MyTradeTV Glazing Digital Magazine March 2015

.CONGRATULATIONS!
To all of this years winners at the
show. What a great effort all the
contestants put in. We hope you
enjoyed the day!
www.fenestrationawards.co.uk | @NatFenAwards | info@fenestrationaward.co.uk
.A BIG THANK YOU!
To all who attended this years
awards show. What a great day it
was, and what a great turn out. So a
big thank you to all of you!
.SEE YOU NEXT YEAR!
We look forward to seeing you at
next years award show. We are
already underway with planning

March 2015
March 2015 | www.mytrade.tv |GLAZING 3
Contents6. Editors Corner
10. General Section
14. Awards
23. Charity
26. Marketing
28. Windows
34. Doors
54. Glass
63. Fabricator / Installer
85. Colour Coating & Foiling
94. Van Security
97. Hardware
117. Trickle Vent
119. Spacer Bar
123. Web Design
130. Machining
136. Appointments
140. Conservatory
145. Certification
149. Classified
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Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy, MyTradeTV ltd does not accept liability for errors in the publications. Views expressed by
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links provided by third parties.
MyTradeTV @mytradetv /in/leeclarkemttv/MyTradeTV
www.macouk.net/enquiry@macouk.net
MACO Door & Window Hardware (U.K.) LTD
Manufacturers of high quality products for windows and doors
including:
• Casement window locking systems
• Tilt turn systems
• Door locks
• Sliding, tilting door systems
• Ancillaries for windows and doors
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March 2015 | www.mytrade.tv | 4
ASECUREFUTUREFROM
FRAMEXPRESS
I
an Davis, Sales Director at frameXpress looks at a
few key areas of investment for homeowners after
the March Budget.
“With the Chancellor’s final budget before the election
now well out of the way, some of the ramifications will
undoubtedly become a focus for a while across many
industries. For the housing market there will certainly
be many people looking to get onto the property
ladder in the new ‘walking tall’ Britain, where they
will undoubtedly benefit from the new ‘help-to-buy’
ISA. A great support for first time buyers where the
government will now add £50 to every £200 they put
away as part of a deposit.
Boosting the housing market has been central to the
coalition government’s efforts to stimulate economic
recovery for quite some time. Certainly there will
be more fluid cashflow to consider as both new
homeowners and those looking to move, will evaluate
their properties and make subsequent investments
into the areas that will give true added value.
For frameXpress it has always been imperative to give
customers more than just an end product, preferring
instead to offer a range that provides total reassurance
in terms of performance, safety and durability.
Being able to offer homeowners lasting guarantees
about the complete product without hidden added
extras has helped customers to gain ground. Frequently,
home security has proven a major selling point that has
led to repeat referrals for many frameXpress customers.
Incorporating premium products such as Yale and
thumbturn locking systems gives the sales approach
an advantage with these already incorporated into the
finished product cost. Furthermore, industry standards
Homeowners need to understand the benefits of
the technical advantages to installing products
such as composite doors. Small and simple
aspects such as ensuring the doors and frames
are thick and solid with substantial hinges and
advanced multi-point locking systems makes the
difference in winning or losing a sale.“

such as PAS 24 and Secured By
Design provide consumers with
added assurance and complete
peace of mind.
frameXpress customers will soon
be able to download or direct
homeowners to useful data sheets
regarding security criteria on the
website – www.frameXpress.co.uk
Whilst covering basic security
aspects may seem almost
unnecessary for some, for many
frameXpress customers, advising
on aspects of security has been the
differenceinwinningorlosingdeals.
This could become more important
as the home improvement market
gathers momentum.
Beyond the obvious aspects of not
leaving windows open or unlocked
anywhere in the house, there are
salientpointsregardingtheproducts
which discerning consumers buy
into when purchasing. Explaining
the difference in window options
from double to triple glazing and
the safety aspects these provide,
as well as the Security standards
that put burglars off, impresses
the homeowners when making the
pitch.
The frameXpress window range has
been developed with security being
as important as thermal efficiency,
which has helped to reinforce
customers’ business profiles when
approaching homeowners.
The companyis contracted to supply
various styles on a wide range of
projects,where consideration has to
be given to potentially vulnerable
people, such as hospitals and
schools. Customers therefore rely
upon the integrity of the products
and associated guarantees when
approaching the end users.
Likewise door security continues
to play a big part too in respect of
entrances and house renovation, as
the market looks to gear up for a
boost. Whether at the front, rear or
side of properties,without doubt the
Secured By Design standard as well
as other industry accreditations,
gives added benefits when
discussing security guarantees.
Equally, garden rooms, sun rooms
and conservatories, with their
dynamic but open style design,have
the potential to leave consumers
a little concerned about security.
These worries have been minimised
by framexpress customers who have
been able to reinforce the safety
aspects that are incorporated into
the company’s striking patio and
bifold door options, making them
a popular choice with home buyers
looking to add a stylish addition to
their renovation projects.
The premium production standards
combined with superior locking
systems that are incorporated into
the company’s composite doors also
have made the frameXpress range
easy to sell to those looking for
optimum security on their property.
Homeowners need to understand
the benefits of the technical
advantages to installing products
such as composite doors. Small and
simple aspects such as ensuring
the doors and frames are thick
and solid with substantial hinges
and advanced multi-point locking
systems makes the difference in
winning or losing a sale.
While many consumers will choose
a door based on its appearance
and the glass panels that can be
incorporated, our customers are
gaining increased sales due to
the PAS 23 and 24 certification
guarantees.
Understanding that customers need
to be able to provide end users with
facts and features that will induce
trust and ultimately sales, are facts
which remain a pivotal part of the
customer satisfaction guarantees
for the frameXpress team.
The industry is moving forward
steadily, and post- election rising
property values will continue to
compensate for stagnating earnings
and further fuel consumer spending,
perhaps because the government
incentives and rising prices will
make home-owners in general feel
richer. That is great news for this
industry, where renovation will help
to reinforce Britain’s continuing
housing recovery.”
frameXpress offers a broad range
of pvc-u and aluminium windows,
doors and conservatories to both
the domestic and commercial
markets. For more information on
the ranges available please call
01952 581100.

|March 2015 | www.mytrade.tv6 GLAZING
Editors Corner
The announcements made by Chancellor
George Osborne in his Budget last week
did not have many trade associations in the
building sector jumping with joy.
OsborneGetsLukewarmResponsetoBudget
T
he Construction Products Association (CPA)
said the Budget provided few surprises but was
please with the announcement of a ‘Help to Buy
ISA’ scheme. It believed that this move could stimulate
home-buyers’ interest in the near term and house
builders’ confidence in the medium term; a welcome
aid in fighting what the CPA sees as flattening demand
it forecasted for the private housing sector after the
‘uncertainty’ of the General Election.
“Ofparticularinteresttouswillbethereviewofbusiness
rates flagged by the Chancellor and the related issues
of capital allowances for plant and machinery, all of
which has a very real effect on inward investment,”said
Diana Montgomery, Chief Executive, CPA. “Finally, the
wider industry,particularlysmall to medium enterprises
(SMEs), will recognise the impact of the government’s
plans to abolish Class 2 NICs in the next Parliament.
The real improvement in this case is not the nominal
contribution amount – £137 per annum – but rather
the savings by removing another regulatory burden
and overhead, which is likely thousands of pounds and
many hours of time which SMEs can focus elsewhere.”
SIN OF OMISSION
The British Woodworking Federation (BWF) could
hardly conceal its disappointment on what it saw
as a desertion of sustainability credentials by the
government.
“This Budget speech referenced growth 14 times, but
carbon not at all – it has done little to help grow the
low carbon economy and little to meet real housing
demand,” declared David Hopkins, Executive Director,
Wood for Good,on behalf of the Timber IndustryAccord.
“Initiatives like the new home ISA and housing zones
will provide some assistance in the building market
and new projects like Swansea Bay will in time help
to decarbonise the grid. But, direct investment now
in new low-carbon housing schemes made from truly
renewable materials would act as a great economic
multiplier, create a legion of skilled jobs and reduce
carbon emissions here and now while also reducing
energy demand for the future.”
The feeling that Osborne had missed an opportunity
to press forward with energy efficient policies was
mentioned by the Builders Merchants Federation.
“While builders’ merchants may see a long term boost
in sales stemming from the new Help to Buy ISA, it
is disappointing not to see further measures to help
people improve their homes,particularly around energy
efficiency,” stated John Newcomb, Managing Director,
BMF. “Our members would have been delighted to
see a reduction in VAT for repair, maintenance and
improvement (RMI), which would have really cemented
the‘long term economic’growth in the merchant sector.”
Mr Newcomb went on to state that reforming VAT in
this area would have the added benefit of helping to
tackle the black economy, which currently significantly
reduces the Chancellor’s taxtake on home improvement
work.
TRAINING IS KEY
The message that the Federation Master Builders (FMB)
wished to focus on was the apprenticeship vouchers
mentioned by George Osborne.
“It’s been a long and bumpy road since the Richard
Review first touted the idea of putting the purchasing
power back in the hands of the employer but the
government has finally set out a clear direction of
travel in terms of its apprenticeship funding reforms,”
said Brian Berry, Chief Executive, FMB.
Mr Berry believed the new digital apprenticeship
voucher model was a “vast improvement” on what
was formerly proposed. However, he still had some
concerns about the potential for this new system to add
additional administrative burden for small firms. “To
counter this, we will be working closely with the next
government to minimise any added bureaucracy. For
SMEs,bureaucracy is the biggest barrier to engagement
in any scheme so industry and government must work
together to help ensure this new system does not have
a detrimental impact on apprenticeship numbers.”
At the time of going to press,MYTTV had not received a
Budget response from the Glass and Glazing Federation
(GGF).
Editors Corner

Editors Corner
An event that once was billed as Interbuild with ‘green’ credentials
appears to be drifting reports Michael Gannon
O
ver the years of covering
exhibitions, one aspect that
is always noticeable is that
when they go well, your magazine
is inundated but when they do not,
the spin machine doesn’t just go
into reverse, it disappears.
This appears to be happening with
Ecobuild where, despite a number
of urgent requests for information
on the event, a deathly silence
prevails. As far as the glass and
glazing side went, there was a scant
presence and as a show in general,
all pretence that exhibitors had to
prove their ‘green’ credentials has
long been a thing of the past.
At the time of going to press, no
figures have been supplied by UBM,
the organiser, on attendance figures
and how they compared with 2014.
With 800 exhibitors, it was about
the same size as the previous year.
This falls well short of the 1,300
exhibitors in 2011 when the event
reached its height. For the last
few years we have had the usual
ploy of wide aisles, open spaces
and partitions; all indications of
an exhibition that is losing its
momentum.
Of course, there were other things
going on and this writer saw the
sight of that old political bulldog,
John Prescott heading for the
exit after a no doubt pugnacious
performance. But if we are to regard
Ecobuild as an exhibition first with
add-ons, it has seen better days.
EXHIBITOR RESPONSE
Below is the first part of what
exhibitors thought of Ecobuild.
EPWIN GROUP
Alan Calverley, Head of marketing
at the Epwin Group was generally
upbeat but observed that Ecobuild
appeared to be quieter this year.
“The show was possibly quieter
than previous years but the quality
of visitors higher and with larger
projects in mind. With a new layout
for next year the show may take
on a new direction and become a
general building rather than Eco
one……without doubt the solar
element of the show has declined,
meaning in terms of space the
overall feel is less stands.”
However, speaking specifically
about the Epwin Group’s own
performance, he was happier. “An
optimistic industry turned out for
the first big exhibition of the year,
and the quality of leads for larger
projects bore this out,” he stated.
“Our ‘Through the Ages’ theme
attracted a great deal of interest
and got people talking. Many new
and existing products were on
display and the vertical sliding
window, alongside the new solid
core door were the real stars on the
stand.”
INTERNORM
“Ecobuild is a great way for our
potential customers to really see
the true quality of our products,”
said Andreas Simmer, Managing
Director, Internorm UK, talking
exclusively to MYTTV. “This year
was no different. It also provided
the ideal opportunity to launch our
new Panorama HX300 product.”
This is a timber/aluminium
Which Way for
Ecobuild?
window glazing system that
can be integrated completely
into the brickwork meeting the
growing trend for frameless glass
architecture. “It was great to see
the interest in how the unlimited
design freedom of this product
can really help create open bright
living environments,” explained Mr
Simmer.
In terms of visitors to the stand,over
the three days Internorm stated it
saw a good mixof people allowing it
to have contact with those working
on both smaller self-build projects
as well as architects working on
much larger developments. “For
architects specifically, as well as
the products themselves, we also
found that there was some good
interest in the CPDs that we offer,”
noted Mr Simmer.“Overall, we were
pleased with the level of interest
in our company as a whole and the
products we offer.”
Ecobuild appeared to be
quieter than in previous
years with only 800
exhibitors compared with
1,300 in 2011 but there
was satisfaction with
business done.”

Editors Corner
A warning has come from the BFRC about
misleading advertising that can get those
making unjustified claims finding themselves
in hot water
WhenGlassShowsnoClass
T
he British Fenestration Ratings Council (BFRC)
has issued a warning that recent trade and
consumer advertisements have been appearing
featuring the claim‘A-rated glass as standard’or similar.
It points out that this is incorrect because there is no
such thing. “There is no scheme in the UK that rates
glass in isolation,” stated Gary Morgan, Technical
Director, BFRC. “All window energy ratings (WERs)
schemes operate in an identical way of rating the
whole window, including glass, frames, spacer bars and
gaskets.”
Dr Morgan went on to explain that was not possible
under current European Regulations to provide an
energy rating for glass in isolation from the other
window components. While it was true that certain
glazing specifications are widely used in‘A’and‘A+’rated
windows, the glazing itself did not guarantee an ‘A’ or
‘A+’ rating for the whole window,” he said. “The frame
system also has to be thermally efficient to enable the
complete window to obtain a favourable rating.”
BFRC managing director Chris Mayne added that
an advertising claim that a type of glass is ‘A’ energy
rated was likely to breach the Business Protection
from Misleading Marketing Regulations 2008 (and/or
Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading 2008).
‘Misleading’ advertising is described as material that
in any way, including its presentation, ‘deceives or is
likely to deceive the traders to whom it is addressed or
whom it reaches’ and by reason of its deceptive nature,
is likely to affect their economic behaviour; or,for those
reasons, injures or is likely to injure a competitor.
An offence under the Regulations can attract a £5,000
fine if heard in a magistrates’court, or an unlimited fine
and/or two years’imprisonment if heard at crown court.
Enforcement is by local authority trading standards
officers.
Editors Corner
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VISIT: WWW.MYTRADESTUDIOS.COM

Editors Corner
Despite a number of stutters
the government believes that
solar power should account for
4% of the UK’s energy supply by
the end of the decade
T
he reason for the reduction
is that the inducements for
householders and businesses
to install solar panels resulted in
greater than anticipated demand.
This gave the government what it
believed was just cause to reduce
Feed-in-Tariffs (FiTs) on large
installations.
At the time the Department of
Energy and Climate Chance (DECC)
was severely criticised for the
move and a number of solar energy
companies collapsed.
The situation now is that with solar
panels falling in price by as much
as 70%, demand has drawn in
Chinese manufacturers and led the
government to withdraw subsidies
on large solar farms above 5mW by
the end of this month. This, in turn,
has led to a boom in installations
to beat the deadline with the Solar
Trade Association (STA) stating that
there had been more capacity had
been installed in the first three
months of 2015 than in the whole of
last year. However, the STA predicts
business will collapse after that by
as much as 80%.
“We need subsidies for another
few years – maybe five – before we
can compete with fossil fuels in
the UK,” explained Leonie Greene,
Spokesman, STA. “Only 35% of
the cost of solar is the price of
the panels, the majority cost is
the installation and that will only
come down if we have a large and
thriving competitive industry in the
UK. The government’s decision to
pull out subsidies is an own goal; it
will delay the moment when solar
can compete with fossil fuels.”
SOLAR POTENTIAL
For its part, the Energy Secretary,
Ed Davey, spoke up the potential for
the solar industry. In a conversation
with the BBC he predicted supply
from this renewable source would
rise up to 14GW of solar by 2020;
up from 5GW at the end of 2014.
The current percentage is a modest
The Sun Should Shine
on Solar
1.5% of total UK annual electricity
that will rise to just under 4%.
On that ground Mr Davey felt the
move to end subsidies on large
installations was justified but would
continue with domestic ones. This
should encourage those glazing
companies that have diversified
into this sector, to remain and the
forthcoming General Election is
unlikely to see a radical change in
the market.
The UK figure for installations of
both non-residential and domestic
now stand at 650,000.
NORTH OF THE BORDER
A number of leading members
of the STA have launched a new
Scotland branch. STA Scotland is
set to become the leading voice
for solar in Scotland, advising and
developing policy with the Scottish
government and raising awareness
of the benefits of solar.STA Scotland
has been backed by a number of
prominent figures in the energy
industry, including Fergus Ewing,
Minister for Business, Energy and
Tourism in the Scottish government.
Only 35% of the cost
of solar is the price of
the panels, the majority
cost is the installation
and that will only come
down if we have a large
and thriving competitive
industry in the UK.”

Marketing
I
n the growing digital age, the need for print is rapidly in decline.
When at one time an integrated marketing campaign would be a
mixture of glossy brochures, leaflets and advertisements, nowadays –
in-line with customers - the selling platform has moved online.
Digital specialist The Consultancy has worked in the window and door
industry for over ten years and specialises in online solutions specifically
for the sector.
While initially developing the business in print and branding, the need for
their digital expertise instantly overshadowed printing.
Printed material has
so many downfalls. On
top of environmental
issues, there’s also the
case of maintaining the
users interest and how
many people really keep
brochures on file.
DIGITAL
VSPRINT
the
www.theconsultancy.co.uk
General Section

Marketing
But is print really a thing of the
past, or does it still hold a place in
the ever-developing digital age?
Richie Thornton, Director of The
Consultancy, said: “When working
with our clients we always use the
analogy of £1,000.
“If you had this disposable amount
of money to market your business,
where would you spend it?
“Would you spend it on limited
brochures and leaflets to send
out to potential clients, or would
you create an integrated online
marketing campaign, refreshing
your website and designing a
trackable e-mailer to be sent out
and monitored?
“With the UK consumer spending
£44bn online last year, we think the
answer is pretty obvious.
“Printed material has so many
downfalls. On top of environmental
issues, there’s also the case of
maintaining the users interest
and how many people really keep
brochures on file.
“They often end up in the bin!”
But although the window and
door industry is slowly beginning
to embrace the digital age, The
Consultancy is keen to stress that
print materials can still be of use.
Richie added: “One thing we’ve
worked on over the past few years
is bridging the gap between print
and digital, a way to do this is by
using augmented reality.
“This involves the use of a print
trigger, whether it’s your company
logo, a photograph or a word.
“Through accessing your device’s
camera on an app and hovering
it over the trigger image this can
add a third dimension to your
advertising in the form of a video
or hidden message.
“This is a media which is newly
evolving and worth keeping in
mind for any print marketing.”
TheConsultancyiscurrentlyrunning
a Death of the Fax campaign,
focusing on the move from print to
digital and encouraging companies
in the industry to seek the benefits
of the online world.
If you’re interested in how digital
will revolutionise your company,
contact The Consultancy at
www.theconsultancy.co.uk or call
(01429) 239 689.
With the UK
consumer
spending £44bn
online last year,
we think the
answer is pretty
obvious.”
EASY TO UPDATE
ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY
EASY TO STORE
LEAD GENERATION
DEATH OF THE FAXDEATH OF THE FAX

General Section
Make the right decisions, drive
business performance, and
increase profitability
The launch of a new website by The Independent Ratings Company highlights the benefits for industry
leaders who want to use customer feedback to their ultimate advantage.
D
irector Chris Globe explains “I think there are
few of us now who don’t read umpteen reviews
from others every time we want to book a hotel,
a restaurant or a holiday. It is the world we live in. But
what many people don’t realise is that this is not just
a fad, it is a very real part of people’s decision making
process and it is here to stay”.
“The benefits of gaining reviews from your customers
and obtaining what is effectively a third party
endorsement for your company,your products, and your
services, cannot be understated”.
“There is nothing to fear but much to gain; we work
with so many companies now and all of them will tell
you that they have seen a benefit since they started
using the endorsements of their customers to ‘sell’ for
them”.
“Most of the companies who come to us already
understand the benefits, but while they collect
feedback often they don’t have it working for them. Our
key thing is to get them publishing the comments that
their customers make, and to not be afraid of the odd
negative remark – that’s life and people don’t expect
perfection”.

General Section
We are proud to be different to the rest of the
‘ratings’ industry.
“Unlike the majority of our competitors we believe
that personal contact is the best way to deliver the
outstanding results that customers want. By talking
with our customers our experienced team can help to
define the criteria which will bring them the outcomes
they want”.
“This can be on the phone, by email or by personal visit,
making it very cost effective.The important thing is that
customers have someone to talk to who can help them,
who can advise them,and who can support them to get
the results they want which will drive performance and
profitability through their company”.
“Most of our customers have tried on line review
systems and on line survey models in the past,but have
come to us because they want so much more than an
off the shelf solution which doesn’t fully deliver what
they want, and is dependent on their time and efforts”.
But don’t take our word for it; here’s what a few of
our existing clients have said.
“We had a very particular desire to capture feedback
from our customers and as a part of the same process to
offer them a personalised and instantly downloadable
guarantee. The Independent Ratings Company did this
for us. It has added some real benefits to our business.”
Paul Hardcastle Director of Eco-Thermal Design
Windows.
“By talking to the team at The Independent Ratings
Company we completely changed our feedback forms
and the process. The results have been brilliant and
the whole process works so much better now. Had we
not had the opportunity to speak to someone we would
have carried on doing the same thing, and not getting
the right results” Mick Clayton CEO of GQA.
“It is great working with the team at The Independent
Ratings Company. Our need in terms of reporting
change regularly and it is great that we can talk to them
and modify what we need. We simply could not get this
flexibility and support from an off the shelf provider”
Tristan Cooke Mila Windows and Door Maintenance
The Independent Ratings Company www.
theindependentratingscompany.co.uk 0161 327 2623
sales@theindependentratingscompany.co.uk Twitter
@TheIndRatingsCo

AwardsAwards
G
lazerite installers have beaten
all-comers yet again,scooping
half of all the Regional
trophies in the annual Network
VEKA awards – plus the coveted
all-UK customer satisfaction trophy
once again.
Customers of the trade fabricator
took no fewer than five of the ten
Regional awards, plus the national
trophy and Fitter of the Year, as
well as numbering 12 of the total
30 finalists and gaining three new
entries into the organisation’s elite
100% Club.
Overall champion this year was
last year’s Best Newcomer, Frames
Conservatories Direct of Bury St
Edmunds,also winning top Regional
for the East of England. Shane
Howells held the West of England
title and KJM Windows retained
the South – both for the sixth time
– while Goliath Homeworld had
a fifth win for the Midlands and
Cheadle Glass won a second time
for the North West, and Fitter of the
Year went to Ronnie Pym and Mark
Barnfield of Frames Conservatories
Direct.
Glazerite Director Jason Thompson
said after the awards: “Once again,
our customers have shown that
they are among the best of the
best in Network VEKA and we are
proud of them all. We have always
encouraged our customer members
to commit themselves 100%
to everything the organisation
stands for and to make full use of
everything it offers. With such a
superb showing on the trophy table,
they have proved this to be the only
way to go.”
All the trophies were presented by
Network VEKA brand ambassador
Steve Davis at the organisation’s
AGM and Gala Dinner at the Holiday
Inn, Stratford-upon-Avon on
Saturday (Mar 21).
Last year, Glazerite customers took
six Regional trophies as well as UK
Champion, Best Newcomer and 13
of the 30 finalist slots. In 2013 they
took four Regionals and 10 of the
finalists.
Glazerite Windows Ltd is VEKA’s
largest UK trade fabricator and a
prominent Network VEKA member,
with a reputation for unsurpassed
customer service as well as a
comprehensive product range. The
company offers a fully nationwide
service based on manufacturing
units in Northants and Greater
Manchester and a distribution hub
in Bristol.
www.glazeritewindows.co.uk.
Steve Davis congratulates overall winners Frames
Conservatories Direct, including the winning fitters.
GLAZERITE GANG SHINE AGAIN WITH NEAR-
RECORDNETWORKVEKATROPHYWINS
Awards

Awards
2015

Awards
A DOUBLE AND TRIPLE AWARDS NIGHT
Y
et again, Solidor stole the show when it
came to The Sentinel Business Awards,with
them winning Business of the Year for the
second year running, while CEO Gareth Mobley
was awarded Entrepreneur of the Year for the third
year in succession.
More than 400 individuals from North Staffordshire
and South Cheshire’s most prominent businesses
were in attendance at the event, which was
held on 24th March, 2015 at the King’s Hall in
Stoke-On-Trent. Now in its 19th year, The annual
Sentinel Business Awards celebrate the region’s
best business achievements rewarding growth,
innovation and development in the local economy,
something which Solidor has achieved and
embraced in abundance for a number of years.
Their innovative approach to product design and
marketing also looks set to continue under the
stewardship of managing director, Joe Martoccia
and the new management team, with exciting new
product development and marketing plans ready
to be launched in April.The Composite door market
is currently one of the most exciting and dynamic
of the home improvement sector, with a broad
range of installation companies and specialised
distributors helping to drive growth.
Joe Martoccia, managing director of Solidor
commented: ‘I’m absolutely thrilled for Gareth and
for everyone associated with Solidor, these awards
are for them. Winning back to back awards against
some excellent local companies is an incredible
achievement, businesses from this region really
demonstrate some of the best manufacturing and
commercial principles I have experienced.”
Gareth Mobley, CEO of Solidor and DW3 Products
Group concluded: ‘I’m still humbled by the
recognition that the team at Solidor and I have
received over the years. It’s been very much a team
success and one in which I believe will achieve
further recognition in the years to come.’
To find out more about Solidor, then log on to
www.solidor.co.uk, call 01782 847300 or e-mail
enquiries@solidor.co.uk. To keep up to date with
all of their developments follow them on Twitter
@solidorltd or look them up on Facebook.
Awards

Video
Click below to watch the video!

Awards
Network VEKA hosts another
fantasticAGM and Awards Evening!
Around 240 people attended Network VEKA’s ever-popular AGM and Awards Evening in Stratford-upon-Avon.
A
ttendees were able to visit
the day’s specially-built
‘Business Centre’ where
numerous companies and industry
bodies were on hand to answer
questions and give suggestions
on all aspects of business; from
finance and training to marketing
and more. Visitors were particularly
interested in Network VEKA’s new
training offering-the Network VEKA
Academy.
Network VEKA’s MD John Ogilvie
was joined on stage by Compere
John Meredith to present the
official AGM. John was quick to
praise the many successes of the
membership: “It was a record year
on a number of measures... £64
million pounds worth of products
fitted, in almost 18000 installations,
which is up 9% over the previous
highest registration total. That’s
£1.25 million fitted per week!
“Installations of VEKA products are
up around 18%, which is more than
two and a half times the market
growth rate.
“Around £880 million has been
installed since Network VEKA was
formed and average installed
values are the highest for six years.
All of this.... and still customer
satisfaction rates remain around
97%!”
John explained that The VEKA UK
Group’s MD, Dave Jones, had been
welcomed as Chairman of the
Network VEKA Board and invited
him to say a few words.
Dave Jones also congratulated
the membership and articulated
how proud he was of the support
offering from The VEKA UK Group:
“As Managing Director of The VEKA
UK Group, people might say I’m
biased.... but I genuinely believe
that - between Network VEKA and
the Approved Installer Scheme - we
offer a scale of support that can’t be
matched in the industry.
“Network VEKA is the pinnacle
organisation for installers in the
glazing trade.
“MyselfandtheteamatVEKAremain
committed to helping promote
the Network and to building upon
its sterling reputation. I couldn’t
be more impressed by all that has
been achieved over the last 12
months: record-breaking sales....
record registrations.... and more
milestones than ever before.
You should all be very proud of
yourselves. We couldn’t promote
the Network in the way that we do,
without all your hard work.”
With the day’s event rounded
off - flower power, flares and
platforms were the order of the
evening!
The evening began with a
Champagne Reception before
the Awards were announced by
Network VEKA Brand Ambassador
Steve Davis.
Awards

Awards
A full list of regional winners
follows below:
• Best in Scotland: Norscot
Joinery
• Best in Ireland: Betterhomes
• Best in the Midlands: Goliath
Homeworld
• Best in the North West: Cheadle
Glass
• Best in the South: KJM Group
• Best in the South East: Oakwood
Windows
• Best in the South West: Heavers
of Bridport
• Best in Wales: MPN
• Best in Western England: Shane
Howells
• Best in Yorkshire: David
Brunskill
• Best in Eastern England: Frames
Conservatories Direct
• Best in Central England:
Lewington and Son
From Best Newcomer to National
Winner and Fitter of the Year!
This year’s Overall National Winner
was Frames Conservatories Direct.
The team were delighted to have
gone from Best Newcomer at the
last AGM, to National Winner at
this year’s event! Alongside this
impressive feat,the FCD installation
team also won Fitter of theYear after
being observed carrying out a series
of practical and written exercises.
Steve Davis presented the awards
and passed on his congratulations:
“To win Fitter of the Year and go
from being Best Newcomer, to
winning Best in Eastern England
and Overall National Winner really
is a fantastic achievement! In
the Network VEKA awards, you’re
competing against the best of the
best - so to come out on top says
a lot about your customer service.
Congratulations.”
Putting the FUN in fundraising
Network VEKA managed to
raise more than £700 for The
Encephalitis Society by requesting
donations from member companies
to take advantage of the 1970s
props available! There was also
an envelope collection, and the
membership proved its generosity
once again.
Blame it on the boogie
The evening was rounded off with a
1970s tribute band and disco until
the early hours,with many members
changing out of their black tie attire
and into their grooviest glad rags!
John Ogilvie said: “The Awards
Evening always has a fantastic
atmosphere because we celebrate
the successes of all our members
and highlight the companies that
are going even further above and
beyond. Then it offers all our hard-
working member companies the
opportunity they deserve, to let
their hair down and have a great
night.We’re already looking forward
to next year’s event.”
The Network VEKA AGM wouldn’t
have been possible without the
support of the event’s sponsors:
ERA
Dugdale Ltd
Assure
Renolit
Euroseal
Glazpart
Chick Plastics
Glazerite Windows Ltd
IKA
B&I Fabrications
The Image Works Ltd
Prefix Systems
Visit www.vekauk.com

Awards
A Day To Remember...
Awards
First ever National Fenestration
Awards winners event a huge success
O
n Thursday 26th March, the National Fenestration Awards held their
first ever winner’s event. From day one, it had always been the aim
of the NFAs to be able to celebrate winners at a physical event. So
that Thursday marked an important step for the awards scheme, and for
those attending and to receive their awards.
The day started in typical British summer time style, wet, windy and rather
chilly. But some excellent staff and equally excellent breakfast made sure
that the climate didn’t affect the day. After a few delays due to the traffic,
the group was split up into two teams for the day where they would take
part in some excellent cars and challenges.
The cars themselves were the superb Caterham 7, Land Rover Defender on
a brilliant 4x4 circuit, and some brand spanking new Toyota GT86 Rally
cars that we were lucky enough to be the first corporate event to use them.
Each team took part in one challenge in the morning, and were then
treated to an excellent and relaxed lunch. The energy in the room was
amazing. People were buzzing from their mornings driving and couldn’t
wait to get back out.
The afternoon session seemed to fly by. Both teams getting out on track
to test out all three of the cars. The Toyota GT 86 Rally and Caterham 7
both proved extremely popular throughout the day, and are now probably

Awards
We’re hoping this
can become a
regular industry
event that
everyone can look
forward to.”
Awards
on the “to buy” list for a lot of those
who attended on Thursday!
It was back to the Foggarty Moss
suite one last time for more food
and refreshments, where Driver of
the Day trophies were handed out
to the best drivers in each of the
cars.And of course, the main reason
why everyone was there, to pick up
their National Fenestration Awards
trophies for their success in the
2014 campaign.
So with everyone in great spirits, it
was over to the Macdonald Portal
Hotel, Golf & Spa for a chance to
check in and get scrubbed up for
a great night of drinks and relaxed
networking, provided kindly by the
Truemans Windows team.
Great feedbackand a future industry
regular event
The early feedback of the event
from those that attended has been
overwhelmingly positive. Jason
Grafton-Holt, Co-Founder and
Director of the NFAs had this to say:
“The reaction from those who
attended the race day has bowled
over the whole NFA team.Whenever
you attempt something for the first
time, you kind of expect a hiccup
along the way. But the staff at
Oulton Park made sure that every
single person there had an amazing
day. The rest of the NFA team also
put in a great effort to make sure
everything ran smoothly.
A massive thanks has to go to the
industry for giving the NFAs so
much support in the past couple
of years. And a massive thanks
too to The VEKA UK Group, GQA
Qualifications and Windowbase, as
without their support for the event,
it simply would not have happened.
We’re already looking forward to
the next winner’s event, and I’m
pretty sure everyone who attended
this one will want to be part of the
next one too! We’re hoping this can
become a regular industry event
that everyone can look forward to.”
The National Fenestration Awards
are already looking to prepare
for the next winner’s event, with
main event sponsors now being
sought. Window Ware are already
the first to sign on for 2015, with
more companies to be announced
in the coming weeks. So with a
limited number of main event slots
available and lots of interest in the
NFAs right now, be sure to contact
the NFAs so as to not miss out.
To find out how to take part in this
year’s National Fenestration Awards
and be part of one of the industry’s
fastest growing events, visit the
NFA website for more information.
www.fenestrationawards.co.uk
info@fenestrationawards.co.uk
@NatFenAwards

Awards
THE VEKA UK GROUP PROUDLY PRESENTS
BIGGESTEVERCHARITYCHEQUE
T
he team at industry-leading PVC-U giant The
VEKA UK Group were delighted to present
The Royal British Legion with a cheque for
£5100 - the largest amount the company has yet
raised in a six-month period.
Each year, the company chooses two charities to
focus on for a six-month period each.In the second
half of 2014, all fundraising activities were carried
out in aid of The British Legion.
Head of Human Resources Gabriela Hammond
explains: “We were very proud to do our bit for
such a valuable cause, especially as 2014 marked
100 years since Britain entered the First World War.
“We were able to raise our biggest charity
contribution (to date) via a number of events. We
held a sponsored golf day, Operations Director
Paul Armstrong did a sponsored slim, we sold pin
badges and wrist bands, we had a ‘wear it red’
day, Network VEKA held a collection at the AGM, a
Helen Mason (Community Fundraiser for Lancashire) and Tom Norris
(Burnley British Legion) collect the cheque from The VEKA UK Team.
number of us took part in a 5k Poppy Run, we sold
cakes, we had a Christmas jumper day and made a
charity contribution instead of sending Christmas
cards. We even fined the Managers for any reports
that were submitted late!
“Everyone really pulled together to support the
British Legion and we were thrilled to be able to
present a cheque for £5100.”
This year,for the first time ever,The VEKA UK Group
will be dedicating a full year’s fundraising to a
charity close to its heart: The Encephalitis Society.
Visit www.vekauk.com

Charity
TUFFX DONATES SILVER
TICKET TO MND ASSOCIATION
A
s Saint Gobain celebrates its 350th
Anniversary this year, the company has
developed a monthly prize draw for
customers. Here, names will be picked at
random throughout the year,where either a bronze,
silver or gold ticket will be won and exchanged for
a cash donation to charity.
In February TuffX Processed Glass won one of the
Silver Tickets which entitled them to donate £100
to a charity of choice.
One of the main reasons the TuffX team opted
to donate its prize winning money to the MND
Association, was due to an employee at the
company having recently been diagnosed with
the condition. MND is a progressive disease that
attacks the nerves in the brain or spinal cord,which
then results in messages slowly stopping to reach
the brain, so the body then gradually slows down
and wastes away.
Graham Price, Managing Director TuffX Processed
Glass comments, “The MND Association relies
almost entirely on donations in order to continue
its research for a cure to the debilitating and cruel
disease.
This year the Association is holding a ‘Jump Fest’
on 21st June as part of a Global Awareness Day
and we wanted to give them our support for such a
worthy cause and such great work. We also wanted
to give as much backing as possible to one of our
own team.”
TuffX Processed Glass is a leading glass processing
company specialising in toughened safety glass
manufacturing. For more information please visit
the website www.tuffxprocessedglass.co.uk or call
0845 3 400 200
Charity

Charity
TheGMFootballFives–beinit,towinit!
A
fter months of planning and
preparation, it is with much
excitement and anticipation
that GM Fundraising brings you
the ‘GM Football Fives’ – a national
five aside football competition on
Saturday 9th May 2015, developed
specifically to allow teams from the
glazing industry to compete against
industry peers and friends.
“Home of Championship side
Birmingham City Football Club, St
Andrews will provide a fantastic
setting for the day,” explains Adrian
Barraclough, Quickslide’s Chairman
and GM Fundraising team member.
“Unlike some corporate days, the
GM Football Fives gives companies
an excellent opportunity to put a
team together with people from
any area of the business. From
fitter to Chief Executive, teams will
be playing for their company in a
national competition that’s all about
the UK’s national sport. Company’s
customers are also welcome to join
a team.
“Each team will consist of 8 players
and have a guaranteed 3 matches
under the watchful eye of fully
qualified referees for just £800
per team. The 8 player registration
includes entry to the Awards Party
Evening hosted at St Andrews, and
of course additional tickets for the
fun once the final whistle has gone
can also be purchased for £25 per
adult, £10 per child aged 10 to 16
with children under 10 welcome for
no charge.
“Aside from the football competition
– including awards and trophies
for the winners and runners up, as
well as ‘Player of the Tournament’,
‘Beat The Goalie’ and ‘Golden Boot’
to name just a few - there will be
plenty more besides to entertain
supporters including an evening
buffet, disco, fundraising activities
and cash bar till 11pm.
“At GM Fundraising, it is important
that we host events that people will
enjoy–as aside from the fundraising
aspect, it really is all about having
fun,” continues Adrian. “We believe
the GM Football Fives will become
a date not to be missed in people’s
diaries every year, as everything is
set for it to be a truly fantastic day.
To take part in this first ever GM
Football Fives, team registration
is simple and for a sneak preview
of the team’s promotional video
filmed at BCFC go to youtube or
contact gary@gmfundraising.co.uk
GM Football Fives gives
companies an excellent
opportunity to put a team
together with people from
any area of the business.
From fitter to Chief Executive,
teams will be playing for
their company in a national
competition that’s all about the
UK’s national sport. Company’s
customers are also welcome to
join a team.”

Charity

Marketingbb
F
or the second year running
MRA Marketing has
been ranked No. 1 in the
Construction Marketing Awards’
Agency League. The league
is compiled by the Awards’
organisers, the Chartered Institute
of Marketing’s Construction
Industry Group (CIMCIG). Fifty-nine
marketing agencies working in the
construction industry are ranked by
CIMCIG based on their performance
at the Awards over the previous
three years. Another consistent
performance in the 2014 awards,
with four finalist nominations and
a win for Door-Stop International,
ensured MRA retained its position
as number one.
“The CMA Agency League is an
independent ranking, decided
by CIMCIG based on measurable
performance,” says Lucia Di Stazio,
Director of MRA Marketing. She
puts MRA’s success down to
strategic thinking and creative
insight. “We offer fact-based
marketing solutions – big ideas
based on quality research and
expert analysis and we’re delighted
to have that recognised by CIMCIG,”
says Lucia. “Over the years we’ve
been shortlisted 15 times and won
10 Construction Marketing Awards.
We promise to help ambitious
companies grow – and we do.”
To find out how MRA can help you
grow visit:
www.mra-marketing.com or email
Business Development Manager
Tom Rigby
tom@mra-marketing.com.
“Over the years we’ve
been shortlisted 15 times
and won 10 Construction
Marketing Awards. We
promise to help ambitious
companies grow – and we
do.”
MRA MARKETING NO.1 AGAIN IN CMA AGENCY LEAGUE
Lucia Di Stazio, Director of MRA Marketing

Doors
THE PERFECT SASH FROM
FRAMEXPRESS
Windows

Windows
F
or the most part sash windows
complement the appearance of
traditional properties and they
are a style which many frameXpress
customers are incorporating more
frequently into renovation projects.
Renovatingandfittingsashwindows
is a skill that requires installers to
have professional affiliations or
accreditations, which reflect the
craftsmanship involved in restoring
period homes in accordance with
Building Regulation stipulations.
Most recently frameXpress was
contracted to supply all new sash
windows for a renovation project in
Essex where it was stipulated by the
local authority that aesthetics must
match the style of the property and
surrounding area.
For the end users it was considered
a major investment in a property
that they wished to fully restore
before looking at selling in a
housing market that is starting to
look buoyant.
Sash windows were introduced from
France originally in the mid 17th
century, after the Restoration period
and have become increasingly
popular as a style since then. Early
sashes had the box frames exposed
and finished with an architrave
surround, which was set flush with
the outer face of the wall. This was
a style that remained common in
house design until the mid 18th
century before being revived again
in the early 20th century.
Since then the evolution of the
sash has introduced many styles of
window including those with sash
horns and less panes,which became
popular from around 1840 onwards.
Ian Davis Sales Manager
frameXpress comments, “Today,
replacement sash windows make
a stunning finish to period homes
and it does not have to be a hugely
expensive investment to give
windows a new lease of life.
For modern homeowners it is also
all about investment in a property
that they are lovingly restoring to
a former glory, and as such they
want only the best in terms of
appearance, thermal performance
and ease of use.”
In the south of the country it is
noticeable how sash windows
are increasing in popularity, with
large-scale refurbishments being
completed such as those of the
Savoy and Connaught hotels.
Equally homeowners in general
want to retain a little old world
period charm and authenticity,
which is proving a very positive
selling point for frameXpress
customers.
Ian Davis concludes, “Our range
lends itself well to restoration
projects and enables customers to
broaden their business, giving them
scope to offer a little more than
just the standard window styles
and colours. Certainly, there is no
shortage of enthusiasm regarding
the benefits of installing sash
windows.”
frameXpress fabricates only the
very best in quality windows,
doors and conservatories from the
company’s head office in Telford
that encompasses a 30,000 sq.ft
production facility. Competitive
pricing together with years of
manufacturing experience gives
customers complete peace of mind.
For more information on the range
of styles and colours please call
01952 581100
www.framexpress.co.uk
For modern homeowners
it is also all about
investment in a property
that they are lovingly
restoring to a former
glory, and as such they
want only the best in
terms of appearance,
thermal performance
and ease of use.”

Windows
An entirely free online service including:
• Technical resource centre
• Acoustic calculator
• Industry training
• Business support and promotion
Find out more at www.guardianglass.co.uk
IT’S TIME YOU GOT AFLOAT
Visit guardianglass.co.uk and sign up to Guardian Plus for free today
Join Guardian Plus
and be a part of the
leading supporter to the
Independent Glass and
Glazing Industry
The advanced business support programme from Guardian Glass UK

Windows

Doors
The latest product enhancement from IG Doors for their Truedor range is the inclusion of Triple Dog
Bolts as standard. Speaking for the company Sales and Marketing Manager Richard Kirman explained.
“For us, wanting to sell our product to the consumer market through our installers it is really important
that we understand the needs and wishes of that market”.
“Security remains a significant factor in the buying process and that is why we have developed and are
fitting as standard our new Triple Dog Bolt. It is important to make the point; we are not offering this
as an extra, we are fitting it as standard as the latest great feature of our product and to demonstrate
that we fully understand the market we are serving”.
For more infomation visit www.igdoors.co.uk
TRIPLE DOG BOLTS FITTED AS STANDARD TO TRUEDOR
Doors

Windows

Doors
SOLIDOR'S NEW DOOR DESIGN APP-
POSSIBILITIES ARE NOW ENDLESS
S
olidor has completely redeveloped its Door
Design App, creating a fresh new environment
designed to inspire and engage consumers and
enable trade partners to demonstrate the feature rich,
unique Solidor range of composite doors. The update
is in effect a complete re-design, with much improved
functionality and many additional features.
There’s a totally new user friendly interface which
allows you to find out more about Solidor products,
find a local Recommended Installer, create your own
door design and you can even build and keep your own,
Solidor gallery.
The door design engine features the full Solidor range,
the many hardware options, incorporates the unique
glass designs and delivers the ability to view 18 colours
inside and out, using the new inside view feature. The
combinations are infinite, the possibilities are endless.
It also features the broadest range of door frame
options available, including the exciting Solidor colour
pallet, a vast range of side panels and the facility to
design French and stable doors. Add all this to simple
use door positioning and you can see the enhancement
a Solidor can make to any property.
The Door Design App is available for iPad and iPhone
with the Android version for tablets and phones just a
few weeks away. It also represents the first of a number
of exciting new marketing tools,which will be launched
throughout the year.
Joe Martoccia,managing director of Solidor commented:
‘This re-development is a direct result of listening to
our customers and delivering exactly what they want.
It’s another sales enabling tool to help drive sales
for our network partners by selling more effectively
against their and our competition.
He continues: ‘Whilst there are other Apps out there,
the crucial difference with the Solidor App is the way in
which you can add different door designs into a picture
of the front of your home at the start of the process,
making switching styles and colours effortless. This is
much slicker than starting over every time you want to
try a different style and colour combination.’
To find out more about Solidor including their
Recommended Installer campaign then log on to their
new website at www.solidor.co.uk,call their sales office
on 01782 847300, or add to their Twitter following @
solidorltd. You can download the free Solidor App at
Apple’s App Store by searching for Solidor.
Doors

Doors
TriplE efficient and
secure from Jack
F
abricators can now add triple glazing to the high
security commercial Jack Door with a new triple
glazing bead from aluminium systems company,
Jack Aluminium.
The triple glazing bead can accommodate glazed units
up to 44mm when manufacturing the Jack Door TD68
suite of doors.
Sales and marketing director, Jeff Pearson says:
“Speaking to customers we know that more and more
commercial projects are now specifying triple glazed
doors to improve energy efficiency. But they also
require stringent security measures.”
“That’s why we’ve designed a triple glazed bead for the
high security anti panic and mag lock doors to provide
a proven, cost effective solution for customers.”
Doors
Jack Door incorporates a thermally broken threshold
to help achieve one of the best U-value of commercial
doors available. Coupled with triple glazing, this
makes the doors ideal to specify and install in busy
footfall areas where the highest thermal performance
is required.
Jack Aluminium anti-panic and mag lock doors are
designed for hospitals, schools, hotels, apartment
blocks and a whole range of public sector buildings
where there is potential for lock tampering and forced
entry. The doorsets have achieved the PAS 24 security
standard and both the standard hook lock and Mag
Lock doors have a BM TRADA Q-Mark certification
under the Enhanced Security Door Scheme, which
complies with the Police initiative to reduce crime by
incorporating crime prevention measures at the design
stage. www.jackaluminium.co.uk.

Doors
H
ot on the heels of its ground-
breaking Genesis vertical
slider, fabricator Bison
Frames has just announced a new
addition to the Genesis Range: the
Imagine Fold and Glide bi-folding
door. Mark Tetley of Bison said,“Our
Genesis vertical slider broke the
mould for PVCu sash windows and
with the new Imagine Fold and
Glide we’re are confident it will do
the same for bi-folding doors.”
The Imagine Fold and Glide
certainly brings something new
to the market. The first thing
you will notice is the aesthetics.
It has clean and contemporary
looks, with slimmer sightlines and
flush exterior finish eliminating
the need for flying mullions. The
inline design says goodbye to
the usual face fixed hinges and
offers improved weight distribution
and enhanced performance. The
PVCu sash and outer frame not
only mirror the appearance of the
aluminium alternative, but offer a
choice of double or triple glazing
beads with bevelled or sculptured
options. The Imagine Fold and
Glide is also available in more
than 18 woodgrain and coloured
foiled combinations so buyers can
choose the look that best suits their
project.
The thermal efficiency of the
Imagine Fold and Glide door is
another key selling point. It offers
superb thermal performance and it
can achieve a U value of less than
1.0 – an astonishing figure for a
bi-fold door. It has been fully tested
to BS6375: Part 1 Weather and
BS 6375: Part 2 Durability to add
further evidence of its qualities in
this area.
The Imagine Fold and Glide door
is PAS 24 and Secured by Design
accredited, providing a tick in the
security box and proving that the
door measures up where other
bi-folds don’t. It also uses high
performance custom designed
hardware throughout for added
peace of mind and carries the ERA
5 star guarantee.
The Imagine Fold and Glide
bi-fold is suitable for all sectors,
commercial and domestic, offering
a choice of wheelchair, flush room
divider and standard thresholds.
Available with a maximum width
of 6000mm, a maximum height
of 2400mm and a maximum sash
width of 1000mm. Imagine Fold
and Glide is just what we’ve all
been waiting for.
Mark concludes, “We believe it is
important to bring products to the
market that are genuinely new,
different and innovative. It’s good
for our business and it’s good for
our customers’ businesses, as the
success of our Genesis vertical
slider has already shown. We are
confident that the Imagine Fold
and Glide is about to do the same
for the bi-fold door market and are
proud to include Imagine to our
Genesis range of products.”
www.bisonframes.co.uk
Bison introduces the new generation
of bi-foldinG doors IMAGINE
Doors

Doors
78% of installers say composite doors
will grow in 2015
O
ne of the biggest industry surveys recently
completed forecasts strong growth for the
composite door market. Researched by Door-
Stop in January 2015, 1,020 companies were surveyed,
with a net 73% forecasting an improvement in sales
(78% predicting an increase less 5% expecting a fall).
“A sample of over a thousand is large for the industry
so the findings are robust,” explains Patrick Dean,
Door-Stop’s Head of Sales and Marketing. “The figures
suggest very strong growth for the overall market.”
Almost half (45%) of respondents said they were ‘very
optimistic’ for composite door sales with 33% saying
2015 ‘should be better’ than 2014. Only 5% of those
surveyed expect worse sales.
“Installers are optimistic – and rightly so,” adds Patrick.
“Consumer confidence is high and the falling price of
oil means people have more disposable income. All
this is good news for home improvements generally
but composite doors are also benefiting from the
continuing decline in PVC panels. There’s still a huge
market to go for (as shown by Palmer Research and
D&G Consulting ). It’s looking good for the composite
door market in 2015.”
Visit www.door-stop.co.uk/marketing to find out how
Door-Stop can help installers sell more doors.

Doors
PhoenixDoorscansupplyany
compositedoorcolouryouwant
Phoenix Doors, part of
the MASCO UK Window
Group Ltd, has opened a
newpaint spraying facility
at its Cambridgeshire-
based composite door
manufacturing site.
As well as supplying popular paler shades, such as Chartwell Green, Duck
Egg Blue and Dove Grey, the in-house service can cater for a full range of
bespoke RAL colours, says Phoenix Doors’ Sales Director, Haydon Statham.
Customers will also benefit from reduced lead times and improvements in
quality and competitive cost for both standard and non-standard colours.
Haydon comments: “Our in-house painting service means there will be a
beneficial impact on costs and lead times as we are not relying on a third
party; thereby controlling our own destiny in this area. We have recruited
a key skilled member of staff with 20 years’ paint spraying experience and
the door finishes are outstanding – we are all very impressed.
“In following the general market trend for colour,we believe this is a sound
investment backed by the MASCO Group and ensures we can continue to
offer market-leading, high-performance door products designed for the
21st century,” he adds.
Established in 1993, Phoenix Doors is the complete door solution company
for the retail replacement market offering one of the widest ranges of GRP
composite doors and PVC door panels on the market.
Contact Phoenix Doors on 01487740469,email info@phoenixdoorpanels.
co.uk or visit the website at www.phoenixdoorpanels.co.uk.
Doors

Doors
.

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GLAZING INDUSTRY
DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR THE

Doors
Imago redefines timber
sliding doors!
P
erfect for the UK climate, Imago Lift & Slide is
the definitive timber wide-span door for design
led homes. The super-slim wooden frame
makes it an exciting choice for extensions,
sunrooms and orangeries where style and performance
is paramount.
Imago is the stunning timber lift and slide door system
from AGB, Italy’s largest window and door hardware
manufacturer. Widely specified, Imago is a leading
wooden sliding door in mainland Europe. In Italy there
are 130 companies installing Imago Lift & Slide Doors
and 600 architects subscribing to its online design and
specification service.
Imago frames the view with a sightline down to just
2cm. Unlike most wooden doors, Imago has a sash
slimmer than even some aluminium lift and slide doors.
The hardware disappears into the frame and the silky
smooth slide mechanism is invisible. The Imago Lift &
Slide Door is so innovative it has been selected as one
of the best industrial designs by the ADI Index 2014,
alongside an impressive line-up of new offerings from
luxury brands renowned for beauty and performance
including Ferrari, Maserati and Ducati.
The result is a huge glazed window door that offers an
uninterrupted view. The combination of elegant style
and industry leading thermal and weather performance
has redefined what is possible from a timber door. Our
British weather means large doors stay firmly shut for
most of the year. Open or closed, Imago’s slim design
means there aren’t multiple frames to break up the
view, creating a light filled space.
Installation companies and timber manufacturers who
target the premium market will find Imago Lift & Slide
Doors a big attraction for homeowners and designers.
AGB has everything architects need with easy to
download drawings and specifications to add straight
into their design project. Manufacturers are given
all the high performance test certification needed to
produce fully CE compliant doors. Companies can find
out more about Imago Lift & Slide Doors by emailing
imago@agb.it.- www.chooseimago.co.uk
Doors

nylon is so 80’s
aïr doors use stainless steel rollers
®
www.discoverair.co.uk

Doors
DDP INVESTS FOR
INCREASED EFFICIENCY
D
ue to increased demand for double
and triple glazed insulated glass units
for doors, Decorative Door Products
(DDP) by RegaLead can now announce
further improvements to production capacity
thanks to investment in a Buxstrup WS
800 semi-automatic IG line, reinforcing the
company’s position as the market leaders in
IGUs for doors.
The German manufactured WS 800 is designed
specifically for rapid production of small IGUs,
with the added benefit of an integrated gas
fill press. Guy Hubble, Joint Managing Director
at RegaLead explains: “With a maximum
glass size of 900 by 1200mm, the Buxtrup
WS 800 is the perfect addition to our Hawick
manufacturing facility,due to our specialism in
IGUs for composite or panel doors only.
“We continually invest in our DDP division, and
this latest line allows us to not only improve
our production efficiencies,but also the quality
of those units using rigid spacer bars. The
introduction of the Buxtrup equipment follows
last year’s investment in a Beston heated roller
press production line to manufacture insulated
glass using Duraseal and Decoseal flexible
spacer.”
For more information about Decorative
Door Products (DDP) by RegaLead visit www.
decorativedoorproducts.co.uk.

Doors
H
urst Plastics is well on course for its best
year ever in composite doors after making
a significant investment into new machinery
and additional production space to satisfy growing
demand.
The Kingston-upon-Hull based company has
almost doubled its dedicated floor space for
composite door processing and has just taken
delivery of an additional CNC machine to increase
production capacity to 600 doors a week.
Hurst is one of the first companies in the industry
to commission the Biesse Rover A5-axis machining
centre – an upgraded 2015 model. The Rover A is
able to machine from a vertical or horizontal axis
to ensure precise routing to within a millimetre,
whilst minimising manual handling for Hurst’s
production team. More energy efficient and
quieter in operation, the new machine will speed
up the processing of Hurst’s range of standard
composites and composite fire doors to between
7 and 10 minutes per slab. The router is linked to
a sophisticated software programme to accurately
manage and plan throughput either on-site or
remotely.
The installation of this top specification machine is
part of a major investment strategy at Hurst,which
is designed to enable the firm to keep pace with
its future growth plans. Under the programme,
Hurst has commissioned a new triple head welder
to double its welding capacity, a corner cleaner, a
copy router and an additional extraction unit. The
company has also invested in new high bay racking
to re-organise its second production facility
and create extra floor space. New fabricators,
warehouse operatives and apprentices have been
brought in to help Hurst to stay ahead of demand,
maintain lead times and assure consistently high
standards in product quality.
Darren Glew, Operations Director at Hurst, said:
“It is important for us to continually invest both
in new equipment and our manufacturing facility
to help us meet our ambitious plans for further
growth. A significant rise in sales prompted us to
extend our manufacturing capabilities with this
high performance machinery and we are really
looking forward to achieving record-breaking
production targets as a result of this investment.”
www.hurst-plastics.co.uk
NEW CNC MACHINING CENTRE INCREASES
COMPOSITE PRODUCTION AT HURST

Doors
HURST SHIPS BIGGEST
EXPORTORDER
T
he first quarter of 2015 has seen Hurst
Plastics’ export division gather further pace
with the shipment of the company’s largest
ever international order for door panels. The
Kingston-upon-Hull based firm has just exported
430 door panels to a major PVC-u and aluminium
window and door supplier more than 3,500 miles
away in Dubai.
This latest shipment of door panels to the United
Arab Emirates marks Hurst’s growing presence in
the Middle East. Hurst has been catering for an
increasing demand for door panels as construction
rates soar in the region, particularly within high rise
domestic apartments.
“It’s been a busy few months for the export team
at Hurst. As our biggest international order, this
shipment heralds another exciting phase for the
business as we supply to a growing number of large
building projects overseas,” says Tony Appleyard,
Hurst Plastics’ Export Sales Development Manager.
“Until recently, many Middle Eastern companies
would source door panels from Eastern Europe.
Whilst these products are often cheaper, the quality
can however be inferior. This latest order indicates
that the market isn’t just price driven, but that it
values good product design and quality as well as
reliable service.”
Hurst currently exports to six continents, shipping
its Definitive Collection of door panels from its
nearby coastal port of Hull.The range brings a wide
variety of door and glass styles to the international
market, including bespoke triple glazed panel
options. It includes many exclusive designs and
features the Modern Collection of contemporary
styled continental door panels in coloured, white or
woodgrain PVC-u. www.hurst-plastics.co.uk
Doors

Glass
Liverpool John Lennon Airport has started to develop its international
connections and is expanding as an airport, with some help from TuffX
Processed Glass. Over the next twenty years, focus will be placed on
making the airport a new transport corridor and World Cargo Centre.
As part of this major expansion project, TuffX Processed Glass has been
contracted to supply 19mm polished, clear toughened glass in various
shapes, which most recently has been incorporated into new staircases at
the airport.
New terminal buildings are also part of a new master plan that is due to
be completed by 2030, with plans for the airport to grow significantly by
introducing permanent long-haul services.
TuffX is a leading processed glass supplier with an extensive product
portfolio that is suitable for commercial and domestic projects, including
balustrades, curtain walling and partitioning as well as glass furniture. For
more information please call 0845 3 400 200 or visit the website
www.tuffxprocessedglass.co.uk
New terminal buildings
are also part of a new
master plan that is
due to be completed
by 2030, with plans
for the airport to
grow significantly by
introducing permanent
long-haul services.
JOHN LENNON AIRPORT
BENEFITS FROM TUFFX PRODUCTS
John Lennon Airport, Liverpool.
Glass

Glass
An Essex based company
that specialises in sunken
gardens and striking
glass pond designs, is
incorporating a variety of
toughened laminated glass
products from the TuffX
Processed Glass range into
its instant pond portfolio.
The company provides
beautiful ornamental pools
which can be dismantled
and reassembled should
homeowners decide to
relocate and move home.
Dependent upon the size of the project, TuffX provides a variety of glass
thicknesses including 17.5mm clear toughened, 21.5mm clear toughened
or 25.5mm clear toughened laminate which is then incorporated into the
pond framework.
Primarily developed for people who keep koi, the range of garden ponds is
laser cut from 3 mm thick 316 stainless steel and is offered with a lifetime
guarantee. The glass is fixed into each frame as are the brick slips that fit
above and below the windows.
A number of designs are available with a bespoke option for consumers
with specific ideas for their gardens. The ponds do not need footings to
be reinforced or 9” block work, as the strength and rigidity of the finished
product is in the framework itself.
For more information on the Instant Garden Ponds please call TuffX
Processed Glass on 0845 3 400 200. www.tuffxprocessedglass.co.uk
TUFFX KEEPING KOI
WITH INSTANT GARDEN PONDS
Glass

T
uffX Processed Glass was contracted to supply a
number of products from its leading, processed
glass range for the renovation of Manchester
Town Hall.
The project has received the regional award for
Refurbished or Recycled Workplaces, 2014, from the
British Council for Offices (BCO). Here the key
challenge was to ensure that the new building was
remodelled using 21st Century, eco-friendly design
and construction principles.
Consequently, TuffX supplied polished and drilled,
clear toughened laminate glass in a 21.5mm thickness,
which was then incorporated into a staircase inside
the historic building.
Thanks to products such as those from the TuffX range,
the challenging renovation now preserves the historic
Victorian architecture and unique appearance of the
hall, whilst balancing the look of the grade 2 listed
building against modern workplace functionality and
environmental standards.
For more information on the TuffX Processed Glass
range please visit the website:
www.tuffxprocessedglass.co.uk or call:
0845 3 400 200.
TUFFX HELPS
TO RENOVATE
MANCHESTER
TOWN HALL
Here the key challenge
was to ensure that
the new building was
remodelled using 21st
Century, eco-friendly
design and construction
principles.”
Glass

Glass
P
roducts from the TuffX
Processed Glass portfolio
were chosen as part of a
multi-million pound renovation
project at Beckenham Kent County
Cricket ground. The project which
was near completion at the end of
last year will dramatically improve
facilities at the club.
TuffX was contracted to supply
approximately 40m2 glass from its
range as part of a new balustrade
that overlooked the pitch. 33mm
Clear Toughened Laminated glass
rectangles were installed as part
of a new spectator stand for 2,000
people that will increase the cricket
ground’s capacity.
Other developments at the club
include an indoor cricket school as
well as physiotherapy treatment
rooms, a gym, Pilates studio, and
a conference and banqueting area
that seats 160 people, with bar and
kitchen facilities.
The contractors were delighted
with the installation which has
now turned the cricketing facilities
into a true centre for excellence,
where cricket can be run at every
level.
For more information please call
0845 3 400 200 or visit the website
www.tuffxprocessedglass.co.uk
Kent CC Bowled
Over By TuffX

Glass
TUFFX BRAND AMBASSADOR
WINS FIGHT IN BERLIN
T
uffX Brand Ambassador and Heavyweight boxer, David Price
continued his comeback with a win over Irineu Beato Costa Jr
on 22 February 2015 when he scored a 6th round stoppage
over the Brazilian in Berlin.
David Price, who became Brand Ambassador for the TuffX Processed
Glass range in 2013, had been out of the ring for nearly nine
month’s with an injury but looked keen to make his mark. The 31
year old boxer, was as impressive as ever with his long raking jab,
keeping his opponent at a distance whilst his considerable height
advantage dictated the pace throughout.
After stepping things up in the 4th round, David Price began to back
up the South American who had no answers to Price’s long accurate
shots. Costa Jr eventually submitted to Price’s front foot pressure
and ended up hitting the canvas three times prompting his corner
to throw in the towel after a final right hand.
The victory sees Price extend his professional record to 19 wins
from 21 outings.
www.tuffxglass.co.uk
The 31 year old boxer,
was as impressive
as ever with his long
raking jab, keeping his
opponent at a distance
whilst his considerable
height advantage
dictated the pace
throughout.
Glass

Glass
Double R’s Decorative Centre
Sees Sales Soar
D
ouble R Glass & Roofing Systems has announced
a 51% increase in its decorative product sales in
2014 with demand continuing to soar in 2015.
Managing Director of Double R, Ian Sims explains:
“Decorative glass is a growing sector and as a specialist
in everything glass and roof related we wanted to
establish ourselves as a trusted partner that can help
fabricators make the most of the opportunities this
growth brings. That is why we established a specialist
Decorative Centre, to ensure we could deliver any and
all of our customers’ decorative requirements, but the
level of demand we have had, and continue to see this
year, is even more than we had anticipated. We saw a
51% increase in these products in 2014 and look set to
sell even more this year.
“We have a great infrastructure that is set up to stay
ahead of this demand though,with two of the industry’s
most experienced decorative specialists, Bob Stocker
and Derek Stocker, leading the department. On the
back of the success last year we moved the Decorative
Centre to a dedicated 2,500 sq ft unit with full sealed
unit production capabilities including an automatic
lead applicator for high quality diamond and square
leaded units.
“The specialist division is dedicated to delivering
top quality decorative bespoke panels and offers a
wide range of services including: fused tile panels,
sandblasting, supply only sandblast resists, lead
soldering and decorative bevel panels. The Centre
also offers training to customers who want more
information and support in this area.”
Double R is a dedicated roof and glass supplier with a
15 year history of supplying quality products including
glass or solid conservatory roofs, sealed units and
decorative glass.
For more information visit www.glassandroofs.com or
call 01933 443658

Glass
DECEUNINCKJOINSTHE
REGALEADFANCLUBA Partnership With Benefits...
C
ustomers of leading PVC-U Systems Company
Deceuninck can now benefit from a new bespoke
marketing package to help them sell, thanks to a
partnership with leading decorative glass component
supplier, RegaLead.
As a popular option in fanlights for conservatories
and windows, decorative glass provides a great
opportunity to up-sell, as Roy Frost, Managing Director
at Deceuninck explains: “At Deceuninck we make it our
mission to provide customers with the best possible
opportunity to grow in a competitive marketplace.
With the decorative glass components from RegaLead
and the consumer-focussed marketing literature, our
fabricators and their installers can be assured of a
genuine way to add value to their offering with a
variety of fanlight design styles to suit a broad range
of homes and tastes, ready to satisfy any customer
requirement. Available via our print on demand portal,
MyBrandHub, customers can order a tailored version
of the brochure to suit them and really put their brand
out front.”
Guy Hubble, Joint Managing Director at RegaLead
adds: “As a leading decorative component supplier,
we understand the need to stimulate demand at a
consumer level,it’s been great to work with Deceuninck
as a like-minded systems company, in the creation of
marketing materials that will make the sales process
easier. The marketing literature created specifically for
Deceuninck fabricators and installers keeps the range
simple yet effective, including many of the UK’s most
popular designs, so whether customers are looking for
traditional colour, sparkling bevel elements or more
contemporary Fusion glass tiles they can be sure they
have it covered.”
For more information about fanlights from RegaLead
visit: www.regalead.co.uk or call 0161 946 1164.
At Deceuninck we make it our
mission to provide customers
with the best possible
opportunity to grow in a
competitive marketplace.”
INTRODUCING THE NEW VIDEO STUDIOS FROM MY TRADE TV
VISIT: WWW.MYTRADESTUDIOS.COM

Fabricator & Installer
“It’s great to have
Quickslide on board as
partners, They are a large
and well respected local
employer who we’ve
been trying to forge a
relationship for years.”
QUICKSLIDE AND HUDDERSFIELD TOWN AFC
FORM THE PERFECTYORKSHIRE PARTNERSHIP
W
indow and door fabricator
Quickslide are proud
to announce their new
partnership deal with Huddersfield
Town AFC.
The company, who were recently
selected as a member of the Guild
of Master Craftsmen, is happy to
be working with the football club
in a partnership that benefits both
parties in the quest to help local
businesses.
With Huddersfield Town known as
‘The Yorkshire Club’ and Quickslide
proud to be ‘Made in Yorkshire’
it only made sense and was
something the club’s Commercial
Director Sean Jarvis had been trying
to make happen for quite some
time.
“It’s great to have Quickslide on
board as partners,” said Sean. “They
are a large and well respected local
employer who we’ve been trying to
forge a relationship for years.
“We have already taken the
opportunity to involve Quickslide’s
Chairman Adrian Barraclough in a
local initiative where we ask local
business leaders to speak to invited
guests about their business and
have a deep Q & A session, and it
was very well received.”
The partnership between the
two isn’t all business. Following
Quickslide’s G14 win for the Best
Training & Development Initiative,
Huddersfield Town sent their
ambassador, former player Andy
Booth, over to Quickslide with a
congratulatorybottle of champagne.
“They’reagreatclubtobeassociated
with,” added Adrian. “They’re the
hub of the local community and
have many networking events
and initiatives to support local
businesses. We’ve already held
some meeting at the state of
the art stadium and sound some
connections invaluable.
“In addition to the business side
of things we are delighted to be
able to watch matches, it gives
us an opportunity away from the
workplace to socialise with staff,
suppliers and clients.”
www.quickslide.co.uk

VEKA and Halo’s
Approved Installer
Schemes offer a
straightforward way
for installers to begin
boosting their business
with The VEKA UK
Group’s support while
demonstrating an
ongoing commitment to
fitting PVC-U products of
the highest quality.”
The VEKA Group is
the world’s largest
manufacturer of
extruded PVC-U
products, with 17
factories in countries
across Europe, Asia,
America and Russia.
Unrivalled installer support
fromTheVEKAUKGroup
T
he VEKA UK Group is proud
to offer what is arguably the
industry’s MOST extensive
range of installer support.
Sales and Marketing Director Colin
Torley explains: “Boasting both
Network VEKA and the VEKA and Halo
Approved Installer Schemes, we offer
support to suit businesses of all types
and sizes.
“Network VEKA was the first UK-based
organisation of its kind - committed
to guaranteeing quality and service
for homeowners from day one.
Supporting members for almost 20
years, it remains the industry’s leading
installer organisation.
“TheVEKAand HaloApproved Installer
Schemes enhance our support offering,
launching at last year’s FIT Show to
instant and continuing success, with
Approved companies now numbering
over 400 and counting.
“The Approved Installer Scheme
complements Network VEKA, acting
as an introduction to support from
The VEKA UK Group. It’s a unique,
two-tiered offering that recognises
one size doesn’t necessarily fit all and
we’re pleased with how it works.
“VEKA and Halo’s Approved Installer
Schemes offer a straightforward way
for installers to begin boosting their
business with The VEKA UK Group’s
support while demonstrating an
ongoing commitment to fitting PVC-U
products of the highest quality. It’s
free to join and there’s dedicated
sales support from our talented team
of staff.
“Network VEKA – even as it heads
towards its 20th year - still offers
the industry’s ultimate package of
installer support! Its benefits include:
training and auditing in technical
surveying and installation, MTC
seminars, optional sales training,
consumer finance packages and a
customer satisfaction questionnaire
for independent quality standards
reporting. There’s even direct multi-
source lead generation at no added
cost.
“One of the Network’s biggest
installer benefits - its comprehensive
package of Insurance-Backed
Guarantees – protects customers’
deposits and staged payments as
well as products. There’s also a full
arbitration and conciliation service,
for added customer reassurance. No
wonder 99.2% of members continued
their Network VEKA membership this
year! Our research even shows that
members grew their businesses at 2.5
times the rate of the market last year.
“Both Network VEKA and the Approved
Installer Scheme offer customisable
vehicle liveries, exhibition supplies,
printed promotional items,advertising
and PR campaigns and, with
Network VEKA, there’s the instantly-
recognisable endorsement of Brand
Ambassador Steve Davis.
“The VEKA UK Group has invested
in state-of-the-art online marketing
‘portals’, allowing Network VEKA
members and Approved Installers
access to an unrivalled suite of
brochures and other marketing
materials – completely customisable
to feature their logos, text and USPs.
“With an installer support offering that
has a breadth and depth far surpassing
anything else in the industry,The VEKA
UK Group has marketing and business
support packages to suit companies
of any size.We couldn’t be more proud
of all the support available, and in
such a competitive marketplace, tools
that help you boost your business are
more valuable than ever!”
www.networkveka.co.uk
www.vekauk.com/approvedinstaller

"THUMBS-UP" FROM SYNSEAL AT
ECOBUILD2015
S
ynseal successfully exhibited
at this year’s Ecobuild, which
took place at the ExCeL
exhibition centre in London’s
Docklands on 3rd-5th March. The
key objectives were to demonstrate
the diversity of Synseal group
window and door product solutions
with a focus on true innovation
and also introduce new sub-brand
solutions following the recent
acquisition of Sheerframe and
Masterdor.
Featured on stand N3000 at the
Ecobuild show was Synseal’s
innovative WarmCore aluminium
folding sliding door. Also on
display was a Sheerframe 8000
fully reversible window specifically
designed for safe use in high-rise
situations, a high specification
Masterdor composite door and
a touchy-feely solar gain heat
lamp exhibit to demonstrate the
effectiveness of Synseal’s exclusive
thermally-efficient Celsius
performance glass.
“Our WarmCore warm aluminium
bi-fold door with low U-values
using either 28mm DG or 44mm TG
was certainly the star of the show as
far as we were concerned,” reports
Mark Schlotel, Synseal’s Head of
Marketing. “We experienced strong
levels of visitor interest across all
three days at Ecobuild 2015, with
some high quality specification
client and consultant contacts
made, so we’ve already booked to
attend next year’s show. I think
the secret of our success lay in our
compact stand design, which was
inviting for guests to approach and
also rewarding in terms of product
content. Our floor position gave
us good branded visibility from
distance down a long aisle across
the North Hall and our creative
free-standing stand design meant
we achieved some impactful stand-
out beside the adjacent shell-
scheme stands.”
The Synseal team secured more
than 350 enquiries at Ecobuild
2015, of which at least 45%
related to specifier, housebuilder or
fabricator visitor requests for more
information or project prices.
www.synseal.com

NETWORK VEKA OFFERS ONLINE GUARANTEE ACTIVATION,
GATHERING CUSTOMER FEEDBACK IN THE PROCESS
P
VC-U glazing industry
standards organisation,
Network VEKA has capitalised
on the launch of its new-look
website by revamping the process
involved in activating its hallmark
insurance-backed guarantees.
Theten-yearcover,whichrepresents
one of the industry’s most fail-safe
packages of customer support, is
instated as soon as homeowners
have submitted a completed
feedback form evaluating the
standard of work and service they
received.
Previously administered solely in
hard copy by post, homeowners
now have the option to submit
their feedback online, saving time
and postage costs and providing
instant reassurance that the
process is complete.
Network VEKA MD, John Ogilvie
explains: “The process of gathering
customer feedback serves a dual
purpose,both instating the ten-year
cover that protects homeowners’
installations against virtually any
eventuality and providing us with
a true and, crucially, up-to-date
picture of how well our member
companies are performing.
“Network VEKA wouldn’t be held
in such renown if we hadn’t
constantly monitored the standard
of our installers’ work from day
one. We only retain the best
companies, helping us - over our
19-year history- to achieve average
customer satisfaction ratings
of 97% compared to an industry
average of just 83%. When you
consider that we achieved that
average over 230,000 installations
with a combined worth of over
£860m, you can see it’s no fluke!”
Companies interested in learning
more about what it takes to become
a Network VEKA member should
visit the organisation’s new-look
website: www.networkveka.co.uk.
Network VEKA has capitalised on the
launch of its new-look website by
revamping the process involved in
activating its hallmark insurance-backed
guarantees.
|March 201566 GLAZING

BURNLEY FC MANAGER DEMANDS EXCELLENCE FROM
BURNLEY - ON AND OFF THE PITCH
Sean Dyche visited VEKA to
meet the team and see the
manufacturing process in action.
Seen here with MD Dave Jones in
the Burnley plant’s new showroom.
The VEKA UK Group, based in Burnley, has been
chosen to provide the high-quality PVC-U profile
for Burnley Manager Sean Dyche’s home renovation.
The VEKA windows and doors will be fabricated by
long-standing VEKA customer, Glazerite, and fitted by
Network VEKA member MG Windows. This guarantees
an outstanding ‘chain of quality’ from raw materials
right through to the finished project.
The windows have been carefully chosen to give
the authentic look of traditional timber, without the
maintenance. Bowater Doors, a company of The VEKA
UK Group will provide the composite doors for the
refurbishment.
Dave Jones, MD of The VEKA UK Group commented:
“We’re extremely proud of the systems we produce; the
quality and expertise that go into them is the reason
we’ve been leading the industry for so long.
“The fact that Sean Dyche, a man of such demanding
standards, has chosen VEKA products and Network
VEKA members to complete his refurbishment project
further illustrates our commitment to quality.
“By choosing Network VEKA members - Glazerite to
fabricate and MG Windows to install his new windows
and doors - he is guaranteed quality and service right
from the initial order stage. This premiership Manager
has chosen the premier window and door organisation
and - like all Network VEKA customers - he’ll enjoy a
host of benefits.”
Replacing the existing timber windows in Dyche’s
home will make it more stylish, warmer and far more
energy-efficient.
The Burnley FC Manager commented: “I’m looking
forward to seeing the significant difference the new
windows and doors will make. It was recommended
that we choose Network VEKA members to complete
the job, and I must say, the reassurance of having all
those guarantees in place does put your mind at rest.”
www.vekauk.com

COMMERCIAL BOOM
FOR FRAMEXPRESSThis is good news for frameXpress customers...
D
eveloping commercial
real estate can be a very
challenging business which
needs a complete understanding
of building regulation stipulations,
commercial tenants’ requirements
as well as significant financial
investment.
Following the spectacular boom and
subsequent bust of the sector during
the financial crisis between June
2007 and July 2009, there has been
a slow and steady positive upturn
for this market. Where previously
the commercial sector had gained
a reputation for instability, now,
against a vastly improving economic
backdrop, commercial property is
back and one of the best selling
investments on the UK market.
This is good news for frameXpress
customers, who can benefit from
the company’s full grasp on building
legislation requirements as well
as zoning laws. Furthermore, the
company has the ability to assist
with project management if needed.
Since joining framexpress in 2013,
Sarah Price has firmly established
the Commercial Division at
the company as a market leader
nationally. The frameXpress team
can provide customers with valuable
insights and advice on commercial
real estate development, having
expertise in negotiating with local
authorities, representatives of local
residents as well as business owners.
A recent installation project for the
BromfordHousingTrustinShrewsbury,
reflects the high standards offered,
with the highest specification
products recently installed in two
commercial buildings. The company
supplied all windows and doors
in white pvc-u for eighteen new,
Social Housing rental properties on
Underdale Road, Shrewsbury. Along
with A rating window performance
standards and Secured By Design
security requirements, the project
also reflects the capability of the
frameXpress range to help improve
sustainable design, with an industry
Code 6 achieved on this project.
For the longstanding frameXpress
customer the company’s
understanding of requirements on
contractors regarding specifications,
architectural designs and
construction work legislation are
major benefits when evaluating a
project in relation to performance,
aesthetics and cost.
Sarah Price, Commercial Manager
at frameXpress comments,
“Customers gain complete peace
of mind in respect of quality
standards, guarantees and product
performance through the diversity
of our premium range. For those
who possess the resources and skills,
developing commercial real estate
is providing extremely rewarding
business opportunities.
London has recovered much of the
value lost post financial crisis, where
property values had nosedived by
more than 44% between 2007 and
2009. Today, many see that there
is great scope within the sector
and consider that a broad cyclical
recovery can be made in commercial
property development outside of
the Capital; and the general feeling
towards the UK commercial property
market is becoming increasingly
more and more positive.”
frameXpress is one of the largest
independent pvc-u fabricators
of windows, doors conservatories
and composite doors in the UK.
Manufacturing in-house the
portfolio includes over 16 colour
pvc-u foils, bifold doors, composite
doors, conservatories as well as an
aluminium range.
For more information on the
options available for commercial
developments please contact Sarah
Price on 01952 581100. Or visit:
www.framexpress.co.uk.
FRAMEXPRESS IS ONE OF THE
LARGEST INDEPENDENT PVC-U
FABRICATORS OF WINDOWS,
DOORS CONSERVATORIES &
COMPOSITE DOORS IN THE UK

MyTradeTV Glazing Digital Magazine March 2015

MyTradeTV Glazing Digital Magazine March 2015

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MyTradeTV Glazing Digital Magazine March 2015