HT's
'Bundled' Activites Now Called 'Profine GmbH'
As
we reported in the News Section of The Gl@zine on 15th July, the Supervisory
Board of HT Troplast AG approved plans for the legal and organisational
integration of window profile activities in a new company. The Board of
Management of the new company - now called Profine GmbH International
Profile Group - headquartered in Troisdorf/Germany now comprises Dr. Hans
Werner Kleffner (Chairman), Messrs Helmut Marzahn and Detlef Fahlbusch.
In fiscal 2002, profile and board activities reported sales of some 560
million Euro with a workforce of more than 3,000 at nine production locations
and a large number of sales companies world-wide.
To optimise the exploitation of market potential, the Kömmerling,
KBE, Trocal and Knipping brands will continue with their successful multi-brand
strategy.
In essence, there will be no significant change in the UK, with practical
co-operation and all existing agreements and contracts being assumed by
Profine GmbH.
The UK’s KBE team remain the same and will be acting at management
level within the new company.
Tel: 0049 (0) 22 418 506
Email: mailto:info@profine-group.de
Web: http://www.profine-group.de
FendorHansen
Responds to Market
Need
for Security Glazing Standards
FendorHansen
has developed a new and unique (patent applied for) high security glazing
system which is expected to find wide acceptance amongst architects, contractors
and clients. Applications will include secure establishments such as magistrates
courts and police stations and potentially vulnerable premises including
banks, building societies and central and local government offices.
FendorHansen's new SecureLine range features a composite attack resistant
pane which can be used in conjunction with a conventional double glazed
or single pane of glass.
SecureLine's
attack resistant glazing is available in a range of types and thicknesses
depending on the level of security required. In the event of a serious
attack it protects the external double-glazed unit from damage. The attack-resistant
glazing itself is held in place by a specially developed retention system.
This system allows replacement via slender security fittings, without
affecting the double-glazed unit.
Both fixed and restricted opening light versions are available - the complete
assembly for each of which has been tested to meet the rigorous criteria
of LPS 1175, passing levels SR2, 3 and 4. LPS 1175 ('Specification for
testing and classifying the burglary resistance of building components,
strong points and security enclosures') significantly exceeds the demands
of BS EN 356:2000 in terms of timescale and attack tools.
To maintain environmental control the double-glazed outer pane in an external
application can be specified in either tinted, low emmissivity or standard
glass depending on tha level of environmental control required. The architectural
quality mild steel framing profiles have a thermally enhanced core as
standard. In keeping with the requirements of the Building Regulation
Approved Document L (Part J in Scotland), the complete assembly exceeds
the required 2.2W/m2K for thermal conductivity.
The SecureLine high security window glazing system has been successfully
tested to British Standards in relation to air, wind and water penetration.
For added privacy or environmental control, an integral manual or electrically
operated blind can be incorporated in the double-glazed unit. The blind
is completely enclosed and is shielded behind the anti-attack glass.
The steel profiles have a completely welded flush appearance on both the
internal and external faces, giving slim sightlines and a domestic rather
than institutional look. For external applications the profiles are available
with a highly durable zinc-rich epoxy based primer and polyester powder
paint finish. A full colour selection is available from the RAL range
to match any design requirement.
FendorHansen is part of the Anglo-Scandinavian HansenGroup, one of Europe's
leading fenestration specialists, with annual sales of £100 million
and over 1,000 employees. HansenGroup's activities extend from structural
glazing, curtain walling and windows, fire resisting and steel glazing
systems and advanced glass processing to high performance steel doorsets
for fire, acoustic, security and cleanroom applications.
Tel: 0191 438 3222
Email: mailto:sales@fendorhansen.co.uk
Web: http://www.hansengroup.biz
Lisec
one of the Last 'Biggies' to Sign up for GP&T
Glass
processing and production equipment giant Peter Lisec GmbH has announced
its decision to exhibit at Glass Processing & Technology (GP&T)
2003. The move now means that many of the world's leading names in glass
processing will be exhibiting at GP&T, which takes place from 1lth
to 13th November 2003 at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, and
is further confirmation of how the glass industry has embraced the event.
Based in Austria, the Lisec Group is acknowledged as being the world's
largest manufacturer of high-tech production equipment and machinery lines
for the insulating glass industry. The company's presence at GP&T
now ensures a huge choice for visitors to the event, who will be able
to make meaningful direct comparisons between suppliers who will be appearing
at the same time. and under the same roof.
Sales targets for exhibition stand space at GP&T 2003 - The Glass
Processing and Technology exhibition and conference, have been exceeded
over two months in advance of the event, an achievement regarded by exhibition
professionals as extraordinary for a launch event.
Over 100 exhibitors have now booked more than 3,000 metres2 of space at
GP&T, for which stand bookings have built to something of a clamour
during the last few months as word of the event spread, and confidence
grew within the flat glass industry.
As flat glass and its processing and specification are becoming increasingly
complex, there is widespread agreement within the industry that the timing
has never been better to launch GP&T. This has now been confirmed
in the most tangible terms by the sales target being exceeded so far in
advance of the event.
Sales Manager Leah Tidy, who was one of the original team that conceived
and developed GP&T, is naturally delighted with the milestone: 'Naturally
we on the event team had complete faith in GP&T, but now that has
been confirmed in real terms by meeting and now exceeding the target for
stand sales. With the extensive conference, special events and the most
comprehensive glass-specific exhibition to be held in the UK for more
than 20 years, Glass Processing & Technology 2003 is a must-visit
for glass industry professionals and specifiers.'
From glass treatment and abrasives to specialist equipment. GP&T wiII
offer a wider choice of suppliers specific to flat glass processing and
applications than has ever been seen before in the UK, and is expected
to attract an extensive and varied audience of industry professionals
and high level specifiers.
Further information can be obtained from Leah Tidy on 020 8277 5733; Email
mailto:leah.tidy@emap.com. Visitors
may register by telephone on 0870 429 4534, by fax on 0870 429 4535, or
online via the Internet at: http://www.gptexhibition.com.
Diamond
Glaze Changes to Veka Profile
Diamond
Glaze, a fabricator based in Wingate Co Durham, is one of the latest companies
to change over to the Veka profile.
The
small family business, run by husband and wife team Mick and Christine
Sullivan, has only been in production for just over 12 months but has
had to confront some serious problems with the profile the company had
been working with. A decision had to be taken to change to another profile
quickly but one with a good reputation in the marketplace.
Following a suggestion from a colleague who had previously worked with
the Veka Matrix system, the couple contacted the Burnley based company
and were impressed with the product on offer. With careful scheduling
between the two companies the changeover which included resetting of machinery
and computer equipment was completed within 11/2 days.
Diamond Glaze which supplies and fits mainly to the domestic sector in
the Durham area with occasional trade work has been delighted with the
results. Mick and Christine commented 'We are very happy with the support
received from Veka. The quick changeover meant a minimum disruption to
the whole company and we are very pleased with the results'.
Style
Group 10th Year Results Show Underlying Profits up 47%
Style
Group Plc is celebrating its 10th anniversary with trading results which
show record sales and an increased underlying profit in 2002.
Despite the tough economic climate, turnover in the Style Group, manufacturer
and supplier of PVCu windows and doors has improved to £80.8m, whilst
underlying profits increased by 47% on the previous year to £2.2m.
Launched in 1992 the Group incorporates four specialist companies covering
manufacture, new-build, commercial development, trade supply and retail
markets and is a national organisation with 38 offices, including a head
office in Bradford, West Yorkshire.
Safestyle is now established as a leading national brand in the retail
replacement window market with sales rising to £73.5m, helping ensure
continued growth in market share.
Chief Executive John Ross remains very confident about the coming year:
‘The company has resisted the opportunities to diversify and has
remained highly focussed on producing and selling the highest quality
yet competitively priced windows and doors. This is a strong, strategic
policy I believe will ensure future growth and profitability for many
years to come.
‘Our national coverage is now extensive although there is still enormous
potential for us to improve our presence in certain areas.
‘Unlike
some of our competitors, we have ten years experience behind us and we
are here to stay. Sales for the current year are already ahead of forecast,
potentially reaching £100m by December 31st, providing further testament
to the strength of the Safestyle brand,’ summed up John Ross.
Windowstyle, the manufacturing arm based in Wombwell, Barnsley and employing
over 500 people has maintained a high level of output and increased its
overall production. The Group invested heavily in new technology during
the year to automate production and improve efficiency – an investment
that has led to greater optimisation of raw materials and a 50% reduction
in waste.
During the year, the Tradestyle division of Windowstyle was incorporated
as a separate subsidiary company to meet potential opportunities in the
supply-only sector of the market. The new company exceeded all expectations
with a 2002 turnover of £2.5m.
John Ross explained: ‘Recent legislative changes with respect to
building regulations have made small scale manufacturing far less viable,
enhancing our view that if the product is right, the market to supply
small window retailers and installers provides an excellent opportunity
for growth.’
Conservatory
Sales Quotes ‘sexed up’ by RoofWright
'The
multi-page 3D illustrated sales quotation you put before your customer
will stand out from the crowd!’ says RoofWright.
Using a new Report Designer package launched by RoofWright as a ‘bolt-on’
addition to RW Gold, Silver and Bronze, you can create an exclusive personalised
quotation for every customer in your in-house style and livery very easily
and quickly with as many 3D illustrations, imported background photographs
and easy fill text boxes as you like.
As MD David Blakeman comments ‘we’re constantly developing our
software and passing on enhancements to our customers. This is just so
different from anything else on the market we felt we had to launch it
as a separate product.’
Web: http://www.roofwright.com
Ultraframe
Investment in Uzone Boosts Local Employment
Thanks
to the positive industry response to the new Uzone™ roofing system
from Ultraframe, 25 new jobs are being created at the company's Clitheroe
headquarters over the coming months as production ramps up. The factory-based
jobs are an extra boost for the Lancashire town of Clitheroe where Ultraframe
is one of the most significant local employers.
The new jobs come hard on the heels of an extra £500,000 investment
in new plant and machinery and optimising the Clitheroe factory's layout.
The investment is designed to support increasing sales of Ultraframe's
new classic Victorian 'as standard' products and the pre-orders for Uzone.
This investment is part of the £3 million the company has ploughed
into Uzone which the company says will ensure the conservatory market
opportunities continue to be met by Ultraframe, its fabricators and installers.
Totally
Devoted to Customer Service
Total
Glass, one of Profile 22’s largest trade fabricators, has introduced
a number of initiatives at its Merseyside factory to further improve customer
satisfaction and product quality.
The customer service team at Total Glass –
left to right: Matthew Simpson, Kevin Kenny, Jenny Littlefields, Ian Hall
(seated)
Central
to the changes is the formation of a dedicated customer services team,
headed by Ian Hall, aimed at offering an excellent standard of sales and
after-sales servicing. He is assisted by Co-ordinator Matthew Simpson
and Sales Co-ordinators Kevin Kenny, Paula Hymas (not pictured) and Jenny
Littlefields.
Says Matthew: ‘We believe in being pro-active as opposed to just
being here if and when clients need our help. We find that regular calls
to our clients once or twice a week makes for superb liaison between the
manufacturer and the installer.’
Frame production capacity has risen to over 2,300 a week thanks to a fifth
production line which is now fully operational. This line was installed
in a 28,000 sq ft neighbouring factory unit at the beginning of the year.
To meet rising demand from its customers, Total increased its workforce
by 35 to 115 in the first six months of the year to meet a projected 42%
rise in annual turnover by October. The company’s account ratio has
also risen by 50% on the previous year.
Total is also benefiting from its system supplier’s new pre-gasketed
profile. Switching to the Profile 22 bubblex saves time and enables the
company to make 10 per cent more frames per week. The five full-time gasketing
staff have moved across into window fabrication.
Says Total’s Managing Director, Frank Deary: ‘Ultimately the
new profile has made us more efficient, saving us a lot of time. This
is all time that can be used more productively in fabrication.’
An exclusive new eight-point door lock has also been introduced, offering
customers a high security system to help sell in the home and differentiate
their offering. A new shootbolt locking system on sashes is also proving
popular for similar reasons. Both come with insurance-backed guarantees.
Total now offers a new 70mm chamfered sash which has been positively received.
Frank comments: ‘The aesthetics of this new sash really help it to
sell and our customers are delighted with it.’
Equally good news for Total’s customers is the five-day turnaround
on window frames, coloured products and conservatories. The company prides
itself on offering a swift service that allows installers to plan their
fitting schedules more effectively.
OFT
Welcomes Home Office Move on Investigatory Powers
On
12th September the OFT welcomed Regulation of Investigatory Powers Orders
laid before Parliament by the Home Office which will grant the OFT greater
investigatory powers, subject to Parliamentary approval.
The Orders allow:
* authorised OFT officers access to communications data such as telephone
records. The powers do not enable the OFT to obtain details about the
content of the calls or other communications, but details of the times,
duration and recipients of communications
* authorised officers of the OFT to conduct directed surveillance –
essentially the monitoring of people’s movements
* covert human intelligence sources – the use of informants.
The OFT will use the access to communications data powers in the investigation
of criminal cartel cases under the Enterprise Act 2002. The directed surveillance
and covert human intelligence sources will be used in both criminal and
civil cartel cases. Cartels are agreements between businesses, generally
made in secret, to set prices, carve up markets, rig bidding processes
or place artificial limits on production or supply. They are the most
serious form of anti-competitive behaviour in terms of the damage they
cause the economy and the cost to customers in higher prices.
As cartels are highly secretive, these powers are important for the OFT
to gather strong evidence in order to satisfy a jury and secure a conviction
or to take action against a business engaged in a cartel. Access to communications
data and surveillance powers could play an important role in gathering
this evidence. The OFT will only use these powers when it is necessary
and proportionate in order to investigate a cartel.
The OFT will act under these powers only after authorisation by a senior
official within the organisation and following the Home Office Codes of
Practice. The OFT will be subject to regular inspection by the Interception
Commissioner and the Surveillance Commissioner to ensure these powers
are used appropriately.
Rooftec
Ltd has relocated its Bolton-based operation to state of the art purpose-built
14,500sq ft premises in Cranfield Road, Lostock Industrial Estate, Bolton.
The new facility combines offices, factory and showroom on two floors,
giving customers the opportunity to fully appreciate the range of product
supplied, and see at first hand the quality of the fabrication process.
It also gives Rooftec the capacity and ability to stock and cut polycarbonate
roof glazing itself, rather than out-sourcing it.
The
move is Rooftec's second in six months, as a result of its continued expansion
which has seen it double production already, with a further doubling ofproduction
forecast within 12 months.
Shaun Rosimus, of Rooftec, observed, 'We have grown rapidly in the past
year, because we have a philosophy of providing a top quality service
for our customers, and we have proven to them that we practice what we
preach. Not only can we now continue to provide the fast and accurate
turnaround on roof systems, but because we have brought the polycarbonate
cutting in-house there is increased customer assurance of panels fitting
perfectly, and being quickly replaced if ever necessary. The new facility
will enable us to offer conservatory companies probably the best design
and fabrication service within the region.'
Rooftec uses the Aztec conservatory roof system for its commissions, and
will be offering the company's full range of roof systems- standard, heavy
duty, combined 16-35mm ridge and the latest gazebo frame. Rooftec maintains
it finds the Aztec system to be the most fitter-friendly on the market,
with its 10 core components enabling conservatory build time to be cut
by up to 30%.
As part ofthe new operation, Rooftec will also provide a full technical
support service, including computer calculation and design, for the conservatory
roof, frames and glazing, with all components pre-assembled in the factory
to ensure correct fitting before delivery to site.
Contact: Colin Bennett
Tel: 01942 720044
Email: mailto:enquiries@aztecsystems.co.uk
Web: http://www.aztecsystems.co.uk
Three
Key Elements to make Deceuninck even Stronger
A three-point business strategy for consolidation and growth has been drawn up to put the Deceuninck Group in an even stronger position in the global marketplace. Its updated business plan builds on an earlier strategy for 2000-2004, which set a target of 500 million euro as the sales objective by 2004. The company grew its earnings before tax by 5.9% in 2002, reaching consolidated sales of 362.2 million euro in 2002.
The
group says that as market leader in the world of PVCu systems and profiles
for the building industry, it already has an impressive range which covers
compounding, design, development, extrusion, finishing and recycling.
Now the focus is on increasing that to sales of at least 700 million euro
by 2007.
The strategy starts with a period of consolidation, building on the firm
foundations that have been laid down by the family-run firm since the
late 1950s.
The family-oriented philosophy established by the Deceuninck family has
been borne out by the appointment of Arnold Deceuninck as chairman of
the board of directors. His father and outgoing chairman Roger Deceuninck
– who still retains his seat on the board and has been appointed
honorary chairman – was one of the three brothers who founded the
company.
It is that focus on people as much as profits that attracted Ron Painter
to take up the post of general manager at the UK end of operations. The
41-year-old took up the position at the plant in Calne, Wiltshire in March.
‘The Deceuninck culture and the company philosophy just felt right,’
he said.
‘There is also great potential here. The strong, established relationship
with our customers forms an excellent foundation, on which we can build
future success for us all.’
That success will be partly down to capital investment. The growth of
the business together with new lines and equipment has already prompted
major investment in Calne.
Deceuninck has purchased seven hectares (17 acres) of land just 300 metres
from its existing site and work began on a new distribution centre in
July. The new 20,000 square metres (215,000 sq ft) of buildings will provide
an ideal opportunity to show off one of the company’s own products
– they will feature extensive use of Decoroc, the company’s
patented colour coating for PVCu extrusions.
Significant work to increase the capacity of the compound unit in Diksmuide,
Belgium from 80,000 to 135,000 tonnes was completed during the course
of the year. An earlier modernisation of the tools department should result
in shorter cycle times and cost savings.
The second touchstone of the Group’s strategy is integration. This
is essential for a group with activity in more than 32 countries, 22 subsidiaries
and the support of 2,700 personnel.
A number of acquisitions over the past 12 months including that of Thyssen
Polymer, formerly part of the German company ThyssenKrupp AG, have allowed
Deceuninck to strengthening its offering to customers. However, the acquisitions
mean there is also work to be done to create synergy and benefits of scale
within the group.
The last piece of the puzzle has to be development, both within window
systems and with profiles for the construction industry. Although the
group has a research and development centre at head office in Belgium,
the company philosophy encourages innovation from any section of the organisation.
Products and tooling are constantly reviewed to make sure they offer the
best possible solutions to client need.
‘The key here is very often our customers,’ said Deceuninck’s
public relations manager Henry Vowden. ‘If they are telling us that
they need something different from a product, our technical teams will
work closely with them to find a solution. That’s how our range develops.’
These three priorities underscore the importance Deceuninck attaches to
establishing a long term vision for the group – and should ensure
further sales and profit growth by the end of 2003.
£1m
Investment from Small Installers’ Champion
A
new marketing scheme from Kömmerling trade fabricator Affordable
Windows - the champion of the small installer - is helping its customers
expand their businesses with a year-long campaign, giving free holiday
accommodation to potential window buyers.
Now with around 100 regular trade customers, many of whom grew from small
beginnings, Affordable has just celebrated its tenth anniversary by opening
a new £1m 40,000-square-foot factory, complete with automated production
lines which have doubled its capacity to 3,000 windows a week.
Managing Director Eddie Gaughan says the company has created a loyal customer
base by identifying potential future retail successes while they are still
small, and helping them grow.
‘It’s very important that the smaller installer has the right
brand products at the right prices to compete with larger installers,
and also to differentiate from other small installers who can’t offer
such a good quality product, and who sometimes can only sell on price.’
Fabricating
its windows from the Kömmerling 70mm bevelled, and the new classically-curved
Kömmerling Connoisseur ovolo systems, Affordable also offers them
with the option of thermally-efficient double glazing units, through the
use of Triple Shield glass, which gives a u-value of just 1.1, producing
double glazing that the company says is 40 per cent more thermally efficient
than sealed units complying with the 2.0 W/m2K currently stipulated by
Part L of the Building Regulations.
‘It’s a quite a coup for smaller installers being able to offer
their domestic retail customers this type of top quality, more energy-efficient
windows, which their competitors may not be able to,’ says Eddie.
‘The retailer most likely to succeed in today’s economic climate
is the one who says ‘I need a fabricator who not only delivers windows
to me, but who can also deliver more enquiries, more profit, better margins,
and a whole new opportunity for my business’.’
As well as providing those key points for his customers, Eddie also believes
that service levels, and being easy to deal with, have also helped Affordable
reach its position as the small installers’ champion.
Affordable’s latest campaign is helping its trade customers spread
those thermally-efficient windows to an even wider base of end-users,
by generating free leads and converting those consumer leads into customers.
‘The traditional means of generating enquiries from advertising,
exhibitions, canvassers and tele-sales is an accepted, but expensive,
way of producing new business.
‘This new scheme is already producing retailers who don’t spend
money on generating enquiries, but rely on lower prices, recommendations
and low-cost marketing.’
It generates free enquiries through domestic retail customers promoting
the installers’ business by passing out special packs to friends,
relatives and neighbours. The pack entitles anyone who has an estimate
for windows or a conservatory, to free holiday accommodation for two people
for up to seven nights, from a choice of 170 hotels throughout the UK
and Ireland. The promotion is running for 12 months, and doesn’t
end until next summer.
‘Once a window is installed it needs to make future sales through
as many recommendations by the purchaser as possible,’ says Eddie.
‘The free accommodation offer is presented in a six-page mini-brochure.
We’re suggesting our installers give each of their customers ten
mini-brochures, and we’re providing the free accommodation to everyone
who gets an estimate.’
Affordable’s philosophy of looking after smaller installers and growing
with them, seems to be working, as business has been increasing at a steady
20 to 30 per cent each year for the last five years - and current turnover
is expected to double within three years.
The £1m investment in its new factory within sight of Blackpool
Tower, includes a Haffner sawing and machining centre, and Hollinger eight-headed
welder connected to a Rotox tandem line. Production Director Micky Gaughan
- Eddie’s brother - says the company’s new state-of-the-art
equipment de-skills the manufacturing process, replacing the work of ten
fabricators, meaning increased production with the same number of staff.
The company currently employs just under 100 people, making it one of
the largest employers in Blackpool.
Customers came from all over the country to the official opening of the
new factory - held the day after Affordable’s tenth golf day - where
there was a display of the Kömmerling Connoisseur system, the new
Ultraframe roofing system, and Affordable’s Colour King range of
entrance doors, giving a choice of blue, wine red, black, fir green, oak
and mahogany, for the external face of the door sash.
Doors
Open in Dubai for Optima Unilock Middle East
International
expansion will provide architects and designers with a full range of partitioning
products throughout the Middle East. Optima Partitioning Systems has opened
an office in Dubai following the acquisition of the Unilock brands earlier
this year, which created one of the UK's largest architectural partitioning
companies. The new venture will trade under the name of Optima Unilock
Middle East (OUME), and forms part of the Optima Unilock Group based in
High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire.
OUME will provide a full range of relocatable and demountable partitioning,
including the futurewall, Mistral, Signature and Elegance Vetro systems.
OUME will also offer architects and specifiers throughout the Middle East
advice on design and planning issues, and help resolve technical requirements
such as glass stability, fire ratings and acoustic performance.
OUME
Regional Director Philip Chipperfield comments: 'This is an exciting time
for the Optima Unilock Group as we expand our operations overseas. We
are already attracting a great deal of interest from contractors, specifiers
and architects throughout the region, which is currently experiencing
phenomenal growth in construction and interior fit-out projects.
'Unlike some of our competitors in the region, we deal directly with our
customers and not through local distributors, enabling us to offer expert
advice and after-sales service due to our comprehensive product knowledge.
'The Optima and Unilock brands are two of the best-known names in architectural
partitioning, and our presence in Dubai ensures architects, designers
and specifiers are provided with a broad product portfolio from a single
source.'
Previous experience
Prior to the acquisition, Unilock had already built up a reputation as
a supplier of partitioning products to Middle Eastern countries, particularly
the UAE & Qatar. Previous projects include Q.G.P.C offices at Al Sadd
Plaza, Qatar Central Bank, Dubai Airport and Free Zone, and the headquarters
of SADCO GASCO in Abu Dhabi. Mistral partitioning continues to be supplied
to the marketplace through many on-going projects.
Web: http://www.unilock.co.uk
Eurocell
has recently welcomed the new ‘Pinnacle’ articulated lorry to
its rolling stock. Due to the increase in volumes of both the Pinnacle
500 Modular and the traditional Pinnacle Conservatory Roofing System,
it was essential that more vehicles were added to the Eurocell Fleet.
The Pinnacle lorry now brings the total number of vehicles in the Eurocell
fleet to well over 140 when Eurocell Building Plastics Vehicles are included.
‘This latest capital investment is yet another indication of Eurocell’s
commitment to it’s customer base of bringing them the best products
when they need them. We have already purchased a number of new vehicles
this year and have plans for more in the near future.’ Sam Fowkes,
Eurocell Transport Manager.
All
In One Windows Extends Facilities
Hallmark
customer and family run business All in One Windows has increased its
Leicester facilities, enabling the company to achieve its goal of an output
of 2,000 frames per week by the end of the year. Reaching this figure
will place the company into the ‘big league’ of UK trade frame
producers.
The PVCu frame manufacturer supplies windows, doors, conservatories and
insulated glass units to the trade, backed by the recent achievement of
BBA accreditation on its window suite. As part of a £1.7M business
expansion programme All In One relocated to a new 60,000 sq ft factory
which has already enabled an increase in production to 1,200 frames per
week, comfortably on-track to achieve the end of the year target.
Managing Director Jivan Patel commented: ‘The company is going from
strength to strength with our name well known throughout the UK for supplying
good quality products. Hallmark has been associated with All in One for
nearly 10 years and has played a large part in our success. Our new expansion
will enable us to grow our network into local authority markets and also
the new build sector’.
Ad
Hoc Chooses Quantal for ‘A Specific Purpose’
Ad
Hoc PVC-U Installations Ltd has become the latest company to join the
Quantal Approved Fabricator Network.
When the directors of conservatory and window fabricator Ad Hoc were looking
for a new roofing system to compliment their products, their checklist
included durability, aesthetics and strength. It was not until they travelled
from Bagillt in North Wales to the Glassex 2003 exhibition in Birmingham
that they found everything they were looking for – in the Quantal
system.
Co-founder and Director of Ad Hoc, Ainsley Moorst, explains, ‘When
we visited the Quantal stand at Glassex, we liked what we saw. The system
has great style, and being powder coated aluminium it is tough and has
superior strength. And, most importantly, it maintains its good looks
despite weathering.’
Ainsley and fellow co-founder and Director Philip Campbell first began
trading in 1992, installing windows, doors and roofline. The company was
named Ad Hoc, which is Latin for ‘Formed For A Specific Purpose’.
The following year they decided to start fabricating, and today they manufacture
over 130 windows and doors a week, for new build, trade and retail customers,
and employ 20 people, including their original team.
In March the company moved premises to a much larger 12,000 sq ft purpose
built fabrication unit. This includes a 3,000 sq ft roof build floor,
designed specifically for fabricating the Quantal roof. A new showroom
at the site is planned for later in the year.
Ainsley
continues, ‘Our complete turnkey conservatory installation package
is bespoke to suit each customer’s needs, from design and planning,
to tiling and electrical work. We offer products and service of the highest
quality, all supported by a 10-year, insurance backed guarantee.
‘What makes our company different is that the directors and staff
are always accessible; we believe that by giving the personal touch we
can ensure total customer satisfaction.
‘We are keen to get more involved with new build projects, and the
superior quality and aesthetics of the Quantal system means that we can
easily differentiate our offer in the marketplace,’ concludes Ainsley.
Ad Hoc is part of the Quantal Approved Fabricator Network. The BBA approved
Quantal system features a polyester powder coated aluminium external finish,
internally clad with PVCu for thermal efficiency.
Web: http://www.quantal.co.uk
IMI
plc Interims Show Profits up on Lower Sales
IMI
plc, the major international engineering group, which also owns Polypipe/Premier
Profiles announced on 8th September its interim results for the six months
ended 30th June 2003.
Sales £780m(2003) £826m(2002)
Results before rationalisation & restructuring*
Profit before tax £68.3m(2003) £66.0m(2002)
Adjusted earnings per share 12.9p(2003) 12.5p(2002)
Rationalisation & restructuring £2.4m(2003) £14.1m(2002)
Profit before tax £56.4m(2003) £47.0m(2002)
Earnings per share 9.7p(2003) 8.5p(2002)
Net borrowings £199.1m(2003) £329.4m(2002)
Gearing 37%(2003) 65%(2002)
Interest cover before rationalisation & restructuring* 13x(2003) 8x(2002)
* Before goodwill amortisation and exceptional items.Repositioning
progressing well. Market positions strengthened. Strong balance sheet.
Masco
Announces Dismissal of all Appeals of Behr Class Action Litigation Settlement
Masco
Corporation announced the dismissal of all appeals from the California
Superior Court judgment which granted final approval to the previously
announced national settlement to resolve class action lawsuits pending
in the United States against the Company and its subsidiary, Behr Process
Corporation. This national settlement relates to exterior wood coating
products formerly manufactured by Behr. Implementation of the national
settlement will now begin following entry of orders dismissing all other
class actions pending in the United States, which the Company anticipates
will occur over the next few weeks.
The national settlement is distinct from the previously announced final
settlement of the class action lawsuit against Behr which involved 19
counties of western Washington State and certain of the same Behr coating
products. On March 17th, 2003, the Grays Harbor County, Washington Superior
Court entered judgment granting final approval to the Washington settlement.
No class members appealed that judgment.
The Company's results for 2002 included an estimated liability to account
for these settlements. The deadline for submission of claims for the national
settlement has recently expired and the number of claims submitted is
substantially below the number used by the Company in establishing its
estimated liability for this settlement. Accordingly, the Company currently
expects to recover a major portion of the $66 million prior accrual for
claims in the national settlement. The deadline for submission of claims
for the Washington settlement will not expire until January 17th, 2004
but the rate at which claims have been submitted to date is also less
than the rate anticipated by the Company in establishing its estimated
liability for this settlement.
Alcoa
Announces Dividend; Will Submit Future Severance Agreements for Shareholder
Approval
The
Board of Directors of Alcoa declared on September 12th (a) a quarterly
common stock dividend of 15 cents per share payable November 25th, 2003
to shareholders of record at the close of business on November 7th, 2003
and (b) a quarterly dividend of 93.75 cents per share on Alcoa's $3.75
cumulative preferred stock payable January 1st, 2004 to shareholders of
record at the close of business on December 12th, 2003. Alcoa has paid
a quarterly dividend on its common stock for more than 60 years.
The directors also adopted a policy to seek shareholder approval for severance
agreements with senior executive officers when any such agreement would
result in payment in excess of 2.99 times the salary and bonus of the
executive. This policy is the result of discussions that began following
the last shareholders' meeting in April. A majority of shareholders who
cast votes at that meeting (although not a majority of shares outstanding)
approved a resolution requesting that the Board of Directors consider
such a policy and the Board has responded to that request.
In accordance with Alcoa's longstanding practices and policies, any severance
agreements with senior executive officers must be approved by the Compensation
and Benefits Committee of the Board of Directors. This Committee is composed
entirely of independent directors. Prior severance agreements approved
by the Committee have not resulted in cash payments or negotiated benefits
that exceeded the 2.99 limit in the policy adopted by the Board.
Web: http://www.alcoa.com
Alcoa
to Acquire Stake in Aluminium Bahrain Smelter; Will Provide Long-Term
Alumina Supply
The
government of the Kingdom of Bahrain and Alcoa, the producer of primary
aluminium, signed a memorandum of understanding on September 15th. The
MOU paves the way for Alcoa to acquire up to a 26 percent equity stake
in Alba, a Bahrain company that owns and operates a 512,000 metric tons
per year aluminium smelter, and covers a long-term alumina supply arrangement
for the Alba smelter.
'This MOU provides growth opportunities both for Alcoa and Alba and ensures
the continuous supply of high quality alumina, the main raw material used
in the production of aluminium,' said the Bahrain Minister of Oil and
Chairman of the Alba board of directors, His Excellency Shaikh Isa bin
Ali Al Khalifa. 'Bahrain's relationship with Alcoa goes back to the very
beginning of Alba and we are pleased to further reinforce this strategic
relationship.
'The Government of Bahrain's plans and objectives include attracting inward
investment to the Kingdom - and we believe that having Alcoa as a business
partner is a significant step in this direction,' he said.
'We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with Alba and Bahrain,'
said John Pizzey, Executive Vice President of Alcoa and President of Alcoa
Primary Products. 'Alba is a world-class facility, and our participation
there will help drive our strategies of lowering our position on the cost
curve and expanding our global presence in the alumina and aluminium markets.'
The four-potline Alba smelter is one of the world's lowest cost facilities,
serving markets in the Mid-East and Asia. Alba is currently adding a fifth
line which, when completed in 2005, will bring its overall capacity to
819,000 mtpy and make it the largest aluminium smelter in the world outside
Eastern Europe. The MOU is designed to accelerate plans for an additional
expansion, a sixth line with 307,000 mtpy of additional capacity.
Alba also owns and operates a dedicated carbon department, a marine terminal,
a 1,500 MW power plant, a 450,000 tonnes per annum coke calcining plant
and a desalination plant to support the smelter. The entire plant operates
to the Environmental Management System standard ISO14001 and the Casthouses
are also operating to the ISO 9001:2000 Quality Management System.
The company was officially established in 1971 and its shareholders today
are the Government of Bahrain (77%), SABIC Industrial Investments (20%)
and Breton Investments (3%).
Alcoa World Alumina and Chemicals ('AWAC'), a worldwide alliance between
Alcoa Inc. and Alumina Ltd., is currently the primary supplier of alumina
to Alba. AWAC has been one of Alba's major alumina suppliers since the
smelter was commissioned in 1971.
Under the MOU, alumina for the expanded Alba smelter - which will require
as much as 2.2 million mtpy upon completion of the sixth line - will continue
to be sourced from AWAC refineries.
Final agreements on the equity stake in the smelter and the alumina supply
arrangements are expected to be concluded by mid-2004. The agreements
will become effective upon completion of the fifth pot-line in March of
2005. Alcoa and Alumina Ltd. are conducting separate discussions on AWAC's
possible participation in the Alba equity transaction.
Web: http://www.alcoa.com
Milgard
Continues USA Market Expansion
Milgard
Manufacturing Inc. is continuing its expansion efforts beyond the West
Coast. Following the recent opening of a new plant in Fredericksburg,
VA, the vinyl window manufacturer has now opened a new sales and service
office in Grand Rapids, MI. ‘The windows we sell in Michigan are
manufactured in Chicago,’ says Alex Bradarian, general manager for
Milgard’s Midwest operations. ‘This office extends the service
and sales reach of that facility and brings us one step closer to having
a manufacturing facility in Michigan. The fact that our parent company,
Masco, is based in Michigan also makes this expansion a natural choice.’
In May, the Tacoma, WA, based company opened its first East Coast plant,
an 80,000-square-foot factory in Virginia. It has already announced plans
to open a satellite plant in Charlotte, NC, sometime next year.
The continued growth and success of Milgard was recently honoured by its
parent company, Masco Corp. Milgard executives were recently presented
an original Richard Royal glass sculpture in recognition of Milgard surpassing
the half-billion dollar sales mark in 2002, and to commemorate the company's
40 years in business. ‘Our goal is to find great companies with great
leadership teams,’ states Charles Dowd, group president for Masco.
‘With Milgard, we know we have something special.’