NATFEN Digital Magazine Edition 32

NATFEN Digital Magazine Edition 32

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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CLIPPINGS AND MUSINGS - HELEN DUVAL 2021

Of course for the USA we have seen disturbing and horribly violent scenes, which exceeded most of our expectations in relation to the Trump presidency. Naturally, this all took place on the day that the electoral win for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris was officially confirmed. While the USofA re-evaluates the reverberations from the last 4 years the UK too has new roads to follow. As the UK begins a new era, the Brexiteers cheer about new opportunities while the nay-sayers continue to state that we will be far worse off. Time only will tell. Replacement arrangements with new co- operations, are now in place for travel, trade, immigration and security. Those lorries that arrived at the borders at the beginning of January proceeded without any delays. It is inevitable that some disruption will occur, probably mostly due to new red tape and regulations which will take some time for everyone to adopt. Any company with necessary, regular travel into and out of the EU will need to be prepared otherwise we will be living with issues similar to those seen in Dover at the end of last year.

2 020 has to be classed as a year like no other with the pandemic wreaking havoc and Brexit creating frustrations on both sides of the Channel. It is hard to make sense of a confounding year with people losing so much and the toll of that on their mental health. There have been some positives that we can take forward with huge moments from science, business and politics that will be hard to forget. The advancement in science and global collaboration on that front have been staggering. Once the vaccine has been effectively rolled out let us hope that we can all aim to work towards a new ‘normal’.

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LOOKING AT THE HOUSING MARKET Currently there is a lot of optimism regarding the housing market, although experts do seem to disagree about whether this can last. Once the government’s financial support schemes and stamp duty cuts finish, many feel the market could slow down. Rightmove has predicted a ‘lull in the second quarter” of 2021, but this does not appear to be a ‘make or break’ situation. Others have very varied predictions from 5% growth in the first half of the year to a 1% growth by the end of 2021. Perhaps the types of property and their locations will be the true indicators of how the market will fair. If there is a strong demand in the first time buyers market, this could well help to propel the housing sector towards positive results by the end of the year. Mortgage rates and house price increases could very well create considerable affordability challenges. Fast-rising prices in the new build sector will produce greater barriers for the many first-time buyers who simply don’t have any equity to use for down-payments. Home builder confidence is expected to prove positive for single property construction. Buyer traffic will continue to be good if the economy can see some light at the end of the tunnel. Relocations and renovations will probably bring about a large amount of work for builders and installers in this sector.

There are some factors that will inevitably continue to limit some aspects of new build and commercial construction, with higher costs, logistics and the ongoing skills shortage all adding to cost burdens and delivery schedules. On the whole, there is a lot of optimism regarding house sales for 2021. The picture is a lot clearer about coronavirus and its ramifications, however as the stamp duty holiday continues and this latest lockdown will naturally cause predictions for the sector to continue to fluctuate. FINISHING OFF ON A HIGH NOTE The start of 2021 sees an expansion of the NFA team with 2 more additions now having joined us, as we head forward with new innovations and greater options for customers. Andy Henwood is now handling CRM and website management having had vast experience in this specialist field, both inside and in other business sectors. He will be helping with our technical digital development moving forwards. Also, we’d like to introduce Nicola Betts to you, who joins the marketing team and will be handling website and graphic design, which will enhance the marketing options available for customers.

It’s great to finish this edition on such a positive note.

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OBITUARY – CLIVE SMITH

I t is with great sadness that we announce the death of our former colleague and dear friend Clive Smith who died suddenly on Tuesday 29th December 2020. Clive had worked in the glazing industry for many years and prior to his retirement in 2017 was Technical Sales Manager at Trojan Manufacturing Group. Clive was a popular industry figure and respected by both his colleagues and customers. He will be greatly missed.

Clive is survived by his wife Lyn and children Matt and Hayley.

Our thoughts are with Clive’s family and friends at this very sad and difficult time.

Tony Chadwick Former Group Managing Director Trojan Manufacturing Group

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YOUR DIGITAL DOSE OF THE NEWS THAT MATTERS CHANGING THE STATUS QUO

#BETTERNEWS

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NFA WORTHY WINNERS 2020

O ne of the more positive points about the end of 2020 was the announcement of the NFA winners. Firstly we could like to congratulate all our nominees and winners - we had another incredible year with a record, 7658 votes submitted, counted and verified. It was another huge success with the NFAs now recognised as a leading industry award. Despite the limitations caused by Covid and Lockdowns, this incredible market sector participated with gusto, regarding nominations and votes. Those with the most votes were announced via an online presentation in December on the FENEX YouTube channel, as once again, meeting, greeting and celebrating together were not possible due to the pandemic. There are now 25 NFA categories with companies able to sponsor individual sectors as well as the Awards as a whole. It goes without saying that the NFA team is very grateful for the support given by the sponsors, who help to make the Awards and the event (fingers crossed for 2021) as memora-ble and important as they have become over the last few years. This year in particular we would like to mention our Covid Heroes who have gone above and beyond to help support the sector through innovation and investment for others.

Liniar stepped up to the mark throughout 2020, producing tens of thousands of face shields via their 3D printers, for use by the NHS key workers. Likewise, Morley Glass invested vast sums of money in virtual showrooms for industry installers, both during and after lockdown. Their charitable en-deavours to help companies survive through the struggles, as well as their continual, local, charitable efforts, have been extremely impressive. Masterframe also made substantial investments in virtual showrooms for their installer network, with a desire to give companies as much support as possible regarding the business challenges they faced in these unprecedented times. Also, we feel it is important to mention Glazerite’s efforts for charity early on in 2020, where the team headed up by Chairman John Hewitt, raised a staggering £80,000. ‘We Mind & Kelly Matters’ was created by John and his family in honour of his daughter Kelly, who took her own life in 2018. With mental health issues affecting so many, particularly during the current struggles, we can’t praise John enough for his achievements.

So without further ado- here is a list of your industry NFA Winners 2020:

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This year saw a phenomenal response in relation to the NFAs, both in terms of nominations and voting. A staggering 7,658 votes were submitted, counted and verified.

OUR NFA WINNERS 2020 ARE AS FOLLOWS:

Aluminium Company Liniar

New Product Of The Year Stellar Aluminium Systems

Best Use of Video Morley Glass Ltd

PVCu Company VEKA

Bi-folding Door Manufacturer Origin Doors and Windows

Recycling Company Eurocell

Colour Specialists Kolorseal and Deceuninck ( joint 1st place)

Social Networker Of The Year Gary Gleeson, VBH (GB)

Composite Door Manufacturer Edurance Doors

Spacerbar Manufacturer Thermoseal Group

Conservatory Roof Manufacturer Ultraframe

Systems Company Kommerling

Digital Marketing Campaign Brisant Secure Ltd

Timber Alternative Company The Residence Collection

Digital Specialist Business Micros

Timber Company Glyngary

Fabrication Company Glazerite UK Group Ltd

Trade Counter Eurocell

Hardware Company VBH (GB)

Training Centre North Lancashire Training Group Vertical Sliding Window Company Victorian Sliders

IGU Manufacturer Clayton Glass Ltd and Morley Glass Ltd ( joint 1st place)

Young Person Of The Year Tyler Shutts, VBH (GB)

Integral Blinds Manufacturer Morley Glass Ltd

Machinery Company Haffner MURAT and Elumatec ( joint 1st place)

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HEGLA STORAGE SOLUTION SCALES NEW HEIGHTS B eing in the middle of another lockdown is hardly how anyone wished this year to begin, but here we are once again. The HEGLA team fully appreciates the difficulties, hard times and uncertain prospects that face us all.

Now, however, is the perfect time to re-evaluate manufacturing procedures to see how production can be improved. This could be speed and efficiency or even production space. HEGLA’s PVC racking and storage system is a versatile product that can provide solutions for manufacturers struggling with a lack of space on the production floor. Additionally, it provides numerous health and safety benefits. Although HEGLA is well recognized for its expert knowledge in glass handling, cutting and storage systems, the company also excels in providing solutions for the profile market. The increased warehousing efficiency this system provides allows companies to maximize upon the space in existing facilities, without the need to look at moving into larger premises - so the car park can be used as exactly that - a space for cars not as an additional product storage area. The idea is to use the height of the premises rather than just the flooring. Traditional racking in most cases only uses 50% of the floor space because there are gaps between all the fixed racks, the Helga system has one moving gap therefore doubling capacity. This year, more than ever, health and safety has been brought into focus, and many processors and manufacturers have had to re-structure the layout of their premises due to legal requirements. For HEGLA, health and safety is always of paramount importance and the HEGLA PVC racking solution houses a number of features including a safety

light beam which protects those working within the system as well as an audible warning device to inform operatives when the racks are moving. The concept was developed to allow the racks to sit side by side without a gap and can be easily adjusted either automatically or manually to suit production requirements. The HEGLA racking system provides additional health and safety advantages, including the elimination of organising an entire warehouse every day before staff arrived. Also, it guarantees that machines and products do not adversely affect movement for workers around the production floor. Enhancing the storage capacity and efficiency in old or new premises is fast, efficient and developed to tie in with specific production schedules, as the HEGLA team tailors each system to an individual customer’s requirements.

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The extra capacity added in the same factory footprint will help to avoid burying any stock which should ensure the correct rotational use of product. This means not just using the “easiest to get to” method of stock rotation, and this should naturally lead to more accurate control of stock. Whether it is required for smaller or large premises, the system is created to cater for individual business storage needs. This includes products such as the semi automatic floor to ceiling concertina racking system for bulk quantities or the smaller manual concertina option for small products. Unlike the cantilever structures that are fixed to the floor with working gaps between each section for fork lifts to operate, the HEGLA racking option, offers substantial benefits with the need for only one moving gap along the whole run. Operators can decide upon a position where profile is stored and then that gap is opened to allow the fork lift to enter. The motorised coupling bogie system on which the racks sit, allows the gap to be closed whilst another section is opened for another amount of stock to be moved or stored.

Meticulous attention has been incorporated into the design with the racking solutions manufactured to meet all current industry standards and produced in individual corporate colours if so required. This enables customers to optimise the storage of all sized goods and weights in any facility. installation not only meeting the existing storage requirements of most companies but, importantly, provides additional capacity for future growth. Paul Gibbs, Sales at HEGLA UK comments, “In simple terms the HEGLA racking system will provide a complete solution at a realistic cost that will quickly pay for itself, why move buildings when customers can utilise space that is already available. The computer aided design ensures the best solution for every project with each Also, currently the team is supporting customers and available to discuss any issues, whether it is machinery sales or breakdowns. We are still here to discuss your needs.” For more information on the HEGLA range please call: 0330 124 5759

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LINIAR BRINGS HOME A DOUBLE AT THE NFAS! T his year's annual National Fenestration Awards announcement brought a smile to the team at Liniar this past November, as they discovered they'd won two of the coveted awards. With everyone keeping a keen eye on their Twitter feeds, the Liniar team was delighted to see Alumina and Liniar pop up as winners in two categories of awards: Aluminium System of the Year and more meaningfully, the COVID Heroes Award. The latter was shared with industry Morley Glass and Masterframe, both of whom also invested in helping others throughout the pandemic. Liniar's Group Sales Director Nigel Bishop comments on what these awards mean to the Liniar team: "We're always delighted to win awards, and good news helps to inject positivity into our teams – which, this year, has been more important than ever. “The Alumina door was launched in 2017 as the first aluminium bi-fold to be foiled or powder coated, and we’ve continued to develop it ever

since. The flexible bead means no wedge gaskets and an extremely fast fitting time, and the feedback we get from installers has now been translated into the NFA win, which is extremely gratifying. There are some more exciting Alumina developments coming in 2021, so watch this space! "While both awards mean a lot to us, the one that really got the team cheering was the new COVID Heroes awards. We've always been active members in our local community, but the ongoing pandemic has helped to highlight the vital role that both Liniar and our sister company Avantek Machinery play in supporting the families, charities and businesses around us. "It's humbling to be recognised for the work we put into the PPE project we've been running since April to manufacture protective visors. When the project began, everyone throughout the business wanted to be a part of making a difference in the lives of healthcare and frontline workers and their families, by providing critical PPE items when they needed them most. "We’d like to thank everyone that voted for us in this year's National Fenestration Awards and offer congratulations to the rest of the winners!" concludes Nigel. Discover Alumina at www.alumina.liniar.co.uk and read about Liniar's PPE project by visiting www.liniar.co.uk/ppe.

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· 70mm sash and 80mm frame · Double rebated for extreme weather · Discreet external seal · Fully foiled for authenticity · Welded or mechanically jointed

A new generation of flush sash windows…

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

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GENERAL 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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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

JAN 2021 NFA DIGITAL 15 www.hegla.co.uk

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

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BEIS SECRETARY OF STATE KWASI KWARTENG ISSUES LETTER TO CONSTRUCTION SECTOR Y esterday, the newly appointed BEIS Minister Kwasi Kwarteng issued a letter to the construction sector to reaffirm the who are not following the guidance. Both Certass and the GGF have come out publicly and informed their members that sales in the home and private gardens cannot go ahead.

position that they can continue to work during lockdown. Here is the letter in full (with the corrected date): It’s worth noting that this letter is almost a copy- and-paste exercise, with an almost-identical letter being published by the then BEIS Minister Alok Sharma earlier on in 2020 during the first lockdown. This letter was also held up by a few days due to the fluid nature of the debate around lockdown restrictions and the moving of Ministers between departments. There is nothing new in this letter, and simply reiterates the open status of the construction and RMI sectors. The letter does, however, leave the door open to the potential for new restrictions and guidance changes with the second-to-last sentence. I am told that this letter does not mean a closed door and discussion within Government remains ongoing about whether to tighten restrictions further. Guidance can change at very short notice so it is worth keeping a regular check on the guidance in case changes are made. Whilst there remains debate about whether it is right to be working in homes given the seriousness of the situation, the other major issue that is quickly coming to a head is the issue of sales in the home and combatting the installers

All sales activity has to be done online and remotely, and showrooms have to be closed. Door- to-door sales have also been banned. Yet, there are increasing reports of companies going against the guidance issued by Government and the aforementioned trading bodies and conducting sales activities that have been banned during the lockdown. Companies who are trying to do the right thing and are abiding by the guidance are becoming increasingly frustrated at the seeming lack of enforceability of the rules and companies flouting the rules and continuing to conduct in-person sales. There is growing momentum behind a need to ensure that all sales activity in the sector is done as per the guidance issued by Government and trade bodies. This lockdown is likely to last a long time. It would be a tragedy to see good businesses hit difficulties whilst trying to do their bit to battle the pandemic, whilst others blatantly ignore the rules. From the discussions I continue to have with key industry figures, I expect a push from all sides to tighten up enforcement of the guidance, with growing calls for action to be taken against companies caught flouting the rules.

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Twitter and Linkedin has been drowning in this letter since it’s publication as the sector seeks to maintain it’s open status during lockdown.

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LOVE IS IN THE AIR

I f you love your job role, career, or the industry you work in, why wouldn’t you shout about it? Well, that is exactly what Building Our Skills is asking you to do by taking part in a Month of Love for the Fenestration industry. Building Our Skills (BOS) has joined forces with some of the industry’s top marketing agencies and trade publications to spread the Love of Fenestration right through the sector and help shine a light on some of the fantastic career opportunities available to young and new people. Throughout the whole of February, some of the industry’s better known marketers, editors and publishers will be sharing through social media the reasons why they love fenestration. The aim behind the campaign is to help gain further recognition of the industry’s fantastic career opportunities and profile to more people why they should choose Fenestration when looking for a job. Stephanie Tague, Head of BOS comments, ‘More is needed to spread the word of how great a sector Fenestration is to work in and to attract new people, in particular young people. #lovefenestration will be launched by some of the great marketing people of our industry during February and we want the whole industry to get behind it.’

#lovefenestration will be the first-of-its-kind marketing initiative devised for the whole industry to take part. The campaign sets to create positive good vibes from people who love their jobs and have enjoyed a career in Fenestration, proving that it is a sector worth considering. Paul Godwin, Managing Director of VAST PR said, ‘Most of my career has been spent in the Fenestration industry, and I have had some fantastic experiences and been able to create some great opportunities during that time. Amongst my clients and friends in the industry I know there is an immediate need to fix the industry’s growing skills gap. I am therefore delighted to support BOS’ efforts and help to promote optimism and enthusiasm to attract new talent.’ The #lovefenestration campaign will run throughout February and will feature some of the industry’s more recognisable characters each day. For those wishing to take part contact Stephanie direct on [email protected] and for other please share the daily posts on your own social media sites using #lovefenestration.

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LETTER TO THE EDITOR: CHANGES TO COVID-19

GUIDANCE ON IN-HOME SALES N ew guidance is being issued today by industry trade bodies which are going to change the advice given with regards to in-home sales. Up to now, the guidance has been that in-home sales, including in private gardens are not to be done, with all sales activity being done remotely. However, that advice is now being changed.

THIS HAS JUST BEEN PUBLISHED BY CERTASS TA:

This is positive news for installers, many of whom have found it difficult to follow up leads remotely, experiencing a lack of online engagement with homeowners. However, digital is still playing an important part in bringing in warm leads from homeowners so that these sales appointments can take place. Unfortunately, the information on the Government websites will not be altered but the interpretation by bodies such as Certass and the guidance we produce has already been amended and is available now for Certass members to download. Such a change in policy, at a time when the death rate from COVID-19 is at a record high point, I’m sure will lead to concern from many in our industry, but as the largest glazing trade association, it is our responsibility to make sure that glazing companies understand what options are available to them and how any change in regulation affects their working practices. I urge members to check in to the Certass TA Members Forum on Facebook for the very latest information.

Dear Jason,

Yesterday evening (Wednesday 20 January), following numerous discussions with Government departments, we had confirmation on an amendment to the position around selling in the home. This amendment confirms that sales appointments may take place in the home, as long as they are undertaken in a COVID-secure way. Sales appointments should still take place remotely if possible, but this is not mandatory. If an installer receives a request for a quote from a homeowner, which requires a visit to survey the property and explain the options available, this can be done by an appointment in the home. These appointments must be carried out in a way that is COVID-19 secure and installers should be vigilant with following social distancing, face covering and hand washing in order to protect themselves, their teams and customers. There are no changes to cold sales activity and door-to-door selling, as per the door- to-door sales regulations which were issued on Christmas Eve.

Best wishes, Jon Vanstone Chair, Certass Trade Association

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This returns salespeople to a position where sales can now happen in the home, where remote sales cannot be done. Whilst the above states remote sales should still be an option, it’s likely that the number of in-home sales will no rapidly increase as the demographic working in sales is largely used to working that way. I can see two reactions to this change in position. One will be relief as reports of slipping sales pipelines were beginning to increase. The other will be worry and anxiety. Case numbers, although not as high as a couple of weeks ago, remain high, and the daily death toll continues to go rapidly in the wrong direction. It will be up to companies to decide whether or not to stick to remote sales for now until the situation becomes safer. Some on social media have already confirmed that will indeed be the case. This will continue to fuel the debate about whether enough is being done to drive the spread of the virus as low as possible, with comparisons continuing to be made to the first major lockdown in March 2020. To confirm, door-to-door sales and canvassing remains banned. With this highly controversial sales tactic currently offline, there will likely be debate as to whether it should be banned altogether. That has been the general direction of movement over the past few years anyway, but perhaps this is another area where the pandemic will accelerate change.

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

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

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ARE WE HEADING BACK TO BUSINESS AS USUAL? T his time of year ‘normally’ is all about the economy and where the ONS thinks we are heading. Predictions could not be more difficult for any business at the moment with the pandemic continuing to push up infections and regular evaluations by the Government on whether tighter restrictions are needed. Let us hope we are heading in the right direction with vaccine rollout which is becoming ever more urgent as each day passes. The Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine is now being used as well as the Pfizer option, which is a great start to getting us all back onto the right track. Yet, there are still challenges which face the NHS not least the logistical nightmare involved in the distribution of the vaccines. So when it comes to vaccination and trying to keep things balanced for business, commentators need a reality check in terms of what is practical, what is achievable and what can really be predicted about the direction of industry. Economic predictions are impossible with global conditions so volatile, but let’s hope that we can prove that the impending storm is not as bleak as some fear. It is inevitable that our economy will change but thanks to the ongoing effects of Covid, predictions seem a useless exercise that no-one can predict with any certainty. Let’s face it, this disease does not respect, borders, timelines or political agendas. So while it might be cold, dark and murky all around us, we have to try to find a way through this next particular phase of lockdown, keeping

body, mind and spirit in good working order. The fact that we know and understand the Lockdown drill now, really doesn’t make it any easier for any of us. Home schooling is already causing chaos with many reports of tears as the new term started - and that was just the parents!! With new rules in place across the UK we cannot escape from the reality that it will be a tough winter for many, and some will cope better than others regarding the stresses and anxiety it brings. With case numbers fluctuating and the issues created by asymptomatic people, we have to take things seriously about the rules and adopt them so that we don’t continue the possibility of spreading the disease even further. Whilst we have assurances that the vaccine programme will be completed by the summer, the restrictions have left their own mark, with so many of us feeling tired or worse burned-out. Although it may feel as though we are striding backwards, we are in a better place with this lockdown as the vaccine rollout will give us fresh hope and we already know so much more than we did back in March 2020. Above all, we must keep looking out for each other, stay safe, listen to the advice and keep searching for that light at the end of the tunnel.

Helen Duval 2021

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· 70mm sash and 80mm frame · Double rebated for extreme weather · Discreet external seal · Fully foiled for authenticity · Welded or mechanically jointed

A new generation of flush sash windows…

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

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

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

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MORLEY GLASS & GLAZING INCREASES VOLUME BY 50%

I ntegral blinds manufacturer Morley Glass & Glazing has started the New Year with a 50% increase in volume compared with last year. Increased demand from existing customers and an influx of new customers has seen manufacturing capacity rise from an average of 2,500 to 3,500 integral blinds a week. Managing director Ian Short said: “We moved to new 50,000 sq ft premises in 2016 with a view to increasing the number of our Uni-Blind sealed units we could manufacture with ScreenLine integral blinds inside. Our five-year plan was to reach 3,500 blinds a week and it’s amazing that we’ve reached that figure despite the Government lockdowns and a six-week shutdown last year. “2020 has been a strange and challenging year for many individuals and businesses. The increased demand from homeowners looking to invest in home improvements post-lockdown surprised us all, and it doesn’t look like it’s going to slow down any time soon. Integral blinds are proving to be an excellent profit generator for our customers as they upsell to those people who now recognise the true value of a home that provides privacy, sun shading and a comfortable living and working environment.”

“We have taken on five new members of staff and added three more vans to our delivery fleet. We have a close working relationship with Pelini in Italy and offer the full range of ScreenLine blinds to UK customers both for residential and commercial projects. “We are committed to investing in our high- quality manufacturing processes, our marketing efforts, customer service and technical support to ensure our customers can rely on us for the best quality products and the best service.” Morley Glass & Glazing’s Uni-Blinds® range provides the widest choice of integral blinds in double and triple glazed units, with all manual, solar and motorised versions available. The business provides unrivalled technical support for Uni-Blinds® customers, being the only UK supplier of integral blinds to have dedicated customer support engineers on the road. It also stocks the largest range of ScreenLine® system spare parts in Europe with £1 million of ScreenLine® components available within 24 hours.

Find out more about Morley Glass & Glazing at www.morleyglass.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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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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2021 WILL SEE MANAGEMENT TRANSITION PHASE AT HEGLA UK

company’s development in a number of areas including, product innovation and expansion, service and customer support. Implementation of HEGLA UK’s strategy and management of its operations will be over-seen by Bernhard Hoetger from January. The UK team includes Greg Smith (Technical), Paul Gibbs, (Sales and Marketing), and Tim Johnson (Spares and Internal Sales). Together, they will manage new orders, installa- tions and service and they will

H EGLA UK’s Managing Director Steve consultant for the leading, specialist machinery manufac-turer. Steve, who has been responsible for the launch and success of the business over the last 18 years, will guide a new management team in the UK. HEGLA Group’s Managing Director, Bernhard Hoetger will take charge of the UK divi-sion as the transition takes place. Goble will officially retire from managerial duties from January 2021, to become a The UK management team will be based at the company’s new offices in Burntwood, Staffordshire and will be jointly responsible in promoting the

reflect the strategic importance of the Group’s interaction with its customers, its targets and its ambitions moving forward. Steve Goble will continue to be a resource to the UK team on a wide variety of strategic matters. Steve comments, “ The combined experience and knowledge of the UK team combined with the Hegla Group support from Germany, which has always been there, give me a high degree of confidence in HEGLA UK’s ability to remain a leading machinery, software and furnace supplier through the next phase of HEGLA UK’s strategic journey.

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I have helped to shape this new team - both in terms of the executives and the allocation of responsibilities - with a view to ensuring that the company can work and act collec-tively. They will be able to execute the Group's priorities moving forward.” Bernhard Hoetger, COO HEGLA Group comments, “It is essential that the HEGLA ethos continues its culture of openness and trust with customers. As a unified team this will en-sure a smooth transition as Steve steps into a consultancy role. The aim is to continue moving forward positively and to ensure customers’ needs remain a top priority.” For more information on the HEGLA Group portfolio please visit www.hegla.de or to dis- cuss production requirements please call: 0330 124 5759

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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

34 NFA DIGITAL JAN 2021 HEGLA Machinery (UK) Ltd. •Buckinghamshire•MK8 0AJ•E-mail: [email protected]

www.hegla.co.uk

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WANT TO ADVERTISE HERE? GET IN TOUCH! [email protected]

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SCOTLAND’S LOCKDOWN GETS TOUGHER – HOW IT AFFECTS FENESTRATION T he Government in Scotland has been warning for days now that the lockdown measures in the country were about to get 2. Takeaways – customers can no longer go inside a premises to pick up food. Customers must be served at the doorway or through a serving hatch

tighter as the pandemic continues to spread in the country. Today SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon addressed the Scottish Parliament to lay out the new rules being brought into force in the country in the next few days. WHAT’S NEW? Here are the major changes to the lockdown rules that were announced for Scotland today: 1. Click and collect – this service will now be limited to those selling essential goods and services only

3. Consumption of alcohol – no alcohol is to be consumed outside in any level 4 area. Takeaway pints cannot be consumed on the street 4. Working from home – the Scottish Government is strengthening the obligation on businesses to allow their staff to work from home 5. Home maintenance – the guidance that was issued in the first week of January, which has shuttered installation work in Scotland,

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is now being put into law. This strengthens the requirement for tradespeople to abide by the laws and also introduces a more realistic prospect of fines and charges being brought if non-compliance is found. 6. Stay at home – the closing of a loophole in current guidance which says people can only leave home for essential purposes. The update will say: “must not leave or remain outside” unless it is for an essential reason. You can find a more detailed breakdown of the rules here: www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk- scotland-55649853 You can read the entire updated Scottish guidance here: www.gov.scot/ publications/coronavirus-covid-19-stay-at- home-guidance. Of all of those rule changes, the one that applies to our sector is number five. The significance of the change being that where instructions to tradespeople were guidance, they are now becoming law. This means enforcement is going to be ramped up, and consequences for those caught breaking the rules more severe.

These changes follow intense debate around the UK about whether the current restrictions are enough to contain and reduce the current wave of the pandemic. Right now there has been a slight drop in the number of cases in the last three days, but remains in the high 40k’s and there is always some bouncing around the top when a peak is reached. Daily cases this high will still continue to put an immense strain on health services. At the time of writing, a new record of 1564 deaths have been recorded. Yet another horrific milestone in this crisis. Pressure will now continue to build on Boris Johnson and his Cabinet as calls grow louder for more to be done to combat the pandemic. There is also a growing noise from workers on sites and in trades for more to be done. This continues to be a fluid situation so it is worth keeping an eye on Government guidance for any changes that might occur.

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F enex, the fenestration sector’s first virtual expo platform, is happy to announce that Nicola Betts has joined the growing team as Head of Marketing. Nicola was part of the team that built up Truemans Windows. One of the great success stories of the last ten years in the industry. Nicola was behind much of the branding that came to symbolise Truemans and build them into a company that was later acquired. Nicola then went on to work for Stevenswood after Truemans was acquired, and has since been producing more fine work as a freelance designer. Nicola now joins the Fenex team as the first major step of this new project is about to get underway. Speaking about the appointment of Nicola to the team, co-founder Jason Grafton-Holt said: “to have Nicola join us at this key time in the development of Fenex is fantastic. The industry knows her for her fantastic work at Truemans, helping to build up the company to the success that it was. Her work ethic, ideas and creativity are going to bring the same success to Fenex. We’re really excited to have her on board.”

Nicola added: “this is a fantastic opportunity and a chance to build a brilliant, game-changing venture. I will be leading the company’s digital marketing, communications, branding and promotions and will be building on deepening the engagement within our existing community. The potential with Fenex is massive and it’s great to be on board at this early stage.” The Windows, Doors & Hardware Expo kicks off on Friday 29th January at 8am. Registration for the event is FREE, and also gives registered users access to all future shows. Meaning registration is only required once. Visit www.fenex.co.uk/ attend to attend and discover brand new products and useful webinars to help support your business in 2021. FOLLOW FENEX ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Twitter: www.twitter.com/FENEX_2021 Facebook: www.facebook.com/FENEX2021 Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/fenex-2021

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PERSONALISED COVID-19 INSTALLATION POLICIES ARE A SUCCESS, SAY ENDURANCE O ver 100 personalised COVID-19 installation policies have been produced by Endurance Doors for their nationwide network of Installer Partners, while the remainder has benefitted from the generic version that was distributed back in April last year. Much was done last year by the solid and secure composite door pioneer to support Installer Partners through the unprecedented pandemic and both effective communication and the provision of dedicated marketing tools did much to support and to re-assure their customers. There has also been a templated risk assessment produced, highlighting the risks and remedial actions that each installation business should consider when carrying out a door installation in the current climate.

This important document not only provides guidelines at the point of fitting but is a handy publication that can be given to consumers for complete reassurance and peace of mind, that all precautions and best practice will be adhered to throughout the installation process. Installer Partners have reported that it has helped cement more sales and ensured that there are no last- minute cancellations by concerned homeowners. Stephen Nadin, Managing Director of Endurance Doors commented: ‘As we remain fully operational as a business, it’s important that we continue to support our Installer Partners in every way possible. The COVID-19 installation policies have been a big success, allowing Installer Partners to add unique content, different colours and logos, prior to print. He continued: ‘While we can see a way out of this thanks to the vaccination programme, we must remain vigilant, cautious and meticulous in the way that we manage business processes from manufacture through to installation.’ For further information on the Endurance Solid and Secure composite door range please call the sales office on 01652 659259, visit www. endurancedoors.co.uk, or e-mail marketing@ endurancedoors.co.uk. You can also add to the Twitter following @EnduranceDoors.

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BIGGER BRISANT ADDS YEARS OF CAPACITY FOR CONTINUING FAST GROWTH

B risant Secure, the hardware house behind Ultion has moved to a new unit which enables it to expand capacity by two-thirds above 2020 operations. The move will secure Brisant’s long-term growth and make room for what the company says are more exciting new products that will change the market. Brisant saw strong growth in 2020, which more than compensated for two missing months due to lockdown. Homeowner traffic to the Ultion website grew 30% in 2020 – the equivalent of 50,000 visitors each month and rising, and the company finished the year ahead of 2019, despite extremely difficult trading conditions. CEO Nick Dutton attributes Brisant’s success to installers selling the benefits of ultra-secure, long-lasting attractive hardware: “Break-ins are a sad reality of life and security is top of most homeowners’ wish lists, but they also want great-looking products that enhance their homes. One of Ultion’s unique selling points for installers is that Ultion doesn’t just add security to their doors: Ultion actually sells doors. Our installer customers are doing very well by giving homeowners the extreme security and long-lasting beautiful hardware they’ve always wanted with Ultion and Sweet. They’re doing a fantastic job of raising awareness of the brands.” Founded in 2013, Brisant Secure quickly took the market by storm by redefining security standards in the hardware industry. It has since become the default for homeowners wanting the best security. Testament to the company’s success, Brisant recently appeared in the annual Sunday Times Virgin Atlantic Fast Track 100 for the second consecutive year, a list of the UK’s 100 fastest-growing companies. Brisant Secure has grown by providing homeowners with the extreme security they’ve always wanted. Discover more about Brisant Secure at www.ultion-lock.co.uk, call 0115 784 3162 or email ultion@brisant- secure.com.

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