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Shower Firm Saved as BHD Goes into Administration

Nearly 600 employees at a conservatory and windows manufacturer faced an uncertain future after the group went into administration.

Aldridge based BHD - whose main brand is Portland Conservatories - is in the hands of administrative receivers from accountancy firm KPMG, along with its four subsidiaries. Another subsidiary, shower maker Aqualux, was sold to a management buyout team, safeguarding 275 jobs at the Wednesbury-based group.

BHD is a conglomerate that was founded in 1984 to supply the home improvement and new build markets.
The companies taken into administration were Portland Conservatories, conservatory maker Houseproud, BHD Building products and BHD Flint, which makes windows, doors and conservatory panels. These companies have a combined turnover of around £70 million and trade from various sites in the Midlands and the North.

Joint administrative receiver Myles Halley said: 'We are delighted that a sale of Aqualux could be achieved so quickly. We are now hopeful that we can stabilise the remaining businesses and find purchasers for them.'

He said KPMG was talking to the companies' key customers, suppliers and employees to decide how to save the business, and was appealing for a buyer to step forward.

Ultraframe Plc, the leading specialist designer of conservatory systems in Europe and North America, today announces the appointment of Vanda Murray, OBE, as its UK Managing Director. Ms Murray will also have specific responsibility for strategic marketing across the Group. She will take up her new role with effect from 1st September 2004, and will remain on the Board, now in an executive position.

Vanda Murray joins from Stanley Security Solutions, where she was President, Europe, having formerly been Chief Executive of Blick plc, prior to its acquisition by The Stanley Works Inc in January 2004. During her tenure at Blick she played a key role in successfully turning the Group around, notably through the implementation of a new strategy, to create a strong and focused organisation that generated significant shareholder value. During her career she has undertaken international marketing roles with ICI, GTE Inc and BET plc and PAC International Ltd (a subsidiary of Blick plc).

Commenting on the appointment, David Moore, Chief Executive of Ultraframe, said:
‘We are delighted that Vanda is bringing her broad business experience to the position of UK Managing Director. Her specific expertise in sales, multi-channel distribution and customer relationships will be a tremendous asset. Vanda’s experience in similar markets to our Company combined with her strong international marketing background will further strengthen our executive team. This is an important step as we respond to the challenges the Company is facing in the UK market.’

Vanda Murray commented:
‘I am extremely excited by this opportunity. During my two years as a non-executive director of Ultraframe, I have had a first-hand opportunity to view the Group and its prospects. I look forward to working together with the committed management team to re-establish our track record of innovation, quality and service and consolidate our sector leadership in both the UK and the US.’

Biography of Vanda Murray, OBE
Ms Murray (43) has been a non-executive director of Ultraframe Plc since January 2002 and is a trustee and Non-Executive Director of The Manufacturing Institute. She joined ICI’s graduate trainee scheme in 1983 and her career has incorporated international marketing roles with ICI, GTE Inc and BET plc before she joined PAC International Ltd, a subsidiary of Blick plc in 1991, as Sales and Marketing Director. She became Blick’s Group Sales and Marketing Director in 1999 and rose to become Chief Executive in 2001. Her most recent role was at Stanley Security Solutions, where she was President, Europe, since Blick’s acquisition by The Stanley Works Inc in January 2004.

REHAU to Form Strategic Alliance with Wendland

REHAU and Wendland Roof Solutions announce that they are working together to form an exclusive `Strategic Alliance` to bring a unique REHAU Conservatory Roofing Solution to the marketplace.

'This `Alliance` will provide REHAU customers with the proven attributes of REHAU & WRS, together with exciting new products and benefits to enable a Complete REHAU Conservatory Package to be offered', the company says.

Further announcements can be expected as and when the details are agreed.

Ultraframe vs Eurocell - Court Case Re: Ultralite 500 and Pinnacle 500

Ultraframe reports that it is delighted with the outcome of the recent court case between Eurocell and Ultraframe regarding the intellectual property rights of Ultralite 500. Eurocell was a major customer of Ultraframe for two years before they decided to launch Pinnacle 500, claimed to be a copy of the design of Ultralite 500.

Ultraframe alleged copying and the resulting court judgment, whilst concluding that Eurocell had not infringed Ultraframe's patent, upheld Ultraframe's claims against Eurocell on design rights. The Judge also ruled favourably on the validity of Ultraframe's patent. As a result, the Judge ordered that Eurocell pay Ultraframe's legal costs, with £125,000 to be paid immediately and the rest to be assessed over the coming months.

The Judge also ordered that Eurocell pay Ultraframe very substantial damages, to be assessed by the Court, relating to Ultraframe's losses arising from Eurocell's infringement of Ultraframe's design rights, in the entire roof assembly and all roofing panels.

The full transcript of the judgment can be found at -
http://www.courtservice.gov.uk/judgmentsfiles/j2689/ultraframe-v-eurocell.htm

Colour by Numbers as Deceuninck Launches Warmer White

In a major new initiative, Deceuninck has launched its innovative 3000 Series Window and Door System in a new warmer white. RAL Reference 9016 (Deceuninck colour 03) is the new colour reference. The new white, also known as Traffic White, is much warmer in appearance and perfectly matches accessories such as handles, door hinges and letterboxes. Deceuninck will continue to offer their 1800 Series profiles in its traditional 01 brilliant white.

Commenting on the launch of the new colour, Jon Skinner, Sales and Marketing Director said, 'The launch of the 3000 Series has given Deceuninck the ideal opportunity to select a new warmer white appearance, giving our customers an even greater choice. The move to adopt this colour for the 3000 Series is significant and once again demonstrates the innovation and flexibility of the company.'

System 3000 is also available in a full choice of traditional foiled finishes including both Golden Oak and Rosewood. Additionally, their unique and durable Decoroc surface coating is available in a comprehensive range of colours giving the profiles a striking satin appearance. The process is complimented by a full 10-year guarantee.

‘Roll Your Own’ with Low Cost Bending Options from Radius

Radius Plastics, the UK’s leading PVC-U profile bending company and specialist shaped frame manufacturer, is now offering fabricators the opportunity to produce their own arch frames and other curved shapes with a brand new range of bending ovens and equipment.

The equipment, which has been designed and engineered by the Radius technical team, Britain’s most experienced in this highly specialised craft, will allow fabricators to produce their own arches, whether true or part rad’, Gothic, basket tops, circular windows or double arches.

A range of equipment and manufacturing machinery is available, from starter packages to semi-automated lines, backed by operator training and technical support to ensure fast operational start up, and minimum service downtime.

Radius technology offers quartz and dry heating technology, in equipment that is highly user friendly. The completely dry, energy efficient process utilises precision formers manufactured from advanced, pre-stressed materials that offer total accuracy and years of service. The processes, which are used by Radius in their own factory, ensure that profiles retain their structural and chemical integrity, and will not discolour or age the sections. Arches may be formed in around 15 minutes, with total control over the production process.

A spokesman for Radius explained the company’s rationale behind developing and offering fabricators the opportunity to produce their own curved profiles:

'We understand the reliance of fabricators on specialist producers like ourselves and, despite Radius now offering a two week maximum turnaround on orders and exceptional quality, many companies prefer to control all processes within their own factories. If they are to invest in bringing the processes in house, then Radius as the industry leaders should be offering the very best equipment and back up service. Our service should and will be totally comprehensive.'

Radius, with more than 18 years in this specialised niche sector of the market, has dragged profile bending into the 21st Century by offering fast, reliable order turnaround, exceptionally high right-first-time product quality, and has just announced that it now supplies glass sizes to customers with Order Confirmation.

Duke of York Admires Hard Work at Sash UK

The Duke of York flew in to South Yorkshire last month (22nd July, 2004) visiting Sash UK and other businesses in the region as part of his role for international trade and investment, saying: 'It’s nice to visit a place where so much hard work is going on'.

PR and Marketing Manager at Sash, Nick Hibberd, is introduced to HRH the Duke of York in the Sash reception as Joint Managing Directors David Ruzicka and Stephen Morrell look on

After being officially welcomed to Barnsley by local dignitaries, including the High Sheriff of South Yorkshire, Mrs Pamela Liversidge OBE and the Mayor of Barnsley, Councillor Roy Miller, joint Managing Directors of Sash UK Ltd, Stephen Morrell and David Ruzicka, gave the Prince a one hour tour of the company. This started with an introduction to the joint founders, Ron Bean and Terry Morrell and their spouses Jeanette and Barbara, the Board of Directors, Commercial Director, Brian Oxley and his wife, Janet, and Conservatory Director, Colin Poole and wife Jackie. Also in that first group was representation from some of Sash’s key suppliers, Peter Abbott Managing Director of Veka and his wife, Sue, Mark Rogers, Sales and Marketing Director for Veka and his wife Liz and Maco’s Managing Director Rob Lawrence and his wife Sue.

Official presentations concluded, Stephen and David then took the Duke of York into the purpose built factory. Due to the high level of investment carried out by Sash UK Ltd over the last five years, this is one of the most modern and automated production lines currently available in Europe.

David Ruzicka commented on the Duke of York’s casual approach to the visit, ‘He talked freely to operatives on the factory floor, making everyone he met feel at ease. There was a genuine interest in what people had to say and he asked some very pertinent questions about the whole window manufacturing process.

‘Although a route had been planned for the Duke of York, to get the best of the allocated time, if a specific manufacturing process or operation caught his eye, he simply changed the route as he wanted. We had no problem with this as he met more of our factory operatives, but it did put his own schedule back,' said David. ‘It also kept his allocated protection team on their toes as they monitored his progress,’ he added.

As the Duke of York approached the conservatory production area, he was introduced to the Conservatory Production Management team, Sam Watson and Ernie Gibbs, before being presented to overseas visitors and export customers, Walter Stucky President of Pittsburgh based, Veka inc., his wife, Donna, Ian Shearer, Vice President of Sales and Marketing Veka inc., his daughter Nicolette and partner Bridget Stengle. They were over from the USA to visit their European colleagues and were invited to Sash UK Ltd specifically for the Royal visit.
‘The Duke of York is the UK’s special representative for international trade and foreign investment on behalf of UK Trade and Investment. His visit was in support of Sash’s role in the regeneration of Grimethorpe and their recent export drive to North America,’ explained David.

‘For this reason, it was very fitting that he met with both Walter and Ian but it was even more fortuitous that the backdrop for the Press photographers and TV crews that were on hand to record the event, was our largest conservatory to date. This is a 3,300sqft conservatory destined for Philadelphia to be fitted by one of our other US customers based on the Eastern Seaboard of the USA. This portal conservatory is due to be shipped at the end of the month so the timing could not have been better,’ said David.

Nick Hibberd, PR & Marketing Manager for Sash UK Ltd and organiser of the Royal event, talked about the visit and what it meant to the company and the Grimethorpe community. ‘It goes without saying that it is a real honour for the company to be chosen for a Royal visit and to be seen as a leading UK manufacturer and a flagship for the regeneration of Grimethorpe. ‘As a local employer founded here nearly 40 years ago, we have seen the good times and the bad, the lowest period for the Grimethorpe community being when the Colliery and the Coalite plant closed in the early 90’s with the loss of more than 3,000 jobs. At that time, we became probably the largest employer in the area with just 75 employees.

‘In 1999 we took possession of this new purpose built factory on the brownfield site vacated by the Coalite plant, one of the first industrial buildings at the gateway of the newly developed Park Springs Industrial area that was developed following the closure and cleaning up of the coal workings. Since the move we have more than trebled in size and now employ more than 215 people.

‘More importantly, however, we have helped to encourage other business to the area with our presence with even our old factory providing much needed industrial units for business development,’ added Nick.

To end his tour, His Royal Highness was taken back to the new showroom where he unveiled a commemorative plaque to officially open the showroom and mark his visit. 'I’d like to thank you for inviting me. It’s nice to visit a place where so much hard work is going on. You’ve done so well to get to where you are today and I wish you all the best for the future' were his closing comments before being driven away to continue his South Yorkshire engagements.

Pilkington Launches 'Activ Compatible' Mark

In order to ensure that Pilkington Activ™, the self-cleaning glass, performs to its full ability when installed, Pilkington mounted a campaign long before the original product launch to ensure that any products, systems and components likely to be used with the glass are tested for complete compatibility. Now, with hundreds of products tested Pilkington has produced a special mark to indicate to specifiers, manufacturers and end users when a product has been approved for use with Pilkington Activ™.

Pilkington Activ™ is in fact as resilient and easy to handle and process as Pilkington’s other hard-coated glass, Pilkington K Glass™. However, as the coating is glazed externally the compatibility of the installation materials requires testing. Furthermore, as Pilkington Activ™ is a new concept to the market it was decided to overcome any doubts about compatibility with other products by producing the mark, which will be distributed to all suppliers whose products have been successfully performance matched.

Anyone wishing to check for compatible products, systems and components can visit the Pilkington web site at http://www.pilkington.com, and follow the links through to the Pilkington Activ™ pages. There, click on 'Technical Update' for a complete list.

Roofing Review Rates Ultraframe 'The Best'

An extensive review of conservatory roofing systems by The Merlin Network shows that Ultraframe, the leading designer and manufacturer of conservatory roof systems, is still the best in the market.

Mike Bryant, Managing Director of The Merlin Network, reviewed many of the roofing options over a six month period. The results were conclusive and he has just signed a new supply agreement with Ultraframe.

He said: 'The Ultraframe roof is certainly the most configurable roof on the market today, this was extremely important to us as we do manufacture an inordinate amount of complex and unusual conservatories. I firmly believe the Ultraframe Roof is the highest quality and without doubt the best product for our customers now and in the future'.

Merlin manufactures the Ultraframe roof at its 23,000 square foot factory in Dalgety Bay in Fife. The company supplies bespoke and modular conservatories to trade customers in the Scottish Mainland and the North of England.

Mike said: 'Unfortunately there is a lot of politics and one-upmanship going on in the conservatory roof industry at the moment. We want a supplier who is prepared to support us in every way and provide exceptional service levels. Ultraframe‚s excellent level of customer care and high quality innovative designs fit the mould exactly!'

Merlin is also about to launch its Merlin Rapide range of conservatories based upon Ultraframe's innovative Uzone® roof system. This will offer an entry-level complete package, which will be available on a 5-day turnaround. Mike is delighted with this development.

'This package will include everything the installer needs to fit the conservatory, and with the superb Uzone clicklock technology it means excellent speed of installation so it should be fitted in less than a day. With recent developments in Uzones‚s configurability, new competitive price points and the increase in Uzone dimensions of up to 4m x 4m, Uzone is a high quality and flexible product that is eminently suitable to compete at the budget end of the sector.'

Peter Allen, Sales Director at Ultraframe is delighted with the results of the review. He said: 'We have always known that Ultraframe really does offer the best, so it‚s great when it is confirmed by an extensive review of all our competitors. Ultraframe are unique in that we offer a roof to fit every budget, style and application. Ultraframe offer outstanding business support services including comprehensive on-line and telephone technical support; complete training programmes and outstanding marketing support. We are delighted that we have come out as the top supplier and look forward to continuing our very successful relationship with The Merlin Network.'

Pilkington Launches Activ Project Partnership to Architects

Pilkington has announced the Pilkington Activ™ Project Partnership, a competition designed to discover ideal projects for Pilkington Activ™, the world's first self-cleaning glass. Architects and other specifiers are being asked to nominate current commercial projects that make extensive use of external glass and those chosen will be upgraded with Pilkington Activ™ at no extra cost.

In addition to finding and building an innovative design that will demonstrate, in real terms, the extraordinary benefits of Pilkington Activ™, the aim is to encourage architects to look more closely at the product in the context of their own work. The incentive of producing one of the first British commercial buildings to extensively feature self-cleaning glass at no extra cost is the ideal vehicle to do this.

Matt Buckley, Marketing Director for Pilkington Building Products - UK, says that the product is well tried in other parts of the world: "There are a number of highly prestigious projects around the world that make extensive use of Pilkington Activ™ and with great benefit, in terms of the obvious reduced maintenance aspect, but also because it extends the design potential for glass. Using Pilkington Activ™ architects around the world are now pushing back the boundaries of the use of glass in buildings as they can now install glass in areas that would previously have been unrealistic due to later maintenance and access issues. We hope that the Pilkington Activ™ Project Partnership scheme will stimulate architects in the UK to at least consider which of their current projects would be suitable, and to submit their entry. In return, we will benefit from having a prestigious project to demonstrate the benefits of Pilkington Activ™'.

Around 9,000 architects have been alerted to the Pilkington Activ™ Project Partnership through an email inviting them to take part by completing and returning a simple proposal form. Further information may also be found on the company's web site at: www.pilkington.com, or by emailing projectpartnership@pilkington.com.

Coalville Invests in Stuga Machinery

Sheerframe windowmaker Coalville Glass and Glazing is putting the finishing touches to its £1/2 million investment programme which will give the company the capacity to produce between 700 and 800 windows per week.

The Leicestershire firm has invested around £300,000 in new Stuga machinery to increase production without the need to increase the workforce in an area of near full-employment. Coalville expects the new plant to be in full production in early September, extending the service it offers to the newbuild and trade sectors.

Whilst the company's core business remains in supplying casement windows the machinery investment extends the capability to produce tilt & turn and vertically sliding sash windows at the 10,000 square foot factory in Coalville.

Improvements in production efficiency were achieved when the company switched from traditional window profile to the Sheerframe co-extruded systems which eliminate the need for time-consuming and labour-intensive gasketing.

According to Ray Whitehorn, Coalville MD, the company has run a very successful retail business alongside its core trade operation. 'Part of our investment is in a new showroom complex to assist the retail operation, to meet the demand for our products from local homeowners. Whilst we never envisage this part of the business dominating, it is clear that our reputation is sufficient to warrant some investment in presenting our product to the public.'

Typically, Coalville is supplying around 30 newbuild sites for half-a-dozen national and regional housebuilders at any one time. The company has its own direct labour team of fitters for all newbuild work.

'There is no doubt that many of the bigger window companies have let themselves down in the newbuild sector because of poor service,' says Ray. 'Housebuilders increasingly understand the concept of total cost rather than unit cost, and that's where quality service, management and fitting comes into play.'

Sliders Tops 200 and Goes Chrome!

Patio door specialist Sliders UK has exceeded its ambitious sales and production targets and now regularly supplies over 200 patio doors per week throughout the UK.

‘We are delighted to have achieved this milestone ahead of target,’ said director Ian Longbottom, ‘Sliders has invested heavily to keep capacity ahead of demand in order that we can always react to new business effectively.’

The company now fully expects to achieve its target of 250 doors per week by the end of its second year. ‘Our consistent rapid growth demonstrates an unrivalled commitment to our customers,’ said Ian. An independent audit commissioned by Sliders UK from BenchmarQ earned the company a prestigious Gold Award for customer service (pictured).

Sliders also announces that it has seen a substantial increase in take-up since introducing brilliant chrome as an option for patio door handles. The new handle complements the existing range of white and gold die cast furniture and provides an aesthetic match for the increasing use of chrome window and door furniture.

Since Sliders UK was formed in November 2002 it says its high quality bevelled and fully featured products, aggressive pricing and reliable short lead times have proven a huge success with customers across the UK.

Tel: 01772 698222
Web: http://www.sliders-uk.com

Counting the Cost of Conservatory Roof Fabrication

Quoted price is only part of the equation in conservatory roof system choices and can harm long term profitability is the warning from Aztec Conservatory Roof Systems. Colin Bennett (pictured), Aztec managing director, maintains fabricators and their customers are becoming obsessed with the quoted price for ajob, and not looking at the long term business profitability.

'There is huge emphasis on price. Many in the industry, who do not use the Aztec system, do not realise that on materials, we are as price competitive, and often cheaper, than systems marketed heavily on cost! But cost cutting just creates a price war, driving everyone's profits down and threatening the stability and professionalism ofthe industry.

'A sound business judgement needs to be made. Cost is an issue, but what is the point in offering the same product as everyone else, competing with other fabricators in the same area. We all need a Unique Selling Point, something that gives us the 'edge', that customers can't get elsewhere. We believe that Aztec is the only company that gives that, because not only are we as cost competitive in materials as the competition, but we give our fabricators guaranteed exclusivity, a professional technical and sales support package, and on-going fabrication refinements to keep them ahead of the field.'

Aztec, only three years old but now one of the top four quality PVC/aluminium roof systems companies in the UK, is continuing to see significant customer growth, both with window fabricators moving into conservatory roofs, and established roof fabricators 'jumping ship'. The continuing growth is due to the value for money and long term profitability Aztec's complete package provides, maintains Colin.

Adds Colin, 'Business is not just about cost. What service does the customer get? For example, we guarantee not to put another fabricator within an agreed radius of our customers, giving them a competitive edge and enabling them to operate profitably instead ofbecoming involved in a local price war. What other roof systems company gives that degree of business success assurance'

The Aztec system uses only 10 core components to produce a standard roof. It has one ridge, against up to three, reducing stockholding both financially and in warehousing. Set-up costs are approximately half that of competitive systems. That cost is recouped within production of 10 roofs. Component costs are comparable, and in many cases, less than competitive systems.

The time spent in pre-assembly, which ensures the roof fits correctly and all components present, is covered by one remedial call required because the roof had not been pre-assembled, didn't fit together or parts were missing. Build time on site is claimed to be up to 30% faster than competitive systems.

Emplas Creates Conservatory Village for T&K

Further fulfilling the company’s policy of offering ‘Tried & Tested’ marketing support for its installer customers, specialist trade fabricator Emplas has helped to create a comprehensive conservatory village for its local retail subsidiary T&K Home Improvements.

Wellingborough, Northamptonshire-based Emplas, which celebrates its Silver Anniversary this year, has long used T&K, its successful, local-serving retail sister company, as a test bed for products, sales and marketing initiatives that, when proven, are passed on to its customers. With the rise in conservatory sales throughout the UK offering excellent extra business for installers, Emplas worked with T&K to design, build and market its concept of a successful conservatory village which, following a period of appraisal, will then be offered to other customers.

'T&K has long provided us with front-line, real-world experience with new products and sales and marketing initiatives that we then use to the advantage of our customers throughout the UK,' explained Emplas Group MD Kevin Johnson. 'In doing so, we can deliver products that we know are popular with homeowners, and save our customers months of trial and error. T&K is positioned so it does not clash with any of our other customers, with the company succeeding or failing on its own merits. We are therefore able to pass on genuine experience and knowledge to our customers.'

The T&K Conservatory Village opened its first phase to the public in April with orders averaging six per week for the first two months. Comprising five units in various styles, interiors are fully dressed to offer suggestions for usage that extends the concept of a conservatory as a light and airy lounge, into other applications such as a dining room, or kitchen. The second phase from the end of May, added five further structures to provide a comprehensive show area in which customers may consider their purchases in authentic conditions, with ample free parking, all major considerations for a retail operation.

Snooker Star Opens new PatioMaster Factory

PVC-U sliding patio door manufacturer, PatioMaster North West was right on cue with its choice of UK Snooker Masters Champion Paul Hunter to perform the official opening of its new factory near Huddersfield in July.

PatioMaster NW directors Philip and Martin Lawton, who have links with the sport, invited the 25-year-old champion to open the new 16,000 sq ft factory and showroom in Milnsbridge where substantial investment has been made in plant and machinery. Martin's 12-year-old son Scott is already showing promise having recently won the Huddersfield District Conservative Open Singles Championship.

The company's success over the past two years in supplying ready-made high quality PVC-U sliding patio doors within short lead times to fabricators and installers prompted the move to larger premises.

The company has also invested £250,000 in new plant and machinery, including a new four-head quad welder and a computerised saw, to further improve quality and service. Ian Hutchinson has joined as Operations Manager to further strengthen the company's production team and commitment to a fast, quality service.

‘PatioMaster NW is part of a specialist UK network of in-line patio door manufacturers for the growing number of installers who want to source a good quality, high security product at a competitive price from a local supplier.’

New Business Opportunities from Lateral Thinking

Companies wishing to diversify into new business or product areas, such as a fabricator opening a Building Plastic Centre, can now take advantage of consultancy expertise from a recognised industry specialist.

Lateral Thinking Design & Consultancy offers an independent and cost-effective comprehensive package designed to bring your business idea to fruition as smoothly and quickly as possible.

Founded by Steve Pollard who has over 20 years experience in senior management roles, the consultancy can develop business strategies and provide solutions for companies seeking to expand their offering.

According to Steve, the consultancy's strengths lie in effectively highlighting commercial and specific capabilities, then working closely with the client to fulfil the vision. From initial consultation to completion of the project, services include:
* Purchasing and Stock Control
* Manufacturing
* Distribution
* Sales
* Marketing

He says: ‘With the maturation of the window industry, companies are increasingly seeking to move into new areas, such as opening plastic centres or trade counters, but some may be unsure of their next steps. This is where Lateral Thinking can help them to realise their diversification dreams both efficiently and cost-effectively.’

A recent example is Brave Engineering Service, a well-established and successful engineering company based in Tipton, West Midlands wishing to diversify and expand. After considering a number of options, the business partners Brian Lenton and David Mitchinson decided on a building plastic retail centre.

So the concept of Pure Building Plastics was born, but then came the questions of how to launch it. Who are the best suppliers...what are the current market prices...what stock mix and level do we require?

With help from Lateral Thinking's comprehensive start-up package which included every aspect from supplier selection to price negotiation and advertisements, the business was up and running in just five weeks.

Steve explains: ‘The service was all-encompassing from initial strategic discussion, including the market sector they wished to focus on, right through to the launch and local press advertisements. Specialist advice on aspects such as stocking levels, market prices, sorting price lists and opening stock orders was vital to help the business get off to a good start.’

David Mitchinson agrees: ‘Steve did an excellent job in giving us a comprehensive guide to the plastics business and advising us on everything we needed to know. From choosing the right computer systems to the correct level of stocking and where to source products, we were able to give the business the best possible start.’

Based in Princes End, Tipton, Pure Building Plastics stocks a full range of plastic building products for the trade from windows, doors and conservatories to trims, tools and silicones.

Contact Steve Pollard on 01902 843250 or 07834 532164.

WHS Halo Invests in Business Centre

Following a period of unprecedented enquiries from fabricators looking to switch their systems supplier, WHS Halo has invested in a new, state of the art business centre at one of its key production facilities in Minworth Birmingham.

In a significant investment to support its new business drive, the company has installed a purpose built conferencing and entertainment suite to cater exclusively for new sales prospects.

The suite, which houses the very latest audiovisual conferencing technology, is divided into two separate sections: a formal presentation area for group meetings and a more informal soft seating area for face-to-face briefings.

The suite also houses an extensive product and brand display area, which showcases the wide range of WHS profiles and their potential applications.

Commenting on the development of the new centre, Sam Kennedy, consumer sales & marketing director for WHS Halo said;

'We want to make a bold statement to prospects about the professionalism and stature of the company right from the moment they enter our premises. These new facilities will not only create the right impression for new and existing customers but will also enable us to deal more effectively with the large number of new business enquiries we are currently receiving.'

Council lnstalls Doors for Life

Darlington Council has installed Part M compliant Masterdors in a refurbishment project to create specially adapted accommodation for elderly and disabled residents.

The project, which is part of the council's 'Homes For Life' scheme, saw bedsits with shared facilities converted into 28 self-contained one bedroomed flats, easily accessible to wheelchair users. The existing doors, which were among the first Masterdors in the country to be installed by a council, were only replaced because the door openings were widened and were otherwise still in good working order.

As Masterdors are made to measure, Manse Masterdor ltd says it can manufacture some of the widest door-sets currently available on the market (up to 1150mm in width). This enables housing providers to meet Part M of the Building Regulations with ease, as well as offering safe, secure and visually appealing doors to residents.

Peter Nicholson, architectural technician at DKS Edwin Trotter, made the specification. He comments: 'We have specified Masterdors many times and have never had any problems with them. Several other doors on the market meet the requirements of Part M, but made to measure Masterdors also meet the council's needs in terms of safety and security. Having a Secured by Design endorsement was an important consideration in the specification, and coupled with the long life and low maintenance of the existing Masterdors, the choice was an easy one.'

Tel: 01423 866868
Email: mailto:info@masterdor.co.uk
Web: http://www.masterdor.co.uk

Jeld-Wen Standardises Sizes to Aid Part E Compliancy

Doors and windows manufacturer Jeld-Wen UK Ltd, along with a working group of major house builders and suppliers, has agreed a range of standard partition widths and corresponding doorset and doorkit lining sizes to improve ease of compliance with Part E of the Building Regulations.

The group, which includes Travis Perkins (sponsor); Bryant Homes; Persimmon Homes; Westbury Homes; Wilcon Homes; Lafarge; Knauf; Marley Building Materials and other specialist contractors, agreed that the move would also bring better build quality, consistency and on-site labour cost control across the industry.

The July 2003 amendments to Building Regulations' Part E was the Government's response to noise problems in residential properties and forms the message to builders and developers to 'keep the noise down' by complying to existing and new standards.

Before the amendments research showed that up to 40% of party floors and 25% of party walls failed to meet previous performance standards. Door standards are referred to under the 'new build' and 'change of use' sections of the government's Building Regulations, which specifically relate to doors between flats and a common corridor, or doors between dwelling houses. The legislation states that doors must have a measured fire performance and also acoustic levels allowing a minimum sound reduction index of 29dB Rw, or mass per unit area of 25 kg/m2.

Another major benefit the move brings to the industry is standardisation across the supply chain, which will help to control costs and improve lead times, as well as reducing the need for a wide range of stock sizes to be held by manufacturers and merchants.

The group members have agreed that all lining thicknesses are to be standardised at 25mm, with three standard widths to be adopted:

* 77mm, for standard 75mm metal partitioning systems
* 95mm, for standard timber stud walling
* 150mm, for standard block wall construction fitted within a timber former with dot and dab plasterboard finish.

Jeld-Wen has also been re-evaluating many other door products, bringing them in line with Part E regulations. Following recent testing at the British Gypsum Building Test Centre, a selected range of door products has passed all the stringent requirements necessary to comply. The doors and seals themselves were subject to rigorous testing and the maximum sound attenuation standard of Rw 29 decibels was achieved.

With similar construction to fire doors, acoustic doors have intumescent strips and smoke seals around the sides and top of the door. From now on, any doors without the right density requirements (minimum 25kg/m2) will need acoustic tests. Perimeter seals are required, ensuring there are no air gaps through which sound can pass easily. This will ensure that the doors will achieve the correct acoustic performance levels.

Brodex Ltd Attracts Complaint

A complaint, objecting to two trade magazine advertisements for window cleaning machine parts on behalf of Brodex Ltd of Southport, Merseyside, was upheld in seven of the eight objections according to published details from the Advertising Standards Authority.

Complaint:
Ionic Systems Ltd objected to two trade magazine advertisements for window cleaning machine parts.
a. One advertisement was headlined '... Introducing the ECO-FILL' Linear Filters' and stated '... Revolutionary features of the ECO-FILL FILTER:- Direct Replacement for 30' Colourchange Filters (e.g. OTT, IONIC Systems) ... Save up to 70% on annual running costs! ... 100% Eco-Friendly- No More environmentally unsound disposable filters - EVER! ... save time and ?100's - ?1000's per annum ...'.
b. The other advertisement stated 'Genuine REACH & WASH parts and pattern replacement parts at a fraction of manufacturers cost!! ... From the industry experts, at industrial prices ...'. It featured a table, which listed the 'Reach & Wash OTT/Ionics' and 'Reach & Wash Bms' prices for several items, the manufacturer of each item and the savings made with the advertisers.

The complainants challenged whether:
1. the claim 'Direct replacement for 30' Colourchange Filters (e.g. OTT, IONIC Systems)' in advertisement (a) was misleading, because the complainants' filter system had different features, which meant that the advertisers' product was not a 'direct' replacement;

2. the claim '100% ECO-Friendly- No more environmentally unsound disposable filters-EVER!' in advertisement (a) was misleading and denigratory, because it implied the complainants' filters must be disposed of and were therefore environmentally unfriendly;

3. the claims 'Save up to 70% on annual running costs!', 'Save up to 70% on carriage charges!' and 'save time and ?100's - ?1000's per annum' in advertisement (a) were misleading, because their tests on the advertisers' product called the advertisers' performance figures into question;

4. the advertisers had taken unfair advantage of the goodwill attached to the complainants' 'Reach & Wash' brand name in advertisement (b);

5. the claim 'Genuine Reach & Wash parts and pattern replacement parts at a fraction of manufacturers cost!' in advertisement (b) was misleading, because they believed the advertisers were not authorised to sell the complainants' 'Reach & Wash' products;

6. the claim 'the industry experts' in advertisement (b) was misleading, because they believed the advertisers had been in business for less time than they had;
7. the table in advertisement (b) was misleading, because it implied the advertisers and the complainants sold products made by the same manufacturer and

8. the price comparisons for the '45ft Lightweight Carbon Pole (Exel)' and the '1000 Litre Commercial Trailermounted Machine' in advertisement (b) were misleading and unfair, because the advertisers had not compared similar products.

Adjudication:
1. Complaint not upheld
The advertisers stated that the complainants manufactured a 30-inch long filter housing that contained demineralisation resin media to remove impurities from water; they said the filter was attached to the pure water machine by tube clamps and a water connector that could be bought from a high street store. They asserted that, because it had no moving parts, the complainants' filter was a basic device. The advertisers asserted that their Eco-fill filter contained the same demineralisation resin media as the complainants' 30-inch filter and performed exactly the same function. They said their Eco-fill filter fitted directly onto the complainants' machines with no modifications required. They argued that, although it had slight design variations compared with the complainants' product, because their product achieved the same results as that of the complainants, the claim 'direct replacement' was justified. The Authority noted the complainants' assertion that, because their filter was clear so that the filter media could be seen to change colour when it needed to be replaced and because their filter contained a floating diffuser to ensure saturation of filter media, both of which the advertisers' filter did not have, the advertisers' filter was not a direct replacement for their filter. The Authority nevertheless considered that, because the advertisers' filter performed the same function as the complainants' filter and could be used on the complainants' machine, the claim was justified.

2. Complaint upheld
The advertisers explained that their product could be refilled easily by customers. They maintained that, because the complainants' filter was factory-sealed, it could not be refilled by the customer and had to be disposed of after use. They acknowledged that the complainants offered a financial incentive to customers to return their old filters but asserted that, because the filters were heavy, customers did not usually return them. The advertisers believed the advertisement did not imply that the complainants' used filters were hazardous; they said they merely intended to highlight that an environmentally friendly alternative to the complainants' product existed. Although it considered that the claim was not denigratory, the Authority considered that the claim '100% ECO-Friendly' was absolute and implied that the advertised product would cause absolutely no environmental damage throughout its life cycle. The Authority noted the product could be refilled but considered that the advertisers had not shown that the product would cause no environmental damage throughout its life cycle. The Authority concluded that the claim was misleading.

3. Complaint upheld
The advertisers stated that their filter contained approximately the same volume of demineralisation resin as the complainants' filter and, in tests on standardised water samples, their filter produced approximately 5% more pure water than the complainants' filter; they said the two filters had a similar life expectancy. The advertisers sent a table that compared the operating costs for their filter with those of the complainants' filter for consumers who had to change the filter every one, two, three or four weeks; they said the costs were based on customer ordering patterns and replacement frequency. The advertisers asserted that the data showed clearly that their filters were considerably cheaper than the complainants' filters, in some instances by 200%; they stated that they had been conservative in the advertisement and claimed 'up to 70%' only. The Authority noted the advertisers had based the savings claims on operating costs for their filter compared with those of the complainants' filter for consumers who had to change the filter every one, two, three or four weeks. The Authority, however, understood from the complainants that their filters lasted up to nine months. The Authority was not satisfied that the advertisers had substantiated the savings claims. It concluded that the claims were misleading and told the advertisers to amend them.

4. & 5. Complaint upheld
The advertisers maintained that they had not used the complainants' 'Reach and Wash' logo, a crouching man with a lance. They stated that, in the interest of healthy competition, they had merely identified which competitors' machines the lower cost spares would fit. The advertisers acknowledged, however, that, although the parts they supplied were from the same manufacturers in the USA and Europe, consumers might infer incorrectly from the claim 'Genuine Reach & Wash parts' that they had obtained stock from the complainants. The advertisers stated that, after a letter from the complainants, they had agreed to not use the claim in future marketing communications. The Authority noted the advertisers had not used the complainants' 'Reach and Wash' logo but nevertheless considered that the claim 'Genuine Reach & Wash parts' implied that they sold the complainants' products. Because they did not, the Authority concluded that the claim was misleading and welcomed the advertisers' assurance that they would not use it again.

6. Complaint upheld
The advertisers asserted that a competent expert in the water treatment industry had to be qualified and experienced in chemistry. They stated that they were a specialist chemical cleaning company, whose knowledge was used by major companies. The advertisers asserted that they had two qualified graduate chemists with more than 32 years' experience in the chemical and engineering marketplace. They asserted that, because they were the only company to have two chemists, the claim was justified. The Authority considered that the advertisers had not sent sufficient evidence to substantiate the claim and advised them to remove it from the advertisement.

7. Complaint upheld
The advertisers asserted that the same manufacturer made their products and the complainants' products. They stated that a Finnish company called Exel made poles for both them and the complainants; they said pumps, filters and other components were made by the same few manufacturers in the USA and Europe. The Authority noted the 45 feet lightweight carbon pole sold by the advertisers and the complainants were made by the same manufacturer. It considered, however, that the advertisers had not proved that the other items listed in the table were made by the same manufacturer. The Authority concluded that the table was misleading and told them to amend it.

8. Complaint upheld
The advertisers asserted that the comparison between their 45 feet lightweight carbon Exel pole with the complainants' 45 feet lightweight carbon Exel pole was fair because, although the two poles had a slightly different design, both were lightweight, carbon, had the same manufacturer and both cleaned windows up to 45 feet high. They stated that their 1000 litre trailer mounted machine had exactly the same water capacity as the complainants' machine, contained the same pumps and performed exactly the same function. The Authority understood from the complainants that the advertisers had compared their standard models of the 45 feet lightweight carbon pole and 1000 litre trailer mounted machine with the complainants' more expensive higher specification non-standard models rather than the complainants' standard models. The Authority considered that, because the advertisers had not compared the most similar products, the price comparisons were misleading and unfair. It told the advertisers to amend the table to compare the most similar products. The Authority advised the advertisers to consult the CAP Copy Advice team before advertising again.

DuPont Responds to EPA Complaint, Denies Allegations

DuPont said on July 8th that it will file a formal denial to a complaint issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) alleging that the company failed to comply with the technical reporting requirements of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and the Resource Conservation Recovery Act (RCRA) regarding PFOA. PFOA is an essential processing aid used to produce fluoropolymers.

'DuPont has provided substantial information to EPA supporting our conclusion that we have followed the law,' said DuPont General Counsel Stacey J. Mobley. 'We will take action to respond to the Agency's complaint and will vigorously defend our position.'

'This is not about the safety of our products,' Mobley said. 'It is about administrative reporting. Furthermore, we believe that a decision against DuPont in this matter would redefine TSCA and RCRA reporting requirements and would not prevail under the scrutiny of the courts.'

Noting that EPA has not proposed a specific penalty at this time, the company said it will file a formal denial to the EPA complaint within 30 days.

DuPont asserts that there is no legal basis for the EPA's allegations. The company contends that it has fully complied with statutory reporting requirements and disputes any association between PFOA and harmful effects on human health or the environment.

In April 2003, when it announced its review of PFOA, the EPA stated that it does not believe there is any reason for consumers to stop using any consumer or industrial related products while its review is in progress. PFOA remains an unregulated compound.

'The evidence from over 50 years of experience and extensive scientific studies supports our conclusion that PFOA does not harm human health or the environment,' Mobley said.

Guardian Industries Corp. Owner Wins NHL, NBA & WNBA Titles

William Davidson, president and CEO of global glass manufacturer Guardian Industries Corp., has earned a place in professional sports history, becoming the first team owner to win championships in different sports in the same year.

During the span of two weeks last month, Davidson’s professional ice hockey team, the Tampa Bay Lightning, earned the NHL title and his professional basketball team, the Detroit Pistons, earned the NBA title. The Lightning defeated the Calgary Flames in game seven of a best-of-seven series on June 7th to win the Stanley Cup. The Pistons beat the heavily favoured Los Angeles Lakers in game five of a best-of-seven series on June 15th to win the Lawrence O’Brien Trophy. Both winners join the WNBA’s defending champion Detroit Shock in Davidson’s successful sports stable.

Davidson’s Detroit sports teams play at The Palace of Auburn Hills, and his Tampa Bay hockey team plays at St. Pete Times Forum. Both venues are operated by Davidson’s Palace Sports & Entertainment business.

'These victories are a tribute to the talent and work ethic of our players, our coaching staff and the organisation that supports them,' said Davidson. 'Everyone worked together unselfishly in a total team effort.'

Davidson’s success in sports stems from the same philosophy he applies to his manufacturing business: hire talented, hard-working people and trust them to take risks that deliver rewards. For Davidson, this approach continues to pay off.

Guardian Industries Corp., based in Auburn Hills, Mich., is a leading worldwide manufacturer of float glass and fabricated glass products for the commercial and residential construction industries. Guardian Automotive provides complete exterior systems to the global automotive industry and is a Tier 1, top-100 global automotive supplier. Guardian’s Building Products Group includes one of the largest manufacturers of fibreglass in the world and occupies a significant and growing position in the building materials distribution business. Guardian, its subsidiaries and affiliates employ 19,000 people and operate facilities throughout North America, Europe, South America, Asia, Africa and the Middle East.

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