Exhibition News @ THE GL@ZINE

GP&T goes Live!

The Advance Visitor Registration Hotline has now gone live for The Glass Processing & Technology Exhibition (GP&T), the successful new exhibition and conference dedicated to UK flat glass professionals, which is set to take place at the NEC this May (17th – 19th May 2005). Anyone wishing to pre-register for the event can now do so online at http://www.gptexhibition.com or, (from mid February) by calling the Ticket Hotline on 0870 429 4534.

GP&T, which won a top exhibition industry award for being the best new trade exhibition following its launch in 2003, will feature more than 115 exhibitors who will be showing the latest innovations in glass processing machinery, equipment, tools and systems, alongside glass manufacturers, specialist glass suppliers and other services aimed at glass specifiers.

A seminar programme will look at key issues such as technology, legislation and market conditions that are affecting the industry, while a number of other features will again include the Architects Pavilion offering a series of specialist lectures on the application of glass in buildings, and demonstrations that will ensure an interactive, live show from which visitors may take away tangible, workable solutions.

Visitors who register in advance will enjoy a number of advantages in addition to fast-track entry to GP&T, without the form filling and queuing associated with any popular show. Advance publicity will allow pre-planning to gain the most from what will again be a busy event, with exhibitor lists, floor plans and seminar programmes all sent prior to the event.

To register online go to http://www.gptexhibition.com or, (from mid February) call the Ticket Hotline on 0870 429 4534.

The Glass Processing & Technology Exhibition will be held at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, on 17th, 18th and 19th May 2005. Further information on exhibiting can be obtained from Lesley Stevenson, Sales Manager on 02082 775733; email: mailto:lesley.stevenson@emap.com.

Masterframe Latest to Back the Glassex Challenge

The growing list of big industry names that have signed up to sponsor the Glassex Challenge now includes the sash window fabricator Masterframe Windows Ltd. The Essex based company – famed for its devotion to making just vertical sliding sash windows – has committed to supporting the event at Glassex 2005 in order to raise its profile and that of the UK’s most worthy installers.

Masterframe started life in 1988 as a small installation company. When Alan Burgess the company’s MD acquired the shares in 1991 the decision was taken to manufacture trade frames for installers, and spearheading the development of the largely untapped, sash window market.

Convinced of the potential, the company decided to dedicate its manufacturing plant solely to the fabrication of sliding sash windows. 16 years on, the company has built up a loyal client base which, says Alan, ‘Values well engineered, quality assured, authentic looking replacements, above all else.

‘By remembering our clients can opt for cheaper alternatives, it is essential that we keep our promises, deliver on time, and resolve any issues promptly, without fuss.’

So confident is Masterframe, that customers can opt for a 100% guaranteed delivery date or their money back, no quibble; if it is late the goods are free.

All Masterframe windows are independently monitored by the BBA. Not only has the company achieved ‘system status’, but also met the new, more stringent endurance testing for balances, and Georgian bar adhesion.

‘It’s no surprise to our clients that we only use pre-tensioned balances, they simply don’t fail; installers don’t have to touch them - no site adjustment because they have slipped is ever needed.’

As for Georgian Bars, the company’s patented clip system guarantees complete adhesion, even when customers use the bars to open and close windows, again verified by the BBA certificate.

Alan Burgess feels that the company’s sponsorship of the Glassex Challenge is appropriate: ‘The Glassex Challenge is all about improving quality of workmanship and it ties in perfectly with our own philosophy and precisely what we wanted to achieve with the creation of our Bygone Preferred Installers network.And we are succeeding by maintaining the quality of our factory-finished product when installed.

‘While our established installers are aware of our product range, reputation and devotion to improving sash window technology, newer companies may not be, nor of the benefits we can extend to them for improving their businesses.
‘We want to build up a strong, dedicated network of installers around the country, operating in their own post coded areas, who can share the rewards for expanding into this specialist market. Our 14th consecutive Glassex is, as always, the best place to start.’

The Glassex Challenge, which made its debut appearance at Glassex 2004, was one of the event’s most popular feature areas. For 2005 teams from all over the country will once again install a door, a flat window, a bay window and a conservatory roof, and will be judged on speed, finish, and health and safety issues. Valuable prizes will be awarded each day to the team that achieved the best combined score across each installation, with an overall winner showing the best all round skills.

Budding Installation Teams of the Year should contact Jennifer Calvert on 0208 277 5000, email mailto:jennifer.calvert@emap.com, or go to http://www.glassex.com to register their interest in taking part in the Glassex Challenge 2005, 13 – 16 March inclusive at the NEC, Birmingham.

Interbuild 2006: New Owners, New Show

Major changes have taken place since Interbuild 2004 as control of the event switches entirely into the hands of Emap Construct.

As experts in exhibition organisation with unrivalled knowledge of the market, the new owners are only too aware that a show with an extensive pedigree in UK construction needs to constantly evolve to keep pace with an innovative industry.

Moves have already been made to overhaul the show that attracted almost 45,000 trade visitors in April to create a better event for 2006 that is more straightforward for exhibitors and more accessible to those who visit.

Emap Marketing Director Ross Sturley said: 'Our involvement gives us the opportunity to build on the event's success.

'Our maxim is to bring devout commitment, focus and considerably more marketing investment.

'Through extensive market research we have already consulted with many exhibitors and visitors. They have told us what they think, we have listened and this is helping to develop the event for 2006.'

The first big step that Emap Construct has taken is to make the organisation of the Interbuild halls less unwieldy.

In 2006 there will only be three main areas in 2006 - Interiors & Services, Structural & External and Truck & Tool.

Added Ross: 'This move has been carried out to restore the show's focus. We felt - with something like 14 separate mini-shows under one roof - Interbuild had become too diffused to the extent that too many people failed to comprehend how the thing was meant to work.

'We wanted to restore the simplicity and clarity that a building show needs and so far it's a decision that is being very well received by the market.

'Exhibitors can now visualise much more clearly how the event will operate and ultimately, visitors can work out much more easily how they will navigate the halls when they arrive.'

The second substantial difference from 2004 has been the appointment of a new Event Director. Taking over the reins will be Gordon Thomas, who has switched from Emap's hugely successful gardening and leisure exhibition, Glee, to oversee this flagship event.

Said Gordon: 'Interbuild is a massive event on the construction calendar and presents a big but very exciting challenge for me.

'Many people had nothing but good things to say about the 2004 show and what small criticisms there were I intend to address to ensure 2006 is an even bigger success.

'An event that comes with more than a century of history comes with an immense amount of responsibility and heritage and I will do all I can to extend Interbuild's traditions as a showcase of UK construction excellence.'

Interbuild 2006 - The Building Show takes place at the NEC in Birmingham from April 23 to 27.

For information and bookings call 0207 505 6694 or log on to http://www.interbuild.com

GlassBuild America Announces Autumn Dates

The National Glass Association (NGA) has announced that its trade show, GlassBuild America: The Glass, Window & Door Expo, will now be permanently moving to the autumn beginning in 2005. After in-depth research and consultation with the industry, this landmark decision was made in response to the changing needs of the event. Traditionally, the NGA has held its annual trade show in the spring for over 50 years. The next GlassBuild America will be held September 13-15, 2005 in Atlanta, GA.

'Our original mission for GlassBuild America was to create a North American showcase for all types of glass, window, and door products; we felt the fall was the only time of year to effectively accommodate all of these diverse industry segments' says Philip J. James, NGA President & CEO. 'We have not entered into this decision lightly; it was made only after thorough research and planning, and with the best interests of these industry segments at heart. We believe the fall timeframe will allow us to present a more unified event for everyone's benefit.'

Denise Sheehan, NGA VP of Industry Events, also notes, 'We believe this is the best move for the entire industry. For attendees, fall dates will mean lower airfare and better hotel rates-we will no longer be sitting on the peak spring break season. And for exhibitors, that means more attendees will come to see their products. It's really a win-win for everyone.'

About GlassBuild America: The Glass, Window & Door Expo GlassBuild America is organised by the National Glass Association, in partnership with the Glass Association of North America, the American Architectural Manufacturers Association, the Insulating Glass Manufacturers Alliance and the Bath Enclosure Manufacturers Association. It has been listed as one of the Top 200 largest U.S. tradeshows of 2003. The annual listing is compiled by Tradeshow Week magazine. Ranked at position # 167, GlassBuild America is one of only 16 tradeshows that made their debut on the list. Additionally, GlassBuild America is ranked within the top 50% of shows for exhibit floor growth by net square feet and the overall number of exhibiting companies.

Web: http://www.glassbuildamerica.com

Locks & Fittings get Separate Area at BAU 2005

Locks and fittings nowadays do much more than just their original function. They have become multi-functional high-tech products that fulfil a wide range of requirements. With these developments in mind, a separate section is now going to be devoted to these products at BAU 2005 in Munich 17-22 January 2005. In Halls C2 and B4 almost all the leading companies from Germany and Europe as a whole will be gathered together to display their products on around 10,000 square metres of exhibition space. The German association of locks and fittings and its members will be making use of BAU 2005 as a platform to present all the latest trends in this area.

Sales of fittings since 1999 (bn euros)
Source: Fachverband Schloss und Beschlagindustrie e V. in Velbert

From simple component to high-tech product
These days locks and fittings have to meet a wide and diverse range of requirements. They have to be easy to use, functional, attractive in design, stand up to heavy wear and tear and be low-maintenance, to name the principal ones.

In recent years there has also been a trend towards the integration of electronic components. The term 'mechatronics' is now very much on everyone´s lips in the fittings market. As a result of these high expectations on the part of the customers and the market, locks and fittings have in some applications developed into highly complex components.

Harmonisation process in full swing in the fittings industry
The building fittings sector is currently being influenced by two key factors. Prompted by the introduction and implementation of European product standards, more classes and classification options are resulting for almost all product areas. In the coming years there are indeed good prospects for the development of new products, because of the harmonisation of European standards. One example is to be found in single-action pin and spring hinges, of which there is a total of 14 different types. Closely connected with this is CE conformity marking, which is already a must for a number of types of lock and fittings. This affects mostly products that are used on fire and smoke doors, or emergency exits.

General technological developments – What can we expect?
At BAU 2005, in the locks and fittings section, visitors will be able to review all the latest trends in technology. One such is the move away from purely mechanical fittings and security components. The trend now is towards integrating electronic components in these fittings, in other words 'mechatronics' is making fast progress in this area. Also being developed are the various 'key-less technologies' such as chipcards and magnetic cards, face recognition and iris scans, all of which are intended to further facilitate the use of doors and entrances. These ideas are being implemented increasingly in office and administrative buildings. And it is a trend that will certainly also be moving into the residential sector.

Locks and fittings as a design component
Locks and fittings are increasingly being used as a design component in modern architecture. Particularly in the case of those fittings which are in full view, great attention is paid to the design and shape of the products. On doors with a narrow frame, or glass doors, the locks, handles and hinges should not be too large, so as not to impair the visual impression. High-quality materials like stainless steel are therefore becoming ever more popular.

Trends in innovative new door fittings
For some time now the European standards for emergency exits and panic doors have been applied in Germany. Yet the range of 'mature' products on the market in this area is still rather narrow. In particular there is a lack of solutions for double doors. And the choice in combi-units comprising lock, double-profile cylinders and handles is still very limited. However, it is expected that a number of new developments and technical solutions in this area will be ready in time to exhibit at BAU 2005.

In hinges for doors and windows, the first products with a CE mark are expected soon. Here, too, the relevant product standard EN 1935 is being implemented and the CE mark required for hinges on fire and smoke doors, and emergency exits. New developments are also expected in the fixings for the hinges.

Sales of fittings
Despite the weak economic situation in Germany, sales of fittings (automotive, construction, furniture etc.) are rising. In 1997 total sales amounted to 5.6 billion euros, a figure that had risen to 7.1 billion euros in 2003. The continuing drop in domestic sales was more than compensated for by a rise in the export business. The export quota was increased from 44.4% in 1998 to 54.9% in 2003.

With the accession of 10 new countries to the European Union, and the resulting simplification of trade and the free movement of goods, it is expected that exports will continue to rise. Countries like the Czech Republic and Poland are already important trading partners for the German building fittings industry. In the medium term the growth markets of Russia and the Asia will become ever important sales regions for the fittings industry.

Photo 1: The CE mark – already to be found on many types of door fitting

Photo 2: In fittings for emergency exits and panic doors, the range of products is still very modest.

Diagram 1: Sales of fittings since 1999 (bn euros)
Source: Fachverband Schloss und Beschlagindustrie e V. in Velbert

25 Years of Glassex: 2005 - the most Comprehensive Event Yet

Glassex celebrates its Silver Anniversary by offering an array of events, competitions, business seminars and of course, more than 150 of the glazing industry’s top suppliers, in the most comprehensive programme ever seen at the event.

Glassex has remained the annual focus for the glass and glazing industry for 25 consecutive years, performing the key role as the showcase for an industry that is barely that much older itself, but one that has evolved almost beyond recognition from its early days. Glassex has always offered a tangible, sensual showcase for the industry, of its products but also of its people; the glazing industry, despite generating sales of more than £3 billion annually, remains a close-knit community where everyone seems to know everyone else. Traditionally Glassex is where they meet.

For 2005 Glassex will offer the key elements that form the backbone of the event, together with a programme of features both new, and recently introduced. The core, of course, is the trade show, which will include anything up to 200 companies showing the latest products, systems and services designed for window makers, installers and specifiers. Recent industry trends are, as always, likely to be evident with an emphasis on software systems, automated production machinery, and of course, conservatories. However, Glassex 2005 is also expected to reflect the shift in traditional glazing markets towards new and refurbished housing in the private and public sectors.

Sales are in line year-on-year with the 2004 event, which itself was widely regarded as being a highly successful show, and a turning point in the direction of Glassex.

A number of prominent exhibitors have already signed contracts to participate with significant stands, and other key brands have indicated their commitment to take part. Announcements will be made as new exhibitors confirm their requirements.

A New Conference for 2005: Glazing in the Public Sector – Focus on Housing
As glazing refurbishment continues to grow in the sectors represented by local authorities and housing associations, including a strong growth in demand for secure residential doors, Glassex 2005 will see the launch of a one-day conference aimed squarely at officers and managers from these important sectors. Key representatives from the local authority and housing association sectors will be consulted in the creation of a definitive programme focusing on the key issues facing glazing refurbishment in public sector housing, with such topics as Partnering; Further Revisions to Part L; Environmental and Planning Issues; and Sustainability being considered. The most authoritative specialists in their fields will be invited to make presentations.

The Programme for Glazing in the Public Sector – Focus on Housing will be published in January; participation will be free of charge although places will be strictly limited, and by prior registration.

Free Seminars - Business Development for Fabricators and Installers
A Business-to-Business Seminar programme is being assembled with a clear focus on the day-to-day needs of, and issues facing, those at the sharp end of the glazing industry - fabricators and installers. Issues being considered include: the latest proposals for Part L; legislation concerning canvassing and direct sales; and new business opportunities in a shrinking market. A full programme will be published in January. The format will be established with the clear objective of delegates being able to immediately apply in their businesses whatever they learn during the seminars.

The Cutting Edge of Conservatory Design – Revealed at Glassex
A highly popular feature introduced at Glassex ’04 was the Conservatory Design Competition, an event that revealed some extraordinary real-world designs and, perhaps more significantly, just how far conservatory design and build has advanced. For 2005 a major sponsor will be revealed, and changes to the judging process. A higher profile for the event is expected to draw a considerably larger entry bag.

The Glassex Challenge
Anyone visiting Glassex ’04 would have been caught up in the crowds that surrounded this event, as teams of installers pitted themselves against each other and the clock to show their skills. For 2005 a similar format will be adopted with each team asked to install a flat window, a bay, and a conservatory roof. Superb prizes will again be awarded, with the ultimate winners receiving hundreds of pounds-worth of valuable prizes. The most valuable prize will again be, of course, the accolade of becoming the Glassex Installer of the Year, a title that has brought in valuable extra business for last year’s winners.

For 2005 sponsors have flocked to lend their support, having seen the success the Glassex Challenge enjoyed previously. These include Total Conservatory Roof Systems, which also supported the launch event; vertical sash manufacturer Master Frame; and Glass Qualifications Authority (GQA), the UK’s only awarding body of national vocational awards (NVQs and SVQs) specifically created for glaziers, fabricators, installers and fenestration surveyors, the latter being a huge endorsement for the quality and importance of the Glassex Challenge.

The Silver Bar
While bars are hardly a new phenomenon at Glassex, The Central Bar introduced to Glassex last time out was specifically designed to encourage, as it’s name suggests, a central meeting place for visitors and exhibitors alike. In celebration of the Silver Anniversary of Glassex for 2005 it will be tagged The Silver Bar and once again will be located within the exhibition, decked with comfy couches and chairs to offer a sophisticated yet relaxed area in which to mix and match, and just maybe seal a deal or two.

Unrivalled Marketing Support
The Glassex Marketing team, new for the 2004 event, has now had the opportunity to carry out full reviews and revisions of the Glassex marketing resource, and to implement strategies designed to appeal to the event’s traditional visitor base in addition to seeking out and reaching buyers and specifiers from other sectors, and indeed to identify new markets.

A key element of the Glassex resource is its mailing lists, both those held directly and others within the EMAP organisation and by partners. Glassex lists have been cleaned and validated, while a full reappraisal of other lists has been carried out, with a view to minimising wastage and maximising penetration of key visitor groups. The advertising strategy has also been reappraised and revised where necessary to maximise impact on behalf of exhibitors.

Improved strategies have also been developed to trace response more effectively, in addition to securing more detailed and dynamic response and research mechanisms that will more closely identify visitor profiles and tends.

In summary Glassex Event Manager Steve Redman said: ‘The Glassex team is almost totally new to Glassex, but one of the most experienced in the exhibition and events industry. There are many bright and ambitious ideas now in place for Glassex, many of which are highly visible and with others that will enhance the event behind the scenes. These are now having their effect and will be quite evident as we approach March 2005, and certainly throughout the event. We are looking forward to demonstrating the changes in tangible terms to exhibitors and visitors.’

Franchise Fleet Operator Opts for Volkswagen Transporter

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has been involved for a number of years in sponsorship of National Franchise Week, an annual event run by the British Franchise Association. And with the UK’s franchise sector growing rapidly, the company is increasingly seeing businesses select Volkswagen vans for their diverse needs.

The latest operator to adopt Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles as its fleet supplier is Protex UK Sales Limited, which has replaced its Renault vans with 25 Volkswagen Transporters. The Protex fleet operates throughout the UK and Ireland installing a new tyre safety product, Protex tyre sealant. This is a puncture protection system designed to permanently seal punctures in the tread area of any pneumatic tyre without causing wheel imbalance.

The vans were supplied by the Southern Motor Group, Croydon – one of a national network of over 90 dedicated Volkswagen Van Centres – where they were also equipped with compressors, balancers and automotive tools.

Paul Coughlan, Operations Director for Protex, says: ‘We chose the Transporter for two main reasons. Firstly, in the past, our vehicles were purchased from a car dealer who did not specialise in fitting and supplying vans. This meant arranging for the equipment to be installed by a third party was a logistical nightmare. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles are van specialists who can install the equipment at the Van Centre, saving us time and money.

‘Secondly,’ Paul continues, ‘the Volkswagen three-year roadside assistance package is supplied exclusively by Volkswagen. This means that should one of our vans have a problem it will be attended by a Volkswagen engineer carrying only Volkswagen parts, resulting in our franchisee getting back on the road as quickly as possible.’

A range of powerful and economical TDI engines featuring Volkswagen’s award-winning 'Pumpe Düse' unit injector technology, combined with dynamic car-like handling and a well thought-out ergonomic cab all contributed to the Volkswagen Transporter being named International Van of the Year 2004 shortly after launch last autumn.

Tel: 0800 717131
Web: http://www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk

Alcoa Presents UltrAlloy 6020 at Aluminium 2004 World Trade Fair and Convention in Germany

Alcoa has announced that the Aluminium 2004 World Trade Fair and Convention in Essen, Germany would include a presentation of Alcoa's UltrAlloy® 6020, which removes lead from aluminium precision machined parts, increases machining productivity and boosts machine shop competitiveness.

The presentation by Alcoa Global Cold Finished Products took place between 9am and noon on Wednesday, September 22nd in one of the conference halls.
Aluminium industry members were presenting their product and service portfolios at the trade show, which more than 600 exhibitors from 38 countries attended.

While there has been a significant movement to eliminate lead and lead-containing products in the U.S. and abroad over the last 20 years, lead removal has been a dilemma for the majority of parts manufacturers. Since the 1980s, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has helped to phased out lead in gasoline, reduced lead in drinking water, reduced lead in industrial air pollution and banned or limited lead used in consumer products, including residential paint. Like the EPA, the European Union is also looking to greatly reduce lead contamination in the environment.

Alcoa's UltrAlloy® 6020 alloy solved the dilemma for the metals industry. Alcoa removed the lead as an alloying element and developed an alloy that has an A rating for machinabilit. UltrAlloy® 6020 is a 6XXX alloy with all of the inherent six series advantages: corrosion resistance, joinability, anodisability, etc. that provides machined chips comparable to 2011 commonly recognised as the benchmark for aluminium alloy machinability.

Web: http://www.alcoa.com