, shaping the
architectural glass market it serves. European Glass has also been working
with Tamglass for many years developing the toughening of large glass
panels in architectural glass market. With extensive equipment, such as
CNC watejet processing, European Glass supports major architectural glass
projects and provides glass processing services to the glass industry.
New zero-tooling technology for toughening and bending large glass
sheets
ProBend™ developed by Tamglass, is a new concept for large size bending
and toughening with no tooling. Quenching is performed by a combined bending
and quenching section. The system installed in European Glass Group has
the maximum glass size up to 2440 mm x 4200 mm. With steplessly adjustable
bending radius from flat glass to the minimum of 1500mm it reflects the
trend of increasing individual glass sizes. The system can be equipped
with four different sections, three different types of bending sections
and one flat for versatile production.
The ProBend™ concept requires no moulds or tooling, the shapes, sizes
and thicknesses can be processed at high production speed with minimal
changeover time - this fact enables the easy processing of one-off glass
pieces with zero-tooling costs. In practice, changeover time is cut to
minutes and is related to the time it takes to call up a new bending program
from the computer's memory. The result is a real tool in building design,
which grants a free hand to use large bent and tempered products in economical
ways, without limiting the visual effect in building design.
European Glass Group's new factory at Park Royal in London, specialises
in processing to customer specifications, jumbo-sized glass sheets for
commercial buildings. The new factory includes the largest toughening
furnace in the market, a BHF type manufactured by Tamglass, for flat glass,
capable of toughening extra large glass panels up to 7 m x 3.3 m. European
Glass Group has delivered processed glass to challenging projects such
as Millennium Dome, Harrods Store, the Royal Opera House, city regeneration
projects for London, Birmingham, Manchester and Edinburgh.
Architects prefer new shapes in a large scale
Deliveries of special equipment for highly processed glass products, such
as bending and toughening fumaces, have been growing. The development
is indicating the market trend of today in using bent safety glass to
create more visual designs for buildings. The use of bent and toughened
glass in architecture has been increasing especially in Europe and Far
East. The architects prefer using bent glass surfaces to create new external
shapes for the buildings and improve the internal space and lighting.
'We want to challenge the standards requested by our customers by using
the latest innovations to increase the manufacturing capability for various
glass processing products. An example is that European Glass is one of
the UK's biggest suppliers of heat-soaked glass with four soaking lines
capable of satisfying the demands of architects and developers who need
the assurance of explosion proof safety glass. The installation of the
7m x 3.3m is another prime example of the way in which European pre-empts
the needs of the market', Mick Johal from European Glass Group states.
'Investing in the technology to produce extra large toughened sheets means
that architects have scope to use even bigger glazed areas. It is also
possible to provide toughened glass solutions to a wider range of bespoke
projects. For example the company was recently asked to quote for the
7m glass fins in a glass bridge, which prior to commissioning the new
toughening furnace would have been impossible to achieve. The architectural
trend in the UK and Europe increases the use of new shapes in glass facades.
With further planned investment in plant and machinery, European Glass
Group will continue to provide its customers with greater possibility
to create new out looks for commercial buildings' Mr Johal continues.
Glaston Technologies is a leading supplier of glass processing machinery,
with a complete product range of pre-processing and safety glass machinery
as well as tools. The division's customer service network has 230 customer
service personnel. Glaston Technologies comprises Tamglass, the safety
glass machinery specialist, and Z. Bavelloni, the manufacturer of pre-processing
machinery for glass. Glaston Technologies is Kyro Group's Glass and Stone
Technology Division. Kyro Corporation is a solid and growth-oriented technology
company, which is listed on fhe Helsinki Exchanges.
Contact: Steve Brammer, Sales Manager, Tamglass UK
Tel. +44 1773 545 850
Web: http://www.tamglass.com
Contact: Mick Johal, Sales Director, European Glass Group,
Tel: +44 208 961 6066
Web: http://www.europeanglass.co.uk
New
World Developments Launches into UK Mainland
Currently
claiming the title of Ireland’s leading PVCu door panel supplier,
New World Developments says that it now intends to conquer the UK mainland
with its new GRP composite doorset called Apeer.
With agents in Ireland and the UK and credentials as a substantial company
with an experienced management team, New World Developments has decided
to commit an ongoing substantial investment to launch its new GRP doorset.
Three years in the making, Apeer is a product with several patent pending
features aimed at new build and refurbishment projects. New World Developments
estimates that from the enquiry level already, substantial market share
will be achieved within two years.
New World is the sister company of Ace Fixings which was founded in Ballymena,
Co Antrim, 25 years ago to sell PVC door panels to a booming Irish housing
market. Initially the company sourced product from the mainland but after
several disruptive supply issues it was decided that, to get a good quality
and delivery service, production needed to be taken in-house. New World
Developments was formed in 1995 and began manufacturing from a purpose-built
facility on a seven acre site.
In 2003, to cope with an ambitious monthly production target for Apeer
doorsets, New World doubled the size of its offices and factory to 62k
sq ft. Staffing levels have increased to 100 and it is a major employer
in the area. The current 10 vehicle fleet will be added to as demand builds
up.
‘By the end of the year Apeer will have both a single and double
rebate styles in the range and a fire-rated doorset will be available’
explains sales manager Alex Moore. ‘Currently delivery times are
3-4 weeks but as production gets into swing lead times will be reduced.’
'New World Developments is being true to its name and nature with ambitious
future plans. Resin transfer technology has huge potential so there is
plenty of development excitement ahead.'
Tel: 028 2563 2200
Web: http://www.nwd.uk.com
New
Federation Formed to Champion the Door and Hardware Industry
Two
trade associations which joined forces in December last year have now
formed a federation that will considerably strengthen their influence
in the industrial and commercial door and hardware sectors.
The Door and Hardware Federation (DHF) is now officially in being. It
follows the amalgamation of the Door and Shutter Manufacturers’ Association
(DSMA) and the Association of Building Hardware Manufacturers (ABHM).
The new federation has been formed to reinforce the two associations’
authority both within the industry and at government level, as well as
providing added benefits to members.
But the names of the two long-established trade associations will not
disappear with the formation of the DHF. For the foreseeable future, both
the DSMA and the ABHM will retain their existing identities, in particular
for the work they carry out in their specific sectors within the door
and hardware industry.
The DSMA represents virtually all of the key players in industrial and
commercial doors and shutters and garage doors and the ABHM represents
the leading manufacturers of building hardware and architectural ironmongery.
The federation will represent more than 135 member companies which sell
products into all the sectors of the building industry and the consumer
market which require doors and the hardware fittings to go with them.
The association’s chief executive Derek Smith said: 'When the merger
was first discussed last year we took the view that as doors can’t
exist without hardware and vice versa, there would be an obvious and beneficial
synergy between the two organisations.
'Now we have taken that to its logical conclusion by forming the DHF which
will present a combined, cohesive and much stronger voice in our dealings
with the Government and Europe over Standards and legislation and all
the other issues which affect our industry.'
Tel: 01827 52337
Freeze
on Cold Calling Rolled out to Business
From
June this year UK businesses will get the same right as individuals to
block 'cold calling' by marketing firms under a new measure announced
recently by Communications Minister Stephen Timms.
The move comes in response to concerns expressed by small businesses that
they do not have the resources to cope with high volumes of cold calls.
UK businesses have the choice to opt out of direct marketing calls by
writing to the Telephone Preference Service (TPS) and registering the
relevant phone numbers. They will be given an annual reminder of those
numbers in case they no longer need to be covered.
The TPS was set up in 1999 and direct marketing firms have a legal obligation
to check and comply with the list before calling, failure to do so can
result in enforcement action by the Information Commissioner.
Communications Minister Stephen Timms said:
'Well targeted phone marketing can be a powerful tool but not all businesses
are geared up to this and for small businesses in particular unwanted
cold calls can be a real burden.
'Extending the right to register on the TPS to corporate subscribers will
give businesses the right to opt out if they do not want this form of
marketing.'
The Telephone Preference Service (TPS) is an opt-out register for subscribers
who do not want to receive unsolicited direct marketing by phone. The
TPS was originally introduced for private subscribers and has operated
on a statutory basis since 1999 - direct marketers are under a legal requirement
to check and comply with TPS registration. Working experience of the scheme
shows that registration is a very effective way of preventing cold calls
to phone subscribers who do not want them.
The TPS (and the parallel Fax Preference Service or FPS) are currently
run by the Direct Marketing Association under supervision by OFCOM. The
contracts are subject to competitive tender every five years.
Partnership
Pledge: Securistyle Launches Audited Warranty Scheme
A
new audit scheme linked to a 10-year warranty has been launched by window
hardware manufacturer Securistyle.
The 'Partnership Pledge' audited warranty scheme has been designed to
ensure that the window hardware that is specified is that which gets fitted.
Under the scheme, which involves no cost either to the fabricator or the
specifier, Securistyle will monitor individual contracts to ensure that
the right hardware components have been used.
Securistyle director Nigel Thompson says: 'Specifiers take great care
in selecting the most appropriate products. For example, when it comes
to window hinges, there is a range of options from which to choose - child
safety restricted hinges, emergency egress hinges, high security hinges
- depending on the location and use of the window.
'So the problem involves not only creating the right specification, but
also ensuring that contractors adhere to it. Hard-pressed maintenance
and property teams simply do not have the time or resources to undertake
the policing of specs and this is where the 'Partnership Pledge' can help.'
As part of the 'Partnership Pledge' scheme, Securistyle visits fabricators
who have won work on specific projects to provide advice on the correct
choice and application of window hardware manufactured from austenitic
stainless steel. Site visits are also made to oversee any hardware issues
that may arise during the installation process. Ten-year warranties are
provided by Securistyle on contracts where the specification has been
met in full.
Tel: 01242 221200
Strategic
Hardware Alliance Creates Marketing Opportunities
A
strategic marketing alliance has been reached between Millenco Hardware
and Cotswold Architectural Products, which the companies say will give
window manufacturers a more fabricator friendly hardware solution for
windows and doors.
The solution comprises Cotswold friction stays with Millenco locking systems.
The whole package will be distributed to customers via Millenco's KANBAN
based supply chain direct to the factory floor, or through Cotswold's
established distribution routes.
The alliance brings together two well known names in hardware, with the
reassurance of quality that they both actively demonstrate. Cotswold has
a strong presence in the specification market, and holds 20 per cent of
the friction stay market. Millenco manufactures strong, secure and easy
to install shootbolt systems.
Sales and marketing director for Cotswold, Iain Morgan, commented:
'As well as the obvious product benefits this alliance brings, it creates
a combined force that can assure positive repercussions for our customer
bases. Millenco and Cotswold both share the same philosophy of a strong
and steady growth based on building partnerships with both suppliers and
customers. Together we can bring far reaching benefits for both Millenco
and Cotswold customers, fabricators, specifiers and installers.'
Millenco managing director Mark Bromley added:
'Cotswold is a dynamic and proactive company. Initiatives such as the
Window Specifiers website, illustrate its forward thinking approach to
running a successful business. As a similarly minded organisation such
an alliance can create a veritable force to be reckoned with in the market
place.'
Web: http://www.millenco.net
Glassex
Exhibitors Book Over 50% of Space for ‘05 Event
As
the smoke clears from this year’s Glassex, held in March at the NEC,
the true success of the event can be measured in how many exhibitors signed
on the dotted line before they left the show, to take part in Glassex
2005. And before the doors closed, more than 50% of the available space
for next year’s Silver Anniversary event was allocated to exhibitors
at this year’s Glassex.
Neil Hadland, Sales Manager for Glassex was very happy: ‘We are delighted
at just how positive everyone was at Glassex this year, and we had a very
high number of visitors to the Glassex Sales Office on site, from exhibitors
wishing to secure their place for next year, but also from visitors who
were very keen to make sure they don’t miss out next year. In addition
to signed contracts, we also received an impressive number of enquiries
and stands ‘pencilled in’.’
Steve Redman, Event Manager, says that the initiatives brought in by the
new organising team for Glassex made an impact: ‘We received many
positive comments on how this year’s event looked and worked, and
the new initiatives introduced such as the Conservatory Design Competition
and the Glassex Challenge drew an excellent response. We know that the
industry is changing and, as we approach the Silver Anniversary of Glassex
next year, we will make further changes to keep in line with the market
requirements and conditions. We intend to make this a very special event.’
Halls 18, 19 and 20 of the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) will be the
venue for the 25th Anniversary Glassex, which takes place from 13th to
16th March 2005.
Exhibition stand enquiries should be directed to: Neil Hadland, Glassex
’05, EMAP Maclaren Ltd, 020 8277 5124; fax 020 8277 5200; email mailto:neil.hadland@emap.com
Hunter
Douglas 2003 Profits up 23% on Lower Volumes
Hunter
Douglas, the window coverings specialist (Luxaflex®), and a major
manufacturer of architectural products (Luxalon®), reports results
for 2003. Sales were EUR 1,655 million, 2.2% lower than EUR 1,692 million
in 2002. The sales decrease reflects 0.4% volume increase, 10.3% negative
currency impact and 7.7% increase from acquisitions.
Europe accounted for 39% of sales, North America 49%, Latin America 4%,
Asia 5% and Australia 3%. Window Coverings were 89% and Architectural
and Other Products were 11% of total sales.
Net profit was EUR 153.5 million, 22.7% higher than EUR 125.1 million
in 2002. Net profit per average outstanding common share was EUR 3.65,
compared to EUR 2.97 for 2002, adjusted for stock dividends.
The weakening of the US dollar negatively affected the translation of
operating results by EUR 30.8 million. Excluding the currency impact,
net profits would have increased by 38.4%. Selective hedging of the USD
exposure compensated for some of the currency impact.
Capital expenditures of EUR 54 million (EUR 66 million in 2002) were dedicated
to growing existing businesses, efficiency improvements and new products.
Depreciation was EUR 54 million, compared to EUR 63 million in 2002. Goodwill
amortisation was EUR 17 million, compared to EUR 1 million in 2002.
The company's investment portfolio had a net market value of EUR 413 million
compared to EUR 339 million at the end of 2002. Management of these assets
is delegated to a widely diversified range of independent managers. The
average return on funds invested in USD was 21.3%, while the net investment
income, after deduction of imputed interest, expenses and provisions was
EUR 34.7 million.
In 2003, Hunter Douglas made eight acquisitions to complement its organic
growth, with additional product lines and distribution.
Cash flow from operations was EUR 251 million, compared with EUR 253 million
in 2002.
Fourth Quarter 2003
Fourth quarter sales were EUR 406.2 million, 3.0% lower than EUR 418.7
million in the same period in 2002. The increase reflects 3.5% volume
increase, negative currency impact of 10.0% and 3.5% contribution from
acquisitions. Fourth quarter sales were higher in Latin America and Australia,
and lower in Europe, North America and Asia.
Fourth quarter net profit was EUR 69.5 million, up 84.8% from EUR 37.6
million in the same period of 2002. Profits were higher in all areas.
The weakening of the US dollar negatively affected the translation of
net results by EUR 5.0 million. Excluding the currency impact, net profits
would have increased by 98.1%.
Europe
Sales in Europe were EUR 639 million, 9.2% higher than EUR 585 million
in 2002. The sales increase reflects 3.9% volume decrease, 1.7% negative
currency impact and 14.8% contribution from acquisitions. Sales in the
fourth quarter decreased by 5.3% to EUR 144 million, reflecting 3.3% decrease
in volume and 2.0% negative currency impact.
Profit growth was strong and Hunter Douglas' market position strengthened
in the UK, France, Spain and Germany.
In 2003, six Blindmakers were acquired in Europe: Haglunds, Sweden, Iberica,
Spain, Silga, Switzerland, Thomas Sanderson, UK and Filtersun and Goeland,
France.
Nedal, the Dutch-based aluminium extrusion operation, had lower sales
but substantially higher profits.
The Vlissingen Aluminum Smelter in which Hunter Douglas has a 15% participation,
negatively affected results due to a power outage in October 2002, which
resulted in disruptions that reduced production in 2003 to an average
of 78% of capacity.
Alcoa
Q1 Net Income Highest Since 2001
Alcoa
reported on 6th April first quarter net income of $355 million, or $0.41
per diluted share, more than double the $151 million, or $0.17, in the
first quarter of 2003, and up 22 percent from $291 million, or $0.33,
in the previous quarter.
* Net income was $355 million, up 135% from first quarter of 2003.
* Income from continuing operations was $350 million, up 79% from 2003.
* $108 million in new annual savings toward third-straight $1 billion-plus
cost challenge; 230 basis point decline in cost of goods to 77.9% of sales.
* Debt to capital ratio at 34.9%, within the company's targeted range.
* Five of six segments showed double-digit increases in profitability
year over year; engineered products up 88% and flat rolled products up
25%.
* Substantial completion of divestiture programme with sale of specialty
chemicals and other businesses.
Income from continuing operations was $350 million, or $0.40, up 79 percent
from the $195 million, or $0.23, in the first quarter of 2003, and higher
than the $340 million, or $0.39, in the previous quarter. The previous
quarter's results included $105 million in pre-tax gains from insurance
settlements and a lower effective tax rate. The first quarter benefits
from a $58 million after-tax gain on the sale of the chemicals business,
half of which was offset by higher costs from a customer bankruptcy, litigation
settlements, and restructuring.
'In the quarter, our downstream aluminium businesses strengthened as end
markets in Europe and the U.S. expanded,' said Alain Belda, Chairman and
CEO of Alcoa. 'Demand for aluminium fabricated products was the highest
in three years, driving prices higher. In a stronger market, we achieved
earnings growth by keeping our focus on both growth and costs, laying
the groundwork for further improvements in profitability.'
Market Overview
Revenue in the quarter was $5.7 billion, the highest in almost three years,
and up 11 percent year over year and 3 percent on a sequential basis.
Higher aluminium prices and stronger shipments of engineered and flat-rolled
products offset the seasonal decline in consumer packaging and lower third-party
alumina sales as more alumina was dedicated to internal demand. The strong
fabricated aluminium shipments were driven by double-digit increases in
sales to the commercial vehicle, automotive, and aerospace markets.
'Looking forward, we expect that the recent, rapid increase in aluminium
prices will have a greater impact in the second quarter and contribute
to improved profitability,' said Belda. On a year-over-year basis, the
alumina, aluminium, and flat-rolled products segments all benefited from
more robust pricing.
Positioning the Company for Future Growth
Alcoa continues to make long-term investments to improve its world-class
refining position. Alcoa World Alumina and Chemicals, Alcoa's global alliance
with Alumina Ltd., received approval for an upgrade at its Pinjarra refinery.
Along with a newly completed expansion at its Jamaica refinery and on-going
expansion at its Suriname facility, that project will add 1.1 million
metric tons per year to alumina capacity. The company is in varying stages
of planning and designing alumina expansions in Brazil, Jamaica, and Australia.
Final decisions on those projects are expected in the second half of the
year.
Discussions on Brazilian and Canadian smelter projects continue, and infrastructure
construction for the new smelter in Iceland is proceeding on schedule.
The company also announced plans to build a new low-cost extrusion plant
in Romania to serve the building and construction market in Europe.
Everwhite
Outsells other Leading Roofline Brands at Master Plastics
A
good roofline stockist will provide installers with a wide range of products
to choose from, but with so much choice the decision often comes down
to price. The result? Installers don’t get the product quality they
really need, and suppliers don’t get the sales they should. Specialist
stockist Master Plastics stocks 33,000 products, but the company has found
that one particular brand is selling better than the rest, and it’s
not the cheapest.
Established in 1994, Master Plastics has grown steadily to £5 million
sales in 2003 and is looking to double its sales this year. ‘Everwhite
is one of the best PVC brands we stock and provides us with almost 75%
of our roofline sales,’ says Steve Howes, Managing Director of Master
Plastics.
‘We’ve worked with Everwhite for 10 years and we are the only
stockist in a 20 mile radius. We’ve continued to do business with
them because they provide such quality products with a first rate finish.
The colour match of the entire range is good, and the range itself is
one of the biggest in the industry. For quality and on time, complete
deliveries, I’d give them ten out of ten every time.’
Tel: 01685 882 447
New
GTI Kombimatec High Speed CNC Door Router Boosts Ambitious Absolute
Absolute
Windows Ltd, Bolton, a rapidly expanding trade and commercial fabricator,
has been supplying and installing windows, doors and conservatories to
Local Authorities, Housing Associations and Builders since 1988.
An ambitious new concept the company is about to undertake is the opening
in March 2004 of a Cash and Carry superstore in Manchester, called ‘Classic
Trade Frames’ that will have ready made frames in stock for the smaller
local installer and builder.
The customer will pay up front when collecting the windows. Classic Trade
Frames will offer a loyalty trade card registration service for installers,
providing discounts for regular customers.
The Absolute fabrication plant in Bolton anticipates an increase in production
from its current weekly output of 700 to over 1000 frames per week.
Investment in this new development included the purchase of a GTI Kombimatec
AMC602 Automatic Machining Centre to cope with the increased production.
The new machine has automatic CNC control for accuracy and speed and is
fully programmable for different routing, drilling and end milling requirements
using a CAD/CAM system. It has the ability to work on all three sides
of the profile in one operation and is fully protected for operator safety.
Programming is a cinch, the machine is quick and accurate for machining
the keyholes and locks on the doors, tilt and turn sashes, outer frames,
and it even has a programme for the letter box cut-out.
The machine's other capabilities include end milling via a special blade
and programme, drilling and tapping as well as routing.
Absolute’s Managing Director, Jim Dance said 'Over the past few years
we have purchased a considerable amount of machinery from GTI and we have
been very pleased with the entire package.
'GTI has always given us a personal service and has adapted machinery
to suit our needs. The company has given us very good back up and all
the machines have proven to be totally reliable and easy to use.
'GTI is a very professional company and is definitely the best of the
bunch for us. I can honestly say that it is one of the most helpful companies
we’ve ever worked with. In this business it’s so important to
have suppliers you can trust, and GTI Kombimatec has earned that trust.'
Ian Wheatley, GTI’s Sales Director commented, 'Absolute is a very
good customer of ours and we wish them well in this exciting new venture.'
Tel: +44 (0) 1582 455934
Email: mailto:sales@gtikombi.co.uk
Web: http://www.gtikombi.demon.co.uk
James
Price Expands Fleet to Meet Demand
The
James Price Group has expanded its vehicle fleet in order to meet the
increased glass business across all divisions of the Group.
Substantial investment in new technology and systems has seen the processed
glass division double its turnover in just 12 months including the production
and installation of architectural glass for a range of applications from
facades, frameless glass doors to balustrading. The Tuff X toughened safety
glass and double glazed unit division is now producing some 2000 IG units
per day. With the installation of a new £70,000 Hegla automatic
cutting table and an aspirated EFCO furnace Tuff X can cut and temper
soft coat glasses as well as hard coat enabling the company to meet the
increasing demand for toughened Low E glass in its double glazed units.
An additional service for James Price customers is the investment in a
screen-printing production line that is proving of particular value in
architectural and corporate applications.
Chris Roberts, James Price plc sales manager commented: ‘The investment
in the latest technology and the subsequent high demand for our products
has meant that we have increased our fleet to some 20 vehicles ranging
from Transit types to 18 tonners enabling it to deliver processed glass
and DG units to its customers throughout the UK whatever the size of the
order.’
Tel: 0151 523 7070
Email: mailto:info@jprice-group.co.uk
Web: http://www.jprice-group.co.uk
Shrewsbury
Company Launches with Support of Chamber of Commerce
A
new company called Rapid Plastics has just launched in Shropshire. The
company will trade from Archer's Way in Shrewsbury, where a distribution
centre and offices have been built to house the business. The directors
of Rapid Plastics are David and Tony Randall, an already successful business
duo who are also directors of Heritage Glass Group, a specialist in the
glazing and conservatory industry.
This
new venture aims to supply both the trade and public sectors and offers
a wide range of products from fascias and soffits, made to measure conservatories,
doors and panels to garage doors and windows - as well as a comprehensive
accessories range.
The products sold by Rapid Plastics are all from top brand names, ensuring
quality products and an extensive choice for all customers. And thanks
to the company's group buying power, Rapid Plastics says it can offer
these products at reasonable prices.
'The creation of Rapid Plastics is an exciting phase forward for my company,
and it gives us a new dimension in supplying quality proven products to
the trade and home improvement market,' says David Randall, managing director
of Rapid Plastics. 'We have very good connections with top class suppliers,
and as such can provide an excellent range of quality products at reasonable
prices something that will benefit all our customers, whether they be
trade or retail.'
Rapid Plastics was created with the help of the Shropshire Chamber of
Commerce's Business Link, which operates a diversification funding programme.
This programme has been developed to assist small to medium sized companies
with initiating change or diversification into new areas.
In the case of Rapid Plastics, Business Link offered advice on identifying
new markets and also granted the company additional funds for the facilitation
of external support towards market research, product and management development
and other business issues.
Sales director Tony Randall commented, 'The launch of Rapid Plastics could
not have happened without the help of Business Link, and our advisor lan
Russell, who has helped us develop the business from an idea into reality.
We have also enjoyed help from our team of employees at Rapid Plastics,
who have all worked very hard to make this launch a success - and I look
forward to the future and the challenges to come.'
Tel: 01743-441444
Web: http://www.rapidplastics.co.uk
WHS
Halo First is Second to None
WHS
Halo has announced several changes to its Eclipse and esthétique
profiles that the company says will dramatically change the way many manufacturers
and installers work.
WHS Halo has devised a frame locking system for its esthétique
range, which dispenses with the need to deglaze, weld, or drill frames
when connecting them together - a boon that will reduce the time conservatory
and window installers require to complete each job.
In addition, the company has developed and patented a hybrid bead system
for its Eclipse profile. With the ability to accept either shuffle or
single leg beads, WHS Halo has created a very fitter friendly system.
Commenting on these developments, marketing director Sam Kennedy said:
'The revolution has begun and we're inviting enterprising businesses to
join in. Our improved features will make such significant time savings
possible, that any business installing the profile will immediately increase
its profitability and capacity - resulting in increased demand and order
growth for its fabricators.'
Amongst the other enhancements to the Eclipse and esthétique profiles
are; sloping drainage chambers - for enhanced weather performance and
dedicated PVCu screw ports and hardware fixings.
In addition, the new esthétique profile system includes a new five-chambered
tilt and turn sash offering, as well as new five-chambered large T and
Z transoms - allowing even greater flexibility in styles and configurations.
Mr Kennedy added: 'These new product features represent a major step forward
in window technology and are the latest in a long line of industry firsts
from WHS Halo. Historically our competitors have taken years to catch
up with our developing product range and this is another demonstration
of WHS Halo's commitment to keeping its customers ahead of the field.
'WHS Halo's history of innovation also includes; production of the first
interchangeable window and door system (1987), creation of the first authentic
vertical sliding sash window (1995), introduction of the first five chamber
system in Europe (2000) and now being the first to produce a patented
hybrid beading system (2004).'
Both systems are available as PCE and non PCE gasket, with the first of
the new profiles available from March.
Tel: 0121 352 2084
In
order to continue its expansion, UAP the Manchester based hardware importer
has purchased a new warehouse in Whitefield, Manchester providing the
company with an extra 5,000 sq. ft of storage space. In recent years UAP
has grown its business based upon the company's core principal of offering
product quality backed up by next day service.
David Jennings, Managing Director of UAP says, 'space has always been
an issue for UAP. Our growth has seen us rapidly fill our purpose built
offices to the extent that we have now submitted plans for a third floor
to be built on top of our existing building. We have recently agreed to
purchase further car parking facilities which could accommodate a small
purpose built warehouse for everyday stock items.
'But what we desperately needed to back up our current warehouse was a
new facility, and we have now completed that objective. As with everything
at UAP we have financed the purchase out of company cash reserves, and
we will maintain our policy of having zero debt.
'In the coming six months we aim to build a new showroom at Bank House,
which is aimed at our trade customers, but will also have a local retail
element. It is a very exciting time for UAP, and we know the changes we
are making will benefit not only ourselves, but also our ever increasing
number of customers.'
Tel: 0161 763 5290
Email: mailto:univ.imports@ukonline.co.uk
Web: http://www.universal-imports.com
Florida
Window Manufacturer Hosts President Bush
President
George W. Bush visited NuAir Manufacturing Co. in Tampa, Florida for a
'conversation on the economy' in February. The President toured the aluminium
window manufacturer’s factory and spoke to about 600 people in its
warehouse, which was emptied of windows and set up with a special stage
for the event.
Bush cited NuAir as an example of a company that growing and hiring more
workers thanks in part to tax relief efforts enacted by his administration
to stimulate economic growth. 'You’re probably wondering why we’re
here,' Bush told the group, about half of which were NuAir employees.
'It’s because we’re going to herald the entrepreneurial spirit
of America and talk about small business ownership and job creation.'
In welcoming remarks, Connie Horner, NuAir’s CEO noted that the aluminium
window manufacturer may add 40 more jobs this year and it’s considering
an investment of about $1 million in its plant. 'We are just incredibly
optimistic about our future, and we have you to thank for that,' Horner
told the President.
Bush noted that Horner credited the tax code with encouraging NuAir’s
decision to add workers and invest and pointed to the 'ripple effect'
these actions have had in the economic recovery. 'We’ve overcome
a lot, when you think about what this country has been through,' Bush
said. 'Those were a lot of obstacles and hurdles for this nation to handle.
And, yet, our economy is strong. I will argue vociferously that one of
the reasons it’s strong is because the Congress wisely heeded my
call and let people keep more of their own money.'
Bush also used the event to urge passage of the energy bill, to promote
reductions in the paperwork and regulatory burdens placed on small business,
and highlight the need for litigation reform to help stem rising health
care costs.