Glassex
’06: 'The Most Diverse for Years'
Glassex has long been regarded as the barometer of the glass and glazing
industry, with the event in recent years of course more closely representing
windows, doors and conservatories. As such it has always provoked an extraordinary
level of passion within the industry, for better or for worse but everyone
has an opinion!
A
comment that has been voiced frequently is that the event is ‘biased’
towards a particular sector: For many years the systems companies appeared
to dominate, then machinery and more recently it has, apparently, been
the conservatory roof systems suppliers that have taken over, although
Glassex can only ever reflect the requirements of its exhibitors, and
trends within the marketplace.
The pundits will therefore be delighted with Glassex 2006, with the event
promising the most even balance of exhibitors - and therefore products
and services - for years. No one sector can be singled out as being over-dominant,
with an excellent spread of companies showing a huge range of the latest,
state-of-the-art products and services designed to sharpen the competitive
edges of the thousands of visitors that will pour through the doors from
the 5th to 8th March.
The biggest window systems extruders in the business are vying with the
biggest roof systems makers, whose displays are punctuated by the biggest
machinery manufacturers and distributors. A decent smattering of trade
fabricators will be competing for attention with the legions of software
houses that now serve the business through their digital miracles. In
other words, rows and rows of companies whose attentions are directed
specifically, and totally, to making life easier for those scratching
their livelihoods from the glazing industry. There is, quite simply, nothing
else like it, so no wonder, if you make or fit windows, you will at some
point at least think about going to Glassex.
Glassex has always been able to stoke reaction within the industry, for
which the event has been the annual showcase for more than a quarter of
a century. In this time Glassex has evolved from its glass roots (the
glass industry now has GP&T) to become the annual pilgrimage for window,
door and conservatory manufacturers, installers and, increasingly, specifiers.
Of course, not everyone of a glazing tendency goes to Glassex every year,
but anywhere upwards of 8,500 do, numbers enough to impress the chairman
of many a League 1 football team, and probably a few Championship sides
too. And the Mecca that draws these not inconsiderable crowds is anywhere
upwards of 170 companies, all of whom are offering the very best solutions
to whatever problems visitors must be enduring simply as they are not
already buying from them.
Glassex ’06 is far more than a trade market however, these days also
assuming the mantle of educator, trainer and entertainer, in addition
to the glazingfriendsreunited function that it performs so well.
The Glassex Seminars for this year have now been developed into three
streams that are designed to offer focus and pragmatism for all delegates.
Legislation, training, recycling, and standards are covered by Monday’s
‘Industry’
programme, whilst frame makers can enjoy a series of presentations
by manufacturing specialists in the ‘Production’
seminars being staged on Wednesday morning.
The highly successful seminars launched last year – ‘Glazing
in the Public Sector’ - which succeeded in shifting Glassex into
the paths and awareness of public sector managers and executives, will
be staged once again with a tailored look at Part L, and disability, and
the key areas of energy efficiency, recycling and training thrown in.
All presentations are, of course, made by speakers at the top of their
game.
The Glassex Challenge will again provide interest for Glassex visitors,
and exhibitors taking a few moments away from their stands. The honest
efforts of the competitors lay credence to the honourable guiding principle
of the event to ‘raise standards’ amongst installers. But there
is also great pleasure to be taken from watching the watchers, especially
visiting installers who, whilst too proud, or busy, or tremulous perhaps
to actually participate, nonetheless thoroughly enjoy the blood, sweat
and tears of those who are prepared to put their skills to the test.
Stroll from the frenetic atmosphere of the ‘Challenge’ to the
Ultraframe-sponsored gallery of the Glassex Conservatory
Design Competition (CDC), which has succeeded in its short life (this
is the third outing) in parading some quite extraordinary conservatories,
and glass structures. Hopes are high this year that the winners will again
move the game on; the organisers are reporting entries from some top players
in the market, so expectations are great as the entries flood in.
This Glassex has the fundamental ingredients to present a worthy day or
two out of the office for even the busiest window man or woman; indeed,
with thousands of metres of highly focused exhibitors, a comprehensive
and well-considered Seminar programme, the sills and thrills of the Glassex
Challenge, and cerebral outpourings of the CDC, just one thing more is
required: you, the visitor. We look forward to seeing you.
Glassex 2006 will take place at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham,
from 5th to 8th March 2006, inclusive.
Our
Glassex 2006 preview is here
UK's
First A Rated Double Glazed Window for Tradelink
Edgetech
is delighted to announce that long standing customer Tradelink has manufactured
the UK's first standard commercially available double glazed 'A' rated
window using the leading warm edge technology Super Spacer®.
Jim Moody, Managing Director of Tradelink explains:
'Anyone who has the foresight to take seriously the option for improving
thermal ratings will have a head start on future environmental compliance
- and a foothold in a new and important market: We're especially delighted
to have achieved this A rating.
'Although we're the second company in the UK to achieve it, Tradelink's
window is the first commercially available, being the only double glazed
product. When we launched Heatguard, our range of insulated glazed units
(IGU), the intention was always to offer a product with unrivalled performance.
'This latest next generation A rated window will complement the C rated
window we already offer as standard and the B for installers who are already
differentiating themselves.'
The Tradelink window doesn't use triple glazing to achieve its A rating.
The company uses the Thermal Sleeve Solution from REHAU, the innovative
Warm Edge Super Spacer® from Edgetech, low E glass and incorporates
gas filling. This combination of the highest efficiency products and the
newest technology components means the Tradelink A rating will keep its
customers ahead in a commercially demanding market.
'Obviously Edgetech is delighted to be associated with the first two A
rated windows in the UK,' adds Andy Jones, Sales Director and General
Manager of Edgetech UK and Ireland.
'We want to help all our customers achieve the most thermally efficient
products on the market to open up the replacement window sector. We've
been talking about the thermally superior properties of Super Spacer for
a while now and this result is a great endorsement.
'To have already helped one fabricator achieve the first A rating on a
triple glazed window was an accolade, but to have gained an A rating on
a double glazed unit has made our year.'
http://www.bfrc.org/Search_by_Manufacturer_Name.htm
Industry
Wide Seminar Set for May 10th 2006 at Ricoh Stadium
Keeping
up to date with rapidly changing energy efficiency issues and environmental
legislation is of paramount importance to everyone in the window and glass
markets. But with so much going on, it can be a minefield to keep on top
of it all, get the real facts and decide which are opportunities or pitfalls.
Edgetech UK and other industry experts
hope to provide all the answers, as well as a platform on which the glass
and window industry can debate, in a free one day seminar on May 10th.
Andy Jones, Sales Director and General Manager of seminar sponsors Edgetech
comments: ‘Our industry underwent massive changes in 2005 and this
looks set to continue in 2006. Thanks to new legislation and other industry
wide initiatives on energy efficiency, there are significant opportunities
out there for any ambitious company - whether fabricator, sealed unit
manufacturer, installer, system company, specifier, glass processor or
machinery supplier - to exploit. This seminar will present the facts.
Companies can't afford to stand still to see what others will do before
acting themselves, particularly in a market as competitive as the glass
and window industry.
‘The new British Fenestration Council (BFRC) energy A2G rating versus
U-values has already provoked much discussion. Many believe the Window
Energy Ratings system aids home owner recognition, adds value and margin
and is therefore worth pursuing. Others say as a voluntary scheme, that
takes time and money, why bother? And what's the future of Part L? Impartial
speakers carefully chosen from among the industry's leading experts will
be presenting the facts on these topics and more, so you can make up your
mind and take decisions that are best for your business based on fact.’
The Seminar will take place on May 10th 2006 at Coventry football team's
home ground the Ricoh Arena. Places are limited and will be allocated
on a first come first served basis. More information about the seminar
with a programme of the day and confirmation of the speakers will be available
soon, but anyone interested in getting involved can call Anne O'Connor
at Edgetech on 02476 705570 or Fiona Lund at seminar organisers Michael
Rigby Associates on 01453 521621 for more information at this early stage.
Saint
Gobain Reports Strong 2005, Excluding Costs of BPB Acquisition
Overall, after adjusting for finance costs of EUR 18 million, in particular
costs recorded in the books of BPB and those relating to its acquisition
by Saint-Gobain, and after taxes, the contribution of BPB to Saint-Gobain’s
net income was a negative EUR 54 million for 2005.
As these restated BPB figures are clearly not representative of the
Company’s overall performance, which is on track to meet its published
operating forecasts, and to ensure Saint-Gobain comparability with 2004
data, the following comments on Saint-Gobain Group’s 2005 estimated
results are primarily based on its performance excluding BPB.
Excluding
BPB, consolidated sales for the Saint-Gobain Group are estimated at
EUR 34,873 million for 2005, representing an increase of 8.4%,
or 7.4% at constant exchange rates*. The contribution of the Group’s
acquisitions (excluding BPB) to the growth figure, net of disposals,
amounted to EUR 1,502 million, accounting for a rise of 4.7% in
net sales. On a like-for-like basis (constant structure and exchange
rates), the Group’s consolidated sales advanced 2.7% in 2005.
Excluding BPB, Saint-Gobain Group consolidated net income is estimated
at EUR 1,318 million, up 6.4% on the year-earlier figure. Excluding
profit (loss) on sales of non-current assets, net income is expected
to come in at EUR 1,328 million, up 3.0% on 2004. This earnings
growth is primarily fueled by a 4.6% increase in operating income (3.3%
at constant exchange rates*) and an 8.0% rise in business income, but
is hit by a higher year-on-year tax rate.
This performance bears testimony to the Group’s resilience and
the dynamics of its business model. The merits of the business model
were again evident in 2005, with strong growth reported in the Construction
Products and Building Distribution Sectors in particular, and ongoing
expansion into emerging markets.
* based on average 2004 exchange rates
Performances of Group Sectors (excluding BPB):
Overall, all of the Group’s sectors reported like-for-like sales
growth in 2005. As in the first half, the Group’s growth over the
year was mainly driven by businesses relating to the residential construction
market. The Insulation Division, in particular, turned in the Group’s
highest organic growth figures, at 7.1%.
The Building Distribution Sector made the largest contribution to growth
in consolidated sales and operating income on a reported basis, posting
a 13.2% increase in sales and a 16.5% rise in operating income. Thanks
to recent internal progress and the positive contribution from recent
acquisitions (especially Dahl, Sanitas-Troësch, and Optimera),
the Building Distribution business registered a further improvement
in operating margin to 5.7%, as against 5.6% in 2004. Robust French
and Scandinavian markets continue to spearhead the Sector’s growth,
whilst Germany, and to a lesser extent the UK remain on a downward trend.
Sales volumes continued to progress in the Flat Glass Sector, with an
upturn in the construction markets in both Europe and emerging countries
countering the drop in Automotive sales observed in the second half.
Due to the energy surcharge, sales prices for flat glass used in the
building industry are slightly up on average compared with 2004. However,
certain non-recurring start-up costs reported in emerging countries
weighed on operating income.
Epwin Group has merged its HIS Systems business into Swish Window & Door Systems. The move creates a single, strong systems business based around the familiar Swish consumer and specifier brand. The Group is putting significant investment behind the new company, including a £100,000 stand at Glassex.
HIS Systems customers will be unaffected by the move. Although the HIS Systems brand will be phased out, the advanced PCE five chamber 70mm Fivestar system is retained together with the HIS technical and sales order processing teams. Gary Firth of HIS Systems will head up the sales team at Swish, reporting to general manager Paul Lindsay.
The move gives both businesses increased scale in the market, enabling them to invest in product enhancements, additions and new customer support initiatives.
‘Swish is the only systems company with a recognisable consumer brand. The company will be investing in this proposition, which is proven to improve the retail sales performance of fabricators and installers alike. Several of these developments will be unveiled at Glassex.’ says Keith White, Systems Division Managing Director of the Epwin Group.
‘HIS Systems and Swish have grown significantly despite the tough market. But we've looked at the market forecasts and we've concluded that as a properly-focussed, single business they will be even stronger. This is good news for customers of both businesses because they will benefit from greater resources and significant investment in new products and customer support.
‘This is a tough time for the industry. Swish has something unique to offer - because it has a brand name that people recognise it is proven to improve retail performance.’
TrustMark, the new scheme to help people find reputable firms for repairs, maintenance and improvements in their homes, was launched nationally to the general public yesterday, Monday 30th January.
The promotional campaign for TrustMark started early Monday morning at the ‘House of TrustMark’, a home in Ealing, London, where TV crews and other media interviewed the gathered experts, including a range of TrustMark-registered tradesmen, Ian Livsey, chairman of TrustMark, and the Construction Minister, Alun Michael MP.
The scheme, a joint initiative between consumer protection groups and industry bodies and backed by Government, has the commitment of more than 25 trade organisations with the potential to bring 14,000 firms into TrustMark by this summer. It launched nationally to the public on Monday with 10 of those trade organisations already licensed, and is currently signing up new firms at a rate of over 100 a day.
Ian Livsey, chairman of TrustMark, said: 'The industry likes TrustMark because we have created a workable scheme with the active support of a broad cross-section of trade associations, it’s not expensive or complicated to join, and it’s being promoted vigorously to the public through a sustained nationwide publicity campaign.
'The TrustMark badge says you’re an honest, competent and professional tradesperson and your firm does a good job. It will help firms win better business from customers who care about quality.
'And from the consumer’s point of view, we know from our research that the huge range of accreditations and trade association logos can be confusing for the public. TrustMark is now a single logo to look out for, whatever work you need doing in your home or garden, and it engenders trust because it is backed by Government-endorsed standards.'
Ian Chisholm, Deputy Chief Executive, GGF, said: 'We are very pleased that the Glass and Glazing Federation's work on consumer support is recognised in this new scheme to give consumers an easy route to finding a reputable tradesperson.'
Rt. Hon Alun Michael MP, Minister for Industry and the Regions said: 'I am pleased to have presented certificates to the first wave of approved TrustMark operators, paving the way for the registration of a significant number of firms across a range of trades. I support this consumer launch and look forward to the continued strong growth of TrustMark.'
In preparation for the consumer launch, TrustMark commissioned research among 1,000 householders which reveals a nationwide confidence crisis when it comes to dealing with tradespeople. The report reveals:
- 90% of respondents find having building work carried out stressful
- 38% of consumers don’t trust tradespeople at all
- 65% said they are uncomfortable leaving tradesmen in their home alone
Over 110,000 householders complain to Trading Standards about shoddy renovation and home improvement work every year. TrustMark aims to rebuild consumer confidence in the sector.
People looking for a reputable tradesman can log on to http://www.trustmark.org.uk. From there they can get information on a range of TrustMark approved organisations that currently cover trades as diverse as general builders, electricians, heating engineers, plumbers, glaziers, damp-proof specialists, roofers and fence installers. Other trades are being added month by month as TrustMark grows.
Offering insurance backed guarantees from the only provider in the entire window sector listed by Office of Fair Trading (OFT) in its advice to homeowners has given further credence to Trade Lynks' recent decision to offer its network partners preferential access to the range of products from HomePro Insurance.
Having
Work Done on Your Home: Organisations That Can Help, published by the
OFT, gives consumers information on businesses and bodies - from the RIBA
and the GGF to CORGI and the BBA - that offer a range of services from
putting them in touch with reliable contractors through to providing insurance
and helping resolve disputes. Similarly, the FENSA-approved IBG packages
now offered by Trade Lynks are also accredited by the Financial Services
Authority (FSA) - a now a legal-must for retailers and installers aiming
to introduce such policies to their homeowner customers.Furthermore, FairTrades - Britain's leading multi-trade association - is also included as source of trusted trade professionals; and under Trade Lynks' exclusive deal, its network partners receive a 50% subsidy on their FairTrades membership. The arrangement with HomePro Insurance and FairTrades is further evidence of Trade Lynks' commitment to delivering the most credible and professional partnership network in the sector.
These preferential Trade Lynks benefits will also see its partners enjoy the ability to deploy the well-regarded FairTrades brand on their promotional materials and vehicles; while being in for a chance to bid for a £20 million worth of business enquiries annually generated by HomePro and FairTrades. Members also benefit from cheaper Yellow Pages advertising and have access to conciliation services.
Nick Egdell, Managing Director of HomePro Insurance said, 'We are delighted to be associated with Trade Lynks as its IBG provider, as the network has rapidly established itself to be the most diligent and professional available to the trade professional. The exclusive opportunities for access to our IBGs and FairTrades membership benefits is just another sign of how Trade Lynks is seeking to set a new benchmark for standards in the network environment'.
The OFT publication Having Work Done on Your Home: Organisations That Can Help is available from its Web site at:
http://www.oft.gov.uk/News/Publications/Leaflet+Ordering.htm
Contact Homepro, meanwhile, at:
Tel: 0870 734 4344
www.homepro.com
In January 2005 Viewlite Ltd of Liverpool was acquired by ODL. ODL which is based in Michigan USA is a market leading manufacturer of decorative door glass and associated products for the building industry.
During the past twelve months the Viewlite range of cassettes and glass has been combined with ODL's range of blinds, shades and tubelights.
As a result of the merging of ODL and Viewlite, the company has announced the change of name to ODL Europe.
The determination of ODL Europe to develop both existing and new products in the UK and Europe welcomes a Sales and Marketing Manager - Jonathan Tune.
'We are excited to keep you informed of the ongoing developments that have taken place and to keep you up-dated on the new and exciting products we have to launch in 2006. The normal high levels of customer service remain, together with our determination to provide you with the best products available in our chosen market.' says Jonathan.
'Please visit ODL Europe on Stand F095 Hall 6 where our Decorative Glass and associated products are displayed.'
Further to the announcement on 24th January by The BOC Group plc, Linde confirms that it has made an approach to BOC.
The basis for this approach is the strong industrial logic of a combination. The two groups are complementary in terms of products and regions and together have the potential to create a leading industrial gases business. Given the complementary fit of the two groups, Linde is confident that any anti-trust issues should be capable of being satisfactorily resolved.
Linde emphasises that this is a friendly approach. The two companies have enjoyed excellent relations over many years and Linde will continue to look for the support of BOC's board and management. The approach is based on an all cash offer at 1,500p per share and is subject to a limited number of standard pre-conditions which Linde believes can be readily satisfied.
Linde is well advanced in arranging financing for a possible transaction and its banks are highly confident that such financing can be arranged rapidly.
Notwithstanding any of the above, there can be no certainty that any offer will be made or that a transaction will result even if the pre-conditions are satisfied or waived. A further announcement will be made in due course if appropriate.
Profile
22 Puts Customers 'Ahead Of The Game'
Representatives
from over 100 fabricators and installers attended a recent Profile 22
seminar to hear about forthcoming revisions in the building regulations.
The seminar proved so popular with customers that the venue was relocated
to larger facilities to accommodate the day's events more comfortably.
Keith White, Profile 22 Managing Director, welcomed delegates to the
seminar and introduced the main topics, which covered proposed amendments
to Building Regulations Documents F and L.
The presentations began with the changes in terminology and the implications
for window design and were explained in detail by Profile 22's technical
team, followed by the new requirements for trickle ventilation from
Lee Manton of Simon Air Management Systems.
After lunch, Rick Wilberforce of Pilkington gave detailed analysis of
Document L, and Profile 22's Tony Hughes explained the new energy ratings,
outlining the performance criteria and the ability of Profile 22 products
to meet them.
(L-R)
Rick Wilberforce of Pilkington,
Andrew Reid, Profile 22's Head of Sales and Profile 22's Tony Hughes
Peter
Brookes of BGH conducted a final presentation on the importance of staff
training and the ways in which companies could expect to benefit from
initiating formal training programmes.
Event host Andrew Reid, Profile 22's Head of Sales, said: 'Profile 22
is well known for its proactive approach regarding pending changes within
the industry and in supporting customers by keeping them informed of
the changes that effect the way in which they do business and in turn,
how their customers business' are affected. The building regulations
are just one area and we decided to host an event to explain the changes.
This will be followed up in the coming months with appropriate presentations
to our customer's customers.
'We are committed to making sure that our customers have the right products,
support and information to keep them ahead in an increasingly competitive
market'
For further information about forthcoming Profile 22 seminars, or to
find out how Profile 22 could help your business, contact Profile 22
on Tel: 01952 290910 or visit the website: www.profile22.com
Jeffrey Rioux of Saint-Gobain Crystals presented a report on advances in the design and ballistic performance of the company's Sapphire Transparent Armour System at the 30th Annual International Conference and Exposition on Advanced Ceramics and Composites held in Cocoa Beach, Florida on January 25th.
'Saint-Gobain's ability to reduce the weight and thickness of a ballistic glass system can provide direct benefits in a wide variety of armour applications, including government and military programmes such as tactical vehicles, armoured personnel vehicles, maritime blast protection and helicopter platforms,' says Rioux.
'Recent ballistic test results have shown that our Sapphire Transparent Armour System is at least 40 percent lighter and 40 percent thinner than a glass-only system with equivalent ballistic performance,' adds Rioux. 'We achieved weight reduction without sacrificing ballistic performance by incorporating a layer of Saint-Gobain Crystals' Saphikon® EFG™ Sapphire for the strike face of the laminated structure.
'Traditional ballistic glass structures are made of laminated layers of glass and polycarbonate,' adds Rioux. 'While these provide effective protection against lower-level ballistic threats, the resulting systems are very thick and heavy when designed for higher-level ballistic impacts. As a better-performing alternative, Saint-Gobain's Sapphire Transparent Armour System has shown superior performance in single-shot ballistic tests.'
Sapphire is a high-strength, durable, scratch-resistant, transparent material, and is available in production volumes for large aerospace windows for use on forward-looking infrared and laser rangefinding systems. Saint-Gobain Crystals provides its CLASS225™ and CLASS300™ sapphire sheets as standard Saphikon® EFG™ products. These sheets are manufactured up to 9 inches wide by 26 inches long, and 12 inches wide by 20 inches long, respectively.
Saint-Gobain Crystals is part of Compagnie de Saint-Gobain, headquartered in Paris, France. Saint-Gobain is a leading producer of construction products (building materials, insulation and pipe), high-performance materials (abrasives, industrial ceramics, high-performance plastics, and reinforcements), flat glass, and glass containers. The company is also a leading distributor of building products in Europe. One of the top 100 industrial companies in the world, Saint-Gobain's 2004 sales were approximately $40 billion.
In addition to sapphire products supplied by Saint-Gobain Crystals for transparent high-impact applications, Saint-Gobain also supplies other materials to the armoured products market. Saint-Gobain Ceramics manufactures ceramic plates used in body armour which protects U.S. soldiers, in addition to ceramic materials used in vehicular and aircraft armour systems.
New
Lorries to Follow in Safe Style
Britain's ever growing lorry-spotting cult has a new challenge this
month with a unique set of liveries to watch out for. This follows the
introduction by the Yorkshire-based Style Group of a fleet of six new
articulated vehicles worth almost £1/2 million with exceptionally
lively and easily recognisable star-studded livery.
The Style Group is an independent manufacturer, supplier and retailer
of PVCu replacement windows and doors and this month has introduced
a further six new articulated lorries to its countrywide transport fleet.
The vehicles have 40ft trailers which will distribute more than 6000
windows and doors a week to the 12 Style Group depots across the United
Kingdom.
Ready
for the road - Style Group's Chief Executive John Ross (right) and Transport
Manager Steve Moxon (left) check out the latest £1/2m eye-catching
additions to their transport fleet.
The
company says that the new fleet will be one of the most easily recognisable
on Britain's extensive road network with distinctive liveries throwing
out a new and interesting challenge to passing motorists and pedestrians
alike. The sides of the trailers will feature a long, flowing message
including the company's famous retail ‘Safe Style UK’ logo
and freephone number. These lead gracefully along to fun-packed rear
door areas which will have a series of six different designs and messages
strongly featuring the leading stars of stage and screen renowned for
their roles in the company's television and radio campaigns.
The stars include top-rated comedy duo fresh from the ‘I'm A Celebrity’
jungle, Cannon and Ball, former Coronation Street personality, Ken Morley
and assisting them will be the Style Group's own Geoff Brown and self-built
canvass coordinator-cum-TV personality, Bonny Brough.
John Ross, Chief Executive of the Style Group, explained: ‘The
new addition to our already extensive fleet will give the Group bigger
and better distribution of our market-leading products and, of course,
increase our overall efficiency. Most importantly they will be a strong
and memorable addition to our high profile marketing campaigns. The
rear door areas will be most eye-catching by featuring the stars of
our every-day award-winning advertising. Cannon and Ball get two designs
with their popular television message ‘Pick up the Pigging phone’
but with the equally strong and safety conscious line: ‘But NOT
while you're driving’! Ken Morley also gets two with Geoff Brown
and Tommy Cannon with our own, Bonny Brough all portrayed with different
‘Bogoff’ messages.
‘In today's world of increasing grid lock, the new vehicles have
not only been designed to create interest but also remind our customers
of the dangers of using mobile phones whilst driving. They will also
provide the lorry spotting brigade with something completely new to
look out for in 2006!’
While much of the glass and glazing industry suffers from the hang-over of 2005, Plastmo Profiles says that it continues to increase market share thanks to a more customer-focused approach.
The company has produced a strong sales performance in 2005 thanks to the efforts and commitment from the existing fabricator base and through the introduction of a number of new customers in key geographical areas.
During the past few months Plastmo has added a number of key fabricators to the network that include: AK Windows, Doors and Conservatories; Adapter U2, Ocean Windows, Practical Windows, Manor Conservatories, Nolan UPVC and Blenheim Windows which has just celebrated 25 years in business.
Robert Thiroff, sales and marketing director explains: ‘we have been delighted to bring on a number of new fabricators in key areas and the reason for change has a common thread. It's our commitment to the customer that has made the real difference and it's this commitment that will help us further succeed in 2006.’
Plastmo believes that these companies have changed to Plastmo to benefit from greater business opportunities, a more customer-focused approach and a brighter future. Robert adds: ‘companies looking to change supplier should speak to us to find out why other fabricators have moved to Plastmo. We've got a lot to offer the customer and we will look forward to proving our abilities to our new and existing customers.’
Tri-Warm
Insulating Glass says that it ranks as one of the fastest growing manufacturers
of the past two years. In that short time investments have been made in
modern automated cutting and processing machinery, including CNC grinding,
drilling, and a tempering furnace serviced by Ashton's Triple Diamond
Belt grinding machine. Now Tri Warm has commissioned a high performance PLC controlled I G line from Ashton, assembling double and triple insulating glass at an average rate of 25 seconds. Fully automated water quality monitoring and purification feeds the all-stainless washer, and the frame application station allows for warm edge SuperSpacer panes to be introduced alongside more traditional aluminium spacer frames, affording Tri-Warm's customers the best of both systems. Assembly and pressing of units is totally automatic regardless of spacer type, spacer width, glass size or thickness.
New ancillary equipment also includes Ashton's motorised rotary sealing tables, and a digital tube saw for cutting spacers from data transferred directly from Tri-Warm's order processing software supplied and customised by JoTiKa.
Owner managers Tony Millan and wife Vicky predict further steady growth in I.G. and tempering sales, and are busy promoting CNC processed glass too.
Web: http://www.ashton-industrial.com
'GTI Kombimatec is not going to Glassex for the first time in 22 years. We feel we can offer our customers and partners a better experience of seeing window machinery work and have a go at making real windows themselves,’ says the company.
‘We will have all that is needed to give you that real fabrication experience at our factory showroom in Luton, so call in on the way back from Glassex or on the way there, it is up to you.
‘The main machines that will be demonstrated will be from our 'Power Trio' range. The DGS530 CNC Saw which has the ability to cut two profiles at once, has no reasonable minimum or maximum cut length, works with an optimised cutting list with 100% accuracy. The 4HDV Multi-head Welder, available with or without turret facility, has a clever system enabling you to use any combination of heads 1-3, 2-2, 3-1, or all 4 together. The rear fences line up automatically enabling super quick changes between corner and transom welding. The model has proven to be very reliable, easy to use and is a must have at the heart of any production line.
‘We will also have the EV470/200 CNC Cleaning Machine which will be able to clean all of the frame including corners, transoms and cruciforms even on chamfered or decorative profiles. Interspersed will be machines from our whole range including the WSF445 Water Slot Router with 3 phase motors, the popular CRD1200 Copy Router with Triple Drill, the brand new AFV370 Electronic Radius End Miller as well as the GLS190 Bead saw and measuring system. So if you are interested we can show you these machines as well as others in our extensive range.
‘Why not visit and try these machines yourself and see how easy fabricating windows can be, all our machines will have special prices, ring for an appointment (01582) 455934 or email sales@gtikombi.co.uk and book in on the dates above (same as Glassex 2006). Visit and claim your Free Gift and see how we can help you drive your production line in 2006 and beyond.
Edinburgh-based
double glazing and conservatory manufacturer Fountainbridge Glass has
relocated to larger premises. The company attributes part of this expansion
to the fact the company is differentiating itself.
‘One of these differentiators is Edgetech Super Spacer®,’
explains Jim Hickman, Managing Director of Fountainbridge. ‘We have
been using this warm edge spacer system for three years in certain projects,
but it didn't take us long to realise the full potential of Super Spacer.
Within six months we had converted 100% because it enabled us to increase
our production by 25% as well as enhancing the appearance of our windows.
Our customers were all for the change as it enabled them to offer something
different which puts them in a good position against their competitors.’
By using Edgetech, Fountainbridge achieved EN1279 Part 2. Part 3 is now
on the agenda. ‘We now have 30 employees and a 6,000 sq ft premise,’
continues Jim, ‘Although EN1279 Part 2 is not compulsory at the moment,
we wanted to be ahead of the game and using Super Spacer enables us to
do so.’
Andy Jones, Sales Director and General Manager of Edgetech UK and Ireland
comments: ‘It's great that Edgetech is making such an impact on our
customers' businesses, enabling them to expand and grow. The warm edge
message is spreading fast as more and more companies wake up to the benefits
of Super Spacer.’
Tel: 02476 705570
Sir Neville Sims, newly appointed chairman of the BRE Trust, has announced formation of a strategic research and development partnership between United Kingdom universities and the Building Research Establishment which aims to strengthen the U.K.'s capacity to carry out leading-edge built environment research and promote its practical application.
The Government's welcome for the new partnership was signified by the presence of Elliot Morley, Minister of State at the Department of the Environment and David Hughes, director general of the Department for Trade and Industry's innovation group, who both spoke at the inaugural reception at 30 St. Mary Axe in the City of London, recognised as one of the construction industry's best demonstrations of advanced technology and energy conservation.
Sir Neville, now head of the Government's Sustainable Development Task Force, said that BRE would act as an effective bridge across which academic knowledge can pass to those at the delivery points of construction projects. It would also promote the return flow of information to the universities to help them formulate the research that the industry requires.
Smartglass International Ltd was launched at Plan Expo in Dublin recently following the amalgamation of Smartglass Ireland and Vision Smartglass UK. Smartglass International Ltd has moved to new premises housing a dedicated manufacturing facility, showroom and administration centre.
Managing Director John Browne comments; 'We are delighted to open our new facility where we will manufacture LC (Liquid Crystal) and SPD (Suspended Particle Device) Smartglass products for sale in the European and Middle Eastern markets. Our LC Smartglass is proving very popular with architects, specifiers, glazing companies and developers who are seeking to add the option of privacy or transparency at will. Uses for our LC Smartglass are growing and we now see strong demand for internal partitions, external windows, teller screens, doors and advertising displays.'
Smartglass International recently completed some high profile projects such as the Nissan Micra Convertible car launch where technical Director Bob Hudson designed a container sized all glass box incorporating 150 individually controlled LC Smartglass panels allowing viewers to glimpse differing parts of the car. While the roof retracted the whole box turns clear allowing a complete view of the car. Sponsoring breast cancer awareness UK the Smartglass box tours 20 major cities throughout the UK where it is displayed in prominent outdoor areas such as Convent Garden in London.
Smartglass International recently completed the Guinness Storehouse refurbishment project in Dublin where large amounts of specialised glass were installed for use in what is Ireland largest tourist attraction with over 800,000 visitors per year. This project included installation of large curved Smartglass projection screens suspended from the ceiling, privacy windows, glass walls, 6 meter high all glass display cases and interactive displays.
Commercial Director, Kevin Root comments 'that with an increased emphasis on light, privacy, solar control, advertising and security; demand for our products continues to grow. We have invested heavily in our new plant and will continue to add new products through extensive R&D programmes. With offices in Ireland, England, Hong Kong and soon Dubai we and expect rapid expansion and look forward to a healthy future. We expect to attend Interbuild among other trade shows this year.'
Tel: +353 1 459 8154
Email: j.browne@smartglassinternational.com
Web: http://www.smartglassinternational.com
Morven Windows says that it has added even more value to its products by signing up for GU Ferco's Sold Secure scheme.
Family
owned and run, Morven Windows operates from a purpose-built showroom,
offices and factory in St Austell. The company manufactures, supplies
and fits windows and doors for local authority, trade and retail customers.
In November 2005, it became the latest GU distributor to join Sold Secure,
the independent non-profit making scheme which covers a broad cross section
of security products. Operated by the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA), Sold Secure is closely associated with the Police and insurers. They share information on the break-in techniques in use by real burglars, using it to replicate an equivalent test within the Sold Secure programme. GU Ferco says that it was the first manufacturer of multi-point door locks and casement window locks to submit its products to Sold Secure for testing. The company says that its products have been approved and are currently the only ones in the marketplace allowed to carry the Sold Secure symbol - proving that they have been independently tested to withstand forced entry and attack.
According to Morven Windows partner, Richard Collings, joining Sold Secure was a natural move for a company that has built its success on quality and customer care. ‘We genuinely want to provide good service and Sold Secure is an active demonstration of our commitment to our customers,’ explains Richard. ‘When we initially launched the company we tried other hardware, but very quickly realised that using high quality GU Ferco products pays off. We now use GU Rhinobolts, keepers, stable door locks and shoot bolts on all our systems.’
Morven Windows also had an added incentive to join Sold Secure. GU/Ferco has recently joined forces with Lock Solutions, a specialist organisation which provides a national 24 hour emergency lock repair service. All members of the scheme - new and existing - are offered a free five-year parts and labour warranty on a range of GU products, subject to the company's terms and conditions. In effect this means that in the very unlikely event of a GU/Ferco product proving to be faulty due to product failure, a mobile engineer from Lock Solutions will undertake a site visit and repair or replace the faulty item. If the failure is due to product manufacture rather than installation, GU will replace the product and cover the cost.
‘We have always found GU Ferco products to be high quality and trouble free. There is far less comeback with them and the Lock Solutions guarantee is yet another benefit,’ says Chris Collings.
Tel: 024 76217927