News @ The GL@ZINE

Pilkington Hit by 'Difficult' UK Trading Conditions

Pilkington yesterday issued the following trading up-date ahead of the announcement of its results for the year to 31 March 2006. Stuart Chambers, Group Chief Executive commented: 'Trading in Group companies remains in line with our expectations, with a good performance in Automotive and Building Products holding up.

Finance costs have reduced, despite rising interest rates, though the post-tax contribution from joint ventures and associates will be substantially lower than the previous year. The Group has continued to generate strong free cash flow through close control of costs and capital expenditure.'

Building Products

Building Products markets remain mixed, though sales revenues were higher than last year. The rise in energy costs has been mitigated by energy surcharges, cost savings and continuing efficiency improvements, although underlying prices in Europe have continued to fall.

Building Products Europe, representing two-thirds of total Building Products sales, has been impacted by difficult trading conditions in the UK. Demand elsewhere, principally in Central and Eastern Europe, has improved although pricing pressures remain.

In Building Products North America, which represents around 12 per cent of Building Products sales, demand has been weak for most of the year and improvements in operational efficiencies have only provided a partial offset. A rise in demand in the final quarter, chiefly from the commercial sector, has helped keep results close to last year.

In South America, our Group Building Products businesses continued to perform well, helped by the improving economies in Argentina and Chile. Cost pressures have increased throughout the region, while local selling prices have fallen in Brazil, due primarily to currency fluctuations.

The Australasian market has had another solid year of trading, despite the residential sector being flat, and results will show a small improvement on last year.

Automotive

Pilkington Original Equipment (OE) volumes have grown strongly, due in part to several successful new product launches by vehicle manufacturers supplied by Pilkington Automotive. The Group's North American Automotive Glass Replacement (AGR) sales benefited from the acquisition of the Autostock branches, and AGRsales in Europe have improved.

More than 55 per cent of Pilkington Automotive's sales are in Europe. The market for light vehicles has been flat, but once again, due to the success with new models, Pilkington sales volumes continue to move ahead. European AGR sales have increased due to our improving competitive position.

Over 30 per cent of our Automotive business is in North America, where overall light vehicle build is expected to be around 2 per cent down on last year. Our sales to OE manufacturers are higher than last year and the acquisition of Autostock branches has generated higher sales in the AGR market. There is still significant pressure on prices, and energy costs continue to increase.

In South America, light vehicle demand has risen by around 10 per cent. Strong sales volumes and manufacturing efficiency improvements will improve results for the year. Results in Australasia have been affected by restructuring costs. In China, the market continues to expand rapidly, where our emphasis has been on further improving the cost and operational efficiency of the businesses.

Associates and Joint Ventures

Operating profits declined again at Vitro Plan SA de CV, Pilkington's 35 per cent associate in Mexico. Profits in Cebrace (Brazil) and Shanghai Yaohua Pilkington (China) were also down on last year.

Pilkington's new joint venture float glass plant in Russia started glass making in February and the current year reflects initial start-up losses.

Finance

Following the changeover to IFRS, finance costs have become more volatile and more difficult to predict, due to the requirement to value derivative financial instruments at the period end. Nevertheless total finance costs are expected to be lower than last year, despite rising interest rates.

The Group has continued to generate free cash flow through continued close control of costs and capital expenditure.

Scheme of Arrangement

On 27 February 2006 the boards of Pilkington and NSG announced that they had reached agreement on the terms of a recommended cash acquisition by NSG of Pilkington, at 165 pence for each Pilkington share, to be effected by way of a Scheme of Arrangement. The Scheme Document was posted to Pilkington shareholders yesterday. In light of the proposed acquisition, which is conditional on Pilkington shareholder approval, the consent of relevant regulatory authorities and the sanction of the Court, the announcement of Pilkington results for the financial period to 31 March 2006 is likely to be delayed.

Sapa Building Systems has announced that it is to join forces with major Irish distributor Profile Systems in what is a strategically important distribution agreement for both companies.

The announcement follows an extensive investment programme by Profile Systems that resulted in over €6 million being spent on a high specification warehousing and distribution facility which has enabled the company to expand and meet the growing commercial and residential demand.

Sapa and Profile Systems have a long history together spanning almost three decades. Barry O'Gorman, Profile Systems' Managing Director said: ‘Having satisfied ourselves that the extensive product range offered by Sapa met the technical and commercial objectives we set ourselves for this new phase of our development, the decision to partner Sapa was made easier by the depth of the relationship engendered over this long period. The recent addition of the RC System product range to the portfolio significantly enhances the prospects for development in the Irish market which is currently experiencing a boom in both the commercial and residential sectors.’

John Palethorpe, Sapa's Sales & Marketing Director said: ‘The construction sector is particularly strong in Ireland with construction output in 2006 expected to exceed €30 billion*. Distribution to the Irish market is therefore very important for us and Profile Systems' existing strong presence there will allow us to offer our systems to a much wider audience hand in hand with a highly-respected company.’

http://www.sapagroup.com

*Source AMA

FaberMaunsell (ODPM), BFRC and Energy Saving Trust confirmed to speak at industry-wide seminar, Ricoh Arena May 10th

Experts on the building regulations, energy efficiency and the window industry will speak at the seminar, Increase your profits: Energy Efficiency in Focus, sponsored by Edgetech IG Inc. ‘This free seminar is an opportunity to hear the latest thinking, quiz the experts and take part in an industry-wide debate,’ says Edgetech's Sales Director and General Manager Andy Jones.

‘In this tough market, companies can't wait to see what others will do before acting themselves. Many believe the new Window Energy Ratings system aids end-user recognition, adds value and margin and makes it easier to sell windows. Others say it's a voluntary scheme that takes time and money, so why bother?

But what else is in the pipeline? The speakers, which include Frances Galvanoni of the Energy Saving Trust, Robin Kent of the British Fenestration Rating Council and John Palmer of FaberMaunsell, on behalf of the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, will present the facts and more.’

Jim Moody of Tradelink Direct, Gareth East of Saint Gobain Solaglas and Gerhard Reichert, Vice President of Business Development of Edgetech IG Inc. will also be speaking.

Register online at http://www.521621.com/seminars or contact Anne O'Connor, at Edgetech on 02476 705570 to book your place.

Profile 22 Scores New Customer Coup At Glassex

Fife-based trade fabricator The Merlin Network is the latest business to sign up with Profile 22 Systems.
The company, which operates a 25,000 sq ft factory and has a sales territory covering Scotland and North East England, was courted by a shortlist of eight systems companies before selecting the Telford-based supplier and sealing the deal at Glassex 2006.

The Merlin Network's Director Mike Bryant said: 'Of all the companies we saw, Profile 22 was the only one that ticked all the boxes. We see ourselves as a leader in the market, not a follower, and we believe Profile 22 Systems also fits that profile.'

The Merlin Network operates one of the most automated production facilities in Scotland, the result of over £1.5million of investment.

Now, the company has the capacity to produce over 1000 frames per week using Profile 22's latest fully-sculptured 70mm suite; FS70.

Rob McGlennon, Profile 22's sales and marketing director, says: 'Signing The Merlin Network represents a huge opportunity for the growth of Profile 22 in Scotland.

As a business, we are looking for long term partners with whom we can develop our products and services. Therefore, we are very happy to have attracted a company so compatible with these objectives.'

For further information contact The Merlin Network on Tel: 01383 821182 or visit: http://www.merlinnetwork.co.uk

For Trade enquiries contact Profile 22 on Tel: 01952 290910 or visit the website: http://www.profile22.co.uk

Deceuninck Ltd, a worldwide manufacturer of PVC window systems and profiles has announced the appointment of Mike Ward as its new Sales and Marketing Director for the UK division based at Calne, Wiltshire.

Mike Ward, 55, will be responsible for directing Deceuninck UK's sales and marketing processes and identifying new opportunities for the company's impressive range of window and door systems and added value products.

Mike brings over 30 years' sales and marketing expertise to Deceuninck having worked for leading companies within the construction and control industries.

Commenting on his appointment, Mike said:

‘Deceuninck has an excellent reputation of producing a constant stream of innovative products for the fenestration and associated building markets.

I am delighted to have joined this successful team and am looking forward to further strengthening relationships with our customers whilst continually growing the business in the UK market.’

The Deceuninck Group specialises in compounding, tool fabrication, design, development, extrusion, finishing, recycling and injection moulding of PVC-u systems, profiles and gaskets for the building industry.

Tel: 01249 816969
Email: mike.ward@deceuninck.com

Eurocell Building Plastics' (EBP) depots are getting a facelift. Amongst the first depots to undergo the transformation are Derby and Telford. The company says that with a gleaming new extended counter and eye-catching signage the depots are even more inviting and appealing to all of EBP's wide range of customers.

Stocking a vast range of Eurocell manufactured Roofline and PVC-u products and all associated merchandise needed to carry out a top quality job, the branches have their own onsite stock facility and the back up of frequent deliveries from EBP's midlands based distribution centre.

Eurocell Building Plastics new look depots have a number of added features to ensure customers receive the service and quality products they require.

EBP's Telford Branch Manager, Jody Foster, comments on the new look depot: ‘I'm really impressed with the extended counter and the new signage really makes the depot stand out.

‘We've always made it our priority to try and give our customers what they want, when they need it, but we really are now a fully functional 'one stop shop'. We offer advice and support and quality products, team that up with our delivery service and stock and there's no need for our customers to go chasing here there and everywhere to get what they want, just come to the EBP depot and we'll be happy to help.’

Three new products have recently been introduced and are available to order from all of EBP's 70 nationwide depots these are Cavity Closer, Safety Platform System and Conservatory Ladder System.

Modplan Ltd, a division of the Burles Group Plc, has stepped up plans for the future by expanding its production facilities. The substantial investment arose in order to accommodate the introduction of the Veka Matrix 70mm system into the company's already comprehensive product range.

Manufacture of the 70mm system commenced at the beginning of the year and Steve Graves, national sales manager, is delighted with the way the new operation is running. ‘With a new fabrication facility, dedicated to production of the 70mm system, we have been able to introduce the new product without any disruption to our existing 58mm customers. It has also allowed us to introduce the Matrix 70mm product at a steady pace, ensuring we get it right from the start, but the phenomenal interest we have had to date indicates that we will have the new fabrication facility up to capacity by the end of the year.’

Steve, who joined Modplan at the end of 2005, is also enthusiastic about the benefits of the new system. ‘Its innovative design and versatility really appeals to the installer, whilst the excellent appearance offers great consumer appeal.’

With a choice of both 58mm and 70mm Matrix systems, Modplan is now situated to fulfil the needs of its diverse customer base. Retail, new build and commercial customers will be able to choose their preferred system to suit individual applications. ‘Customers will receive greater flexibility, knowing that both are manufactured from quality Veka profile and offer a number of similar features such as sloped and sculptured beads, co-extruded gaskets and a wide range of glazing options’ explains Steve.

With his broad knowledge and experience of the window industry, Steve has enjoyed working with the production and processing staff on facing the challenges of Modplan's latest venture. ‘We've worked as a team to make sure that from the first enquiry, through to delivery, customers receive the same quality and service that has been the foundation of the company's reputation and success for the last two decades. Quality is an easy word to say, but not always so easy to provide. In a market as competitive as ours it is probably the single most important issue, as it provides the added value and reassurance our customers are looking for.’

Steve's role as national sales manager also includes responsibility for Versatile Limited. ‘The new Vertex roof is stunning and truly innovative. Sales of our complete conservatory packages will be enhanced by the introduction of Matrix 70mm too, as it is an ideal product to complement the Vertex roof - the sculpted bead on the window system blends perfectly with the sculpted cappings on the roof for a striking appearance.’

Modplan, like the rest of the Burles Group, is facing the challenges of the future with confidence. ‘The Group's forward thinking philosophy and caring attitude to customers were the key factors to my accepting the role as national sales manager’ concludes Steve. ‘I am convinced that these same characteristics, together with the introduction of Matrix 70mm to the product range, will entice many new customers to Modplan too!’

For further information on Modplan products and service call Steve and his team on 01495 246844.

Rehau says that it is ready for the future. With its 14,000+ employees, the polymer processor with headquarters in Rehau, Upper Franconia and active throughout the world has repositioned itself as a strong umbrella brand and as a leading provider in the construction, automotive and industrial fields.

The company is now set to launch a long-term brand offensive which, aside from an active positioning in the market, will be accompanied by a notable change in appearance. The aim of this is to increase the polymer specialist's recognition factor and, in particular, to link the brand name with innovations and advance developments from the three business units: Construction, Automotive and Industry.

At the centre of the brand offensive are the advantages which Rehau can offer its customers - from contractors to prominent motor vehicle manufacturers and end users. The new claim, ‘Unlimited Polymer Solutions’ is intended to express the company's promise of utilising polymer-based solutions to continually redefine the limits of the possible.

‘As an internationally successful company, our aim is to position ourselves and our unmistakable values and competences under a common, strong umbrella brand,’ notes Jobst Wagner, President of the Rehau Group. The establishment of a strong brand is seen as an important investment in the company's future. Against this background, the decision was made to follow a newly aligned brand and communications strategy whose starting point was a worldwide survey conducted among customers, employees and suppliers.

‘The development of Rehau as a company into a successful brand is a central strategic challenge in the face of increasing global competition,’ explains Wolfgang Faber, Chairman of the Board of Directors. ‘Those who are familiar with us know that Rehau has always stood for tradition and strong innovative capability, for internationality and independence and is a leader in polymer-based solutions.’

However, global competitive pressure is making the significance of a brand increasingly important and Rehau has responded to this. Mr. Faber goes on to say: ‘We intend to convincingly display the added value of our products, system solutions and services to all employees, customer groups and the public in general, across all fields.’

Millions of individuals encounter Rehau products on a daily basis without even being aware of it or knowing the brand. ‘It is our task to change this’, according to Mr. Faber. ‘We intend to display our company's performance capabilities across all areas so that the Rehau brand can be experienced contextually and in communications as well as visually.’

Thus, the start of the Rehau brand offensive will be accompanied by visual changes in communications and presentation - encompassing everything from internal presentations and business correspondence, employee and customer magazines to corporate brochures and the corporate identity. All visual and communicative innovations which the public, customers and employees encounter from now on will provide an indication that Rehau is changing.

‘Our brand claim, ‘Unlimited Polymer Solutions’, arose on the basis of our corporate values, a well-founded self awareness and our newly defined communications behaviour. This claim points the way and also represents a great challenge which we have set ourselves to being a 'premium brand'’, Jobst Wagner emphasises. The company and the Rehau brand will continue to develop in a value conscious and future-oriented manner. Everything is being done to ensure that Rehau remains strongly innovative, is broad-based in every regard and remains uniquely in harmony with respect to the specialisation within its three business areas throughout the world. ‘This strengthens our competitive ability, optimises efficiency and supports our efforts for stable growth’, notes Mr. Wagner.

Tel: 01989 762600

A complaint objecting to two leaflets for Solarshade Window Films Ltd was not upheld according to information published by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA).

a. The first leaflet stated ‘COOLKOTE SOLAR COATINGS FOR CONSERVATORIES DRAMATICALLY REDUCE DAYTIME TEMPRATURES IN CONSERVATORIES AND INDUSTRIAL PREMISES ... Q. How much heat will CoolKote stop? A. About 80% of the heat normally passing through the glazing’. The leaflet featured a graphic showing the effect of the sun on a treated and an untreated conservatory. The caption below the treated conservatory stated, ‘CoolKote treated conservatory reflecting the sun's heat before it can be transmitted’; above the treated conservatory was the caption ‘Dramatic reductions in internal daytime temperatures’.

b. The second leaflet stated ‘Remember those summers when the Sun's heat went through the roof! ... NO EFFECTVE ANSWER TO THE STIFLING HEAT BUILD-UP. Until now there was no effective solution to this problem ... CoolKote is a high-performance PVC coating, which when applied to polycarbonate or glass roofs prevents heat building up simply by reflecting the sun's heat away before if can be transmitted inside. COOLKOTE SOLVES PROBLEMS You will benefit from an immediate reduction in internal daytime temperatures.’

The complainant, who had the product fitted but did not experience a reduction in temperature in his conservatory, challenged whether the heat reduction and efficacy claims could be substantiated. The complainant provided records of tests he had carried out with a thermometer comparing the readings taken under a treated area of his conservatory with those taken from an untreated pane of glass.

Adjudication: Complaint not upheld

Solarshade Window Films Ltd (Solarshade) said they bought films from several manufacturers and that the performance figures in their brochure were supplied by CoolKote Ltd. They said they had successfully treated over 300 domestic conservatory roofs in the past four years. CoolKote responded to the complaint and said Solarshade were an extremely reputable company.

They pointed out that the complainant had not been required to pay for the installation although that had not been an admission of guilt. CoolKote provided the results of tests, which compared glass treated with their product with untreated glass. The tests showed that untreated glass allowed 84.6% of solar energy to be transmitted into the room, compared with just 18.4% when the glass was treated with CoolKote.

They maintained that that showed the product significantly reduced the amount of solar energy, which entered a treated space and provided further evidence to this effect with a sample of temperatures taken in a treated space over a week. The test results demonstrated that 40.5% of the energy was reflected and 41.0% was absorbed by the treated glass.

CoolKote pointed out that the tests carried out by the complainant were inappropriate and unscientific because the measurements were taken close to the glass and were, therefore, heavily influenced by the heat absorbed by the treated glass and did not give an accurate indication of the internal air temperature of the conservatory.

They accepted that, because the treated glass absorbed energy, the air temperature in close proximity would be higher than that in close proximity to untreated glass. However, despite that increase in temperature the internal air temperature would still be significantly reduced. CoolKote pointed out that the ad made clear that the product was effective only against direct sunlight and it would have no effect, for instance, on atmospheric humidity.

The ASA noted the effect of the CoolKote product in reducing the amount of solar energy transmitted into a room covered by treated glass and accepted CoolKote's explanation that the test results obtained by the complainant were not indicative of the overall heat in the conservatory.

We understood that there were limits to the product's effectiveness, but we noted both leaflets made clear that CoolKote's purpose was to reflect the sun's heat. We considered that the claims had been supported by the evidence from CoolKote and concluded that the ad was unlikely to mislead.

BSI Product Services has just received approval from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) to operate its Kitemark scheme for the survey and installation of windows and doors as an Approved Competent Persons self-certification scheme.

Effective from the 6th of April 2006, this approval means that Kitemark licensees will be able to issue Building Regulations certificates for the window and door installations that they carry out - something that can only currently be done via FENSA or local building control.

The Kitemark scheme for window installers was launched to help combat poor installation and finishing of windows and doors. An increasing number of companies are now experiencing the benefits of this scheme.

This approval from the ODPM means that the Kitemark scheme can offer installers a complete package from the survey to the installation to the issue of Building Regulations certificates and notification to local authorities. With over 80% of UK consumers recognising the Kitemark as a symbol of quality and trust consumer confidence is bound to improve for Kitemark installation companies.

Says Elaine Durno, BSI's Construction Product Manager, 'The Kitemark clearly differentiates certified installers from their competitors, enabling them to self certify their own work is the final piece to add to the jigsaw. Now the Kitemark truly offers the complete package - from product quality to installation service and now Building Regulations certifications and local authority notification'.

More information is available at http://www.kitemarktoday.com

Business Micros cemented the company’s new agreement with German software house Orgadata at last week's Wigan vs Manchester United Premiership match.

Business Micros has just announced details of a deal with Orgadata to sell its LogiKal commercial aluminium software system in the UK and to provide ongoing service and technical support to its existing license holders.

Graeme Bailey, Managing Director and Dean Hodges, Commercial Manager entertained Orgadata's key management team at the nail biting match which Manchester United eventually won thanks to a last minute Wigan own goal.
Orgadata's Sales Director Karsten Tiemeyer and Managing Director Bernd Hillbrands received signed Wigan shirts from Business Micros as a memento of the evening.

Graeme Bailey commented: ‘This is the start of what we hope will be a very successful partnership with Orgadata so it was good to be able to spend time with the company’s senior managers strengthening the links which will be necessary.

‘From our point of view, we would probably have preferred a Wigan win, but it was an exciting match nonetheless which showed off the very best of the Premiership to our German colleagues!’

Tel: 01925 422957
Email: sales@businessmicros.co.uk

How many companies can say that the number of returns of their products can be counted on one hand after 10 years of trading? Very few. But UAP can, on the company’s range of door knockers and numerals.

According to John Cross, Sales Director of UAP, ‘Since I joined the company 4 years ago I have never had an instance of a UAP door knocker failing in service and needing replacement. That is a fantastic achievement and one that UAP is extremely proud of.’

‘UAP has constantly developed its door knockers to ensure they are the best on the market. From colour coded fittings, to nylon bolts and special coatings, the products and the range have been continually improved and refined. The entire UAP hardware range now consists of about 500 separate products, each one having been designed, developed and improved to give long-lasting performance, right where it really matters, in the field.’

This year is a special one for UAP, as it is the company's 10th year of business in the PVCU door and window market, and that means 10 years of its products being exposed to the hardly product-friendly British climate.

This year also brings with it a raft of new products covering every product group in the UAP portfolio. Door knockers are being given a significant boost with the addition of 2 new product ranges to complement the core range.

David Jennings, UAP's Managing Director, says:

‘I am very excited about our New Product Development programme for 2006 and 2007. We are aware that we must continue to develop products that won't fail, and that has required us to look at new substrates, new coatings and new production techniques.

'Our soon to be launched PVD knocker is superb, and sensibly priced. It also comes with a no-quibble 10 year guarantee. Our door knocker development for 2007 uses NASA based technology. This is totally revolutionary and we believe it will set the standard for door furniture in the future. While other companies look down at their feet, UAP is looking to the stars!’

UAP has supplied the UK PVCU door and window market for 10 years, selling over £3 million of product annually.

The company says that it was the first to offer a collection of different door furniture products including numerals, letterplates and handles that exactly match in finish, shade and sheen levels. The new PVD coating is currently being rolled out across all finishes.

The Jones Tool Company Ltd - based near Huddersfield in West Yorkshire, has recently announced the acquisition of the assets and stock of the Alexander S. Newell Machine Tool Company Ltd.

Alexander S. Newell's - formerly located in Waltham Cross in Hertfordshire, was the sole distributor of the Wolferal range of cutting tools for over 50 years.

The Wolferal brand has now transferred to the Jones Tool Company who is now offering the full range of cutting tools and saw blades to all of Alexander S. Newell's former customers.

Tim Jones - Managing Director of the Jones Tool Company said:

‘We are delighted to have purchased the assets and stock of such a long established and well known supplier.

'The Wolferal brand is one of the most trusted and recognised names in cutting tools and circular saw blades and we look forward to providing our new customers with the same high levels of service and support that they had become accustomed to for over half a century.’

The Jones Tool Company is a specialist supplier to the window fabrication and allied industries. The company has over a decade of experience in providing a full range of tools, consumables and accessories.

In addition, the company also offers a range of small bespoke machines for the PVCu industry and a specialist tooling service manufacturing a range of welding and drill support blocks.

Tel: 01484 860333
Email: enquiries@jonestoolco.co.uk
Web: http://www.jonestoolco.co.uk

With a £2m advertising campaign about to break on TV and in the press for Pilkington Activ™ self-cleaning glass, Pilkington decided that window and conservatory installers throughout the UK should know about the opportunities that this would bring them.

The company therefore staged a series of presentations during January to which installers were invited to preview the humorous 'Keep Up World' TV and press advertisements and special web site, which show how Pilkington Activ™ self-cleaning glass is a product that really works, against other inventions that are simply gimmicks.

Guests were invited to decide for themselves just how they could take advantage of the 27 million British homeowners that would see the advertising campaign between February and April. They were encouraged to offer Pilkington Activ(tm) as part of their product portfolio, and to take advantage of the extensive support material offered by Pilkington as part of the campaign to stimulate sales of windows and conservatories installed with the special glass.

More than 250 installers attended the two-hour presentations, which also included live product demonstrations carried out by a member of the scientific team that developed the world's first dual action self-cleaning glass, and talks from the sales and marketing team on how to take full advantage of the campaign and the support materials.

'This is the biggest advertising and marketing campaign for glass for at least 10 years,' said Pilkington Marketing Director Matt Buckley, 'and we wanted to ensure that installers were well prepared to take full advantage of the opportunities it would present. Everyone that attended was very positive about it and we are delighted with the reaction we received. We intend that the campaign will provide a very real boost to window and conservatory sales generally, and the early signs are very encouraging indeed.'

Exeter Glass Centre, a new glass merchant in the South West, has just taken delivery of a range of new glass processing and handling equipment. The machinery installation completes the company's creation of an 8,000sq-ft home fit for the demands of the glass trade in the 21st century.

The installation comprised a Macotec Sharpcut NC controlled glass cutting machine, Schiatti Model FPS15RS Automatic Straight Line edging machine, Jullich Vertical Glass Washing and Drying Machine, Schiatti model FPD60 Automatic double drilling Machine, SPL Belt finishing machine and finally an APB Concertina racking System.

Simon Manley, sales manager for machinery supplier Peter Hawkins Ltd, said ‘We are delighted to have been chosen to supply and install this complete range of new machinery. We believe in the quality and performance of the machinery and they will contribute to Exeter Glass Centre building on the success of its business’

Paul Garrard, manager at Exeter Glass Centre adds ‘The benefits of the new equipment is already paying dividends for us. We are able to provide our ever growing customer base in the area with excellent quality processing as well as a fast, reliable and, of course, first class service.’

Further information about Exeter Glass Centre can be obtained from http://www.exeterglasscentre.co.uk or on 01392 364 364. Further details on Peter Hawkins Ltd can be obtained by visiting its website at http://www.phawkins.co.uk

Once upon a time there was a sharp intake of breath when a customer asked for a plastic window to replace that old round wooden window in the hallway, or the gothic timber frames that so suited their lovely house. ‘What would be the cost?’ ‘Could it even be made?’ and ‘What would the quality be like?’

Arched and shaped frames are now increasingly a part of the everyday window and conservatory requirements so thankfully there are companies out there who not only specialise in shaped frame manufacture but also offer a competitive price, and are especially good at what they do and how they service their customers.

Lister of Stoke on Trent says that it seems to have taken this area of service to a whole new level. Having had an excellent relationship with the industry specialist Universal Arches, which has provided all of Lister’s needs for the past six years, the company has now expanded this partnership by starting to make some of its own arches in house with the help of Universal.

Initially it may seem strange for an arch specialist to encourage one of its customers to start making its own arches, but closer inspection reveals a remarkable insight into the direction the industry is taking.

With the window industry starting to slow down many fabricators are looking for new areas to specialise in, or products to add to their portfolio. In essence they want to distinguish themselves from the crowd and enter new markets. It seems that both Lister and Universal have taken advantage of this trend, invested time and money into it and found a way forward.

‘We were very happy with Universal Arches as our supplier, but sometimes simple arches and rush jobs put a strain on our lead times and we wanted to provide a faster service for our customers,’ says Darren Pusey, Listers Production Director. ‘So when we heard that Universal had developed a complete machinery package aimed at giving trade fabricators the ability to make their own arches, we were hooked!’

Universal has designed and developed THE FORM8TOR – ‘the world's most advanced technology’ with regard to the bending of PVCu and vinyl profiles. This has given the company the opportunity to help fabricators like Lister to diversify and at the same time benefit from their expansion.

Both Lister and Universal Arches were finalists of the Glass and Glazing Federations G-05 awards demonstrating their commitment to excellence within the industry. Now that Lister has taken on the FORM8TOR bending machinery from Universal, they can work even closer together in providing arched frames more quickly whilst maintaining the highest quality.

Universal provides all the machinery needed for the project plus all the training and experience to get production off the ground. ‘We are extremely happy that Lister has partnered with us on this project as the company is one of the industry's leading trade suppliers and is already a loyal customer of ours.’ Says Clair Day, Universal's Sales Director. ‘It enables the company to give an improved service to its customers and it helps us to expand our own business too.’

Lister can now service much of its customers' arch requirements in its own factory, which means a faster turnaround for the company’s customers and more work for its employees.

Contact: Lister
Tel: 01782 205605.
Web: http://www.listertf.co.uk

Universal Arches
Tel: 01744 612844
Web: http://www.universalarches.com

De Vere Hotels, one of Britain's leading hotel groups, has recently named fabricator Newstead Trade Frames as a nominated supplier. Since being chosen to partner De Vere Hotels Newstead has already been awarded contracts to supply windows for a variety of hotel projects across the UK.

John Davies, Newstead's Commercial Manager explains what the relationship means for Newstead: ‘We are already making 63 white frames for a hotel in Coventry and another in Bury, 47 frames for a Cardiff De Vere and 280 frames for a fourth hotel in Hull. And we're certainly expecting to do more now that we have been named as a nominated supplier. And as part of our Selling Made Easy (SME) support scheme, we're offering our customers the opportunity to work alongside the Commercial Division as subcontracted nominated installers.

‘De Vere is just the kind of company we want to be partnering because it is a premium quality hotel that wants premium quality products. That's why the company chose Newstead.’

Tel: 01782 641 642

Composite door manufacturer Rockdoor celebrates its tenth anniversary in 2006. Co-founder and designer of the fully PVC composite door, Darren Chesney said: ‘It's been an amazing journey in just ten years. The factory is now fully automated and we've invested £2 million to increase capacity to 3,000 doors a week. The original specification hasn't changed but now there is a lot more choice of designs and glass.

‘And the whole range is fully backed up with a marketing suite designed for homeowners including a stunning brochure and a website http://www.rockdoor.com. Composite doors are one of the biggest growth areas in the market and we're ready to take the market by storm.’

Tel: 01254 662999

Plastics 2 Go, a Sheffield-based specialist PVC-U builders' merchant, switched its window, door & conservatory supply to Conservatory Outlet in December.

Owner Andy Hawley, who at 23 has been in the roofline industry for four years, made the change because he wanted a supplier who could help his business grow.

‘My aim is to open three more depots in the North of England in the next five years,’ explains Andy.

‘To do this I needed to find a supplier who offered a reliable service. My previous supplier treated me as a number and took 24 hours to process my orders. The ordering system Conservatory Outlet has in place gives me an immediate quote and saves me time.

‘There are so many small builders who need the expertise of a specialist supplier. At Plastics 2 Go we can give them great advice and supply them with everything they need on time, every time. I wouldn't be able to expand my business without the right support but Conservatory Outlet offers everything I need to be able to achieve my goals.’

Tel: 08700 802380

Development for the Homag Group AG in the financial year 2005 was well out ahead of an almost stagnating overall market for woodworking machinery, meaning a further increase in the Group's market share.

Provisional figures for the manufacturer of machines and plants for the woodworking industry show a nine per cent increase in incoming orders, valued at 533 million Euro (490 million Euro in the previous year). Turnover was up by three per cent to 619 million Euro (599 million Euro in the previous year) and orders in hand to December 31st, 2005 rose by 17 per cent to 156 million Euro (134 million Euro in the previous year). Worldwide, 176 new jobs were created throughout the company group, bringing the workforce from 4,272 to 4,448 at the end of the year. The company IMA Klessmann GmbH which was sold with effect from October 31st, 2005, was no longer included in the consolidated accounts, and the comparable figures for 2004 have been adjusted accordingly.

During the current business year, according to Board Spokesman Klaus Bukenberger, the company is anticipating sales growth in the upper single-figure percent range. ‘Our well filled order books at the end of 2005 and a highly gratifying rate of new incoming orders over the first two months of 2006 have meant an upbeat start to the New Year, and made us confident of topping what was already a highly positive trading year in 2005.’

The Homag Group AG is aiming to invest first and foremost in expansion of its production facilities during 2006. Plans exist for substantial expansion of the existing plant in Poland. At home in Germany, the Group plans to expand the production facilities of subsidiaries Weinmann in South German St. Johann-Lonsingen and Weeke in Herzebrock-Clarholz near Gütersloh. Bukenberger: ‘In our producing locations in Eastern Europe and Asia, we manufacture entry-level products to serve the local industry, so opening up a wider market basis. However, as demonstrated by the planned expansion of our domestic production facilities, Germany is set to remain the production focus for Homag Group AG.’

The Board of Management is gratified overall by the company's development over the past financial year. Despite a toughly competitive market, high raw material and energy prices and a strong Euro, Homag Group AG succeeded in further improving its operating result.

According to the company, this successful outcome is down to ‘wide-ranging optimisation measures’ to increase productivity which have been implemented over the past two to three years. ‘Even during the difficult market phase in 2002 and 2003, we continued to pursue our consistent policy of expanding our worldwide sales and servicing network and investing in innovative products. These endeavours are now paying dividends,’ emphasises Klaus Bukenberger. He lists extension of the Shanghai plant and expansion of production capacity at Ligmatech in Lichtenberg, Saxony among the company's most successful achievements in 2005.

The global player, which generates around 75 per cent of its business abroad, achieved its greatest growth rates in the Asian economic area, although the big export markets of Western Europe and the domestic market also saw substantial increases. The company succeeded in matching the previous year's figures in Eastern Europe and the CIS states, while the American market demonstrated stagnating tendencies.

To build on the positive trend of the past two years and to further expand its market leadership in the future, Homag Group AG is planning to launch a comprehensive package of measures across all the Group companies. With its ‘Project 2008’, the Group is responding to the changed competitive environment, which has become noticeably tougher over recent years. High prices for raw material and a strong Euro have squeezed profit margins, and in a globalised world market made for stiffer competition from local suppliers. The aim of ‘Project 2008’ is to further expand the Group's world market leadership, and sharpen the competitive edge of its own products, while improving its own financial and earning power.

Tel: 01332 856500
Email: info@homag-uk.co.uk