NFA MAGAZINE - FEB22

NFA MAGAZINE - FEB22

DIGITAL MAGAZINE

PLUS6*NEW* CATEGORIES

FULL ARTICLE PAGE 2

www.fenestrationawards.co.uk

NFA NEWS

National Fenestration Awards voted for by the industry, for the industry

Participation is open to any person or company in the UK fenestration industry supply chain. The competition works in two parts: nominations and voting. Each year, we launch a huge nominations phase where people put forward the names of people and companies in over 30 categories who they believe deserve to be recognised. If you think someone or a company you know has gone above and beyond this year nominate them, and they could take home the trophy. Nominations opened on the 14th of February and will close on 8th of May 2022 once nominations close shortlists will be announced and voting will open, follow us on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn for those all-important dates. Then, the industry votes on shortlists in each category based on the nominations submitted. We are the only fenestration industry award built upon the industry itself! Winners will be announced at our eagerly anticipated winners event held at the end of this year, where a full day of networking and enjoyment is planned. www.fenestrationawards.co.uk

Taking part in the National Fenestration Awards is completely free at all stages and phases of the competition. The awards are voted for by the industry, for the industry. Anyone who is in the fenestration industry can nominate and vote. This year we have 6 new categories: BDM/Sales Executive of The Year, Director of The Year, Office Manager Of The Year, Door Component Of The Year, Window Component Of The Year & Glass Systems Company Of The Year!

CONTENTS

THIS MONTHS KEY ARTICLES

PAGE 10 EUROCELL JOIN NFA AS NEW AMBASSADOR SPONSORS Eurocell have joined the National Fenestration Awards as Ambassador sponsors for the 2022 campaign! PAGE 22 WINDOW AND DOOR PRICES NEEDED TO RISE, BUT NOT LIKE THIS We have all known that the price at which we sell new windows and doors at has been kept low. PAGE 24 BUILDING OUR SKILLS EXPANDS TRAINING CENTRE NETWORK BOS is expanding its national network of training centres with the addition of two new academy sites.

PAGE 36

KORNICHE BI-FOLDING DOORS USHERS IN 2022 WITH NEW SALES OPPORTUNITIES Korniche’s bi-fold system offers a plethora of benefits to make it the number one choice for installers in 2022

PAGE 42

SHEERLINE ALUMINIUM WINDOWS & DOORS BECOMES NFA CATEGORY SPONSOR NFAs announce Sheerline Aluminium Windows and Doors, has joined the NFAs as a category sponsor.

PAGE 44

INSTALLERS NEED TO BE VERY CAREFULWHEN IT COMES TO CASH FLOW Cash is king, so they say. Cash flow is just as important too says the Double Glazing Blogger. PAGE 48 RENOLIT ANNOUNCE NEW BUSINESS MANAGER James Callan has been appointed as Business Manager in the UK and Ireland to lead the Exterior Solutions sales team.

PAGE 30

MORLEY GLASS BOOSTS UNI-BLINDS MANUFACTURING CAPACITY

As integral blind demand jumps 46%. Morley Glass invested more than £750,000 to increase its capacity.

FEBRUARY EDITION 03

CLIPPINGS & MUSINGS

Moving On...

For many, looking back at 2021 with much positivity is still a difficult challenge. Political uncertainty, economic challenges, and COP26 have all had substantial repercussions….not to mention the dreaded ‘Covid’ word and its aftermath. There will still be many challenges ahead and for some that may be ‘adapting’. Change is never easy for some, but when it comes to moving forward there may well be some continuation into 2022. As business tries to move on from what worked before the pandemic, being able to tap into broader audiences will be essential. If the economy is set to start rocking, it may be necessary to adapt from putting focus on product benefits, to how a business can solve issues for customers. For any business to grow then communicating the right message in the right arena is essential. Advertising budgets are your company’s rainy day expense - adverts help to reinforce strong business messages, on a consistent basis. The right message in brand advertising will help any company to grow much more quickly. Being aware of competitors is also critical. Using problem solving advantages to that of the competition should be the focus - business benefits

over massive spends on new product launches every time. Customers may not necessarily have the budget available for adopting new innovation into their business…they want results and reliability right now. 2022 could well be very difficult for construction - so those who are brave and bold, who have considered cash flow will lead the market.

NATIONAL FENESTRATION AWARDS MAGAZINE 04

FROM HELEN DUVAL 2022

“Investing in staff and the skills they can bring to a business is key to any recovery.”

It may well be that the fenestration sector must continue to cope with material and job skill shortages. With a buoyancy in new contracts, it is essential to adapt and prepare for shortages of all kinds. It is inevitable that the UK skills shortage will continue to make a substantial impact; combine that with rising taxes and hourly wage rates, then training staff to keep them will become a priority. Being able to think about business in the short-term with a regular sideways glance on the future will surely help growth? It is essential to not let the divide between the top and the bottom of a team to grow wide. Those with foresight will nurture and encourage a workforce to pull together. Giving reassurance, particularly in days of new technology, which strikes fear in the hearts of so many. Digitisation will continue to transform this sector, and it is inevitable that companies will become more cost driven, particularly when it comes to promoting their companies. Over the last two years we have seen a dramatic way in how we all work. Flexi space is growing in popularity as occupiers have lower risks and focus on well-being is improved. An amalgam of home and office based opportunities will help to attract the right people and keep those trained to help keep a business at the top of its game.

Investing in staff and the skills they can bring to a business is key to any recovery. Education and retraining will encourage a workforce, with their value recognised it is inevitable that they will see potential in the business for which they work. The idea of ‘building back better’ as our Chancellor regularly shouts out, needs to be supported and promises made need to be kept. If the ramifications from lockdown have taught us anything it is that we are able to adapt to different working methods. Just because something has always worked a particular way, does not mean that it should continue that way. Evaluating what is best for a workforce, customers and the business as a whole should be a priority and that could well mean adapting to big change. Adopting modern methods including, digitisation, AR, and being flexible in evaluating business models will help to ensure success. Changing course to attract and retain the right people will undoubtedly prove challenging but it is critical if we want to grow in a sustainable way throughout 2022.

05

www.fenestrationawards.co.uk

CNC RECYCLING JOIN NFA AS BRAND NEW CATEGORY SPONSOR

With the 2022 National Fenestration Awards campaign about to begin, the industry’s leading awards platform is happy to announce that CNC Recycling are joining the awards as a brand new category sponsor. CNC Recycling are a nationwide PVCu recycling company who have just opened their newest branch in Shepton Mallet near Bath. This brings their total of recycling centres to 9, with plans to open more in the future. Given the rapid advance of PVCu recycling, and the huge sustainability push the industry is about to embark upon, CNC recycling are incredibly well-placed to take advantage of this burgeoning new sector. Lee Clarke, Director of the National Fenestration Awards, commented: “CNC Recycling are really pushing forwards with their expansion plans and as winners in the 2021 campaign, it’s fantastic to have such an innovative and energetic company join the growing NFA family for 2022. We’re looking forward to being able to promote their message across our network and help them to reach as much of the fenestration sector as possible!”

Melanie Reid, Managing Director of CNC Recycling said: “We are joining the National Fenestration Awards at a brilliant time. Coming off the back of our own win in 2021, and with our newest branch opening up in Shepton Mallet, we’re really looking forward to partnering with the NFAs to bring CNC Recycling to as much of the sector as possible, as well as supporting the most progressive and inclusive awards the sector has.” The 2022 National Fenestration Awards campaign has started and features a whole host of new NATIONWIDE UPVCWINDOW RECYCLING CNC Recycling offers a national UPVC recycling service. Our fleet of vehicles can collect your old windows and doors. Ch os CNC Recycling as your trusted and reliable partner to the Fenestration and Buil ing Industry. A sustainable partnership for our future. additions to the categories list. Stay connected with the NFAs: Web: fenestrationawards.co.uk Email: [email protected] Twitter: www.witter.com/NatFenAwards Facebook: www.facebook.com/NatFenAwards LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/51726620 For more information ple se contact: t: 07932 645988 e: [email protected] www.upvc-recycling.com Main Plant: CNC Recycling Ltd, 2 Vulcan Street, Middlesbrough, TS2 1PP Alsooperating fromplants in: Gateshead, Hull, Lochgelly

AW.indd 1

19/01/2021 13:00

06

NATIONAL FENESTRATION AWARDS MAGAZINE

E D I T I O N 2 5

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

67

[email protected]

01634 264 490

FENESTRATION LEADERS INTERVIEWS: IAN SHORT, MD OF MORLEY GLASS

How would you best describe 2021 and what lessons can be learned from it that we can apply to 2022? I have been in the business for 42 years and would definitely say that 2021 was the most challenging year in business, with manufactured glass shortages, coupled with a tornado wiping out one of our main supply chain partners in the Czech Republic, Having said that we have come out of it a lot stronger, because we put a lot into quality and service What was your biggest challenge last year both personally and in business? Daily you never knew how many of your team would be off isolating with Covid and what supply chain element would fall apart next. But with having no holidays you were able to deal in real time with problems as they arose. What do you think is going to be the biggest challenge in 2022 and how would you approach dealing with it? Keeping an eye on inflation busting material increases that are a daily occurrence. What is the best opportunity we have as an industry this year? Consolidate, look after our customers as we start going into smoother waters, as the last couple of years have been a sellers’ market and soon it will be a buyers’ market, you have to show clients that you have supported them 100% over the last couple of years and that will be repaid with loyalty.

Which products (excluding your own) do you expect to grow in popularity in 2022? I Feel all aluminium products will grow, and people will be wanting higher glass specs to get ready to conform with 2023 How best can we manage supply chain problems in the future? In my opinion we rely way too much on the far east for supply chain, and the last 20 months have shown we should manufacture more at home and become a manufacturing nation again and not a service nation. It will take time as we have a skills shortage. Do you expect price increases to level off during 2022 or keep rising? I feel that the prices will settle down after quarter 2 this year. What is the one major product you have coming out in 2022 that the industry should keep an eye out for? We have a phone /tablet app that will link to the W Smart system that we offer and a new blind system that will work perfectly in hospital / care home doors including fire doors called ScreenView. Describe the outlook for 2022 in one word. Exciting!!

08

NATIONAL FENESTRATION AWARDS MAGAZINE

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

MANUFACTURING EXCELLENCE

DUAL SEALED UNITS

RELIABLE & EFFICIENT

COMPLEMENTARY NATIONWIDE DELIVERY

PROFESSIONAL AFTERSALES SERVICE

QUOTES IN 60 MINUTES

SEE LIFE IN PERFECT SYMMETRY For those of us who prefer life in symmetry there’s no need to compromise with the slick Uni-Blinds ® SV+ integrated Venetian blind system - exclusive to Morley Glass & Glazing.

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

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

EUROCELL JOIN NFA AS NEWAMBASSADOR SPONSORS

Eurocell, the UK’s largest fenestration and home improvement products suppliers, have joined the National Fenestration Awards as Ambassador sponsors for the 2022 campaign. This year’s awards campaign, using the hashtag #NFA22 on social media, kicked off on Valentine’s Day to great energy and fanfare, with a new calendar, brand new categories and an awards event set to bring the fireworks in November! UK-based Eurocell is the country’s largest fenestration systems company and supplier of home improvement products, such as the Kyube Garden Room, composite decking, conservatory roof products, as well as a wide range of ancillary products. They also have one of the most extensive trade counter networks across the entire country. Director of the National Fenestration Awards, Lee Clarke, commented: “having Eurocell on board as an Ambassador as we start a new campaign is fantastic news and we’re really looking forward to building a productive partnership together. Eurocell are one of the biggest and leading systems companies in the entire sector, and after their success in the 2021 campaign, we know that their support is going to ensure 2022 is even better. We welcome them on board our growing platform!” Andy McDonnell, Managing Director of Eurocell, also commented: “we have seen the NFAs grow year after year, with their open and inclusive approach to the entire sector, and we see a fantastic opportunity to work together to not only support the awards, but to get the Eurocell message and brand out to as much of the industry as possible.

The NFAs are a marquee event in the industry calendar and we’re excited to build a very positive relationship between us.” The National Fenestration Awards are the only awards platform that is run and decided by the participation of everyone in the sector, from factory floor to the boardroom. Nominations, shortlists and voting are put together entirely by industry input, which makes them the most inclusive awards the sector has. With an updated categories list for 2022 it also reinforces their claim to be the most inclusive too. Nominations for #NFA22 are now open and you can take part here: www.fenestrationawards.co.uk/nominations/ Stay connected with the NFAs: Web: fenestrationawards.co.uk Email: [email protected] Twitter: www.witter.com/NatFenAwards Facebook: www.facebook.com/NatFenAwards LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/51726620 “we’re excited to buildaverypositive relationshipTOGETHER”

10

NATIONAL FENESTRATION AWARDS MAGAZINE

The industry’s favourite colour coating specialist

AN INDUSTRY LEADING COLOUR COATING SPECIALIST FOR WINDOWS, DOORS, AND ROOFLINE ANY COLOUR IN 5 DAYS

Get a FREE Quote on 01924 454856 or visit kolorseal.co.uk

FENEX VIDEO UPDATES TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT FENEX2022 & FENEX TELFORD www.fenex.co.uk [email protected] @FENEX_2022

FENEX 2022 SPECIAL Join us for a special with Richard Lannen of Glazing Insider.

VIDEO

12

NATIONAL FENESTRATION AWARDS MAGAZINE

www.fenex.co.uk

New Part L Regulations Come into effect 15th June 2022 Tighter regulations will soon require replacement windows and doors to achieve at least a 1.4 U-value, or B energy rating.*

Prestige

Windows, doors and bi-folds

With Thermlock ® inside, our entire Prestige range of windows, doors and bi-folds are ready for the new stricter Part L standards, with standard glazing. Is your aluminium supplier?

sheer l i ne . com/READY | 01 332 978000

*Abridged standards. Please see the full Part L regulations for details.

E D I T I O N 2 5

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

15

www.hegla.co.uk

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

ALUMINIUM:AGREAT OPTIONONALLPROPERTY TYPES FROM HELEN DUVAL 2022

When it comes to aluminium windows or doors, there are no ‘bad’ aluminium products, as the leading brands such as Schuco, Reynaers and Comar all share similar material specifications. For contemporary projects, aluminium is now a very popular choice, as they look good and offer many benefits in terms of practicality, security and thermal efficiency. That said, aluminium can also work very well in more traditional properties and period renovations. The leading companies naturally ensure that their products are tested, re-tested and manufactured to the highest industry standards and if there are issues regarding an installation it won’t be in the design. The top aluminium systems companies invest a lot of money testing, certifying and ensuring that the windows which are brought to market meet the promises they make. For residential installations it is not that hard to find a good aluminium system such as Stellar Aluminium, Comar Eco, or Deceuninck Decalu make great products for replacement projects or new builds. Design, energy efficiency, colour and of course security remain priorities for homeowners. Installers familiar with a brand’s composition, styling and usage, will be able to advise end users with the choice of product that is best suited to both traditional or modern homes. Opening and closing front, rear or side doors can differ greatly in terms of design and use, with hinged, folding, sliding or even lift and slide options available. When approaching consumers, understanding how aluminium differs from upvc will help. As both have different characteristics and performance levels, it is wise to understand so the homeowner can make an informed choice. UPVC Windows offer an affordable,

long-lasting and low maintenance option, while aluminium options are known to be strong, slimline and they make an excellent material for window and door frames. Considered ‘the architect’s dream’ by some, aluminium can be moulded into almost any shape or frame and it will strong, reliable and secure. Upvc window properties make it an excellent choice as an affordable, durable and non-flexible window frame. Whilst more expensive than upvc windows, aluminium options on the market but the long lasting quality makes this a superb, long-term investment for a home. If UPVC windows are installed the frames will withstand some of the harshest weather conditions, without warping. As a low maintenance product this type of window or door can last for around 15 - 20 years, making them good value for money. Equally the strength of aluminium does not warp or rot in extreme weather conditions and both types of window have their benefits to suit the personal choice or budget of any homeowner. For example, those wanting triple glazing, aluminium’s slimline frames ensure that a sleek look can still be achieved. When it comes down to choosing between the two, the budget, design and needs of the customer will be the deciding factor.

16

NATIONAL FENESTRATION AWARDS MAGAZINE

17

www.fenestrationawards.co.uk

E D I T I O N 2 5

5

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

21 31

www.fenestrationawards.co.uk

If you are no longer interested in receiving emails, you can unsubscribe instantly

Y

Create a team Create a customer Create a job Calendar View Capture your job Onsite Review your jobs

LEKA SYSTEM SOLID ROOF

how it works Create a team Create a customer Create a job Calendar View Capture your job Onsite Review your jobs

Onsite 7 can edit your job stage headings, making them more bespoke to your business. eg. change the title ‘sales’ to ‘quotation’ or ‘survey’ to ‘first fix etc.

how it works Create a team Create a customer Create a job Calendar View Capture your job Onsite Review your jobs

MARKET LEADING PRICES NOW AVAILABLE WITH OUR ECO RANGE

Support Onsite 7 can edit your job stage headings, making them more bespoke to your business. eg. change the title ‘sales’ to ‘quotation’ or ‘survey’ to ‘first fix etc.

Onsite 7 can edit your job stage headings, making them more bespoke to your business. eg. change the title ‘sales’ to ‘qu tation’ or ‘survey’ to ‘first fix etc.

We have varied support staff on hand, both providing hard support and soft support services. All of our team are incredible experienced which helps them get to the bottom of support requests, promptly and efciently. Support Our ‘soft’ support team work in the background, providing technical updates, service monitoring and security checks. This ensures the very best service levels are maintained for our customers. The ‘hard’ support team, deal directly with our customers, helping them through product queries, providing quick demonstration results and even tailoring their software to their individual business needs.

Sup We have va providing h services. Al experienced bottom of s efciently. Our ‘soft’ su background service mon ensures the maintained

Y e The ‘hard’ s customers, queries, pro results and their individ Our ‘soft’ support team work in the background, providing technical updates, service monitoring and security checks. This ensures the very best service levels are maintained for our customers. The ‘hard’ support team, deal directly with our customers, helping them through product queries, providing quick demonstration results and even tailoring their software to their individual business needs. U We have varied support staff on hand, both providing hard support and soft support services. All of our team are incredible experienced which helps them get to the bottom of support requests, promptly and efciently.

JOIN OUR NATIONWIDE INSTALLER/FABRICATOR NETWORK AND START INCREASING PROFITS TODAY!

 BUILDING CONTROL COMPLIANT  COMPETITIVE PRICING  GENUINE 2 DAY INSTALL  NO ALUMINIUM OR TIMBER  MFA BUILDING CONTROL APPROVED  40 YEAR WARRANTY  LIGHTWEIGHT GRP SYSTEM  LEAD GENERATION SERVICE  JOIN OUR NATIONWIDE INSTALLER / FABRICATOR NETWORK

WE ARE HERE TO HELP ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS, PROVIDE TRAINING AND CAN EVEN ASSIST WITH SETTING UP YOUR ONSITE 7 SYSTEM

WE ARE HERE TO HELP ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS, PROVIDE TRAINING AND WITH SETTING UP YOUR ONSITE 7 SYSTEM

WE ARE HERE TO HELP ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS, PROVIDE TRAINING AND CAN EVEN ASSIST WITH SETTING UP YOUR ONSITE 7 SYSTEM

WE ARE HERE TO HE

Michael Hollyer Director | ClearstyleWindows

Leigh Barnes Director | JLS Electrical Services The beauty of using Onsite 7 is that any person with the admin console access can find information, or photo/video evidence to relay to the customer.

Directo

Having the ability, by customer, and on a job by job basis to allocate and review every step of the customer journey was incredible. It is as if the software was designed specifically for my business. Using Onsite 7 I can see the ‘sales stage’, ‘survey stage’ ‘install stage’ and ‘any service calls attended against the jobs. This allows me to review previous visits and action visits either assigned to myself or my team members.

In all hone software a it was dev perform provide e track of job footage/n installat

hael Hollyer | ClearstyleWindows

Leigh Barnes Director | JLS Electrical Services The beauty of using Onsite 7 is that any person with the admin console access can find information, or photo/video evidence to relay to the customer. We can even download a customer job report with their signature and customer satisfaction rating… this is invaluable for our industry.

Luke Smith Director | The Green RoomBuilding Co In all honesty it was di cult to find a fault with the software and understood the reasoning as to why it was developed. It simply helps a trade business perform to its best and has certainly helped us provide evidence of the quality of our work, keep track of jobs and have comfort in being able to see footage/notes and photos being taken from site installations if we as company owners are not physically there ourselves.

Michael Hollyer Director | ClearstyleWindows

Leigh Barnes Director | JLS Electrical Services The beauty of using Onsite 7 is that any person with the admin console access can find information, or photo/video evidence to relay to the customer. We can even download a customer job report with their signature and customer satisfaction rating… this is invaluable for our industry.

L ke Smith Director | The Green RoomBuilding Co In all honesty it was di cult to find a fault with the software and understood the reasoning as to why it was developed. It simply helps a trade business perform to its best an has certainly helped us provide evidence of the quality of our work, keep track of jobs and have comfort in being able to see footage/notes and photos being taken from site installations if we as company owners are not physically there ourselves. We can even download a customer job rep rt wit their signature and customer satisfaction rating… this is invaluable for our industry.

Michael Hollyer Director | ClearstyleWindows

ty, by customer, and on a job by cate and review every step of the ney was incredible. It is as if the designed specifically for my ng Onsite 7 I can see the ‘sales stage’ ‘install stage’ and ‘any ttended against the jobs. This eview previous visits and action ssigned to myself or my team members.

Having the ability, by customer, and on a job by job basis to allocate and review every step of the customer journey was incredible. It is as if the software was design d sp cifically for m business. Using Onsite 7 I can see the ‘sales stage’, ‘survey stage’ ‘install stage’ and ‘any service calls attended against the jobs. This allows me to review previous visits and action visits either assigned to myself or my team members.

Having the ability, by customer, and on a jo job basis to allocate and review every step custom journey was incredible. It is as if software was designed specifically for m business. Using Onsite 7 I can see the ‘sa stage’, ‘survey stage’ ‘install stage’ and ‘a service calls atte ded against the jobs. T allows me to review previous visits and ac visits either assigned to myself or my tea members. SIGN UP TODAY AT ON

CONTACT US FOR A QUOTATION

RECRUITING FABRICATORS AND INSTALLERS NATIONWIDE NOW! GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND INCREASE PROFITS CALL: 0800 773 4040 | EMAIL: [email protected] | VISIT: www.lekasystems.co.uk SIGN UP TODAY AT ONSITE7.CO.UK SIGN UP TODAY AT O SITE7.CO.UK

how it works Create a team Create a customer Create a job Calendar View Capture your job Onsite Review your jobs Are Unfair Claims Hurting Your Business? Let Onsite 7's Job Management Software help you to grow your business and prevent claims for work done well. Are Unfair Claims Hurting Your Business? Let Onsite 7's Job Management Software help you to grow your business and prevent claims for work done well. Onsite 7 can edit your job stage headings, making them more bespoke to your business. eg. change the title ‘sales’ to ‘quotation’ or ‘survey’ to ‘first fix etc. Your Business? help you to grow your business and prevent claims for work done well.

Support

We have varied support staff on hand, both providing hard support and soft support services. All of our team are incredible experienced which helps them get to the bottom of support requests, promptly and efciently. Are Unfair Claims H Your Business? Let Onsite 7's help you to g prevent claim

how it works Create a team Create a customer Create a job Calendar View Capture your job Onsite Review your jobs

Our ‘soft’ support team work in the background, providing technical updates, service monitoring and security checks. This ensures the very best service levels are maintained for our customers. The ‘hard’ support team, deal directly with our customers, helping them through product queries, providing quick demonstration results and even tailoring their software to their individual business needs.

pport

aried support staff on hand, both hard support and sof support ll of our team are incredible d which helps them get to the support requests, promptly and upport team work in the d, providing technical updates, nitoring and security checks. This e very best service levels are for our customers. support team, deal directly with our helping them through product oviding quick demonstration even tailoring their software to dual business needs.

Onsite 7 can edit your job stage headings, making them more bespoke to your business. eg. change the title ‘sales’ to ‘quotation’ or ‘survey’ to ‘first fix etc.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS, PROVIDE TRAINING AND CAN EVEN ASSIST WITH SETTING UP YOUR ONSITE 7 SYSTEM

Support

You and your team can capture every stage of your job Using the Onsite 7 App You and your team can capture every stage of your job Using the Onsite 7 App Our ‘soft’ support team work in the background, providing technical updates, service monitoring and security checks. This ensures the very best service levels are maintained for our customers. The ‘hard’ support team, deal directly with our customers, helping them through product queries, providing quick d mons ration results and even tailoring their soft a t their individual business needs. CAN EVEN ASSIST

Michael Hollyer Director | ClearstyleWindows You and your team can capture every stage of your job Using the Onsite 7 App We have varied support staff on hand, both providing hard support and soft support services. All of our team are incredible experienced which helps them get to the bottom of support requests, promptly and efciently.

Leigh Barnes Director | JLS Electrical Services The beauty of using Onsite 7 is that any person with the admin console access can find information, or photo/video evidence to relay to the customer.

Luke Smith Director | The Green RoomBuilding Co In all honesty it was di cult to find a fault with the software and understood the reasoning as to why it was developed. It simply helps a trade business perform to its best and has certainly helped us provide evidence of the quality of our work, keep track of jobs and have comfort in being able to see footage/notes and photos being taken from site installations if we as company owners are not physically there ourselves.

Having the ability, by customer, and on a job by job basis to allocate and review every step of the customer journey was incredible. It is as if the

software was designed specifically for my business. Using Onsite 7 I can see the ‘sales stage’, ‘survey stage’ ‘install stage’ and ‘any service calls attended against the jobs. This allows me to review previous visits and action visits either assigned to myself or my team members.

We can even download a customer job report with their signature and customer satisfaction rating… this is invaluable for our industry. You and your team can capture every stage of your job Using the Onsite 7 App

how it works additional features

ELP ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS, PROVIDE TRAINING AND CAN EVEN ASSIST WITH SETTING UP YOUR ONSITE 7 SYSTEM

Create a team Create a customer Create a job Calendar view Capture your job Onsite Review your jobs Leigh Barn s Director | JLS Electrical Services The beauty of using Onsite 7 is that any person with the admin console access can find information, or photo/video evidence to relay to the customer. We can even download a customer job report with their signature and cust mer satisfaction rating… this is invaluable for our industry.

Dynamic calendar,

Job costing and profit reporting Dynamic job number ranges User permission controls And much more

Luke Smith or | The Green RoomBuilding Co esty it was di cult to find a fault with the and understood the reasoning as to why veloped. It simply helps a trade business m to its best and has certainly helped us evidence of the quality of our work, keep bs and have comfort in being able to see notes and photos being taken from site tions if we as company owners are not physically there ourselves.

SIGN UP TODAY AT ONSITE7.CO.UK

drag and drop appointments Link with Xero and Quickbooks Sales, Survey, Admin, Install & Service Stages End to end job management In all honesty it was di cult to find a fault with the software and understood the reasoning as to why it was developed. It simply helps a trade business perform to its best and has certainly helped us provide evidence of the quality of our work, keep track of jobs and have comfort in being able to see footage/notes and photos being taken from site installations if we as company owners are not physically here ourselves. www.onsite7.co.uk Luke Smith Director | The Green RoomBuilding Co

You dont have to

be computer genius to use Onsite 7!

Job management software that’s Built for the trade... By the trade

You dont have to

ob by of the f the

You dont have to

Tel: 0800 0029748

[email protected]

my ales any This ction am

NSITE7.CO.UK

be compute genius to us Onsite 7! Job management software Built for the trade... By the be computer genius to use Onsite 7!

Job management software that’s Built for the trade... By the trade Job man e ent software that’s Built for the trade... By the trade

www.onsite7.co.uk

Tel: 0800 0029748

SIGN UP TODAY AT ONSITE7.CO.UK

www.onsite7.co.uk

Tel: 0800 0029748 Tel: 0800 0029748

[email protected]

www.onsite7.co.uk

[email protected]

WINDOWANDDOOR PRICESNEEDEDTORISE, BUTNOTLIKETHIS

I have long argued that the price of new windows and doors should be higher than it was. In fact, it’s a point I have made almost since the beginning of DGB nearly 13 years ago. I sensed that there was general agreement with that sentiment. However, I don’t think the eye-watering price inflation is what we all had in mind. Not so fast When I get a moment, I will dig out a quote from 2019 and price it again at 2022 costs and see what the difference is. I already know it will be in the significant double-digits. I suspect many of you reading this on the installation side of our sector will also see the same thing. For a very long time, we have all known that the price at which we sell new windows and doors to the general public had been kept artificially low for far too long. Through our propensity to sell on price first, quality second, prices end-users paid for their new windows and doors did not rise with inflation as other products did in other sectors. If you take a look at the cost of a family saloon car, or a holiday, or a new Kitchen or Bathroom, the prices in those sectors have risen steadily over time. The same cannot be said for our own goods and that is ultimately down to how we have chosen to sell. Other sectors around us appear to have recognised that quality and service commands higher prices. We were late for that party. The reality is, however, that debating about selling on quality to command a higher price is now dead in the water. Relentless price increases from June 2020 onwards has rendered that particular debate

pointless as the entire industry has had to raise its prices astronomically in such a short space of time. That being said, you should always sell based on quality first. It’s a far more profitable way to go. But the more specific point about trying to command a higher price has kind of been taken out of our hands and forced upon us anyway. In an ideal world, the pace of price inflation would have been at a more gentle pace, with a yearly upward shift of mid-range single-digit percentage increases. Say 3-5% per year. This would have been a far more manageable environment for everyone and would have been far less disruptive. Instead, we have seen the cost of resin, glass and other raw materials rise over 100% over the last 12- 18 months. That certainly was not the plan. Close to a ceiling The greater concern and one that I sense is becoming more vocal is that at some point we’re going to hit a limit when it comes down to what homeowners are willing to pay for their new windows and doors. Working at our installations business I completely understand that sentiment. I have seen our prices to our clients rise wildly in such a short space of time that it can make you feel uneasy and uncomfortable. And there are times when I do think that perhaps we are reaching the limit as to what people are prepared to pay. For some families, with the cost of living crisis and rising inflation, we may have already hit that ceiling. Despite all of this, that does not mean we’re in for a world of pain. The simple way to address and confront higher prices with clients is to communicate effectively and with impact, the various benefits and

22

NATIONAL FENESTRATION AWARDS MAGAZINE

Jason Grafton-Holt www.doubleglazingblogger.co.uk [email protected] @glazingblogge r

USPs of the product you are selling to them. For example, if I’m trying to sell a door to a client for £2500 (which is a lot for my part of the world) and I present them the price with little to no information about the door itself, they will simply dismiss it. If I explain the finer details of the door with competency, confidence, and how this new door is going to benefit them on multiple fronts and that the build quality is very high, suddenly £2500 becomes a much more reasonable offer. This is where our industry will need to be on the front foot. The cost of living crisis and inflation this year

means selling won’t be as easy as it was last year or the year before. We’re all going to have to work harder to get those deals over the line. And with raw material prices the way they are, and still rising, selling based on price, aiming to be the cheapest, is not a realistic long term tactic anymore. We have to be confident and sell based on the quality of what we do, as well as the service that backs it up. If we can do that, then I think our sector will do just fine in 2022, even if we think it’s not going to be the honeypot of the last year or so.

23

www.fenestrationawards.co.uk

BUILDING OUR SKILLS EXPANDS TRAINING CENTRE NETWORK

Building Our Skills is expanding its national network of practical training centres with the addition of two new academy sites. The first is via a partnership with BUILD training, located near Heathrow airport, and the other through collaboration with Glass & Fenestration Training Solutions (GFTS) in Cornwall. The expansion of the delivery network for practical training follows quickly after the acquisition by Building Our Skills of the digital assets and course content of Profitter which includes a range of courses including an introduction to fenestration for beginners, intermediate and advanced courses, along with specialist opportunities and surveying. BUILD is an independent training provider, working with learners of a broad range of ages from sixteen up to seventy-five to facilitate their entry into the construction sector. Commenting on its partnership with Building Our Skills, BUILD’s Head of Centre, Marcia Wootton and Jane Gunn, BUILD’s Head Of Construction jointly stated: “It’s great to be part of the Building Our Skills ‘family’. The aims of BOS and BUILD are very much aligned. We’re fans of what BOS is trying to achieve, and hope that we can contribute to this too. We’re passionate about the fenestration industry, and want to help address the skills gap from which it is suffering. In particular, we can help to encourage younger people into the industry by ensuring they see the real career opportunities it presents.” Glass & Fenestration Training Solutions (GFTS) offer a very broad range of apprenticeships, training and qualifications across the whole of the country in many aspects of the fenestration industry. These include glass processing, installation & surveying, curtain walling, glazing, fabrication of glass supporting systems and associated qualifications. GFTS reflect the view put forward by BUILD training. Samantha Tinker, GFTS’s Director of Business and Quality says:“Here at GFTS we also share the aims of Building Our Skills, and believe it’s vital to encourage new people into the fenestration industry. Qualifications

and good-quality training are a means of helping learners to carve out a career in the industry and help business managers to retain their staff and compete competitively. We back Building Our Skills totally and are very pleased to be part of its network of training providers.” In addition to its original practical training academy at Sheffield and the two new practical training centre, Building Our Skills is looking at adding further sites, including the next proposed one in the Scottish Borders. All practical training content is formally GQA accredited giving learners a skills card to carry with them to show their achievements, and which can be added to as they enrol for further, more advanced courses. This latest initiative from Building Our Skills to open two new centres is in line with its twin aims of bringing more new people into the fenestration industry and upskilling industry employees to promote personal and professional development, encourage employee loyalty, and to raise standards. Commenting on the new development, John Ogilvie, Director of Building Our Skills said: “Here at Building Our Skills we strongly believe that practical training is the way forward for the industry. Opening these two new centres is a great step forward for the industry and demonstrates our commitment to raising standards in fenestration. It’s gratifying that we are able to offer training to support industry employees to do their jobs to the highest standards, and that we are now able to do this on a regional basis which has obvious appeal for those wanting to train.” More information on Building Our Skills - Making Fenestration, Glass and Glazing a Career of Choice - is available at www.buildingourskills.co.uk or through www.profitter.org.uk

24

NATIONAL FENESTRATION AWARDS MAGAZINE

New Part L Regulations Come into effect 15th June 2022 Tighter regulations will soon require replacement windows and doors to achieve at least a 1.4 U-value, or B energy rating.*

Prestige

Windows, doors and bi-folds

With Thermlock ® inside, our entire Prestige range of windows, doors and bi-folds are ready for the new stricter Part L standards, with standard glazing. Is your aluminium supplier?

sheer l i ne . com/READY | 01 332 978000

*Abridged standards. Please see the full Part L regulations for details.

SHEERLINEAPPOINTS NEW PAINT PLANT MANAGER

Aluminium extrusion manufacturer Garnalex has appointed Greg Grabski, a highly experienced Production Manager, to help the company introduce a state-of-the-art powder coating plant at its existing UK manufacturing facility, all part of its ambitious growth plans. Greg is well-versed in working in fast-paced production environments, having previously worked for a global automotive company in a similar role. Greg will be responsible for overseeing and managing the execution of the new aluminium paint machinery, day-to-day operations and employing the right skilled workers to optimise the efficiency of the new facility. “Garnalex has impressive plans to growSheerline’s range” Greg commented: “I am not from a fenestration background, but it is clearly evident that Garnalex has impressive plans to grow Sheerline’s range of products and support the company’s overall strategy to ensure customers gain competitive advantage by dealing with a British supplier.” Garnalex began manufacturing its Sheerline aluminium products in 2020, after investing over £15m in energy-efficient machinery at its site in Derbyshire. Since then, the business has seen unprecedent growth of its Classic and Prestige systems, Prestige Bi-fold Doors, and the S1 Roof Lantern. A key contributing factor to this exceptional growth has been Garnalex’s high level of vertical integration, sourcing material from within the UK to produce all major components from a single production site. This provides customers with reduced lead times, and lower carbon emissions.

Greg continues, “Even though we manufacture all major components for Sheerline on site, we currently subcontract the painting. With this investment, we will gain greater control over how the products are finished and supplied. In the coming months, I will be tasked with providing customers with a smooth, seamless shift in supply, supervising the installation of the new paint facility and contribute to reducing customer lead-times on a long-term basis.” Garnalex Production Director Ross Hartshorn adds, “Greg was the ideal candidate for this position, having spent 15 years in a similar environment, acquiring a deep understanding of quality management systems, recruiting, and training staff, and working at senior management levels. As a result of Greg’s previous knowledge, he will know-doubt provide Garnalex with the expertise we need to ensure our customers continue to receive quality products, in the timeframe they need. We are extremely pleased to have him on board.” Sheerline products will continue to be available in the same full range of traditional colours as well other premium, anodised, and bespoke finishes, but supplied with a reduced carbon-footprint and with a greater degree of control, strengthening Sheerline’s agile supply promise. To learn more about Sheerline, visit www.sheerline.com or www.sheerlinevideo.com. You can also call 01332 978000 or email [email protected]. Follow @SheerlineSystem for the latest news and updates.

www.fenestrationawards.co.uk

27

GQA INTERVIEWS NON- EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 1 ofaSeries of InterviewsMarking 20Years ofGQA

GQA Qualifications celebrates twenty years of trading in January 2022. A part of the activities to mark the event is a series of interviews with the directors of the organisation. Here we talk to John Ogilvie, one of GQA’s five Non- Executive Directors and an Ambassador for Building Our Skills - Making Fenestration a Career of Choice. He has been involved with GQA for four years. What does being a Director of GQA mean to you? It’s a real privilege to be part of the GQA ‘family’ where I’m able to use the experience I’ve built up over the past 30 years and complement that of the other directors to give something back. It’s gratifying to be involved with helping to make the industry attractive to potential new entrants and to help people to advance their skills in order to develop their career. What do you think are the strengths of GQA? I think it’s marvellous that GQA provides qualifications for such a broad range of roles in the fenestration industry without being material-biased. This impartial approach is one of its strengths, for sure. In addition, the organisation is flexible enough to be able to offer qualifications that are relevant because they meet the ever-changing demands of the industry. What does your experience bring to the table? I’ve worked with systems companies in marketing and sales roles, and latterly I ran a trade association dealing with all aspects of the supply chain. A key part of the latter was the training the association offered. Having been closely involved in that, and developing and running a competent persons scheme, my role with GQA feels like a natural progression and a good fit. I really appreciate the value of a qualification in order to prove competence - it’s a great thing to achieve and boosts the learner’s confidence. And of course, for employers, having formally assessed staff is a great way to differentiate your company from your competition. What changes have you seen in GQA over the past twenty years you’d like to highlight? I’ve been involved with GQA for four years, so I only really feel properly qualified to comment on that period. I’m very pleased to have witnessed the range of qualifications offered by GQA expand considerably in that time. GQA is the only body offering the CSCS card in the fenestration industry, and it’s been wonderful to see the uptake in this accelerate. I would also highlight GQA’s moves into other sectors such as printing, the nuclear industry, scouting and general construction. The exacting standards of, for example, the nuclear industry are testimony to GQA’s high quality offering. In addition, it’s great to see the additional training centres around the country with whom GQA is now aligned. Each one is rigorously vetted to ensure it meets GQA’s high standards.

How important do you feel qualifications & training are? Extremely important. The fenestration industry is a fantastic one in which to work. But, approximately 25% of its employees are set to retire over the next 10 years. This means the existing skills shortage could become even more acute. We need to attract new blood into the industry and demonstrate career paths that are underpinned by qualifications. Also, we need to be able to assist people who are considering a change of career and need qualifications to get started. For employers, it’s crucial that they are able to retain staff, and one means of facilitating this is by investing in their skills and training. This is why the practical training offered by Building Our Skills is so important and why I’m an Ambassador of this not-for-profit organisation. We’re a great industry, and we’ve just got to prove to people - especially young people - that this is an attractive place to work. The industry has moved on considerably, and today - as proved by GQA’s recent survey - parents are more likely to recommend it as an option for their offspring than they used to. With attitudes changing, it is no longer the case that parents are automatically pushing their offspring down the university route. These days, they are placing far more value than ever before on vocational training, which has got to be a good thing for the industry. We just need to keep hammering home the message that the fenestration industry offers a whole plethora of roles, and it’s not just all about selling windows and doors. Where do you see GQA heading in the future? I think we need to continue to listen carefully to industry employers and engage with them in order to ensure that we carry on offering qualifications that are relevant and in keeping with industry developments. Part of this picture will be to keep a close eye on legislation, building regulations and industry trends. An illustrative example of this point would be that as the influence of automation and I.T. grows apace, we might need to offer new qualifications to support them. As new roles and job types take shape we must make sure they are in our ‘basket’ of qualifications. In addition, we need to continue to focus on our core activities and promote the importance of training and qualifications generally. More information on GQA is available at www.gqaqualifications.com.

28

NATIONAL FENESTRATION AWARDS MAGAZINE