Glassex 2002: Review @ The Gl@zine

GLASSEX 2002: THE GL@ZINE REVIEW: Part 1

Are you the winner of The Composite Door, System X?

Prior to Glassex 2002 Panels Plus sent out invitations to its customers and
the Press inviting them to attend the launch of System X.

All the invitations were numbered and the winning number was drawn on the
last day of the exhibition, and wins its holder one of the company's latest
doors.

The number drawn was 087. The winner with the invitation bearing this number should contact Nick Lake at Panels Plus to claim their prize.

Nick Lake, Panels Plus Communications Director said, 'Glassex 2002 exceeded all expectations, the focus of attention centred on System X our revolutionary new door that can be installed into and colour match up to 95 per cent of doorframe systems.'

A considerable amount of interest was also shown in the company's new Eternal 2002 brochure that features the entire Panels Plus range of products.

Visitors and Press kept Senior Management, Regional Sales and Depot Managers manning the stand, busy throughout the show.

Nick Lake commented, 'The feedback we get from meeting potential and existing customers in this way is great for our business, and directly drives the way we develop our future plans'.
Tel: 01708 630 045

K2 SETS THE STANDARD

K2 Conservatory Roof Systems took pride of place at Glassex 2002 with what proved to be an impressive and large-scale presence.

K2's innovatively designed stand included a large span lantern conservatory roof which incorporated a distinctive clock tower.

The 10mtr by 9mtr conservatory created the ideal atmosphere from under which K2 were able to showcase their next generation of new products, for both the UK and USA markets and additions to their suite of marketing support literature.

K2 marketing manager, Iain McInnes, says: "Glassex once again lived up to its reputation, for us, not only did it provide the ideal forum in which to cement existing customer relations, but it also provided us with a number of quality potential enquiries."

"We will be following up these leads which will inevitably result in an expansion to the dealer network and additional business for our dealers. The signs are looking very good for a further period of rapid growth for K2 and the establishment of the brand as a genuine industry leader."

COMBILIFT UPDATE

Since its previous attendance at Glassex 2001, Combilift Ltd., the Irish manufacturer of the world's first engine powered all-wheel drive industrial multi-directional forklift, has experienced a year of unprecedented growth and claims to have revolutionised handling and storage methods within the sector.

The four way capability of the Combilift and its ability to work inside and out on uneven terrain in all weather conditions has made it a firm favourite as a robust and reliable replacement for a combination of other forklifts (counterbalance, front- and sideloaders) with many of the major names in the extrusion and fabricating industry.

Combilift now exports to 29 countries, has increased turnover by 98% within the last year and has been the recipient of major awards, with MD Martin McVicar named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2001, and the company gaining the title of DHL Exporter of the Year 2001. Close attention to customer feedback and a programme of continuous development at the 60,000 ft2 Co. Monaghan production facility has resulted in two new models, which made their exhibition debut at this years Glassex.

BEST GLASSEX PROCLAIMS WINLOCK

Philip Swann, sales director of Winlock Security returned to his office with significant potential business following the company’s best appearance for many years at the Glassex Exhibition, NEC, Birmingham.

'There were more stand visitors this year at Glassex and they seemed more buoyant than in recent shows,' explained Philip.
'We tailored our stand this year to demonstrate our capabilities beyond the production of our branded window hardware. We were keen to show our expertise in delivering bespoke and innovative solutions to customers by utilising our outstanding core abilities in design, die-casting, presswork and light assembly work.

'The result is that we have four commissions from customers to produce new products and a further two major overseas contracts in hand. What’s more we have had invitations from five companies to provide Winlock designers to work with them in-house on projects so that they can tap into the special innovative skills of our people,' added Philip.

The fact that all Winlock’s products have received BBA approval generated additional interest, especially in the ‘new build’ area. Winlock’s capability to customise products for individual customers and offer the production flexibility to create even low-volume specials to meet fabrication or contract needs, was also a key discussion point on the stand.

BEST GLASSEX FOR HAFFNER

Haffner GB Limited has reported its best Glassex ever with sales of its SBA machining centre and CNC corner cleaner exceeding all expectations.

The SBA machining centre has confirmed itself as one of the market leaders when it comes to efficiency, reliability and cost effectiveness. These machines have a proven record with fabricators producing upwards of 250 windows per week who are experiencing large savings in both manpower and materials which in turn finances the machine.

Haffner 3-head welder

The CNC corner cleaners for both corner and transoms have also proved to be very popular. Special features include a user-friendly computer programme with touch corner control screen; fast cycle times and profile recognition installed as a standard item.

Glassex was also an opportunity to launch the new range of welding machines. Special features include quick and accurate setting times by means of automatic head movement combined with pneumatic back fences, eliminating the need for any manual settings and operator error.Pictured here is the SF-03-TB three head combination welder with transom/cruciform and corner welding heads. With PLC control unit for optimum performance.
Contact Dave Thomas
Tel: 01785 814032

SYNSEAL 'OVERWHELMED'

After a gap of two years the well-publicised return of Synseal Extrusions Ltd to Glassex lived up to its name. Both customers and potential customers came to the stand to see for themselves the Shield Conservatory System.

'The response was quite literally overwhelming,' comments Nick Dutton, Sales and Marketing Director of Synseal. 'So much so that we’re still analysing visitor numbers. First indications show that we’ve had in the region of 300 enquiries from non-customers alone. The massive stand and the 15 members of staff we had manning the stand at any one time, were certainly needed for the number of visitors we had.

The icing on the cake for us was one of our last visitors who came from Kent to the NEC at 3pm on the last day, purely to see the Shield Conservatory System.'


GLASSEX 2002: THE GL@ZINE REVIEW: Part 1
Are you the winner of The Composite Door, System X? Prior to Glassex 2002 Panels Plus sent out invitations to its customers and the Press inviting them to attend the launch of System X. All the invitations were numbered and the winning number was drawn on the last day of the exhibition, and wins its holder one of the company's latest doors. The number drawn was 087. The winner with the invitation bearing this number should contact Nick Lake at Panels Plus to claim their prize. Nick Lake, Panels Plus Communications Director said, 'Glassex 2002 exceeded all expectations, the focus of attention centred on System X our revolutionary new door that can be installed into and colour match up to 95 per cent of doorframe systems.' A considerable amount of interest was also shown in the company's new Eternal 2002 brochure that features the entire Panels Plus range of products. Visitors and Press kept Senior Management, Regional Sales and Depot Managers manning the stand, busy throughout the show. Nick Lake commented, 'The feedback we get from meeting potential and existing customers in this way is great for our business, and directly drives the way we develop our future plans'. Tel: 01708 630 045 K2 SETS THE STANDARD K2 Conservatory Roof Systems took pride of place at Glassex 2002 with what proved to be an impressive and large-scale presence. K2's innovatively designed stand included a large span lantern conservatory roof which incorporated a distinctive clock tower. The 10mtr by 9mtr conservatory created the ideal atmosphere from under which K2 were able to showcase their next generation of new products, for both the UK and USA markets and additions to their suite of marketing support literature. K2 marketing manager, Iain McInnes, says: "Glassex once again lived up to its reputation, for us, not only did it provide the ideal forum in which to cement existing customer relations, but it also provided us with a number of quality potential enquiries." "We will be following up these leads which will inevitably result in an expansion to the dealer network and additional business for our dealers. The signs are looking very good for a further period of rapid growth for K2 and the establishment of the brand as a genuine industry leader." COMBILIFT UPDATE Since its previous attendance at Glassex 2001, Combilift Ltd., the Irish manufacturer of the world's first engine powered all-wheel drive industrial multi-directional forklift, has experienced a year of unprecedented growth and claims to have revolutionised handling and storage methods within the sector. The four way capability of the Combilift and its ability to work inside and out on uneven terrain in all weather conditions has made it a firm favourite as a robust and reliable replacement for a combination of other forklifts (counterbalance, front- and sideloaders) with many of the major names in the extrusion and fabricating industry. Combilift now exports to 29 countries, has increased turnover by 98% within the last year and has been the recipient of major awards, with MD Martin McVicar named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2001, and the company gaining the title of DHL Exporter of the Year 2001. Close attention to customer feedback and a programme of continuous development at the 60,000 ft2 Co. Monaghan production facility has resulted in two new models, which made their exhibition debut at this years Glassex. BEST GLASSEX PROCLAIMS WINLOCK Philip Swann, sales director of Winlock Security returned to his office with significant potential business following the company’s best appearance for many years at the Glassex Exhibition, NEC, Birmingham. 'There were more stand visitors this year at Glassex and they seemed more buoyant than in recent shows,' explained Philip. 'We tailored our stand this year to demonstrate our capabilities beyond the production of our branded window hardware. We were keen to show our expertise in delivering bespoke and innovative solutions to customers by utilising our outstanding core abilities in design, die-casting, presswork and light assembly work. 'The result is that we have four commissions from customers to produce new products and a further two major overseas contracts in hand. What’s more we have had invitations from five companies to provide Winlock designers to work with them in-house on projects so that they can tap into the special innovative skills of our people,' added Philip. The fact that all Winlock’s products have received BBA approval generated additional interest, especially in the ‘new build’ area. Winlock’s capability to customise products for individual customers and offer the production flexibility to create even low-volume specials to meet fabrication or contract needs, was also a key discussion point on the stand.	RITEC CHARITY AUCTION RAISES OVER £5000 FOR 'CHANGING FACES' A charity auction hosted by Ritec International at Glassex 2002 and offering such highly prized items as a trip to Paris on Eurostar and an England football shirt signed by all the current team members has raised over £5000 in aid of Changing Faces. The auction, enthusiastically compered by Ritec's Chief Executive David Croxson, Glassex Press Officer Paul Godwin and industry veteran Cliff Rankin, took place on the Ritec International stand on the penultimate day of Glassex, attracting plenty of attention from visitors to the Glass Pavilion. However, as well a being a crowd-puller, the auction also raised funds for a very worthy cause. A UK registered charity founded to support and represent children and adults who have facial disfigurements, Changing Faces works together with health and social care professionals to provide help and raise public awareness, as well as working towards equal opportunities in the workplace. The Ritec Charity Auction hots up The organisers of Glassex helped provide marketing materials and promotional support for the auction and donated a Widescreen TV and Sony Playstation to the cause. Many other industry organisations including glass suppliers and processors, trade magazines and glass artists also generously donated a wide variety of items for the auction, from original works of glass art to a trip to Paris for 2 by Eurostar. However, the most keenly anticipated lots were a special England goalkeeper's strip signed by England goalie David James and a fully autographed England shirt, both kindly donated by K-Seal Glass. Together, these fetched a total of £1245, with lucky bidder Bharat Varsani of Toughglaze taking home both items. England football shirts, one signed by the entire team, the other signed by goalie David James, being displayed by (clockwise from bottom left), Glassex Press Officer Paul Godwin, Bharat Varsani of Toughglaze (who scooped both items), Keith Nethercott of K-Seal Glass, who donated the shirts and Ritec Chief Exec David Croxson Best known in the industry for its award-winning ClearShield glass surface technology, Ritec International designed its Glassex stand not only as an eye-catching backdrop for the auction but also as a showcase for new glass processing technologies. With the aim of 'putting the glass back into Glassex', Ritec invited its More/customers to participate in the proceedings and prove how versatile glass can be with a number of innovative exhibits. Ritec's Deputy Marketing Manager Ellie Gamble is pleased not only with the success of the auction but also the success of the company's appearance at Glassex 2002: "I think that this year's show has been really upbeat and very well organised - I know that everything went really smoothly for us. We've been amazed by the response to our customers sharing in our stand, and it's something we would definitely like to repeat next year. The charity auction went brilliantly - raising over £5000 for a very worthy cause is a great result. We would like to thank all those who donated items and, of course, those who bid for the cause." Donors and Buyers - The Full List * Champagne holder and 2 bottles of champagne Donated by Peterlee Glass and Fenestra Journal - Lesley Hancock of Grenehurst PR bid £77 * Picture of still life Donated by Rankins - Steve Byers bid £80 * Glass mirror panels - football inspired Donated by Go Glass, Shades of Light, Glass Design Limited, Corporate Logos, Alpha Omega - Keith Noble of DAK International bid £170 * Glass coffee table Preedy Glass - bid by Bassra Glass £100 * Trip to Paris (travel by Eurostar, 2 nights in a top hotel) Donated by Pressplan and The Gl@zine - £375 by Cliff Rankins * Lucien Simon Glass Bowl Donated by Ritec International - £80 by David Flitter of Austen Harlow Flitter * Glass CD rack Donated by Peterlee Glass - £110 by Karen Byers * Wide Screen TV Donated by Glassex - £350 by David Croxson of Ritec International * Advertising package Donated by GlassAge, Glass & Glazing Products, The Glazine, Fenestra Journal, Window Fabricator & Installer, Window Industries and FGI/Cutting Edge/ The Installer - £1800 by Baljit Bassral of Bassra Machine Tools Playstation 2 and FIFA game Donated by Glassex - £200 by Brian Wakefield of EMAP * Autographed David James Football Shirt Donated by K-Seal Glass - Bharat Varsani of Toughglaze £230 * Autographed England Team Football Shirt - all current team members Donated by K-Seal Glass - Bharat Varsani of Toughglaze £1015 Many thanks to all of our generous donors: Alpha Omega, Go-Glass, Shades of Light, Rankins, Glass Design Studios, Lucien Simon, Pressplan, Corporate Logos, Peterlee Glass, Preedys, K-Seal, Glasex, Glass Age, Glass & Glazing Products, The Gl@zine, Fenestra Journal, Window Fabricator & Installer, Window Industries, and FGI/ Cutting Edge/ The Installer Crowds outside Glassex 2002 Bohle was the first company to rebook on site for Glassex 2003: Area sales manager Leah Tidy hands Bohle md Gary Dean the contract Glassex Event Director Joanne Smith awards lucky visitor Mr Stamford of Glasshouse his 'Team Glassex' prize: a state of the art widescreen TV Dave Raven of Unilam International (left) secures an order worth £380,000 for a CoolTemper furnace with Supaseal of Scotland	BEST GLASSEX FOR HAFFNER Haffner GB Limited has reported its best Glassex ever with sales of its SBA machining centre and CNC corner cleaner exceeding all expectations. The SBA machining centre has confirmed itself as one of the market leaders when it comes to efficiency, reliability and cost effectiveness. These machines have a proven record with fabricators producing upwards of 250 windows per week who are experiencing large savings in both manpower and materials which in turn finances the machine. Haffner 3-head welder The CNC corner cleaners for both corner and transoms have also proved to be very popular. Special features include a user-friendly computer programme with touch corner control screen; fast cycle times and profile recognition installed as a standard item. Glassex was also an opportunity to launch the new range of welding machines. Special features include quick and accurate setting times by means of automatic head movement combined with pneumatic back fences, eliminating the need for any manual settings and operator error.Pictured here is the SF-03-TB three head combination welder with transom/cruciform and corner welding heads. With PLC control unit for optimum performance. Contact Dave Thomas Tel: 01785 814032 SYNSEAL 'OVERWHELMED' After a gap of two years the well-publicised return of Synseal Extrusions Ltd to Glassex lived up to its name. Both customers and potential customers came to the stand to see for themselves the Shield Conservatory System. 'The response was quite literally overwhelming,' comments Nick Dutton, Sales and Marketing Director of Synseal. 'So much so that we’re still analysing visitor numbers. First indications show that we’ve had in the region of 300 enquiries from non-customers alone. The massive stand and the 15 members of staff we had manning the stand at any one time, were certainly needed for the number of visitors we had. The icing on the cake for us was one of our last visitors who came from Kent to the NEC at 3pm on the last day, purely to see the Shield Conservatory System.' Only Cotswold has the answer The performance ofa standard PVCu window can now be enhanced to meet the BS7950 requirement using a new plastic add-on from Cotswold Architectural Products. 'Innovatively engineered to fit a range of profiles, whilst still utilising the unique contours of each profile to enable jig-less fitting, Smart-ees interlock to build strength - upgrading the window to a security status at a cost ofjust a few pence.' says the company. Smart-ees, which were launched at this year's Glassex exhibition, have been developed using glass-filled nylon so they are 100% corrosion free, and maintenance-free. Plus, the use of plastic means they can be made in any colour to suit corporate or customer taste. Fabricators and distributors need no longer stock both standard and security stays. Furthermore, since one set of Smart-ees provides universal fit for multi-profile fabricators, production methods can be standardised and fewer costly remakes and set-ups are required. These add-ons have been available direct from Cotswold or via Mila Hardware Ltd. since their launch at the show. STRIKING IMPRESSIONS THROUGH VERSATILITY Visitors to the Versatile Stand at Glassex 2002 saw the main roof section, and wondered how the new dentil moulding had been completed.'The design reinforces the values that have gone into the whole Versatile Roof System. Strength, stability, aspirational good looks with perfect finish, achieved through an innovative design which provides fast, efficient production and installation', the company claims. With only eight major parts to contend with, the design incorporates a 'multi-angle' aluminium cleating system, offering a simple and effective jointing method for connecting the ring beam on site. David Burles sums it all up 'Glassex has always been a successful part of our major promotional calendar and this year has been no exception. We are looking forward to the future with enthusiasm and confidence, in the knowledge that the Versatile Roof System is a product that will cope with the challenges of the industry with ease.'