Industry
Wakes Up to Window Energy Ratings at Edgetech Seminar
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key decision-makers in glass and glazing discussed some of the biggest
issues affecting the industry at Edgetech's Increase Your Profits: Energy
Efficiency in Focus seminar on Wednesday 10th May. Delegates at Coventry's
Ricoh Arena included the BBA, BPF, CAB, leading media, fabricators and
installers, and systems companies including Synseal, Deceuninck, Plastmo,
Rehau and the Epwin Group.
Questions from delegates helped fuel the debate on issues from cutting
VAT on Energy Saving Recommended products to gas loss and the longevity
of sealed units.
‘Information was expertly and professionally offered. I believe that
this initiative [Window Energy Ratings] will have a major impact on our
industry and that it will be consumer driven in a way that we have not
previously seen,’ comments Mark Warren, Managing Director of Lister
Trade Frames Ltd.
‘The success of this seminar (with seating extended twice to accommodate
delegates) shows the industry is waking up en masse to the Window
Energy Ratings,’ observes Andy Jones, Sales Director and General
Manager for Edgetech UK. ‘It's time for the industry as a
whole to move forward and take advantage of this vital opportunity.’
Alan Griffiths of Broad Street Windows describes the day: ‘A
great event...really useful and enjoyable.’
Alan Burgess, MD of Masterframe Windows, had this to say:
'I'd like to commend both Edgetech and Michael Rigby Associates for organising
last Wednesday's seminar on something that so clearly hits the mark -
the Window Energy Ratings. Since we achieved our 'C' rated vertical slider
we've seen a big increase not only in leads, but also in sales and marketing
opportunities, using the Energy Saving Recommended logo. As consumer demand
develops, we expect even more. The challenge is now for the industry to
make this initiative seem like a genuine call for improvement, rather
than a typical double-glazing salesman's ploy.'
David Bown, Sales & Marketing Director of Finesse Windows commented:
'What a brilliant day, so well organised and presented, information was
tremendous and speakers first class. This should be a real wake up call
for the industry, time for everyone to take note of the real problem of
energy consumption and its cost to everyone in both monitory terms and
what the CO2 imitations are doing to the world. Well done Edgetech, nice
work Andy Jones - from my point of view a day well spent
For those who couldn't make it on the day, a film crew is producing a
DVD of the seminar, available in the next two weeks. It will also show
interviews with delegates including Joe Hague of Promac, Andy Ball of
Profile 22 and Adrian Locker of Newstead. Contact Anne O'Connor at Edgetech
on 0207 7670 5570 to reserve your copy.
(Left) Jim Moody talks on bringing energy rated
windows to market; (right) Andy Ball of Profile 22 gives a vox pop interview
to the film crew
Introducing
a Choice in Part L Self Certification
Certass
has been granted ministerial approval to be licenced for self certification
under Part L of building regulations. This introduces an element of choice
into the market place. ‘We are particularly pleased, as these licences
are not easily obtained, as the license holder must prove its worth to
various government departments before approval is given,’ says the
company.
Certass which stands for certification and self assessment, was formed
several years ago and was one of the original Quality Mark certification
bodies. It is therefore a natural progression for Certass to move into
the self assessment market. The Statutory Instrument for Certass approval
was made on 9th March 2006 and was laid before Parliament on 15th March
2006. The approval came into force on 6th April 2006 and has now been
published by HMSO as Statutory Instrument 2006 No. 652.
‘In simple terms this means that Certass can invite applications
to be licensed for Self Certification, therefore our application forms
are available on request,’ says the company.
‘Certass has made arrangements with various insurance providers to
provide discounted schemes for their members e.g. waiving of inspection
fees and registration fees for individual contracts.
‘Certass can provide a One Stop Shop for contractors (who give Insurance)
whereby they need only declare their completed contracts once to Certass,
and they will pass all relevant information on to the various insurance
providers, thus simplifying current arrangements and avoiding extra paper
work and administration.
‘We are currently inviting applications from Insurance Backed Guarantee
providers and a list of approved companies will accompany our application
form. You should be aware that several providers are negotiating agreements
whereby they will effectively pay some or all of the Certass fees on your
behalf. It would therefore probably benefit you to check with your current
provider if a scheme is being prepared.’
Certass will carry out its own vetting procedures on all applicants. The
cost of this vetting is absorbed within the annual £50.00 (+ VAT)
Tel: 01292 266636
Email: info@certass.co.uk
Web: http://www.certass.co.uk
West
Yorkshire Windows to be Seen as Expert on ITV Show
Conservatory
Outlet dealer West Yorkshire Windows will be seen as a conservatory expert
on ITV's House of Horrors tonight at 8pm. The show features Mr and Mrs
Jones who spent £40,000 on legal fees trying to get compensation
for their poorly fitted conservatory.
The Jones' were awarded £79,000 after an independent surveyor found
180 different faults with the conservatory. But they didn't get a penny
as the company who carried out the work went into administration. To give
the Jones' the dream conservatory they wanted ITV called in West Yorkshire
Windows to do the work. Filming for the show took place over eight days
in September.
‘The state of the conservatory was disgusting,’ comments Conservatory
Outlet's Managing Director Matthew Glover. ‘The whole building moved
several inches when even light pressure was put on the frames. Installations
like the one we saw at the Jones' home give the industry a bad name. West
Yorkshire Windows was pleased to represent professional installers and
give the Jones' the conservatory that they had hoped for.’
• Conservatory Outlet offers installation companies the chance to
buy trade frames as well as complete conservatories without becoming a
Conservatory Outlet dealer.
‘While we appreciate most companies are involved with conservatories,
some installers focus more on windows so we also supply trade frames to
them,’ explains Matthew Glover, Managing Director of Conservatory
Outlet.
‘We have fabricated our own windows for three years and have invested
£352,000 in 12 months in the new factory and machinery. And because
Conservatory Outlet fabricates and installs we understand exactly what's
needed by installation companies.
'Trade
customers can rest assured that whether it's just one window, a whole
house or a conservatory, we'll make sure everything is delivered on time,
in full. And because we use SynerJy, trade customers can order a whole
conservatory in one profile and one colour. The windows and roof match
perfectly. Our customers tell us it makes a refreshing change to deal
with a company that really understands installation.’
Tel: 08700 802380
Pilkington
Activ™ Sales Multiply as Industry Embraces Ad Campaign
Early
indications are that the £2 million advertising and promotional
campaign staged by Pilkington in support of Pilkington Activ™ self-cleaning
glass is providing the significant sales boost for the home improvement
industry that it was intended to generate.
Sales are reported to have more than doubled from the equivalent of around
250 houses installed per week, to more than 600. This figure is expected
to increase still further as the effects of the advertising campaign continue
to bite, and the home improvement 'season' gets into its traditional upswing.
More
than 500 window and conservatory installers have signed up to appear on
the Pilkington Activ™ supplier section of the dedicated web site
for the product, for which sales have been further boosted by the wide
availability of Pilkington Activ™ Blue, the variant produced specifically
for conservatory roof applications.
The usually cautious Matt Buckley, Marketing Director for Pilkington Building
Products UK is delighted with the outcome of the campaign so far: ‘The
boost in sales provided by the advertising campaign is having a huge effect
on sales of Pilkington Activ™. But what is even more encouraging
is that the product enjoyed a very substantial increase in sales, breaking
some tough targets, even before the advertising took effect.
‘Installers throughout the country are taking Pilkington Activ™
on and using it in various ways to boost margins and close sales in a
market that is still very competitive. It offers something different that
homeowners want and a large number of our partners are taking advantage
of our TV and press advertising by running their own local campaigns to
boost their sales. It is superb to see so many companies out there 'actively'
promoting their businesses.’
Further details of the effects of the Spring sales campaign will be revealed
when Pilkington has completed extensive research. The company has already
firmed up the next phase of plans for a second, similar TV and press campaign
for the autumn.
Ultraframe’s
new Conservaglass is a Clear Favourite
Since
the launch of its new and improved climate controlling Conservaglass at
Glassex 2006 conservatory roof designer and manufacturer, Ultraframe,
says that it has seen an enormous leap in sales of its glass units. Conservaglass
is now available in Subtle Blue and Neutral Clear. New pricing ensures
value and lead times have been dramatically reduced.
Nick Brown, Sales & Marketing Director at Ultraframe, comments; 'Since
re-launching our high performance Conservaglass, sales have quadrupled.
This is thanks to the exemplary properties of the glass, a new pricing
structure and lead times under seven days.'
Nick continues; 'Another benefit of choosing a Conservaglass roof is that
because both the roof and glazing comes from one source, either directly
from Ultraframe or from an Ultraframe fabricator, there are no errors
in measurement and no split responsibility. It is just a case of a simple
phone call to get the entire roofing system which really simplifies the
ordering process. We then deliver to site or premises within five to seven
days.'
Conservaglass Subtle Blue has an attractive blue tint which reduces the
sun’s glare, while also allowing sufficient light to pass through
it. It reflects nearly two thirds of solar energy, which prevents solar
heat build up and helps to maintain a cooler and more comfortable internal
environment. Both Subtle Blue and Neutral Clear, available with Ultraframe’s
popular Classic range of roofs, offer extremely low ‘U’ values
of just 1.1, which ensures heat is retained in the Winter months. Both
options also feature an advanced self cleaning coating which uses sunlight
and rainwater to break down any dirt or grime and wash it away.
Self cleaning glass needs careful site handling and additional measures
to install it correctly. To ensure good housekeeping and site practice
Ultraframe can supply special MS polymer sealant to install Conservaglass
(in place of the usual low modulus neutral cure silicone). Furthermore
a special leaflet explaining how to handle, install and clean Conservaglass
is delivered with the roof and glass, ensuring correct installation every
time.
Nick Brown predicts sales of Conservaglass will continue to rise. He commented;
'Although inherently more expensive than polycarbonate, many people are
now favouring glass conservatory roofs. Homeowners like the traditional
look and transparency of glass roofs, as well as the high quality finish
and natural elegance a glass roof can provide.'
Nick added; 'Another development that will promote the use of glass is
the introduction of a revolutionary Tie Bar Replacement Kit from Ultraframe.
This Kit means that in many instances large span conservatories with heavy
glass roofs no longer require tie bars, which many homeowners find obtrusive.
The Kit strengthens the roof ridge and improves its resistance to deflection.
It significantly reduces the need for tie bars, whilst maintaining the
structural integrity of the conservatory even in extreme weather conditions.
Visitors to Ultraframe’s Glassex stand will have seen the vast, uninterrupted
roof vista the kit created on the stunning 5m by 4m Classic glass roof
exhibited there.'
Today’s conservatory buyers are in general more demanding. They are
more aware of energy efficiency, the pitfalls of heat gain and heat loss
through a conservatory roof and are also more quality conscious. The new
Conservaglass from Ultraframe has been developed specifically to enable
installers to meet the needs of this market. Installers can provide the
highest quality, energy efficient glass conservatory roofs quickly and
more cost effectively to ensure total customer satisfaction.
Veka
Fabricator Sovereign Voted LHC Partner of the Year - Again!
Sovereign
Group has been chosen as Partner of the Year for the second time by the
LHC Procurement Consortium, the UK's biggest public sector purchasing
group. Manufacturing around 1,500 window frames a week, Sovereign is the
UK's largest VEKA fabricator.
The award makes Sovereign the only company to receive the accolade twice,
a feat of which managing director, Glenn Taylor is justifiably proud.
‘We are delighted to be recognised as LHC Partner of the Year once
again as we work constantly to achieve, sustain and improve true partner
status.’
The Group is currently expanding its Lancashire base to double its factory
space to 100,0000sq ft, to increase capacity to 2000 frames a week to
accommodate demand. Much of its production is for large commercial developers,
local authorities and housing associations, with its trade division supplying
domestic installation companies.
Sovereign Group's relationship with VEKA enables the company to produce
the highest quality frames, using the VEKA Matrix 70 profile. ‘With
a reputation within the industry as one of the most versatile profiles
on the market, less than 40 profiles enable the manufacture of virtually
any style or design of windows and doors in any kind of building. The
fully integrated PVC-U system is the result of massive investment in development,
tooling and extrusion technology.’
‘To be awarded this accolade for the second time is testimony to
the effort of all our staff and suppliers,’ concludes Glenn Taylor.
Kombimatec
Improves Clean Up Operation
A
new system for the automatic cleaning of welded joints that are not always
a perfect square has been invented, designed and patented by Kombimatec
here in the UK.
Automatic PVC weld cleaners are an essential piece of machinery for any
fabricator to produce windows & doors competitively. The very best
cleaning results are achieved when accurate square welds are consistently
produced.
Due to tolerances building during the fabrication process it is impossible
to get 100% accuracy. For example there is always a tolerance on sawing
to start with. Welded joints, in practice, can often out of square. Either
too open, more than 90 degrees or too closed, less than 90 degrees.
This manifests itself by grooving offline that can be unsightly or missing/half
cleaning a bevel or decorative moulding resulting it being necessary to
finish the cleaning by hand.
Kombimatec has patented a new system for its CNC cleaners to assist the
operator in two beneficial ways and help overcome these manufacturing
problems.
The first benefit is the assistance it provides the operator for inserting
the frame down the centre of the weld. This helps the prevent the cleaning
tools deviating from the correct path.
The second benefit comes from the machine recalculating totally automatically
the new start position of the tools which inevitably will need to differ
if the joint is not 90 degrees. 90 degrees being the standard CNC cleaning
program. The result being a more thorough and consistent cleaning of the
bevel, ovolo or other decorative shape.
As a result this new invention further deskills the operation and reduces
the waste associated with reworking, or in some cases, the scrapping and
remaking of the frame.
This system is being offered on all new CNC cleaners manufactured by Kombimatec
and can be retrofitted to existing owners of Kombimatec CNC cleaners built
since 1999.
Tel: 01582 455 934
Masterframe
Reaches National Business Award 2006 Regional Finals
Sliding
sash specialist Masterframe Windows has reached the regional finals of
the Orange National Business Awards 2006 for Business Innovation of the
Year, for its Bygone Collection window. The only Energy Saving Recommended
(by the Energy Saving Trust) sliding sash in the UK, it can reduce CO2
emissions by 74% compared to a single glazed timber window. It's also
the only window with BBA 'system status', certifying a 20 year life expectancy,
underlying its longevity and sustainability.
Masterframe is one of four finalists for the South East region, including
innocent drinks ltd, KashFlow Software and Mustard Technologies. According
to the National Business Awards, the winning organisation must demonstrate
‘a proven ability to create, nurture and develop innovations or processes
that substantially improve the commercial performance or prospects of
the company.’
‘Since introducing our BFRC 'C' rated Bygone Collection window we've
had an average of 50 new enquiries a month,’ says Alan Burgess, Managing
Director of Masterframe. ‘And our product innovations have created
the most authentic-looking range of PVC-U vertical sliders on the market.
The competitive advantage for our customers is clear.’
The National Business Awards is one of the biggest business competitions
in Europe. The winners of the South East and Wales & West Country
Awards will be announced on 13th July. In 2005 Masterframe reached the
National Business Awards' Regional Finals for Customer Care.
Tel: 01376 510410
Web: http://www.masterframe.co.uk
PiA
Seminar Draws Record Audience
More
than 75 architects and specifiers from across London and the south east
attended a recent seminar hosted by the PiA (Innovative Products in Architecture)
group entitled 'Towards Zero Energy'.
Presentations from polymer giant REHAU on its Awadukt Thermo ground to
air heat exchanger, Worcester Bosch and Dwell-vent were enthusiastically
received from an audience eager to source products with a proven track
record on sustainable energy.
Mike Moseley, REHAU's Major Projects Manager, was delighted with the response.
He said: ‘Regulatory pressure and the growing need amongst clients
to reduce the carbon footprint of their buildings undoubtedly helped the
PiA to deliver a full house at this seminar.
‘All those architects who attended were looking for cost effective,
proven products to help them deliver low or even zero energy buildings.
‘REHAU's Awadukt Thermo ground to air heat exchanger, for example,
has been proven in use in mainland Europe for several years and delivers
pre-warmed or cooled air into a building using the ground as an energy
source. Combined with the fact that it is straightforward and cost effective
to install, it is exactly the type of practical solution which the delegates
came to see.’
The success of the event has prompted the RIBA affiliated PiA to repeat
the seminar at the Building Centre on Tuesday, 20th June. Further details
can be obtained from Jayne Blackborow on: 0207 580 6155, e-mail: jayne.blackborow@rehau.com.
Britannia
Windows Doubles Capacity
Responding
to ever increasing demand and new product launches Britannia Windows has
opened a second fabrication unit to increase capacity to record levels.
The
unit represents a significant investment of over £500k and includes
a new Stuga ZX4 machining centre, the company’s highest output machine,
capable of 900 frames per week.
Britannia says that this second Stuga machining centre graphically illustrates
the commitment by the company to stay one step ahead in fabrication, something
it has been doing consistently for over 25 years.
‘Our first Stuga machining centre has been a runaway success ever
since installation’ comments Hayden Rushton, Managing Director. ‘Consistent
quality and increased efficiency meant we were always going to invest
in another Stuga when the time was right’ he goes on to say.
With strong retail, commercial and trade sales and new product opportunities
since Permacell Finesse was acquired by Synseal, Britannia firmly believes
the time is right.
The investment doesn't stop there though with a new Rotox 379 corner cleaner,
extra quad and two head welders, another V notcher, and an additional
reverse butt welder and Jade reverse butt cleaner.
‘Britannia has always prided itself in making its own difference’
says Hayden. ‘The new unit not only increase our capacity, it helps
us be even more flexible with our customers and further guarantees the
consistent high product quality that is the hallmark of Britannia Windows.’
Business
Micros Opens New Loughborough Office
Business
Micros, the software supplier, has just invested in a new office near
Loughborough to provide specialist support to high volume customers.
Gary
Brown, Business Micros Key Accounts Manager, and data support specialists
Stefan Janowski and Andy Thompson will provide customers producing upwards
of 1,000 frames per week with tailored technical and commercial advice
from the new facility in Old Dalby, Leicestershire.
Graeme Bailey, Business Micros' Managing Director, says the new office
will bring real benefits to customers. He says: ‘Our experience shows
that large fabricators need a very different type of support service from
small and medium sized ones.
They want us to have an in depth knowledge of both their business and
our products and to be able to offer advice as to how they can use the
technology to exploit new opportunities as well as providing answers to
very complex technical questions.
‘As we are winning more and more large accounts and as many of our
existing customers expand, we have brought together our most experienced
team and now have a dedicated resource focused just on these type of fabricators.’
The office in Old Dalby complements Business Micros existing technical
support facility in Penpont, Dumfriesshire which will continue to provide
a fully trained, fast and efficient help desk for the majority of the
company's 4,000 customers.
Business Micros also has a sales and installation office in Warrington
and an office in Gloucester dedicated to meeting the needs of customers
in the aluminium sector. It employs 40 people at its four locations in
the UK.
Tel: 01925 422957
Email: sales@businessmicros.co.uk
Win
a Tongue Twisting Trip with Permadoor
Visitors
to this year's Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) Conference and Exhibition
in Harrogate are being urged to put pen to paper to come up with a winning
rhyme that could see them scoop a weekend trip for two to Ireland's 'Emerald
City', Limerick.
Door manufacturer Permadoor is running the competition to celebrate its
bestselling poet-inspired composite door range, and is giving away the
break for the best original limerick submitted at its stand during the
exhibition.
Permadoor's stand will incorporate its own 'poets' corner', where visitors
can browse a selection of poetry and search for inspiration. Visitors
to the stand will also be given the chance to learn about the company's
technically-advanced product portfolio and quiz its experts to find answers
to all their door-related questions.
The city of Limerick lies on the River Shannon, with three main crossing
points near the city centre. As well as the celebrated Hunt museum (established
to house an internationally important collection of approximately 2000
works of art), the city is home to the 800 year old St Mary's Cathedral
and The Irish Chamber Orchestra.
To enter the competition, or to find out more about Permadoor products
and services, visit the Permadoor stand (Stand 435, Hall Q) at the CIH
2006 Conference and Exhibition 20th - 23rd June 2006, Harrogate.
Web: http://www.permadoor.co.uk
UK
Steel Window Industry on the Attack
The
Steel Window Association (SWA) is mounting a campaign against competitors
that have published unfounded allegations regarding the quality and availability
of steel windows.
SWA Director Jenni Turner says that a few unscrupulous companies that
make windows in other materials have stated on their websites that steel
windows rust and do not meet the requirements of Part L.
‘In fact all modern steel windows are galvanized during manufacture
and so they do not rust,’ says Ms Turner.
‘Steel windows with appropriate glazing systems can meet Part L,
while in historic buildings and conservation areas, where steel windows
are often the essential choice to maintain the traditional façades,
Part L does not apply.’
Ms Turner points out that most steel windows are now supplied with a factory-applied
polyester powder coating which is available in a range of colours and
will not need re-painting for at least 20 years, given adequate maintenance.
‘Members of the SWA are determined to ensure that specifiers and
householders should not be put off steel windows by inaccurate statements
made by the competition and we will take legal action if untrue claims
are made and not withdrawn,’ she adds.
Tel: 020 7637 3571
Email: info@steel-window-association.co.uk
Mighton
Gets a Slice of American Pie
Mighton
Products, the premium sash window hardware specialist, has opened a US
office in Orlando, Florida. Business Development Director, David Warr
(pictured left being welcomed to the team by Mike Derham) is in charge
of American sales and market development: ‘Mighton can offer quality
products and systems never before seen in the USA. The market to date
hasn't had a real innovator.’
The
aim of an overseas presence for Mighton is to grow awareness of its innovative
products like Powersash, the world's first fully integrated powered sash
window mechanism, and Fenestrator, a manually operated system that allows
even the heaviest sliding sash window - timber or PVC-U - to be opened
easily. Mike Derham, Managing Director of Mighton, explains the expansion:
Mighton's innovative products are well received in a market that's always
looking for advancement. Our research and development will continue for
the UK market but it's just as relevant to the US market. I think America
is ready for us!’
Sliding sashes, known as 'double hung windows' over there, are the windows
of choice in the States with sashes making up 30-40% of all replacement
windows.
Mike Derham continues: ‘The US remodelling and restoration market
offers real potential. With housing stock at a mean age of about 34 years,
many homes are ripe for window replacement, helped by a new tax incentive
that encourages window buying.’
As well as new lines, David Warr will promote Mighton's generic hardware
to the 3-4 million commercial home renovators looking for quality sash
window accessories and architectural ironmongery. ‘One of the key
drivers in the US for 2006 is premium products. Many more American homeowners
expect a practical, aesthetically pleasing and upmarket look for replacement
windows.
‘I'm really pleased to be representing Mighton’ says David Warr,
who has been supporting British businesses in the US since 1999 (see below).
‘I believe we can create a new and serious market leader contender
to compete with existing suppliers.’
David Warr MIEx.LAE
Following an international career in the aviation industry, culminating
in a senior management position, David returned from work in the USA,
Brunei, Singapore and Abu Dhabi, to Britain in 1987. After gaining various
academic qualifications Dip in Export Marketing Management he provided
export consultancy for local government which led to the development of
a multi-disciplined consultancy practice in 1993, where he was Chief Executive.
In 1997 this company formed an alliance group, Euro-Link Partnership UK
Ltd. In 1999 David moved his business to Florida to continue business
and market development projects for US and European companies. His work
there included support for small and medium-sized companies as part of
UK Government Business Link and Enterprise Florida initiatives.
Tel: 01223 497097
Web: http://www.mightonproducts.com
Investment
Supports Continued Growth says Quantum
Plastmo
fabricator, Quantum Windows has recently invested in two new 7.5 tonne
vehicles to add to the company’s existing fleet of vehicles which
are designed to support an operation that's capable of producing 1200
frames per week. The company has also just celebrated 12 months in its
new 80,000 sq ft unit in Corby which has been developed to maximise production
efficiencies and also to provide further opportunities for growth.
Tony Britten, director explains: ‘As a company we believe in controlled
growth, investment and a commitment to our employees. It's a simple philosophy
but one in which has helped us grow and furthermore, one which will help
us achieve our bold growth objectives over the next few years.’
The company continues to operate in the trade, public and house building
sectors offering a wide range of windows and doors including Plastmo's
Vogue, Charisma vertical slider and Slidex systems. Quantum can also offer
aluminium window and door systems and a conservatory roof system within
its product portfolio.
With a diverse product portfolio, commitment from employees and customers
and clients such as Loughboro University, the company looks set to achieve
further success.
J&S
Adhesives, the manufacturers of the UK brand, Safe2Bond bevel adhesive,
has just accepted two major export orders which required the company to
supply its products in non-standard, 100g and 1000g containers.
Managing Director, John Jackson comments ‘Our customer base is now
very diverse and whilst sales in the UK continue to grow at over 30% per
annum, new export sales are now gathering pace at an even higher rate.
We work closely with our customers to tailor the product packaging for
local markets. A substantial order for India, which is a relatively low-tech
market, required 100g bottles for the large number of small volume users.
At the other end of the spectrum, our Japanese customer in the opto-electronics
market required 1 kilo containers for auto pippeting for use on automated
assembly lines. As manufacturers we are able to be flexible and accommodate
all customers requirements’.
Tel: 01526 388388
Email: info@jandsadhesives.com
Senator
Celebrates 21 Years with New Super Spacer® 'Senergy' Brand
Southern
Ireland's Senator Windows has 'come of age' in 2006, launching 'Senergy',
a new branded double glazed unit at its National Sales Conference, to
coincide with its 21st birthday.
With sales up by 20% year on year, Senator's production has risen accordingly
and 90% of the PVC products now use double glazed units incorporating
Edgetech's Super Spacer®. ‘But we're upgrading all our products,’
explains Keith Ogilvie, Quality Manager of Senator Windows, ‘so all
our ranges will have branded Senergy units with warm edge technology.
We've also invested £800,000 in machinery to boost efficiency and
also introduce more complex products. It's helped extend our range, and
satisfy increasing customer demand.
‘Senergy window is the first BFRC rated window in Southern Ireland,
and with our new brand and supporting marketing materials, we're giving
our customers even more of an edge. The reaction has been very positive.’
In 21 years of business, Senator has outlived its 10 year guarantee twice
now, and seven of its original franchises have stayed with the company
since the beginning.
Tel: 02476 705570
Another
Great Year for Glaston Technologies
According
to Kyro Group’s financial statements for 2005, its main business
area Glaston Technologies grew at threefold speed of its markets last
year. Including Tamglass, market leader of safety glass machinery and
Z. Bavelloni, leading supplier of pre-processing machinery, Glaston Technologies
increased its total net sales by 18%, from 203.0 million euros to 238.9
million. Its operating profit grew by as much as 21%, from the previous
year’s 18.4 million euros to 22.1 million.
Architectural glass machinery in demand
Glaston Technologies, a market leader in glass processing machinery, also
managed to grow its market shares further. Tamglass and Bavelloni successfully
merged their sales organisations in the beginning of 2005, and are now
able to serve the glass processing industry even better than before.
Demand for Glaston Technologies´ safety glass machines rose clearly.
It was focused on large, demanding architectural glass machinery especially
in the USA, where the use of energy glass and a pick-up in construction
sharply increased demand. Pre-processing machines also sold well, particularly
Bavelloni’s cutting machines and grinding equipment. Glaston Technologies’
order book fell slightly, but new orders grew by 16%, totalling 177.8
million euros.
Significant One-Stop-Partner launch well received
During 2005 Glaston Technologies further developed its One-Stop-Partner
concept, the most comprehensive product and service offering in the industry.
The most significant launch was a line jointly developed by Tamglass and
Bavelloni for pre-processing and tempering of large architectural glasses
as well as smaller appliance and window glass. The line consists of the
world’s fastest flat tempering machine, Tamglass Sonic, and Bavelloni’s
automatic, integrated pre-processing line.
Glaston Technologies´ after sales services grew at a record speed
of almost 20%, and three new offices were opened during the year. Sales
of tools for glass and stone pre-processing also grew, particularly through
the launch of a new series of polishing tools. To develop its tool business,
Kyro incorporated Bavelloni’s tool division at the beginning of 2006.
Providing that Glaston Technologies´ demand stays at current levels
during 2006, the Kyro Group will again improve its net sales and operating
profit.
Glasstech
Opens Liaison Office in Mumbai, India
Glasstech,
Inc., the manufacturer of glass bending and tempering equipment, announced
on May 8th that it has established a Liaison Office in Mumbai, India.
'Glasstech continues to see strong demand worldwide for its innovative
architectural and automotive glass processing systems,' said Mark D. Christman,
Glasstech President and CEO. 'The new Glasstech Mumbai Liaison Office
will increase our presence in the rapidly developing southern Asia market,
providing a critical link to customers and prospects in India and beyond.'
The Glasstech Mumbai Liaison office officially opened in early 2006. Grand
opening ceremonies for the office will be held on May 20th.
Ramesh Srinivasan (pictured) has joined Glasstech as Country Manager for
India and head of the Mumbai Liaison Office. Srinivasan is experienced
in the sale of capital equipment, including his most recent position as
Chief Sales Manager for the Bauer Division of International Combustion,
Ltd. He holds mechanical engineering and advanced marketing management
degrees from Bombay University.
Glasstech has made significant efforts in recent years to capitalise on
the rapid growth of the glass processing industry in Asia, particularly
India and China. The company opened a Representative Sales Office in Shanghai
in 2004.
Glasstech has been very involved in marketing efforts to Asia. The company
was an active participant in China Glass 2006. The company will also be
a sponsor of GlassTech India 2006 (New Delhi, December 13 – 15, Booth
#13A04).
SCHOTT
60m Euro Investment in Solar Products
SCHOTT,
the technology group based in Mainz, Germany, will be investing 60 million
Euros to enable its subsidiary, SCHOTT Solar GmbH, to build a manufacturing
facility for thin film solar electricity modules in Jena, Germany. The
manufacturing capacity will exceed 30 megawatts (MW) per year. The facility
is scheduled to open in the fall of 2007. By opening up this new solar
manufacturing facility, SCHOTT will be creating another 160 new jobs at
its site in Jena.
'The establishment of this solar factory represents yet another milestone
in our efforts to expand our solar activities. This investment means we
will be expanding our thin film technology to the industrial series production
level. As a result, we’ll be rising to the world’s leading manufacturers
in this field, as well' explains Dr. Udo Ungeheuer, Chairman of the Board
of Management of SCHOTT AG. 'With this solar investment we bring another
new business to Jena, and we strengthen the location where SCHOTT was
founded,' he adds.
The
new production facility will manufacture thin film solar electricity modules
based on amorphous silicon. This process calls for silicon to be vapor
deposited onto glass. One main advantage that thin film technology offers
is that much less of the raw material silicon is required. In addition,
these modules can be put to use in a number of flexible ways. For the
most part, ASI® thin film modules (ASI = amorphous silicon) are integrated
into glazing applications that involve windows, roofs and façades.
Used in this manner, they allow for interesting architectural approaches
in conjunction with environmentally friendly generation of energy. In
addition, smaller thin film modules are used to supply power in consumer
electronic products, such as solar powered watches, backyard lights and
electrical appliances.
The SCHOTT Group has consolidated its PV solar electricity activities
inside its subsidiary, SCHOTT Solar GmbH. With its SmartSolarFab®
in Alzenau (Bavaria), SCHOTT Solar operates the world’s most modern
fully integrated manufacturing facility for producing PV solar electricity
components based on crystalline silicon wafers. Additional manufacturing
sites are located in the Czech Republic and the United States. With a
manufacturing capacity of over 100 megawatts, SCHOTT Solar ranks as Europe’s
largest fully integrated supplier that is capable of covering the entire
value creation chain, including crystalline wafers, cells and modules.
In the area of thin film technology, SCHOTT Solar currently operates a
facility for producing ASI® thin film modules in lesser quantities
at its site in Putzbrunn, near Munich, Germany. This is now being joined
by industrial serial production in Jena.
In addition to its activities in the PV solar electricity sector, SCHOTT
is also active in the field of solar thermal energy. At its site in Mitterteich
(Bavaria), the company manufactures tube collectors that utilise energy
from the sun to provide heat and warm water, as well as solar receivers,
a key component of solar thermal power plants. With the establishment
of the new solar production facility, SCHOTT will have invested more than
half a billion Euros in Jena since German Unification.
Technoplast
Delivers 294 Extrusion Lines Worth 23 Million Euros
Technoplast
is successfully concluding the plastics industry's biggest ever single
machinery contract, a major project for China. The plastics technology
specialist based in Micheldorf (Austria) has produced a total of 294 lines
for the production of plastic profiles. The customer is Dalian Shide and
the contract volume 23 million euros.
The
order was the biggest ever single contract for a machinery delivery in
the industry and it has been successfully completed within a year. The
Technoplast lines, usually produced in standard yellow, were delivered
in customised red specially for China.
Works 1 in Shanghai has been in successful production for some weeks,
Works 2 was erected at the customer's headquarters in Dalian and the Dalian
Shide Works 3 equipped to run with Technoplast lines is being set up in
western China.
Slight delays in handling the contract resulted from the Chinese government
applying the brakes with new economic policies aimed at preventing the
market in China from over-heating.
Dalian Shide has moved forward to become the world's number one plastic
window profiles producer with the capacity it now has available.
‘We are delighted to have dealt with this major order from China
so quickly. It was a huge challenge for our team’ Technoplast Marketing
Manager Rudolf Wessely commented. Rudolf Wessely expects further orders
from China in 2006.
PPG
Chairman Issues Optimistic Outlook for Company
PPG
Industries has a 'great future' as the company’s performance in 2005
demonstrated, said Charles E. Bunch, chairman and chief executive officer,
at the company’s annual meeting of shareholders.
'Though we faced a number of challenges last year, including the impact
of the Gulf Coast hurricanes and substantial increases in raw material
and energy costs, PPG delivered a strong performance,' Bunch said.
Sales were up 7 percent in 2005 to a record $10.2 billion. In addition,
the company’s coatings and chemicals segments established sales records.
Furthermore, PPG generated more than $1 billion in cash from operations
in 2005. Bunch said the company is using its strong and stable cash generation
to fund growth throughout its businesses, especially in industrial, architectural
and Asian coatings, and optical and aerospace products. Combined sales
in the five areas have grown 10 percent per year since 1997, and combined
earnings have increased 11 percent during the period.
In his first annual meeting as chairman and CEO, Bunch, a 27-year veteran
of the company, shared his vision for PPG.
'Quite simply, we want to be the world’s leading coatings, and speciality
products and services company,' Bunch said. 'In fact, we want to be the
leader in the markets and technologies in which we compete.'
In addition, Bunch said he envisions a PPG that:
* Achieves consistent sales and earnings growth greater than its peers’.
* Becomes an integrated, market-oriented company, 'continuing to find
ways to work and think as one PPG. Our cross-business sales unit efforts
are helping us to increase sales and profits.'
* Continues to honour its hallmark values of ethics, quality and commitment
to customers.
* Provides superior shareholder returns. PPG has paid uninterrupted dividends
since 1899, increasing payments annually for 35 consecutive years.
Bunch said the company’s investments in innovation, brands, customer
networks and emerging regions are essential to achieving his vision for
PPG.
'We must continue driving innovation and technology development to capitalise
on the macro trends shaping our world,' Bunch said. The drive for energy
efficiency, improved environmental performance, safety and security, and
personal comfort, he said, has enabled the company to leverage its technical
expertise to generate new products and growth.
To strengthen its Pittsburgh brand paint, Bunch said, PPG created The
Voice of Color Web site, enabling users to determine the colour palette
that is right for them. Dealer recruitment for Pittsburgh Paints increased
10 percent in 2005. Also, investments in technology as well as the marketing
of Transitions photochromic lenses have helped PPG’s optical products
business grow sales at a rate of 18 percent per year the past four years.
In the automotive aftermarket, meanwhile, PPG’s alliances with body
shops and auto glass installers have enabled the company and its customers
to grow in 'otherwise mature markets,' Bunch said.
The company’s sales of coatings in Asia have grown in recent years
to account for nearly 10 percent of PPG’s coatings sales worldwide.
Furthermore, Bunch said coatings operating margins in Asia are 'on par'
with margins for the company’s entire coatings segment.
This is 'pretty impressive when you consider many companies are struggling
to eke out profits in Asia,' according to Bunch. 'It’s even more
impressive when you realise our worldwide coatings margins are No. 1 in
the industry. That’s the definition of profitable growth.'
Bunch said high energy and raw material costs will continue to challenge
the company in 2006 and beyond.
'Nonetheless, I continue to believe we have a very bright future. We’re
acting with a sense of urgency to accelerate growth and strengthen our
businesses. As a result, we believe we’re positioned to capture a
world of opportunities.'
PPG shareholders elected four incumbent directors: Robert Ripp, chairman
of Lightpath Technologies; Thomas Usher, chairman of the board of Marathon
Oil Corporation and former chairman of the board of United States Steel
Corporation; David Whitwam, retired chairman of the board and chief executive
officer of Whirlpool Corporation; and Bunch.
Also, shareholders approved PPG’s Omnibus Incentive compensation
plan. In addition, shareholders endorsed the appointment of Deloitte &
Touche LLP as the company’s independent registered public accounting
firm for 2006.