Construction
Minister Awakens the Beast that is Interbuild 2004
Construction Minister Nigel Griffiths yesterday described Interbuild 2004
as a showcase of the very 'best of British' construction.
Mr Griffiths formally declared the 50th Interbuild open at the start of
the second morning following a 'hugely successful' 'tradesman's day' on
Sunday.
He said: 'Interbuild is an international showcase for UK construction
expertise and it's terrific to see just how many companies - niche companies
and major players - are here.
'Overseas visitors from 20 countries are expected at this show, seeing
the best of British and I hope forming contracts with British companies
to showcase that across the world.
'This sector employs more than 2 million people and every aspect is covered
by British companies at a very high level.
'I'm very pleased that the Department for Trade and Industry has not only
supported this exhibition but that our UK Trade and Investment arm has
helped to contribute towards some of the costs of bringing overseas visitors
here.'
Vice President of the Construction Products Association Michael Roberts
also spoke at the opening and added: "Interbuild 2004 comes at a
time when the construction industry is celebrating 10 years of consistent
success - the longest period of expansion since the 1950s.
'Interbuild always attracts a large number of overseas visitors and I'm
sure they will not be disappointed with more than 1,200 companies here
from all parts of the UK construction industry.
'And one of the secrets of the show is that it continues to move with
the times and reflects the industry of tomorrow as well as today.'
He added that investment in innovation had been illustrated by the number
of new products on display at the event for the first time with in excess
of 100 entered in to the inaugural Interbuild New Product Awards.
The winners are to be announced at a Gala Dinner at the Birmingham's Metropole
Hotel this evening.
Housing Minister Lord Jeff Rooker will visit Interbuild tomorrow and the
show continues until Thursday.
Glassex
Organiser Acquires Montgomery Share of Interbuild
Montgomery
Exhibitions Ltd has agreed to sell to Emap its 50% shareholding of the
Interbuild exhibition. Emap will take ownership formally from July 7th,
with the handover beginning at this year’s show. Interbuild will
become part of Emap Construct reporting to the Managing Director, Graham
Harman. Graham and his team have many ideas that will add value to Interbuild.
The Architecture Pavilion (organised by the Architects’ Journal at
this year’s event) is a current example.
Interbuild is a 109-year-old brand. Now on its 50th occasion, it reflects
the great qualities of the building industry. Emap is tremendously proud
of the opportunity to own it and conscious of the responsibility it has
to ensure its continued success. All at Emap Construct will be joining
forces with the new Emap team to ensure 2006 is a great success, creating
a platform for strong growth into the future.
Derek Carter, CEO of Emap Communications, said: 'Emap is the largest organiser
of business to business exhibitions in the UK, with a proven record of
delivering successful shows with international influence. And our closeness
to market in the construction sector is one of our great strengths. We
will use our considerable exhibition expertise and market knowledge to
make secure Interbuild’s future as the largest UK Building show.'
Emap Construct - http://www.emapconstructionnetwork.co.uk
Emap Construct publishes a number of magazines in the UK construction
sector, including Construction News, the Architects’ Journal and
New Civil Engineer. It also mounts exhibitions, awards and conferences,
and runs a suite of websites in the sector.
Emap Communications
Emap Communications is a division of Emap plc, one of the UK's leading
media companies. Emap plc has a strong portfolio of over 400 products
including FHM, Kiss, Heat, Health Service Journal, Construction News,
MaxPower, Kerrang! and Smash Hits!. It owns and develops brands in radio,
TV, consumer magazines and B2B in the UK, France and around the world.
Interbuild
Interbuild is the UK construction industry's biggest event, uniting serious
buyers from throughout the supply chain, and across the construction process
under one roof. The 2004 show takes place at the National Exhibition Centre
(NEC), Birmingham from April 25-29. Interbuild 2006 will take place at
the NEC from April 23-27, 2006.
Interbuild
- Still Punching its Weight
A
late surge in exhibitor bookings and visitor pre-registrations has seen
Interbuild easily retain its title as the undisputed UK heavyweight champion
of construction trade events. There will be more than 1,200 exhibitors
at Interbuild 2004 - the 50th show - which runs from April 25 to 29 at
the NEC in Birmingham. Event Director Steve Webb said: 'There's absolutely
no doubt that Interbuild 2004 is still the largest and most comprehensive
gathering of the construction industry in this country.
'We have managed to attract an excellent mix of companies who are all
keen to bring along their latest products, partly through changes in the
market, which have seen our Manufactured Solutions section and Disability
Access Zone prosper.
'But we've also enjoyed tremendous success by launching our own New Product
Awards and are looking forward to seeing around 200 innovations unveiled
at the show.'
More than 50,000 trade visitors attended Interbuild 2002 and Steve said
he was further encouraged by the fact that visitor pre-registrations outnumber
those recorded for the event two years ago.
'I'm especially pleased with the number of people who have registered
through our website,' added Steve.
'The site was redesigned for that purpose and promoting it extensively
on every advertisement and ticket we've sent out certainly seems to have
paid dividends.'
All these factors combined have put Steve and the rest of the Interbuild
staff in a positive frame of mind as final preparations for the event
were concluded.
'Taking everything into account we are quietly confident that we have
put together an excellent show and Interbuild 2004 will again be 'the'
place to do business for the construction trade,' he said.
Other new features for Interbuild include an Architecture Pavilion, designed
by Will Alsop and the BIZ, or Builders' Information Zone - a one-stop
advice shop run in conjunction with the Federation of Master Builders.
Interbuild 2004 covers the entire building and construction process. The
sections are: Total Lighting at Interbuild; Electrex at Interbuild; Hirex
at Interbuild; Heating, Ventilating & Air Conditioning; Commercial
Vehicles, Domestic Heating & Plumbing, Fireplaces and Surrounds; Bathrooms,
Ceramic Tiles, Flooring, Building Interiors & Kitchens; Doors, Windows,
Facades, Architectural Hardware, Security & Fire Prevention; Disability
Access, Roofing; Structural Building, Manufactured Solutions; Landscaping;
iTSHOWCASE at Interbuild; Plant, Tools & Woodworking; Outside Display
& Demo Area; Civils 2004.
CGII
is One of Two Glazing Companies to Win Queen’s Award for Enterprise
2004
CGI International Limited, the Haydock-based manufacturer and distributor of specialist fire-resisting glasses, has achieved The Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the 2004 Awards announced last week. Another glazing company has also scooped this highly prestigious award: Trend Marine Products, a Great Yarmouth based manufacturer of marine glazing systems.
In
total, Her Majesty The Queen announced 112 Awards - 66 for International
Trade, 39 for Innovation and 7 for Sustainable Development. Last year
123 Awards were granted and nearly 5,000 Awards have been bestowed since
the Scheme was launched in 1965.
This year's winners range from small businesses of just 2 or 3 people,
up to a giant organisation employing more than 12,000. 48% of this year's
winners employ less than 50 people and almost one third (29%) are from
the service sector.
The Award is for International Trade since CGI International’s glasses
for fire protection, as demanded by building codes, are now used all over
the world, particularly in public and multiple-occupancy construction
projects.
This
is what the Queen's award committee had to say about CGII:
'CGI
International Limited was established as a separate company in 1998 and
is winning the Award for the first time. The company specialises in a
unique fire resisting range of laminated glasses for a wide range of applications
(including fire protection and radiation control). These are sold to more
than 20 countries, mostly in Europe, but also including Singapore. Overseas
earnings have increased by 137% over six years and exports now account
for more than 60% of production. Overseas success is based on careful
market research and testing, local accreditation and vigorous marketing,
including the appointment of agents, extensive overseas visits, exhibitions,
promotions and advertising, as well as the deployment of an active website
(http://www.cgii.co.uk)'.
CGII Chief Executive, Tom Ritchie (pictured), who has developed the business
for almost 14 years and run it in its present format since 1998, comments:
‘We are delighted to have won this Award which recognises the company’s
success in securing export business won in a competitive world-wide market
place over a sustained number of years. We are playing every day against
much larger multi-national manufacturers.
‘Our UK activity with fire-glasses is also important as we are the
only substantial UK manufacturer of our glass type, with all similar products
being imported.’
CGI International operates from a new purpose-built factory in Haydock,
Merseyside and employs some 55 people in the UK.
The other glazing industry winner was Trend Marine Products:
'Trend Marine Products Ltd started trading in 1973 and is winning an Award
for the first time. The company designs and manufactures marine glazing
systems, specialising in stainless steel and aluminium framed windscreens,
doors, ports and associated parts. Sales have been made to ten countries
(including newly established markets in the USA, Sweden, Spain, France
and Malaysia) through a carefully targeted marketing strategy, which relies
heavily on personal approaches. Frequent overseas visits are the mainstay
of this strategy, but displays at trade exhibitions, participation in
trade missions, and a website permitting on-line ordering of after-sales
parts are complementary activities contributing to this success. Overseas
earnings have more than trebled over six years, the proportion of overseas
earnings has more than doubled and 102 more jobs have been created.
More from CGII on 0207 960 6060 or at http://www.cgii.co.uk
More from Trend marine on 01692 581307 or at http://www.trendmarine.com
Fascia
Mania sets the Pace with Aluminium Roofline Products
‘In
replacement windows we are used to seeing fast growing direct sell companies.
The biggest, such as Anglian, Everest, Zenith, Safestyle and Coldseal,
have become household names. No roofline company has got that far, but
Fascia Mania is most likely to get there first.’ says MD Clyde Scothern.
Sales
turnover doubled last year to almost £7 million from five showrooms,
200 people and 32 fitting teams. Clyde is looking to double sales again
this year. A seventh showroom is due to open soon.
‘The company reached 3rd position in the City 100 FTSE index,’
said Clyde. ‘It was a proud moment when I received the award from
Chancellor Gordon Brown. We had achieved a great deal in five years.
‘We are now expanding into the commercial sector,’ continued
Scothern, ‘and have just won a £60,000 project for 6 three
storey blocks of flats where aluminium gutter is specified. 1,000 metres
of aluminium gutter is being installed along with new fascias and soffits.
Hereford Housing is in partnership with Lovells the main contractor and
we are subcontractors. They opted for the ARP guttering because it is
seamless, stronger and easier to maintain than PVC gutters. Low maintenance
is important because of the height of the buildings. The project will
take eight weeks using two to three fitting teams. We have one Iron Man
machine at present. It is easy to install, but ARP trained our teams on
site and will come again when we expand.’
‘Aluminium gutters are taking off in both retail domestic and commercial
markets,’ said Jim Muddimer, MD of ARP. ‘Long life – 50
years life expectancy – easy fitting, good looks, a wide colour range,
and a leak free performance make it a winner. Once property owners –
retail or commercial – compare it with PVC gutters the sale is made.
Aluminium seamless guttering virtually sells itself.’
Tel: 0116 2894400
Revolutionary
New Glass Colour Process First to Offer 20 Year Guarantee
Glass
UK, manufacturer of toughened, oversized double-glazed engineered glass
solutions, has launched a new glass colour treatment which can be specified
in absolutely any colour and provides a 20-year guarantee. Glass FX is
a non-silicon spray-on product which Glass UK is confident provides the
toughest, most durable finish available.
The
product is suitable for a wide range of applications, such as splashbacks,
shower screens, furniture and kitchen surfaces, and externally on signage
and butt-jointed double-glazed units, where its limitless colour options
provide a seamless joint.
Glass UK will also make extensive use of Glass FX with its specialist
Sheerglaze door system. Sheerglaze is a sophisticated double-glazed door
within a sheer glass façade. It has been developed to provide architects
and specifiers with a bespoke solution specifically designed to provide
a glass plane that is uninterrupted by protruding frames.
'Glass FX is the most advanced and versatile glass colour treatment on
the market,' says Glass UK's Production Manager Neil Sharda. 'Glass-FX
enables you to choose the exact colours and textures you desire to take
advantage of the inherent beauty, functionality and durability of glass.
The durability of the product is really the key feature, it has been rigorously
tested to very wide temperature variances and we have invested heavily
in training to ensure that production standards are of the highest order.
The fact that it is a non-silicon based product means that it cannot delaminate.
This enables us to confidently offer the product with a 20-year guarantee
and I'm very certain that the product will prove to have an effectively
limitless life-span.'
Web: http://www.lmcgroup.co.uk
A
Select New Management Structure
Status
fabricator Select Windows and Home Improvements Ltd has expanded and restructured
its management team following on from the continuing success of a major
drive into increasing commercial contracts, including a £10 million
project with the Walsall Housing Group.
Dee
Benning recently joined the Walsall based company as production manager,
bringing with him a wealth of experience gleaned from other commercial
fabrication environments. He is joined by Adam Davis as technical manager,
and George Mincher as contracts manager. Debbie Evans has been brought
in to oversee the smooth running of the financial side.
'Select is having significant successes among housing organisations, and
as a dynamic company it likes to proactively develop its infrastructure
to both respond to, and anticipate, its customers' needs,' commented Dee
Benning.
The company has recently announced the second phase of a contract with
the Walsall Housing Group, which overall incorporates 1000 properties
to be refurbished over the course of four years.
Tel: 01457 875731
Email: mailto:sales@status-systems.co.uk
Web: http://www.status-systems.co.uk
Pictured: The new management team at Select Windows,
Walsall. Seated left to right - Adam Davis, technical manager; Debbie
Evans, financial controller. Standing left to right - George Mincher,
contracts manager; Dee Benning, production manager.
Total
Glass Encourages more Responsibility for a Better Customer Service
Investing
in its workforce ensures that Total Glass customers receive enhanced service,
and that Total Glass employees work in a proactive, dynamic environment.
The Liverpool based fabricator ensures that everyone in its workforce
is trained up to NVQ standards or equivalent, and encouraged to take a
deeper understanding of the overall commercial position of the company.
In
this way Total Glass can combine personnel development with the introduction
of enhanced customer oriented services to give an overall improved commercial
proposition to the market place.
'Improved trainlng combined with increased levels of responsibility create
a unique opportunity at Total Glass to make the most of the chances offered
by the window industry,' said Total Glass managing director Frank Deary.
For example, the company has just introduced extra shifts. For its employees
this gives added scope for taking on extra responsibilities. For Total
Glass
customers it increases production capcity for urgent remakes for next
day deliveries.
'The more opportunities you give people to shine, the more they take up
the challenge,' added Frank Deary. 'If you factor in the reason why you
do it - customer service and satisfaction - and give them a degree of
ownership in achieving that satisfaction, then you create a much more
positive and dynamic working environment.'
The company has also recently invested £560,000 in a new production
line that has been modified to be operable by disabled workers. The new
line increases production capacity by 25 per cent.
Tel: 0151 549 2339
Email: mailto:sales@totalglass.com
Web: http://www.totalglass.com
Kolorplas
Extends Fast Sash Sliders Range
With
a choice of over 1500 colours plus options such as external Georgian Bars
and curves, Kolorplas says that its Fast Sash range of vertical sliding
windows is one of the most versatile on the market. And with its range
of in-house services, the specialist PVCu fabricator can cater for even
the most unusual design demands.
What’s
more, Kolorplas’ dedicated Fast Sash production line at its Didcot
factory ensures a 10-day turnaround on all special orders – the delivery
time that many other fabricators quote for a basic specification. For
Kolorplas customers this speedy service makes for easier scheduling as
well as faster completion on site.
Also unlike some sash manufacturers who only offer a limited choice of
finish, Kolorplas can supply Fast Sash in virtually any colour. In addition
to white and brown, traditional colours such as black, white, green and
cream can further enhance the period effect of this increasingly popular
window design. Alongside colouring and decorative features such as external
Georgian Bars and Horns, Kolorplas can also incorporate an elegant arch
or curve into any Fast Sash window courtesy of its state-of-the-art global
bending facility.
Kolorplas manufactures the complete range of WHS/Halo PVCu profiles, including
Halo’s Vertical Sliding Sash, which it supplies and brands as ‘Fast
Sash’. Recent additions to Kolorplas’ Fast Sash collection include
Part L compliant versions featuring a multi-chamber construction for optimum
thermal efficiency. Two new models are available, either the fully sculptured
146mm Esthetique or 133mm Authentic, sculptured on the exterior face only.
Each version is available in two sash sizes and different sizes can be
mixed and matched within the same frame for practical or aesthetic purposes.
All Fast Sash Windows are supplied with a quick release pivot bar as standard
that enables sashes to be removed on site for easy fixing of the frame.
Sashes operate using spiral balances and also tilt inwards for ease of
cleaning.
Chas Hollis, Kolorplas Sales and Marketing Director comments, ‘Although
more and more PVCu fabricators now offer vertical sliders, only Kolorplas
has the capability to satisfy both specialist and standard specifications
and with fast delivery times. In fact, no sash window design is too complicated
for our experienced team who welcome a challenge and are always happy
to discuss individual requirements and provide a free quotation.’
Tel: 01235 516700
Web: http://www.kolorplas.co.uk
Load
Bearing Bay Solution Meets FENSA Requirements
The Mekhane Engineering Company has introduced a jack pole system which
provides a fast and reliable method of supporting bay window installations
load tested to meet FENSA and housing authority requirements. Having for
many years supplied to local companies, over the last two years Mekhane
has spread to cover the whole of the UK, supplying system manufacturers
and small installation companies, offering a ‘prompt and adaptable
service’ says to director Stephen Palmer.
The company is currently looking to supply into Europe, with agents already
established in France and Spain. ‘Our ability to supply all systems
and special applications put us in the forefront of the window support
industry. All our parts are manufactured on the latest state of the art
machines,’ Stephen adds.
‘Don’t be caught by legislation and future structural guarantee
problems - when fitting bay window units use our bay jack pole and feel
secure in the fact you have fitted a high quality window which conforms
to Housing authorities and FENSA requirements as to load bearing support
on windows’.
Micro jack poles are tested to load 8 ton (safe load 2 tons). Standard
jack poles are tested to load14ton (safe load 4 ton; they are also treated
to prevent corrosion (patent pending & design registered No 000026802-0001)Units
are produced to fit most systems, including Duraflex, Synseal, Plastmo,
Eurocell 60/70, PlusPlan, Schüco, Rehau, HW70, Status70, Spectus.
Contact
Stephen Palmer (01268719160)
mekhanemarine@aol.com
James
Latham Takes the Lead on Construction Products Directive
UK
timber and panel products distributor, James Latham, has taken steps to
ensure it can provide a range of products that are fully compliant with
the Construction Products Directive (CPD), EN 13986.
The directive, which became law on 1st April 2004, specifies that all
wood based products, when used in construction and where the product is
permanently incorporated within a building or civil engineering works,
whether used in structural or non-structural applications, must be fully
compliant.
Chris Sutton, director of the panel products division said, 'As a company
we have asked all our suppliers to stamp compliant product, but as a minimum,
all packaging around the product should carry the CE mark, which shows
conformity with CPD requirements.
'The products we believe need to be compliant include Particleboard, OSB,
MDF, Softwood Plywood including Finnish Spruce and Hardwood Plywood, which
includes Finnish Birch. We are expecting to be able to offer a full range
of CPD product to customers from now on.
All compliant products will be identified on delivery notes to customers
and any queries can be referred to James Latham's depot staff that have
all received training and are fully aware of CPD requirements.
James Latham continues to add to its extensive range of panel products
and high quality hardwoods, softwoods and timber flooring products.
Tel: 0116 281 2264
Email: mailto:marketing@lathams.co.uk
Web: http://www.lathamtimber.co.uk
Profitmaker
Software makes Money for Fairco Mcillhagga
Fairco
Mcillhagga, based in Northern Ireland, is a successful window, door and
conservatory company. Despite operating in a far from ideal market place,
the retail company hit £4.0 million turnover in 2003 with 50 employees,
and 2004 has started strongly. Northern Ireland can be tough for home
improvement companies as there are only 1 million inhabitants and competition
is hot. Fairco has had to adjust and adapt its business to keep lean,
efficient and profitable.
Operations
Manager Colin Crothers explains how the company’s software, Profitmaker
Office, has contributed to its success. ‘Fairco Mcillhagga is one
of Profitmaker’s oldest customers. We’ve seen Profitmaker develop
into the massive profit calculating system that it is today. Profitmaker
Office gives us complete control over business efficiencies, costs and
margins. We use the software right through from surveying, installing,
stock ordering, chasing outstanding balances, factory scheduling, and
sales reports. It’s the little touches that make the difference.
We know, at the press of a button, what margin we make on each job. We
can easily keep tabs monthly, quarterly, and annually on how much each
order contributes towards the overall margins. More importantly we are
forewarned so we can adjust prices if necessary way before any trouble.
The software allows us to decide what orders to take and what to reject.
There is no point in working for nothing just to get turnover.
‘Profitmaker Office processes orders from point of estimate to after-sales.
For example, we knew that our mahogany window profile was being discontinued,
so after a small addition to the software, we easily and effectively identified
previous customers of mahogany profile who had outstanding work required
on their homes. As a result of this low cost modification, we quickly
and easily generated £40,000 of leads.
‘What sets Profitmaker apart from other software is it is produced
by someone who knows the industry, so they understand what we need to
make our businesses work more efficiently and profitably. They know how
to slim off the fat caused by unnecessary processes. I just haven’t
seen anything comes anywhere near to matching what Profitmaker can do.
If we didn’t have it, I believe it would take us two years and lots
more employees for us to run as smoothly and efficiently as we do now.’
Tel: 0870 241 3089
Web: http://www.profit-maker.net
McIlhattons
double production to 5,000 units per week with Edgetech
County
Antrim based McIlhattons manufactures sealed units for windows and doors.
The company has doubled its production since July last year when it invested
£1m in a fully automated Super Spacer® bar application TSS®
line from Lisec. In July the company was producing 2,500 units per week
using 23 people. In February this year production had already increased
to approximately 5,000 units per week with 14 people and the company is
looking forward to further growth.
All units are manufactured to BS5713 and the company is currently working
towards the new European standard CEN1279. ‘Our sealed units offer
customers a high level of thermal efficiency, using Edgetech’s Super
Spacer bar technology,’ says Paddy McIlhatton, owner of McIlhattons.
‘The no-metal, all-foam formula of Super Spacer blocks the heat escape
path and provides one of the best thermal performances in the industry.
It is an innovative spacer bar that replaces the traditional aluminium
spacer bars.’
Tel: 02476 363614
RegaLead
can now offer a Custom Bevelling service. The new facility provides an
opportunity for window and door panel suppliers to add value to their
range with the option of bespoke designs. Any quantity of Custom Bevels
can be supplied from one to thousands which makes RegaLead’s new
service available to all companies, whether they are a large contractor
or small studio. Prices are based on the size and complexity of design
and each bevel design is quoted individually.
Ordering a Custom Bevel from RegaLead couldn’t be easier. Companies
simply send a sketch of the proposed design including dimensions and quantity
required. RegaLead’s team then calculates an approximate price, which
includes a one-off design fee for each template, a set up charge, which
is incurred only once per design, plus the cost of bevelling and the glass.
If this is acceptable a template is produced and a sample bevel is ordered
for approval.
RegaLead says that it pioneered the art of bevelled glass design in the
UK and that the company’s RegaBevel Collection is the largest single
range in Europe, with around 450 designs. Now with its new bespoke bevel
service RegaLead offers virtually limitless design options for use in
fanlights, door panels and many more decorative glass applications.
All RegaBevels are precision made from high quality 5mm glass with finely
feathered edges between 1.5 and 1.8mm designed to accommodate lead profile.
RegaBevels are bonded to glass surfaces using a bonding system developed
by RegaLead in conjunction with UV-TEK, which combines ultra-fast cure
UV adhesive with CE compliant luminaires.
‘Our Custom Bevel service opens up exciting new sales opportunities
and enables companies to offer their customers more choice. We’ve
made the service easily accessible regardless of order size, although
of course, the larger the quantity the more cost effective it becomes,’
comments Guy Hubble, RegaLead’s Sales and Marketing Director.
Tel: 0161 946 1164
Web: http://www.regalead.com
Sarnafil Roof Assured Launches Installer Finance Package with 15 Year Home Owner Guarantee
Sarnafil
Roof Assured, (SRA) the maintenance-free, PVC flat roofing system manufacturer,
used Glassex as the launching pad for a new finance initiative for SRA
installers - a buy now, pay later scheme from Shermin Finance. The scheme
means installers can offer insurance backed guarantee cover to home owners
for the roof for 15 years.
‘Judging from the enthusiastic interest on our stand this year, installers
are really waking up to the need to strengthen business and profits through
diversification,’
comments Market Development Manager, Andy Ball. ‘We got some excellent
leads and inquiries on all four days of the show to further extend our
nationwide network of over 60 approved installers already enjoying the
benefits of this highly profitable, fast-growing market.’
Contact: Bob Newall
Tel: 01603 748985
SmartGlass
Ireland Acquires License from Research Frontiers
SmartGlass
Ireland Ltd. of Dublin, Ireland has acquired a non-exclusive license from
Research Frontiers Incorporated to manufacture and sell SPD-Smart™
architectural window products in the Republic of Ireland.
The license provides for a 10% royalty to Research Frontiers on sales
of licensed products.
Users of SPD-Smart products can manually or automatically ‘tune’
the amount of light, glare and heat that comes into a home, office or
vehicle. SPD-Smart products offer functional benefits such as savings
on heating and cooling expenses, and reduced fading of fabrics and artwork.
As a quality-of-life enabling technology, SPD-Smart products also give
users greater control over their environment, improved safety and security,
and various aesthetic benefits aesthetic benefits such as the ability
to control light and glare without shades or blinds blocking one's view.
‘This is momentous day for our company,’ said John Browne, Managing
Director of SmartGlass Ireland. ‘We are thrilled to bring the many
advantages of SPD-Smart architectural products to the Republic of Ireland,
and we are especially grateful for the assistance and support of the Dublin
Enterprise Board which will help us do so.’
To introduce its product line and develop the market, SmartGlass Ireland
plans a wide range of promotional initiatives including trade show exhibitions,
media advertising and public relations activities.
About SmartGlass Ireland Ltd.
SmartGlass Ireland Ltd., formerly known as Interior Glass Ireland, is
expanding its operations to specialise in the manufacture and sale of
switchable glazings and other glass products for the Irish glass market.
The management and employees of the company have significant industry
experience in the glass industry, with particular expertise in the provision
of heatable glass, glass floors and glass stairs, wall cladding, partitions,
light boxes and other glass products. SmartGlass Ireland has received
support from the Dublin Enterprise Board to strengthen the company and
advance its business prospects.
About SPD Technology and Research Frontiers Incorporated
Research Frontiers Incorporated (RFI) develops and licenses suspended
particle device (SPD) technology used in VaryFast SPD-Smart™ light-control
glass and plastic products. SPD technology, made possible by a flexible
light-control film invented by RFI, allows the user to instantly and precisely
control the shading of glass/plastic manually or automatically.
SPD technology has numerous product applications, including: SPD-Smart
windows, sunshades, skylights and interior partitions for homes and buildings;
automotive windows, sunroofs, sun-visors, sunshades, rear-view mirrors,
instrument panels and navigation systems; aircraft windows; eyewear products;
and flat panel displays for electronic products. SPD-Smart film technology
has been awarded a ‘Best of What’s New Award’ from Popular
Science magazine for home technology and was also named by the Society
of Automotive Engineers’ Aerospace Engineering magazine as one of
the top new technologies for 2002. SPD technology is covered by over 400
patents and patent applications held by RFI worldwide. Currently 31 companies
are licensed to use RFI’s patented SPD light-control technology in
emulsions, film, or end products.
Web: http://www.smartglass.com
Membership
Boost for DSMA as CE Marking Draws Near
As
time runs out for industrial and commercial door and shutter suppliers
to be ready for the start of CE marking, their trade association reports
a boost in member numbers.
Door companies are joining the ranks of the Door
and Shutter Manufacturers’ Association (DSMA), a member
of the Door and Hardware Federation (DHF), to obtain vital guidance on
their obligations under the new harmonised product standard. This will
permit CE marking of industrial, commercial and garage doors against the
Construction Products Directive from May this year.
DSMA chief executive Derek Smith said: 'When the BS EN Standard 13241-1
comes into force, specifiers of industrial and commercial doors and shutters
will start to demand CE marks on the products. Only those companies which
have had their doors’ performance tested will be allowed to display
the CE mark with classification levels.
'We cannot stress more strongly the importance of door companies putting
testing procedures into place now so that they have CE marked products
ready to supply once this becomes compulsory. For power operated doors
in particular, this will be from May 1st, 2005. Those companies that cannot
supply CE marked products within the deadline will be at a grave business
disadvantage.'
Prior to the publication of BS EN Standard 13241-1, the DSMA held a seminar
for members which explained where to go to have products tested, described
the testing requirements and detailed all the steps that need to be taken
to ensure they have CE marked products ready to sell when the legislation
comes into force.
The federation will be giving further advice and help to members to review
the industry position after the May 1st deadline. The DSMA is planning
to hold a seminar/workshop on July 13th this year, with the objective
being to reaffirm the CPD requirements and how to achieve them. Non DSMA
members will be able to attend the seminar at a reasonable charge.
The DHF, which embraces the Door and Shutter Manufacturers’ Association
and the Association of Building Hardware Manufacturers, now has more than
150 members, with more joining as door companies realise they need help
and support to introduce CE marking.
One of the latest to be accepted for membership is Konematic Bolton Brady,
one of the largest industrial and commercial door repair and maintenance
businesses in the UK. It is a division of the KONE Corporation, a world
leader in the elevator, escalator and door industries.
For more information about the DSMA and the forthcoming workshop/seminar,
contact the Secretariat, 42 Heath Street, Tamworth, Staffs B79 7JH.
Tel: 01827 52337
Fax: 01827 310827
Email: mailto:info@dhfonline.org.uk
Web: http://www.dhfonline.org.uk
The
UK Trades Confederation Appoints Vanman as Benefit Provider
Derek
Vaughan, Managing Director of the accredited company The UK Trades Confederation
and Gordon Pope, Business Development Manager of Vanman the UK independent
provider of vans, have signed an agreement to give over 9,000 of The UK
Trades Confederation members discounted offers on commercial vehicles.
The agreement also gives members six-months free road tax and donates
£50 per vehicle sale to Great Ormonds Street Hospital.
The UK Trades Confederation's decision to appoint Vanman as benefit provider
to its members followed an investigation into the services offered by
a wide range of commercial vehicles specialists. Vanman offers a wide
range of low cost new vans that can be branded with the customer's details
before delivery to anywhere in the UK. The £6 million turnover company
Vanman was launched in January 2002 and has just celebrated its 1000th
vehicle sale.
Derek Vaughan Managing Director of The UK Trades Confederation confirms:
'Vanman has demonstrated that it offers a simple, efficient one stop shop
that will prove to be a convenient and efficient way to purchase a vehicle.
It is important that all our benefit providers can offer advice and consultancy
for members.
'The affiliation between the UK Trades Confederation and Vanman has allowed
us to bring fantastic value when purchasing commercial vehicles to our
members. It has also given us the opportunity to donate money to Gt Ormond
St, which is a charity we both felt was wholly deserving of our support.'
The agreement between The UK Trades Confederation and Vanman sees £50
per vehicle sale going towards helping Great Ormond Street reach their
target figure of £20 million this year to boost the NHS funding.
Over 90,000 children are treated each year for rare and often life threatening
conditions.
Tel: 0800 018 4442
Email: mailto:email@uktc.org
Web: http://www.uktc.org
ML
Systems Appoints GMD-Giardina in the UK
Industrial
Humidity Control company ML Systems of Denmark, has appointed finishing
specialist GMD-Giardina as its exclusive agent and distributor for the
UK.
ML Systems specialises particularly in advanced humidification control
systems for applications in a variety of industries and is the first international
producer to be HACCP certified for Environmental Health.
Controlled, year-round, production environments is fast becoming a vital
factor in manufacturing success and the performance of many materials
in various industries depends on their being stored and used in optimally
controlled internal climates.
GMD-Giardina is a leader in advanced finishing and curing application
systems and acquisition of the ML Systems agency offers a new dimension
to providing complete production solutions for the company’s customers.
ML Systems has humidification installations across the world from small
workshop interiors to entire industrial turnkey complexes. The company’s
systems are used by industries as diverse as furniture, window & door
manufacturing, plastics, printing, board and panel production and for
botanical solutions.
ML Systems says that it needs to work with highly capable technical partners
in each market and that GMD-Giardina’s qualifications in this respect
stand out from the rest.
Several installations have already been sold into the Wooden Door/Window
Industries.
Tel: 01529 240788
Email: mailto:enquiries@gmd-giardina.com
Vitro's
Glassware Subsidiary Secures Syndicated Bank Facility of US$75 million
Vitrocrisa
Comercial, S. de R.L. de C.V. announced on April 14th that it has secured
a credit facility in an aggregate principal amount of US$75 million, refinancing
approximately 90% of its debt through the transaction. Vitrocrisa Comercial
is a joint venture between Vitro, S.A. de C.V., which holds a 51% stake
and Libbey Inc., which holds the remaining 49%.
It is worth mentioning that on April 2nd, Vitro also announced the completion
of the sale of its 60 percent interest in Vitro OCF, S.A. de C.V, the
holding Company of Vitro Fibras, for US$71.5 million in cash. Vitro OCF
was Vitro's joint venture with Owens Corning engaged in the manufacture
and distribution of fibreglass insulation and composite reinforcement
products.
Both transactions meet Vitro's important corporate goal of focusing on
its core glass business and providing capital to strengthen its operations
and financial position.
Web: http://www.vitro.com
Strong
Profit Trend for Trelleborg Group - Interim Report January - March 2004
The
Trelleborg Group showed a continued favourable sales and profit trend,
with positive effects from the new business area, Trelleborg Sealing Solutions.
The Group's net sales rose by 36 percent. Operating profit increased by
75 percent to SEK 406 M (232).
* Net sales amounted to sek 5,815 m (4,289).
* Profit after tax rose by 40 percent to sek 198 m (141).
* Earnings per share rose to sek 2.30 (1.70).
* Operating profit increased to sek 406 m (232) and profit after net financial
items to sek 322 m (223).
* First quarter, excluding goodwill amortisation and earnings from shares
in Boliden:
- Operating profit sek 506 m (272)
- Profit after net financial items sek 422 m (251)
- Profit after tax sek 294 m (166)
- Earnings per share sek 3.40 (1.95)
* Metzeler Automotive Hose Systems was acquired, with approximately 900
employees and annual sales of approximately sek 600 m.
* An agreement was signed regarding the sale of the Trelleborg Group's
49-percent holding in the Trenor Group to Nordic Capital. The sale is
expected to be completed during the second quarter.
April
12th Marked CertainTeed's 100th Year of Building America
On
April 12th, building products manufacturer CertainTeed Corporation celebrated
its 100th year of service. A longtime leader in innovation and creative
product design within the building products industry, CertainTeed now
joins the ranks of the few proud companies to have reached 100 years of
service.
One hundred years ago today, George M. Brown founded General Roofing Company
in East St. Louis, Illinois with just $25,000. The company's commitment
to service and high-quality materials were well represented by the slogan,
‘Quality Made Certain, Satisfaction Guaranteed,’ which grew
into a byword of employees and customers, soon becoming the inspiration
for the lasting CertainTeed name.
CertainTeed's focus on innovation has allowed the company to weather a
multitude of political and economic climates to become one of the nation's
largest and most popular manufacturers of roofing, siding, windows, insulation,
fencing, decking, railing, foundation systems and PVC pipe products.
‘We are proud to be among the enduring companies that have had the
acumen to thrive through a century's worth of evolving business climates,’
says Jean-François Phelizon, President and Chief Executive Officer
for CertainTeed. ‘Our 100-year history is testament to CertainTeed's
expert understanding of the building industry and succession of smart
business decisions as well as the commitment and dedication of our 7,000
employees throughout the United States.
‘From day one, CertainTeed has been a strategic, forward-thinking
company - the more than 350 patents we've earned throughout the past 30
years is proof of this,’ continues Phelizon. ‘I'm honoured to
be part of a company that has risen from humble beginnings to become one
of the nation's largest and most well-respected manufacturers of building
products.’
Since its founding, CertainTeed has engineered smart, creative products
and has worked to maintain a high level of customer service. The century-old
company continues its tradition of innovation and quality design with
the recent introduction of several new products to the building industry,
including Landmark™ WideTrack QBTM, laminated shingles designed with
a 1-1/2" nailing area for greater installation accuracy; MemBrain™,
a ‘smart’ vapour retarder sheeting made from nylon that defends
against moisture problems; Bufftech Prestige™
fencing, which employs composite technology to create the classic look
of wrought iron; Wolverine Siding Systems' Millenium Brand Siding with
its patented nail-tight flexible nailing hem and the ‘won't blow
off’ warranty; and PrismGrid™,
an accessory to CertainTeed's line of vinyl new construction and replacement
windows that creates the custom look of bevelled glass using patented
3M optical film technology.
Web: http://www.certainteed.com