FENDIGITAL MAGAZINE JULY

FENDIGITAL MAGAZINE JULY

YOU’RE INVITEDTO FENEX

WINDOW, DOOR, GLASS&HARDWAREVIRTUAL TRADE SHOW

www.fenex.co.uk Wed 8 – Sat 11 Sept 2021

GET YOUR FREE TICKET

www.fenex.co.uk/attend

TO GO AHEAD! GUARANTEED

• FENEX VIDEOS • HEGLA & CLAYTON GLASS• LINIAR • ODL EUROPE • LEKA • MORLEY GLASS • THERMOSEAL • MASTERFRAME•

I n n o v a t i o n c o m e s b u i l t - i n

Quotes available in 60 minutes 60

LIGHT AND SHADE MADE EASY Choose ScreenLine integral blinds: unrivalled performance and the most stylish option for controlling light in all window and door applications including bi-folding and sliding doors.

Morley Glass & Glazing Ltd Unit 3 Leeds 27 Industrial Estate Bruntcliffe Way Leeds LS27 0HH

morleyglass.co.uk 0113 277 8722 [email protected]

CONTENTS JULY EDITION

THIS MONTHS KEY ARTICLES...

PAGE 4 - CLIPPINGS AND MUSINGS We left the EU’s single market six months ago and there is a mixture of economic upsides as well and downsides depending on your position in the first place. PAGE 7 - CROWDFUNDING FOR TORNADO STRIKE The tornado hit the CZ Pellini factory, causing massive damage. A number of workers have lost their homes in the devastation. PAGE 17 - COLOUR YOUR BUILDING TO MATCH YOUR BRAND! This is one of the largest and best places to advertise a product that is made by a company. PAGE 40 - TOP TIPS TO MAKE YOUR FENEX SHOW SUCCESSFUL If you’ve chosen to be part of the next generation of trade show, it is essential to make a virtual booth the best it can be. PAGE 44 - GQAQUALIFICATIONS SPONSORS OF FENEX CAREER FAIR The career fair, which aims to being together trade bodies, recruitment agencies, training centres and more, is the first of it’s kind. PAGE 51 - BRISANTAPPOINTS NEWFINANCE DIRECTOR Brisant Secure has appointed a Finance Director, a new role created as part of the hardware house’s growth plan. PAGE 58 - MORLEY GLASS GOES LARGE TO BOOST DELIVERIES Morley Glass & Glazing has taken delivery of six new Luton vans which not only boost its nationwide delivery capacity as demand grows. PAGE 63 - GROWTH FOR TRISYS™ GLAZING CASSETTE FROM ODL ODL Europe has reported continued sales growth for its tried and trusted TriSYS™ glazing cassette. PAGE 72 - WHENWILL THE GLASS SHORTAGE END? There is an acute glass shortage right now, and it’s really beginning to bite. It’s been forecast by pretty much anyone in glass for months.

JULY EDITION 03

CLIPPINGS &

Can you believe it has been five years since the country voted for Brexit? We actually left the EU’s single market six months ago and there is a mixture of economic upsides as well and downsides depending on your position in the first place.

If we had still been in the EU, would the vaccine rollout as regards COVID still been as successful - could we have had a separate strategy? That probably matters not now in the scheme of things as we are ahead of Europe with our vaccination programme which have been nothing short of an economic This diagnosis obviously ignores the issue of whether Britain would have gone it alone on vaccine strategy had it remained in the EU. Being ahead of Europe on vaccine rollout has undoubtedly been an economic godsend as well as a blessing for the NHS. The economy has opened up much more quickly than any of us anticipated, so if anything, Brexit can perhaps take credit for that. Elsewhere it may not be such a positive story as there have been some major impacts economically with a now indignant Europe,; but perhaps more of an issue relates to the still huge shortage of good labour in the building sector. Brexit may not be entirely to blame as COVID has taken such a toll on all of us - one of which has been the continuing reverberations caused by variants. This has been a much bigger problem for us all than anyone could have anticipated - but I fear Brexit will still have a lasting impact on us in terms of trading. Globally countries are adapting and learning to cope with life under COVID restrictions and as a country we seem to be working hard to develop trade deals. The EU however appears to have certain issues relating to Brexit and the trade barriers being created for us as a country. Smaller companies are finding economic life difficult to navigate when it comes to trading with Europe. The extensive administrative annoyances caused in trading with the EU seem to cause more problems than they are worth. For larger companies it appears to be a little easier with administrative systems in place that help them to cope. Deregulation that would not have been possible while a member of the EU might be of some benefit over time, making UK industry and finance more competitive, there will come a time when trade with the EU grows back to its pre-Brexit levels; simple increases in output at home and abroad ought to ensure it, regardless of the additional barriers. But the proportion will nevertheless be permanently smaller than otherwise. Trade deals with the rest of the world that are more finely tuned to British needs may help in the long term, but the real biggies – the US, China and India – are proving tough to crack The fact is that it is going to require very considerable growth in trade with the rest of the world to fully compensate for the loss of trade with Europe.

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MUSINGS

FROM HELEN DUVAL 2021

While no-one could have predicted COVID-19 pandemic, ultimately the global economy should recover and find a new route to normality. When it comes to property, this period in time has been a real game changer according to many reports. Increasingly, people everywhere are realising that work and home-life can be adapted dramatically quickly. With so many now grasping that remote, home office working is not just possible but also very flexible, the business world has really changed. The Online world has taken on a new lease of life, that allows, clothing, food, booze - in fact online living to all be accessed from home. Real Estate Europe states that this new way of living and working strikes “at the heart of how an industry serves its customers and conducts its business. As the EU looks to boost housing while reducing mortgage debt, the wider market and wider economy in general is expected to improve. Prices in Europe are rising too as many large cities look to adapt smaller airport space by turning it into new homes to cope with the demand. Tegel airport in Berlin was closed towards the end of 2020 with plans to build in excess of 5,000 apartments on the site. Likewise, according to Reuters, Sweden’s government is looking to turn Bromma airport in Stockholm into approximately 30,000 new homes due to demand and rapidly climbing prices. So construction bodes well in Europe… well they have the skillset. As for the UK, the beginning of July could now prove a lot more expensive, when it comes to the housing market. The stamp duty holiday is now far less attractive as the nil-rate band has dropped from £500,000 to £250,000 in England and Northern Ireland until September 30. Yet market analysts believe that the UK market will cope well with some believing a strong economic recovery will keep the housing market buoyant. Forecasts from JLL property advisors state that there will be around 420,000 sales in the UK this summer. We are now dealing with an extremely cut-throat attitude as supply and demand appear very disproportionate. Currently, the government is hoping to tackle the dire property shortage by building more houses, which is not popular everywhere in the Tory ranks. A novel review of both stamp duty and capital gains tax would perhaps invigorate the market and urge people to sell properties that are bigger than needed. If a stamp duty holiday created such a demand, perhaps there are other tax measures that would create an answer regarding supply?

JULY EDITION 05

E D I T I O N 2 5

I n n o v a t i o n c o m e s b u i l t - i n

SEE 2021 DIFFERENTLY THROUGH SCREENLINE INTEGRAL BLINDS

Morley Glass & Glazing Ltd Unit 3, Leeds 27 Industrial Estate Bruntcliffe Way, Leeds LS27 0HH Email: [email protected] Direct fax for quotations: 0113 277 8723

www.morleyglass.co.uk

Tel: 0113 277 8722 E: [email protected]

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CROWDFUNDING FOR TORNADO STRIKE & PELLINI BLINDS FACTORY IN CZECH REPUBLIC

Unfortunately, five lives were lost in the extreme weather incident, with more than 100 injured. The tornado also hit the CZ Pellini factory, causing massive damage. It is also reported that a number of workers have lost their homes in the devastation. On their website and social media, Morley Glass have provided the following statement:

We are working closely with Pellini Italy to take the necessary steps to minimise the inevitable delays which will result from this disaster. We will keep you updated regarding deliveries and thank you for your patience during this time. The before and after pictures below demonstrate in tragic detail the scale of the damage the tornado wreaked on the town:

BEFORE

AFTER

A crowdfunding page has been set up to raise money for the town and people affected by this disaster. If you would like to contribute to the effort please follow the link: https://www.darujme.cz/projekt/1204937?locale=en The team at DGB, Fenestration Digital, FENEX and the National Fenestration Awards pass on their heartfelt condolences to all those who have lost loved ones in this tragedy, and to all those who have lost their homes and their jobs. It is with certainty that we know the entire UK fenestration sector will want to wish Pellini CZ and the employees and staff affected the very best in the days and weeks to come, and know that they will come back stronger than before and ensure the town of Hodonin prospers once again.

JULY EDITION 07

LINIAR SHORTLISTED FOR THREE AWARDS A leader in the fenestration industry, Derbyshire manufacturing company Liniar was delighted to discover it’s been shortlisted in this year’s annual East Midlands Chamber of Commerce Business Awards for Derbyshire. Not in one category, but in three: Excellence in Innovation, Community Impact and Environmental Impact! “Being shortlisted for these awards is a huge honour and well-deserved recognition for everyone across our business – especially after the last 18 months, which have been challenging for us all,” comments Group Managing Director Martin Thurley. “These three categories are especially gratifying, as Innovation, Community and Sustainability are amongst the very foundations of our company ethos. To be chosen as finalists by the judging panel really does mean a lot!” Excellence in Innovation This award recognised companies which have used innovation to strengthen their overall operations – thinking outside the box while doing it. While Liniar’s new product development pipeline usually results in innovative products for the construction industry, the shortlisted entry highlights the development of a protective face shield and the work its teams carried out in order to donate thousands to key workers as the COVID-19 pandemic reached crisis point in the UK. “Innovation is at the heart of everything we do at Liniar – so what better than to use innovation to help those who need it most?” explains Design & Development Director Chris Armes. Community Impact The Community Impact award shortlisted businesses which have gone above and beyond in their efforts to help those within their area. For Liniar, that work not only includes its PPE project, but also regular initiatives to raise money or collect items for impoverished groups within the community. “From joining ‘Investors in Community’ this year to continuing to add initiatives to our community planner, Liniar is delighted to be able to help those around us any way that we can. I hope that our efforts inspire other businesses to get involved,” says Sue Davenport, Group Marketing Director. Environmental Impact This award shortlisted companies that put environmental sustainability at the core of their business. Liniar is delighted to be listed next to such prominent businesses as Derby City Council and MVIS for an award that means so much, not only to the team, but to the planet. For several years, Liniar has worked tirelessly to lower its carbon emissions and be a much greener company. In its most recent ISO 14001 audit, the company announced it had beaten its Climate Change Agreement target by over 54% and saved 20,400 tonnes of CO2. “Sustainability and reducing our impact on the environment are things we’re incredibly passionate about at Liniar,” says Martin, “We review sustainability all the way through our supply chain and have many more initiatives in the pipeline.” The 2021 Annual East Midlands Business Awards (Derbyshire) winners will be announced this November. See the full list of shortlisted businesses by visiting - www.emc-dnl.co.uk/businessawards2021/derbyshire/. To learn more about Liniar, visit www.liniar.co.uk/about.

FENESTRATION DIGITAL 06

Now with PAS24 Security accreditation

U-values as low as 1.0 W/m²K

The Liniar ModLok™ Sliding Patio Door • Smooth, effortless glide • Built-in decelerator - no unsightly crash stops • Threshold range includes Part M low threshold

• PAS24 upgrade available with enhanced security for Part Q compliance • High thermal efficiency with U-values as low as 1.0

www.liniar.co.uk | 01332 883900 |[email protected]

Visit www.liniar.co.uk/patio for more information

FENEX VIDEO UPDATES

From inspiring chats, to industry news to all things football, we’ve created and added these videos to the FENEX media library this month...

FENEX VIRTUAL PUB WITH JASON AND LEE! Join us for industry chat and much more.

Deceuninck CASE STUDY To help better understand virtual exhibitions and how they work, we take a look at Deceuninck UK’s stand from our January mini-expo. Deceuninck cleverly use virtual tours, links and graphics to invite visitors on their stand to interact with them further. Each component on the stand identifies a different unique selling point - appealing to every possible type of visitor. With extremely strong branding and visitor experience at the forefront of their design, the Deceuninck stand was one not to be missed!

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YOU’RE INVITEDTO FENEX

WINDOW, DOOR, GLASS&HARDWAREVIRTUAL TRADE SHOW

www.fenex.co.uk Wed 8 – Sat 11 Sept 2021

GET YOUR FREE TICKET

www.fenex.co.uk/attend

TO GO AHEAD! GUARANTEED

MORLEY GLASS & GLAZING MAKE MILESTONE DONATION WITH GREENVISION FUND

Morley Glass and Glazing has made its 10th donation to local sustainable projects with its GreenVision Fund. The integral blind company’s generous fund uses money generated by the CRUSH recycling scheme to benefit local communities and the environment. Each donation of up to £500 helps community groups or schools that wish to create green spaces or sustainable projects to bring their ideas into fruition.

The 10th beneficiary is Flourishing Families Leeds, which works to combat food poverty/poor nutrition, supports family literacy and helps tackle the challenges faced by primary school-aged children living in deprivation through activity-based mentoring. Richard Colbrook from Flourishing Families said: “Thanks to the donation from Morley Glass, our online family cookery clubs have hit 100% repeatability. In other words, every family taking part have gone on to repeating the recipes so that they have become a regular part of their family meals. This means that we really are changing the diets of families and, because the meals are affordable, now have a sustainable and reproducible way of overcoming food poverty. I’m normally pretty excited with our results (!) but this one has taken excitement levels through the roof. It is hugely significant.” Flourishing Families joins previous recipients from the local area including Longroyde Primary School, Incredible Edible Kippax and CATCH Leeds. The CRUSH scheme that facilitates the GreenVision fund is an initiative between Morley Glass and Saint-Gobain Glass, where post-consumer glass is brought back to the Morley factory and crushed into cullet. Saint-Gobain Glass then pays for the bags of cullet and recycles it, using it in the manufacture of new float glass. 100% of this payment goes to the GreenVision fund. The process dramatically helps the environment, and since the scheme started I early 2020 it has saved 158,000kg of CO2 from entering the atmosphere and 450,000kg of virgin sand, and saved enough energy to power a home for 264 years*.

Ian Short, Managing Director at Morley Glass & Glazing, said: “Sustainability is at the core of our business values, and it is great to give something back to local communities whilst also benefiting the environment. The 10th donation is a gratifying milestone, and we hope for many more.” If you wish to apply for a GreenVision donation, please send your request to [email protected] Find out more about the fund and the projects it has supported here: www.morleyglass.co.uk/glass-recycling-leeds/

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I n n o v a t i o n c o m e s b u i l t - i n

Quotes available in 60 minutes 60

LIGHT AND SHADE MADE EASY Choose ScreenLine integral blinds: unrivalled performance and the most stylish option for controlling light in all window and door applications including bi-folding and sliding doors.

Morley Glass & Glazing Ltd Unit 3 Leeds 27 Industrial Estate Bruntcliffe Way Leeds LS27 0HH

morleyglass.co.uk 0113 277 8722 [email protected]

Thermoseal Group will again sponsor the Glass and Glazing Industry’s G-Awards Champagne Reception, hosted at the prestigious London Hilton on Park Lane Hotel. The Champagne Reception precedes the highly acclaimed G-Awards Gala Dinner presentation evening which, this year falls on Friday 26th November 2021. The G-Awards is the industry’s most established awards event when the best performing businesses are presented with esteemed awards for demonstrating exceptional standards within the year preceding entry. It is also a great opportunity to sit back and enjoy a fun evening of great entertainment with some of the key influencers from across the window industry. As the UK’s leading manufacturer of warm edge spacer systems – Thermobar and Thermoflex – and leading supplier to the insulated glass (IG) industry, Thermoseal Group’s representatives will join co-sponsors Emplas in welcoming attendees and keep the champagne flowing as an introduction to the evening. Managing Director Gwain Paterson, tells us: “Having sponsored this event for 11 years now, I wonder where all that time has gone? Whilst we have been growing and developing, we have seen the G-Awards grow in success to the valued event it has become to date. Congratulations to Tony Higgin and his team for making it a key event in the industry calendar and one that we all look forward to. “For us, it has been an enormous challenge to increase our capacity to both manufacture and distribute warm edge spacers and fittings to the UK and export markets, let alone the multitude of challenges we have all seen over the past 18 months. So, more than ever, we are really looking forward to joining our colleagues and industry friends in raising a glass to those short- listed for an award. This year, we will also raise a glass to everyone in the window industry who has worked so hard in the face of the recent adversity. “My best wishes go to those entering the G21 Awards and I’d like to say thank you to all of those across the glass and glazing industry who have supported Thermoseal Group over the THERMOSEAL GROUP TO SPONSOR THE G21 AWARDS CHAMPAGNE RECEPTION

years. I look forward to celebrating with you on the evening.” There is no charge to enter the G21 Awards, which are independently judged by a panel of experts. The closing deadline for entries is 16 July 2021 which must be submitted at www.g-awards.com. Finalists will be announced in September.

Contact Thermoseal Group on 0845 331 3950 or Intl: +44 (0) 121 331 3950. Alternatively, visit www.thermosealgroup.com or e-mail us on [email protected].

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COLOUR YOUR OFFICE BUILDING TO MATCH YOUR BRAND!

People spend a vast amount of time and money working on their corporate brand with marketing teams, designers and sign writers all a huge part of the final process. This is one of the largest and best places to advertise a product that is made by a company. For fabricators the doors and windows will no doubt be covered in the products manufactured there; however those also symbolise the corporate branding that has taken so much time to create.

Deborah Hendry, Managing Director at Kolorseal Ltd, believes that colour coating to match a brand image reinforces the quality of the products that are manufactured. External products coated with corporate colours create a memorable and lasting impression on visitors. Deborah comments, “An office building is the best advertising board for a business. Bringing in col-ours from the logo will portray a strong message and shows what a company can offer to its customers. Just as with people, the subconscious mind makes fast judgements and in business it is vital to get the colour balance right. Your business brand is a reflection of your products and service, so first impressions count and customers will make a decision in the first few seconds of visiting your company.” Many times the decision to return to a business will depend on the look and feel that is achieved after the first visit. This demonstrates how important it is to consider colour coating windows and doors to match the business brand. It is not only large businesses that can create and maintain their colour brand throughout a building. SMEs and start ups can also reflect the high standards they offer by simply altering the colour of the entrance to match the corporate logo. Composite doors make a bold statement when they really stand out. Thinking carefully about the colours that have been used in the corporate brand, this will play a vital role when thinking of the right colour to use on windows, doors and composite doors. Deborah continues, “Getting the colour balance right is critical and often brighter colours can really add something special that will stand out. The design, size and location of an office and manufacturing facilities is very important when choosing external colours. Making sure that the colour is right and doesn’t clash with any neighbouring properties will really impact the message conveyed to anyone entering or passing by the building. It will also really help to make a company stand out from its competitors.” For any renovation or new build commercial projects that require tailored colour coating, the Kolorseal team can help and advise companies on the best colours from a corporate logo to make the right impression. Deborah concludes, “As colour experts, we can help people make the right choices that will best rep-resent their business.” For more information on the Kolorseal portfolio of colours and products, please visit the website www.kolorseal.co.uk. Anyone wishing to discuss corporate colours for business premises please call Deborah Hendry on 01924 454856

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GQA Qualifications is a multi-industry awarding body writing vocational based qualifications to support a wide range of career paths.

Accredited training leading to qualifications

If you are looking to retrain for a new career, or looking to develop your skills to open up opportunities why not consider practical training in window and door installation Learn about Building Regulations, working safely on site, how to remove windows and doors from buildings and replace with new ones All courses fully accredited and could contribute towards NVQ Qualifications With further assessment and achievement, successful candidates can go forward to achieve CSCS Cards to enable them to work safely on site Training delivered in Sheffield in a fully Covid secure environment For more information on training contact [email protected] For more information on vocational qualifications and CSCS cards contact [email protected]

www.gqaqualifications.com

E D I T I O N 2 5

32 YEARS OF SASH WINDOW EXPERIENCE – AND WE’RE READY FOR ANOTHER

This might be the very first time you are considering changing your sash window supplier. Or, perhaps you just want to try an alternative award winning sash window specialist to offer your customers a wider choice. Either way, we would like to help you to increase your VS sales. With 32 years focussed on manufacturing high quality timber alternative sash windows, we are true specialists and confident that our products will impress your customers. We have also earned a sound reputation for always providing an exceptional level of personal service and our entire team are committed to delivering this. Our new specification launched in 2019 featuring exclusive new Masterframe Systems, standard with patented Timberweld ® technology and we would welcome the opportunity to take you through the improved product offering and delighted to quote. No matter the size or design of a home or project, if sash windows are required then we can help. If a specialist solution is needed for a conservation area, modern development, school or historic building our sash windows add the right amount of authentic styling to either fit seamlessly into original settings or set the property apart from other new developments.

Designed for those who appreciate authentic detailing

To see the choices, including patented Timberweld ® corner design, download our new brochures here. Some of the advantages we offer as standard: 10 year guarantee for peace of mind Made in Britain for continuity BBA Approval on standard window sizes for longevity Energy Savings Trust recommended for energy efficiency Specialist solutions for challenging projects that require matching new to original designs Free and safe UK mainland delivery Quotes with non-priced customer proposal CAD drawings where required Expert technical support Free 47 page professional conservation guide Free product training Call our friendly sales team on 01376 510410 or email for a quote here.

Follow us on Twitter Like us on Facebook FEEL FREE TO CONTACT US ANY TIME! Tel: 01376 510410 email: [email protected] Join us on LinkedIn

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Transporting windows without damages or breakages is not always the easiest task as most in the business will testify. Windows and doors are extremely fragile when being moved, so special treat-ment is needed when transporting products particularly if an external delivery company is used. It is sometimes much easier said than done. Kolorseal colour coated products now come carefully packaged with new corporate tape that provides even greater protection to the frames and doors in order to maintain their integrity. All products from Kolorseal come with a ten year guarantee and the added assurance that during transit, product damage is minimised. Also, the Kolorseal window frame protection tape has been designed to protect the frame during in-stallation, providing an excellent protective barrier from scratches, staining, dirt and potential tool damage. The new tape will not leave behind any sticky residue when removed and is water resistant. Being well prepared is vital and for those without haulage and delivery vans of their own, it is always better to use a transport company that knows all the tricks of the trade to keep products in their best condition. Although, before even looking for a haulage company it is essential to prepare the windows for transportation, to ensure minimum risk to the goods. Windows should always be secured and wrapped carefully, however if more than one product is to be shipped, then they will need to be stacked carefully; ideally with protective layering between each product. This minimises the chances of breakage or scratches occurring while on the way to the deliv-ery point. Deborah Hendry comments, “Stillages are ideal to transport windows and doors, to give them proper support and good stability. Obviously extra safety ropes or safety belts and secure matting give excel-lent protection as well as additional foam sheets that will help to stop scratches or glass breakage.” It is worth asking any transport provider whether stillages are available to support windows or doors during transit as often this is an extra cost. If possible it is always better to transport windows upright to save damaging them, and across the UK the cost of transporting windows varies greatly. Debbie continues, “At Kolorseal we always advise smaller fabricators and installers to protect loads well. A good transport company will ask you to describe any delivery in detail so ensure you know what you want them to provide. We put our protective tape on which minimises scratching and dam-ages to the frame but always be sure to know what you want with a transport company.” Safe Journeys SAFEDELIVERIESFROMKOLORSEAL

Protecting a load from the rigours it can be subjected to on the delivery lorry or van can be a bumpy ride with shocks and knocks all possible on any journey. Whether you use bubble wrap, expandable foam or foam inserts use the best products available to protect windows and doors from shocks and bumps along the route and always try to stack them upright. Debbie concludes, “We always advise customers to use generous amounts of packing, particularly for more complex or shaped items. Likewise on site, our Kolorseal protective tape gives added protec-tion against scratches and knocks.” www.kolorseal.co.uk

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I n n o v a t i o n c o m e s b u i l t - i n

SEE 2021 DIFFERENTLY THROUGH SCREENLINE INTEGRAL BLINDS

Morley Glass & Glazing Ltd Unit 3, Leeds 27 Industrial Estate Bruntcliffe Way, Leeds LS27 0HH Email: [email protected] Direct fax for quotations: 0113 277 8723

www.morleyglass.co.uk

Tel: 0113 277 8722 E: [email protected]

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HEGLAAND GLASS W TOGETHER T BEST QUALITY

Over the last 18 months Clayton Glass has been proactive and reacted positively to the unprecedented times that began when Covid-19 stopped the world in its tracks. The team took decisive action and adapted corporate protocols to ensure that customers could be supported and supplied. In order to achieve this the company has had to rely upon the extensive technologies that have been installed at the manufacturing facilities over recent years. Clayton Glass epitomises how combined technology can optimise output on a production floor. In relation to HEGLA it is a true showcase of the specialist manufacturers capabilities which brings together engineering excellence and faster output. Despite the tough economic times that initially started in March 2020, Clayton Glass had the reassurance of being able to rely upon the performance of the HEGLA machinery to satisfy customer demand, as increases in orders rose. Ryan Green, Managing Director at Clayton Glass considers the working relationship with HEGLA more of a partnership which he believes is very important in business. Ryan comments, “We have been working in uncharted waters with the pandemic, but business is about working together. Being able to rely upon products such as those from the HEGLA range ensures that we get the very best results time after time and on time. Support I can rely upon is a critical part of our business relationship.” Today, the company operates across four separate sites, and delivers nationally from Scotland to the South Downs and all places in between. Clayton Glass now produces approximately 6,000 roof units per week as well as 45,000 standard IGUs per week. Being able to maximise the use of glass on HEGLA cutting lines and systems is imperative as glass wastage minimised, which in times of shortage is invaluable. Sealed units are now much more technical, and as the industry continues to pick up, many more products are in demand, so faster, flexible, more efficient and robust equipment is required for multi shift operations. Quality Support That Can Be Guaranteed Paul Gibbs, Sales at HEGLA UK comments, “Our customers have been able to rely upon us in what can only be described as some of the darkest of times. Throughout the crisis of the last 15 months, we have been there and stood by our customers to provide solutions and support where it was required. Our machinery is technically sophisticated and engineered to the highest standards meaning it lasts and provides many payback features.” Working in partnership with companies such as Clayton Glass it is important that the HEGLA team can tailor solutions to meet very specific needs. Glass manufacturing is a tough business and to manufacture well it is vital to invest well, according to Ryan Green. “You need to constantly evaluate and you also need a lot of kit to produce a well made, low unit priced IGU. However, that expensive and reliable machinery and the back-up supplied by a working partner like HEGLA is critical,” he comments. HEGLA specialises in cutting and handling with full in-house manufacturing of all products, and guaranteed customer support that allows the team to be flexible when making design plans. Ryan continues: “We work with HEGLA and discuss what we need and, they are very good at listening

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D CLAYTON WORKING TO PROVIDE Y SOLUTIONS

and then coming back with a solution. This is where the real partnership aspect comes in. HEGLA is an integral part of our business just as Clayton aims to be part of our customers’ businesses - providing them with solutions rather than just components. HEGLA has added real value to this business.” HEGLA created a laser system for Clayton Glass to enable the company to offer all customers branded IGUs if desired. This system can also offer company logo marking and every single IGU is marked and recorded; so, if it should ever need replacing the laser mark denotes the unit’s exact size and specification. Clayton Glass is certainly ambitious for the future with more investments planned later this year. As an independent company the team will aim to keep evaluating the market and developing new, more dynamic products. During the last 12 - 14 months, evaluating business needs as well as the risks, has never been more important for Clayton Glass. Careful restructuring has enabled Clayton to stay strong as an independent glass sealed unit manufacturer through these tough times. With products including conservatory roofing SMARTGLASS as well as ECOMAX which is the UK’s leading100% biodegradable glass that constitutes the highest levels of recycled glass, have really been milestones. These highlight the capability of the investments made through its technologically superior For Commercial Director Jason McCabe, the sturdiness, reliability and quality standards of the HEGLA machinery is extremely impressive. He comments, “Having reliable kit is part of the Jigsaw that has allowed us to deliver an OTIF of at least 99% over a period of many years. That is in large part due to the HEGLA products we have installed here.” Ryan further comments, “We use technology wherever we can to make product selection and ordering as easy as possible for our customers. Our partnership with our customers is equally as important to us, as is our partnership with HEGLA for machinery.” Placing customer needs as paramount is a huge part of the service support from Clayton Glass, with a progressive approach to making life easier for them. This is demonstrated with investments in quality machinery and providing solutions such as managing customer interface with concepts including GlassTrak - the unique, self-service tool that expedites orders, confirmations and PODs. All the HEGLA projects began by both teams working together in discussion, followed by CAD design layouts, so that Clayton Glass management could plan ahead for further expansion. For Paul Gibbs a working partnership perfectly describes HEGLA’s relationship with customers. “A partnership is something we try hard to achieve. Upgrading or replacing cutting and loading equipment can be an extremely difficult job - equally service and support is vital. We take a lot of time with our customers discussing dimensions and output prior to installation. The machinery we provide is technically sophisticated and developed to stand the test of time. We work with customers and discuss what they need. Back up for that is essential. It’s a matter of working with the range of talents we have available and growing them alongside our customers. We will always aim to push the boundaries when it comes to service, tailored solutions and consistent quality.” For more information on the HEGLA portfolio please call Paul Gibbs on +44 7802 655214. For details on the range of products available from Clayton Glass visit the website www. production methods. Technically ahead.

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LINIAR STRENGTHENS SERVICE AND SUPPORT WITH CUSTOMER RELATIONS TEAM Building long-lasting relationships with customers is important for any business, leading to both customer retention and long-term growth. For industry-leading PVCu systems company Liniar, Customer Service has long been one of the markers of its success – which is now set to bring even more customer benefits, with the introduction of a Customer Relations team to develop and enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. Already known for its comprehensive programme of customer support, including structural and thermal calculations, technical guidance and marketing materials, Liniar has built strong foundations to maintain and improve its service levels. Following customer feedback and a keen desire to nurture existing relationships, Liniar is delighted to announce the formation of this new, dedicated Customer Relations team, led by Head of Customer Relations Charlotte Curtis. Charlotte explains, “Throughout the pandemic, communication between Liniar and our customers was crucial to the success of all involved. Whilst the health-specific challenges of COVID-19 may be waning, there are still many other issues facing us all. These challenges have highlighted the importance of providing our customers with a single point of contact within the business - someone they can come to whether their query is about sales, deliveries, growth or lead times.” “The success of our online customer portal LinarConnect, fortuitously launched 3 months before the pandemic began, has meant that our former Sales Order Processing team have been able to be more proactive, and we see this developing even more as things begin to settle across the supply chain. “We’ve strengthened the team itself with the recruitment of new team members and it now sits within the Sales function under Group Sales Director Nigel Bishop for a full-service approach to customer care. It’s our aim to reinforce brand loyalty and strengthen new and existing customer relations,” comments Charlotte. “The team is in charge of helping customers with LiniarConnect, placing orders, boosting their growth,

providing aftercare and proactive contact and helping to address any issues that may arise. I’m excited to lead the new team, who have a wealth of customer service experience, and enhance our customers’ journey with Liniar even further.” New and existing Liniar customers will be assigned a Customer Relations Advisor, who will work alongside their Regional Sales Director and be an additional point of contact for everything Liniar. Learn more about the Liniar difference or how to become a Liniar customer by visiting www.liniar.co.uk/making-the-change.

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The only double rebated PVCu timber alternative window - meaning no visible gaskets!

01332 883900 [email protected] www.liniar.co.uk/resurgence

GQA Qualifications is a multi-industry awarding body writing vocational based qualifications to support a wide range of career paths.

Accredited training leading to qualifications

If you are looking to retrain for a new career, or looking to develop your skills to open up opportunities why not consider practical training in window and door installation Learn about Building Regulations, working safely on site, how to remove windows and doors from buildings and replace with new ones All courses fully accredited and could contribute towards NVQ Qualifications With further assessment and achievement, successful candidates can go forward to achieve CSCS Cards to enable them to work safely on site Training delivered in Sheffield in a fully Covid secure environment For more information on training contact [email protected] For more information on vocational qualifications and CSCS cards contact [email protected]

www.gqaqualifications.com

DGB | 2021

WWW.DOUBLEGLAZINGBLOGGER.COM

DYNAMIC, SHARP, AND ENGAGING WITH OVER 4100 PUBLISHED ARTICLES, 6300 COMMENTS AND APPROACHING TWO MILLION PAGE VIEWS, THE GLAZING INDUSTRY'S FRESHEST, SHARPEST AND RELEVANT OPINION AND DISCUSSION IS ON DGB. During 2021 DGB is set to be read by over 250,000 people, with over 200,000 of those unique. They will generate over 350,000 page views this year alone. DGB continues to grow and expand, covering even more of the diverse sector that is UK fenestration. Join the industry's best conversation: www.doubleglazingblogger.com

I n n o v a t i o n c o m e s b u i l t - i n

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INTEGRAL BLINDS ARE NOT JUST FOR BI-FOLDS

Our bespoke integral blinds are made to measure to suit all window and door applications (including bi-folding and sliding doors).

Morley Glass & Glazing Ltd Unit 3 Leeds 27 Industrial Estate Bruntcliffe Way Leeds LS27 0HH

morleyglass.co.uk 0113 277 8722 [email protected]

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glass technology

RapidLam Shape: More Scope To Shape The Future.

Shape Cutting of Laminated Glass as a Compact Unit More possibilities to cut shapes and free forms on laminated glass. Can be integrated into an existing line, or as stand-alone machine. This compact machine uses synchronised turning cutting heads, providing precise results that match the cutting plan. • Automatic cutting of free forms in laminated glass • Can be used as part of a cutting line or as stand-alone machine • Laser foil separation can be installed at a later date

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www.hegla.co.uk

HEGLA Machinery (UK) Ltd. •Buckinghamshire•MK8 0AJ•E-mail: [email protected]

VIDEO LIBRARY FROM MORLEY GLASS

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Considering video marketing? From design to online distribution, we can help.

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Web: www.videoproduction4.co.uk | Call: 07437 854225

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YOUR KENT-BASED TRADE SPECIALISTS

Our trade sales team is proudly made up of time-served industry experts. We're your local one-stop-shop for competitively priced, quality assured fenestration supply across Kent and the South East.

WinRem.com/trade

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[email protected]

01634 264 490

WHY FENEX IS IMPORTANT FOR YOUR BUSINESS We will Fenestrations Virtual Expo | Wed 8 –

Exhibiting at any trade show is a good way to profile a business. The beauty of the virtual trade exhibitions is that it gives the whole sales team an unprecedented level of access to new prospects, that traditional shows don’t offer. Visitors to a virtual trade exhibition are customers who are in a mood to buy and as such are looking at the market with intent. Virtual events have a huge advantage in that they can be attended from anywhere without the hassle of travel, parking, hotels and huge hospitality bills. There is no rush hour to consider, no traffic jams to avoid and they are extremely easy to navigate. Equally importantly, virtual events can become powerful venues where new discussions and topical trends can be debated live. Being able to influence and drive discussions relating to the industry will keep visitors engaged in an open environment, with the benefits of seminars, videos and online streaming all of which are part of the FENEX experience. By investing in the FENEX Virtual Trade Show, it is possible to gain better engagement without the huge spend. Better engagement tools will keep a virtual stand busy, with a company’s sales team able to engage in the build up and during the show. This will keep everyone focused on the business at hand both on and offline. We are now in a new age of engagement thanks to the developments that have taken place technically to enable advanced AI to help as a sales tool for any sized business. With the highly creative and skilled FENEX team available to advise on design, content and technical engagement. The virtual stand will be able to capture the all important visitor details via a built-in registration tool. For exhibitors it will be possible to create the ultimate digital experience that reflects the standards and quality of a company. This will help to drive leads, promote industry comment and will enable attendees to connect with peers and customers alike. Investing in a Virtual Stand at FENEX will provide a fast and effective route to a huge audience at 1/10 the cost of a real time exhibition. People can take advantage of being accessible from anywhere, the office, on the road even at home. This show will allow investors to showcase all that is great about their business without losing valuable business time. The world literally has no limits. To find out more about FENEX please visit - www.fenex.co.uk Call Lee or Ben to book a demo 01924 911234.

HELEN DUVAL 2021

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LEKASYSTEMS REPORT 100%YEAR-ON-YEAR SALES GROWTH be there! – Sat 11 Sept 2021 | www.fenex.co.uk TO GO AHEAD! GUARANTEED Leka Systems has just reported 100% year-on-year sales growth. Managing Director Rhys Hoddinott said: “We’re delighted to be reporting such strong sales growth because it means we are helping our customers to secure more business than ever before.” Rhys says that demand for his company’s Warm Roof remains strong, but it’s the Leka Xi modular buildings and the Orangery Flat Roof Conversion Kit where demand is really taking off. He comments: “Sales in these areas show how consumer tastes are changing and why it’s so important to keep your finger on the pulse to maximise the opportunities.” The Orangery Flat Roof Conversion Kit replaces fibreglass, traditional build, glass or polycarbonate conservatory roofing systems with a lightweight, tiled, orangery-style roof. It updates the look of a conservatory and turns it into a year-round room, something that’s incredibly valuable to consumers who may be working from home more often than before. Like all Leka products, the Orangery Flat Roof Conversion Kit is fast and easy-to-fit. It is built from four simple ladder kits made from GRP and there are no aluminium or timber components. It complies with building regulation U-values and is approved by MFA, the licenced building inspector. The Leka Xi is a modular conservatory wall and base system. It provides a warm, sustainable alternative to a traditional block- or brick-built conservatory base and wall. It’s typically installed on concrete pads, so it saves time, mess and stress when considering a new build conservatory or single storey extension – in fact, installation takes days rather than weeks, which makes it perfect for rapidly delivering a home working space solution. Rhys comments: “As our sales growth shows, our products are tapping into homeowner demand more than ever. As such, they represent a great opportunity for fabricators looking to diversify

their revenue streams. It’s why I’d urge fabricators to get in touch and secure their territory today. There’s never been a better time to get on board.” www.lekasystems.co.uk Leka Systems will be at FENEX in September where all their amazing roof system will be on display. For

your ticket – www.fenex. co.uk/attend/

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SOME TOP TIPS TOM SHOWSUC We will b Fenestrations Virtual Expo | Wed 8 –

So you’ve made the decision to invest in FENEX to help your business gain real ground, more quickly. Whether you are attending as a sponsor or simply to be part of the next generation of trade show, it is essential to make a virtual booth the best it can be. This will represent your company not only nation-ally but also possibly internationally. Planning Your Booth Take time to see what works best for you with banners, videos or streaming. Create the content and prepare to download for the show. At FENEX a huge advantage is that materials do not need to be transported to the venue, so content can even be uploaded on the day of the show if needed.

Designing a booth that is consistent with your corporate brand and company image will help visitors recognise the business. If you create a schedule of events, this will help to improve visitor experience. Some ideas could be product demos, theme-based, on stand discussions as well as end of the day happy hour. Most importantly promote everything you will be doing on your own websites and social feeds in the run up to the show. Let customers know personally with calls and emails before- hand, that you will be attending. Pre-book Get the sales team working hard before, booking in meetings before the exhibition - communication is key. Checking the FENEX event agenda so that meetings can be arranged around those. Speak to the team for advice on who is attending and how to target them. Promote any on-stand events in social feeds so that interested parties can sign up to attend. This can be done in the run up and during the FENEX show. Strategise Think about who you want to attend and then choose the right people to represent you online at the virtual stand. Choose those who work well both offline and online - it matters. Someone could be brilliant in phone conversation but not so good at texts or direct messages. Things can be misread so choose the right team wisely. Personable, engaging, confident with product knowledge are all important but equally so are their digital skills. Strategic staffing is vital to the success of your show.

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