Bostik
is in the process of dramatically enhancing the existing insulating glass
(IG) sealant production facility at its Leicester site in a multi-million
pound investment plan.
Representative of Bostik's ongoing commitment to providing high quality
sealants for the Insulating Glass Unit (IGU) industry, the investment
will see the introduction of a new, state-of-the-art, computerised plant,
dedicated to the production of Hot Melt Butyl perimeter sealants.
The new equipment has been specifically developed for Bostik's IG hot
melt sealant production and will facilitate, amongst other things, a 50%
increase in existing capacity and will enable the whole process to be
fully automated.
Richard Sellman, marketing manager at Bostik, comments: ‘Bostik is
a long-established and trusted name within the IGU market. Manufacturers
rely on our products because they know we are committed to delivering
the highest quality. The new IG hot melt sealant plant is a tangible demonstration
of this.’
The investment is the latest project in a series of planned developments
by the global sealants and adhesives firm.
Super
Spacer Will Feature on 14 Stands at Glassex
Visitors
to Glassex who are interested in Edgetech's warm edge technology Super
Spacer®, will have the choice of 14 stands to visit at the show, reflecting
the popularity of the product across the entire supply chain. This high
profile presence is in addition to Edgetech's sponsorship of the Energy
Efficiency Zone, and the company's own 'Taking the Stress out of window
energy ratings' stand G120.
Combined with Edgetech's launch of SDL, the consumer DVD 'Windows that
don't cost the earth' and the WER:DIY self-assessment tool in conjunction
with Pilkington, means it will be difficult to avoid the energy efficiency
solutions at Glassex this year.
Andy
Jones, Managing Director of Edgetech UK comments: ‘The opportunity
to sponsor the Energy Efficiency zone and the associated forum gives us
the ideal platform to promote our services and products. But perhaps even
more exciting, is the fact that Super Spacer features so heavily across
so many other exhibitors' stands.
'It
shows just how actively the industry as a whole has embraced energy efficient
windows, and especially Super Spacer. Machinery suppliers will be showing
fabricators and sealed unit manufacturers the options available for Super
Spacer application, from the fully automated equipment exhibited on the
Promac and Lisec stands, to the hand air float table more suitable for
smaller companies on the Basra stand.
'System companies too will be exhibiting WER labelled products thanks
to Super Spacer® including Plastmo and Selecta. And for installers
who want to find out where they can buy their energy efficient windows
and roofs with Super Spacer warm edge technology built in, Camden, Listers,
Conservatory Outlet, Direct Trade Windows and Reflex will all be on hand
to help.
'We're looking forward to welcoming visitors to our own stand, especially
with the offer of a free professional massage, but this year Glassex also
represents a great opportunity for companies of all types and sizes to
see hands on, how widely and easily available higher performance energy
rated windows with Super Spacer now are.’
Web: http://www.superspacer.com
Bohle
Offers Glassex-Only Deals for all Visitors (Stand B110)
Glass
tools and consumables supplier Bohle Ltd UK is offering a series of one-off
Glassex-only trade-up deals this year, in the first of the company's 70th
Birthday celebrations.
The
Bohle Bonus is being offered on a huge range of products from top line
glass processing machinery to basic hand tools to ensure there is something
for everyone. In each case buyers choosing any of the specially selected
range of Bohle Bonus merchandise will automatically be awarded an upgrade,
some worth more than a £1000! And these deals are not available
outside Glassex and end with the show.
Glassex Bohle Bonus offers include:
* Order a Straight Line Edger - receive a set of replacement wheels free
plus 12 months extra warranty package - worth more than £1000!
* Order the 4000.0 glass cutter, get a free upgrade to the Active Wheel
Specification
* Order any Drilling Machine and get an upgrade to laser positioning free
- worth up to £500!
* Order the Glass Buddy get a upgrade pack that also includes a free Active
Glass Detector
* Order 3 of the new Veribor 601BL lifters and get an extra 1 free - worth
nearly £50!
* Order 3 of the new glass door handles and get an extra 1 of the same
value free
* Order 3 or more pairs of shower hinges and get a free pair of sealing
strips
* Order any Bohle Belt Grinder and get an upgrade of extra table extensions
free - worth up to £600!
Bohle UK's Managing Director Gary Dean says that this is what exhibitions
should be about: ‘Visitors to exhibitions should be able to expect
special deals, competitions and something special for making the effort
to attend. There's a lot going on at this year's Glassex and we wanted
to make an impact too and offer visitors to our stand something they can't
get any other time.’
One
of the world's leading names in home security has confirmed its attendance
at Glassex 2007.
Yale UK, part of the Stockholm-based Assa Abloy Group, will be showcasing
its new range of multipoint locking solutions for the first time at the
Birmingham exhibition.
And the lock company has plenty to talk about, with its comprehensive
range of bespoke locking products, suitable for uPVC, timber, composite
and aluminium doors, its range of services and its Extended Range of home
security initiatives. With this complete package of services and solutions,
Yale really is taking things to the next level.
Among
the new product offerings being launched for the first time at Glassex
is the Yale Asgard PAS 023/024 range of Composite Door Locking Solutions.
Fully flexible, the range of stainless steel locks and keeps offers durability
and first class security.
Also on show for the first time is the high security PAS 023/024 compliant
Yale Asgard Slave Door Solution for use on PVC French Doors. This lock
works in conjunction with two high security shoot-bolts, top and bottom,
for improved strength, overcoming some of the problems traditionally associated
with slave door locking products.
Yale's comprehensive range of multipoint locking products also comes complete
with an offering of fully adjustable High Security Dynamic Hinges for
rebated doors and its brand new range of Top-Turn Reversible Hinges, which
are tested to BS7950, and are suitable for uPVC, aluminium and timber
windows.
Yale's customers wouldn't expect to visit the companys stand without seeing
the long-established high security G2000 product range, which is fully
flexible, with products to meet a range of requirements set down by uPVC
and aluminium door manufacturers. Customers also have an extensive choice
of Yale branded handles and cylinders to choose from.
Something they won't expect to see, however, is Yale's new Extended Range
of home security options including a home CCTV system which utilises the
latest in wirefree and digital recording technology, which was previously
only available to the professional market.
The new SVS1100 CCTV system from Yale is a 'one-box' solution to the complex
world of CCTV, and is extremely quick and easy to install and operate,
as well as being cost-effective.
The Extended Range offering also includes Yale's Wirefree Alarms which
have seen a complete revamp, with improved ease of installation and a
sleeker and glossier new look. The new circular bell box and PIRs complement
Yale's brand identity. Other products within the range include smoke detector,
flood detector, telecommunicating control panel, web-based control panel
and remote control.
Completing the ‘one-stop’ package is the Yale Installer Scheme
which was re-launched to the industry last year. Sarah Massey, Marketing
Manager explains: ‘We talked to our fabricator and installer customers
and, following their advice, developed a Scheme that we felt would boost
business for our Multipoint customers.
‘With benefits such as website access, a host of product literature,
branded merchandise and ready-made artwork for press advertisements, customers
can buy into the selling power of the Yale brand - a brand which has 98%
recognition and is associated across the world with trust, reliability
and value. This level of recognition is what will distinguish our Installer
Scheme members from their competitors.’
To talk to Yale about the Installer Scheme, their Extended Range offering,
or any of its other products and services, visit the company at Glassex
on stand E030.
Carlton
Television Presenter Joins Bystronic
Team at
Glassex
Carlton
Televsion presenter Llewella Bailey joins the Bystronic Glass UK team
at Glassex where she will present a number of informative industry related
short presentations on-stand on behalf of the company.
With
so much focus being placed on climate change, global warming, carbon emissions
and energy efficiency, Llewella was very interested to take part in the
presentations that will help to clarify the importance of energy efficient
production methods for the glazing industry.
This year on stand J100 Bystronic Glass UK will focus mainly on thermal
efficiency and the product advancements that will be introduced throughout
2007 that will assist manufacturers in achieving the important criteria
relating to BS EN 1279.
Bystronic says that it is synonymous for providing superior standards
to the glass processing market and that its leading market position will
be clearly defined at Glassex with concise fifteen minute presentations,
four times a day, all of which will be hosted by Miss Bailey.
Incorporated into the short seminars will be information on key industry
issues relating in particular to warm edge technology as well as current
trends in glass processing and cost efficient solutions for manufacturers.
With system solutions, technologies and services for integrated glass
applications, the company will be situated on stand J100 in the new energy
efficiency zone at the exhibition.
Several products from the company's gas filling range will be used for
demonstration purposes including the Swiftgas and the new ESA Super Spacer
applicator.
Additionally the company will present new and advanced product developments
including the static X/Y craneway which will reinforce Bystronic's commitment
to provide products with lasting customer benefit, reliability and quality
support services.
Steve Powell comments, ‘We were thrilled when Llewella agreed to
take part in our on-stand exhibition this year knowing that as a television
journalist this reflects the seriousness of thermal efficiency in association
with major topical issues. Her presence will greatly assist in highlighting
the important aspects for manufacturers relating to economical and reliable
production methods.’
For more information on any of the products available in the Bystronic
range please call 01952 677971 or e-mail sales@bystronic-glass.co.uk
Freefoam
Wins Crest Nicholson Plc Contract
Freefoam
Plastics, a manufacturer of quality approved environmentally friendly
roofline and rainwater systems in Ireland, the UK and across Europe has
announced a solus trade agreement with Crest Nicholson Plc for the development
of 3,000 new houses in the UK.
The agreement will cover the supply of PVC-UE roofline materials to all
of Crest Nicholson’s new housing developments through seven regional
businesses over the next two years. Freefoam Plastics says that it is
delighted with this new agreement and is convinced that the already strong
Freefoam brand will become even stronger and more recognisable in the
marketplace as a result.
Aidan Harte, Freefoam’s Finance director commented that, 'this solus
agreement is particularly pleasing due to the fact that we were in direct
competition with other leading brands in the marketplace and that our
bid was deemed to be the best value by Crest Nicholson Plc. Winning this
kind of contract shows us that we are moving in the right direction to
become the number one supplier of PVC roofline and rainwater systems to
the new build market'.
For more information, contact Freefoam directly on 01604 759871 in the
UK, 021 4911055 in Ireland, or email marketing@freefoam.com
Two
New TV Ads for Pilkington Activ™ Spring Campaign
Buoyed
by the success of the TV spring and autumn advertising campaigns during
2006, Pilkington has filmed two new commercials for broadcast from February
2007 to continue the support for Pilkington Activ™ self-cleaning
glass.
With
sales of Pilkington Activ™ growing more than 10-fold during 2006
driven by the extensive television, press and Internet marketing campaign
the decision to enhance the programme with two fresh commercials did not
prove too difficult. With research supporting the sales figures by showing
increases in the awareness of the concept of self-cleaning glass, as well
as a significant increase in awareness of the Pilkington Activ™ brand,
a similar theme based once again around inventions is being taken for
the new advertisements.
Again adopting a tongue-in-cheek view that not all inventions work as
well as Pilkington Activ™ self-cleaning glass the new advertisements
feature gadgets that are too good to be true the - the Leisurely Lounger
and the Extractor 3000 - which end up doing more harm than good, whilst
the owner of the home with gleaming Pilkington Activ™ - an invention
that really does work - looks on with amusement.
The commercials will appear nationally on satellite television (Freeview
& digital) and terrestrial channels including ITV and Channel 4 in
the Midlands & Meridian TV regions from February until the middle
of April, supported by enhanced websites and other Internet activity.
A public relations campaign continues with coverage in a range of popular
national and local newspapers and consumer special interest magazines.
‘Once again this activity is designed to drive business through installers
of windows and conservatories fitted with Pilkington Activ™ to further
stimulate sales, building upon last year's campaigns,’ explained
Matt Buckley, Marketing Manager for Pilkington Building Products. ‘We
now have a proven formula with research showing that there has been a
significant uplift in the propensity to purchase self-cleaning glass and
almost 60% of the UK home owning population (approx 15.4 million homeowners)
aware of the concept, offering Pilkington Activ™ in windows and conservatories
is a confirmed sales-winner.’
To get an insight into all the hard work it took to produce the commercials
visit: http://www.keepupworld.com/making_of.htm
Masterframe
Complaint against Victorian Sliders Ltd Upheld
A
complaint objecting to a leaflet for Victorian Sliders Ltd which described
its product as 'one of the securest vertical sliders available' was upheld
according to information published by the Advertising Standards Authority
(ASA).
Ad
A leaflet, for sliding windows, stated 'Charisma is a stylish window that
offers strong, secure build with incredibly low maintenance and thanks
to the innovative aluminium security bar it is one of the securest vertical
sliders available.'
Issue
Masterframe Windows Ltd challenged the claim 'one of the securest vertical
sliders available.'
Response
Victorian Sliders did not respond in writing to our enquiries. They said,
in a telephone conversation, that their windows had an aluminium bar on
the step that they believed meant it could not be prised open. They said
other manufacturers made more secure windows than theirs but argued that
the claim 'one of the securest' did not imply that their windows were
the most secure windows available on the market. They said they were aware
of the British Standard for security of windows and that Masterframe had
achieved that standard; they said they did not have it. They maintained
that they had applied for the Police Secured by Design standard.
Assessment
Upheld
The ASA was concerned by Victorian Sliders lack of written response and
apparent disregard for the CAP Code. We reminded them of their responsibility
to respond to our enquiries in writing when asked and told them to do
so promptly in future.
We noted Masterframe had the British Standard for security of windows
and the Police Secured by Design standard; we also noted Victorian Sliders
did not have either standard. We noted there were national standards to
which windows could be tested for security and therefore the level of
security provided by a window could be measured. We considered that the
claim 'one of the securest vertical sliders available' implied the windows
had been tested and, when compared to other manufacturers windows, were
among the most secure. We concluded that, because we had not seen evidence
to show that they were among the most secure, the claim was likely to
mislead.
The ad breached CAP Code clauses 2.6 (Non-response), 3.1 (Substantiation),
7.1 (Truthfulness) and 19.1 (Other comparisons).
Action
We told Victorian Sliders to remove the claim 'one of the securest vertical
sliders available' from their advertising. We asked CAP to inform its
media members of the problem with the advertiser.
Adjudication of the ASA Council (Non-broadcast)
EU
Boost for Energy Saving Products
The
introduction in June this year of Energy Performance Certificates has
strong implications for the specification of energy-saving products including
energy efficient glazing, such as Pilkington K Glass.
Energy
Performance Certificates, which will rate the energy performance of each
property on a scale of A to G, will also highlight to potential buyers
how they can improve the home's energy efficiency and save on energy bills.
The glazing industry already uses a similar rating system for windows;
Window Energy Ratings (WERs) give consumers the opportunity to make informed
decisions about the type of windows installed in their home.
In many cases, replacing old inefficient glazing with energy efficient
glazing will be high on the list of improvements. Their relative ease
of installation, coupled with the potential energy savings to be made,
means that the industry has a unique opportunity to capitalise on the
legislation when it comes in to force later in the year. Around 20 per
cent of the heat in a house can be lost though single glazed windows.
By fitting new double glazing, such as insulating glass units containing
Pilkington K Glass, this loss could be cut by half, resulting in a saving
of up to £100 a year on the energy bills of an average three-bedroom
home.
Rick Wilberforce, Market Development Manager for Pilkington, said: 'June
is a crucial time for the industry and we must capitalise on this. By
giving consumers more information on the average running costs for heating,
hot water and lighting in the home and how to cut these costs with energy
efficiency measures, we are hopeful that energy performance certificates
will lead to a significant step up in the energy efficiency of homes in
the UK.'
As part of an Insulating Glass Unit (IGU), Pilkington K Glass, a low emissivity
coated glass, reflects heat back into the property whilst also letting
in free heat from the sun. Pilkington K Glass helps windows to achieve
high WERs to demonstrate compliance with energy saving Building Regulations
Part L, and is recognised by the Energy Saving Trust as a significantly
effective measure for achieving energy efficiency hence savings on fuel
bills.
The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, when fully effective, is
expected to deliver savings of 45 million tonnes of CO2 a year, a significant
part of the EU's Kyoto commitment.
More information about WERs is available in the new WERs 3 Bulletin, which
can be downloaded from http://www.pilkington.co.uk/WERs
or ordered from the Technical Helpline on 01744 692000.
Changes
at the Profiles Business Unit of Tessenderlo Group
The
Profiles business unit of Tessenderlo Group wants to strengthen its market
position on the European market of PVC window profiles in the future.
Therefore, a management team was put in place for Continental Europe that
covers the subsidiaries of Wymar (BE) and Plastival (FR). Marc Jans who
joined the group at the end of 2006 will lead this team as General Manager.
The short-term objective of the new management team is to develop synergies
between the different subsidiaries on the level of purchase, sales, logistics,
production and product range.
A new long-term strategy will be put in place to strengthen the group's
current competitive position in Continental Europe and to achieve important
growth in this market.
The Profiles business unit is a part of the business group Plastics Converting
of Tessenderlo Group and produces PVC door and window profiles and systems
for interior and exterior finishing. The Profiles business unit has subsidiaries
in Belgium, France, Great Britain, Canada and the United States and has
a headcount of 1,200.
Tessenderlo Group is an international chemicals group with more than 100
branches in 21 countries. Around 8,100 people work for the group.
The company's consolidated turnover totalled 2,150 million EUR in 2005,
from its three Business Groups (Chemicals, Specialities, Plastics Converting).
The group is a European and world leader in most of its product areas.
Tessenderlo Chemie NV is listed on Eurolist by Euronext Brussels and is
part of Next 150, NextPrime and BEL Mid.
Web: http://www.tessenderlogroup.com
Passport
Brings ‘Xtra’ Business for Northumberland Firm
Northumberland
rooflight specialist Xtralite (Rooflights) Ltd has transformed itself
from novice exporter to global business with the help of UK Trade &
Investment's ‘Passport to Export’ initiative.
Established in 2001, the Blyth-based company, which has a 50-strong staff,
has become the largest producer of rooflights in the UK and was keen to
explore its export potential.
Now, just two years after signing up to the ‘Passport’ programme,
it has seen its exports develop from zero to now having five agents throughout
the Middle East and Asia - and has even set up a new office in Thailand.
Terry Lee, Sales & Marketing Director at Xtralite Ltd, explained:
‘We knew we had a great product but needed support from UKTI to help
us discover new markets overseas. The Passport to Export scheme gave us
the practical advice we needed and the support of an International Trade
Adviser was invaluable. With UK Trade & Investment's help we have
been able to develop our exports to the level where we now committing
considerable further resources.’
Keith Chater, one of UK Trade & Investment's International Trade Advisers,
said:
‘From the outset Xtralite recognised it needed to learn more about
possible export markets and showed the determination and commitment to
succeed by ensuring financial and personnel resources were made available
to achieve its objectives.
‘When the company first signed up to Passport it was not an exporter,
but it made good use of the range of services available through the scheme,
taking part in market visits to Hong Kong and the Middle East as well
as visiting Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand.
‘Market reports for the company's target countries were commissioned,
including Thailand and Singapore and we're delighted the company's efforts
have been rewarded.
‘Passport is an ideal means for companies to access the range of
support offered by UK Trade & Investment as it provides a tailor-made
package to suit an individual companies' needs. And a designated International
Trade Adviser is on hand to guide them every step of the way.
‘We hope that Xtralite's success continues and helps inspire other
companies in the region to take that all important step into international
trade - and we're here to help, whether they are a novice or experienced
exporter.’
To find out more about Passport and the range of services available through
UK Trade & Investment to help companies succeed overseas contact the
North East International Trade Hotline on 0845 05 05 054 or email enquiries@ukti.rito.co.uk.
Web: http://www.uktradeinvest.gov.uk
The
Freefoam Roofline Report - the Growth Market
A net* 3% of roofline stockists and installers reported better sales in
November 2006 to January 2007 compared with August to October 2006.
A net 24% of stockists and installers increased sales in November 2006
to January 2007 compared with twelve months ago in November 2005 to January
2006 (chart 1). Mid-sized (net 33%) and small companies (28%) saw most
improvement but on balance, large companies showed no change over the
period. The Midlands (net 41%) and North (30%) did better than firms in
the South (9%).
Both specialist installers (net 44%) and specialist stockists (29%) grew.
* The net balance is the difference between the percentage of companies
reporting an increase over those reporting a decrease.
Sales
forecasts
Expectations are very strong. On balance 72% of stockists and installers
expect to see an increase in sales in the next three months (February
to April 2007) compared with the previous three months.
Small companies (net 79%) and mid-sized firms (75%) are most positive
but large companies (52%) are also upbeat. Firms across the country are
confident with very few expecting a drop in sales.
Ninety-three percent of specialist stockists and 75% of specialist installers
forecast an increase in sales over the period.
Year-on-year forecasts are also good. A balance of just under a half the
stockists and installers interviewed expect to increase sales in February
to April 2007 compared with the same three months of 2006 (chart 2).
Small (net 61%) and mid-sized firms (56%) are most confident but large
companies (14%) are also positive. Those in the Midlands (net 72%) are
most upbeat but firms in the North (45%) and South (36%) are also bullish.
Both
specialist stockists (net 57%) and specialist installers (50%) are confident
of increased sales.
Prospects
A net 19% of stockists and installers are more optimistic now about the
overall prospects for the roofline market than three months ago. Small
firms (net 30%) are more confident than mid-sized companies (17%) but
on balance, large firms feel the same as three months ago.
Stockists and installers across the country are positive.
Both specialist installers (25%) and specialist stockists (21%) are optimistic.
Comment
‘As the roofline industry has become more competitive prices have
also become increasingly competitive,’ says Tony Walsh, Managing
Director of Freefoam, who sponsor this survey. ‘Prices are now at
such a low level that they do not reflect the positive attributes and
performance of roofline as a building material. Stockists and installers
need to drive their business forward by improving their selling and marketing
skills.
‘There are several ways to do this. The sales counter should obviously
be used to push sales and there is door step selling, but what about the
internet? The web is a powerful tool when it comes to marketing and not
enough stockists and installers take advantage of it. Although the survey
shows that 80% of stockists and installers interviewed have a website,
just a quarter offer some form of facility to order online.
‘A website can boost your sales significantly. Customers want convenience
and the internet is a great way to provide it. Setting up a website may
initially be time consuming, but the long term benefits outweigh it. The
internet allows customers to view products and services and allows easy
communication. If customers can order online and they can track the progress
of their order with ease, or check the installation date, it gives them
the level of convenience we now take for granted elsewhere in our lives.
The best performers and fastest growers are already doing this.’
For a copy of the full report call: Jenny Reilly on 01453 521 621 or visit
http://www.521621.com/research/quarterly/readreport.php?roofline
The Freefoam Roofline Report, a quarterly trends survey, is produced by
Michael Rigby Associates, and sponsored by Freefoam Plastics Ltd.
The survey covers a representative sample of 100 roofline installers and
stockists, including builders' merchants, of PVC-UE cellular foam.
Telephone interviews took place between the 1st and 8th February 2007
across a balanced spread of size of firm and geographical area.
© Copyright Michael Rigby Associates 2007
Family-run
company Snowdonia Windows and Doors Ltd has operated in the roofline industry
for 28 years. It switched to GAP about eight months ago as the company
was unhappy with its previous supplier.
After conducting extensive market research the company decided to use
GAP as a supplier primarily because of its excellent reputation, comprehensive
product range and fast delivery times.
Based in Mold, North-East Wales, Snowdonia Windows and Doors is well placed
to receive deliveries from GAP's Wirral depot.
Jim Flanagan, Director of Snowdonia Windows and Doors, explains: ‘GAP's
product range is very comprehensive, fairly priced and of a high quality
especially when it comes to colourfastness.
'Currently we mainly order fascias, soffits and cladding from GAP's Homeline
range. The point of sale material the company offers is a particular strength
and helps when we sell to homeowners. GAP's prompt daily delivery service
is excellent allowing us to get each project finished on time.’
Tel: 01254 682888
HL
Plastics and Liniar Move to New Site
HL
Plastics and Liniar, both part of the Flamstead Holdings group, have relocated
to an impressive, purpose built, 90,000 sq ft facility, a short distance
from the previous Derby site they have occupied for the past 30 years.
The move is part of a significant £7 million investment in the company:
including the purchase of 17 acres of land to accommodate future expansion,
and additional investment in the both manufacturing machinery and distribution
equipment.
The 50,000 sq ft manufacturing hall incorporates the latest in underground
water tanks and services, and houses more than 40 plastic extrusion lines
and injection moulding machines. Tool room facilities have been increased
with a 2,800 sq ft dedicated area. Distribution services are also improved,
with a 20,000 sq ft storage section, for both raw materials and finished
products.
Flamstead Holdings M.D. Roger Hartshorn explained the thinking behind
the investment: 'We created the vision for the new factory and offices
in response to the continued expansion of our business and our confidence
in future growth. For the first time we will consolidate all of the companies
within the Flamstead group onto one site, increasing efficiency and communications.
Combined with our investment in additional state-of-the-art machinery
and our plans for further new and exciting product developments, the move
to the new site completes a major milestone in our business and is designed
to offer our customers the very highest levels of quality and service.'
The new contact details for HL Plastics and Liniar are:
Flamstead House, Denby Hall Business Park, Denby, Derbyshire DE5 8NN
HL Plastics Tel: 01332 883800
Liniar Tel: 01332 883900
For further information visit http://www.hlplastics.co.uk
or http://www.liniar.co.uk.
Rockdoor
Seeks Dealers for its Composite Door
Composite
door manufacturer Rockdoor is looking for forward thinking companies to
take advantage of the retail composite door market by becoming a Rockdoor
dealer.
The retail market is one of the biggest and most lucrative opportunities
for installers who have the right product and support. ‘Rockdoor
is specifically designed for this market as it is the only solid, reinforced
fully PVC-U door.’ It does not stick, delaminate or deteriorate.
Rockdoor also offers homeowners low maintenance, energy efficiency and
high security.
Rockdoor's Sales Director Mark Simm comments: ‘Homeowners know the
benefits of PVC-U windows and want a front door to match. Rockdoor offers
the perfect solution. The retail composite door market is growing and
we want to help ambitious companies take advantage of it. We are offering
a great product backed up with a full support package - sales training
for the sales team, installation training for the fitters and a powerful
marketing package to generate leads and sales. We are looking for dealers
to help the market grow faster.’
For more information contact Mark Simm on 01254 662999.
Kestrel©
Penetrates Deeper into Ireland with Wilplas Athlone Opening
Kestrel©
customers in Ireland are set to benefit from the first distributorship
of its PVC-UE roofline, cladding and window trim products to serve the
South with the opening of new premises for Wilplas UPVC in Athlone, Westmeath.
‘We have four branches all over Ulster,’ comments Les McCracken,
MD of Wilplas UPVC Ltd, ‘and Kestrel's high and consistent product
quality has meant that it has been very successful here, despite the very
competitive market. We see great potential in moving South to serve the
wider Irish market, where construction continues to be buoyant.
Athlone at the centre of Ireland is a key strategic location for us, with
rapid access to all parts of the Republic to support contractors and installers.
‘We will be offering the complete range of Kestrel PVC-UE products
to the Irish market. We can rely on Kestrel's commitment to investing
in improved production facilities and quality in the UK, and its support
of our marketing efforts, to give us the boost we need for continued success.'
‘Wilplas has been our partner in Ireland for many years,’ confirms
Kestrel Sales and Marketing Director Tony Crutcher. ‘The company’s
expansion plans are another phase of the growth we are experiencing in
the Irish and UK markets.
‘In a highly competitive market, winning increased market share will
be a challenge, but it's one that Kestrel is now in good shape to achieve.
‘We are building on a well-established reputation for quality and
value in 'fitter-friendly' products with continual product innovation,
particularly with colour match and durability, and with more environmentally
friendly products. Our new era of growth and investment for Kestrel, is
reflected in new products for the Irish market.’
Tel: 01724 400440
Email: info@kestrelbce.co.uk
Web: http://www.kbp.co.uk
'Don't
Throw away Profits' Warns Sierra
Figures
produced by Sierra Windows have shown that the average fabricator, making
around 250 frames per month, could be throwing away up to 8,000 kilos
of waste PVC-U profile - at huge cost to the business.
Despite
the fact many are already recycling waste profile, the superfabricator
says fabrication businesses could cut out the cost of waste entirely by
buying in frames instead of making them themselves.
Sierra general manager Brian Webb says: ‘Because the ordinary fabricator
does not have the necessary volumes or access to sophisticated cutting
machines which allow them to optimise production and conserve valuable
profile, they could literally be throwing away thousands of pounds worth
of materials every year.
‘In today's competitive marketplace businesses simply can't afford
to ignore any aspects of their operation that are costing them money unnecessarily.’
What's more, the company points out that the cost of disposing of other
industrial waste can also add up.
‘The volume of cardboard, polythene and old frames a company can
accumulate during a year is staggering and with costs of recycling collection
and landfill growing this can end up costing businesses serious money,’
adds Brian.
With increasing pressure on the industry to recycle and minimise waste,
Brian Webb believes the only sensible option for smaller companies wishing
to compete in a more environmentally-conscious market is to assess the
real cost of their fabrication operation, in terms of staffing, production
costs and waste, and work out whether they would be better off depending
on a supply chain partner to supply frames.
With average savings of around £70,000** a year available, Sierra
Windows says there has never been a better time to buy frames in.
‘It's a matter of simple economics,’ says Brian. ‘By purchasing
high-quality products at competitive rates, instead of dealing with the
day to day hassles and costs of making them in-house, a business is free
to concentrate on maximising profits, developing new business opportunities
and achieving growth.’
For more information on the cost savings that can be achieved by buying
in frames please contact Sierra for a free copy of the Sierra 'Stop Fabricating'
guide. Tel: 01803 697000 or email: info@sierrawindows.co.uk.
** Sierra 'Stop Fabricating' guide.
250
Bends, Arches, Gables, Circles...
Universal
Arches is currently manufacturing over 250 arched heads, circular windows,
angle heads and gable frames each week. This represents a 33% increase
on the same time last year.
The company is being led by Clair and Leon Day, a brother and sister combination
that is bringing a level of drive, flair and customer focus to this specialist
sector. Leon who is responsible for the manufacture and operations within
the business comments: ‘We have got considerable expertise in profile
bending and our machinery is the first part in our expert process. To
this we add experience and a commitment to be the finest supplier in our
sector.’
Judging by the number of lapsed customers that have recently returned
to Universal Arches since the change in ownership, the company is set
for further success thanks to the implementation of an improvement programme.
Leon concludes: ‘We've changed a few things within the business since
we took it over and have had a fantastic response from customers old and
new. We listen and we act and that we believe sets us apart.’
Universal's new easy ordering guide is further evidence of the company's
renewed customer focus and ambition. Expect to hear further successes
from Universal.
Tel: 01744 612844
Email: clair.day@universalarches.com
More
than Testing Times at UAP
UAP,
the supplier of door furniture into the UK PVCU door and window market,
is now fully committed to ongoing and continuous testing of all stocked
products.
Every
batch is subjected to both UV and either Humidity or Salt Spray testing.
These tests range from 240 hours tests up to 1000 hour tests.
UAP's Quality Controller Wendy Rushton says: ‘As part of our programme
of continuous quality improvement we have found that subjecting every
batch of product to rigorous product tests enables us to give maximum
weight to our extended product guarantees and in turn this gives our customers
extra confidence in the products they are buying from us.’
In addition, the company has appointed Sajid Jemeel as their Quality Control
& Development Manager, based in Delhi. This appointment enables UAP
to control product quality at the point of manufacture at the company's
tied factories in India.
Wendy explains: ‘Sajid's role will only improve our product quality
even further and help reach our goal of zero rejects - a massive challenge
but one we believe is achievable.’
The company has also invested in hot forging of its doorknockers.
‘Hot forging is an expensive process but one that gives almost perfect
products every time,’ Wendy concludes.
UAP products, including numerals, letterplates and handles exactly match
in finish, shade and sheen levels, and have guarantees of up to 10 years.
With the most extensive range of 'next-day' delivery doorknockers and
ancillary items available in the UK, any order for standard stock received
before 12 noon is despatched that same day, and delivered the next by
Insured Carrier.
Tel: +44 (0) 161 763 5290
Email: uap@btconnect.com
Web: http://www.universal-imports.com
The
GAI says that it prides itself on reflecting and driving forward change
and evolution in the AI sector. Which is why the organisation has unveiled
a new corporate ID.
Based
around a contemporary new logo style, the new ID will cascade through
all of the GAI's publications and communications materials with the GAI
crest retained for all official and legal documentation.
Jules Quested-Williams, the GAI's Communications Committee chairperson,
believes the new look for the Guild is an accurate reflection of the organisation's
current state. ‘The GAI is a modern, forward looking organisation
which prides itself on remaining at the forefront of thinking in the AI
sector,’ she comments.
‘The new logo and design style accurately reflects that and helps
us to portray the professionalism and quality for which the GAI is well-known,
more accurately.’
The new rebranding exercise also sees the GAI adopt a new corporate strap
line: Advancing Architectural Ironmongery.
Members of the GAI will begin to use the new logo and corporate ID with
immediate effect.
The Guild of Architectural Ironmongers represents the majority of architectural
ironmongers in the UK as well as the leading manufacturers of architectural
ironmongery. The Guild also administers the benchmark qualifications for
professional architectural ironmongers and is dedicated to raising standards
and encouraging best practice in all aspects of the sector.
Tel: 020 7790 3431
Email: info@gai.org.uk
Vitro
Cristalglass Inaugurates Large
Dimension Tempering
Furnace
Vitro
Cristalglass, Vitro's subsidiary in Europe, held a ceremony on 7th February
to celebrate the inauguration and start-up of its new furnace in the La
Rozada facility, located in the vicinity of Villadecanes, Leon with the
capacity to temper the largest dimension laminated glass sheets in the
Spanish Peninsula and only the third in Europe.
‘In addition to the new temper and thermo hardening furnace, the
third that Vitro Cristalglass has installed in the La Rozada facility,
a total reorganisation of the installation was undertaken to speed up
processes that will enable a more efficient response to our customer needs.
The recent expansion in the factory that covers an area greater than 40,500
square metres on a property of 62,000 square metres, La Rozada is considered
the largest glass processing complex in Europe.’
Consistent with the Company's business strategy and its ongoing search
to improve customer service coupled with increased manufacturing capacity,
as a means to satisfy the ever increasing market demand, Vitro Cristalglass
started up operations enabling it to temper and thermo-harden laminated
glass sheets in large format (6.000 X 3.300 meters) and in thickness of
6mm and 19mm.
Through this process standard flat glass is transformed into a higher
resistance glass that withstands greater stress forces coming from high
impact or drastic temperature changes.
‘Through an investment totalling 9.5 million Euros, which included
purchases of machinery, equipment as well as the construction of a new
building and redistribution of the existing facility at La Rozada, the
new tempering and thermo-heat furnace starting up today will help us supply
jumbo size tempered glass needs for buildings and commercial developments.
Today's modern architecture requires larger tempered glass dimensions
in each project and Vitro plays a leadership role at fulfilling the expectations
and requirements of our valued clients in Europe by bringing on line this
state-of-the-art furnace.’ commented Hugo Lara, President of Vitro's
Flat Glass business Unit.
The
Consumer Protection Association (CPA) has been appointed as an Approved
Scheme Operator for TrustMark, the Government benchmark for reliable and
trustworthy tradespeople.
TrustMark is an award-winning scheme supported by the Government, consumer
groups and building industry to help the public identify reputable firms
to work inside and outside their homes. Currently there are over 10,000
registered firms and 18 Approved Scheme Operators, which can be identified
and contacted through the TrustMark website.
Tradespeople and firms can only achieve TrustMark status and use the logo
by signing up with an Approved Scheme Operator. Scheme Operators have
the responsibility of checking on the firm, monitoring its work, and handling
any complaints. They can be trade associations, independent certification
bodies or commercial organisations - but they must, without exception,
meet TrustMark's Government-endorsed standards.
So what does this mean for CPA?
‘This is a great achievement for CPA,’ says John Travers, Director.
‘TrustMark is set to become the industry standard so all reputable
firms and trades people should be registered. We are now able to assist
and guide any member or non-member through their TrustMark application
process, monitor them on an ongoing basis and then help maintain the highest
standards required by TrustMark.’
‘We are delighted to have won this prestigious accreditation, but
would stress that we view TrustMark standards as the minimum that can
be expected of us and our members. Since we were established in 1993 we
have maintained an ongoing process of quality monitoring and enhancement,
for the home-owner and our members - that continues.’
Web: http://www.thecpa.co.uk
First
Time Byers to Benefit from New Affordable Homes
The
first homes in a scheme that enables first time buyers to get a foot onto
the property ladder by paying 50 per cent of the price of a new home,
were unveiled recently by Housing Minister Yvette Cooper.
More than 700 homes in 18 developments have been chosen as the first in
the country to be offered under the First Time Buyers' Initiative. The
scheme is expected to help 15,000 house-hunters nationally into low cost
home-ownership by 2010.
It allows eligible first time buyers to purchase a minimum 50 per cent
share in a new house, with the Government making up the remainder.
The first person to benefit from the scheme, Melanie Latham, is moving
into a two bedroom home in Feltham, London, paying a £112,000 mortgage
on a £220,000 property.
Yvette Cooper said:
'With rising house prices, many first time buyers are struggling to get
a first foot onto the ladder. Just because families can't afford the full
house price doesn't mean they shouldn't have the chance to get started
and buy a share in the first home of their own. We want to help more people
like Melanie with this scheme.'
Around 50 per cent of the new homes under the First Time Buyers' Initiative
will be for key workers such as nurses, teachers and police officers.
The remaining homes will be made available to local residents who meet
priority criteria identified by Regional Housing Boards. Under the scheme,
first time buyers can increase the share in their home at any time. They
will only be responsible for their mortgage payments for the first three
years, after that period they will pay an additional charge based on the
equity they don't own.
Duncan Innes, the English Partnerships' director responsible for delivering
the First Time Buyers' Initiative said:
'These new affordable homes will provide a real opportunity for first
time buyers in many communities across England, where they are needed
most. We want to help as many people as possible to take their first steps
towards full home ownership, and we want to be able to do that quickly.
The First Time Buyers' Initiative will help us to do that.'
Melanie Latham is the first person to move into a First Time Buyers' Initiative
home.
'My apartment is fantastic. This scheme makes buying a home affordable
for ordinary people. As a first time buyer, I never expected to be able
to buy a property like this.'
The First Time Buyers' Initiative is part of a wave of new programmes
to help families to get a foot on the housing ladder. Policies introduced
since 1999 have already helped more than 40,000 people buy their own homes
through shared equity schemes and shared ownership. But the government
is committed to going further.
Ministers have recently announced plans to help more than 160,000 families
into home ownership by 2010.
In addition to First Time Buyers' Initiative, qualifying households have
the option to buy a home through shared equity under Open Market Homebuy
and New Build HomeBuy, or buy their social rented home through Social
HomeBuy. The Government is also investing £970 million in the Housing
Corporation's Affordable Housing programme for 35,000 low cost home ownership
properties.
HSE
Refutes Attack on Safety Record
In
response to recent media coverage of the Health and Safety Executive's
(HSE's) safety record, Deputy Chief Executive (Operations), Justin McCracken,
said yesterday:
'The rates of accidents and injuries in HSE are low compared with other
organisations, as you would expect. HSE gave this information, and explained
it, to the journalist concerned who contacted us about accident rates.
'The resulting media coverage is misleading and inaccurate. It does not
compare like with like. Instead it takes all HSE injuries (even the most
minor ones) and then compares them with only the most serious injuries
in industry. There are far more minor accidents (that, by law, do not
need to be reported) occurring within industry than serious ones, so it
is not surprising that the conclusions drawn are misleading.
'For example, if you compare like with like, HSE had a rate of around
2.4 reportable accidents for every 1,000 employees which is several times
lower than that in equivalent service sector organisations.
'Your readers should also be made aware that the health & safety 'inspector',
caught shaving whilst at the wheel of his car and banned from driving,
is not an HSE employee.'
John
Healey Announces VAT Change to bring Cashflow Boost for Business
A
special scheme to help cashflow in small firms will be extended from 1st
April 2007 the Financial Secretary to the Treasury, John Healey MP, announced
on 9th February.
The Cash Accounting Scheme (CAS) allows eligible businesses to defer paying
their VAT until they have received payment from their customers - as opposed
to accounting for and paying VAT when they issue and receive invoices.
From 1st April 2007 the threshold for CAS is to be more than doubled from
£660,000 to £1.35 million. Changes to the VAT scheme will
help small-to-medium-sized companies cope with cash flow difficulties.
Speaking at the Yorkshire Forward Conference in Bradford, John Healey
said:
'Doubling the threshold of the Cash Accounting Scheme will allow more
than 50,000 businesses to significantly improve their cashflow. We know
that small businesses are the engine for the UK's economy, so it is only
right that we look to improve the climate for them.'