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SynerJy,
Global and Shield All in One with Launch of New Look www.synseal.com
Following
four months of development, Synseal Extrusions Ltd has launched its
new website which consolidates the existing suite of websites into one
easy to navigate online presence at www.synseal.com.
Online Synseal visitors – currently in excess of 300 per day –
can now get all the information they want on one site, whether it’s
the latest on the highly successful Shield and Global systems, or an
introduction to SynerJy, the first complete fourth generation system
that seamlessly integrates windows, doors, patios and conservatories.
Visitors will also of course have access to the latest and archived
news, editions of The Synseal Times, company history, people profiles
and the latest job opportunities. Customers will continue to have access
via this address to Syntek, the passworded online resource that keeps
them up to date with the latest product developments.
Phil Else, Marketing Manager, comments: 'With so many product and marketing
developments on the go, we wanted to make it easier for customers and
prospects to get the information they need via one convenient website.
'We’ve revamped the design to give the site more of a fresh, image
driven look to bring it up to date with the rest of our marketing. Early
feedback tells us that we’ve achieved the balance between keeping
it easy to use and navigate, while having lots of information in one
place. All existing domain addresses are still active and now simply
direct to the particular part of the new Synseal web site.'
A
Dedicated Online Glass Information Service from WRAP
A
new website produced by WRAP (the
Waste & Resources Action Programme) is providing a one-stop information
service on the current status and opportunities in the glass recycling
market.
WRAP has revamped the glass section of its website http://www.wrap.org.uk/glass,
to offer a more user friendly information resource covering the collection,
processing and uses of glass in high value end markets.
For many years, WRAP has been working closely with processors, manufacturers,
specifiers and end users to develop sustainable markets for the thousands
of tonnes of glass collected and recycled every year in the UK.
Growing markets include brick manufacturing, processed sand, filtration
media, grit blasting media, cement and concrete, fibreglass insulation
and container glass. The revamped website features information on all
these end uses including case studies, results of R&D projects,
best practice guides and PAS specifications.
WRAP’s Material Development Manager for Glass, Bronnie Allen, said:
‘WRAP recognises the value in providing information as quickly
and easily as possible, which is why the glass section of WRAP’s
website has been completely revamped.
The site has been re-designed to make it easier to navigate and find
the relevant area of interest to the user. It has also been structured
to include specific sections dedicated to processing and collection
and uses for glass. Information on forthcoming operational trials and
research projects, as well as the latest news and regular updates on
successful trials are all part of the site.
‘Glass is an exceptionally versatile product and the number of
end markets for recycled glass products is increasing steadily. We hope
visitors will keep returning to read about the progress WRAP is making
in this exciting market.’
Visit the new glass website at http://www.wrap.org.uk/glass
or for further information on WRAP, contact the helpline on 0808 100
2040.
New
Dimension to Online Ordering System from Manse Masterdor
The
online ordering system from composite door manufacturers Manse
Masterdor Ltd has taken on a new dimension with the introduction
of a 3D image configuration technology allowing customers to see their
doors from all angles.
The online ordering and tracking system was introduced in 2000 following
demand from customers for a system that allowed them to quickly, easily
and confidently place orders for made to measure Masterdors with total
traceability. Customers can access the system 24-hours a day through
a password protected section of the main Masterdor website.
Customers first upload their exact specification onto the system, and
only doors that match that specification can be ordered. The system
will alert the user to any details that do not match. This simple process
eliminates the risk of forgetting to input certain data to an order
form, or in the case of so many online forms, overlooking a field which
may already contain data, but that requires changing in order to be
correct.
Once the data has been inputted, the system creates a 3D image of each
individual door complete with glazing, hardware, type of frame, threshold,
cill and the overall dimensions, which can be enlarged if required.
The door can then be viewed through 360 degrees, allowing the user to
check the specification of colour or hardware on the rear. It is at
this stage that the user will be alerted if the style or glazing option
of the door does not work at the given size. This ensures that an order
cannot be placed if there is likely to be any compromise on the strength,
stability and in turn security of the door.
Director Mike Hudson commented, 'The new system is incredibly user friendly.
The simple to follow step-by-step instructions ensure that mistakes
in ordering are almost impossible. Time is saved by allowing customers
total access to place and track their orders 24 hours a day, and they
can be safe in the knowledge that all the details will be kept indefinitely.
Orders placed before the 3D image configurafion technology will automatically
be upgraded to the new system, so customers returning to past orders
will also benefit.'
Masterdors are made to measure, high-performance, engineered timber
door-sets, suitable for any application and available in a wide range
of colours and styles. The company provides the largest range of Secured
by Design door-sets, including the Masterdor double door. Masterdors
exceeded PAS23/24 BSi tests, meet the requirements of Part M of the
building regulations, and fire-check versions have also been successfully
tested, and achieved BS476 Part 22.
Email: mailto:info@masterdor.co.uk
Web: http://www.masterdor.co.uk
Midlands
based KEB Fabrications has launched
a new website to provide information on the company and the markets
it serves. Announcing the new site, Lawrence Breakspear, MD of KEB said,
‘What is loosely described as the Commercial fabrication market
is in fact a good deal more complex. Public Sector refurbishment demands
a specific business philosophy encompassing elements such as Decent
Homes, Best Value, Partnering and Sustainability. We have used these
elements as themes on our new website to provide information and to
demonstrate our commitment to these fundamental principles.’
For the specifier or main contractor, the online resource provides background
information on KEB and its business ideology plus details of the many
projects the company is engaged on. The site includes many images of
projects, products and particularly the KEB workforce. Lawrence Breakspear
explains, ‘It’s sometimes seen as a cliché that staff
are what makes a business. Nevertheless it is the hard work, enthusiasm
and experience of our workforce that has delivered our success.
Their commitment to our business philosophy is reflected in the wide
use of staff members images on the website.’
The new website can be found at http://www.kebfabrications.co.uk
and features information on products, social housing refurbishment practices
as well as access to press information, PR material and a contact page.
GRP
composite door and PVC panel manufacturer New
World Developments is now recording over 50,000 hits per
month for its on-line ordering service and product catalogue. This is
up 20k in three months. Web trading is now an important business tool.
Fabricators can see New World’s full product range, and technical
information, before placing an order online. Taking less than five minutes,
the exact door panel specification can be created with PanelSpec’s
interactive service via http://www.nwd.uk.com
(or as a CD). Using PanelSpec, on or off line, customers can select
styles, colours, glass designs and accessories to build an ideal door
on screen. Where an internet facility is unavailable, PanelSpec CD can
be used.
New World’s online ordering facility is a simpler and more efficient
alternative to handwritten instructions and PanelSpec’s accurate
preview ensures that customers see their options on-screen before purchase,
with details and price confirmed by email. The speed and ease of the
system significantly reduces administration time and increases accuracy.
This year will see New World at Glassex and CIH exhibition in Harrogate
with Apeer, the GRP composite door. Sales manager Alex Moore explains,
‘Apeer is now a registered product with the Northern Ireland Housing
Executive and several other Local Authorities. We’re currently
developing new products which will be on the market this year’.
Tel: 028 2563 2200
SynergeBuild,
the e-commerce ordering system from Deceuninck, has updated its image
with a new look website.
Aesthetically, the new SynergeBuild site offers an updated, modern image
that attracts browsers’ attention. From a customer’s point
of view, the new site is as easy to navigate as it is to view, with
a redesigned navigation bar that simply takes you from topic to topic
at the touch of a button.
In an attempt to make the transition as easy as possible for existing
SynergeBuild customers, the commands and buttons are similar to the
original site and fully support all the previous ordering and product
management functions in the usual secure and protected environment.
The new site now offers enhanced account management functions such as
viewing their purchase history (by quantity or value) or their account
history details.
Commenting on the new SynergeBuild site, Deceuninck E-Business Manager,
Lesley Bowling said, ‘The success of SynergeBuild has been exceptional.
SynergeBuild allows our customers a complete order tracking system and
as such needs to constantly evolve with customer’s requirements.
Put simply, SynergeBuild is the most quickest and accurate way for customers
to place their orders and at the touch of the button; you can access
all your desired account management functions.’
Non-users of SynergeBuild can also take advantage of the site and view
for themselves the ease and accuracy of the system by logging onto http://www.synergebuild.com
Securistyle
Launches New Look Website for International Markets
Securistyle,
the UK window hardware manufacturer, has re-designed and re-launched
its website – www.securistyle.co.uk - to better reflect the company’s
growing dominance in international markets.
The Cheltenham-based company, which employs 350 people, enjoys continued
success in the UK and is also making major inroads into European and
worldwide markets with new contracts in the USA, China and South America.
The website provides the latest technical information for fabricators
and installers on Securistyle’s product range of window hinges,
handles, locking mechanisms and ancillary devices.
It also provides useful guides, charts and reference information for
architects and public sector specifiers within local authorities and
housing associations. Key issues regarding child safety, security, emergency
egress and all the latest legislation and British Standards are addressed
in detail on the website. There is also the opportunity to request a
free CPD-accredited seminar on window hardware specification issues.
Managing director Paul Cook says: ‘The website has been designed
to be informative and useful to our customers and we have received some
excellent feedback. We are now planning to develop the website into
other languages, which we aim to launch later this year.’
Tel: 01242 221200
Web: http://www.securistyle.co.uk
New
Style On-line Shop from Bohle
Bohle
has recently redesigned its on-line shop - http://www.bohle.de
- to incorporate the new design concepts currently being rolled out
in the company's catalogues and advertisments. The new internet site
has been designed to be much easier and faster to navigate and therefore
to order on. New features include customer special offers and detailed
information on products, including user guides.
Commented Gary Dean, Bohle UK MD 'Our internet presence has been totally
refreshed and enhanced, the new look site now offers faster but more
detailed product information access. More and more customers are enjoying
the benefits of ordering on-line , and indeed the special offers that
are available only on the internet. The site will be continue to be
enhanced and more product placed on it. We believe this service to our
customers will play an important role in future sales development. To
our knowledge Bohle is the only company in Europe, with our product
lines and serving this market sector, that offers an on-line shop service.'
Web: http://www.bohle.ltd.uk
eBuilders Launches Additional Site for Specialist Air Conditioning Suppliers
Home
improvement specialist, eBuilders,
has launched a comprehensive online guide to specialist air conditioning
suppliers across the UK. Designed specifically to benefit consumers
who have invested in a conservatory, the site is a one-stop-shop containing
all they need to know about air conditioning a conservatory.
A specialist air conditioning supplier can help transform a conservatory
from a rarely used, sunroom, to a cool, welcoming retreat in the spring
and summer and a warm, cosy area in the autumn and winter.
eBuilders managing director, Barry Dunlop, said: ‘If consumers
have invested in a conservatory, it's essential to create a room that
is perfect for relaxing with friends and family regardless of the season.
All too often the weather dictates when a conservatory is used, which
very often makes it under-used both in summer and winter. Owning a conservatory
is one thing, using it to its full potential is an entirely different
matter.
‘Until now, there have been few options available to combat this
problem in conservatories but our recommended air conditioning suppliers
have a solution. We ensure all our suppliers offer customers a free
consultation, allowing them to discover the difference the product can
make and also the different options available.’
Suppliers on the eBuilders website offer air conditioning units that
are both stylish and attractive and that add to and improve any conservatory.
With technology moving forward at a phenomenal rate, the running costs
are minimal and the maintenance needed is almost non-existent.
www.conservatoriesonline.com/air_conditioning.htm
is easy to navigate and is a one-stop knowledge bank containing everything
a consumer needs to make an informed decision on air conditioning, from
the types available to a detailed look at how they work.
Websites in the eBuilders stable include:
http://www.conservatoriesonline.com
http://www.windowstoday.co.uk
http://www.almostimpartialguide.co.uk/conservatories.htm
http://www.double-glazing-replacement-windows.com
http://www.pvc-online.co.uk
http://www.diy-conservatories-uk.co.uk
http://www.ask-questions.com
Tel: 01903 856679
Everwhite
Plastics Ltd has launched a new look website. Simon Reynolds,
Sales Manager at Everwhite, explains how easy it is to use: ‘At
the click of a mouse you can access all areas, from roofline and window
line products to installer information and company profile. There’s
something for everyone - stockist, installer and homeowner. The latest
news is updated regularly and archived articles are available.
‘There’s no time delay so all our new product releases are
put straight onto the website. Photos help demonstrate our products
throughout the site, but there’s also a photo gallery with an extensive
catalogue of images of our manufacturing facility and head office, and
completed Everwhite installations. Many homeowners use the internet
as their first port of call when researching home improvement companies
before contacting installers. http://www.everwhite.biz
will provide exactly what they’re looking for by boosting confidence
in the product and company - yet another tool for installers to increase
sales.’
Tel: 01685 882 447
Foilex
Launches Enhanced Website
Specialist
laminating company Foilex has unveiled
its new-look, interactive website. Packed with information on the company
and the services and products it offers, http://www.foilex.co.uk
is easy to navigate, with opportunities to contact the company on every
page.
Tel: 08700 118219
Ultraframe
Launches New Website for the Trade
Ultraframe,
the designer and manufacturer of conservatory roofing systems, has launched
a new trade website www.trade.ultraframe.com.
The new trade website will provide existing and potential Ultraframe
customers with everything they need to know about Ultraframe, the latest
product news and also advice on how Ultraframe can help and support
installers to develop their businesses. Plus installers can learn about
the benefits of joining the Ultraframe Registered Conservatory Installer
Scheme and apply online.
The launch of the trade website follows the recent, successful launch
of Ultraframe's interactive consumer website on which homeowners can
create 3D designs of their ideal conservatory against a picture of their
own house and discover the benefits of choosing a conservatory fitted
with an Ultraframe roof.
The new trade website has been introduced to coincide with the launch
of Ultraframe's new lean-to conservatory roof, Uzone Elevation and Uzone
Elevation Plus. Installers wishing to know more about the clicklock
technology, which is key to the success of the Uzone family of products,
can simply click onto the website, and discover how to keep ahead of
their competitors by offering the new generation of lean-to roofs.
The trade website also features full product information about Ultraframe's
entire range of roofing systems including the Victorian system, Clicklock
duo pitch roofs and a wide range of ancillary products. Also featured
is Litespace, the walk in bay style extension already popular with homeowners.
By visiting the site, existing and new Ultraframe customers can learn
about the advantages of joining Ultrafame's Registered Conservatory
Installer Scheme. This quality accreditation scheme promotes the highest
standards of workmanship and service. Online testimonials describe how
individual businesses have benefited through membership and with Ultraframe's
support, gained increased sales and profits. There are also examples
of recent Ultraframe consumer campaigns in which the importance of choosing
an Ultraframe Registered Conservatory Installer is emphasised to ensure
homeowners‚ peace of mind. Installers can apply to join the scheme
on line and receive prompt feedback from Ultraframe.
Linda Doughty, Marketing Director, said: 'The new website is part of
Ultraframe's commitment to providing total quality and excellent service
in all its customer partnerships.
'The website will be regularly updated so that customers can stay up
to speed with Ultraframe's exciting developments. As the industry's
leading innovator we recommend our partners save our website in their
'favourites' file for quick reference and easy access. Or indeed select
it as their home page.'
To find out more simply log on to http://www.trade.ultraframe.com
Rhodia
Silicones Launches New Elch Pro Website
Following
the successful launch of its new Elch Pro brand in Europe, Rhodia
Silicones has now put an Internet site on line dedicated
to its sealing professional and distributor customers.
By pooling the know-how of its Research & Development, Sales and
Marketing teams http://www.elchpro.com
aims to provide all of the company's European customer base with comprehensive
information on its new range of sealing products for the construction
sector, sold under the Elch Pro brand.
www.Elch Pro.com offers:
- Access to the full range of Elch Pro products in each country with
over 250 different products
- Possibility of accessing all sales and technical documentation on
this range with over 1000 on-line documents
- Simple and direct access to recommended products for each application
and surface
- Possibility of choosing the nearest distributor from a customer base
of 3000 sales outlets in Europe
Elch Pro is a registered brand of Rhodia Silicones under which are sold
Rhodia's sealing products for construction professionals. 'Derived from
the Greek word for strength 'Alke', Elch means elk, an animal recognised
for its strength and its ability to resist difficult climatic conditions
which are often cold and damp …just like the products in our range!'
says the company.
Rhodia Silicones, a Groupe Rhodia subsidiary, is one of world's top
integrated silicones producers with leading positions in markets such
as construction (sealing and bonding), moulding (paramedical and automotive),
release coatings (for packaging and adhesives) or textiles coating (airbags,
technical fabrics, lingerie).
Häfele
UK's
Architectural Ironmongery department has updated its website. The easy
to navigate site has an overview of Häfele's most popular product
ranges, including Hawa sliding door gear and Starlight door furniture.
New features include a glass fittings questionnaire which the designer
or contractor can fill in and automatically email to Häfele's glass
fittings specialist, to assist with the planning and specifying of frameless
glass hardware.
There is also the option to download or request by post either of Häfele
UK's new brochures, 'A Touch of Glass' or 'Starlight' door furniture.
A Touch of Glass showcases Häfele's latest systems for sliding,
folding or pivoting glass panels. The Starlight leaflet contains information
on the new range of door furniture which is exclusive to Häfele
UK, including a PVD coated range which comes with a 25 year guarantee.
Also listed for the first time is a list of projects in which Häfele
products have been used, these have been categorised by the type of
product such as sliding stacking door gear or access control products.
The full range of Häfele Architectural Ironmongery products are
shown on the online catalogue which also has access to the Häfele
Furniture and Hardware fittings catalogue featuring thousands of products
for the furniture and kitchen industry.
Web: http://www.hafele.co.uk/AIProducts/AIHawa.asp
Money
is Main Obstacle to Retailers Moving Online
Distance
shopping expert Zendor has followed
up its research into the online retail market with a further in-depth
study of more than 50 top retailers. The original research highlighted
that a large proportion of retailers do not have a transactional website
and many are yet to move online. The new study reveals the reasons behind
their reluctance and identifies the main cause for concern - Money.
Zendor’s initial research found that a large number of top retailers
do not yet have a transactional presence online despite the buoyant
market; 75% of those in the home and garden retail sector; 65% in clothing
and footwear and 60% in health and beauty have yet to make the move.
These surprising results prompted Zendor to try and identify exactly
what is behind this ‘nervousness’ about taking the step online.
Zendor conducted discussions with more than 50 retailers who had not
yet ventured into online selling and this revealed a common theme –
money. Feedback from over half the retailers spoken to included financial
concerns; ‘We don’t feel there is sufficient money in it’,
‘It won’t be cost-effective for us’, and ‘We can’t
afford it at the moment’. Other reasons included the fact that
they had ‘tried before and failed’ or that ‘our competitors
aren’t doing it so why should we?’.
The results are surprising because with the online market so buoyant
- Verdict research forecasts that the online market will triple over
the next five years (e-Retail 2004) – Zendor expected the vast
majority of retailers to be at least looking at developing an e-commerce
channel. The benefits have been proven by many retailers selling online
and include providing customers with more choice and convenience, driving
the halo effect (multi-channel shoppers spend more than single channel
customers) as well as reducing the risk of losing customers to competitors
who are already selling online.
Retailers’ reluctance may be due to the fact that they are more
likely to fail if they lack the right knowledge and expertise, particularly
in the area of fulfilment – an area that is notoriously difficult
to get right. Zendor suggests that for those without the necessary expertise,
they can reduce the risks and keep entry costs low by outsourcing to
an established fulfilment provider or at least calling on an expert
in the field. They should also consider that the lead-time to transactional
selling may be up to one year – so the costs do not tend to be
immediate and can be spread out over that time.
As for those retailers who have tried and failed in the past, Zendor
points out that the market has matured substantially over the last two
to three years; online shopping has now become more widely accepted
to the point where customers invariably expect it. Many retailers have
learned from their initial mistakes, are reviewing their websites, and
are once more taking the plunge with renewed optimism and often with
different objectives – objectives around improved customer service
and relationship building are increasingly common, rather than being
purely financially based.
Finally, Zendor’s investigation also found that retailers were
reticent about developing a transactional website if their competitors
had not moved online yet; despite the opportunity to ‘steal the
march.’ Many retailers prefer to focus on store development, with
a multi-channel strategy taking a back seat. Zendor feel that this could
be an expensive mistake, as there is a lengthy learning curve involved
in online or multi-channel retailing for those retailers who are only
used to trading via the high street, and waiting until the competition
makes a move, could prove costly while the retailer struggles to catch
up.
Nick Allen, Zendor Chief Executive, says, ‘The online retail market
is developing fast and retailers who hold back too long now risk missing
the boat. It is unlikely that there will be enough room for everyone,
so those who are concerned about how much it’s going to cost them
to go online should now start thinking, ‘How much will it cost
us if we don’t?'
Tel: 0161 237 4900
Email: mailto:curious@zendor.com
Web: http://www.zendor.com
Advantage
has launched a new fully revised and updated website that can be accessed
through www.advantageconservatories.com.
The new site shows the full range of products including Rehau 70, K2
roofs, full conservatories and the new Elite 70 decorative suite. Visitors
are also able to view the latest company news, find out who’s who
and even check out the latest job vacancies.
Group Commercial Director Danny Hague believes this is major step forward
in the growth plans of the group. He says, ‘We must remember that
the internet is a primary consumer tool for sourcing new products and
services. Our new website contains innovative features aimed at the
consumer as well as our trade customers. All consumer leads that are
received via the website will be fed through to our trade customer network.’
Web: http://www.advantageconservatories.com
Flat
Glass Recycling Website Launch
Waste
management is of an increasing concern in the UK window replacement
industry. Traditional routes of window waste disposal are becoming less
cost-effective and the imminent Landfill Regulations have provided a
driver for change.
The total amount of flat glass waste emanating from buildings within
the UK is up to 500,000 tonnes each year. Although 180,000 tonnes of
architectural and automotive process scrap glass is recycled each year,
there is very little recycling of post-consumer window glass taking
place.
The UK domestic replacement window industry is one of the main sources
of post consumer flat glass waste. The industry is worth over £1.8
billion and consumes around 6.6 million windows each year and generates
over 60,000 skips of waste (190,00t of waste material, 90,000 tonnes
of which is glass).
The change in perception of flat glass and waste window materials is
shifting rapidly and no longer is this material being considered a waste,
much rather a valuable resource in its own right.
In response to this, WRAP has funded a project which BRE is currently
managing in conjunction with many of the key players in the window replacement
industry to investigate and target markets for post-consumer window
waste. The project specifically targets activities concerning the collection,
processing and reprocessing of flat glass and post-consumer window waste.
The project will culminate with the production of a Good Practice Toolkit
for the successful recovery and recycling of post-consumer window waste.
Project Partners: WRAP, BRE, BPF, Anglian Windows, Bowater Windows,
BKP, Bramall Construction, C-Cycle Recyclers LTD, COSTdown, Dorwin Windows,
EB Enterprises, Ecoplas, Glass Technology Services, HW Plastics, Mansell
Construction, Sims Recycling Solutions, Viridor-Richardson, Weaver Vale
Housing Trust & WHS Halo.
If you would like to know more about the project and it's findings and
sign-up for the free Workshops and Conference on 4th October 2004, then
please visit our new website at http://www.wrap.org.uk/glass_flat.asp
Ultraframe
Launches a New Interactive Conservatory Website for Homeowners
Ultraframe,
the designer and manufacturer of conservatory roofing systems has launched
a new interactive website – www.ultraframe-conservatories.co.uk
- containing useful tips and design ideas for homeowners who are considering
buying a conservatory.
The website includes many new features including a section where homeowners
can create their own 3D design of their ideal conservatory. Homeowners
can even upload a picture of their own house and superimpose their dream
conservatory onto their house for a virtual picture showing which style
and size conservatory best complements their requirements.
Another feature is a section designed to help homeowners find a reputable
installer simply by typing in their postcode. Ultraframe’s Registered
Installer scheme directs homeowners to installers, who have been vetted
by Ultraframe and by the Guild of Master Craftsmen. The scheme is designed
to support homeowners, ensure they are supplied with highest quality
conservatory roof systems and ensure peace of mind when it comes to
installation.
Web users can access a page of information on each Guild Approved installer
and can even click through to the installer’s website to learn
more about individual companies.
Latest research suggests most people want a conservatory to add value
to their home and want to create much needed space that can be used
all year round. The site tells visitors about the different climate
control and glazing options available, including Conservaglass™
, which keeps the room cool in summer and warm during the winter.
The site also allows customers to ask questions and will inspire them
to make alternative choices, like Litespace, a walk in bay style extension,
which replaces patio doors creating space and light in any room –
if for example they do not have the space available for a conservatory.
Litespace is an alternative to bring the outside ‘in’.
The new website also allows visitors to order a free copy of ‘The
Ultraframe Essential Guide to Conservatories’. The ‘all you
need to know’ printed magazine which covers design and interior
decoration suggestions, as well as information on how to add value to
your home.
The launch of the site is being backed by a full marketing campaign
and will feature in national, local and consumer press. Alll consumer
PR activity is supported by a freephone customer service line that will
deal with all homeowner enquires 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365
days a year. Ultraframe Registered Installers then receive regular reports
on how many homeowners have been provided with their contact details.
Ultraframe are confident that the new site will generate business and
sales leadsfor many Registered Installers, in fact, the site provides
the prospective conservatory buyer with all they’ll ever need to
know about choosing a conservatory, no matter how small or large their
imagination or budget.
Web: http://www.ultraframe-conservatories.co.uk
Fast, Simple & Accurate: Online Ordering with Emplas Saves Time and Costs
Emplas
Window Systems Ltd has introduced a new solution to stream-line
order processing and speed up deliveries. The company is now offering
fast, easy online ordering with the Remote Pro software package, with
customers that have committed to the system on a trial basis already reporting
that the service has dramatically cut the time they would normally spend
on order processing. The Remote Pro system offers major benefits both for Emplas and its customers. The package effectively acts as a bridge between the two: Orders are received via modem and are linked with the Emplas Window Designer production software, significantly lessening the gap between receipt of order and fabrication. Production and delivery dates can be automatically calculated and instantly reported back to the customer along with an order number. Order acknowledgments can even include glass sizes so that literally all information is stored in one place for ease of reference.
As well as providing a faster service, Remote Pro also allows Emplas to offer a more accurate and efficient one. Incoming orders are checked for validity and customer information is automatically updated on Emplas’ mainframe server.
Because orders are received via electronic files rather than hand-written forms, there is far less margin for error and orders progress more smoothly. An order history log is also maintained by the system so that customised progress reports can be accessed and printed by the customer at any time. Remote Pro can also produce accurate quotations and costings as well as on-screen design and 3D demonstrations for end users.
While Remote Pro is capable of all this, however, it remains extremely easy to use. The only hardware that is required to run the system is a desktop PC and screen with 32MB RAM and 40MB of disk space plus the Windows 95 or 98 operating system and a modem, all of which are considered standard specification for most businesses. The Remote Pro package has been designed to be simple to understand and operate, with no unnecessary ‘techno-babble’. Emplas also offers a full technical support and training package for the system, including installation and staff training at the customer site, trial running and monitoring and email and telephone support.
Kevin Johnson, Managing Director of Emplas, believes that the Remote Pro system will enhance the operation of any UK installer:
‘As I see it, this system really represents the future of the industry. A group of our customers – incorporating both small and larger businesses – have already adopted it and have told us that they are delighted with the results, with far less time spent on order processing, which in turn saves them in costs. They are also impressed with the fact that it cuts down the potential for errors and is genuinely easy to use – even confirmed technophobes have mastered it!’
To order Remote Pro from Emplas, contact 01933 674880, fax 01933 678635 or email mailto:info@emplas.co.uk
GRP
composite door and PVC panel manufacturer New
World Developments says that it is receiving over 30,000
hits per month for its on-line ordering service and product catalogue.
As customers can now browse the full product range and technical information
before placing their order on line, New World is finding that web trading
is an increasingly important part of the business.
Taking less than five minutes, fabricators and customers can create
the exact door panel specification with PanelSpec’s interactive
service via http://www.nwd.uk.com
(or as a CD). Using PanelSpec, on or off line, customers can select
and change styles, colours, glass designs and accessories to build an
ideal door on screen before placing an order. PanelSpec CD is a sales
aid which can be used in the customer’s home or fabricator’s
showroom where an internet facility may be unavailable.
New World’s online ordering facility is a simpler and more efficient
alternative to handwritten instructions which often omit important details,
delaying production. Orders are sent direct to a fast-track automated
system at New World’s production facility. Then a confirmation
email is returned direct to the customer or fabricator, with the
panel details and price, if required. Customers are now 100% satisfied
when their door is fitted as the accurate preview offered by PanelSpec
ensures that they have seen their options on-screen before purchase.
Also the speed and ease of the system significantly reduces New World’s
administration time when processing orders.
With 10 years of extensive projects and a new £2m facility in
County Antrim, New World says that it has the reputation for innovative
entrance solutions and excellent customer service.This year has seen
the successful launch at Glassex and Interbuild of Apeer, the company's
GRP composite door. Sales manager Alex Moore explains, ‘Since the
exhibitions we have been inundated with enquiries. A healthy proportion
of these are now turning into substantial orders. We’re currently
developing new products which will be on the market next year’.
Web: http://www.nwd.uk.com
K2
Supports Consumer Pull Through with New Website
K2
has launched a new website with a consumer feel to appeal to end-users,
as well as the trade.
Comments K2 Brand Manager, Karen Smith: 'The new website which uses
the existing domain name http://www.k2conservatories.com
is part of our strategic marketing programme to extend our brand to
homeowners and to generate consumer demand to support our marketing
push through the trade. As homeowners become more marketing savvy and
more web literate, a user-friendly and visually appealing presence on-line
is vital.'
The homepage has been designed to appeal to a consumer audience and
offers visitors the opportunity to browse through a 'Choosing Your Conservatory
Guide' a picture gallery of conservatory styles, and to request details
of their nearest K2 Approved Installer.
Comments Karen: 'We believe we have got the balance right with our new
site, which offers specific sections for Homeowners, Trade Customers
and Architects/Specifiers. The site provides detailed information on
the whole K2 product range, including conservatory roofing systems,
windows & doors, glass and large-scale conservatories and is only
the first phase of an extensive marketing programme to develop the K2
website.'
Trade customers can click straight through to the trade area of the
website where they will be able to select content by product area, find
out more about K2 or apply to become a K2 Approved Installer.
Karen Smith continues: 'We wanted the website to be a useful reference
point for all our customers and have designed it to be as easy to navigate
as possible. The site is full of images that demonstrate both to the
trade and the end user the range of conservatories that can be achieved
with K2 products but downloads are quick ensuring that browsing the
site easy. We feel that the site will play a vital role in supporting
our trade customers through effective consumer marketing, providing
a valuable resource for all.'
Website to the World's Largest Specialist Trade Fair Focusing on Glass Proves Popular
glasstec-online.com,
the internet website for the international specialist trade fair for
machinery, equipment, applications and products using glass, is proving
very popular, according to figures recently released. The bilingual
portal at http://www.glasstec-online.com
had nearly 280,000 page hits in 2003, unusually high for an in-between
year of the trade fair. However, the highest figures were registered
in 2002 during the fair month of October with 37,112 visits and 501,434
page impressions. A considerable increase in these numbers can be expected
in November for the rest of the duration of glasstec 2004.
‘We are delighted to see that glasstec-online.com continues to
become more popular, even in the non-fair period,’ says Frank Reckers,
Website Manager of the fair in Düsseldorf. The concept of organising
a year-round information, communication and service platform as a supplement
to the actual fair activities has been long accepted. Compared to the
glasstec-free years of 2001 and 2003, an increase rate of more than
250% could be registered with users. This trend has also continued in
the first two months of 2004.
Success is attributed to the constantly updated news and information
articles, focusing on the current topics and aspects of glass as a material.
Professional research and monthly-changing topics have already lead
8,500 regular customers of glasstec to subscribe to the newsletter.
The job placement service in the category ‘Job Market’ has
also proved an interesting area. More than 950,000 visits have been
counted here since 2002.
The service for exhibitors and visitors, the core service of glasstec-online.com,
is also extensive. Included is the online glass calculation service,
the machine market, information on the special show ‘glass technology
live’ or even the glasstec exhibitor database or the online showrooms
- and all free of charge. Here, the user has access to company and product
information of more than 1,000 glasstec-exhibitors.
In addition, exhibitors can also place orders for fair-specific offers
and services online. With the Online-Order-System, a company can quickly
and effectively place almost all orders necessary for fair organisation.
SynergeBuild Success for Deceuninck’s Customers
SynergeBuild,
the E Business customer ordering system launched by Deceuninck,
has become a hit with many of its customers. So much so, that over 50%
of Deceuninck’s fabricators have already elected to use the technology
and this figure is growing on a weekly basis.
The system is the quickest and most accurate way for a fabricator to
place their orders. Furthermore, as the system is designed to work with
each customer’s unique data, a fabricator has the ability to view
accurate stock levels, purchase prices and delivery lead times at any
time.
Paul Garrigan, General Manager of Athena Windows is one fabricator who
clearly appreciates the benefits of this technology and commented: ‘We
have been using SynergeBuild for some time and find it the most user
friendly and accurate ordering system available today. We know instantly
what products are available and more importantly, should an item be
out of stock, we are given an immediate date for receipt of that product.
This really helps with our production planning.’
This positive view is echoed by Colin Stewart, General Manager of Plasti-King
who stated: ‘We have used SynergeBuild since it was launched in
2001 and have been extremely impressed with the system. The ability
to view the product sections in an ‘idiot proof’ format ensures
we select the correct products every time and thus eliminate costly
ordering errors.’
SynergeBuild is a secure and protected site and can be operated from
a current PC with Internet facilities. In addition, Deceuninck operates
an on-site dedicated customer help team to assist fabricators with all
aspects of the SynergeBuild ordering system.
Contact:
Martin Vowden
Tel: 01249 816969
Email: mailto:martin.vowden@deceuninck.com
Download Brochure From Website
Visit
the new re-vamped website from Sky-Vent Ltd
and you can now download the company's new virtual brochure.
The digital brochure turns the pages on-screen and has a direct order
form link for easy ordering of roof vents online. Customers can read
about the benefits of the Re-flex performance glass system which is
introducing the company to many new fabricators.
'Sky-Vent revolutionised the roof vent business by being the first to
pre-glaze roof vents and offer 48hr delivery to customers. The company
also offers a unique next level 'Leak proof' guarantee which is unparalled
in the market place. We used Glassex as a 'show boating' exercise for
our latest developements to the Sky-Vent product'. said Halina Witek
company Managing Director.
Tel: 0121 212 1434
Email: mailto:sales@sky-vent.co.uk
Web: http://www.sky-vent.co.uk