News @ The GL@ZINE

Ultraframe Reports Interims

Ultraframe Plc group revenue for the 26 weeks ended 31 March 2006 was down 5.9% to £41.4m on the comparable period (down 9.2% on a constant currency basis). Within this, dollar sales in North America were up 6.2% to $36.0m (£20.6m), offset by a sales decline of 19.9% to £20.8m in the UK.

- Group loss before tax, special items and goodwill impairment of £2.4m

- Trading results reflect the challenging conditions in each of Ultraframe's markets

- These conditions continue and the outlook for the Group remains very difficult

- Group loss before tax of £35.9m after North American goodwill impairment charge of £32.3m

- Ongoing non-trading issues also provide considerable uncertainty and risk to the value of the Group

- There will be no interim dividend paid

- The Board continues to recommend the offer from Latium, announced to shareholders on 2 June, as it believes the offer provides the best way to maximise value and deliver certainty of value to all shareholders

Rod Sellers, Chairman, commented:

'These results reflect the continuing difficult operating environment and the numerous non-trading issues that create uncertainty for the Group. Overall, the outlook for the Group remains very difficult, given trading conditions in the UK and US. We continue to believe that the Offer from Latium remains in the best interests of our shareholders and our employees, and the Board unanimously recommend that shareholders accept it.'

Group results

The first half trading performance in the UK reflects the unfavourable macroeconomic conditions affecting big-ticket home improvement expenditure and a highly competitive environment, following the entry of aggressive low price competitors in recent years. Our North American business recorded some improvement in operating performance, although overall the Group sustained an operating loss for the period under review.

Group revenue for the half year ended 31 March 2006 was down 5.9% to £41.4m on the comparable period (down 9.2% on a constant currency basis). Within this, dollar sales in North America were up 6.2% to $36.0m (£20.6m), offset by a sales decline in the UK of 19.9% to £20.8m. Overall, the year-on-year sales trend in the first half showed an improvement compared with the first quarter and represented a slower rate of decline than in the 2005 financial year.

Group operating loss, before special items and the goodwill impairment charge relating to North America, amounted to £1.4m (H1 2005: operating loss £0.6m) in the seasonally weaker first half. This primarily reflects lower sales and reduced margin, partly offset by reduced costs. The first half saw some relatively modest year-on-year erosion in overall gross margin percentage from 41.9% to 41.1%, slowing the rate of margin erosion seen in 2005.

Group first half pre-tax loss, before special items and the goodwill impairment charge relating to North America, amounted to £2.4m (H1 2005: underlying pre-tax loss £1.1m), reflecting higher net interest and financing costs. Loss per share, on the same basis, increased to 1.9p from 0.3p in the comparative period.

Operating special item charges for the half year amounted to £0.9m (H1 2005: £3.4m) and non-operating special charges of £0.3m (H1 2005: £0.2m) were incurred. Lower operating special items mainly reflect a significant reduction in previously reported abnormal major litigation costs and also reflect a profit on disposal of surplus property in the period under review. Non-operating
special items relate to directly attributable financing costs in respect of the Patio Enclosures litigation in North America for periods up to the final cash settlement paid to Patio Enclosures in early March 2006.

Following the comprehensive strategic review, the Board has decided to incur a goodwill impairment charge of £32.3m in the first half, relating to the write down of North American goodwill. This valuation was reflected in the recommended cash offer announced by Latium Holdings Limited ("Latium") on 2 June 2006, which values the entire issued and to be issued share capital of the Group at £29.3m. Based on currently available information, it is not possible to attribute any value to the Litigation Notes forming part of the offer consideration.

First half pre-tax loss after goodwill impairment and special items amounted to £35.9m (H1 2005: pre-tax loss £4.7m). The loss per share in the 26 weeks ended 31 March 2006 was 36.2p compared to 3.0p in the prior period.

Net cash outflow before financing amounted to £11.5m after payment of the £5.5m US litigation settlement to Patio Enclosures. Net debt increased from £11.1m at the last financial year end to £23.0m at 31 March 2006 (H1 2005: £15.6m).

As previously reported, following the 2005 financial year end the Group negotiated new facilities with its existing banking syndicate through to December 2006. The facilities are wholly repayable in December 2006 and if the Latium offer is not accepted by shareholders, new banking facilities or alternative funding would need to be put in place before this maturity date.

In view of the current trading environment, the Board is not declaring an interim dividend for the half year ended 31 March 2006 (H1 2005: £nil).

Current trading and outlook

In the UK, revenue in the nine weeks ended 2 June 2006 was down 11.0 per cent. on the comparable period. The market remains very challenging and the Board does not anticipate any significant growth in the business in the foreseeable future whilst consumer expenditure on big-ticket home improvements remains weak. The Board expects the decline in sales, experienced since 2004, to continue, albeit at a slower rate, during the full year ending September 2006.

In North America, dollar sales in the first nine weeks of the second half were down 3.3 per cent, and the second half has seen a relatively slow start to the key selling season. Retail stores, which accounted for 28 per cent. of total North American sales in the first half, continue to offer growth potential as newer stores become more established. However, the Board anticipates that franchise sales, which account for 72 per cent. of total North American sales, will decline in the current year.

Overall, the outlook for the Group remains very difficult, given trading conditions in the UK and US. There is continuing volatility in commodity prices, the effect of which has been mitigated in the first half by forward buying arrangements which have now ended. Prices for aluminium, energy and oil-related commodities remain volatile and high. The business is also being affected by a protracted period of uncertainty as a consequence of the strategic review and the offer period.

Offer update

The boards of Latium and Ultraframe announced on 2 June 2006 that they had reached agreement on the terms of a recommended cash offer to be made by Latium for the entire issued and to be issued share capital of Ultraframe. The Offer and the Board's recommendation of the Offer resulted from a wide ranging and thorough strategic review. Since the announcement of Latium's Offer, other potential strategic alternatives have been proposed to the Board - a potential bid, which has still not been forthcoming, and a rights issue. A rights issue had already been considered and rejected by the Board as part of the strategic review. In the absence of any firm proposal from any other party which delivers better value for shareholders, the Board continues to recommend Latium's Offer, which it believes is in the best interests of shareholders.

The Offer is conditional on receiving 90% acceptances by Friday 30 June 2006. Shareholders must return the Form of Acceptance enclosed with the Offer Document by this date if their acceptance is to be counted towards this threshold. If shareholders need an additional Form of Acceptance or are in any doubt as to the procedure for acceptance of the Offer, they should contact the Group's registrars, Capita, on 0870 162 3121 (or +44 20 8639 2157 if telephoning from outside the UK).

UK trading conditions continue to be difficult. Revenue decreased by 19.9% in the first half to £20.8m, having declined by 20.7% in the first quarter and 19.0% in the second quarter. The year-on-year impact of customer price erosion is starting to moderate, following the major price realignment initiative that took place during 2005. Gross margin declined from 40.8% to 37.1%. The rate of gross margin erosion also started to moderate, assisted by the previously reported operational efficiency programmes in manufacturing and supply chain. In addition to efficiency improvements in material and labour costs (charged in arriving at gross margin), savings have also been achieved in overheads that fell by £1.3m to £8.1m in the period under review. Notwithstanding this, the first half saw an operating loss before special items of £0.4m (H1 2005: operating profit before special items £1.2m), against a market background that remains challenging.

Good progress has been made in operational improvements, including the VISION project focused on cost savings and efficiency gains. Better labour productivity and improved quality assurance is being facilitated by the introduction of an annualised hours scheme in our manufacturing operations in December 2005. This helps to optimise flexible labour scheduling in a seasonal business environment, whilst maintaining quality standards. The business has continued to invest in new product development, and to seek opportunities to improve operational efficiencies in manufacturing and supply chain, although recent rising commodity costs have been unhelpful.

In North America, first half dollar sales were up 6.2% to $36.0m (£20.6m), having declined 0.6% in the first three months and increased by 14.8% in the second quarter. The second quarter benefited from unseasonably mild winter weather, that boosted sunroom sales and installations. Within overall dollar revenue, first half sales in our seven Company-owned retail stores rose from $5.9m to $10.0m, as our newer stores built towards their trading potential and established stores also traded well. However, first half sales in our franchise/ dealer network fell by 7.2% to $26.0m. Sales attributable to franchise deletions amounted to $0.2m, against $1.3m in the comparable period. Gross margin
increased from 43.4% in the first half of last year to 45.1% for the period under review. Indirect overheads were broadly level at $16.1m, with sales throughput related overhead up in retail stores, offset by lower costs in franchise and manufacturing operations. Overall, this resulted in a small operating profit, before goodwill impairment and special items, of $0.1m (£0.1m) against a comparable operating loss of $1.4m (£0.7m) on the same basis. The 8% appreciation in the US dollar exchange rate is reflected in the sterling reported results of our North American business during the period under review.

The business turnaround programme remains on track. Our retail stores are trading well and we intend to stimulate sales in our franchise network through new product introductions, partner additions to the network and marketing initiatives. No further retail store openings are planned for 2006. The cost base of the business was realigned in 2005 and we will continue to seek opportunities for manufacturing efficiencies, quality control and procurement improvements. However, we plan to uprate sales and marketing programmes to stimulate sales, as previously reported.

We are progressing the implementation of the joint remediation plan for potential product rectification, in conjunction with the supplier of a related bought-in product component. A provision for product rectification costs was charged in the 2005 profit and loss account, by way of an operating special item.

Major litigation

As previously reported, the Group had three major ongoing pieces of litigation during the period, respectively relating to Eurocell and Burnden in the UK and Patio Enclosures in the US. A summary of these is included in note 7 to the interim financial information. Of note during the period, as we indicated in February, the judgement sum of $9.7m (£5.5m) including interest, was paid to Patio Enclosures in early March 2006. Of this sum, $9.5m had been provided for in the financial statements of prior periods. The remaining sum payable has been charged to the profit and loss account as a non-operating financing special item in the period under review, together with directly attributable financing costs relating to the bank letter of credit previously put in place as collateral, pending final legal determination.

Legal and professional fees incurred in the first half relating to the above major litigation cases in the UK and North America amounted to £1.0m and $0.1m respectively. The UK litigation costs are mainly attributable to legal and forensic accounting costs relating to the Eurocell case. These costs have been charged to the profit and loss account as an operating special item in the half year ended 31 March 2006.

On Thursday, 22nd June, 2006 Irish Enterprise Minister Micheal Martin TD officially opened the new €10 million global headquarters of Combilift in Monaghan, Ireland, which will pave the way for the company’s continued dominance of the global long-load handling market.

The €10 million investment will create 100 new jobs over the next four years and see the company's turnover rise to €100 million by 2010. A high proportion of the new jobs created will be high-skilled requiring technical and engineering qualifications.

Combilift manufactures the world's first engine-powered multi-directional forklift. The company was set up in Clontibret, Co Monaghan in 1998 by entrepreneurs Martin McVicar and Robert Moffett. In just eight years the company has grown to become the market leader in the world in the long-load handling market.

Combilift has developed a space-saving forklift for materials handling, which solves the issue of needing a number of forklifts to handle long and awkward loads. The company exports 94% of all its forklifts to over 45 countries around the world.

Three new models were unveiled, enhancing the wide range of Combilifts already available. The TeleCombi was originally developed to meet the specific requirements of a major UK aluminium extrusion customer Alcoa (UK) Ltd. Fitted with a 1 stage boom mounted on a moving carriage, the TeleCombi has a reach of 3m when carriage and boom are fully extended and can reach across the full width of a trailer at all lift heights.

This key feature enables the driver to offload from one side only, representing considerable savings on time and space. The moving carriage eliminates the need for constant height adjustment associated with conventional boom machines working in confined spaces. The TeleCombi has a capacity of 3000kg at 500m load centres, and is available in both diesel and LPG versions.

The new GT stand-on forklift, is capable of working in even narrower aisles than a conventional Combilift as it features a stand-on rather than a ride-in cab. In common with all of the Combilift range, it is designed for flexible indoor and outdoor operation, and this model is available with 3 - 4.5 tonnes (imperial 6,000 - 10,000lbs) lift capacities. A key option on the 4-wheel steer electric GT is an optical guiding system, which eliminates the need to install mechanical guide rails for operation within the very narrow aisles. Optical cameras mounted on the truck monitor a tape bonded in the centre of the aisle floor to enable automatic steering. A major benefit of the self steer system is the ease of operation for the driver, allowing the operator to concentrate on other functions.

The Semi - Rough Terrain C 5000L (C10,000L imperial) forklift is designed to handle long loads in narrow retail and wholesale yards, two examples include timber and steel. With larger solid pneumatic tyres, it is especially suited to unpaved yards and semi-rough terrain including snowy conditions and offers added suspension for more comfortable material handling for the operator. An extra 150 mm (6") in cab size allows for better operator ergonomics and comfort. This forklift is suited to outdoor and indoor environments.

Minister Martin said: ‘The international success of Combilift, and other Irish entrepreneurial companies, is one of the foundation stones of Ireland's remarkable economic performance over the last 10 years.’

Commenting on the announcement, Martin McVicar, Managing Director of Combilift, said: ‘This new facility in Monaghan will help us to strengthen our dominant position in global markets by developing our product range, and significantly expanding our output.’

Bob Taft, State Governor of Ohio, USA, presented Edgetech UK's global parent company, Edgetech IG Inc, with the 2006 Exporter of the Year Award. Edgetech IG Inc. runs a network of distributors and direct export operations selling leading warm edge technology Super Spacer® across the world.

Based in Cambridge, Ohio, Edgetech IG Inc., was awarded Exporter of the Year on the basis of its outstanding export sales and growth in the international market. Edgetech UK contributed significantly to the global company's export sales.

Mike Hovan, President of Edgetech IG Inc. (global parent company of Edgetech UK) accepts the Ohio Exporter of the Year award from State Governor Bob Taft.

Twenty-eight other companies including SigmaTEK Systems LLC, the Dover Chemical Corporation and Jergens Inc. were recognised with an Excellence in Exporting Award, but Edgetech IG Inc. took the top prize home. ‘It's a prestigious award that recognises fast growing companies that make the most of international markets. I'd like to thank each of Edgetech's subsidiary divisions for their part in our exciting overall sales growth,’ said Edgetech President Mike Hovan.

Ohio is the only state which has increased exports every year since 1998, and its exports have grown faster than overall US exports in four of the last five years. In 2005, Ohio companies exported $34.8bn in goods, an increase of 11.5% over 2004.

Edgetech was recognised by the State of Ohio for excellence in exporting in 1997 and 2002. This is the first year it has won the top honours.

Tel: 02476 705570

The G 06 Awards have attracted another distinguished industry endorsement. The BFRC Ltd - recently aligned with the Glass and Glazing Federation - has agreed to be an event sponsor of this year's scheme. It sees the Awards as an ideal opportunity to highlight the industry's role in what Ian Chisholm, Deputy CEO of the GGF, calls the ‘environmental battle.’

Dedicated to the operation of a UK energy rating system for doors and windows, the BFRC is especially keen to voice its support for the G 06 Award for Energy Efficiency Initiative. Ian Chisholm believes the industry has moved a long way in the last ten years, with more thermally efficient windows and recycling of waste products. ‘But some companies go that extra mile and they should use the opportunity of the G 06 Energy Efficiency Award to obtain recognition of that commitment. We look forward to hearing about the projects that will promote your company in this important area,’ he says.

And if you haven't booked your place at the Awards Presentation Gala Dinner on 15th September at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole there are still a few tables and tickets left. So if you don't want to miss out on what promises to be the industry event of the year log on to http://www.g-awards.com now and make your booking using the easy online form.

A seminar organised by the British Plastics Federation Windows Group has reinforced the environmental and economic advantages of PVC-U windows and doors to specifiers involved in social housing projects across London.

The seminar, supported by Britain's leading PVC-U window manufacturers and suppliers, forms part of a major, multi-faceted campaign including new briefing leaflets, tenant information, trade advertising and community radio programming. It included expert presentations from the industry covering all aspects of PVC-U including sustainability, delivering best value, recycling and recovery and repairability.

Chaired by British Plastics Federation Director General, Peter Davis OBE, the seminar was held at the County Hall Gallery on London's Southbank on Friday 16th June 2006. At the start of the programme, writer, broadcaster and former Science Writer in Residence at Cambridge University, Dr John Emsley described PVC-U as a ‘magical material’. Dr Emsley, who wrote ‘The Consumers' Good Chemicals Guide’, demolished much of the myth and misinformation surrounding a material which he said had ‘outstanding environmental credentials’.

Presentations by Philip Law, Issues Director of BPF, and Roger Morton of Axion Recycling (Recovinyl), described the efforts which are leading the PVC industry towards achieving long-term recycling, recovery and sustainability targets. Dr Eli Kienwald of LHC covered the issue of delivering best value in public sector procurement and linked this to the economic advantages of PVC-U for public sector and social housing. Paul Balfe of Merlin Windows, gave a paper supported by a practical demonstration on the repairability of PVC-U windows which adds to the strong economic advantages of the material in the social housing sector.

Describing the ‘Open and Shut case’ seminar, BPF Windows Group spokesman Thom Lant said: ‘This was an important new initiative which forms one element of our new proactive campaign on behalf of the industry. The seminar set out to tackle the issues which are critical to the decision-making process in the social housing sector and we were delighted with the response and the audience participation.’

Further information and access to a wide range of additional materials and publications can be found at http://www.bpfwindowsgroup.co.uk

With successful domestic installer companies now on a national supply basis from KEB in Birmingham, Shropshire and Gateshead, installers in Liverpool, Newcastle, Northampton, West Midlands, Bristol and the South East now have daily deliveries to installer premises or direct to the installation address across the country, the first transit depot of finished product in the North East of England is a tremendous success and is serviced on a 24hr delivery basis to ensure that the highly specified trade product is delivered within the seven day turnaround.

Lawrence Breakspear KEB Fabrications Managing Director stated 'The Connect service is a tremendous success and has surprised us all, it proves that quality and service out shines low prices and poor quality, we offer highly equipped windows that conform with all BSI and security criteria and our installer network up sell on this, KEB also supports the installers with bespoke sales and marketing literature not some system house generic brochure that everyone else seems to get palmed off with, KEB Connect has become an exclusive club with many installers (who are quality checked and trained) and window suppliers wanting to be a part of the scheme, as they are fed up with false promises and poor quality from so called trade companies'.

Lawrence also added 'in a time of people talking of domestic installations being in decline KEB Connect has seen an increase in sales over this year for ourselves and customers'.

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

The National Glass Association (NGA) announced on 22nd June that it has partnered with shipping conglomerate DHL to offer its members discounts of up to 25 percent on the full suite of DHL services.

'DHL has shown its commitment to our members by offering their services with deep discounts and with no obligation and no enrollment fee for both domestic and international shipping,' says NGA Sr. Manager, Customer Service and Certification, Tonya Johnson.

'We are proud to work with the nation's largest flat glass association, and by developing this programme we are hoping to simplify overnight shipping for NGA members', said Mickey Herbert, Director of Marketing & Group Sales, 1800MEMBERS.

The DHL Partner Savings Programme includes discounts on DHL Next Day, International Document Service, DHL 2nd Day, Worldwide Priority Express, DHL Ground, Import Express, Prepaid DHL ShipReady. Enrolling in this all inclusive programme is made easy by completing the online enrollment form at http://www.1800members.com/glass or by requesting a call from a member services representative.

Ultraframe has introduced a Roof Certificate of Authenticity to combat the problem of disreputable companies passing off inferior products as Ultraframe roofs. The Certificate means homeowners can be confident that they have received the top quality Ultraframe roof that they have paid for, rather than a cheaper, poor quality imitation.

The Roof Certificate of Authenticity is currently available on all roofing systems being produced by Ultraframe and following a successful trial period it is now also being offered to fabricators of Ultraframe roofs. To obtain their Certificate of Authenticity homeowners complete and return by freepost a registration document which is given to them by the fitter on completion of the installation. Alternatively homeowners can request a Certificate of Authenticity registration form via Ultraframe's consumer website.

Registration is then verified by Ultraframe and a certificate is sent to the homeowner.

Each certificate is personalised with the property details and address which means it can be passed on by the homeowners with the house deeds should they ever wish to sell their property. It can also form part of the Government 'Home Information Packs' to be launched in June 2007.

Homeowners also receive a useful conservatory Maintenance Guide with their Roof Certificate. The user friendly, full colour guide is a great additional sales tool that installers can offer the new conservatory owner, giving them important advice and tips to help them look after their conservatory and make the most of their investment. Along with the Ultra Guide to Conservatories, which is essential reading for homeowners who are considering purchasing a conservatory, Ultraframe's consumer literature guides the homeowner thoroughly through every step of the conservatory buying process.

Nick Brown, Sales and Marketing Director at Ultraframe, said; 'Because we are the market leader in our field, we have experienced some disreputable companies imitating our products. There have been occasions when we have been called to site by the homeowner who has a complaint about their conservatory only to discover that, although the homeowner was promised and has paid for an Ultraframe roof, the installers have fitted an inferior system. The new Roof Certificate of Authenticity prevents this passing off and is the latest step in Ultraframe's commitment to give the consumer peace of mind throughout the conservatory buying process.'

Uskvale Conservatories has seized the opportunity to become the first installer in the UK to use Ultraframe’s new Framelock system as part of its show site. A rosewood Classic style conservatory, featuring Framelock technology, is one of three Ultraframe conservatories displayed at Uskvale’s new show-site in Caerphilly, Cardiff.

Framelock is a dedicated side frame connection system which, when joined to an Ultraframe roof guarantees the structural performance of the entire conservatory. The BBA accredited system consists of a series of aluminium pillars and rails that are fitted together using Clicklock jointing technology to form structural ‘frames’, into which PVCu windows and doors can be fitted.

Doug Eades, Managing Director of Uskvale Conservatories comments: 'We have a show-site in Raglan featuring six Ultraframe conservatories which has been hugely successful. As a result we have been able to expand and have created a new show-site at Caerphilly featuring a further three stylish Ultraframe conservatories. We heard about Ultraframe’s new Framelock system and were very impressed by the benefits the system offers us and our customers. We believe Framelock gives us a real competitive advantage over other installation companies.'

To reinforce the exemplary structural performance of Framelock, owners of conservatories featuring the system will receive a BBA accredited ‘Certificate of Structural Assurance’. This will offer the homeowner peace of mind, help to demonstrate compliance with the very latest performance standards and give the installer an additional selling tool.

Doug continued: 'The use of Clicklock technology will make installation on site quick and fitter friendly. Ultraframe specifies and factory-fits the clips onto the Framelock rails and pillars which minimises the room for error on site and ensures consistent quality installations by our fitting teams.'

A further benefit for those choosing a conservatory featuring Framelock is that the windows and doors can be factory glazed and installed on site without the need to deglaze and rebead. Transporting fully glazed frames can protect the glass during shipment and by moving as much of the fabrication to the factory as possible, helps to ensure quality and reliability, further reducing the risk of on-site problems during construction.

Uskvale Conservatories is also a member of Ultraframe’s Guild Approved Ultra Installer scheme. Members of the Scheme have undergone independent inspections by the BBA which increases their credibility with homeowners. Benefits of the Scheme include immediate communication about ‘hot’ sales leads, monthly updates on consumer referrals through the Ultraframe call centre and website, as well as continuous marketing support to help installers promote themselves.

Members of the Ultra Installer Scheme can also offer homeowners the recently launched Certificate of Authenticity, which guarantees homeowners have received a genuine Ultraframe roof. The Certificate of Authenticity can also be passed on by the homeowners with the house deeds should they ever wish to sell their property.

Doug Eades concludes: 'We feel that by offering Framelock with its ‘Certificate of Structural Assurance’, being a member of the Guild Approved Ultra Installer Scheme and offering the Certificate of Authenticity, we are providing homeowners with a number of additional services to guarantee peace of mind when selecting a conservatory at Uskvale.'

Uskvale launched its new show site in May. For further information on Uskvale Conservatories call 01443 833000.

A complaint objecting to a regional press ad for Manor Conservatories and Construction of Swansea, Wales was upheld according to information published by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA).

Complaint:
A regional press ad, for windows and doors, claimed '3 Windows + Door £895 all with free fitting'. The complainant thought the claim was misleading because he believed the windows offered were much smaller than the average home would require.

Adjudication:
Complaint upheld
'Manor Conservatories did not respond in writing to our enquiries, but said on the telephone that they had amended the price in the offer to apply to windows of a larger size.

'The ASA was concerned, however, that Manor Conservatories had failed to provide a written assurance that they had amended the ad, despite repeated requests to do so.

'We considered that, in the absence of documentary evidence to prove that the windows referred to in the '3 Windows + Door £895 all with free fitting' offer were likely to be suitable for a reasonable proportion of homes, the ad was misleading. We told Manor Conservatories not to repeat the approach and advised them to seek help from the CAP Copy Advice team in future.'

The ad breached CAP Code clauses 6.1 (Honesty) and 7.1 (Truthfulness).

Radiance Glass has seen sales more than double up 119% over the last 12 months, thanks to the company's ability to consistently fulfil demand for Radiance Activ.

Radiance Activ has been developed specially for conservatories providing maximum performance throughout the year with the added benefit of a permanent self-cleaning exterior. These characteristics, combined with a subtle blue tint in the glass have provided conservatory installers with a product that not only performs well but looks good too.

Bob Lilley, managing director explains: ‘We've had a great year and this is testament not only to the product that we've developed but also to our ability to consistently supply it to the installer. Our order fulfilment capability is consistently in excess of 99% providing our customers with added reassurance that the product will be delivered to site at the exact time during the installation process.’

The company has recently moved to new premises and added key staff to support further growth as demand continues to rise. Radiance Glass has continued to invest in support materials and installers can benefit from heat lamps, showroom posters, brochures and association with the Pilkington Activ consumer campaign.

Bob concludes: ‘Our new business has been primarily driven by installers looking for a better finished glass unit, improved levels of customer support and a more reliable supply.’

Tel 01373 464051
Email: info@radianceglass.co.uk

The BBA has published an assessment on Laird's Egress hinges and handle hardware for windows.

The report gives an in depth assessment on the endurance, mechanical, corrosion and resistance to wear and fatigue for the Charisma 2 window handle, the Egress E1 and Select Egress friction hinges.

The programme followed a series of rigorous tests which confirmed that the performance of these products were consistent with a 25 year predicted service life for a PVC-U window.

The hardware was subjected to 25,000 operational cycles while the Egress friction hinges was further tested in accordance with BS 6375 -2:1987; all operations were found to be normal.

The corrosion resistance results indicated that Laird hardware achieved grade (class) 4 (240 hrs - very high resistance to corrosion) as defined by BS EN 1670: 1998 making it suitable for coastal and industrial locations.

The Charisma 2 is a contemporary design of in-line and offset window handles, discreetly contoured it has been engineered with a solid grip and high security locking cylinder.

Non-locking versions with green buttons are available for egress applications.
The Laird Egress friction hinges are suitable for first floor applications and are designed for safety and emergency exit in accordance with current fire safety standards.

The Egress E1 hinge is designed to open to egress only while the Select Egress may also be repositioned to easy clean allowing access for the external cleaning of the glass surface.

The Charisma 2 is licensed by Secured by Design and is available under the Saracen Secure Guarantee.

Tel: 0121 224 6000

The Carl F Group, which includes Carl F Petersen Ltd, is celebrating its best ever financial figures with a combined growth in turnover for all global divisions that topped more than £90 million. Commenting on the success, Group Managing Director Hans Christian Petersen said:

‘We have every reason to be satisfied with this result. We have deliberately launched an aggressive sales strategy aimed at gaining market share and have succeeded in achieving a strengthened position with the support of
our international partners.

‘Over recent years, we have placed more emphasis on the global marketplace via our 15 subsidiaries and regional offices. We also market our products and services in a further 45 countries and group expansion is predicted to continue in 2006.

The group is well placed for continued growth in both turnover and profit margin.’
Carl F Petersen in the UK was founded in 1988 as a hardware distribution business - today the Corby based operation successfully continues to run its fittings supply operation along with the Carl F direct professional tools catalogue.

For Carl F Petersen hardware enquiries:
Tel: 01536 401155
Email: sales@carlf.co.uk
Web: http://www.carlf.co.uk

Future Products has brought all its manufacturing operations under one roof with the opening of new premises in Mansfield. Previously located on three separate sites in the area, the company has now consolidated its frame, glass, conservatory roofs and door panel production in one purpose built facility.

The factory and office complex will enable Future Products to expand its customer base through enhanced product quality and service efficiency.

Situated just off junction 29 of the M1 and within easy reach of the A1, the factory is conveniently located for deliveries to customers nationwide. The larger facilities offer increased capacity for all products and will also allow the company to step up production of its new composite door collection.

Once phase two is complete, the facility will provide Future Products with 140,000 sq ft of floor space - that's twice the size of all its other premises combined. The premises have also been designed to be environmentally-friendly, with energy efficient power systems and automatic collection of PVC-U off-cuts and polystyrene for recycling.

Having all its product lines in one factory gives Future Products much greater control over production and delivery schedules, says Sales and Marketing Director, Paul Kirby: 'From a logistics point of view everything is now being manufactured and despatched from the same point so we don't have to transport products, such as toughened glass, between sites in order to complete an order.'

The move has also involved significant investment in additional production machinery, including a second Stuga sawing and machining centre to further increase efficiency and quality standards. Output currently stands at approximately 1500 frames, 2000 door panels and 70 roofs per shift.
However, with room for expansion and improvements in efficiency, Future Products is expecting to boost production capacity across all lines, and ultimately to introduce 24/7 working.

'We see the new facility as a major step in expanding our business within existing markets, delivering benefits both to our customers and ourselves through increased operating efficiency and output potential', concludes Paul Kirby. The company's range includes high quality PVC-U windows, sealed units, door panels and conservatory roofs for the domestic replacement market and general building trade.

Tel: 01623 635171

IG Doors is buying Hoppe products again. Hoppe (UK) had already supplied IG for five years before it decided to source its hardware from another supplier. ‘We never had a problem with Hoppe previously’ explains IG Doors Materials Manager Rhys Davies, ‘And this is why, in order to maintain our competitive edge, we've returned to Hoppe. Our customers, who are predominately major housebuilders and local authorities, expect us, as market leader, to supply the best value products - this isn't always the cheapest.’

Rhys is pleased to be back with Hoppe: ‘You just know what you're getting’ he explains: ‘We demand first class services and products from our suppliers. Hoppe delivers the full package; top quality handles at the right price, a great service and deliveries on time.’

Tel: 01902 484400
Web: http://www.hoppe.co.uk

Freefoam Plastics, a manufacturer of lead-free PVC Roofline and Rainwater systems has conducted a significant amount of research into the colour stability of PVC products when exposed to increased UV levels.

Back in the early 1990s the consensus was that 4 parts TiO2 (Titanium Dioxide) per hundred was adequate for UV protection of white products based on average regional UV levels. However, updated data from the National Radiological Protection Division of the Health Protection Agency shows that the worrying trend of increasing UV radiation levels has continued in 2005.

Freefoam says that its products have never been at risk from this trend. 'Unlike a lot of our competitors, we have been supplying markets in southern France for some time, and had added the necessary 5-6 parts per hundred to all our fascia products for operational simplicity, whether they ended up in France, the UK or Ireland.

'The implications of this trend are significant for all those involved with exterior PVC products – extruders, stockists, installers, raw material suppliers and homeowners too. Just as our skin needs protection if exposed over long periods to intense heat and UV sunlight, so too does PVC which has what is referred to as a ‘tipping point’ of UV exposure beyond which fading is rapidly accelerated.

'Freefoam’s products have 5 parts TiO2. Isn’t it time you asked your supplier what’s in yours?'

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

BM TRADA Certifies an 'A' Rating for Aluminium Window

Certification provider BM TRADA has been involved in verifying the performance of the first aluminium window to achieve an 'A' rating under the British Fenestration Rating Council's recently introduced energy assessment method.

As one of a small number of organisations licensed to carry out such assessments, BM TRADA worked with both its client Hazlemere Windows and systems specialist, Sapa Building Systems to ensure the collection of Dualframe 75 Casement windows under consideration complied with the strict conditions of the scheme.

Simon Beer of BM TRADA comments: ‘As part of our involvement we fully explained to Sapa the requirements of the scheme. As a result Sapa was able to put together a specification for its fabricators to show compliance with the BFRC scheme in terms of the products and assessment. We then audited Hazlemere Windows to verify compliance. This involves taking the content of the finite element analysis software programme and putting it in the form of an audit check list. Then we confirm that all the component parts match.’

The top rated window system's design makes use of a Dualframe 75 suite of profiles, featuring a polyamide thermal break, and offering a choice of casement configurations. Sapa specifies all of the different gaskets as well as the espagnolette type multi-point shoot-bolt locking mechanism.
The insulating glass units feature the use of both low emissivity glazing and warm edge spacer bar technology to achieve the excellent energy performance.

Sapa's Technical Director, Mark Robinson, adds: ‘We have worked to assess a window system that will be available through a number of window fabricators. It was therefore necessary to put this out for independent assessment by a BFRC registered simulator and the information was passed to BM TRADA to carry out the factory production control audit to prove the traceability of the product. This therefore verifies that a fabricator such as Hazlemere Windows will be able to consistently produce windows capable of achieving the 'A' rating.

‘Importantly, this now proves that aluminium can match the performance of other framing materials on the market.’

BM TRADA became approved as a BFRC certification body in 2004 with the first assessments of windows under the scheme being completed towards the end of last year.

Hazlemere Windows works in both the commercial and the residential sectors and expects the availability of an 'A' rated system to be an increasingly important selling point as specifiers and householders seek to cut carbon emissions and reduce fuel bills.

Tel: 01494 569607
Email: qmark@bmtrada.com
Web: http://www.bmtrada.com

With a track record of success going back 20 years, artistic glass specialist, Daedalian Glass, still gets great satisfaction from working with young graphics and landscape designers like award-winner Ian Rochead.

At age just 20, Ian had a dream start to his career as a landscape designer, winning a silver medal at this year's Chelsea Flower Show with his first-ever entry. The whole episode had a slightly surreal element to it, as his application to exhibit was accepted only at the last-minute because someone else had dropped out, and his entry in the Small Gardens (City Category) was the first independent commercial design he'd done since leaving college two years ago.

‘We love to be associated with success,’ joked Chris Walmsley, co-founder of Daedalian with his wife, Davia, the firm's chief designer. ‘More seriously, though, we also love to work with young designers like Ian who are just making a start in their careers. His youthful enthusiasm and our experience proved to be a good combination and we worked well together.’

The underlying theme of Ian's garden was glass, slate slabs, and oak tabling and seating - all materials increasingly found in the home - and bringing them together in a garden.

‘In a sense, I wanted to make the garden like another room in a house,’ said Ian, ‘with the Daedalian glass panels supporting a background swathe of bamboo plants without hiding them.’

There were three panels, each 1m x 2m high, in a 10mm toughened glass, with supporting stainless steel brackets. As a contrast to the tall upright bamboo, each of the panels had matching sandblasted double horizontal bands about a third of the way from the top.

It was Daedalian's work with Taylor Patrick McVean's garden which took 'Best Feature In Show' at RHS Tatton Park that caught Ian Rochead's eye on the Show web site. A meeting took place shortly afterwards and the rest, as they say, is history!

‘It was great working with them,’ said Ian of his relationship with Davia Walmsley and her team. ‘They made everything so simple and the whole experience was very enjoyable, especially given the short notice before the Flower show.’

Tel: 01253 702531
Web: http://www.daedalian-glass.co.uk

The UK Trades Confederation (UKTC) has formed a partnership with Brighton & Hove Trading Standards department to promote a new scheme, 'Buy With Confidence,' which registers reliable and ethical traders in the area. The partnership will be officially launched at the Trading Standards Institute exhibition at Excel London on 20th June.

UKTC, one of the UK's leading trade associations, will be responsible for contacting and recruiting local businesses in the Brighton & Hove area. Applicants to the scheme will then undergo a company audit by Trading Standards who will complete the registration. As part of the partnership agreement, UKTC will pay the membership fee of successful applicants to the scheme, making it free for local businesses to join.

Ian Gadsby, UKTC National Sales Manager comments:
'Everybody wins here - local consumers have a register of reliable ethical traders, Trading Standards are relieved of the work and expense of recruiting traders into the scheme, UKTC is assured of a high standard of member and lastly, local traders will increase their business.'

Brighton & Hove joins Bedfordshire Trading Standards department in working in partnership with UKTC to build a register of reputable and ethical local businesses. The 'Buy With Confidence' scheme is hoped to 'stamp out' the rogues and incompetent businesses that exploit consumers in the area.

For further information contact The UK Trades Confederation on 0800 018 4442 or email mail@uktc.org or visit http://www.uktc.org

In the framework of its recovery plan 'Target 2007', on 20th June the management of Tessenderlo Group informed the works councils of the Chemicals sites involved of its intention to carry out a reorganisation. This reorganisation could affect the Limburg factories in Tessenderlo (TCT and LVM) and Ham (TCH), the Chemicals department in Brussels and the other European production sites and sales offices of the Chemicals business group.

In recent years, the results of the Chemicals Business Group have nose-dived at an alarming rate. The Chemical business units inorganics and PVC/chlor-alkali have been affected by a downward trend in productivity and profitability since 2000.

This can be attributed to swift changes in the market conditions, worldwide competition that has become cut-throat and high prices for raw materials. In Belgium, the Limburg sites have been loss-making even at structural level. Poor results of the Chemicals business group have had a negative impact on the group.

Recovery plan ‘Target 2007’
‘Tessenderlo Group has launched a recovery plan in order to get business, productivity and profitability back on track. From 2007, ‘Target 2007’ aims to improve the result by 30 million EUR a year, most of which will be set aside by the Chemicals business group which is bearing the brunt of the problems. Only in that way is there room for investments and can we provide for the future.

'With regard to the Chemicals recovery plan, ten working groups carried out a detailed analysis of the situation for several months. They were made up of people from different sites, positions and countries, and produced a large number of proposals to improve profitability. Particularly, the setting-up of one single organisation for Europe and the merger of LVM, TC Tessenderlo and TC Ham could create important synergies.

'Based on detailed analyses, proposals will be tabled for changes in the organisation, business processes and working methods, with significant investments in training being made.'

Restructuring and redundancies
‘Unfortunately, in order to create financial breathing space, alongside reshuffles, redundancies may be a necessary evil. The recovery plan to be considered by all parties involved may be translated into a loss of 240 jobs in Europe. For Limburg, this may mean a loss of 197 jobs, including the potassium sulphate production unit in Tessenderlo that may face closure.

‘The Chemicals management intends to transfer its activities and 49 staff from its Brussels offices to Tessenderlo. Although the French PVC research activities at Verneuil would be moved to Belgium. The sales structure will also be restructured. To make it absolutely clear, Tessenderlo Group has no intention of transferring activities to low-wage countries. Quite the reverse, the group has only just invested heavily (to the tune of 150 million EUR in the new electrolysis unit in Tessenderlo (Belgium).

‘Today our first priority is the future of the employees who will be affected by these plans. The management would like to take all social circumstances into account as much as it can.

‘By means of open and constructive dialogue with staff representatives, Tessenderlo Chemicals wants to look for the best solutions in the interest of all staff. Everyone will need to make an effort. In that way, we can guarantee a new future for the Chemicals business group.’

For nationwide fabricator Modplan Limited, a commitment to customer support has been the keystone to continuous growth for over two decades. ‘In today's market control, transparency, fast reaction times and attention to detail have become pre-requisites for the success of our customers’, says national sales manager Stephen Graves, ‘which is where Modplan's operating systems play a vital role.’

With Modplan's secure, sophisticated software, customers are able to build a specification on screen, then immediately access purchase prices and glass sizes. The customised program then provides the facility to add on personalised on-costs to provide a complete order and quotation for the end user, without any additional paperwork. Purchase orders are then submitted electronically, direct to Modplan's production system.

Stephen goes on to explain that purchasing through Remote Pro has transformed the process for many Modplan customers, as well as playing a large part in attracting new business. ‘It's amazing how many people still consider on-line ordering to consist of nothing more than emailing an order rather than faxing it! When they see a demonstration of our operating system they immediately grasp its full potential.’

The Andover based KJM Group was one of the first to implement the operating system when the company chose Modplan as its fabricator in early 2004. With five installation teams, plus a separate conservatory division and a number of prestigious long term contracts in the public and private sectors, the company has a diverse range of product requirements and purchasing needs. ‘Time is a precious commodity for all our customers’ continues Stephen, ‘but for a large company like KJM, with a solid reputation based on dedication to customer care, working through Remote Pro provides the reassurance they need, providing the same high level of data checking and price calculation as found in our main manufacturing system.’

The operating system, which requires minimal training to use efficiently, is part of a long term project which aims to keep both Modplan and its customers competitive, well into the 21st century. ‘We work hard to maintain a pro-active approach, providing a fast response to the changing needs of our customers’ concludes Stephen. ‘Continuous investment for the development of products and processes is fundamental to customer support and mutual growth.’

Tel: 01495 246844

The European Commission has approved the acquisition by Linde AG, Wiesbaden, of The BOC Group plc, Windlesham, UK. The approval is subject to certain conditions. The conditions require the divestiture of Linde's gas business in the UK, BOC's gas activities in Poland and contracts with Linde's ethylene oxide customers in the UK and Ireland. These divestitures correspond to a sales volume of approximately 160 million euros. In addition, Linde committed to transfer certain contracts with helium suppliers and to sever, to an extent agreed with the Commission, joint ventures between BOC and Air Liquide in the Asia/Pacific region, either by selling BOC's shareholding or by acquiring Air Liquide's shareholding.

'The approval from the European Commission is a key step towards a merger with BOC,' confirmed Prof. Wolfgang Reitzle, President and CEO of Linde AG. 'We expect the transaction to be closed in the course of the third quarter of 2006. The extent of the Commission's conditions is in line with our expectations and we will comply promptly with these conditions.'

The US Federal Trade Commission's investigation is well advanced. Linde believes that a positive decision will be issued within the next several weeks and is confident to be able to close the transaction according to plan in the third quarter of 2006.

Linde is an international technology group, which occupies leading positions in each of its two business segments Gas and Engineering as well as Material Handling. In the financial year 2005, Linde achieved a turnover of 9.5 billion euros and currently employs approximately 42,400 people worldwide.

Hewlett Civil Engineering of Leeds has bought 40 Volkswagen Caddy vans as part of a major investment strategy to support the company's continued expansion. The vans will operate as support vehicles on major construction projects, transporting both personnel and equipment.

On average a Hewlett van travels 30,000 miles each year, therefore fuel economy is a major consideration. The Caddy's 2.0-litre four-cylinder 69 PS diesel engine, featuring Volkswagen's unit injector technology, not only offers impressive efficiency but is also good to drive.

Andy Preston, Plant Manager at Hewlett, says: 'We have run Volkswagen vans for a number of years and have seen a consistent progression of quality and reliability.'
The Volkswagen Caddys have also received the thumbs up from Hewlett's drivers.

'Feedback from our drivers has been very favourable,' commented Preston. 'They've been impressed with the car-like handling, responsive engine and excellent fuel consumption.'

The load capacity of the Caddy is a class-leading 3.2 cubic metres. Loading and unloading is made easy thanks to a standard sliding door on the nearside which opens to a width of 700 mm, as well as asymmetrically split rear wing doors.

The Volkswagen Caddy has been designed for driver comfort and safety with power assisted steering, driver's airbag, a third brake light and an ergonomically designed cab with plenty of storage space. Furthermore, there are a number of standard safety features fitted including ABS, Traction Control System (TCS) and Engine Braking Control (EBC).

Since launch, the Volkswagen Caddy has proved extremely popular with customers from a range of industries. Sales of this versatile compact van increased by 26 per cent in 2005, and contributed to the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand achieving record sales for the sixth consecutive year.

The Volkswagen Van Centre in Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire supplied Hewlett Engineering with the 40 Caddy vans. For further information on the Volkswagen Caddy or to find your nearest Volkswagen Van Centre call 0800 717131 or visit http://www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk.