The latest comprehensive study of the UK Conservatory Market in 2005 by Rigby Research, the research division of Michael Rigby Associates, has found that market penetration remains relatively low in this important sector, and the potential remains for huge growth in the market.
The UK Conservatory Report 2005: Market & Forecasts found that market penetration was just 18% in 2005, indicating considerable scope for further growth.
Further evidence for this comes from the fact that at least two thirds of owner occupied housing has space for a conservatory. ‘In a market dominated by the housing sector, with approximately 91% of all conservatories installed in the UK in 2004 going onto existing domestic properties, this means plenty more business out there for the conservatory industry,’ says Lucia Di Stazio, Head of Rigby Research, Michael Rigby Associates’ research division.
Despite volume dropping in 2004 and 2005, for the first time since 1998, the market nevertheless remained above the levels reached in 2002, indicating other factors such as the economy coming into play.
And with a dip in volume, it is unsurprising to see a drop in installed value too. Excluding VAT, bases and dwarf walls, the overall value of the UK conservatory market was £2.3billion in 2004, down by an estimated 9% in 2005.
‘Although the market is not expected to grow in 2006’, says Lucia, ‘our forecasts predict that conservatory installations will increase in 2007 and 2008 by 3% per annum. However, as in all home improvement markets, the rate of market growth is also determined by the confidence and attitude of conservatory companies and how proactive they are in their sales and marketing.
‘Conservatories remain high on people’s wish lists, and the market is not held back for lack of interest or desire.’
The UK Conservatory Report 2005: Market & Forecasts is the most comprehensive to date, sampling over 1,100 companies and covering the widest range of issue yet. Containing all the information you need on market size in volume and value, detailed routes to market, key players, and data on price, styles, shapes, colours and materials, the report is a one-stop shop for businesses who want to be in the know about the UK conservatory market.
‘The UK Conservatory Report 2005 is one of the most comprehensive reports in the industry and a useful tool for key decision makers in this sector,’ says David Leng, Managing Director of Eurocell Profiles Ltd. ‘It is yet another brilliant piece of research from Michael Rigby Associates, providing good insight and extensive detail of this fast moving and growing market.’
Available now at £4,495 plus VAT, the UK Conservatory Report 2005: Market & Forecasts comes with forecasts up to 2010. Buyers can save 10% off the price by ordering online at www.521621.com.
For a complete list of contents or to order your copy call Lucia Di Stazio on 01453 521621 or email lucia@521621.com.
A Reminder To all Manufacturers of Toughened Glass
September 1st is the date when the new regulations governing toughened glass come into force. By this date, all manufacturers should have had their glass tested to EN 12600 Pendulum Impact test and EN 12150 and be operating a system of Factory Production Control. Whereas in the past, manufacturers could claim compliance with BS 6206 without necessarily having had their glass tested by an external body, this now no longer applies and all manufacturers have to undergo the appropriate testing. It is fair to say that these regulations have taken the industry almost unawares and, consequently, not many manufacturers have either the necessary controls in place or had their glass tested by a notified body test house.
There are a number of potential reasons for this, one – it has not been widely publicised enough by the industry bodies involved; two – it has been difficult to get agreement on exactly what testing is required with far too much reliance having been put on the manufacturer to decide for themselves and three – the potential cost involved including the setting up of a proxy test for mechanical strength.
We at CEN Solutions Ltd have been striving to get answers to all these questions since the beginning of this year and only now are we in a position to advise manufacturers accordingly. By consulting with all the industry bodies, BSI, Wintech, GGF in the UK and TNO in Holland, we have finally reached agreement on the best way forward at the most cost-effective price. EN 12600 requires the glass to be impact tested at three drop heights with additional tests of four point bending for mechanical strength and fragmentation being required by EN 12150 Part 2. Toughened glass manufacturers wishing to find out what these test requirements are can find out by contacting CEN Solutions Ltd on 01785 716625 where they will be put in touch with their local consultant to guide them through the process.
We anticipate there will be many manufacturers not having these controls and testing in place by September 1st. However, if you can show evidence of the glass having been submitted or booked in for testing and that your factory production control system is being implemented, then we would hope this will be taken into account. If however, nothing has been done, then you may be subject to the full array of fines and penalties at the courts’ disposal. Our advice is, don’t delay, contact CEN Solutions and/or the trade organisations straight away to find out your options.
David Frost, CEN Solutions Ltd
Tel: 07977 554024
email: david.frost77@ntlworld.com
Bennett Glass And Frames Makes The Move To Veka
Bennett Glass and Frames of Hull has joined the VEKA team and is in the process of adapting its operations to cater for the new profiles. The company originally dates back to the 1860s and is one of the oldest established glazing businesses in the Yorkshire and Humber area. The business changed its name to Bennett Glass and Frames four years ago after merging with FrameTec – a frame manufacturer which had been operating as a sister company for the previous two years.
‘The business has done extremely well for the last 12-18 months and that has increased turnover by about 30 per cent,’ said Phil Williams, recently appointed managing director of Bennett Glass and Frames. ‘The decision to move to using VEKA Matrix 70 profiles in our fabrication is a strategic move to fit in with our expansion plans within the commercial sector. VEKA was chosen for its reputation of support towards commercial framemaking.’
So far the transition is going well with the production lines being adapted to accommodate the VEKA profiles, backed up by constant and comprehensive support from the VEKA team. Matrix 70 has an excellent reputation within the industry as one of the most versatile profiles on the market, with less than 40 profiles able to be used to create virtually any style or design of windows and doors in any kind of building. The fully integrated PVC-U system with a fully integrated design is the result of massive investment in development, tooling and extrusion technology.
‘We see this as a natural progression given the expansion of the company and our commitment towards our customers to provide the highest quality components,’ concludes Phil. ‘So far the response from both our customers and our team of operatives has been extremely encouraging and positive and we are looking forward to a long and beneficial relationship with VEKA supplying our products to both the trade and the commercial markets in the future.’
Avocet Tackles A Flood Of Trouble
Collapsed
ceilings, flooded rooms and fallen debris was the scene that greeted horrified
employees at Avocet Hardware’s headquarters in Brighouse, West Yorkshire.
‘It was devastating,’ admits Gary Bennett, Head of Supply Chain, whose department was one of the worst affected. ‘We had returned on Monday morning to find the offices in this dreadful state. But one of the strengths of the company is its inherent Yorkshire pragmatism so after the initial shock, we set to work immediately.’
The source of the devastation was quickly traced to a water pipe feeding the canteen coffee machine.
‘It must have burst shortly after we left on Friday afternoon, which meant that water had been flooding out for over 48 hours!’ continues Gary. ‘The water had gushed from the second floor canteen, through the accounts and supply chain department to the main boardroom. It was impossible to work in these areas so mobilising the troops into action, a Blitz mentality took over and within only two hours, we had arranged alternative work areas.’
This involved immediately moving the most affected departments, Accounts and Supply Chain, to the main conference room.
‘We worked hard and imaginatively to create space for all departments of the business that were directly or indirectly affected,’ says Gary.
‘We used all available space both on and off site to ensure that there was no disruption to our operations and I’m proud to report that through dedicated teamwork, we succeeded!’
Repair work is still being carried out to the structurally damaged areas and when complete, the company will be fully equipped with new furniture and equipment to replace the water damaged items.
‘In the face of adversity, we pulled together with literally all hands on deck, to ensure that a crisis didn’t become a disaster’ concludes Gary.
Pilkington Makes The Shortlist For The G06 Awards
After receiving a consistently high level of quality entries for the G06 Awards, beating the numbers received on previous years hands down, Pilkington Glass has managed to fight off stiff competition to win two places in the 12 categories on the Awards shortlist.
The purpose of the Awards is to recognise individual and corporate achievement in raising and improving the standards, performance and products of the entire industry; and with the competition being so strong the adjudication panel were forced to make some very tough decisions this year.
Pilkington has been nominated for the categories of Glass Company of the Year - for its outstanding achievements in product development and innovation - and the Promotional Campaign Award. The latter nomination is in recognition of the biggest advertising campaign ever staged for flat glass in the UK; promoting Pilkington Activ ™, which has seen sales grow ten-fold in the past year.
Commenting on the nominations, National Product Manager for Pilkington Activ™, Ian Spokes said: ‘We are honoured to be recognised in these awards. Pilkington is renowned for being at the forefront of glass innovation and prides itself on delivering the very best in product development. As the market leader in the industry we offer an all encompassing range of leading edge products, ranging from our very popular Pilkington K Glass ™ - that is still recognised as the leading energy-saving product, to Pilkington Activ™, which has grown tremendously in popularity over recent years. And to keep one step ahead, we have an extremely dedicated research and development team, enabling us to continuously improve all our products …I am delighted that Pilkington has been nominated for the prestigious Glass Company of the Year award.
‘To be listed for the Promotional Campaign Award is a real credit to all of the hard work that went in to delivering our advertising campaign," continues Ian. "This has been the biggest advertising campaign the industry has seen in a long time and the support from the industry, despite struggling times, has been phenomenal. Sales this year of Pilkington Activ™ have trebled as a result of the £2 million spring TV and national press advertising drive, with sales up more than ten-fold year-on-year. In fact the response has been so positive that we are planning to do it again in September!’
The G06 Awards will be held at the Birmingham Metropole Hotel on 15th September and with such a positive outlook, Pilkington is set to be a strong contender at this year’s event!
Bohle Announces its Final 12 Art Glass Students
After much deliberation Bohle – the world’s leading manufacturer and distributor of glass, tools, machinery and consumables – has announced the 12 students who have made it onto its much coveted Glass Student of the Year Award shortlist, an award that will be presented at this years G06 Awards ceremony in September.
The Glass Student of the Year Awards have been designed to recognise and reward excellence amongst students studying glass skills, and with over 100 pre-selected entries received from across the UK each entrant had to be pre-screened by their college lecturers first to ensure the very best were put forward. Each student on the shortlist was judged on their ability to demonstrate outstanding skill, vision, design and artistic flare.
The students are:
• Jessica Ecott – Richmond School of Art, Twickenham
• Wendy Newhofer - Richmond School of Art, Twickenham
• Tracy Nichols - Richmond School of Art, Twickenham
• Chris Edwards - Richmond School of Art, Twickenham
• Nick Hazzard - Richmond School of Art, Twickenham
• Hilary Poole – International Glass Centre, Midlands
• Laura Walker – City of Bath College
• June Kingsbury – Buckingham Chilterns University College
• Wendy Barker – University College, Falmouth
• Miho Higashide – University of Wolverhampton
• Alexander Rowe – Glasgow Metropolitan College
• Kimberely Armstrong - Glasgow Metropolitan College
Commenting on the shortlist Bohle’s UK Managing Director, Gary Dean said: ‘We believe that exceptional talent exists in colleges throughout the UK and the work we have seen from the 12 students short-listed only goes to prove this. The quality of their work was outstanding and we have seen some truly excellent pieces; the ideas and the conceptual work behind the submissions were intelligent and well researched. I make decisions every hour and every day, but deciding on the final 12 students to go forward was one of the longest afternoons debate I can remember! We at Bohle would like to thank all of those students who submitted pieces and with the enthusiasm in which they met the challenge.’
But the challenge does not stop there as Bohle plans to announce the final four in early August. The students selected will be guests of Bohle at the G06 Awards and the winner announced on the night.
Glassex Issues Its First Ever Customer Charter
For the first time in its 27 year history the organisers of Glassex have defined precisely what exhibitors may expect in terms of conduct and service levels from the team that organises the event, by issuing a Customer Charter.
The document, which every exhibitor will receive as part of the standard sales procedure, includes a clear code on what may be expected from all members of the Glassex team in terms of their general conduct and behaviour, but also exactly what they may enjoy in terms of assistance to make the Glassex experience successful before the event itself takes place.
The Glassex Customer Charter ensures, amongst other key issues, that event staff have a reasonable working knowledge of the industry and its key areas; the speed and quality with which communications will be handled; the frequency of contact and particularly face-to-face visits by the Glassex sales team; and the level of service and assistance that exhibitors may expect from Glassex. A complaints procedure is also spelled out.
The move comes following a complete revision of sales and customer service procedures which followed the appointment of David Broxton as Head of Sales for Glassex and sister event Glass Processing & Technology, and criticism received about service levels offered by Glassex. Says Broxton: ‘This is not a PR exercise or lip service. We will be judged on our performance against the Charter by our customers. By defining what they may expect from us, we also give ourselves a code and schedule that is quite unequivocal, free from ambiguity. Most importantly, the main elements of the Charter were defined by the customers themselves.’
‘We have already totally changed the way in which we engage with our exhibitors and potential exhibitors, but the Charter puts this into black and white. This is one of the most important issues we have to deal with on Glassex, and one of the easiest, in theory, to resolve. Our customers have a right to expect exemplary service as standard. We will be aiming to exceed their expectations.’
Customers will have the opportunity to comment on the service levels received from their account handler who will be required to complete a check list during customer visits to ensure that every exhibitor facility and service requirement is dealt with. Notes taken from the meeting will then be actioned within clearly defined timescales, with all activities reported and recorded.
A copy of the Charter can be viewed here
There
are over 200 satisfied tenants and home owners on the recently refurbished
Barset Estate in the London Borough of Southwark. Part of a growing number
of Councils, it has again specified the use of an aluminium and timber
composite window system for its housing stock.
In order to give the new development character, the tenants and owners
were given a choice of finishes for both the external aluminium and the
internal timber for each property. The Council's material choice reflects
the growing concern regarding the use of 'sustainable' materials used
in construction of new and refurbished homes.
AM Profiles supplied the aluminium timber windows fully fabricated and
Managing Director Alistair McBain explained, 'we provide our products
in a wide range of materials for specifiers to choose which is best suited
to the project and recently we have noticed a change in the general market.
We now see more specifiers wishing to ensure that materials can be easily
reclaimed and recycled in the future and so composite is far more popular.
We have worked with Southwark Borough Council before on other housing
schemes and it is good to see that they recognise the longer term use
and maintenance of windows is part of the decision making process.'
AM Profiles has supplied its range of 'Alarbond - Uni' top swing windows
and Alarbond doors on the project, which are fitted into a typical terraced
house arrangement. The main contractor for the installation was 'Standage
& Co.' with the contracting installer being 'The Window Company'.
The project was started on site in October 2005 and has been phased over
twelve months. More information about AM Profiles products can be found
on the company's website at http://www.amprofiles.com
Q-Mark
Client Supplying Kit Homes Contracts
A
member of BM TRADA's widely respected Q-Mark scheme for enhanced security
doors has been involved as a supply chain partner for a high profile series
of contracts, featuring the use of an advanced timber frame construction
method.
At
the end of April His Royal Highness Prince Charles, The Prince of Wales,
opened one scheme in Peterborough where three new homes have been built
using the system. The Q-Mark member in question, JCK Joinery from Leicester
is supplying the fit-out contractor, the Hurst Group, with more than 200
doorsets. A significant quantity had already gone into the development
of another site known as The Undercliff, in Bradford.
Anthony Kellett, the managing director of JCK Joinery, comments: ‘The
doorsets we are providing contribute to the overall design considerations
of energy efficiency, low maintenance and the use of sustainable materials
to provide quality affordable dwellings.’
‘We are supplying joinery doorsets to the Hurst Group, who are doing
all the fit out of the houses once the frames are erected and obviously
Secured by Design was an essential part of the specification for the ground
floor. ‘We joined the Q-Mark scheme for enhanced security in 2003,
having originally been with another certification provider, and have been
pleased with the service. Because of our wide product range we need good
support from the test house to resolve any difficulties at the development
stage and deal with changes in the testing standards.’
The doorsets JCK Joinery has supplied for the Peterborough site, a development
to be known as Hampton Township, are traditional joinery doorsets, either
pairs or single units with a side panel.
The architectural practice leading the cutting edge MMC projects is The
Geoffrey Wybor Practice while Accent Housing is the RSL which will manage
the affordable housing being created.
Tel: 01494 569607
Email: qmark@bmtrada.com
Web: http://www.bmtrada.com
Esprit
Now Available with Celutex Woodgrain Effect
Esprit,
the roofline range from Celuform, is now available with the Celutex woodgrain
effect, which complements the company's shiplap cladding introduced last
year.
The
versatile Esprit profile with its elegant rounded edge and long 42mm leg
is even more attractive with the addition of the embossed woodgrain on
the outside face, says Celuform, and is available in four widths from
175 - 400mm.
'The Celutex matt woodgrain appearance complements all building styles.
Wood effect cladding and roofline will be Celuform's best sellers this
year,' said Ged Ferris, the company's marketing manager.
Celutex embossing has been the result of an international collaboration
between Celuform and New Zealand company Dynex Extrusions. Last year Celuform
was granted the licence to use the company's patented embossing process
in northern Europe, which allows a random 3D surface to be created on
cellular plastic.
The result is a more authentic finish that looks and feels like real wood.
Kent-based Celuform supplies stockists throughout Europe and the UK.
Tel: 01622 719199
Web: http://www.celuform.co.uk
Everwhite
Always Gets it Right
Derby
based Building Plastics Supply Group Ltd has switched to Everwhite Plastics
for its roofline products. ‘After experiencing problems with our
previous roofline supplier we looked at the alternatives,’ explains
Jennie Chisholm, Finance and Business Development Director of BPSG.
‘We have five outlets and our customers expect good quality, wide
range and product availability from each of them. That's why we chose
Everwhite. As well as a wide product range, the company gives us excellent
service and delivery. So now our customers are getting what they want,
when they want it. Since we switched to Everwhite, we have been impressed
with the company’s customer service. If you call they either answer
straight away or if you have to leave a message they'll always get back
to you. It's refreshingly easy to deal with Everwhite.’
Tel: 01685 882 447
Glazerite
Conservatories are as Easy as 1-2-3
Network
Veka trade fabricator, Glazerite Windows, is offering installers even
greater choice with the introduction of the company’s complete conservatory
package. One delivery is all it takes for two options of Veka frames topped
off with three choices of roofing system, which all add up to valuable
savings for the installer of both time and money.
The competitively priced conservatory package includes a comprehensive
choice of quality roofing systems - Wendland, which is manufactured in
group, as well as Ultrafame and Global. Furthermore, all systems are available
glazed with either polycarbonate or comfort glass to your requirements.
The frames can be supplied in a choice of either the successful Veka Matrix
58mm bevelled suite or the new and aesthetically pleasing 70mm fully sculptured
suite. To complete the package the conservatory frames are offered as
glazed or unglazed, aimed at reducing the stress and hassle involved in
ordering from separate suppliers.
To further assist Glazerite's installing partners, the company also provides
a complete CAD design service along with on-site technical support.
Commenting on the complete conservatory solution, Sales and Marketing
Manager for Glazerite, Chris Reeks said: ‘Glazerite continuously
strives to ensure our installers have the best products and service available.
The complete conservatory package allows customers to purchase the frames,
glass and roof to their exacting standards. As an experienced and ISO
accredited trade manufacturer we have the control and quality excellence
to ensure the conservatories are delivered in one inclusive delivery saving
both time and money. With an impressive choice supported by a comprehensive
10 year guarantee, the complete conservatory package is proving extremely
popular.’
For more information and a competitive quotation on the complete conservatory
package from Glazerite fax the dedicated sales team on 01933 443244.
New
Supply and Fit Service for Windows and Doorsets
Housebuilders
can now benefit from a new supply and fit service for windows and doorsets.
One of the UK’s leading PVC-U window manufacturers into the new build
market Jeld-Wen, has launched this turnkey service that includes complete
project management of developers’ requirements from specification
to fit.
The
new offer is backed up by a Customer Care department and a sales ordering
procedure to ISO9001:2000. This means that housebuilders can benefit from
detailed status reports at any stage of the process and have the confidence
in the timescale commitments given by the Jeld-Wen team.
There is also a nationwide external sales team who are dedicated to the
needs of the housebuilder and making the new supply and fit process as
easy as possible. Jeld-Wen’s highly professional sales team is backed
up by a PVC-U window and door factory that has recently benefited from
major investment in new equipment.
A key feature of the new offer is the two tier fitting service; the first
stage being installation of windows and doorsets and the second stage
being a commissioning service five days before handover. Joanne Mitchell,
European Marketing Director at Jeld-Wen, explains: 'We believe we are
unique in the industry in offering this level of service. We listened
to what housebuilders wanted and then tailored our offer accordingly.
Our supply and fit service complements developers’ build schedules,
providing peace of mind that windows and doorsets meet their requirements
exactly.'
Joanne continues: 'As housebuilders seek to meet the demands of new regulations,
combined with the challenge of skills shortage on site, we can offer a
complete solution to meet their needs. Our new supply and fit service
takes the hassle out of fitting doors and windows. We have made the service
both simple and effective by offering complete project management from
the initial enquiry and call off, whilst carefully planning installation
and finally commissioning, it really couldn’t be easier.'
All the PVC-U windows supplied on the new programme are fitted using Jeld-Wen’s
cavity closer system, which enables it to achieve an engineered fit on
site.
The cavity closer also means Jeld-Wen can guarantee compliance with Part
L in closing the cavity and positioning the windows. The cavity closers
are designed to suit all common cavities.
'Attention to detail is becoming more critical than ever on site as build
plans are becoming more complex and by offering this comprehensive service
for the installation of windows and doorsets, we can minimise installation
time on site and reduce the need for callbacks,' explains Joanne Mitchell.
'We provide detailed support documentation, giving housebuilders full
visibility of activity as well as helping them meet build schedules. We
look forward to demonstrating the benefits to housebuilders over the coming
months.'
Tel: 01302 394000
Web: http://www.jeld-wen.co.uk
Padiham
Doubles Production in 2006 with Help from Super Spacer®
Sealed
unit manufacturer Padiham Glass Ltd has increased production by 100% in
the last five months, from 500 units per day to 1,000. Sales Manager Anthony
Clarkson puts this fantastic achievement down to increased pressure on
customers to use energy rated windows, resulting in higher demand for
thermally efficient sealed units. ‘Window fabricators are seeking
out companies like us which can help them achieve the high BFRC ratings
they need to give them the edge. And thanks to Edgetech's Super Spacer®,
we can deliver what they want.’
Eighty-five per cent of the units Padiham produces are made with warm
edge technology Super Spacer®, from a standing start in January this
year.
‘We've adjusted well to the increased demand thanks to the fully
automated For.EL line installed last November,’ observes Anthony,
‘which has speeded up manufacturing and cut down on labour significantly.
We've also ordered a second fully automated For.EL machine, due to be
installed in October 2006. We're aiming to double production again by
then!’
Sash
Fitrite Installers Network Forum Approves Revised Marketing Programme
At
the most recent Fitrite Decking & Fencing Installers' Forum to be
staged by Sash UK at its Yorkshire headquarters, members of the Approved
Installers Network had the opportunity to discuss radical amendments to
the marketing programme and license terms, in addition to reviewing new
products added to the growing Fitrite portfolio.
Fitrite,
which was launched by Sash UK last year to great acclaim for bringing
professionally marketed and installed home improvements to the garden,
is only available in the UK through a network of Approved Installers,
all of whom are regularly consulted for their views on all aspects of
the programme. The June Fitrite Installers Forum took the opportunity
to discuss recent changes proposed for the Fitrite marketing programme.
Through a survey undertaken earlier in the year members made it clear
that they would prefer to run their own local marketing and promotional
activities, but continuing to be supported by a national campaign carried
out by Fitrite. The amendment to the programme has brought about a substantial
reduction in the Fitrite installer license fees which in turn has attracted
a number of new applications from potential installers who are attracted
by the exclusivity the license offers.
Jo Fearne, Marketing Manager for Sash UK and Fitrite believes that the
way the programme revisions came about are proof that this aspect of the
Fitrite operation works: ‘The Fitrite programme has been carefully
developed but that doesn't mean that it cannot be improved and this fundamental
change to the scheme, essentially brought about and approved by the Installers
themselves, is an excellent demonstration of the quality of the license.
‘It is a genuine partnership between Fitrite and our Approved Installers
who have a real say in the success of the business. We believe that the
penetration of marketing on a local basis may be improved still further
if Installers have more involvement and control, and with an intimate
knowledge of their own area will be able to apply the right marketing
resources more effectively. We will continue to market Fitrite on a national
and regional basis.’
Fitrite Decking & Fencing offers homeowners the style and design opportunities
of traditional garden decking and fencing, but using wood-free components
that remove the need for constant maintenance and upkeep. Fitrite installers
are trained to offer a full planning and installation service that introduces
proven home improvement sales and marketing techniques to an untapped
area of the home - the garden.
SG
Timber Windows Announces Southwest Launch
SG
Timber Windows and Doors has specialised in manufacturing high quality
timber windows and doors since 1948. With two factories based in Poland,
SG prides itself on designing and producing bespoke, engineered timber
windows, doors, conservatories and log cabins, which are not only beautiful
to look at, but extremely durable and environmentally-friendly.
Guaranteed for ten years, all of SG's products are manufactured from the
best timber, selected only from sustainable and managed sources. Whilst
wood is a living resource, and one of Man's oldest construction materials,
the use of engineered and laminated timber improves structural performance
and eliminates the problems of surface blemishes from knots and resin
seepage.
When properly designed, treated and maintained, these quality timber products
can last indefinitely; at the same time they are extremely efficient in
regard to energy conservation.
Suitable for any property style, the extensive product range includes
storm-proof, casement, tilt and turn, traditional sliding sash windows
as well as aluminium clad/composite windows. The frames accept double-glazed,
argon gas-filled units with low emissivity glass for optimum insulation.
All timber frames are available in hardwood or softwood with a painted
or stained finish. The sliding sash is supplied complete with hardware
including sash cords, weights, brass pulleys and security fasteners.
Within the timber door range are external, folding and sliding doors made
from engineered laminated timber. These traditionally styled doors are
available in the same extensive stain/paint range as the windows. Along
with external doors, solid wood internal door sets are also available.
They are pre-hung, with door lining, architraves and fully finished.Additionally,
SG also manufactures custom-built log homes and cabins, using high quality
timber, fastenings and roofing materials for an enduring and beautiful
home.
The entire SG range carries the European Certification CE mark which confirms
that all products comply with the essential health, safety and environmental
protection legislation of all applicable European Directives.
Already supplying its products across Europe, SG Timber Windows and Doors
has announced the launch of the company’s South West UK operation.
Based in Plymouth, and headed up by Jim Bishop and Rob Hawkins, the company
will be looking to supply builders, window manufacturers and installers,
developers, and trade outlets, as well as working directly with architects
and homeowners.
‘With SG, the possibilities are incredibly exciting,’ comments
Rob Hawkins. ‘This is a truly bespoke product. In terms of style
and design, our Clients' only restriction is their imagination. We offer
a choice of 40 stain colours, alternatively any RAL paint colour can be
selected, with options for dual shades or finishes for the interior and
exterior of the property.’
Jim Bishop adds, ‘We are both fired up, and are so very lucky to
be able to offer such a fantastic product which stands so far out from
the crowd, and we promise to deliver customer service to match that quality.
Whether you need thirty oak, sliding sash frames for a period property
renovation, a hundred aluminium clad windows for an office block, or one
new front door, we can supply exactly what you require. We want you to
be as happy with us personally, as we know you will be with that product.’
Tel: 07710 546274
Siegenia-Aubi
- Bucking the Trend
Hardware
and ventilation systems manufacturer Siegenia-Aubi is reporting a significant
upturn in sales over the first half of 2006.
Says
general manager Léann Hearne: ‘Our sales are up 10% on the
same period in 2005, which in itself is encouraging in a market where
many manufacturers are still reporting a downturn.
‘What's even more encouraging is that this represents organic growth,
and doesn't take into account new products - our new Trident hardware
system, which we launched in June, and a second product that we will be
introducing in early autumn.’
Léann attributes the strong performance to a series of commercial
contract wins, growth in the aluminium sector and increased demand for
Siegenia-Aubi’s door hardware - in particular the folding sliding
FS Portal system - which she says is proving popular in the newbuild market:
‘We introduced the FS Portal hardware three years ago with two big
challenges: to sell the concept of folding sliding doors and to build
awareness of our product's capabilities on the back of that. We are starting
to see the results now, which goes to show that it takes time for a new
concept to permeate the market, and as manufacturers we shouldn't stop
innovating just because we don't always see instant results.’
The firm is also working with several aluminium systems companies who
are keen to extrude a bespoke profile for the Siegenia-Aubi LM hardware
range.
‘I'm extremely encouraged by our performance so far this year,’
adds Léann. ‘I hope to see this upward trend continue, for
us and for the industry as a whole.’
UKTC
is a Finalist of Orange Best use of Technology Award
The
UK Trades Confederation (UKTC) has been officially announced as one of
the finalists of the UK's National Business Awards Regional Programme
for the South East for best use of technology. The award, sponsored by
Orange, is given to organisations that can best demonstrate their effective
use of technology.
Through investing in its own domain name, UKTC provides its members with
an e-commerce website and email facilities free of charge. This has increased
membership of the UKTC and contributed to membership retention. Members
have benefited from new business opportunities including the Public Sector
marketplace by being able to communicate electronically and having web
presence. By giving members email facilities, UKTC can communicate sales
leads quickly and more efficiently.
Iain MacDonald MD of the UKTC comments:
'The introduction of this technology is a groundbreaking resource, which
to UKTC's knowledge is not offered anywhere else through a trade association.
Therefore, we are delighted to be recognised for our use of technology
by the UK's most established business award programme that commemorates
UK success and enterprise.'
Philip Forrest ACII FCIM CM, Chairman of Judges for The National Business
Awards comments:
'The finalists in this category were of the highest standard and wonderfully
successful organisations. We used a detailed marking system that provided
such scoring sensitivity that we were confronted with a very, very close
decision. I congratulate UKTC on being acknowledged as a leading edge
business technology user.'
The UKTC has taken into account its members' technological barriers, limited
resources and time restrictions by producing a website template aided
by a wizard tool. Members who have even the most basic of computer skills
can update their website and utilise the Virtual Secretary section for
pre-formatted letter-headed stationery.
For further information contact The UK Trades Confederation on 0800 018
4442 or email mail@uktc.org or visit
http://www.uktc.org
GTL
National Training Awards 2006
At
its AGM, Glass Training Ltd made a number of award presentations to individuals
and companies in the glass sector. These included ten individuals/organisations
associated with the Glass Qualifications Authority (GQA).
§ A 'First Award' in Stained Glass Conservation was made to Helen
Chick of Holywell Glass. Helen achieved, via the GQA Approved Centre Salisbury
College, a Level 3 NVQ in Glass Processing assessed in the context of
Stained Glass Conservation.
§ A 'Scottish Training Provider of the Year' award was made to R
T Resources, a GQA Approved Centre based in Ayr.
§ A 'First Award' to celebrate its 1000th GQA national vocational
qualification in Automotive Glazing was made to Autoglass and received
by Steve Sinclair-Day (the company's GQA approved Centre Co-ordinator).
§ An 'English Training Provider of the Year' award was made to The
Vocational College based in Merseyside. The award was accepted by Roy
Pusey, a GQA approved Internal Verifier and Assessor. The Vocational College
has recently achieved a high grade (2) in an ALI inspection.
§ Denis Goodwin, a GQA External Verifier received a 'Services to
Training in the Glass Industry' award.
§ John Taylor, the Centre Co-ordinator and Head of the GQA approved
International Glass Centre, received a 'Services to the Glass Industry'
award. John is also a City & Guilds examiner of the ŒRaw Materials
and Batch Mixing‚ certificate.
§ Peter Heyes, the Centre Co-ordinator of the GQA approved centre
Blackburn College/Glass Creations received a 'Services for Education in
the Glass Industry' award. Peter has an international as well as UK reputation
having supported many educational provisions throughout the world.
§ Jim Kelly, a GQA Director and Company Secretary received an award
for 'Services to the Glass Industry'
§ Askeri Kaplan, who achieved his GQA NVQ in Production of Glass
Supporting Fabrications via The Vocational College, received an award
in 'Fenestration Fabrications'. Askeri came to the UK from Turkey to continue
a career in the glass sector with 1st Frame in Kendal. He was a runner-up
in the Excellence in Cumbria Award (South West).
§ Birmingham City College received an award for its 'College and
Employer Partnership' linked to the apprenticeship programme of Autoglass.
The outcome of the partnership has lead to a successful outcome of Automotive
Glazing apprenticeship completions.
Web: http://www.glassqualificationsauthority.com