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Synseal Enlists Geoff Hoon MP’s Help in Delaying Bad Conservatory Legislation

'Over the past two years,’ says Nick Dutton, Sales and Marketing Director of Synseal Extrusions Ltd, ‘we have become increasingly concerned with the Government’s proposals to include conservatories in new building regulations. It is not that we are opposed to changes in regulations, but consultations on its proposals had been restricted to a small number of people and organisations purporting to represent the interests of the industry. Either they had been asleep on watch, or ineffective in getting the Government to listen, but the civil servants in the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) were pushing ahead with regulations that would have a damaging effect on the conservatory industry.

‘So, rather than sit on the sidelines, we decided to have a word with Mr Geoff Hoon MP, who as Lord Privy Seal and Leader of the House of Commons is responsible for introducing the Government’s legislative programme to Parliament. Even at this late stage, if civil servants were deaf to common sense, perhaps we could get the Government to listen and reconsider. Our main point was that the ODPM’s proposed legislation was based on a misunderstanding.

'It would damage the industry, while not achieving what the Government thought it would. And the consultation had been restricted to a few self appointed representatives who had kept their cards close to their chest. So, although the Government might think it had engaged in consultation with the industry, very few people from the industry had had the chance to comment on its proposals. In particular, although smaller installation companies play a crucial role in the industry they had been left completely out of the loop. Individually, these companies don’t have the clout larger companies do, nor the time and resources to become involved. And the effects of ‘over-legislating’ often make it hard for smaller companies to compete with larger regional and national firms.

‘We found Mr Hoon to be a good listener, and he had clearly done his homework for the meeting. He asked some penetrating questions and agreed to take the issue up directly with John Prescott the Deputy Prime Minister.

‘Just before Parliament rose for the summer the Government published its proposals for revising various parts of the Building Regulations, but the revision to Part L looks like it is going to be delayed, possibly to April 2006. There was no mention at all of a timetable for the application of Building Regulations to conservatories. This does not mean the battle is over, and we don’t know how much of the delay was down to Mr Hoon, but it would be nice to think that the industry is going to get the chance to have a full and open debate on the proposals, and that any new legislation we get is good legislation.’

Tel: 01623 443 200
Web: http://www.synseal.com

Deceuninck Picks up Major New Customers for Windows and Roofline

Three significant local companies have recently signed up with Deceuninck: St Helens fabricator, Focus UPVC, will manufacture the company's sculptured zendow(r) 2800 suite, as will Bradford trade fabricator, Glass Tec Windows. Swindon building merchants, Drainex Ltd, meanwhile, will now stock the Deeplas range of cellular PVC-U fascias, soffits, claddings and trims.

Having looked at alternative systems, newly formed St Helens fabricator Focus UPVC chose Deceuninck Status as their preferred provider as zendow® 2800 suite has the required sculptured aesthetics.
Directors of Focus UPVC, Dale Fairclough and Edward Silcock explain: 'When we formed Focus UPVC earlier this year, we wanted to work with a system that offered sculptured aesthetics which is a very popular choice with our customers. We feel that the zendow® 2800 suite is by far the best sculptured system on the market and our sales have been very encouraging. Working with Deceuninck Status ensures we have access to some of the best products and support initiatives available.'

Focus UPVC is already manufacturing a steady 100 frames per week, which from a standing start, is very encouraging. The company offer a quality range of windows and doors to the domestic and trade markets from their unit in Haydock, St Helens.

Bradford trade fabricator, Glass Tec Windows, has also signed with Deceuninck Status to manufacture the zendow® 2800 suite. The choice to switch to zendow® 2800 was deliberate and came as a direct result of installer preference.

Business Manager of Glass Tec Windows, Omar Majid explains: 'In order to ensure we provide the right products for our installing partners, we gave our customers a controlled questionnaire survey of numerous leading profiles. One of which was the zendow® 2800 decorative suite from Deceuninck Status. In all cases, our installers chose the zendow® 2800 as their preferred choice. This was due to the decorative detailing of the suite and the exceptional product aesthetics. Furthermore the quality of the product was extremely high and installers felt the window had unique qualities over other systems.'

As a result of the survey, Glass Tec switched over to Deceuninck Status in July this year and have been manufacturing the zendow® 2800 decorative suite from their headquarters in Bradford

Finally, Swindon building merchants, Drainex Ltd, has signed with local company Deceuninck to stock the Deeplas range of cellular PVC-U fascias, soffits, claddings and trims.

The company, who specialise in above and below the ground drainage, have built an enviable reputation for offering quality products and the decision to choose the Deeplas range was deliberate.

Drainex Depot Manager, Simon Trott said: 'We wanted to offer a cellular range of the highest quality and variety, both of which was met by Deeplas from Deceuninck. Since we commenced trading with them earlier this year, we have not experienced one quality issue. That statistic is extremely impressive and allows us to have total confidence in the company and their products.'

Drainex offer their range of products to the trade and general public from their site in Swindon, Wiltshire.

For more information on Focus UPVC call 01942 719 225
For more information on Glass Tec Windows call 01274 742280
For more information on Drainex visit www.drainex.co.uk

For information on Deceuninck Status contact Kevin Warner
Tel: 01249 816969

For information on Deceuninck Deeplas contact Hazel Wilson
Tel: 01249 816969

Latium Snaps up HW Plastics for £3m and Takes on £17m Pinking Liabilities

Heywood Williams Group PLC has agreed to sell its Plastic Systems Division (HW Plastics, Spectus and Kestrel/BCE) to Latium Plastics Holdings Ltd for a cash consideration of £3 million. In addition, Latium will assume certain product rectification liabilities and obligations to the tune of £17m associated with pinking problems which.

The financial impact of the disposal is expected to be significantly earnings enhancing for the Group going forward. An investment programme already underway is continuing and Spectus is on target to launch Elite 70 bevelled by the end of the year.

The disposal is conditional only on the approval of Heywood Williams‚ shareholders. The notice convening an Extraordinary General Meeting of the Company recommending approval of the disposal will be dispatched to shareholders shortly.

On 1 July 2005, the Board of Heywood Williams announced its decision to grow the Group by initially focusing on the design, development, marketing and distribution of branded building products. This followed the completion of an in-depth strategic review of HW Plastics, which concluded that this division is non-core to the future development of the Heywood Williams Group. The Board therefore initiated a process which has culminated in this disposal.

The disposal advances the Group's strategy of creating a focused, branded building products distribution group. Heywood Williams has strong market leading positions in the North American manufactured housing, recreational vehicle and modular housing markets and in the supply of hardware and door panels to the UK and certain other European window, door and conservatory fabrication markets.

The future focus of the Group will be to continue the growth of LaSalle Bristol in North America and the Hardware Division in the UK and Europe, while seeking further growth opportunities.

The current market conditions in North America, the UK and Europe remain as previously outlined. Overall, the Group continues to trade in line with its full year plans.

HW Plastics, which is the UK market leader in PVC windows systems and cellular buildings products, operates two manufacturing plants located in Macclesfield and Scunthorpe and a distribution centre located in Trentham. It has approximately 600 employees.

For the year ended 31 December 2004, HW Plastics reported sales of £65.9 million (approximately 20 per cent of Group sales) and an operating loss before exceptional items of £4.0 million. The net and gross assets of HW Plastics at 31 December 2004, excluding assets and liabilities which are excluded from the disposal, were £8.5 million and £43.6 million respectively.

Latium has existing cellular building product, window fabrication and installation businesses in the UK. The Board believes that the proposed sale of HW Plastics to Latium, which offers the potential benefits of HW Plastics being part of a vertically integrated business, is a satisfactory outcome for both companies and the employees of HW Plastics.

At completion, the net cash proceeds are expected to be £1.2 million after expenses, which will be used, primarily, to fund a one-off contribution to the Group‚s defined benefits pension scheme of £1.0 million. The disposal is not expected to result in any tax liabilities.

Heywood Williams has also agreed, subject to completion, to make a contribution of £0.35 million in each of the three years following completion towards rental payments at HW Plastics‚ leasehold property at Trentham; fund the outstanding cash required to complete the committed expenditure in respect of the Elite 70² bevelled tooling project (some £0.7 million); and to procure minor building repairs at Trentham (some £0.3 million).

Commenting on the disposal of HW Plastics, Robert Barr, Heywood Williams‚ Group Chief Executive, said:
'This disposal enhances our ability to grow the Group by focusing on the design, development, marketing and distribution of branded building products. We are selling HW Plastics at a fair price, eliminating potential future operating losses and also removing the future potential cash outflows associated with product rectification. This is a satisfactory outcome for both companies and provides continuation of employment for the employees of HW Plastics. The Board unanimously recommends that shareholders vote in favour of this disposal.'

Newdawn Conservatory Roof System Acquired by Bowater Building Products

In the first step in a planned expansion programme, Bowater Building Products is acquiring the trade and assets of Newdawn & Sun Ltd, a leading independent manufacturer of commercial and conservatory roof systems.

Newdawn, based in Alcester, Warwickshire has a range of conservatory roof systems to fit projects from small domestic installations to portal frame structures.

The company, which employs 44 people, supplies a wide range of conservatory fabricators and installers across the UK and Eire and is known for the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of its systems.
Newdawn’s experience in roofing systems dates back to 1984 and the company has a consistent track record of product design and development, supported by strong technical skills and customer service.

The £180 million turnover Bowater Building Products and Home Improvements organisations include leading PVCu window systems company, WHS Halo, and the direct sell fabricator and installer, Zenith Staybrite.

This is the first acquisition by Bowater Building Products since 3i, the venture capital company, took a majority shareholding in the business supporting the management team, in 2004.

The company has an expansion strategy which includes both organic growth and further acquisitions in the window and conservatory market and other building product sectors.

The trade and assets of Newdawn & Sun Ltd are being acquired from the shareholders, the Reddiplex Group and Newdawn’s Managing Director, Mr Mike Newey, who will be retiring from the company on completion of the sale.

Commenting on the acquisition, Bowater Building Products Chief Operating Officer, Nigel Richmond said;
'As part of Bowater Building Products, it will be very much 'business as usual' for Newdawn customers as we intend to retain all staff and continue to operate independently at Alcester.'

'Newdawn was one of the pioneers of the glazed roof construction sector and has many loyal customers who are the bedrock of the business.'

'Our primary goal is to continue to support existing customers and bring additional resources, which will improve the level of service and increase the rate of new product development.'

'This is also a logical step for Bowater Building Products. As the conservatory market matures and with new legislation on the horizon, the development of the roof ,window and wall systems will become far more integrated.'

'There are obvious synergies in Newdawn being able to work with the profile systems business, WHS Halo, and the conservatory division of Zenith Staybrite.'

'Although the window and conservatory market is currently suffering difficult trading conditions, with the consumer economy slowdown, we are very confident in the future of the sector and this is a time when the stronger Groups in the industry can consolidate and expand.'

'Newdawn is an excellent first step in our growth programme.'

Bowater Building Products is based in Hockley Heath, nr Birmingham and Newdawn & Sun Ltd is based in Alcester, Warwickshire.

Networking or Neckworking?

The Publicity In Glazing Society networking event resumes after the Summer break on 8th September from 6pm onwards. Once again, the downstairs bar at the Slug & Lettuce in London's Upper Saint Martins Lane will play host to the glass and glazing industry's thirstiest.

Apparently the definition of networking is establishing, maintaining and utilising a broad network of contacts in order to keep a pulse on public, political and internal issues and to make informed decisions, including the identification of who to involve, as well as when and how to involve them in order to accomplish objectives and minimise obstacles. Gl@zine readers will be pleased to know that PIGS is simply about meeting people from the glass and glazing industry and enjoying a free beer courtesy of our sponsors in an informal setting.

The September event is sponsored by research and PR specialists Michael Rigby Associates, PVC window, door and curtain walling systems company WHS Halo, trade magazine Window Industries, glass technology experts Pilkington and high performance aluminium glazing company Senior Aluminium Systems. Gl@zine readers may recall that these were the sponsors of the abortive 7th July PIGS night so let us applaud both their British bloody mindedness and their support for the industry's networking club.

Please feel free to extend an invitation to friends and colleagues from businesses associated with marketing to the glazing industry. The easy way to find the venue is to take the tube to Leicester Square, leave via the Covent Garden exit, go to the top of Cranbourne Street and turn left on to Upper St. Martins Lane. The Slug & Lettuce is on the left, next door to Stringfellows. For more information contact Dave Broxton on 07966 441973 or by email at mailto:djbmarketing@blueyonder.co.uk

The Rich, the Famous and the Powerful Take a Stroll for Charity

A Who's Who of the glass and glazing industry will be taking a stroll for charity when the 2005 Network Walk takes place in Manchester on Friday 21st October 2005 to raise money for the Hope House Children's Hospice.

Although expected to be no more than a leisurely stroll in physical terms the event is expected to prove vigorous in the meeting and greeting department, as individuals and teams from systems suppliers, fabricators, installers, the press, steel suppliers and others from all ends of the industry gather together for the good of - well, just about everyone really!

Industry 'names' that will be exercising their feet and wallets for a great cause so far include: Dean St John, of Planet Conservatories; Mark Rogers of Veka; teams from Emplas, Shepley, Aluplast and 3D Group; Frank Dearey from Total Glass; Eddie Gaughan from Affordable; Gary Dean of Bohle, Kevin Warner from Deceuninck Status; Gary Morton from Conservatory Roof Craft; Mark Simm of GAP and many, many others.

But, as organiser Mike Crewdson of Radius Plastics explains, there is plenty of room for others to join, limited only by the streets, bars and other delights offered by Manchester's city centre: ‘We have a fantastic list of supporters and are looking to raise some serious money for the kids at Hope House,’ says Mike. ‘And it's not as if we're asking people to do anything more exhausting than meet people with like minds and a desire to do some good. And whilst raising money for charity this is an undisguised opportunity to make and build contacts within the industry and with others that will be coming along.’

The 2005 Network Walk involves a gentle stroll around 2-3 miles of Central Manchester with participants organised into teams who will, with the help of some carefully planned - and some not so carefully planned - stops along the route in a variety of drinking establishments to cater far all tastes, have the opportunity to meet and interchange as the walk progresses along the route.

With a target of at least £20,000 for Gary Morton's GM Fundraising organisation, and in turn of course the Hope House Hospice for Children, the fundraising principle behind the Manchester Network Day is simple: each participant or team should aim to raise, or simply contribute - a minimum of £500 to take part but whatever they can afford. The walk will be organised in groups of eight with groups interspersing as the event continues.

During the evening a number of activities to suit all tastes will be available to continue the activities, and by that time festivities, and to cement the many relationships that will have been made during the day. In order to ensure that the charitable donations reach Hope House in full, participants will of course be expected to fund their entertainment and sustenance during the event, including overnight accommodation.

Says Mike: ‘We have a superb cross-section of the industry attending from companies of all sizes. But we still haven't heard from the machinery boys, hardware or glass suppliers who are conspicuous by their absence - what will people think if they are not there!

‘This will be serious fun - just look at some of the characters already signed up to attend - and is what the industry does best - enjoy itself for a good cause! Sign up now and come and have a great day out.’

Further information from Mike Crewdson, Radius Plastics Ltd on 07801 622575, email mailto:mike@radplas.com.

Veka Chosen As Supply Partner For UK's Largest Private Social Housing Provider

VEKA plc, already the number one PVC-u system choice for UK public sector specifiers, has recently achieved another major coup: The company has announced that it has been chosen as the sole window systems supplier to the Places for People Group, the largest private social housing provider in the UK, as part of a three-year contract. VEKA windows will be supplied for major regeneration and new build projects via three of its fabricators, also appointed by the Group as supply partners: Norfolk based Ashford Windows Ltd, Sash Products of Barnsley and Sovereign Group, based in Lancashire.

The Places for People Group provides a range of regeneration solutions across the UK and is also the country's third largest builder of new social housing developments. With its own commercial arm, housing management expertise and a strong track record of community consultation, it offers a one-stop-shop approach for local authorities as well as public and private partners. The focus of the Group is to improve existing neighbourhoods and create new ones, providing well-designed, mixed tenure areas which offer a range of homes for rent and sale, as well as high quality childcare facilities, job and learning opportunities and access to financial services.

The Group employs around 1600 people, has Support Centres in London, Preston and York together with 25 local offices around the country and is currently responsible for around 52,000 homes in England, Scotland and Wales.

The Group operates on the basis of national supply agreements and partnerships and has already established deals with a number of national main contractors. However, recently the Group turned its attention to window procurement, believing that it could get a better deal for its residents and achieve 'smarter specification' through working with a single PVC-u systems supply partner. With this in mind, it sought out a number of major UK systems manufacturers - including VEKA - and selected a number of their fabricators who could work on a national basis, inviting all the companies to submit initial proposals and enter an interview process.

Following a tough initial selection process, VEKA was one of the two companies short-listed for the final stage. Having interviewed VEKA and approved the technical benefits of its products, the Places for People Group then set up a residents' committee to interview both the systems suppliers and their fabricators to ascertain which would deliver the best service. According to the Group's David Wint, VEKA and its fabricator partners proved the clear choice:

'VEKA's products impressed everyone here, but at the end of the day it's the fabricators' performance that can make the difference between success and failure. The three VEKA fabricators made a real impact on our panel with their professionalism and ability, and we knew we had our winning team.'

The partnership charter between VEKA, its fabricator partners and the Group was signed recently; with a two year extension on the three-year deal a strong possibility. VEKA has also helped sponsor a promotional video for customers of the Places for People Group that features Blue Peter presenter Diane-Louise Jordan.

Network Welcomes Back a Trio of ‘Prodigals’

Network Veka is celebrating the return of three former members among its latest intake of recruits – with the prospect of a fourth under discussion.

The companies had left the organisation voluntarily to try going it alone but have now come back to enjoy the benefits of group trading the Network way.

Among the returners is Weathermaster of Whitehaven, Cumbria, whose MD Neal Holmes admits he had not made the most of membership the first time round. His turning point was seeing the achievements of Plymouth-based Stormseal South West, when he met MD Paul Murphy at an event run by their fabricator, Consort.

'He had completely transformed the company – and its sales – by making full use of the Network Veka marketing package,' said Neal, 'Now I plan to do the same.'
Weathermaster has already undergone an image makeover, showroom design and new vehicle livery in the Network Veka style and has a number of advertising projects underway.

The Network Veka Steering Group has also approved the readmission of CIS, with premises in Carlisle and Dumfries, and Aurora Window Manufacturers of Glasgow and at least one other company is in talks with the organisation.

Network Veka Managing Director John Ogilvie said: 'We are delighted to be welcoming these old friends back into our ranks.

'Their return shows very clearly that life is getting tougher for those companies going it alone while the security of group membership is becoming ever more relevant to any business.'

Happy to be back – Neal Holmes with wife Bernadette in their new showroom

Danny Basden Returns to Manufacture Vertical Sliders

Danny Basden has launched a new company - Victorian Sliders Ltd, and has begun manufacturing vertical sliding sash windows using Plastmo Profiles Charisma system.

The company is based in Kidwelly, South Wales, in a dedicated 27,000 ft2 factory unit and will solely manufacture VS windows. The company is actively targeting the trade, retail, new build and commercial markets and has seen its order books steadily increase thanks to a continuing strong demand for traditional looking VS windows and the backing of a marketing campaign from Plastmo.

Basden has a wealth of experience in the window industry including senior roles in sales and marketing for systems, frames, doors and building products. He decided upon the Charisma VS window because of its elegant detail and modern technology.

He says: ‘we chose the Charisma VS window because of its good looks and its advanced features including its high security, low line beads, enhanced weather protection and inward opening sashes that allow easy cleaning.’

The company offers a range of sizes up to 3,000 mm and all products comply with part L of the building regulations when used with thermally efficient glass. They also offer national delivery and a seven working day turnaround from receipt of order.

Tel: 0845 1700 810

Easy Egress First with New Sheerframe VS

Sheerframe systems company L.B. Plastics says that it has developed the first PVC vertically sliding sash window to offer all the benefits of traditional styling, combined with the critical emergency egress requirements of Part B of the Building Regulations.

'Typically, most sliding sash windows leave no more than 75 per cent of each opening sash as a possible clear opening for escape in the event of a fire or other emergency.' says the company. 'Unless the sash window is very large, this is unlikely to comply with Part B which states that escape windows must have an unobstructed open area of 0.33m2, with height and width no less than 450mm.

'In addition, most vertical sliding sash windows tilt-in for easy cleaning and are bottom hung.  This complicates emergency egress when every second is absolutely crucial, with the bottom sash very awkward to escape from quickly, unless the tilt arms are disengaged.

'The new Sheerframe escape sliding sash window is radically different. It looks and functions exactly like any other traditional vertically sliding sash, moving up and down on spring balances, but is unique in that the bottom sash (the escape sash) becomes top hung and opens-in.  This creates a clear, unobstructed opening for easy escape to the full size of the sash.'

The development of the Sheerframe escape sliding sash opens up whole new possibilities for housebuilders. It means that this popular, traditional window style with all the added long term performance benefits of PVC, can now be used for smaller window openings, providing opportunities for new house designs and interior layouts. An escape window will now be possible in the VS style to a minimum size opening of 845mm wide by 1082mm tall on an equal split window and with a 1/3-2/3rd split as much as 845mm x 900mm.

In terms of operation, the window is easy to understand for the home occupant. Following the release of the camlock, the lower sash is lifted to its stop position.

The tilt release catches can then be disengaged and the lower sash is tilted upwards and inwards where it arrives at its final position for egress, with tilt restrictors supporting the sash in this position.

'Importantly, this innovative egress design in no way compromises the styling of the VS.  Escape sliding sashes retain the slim Sheerframe profile with its good sightlines, a style that has made the system such a popular choice amongst the UK and Ireland‚s housebuilders.' adds the company. 

It can also be manufactured not only with horns in the conventional features at the bottom of the bottom sash, but also on the inside of the top of the bottom sash, a design commonly found in older timber windows.

Tel: 01773 852311

New Corner Cleaners for John Fredericks

As part of its commitment to invest continually in new equipment and provide a consistently high quality and flexible service, trade fabricator John Fredericks has taken delivery of three new Rotox corner cleaners.

Enhancing the quality control at the Huddersfield-based company, the six axis computer numerical control corner cleaners offer fully automatic cleaning of corners, transoms and cross welds with automatic profile recognition. They have a user friendly interface with a superb clamping and knifing system to provide a high quality cleaning finish on John Fredericks’ sculptured and chamfered ranges.

The new equipment adds to John Fredericks’ existing portfolio of equipment, which includes two further corner cleaners, reinforcing centres, auto screwing machines, head welders, verti-quad welders and bar coding machines.

The strategic investment coincides with the appointment of Kevin Hill as John Fredericks’ new managing director. Kevin commented: ‘We see strategic investment in new equipment as very important in order to maintain our position as one of the leading quality trade fabricators in the industry. We are, and will continue to be, a service driven company and this new investment will, without doubt, enable us to pass significant benefits onto our growing customer base.’

Tel: 01422 314100
Web: http://www.johnfredericksplastics.com

Queen's Awards Official Meets Haydock Glass Specialists

Merseyside specialist glass maker CGI International Ltd revealed the secret of its business success during a whistle-stop tour to promote entries for this year's Queen's Awards for Enterprise.

The Haydock company won a Queens Award for International Trade in 2004 for boosting overseas earnings for its fire-resisting range of laminated glass, now sold in more than 20 countries.

And this month the company played host at its premises in Millfield Lane to Steve Brice, Secretary of The Queen's Awards Office, during a tour to encourage other North West firms to apply for this ultimate business accolade - described by one previous winner as being 'like a corporate knighthood'.

CGI supplies its laminated glass for a wide range of applications, including fire protection and radiation control, to markets across Europe and as far afield as Singapore. The company increased its overseas earnings by almost 140 per cent in six years, with exports accounting for more than 60 per cent of production.

Said sales and marketing director Phill Millward: 'Winning this Award certainly enhanced our business reputation in the glass industry, besides providing a tremendous morale boost for our staff.'

Steve Brice also visited companies in Penrith, Chester, Nantwich and Stockport and attended a seminar at Haydock Racecourse, organised by The Queen's Awards Office and UK Trade & Investment, to explain the benefits of The Queen's Awards for Enterprise to regional businesses.

Nominations for The Queen's Awards in three business categories (International Trade, Innovation and Sustainable Development), and the new Queen's Award for Enterprise Promotion, for individuals, can be made now. The closing date is 31st October. Full information can be found on The Queen's Awards website at http://www.queensawards.org.uk

(From left to right), Steve Brice, glass inspector Joe Painter, and CGI Sales and Marketing Dirctor Phill Millward displaying the company's Queen's Award flag at one of the Pyroguard Production Lines.

Open Day Event Paves the Way for Further Eurocell Roadshows

The sun shone on Eurocell Building Plastics in more ways than one when the company recently held its first open day at its Grimsby branch. After a flood of early morning interest, the event attracted a steady stream of customers throughout the day, drawn by the aroma of a free barbecue and an array of trade stands.

Kevin Dunderdale, Eastern Divisional Sales Manager for EBP, headed the team of organisers. He said the event was such a success it has paved the way for similar events throughout the Eastern region.

'The response has been absolutely fantastic,' he said. 'Within the first two-and-a-half hours of opening, 150 people had been onto our forecourt. We've seen a lot of new customers and many existing ones who came to find out more about what we do and the products we offer.'

As well as Eurocell's own stand, products were displayed by key customers. David Clarke, Managing Director of Comfyair air conditioning systems, travelled from West Yorkshire to exhibit his products, which are sold alongside Eurocell conservatories.

Dave started his business from his spare bedroom three years ago, and built it up until it has virtually outgrown its current warehouse - with the help of the Eurocell partnership forged in November.

'Eurocell has really helped to put my company on the map,' said David. 'They sell my split-level systems to the trade and DIY market and several caravan companies are now looking at the system, which saves on space as well as cash on installation.'

Rhodia Sealants of Oadby, near Leicester and Transtools of North Yorkshire also set up stands and a plastic decking system manufactured by HL Plastics was on display. Rhodia, a new Eurocell customer, manufactures a range of silicone products for perimeter sealing, and was promoting its new brush-on coating.

'Eurocell is a major player in the profiles industry and this was a great opportunity for us to show what our new coatings range is capable of,' said Martin Barrs, UK Sales and Marketing Manager, Rhodia. 'It is water-based, odourless and environmentally friendly and created a lot of interest with people who visited the stall. We've enjoyed brisk sales.'

With products and sealants on display, the only things missing were the tools for installation - and that's where Transtools came in. Kevin discovered the company, which specialises in the sale of DeWalt tools, via the internet, at a show in Rotherham last summer and it is now poised to accompany the Eurocell roadshow at future events.

Dave Wood, who has worked at the Grimsby Eurocell branch for four years and became branch manager in November, said the event revealed a deeper level of interest in Eurocell's products and provided an informal opportunity to learn more about them.

'The staff here have worked really hard to make it a success - it has been a real team effort. We plan to make this an annual event and next year's will be even better, with more stands,' he said.

The rest of the EBP roadshow team comprised Sales & Marketing Director David Salt, Regional Manager Frazer Watt, General Manager Martin Young, Sales Executives Craig Reaney and Andy Bott and Lincoln Roofing Manager Neal Thomas.

Tel: 01773 842395
Email: mailto:david.wigley@eurocell.co.uk

McInnes Sets Up New Venture

Iain McInnes has left Wendland Roof Solutions to set up McInnes Communications. Best known for establishing the K2 brand he has also worked on other entities in The Burnden Group both in the UK and USA, having originally worked for Veka and most recently Wendland.

Iain comments ‘McInnes Communications will be about delivering creativity, cost effectiveness and measurable success.’ Based in Cheltenham, the business will be offering a broad range of marketing services including PR, brand strategy, design and print.

McInnes Communications already has a small number of clients including on-going work from Wendland as the company’s retained PR consultant.

Tel: 0870 381 1811
Email: mailto:info@mcinnescommunications.com

Shepley Will get Back to you Within the Hour - That's a Promise

Shepley has launched its latest customer service development, the One Hour Promise aimed at keeping customers in the know.

Lorraine Wood, Shepley's customer service manager, discusses this new initiative, ‘Over the years I've been asked for all kinds of information by customers regarding our product range, from manufacturing sizes, even down to the number of knots on a golden oak frame! And while we try to answer these questions quickly and accurately, there's always some that take you by surprise. But, we do aim to make customer services as responsive and helpful as possible so we can provide quick, efficient responses that our customers rely on. To show our commitment to providing the best service possible we are launching the One-Hour Promise.

‘The One-Hour Promise means that when customers telephone with a query, we promise to fulfil the inquiry within the hour. The secret behind this promise is that although each customer is looked after individually, the operation is entirely IT driven. All incoming queries are channelled through customer services, entered into a contact management system, scheduled and then fed back to the customer within the hour.

‘We've decided to make this promise to remove any frustrations involved in ordering from Shepley by making us as responsive as possible to customer needs - this is all about keeping the control in our customers hands.’

Tel: 0161 339 2433
Web: http://www.shepley.com

Piper Scores 10 Year Contract with West Kent Housing Association

Veka fabricator Piper Windows, Doors and Conservatories of Ramsgate has signed a ten year partnering agreement with West Kent Housing Association for the supply and installation of Veka windows. Piper says that it was awarded the contract due to the high quality and long term performance of its products and its proven reputation for excellent customer service and support, particularly in the public sector.

West Kent Housing Association was established in 1989 to accept the transfer of 6,300 homes from Sevenoaks District Council, one of the first large scale voluntary transfer associations in the country. The organisation is described as a vibrant, community-based social business providing affordable homes and services to people living in market towns and villages throughout the area. West Kent is a not-for-profit organisation and is regulated by the Housing Corporation, a government body.

Piper will be charged with the replacement of first generation windows with new, high performance Veka PVC-u frames as part of West Kent's policy to create affordable, energy efficient and comfortable accommodation for its tenants. The company will also be involved with providing windows for new build properties being built by West Kent in line with Government targets. Piper's first project as part of the agreement will involve the replacement of windows on West Kent properties located close to a railway line, with special high performance acoustic glazing to be used to combat noise pollution. This represents the second phase of a similar scheme carried out on other West Kent properties during 2004, with residents reporting that the new installations have greatly improved their quality of life.

Graham Winzar, Commercial Manager of Piper Windows, Doors and Conservatories, is delighted that the company has achieved such a coup:
‘West Kent is a truly forward-thinking organisation that maintains a pro-active dialogue with its tenants and is always looking at developing ways to improve its housing stock. We feel we have a lot in common with the organisation and are very much looking forward to helping them achieve their aims.’

Caption: WKHA sign contract with Piper (left to right) Graham Winzar, Commercial Manager, Piper Windows; Frank Czarnowski, Financial Director WKHA; Shan Shivji, Property Services Director, WKHA; Barbara Thorndick, Chief Executive, WKHA.

New Technology is Key for Kenrick

Window hardware manufacturer Kenrick has invested in new Cosmos software technology, consigning many of the initial cumbersome and time-consuming prototypes to the past.

The technology, which is fully integrated within Kenrick’s existing CAD system, enables the firm to create ‘virtual’ rather than physical prototypes. The software then gives Kenrick’s design engineers the opportunity to apply material stresses to the design as if it were a fully made up prototype, saving not only substantial costs but also time.

Martin Smith, design engineer at Kenrick, comments:
'This is a major investment for Kenrick and the Cosmos software will more than impact our design process in the future in terms of cost and time savings. The investment into the Cosmos software will further enhance our design capability by reducing our design and development cycle whilst actually increasing our overall product quality.

'Using this software gives greater certainty that the prototype, when developed, will not break under stress as we are able to thoroughly prove the product at the design stage. This gives our customers a real competitive advantage as we are able to condense several months of testing, prototype production, more testing and amendments to the prototype, into a few weeks.

'In a fast moving industry, investment in technology such as this has to be a must to help fabricators respond to the demands of the window market quickly.'

Tel: 0121 500 3266
Email: mailto:enquiries@kenricks.co.uk
Web: http://www.kenricks.co.uk

Concentrating on the key markets of the next twenty years:

The early bird catches the worm. Get ahead of your competitors and order your copy of 'Tomorrow's Market, Today', our study of the PVC-U Window & Door Profile Markets in Europe.

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The report also reviews the key issues existing producers must face up to if they are to survive.

Follow the growth; follow the money:

The UK, which consumes the most PVC window profile in Europe, is changing rapidly. And Germany, which produces more PVC window profile extrusion than any other country in Europe, is heavily dependent upon exports, although Germany's main export markets now have strong or growing domestic industries. So, how long can Germany continue to export to these markets?

Those companies who confine their focus to the UK will find it increasingly heavy going. Even the fastest growing most successful companies cannot outperform in a slow growing or declining market for any length of time. Ambitious companies and those who want to build a long term sustainable business must go where the growth is.

Whether your business is in PVC-U window systems, raw materials, machinery or in a related industry you can use the report to prepare your business and marketing plans for tomorrow's growth markets, and invest in the right markets to position your business for the next twenty years.

The cost of the report is £2,950 + VAT. To order please call Lucia Di Stazio on 01453 521621 today, or order online from www.521621.com

The Hidden Cost of Inefficiency

According to new research, commercial property investors are jeopardising future rental and resale income if they choose to ignore property energy performance after energy performance certificates are introduced from January 2006.

The research, conducted by the Association for the Conservation of Energy and funded by the Pilkington Energy Efficiency Trust, (PEET), aimed to ascertain any link between the future value of commercial offices and their energy efficiency.

In its report, 'Invisible Property Investment', the Association for the Conservation of Energy claims that building energy performance, its value to investors and consequential carbon dioxide emissions have, to date, all gone unmeasured in the commercial world. It stresses that the sector can not continue to disregard its energy usage as it has in the past as the increase in air conditioning, artificial lighting and IT equipment in this sector has led to far higher energy consumption and CO2 emissions than ever before.

The report asserts that properties with higher energy efficiency are more likely to retain their value in the commercial market than their poorer performing counterparts, which would be far harder to lease or sell. 'Energy intelligent' investors are likely to reduce the amount of energy inefficient property in their existing portfolio and seek to replace it with efficient property before energy is widely recognised as a crucial part of the valuation process.

Energy cost is usually comparatively low against other business costs and often disregarded. This should change however after January 2006 with the introduction of mandatory energy performance certificates under the European Directive on the Energy Performance of Buildings. These will allow tenants to see exactly how efficient their building is and begin to identify and understand the additional financial and environmental implications of poor energy performance on a like for like basis.

Energy efficiency and climate change are increasingly seen at the top of both the political and social agenda and the research by the Association for the Conservation of Energy shows that investors and tenants need to be aware of the implications of the energy consumption of their premises and the impact this can have financially, environmentally and even on the company's reputation in terms of its corporate social responsibility.

Pilkington established the Pilkington Energy Efficiency Trust (PEET) in 1999 to give financial support for research, testing or evaluation projects that are designed to improve the knowledge or practice of energy efficiency in Buildings. Funded by Pilkington, PEET is run by a board of trustees independent of the company who meet twice a year to consider applications and award grants.

For further information about the Pilkington Energy Efficiency Trust (PEET) please contact mailto:rick.wilberforce@pilkington.com.

For more information about the Association for the Conservation of Energy, the research or the Invisible Property Investment report, please contact Jacky Pett, Head of Research, Association for the Conservation of Energy mailto:jacky@ukace.org

OFT Urges SMEs to Report Anti-Competitive Practices

Nearly a quarter of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) across Britain believe they are harmed by unfair practices such as cartel price fixing and collusion to set tender prices, says new research from the OFT.

The research found that one in three SMEs say they are aware of anti-competitive activities in their industries and one in five (22 per cent) feel they have been a victim of anti-competitive behaviour.

The OFT is calling on SMEs to recognise anti-competitive practices in their markets and work with the OFT to take action against companies who break competition law.

Despite the apparent high awareness of anti-competitive behaviour, only a minority of SMEs surveyed said that they would report it to the OFT or to other government regulators:

* only 22 per cent would report price-fixing agreements between competitors
* only 9 per cent would report a larger competitor trying to push them out of the market by cutting its prices to below cost.

The OFT's research shows that many SMEs may be missing out on the benefits of fair and competitive markets. 
 
The survey also shows that more than half of businesses feel that the industry in which they operate could increase its competitiveness. More than a third of SMEs think that new companies have difficulty entering markets and 16 per cent say they cannot compete freely and fairly for new contracts, and this figure is even higher for some industries, for example construction, at 21 per cent.

Sir John Vickers, OFT Chairman, said:
'Practices such as price-fixing and bid-rigging harm the competitiveness of our economy. SMEs have rights and obligations under competition law and can work more with the OFT to identify and stop anti-competitive behaviour. We must ensure that SMEs are informed about – and in turn inform – our work.'

During April 2005, the OFT launched the 'Championing Competition' campaign to promote the benefits of competition to SMEs and to raise awareness of their rights and responsibilities under competition legislation to help businesses avoid anti-competitive behaviour in their markets.

Professor David Storey, Director of the Centre for SMEs at Warwick Business School, who is writing a report for the OFT on SMEs and competition, commented:
'What is interesting is that even when they experience anti-competitive practices, the reaction of the small firm owner is to soldier on without turning to the authorities. But using their rights under competition laws they can level the playing field to give them a better chance to beat the competition.'

The OFT's research confirms that despite failing to take action on anti-competitive business practices, SMEs appear to understand and acknowledge the benefits of competition and the importance of fair dealing to the economy:

* 75 per cent of SMEs agreed that competition is a driver for innovation and growth
* 62 per cent agreed that a competitive environment is key to winning  and maintaining customer loyalty.

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