High-Tech
Glass from Saint-Gobain makes Grand Canyon View Possible
The
new Grand Canyon Skywalk, the u-shaped glass bridge suspended 4,000 feet
above the Colorado River, makes it possible for the first time for visitors
to take in incomparable views of the western edge of the Grand Canyon.
What makes this engineering marvel possible is the durable and ultra-clear
glass that was designed and produced by Saint-Gobain, the specialist in
glass technology for more than 300 years.
The company's expertise in glass is recognised throughout the world, evidenced
first by its creation in 1682 of the spectacular Hall of Mirrors at the
Palace of Versailles in Paris. More recently, Saint-Gobain designed and
manufactured the glass in the ‘Pyramid’ of the Louvre, featured
prominently in the hit movie The Da Vinci Code.
The
Grand Canyon Skyway: Left: The vision; right, the reality
Saint-Gobain
- which employs 24,000 people in the United States, many of them through
its building materials subsidiary CertainTeed - manufactured the low-iron
Diamant® glass for the floor of the Skywalk at its Cologne, Germany,
plant. It was processed into laminated glass at three of its European
subsidiaries. The deck, approximately 10 feet wide and 70 feet deep, is
made of laminated tempered glass more than two inches thick, produced
in 46 pieces that were shipped directly to the western edge of the canyon.
Each piece of glass is held in place by connectors specifically designed
by Saint-Gobain for the bridge. The floor glass includes structural interlayers
of DuPont SentryGlas® Plus for optical clarity and strength.
According to Roger Watson of Saint-Gobain Glass Exprover, the business
which oversees architectural glass export to nations throughout the globe,
the Diamant glass in the Skywalk contains a significantly lower amount
of iron oxide than regular glass, which means that it is exceptionally
clear, appearing virtually invisible to visitors and giving them a completely
unobstructed view of the natural wonder.
The
glass deck is supported by outer and inner steel beams anchored into solid
stone in the wall of the Grand Canyon. The Skywalk is said to support
approximately 100 pounds per square foot, can withstand an 8.0 magnitude
earthquake, and 100 mph winds.
Headquartered in Paris, Saint-Gobain has more than 200,000 employees throughout
the world, including 24,000 in the U.S. and Canada. In addition to its
leadership in glass for architectural products, the company is the world's
largest supplier of building materials and is a major manufacturer of
abrasives, ceramics, and other high-performance materials.
Saint-Gobain's North American businesses include CertainTeed (Valley Forge,
PA); Saint-Gobain Containers (Muncie, IN); Saint-Gobain Ceramics &
Plastics (Louisville, KY); Saint-Gobain Technical Fabrics (Niagara Falls,
NY); Saint-Gobain Vetrotex America (Wichita Falls, TX); Saint-Gobain Abrasives
(Worcester, MA); and Saint-Gobain Glass Exprover (Scottsdale, AZ).
Saint-Gobain reported global sales of approximately $52 billion in 2006.
Sales in North America were $8.6 billion.
For more information, visit the website http://www.saint-gobain.com/us.
BFRC
Welcomes Environmental Focus of Budget
BFRC
Ltd Director Giles Willson welcomed the Chancellor’s Budget this
week and praised it as being a Budget for the Environment and the future.
In particular he was pleased that the Government was taking Window Energy
Ratings seriously and appreciated the contribution that replacing windows
with energy efficient windows made in reducing the UK’s Carbon Emissions.
As the Chancellor stated in the Budget Statement:
'Energy efficient windows have a major role to play in reducing household
energy use and increasing the energy efficiency of existing homes. The
Government supports the development of energy efficient glazing technology,
and welcomes the introduction of the British Fenestration Rating Council’s
Window Energy Rating System, which has been endorsed by the Energy Saving
Trust. The Government will carefully monitor the progress of this rating
system and developments in the market, and will work with the industry
and manufacturers to explore the case and scope for incentives to encourage
the installation of energy efficient glazing.'
It was also interesting to note that in Mr Brown’s speech on budget
day he also made mention that representations would be made by him, the
Foreign Secretary and the Minister for Europe to the European Ministers
for a European-wide decision that would reduce the rate of VAT from 17.5
percent to 5 percent on energy saving and environmentally friendly products
in the home.
'BFRC Ltd look forward to working with the Government and their agencies
on this project,' added Giles.
Budget:
More Needs to be Done,– says GGF
Glass
and Glazing Federation (GGF) Chief Executive Nigel Rees gave a guarded
response to Gordon Brown’s budget announcements regarding initiatives
relating to the environment and energy efficiency.
'In general terms I am pleased with Mr Brown’s environmental package,
especially the green loans to help householders upgrade the energy efficiency
of their properties, the enhancement of funding for the Low Carbon Buildings
programme to encourage the installation of microgeneration technologies
in homes and the recognition of the BFRC and Window Energy Ratings’,
he said.
'It is indeed excellent to see that the Chancellor recognises in this
Budget the worth of energy efficient windows in helping the UK achieve
its energy efficiency goals and aims. However, the GGF has spent much
time lobbying Government to reduce VAT on energy efficient windows so
it is more than disappointing that the Chancellor was not brave enough
to turn his warm words into action by reducing VAT on band A – C
windows. I note he has said he will continue in a dialogue with our industry
on this matter, and we look forward to those further discussions. As I
have said in the past and will continue to do so - such an initiative
would create a level playing field for the industry by curtailing the
activities of the cowboys in the construction industry, who do not pay
any VAT, and it would also reduce carbon dioxide emissions into the environment
which would help the UK meet its 2010 energy saving targets. It would
be a ‘win win’ situation for everyone.'
Oakland
Joins the Super Spacer Million Metre Club
Edgetech
customer of two and a half years, Oakland Glass celebrated its 1 millionth
metre of Super Spacer® at Glassex. On the back of its recent CEN1279
Part 3 pass, Oakland is delighted to have achieved this latest milestone
in its 21 year history.
‘Oakland celebrated its 20th birthday last year, and we'd like to
think we've had a successful business for so long because we are always
looking two steps ahead,’ explains Tina Birkenshaw, Sales Director
of Oakland Glass.
Tina
Birkenshaw celebrates the Oakland's 1 millionth metre of Super Spacer
on the Edgetech Stand at Glassex
‘It
was almost three years ago that we started looking at Super Spacer, before
the BFRC ratings had really taken off and certainly before 'Window Energy
Ratings' was the buzz phrase for the industry. But we knew back then we
would be future proofing our customers, by manufacturing our units with
this innovative technology. And it's not just about energy efficiency.
Super Spacer is high performing on durability, versatility and the productivity
gains are huge. That's why we're on our one millionth metre of Super Spacer
and it's also why we're looking forward to the next million.’
Oakland Glass manufactures 12,500 units per week, of which approximately
50% are made with Super Spacer. Having passed parts 2 and 3 of CEN1279
before much of the market, and now offering soft coat, krypton filled
units containing warm edge technology in both double and triple glazed
units, Oakland is one of the UK's trail blazing, independent glass processors.
‘We're delighted Oakland has achieved this important milestone,’
says Edgetech UK's Managing Director Andy Jones. ‘It's been a pleasure
to work closely with Oakland over the years to help its customers get
the most from its high specification units. The demand Oakland is seeing
for its energy efficient sealed units reflects the rapid growth in demand
we're witnessing for Super Spacer across the board - the best in warm
edge technology with its wide ranging benefits.’
Tel: +44 (0)1924 463198
Web: http://www.oaklandglass.co.uk
Sales
of Celsius, the industry’s leading specialist conservatory roof glass
have now hit 180,000m2.
The specialist glass was launched to the trade at Glassex 2003 to help
address the shortfalls associated with standard glass roofs which although
are a vast improvement over polycarbonate ones, still fail to provide
an all year round solution for conservatories. Celsius has been designed
to keep conservatories cooler in summer and warmer in winter and it is
now estimated that over 11,000 homeowners have benefited from this impressive
solution from K2 Glass.
Simon Liversidge, general manager of K2 Glass comments: 'There have been
other companies that have lept on the conservatory roof glass bandwagon
but we can claim to be one of the pioneers in this sector. We have continued
to look closely at product developments in the market and Celsius Clear
is one of our newer additions. Our proven record over the last 4 years
is testament to our product and ability to supply direct to site with
world-class efficiencies.'
As glass becomes the favoured glazing material for conservatory roofs
and the energy efficiency initiative in windows gathers pace the future
for K2 Glass and its Celsius products looks very bright indeed.
Advantage
Expands Commercial Division
Following
many successful years supplying PVCu windows and doors into the commercial
sector, the directors of Advantage Windows and Conservatories Ltd, the
Cheshire - based trade fabricator, have taken the decision to significantly
expand their activities in this field.
The company is now offering Spectus' Elite 70 chamfered profile in grey.
Demand for grey windows has increased significantly over recent times,
particularly in the new build and low cost housing sectors.
Specifiers are looking at using colour more and more and are attracted
by the many advantages of PVCu in terms of appearance, ease of installation,
thermal insulation properties and value for money relative to other materials.
Advantage's Group Commercial Director, Danny Hague, explains the decision
to add the grey windows to the company’s range.
He says: ‘we have been receiving more and more enquiries from the
commercial sector and in particular for the grey foiled finish. This is
a really exciting addition to our range and will allow both existing and
prospective customers the opportunity to tap into a very active market.’
Tel: 01625 856488
Sheerframe
GRP Door System Takes the Heat
L.B.
Plastics has successfully tested its Sheerframe PVC door outerframe in
combination with a glazed GRP composite door and PVC sidelight to a 30-minute
fire rating, offering greater adaptability plus enhanced safety and security
for entrance doors.
The
test success makes L.B. Plastics one of the first systems companies to
achieve the important standard with this popular doorset and sidelight
configuration.
The result opens up a range of options for specifiers, door fabricators,
installers and tenants highlighting further flexibility for door and fixed
light combinations.
In 2006, L.B. Plastics became one of the first companies to put its Sheerframe
door outerframe successfully through a 30-minute fire test with a single
unglazed GRP door.
This latest testing provides fire performance assurance to those specifiers
who require a composite door in conjunction with a PVC sidelight, typical
of the doors required for commercial properties including flats, multiple
entrance dwellings and offices.
L.B. Plastics' marketing director David Strang says:‘
This is an excellent result for our technical team and a development which
keeps us at the forefront of door outerframe technology.
We already supply PVC outerframe systems for numerous composite door manufacturers
and we are pleased that we can now offer enhanced fire performance standards
for different door materials and importantly glazed sidelights.
‘Our Sheerframe product range allows specifiers to choose outerframes
and sidelights manufactured from high performance PVC for all types of
composite doors without any compromise on safety, security and aesthetics.’
Web: http://www.sheerframe.co.uk
Anglian's
£2.5m Drive for Success
Anglian
Home Improvements, the UK home improvement specialist, has unveiled a
£2.5m infrastructure investment in response to an increase in demand
for its services.
The investment will see the addition of 140 brand new Mercedes Sprinter
vans to Anglian‚s fleet of more than 1,000 vehicles, with 12 vans
being delivered every week to the company's network of depots across the
country from March onwards.
Anglian will customise each vehicle to meet specific requirements, manufacturing
and installing a false floor and internal racking, as well as bespoke
roof and side racks for safe transportation of the company's wide range
of products.
The
investment follows Anglian's decision to restructure its UK operation,
expanding the number of regions it operates in from 26 to 30 to meet customer
demand. The new fleet of vehicles is integral to the company's new infrastructure
in reducing delivery times and journey distances.
Mick Shepherd, Anglian's fleet manager, comments: 'These new vehicles
will enable us to adapt the fleet to the new business regions, increasing
efficiency and reducing waiting times for our customers.
'This is a significant investment by the company, representing more than
10 per cent of our entire fleet, and a clear signal of the quality of
service Anglian strives to deliver day in, day out.'
Each van will be a vibrant addition to local roads, displaying the company's
new livery which was unveiled last year as part of a complete company
rebrand.
Web: http://www.anglianhome.co.uk
Vision
Products Wins DEVCO Contract
Spectus
fabricator, Talbot Green-based Vision Products is celebrating a new contract
win having recently been selected by DEVCO, a group of six local housing
associations, to supply windows and patio/French doors for its entire
housing stock on both refurbishment and new build projects. The contract
is to supply and fit over a five-year period. The first project to be
undertaken as part of the new contract is for Dewi Sant Housing Association
which includes 84 houses and flats and the replacement of existing upvc
conservatories.
Owned by the Rhondda Cynon Taff County Borough Council, Vision Products
is a supported workshop employing 145 disabled people from the local community,
21 of which are employed within the upvc department. Currently, fabricating
Spectus' Sightline 70+ co-extruded system, Vision Products was awarded
the contract in a very competitive market because of its proven track
record in the social housing sector.
Says Cheryl Williams, Vision Products' Logistics Manager: 'We are delighted
to have been awarded the DEVCO contract as it recognises our professionalism
and service excellence. Obviously, our connections to the council also
demonstrate our ability to consistently deliver high quality products
and installations in the public and social housing sectors.'
To help Vision Products broaden its business base further Spectus has
been working closely with the company, including the production of a new
sales brochure highlighting the products and services available. Cheryl
Williams continues: 'We are continuously looking at ways of developing
our business and the help offered by Spectus in terms of literature production
and in other ways is invaluable to our organisation where the vast majority
of our resources are directed towards servicing the business.'
Web: http://www.spectussystems.com
Synseal
has commissioned a state-of-the-art picking vehicle (PV). The Hubtex EZK
20 offers Synseal an effective way to pick products in the new 100,000
square foot warehouse where there are 800 picking stations.
The PV is 8.6 metres long, carries two stillages and two people, so products
can be picked in situ without double handling. Before PV, stillages had
to be moved by forklift to ground level, the products then picked and
the stillage replaced on the rack.
Now the electric powered vehicle glides between the aisles, and rises
up to the correct level to give the crew access to the products at waist
height.
The crews had had additional height training to work on the PV including
abseiling down from the picking platform.
Jackie James, Synseal's Head of Logistics, comments:
‘While some of the products we send out to customers are full stillages,
there are many deliveries where mixed stillages are required. The PV makes
it easier to get orders right first time and easier and safer for the
crews.
'The new warehouse racking system is now fully functioning and the addition
of the PV makes the operation highly efficient so customers get what they
want, when they want it.’
Web: http://www.synseal.co.uk
Marlow
Joinery is New into Conservatories
Synseal
customer, Marlow Joinery has just started conservatories and it couldn't
be a better time. Owner John Hume has placed 14 insertions in his local
paper and bought 11 radio slots, based around the 'as seen on TV' theme.
‘It's only the second week of the campaign and the leads for conservatories
have flooded in,’ explains John. ‘Already we have taken two
orders for massive conservatories and over the next seven days, we have
17 appointments.
‘The Synseal name is already recognisable from the TV campaign, and
the new brochure for conservatories is superb. The leads we have created
from our advertising have definitely been enhanced by Synseal's national
branding campaign. We have let local people know that we are their supplier
of Synseal.’
John adds: ‘We couldn't have chosen a better time to start conservatories.
With the back up and support in both marketing and technical from Synseal,
we couldn't have chosen a better supplier.’
Tel: 01623 443200
Web: http://www.synseal.co.uk
Total
Glass Invests £1m in New Machines
Total
Glass, the UK fabricator, has invested nearly £1 million in new
machinery as the Liverpool-based company continues to experience sustained
growth in both its trade and commercial sectors.
Investment
in the Dubus PVC 901 Machining and Cutting Centres takes the company's
production capacity at its 100,000 sq ft premises up to 5,000 frames per
week, allowing it to further improve efficiencies and fulfil the requirements
of its increasing customer base.
‘This new equipment brings tremendous benefits in terms of providing
the quality, service and delivery turnaround that our customers both expect
and deserve,’ comments Paul Ierston, Operations Director of Total
Glass.
‘Given that we have experienced excellent growth in terms of fabricators
switching to buying-in their frames from us and gained a number of significant
new commercial contracts, the new equipment will have a dramatic effect
on all aspects of our operations. There are also additional economic benefits
in terms of reduced wastage and increased throughput,’ he continues.
Supplied by Wegoma, the PVC901 can V-Notch, Y-Cut, X-Cut and Q-Cut from
both sides of the profile. Its optimisation programme also means waste
is virtually eliminated.
Paul adds: ‘Further investment in the latest technology is planned
throughout 2007 as we continue our focus on providing the most reliable
and high quality manufacturing service to all our customers.’
For more information, contact Stuart Waring or Julian Wetherall on 0151
549 2339 or visit the websites at http://www.totalglass.com
/ http://www.tgcommercial.com.
An
increase in business and the need for larger premises were the reasons
behind Superglaze Windows Ltd's recent relocation from Leicester to Tamworth.
A VEKA approved fabricator, Superglaze manufactures a range of PVCu doors,
windows and conservatories for both the trade and the domestic markets.
‘Currently we are manufacturing between 250 and 300 frames a week,’
comments Erroll Lannigan from Superglaze. ‘We needed larger premises
and found the ideal solution in Tamworth, moving from a factory of 4000
sq ft to one offering 7,000 sq ft. This gave us the opportunity to site
the machinery better and streamline our operational capacity.’
Quality is the key component in the company's ethos and Superglaze uses
VEKA's Matrix profiles on an exclusive basis. ‘Not only are the profiles
manufactured to the highest quality standards,’ continues Erroll,
‘but we enjoy a very strong relationship with VEKA which is built
up on trust. Our service is second to none - we have a fast turnaround
and offer total reliability to our clients, traits that we demand from
our suppliers.’
FENSA registered Superglaze relocated in November 2006 and since then,
has gone from strength to strength in the new location. Building on a
reputation for high standards and trust, Superglaze is confident that
the future will be even brighter for the company.
A
Clearer Brighter Future for Windowstyle
Windowstyle
UK Ltd, the manufacturing arm of the Style Group UK, the independent retailer
and producer of PVCu windows and doors, has launched a new training and
development programme for employees at all levels of the organisation
from Managing Director down.
The specialist programme follows a recent £500,000 investment in
new plant at the Wombwell facility and the arrival of a £2m state
of the art glass toughening machine, which has lead to a significant increase
in new jobs.
The Windowstyle operation, which covers more than 18 acres with factory
units over 121,000 square feet in total, is now the area's largest single
employer with over 600 members of staff and the capability to produce
up to 10,000 units per week.
Directors,
senior managers and managers will study two separate but aligned and co-ordinated
management development schemes with modules that include managing their
own development; strategic thinking; leading a business and people, coaching
skills and team working.
For foremen and supervisors there is the opportunity to learn ‘bullet
proof management’ skills to the NVQ level 3 or 4 covering communications
(listening and speaking) and performance management; customer service,
change management, planning and goal setting, motivating and coaching
others, negotiating, recruitment and stress management.
More than 80 window fabricators will be offered NVQ Level 2 opportunities
in glass processing and glass support fabrications with many more to follow
and office staff will begin appropriate courses for qualifications by
the end of March this year.
Managing Director Nick Lilburn commented: ‘We have recently invested
heavily at Windowstyle to create a leaner, more efficient operation, which
is essential if we are to remain competitive - we either change the machinery
or the way we operate or we lose overall efficiencies.
‘Safestyle, the Style Group's retail subsidiary continues to grow
impressively and consequently our organisation has to be able to develop
quickly and flexibly. The quality of our staff is our biggest asset and
the new training programmes are crucial if we are going to continue to
raise our production standards and improve quality, volume and service
levels for our customers.’
Caption: Managing Director Nick Lilburn having introduced new training
schemes across the board, checks out the quality finish of the latest
Windowstyle frames
New
Sales & Marketing Director For Avocet’s Door and Window Hardware
Division
Hardware
manufacturer Avocet has appointed Mike Ward as Sales & Marketing Director
for its window and door hardware division in a bid to further increase
its already successful sales effort, elevating profitability across the
board and contributing to the company’s overall growth strategy.
Mike will be responsible for developing strong relations with Avocet’s
existing customer base, ensuring they receive the best level of service
possible, as well as creating new opportunities in the companies current
operating markets.
Mike is no stranger to the hardware business, in his previous roles as
National Sales Manager for a UK hardware manufacturer he picked up a wealth
of expertise in driving and motivating sales teams, and promoting new
product developments and services.
Commenting on his recent appointment, Avocet’s Chief Executive Jim
McCarthy said:
'Mike doesn’t just bring experience with him, but a broad understanding
of technical sales and motivation which is imperative to ensure the success
of our business. I am delighted to have him on board.'
Tel: 01484 711 700
Email: post@avocet-hardware.co.uk
Web: http://www.avocet-hardware.co.uk
New
Offices for Business Micros Commercial Team
The
commercial aluminium team at software specialist Business Micros has moved
to new, larger premises in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire.
The
commercial team supports fabricators manufacturing aluminium windows,
doors and curtain walling systems using the LogiKal software system.
Indeed, it is the success of LogiKal, which Business Micros added to its
range in 2006, and the enthusiastic response from new and existing customers
which has prompted the move.
Dean Hodges, Commercial Manager at Business Micros, says: ‘We are
getting more and more requests from customers for demonstrations and training
sessions which our previous offices couldn't really accommodate. In the
new premises, we have much more space and a more convenient location for
customers to travel to.’
The new Business Micros office is at: Office 19, Basepoint Business Centre,
Oakfield Close, Tewkesbury Business Park, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire,
GL20 8SD. Tel: 01684 851230, Fax: 01684 851231.
Located just off junction 9 of the M5, it is easily accessible by customers
and enables the commercial aluminium team to travel quickly and easily
to site visits. It also has capacity for further expansion of the Business
Micros commercial division which has seen considerable growth since 2005.
Tel: 01925 422957
Email: sales@businessmicros.co.uk
Halifax-based
trade super-fabricator Polyframe has achieved the British Fenestration
Rating Council (BFRC) Window Energy Ratings A to D on its internally beaded
PVC-U casement windows.
Polyframe
underwent a stringent testing process to ensure the ratings are applicable
on both the WHS Halo Eclipse and Eclipse Esthétique PCE systems
fabricated by the company. This gives the consumer a choice of both traditional
chamfered and decorative sculptured profiles when choosing energy efficient
rated windows.
The news comes at the end of a successful year for Polyframe. Established
in 1994, Polyframe has flourished over its 12 years in fabrication - and
reached a sustained production level of 5000 frames per week in 2006.
The WER achievement follows hard on the heels of Polyframe's major coup
in securing a deal with emergency repairs business, Homeserve. The deal
worth £15 million will see Polyframe supply Homeserve's extensive
network of 45 branches nationwide on a 5 day lead time.
John Hunt, Business Development Manager at WHS Halo says, ‘2006 saw
Polyframe go from strength to strength - and achieving WER ratings is
a fantastic way to start to the New Year. We have worked closely with
Polyframe to see them realise this and are obviously delighted for them,
and over our continuing association’.
Increased environmental awareness from the consumer means people are exercising
greater 'greener' consideration in their buying choices - and are seeking
ways to make their lives more environmentally friendly. Home improvements
are no exception, and a combination of increasing legislative pressure
and 'consumer pull' in favour of WER windows; make it essential for fabricators
to invest time and resources in achieving the ratings - and soon!
Following its WER success, Polyframe will continue to accelerate throughout
2007 - with a number of initiatives already underway - and with its track
record so far, its looks like being a dynamic year ahead.
Tel: 01422 330460
Caption: John Hunt, WHS Halo (left) and Charles Gear, Polyframe's Production
Director (right).
New
Window Opportunities to Open in Devon and Kent
Safestyle
UK Ltd., the independent replacement window and door manufacturer and
retailer in the UK, is opening new windows of opportunity for householders
and job seekers in Devon and Kent. It will see over 60 new jobs created
across the board covering management, sales and fitting.
The
company, which is part of the Style Group UK, is opening a new branch
in Exeter, Devon to increase the marketing, sales and installation of
its award winning PVCu windows and doors in the South West and increase
its network of 41 branches covering the whole of the United Kingdom.
At the same time the company is to open a new installation department
in Dartford, Kent which will increase the efficiency and improve the Safestyle
operation in the increasingly busy South East.
John Ross, the Chief Executive, of The Style Group, explained: 'These
two developments strongly reflect the phenomenal growth of our Group since
inception nearly 15 years ago. In that time we have produced record sales
every year on the back of very recognisable and popular celebrity-led
advertising campaigns on both television and radio while our products,
which have been constantly upgraded and improved remain both price competitive
and of the highest quality to beat off our competitors in an extremely
tough industry.
'The new branch and installation department will be stocked with our latest
exclusive 'Vogue' window frame designs which have already proved a big
winner for 2007 and are enabling us to maintain our position as market
leaders.
'The designs utilise the latest advanced technology to bring a smoother
and more rounded appearance, producing a better aesthetic look while at
the same time ensuring they meet the highest British Industry Standards. They
include the latest internal beading, fire escape hinges as standard and
the energy efficient Pilkington K glass doubled glazed sealed units with
high quality locking systems and high performance sealing.'
Mr. Ross added: 'The new branch and installation department will
enable us to meet the increasing demand for windows and doors in the South
East and South West and will offer new and exciting opportunities for
many people in those areas.
'We will be working hard in the marketing department to lift our profile
in these areas with lots of introductory and beneficial promotions and
media coverage, which will outline the latest offers, including our extremely
successful 'buy the front and get the back free' campaign.'
PVCu
Direct Celebrates 10 Year Anniversary
Staffordshire-based PVCu Direct was founded by Managing Director Bob Plimmer and this year is celebrating its 10th anniversary. The company originally began as a domestic window company but five years ago changed to a trade only supplier. It now has a national customer base and supplies Rehau 70mm and Spectus Elite 70 frames, doors, conservatories and glass. In fact, anything the customer needs, PVCu Direct will be happy to provide.
The
PVCu Direct team. Left to right - Bob Pillinger, Bob Plimmer, Nick Plimmer
and Andy Ankrett
The
company prides itself on providing a level of service which is rarely
available to small companies. Bob Plimmer explains: ‘when I first
started PVCu Direct many companies I approached to supply me said I was
too small and wouldn't let me buy from them. This annoyed me because I
believe that every company deserves support, particularly small businesses.
As everyone knows, small businesses can grow into large businesses and
as we've grown I have continued, where possible, to support those companies
who showed faith in me. I apply the same philosophy to my customers at
PVCu Direct.’
In building a national supply - only business, PVCu Direct has challenged
the role of the trade fabricator. Instead of concentrating on manufacturing,
the company has taken the lead on service. It offers the same low prices
regardless of the size of order and undertakes to deliver wherever the
customer requires, even on site.
To complement its national supply business, the company has opened a trade
counter to supply its local customers. Branded under 'Window Installers
Warehouse', the trade counter has been set up in partnership with PVCu
Direct's frame and roof supplier - Advantage Windows and Conservatories
Ltd. Local builders and installers can come in and buy frames, doors,
conservatories and a host of other top branded products at very competitive
prices.
Bob Plimmer and his long serving team of Nick Plimmer, Andy Ankrett, Mike
Holmes and Bob Pillinger have many years of experience in looking after
all of their customers. Bob says: ‘our ten successful years are down
to a team effort and offering a great level of service to the smaller
companies. I'm looking forward to the next decade and seeing lots of our
customers continue to grow.’
Tel: 01543 364000
Email: holmes.mike@btconnect.com
New
Kömmerling Partner Undergoes Metamorphosis
A
new Kömmerling partner has reached its next evolutionary step with
over £2.1 million invested in new premises and machinery to a manufacturing
capacity of 700 frames per week. Marketing support from systems company
Kömmerling produced a modern corporate rebranding of Dagenham based
DDG Group (formerly Discount [Construction] Double Glazing).
A Compulsory Purchase Order had forced DDG Group to move premises from
the company’s Stratford branch as its property fell under the Olympic
Zone. The firm's new 40,000ft2 base on Wantz Road in Dagenham was opened
by the Mayor of Dagenham and Barking.
DDG Group Manager Mrs Jeya Lachani says the company has used the move
as an opportunity to rethink its business strategy, ‘We're ringing
in some major changes in our company, expanding twofold - creating a product
range which best represents us a company operating at the quality end
of the market.’
[left
to right] Hasmukh Vekria (welder), Raj Nanji (surveyor), Mayor Deen Hunt
The
dynamic 'DDG Group' brand now encompasses four subsidiary companies DDG
Arches, DDG Windows, DDG Maintenance and DDG Bi-folding Doors.
Dan Whalley Kömmerling National Sales and Marketing Manager assisted
DDG Group with its rebrand. He said, ‘DDG Group is a great new account
win for us. It is a very ambitious, capable and professional outfit.’
DDG Group was one of the first double glazing companies in East London
and has been trading for over 20 years. It has earned its reputation as
a trusted and reliable company through its belief in quality products,
honest advice and putting customers first.
The
Mayor of Barking and Dagenham Dee Hunt, DDG Group Manager Jeya Lachani,
and DDG Group Surveyor Raj Nanji
Jeya
says joining Kömmerling is a continuation of those values, ‘We
chose Kömmerling because its products are synonymous with high quality
- it is well respected throughout the window industry and the commercial
arena.
‘In particular, we were impressed with the new Kömmerling System
70 Gold profile and its five chamber technology. We were already using
the Triseal warm-edge sealed units and wanted to move over to a good five
chamber system which would better enhance thermal insulation.’
DDG Group has placed great importance on maintaining a diverse product
portfolio, recently adding a new glass factory producing hi-tech insulated
glass units. It is currently expanding its profile bending and UPVC bi-folding
doors divisions of the Group due to customer demand.
The
profile bending arm of DDG Group
The new production machinery, including Dubas prep and cutting centre,
Rotox corner cleaner and Wegoma four head welder, single head welder &
auto reinforcement screwdriver altogether represent a £350,000 total
investment in machinery.
DDG started trading in 1984, and became a limited company in 1986. The
company started from a small industrial unit and has grown into the striving
Group it is today. Jeya Lachani said, ‘This move marks the transition
from the older generation; our fathers, to us; the younger generation.
Our company name has changed but our work ethic and values remain the
same.’
Tel: 0845 260 2888
Email: info@discountdoubleglazing.co.uk
Manufacturing
Best Practice puts Plastex on the Lean Journey to Success
Redditch-based
PVCu door and window manufacturer, Plastex Ltd, is celebrating its manufacturing
success with news of a high volume social housing contract after calling
on the government's Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) for advice and
support.
The
firm has seen a productivity increase of 60% along with a three-fold increase
in turnover as a result of working with MAS to re-layout the factory and
implement lean techniques, an organisation process which stems from Toyota
in Japan to boost efficiency, safety and cleanliness.
Employing 56 people, Plastex acknowledged that it would have been a struggle
to successfully manufacture the sheer volume of the new contract and sustain
its existing business had the company not embarked upon its lean journey.
MAS Specialist Manufacturing Advisor Iain Robertson first audited the
company's manufacturing operation in January 2005 and immediately recognised
that the layout was not optimised for work flow. This was costing Plastex
in terms of distanced travelled by factory workers and the double handling
of materials.
After meeting with Managing Director, Roger Hussell, Iain then video recorded
the problem areas and played back footage to staff for them to identify
areas for development. MAS Lean Specialist Chris Butlin then gave a presentation
on implementing lean techniques.
A
re-layout and change in job roles was implemented over a weekend which
resulted in less travelling for workers and less handling of parts.
The purchase of a CNC router, a computer numerical control system that
controls the motion of tools and parts removed bottlenecks in production,
and framing rigs for the final assembly of windows, glass, beading and
gaskets improved efficiency.
Plastex Managing Director, Roger Hussell, said: ‘MAS helped us to
reduce a lot of unnecessary waste and more than double our production
operation. With guidance from the expert advisors, we were able to drive
home the importance of continuous improvement to staff and now that we
have started there really is no stopping us.’
The Plastex efficiency drive has also seen the company trial laser measures
with direct links to the quoting department, producing costs automatically
and creating an electronic file which manages the entire process if an
order is placed.
Chris Butlin, MAS Lean Specialist, said: ‘Every day we meet companies
who want to explore the opportunities of lean manufacturing. Plastex is
a fantastic example of a company that is reaping the benefits of implementing
lean thinking throughout the organisation.
‘It was great to work with a company that had a commitment to lean
from the very top. Roger was an inspiration throughout the project and
actively encouraged the participation of his teams on a day-to-day basis.’
Web: http://www.mas.dti.gov.uk
Conzzeta
Group 2006: Bystronic Performs Well
Net
revenue of the Conzzeta Group rose 10.4% from CHF 1153.4 million to CHF
1273.6 million on the back of positive stimuli from the economy, the range
of new products launched and the extension of the company's geographic
reach.
The biggest rise in revenues was posted by the Sheet Metal Processing
Systems business unit, but all the other business units reported higher
revenues as well. After factoring in acquisitions, disposals and currency
translation effects, growth came to 15.7%.
Operating profit (EBIT) improved by 20.6% to CHF 80.6 million (previous
year: CHF 66.8 million). Group profit after tax rose by CHF 7.5 million
to CHF 71.1 million (CHF 63.6 million).
The favourable economic climate prevailing worldwide during 2006 drove
strong sales growth in all business units of the Conzzeta Group, especially
in Sheet Metal Processing Systems. Organic growth far outweighed the effect
of divesting the construction-related operations - which eliminated net
revenue of CHF 102 million - with Group revenues rising 10.4% to CHF 1273.6
million.
As a result of the changes in the portfolio of holdings and the strong
organic growth, the share of Machinery and Systems Engineering in the
Conzzeta Group activities rose to 71%.
The disposal of the construction-related businesses, which were geared
to the domestic market, also had an impact on the geographic distribution
of Group net revenues. The share of revenues generated in Switzerland
declined from 22% to 13%. The rest of Europe accounted for 58% of Group
revenues, North America for 15%, Asia for 12% and the other continents
for 2%.
Improved profitability
Operating profit (EBIT) surged by 20.6%, reflecting an improvement in
profitability. The pace of improvement slowed in the final months of the
year because the second half of 2005 had already seen a steep increase
in profits, and the effect of higher costs due to production bottlenecks
was making itself felt.
Moreover, the Glass Processing Systems and Automation Systems business
units had to absorb special costs for complex customer projects, which
ate into their earnings.
On balance, profit before taxes rose by CHF 13.5 million. Since most of
this profit was generated in companies that cannot offset their earnings,
tax expenditure rose by a disproportionately high CHF 6.1 million. Group
profit after tax rose by CHF 7.5 million to CHF 71.1 million. The impact
of the divested operations on ordinary profit was negligible, yet these
transactions generated an extraordinary profit of CHF 9.4 million. Group
profit in the previous year also contained an extraordinary profit of
a similar amount, but from real estate transactions.
With an equity ratio of 70.1% at the end of 2006, the financing of the
Conzzeta Group is still on a very solid footing. Its comfortable liquidity
position, consisting of cash, cash equivalents and securities amounting
to CHF 212.4 million (previous year: CHF 170.2 million) allows further
expansion, though this is to be undertaken with all due caution.
The Board of Directors proposes increasing the dividend from CHF 40 to
CHF 45 per bearer share on the strength of the Group's improved profitability.
Business units
Sheet Metal Processing Systems
The largest business unit, Sheet Metal Processing Systems (Bystronic),
reported record sales last year of CHF 632.0 million, equivalent to a
29.0% increase. It generated the revenue growth by its own efforts and
in all market regions and product groups. Order intake also rose in the
course of the year, and the order backlog at the end of 2006 was well
above the previous year's level. The investments made in past years to
strengthen our international market presence, develop new products and
streamline processes are the basis for the present growth.
Glass Processing Systems
The 11.6% revenue increase in Glass Processing Systems (Bystronic glass)
to CHF 219.2 million stems mainly from heavier demand for facilities for
the manufacture of insulating glass. Growth in Europe was particularly
strong. A new distribution company was founded in China to improve local
delivery of customer services. The unit is continuing to focus intensively
on growth markets, particularly in Eastern Europe.
Other Industrial Activities
Following the disposal of the Swiss Lack Group and the businessactivities
of Siegfried Keller AG and Prebeton SA, the only company remaining under
Other Industrial Activities is Schmid Rhyner AG, which specializes in
print finishing products. In the reporting year, Schmid Rhyner stepped
up its marketing efforts and launched new products, enabling it to raise
revenues to CHF 36.5 million, an increase of 15.5%.
Investments and acquisitions
Investments in property, plant and equipment, software and licenses rose
slightly from CHF 28.5 million to CHF 31.8 million. A major part of the
investment, CHF 18.1 million, was in Switzerland. The largest investment
in property, plant and equipment was for a new production facility for
natural latex products in Döttingen, Switzerland, made by the Foam
Materials business unit. Important investments in production expansion
were made by Bystronic at Niederönz, Switzerland and Gotha, Germany,
and at the Bystronic glass company Lenhardt in Neuhausen-Hamberg, Germany.
Employees
The number of employees at year-end remained practically unchanged from
the previous year. At December 31, 2006, the overall payroll of Conzzeta
Group companies stood at 3273, compared with 3280 a year ago. The disposal
of certain operations meant that some 300 people left the Conzzeta Group.
By contrast, headcount was increased in the Sheet Metal Processing Systems
business unit and as a result of the acquisitions made by Automation Systems.
The proportion of staff employed abroad rose to 57%.
Change in Board of Directors
After 26 years in office, Christoph Spoerry, Vice-Chairman of the Board,
has announced his retirement as of the date of the next Annual General
Meeting on April 24th, 2007. The Board of Directors proposes the election
of Philip Mosimann, CEO of Bucher Industries, Niederweningen, to succeed
Christoph Spoerry.
Trends and outlook
The healthy order backlog in the various business units give Conzzeta
confidence about the future. However, the signs of an overheating economy
should not be disregarded. For this reason, it is important to remain
very flexible in order to be able to react to market developments. Raw
material prices are not expected to fall in 2007 either.
A challenge facing the company is the ongoing shift of markets to other
regions. That is why Conzzeta is giving priority to further improving
productivity and its cost structure, developing products that the market
wants and expanding its presence in key markets.
We remain confident about the fundamental economic situation of our Group,
particularly in Europe. The planned investments and the targeted improvements
will also generate expenses, which explains our cautious guidance as regards
earnings.
The
UK's best selling multi-point lock is set to make a welcome return after
Gretsch-Unitas announced that a completely new range of FERCO multi-point
locks are now available to manufacturers.
One
of the favourite brands in the door and window industry for over 30 years,
FERCO hardware has long been synonymous with quality and excellence.
The complete new range will be no different, with all of the products
Sold Secure approved and built to last - which is one of the reasons why
all FERCO products will come with G-U's new 25-year guarantee.
Commenting on the return of the range, managing director Paul Gerrard
(pictured) said:
‘We are delighted to be bringing back the FERCO range with its unparalleled
reputation and a heritage of excellence in both design and manufacturing
that gives our customers unrivalled piece of mind.
‘The new range of FERCO products will set new standards for the industry.
For too long there has been a trend towards using cheap locks as a way
of cutting costs, but it's a real false economy. Low cost multi-point
locks are fundamentally flawed, often resulting in expensive call-backs
to fix them whilst they also provide easy pickings for burglars.
‘The message we're giving with the return of FERCO is that quality
is worth paying the little bit extra for in order to protect the reputation
of fabricators and their customers.’
The product launch will be supported by a hard-hitting trade advertising
campaign under the strapline 'Give an F. Fit FERCO', warning of the potential
pitfalls of using cheaper, inferior locks.
The advertisements will be appearing in key trade publications in the
coming months, but anyone wanting to find out more about the new FERCO
range can call customer services on 024 7621 7900.
New
Household Figures Show Urgent Need for Increased Housing Supply, says
HBF
Responding
to official Government figures which show that the rate of new household
formation in England is projected to be 223,000 per year up to 2026, Executive
Chairman of the Home Builders Federation (HBF), Stewart Baseley, says:
‘These figures provide an urgent reminder of the chronic shortage
of housing this country faces. Young people are finding it increasingly
hard to buy their own homes as the shortage of supply continues to fuel
house price inflation.
‘Government targets aim to raise annual house building in England
to 200,000 by 2016, so today's figures show that the current rate of 160,000
new home completions leaves a shortfall of over 60,000 homes per year.
‘These projections show the critical need for local authorities to
bring land forward for development and increase the flow of planning permissions
so that house builders can build the homes we so desperately need. We
need to provide choice and enable all parts of the market, particularly
first-time buyers, to meet their housing aspirations.’
Web: http://www.hbf.co.uk
NHBC
Response To Woodrow And Wimpey Merger
NHBC,
a leading authority and expert on new home construction in the UK said
today that the potential merger between Taylor Woodrow and George Wimpey,
set to create the UK's largest house-builder, was a clear indicator of
the growing economic and political importance of the industry.
The new company will likely be the third housebuilder to enter the FTSE
100 share index, a major step in highlighting the contribution of the
house-building sector to the UK economy as it responds to greater Government
focus on increasing housing supply.
Imtiaz Farookhi, Chief Executive, NHBC, said: 'The news of this merger
comes at a time when the challenges facing the house-building industry,
through Government targets on increased housing supply, improved customer
satisfaction and tackling the zero carbon home agenda, has never been
greater.
'On the sustainability front the Government has outlined ambitious targets
for the house-building sector in achieving the broader aims of reducing
carbon emissions for the country. NHBC has backed this increasing focus
on sustainability and our independent research institution - the NHBC
Foundation - has already begun delivering on a programme of reports and
findings on the sustainability agenda.
'The Foundation's sister organisation, the National Centre for Excellence
in Housing, will be working on broader policy themes surrounding the zero
carbon homes agenda and focus on bringing together key stakeholders to
debate and shape housing policy.'
• NHBC's primary purpose is to help raise standards in the new house-building
industry and provide consumer protection for new house buyers.
NHBC's ten-year 'Buildmark' warranty covers more than 80% of homes built
in the UK and has protected more than 6 million homes to date.
NHBC helps raise standards by:
• registering builders who agree to comply with NHBC's Rules and
Standards
• setting and maintaining construction standards for new homes
• inspecting at key stages of construction
• providing 'Buildmark,' the most comprehensive warranty and insurance
cover for homes in the UK
• offering building control services in England and Wales
• providing a range of services, including technical information,
training, health and safety, engineering, energy rating services and home
information pack provision for new homes and housing-related sectors:
Government
Ignores Stakeholders' Warnings Over Home Buying
Major
stakeholders in the residential property sector are fed up with the Government
ignoring their concerns over the implementation of Home Information Packs
(HIPs).
With less than three months until the introduction of the packs industry
leaders, including RICS, the Council of Mortgage Lenders, the National
Association of Estate Agents and the Law Society, have written to the
Government warning that the plans are chaotic, costly to the consumer
and potentially very damaging to the housing market.
RICS spokesperson Jeremy Leaf says:
‘These are not new concerns. We have been talking with the Government
about them for a long time but it has not listened. As implementation
plans have emerged over the last 18 months our concerns, around the cost
to consumers and the market consequences of the HIP, have grown markedly.
‘The Communities and Local Government Department's gold plating of
the Brussels' requirements on energy performance, now the only remaining
element of the HIP, is the most recent example of an approach that defies
any rational explanation. We totally support energy performance initiatives
but we believe the Department's approach will actually increase carbon
emissions not reduce them.’
Requests by the expert bodies for a collective meeting with the Minister
and the Secretary of State to discuss workable solutions have been ignored
or declined.
‘Officials are blindly pressing on with their compulsory Whitehall
solution despite evidence that this ignores market realities, introduces
unnecessary regulation and is environmentally unsound. After eight years,
the HIP we are now left with will serve no useful purpose and certainly
will not solve the problems in the home buying and selling process that
HIPs were supposed to address.’
Web: http://www.rics.org