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Where's the Billboard - Week 2?

The UK's number one choice for windows and conservatories Synseal continues its 2007 branding campaign with national billboards. The viewing figures for the billboards are over 46 million.

‘We have taken pictures of four billboards and every week for the next four weeks, we'll be asking you to say where you think they are. Get it right and your name will go into a draw to win a TV. There's one on offer every week, and the results will be published in the Gl@zine each week.’

Email billboard@synseal.com with your answer and you'll be entered into the weekly draw.'

Billboards are an integral part of the branding campaign. Some customers have chosen to continue the campaign by adding their details to the billboards. The image has also been replicated on the re-branded trucks.

Tel: 01623 443200
Web: http://www.synseal.co.uk

Government Backs New Campaign to Slash CO2 Emissions

A major new campaign that aims to help individuals cut their personal CO2 emissions was backed yesterday by Prime Minister Tony Blair and Environment Secretary David Miliband.

The Climate Group's We're In This Together Campaign brings businesses, Government and communities together, and provides practical ideas for how individuals can reduce their CO2 footprint.

The Prime Minister and Mr Miliband attended the launch of the campaign in London on 23rd April, where eight major businesses set out steps they are taking to help people reduce emissions.

The Prime Minister and Mr Miliband stressed that the campaign would complement the Government's drive to tackle climate change both domestically and internationally.

The Prime Minister said:

‘I fully support this inspiring and groundbreaking campaign. The Government will continue to give a lead in tackling climate change both at home and internationally to reduce emissions globally. By working together - as individuals, businesses and nations - we can meet this challenge and safeguard our way of life and our planet.’

David Miliband said:

‘Climate change doesn't discriminate. Whether you're a business, a Government, or an individual, it is a threat to us all and therefore a challenge for us all.

‘’I believe that collectively we can meet this challenge and the Government fully supports the campaign being launched today.

‘As part of the wider effort, Government also has to empower individuals to make the right choices to reduce their CO2 footprint, influence other nations to join the global fight against climate change, and get its own house in order.

‘We are absolutely committed to tackling climate change on all these fronts and are putting in place the policies to deliver on this.’

Steps the Government is taking to help individuals reduce their CO2 footprint include:

* A new CO2 calculator - due to be launched later this spring, it will enable individuals to calculate their personal CO2 footprint and provide suggestions for the action they need to take to reduce it. The Climate Group will help trial the calculator.

* Assistance to help people in fuel poverty insulate their homes and install more energy efficient boilers - 1.3 million households have been helped with this so far.

* £3 billion in energy improvements for households since 2001 - through the obligation for energy companies to provide efficiency improvements for their customers, including low-energy light bulbs, insulation, and high-efficiency appliances and boilers.

* Phasing out inefficient light bulbs and removing inefficient white goods from the market.

* Introducing energy audits for homes and businesses - The Energy Saving Trust has carried out 4.5 million home energy checks since 1993, with 450,000 in 2006 alone.

The Carbon Trust has given practical advice and tailored support to approximately 10,000 businesses through energy audits, carbon management services and energy efficiency loans.

* Engaging the public - an Act on CO2 campaign has been launched to help make individuals more ‘CO2 literate’, part of this will be an Act on CO2 deal which will set out how the Government and individuals can work together to reduce CO2 emissions, to be discussed at a forthcoming citizens' summit.

* Introducing a code of best practice for offsetting - this will enable people to make informed choices about the most effective offsetting products on the market.

The steps Government is taking to improve its own record and that of the wider public sector include:

* Making Government buildings more energy efficient - by ensuring buildings and products procured by Government are energy efficient.

* Low carbon schools - every secondary school in the country is being rebuilt and refurbished and, as part of this, £110 million over the next three years will go into helping them reduce their CO2 emissions, in some cases up to carbon neutrality.

* Using low-carbon technologies - many government departments are now piloting energy efficient lighting and phasing out inefficient light bulbs and there is an increasing use of renewable energy, including biomass boilers, solar panels and wind turbines, in Government offices.

* Reducing the environmental impact of Government travel - all air travel by ministers and officials is already being offset and we have committed to reduce CO2 emissions from road vehicles and to lead the way in reducing CO2 emissions from the Government car fleet.

Minister Pledges Support for Low Energy Rated Homes

Most first-time buyers purchasing a home with a 'E, F or G' energy rating could benefit from grants to help improve the energy efficiency of their homes.

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) - A-G energy ratings for homes similar to consumer friendly fridge ratings - will be part of Home Information Packs (HIPs), which will be required for all homes being marketed from 1st June.

Subsidies of between £100 to £300 are typically available from energy suppliers to help fund the costs of insulation, and other energy efficiency improvements. In addition some first-time buyers could be eligible for Government grants of up to as much as £2,700.

But the Government wants go further to make it easier for homebuyers to access grants for energy efficiency measures, linking them to new EPCs.

In a speech on Home Information Packs on 18th April, Housing Minister Yvette Cooper said she will be hosting a major meeting of energy suppliers, local authorities, and the Energy Savings Trust (EST), to develop new measures to help home owners implement the recommendations in EPCs.

This could include ideas such as a 'one stop shop' where homeowners, after receiving their energy ratings, could access grants and get reliable quotes at the same time to carry out improvements needed.

Yvette Cooper said:

‘We want homebuyers with poorly rated homes to be able to get extra support. From 1st June we want homebuyers to have easy access to help so they can make changes recommended in their EPC. Average homebuyers purchasing E, F or G rated homes should be able to qualify for £100-£300 support to help with better insulating their homes. Depending on their personal circumstances or the nature of the improvements needed, they may be able to get even more help.’

New research shows that consumers want to know more about energy efficiency, with the majority supporting the idea of energy ratings.

According to You Gov, more than two thirds of people (72%) want more information about the energy efficiency of the homes they are buying. The recent poll also reveals that 71% of people think it is a good idea to rate the energy efficiency of homes. Nearly half (47%) said they would make their home more energy efficient if they had more information on what to do.

The Energy Savings Trust has estimated that householders could save around £300 a year if they undertook measures in EPCs. If only one in five homeowners make the basic changes recommended, this could cut carbon emissions by the equivalent of taking 100,000 cars off the road.

Yvette Cooper said:

‘We know people want better information about the energy efficiency of their homes. That is why it is so disappointing that there are still some in the industry opposing EPCs or trying to water them down.’

In her speech, Yvette Cooper highlighted how HIPs will benefit the consumer by creating greater transparency in the housing market and driving down costs. She also challenged the whole of the industry to put the consumer first.

She said:

‘Most people recognise that reform is long overdue. The home buying and selling process has barely changed for a generation. Other industries and markets have become quicker, more efficient and cheaper for consumers. For home buying and selling, the reverse has happened.

‘The lack of transparency, effective competition and innovation means many consumers can often end up paying more than they should, and coping with far more stress and uncertainty than they should.

‘But already there is evidence that reforms are improving competition. New providers are entering the market and new companies are cutting costs and prices.

One provider has said they will offer HIPs for free. Others will do so on a 'no sale no fee' basis. Some local authorities are already cutting search costs too.

Yvette Cooper concluded:

‘HIPs are simply energy certificates alongside the legal documents and searches that you need anyway. But by providing the information clearly in a pack at the beginning of the process, HIPs can speed up the process making it clearer for consumers what they are getting and paying for, to improve services and keep costs down.

‘It is important that vested interests are not put ahead of the needs of the consumer and the wider environment. The challenge instead to all in the home buying and selling process should be to seize on the opportunity from HIPs and EPCs to help homebuyers get their bills and their carbon emissions down.

‘The Government's view is clear: consumers are the priority. They haven't had a good enough deal in the past. We want them to get a better deal in future.’

Gordon Brown asks for Europe Wide Reduction of VAT for Energy Efficient Products

This week Synseal received a letter from The Right Honourable Geoff Hoon MP enclosing details of the Chancellor of the Exchequer Gordon Brown's commitment to reducing VAT on energy efficient products.

Geoff Hoon has been championing the cause for lower rate VAT on energy efficient windows since November last year, when he met with Nick Dutton of Synseal. During the initial meeting Geoff Hoon called Gordon Brown's office to get a response.

In this year's budget the Chancellor included energy efficient windows in his speech and there will be a period of consultation with the industry to add energy efficient windows to the list of energy efficient products available at 5 per cent VAT.

But that's not all, the Chancellor has taken a further step to lobby the European Commission to make lower rate VAT on energy efficient products Europe wide.

In correspondence included in the letter to Nick Dutton, copies of letters from Gordon Brown to the European Commission were enclosed.

This latest news shows the Chancellor's commitment to reducing carbon emissions by giving tax advantages to consumers choosing a greener option, making higher pollution products less advantageous. Rather than taxing the polluter he suggests incentivising the consumer. He also stated his confidence in retailers passing on the benefits of lower rate VAT to consumers, to make choosing energy efficient products good for both the individual consumer and society as a whole.

‘This is a massive bonus for the industry,’ comments Nick Dutton, Synseal's Sales and Marketing Director. ‘Geoff Hoon has access to top government officials, and his position has enabled him to push forward the arguments about lower rate VAT on energy efficient windows.

‘We were expecting a response from Geoff Hoon about the inclusion in the budget, so we were delighted when he included additional information direct from the Chancellor about the latest proposals.

‘Geoff Hoon has been a key player in raising the profile of this cause within the government, and remains committed to getting lower rate VAT on energy efficient windows.’

Your Industry Needs YOU!

Further proof that politicians are taking seriously the Chancellor's last budget statement: ‘Energy efficient windows have a major role to play in reducing household energy use and increasing the energy efficiency of existing homes,’ surfaced last week, thanks to MP Mark Oaten (Liberal Democrat for Winchester). He tabled an Early Day Motion (EDM 1268) to Government urging cross party political support to reduce VAT Rates on Double Glazed Windows. The EDM reads:

‘That this House welcomes the Government's support for domestic energy efficiency, and notes that to encourage energy efficiency, loft and cavity insulation and boiler efficiency are subject to a 5% VAT rate; further notes that 20% of a house's energy is lost through windows, but that energy efficient window replacement is still subject to 17.5% VAT and calls on the Government to encourage use of the most energy saving window products by changing their VAT rate to 5%.’

An Early Day Motion is a motion put down (‘tabled’) by Members of Parliament calling for a debate on a particular subject. EDMs enable MPs to draw attention to an issue and to canvass support for their views by inviting other Members to add their signatures in support of the motion. Like our own VAT campaign, where we called for as many as possible to sign the online Number 10 petition, the more MPs sign up to an EDM, the more chance there is of it becoming a 'prayer'. A prayer is then debated with the aim of overturning existing laws. So far 20 MPs have signed up in support.

Andy Jones, Managing Director of Edgetech UK welcomed the news: ‘This latest statement is tangible evidence that politicians are taking seriously our collective drive for parity in the VAT rates of energy saving products. Now it's up to us as an industry to demonstrate our commitment. I urge anyone whose MP has not signed up to this EDM to do so as soon as possible. It's fast and easy. Just type in http://edmi.parliament.uk or click this link: http://edmi.parliament.uk/EDMi/EDMDetails.aspx?EDMID=33036&SESSION=885 and you'll see if your MP has signed up. If they haven't, do what Edgetech and Lister’s have done and write to them to do so.’

Mark Warren, Director of Lister Trade Frames adds: ‘This is one of the biggest opportunities our industry has had to date, and we are fast approaching a turning point. By investing literally 30 minutes of your time - and Edgetech has made this easier by including a template letter which can be copied (download it here) - we can re-invigorate the industry at home owner level. A reduced VAT rate will go a long way towards helping our industry with the replacing the replacements challenge. Lister’s has already written to our local MP and I urge all other readers to do the same.’

Andy Jones of Edgetech sums up: ‘EDMs have limited shelf life and as an industry we need to capitalise now. In fact, our own MP for Coventry North East Bob Ainsworth has yet to sign up, so we have sent the letter available here for others to amend and use for themselves. Many of us, like Synseal and Aluplast have been lobbying actively to get to this point, so let's see Government Ministers put their money where mouth is too.’

Kestrel isn't Just Skin Deep

PVC-UE and PVC-U building products supplier, Kestrel© is launching a new promotional campaign on the fact that it uses 100% calcium zinc stabilisers. Some roofline manufacturers use calcium zinc in the skin of their products claiming it helps colour fastness, but for Kestrel customers, it's calcium zinc to the core.

‘Environmental impact is more than just a matter of conscience in today's building industry,’ says Tony Crutcher, Sales and Marketing Director of Kestrel, ‘it is a critical business driver. Sustainability, whether in building design, the carbon footprint of materials or in the actual building process itself, is under intense scrutiny and increasingly regulation. Committed to helping our customers stay ahead of market trends, Kestrel has been working on future proofing our products in terms of environmental impact for several years. Eliminating lead content and switching 100% to calcium zinc was the first step. We believe we have gone one step further and uniquely, offer the only product that has both a calcium zinc core and calcium zinc skin surface.

‘We've gone further because we want to help our customers future proof their business and differentiate themselves now,’ continues Tony. ‘We've also launched a campaign to promote our 'Calcium Zinc to the Core' message. The campaign has its own identity with a new logo stamp and in its entirety will support our customers in making the most of the advantage they have over the competition. Ultimately it's good to do the right thing by the environment, but if it helps our customers win even more sales along the way, that's even better.’

Web: http://www.kbp.co.uk

New Protective Tapes from Synseal

Synseal has new protective tape as part of its £multi-million branding campaign.

Each window suite, SynerJy, Shield and Legend, has its name alongside Synseal's logo printed on the tape, and there's another for roof products.

The tape makes Synseal's products easily identifiable and protects the frames before installation. But most importantly these colourful additions to the range give homeowners an easy way to see they are getting genuine Synseal products.

‘We live in a society that values named brands,’ explains Nick Dutton, Synseal's Sales and Marketing Director.

‘Until Synseal took the 'Ask for it by name' message to consumers there has never been a national consumer branded conservatory.

Consumers like the reassurance of branded products that's why we added the Synseal name to protective tape so they know they are getting the genuine products.’

Tel: 01623 443200
Web: http://www.synseal.co.uk

Synseal is Short Listed for Nottinghamshire Company of the Year

Synseal has been short listed for the Nottinghamshire Company of the Year Award 2007. The entry was based on its achievements in 2006, when Synseal was confirmed as the number one choice for windows and conservatories in the UK. No other company has achieved both accolades simultaneously.

In addition Synseal maintains its commitment to Nottinghamshire. The business started from a small retail shop in Sutton in Ashfield, just three miles from the 32 acre site where the 600,000 square foot factory and offices are now based and employs over 750 people.

‘We are delighted to be short listed for this prestigious award,’ says Nick Dutton, Sales and Marketing Director. ‘Getting to number one in both windows and conservatories is a massive achievement. But we are not resting on our laurels. We have already put in place a consumers branding campaign to support customers sales. Synseal has always been committed to its roots in Nottinghamshire and being recognised for our success locally is superb.’

Tel: 01623 443200
Web: http://www.synseal.co.uk

Glaston Appoints New Managing Director for Bavelloni

There has been a significant appointment in the management of Glaston, part of the Kyro Group. Paolo Ceni, 46, has been appointed Managing Director of Bavelloni, manufacturer of glass and stone pre-processing machines and tools, as of June 2007.

Ceni, who has an engineering background, joins the Kyro Group from the Italian company CMS, where he has held a General Manager position since 2001. CMS is a manufacturer of CNC centres for wood, plastic, composite materials and - as Bavelloni - for stone and glass. Ceni has recently concentrated especially on developing the company's profitability with good results.

Before this, Ceni worked for ten years in consultancy with the management consulting company Galgano Group, among others in strategic planning as well as redesigning production, processes and supply chains.

- Paolo Ceni has excellent basis for developing Bavelloni's business and profitability as well as finalising the ongoing efficiency programme. Streamlining production and processes is also an important issue for the entire Glaston, and Ceni has solid experience in this, too, comments President & CEO of Kyro Group, Mika Seitovirta.

Paolo Ceni will report to Mika Seitovirta and his place of business will be Bregnano, Italy. Ceni will also be a member of the Management Team of Glaston.

Web: http://www.glaston.net

BFRC Energy Rating Labels Hits 300

It was announced on 17th April that the British Fenestration Rating Council Ltd (BFRC Ltd) - which took over the management of the industry's Window Energy Rating Scheme - had issued its 300th energy rating label.

Giles Willson BFRC Director said ‘We are really pleased to see how popular the take up for this scheme has been. Last June when we took over the management of the scheme we had 110 registered windows, today we have issued the 300th label and we know there are a lot more windows going through the Window Energy Rating (WER) process’.

The BFRC with its improved database and web site which was launched at Glassex 2007 is now able to manage higher volumes of registrations.

For further details please view the BFRC web site http://www.bfrc.org

Receipt of European Commission Statement of Objections

Nippon Sheet Glass Co., Ltd. has confirmed that Pilkington Group Limited, a member of NSG Group, received a further Statement of Objections on 20th April 2007 from the European Commission. This relates to alleged violations of competition rules by a number of glass manufacturers in the European Automotive glass sector, including Pilkington.

Pilkington will study the Statement of Objections in detail and will prepare its response. Pending further steps in the proceedings and until a final decision by the European Commission, NSG and Pilkington will refrain from any further comment.

Deceuninck: 9% Increase in Volume in Europe and Turkey during First Quarter

Deceuninck, worldwide producer of PVC window systems and construction profiles, reported recently that its turnover in Europe and Turkey combined has increased by 8.2% when compared to the first quarter of 2006. In the United States the turnover, expressed in euros, dropped by 31%. This gives a total consolidated turnover for the first quarter of ¤142.1 m (2006: ¤143.4 m). The negative impact of currency exchanges was 3.5%. In Europe and Turkey combined, the volume increased by 9.1%. The changed geographical mix along with higher market prices resulted in an increase in the consolidated price level of 3.5%. Finally, there was negative impact of 1.7% for sales of raw materials to third parties in 2006, which were no longer reported in the sale of profiles from the first quarter of 2007.

Regional Trends

Europe
In Europe, the turnover increased by 6%, primarily driven by sales in the Eastern European growth market which increased by more than 20%. In virtually all Eastern European regions, the growth of 2006 was further reinforced. In Russia and Ukraine combined, turnover increased by more than 50%. So this region represents a quarter of the turnover in Eastern Europe on it own. Even Poland managed to submit growth figures again.

In Western Europe, the high turnover figures of Deceuninck in France and in Benelux were striking. In both regions, turnover increased by more than 10%. In Germany, the sales of Inoutic were able to be maintained. The increase of the VAT rate by 3% from 1st January only had a minimum impact on the demand for PVC windows during the first few months. In the United Kingdom, the market situation remained difficult. The striking double digit growth in turnover in the non-fenestration product group opens up promising prospects for the future in the United Kingdom.


United States
In the United States, as expected, the turnover remained weak, just as in the fourth quarter of 2006. This is a a result of the crisis in the housing market, the unexpected cold snap during March and a weaker dollar. Expressed in euros, turnover fell by 31% (in dollars, this means a drop of 25%). It must be noted here that, during the first quarter of 2006, Deceuninck North America started strongly when compared with the other nine months. The drop in turnover from window system was not as high as during the fourth quarter of 2006.

On February 15th, earlier than expected, the closure of the production in Oakland, which was announced in November, was completed. In the meantime the planned closure of the warehouse in the nearby Pompton Plain (New Jersey) was announced, in view of ending all activity there by the end of the first semester, six months earlier than originally expected.

The decreasing activity in the residential building construction has had its effect on the turnover in the wood composite products. The stock, which had built up during the fourth quarter of 2006 at the customer's, was sufficient to meet the lower demand during the first quarter of the year.

Turkey
Turkey has performed exceptionally well with an increase in turnover of more than 20%. During the first quarter of 2006, a comparable increase in turnover was logged with a Turkish Lire that was even stronger at the time.

Innovation

Twinson
In spite of the low season for terraces, the sale of Twinson products in Europe has had a promising start.

Just as in the previous year, Twinson was able to generate massive interest at various building exhibitions at home and abroad During the first quarter, the production capacity doubled as planned.


Price of Raw Materials
The PVC resin prices in Europe (KI index) were 13% higher in the first quarter of 2007 than during the same period in 2006. Since January 2007, the prices of raw materials remained stable but at a high level. In spite of the high ethylene prices and high demand, no further price increases are expected during the next few months.

Due to weak construction activity, the price for PVC resin in the United State decreased during January and February by more than 15%.


Outlook
'The first quarter is, as always, the least predictable and the smallest. When it became apparent that the decline in the American housing market was not a temporary phenomenon, we were not really surprised. Fortunately, we had anticipated this in time with our cost-saving projects. The persistently weak construction industry was the signal for us to accelerate the planned restructuring,' said Clement De Meersman, Chief Executive Officer of Deceuninck. 'The volume growth in Europe and Turkey is on schedule. Including America, the sold volume of window systems increased again by nearly 5%. For our Twinson products in Europe, the year had a promising start. Additionally we have managed to compensate for the strongly increased raw materials prices by, on the one hand increased market selling prices and, on the other, through better productivity For the whole year in 2007, we maintain the earlier reported increase in consolidated turnover between 5 and 10% and a EBITDA margin of at least 10%,'added De Meersman.

Edgetech UK Customers Invest in 25 Machines in Three Years

Edgetech customers are committing to the future of the industry with their continued investment in fully and semi-automated Super Spacer® applicators.

Just three years ago there were three lines in the UK. By the end of September 2007 there will be 17 fully automated machines and 8 semi-automated fully installed and commissioned each capable of producing between 500 - 1000 units per day on a single 8 hour shift with minimum man power. A trend that is reflected globally with a total of 77 Super Spacer vertical lines now installed worldwide.

‘Customers continue to invest in the industry at a time when much of the sector isn't spending money,’ says Andy Jones, Managing Director of Edgetech UK. ‘These customers are looking ahead and can see the advantage the investment will give them over the rest of the market. With the emphasis on high performing sealed units at competitive prices, the productivity benefits achieved through semi or fully automated Super Spacer lines, give our customers an extra edge on their competitors. Homeowners want better quality products, but now also have a reason to change their existing windows for Energy Saving Recommended windows, which is why demand is on the up. And it's likely to be a continued driver for the market for some time yet, especially in light of the recent Budget including ESR windows. It acknowledged that 'Energy efficient windows have a major role to play in reducing household energy use and increasing the energy efficiency of existing homes.'

‘We're pleased that our customers are at the forefront of investment in our industry, and in manufacturing in general, which looking at the bigger picture is great for the UK economy.’

Tel: +44 (0) 24 76 705570
Email: ukenquiries@edgetechig.com
Web: http://www.superspacer.com

Impressive Growth by Freefoam in First Quarter 2007

Freefoam Plastics, a leading manufacturer of roofline and rainwater systems in the UK, Ireland and Mainland Europe has just released its quarterly report. The results show a 20% increase from the same quarter last year with turnover approaching €11 million for the first three months of the year.

Sales in all geographic markets including the UK, Ireland and Mainland Europe have recorded significant gains over this period and the trend is expected to continue in the months ahead.

Aidan Harte, Finance Director, indicates that, ‘The impressive growth witnessed in the all geographic markets reflects our investment in new products and equipment. Freefoam is continually adding new products that are designed to meet the needs of today's consumers, such as our innovative co-extruded rainwater system-Freeflow®, which is currently available as square line, half-round and ogee systems. We plan to continue developing and launching additional innovative products in the months and years ahead.’

For more information, contact Freefoam directly on 01604 759871 in the UK, 021 4911055 in Ireland, or email marketing@freefoam.com

Cervoglass’ Leading Market Position Statistically Reinforced

The superiority of the Cervoglass range has been demonstrated by the increasing number of orders being placed at the company. Statistically Cervoglass remains one of the leading Pilkington customers with orders for the Cervo Activ range increasing by 27% in the first quarter of 2007.

With customers becoming increasingly more discerning, Cervoglass as a specialist conservatory glazing manufacturer understands the requirements of the end user and places these as a priority. Thermal efficiency, noise reduction and solar reflection have become extremely important considerations for all conservatory installations.

Cervo Solar Clear has created an impact upon the market as a side frame glazing product that gives excellent solar control and thermal values. It provides all of the same exceptional qualities associated with the Cervo Activ and Cervo Sol ranges with U value options of 1.4 and 1.2.

Additionally Cervo Solar Clear offers consumer benefits including its ability to help prevent furniture fading. Attention to detail, quality standards and product diversification continue to take precedence and this has been recognised through the increase in demand across the entire Cervoglass product range.

Management at Cervoglass consider product development a major contributing factor to the continued success at the company. As a manufacturer, Cervoglass has progressive research and development policies that are supported by superior manufacturing methods.

All products in the range are produced in-house at the company's new state of the art facility which ensures that a fast and efficient delivery service can be guaranteed. Using the Cervoglass delivery fleet the company will deliver orders nationally within 5 - 7 days either directly to site or to customers.

Graham Price, Managing Director comments, ‘It is evident that customers and consumers are demanding more in relation to conservatory installations. We have seen a steady increase in growth during the first three months of this year which demonstrates that our leading industry position and progressive approach to future market standards and trends is well recognised.’

He concludes, ‘Cervo Solar Clear has already been recognised as the 'best new product' with an industry award that was presented at Glassex 2007. The sales for this new side frame glazing product are increasing on a monthly basis which is very positive and rewarding and validates that we have the right attitude towards the conservatory industry and its future direction.’

Tel: 0151 522 6604
Web: http://www.cervoglass.co.uk

Meet your Quota this Year with Pro-Bend

Obtaining shaped frame quotations from profile bending companies has always been problematic, with quotes often taking days to arrive, only to find that when it comes to ordering the price can often be different from the quoted price.

‘Taking our ‘10 Second Pricing’ guide a stage further we have just launched our new online quoting system, Pro-Quota. The system can be found at http://www.Pro-Bend.co.uk and was developed by Pro-Active Management Systems, a web based software development company which specialises in bespoke management and quoting systems specifically for the window industry,’ says the company. ‘Pro-Quota is unique within this industry. The system is extremely simple to use and all prices can be worked out for any one of our designs within seconds. The system also allows retrieval of previous quotes at a later date if required.'

Lead developer of the system Patrick Denman commented. ‘We were fully aware that a quotes system for this specialised sector of the industry would need to be easy to use. Users of the system would need something simplistic and intuitive, yet still being able to cater for splitting large frames where necessary as well as being fully tailored towards the individual customer, with that in mind Pro-Quota was conceived.’

‘These innovations to help our customers price, sell and market our products are unquestionably the most advanced within the profile bending industry. We will continue to strive for new innovative sales aids and value added products for our customers wherever possible’, commented Matthew Wilkinson, Pro-Bend MD.

To bring complete portability to the Pro-Quota system, Pro-Bend will shortly be launching ‘Pro-Quota Mobile’ (also developed by Pro-Active Management Systems), the mobile phone or PDA edition of the same core system. Using the system will mean that you can obtain a shaped frame quotation whilst in a customers house if required. This version will be available over the coming months.

To use Pro-Quota you can register at http://www.Pro-Bend.co.uk or alternatively call 01482 876680.

Pro-Bend Ltd
Tel: 01482 876680
Email: info@Pro-Bend.co.uk
W: http://www.Pro-Bend.co.uk

Pro-Active Management Systems
Tel: 01482 845700
Email: info@Pro-ActiveMS.co.uk
Web: www.Pro-ActiveMS.co.uk

Glazerite Invests Right Down the Line

Glazerite Windows Ltd (a member of Network VEKA) is poised to take delivery of a complete 8 head automatic frame welding and cleaning line as part of an investment scheme that has seen over £1 million allocated over the past 18 months. The powerful operation of the new Rotox line from Winmac will increase the weekly capacity to over 1000 frames, accommodating current demand which has leapt from 600 to 900 frames in the past nine months.

‘At a time when other companies are struggling, we are experiencing an increase in production,’ comments Chris Reeks, Sales and Marketing Manager at Glazerite. ‘This latest £550,000 investment has seen us extend factory space by another 4,500 sq ft. with another extension, and we have resited existing automatic lines to make the production process more efficient. One of the unique qualities of the new line is its ability to turn frames through 90 degrees, which will further allow us to maximise the space available to us. The arrival of the new line will be instrumental in helping us to achieve our long term aim of producing the highest quality frames in line with the demands of the industry.’

The Wellingborough based company has enjoyed a close working relationship with VEKA since its formation in 2000 by directors John Hewitt & Jason Thompson, and provides both VEKA Matrix 58mm and VEKA Fully Sculptured 70mm frames to the trade locally and nationally. Already having ISO accreditation, the company aims to constantly and consistently improve and deliver best value to all of its customers and when the new 8 headed welding and cleaning line is commissioned in April, Glazerite says that it will be one of the most technologically equipped in the UK.

‘In order to deliver what an increasingly sophisticated industry requires, we have to adapt and update our machinery and operations in line with new technology,’ continues Chris, ‘hence the level of investment in this automatic line, as well as in the staff and facilities to support its eagerly awaited arrival!’

With up to a further £400,000 allocation planned over the next 12 months, Glazerite says that it is demonstrating that it is dedicated to improving every aspect of the business for the future and delivering the highest standards of service and product production to its customers.

To see how your business can benefit from having ‘the rite partner’ contact Glazerite Windows on 01933 443222 or see the company’s website at http://www.glazerite.net

The True Cost Of Energy Efficiency Certificates

The likely savings predicted by the introduction of Energy Efficiency Certificates that form the central plank of the looming Home Information Packs due to start on 1st June will be far less than predicted. The largest of the Property Aggregators, calculates that the payback for the production of the EPC documents could be as much a five years.

In a swift rebuttal of Housing Minister Yvette Coopers' comments made to a vested interest group on 18th April in London, the portal which sees over 90% of properties for sale in the UK stated that far from helping home owners to save money by forcing all properties that are marketed to have a freezer style A-G rating the scheme would actually cost money.

Henry Pryor, spokesman for Primemove (pictured) said ‘The Minister is suggesting that Home Information Packs will create greater transparency in the housing market and will drive costs down. The Energy Savings Trust calculates that householders could save around £300 a year if they undertook measures highlighted in the EPC. But we are told that these packs will cost around £300 to produce and that over 50% of them will be wasted due to the number of properties that never actually sell. Coupled with the costs of sending an inspector to each home and the acres of rain forest required for the reports I think it could take years to recover the cost of doing the EPC survey in the first place.

‘Home owners rightly want to know how to make their homes more efficient but the EPC could easily be provided by energy companies for instance some of whom are offering £100 cash back to people who undertake work to improve their homes energy consumption. Ms Cooper says she wants the Pack to ‘speed up the house buying process by making it clearer for consumers what they are getting and paying for’. This is to be done by charging the seller who she doesn't regard as a consumer of services for information that isn't even required to be shown to a prospective buyer - unless they actually request it.’

Pryor continued, ‘With the housing market already vulnerable to an expected interest rate rises in the coming weeks and with deep scepticism from almost everyone involved in the property market including RICS, Law Society and NAEA, the suggestion that costly Energy Efficiency Certificates will somehow save money leads me to think that someone is trying to gain entry to The Magic Circle.’

Web: http://PrimeMove.com

Gretsch-Unitas Looks to Logistics to Improve Customer Service

Gretsch-Unitas has appointed its first ever commercial manager as it looks to raise the bar once again in the door and window hardware industry.

Mark Steele joined the company on the 1st April, with the remit of ensuring that all logistical and operational activities are commensurate with that of a 21st century hardware provider.

Mark joins the company having spent the last 18 years at Unilever, where he was responsible for business processes improvement, logistics, warehousing and SAP. At G-U Mark will be in charge of the operations department, supervising the team of nine and holding overall responsibility for purchasing, customer service, transport, sales order processing, warehouse and production.

Mark said: 'I’m delighted and excited to be joining G-U at this period in the company’s growth. I was quickly convinced by the ambition that the company has for the future and the opportunity that exists both for me and for G-U.

'Although my background is different to the hardware industry I am confident I will be able to transfer my skills and experience. That said, my first steps will be to get to know the business before looking to instigate ways that will make running operations simpler, quicker and easier for both staff and for customers.'

Paul Gerrard, managing director of G-U, said: 'It is fantastic news to welcome Mark to the company. He has the background and knowledge we need to ensure that going forward G-U can continue to operate at the highest levels.

'Mark brings both a high level of energy and enthusiasm to G-U, as well as his experience in improving business processes and detailed knowledge of SAP. I’m sure over the coming months customers will see G-U’s service become even better as a direct result of Mark’s recruitment.'

Tel: +44 (0) 24 7621 7900
Email: help@g-u.co.uk
Web: http://www.g-u.de

WDM: Maintaining Strong Growth

One of the very first Window Installers Warehouses to open was in September 2005 in Tamworth, Staffordshire, at the premises of Window and Door Maintenance. In just 18 months the business has become the most successful WIW branch in the UK with an anticipated annual turnover of around one and a half million pounds.

Window and Door Maintenance was founded 20 years ago by Managing Director Angus Richards after he noticed that in his local area, no one was offering a repair and maintenance service for windows and doors. It all started after a small ad in the Tamworth Herald resulted in over 270 phone calls from customers wanting their windows and doors fixed rather than replaced.

Having established a good reputation in the repair and maintenance sector, Angus Richards saw other opportunities for expansion and was soon working with Newbuild companies and local authorities. One of the first major house-builders the company worked for was Bellway Homes and it still works with the company today.

Today's Window and Door Maintenance is a company that has successfully diversified. It has four separate divisions; the maintenance division is still going strong and looks after window and door repairs and maintenance for housing associations, local authorities and the domestic market. The Newbuild division supplies and fits frames for both commercial and residential newbuild projects. The projects division handles the larger commercial projects that are specified.
Examples include curtain walling, aluminium and timber for schools, hospitals, retail premises and all types of commercial and government buildings. Last, but not least, there is the WIW branded trade counter.

All of Window and Door Maintenance's PVCu frames and roofs are manufactured and supplied by Advantage Windows and Conservatories Ltd. Angus Richards says:
‘with the company already active in so many sectors, we had plans to open our own trade counter but needed to find the right partner. Advantage has exceeded our expectations with its Window Installers Warehouse initiative. Through this we can provide our customers with a complete range of frames, roofs, trims, ancillaries and tools, in fact everything a local builder or installer needs under one roof. The back up of pricing software, displays and marketing materials is very professional and our WIW trade counter has become the fastest growing part of our company. It's the best business decision we have ever made!’

Advantage's Group Commercial Director - Danny Hague, uses the example of WIW Tamworth to demonstrate how to build and grow a successful trade counter. He says: ‘the lads at Tamworth already knew many local builders and installers through their other activities but even so, they've shown great drive and determination in building up and promoting their trade counter. They've run adverts, posted flyers and even sponsored signs on their trading estate directing traffic to their premises. This year they will exceed their targets by 30%. They offer practical help and advice to all their customers and are an example of how to run a great trade counter.’

Tel: 01827 286409
Email: tradecounter@windowanddoor.co.uk
Web: http://www.windowanddoor.co.uk

Advantage Windows and Conservatories Ltd
Tel: 01625 856488

Caption: left - Terry Jones sales coordinator with right - Ryan Underhill, general manager

Everwhite Rises to Challenges of Roofline Distribution in Ireland

Northern Ireland's largest supplier of PVC-UE roofline, House and Home Improvement (HHI) Building Products, has chosen Everwhite as its main supplier. Sean Duffy, HHI's Commercial Director explains: ‘With Everwhite we get exactly what we need - reliability.

We get fantastic leads, high quality products and excellent service without having to pay through the nose. We identified Everwhite as a company that would keep its promises and go the extra distance. Our faith has been constantly reinforced.’

Simon Reynolds, Everwhite's Sales and Marketing Director, comments: ‘We only agreed to supply when we were confident we could fulfil our promises particularly with the challenge of delivering across the sea to HHI in Northern Ireland. We look forward to helping HHI continue its growth throughout 2007. This success story has led to a growth in trade customers throughout Ireland.’

Tel: 01685 882 447

New Dimensions for Cambridge Architecture School

The resurrection of the University of Cambridge School of Architecture continues apace with the topping out of a new £1.4 million studio extension to the rear of the main Scroope Terrace building on Trumpington Street in central Cambridge.

Designed by Prickwillow-based Mole Architects and Cambridge firm Freeland Rees Roberts, the new development will give Cambridge architecture students superb modern workshop and design studio facilities, ideal for learning and research.

The new building, with its timber frames and exposed structure, is a model of sustainable construction. Natural materials have been used and the environmental impact of the building has been further minimised by the use of efficient construction and energy systems.

Fittingly, the building will now form the basis of University coursework for both architecture and engineering students, using it as an example of best practice in modern sustainable design and construction methods.

The studio is part of an extensive £3 million programme of improvements to the striking Scroope Terrace home of the Faculty of Architecture and the History of Art. The Georgian Terrace is being refurbished and turned into offices for the Martin Centre for Architectural and Urban Studies, an essential part of the department, currently operating from premises about a mile away from the main department.

Contractor ISG Dean and Bowes, based in Huntingdon, is a refit and refurbishment specialist. Speaking at the ceremony Managing Director Jim Parker said his firm had been proud to be part of such a prestigious project:

'The team was aware from the outset that the building would attract significant attention and that all works would be closely scrutinised because it is the Department of Architecture. That in itself has provided us with a stimulating and enjoyable challenge.'

Head of the Department of Architecture Marcial Echenique said: 'We are very pleased with the new building, which will allow us to bring research and teaching together. We hope the new Studio will become an exemplar of sustainable design, which is now the focus of research at the Department.'

Tristan Rees Roberts, Director of Freeland Rees Roberts Architects, commented: 'The developments enable the research unit of the Department of Architecture, the Martin Centre, to be moved to the main Faculty premises at Numbers 1 to 5 Scroope Terrace. Scroope Terrace comprises a short, symmetrical terrace of houses built in 1839, with an extension built in 1958, designed by architect and ex- head St John Wilson. The buildings are Georgian and Listed Grade 2 and the terrace retains many original decorative features. It has three storeys with attics and basements and two large rooms on the principal floors. A coherent disabled access strategy will also be implemented. The undergraduate students, who are presently located in the old building, will be moving to the studio which provides their own model-making space and workshop.'

Meredith Bowles of Mole Architects said: 'The new studio building uses natural materials and efficient energy and construction systems which have minimised the environmental impact of the building. The studio has attracted significant public attention as it has been specifically designed for the Department of Architecture and its students - our architects of the future. The design of the studio will act as an inspiring learning environment and its sustainable construction should support the students’ experience of designing low energy, ecological buildings in the future.'

John Woods, Project Manager of Cambridge University’s Estate Management and Building Service commented: 'We work with a wide range of buildings presenting a variety of challenges - some are very old and part of the national heritage; others are modern and very sophisticated in their design and servicing. The School of Architecture developments combine both these through the listed status building of Scroope Terrace and the new, sustainable studio for undergraduates.'

Marcial Echenique said: 'We are very pleased with the new building, which will allow us to bring research and teaching together. We hope the new Studio will become an exemplar of sustainable design, which is now the focus of research at the Department.'

The completion of the studio and the refurbishment scheme is expected in October 2007.

New World Fast Tracks Composite Door Orders with Own Bar-Coding Technology

Unable to source a suitable management information system to accommodate the full requirements of its composite door operations, New World Developments decided to develop its own in-house system to enhance and significantly improve efficiency in order tracking and production from inception through to completion and delivery.

This is proving to be very popular with both customers and staff. Developed by the company’s IT manager Eddie McStravick, a bar coding system was initially prototyped, but this has been superseded by on-line specification.

The full details of each order is logged as soon as it is ordered and then automatically fed into the planning process where the materials, dimensions and other elements are identified. From there it joins the production queue. From a screen at each workstation the operator knows the history of the order and what is needed to complete their part.

Developed as yet another way to improve quality and identify strengths and weaknesses in the system it gives management invaluable statistics and an instant snapshot of all the orders in the system. In addition it will also offer a way to fast-track orders and help to shorten lead times. service to offer customers.

Tel: 028 2563 2200
Email: linda.tomb@nwd.uk.com
Web: http://www.nwd.uk.com

Adlington Plastics grows with GAP

Lancashire-based Adlington Plastics has increased sales by ten percent as a result of being supplied by GAP together with the company’s new roofline brand Homeline.

The family run business, which was established 20 years ago, has been supplying installers with GAP's comprehensive range of products for ten years.

Adlington Plastic's Director Danny Vose with GAP Area Sales Manager Ben Alcock (right).

Director Danny Vose comments: ‘GAP stands out from other suppliers because its extensive product range means we can always get what we need and has helped us grow over the years. The Homeline range offers high quality products at a competitive price and has the added benefit of marketing support which makes it easier for installers to sell. GAP's comprehensive service, coupled with fast delivery times allows us to complete orders on time, every time.’

Tel: 01254 682888

Cheadle Glass Sees Benefits of Glass FX

Its track record as both a glass processor, and a supplier and installer of glass windows and doors, made Cheadle Glass a 'natural' when it came to succeeding as a Glass FX applicator.

Glass FX is a glass colouring process using the Glasskote system and supplied exclusively in Britain by Glass UK.

Two years ago, already demonstrating its success with a £1m extension to its
Portwood factory in the north west of England, Cheadle's Managing Director, Keith Flowers had previously looked at the FX glass colouring process in Dusseldorf and immediately appreciated the potential benefits it represented to his business.

With its reputation for quality and reliability assured with 38 years in the business, Cheadle Glass could see Glass FX consolidating that in terms of innovation and added value for an already substantial client base.

‘More than that, however,’ says Nicola Flowers, Cheadle's Glass Manager, ‘it also opened up a potentially larger market amongst architects and designers - as well as end-user customers. Once we were in a position to tell people what we were doing, it didn't take long for enquiries to start coming in.’

In tandem with this, the company has established excellent relationships with a leading paint supplier, ensuring choice and delivery is never a problem.

With the factory extension already operational, it wasn't long before a 2000 sq.ft. preparation, spray booth and curing facility was incorporated into the manufacturing facility and a steady stream of coloured glass was coming off the production line.

Kitchen splash backs took off almost immediately and have remained a stable customer requirement ever since.

Current developments included office screening, an exciting departure from the standard screens so often specified for both new and refurbishment projects.
‘Quality of life has to extend to the office environment,’ says Nicola, ‘and we are finding current thinking is taking it more and more seriously, with colour a key element.

‘What's good about Glass FX is the 10-year guarantee offered with the Glasskote system that gives customers confidence in it in the first place. Then there's the process itself, which bonds the paint to the glass making it very resistant to wear and tear, and there's the virtually unlimited palette of colours that gives such fantastic choice.

‘Combine all that with the element of privacy customers can specify. Graphics and print can be applied as well - the potential really is tremendous.’

Cheadle Glass has already developed further uses for the Glass FX treatment on work surfaces and shower enclosures, and have already successfully incorporated this unique operation into several contracts.

At current output, some 40sq.m. a week of glass is treated by Cheadle's specially trained staff. Installation can be undertaken by the company'sown team of installers who regularly work throughout the North West of England. Contact Cheadle Glass Co Ltd on 0161480 6644 or visit http://www.sigmaglass.com.

For more information on becoming a Glass FX applicator, contact Glass UK on 01753 650332 or visit http://www.glass-uk.com.

Caption: Gatecrasher Night Club in Leeds

UK Companies Outstrip Europe's

The UK's largest companies are continuing to outperform their European competition, with those investing more in research and development or new equipment tending to be more successful.

The Department of Trade and Industry's 2007 Value Added Scoreboard, released yesterday, shows UK companies dominating the list, with 210 of the 750 biggest value adding, or wealth creating, firms in Europe.

The annual scoreboard uses 'value added' by companies, or the difference between sales and cost of bought-in materials/services, as a measure of businesses' economic contribution. It uses value added per £1 of staff and depreciation costs, or 'wealth creation efficiency', as a key performance measure.

Over the last four years, large UK-based companies have had higher profitability, faster value-added growth and higher wealth creation efficiency than their French and German equivalents.

Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, Alistair Darling, said:

‘The UK is home to some of the world's best companies and it's a good place to do business. As the recent Budget shows, the Government is backing business and helping the UK to stay on top.

‘Of course, innovation is key to business success. That's why we're enhancing R&D funding for business, raising skills and improving access to world markets for UK-based companies.’

Analysis shows that the most successful and sustained wealth creation results from ongoing investment particularly in areas like innovation and skills.

One reason for the UK's high performance has been its strength in high-value sectors such as financial services and oil and gas. But strong performances by individual UK companies within these and other sectors have also played a part.

The scoreboard lists the value added, or wealth created, by the top 750 European companies and the top 800 UK companies.

Key findings include:
* Value added based measures continue to provide some predictive power for investors. Shares in 19 high performing companies identified in the 2003 Scoreboard are now worth 166 per cent more on average; the FTSE 350 index has risen by only 89 per cent.

* 55 per cent of value added is concentrated in the top 100 of the 750 European firms, while 45 per cent is found in six out of 39 sectors (Banks, Oil and Gas Producers, Automotive, Fixed-Line Telecoms, Electricity, and Travel and Leisure).

* French companies are ahead of their German counterparts in wealth creation efficiency, but behind UK firms.

Companies of all sizes can use the DTI's value added calculator to check and set a benchmark for their own performance.

Vitro Honoured by General Motors as a 2006 Supplier of the Year

Vitro has been presented with the General Motors 2006 Supplier of the Year award for its overall business performance in providing GM with world-class parts and services.

The 15th annual award - themed the ‘Best of the Best’ - was given during ceremonies on Saturday, March 31st at the JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes in Orlando, Florida.

‘We are proud to honour Vitro as one of the 'Best of the Best' GM suppliers in 2006,’ said Bo Andersson, GM group vice president, Global Purchasing and Supply Chain. ‘Vitro achieved the award based on outstanding performance in 2006. We appreciate the company’s energy, hard work and dedication to the success of GM.’

‘This sixth award as GM's Supplier of the Year confirms Vitro's commitment to quality and leadership among the automotive glass industry manufacturers’, said Federico Sada, Vitro's Chief Executive Officer.

‘We are proud to receive this recognition and are devoted to continue supporting GM's future growth needs. We will share this honour with the Company's Automotive business unit staff who once again did a great job by fulfilling GM's Needs’, said Hugo Lara, President of Flat Glass.

The GM Supplier of the Year award began as a global programme in 1992. Winners are selected by a global team of executives from purchasing, engineering, manufacturing and logistics who base their decisions on supplier performance in
quality, service, technology and price. This year, General Motors honoured 89 suppliers for their outstanding performance throughout 2006.

The Support the William Morris Gallery Petition

On March 1st 2007, American curator Anne Mallek started an international online petition to register the wide-ranging support for the William Morris Gallery in the face of severe cuts voted by Waltham Forest Council. In just over a month the petition has quickly grown to more than 5400 names - from the UK, Ireland, the USA, Canada, Japan, The Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Sweden, New Zealand, India, Poland, Australia, Italy, Belgium, France, and Argentina - demonstrating that this issue cannot be considered only in local, or even national, terms.

It includes the signatures and comments of leading art experts around the world and from many Walthamstow residents, all united in their sense of shock and outrage that the future of this unique and highly respected institution and its staff could be so threatened.

The following is selected from the online petition: http://www.petitiononline.com/savewmg/petition.html

Respected Curators, Academics and Historians:
21. Dr Gavin Stamp, well-known architectural historian and writer. He has taught at Glasgow School of Art and held a research post at Cambridge University.
The William Morris Gallery is one of Waltham Forest's greatest assets which I would have thought the Council would cherish. I regard the proposals for the gallery as wilful barbarism.

3955. Professor Peter Stansky, Frances and Charles Field Professor of History Emeritus, Stanford University, California.
As someone who has written several books on William Morris, I am deeply aware of the importance of the Gallery and how terrible it will be for London, Britain, and the rest of the world, the proposed plan would be. It is extremely short sighted, Philistine, and misjudged. Please reverse your judgement and restore your reputation locally, nationally and internationally.

38. Dr Douglas Schoenherr, Former Head of Prints & Drawings, National Gallery of Canada, and co-curator of highly-respected Morris & Co exhibition Earthly Paradise. Lives in Ottawa, will be lecturing at Birmingham Art Gallery Burne-Jones Conference April 2007.
It is vital that the Professional staff continue to preserve, add to and interpret the WMG collections.

72. Michael Hatt, Head of Research, The Yale Centre for British Art, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
I am horrified by the threat to the William Morris Gallery. This is a crucial collection and building for scholars around the world, and also a rich and wonderful resource for the general public. The changes proposed - which surely prefigure closure and the dispersion of the collection - would be a blow to the heritage of both the borough and the nation, and would be a terrible blot on the record of Waltham Forest Council.

3911. Joy McCall, Head of British Decorative Art, Christie's, London
This is a national treasure. The expertise offered by Peter Cormack is second to none.

35. Christopher Wilk, Keeper of Furniture, Textile and Fashion at the V&A, and Curator of recent Modernism exhibition.
The WMG is an institution of international importance. If it is to have a future it cannot be run without expert, specialist staff, especially if the plan is to apply for major project funding, which it sorely needs.

3833. Stephen Wildman, Curator of Ruskin Library, Lancaster University
The WMG is internationally renowned and respected, especially for the knowledge and expertise of its curatorial staff. Any reduction in support would bring shame and discredit to the Council; these proposals must please be reconsidered.

19. Dr Rosalind Blakesley, author of new book The Arts and Crafts Movement.
I take trips of students from Cambridge University to the WMG every year, and am astonished that the council is considering cutting access to such an invaluable resource.

185. Dr Barbara Giesicke, Badeweiler, Germany, highly-respected dealer in medieval and post-medieval stained glass.
To close the WMG would be a cultural crime!!

213. Professor David Tatham, Professor Emeritus, American Art, Syracuse University, NY; author of 6 books and over 80 articles and reviews on American art of the 19th and 20th centuries.
We annually bring friends and colleagues who are visiting London to the Gallery. They are always impressed by the great importance and exceptional interest of everything they see. Closure of the Gallery would not only divest the community of a vital part of its cultural heritage but would brand the community's leadership as shortsighted and ineffectual in preserving one of the few things that brings Walthamstow to the attention the world.

210. Cleota Reed, one of America's foremost tile historians and an expert on the American Arts & Crafts Movement.
The William Morris Gallery is a unique and valuable resource for the study of the Arts and Crafts Movement and should not be closed or limited in any way, including the loss of its fine curator whose knowledge is indispensable to its interpretation.

370. Lisa Koenigsberg, Director, programmes in the arts at New York University.
Save this invaluable treasure and resource and its institutional memory which resides in its peerless staff. Preservation is as critical to the Arts and Crafts movement as it is to ancient cultures the imperilment and destruction of which make the headlines of international newspapers.

344. Marilyn Justice, President of the Charles J. Connick Stained Glass Foundation, Boston.
It is inconceivable to me that English politicians do not understand the relevance of their artistic heritage, the very heart and soul of a nation.

1135. Stephen Clare, Chairman of the Glazier's Trust, The Worshipful Company of Glaziers, London.
I have already written in support of the William Morris Gallery in my capacity as chairman of the Glaziers Trust for the Glaziers Company in London. This is a personal request to the councillors to take note of the great esteem in which this gallery is held. This is clearly a view shared by many people both at home and abroad. Please listen to the people you are elected to serve, give them access to this important resource and give the support the excellent curatorial staff deserve. As part of your function you are entrusted to safeguard our cultural heritage for future generations. Do not let us down.

183. Jonathan Fairbanks, former American Decorative Arts Curator at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts.
Outrageous that cutbacks for the Morris Gallery is even considered.

1209. Professor Richard Guy Wilson, Commonwealth Professor in Architectural History at the University of Virginia (Thomas Jefferson's University) in Charlottesville, Virginia, whose speciality is the architecture, design and art of the 18th to the 20th century both in America and abroad.
I have used the W M Gallery many times... it is a very valuable resource.

4994. Anne Desmet, London, Editor of Printmaking Today magazine
The William Morris Museum is a valuable asset of a great artist and an invaluable piece of British printing history. It should be kept open at all costs.

25. Julie Sloan, American stained glass historian and author of numerous books on Frank Lloyd Wright.
This is an irreplaceable, international cultural institution that should be saved at all costs.

1194. Dr Andrew S. Dolkart, Columbia University School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation who has written and lectured extensively about New York City.
A world-class institution and collection. Should be treated as the National Treasure that it is!!!!

1051. Dr Carola Hicks, lecturer at Cambridge University, former curator of the Stained Glass Museum, Ely, and author of many books, most recently The Bayeux Tapestry: The Life of a Masterpiece.
Reducing access to WMG and getting rid of expert staff shows the council's contempt for its heritage. Your voters will remember this.

1201. Jean Johnson C.M. (Member of the Order of Canada) is the Founder of the Harbourfront Crafts Centre, Toronto, Canada.
William Morris is as relevant today as in his lifetime, an inspiration to those interested in a rich visual world, and a more humane society, He is an inspiration to many people on many levels across the globe.

326. Annette Carruthers, Senior Lecturer at the University of St Andrews, specialising in the Arts and Crafts Movement on which she has written widely.
It would be a tragedy if access to the museum were limited and especially if the council were to lose the expertise of the extraordinarily knowledgeable staff. They not only organise excellent displays and exhibitions which bring people to Walthamstow from all over the world, but they are also extremely helpful to scholars and students in their own researches.

1234. Professor Dr Rand Carter, Professor of Art History at Hamilton College, Clinton, New York, teaching on architecture, history of design, European and Islamic art. Author of book on Karl Friedrich Schinkel, and contributor to the Grove Dictionary of Art and the MacMillan Encyclopedia of Architects.
This unique cultural asset should be fully supported.

332. David O'Connor, Manchester University
As someone who teaches courses on William Morris regularly to university students I am appalled about the proposals to restrict access to the Gallery and to destroy all that has been built up over the years through the dedication, research and scholarship of the curators.

4079. Dr Kate Parsons, Bristol
This would be another nail in the coffin for our country in terms of its history, culture and heritage.

29. Diane Waggoner, curator of exhibition The Beauty of Life, William Morris & Design at the Huntington Museum, California. She is a specialist in 19th-century art and has written about the photography of Lewis Carroll.
The William Morris Gallery is a superb small museum. It would be a terrible waste to lose the wonderful curatorial staff and reduce public access to its collections.

4510. Dr James Bettley FSA, Maldon, Essex, author of the forthcoming Essex volume in the Buildings of England series.
The William Morris Gallery is Walthamstow's greatest cultural asset, and houses a collection that is of international importance. It should be made accessible to the widest possible audience, and to reduce its opening hours will greatly damage the excellent work that is carried out by the curators. It will also do irreparable harm to the reputation of the Borough, and jeopardise chances of raising funds from grant-making bodies and private donors.

187. Robert Reason, Curator of Decorative Arts at the Art Gallery of South Australia, Adelaide
This magnificent collection should remain open and accessible to all. I travelled from Australia to view the collection which is rewarding in its rich diversity. Celebrate this great designer which you were so fortunate to have in Waltham!

4638. Dr Kim Sloan FSA, Curator, British Museum
I cannot believe the local council is even contemplating this. The damage to the collections, to the appreciation of the life work of someone who worked to improve life for all levels of society, particularly the working classes, will be irreversible for this generation and for the future. There are funding bodies the council could approach - they are simply being complacent, lazy and short-sighted.

4616. Helen Fothergill, Keeper of Natural History at Plymouth City Museum
As a museum curator, I understand the amount of work and dedication that goes in to the decades of care for our heritage and the unrecoverable damage that can be done when budget managers axe a professional's post. Reducing opening hours has only ever served to speed up the total closure of a site ... Don't do this to a true national treasure!

220. Ghenete Zelleke, Curator of Decorative Arts at the Art Institute of Chicago
The William Morris Gallery and its professional staff are unique for the combination of collections and expertise that have been so generously shared with the public not only locally but internationally. The Gallery is a rare survival in which many stories eloquently unfold because of the collection's riches and its display within a unique, and ultimately sympathetic, environment.

752. Dr Elizabeth Cumming, author of new book Hand, Heart and Soul: The Arts & Crafts Movement in Scotland and co-author of The Arts & Craft Movement
This is such a key collection of British design and should remain fully accessible to the public and scholars alike throughout the week. Its staff are internationally acknowledged experts in their field who richly deserve wholehearted support from Walthamstow Council, especially in their current plans to develop this unique and wonderful resource.

3985. Professor Peter Vergo, Department of Art History and Theory, Essex University; widely-published author and current recipient of a Major Research Fellowship by the Leverhulme Trust
The council members should be thoroughly ashamed of themselves to be even considering such a proposal, when our cultural heritage is now increasingly seen (at least by the enlightened) as a major asset - not a liability.

454. Dr Lawrence Goldman, Oxford
Waltham Forest Council is failing in its duty to its electors and council tax payers by limiting access to their heritage and the heritage of everyone else.

2569. Esther Fitzgerald, Dealer in rare textiles, London
The council obviously need to resign.

114. Charlotte J. Fiell and her husband Peter are leading authorities on design history whose publications include Taschen's Charles Rennie Mackintosh, William Morris, 1000 Chairs, Design of the 20th Century, Industrial Design A-Z and the six-volume Decorative Arts series.
WMG is for many people the ONLY reason to go to Walthamstow!!!

1022. Charlotte Gere, eminent and much-published design historian, specialising in 19th-century decorative arts with a particular interest in jewellery
ESSENTIAL TO KEEP THIS MUSEUM OPEN.

2669. Gillian Darley, writer, broadcaster and prize-winning journalist. Former architectural correspondent of The Observer, Director of the Landscape Foundation until 1998, and former Chairman of the Society for Protection of Ancient Buildings.
How could a museum dedicated to William Morris be closed under a Labour government? What an indictment of failed (and illiterate) cultural policy, historical unawareness and boneheaded foolishness.

Students:
Jean Bailey, Swansea, Wales
As a student at the then South West Essex School I was a frequent user of the William Morris Gallery. An oasis in a poor and industrialised Walthamstow. In its own context as valuable to the well-being of the (local) population as the adjacent Epping forest. I cannot understand why the Council should want to make paltry savings by the virtual destruction of one of its most important assets. Even if the Council set no store by William Morris's artistic and cultural achievements, he was after all, important in the history of socialism and should be honoured ‘in his own country’.

3909. Arete Warren, New York, USA
As a young research assistant/lecturer/art historian at the Victoria and Albert Museum, the William Morris Gallery was a tremendous resource and inspiration. To see the collection of 19th century decorative arts gathered there was a unique and lasting experience. Please save it for future generations.

4127. Sonja Taylor, London
William Morris is the inspiration for some of the fantastic art work from our young students here at Highlands School.

4184. Alison Kenyon, Bolton
The Gallery really helped me with my dissertation last year - It was a valuable source for me!

4723. Michael Durell, Church Lawton, Staffordshire
I have visited the William Morris Gallery and was very impressed by the collection. I am a PhD student at Liverpool University studying regeneration and culture. It would seem Waltham Forest are failing to utilise the resources they have to support regeneration in the area.

Locals:
330. Martin Adams
Waltham Forest home of William Morris or so it says on the signs to the borough, are the council trying to evict him?

2275. Peter Collins, Walthamstow
I object to the downgrading of the William Morris Gallery both as a professional Arts Librarian in a public library, and as a Waltham Forest Council Tax Payer. How can the Council have the cheek to lay claim to the Morris motto 'fellowship is life' whilst committing such cultural vandalism? Where is your civic pride? I am ashamed of my borough's dreadful reputation in the arts and entertainment field - no cinema, no theatre, no support for music societies and venues, now museums are under fire!

304. David Hall, Walthamstow
All of Walthamstow's museums should be celebrated and cherished. Peter Cormack's position should not even be in question. Instead of trying to save a very small amount of money the council should be committed to the future of the WMG and be behind the current lottery heritage fund application which would help the gallery earn revenue. This is WIDER THAN WATHAMSTOW.

321. Caroline Raffan, Walthamstow
With support from Tony Benn and Ken Livingstone, and so many other well meaning and well informed people, and with Waltham Forest one of the designated Olympic boroughs whose cultural facilities are meant to be expanding rather than diminishing, cannot this Council, who have already refused to allow Waltham Forest to have an Arts Centre, at least concede the importance of the great designer and socialist William Morris. As an ex-Hackney resident, I would be glad to have less well maintained roads in the Borough so that we can respect our internationally famous Morris Museum and local Vestry House which has quite recently been improved so that it could be better enjoyed. And surely there are other ways to raise funding in support of this borough's treasures?

3880. Jean Lambert MEP, London
As London's Green MEP and a local resident I support the William Morris Gallery.

4741. Cait Davies, Walthamstow
Re. your proposal to take the WM exhibits in to schools. It cannot have the same impact as viewing them in the old house where these people worked. As a local teacher I know that having a local resource that is a real source of the history of Walthamstow is invaluable. Closing the museum and removing the exhibits will divorce them from their history. Their meaning will be lost.

4642. Emma Tremeer, London E17
I live close to this museum and it was great to be able to get out of the classroom and into another environment to learn, it'll be a great injustice for it to close down, one of the final bits of culture left in Walthamstow.

4215. David Vine, London E11
The council's actions would produce a trivial reduction in cost in comparison with the vast sums which it wastes in its bureaucracy and in virtually every other area of its incompetent business, but the negative results would be relatively large. It is curious that it should take such action when London boroughs are being asked to contribute to a 'cultural Olympics' to complement the 2012 sporting extravaganza occurring almost next door to the museum.

4271. Pia Tanneraho, Chingford
I cannot believe that the Council can even consider closing such an important landmark for our cultural heritage!

2000. Joan Smith, Walthamstow
This museum plays an essential part in the lives of those of us who live in Walthamstow. It appears we no longer live in a democracy where you listen to your constituents who have made their feelings perfectly clear over this issue. As ratepayers we would rather you plough OUR money into OUR museums and cut unnecessary bureaucracy and your over inflated expense accounts please.

4334. Victoria Browne, London
Born locally to the area, educated about his work and now support other artists at SPACE in Hackney. This museum is the jewel in Walthamstow's bleak past. It would be a tragedy for younger generations to lose such a unique place. It is comparable to John Soane's House in Holborn and I am in shock at such ignorance shown by Waltham Forest Council.

4940. Cllr David Ford, Bradford
As a visitor to Walthamstow occasionally (my father was born there and until recently I had relatives in the area) the William Morris gallery has always struck me as a jewel in Walthamstow's crown. As a Green William Morris represents an important Green Socialist thinker and activist as well as a fine artist. In Bradford we have William Morris windows in one of our galleries, but it is the Walthamstow house that represents Morris' origins and antecedents. Please keep it going and flourishing.

4910. Dr Eileen Magnello, Leytonstone
As a resident of Waltham Forest I resent another attempt of WF to reduce accessiblity to its residents. Given the international reputation that William Morris has, it is totally objectionable that visiting hours to his house should be restricted.

5034. Mandar Puranik, London
In the times of increasing accessibility of institutions, why Local Council, limiting access to information? The gallery is a great Local Asset and needs better upkeep , and promotion as a local attraction.

90. Mark Smith, Walthamstow
These closures are an ill thought through scheme aimed at the short-sighted need to save money. Savings should be found elsewhere. Layers of council administration and Councillor's expenses should be pruned to the bone. This money should then be spent on making the Borough a better place to live in. The WMG and Vestry House should be heralded by the Council as venues of excellence and more money should be voted to them to keep them in the forefront of Borough culture. The proposals by this Council are a disgrace and have lost my support for the future. I was born in Walthamstow and have lived in the Borough for 44 years now; my family have been residence in Walthamstow since 1791. The Borough is dirty, derelict and shabby. The WMG and the Vestry House Museum are the only vestige of history and culture that the Borough has. And you wish to close this. What a pathetic state of affairs.

2692. Chris Barker, brought up in Walthamstow, now in Wanaka, New Zealand
William Morris's links with Walthamstow and his worldwide influence in Architecture and design is not something that should be relegated by the actions of a public body whose duty it is to promote the culture and history of the area.

4449. John Das Gupta, London E11
It is beyond comprehension for a council to be so blinkered about what is internationally recognised as a major arts resource. please wake up LBWF and serve the community who pay your wages.

4498. Ryan Smith, Leyton, Waltham Forest
I wish to protest the gross negligence of Waltham Forest Council with regard to the William Morris Gallery and Vestry House Museum closure. The short-sightedness of the council has long been known by locals and residents, however this lack interest in our heritage and history shows a level of contempt I've honestly not thought possible. Shame on the council for this. We now know your true worth... 56K, indeed.

Some Notable Signatories:
1178. Professor Eric Fernie, President of the Society of Antiquaries of London which owns Kelmscott Manor, William Morris's Oxfordshire home

133. Beth Russell, well-known embroidery designer and founder of Designers Forum.

74. James O'Gorman, Professor Emeritus of The History of American Art, Wellesley College and widely acclaimed author, lecturer, editor, consultant, and historian.

92. Dr Janice Helland, Professor of Art History & Women's Studies at Queen's University, Kingston, Canada., who has written widely on women in the Arts & Crafts Movement.

437. Dr Brigitte Herrbach-Schmidt, Badisches Landesmuseum, Karlsruhe, Germany

404. Margaret Richardson OBE, FSA, architectural historian and recently retired Director of Sir John Soane's Museum, London

3160. Kerry Shale, UK, actor and broadcaster

97. Dr Malcolm Thurlby FSA, Professor of Visual Arts at York University, Toronto, Canada, is an internationally renowned specialist in medieval art and architecture and Canadian architectural history.

4200. Melanie Verhoeven, Curator, Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam

166. Stuart Durant, author, independent scholar and former Reader, History of Architecture and Design, Kingston University

3667. Edward Cullinan, England, eminent contemporary architect

119. George P. Landow, Professor of English & Art History, Brown University, US, author on Victorian studies.

3448. Professor Anthea Callen, University of Nottingham, art historian and author of Angel in the Studio, Women in the Arts & Crafts Movement.

2711. Merlin Holland, France, Oscar Wilde's only grandson and sole executor of his estate

2860. Caroline Dakers, Professor of Cultural History, Central Saint Martin's College of Art and Design

3358. Sir Richard Eyre, London, eminent theatre director

85. Karen Livingstone, Curator of the V&A International Arts & Crafts exhibition (2005)

1097. Dr Barry M. Katz is professor of humanities and design at the California College of the Arts and a consulting professor at Stanford University

527. Professor Patricia Rubin, Deputy Director and Head of the Courtauld Institute of Art Research Forum

4929. Sir James Graham, and 4927. Lady Graham, Ripon, England, historians

328. Dr Elgin van Treeck-Vaassen, Munich, widely-published art historian and author of Bilder auf Glas 1780-1870

3349. Dr Michael Asbury, Chelsea College of Art & Design; professor, curator and writer

5102. Viscountess Bridgeman, London, the founder of the Bridgeman Art Library, the world's leading source of fine art images

366. Dr Joanna Selborne, Curator of Prints and Drawings, Courtauld Museum of Art

71. Mary Greenstead, Decorative Arts Curator at Cheltenham Museum and Art Gallery, another major collection of Arts & Crafts in the UK

2179. Fiona MacCarthy, design historian and biographer, author of the much-acclaimed William Morris, A Life for Our Time.

For more information please contact:
Chairman of the Friends of William Morris Gallery, Martin Stuchfield JP, FSA

Tel: 07977 296831 / 01206 862136
Email: martinstuchfield@btconnect.com

See http://www.petitiononline.com/savewmg/petition.html for latest version of updated petition

See http://www.keepourmuseumsopen.org.uk for more details of the campaign

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