Ministers
Drop in on Interbuild
Two
senior Government ministers will keep their fingers on the pulse of the
construction world by checking out all the latest and best products on
the UK market at Interbuild 2004.
The biggest building trade show in the UK heads for Birmingham's NEC at
the end of the month - running from Sunday April 25th to Thursday April
29th.
Construction Minister Nigel Griffiths will open the show on Monday April
26th before taking a tour of the aisles where around 1,200 companies will
be exhibiting.
Mr Griffiths said: 'Interbuild is an outstanding showcase for the UK construction
industry.
'It is at the forefront of promoting new technology and knowledge on a
global stage, and this year is leading on key issues facing the industry
including modern building methods, energy efficiency and disability access.
'Interbuild brings together all the best in UK construction to educate,
stimulate and inspire.'
On the following day, Minister for Housing Lord Rooker will attend the
50th Interbuild - an event that has been showcasing excellence in construction
for more than a century.
Event Director Steve Webb added: 'Historically Interbuild has generated
interest across every aspect of the construction process and the 2004
show is certainly no different.
'Construction has entered a fascinating phase and the interest shown by
not just one but two ministers adds further weight to our claims that
Interbuild will be 'the' place to do business in 2004.'
Entry to Interbuild is £20 per person but free for anyone who preregisters
either at http://www.interbuild.com,
or by calling 0870 429 4558, or by texting 'IB <your full name>.<company
name>' to 88600.
Synseal
in The Sunday Times Profit Track League for Second Year in a Row
For
the second year in succession Synseal Extrusions Ltd appeared in the annual
Profit Track 100 league, published in the Sunday Times on the 4th April.
Profit Track 100 ranks Britain’s fastest growing unquoted companies
by profit growth over the last three years. Synseal is among only 23 companies
in the UK who made it to the Top 100 list for the second year in a row.
Only nine of the 23 have improved their ranking since last year. Synseal
improved most out of those nine, climbing 33 places from 61st last year
to 28th in this year’s rankings. Synseal Extrusions Ltd boosted its
profits 71% a year from £2.4 million in 2000 to £11.8 million
in 2003.
Nick Dutton, Sales and Marketing Director comments: ‘We’re obviously
delighted with the results which show that we’re supplying the market
with what it wants. Much of the credit is due to our customers who are
growing fast and profitably, winning share from their competitors. Synseal
is focused on continuous improvement in our operations and product development.
We’re constantly striving for innovations that add value and remove
time and cost for our customers so that everyone along the supply chain
gets the margins they deserve. Much of our growth is down to our customers’
growth. Global customers, for example, are doing spectacularly well, winning
share from the competition, or winning back share they had lost using
other conservatory roofs. Global hasn’t been around long enough to
compare sales with the previous year, but we can do it for Shield. On
a like-for-like basis we looked at nearly 250 Shield conservatory customers
who were buying in the last three months of 2003, and found that they
had sold 33.6% more conservatories compared with the same three months
of 2002. That’s more than twice as fast as the growth of the conservatory
market.’
Tel: 01623 443 200
Web: http://www.synseal.com
K2
Launches Architectural Systems Division
Conservatory
roofing manufacturer K2 has extended its interests into the commercial
sector with the launch of a separate new division, K2 Architectural Systems.
K2 Architectural Systems will offer a bespoke service including survey,
design, manufacturing and installation to the construction industry for
large-scale applications including swimming pools, restaurant extensions,
atria and school projects. Clients will be able to select whether to commission
K2 Architectural Systems to simply design and manufacture the system,
or to provide them with a complete turnkey solution including installation.
The
launch of this division is part of K2’s growth strategy, which has
seen the conservatory roofing manufacturer add K2 Glass and K2 Window
and Door Systems to the portfolio during the past year. The company has
already completed several large-scale installations in both the UK and
USA and realised that there was a gap in the market for a division, which
could offer not only bespoke service, but also the reassurance of the
backing of a leading company in the industry.
Explains Managing Director of K2, Sally Fielding: ‘We have always
been a dynamic and innovative company and have achieved phenomenal success
in the domestic conservatory market over the past four years. We are now
a serious contender for the number one market position, supplying the
roofing systems for approximately 20% of all UK installations and growing
year on year. This excellent track record, and our experience of designing,
fabricating and installing larger, more complex structures, both in the
UK and the USA led us to expand into the commercial market with a dedicated
architectural division.’
The launch of K2 Architectural Systems is expected to play a pivotal role
in K2’s expansion across market sectors and the development of the
company’s product range, as well as acting as a catalyst for the
company’s future expansion.
Web:
http://www.k2conservatories.com
New
Sash Portal Factory Provides Tailored Service
With
the rapid growth of its conservatory division showing no signs of abating,
Sash UK has acquired some of its old High Street, Grimethorpe factory,
specifically for the manufacture and distribution of portal frames for
large-scale constructions.
The new portal factory, which opens shortly just 300m from the company’s
main premises, will offer commercial and trade customers a tailored service
for a wide range of applications.
Sash UK has achieved success with sales of its conservatories, and has
recently witnessed a major increase in enquiries for larger scale conservatories
requiring portal frames, particularly for commercial contracts both here
and overseas. The company’s Portal system was specifically developed
for the larger projects, proving to be successful for commercial buildings
such as pubs, clubs, restaurants and hotels. It is also beginning to satisfy
another growing niche market within the domestic sector, where demand
for larger conservatories and swimming pool enclosures is on the increase.
David Ruzicka, Joint Managing Director of Sash UK, comments:
‘Opening a separate factory specifically for portal frames is a step
that is typically forward-thinking for Sash UK. While larger conservatories
currently represent a much smaller market than typical domestic installations,
they are becoming increasing popular everywhere. We wanted to be able
to service these customers according to their specific needs, so it made
total sense to open a separate unit. I believe we have massive potential
for growth in this area, something that is supported by the huge number
of enquiries we have already received about this new service.
‘The message we are sending out by doing this is that Sash is the
clear choice for commercial and new build conservatory projects. We are
fully geared for the design, manufacture, supply and installation of the
complete conservatory, from the largest spans to the smallest component
and ancillary product. Whatever is needed, we can deliver.’
Tel 01226 719969
Web: http://www.sashuk.com
Wagner
Adds Architectural Ironmongery to Portfolio
Door
and window hardware specialist, Wagner (GB) Ltd, has announced the addition
of Architectural Ironmongery Sales to its portfolio.
The service, which is provided by fully qualified Dip GAI representatives,
ensures that specifiers and architects are fully aware of all the available
options when finalising a specification for architectural ironmongery
and accessories.
‘Wagner’s long-standing links with British and continental manufacturers,
forged during nearly 30 years presence in the UK, ensures that products
at the cutting edge of function and design are submitted to clients for
consideration.’ says the company.
The new operation also provides a door scheduling service, which is in
addition to the Specification Advisory Service which has been available
for a number of years.
This service provides Wagner’s core client base, door and window
specifiers and fabricators, with the information and impartial advice
necessary to source the correct product for their project, whether the
substrate is timber, PVCu, aluminium or steel.
Contact Andy Gibbons or Helen Hillier
Tel: 01675 466411
‘Synergy
of Innovation’ Set to Revolutionise the UK Window Industry
On
the back of record sales in January, Siegenia-Aubi UK general manager
Léann Hearne is looking forward to a decade of innovation as the
benefits of last year’s merger with Aubi begin to emerge in the UK.
She says, ‘This year the UK will begin to see the impact of combining
a market-leading innovator and a manufacturer that is streets ahead in
terms of product quality. We’ll be embarking on several joint projects
in 2004 that I believe will have a huge impact on the UK window industry
over the coming years.
‘Since the Siegenia-Aubi merger in January last year, joint product
development has focused largely on Europe where the Siegenia-Aubi partnership
has delivered what is being hailed in Germany as the most innovative product
in more than 100 years.’
Léann welcomes this innovation into the UK with open arms and believes
that the next decade is an important one for the industry. ‘Progressive
product development is the way forward,’ she says. ‘This kind
of innovative thinking will revolutionise the UK window industry over
the next ten years. We’re already beginning to see it in Germany
with a number of new Siegenia-Aubi products and these same products will
soon be making their way to the UK market.’
But is the UK ready? Léann is confident. ‘People are getting
tired of competing on price. The forward-thinking manufacturers are moving
up a gear and differentiating themselves through high performance products.
The market is ready for a shake-up and I think the next few years will
see some meaningful product development that will drive the industry forward.
We plan to remain at the forefront of this development.’
Tel: 024 7662 2000
Email: mailto:si-uk@siegenia.com
Web: http://www.siegenia.de
GGF
Fact Sheet - Access to & Use of Buildings – Approved Document
M
The
requirements in the new Part M no longer refer to ‘disabled people’,
hence the change in title from the previous Part M which was called ‘Access
and facilities for disabled people’. In other words, there is now
a more comprehensive approach to design in Part M, intended to accommodate
the needs of everyone and not just the disabled.
The new edition comes into effect 1st May 2004.
The other main changes are as follows:
* Part M will now apply to material alterations of, and extensions to,
existing non-domestic buildings.
* It will apply to material changes of use to non-domestic buildings.
* There is no exemption for historic buildings.
* A new section covers audience and spectator facilities, refreshment
facilities, and sleeping accommodation.
* There is guidance on educational establishments, including clarification
on purpose-built student accommodation.
• The guidance on dwellings remains unchanged from the 1999 edition.
• Under the 1999 Part M, employers and ‘providers of services
to the public’ were not normally required to alter any physical characteristic
of a building. This exemption will cease from 1st October 2004, when it
will become obligatory to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ (defined
in the new Part M).
• There is new guidance in AD M on manifestation of glazed doors
and screens, which is different from the guidance given in AD N ‘Glazing
– safety in relation to impact, opening and cleaning’. Where
there is a difference, M takes precedence over N.
•On the other hand, M is limited to access and use of a building,
and does not extend to means of escape from fire – AD B deals with
means of escape.
• The opening Section of Part M reads:
People, regardless of disability, age or gender, should be able to:
a. gain access to buildings and to gain access within buildings, and use
their facilities, both as visitors and as people who live or work in them;
b. use sanitary conveniences in the principal storey of a new dwelling.
The provisions are expected to enable occupants with disabilities to cope
better with reducing mobility and to stay put longer in their own homes.The
provisions are not necessarily expected to facilitate fully independent
living for all people with disabilities.
• Part M applies to:
* new build, domestic and non-domestic
* extensions and material alterations to existing non-domestic buildings
* any existing building which undergoes a material change of use to a
hotel or boarding house, institution, public building or shop.
Although M does not apply to extensions or material alterations to dwellings,
any such changes to a dwelling must not make the dwelling less satisfactory
in relation to M than it was before.
• Design considerations
Part M states that people who have eyesight problems should be left in
no doubt as to the location of a glass door, especially if it is part
of a glazed screen. It suggests that different styles of manifestation
should be used on the door and glazed screen. It emphasises that the presence
of the door should be apparent whether it is shut or open. Where it can
be held open, steps should be taken to avoid injury to people walking
into the door.
• Provisions for glazing
Glass entrance doors and glazed screens will meet the requirements of
Part M if:
· there is manifestation on the glass at two levels, 850mm to 1000mm
and 1400mm to 1600mm above the floor. The manifestation must contrast
visually with the background seen through the glass, as seen from both
directions, in all lighting conditions;
• manifestation takes the form of a logo or sign at least 150mm high
(repeated if on a glazed screen), or a decorative feature such as broken
lines or continuous bands, at least 50mm high;
• glazed entrance doors adjacent to, or part of, a glazed screen,
are clearly differentiated from the screen by a high-contrast strip at
the top and both sides;
• glass entrance doors are protected by guarding to prevent the leading
edge constituting a hazard when the door is held open.
Why not join the GGF and get involved in consultations such as this.
Tel: 0870 042 4255
Email: mailto:info@ggf.org.uk
Web: http:// www.ggf.org.uk
Sliders
Roll on Easier Glazing!
‘Slim
line patio doors are usually more difficult to glaze than doors and windows,’
stated Ian Longbottom, co-founder of patio door specialist Sliders
UK regarding the company’s latest product enhancement,
‘but this is no longer the case for customers of Sliders UK since
the introduction of our new glazing system which offers quicker installation
time and perfect looking mitres.’
Sliders claim that the redesign of the sash gasket coupled with the introduction
rolled in Q-Lon gasket on the bead makes glazing far simpler even with
oversized units. ‘Continual improvement of our products and service
is vital to maintaining our customers loyalty,’ added Ian, ‘we
have worked closely with our profile supplier to improve this feature
and customers are already reporting that the new system works perfectly.
‘Sliders UK is the fastest growing patio door specialist. Since Sliders
UK was formed in November 2002 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
Total
Glass takes the Infuriating out of Fitting
Liverpool
based fabricator Total Glass has devised a more installer friendly service
to replace the traditional ancillary bags on completed window products.
When installing Total Glass windows, the fitter will have every ancillary
secured to the area to which it belongs - no chance of it going missing,
or being incomplete. No need to go scrabbling around on the floor looking
for that rogue end cap that may or may not have been there in the first
place, but which may possibly have ended up falling between the gap in
the floor boards!
Once
finished, the windows and doors will move into a separate ancillary packing
department. All handles and trickle vents will be wrapped into the frame
rebates. Bridging packers will be installed into glazing rebates, cill
end caps fitted and taped to each cill, and face drain caps will be placed
in sealed bags and taped to each window.
'Whether we make any changes to the product itself, or how it gets delivered,
or how it is ordered in the first place, all developments are carried
out with continual consultation with our customers' said Total Glass managing
directory Frank Deary.
'For example, the delivery of ancillaries with the windows has always
been an area rife for mistakes and hassle. Tiny bits and pieces go missing,
other bits get broken, you never seem to have quite enough components...
all of which add to the fitters' frustrations on site, and of course increase
the overall cost implications of the job. What we have succeeded in doing
is taking away one of the most infuriating aspects of fitting a window'.
Total Glass worked closely with its customers in trailing a number of
deliveries to test the viability of transporting window and door products
with the handles factory fitted. On each occasion it was evident that
logistical capacity from the fabricator's end would be reduced by some
25 per cent, ultimately affecting deliveries to the end customers. There
was also a significant increase in potential damage to the products at
the customer premises.
Tel: 0151 549 2339
Email: mailto:sales@totalglass.com
Web: http://www.totalglass.com
K2
Builds Consumer Confidence with FMB-Backed Scheme
K2,
the conservatory roofing company, is addressing the issue of consumer
confidence with the launch of a new Approved Installer Scheme.
The initiative, which will be operational from 1st May, is to be run jointly
with the Federation of Master Builders, the UK trade association.
Comments Marketing Director of K2, Iain McInnes: 'One of the greatest
issues affecting the growth potential of our industry is consumer confidence
and it is something that we need to address at every level, from manufacture
through to installation.
'We
wanted to ensure that the K2 Approved Installer Scheme was not only credible
within the industry but made a real difference to consumers, so we enlisted
the help and support of the FMB. We have invested considerable time in
developing the criteria alongside the FMB, who are uncompromising in their
professional standards. The result is a scheme that will both offer real
advantages to members and raise the standing of our industry amongst consumers.'
The 4-6 week application process to join the scheme is based on the principles
of FMB membership criteria, defined over the trade body's 60-year history.
Members must adhere to the FMB code of practice, agree to use K2 roof
products exclusively and provide a 10-year MasterBond warranty with every
installation.
In return for this commitment, K2 Approved Installers will not only be
able to use the scheme's logo on all their literature, but have access
to a range of scheme support materials that will help them build consumer
confidence and sell more effectively. These include point of sale materials,
brochures, van vinyls, membership badges and a showroom support programme.
K2 Approved Installers will also be listed on both the K2 and FMB websites
to help drive sales leads and will have direct access to K2's expert marketing
team for help in developing bespoke advertising and personalised support
materials.
In addition to the marketing support available from K2, Approved Installers
will also benefit from a range of exclusive products and services from
the FMB, including business banking, insurance services, consultancy and
plain English contracts.
Comments Ian Davis, Director General of the Federation of Master Builders:
'The FMB is one of the best recognised trade associations in the UK amongst
consumers and our reputation has been built on very exacting standards
of craftsmanship and professionalism. We are not willing to compromise
those standards for anyone, so when K2 came to us with the proposition
for the K2 Approved Installer Scheme, we were delighted to see that their
proposals upheld our own professional approach. In our experience this
is the type of scheme that will make a real difference to consumer confidence
and will help to enhance the standing of the industry.'
K2 and the FMB have devised a detailed code of practice for the new scheme
which includes services levels prior, during and following an installation.
The code of practice details the level of information required in quotes
and contracts and the minimum requirements for after sales service.
Iain McInnes continues: 'The K2 Approved Installer Scheme will offer considerable
benefits to members, helping them stand out from competitors and increase
both margins and sales opportunities. We are committed to supporting all
installers that use K2 systems, but the members of the scheme will have
direct access to our marketing team's expertise, allowing them to build
their profile as well as secure instant confidence from customers and
prospects.'
Web:
http://www.k2conservatories.com
UAP/Pedret
- Looking to the Future
UAP
has sealed the exclusive distribution rights to Spanish manufacturer Pedret's
range of door viewers. Pedret is a leading European manufacturer of quality
door viewers. Mr Pedret, Managing Director says, 'UAP has a very good
reputation in the UK market, and the company's reputation is fast becoming
known overseas.
'Pedret
also has an enviable reputation and I feel that entering into an exclusive
distribution agreement is good for both companies. Over the past three
years we have seen UAP's business with us grow significantly, and now
it is one of our largest customers. By granting UAP exclusivity for the
UK I can only see our business increasing.'
John Cross, sales manager of UAP says, 'As a company we only sell high
quality products, and we only ally ourselves to companies that can match
our, and our customers expectations.
'Pedret has a superb range of products and we have helped the company
increase the range with new colours and combinations to suit the UK market.
The exclusivity of our contract enables us to now promote the Pedret name
in our marketing alongside the UAP brand.'
UAP as a company is committed to building strong trading relationships
with both its suppliers and its customers, and this is a formula that
the company believes will stand it in good stead for the future.
Tel: 0161 763 5290
Email: mailto:uap@btconnect.com
Web: http://www.universal-imports.com
aluplast
UK, PVCu window and door system extruder and supplier of the Plus Plan
range in the UK, has launched the Warwick 70mm profile suite – a
new window system which the company says harnesses the latest technological
advances and market demands within an attractive appearances.
Among
the system’s benefits are a 70mm profile depth, five chambers, post
co-extruded gaskets, sculptured profiles and several laminate options
– including Rosewood on both white and brown base profiles and Sherwood
on tan. Complete compatibility is also provided with the aluplast accessory
range, including a wealth of further glazing bead options.
The Warwick PVCu suite consists of 16 fully sculptured main profiles,
including three outer frames and a 115mm deep midrail to facilitate letter-plate
fitting, that allows for the efficient manufacture of internal and external
beaded casements, tilt & turn and horizontal pivot windows, as well
as both open in and out doors.
Glassex 2004 was the venue for the official launch of the Warwick and
‘the incredible interest and demand shown by the marketplace at the
show was unprecedented.’ says aluplast.
This new system is one of the first major results of the significant investments
made by the aluplast group in the UK, which acquired Plus Plan UK Ltd
back in the summer of 2003. This complements other investment programmes
which include the installation of three new extruders at the company’s
Leicestershire-based production site, a complete sales team revamp and
several other new product developments.
Email: mailto:steve@plusplanuk.com
A
Steady Business in just 12 Months
Corby
based Carl F Petersen Ltd has added a new revenue stream, expanded its
product offering and improved customer relations - simply by introducing
Briwax Professional lacquer pens to its range.
The company has been supplying window and door hardware to the PVCu replacement
industry for over 15 years. 'We are always looking to improve our portfolio,'
explained Business Development Manager, Bruce Bradshaw. 'ldeally we would
like to reach the point where we can supply virtually everything the window
and door manufacturer requires. Early last year we added the lacquer pens
and haven't really looked back.'
Used mainly by manufacturers to cover the mitre joints which are inevitably
exposed when applying wood effect foils to a white base, the lacquer pens
are also put to good use in repairing minor, accidental damage. However,
in addition to its business with manufacturers, Carl F Petersen also supplies
specialist tools and consumables to fabricators and installers and the
pens have proved equally popular amongst these customers.
Customers placing an order with the company's sales team are reminded
about the pens and, because this is a relatively low cost item, they often
decide to stock up and take some pens on the same delivery.
'lnitially we intended to rebrand the pens,' added Bruce, 'but we have
realised that a significant selling point is the well known and respected
Briwax name. We target the more professional companies and they will always
want to give their products the best possible finish lacquer pens have
proved an excellent complement to our product range and customer offering.
Having said that, we also need to make a profit and we have quickly established
a very steady lacquer pen business.'
Tel: 01536 401155
Web: http://www.carlf.co.uk
Sideys
Celebrates Double Expansion
Perth-based
K2 dealer Sidey Glaziers Ltd is both expanding into larger premises and
opening a new show site at a prestigious garden centre.
The
65-year old company is relocating within the historic town to 40,000sq
ft premises where it can accommodate its 200-strong workforce and benefit
from additional office, storage and fabrication space.
The move coincides with a £0.5m investment in additional machinery
and facilities and the launch of its new show site at Dobbies Garden World,
part of the leading Dobbies Garden World Group.
Sidey Glaziers' turnover has doubled from £7m in 2001 to £14m
in 2004 and the company's fabrication capacity currently runs at over
1,200 windows and 40 roofs per week.
Charles Arbuthnott, Managing Director, Sidey Glaziers Ltd says: 'We're
really looking forward to relocating into larger premises and opening
our new show site at such a well-visited centre. Our success is down to
a dedicated team and high quality K2 products. The level of support from
K2 is exceptional - it is always informative and advanced in its thinking
and offers a service that is unbeatable.'
Sally Fielding, managing director K2 says: 'We have had an excellent sustained
relationship with Sideys Glaziers and we'd like to offer our congratulations
on its huge business expansion. Our companies have a growing synergy and
we're looking forward to seeing that continue.'
Web:
http://www.k2conservatories.com
4th
Time Lucky with Status Doubles 1st Class Turnover
Changing
to PVCu profile supplier Status Systems has enabled Kings Lynn fabricator
1st Class Frame Ltd to double turnover within six months. This proved
a great relief to founding director John Claxton who had already tried,
and been let down by, three other suppliers since setting up the company
in 2000.
Wayne Tomlinson (left) 1st Class production director
and John Claxton (right) director.
John
Claxton has ambitions to slowly build the company up to 3-400 frames per
week. However, the constant unreliability of his previous profile suppliers
was creating severe obstructions to his desire to move forward.
'We would reach 100 windows a week, then would be assailed by problems
in supply and quality,' he said. 'At times we were waiting up to six weeks
for some product lines, which meant that our own customers were going
elsewhere for their windows. I believe that as a smaller fabricator there
was limited interest in us when there were much larger fabricator fishes
to fry elsewhere. Status, however, gave us the reassurance that the smaller
fabricator turning out a couple of hundred windows a week was as important
to them as the 1000 plus fabricators.'
John Claxton was pleased to have found a supplier that understood how
efficiency and profit optimisation within the context of a flexible local
service was more important than pushing for greater and greater production
values. He was finding that more and more installers were contacting him,
disgruntled with the restricted and impersonal service offered by some
of the large nationwide suppliers.
'Our installer customers are extremely busy and cannot afford to be let
down by their suppliers. Consequently I need to have that same confidence
in my own suppliers. Thankfully with Status we have found that supply
line that operates smoothly.'
In fact, sales have been growing so quickly that 1st Class has recently
invested in a new welding machine to double capacity.
The
CMA Launches an 'Affiliate Membership Scheme'
The
CMA has announced the launch of an 'Affiliate Membership Scheme' for those
companies engaged in the selling and installation of conservatories.
The scheme provides a low cost alternative to other trade associations
offering those who join access to regular information on matters affecting
the industry and a way in which their voice can be heard. Members will
also be able to use the CMA logo on stationary and vehicles.
Normally avalible for £100 per annum companies can join, until the
end of April 2004, for the special one off launch price of £50 for
the first year of membership.
The CMA is a co-operative made up of leading companies in the conservatory
industry who are working together to ensure the interests of consumers,
manufactures and installers are represented to Government. The CMA is
committed to ensuring that any proposed changes in legislation are subject
to the widest possible consultation and that the outcomes are clearly
communicated to reduce any confusion.
Tel: 01922 749755
Switching
to the lastest pre-gasketted profile system from Profile 22 is paying
dividends for West Midlands trade supplier, Black Country Glazing Ltd
in terms of product quality, time-saving and labour.
The
Cradley Heath-based company invested in new machinery last year to improve
efficiency and business is picking up steadily, particularly on internally
glazed frames.
Founded in 1987 as a glazing company, BCG started fabricating PVCu frames
12 years ago. The company changed profile system to Profile 22 three years
ago and hasn’t looked back, according to Paul Howell, one of the
co-founders along with brother John and father Peter.
Says Paul: ‘Customer service is key to our business and the Profile
22 system allows us to offer a wide and versatile choice to our customers.’
This choice includes an option of glazed or unglazed frames, as well as
sealed units, decorative glass, Georgian bars and leaded panels. All are
manufactured to BSEN1279 standards at BCG’s 6,000 sq ft Station Street
site.
A trade fitting service is proving popular, especially with BCG’s
growing newbuild business where builders find it more cost-effective to
hire the fabricator’s expertise rather than fit frames themselves.
Explains Paul: ‘Some of our customers are builders working on small
newbuild developments who find it more economical for us to fabricate
and install the windows. It’s a valuable service for them.‘From
manufacturing cavity closers to the final fitting, we offer a complete
service and that is the philosophy of our business. When we give our customers
a delivery date, we stick by it.’
While 80% of the business is trade, Peter runs the showroom in Worcester
handling the other 20% comprising mainly domestic installations and conservatories.
Tel: 01952 290910
West Midlands based trade fabricator and regular Hallmark customer Rapid Frame Ltd has installed a new £280,000 door line to boost output and fulfil increasing demand for its door products. Sales of the company’s PVCu doors – manufactured using high quality Hallmark panels - have increased by over 30% during the last year alone, with the new door line expected to increase this figure to 66% within a few months.
Investment
in the new door line has been made as part of a wider growth programme
for the fast-developing company. Established in November 1998, window,
door and conservatory fabricator Rapid Frame Ltd has been true to its
name, increasing its weekly output from 120 units to around 750 units
within 5 years. Rapid Frame supplies the trade nationally, with regular
customers located as far afield as Cumbria and Essex. The company also
recently invested in a second, separate window line incorporating 2 new
corner cleaning machines, and has had 50% more office space built onto
its existing factory premises.
According to Director Martin Corcoran, Rapid Frame’s success is built
on a simple premise:
‘We are really only interested in supplying customers on a partnering
basis. This means doing business on a very personal level and encouraging
our installers to grow with us. We offer financial planning and business
development services to our customers and we like to help them develop
in all aspects of their business. This approach has really worked for
us, something that is supported by the fact that the vast majority of
our customers have been with us since the very beginning.’
Martin is complimentary about Hallmark’s contribution to the company’s
success:
‘We work closely with Hallmark at all times. Whilst we try to provide
our customers with the best tailored solutions for their door needs, there
are times when we need outside assistance, and we do not hesitate to send
our customers directly to Hallmark should the need arise. The company
is a committed supplier offering excellent quality products, and that’s
exactly what our customers need to enhance their portfolio.’
Rapid Frame, a Schüco fabricator, is also launching a new series
of brochures titled ‘Formula One Range’ after Schuco’s
sponsorship of the F1 Maclaren team. The company, which Martin says is
‘always looking for ways to improve’, will also introduce fully
pre-inserted gaskets for its windows and doors later this year.
Tel:
01482 781111
Email: mailto:hallmark-panels.demon.co.uk
Web: http://www.hallmark-panels.com
Roofline
and Conservatory Growth Drives Rainwater Market
and Turns Tables on Established Manufacturers
A
recent study of the UK Rainwater market – the market for gutters
and down pipes – shows builders’ merchants, and some of the
manufacturers who supply them, continuing to lose share to plastic distributors
and new manufacturers.
In 2002 plastic distributors increased rainwater volumes by 11% compared
with 2000. Builders’ merchant volumes fell by approximately -3%.
The total volume of the PVC-U Rainwater market in 2002 was 45,790 tonnes,
an increase of 6.8% on 2000.
The link between significant growth in PVC-UE cellular foam roofline products
and rainwater products is having a dramatic effect on channels of distribution.
Cellular foam roofline products are distributed mainly through plastic
distributors. This growth has also attracted new entrants into the market,
who have increased volumes at the expense of some traditional manufacturers.
Conservatory roof manufacturers increasingly supply rainwater products
as part of their kits and significant growth in conservatories between
2000 and 2002 has contributed to increased volumes of rainwater products.
Market value rose 4.2% over the two-year period.
Prospects for the PVC-U Rainwater market are good an increase of 7% per
year expected in 2004 and 2005.
The PVC-U Rainwater Products Market 2002 report updates trends from Michael
Rigby Associates’ first study of this market in 2000. The report
includes a range of important issues from routes to market (volume and
value) to detailed analysis of key players and market shares, technical
& environmental review and industry forecasts to 2005. It holds 65
pages, 34 tables and 9 charts.
The rainwater market is in the midst of dramatic change with new suppliers
and new routes to market developing quickly. For further information contact
Lucia Di Stazio on 01453 521621 or email mailto:lucia@521621.com.
OFT
Fines West Midlands Roofing Contractors for Price-Fixing
Nine
roofing contractors have been found by the OFT to have agreed to fix the
prices of repair, maintenance and improvement (RMI) services for flat
roofing in the West Midlands through collusive tendering, and fined over
£330,000 in total.
The parties were found to have been involved in a series of individual
agreements or concerted practices in tendering for flat roofing contracts
in the West Midlands in the period 2000 - 2002 in breach of the Chapter
I prohibition of the Competition Act 1998. The contracts affected by collusive
tendering were a number of schools, a community library, a shopping centre
and a car park.
The OFT concluded that the parties' collusion in setting tender prices
was intended to restrict or distort competition and meant that buyers
were unable to obtain competitive prices when tendering for RMI services
for a flat roof locally.
John Vickers, OFT Chairman, said:
'Collusive tendering deprives customers of the benefits of competition.
Schools were among the victims in this case.'
The OFT began formally investigating the arrangements between a group
of roofing contractors in June 2002 after it decided that information
which it had received gave reasonable grounds to suspect that certain
roofing contractors had been engaged in collusive tendering.
Agreements or concerted practices between businesses that fix prices by
way of collusive tendering are among the most serious infringements of
the Competition Act. Financial penalties are being imposed on parties,
subject to the operation of the policy to give lenient treatment for undertakings
coming forward with information in Competition Act cases.
In line with the OFT's leniency policy Briggs Cladding & Roofing Limited
has been granted 100 per cent leniency and Howard Evans (Roofing) Limited
has been granted 50 per cent leniency and the financial penalties on them
are being reduced accordingly.
Newstead’s
New Showroom Achieves 100% Success Rate
When
installer John Espley realised how much the demand for conservatories
was increasing, he knew he needed to get in on the act. With no knowledge
of the industry he looked at several suppliers. He was particularly impressed
with what he saw at Newstead Trade Frames. ‘The company helped me
get started by supplying training courses in the design and construction
of conservatories, and even gave us sample frames to show our customers.’
In 2003 Espley Builders averaged a conservatory a month with advance orders
for 2004.
John recently visited the new Newstead showroom. He was amazed at the
selection of products on display and the level of information available.
‘Since I visited in October, two of my customers have been to the
showroom and they both subsequently ordered conservatories, so it’s
a 100% success rate! And if I don’t have time to take people to the
showroom myself, I have every faith in sending customers to see for themselves.
I know Newstead will look after them.’
Tel: (01782) 641 642
Decisions
of the Kyro Corporation AGM
The
Annual General Meeting of Kyro Corporation held on 17th March, 2004 decided
on the matters pertaining to the Annual General Meeting under article
14 of the Articles of Association. The meeting approved the financial
statements for 2003 and released the Board of Directors and the President
from liability for the fiscal year.
The Annual General Meeting carried the Board of Directors' proposal to
pay a dividend of EUR 0.15 per share and extra dividend of EUR 0.15 per
share totalling EUR 11.9 million. The dividend has been paid to shareholders
who were registered on 22nd March, 2004 in the company's shareholder register
maintained by the Central Securities Deposity Ltd. The dividend was paid
on 29th March, 2004.
The number of the Board of Directors for the term of office of three years
was decided to be seven members. From the previous Board of Directors
were elected Lars Hammarén, Barbro Koljonen, Heikki Mairinoja,
Carl-Johan Numelin, Carl-Johan Rosenbröijer and Christer Sumelius.
As a new member of the Board of Directors was elected, Klaus Cawén,
Master of Laws. As the auditor of Kyro Corporation was elected KPMG Wideri
Oy Ab as the responsible auditor, Authorised Public Accountant.
The Annual General Meeting authorised the Board of Directors to acquire
the company's own shares for the purpose of using them as consideration
in possible acquisitions, to finance investments, or in other industrial
arrangements, or to be conveyed in other ways, or to be invalidated.
According to the authorisation the Board of Directors may acquire the
company's own shares using assets available for distribution of profits,
provided that the combined nominal value of the acquired shares together
with any shares already in the possession of the company corresponds to
a maximum of 5 per cent of the company's total share capital at the moment
of acquisition. According to the authorisation the Board of Directors
may decide on the manner and scope of the acquisition of the company's
own shares.
The company's own shares may be acquired in accordance with a decision
of the Board of Directors either through a purchase offer made to all
shareholders on equal terms in proportion to their shareholdings and at
the same price determined by the Board of Directors, or through public
trading on the Helsinki Exchanges at the market price of the shares at
the time of the acquisition.
The Annual General Meeting authorised the Board of Directors to decide
on the conveyance of the company's own shares. The own shares may be used
as consideration in possible business acquisitions, to finance investments
and in other industrial arrangements in a way and scope determined by
the Board of Directors. The own shares may also be conveyed through public
trading on the Helsinki Exchanges.
The shares may be conveyed at least at the market value of the shares
at the time of conveyance. The shares may also be conveyed against other
compensation than money.
The authorisation to acquire and convey the company's own shares is valid
for a period of one year beginning from the decision of the Annual General
Meeting on 17th March, 2004. The authorisations given to the Board of
Directors at the Annual General Meeting on 19th March, 2003 to acquire
and convey the Company's own shares, were cancelled.
Carl-Johan Numelin was elected in the meeting of the new Board of Directors
held on 17th March, 2004 as Chairman of the Board ofDirectors and Christer
Sumelius as Vice Chairman.
Jeld-Wen
Acquires Windowmaster in California
Windowmaster
Products, a manufacturer of aluminum and vinyl windows based in El Cajon,
CA, is being acquired by Jeld-Wen Inc. Terms of the transaction were not
disclosed.
Founded in 1941, Windowmaster operates a 180,000-square-foot facility
and serves over 500 dealers in California, Arizona, Nevada, and Hawaii,
supplying products for both the new construction and remodeling markets.
The acquisition represents the first made by Jeld-Wen in several years.
Based in Klamath Falls, OR, Jeld-Wen is one of the industry’s largest
manufacturers in the U.S., with vinyl and wood window plants and interior
and exterior door facilities throughout the country. During the ’90s,
it made a series of acquisitions, including such well-known companies
as Caradco, Norco, and Morgan Manufacturing., but it has not added any
U.S. companies in recent years. In 2003, it launched a major re-branding
initiative to sell all its products under the Jeld-Wen name.
It has not announced any specific plans related to Windowmaster.