GP&T
Dates Revised Following Industry Consultation
Following
the advice of the Steering Committee that was created to provide input
from the glass industry, the dates for the next Glass Processing &
Technology (GP&T) exhibition have been revised from May 2007 back
to November 2007, thus restoring the timing of the event to that of the
highly successful launch show.
The
GP&T Steering Committee was established from the outset for GP&T
in order to give the event's organisers guidance on key issues, and to
provide the industry with an event that accurately reflected its needs.
It comprises representatives from the key areas of the industry including
glass manufacturers and processors, machinery manufacturers and distributors,
merchants and component distributors, and the Glass & Glazing Federation,
and is chaired by Gary Dean of glass tools and supplies manufacturer Bohle
Ltd.
Although originally scheduled to next take place in May, the Committee
advised that they believed the new dates - 20th to 22nd November 2007
- which return the event to the calendar slot occupied by the highly successful
launch show in 2003, are more appropriate for the industry. The date change
takes GP&T away from the notoriously busy spring UK exhibition calendar,
which includes sister event Glassex.
‘GP&T has come along just at the right time as the processing
and specification of glass reaches new levels of complexity,’ explained
Gary Dean. ‘We are therefore very keen that the event continues to
provide such a valuable forum for the industry and its customers, and
the members of the Steering Committee are very eager to continue the success
of the launch event. Switching the dates back to the November slot is
part of that.’
Event Manager Steve Redman commented: ‘The Steering Committee has
played a huge part in the success of GP&T and we are very lucky to
have such an input. The net effect of their involvement is that the glass
industry benefits directly by getting exactly the event that it wants;
this is a very important element of GP&T.’
Stand
Sales Well Ahead for Glassex '06: A Key Sign of Optimism for Hard Pressed
Glazing Industry
EMAP
Maclaren, organiser of Glassex, has announced advanced sales for the 2006
event are well ahead of the previous event year-on-year. More than 50%
of the floor space has been contracted by a total of 66 companies, 20
more than for the similar period last year. A further 25% of the net stand
space has contracts issued on it, with contracts only issued following
tacit agreement for that space with exhibitors.
A
number of exciting names have confirmed their participation at Glassex
'06, which takes place between 5th and 8th March, including systems giants
Plastmo, and Veka, which returns after its cautious return to the event
last year, Heattend, K2 Glass, KBE Window Systems, Nice Door Panels, and
UK Panels. Of considerable note is Selecta, which has doubled the size
of its stand for 2006 following its results at this year's Glassex, and
roof giant Ultraframe strengthens its support for Glassex with a firm
commitment to the event.
With the current Glassex management known to be cautious in its announcements
regarding stand sales, the industry can be optimistic about the prospects
for next year's event with these figures based purely on stands for which
paperwork has been produced. Steve Redman, Event Manager for Glassex is,
nonetheless, very buoyant: ‘The industry has itself undergone some
quite profound changes in recent years and these have been reflected at
Glassex. But the re-positioning of Glassex to fully embrace other home
improvement sectors has been very successful, with public sector visitor
numbers trebling last event.
‘Many companies are also realising that, planned intelligently, events
such as Glassex actually provide a highly efficient means of reaching
existing and potential customers. I remain cautious but it is difficult
not to be very optimistic about Glassex 2006, as an indication of the
industry's short term recovery.’
Glassex '06 will take place at the NEC (National Exhibition Centre) in
Birmingham from 5th to the 8th of March. For further details on the show,
visit http://www.glassex.com
Inauguration
of Glaverbel Klin, Russia
Glaverbel,
a major player in the Russian flat glass market, has just inaugurated
its new manufacturing complex at Klin, near Moscow. Glaverbel Klin produces
float glass, coated superinsulating glass and mirrors.
A unique industrial complex
Glaverbel's new industrial complex at Klin, 105 km to the North-West of
Moscow, was inaugurated on Friday, 16th September in the presence of more
than 500 people, including representatives of the Russian authorities
and the international press.
Glaverbel Klin is the first plant ever built in Russia on a greenfield
site by a western glassmaker. Its industrial configuration is unique in
Russia, comprising a float glass(1) line with a capacity of 180,000 tonnes
per year, together with two downstream processing units for producing
MNGE(2) mirrors and coated superinsulating glass(3) in large dimensions
for the building industry.
Cutting
the ribbon at Glaverbel Klin (L-R): Arthur Ulens, CEO Glaverbel, Alexandr
Gornostaev, Deputy President of the Moscow Region Government, Masahiro
Kadomatsu, President & CEO AGC, Satepán Popovic, Country Manager
Central & Eastern Europe, Glaverbel, Sergey Knjazev, Manager of Glaverbel
Klin
Strengthened
leadership in Russia
This project, representing an investment of over €160 million, is
intended to meet the increasing demand for glass generated by the sustained
growth of the building and car industries in Russia. The location of Klin
offers important logistical advantages, as it is near to Moscow and to
St. Petersburg, two large centres of glass consumption.
In addition, Glaverbel Klin will reinforce the production capabilities
that Glaverbel already has in Russia. Glaverbel CEO Arthur Ulens commented:
'Together with the two Bor Glassworks float plants in Nizhny Novgorod
and the nationwide processing and distribution network managed by our
sales agency Glaverbel Vostok, Glaverbel Klin will strengthen our leadership
and boost our image as a pioneer in Russia.'
(Left)
The coating line at the Klin plant, (right) edge cutting on the float
line
Construction of Glaverbel Klin began in September 2002 and took nearly
two years. In the meantime a sustained effort was put into recruiting
and training its 280 members of personnel.
Profile of Glaverbel on : http://www.glaverbel.com/en/about/profile/profile.cfm
Glaverbel, the first flat glass producer in Russia
In addition to Glaverbel Klin, the Glaverbel flat glass operations are
run through:
* Bor Glassworks. Based in the Nizhny Novgorod region, Bor Glassworks
has two state-of-the-art float lines with a total capacity of over 1,100
tonnes per day. It also has facilities capable of producing automotive
glass for more than 1,400,000 locally produced cars per year in addition
to rear-view mirrors for the local automotive industry. Finally, Bor Glassworks
has two large distribution units for automotive replacement glass in Moscow
and Saint Petersburg.
* Glaverbel Vostok. Based in Moscow, the Glaverbel Vostok sales agency
is responsible for marketing the entire Glaverbel range of products in
Russia and the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) manufactured locally
and abroad. It also offers a consultancy service throughout the same area
for all major architectural projects. In addition, Glaverbel Vostok manages
an extensive processing and distribution network in Russia.
Web: http://www.glaverbel.ru
LMC
Group Announces Major Investment and New HQ
LMC
Group, the UK glass manufacturing and construction specialist, has announced
a major investment programme, and a move to a state-of-the-art new headquarters.
The new headquarters, at Iver in Buckinghamshire, is a 15,000 sq ft facility
that enables the group to expand its design, engineering and manufacturing
operations to meet increasing demand. The new factory has more than twice
as much manufacturing space as LMC’s existing base.
LMC Group company Glass UK already has the largest laminating bench in
Europe, enabling it to manufacture the biggest oversize double-glazed
laminated units on the continent. Fellow LMC Group company Metal UK is
renowned for its combined design, engineering and manufacturing expertise.
In addition to the expanded manufacturing facilities, the new headquarters
will also feature trade counters for Geze and Dorma products, which LMC
offers as a licenced reseller.
'We believe that we are unique in providing a full glass design, engineering,
manufacturing and installation service in the UK and up until now we haven’t
been able to keep up with demand,' says LMC’s Rod Milicevic. 'The
new headquarters gives us far greater potential and we are now investing
in our staff, manufacturing and sales processes to ensure that we can
maintain our very high standards on a far greater scale.
'In particular we will be specifically focusing on drawing the market’s
attention to our Sheerglaze range of frameless double glazed doors, our
fully bespoke Sensorium structural glass conservatories and our cutting-edge
Glass FX glass colour processes.'
'This is a very exciting time for LMC', says Rod Milicevic. 'For the first
time in our 30-odd year history we have reached a position where we can
take the big step from being an innovative small family-owned business
into something of far greater substance.'
LMC’s new address is: Unit 4, Ridgeway Industrial Estate, Thorney
Lane, Iver, Buckinghamshire, SL0 9HX
Stuga
Flowline Sales Static in Current Slowdown
Stuga
continues to build and deliver two Flowlines each month even though the
industry is continuing to find the consolidating market hard to handle.
With the well known and well established Flowline-3 continuing to sell
well sales of the high output ZX4 (pictured) launched at Glassex have
also been very pleasing. The ZX4 can produce from 800 to 1,000 windows
per week and is particularly fast on trickle vents as well as doors. Aspen
Windows in Norwich and Sidey of Perth in Scotland are currently benefiting
from this version.
'Aware of the wild claims made by some of its competitors about the exaggerated
number of cutting and prepping centres they sell Stuga still publishes
a list of every single Flowline sale going back to machine number one.'
says the company. 'This can be used to authenticate the number of machines
sold as well as to give potential customers a complete reference list,
rather than just cherry picking the ones Stuga has a special relationship
with. Stuga also notices that when this list gets into the hands of these
same competitors they almost immediately release media statements that
claim the same or more machines. Stuga offer this authenticated list to
anyone who wants it and notes that its competitors are not prepared to
do the same.'
Stuga Flowline customers continue to benefit from high quality locally
resourced spare parts together with the strength of the company's service
department and the fact that these engineers only have to know about Stuga's
own range of specialised cutting and prepping machines, all based on the
same technology and software. Stuga customers will never have to wait
for a spare part or an engineer to be flown from Germany and distribution
costs from Great Yarmouth tend to be very reasonable.
Tel: 0800-169-5444
Web: http://www.stuga.co.uk
More
Buy in Frames Claims Total Glass
In
the current difficult and competitive market, more and more window companies
are recognising the benefits of ceasing manufacturing and buying in frames,
according to trade fabricator, Total Glass.
Throughout 2005, the Liverpool-based company says it has gained one new
ex-manufacturing customer every two weeks as companies struggle to maintain
profit margins amid toughening trading conditions and rising raw material
prices.
'It
doesn't come as a surprise to us,' comments Total's Stuart Waring, Sales
and Marketing Manager. 'For the last few years, most of the industry has
ridden the crest of a wave, but now reality has set in and companies recognise
they have to take a different approach if their businesses are to survive.
Companies of all sizes have taken the right decision to join us.
'Ceasing manufacture has rapidly become the growth area of the industry
as economy of scale now drives consumer prices. Obviously, it's good news
for us and at Total Glass our commitment is to enhance our customers'
ability to make more money. That way we both prosper. Many of our customers
have manufactured in the past and we have wide experience of managing
the change to buying in' continues Stuart.
Such is this trend that 45% of Total Glass' turnover is from companies
which used to manufacture, but who now find outsourcing far more profitable
due to the economies of scale, comprehensive product range and competitive
prices provided by an established and reliable major trade supplier. The
company claims none of its customers has ever returned to manufacturing.
With the average manufacturing net profit in the industry at just 2.56%,
Total says buying in frames makes sound economic sense. The company claims
that in eight out of 10 cases, it can increase customers' net profit to
over 10%.
'These figures speak for themselves,' explains Stuart. 'Having equipped
our 100,000 sq ft production facility with the latest automated, state-of-the-art
machinery, we can produce frames at volumes and prices that the smaller
companies just cannot achieve. Companies buying in all their requirements,
frames, doors and conservatories, remove the headaches of production,
while the resulting financial savings can be re-invested to allow them
to concentrate on supply and installation.'
Total Glass cites four main reasons for the trend towards buying in.
'Rising raw material costs: Large manufacturers are in a stronger position
than smaller companies to fight off price increases, so can consequently
pass on competitive prices to their customers.
'Increasing overheads: Volume trade suppliers have better control through
more efficient production practices, automation and optimum use of labour,
so are thus able to keep overhead costs lower.
'Decreasing profit margins: As material and overhead costs go up, manufacturers
struggle to compete and invariably end up reducing prices, resulting in
lower profit margins.
'Loss of direction: With rising raw material costs, increasing overheads
and decreasing profit margins, many company owners fall into the trap
of working in their business and not working on it.'
For companies looking to buy in, Total Glass offers a Business Plus service
offering tailored business advice and assistance, from lead generation
to sales training and installation assistance, to help its customers grow
their businesses in a sustained and profitable way.
From its multi-million pound modern factory in Merseyside, Total Glass
supplies a high quality, comprehensive product range, complying with the
latest building regulations and with high standards of specification.
Turnaround is within five days and deliveries sent to the point of installation
reach their destination 98.75% of the time, on time.
'By taking away the hassles associated with manufacturing, we also give
valuable time back to allow customers to focus on sales and profit. After
all, that's what we all get up for in the morning!' adds Stuart.
Contact: Stuart Waring
Tel: 0151 549 2339
Web: http://www.totalglass.com
Edgetech
Saves Local Authority Residents £300,000 a Year
Everyone
is more concerned with the environment now than ever before, but sometimes
being kind to the environment comes at a price. ‘Edgetech's Super
Spacer® provides the energy efficiency benefits but actually saves
homeowners money,’ explains Andy Jones, Sales Director and General
Manager of Edgetech.
‘Edgetech's Super Spacer no metal formula provides the best energy
efficiency performance in the industry. One London based local authority
using Super Spacer on its 10,000 housing stock has done its own research.
It has calculated that each house could save up to £30 a year on
its heating bills with Super Spacer installed in its windows. So for 10,000
houses, that's a £300,000 cost saving a year for the residents in
total. This is great news for the homeowner but it's also good news for
installers selling windows with Super Spacer because differentiating their
window is so much easier.’
Tel: 02476 705570
Force
8 Launches Glazed Arch Service
PVC-U
bending specialist Force 8 is offering a simple, cost effective solution
for fabricators and installers buying arched frames: it has introduced
a glazed service which supplies frames complete with glass in a similar
timescale to unglazed frames and at competitive prices.
Dennis
Sumner, the MD of Force 8 says: ‘Typically, installers buying small
quantities of arched frames as specials to complete jobs will order frames
on a 14-day turnaround and then wait to order the glass until the frames
have been delivered. This takes time and often means installers have to
go back to jobs to complete the final installation.
‘We have simplified the whole process and are offering a 14-day turnaround
on fully glazed arches so that installers can complete jobs more quickly
and simply and improve the service they offer to customers.’
As well as the new glazed arch service, Force 8 has also recently launched
a complete solution for buyers of gable end conservatory sunbursts with
versions available in Rehau, Veka or Synergy profile.
Force 8 has a capacity of more than 200 arch doors and various bespoke
frames per week and supplies customers across the UK from small independent
installers to the largest 'super fabricators'.
The company offers a comprehensive range available and in addition to
arches and sunbursts also supplies: one piece bow windows, arched vertical
sliders in the Rehau Heritage S719 system, run-through sash horns and
'curvy' and stable doors.
http://www.force8.info/
The
British Plastics Federation (BPF) disassociated itself from a press statement
issued by the Plastics Machinery Manufacturers and Distributors Association
(PMMDA) announcing an intention to recruit processors.
The BPF said that the Federation and its alliance of affiliated dedicated
processing organisations are the only serious providers of services to
the plastics processing sector. It understands that the PMMDA’s
move is for financial reasons. In any event, this change in the PMMDA’s
constitution will raise questions about its ongoing affiliation to the
BPF.
'Plastics processing has its representative bodies which are well-established
and well-supported networks. Any new offering from organisations
without a track record in processing would distract the industry from
the real challenges,' said BPF Director General, Peter Davis. There
is absolutely no question of processors who join the PMMDA receiving any
membership benefits sourced from the BPF, said the Federation. The
BPF and its affiliated processing organisations already have a strong
and growing following amongst small firms.
The PMMDA did not secure the approval of the BPF for its mention of the
Federation and its inferred support for this move.
http://www.bpf.co.uk
Extended
Guarantees mean Easier Sales for Installers
With
the economy slowing, and the replacement casement window market virtually
at a stand still, installers need all the help they can get to differentiate
themselves. That's why Newstead Trade Frames is extending the guarantees
offered on its glazing and hardware.
‘Our sealed units are already guaranteed to last for five years,
but we're so confident of their quality and reliability, we're extending
that to ten to match the guarantee on our frames,’ explains Stan
Cross, Newstead's Quality Manager. ‘The guarantee on our hardware
locking mechanisms is now five years, up from two.
Long-term guarantees like these reassure installers that we offer a premium
product that's built to last - and they can pass this benefit on to homeowners.
It's an important selling tool that can put installers head and shoulders
above the competition.’
Tel: 01782 641 642
Partnership
Delivers Dynamic First for Profile 22 Doors
Profile
22 fabricators will be the first in the UK and Ireland to benefit from
the new Dynamic 2D adjustable door hinge from SFS intec, thanks to the
development of a special version of the hinge which is available exclusively
as part of the Safeware range of Profile 22 system-designed hardware.
Profile 22 worked closely with SFS intec to develop the Dynamic 2D hinge
for PVC-U doors, which the company says brings together excellent security
performance, stylish good looks and ease of application in a single product.
The systems company played a key role in helping SFS intec take the product
from the initial concept to the finished hinge and, as a result of this
early development work, Profile 22 fabricators have access to a readily
available Dynamic 2D ahead of users of other profile systems.
Dynamic 2D's addition to the Safeware range provides Profile 22 fabricators
with a major advantage according to Mike Roe, Safeware product manager.
‘The Dynamic 2D is an excellent product which is attracting a lot
of interest in the market and so we are delighted that our fabricators
can already start using the product. As with the rest of the Safeware
range, it allows Profile 22 fabricators to create doors which meet the
enhanced security requirements of PAS24 without compromising the door's
looks - this is crucial for both the retail and commercial markets.'
The development of a Profile 22 bespoke version of the Dynamic 2D illustrates
how well-equipped SFS intec is to work in partnership with major systems
companies to create optimum hardware solutions. According to SFS intec
director Glen Wainwright, it is an approach that it is actively pursuing:
‘Working closely with Profile 22 has been a win-win situation for
both companies. It has enabled Profile 22 to offer its fabricators a hinge
which is purpose-designed for their system and helped us significantly
in the creation of an excellent product which is perfectly suited to the
market.
‘Given the success of this project, we very much hope to work with
Profile 22 in the future to provide them with custom-built hardware solutions,
and we have already started exploring opportunities with other leading
systems companies to deliver similar benefits.’
Further information on the new SFS intec Dynamic 2D door hinge for the
Profile 22 system, contact Safeware on 01952 290910.
After
a period of consultation between the company’s lawyers and a local
property owner Roof-Maker Ltd has successfully purchased the freehold
property No 1 Pinfold Road.
This is part of a planned £1.4 million development programme, including
property and major plant purchase. During week 33 in August, Willian Design
Machinery began installation of a 30 mtr semi automated glass unit production
line to enable in house manufacturing of Roof-Maker’s reflex performance
glass units.
‘This investment will help cement our branded reflex product in the
conservatory market giving us a more secure future by improving our quality
and delivery lead times.’ said Scott Nicholas, Managing Director.
‘We moved on August the 13th to:- No 1 Pinfold Road, Thurmaston,
Leicester LE4 8AS. {Not Unit 1} Phone and Fax numbers will stay the same.
‘This will be our group head office with all administration and manufacturing
having moved to the site before the end of August. The new premises will
give us over 20,000 sq ft of manufacturing and office space. With a current
group turnover of £5 million pounds per anum, the directors felt
it important that the company owned the premises if heavy investment in
plant and machinery was to take place. The success of Roof-Maker has always
been down to product innovation and production efficiency. During the
next year we will diversify our product range even further exploring the
latest glass coating for solar control technology with our supply partners
in the states.’
Everwhite's
Louvered Window Shutter System takes America by Storm
Everwhite
Plastics Ltd has designed and manufactured its louvered window shutter
system specifically for this huge American market. Not yet available in
the UK, the louvered product was launched in the US at the International
Window Coverings exhibition in Atlanta earlier this year. Ken Davies,
Managing Director explains why he thinks the show went so well: ‘The
response we had from visitors to the exhibition was better than any of
us could have imagined. It's been phenomenal. The market for window coverings
in America is vast and Everwhite's quality louvers are well placed to
take advantage of it.’
Ken explains why an American company chose Everwhite, a UK company, to
design and manufacture the product: ‘Rather than simply copy the
existing vinyl shutter systems, Everwhite has taken 18 months to develop
a unique profile that looks better and lasts longer. The improved colourfastness,
tougher impact resistance and increased rigidity outstrip any competition
in the American market. The satin finished louvers are fully skinned and
even had another leading manufacturer foxed because he couldn't see the
join! It's a complicated design.
Technically it's been a challenging project to get the quality and output
levels right. We've made changes to the manufacturing equipment and processes,
by developing a new design of extruder screw configuration, alongside
bespoke tools and downstream equipment. All were necessary to manufacture
the required volume of product to the highest specification. In total,
the investment in new machinery alone has topped £1 million. We
have four new extrusion lines to increase capacity for the American contract
as well as staying ahead of the forecast UK demand.’
Tel: 01685 882 447
China
Approves Alcoa-CITIC Joint Venture to Establish Aluminium Rolling Mill;
Alcoa to Invest in Expansion
Alcoa
announced on 8th September that it has received approval from the Ministry
of Commerce in China to establish a new joint venture with China International
Trust & Investment (CITIC), its equity partner in Bohai Aluminum,
to produce aluminium rolled products at the Bohai plant in Qinhuangdao,
China. This is the final approval required in order for the venture to
move forward. Alcoa will be the managing partner (73% stake) in the new
venture, which is expected to be finalised by early October 2005.
Alcoa plans to invest approximately $200 million in a major expansion
of the facility, which includes a state-of-the art hot rolling mill and
related equipment. Alcoa anticipates having the mill commissioned by 2008.
The new joint venture will serve customers in China and throughout Asia
in multiple markets with high quality aluminium fabricated products, including
sheet, plate and foil.
'This new entity underscores Alcoa's long term commitment to grow in China,
one of the fastest growing economies in the world, and expands our presence
in Asia. We are bullish about the success of this venture, as we will
be managing a facility that produces high value products in which Alcoa
has established knowledge and customers worldwide,' said Alcoa Chairman
and CEO Alain Belda.
The Alcoa and CITIC joint venture Bohai Aluminum was formed in 1995. Bohai
Aluminum produces aluminium foil. To learn more about Alcoa in China visit,
http://www.alcoa.com/china/en/home.asp
Tessenderlo
Group: Results for the First Half of 2005
Tessenderlo
Group's sales amounted to 1,076.5m EUR, compared with 1,051.0m EUR in
the first six months of 2004, i.e. a rise of 2.4 %. This rise is mainly
due to better sales in Plastics Converting, the business segment which
includes Eurocell.
The group's share of the consolidated net profit decreased from 35.1 million
EUR to 24.8 million EUR, i.e. a 29.3 % downswing.
The recurrent operating profit (rebit) decreased by 21.6 % compared with
the same period of 2004.
Despite an excellent second quarter, the half yearly results 2005 for
Plastics Converting fell short of those of 2004.
The group's consolidated net cash flow decreased by 13.4 %, to 88.4 million
EUR, compared with 102.1 million in the previous year.
Results For Each Business Group
The results of the Chemicals Business Group that groups inorganic chemicals,
chlor-alkali and PVC, deteriorated in the second quarter owing to a rapid
drop in the price of PVC combined with a rise in the price of raw materials,
mainly ethylene. In addition, the impact of rapid destocking on the market
accentuated the downward movement, which had a highly negative impact
on profitability in this activity.
Because
all these businesses consume large amounts of gas, fuel and electricity,
energy costs have had a negative impact on margins.
US specific businesses, in the agricultural sector in particular, are
continuing to do well.
The second-quarter results of the Plastics Converting Business Group,
comprising profiles, pipes & fittings and compounds, were much better
than its results in the first quarter. This improvement is due to the
buoyancy of pipes - drainage systems in Benelux.
Profiles improved more slowly as a result of the slowdown in business
in the UK, Poland and Central Europe. Profiles have held down the results
of the Business Group as a whole.
Outlook
PVC prices are increasing and the performance should improve over the
next few months, but the third quarter of 2005 will remain very disappointing.
For the year as a whole, as long as there are no more drastic increases
in the price of oil and its derivatives, the fall in profit in relation
to the result of 2004 of 53.5 million EUR according to IFRS standards
should be on about the same scale in percentage as the fall seen today.
Rhodia
to Divest European Cartridge Silicone Sealants Business to Henkel
Rhodia
recently announced the signing of a binding agreement for the sale of
its European cartridge silicone sealants business to Henkel. This business
comprises the production and distribution in Europe of a wide range of
silicone sealants sold in cartridge form for the construction and Do-It-Yourself
(DIY) markets. The transaction should be finalised in the coming weeks
pending regulatory approvals.
With 158 employees based mainly on sites in Leverkusen in Germany and
Leicester in the UK, the business generated sales of more than 50 million
euros in 2004.
The Rhodia Group will continue to develop and manufacture core intermediates
as well as bulk silicone sealants and market them in Europe and the rest
of the world.
This divestment forms part of the divestiture of non-strategic activities
being undertaken by the Group to consolidate its business portfolio.
Henkel says that it is a leader with brands and technologies that
make people's lives easier, better and more beautiful. The Henkel Group
operates in three strategic business areas – Home Care, Personal
Care, and Adhesives, Sealants and Surface Treatment. In fiscal 2004 the
Henkel Group generated sales of 10,592 billion euros. More than 50,000
employees work for the Henkel Group worldwide. People in around 125 countries
around the world trust in brands and technologies from Henkel.
Rhodia is a global specialty chemicals company recognised for its
strong technology positions in applications chemistry, specialty materials
and services, and fine chemicals. Partnering with major players in the
automotive, electronics, fibres, pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, consumer
care, tyres, and paints and coatings markets, Rhodia offers tailor-made
solutions combining original molecules and technologies to respond to
customers’ needs. Rhodia subscribes to the principles of Sustainable
Development communicating its commitments and performance openly with
stakeholders. Rhodia generated net sales of €5.3 billion ($6.9 billion)
in 2004 and employs 20,000 people worldwide. Rhodia is listed on the Paris
and New York stock exchanges.
Simona
Hit by Rising Polymer Costs
German
semi-finished plastics manufacturer Simona has grown its turnover by 3.1%
in the first half of 2005, almost 2% less than its was forecasting after
last year’s record-breaking 20% growth in turnover.
The company said it was satisfied with half-year sales of E97.6m as the
growth was still in line with the overall German plastics processing industry.
However, rising raw materials prices hit pre-tax profits, falling 30%
compared with the same period of 2004 to E6.7m.
Looking ahead for the full year, Simona reckons that there will be increases
in semi-finished product prices leading to an expected 3.1% growth in
annual turnover to E196m. Assuming raw material prices are stable, the
company expects the E10m forecasted pre-tax profit to be exceeded.
Horizontal
Wrapping in the Aluminium Market
Watkiss
Thermal Break of Ashbourne, near Derby has been providing a thermal breaking
service to architectural aluminium customers from all over the country
since 1996 when the company was established by Brian Watkiss.
In 2004 the company invested in a new horizontal stretch wrapping machine
supplied by Aetna UK. Paul Holmes, Factory Manager, says, ‘we were
always slightly apprehensive of jobs requiring large volumes of wrapping
as the old equipment was constantly breaking down – now we say ‘bring
it on’ – the new unit is extremely reliable and gives us a fast
efficient service we can pass on to our customers’.
The Robopac Spiror 400 HP is fully equipped to handle a wide range of
cross sections without operator adjustment – maximum pack size is
300mm wide by 200mm high, ideal for the aluminium extrusion market. To
ensure the products leave in as good a condition as they arrive, all the
rollers are covered in polyurethane – this gives a very high degree
of wear resistance and also eliminates and possibility of marking the
product as it passes through the wrap head. This machine has also been
adapted to run Carrs Wrapaid film as well as standard stretch film. The
Wrapaid material gives added mechanical protection and gives a high degree
of product branding if printed.
Oldest
Door in Britain Discovered at Westminster Abbey
The
oldest door in Britain has been discovered at Westminster Abbey following
a study by English Heritage with the support of the Dean & Chapter.
The door to the Chapter House outer vestibule is now known to be the only
surviving Anglo-Saxon door in this country, dating back to the time of
Edward the Confessor, the Abbey’s founder, who was born 1,000 years
ago this year.
The
octagonal Chapter House, in the east cloister, dates from the 1250s and
is one of the largest in England. The monks met here every day for prayers
and to read a chapter from the rule of St Benedict and discuss the day’s
work. The King’s Great Council first assembled here in 1257. This
was effectively the beginning of the English Parliament. The House of
Commons regularly used the room in the 14th century, before they transferred
to the Palace of Westminster. After having been a repository for government
records from the 1540s it was restored in Victorian times by Sir Gilbert
Scott.
It has long been obvious that the battered and insignificant-looking wooden
door leading from the Chapter House Vestibule into a small chamber within
the east cloister range of Westminster Abbey must be ancient, but its
true age has so far eluded discovery. In the 19th century it was noticed
that there were fragments of hide adhering to the door, and a legend grew
up suggesting that these were human. It was supposed that somebody in
the Middle Ages had been caught committing sacrilege in the Abbey, had
been flayed and his skin nailed to the door as a deterrent to other would-be
felons. A specific link was suggested to a robbery that is known to have
taken place in the adjoining treasury, in 1303.
Scientific dating of the timber with a technique known as ‘dendrochronology’
was part of a study commissioned and funded by English Heritage and carried
out by Daniel Miles and Dr Martin Bridge of the Oxford Dendrochronology
Laboratory. What this study actually tells us is that the timber was felled
between dates 1032AD and 1064AD. It is therefore the earliest dated door
in England.
The door is made of five vertical oak planks, held together with three
horizontal battens, or ‘ledges’, and iron straps. Most unusually,
the battens are recessed into the planks, so that the door is flush on
both faces. Normally, medieval doors have a flat ‘front’ face
and a ‘back’ which has projecting ledges and braces. The construction
of the Westminster door is unique, and shows that it was intended to communicate
between two spaces of equal importance.
The boards were cut from a single tree and the visible rings on them represent
growth during the years from AD 924 to 1030. Because the bark and some
of the sapwood was trimmed away when the planks were made into a door,
the exact year of felling cannot be determined, but it can be calculated
as falling within the period 1032-1064. A date in the 1050s for the manufacture
of the door is most likely.
Simon Thurley, Chief Executive of English Heritage, said: 'We are delighted
to have been able to fund and carry out this important investigative work
on Westminster Abbey’s historic medieval timberwork in partnership
with the Dean and Chapter. It is incredible to think that when the ‘Pyx’
door was made, the Norman Conquest had not yet happened and William of
Normandy was still a young man of about 20 years old. William was later
crowned King of England on Christmas Day 1066 just a hundred feet away
from the door. This impressive finding is the result of a collaboration
between four experts from English Heritage, Westminster Abbey and the
Oxford Dendrochonology Laboratory using the latest tree-ring sampling
technology. The discovery has deepened our understanding of the Abbey
and its history in the year we celebrate the 1000th anniversary of its
founder’s birth.'
Explains Dr Warwick Rodwell, the Abbey’s Archaeologist, 'This the
oldest door in Britain, but it is the only one assignable to the Anglo-Saxon
period. We can therefore say confidently that this was a major door belonging
to the great Abbey constructed by Edward the Confessor, King of England,
1042-1065.
'The ring-pattern displayed by the timber indicates that the tree grew
in eastern England, and almost certainly came from the extensive woodland
owned by the Abbey, possibly in Essex.'
The door now measures 61ž2 ft high by 4 ft wide, but has been cut down.
Almost certainly the top was originally round-arched, and the door would
have measured 9 ft high by 41ž2 ft wide. After the planks were fitted
together, at least one and probably both faces were covered with animal
hides, which were tacked on to the planks. The hides were taken from cows
and added to provide a smooth surface for decoration. Then the ornamental
iron hinges and decorative straps with curled ends were fixed, using large-headed
nails and clench-bolts.
Only one of the original iron straps survives today (with skin trapped
underneath it), but the outlines of the lost elements have been recovered
by studying the fixing-holes and other scars remaining on one face of
the door. Except for the paint, its original appearance can be reconstructed
with confidence. Until now, such doors have only been known from drawings
in Anglo-Saxon manuscripts, and from later Norman derivatives.
Dan Miles from the Oxford Dendrochronology Laboratory said: 'From its
size, and its double-sided form, it is clear that this was one of the
major doors of the Saxon Abbey. Its reuse here, in c. 1250, in the Vestibule
of King Henry III’s magnificent Chapter House, can’t have been
accidental. Henry greatly revered Edward the Confessor, rebuilding the
Abbey church and creating a sumptuous shrine in his honour. No expense
was spared, and thus the adaptation and reuse of this ancient door must
have been a symbolic act to preserve in-use a ritually important element
of the Saxon Abbey. Potentially, it was the door to the Confessor’s
own Chapter House.'
Andersen
Corporation Buys Eagle Window & Door
Andersen
Corporation announced recently that it has finalised its purchase of Eagle
Window & Door, an Iowa-based manufacturer of aluminium clad wood windows
and patio doors.
'Eagle Window & Door is a great strategic fit for our company,' said
Jim Humphrey, president and chief executive officer of Andersen Corporation.
'We now have another important piece in the puzzle we are building to
make Andersen a more complete supplier, especially in the high-end, residential
new construction segment of the market. Since our recent announcement
of a definitive agreement to purchase Eagle, we have been extremely pleased
by employee and customer enthusiasm about the purchase.'
Eagle sells its products primarily through a strong network of dealers.
The product line includes a wide range of design options including 50
standard exterior colours, nine interior wood species, 11 factory interior
finishes, decorative glass and blinds between the glass.
'We are pleased to be part of the Andersen enterprise and to help the
company shape its future as a leader in the window and door industry,'
said Dave Beeken, president and chief executive officer of Eagle. 'The
purchase by a market leader who is focused on the long-term growth of
the business gives our employees and customers a partner that will help
to take us to the next level.'
Eagle, which will be operated as a managed, wholly owned subsidiary, employs
nearly 900 people in a new manufacturing facility in Dubuque, Iowa. It
had been owned by Linsalata Capital Partners, a Cleveland-based private
equity group. The terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
Andersen is the world's largest manufacturer of wood windows, patio doors
and storm doors, and celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2003. The company
is privately owned and has a strong history of commitment to its business
partners, employees, community and the environment.
£5
Million Order for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles
Volkswagen
Commercial Vehicles has secured another major fleet success, having taken
a £5 million order for 231 LT35 vans from Ryder plc, one of the
UK’s leading commercial vehicle, fleet management and logistics companies.
Ryder plc has bought the Volkswagen LT35 vans as part of its expansion
programme. This substantial order comprises 122 LT35 95 PS panel vans;
12 LT35 109 PS panel vans with refrigeration units; and 97 chassis cab
LT35 109 PS vans with Luton bodies. The vehicles are currently being delivered
to the 34 Ryder depots located all over the United Kingdom.
The vans will operate on both long and short-term rental hire with each
vehicle clocking up an average of 40,000 miles per year.
Ryder’s Head of Procurement, Chris Deevey, said: ‘Ryder’s
strategy is to consider the whole life cost of the vehicle in addition
to its running costs. Our investment with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles
represents a major benefit for Ryder and its customers by offering a quality
built vehicle which meets our customers’ rental requirements.’
The LT is the largest van in the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles range
and has gained a reputation for its power and versatility. The robust
construction is complemented by a choice of four powerful and economical
diesel TDI engines with power outputs ranging from 83 PS to 158 PS.
Standard features on the LT35 include: dual passenger seat, engine immobiliser
transponder, a rear fog light and ample storage space in the cabin. Safety
is paramount so the chassis and suspension of the Volkswagen LT are designed
for excellent directional stability and handling, while occupants are
securely enclosed within a rigid safety cell with crumple zones to absorb
crash energy. Furthermore, the LT is fitted with disc brakes all round,
ABS with electronic differential lock (EDL), and a brake force limiter
ensuring optimum distribution of braking energy.
Boalloy Industries and J C Payne Limited carry out the Luton bodywork
conversion on the Volkswagen LT35 chassis cabs, while GRP of Leeds undertake
the modifications to the LT35 panel vans bought to enhance Ryder’s
refrigerated fleet.
The Cordwallis Van Centres at Heathrow and Oxford, both part of Volkswagen
Commercial Vehicles’ national network of over 90 dedicated van centres,
are supplying Ryder plc with the vans.
To find out more about the Volkswagen LT or to find your nearest Volkswagen
Van Centre call 0800 717131. Alternatively, visit http://www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk