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Archives for September 2020

Six nominations for Masterframe – NFA Awards 2020

Members News |

The National Fenestration Awards held each year cover all
aspects of the Fenestration Industry and are different from other industry
awards in that companies are nominated by their customers and suppliers instead
of a panel of judges. 

This year, Masterframe Windows
has secured six nominations in the following categories: –

  • ·        Fabricator/Manufacturer
  • New
    product  – Authentic Sash Windows
  • PVC
    company
  • Timber
    Alternative company
  • Vertical
    sliding window company
  •  Best use of video

Carol Slade, Managing Director for Masterframe says “We are very grateful to our customers and
suppliers who went out of their way to nominate us.  The organisers had
indicated that because so many companies were now participating, it was going
to be an honour just to be nominated.  As
a relatively small family business we are very proud of this achievement.

Carol continues “Last
year we won the Best Timber Alternative Company award and although we realise
how tough the competition is getting year upon year, we are hoping to again
receive support in the voting phase.  Our
nomination in the new category ‘Best Use of Video’ really resonated with us as
we had spent much time and investment during and after lock down producing
virtual showrooms for customers and our own showrooms at our manufacturing
facility.  It has been a tough year for
the industry and the awards signal some good news for all the nominees.”

Awards, along with accreditations, such as BBA (British
Board of Agrément) for longevity, Secured by Design for added security and
Energy Savings Trust for energy efficiency adds another layer of consumer
confidence in Masterframe sash windows.

To view the full range of Masterframe sash windows visit the
new websites at www.masterframe.co.uk
or for trade enquiries visit www.masterframetrade.co.uk.

 

 

 

Six nominations for Masterframe – NFA Awards 2020

Members News |

The National Fenestration Awards held each year cover all aspects of the Fenestration Industry and are different from other industry awards in that companies are nominated by their customers and suppliers instead of a panel of judges. 

This year, Masterframe Windows has secured six nominations in the following categories: –

·         Fabricator/Manufacturer

  • New product  – Authentic Sash Windows
  • PVC company
  • Timber Alternative company
  • Vertical sliding window company
  •  Best use of video

Carol Slade, Managing Director for Masterframe says “We are very grateful to our customers and suppliers who went out of their way to nominate us.  The organisers had indicated that because so many companies were now participating, it was going to be an honour just to be nominated.  As a relatively small family business we are very proud of this achievement.

Carol continues “Last year we won the Best Timber Alternative Company award and although we realise how tough the competition is getting year upon year, we are hoping to again receive support in the voting phase.  Our nomination in the new category ‘Best Use of Video’ really resonated with us as we had spent much time and investment during and after lock down producing virtual showrooms for customers and our own showrooms at our manufacturing facility.  It has been a tough year for the industry and the awards signal some good news for all the nominees.”

Awards, along with accreditations, such as BBA (British Board of Agrément) for longevity, Secured by Design for added security and Energy Savings Trust for energy efficiency adds another layer of consumer confidence in Masterframe sash windows.

To view the full range of Masterframe sash windows visit the new websites at www.masterframe.co.uk or for trade enquiries visit www.masterframetrade.co.uk.

 

 

What do the latest restrictions mean for construction professionals?

Uncategorized |

With COVID-19 case numbers rising across the UK, the Prime Minister Johnson announced a new set of restrictions last week and stated that they are likely to remain in place for the next six months. Mr Johnson also warned that restrictions would be tightened further if necessary.

The changes to the guidance for working safely during COVID-19 have implications that GGF members should be aware of, with the Government introducing legal requirement to follow the guidance in England.

The below questions help to clarify the changes to the guidance[JB1] :

  1. Can tradespeople enter other people’s homes to carry out home improvement work in England?

Tradespeople may still enter other people’s homes, provided the household or tradesperson is not required to be in self-isolation. If the household is in self-isolation, only emergency repair works may be carried out.

If an employer requires a tradesperson to enter a home knowing that the tradesperson is required to self-isolate, this will be punishable by law from 28th September.

Please note that the ‘rule of six’ does not apply to workplaces. More than six tradespeople will be allowed to enter homes for work.

  1. Does the guidance on entering people’s homes differ across the devolved nations?

The guidance for work in other people’s homes is similar across the devolved nations, with the notable difference that breaches to the guidance will not be punishable by law.

  • Northern Ireland: Updated guidance outlines that all tradespeople “can continue to go into people’s houses to carry out work such as repairs, installations and deliveries.” Contraventions of the guidance will not be punishable by law (guidance).
  • Scotland: Updated guidance for Scotland outlines that “Work carried out in people’s homes can continue, provided that the tradesperson is well and is not showing coronavirus symptoms and neither they nor any of their household are self-isolating.” If the household is self-isolating, then only emergency works are allowed to take place. Contraventions of the guidance will not be punishable by law (guidance).
  • Wales: Repair and maintenance work can be carried out in people’s homes, provided the worker is well, has no Covid-19 symptoms and ensures a 2m distance is maintained. Contraventions of the guidance will not be punishable by law (guidance).

  • What do the changes mean for those working on construction sites?

Work on construction sites can continue across the four UK nations and in the Republic of Ireland.

In England, employers who require employees to work while knowing that they should be self-isolation will be committing a punishable offence.

You can read the GGF and Government Guidance here

The Chancellor’s ‘Winter Economy Plan’

Uncategorized |

The Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, announced a new round of emergency economic measures on Thursday 24th September, aimed at supporting businesses and protecting jobs during the second wave of COVID-19. The Winter Economy Plan includes a new Job Support Scheme, an extension of the income support scheme for the self-employed, and flexibilities for businesses on COVID-19-related loan repayments.

Job Support Scheme

The Job Support Scheme will replace the Job Retention – or furlough – scheme, which is set to end on 31st October. Mr Sunak explained that the scheme will be aimed at protecting as many ‘viable’ jobs as possible. It will be launched on 1st November and run for six months.

Under the new scheme, employers will continue to pay the wages of staff for the hours they work – but for the hours not worked, the government and the employer will each pay one third of their equivalent salary. Employees must be working at least 33% of their usual hours. The level of grant will be calculated based on employee’s usual salary, capped at £697.92 per month.

The Job Support Scheme will be available for all businesses across the UK even if they have not previously used the furlough scheme.

For more information: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/job-support-scheme

Self-Employment Income Support Scheme Grant (SEISS)

The Chancellor also announced that the SEISS scheme, designed to compensate for lost income for the self-employed, will be extended for another six months. Those eligible will receive two lump-sum grants to cover three-month periods over the course of the extension. The instalments will be worth 20% of average monthly profits and will capped at £1,875 in total.

For more information: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/claim-a-grant-through-the-self-employment-income-support-scheme

Loan repayment flexibility

Businesses that took a Bounce Back Loan following the first wave of the virus, will be granted flexibility in their repayment through a new Pay as You Grow system. The length of the loan will be extended from six years to ten, and businesses will be granted access to six-month interest-only periods and payment holidays.

The Government will announce further details on Pay as You Grow in due course.

Are You Using Your Fuel Card Benefit?

Uncategorized |

For the last 5 years the GGF has partnered up with Fuel Card Services to help Members save money on car fuel. Some Members have used the service, but many GGF Members may be unaware of this money saving benefit and how to use it.

If you are interested in taking advantage of this money saving benefit then please read the promotional message below from Daniel Brooks of Fuel Card Services.  

‘Fuel Card Services Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of DCC PLC (www.dcc.ie), within its energy division. We have the widest range of fuel cards available from any single independent UK supplier, and is an authorised agent for BP, Esso, Shell, Texaco, Gulf, Emo, Pace, Diesel Direct (Keyfuels) and UK Fuels. We believe that no single solution fits everyone and match fuel management solutions to each of our customers’ individual needs. For savings, security and service, we’re here to help, always exceeding customer expectations and delivering high quality customer service and commitment.

From our partnership with the Glass and Glazing Federation, our offer to all members are free of charge fuel cards for the first 6 months (usually £12 each) and £9 thereafter. You can benefit from fixed weekly pricing on a range of fuel cards where you can save money off the forecourts rather than pay the pump price – including savings up to 10ppl from Motorway service stations!

You will have your own dedicated Account Manager who will understand your business needs and you’ll also be given access to our online system where you can manage your fuel cards/retrieve invoices/check drawings etc.

To apply or discuss more about your fuel savings, simply enter your details on www.fuelcardservices.com/ggof or give us a call on 01235 773685 and start saving money on your fuel costs.”

GGF Launches Technical Documents Feedback Webpage

Uncategorized |

Another first for the GGF Technical Team

The GGF Technical department has created a new interactive platform called the “Technical Documents Feedback Page” that allows GGF Members to provide feedback during the production of technical publications.

David Borland, GGF Senior Technical Officer has been the driving force behind this new addition to the GGF website and explains why the new Technical Documents Feedback Page is an important facility for the GGF and its Members.

“It is generally accepted that the GGF Datasheets & Guidance documents have proven for many years to be a valuable resource for our Members. The GGF Technical library is constantly reviewed and where necessary updated to reflect changes in Standards and Building Regulations. The GGF’s Technical Officers also provide feedback on Members’ requirements for document through participation in both Technical and Regional Groups.

This year we have already updated, created and uploaded 19 datasheets and this will increase to 30 or more by the end of 2020.

Many members have also commented on their wish to contribute to these documents and we are pleased to announce our new innovative web platform, the Technical Documents Feedback Page that will allow all Members to review documentation and add comment before it is published”.

How does the Technical Documents Feedback Page work?

  • Members can download the latest draft documents and our new comment form for each draft document.
  • The closing date for each document will be 3 weeks after the new draft is notified to members through Members First.
  • All comments and suggested amendments will be considered by the Technical team and decisions recorded.

David Borland adds, “The Technical Documents Feedback Page does not replace the excellent work done by our Working Groups and Committees in producing the Datasheets. The voluntary time, expertise and effort members provide to these is invaluable. The new system will just make it smoother, quicker and more time efficient for both the GGF Technical team and Members.”

You can see the new Technical Documents Feedback Page and review the latest documents https://www.ggf.org.uk/technical-draft-documents-for-review/

Rewarding Technology Innovations with R&D tax credits

Glassi |

For Members’ Week, GGF partners Amplifi Solutions are giving a special “Breakfast Presentation” from 9.15am to 9.45am on Wednesday 30th September.

Jamie Watts, Commercial Director at Amplifi Solutions will reveal how HMRC’s R&D tax credit scheme could benefit your business while illustrating what type of industry activities and costs could qualify.

Innovations can drive a business forward and reward it with an additional tax reduction of up to 24.7p for every qualifying pound spent on R&D. With support available for the testing phase of both failed and successful innovations this webinar could uncover a beneficial fund for your business.

From this special presentation, GGF Members can expect a detailed explanation of the R&D tax credit scheme, with an overview of the qualifying activities and costs. The session will also provide an insight into the claims process, plus examples of successful technology and industry claims

After the presentation, there will be ten minutes for an open Q&A session, giving you the opportunity to ask the Amplifi team any questions regarding the scheme or their services. 

So if you are investing or thinking of investing in innovation, then this could be a very useful and financially beneficial presentation.

To book your place for this presentation please click the banner below

Embracing Video Technology

Events, Glassi, News |

Back in March, due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown, the GGF started to hold its internal meetings via online video conferencing.

Since then, for the GGF and many other organisations, video meetings have become part of everyday business life with different platforms popping up, new online meeting protocols being set, new features being added and generally people are embracing the technology as a substitute for face to face physical meetings.

The GGF though planning to resume face to face meetings when it’s safe to do so, has also accepted that video is now an essential communication tool to continue business during these very different and challenging times.

GGF Members’ Week (29 September to 1 October) will be a completely new journey for the Federation with three days of back to back online events, covering everything from the GGF’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) to online forums through to webinars and specialist presentations.

The video meetings have become even more significant as the “new normal” (and the Government) encouraging people to work from home if they can. Recent research claims that 6 out of 10 office workers are now working from home due to COVID-19.

In late March and during April this year, the GGF started holding a few Members’ meetings via video link, in May some video was used for GGF Committee meetings (such as Political Strategy Committee, Marketing Communications Committee), in June the GGF held six more Members meetings (mainly technical groups) before July and the start of the GGF Regional meetings resuming via video.

In the last few months, the GGF is now running regular meetings with members every week and so far it appears that many Members are preferring the video format to the physical meetings.

Gaby Mendham of Ecoglass, commented: “The fallout caused by COVID-19 has left many of us changing the way we work on a daily basis.  Video conferencing has meant that we can communicate in a totally safe environment, whilst attending important meetings. Plus there is no more travel involved, which is such a bonus both from time and safety perspectives. The video platforms are extremely easy to use, even for those who are not technically minded. You can even attend meetings using just your smart phone!  It really is like being there in person. Personally, I have found it invaluable and with the uncertainty of the COVID-19 virus, going forward, I urge everyone to get involved this way”.

Alan Burgess of Masterframe also favours the video format:

“The COVID-19 pandemic forced everyone to change processes, quickly. The GGF’s marketing team however quickly introduced video calls to aid communications. Six months in and this format has become accepted and often preferred. Virtual meetings need strong chairmanship, but with respectful participants, opinions are listened to and as a result, often better debated. In business with Masterframe and the GGF, we find attendance from home is far easier; eliminating time, costs and disruption of travel. They’re far more efficient with back to back meetings now much easier to attend and there’s only one person to blame if the coffee goes cold!”

Dawn Stockell of Veka, added: “I believe that COVID-19 has been the single biggest catalyst for accelerated digital transformation to date; ultimately this pandemic has forced businesses to embrace digital technology, whether that be to facilitate communications, collaborative remote working or driving process efficiencies. Specific to communications, video conferencing has never been more used, both internally and externally. The systems are easy to use with almost all the functionality you’d get face-to-face if in a live presentation arena; from being able to share your PowerPoint presentation, to audience participation through the comment/chat area, to polling should you need to vote. Using video conferencing also significantly cuts down travel inconvenience and time and in turn benefits the environment. For businesses, I see this as one of the few silver linings of COVID-19, I hope video conferencing is here to stay!”

The GGF will continue with video-conferencing due to its time and cost saving advantages but there’s still some hope for the physical meeting.

James Lee Director of External Affairs

James Lee, GGF Director of External Affairs explains: “The video conferencing platforms are great and will get even better as the technology develops. I’d encourage everyone to embrace the video conferencing, because it is here to stay and is becoming, if it isn’t already, a vital business communication tool. Physical face to face meetings will always be popular for networking and socialising, but we have to think about health and safety in these times, so for Members’ Week, video will be an excellent alternative. If and when the pandemic passes, physical meetings will resume but I have no doubt, physical meetings will be simultaneously run via video, so we will have the best of both worlds. We are looking forward to Members’ Week being a truly virtual experience and welcome all Members to embrace the technology and take part in these special events.”

To view the programme of virtual events being held by the GGF during Members’ Week, please visit to select the event you want to attend and book your place online. You can access the booking details HERE

GLASSi – Spring Edition 2020

Glassi |

From the Top
John Agnew GGF Managing Director, discusses an unprecedented first quarter for the industry and an update on how the GGF is adjusting to these testing times

Helping you through COVID-19
A special feature highlighting the GGF’s Business Continuity Support to help Members through the COVID-19 crisis

Technical Support during COVID-19 The GGF Technical Team’s support outlined, plus news on the revision of the GGF’s technical publications and the latest on Approved Document B (Fire Safety)

Spotlight on the President
New GGF President, Mark Austin of Hazlemere Windows gives an exclusive interview for GLASSi

A Successful Partnership 
Gaby Mendham highlights the success of Ecoglass’ recent partnership with leading R&D tax credit specialist Amplifi Solutions

Reflections of a GGF Stalwart
Steve Rice, former GGF Technical Director reflects on his three decades as the driving force in the GGF Technical department

Changing times mean changing ways – the GGF Digital Marketing Toolkit

Events, Glassi, News |

SLX Marketing has worked with the GGF Marketing team for the last five years on the GGF’s websites, newsletters and digital marketing. For Members Week, Graham Hansell, Managing Director of SLX, will present and launch a new GGF Digital Marketing Toolkit that will be free for all GGF Members to use. The webinar takes place on 30th September at 2pm.

In this interview, Graham shares some hard facts on the impact of COVID-19 on online and traditional business, as well as highlighting the business shift to the “new normal” and why companies should embrace and use digital technology like never before. 

What impact has the COVID pandemic had on online marketing?

Statistics show that the pandemic has driven a 48% Q2 decline in traditional advertising spend but by contrast digital advertising is up 6%. This huge shift is due to the explosion in online activity. For example, in the UK, people will be spending on average, 36 days on social media this year. In addition, video usage is up 53% and 35% of all purchases made online go through Amazon with 77% of people now doing part or all their grocery shopping online.

These are incredible figures which highlight a clear shift in behaviour. We should also consider that working from home will become part of the “new normal” for over half of the top UK companies going forward, so it’s not hard to figure that traditional business communication has and will continue to change. Digital communication will increase and companies will have to embrace and increase their use of digital technology and techniques, simply to survive.  

Why is it important to use digital marketing at this time?

2020 has been the watershed year for digital, we have all used it to chat, share, laugh, cry and buy a lot of things. So with the “re-opening” and re-building of the UK economy, now is the time to put digital marketing at the centre of your business. It has never been more essential to engage with customers using the digital tools, because businesses everywhere are operating in a new norm and a restricted environment, where digital is the main communication channel, to reach, communicate, engage and sell.  

What can Members expect the new GGF Digital Marketing Toolkit to deliver?

The digital tools we’ll be demonstrating will give Members the top tips on how they can promote their brand, company and services via free and paid web advertising to a relevant and wide audience. In essence, we will show members how integrated and comprehensive digital marketing will work for their business. 

What message do you have for Members planning to attend your webinar?

In the current trading environment and with the challenges ahead, can you afford to not use digital marketing to best effect for your company? No matter if your customers are consumers or other businesses, you will need to reach them online like never before.

The webinar takes place on 30th September at 2pm. To book your place on the GGF Digital Marketing Toolkit click the banner below

Training the Industry

Glassi |

In August, the GGF set up a partnership with training Total Support Training, an expert training company. The partnership has opened up multiple opportunities for training and qualifications for GGF Members.

At Members’ Week, GGF and Total Support Training will be presenting and hosting a Q&A Forum to listen to your training requirements, ideas and concerns on all things training.

In this interview for GLASSi, Sharon Alderton, Managing Director of Total Support Training provides background to her company and outlines what GGF Members can expect from the Training the Industry webinar and Q&A, which takes place on Wednesday 30th September at 3.30pm via video-link. 

How long has Total Support Training been involved in training for the glass and glazing industry?

We’ve been providing a multitude of Courses & NVQs to the Glass & Glazing Industry for over 11 years and our assessment team has combined experience of over 120 years in the construction industry.

In the past 3 years alone, Total Support has seen over 1000 learners achieve a qualification, keeping up a 97% success rate overall across this period.

What are the main factors that stop people training their staff and how do you counter those factors?

The biggest stumbling block for many companies is their employees taking time out of the business. Most good companies are in demand and have a busy schedule, that’s why we’ve developed flexible training. We work with companies to fit around their schedule by running courses out of normal working hours such as evenings and weekends.  

Another factor that crops up is the cost of courses. To some companies, the cost might seem like a lot, but for the long term benefits, the costs saved from companies doing the job right because employees are trained should be considered when investing in training. Also, to help companies with cash flow, we have put in payment plans for our NVQs and the GGF Training courses are priced very competitively – starting at just £80 for refresher courses. In addition, GGF Members are offered a discounted price on all courses. 

What can Members expect from the ‘Training the Industry’ webinar at Members Week?

Our presentation will give GGF Members the opportunity to see in more detail what GGF Training/Total Support offers.

The Q&A Forum will provide a platform for GGF members to ask the team any questions about training and it will also be good chance to meet the team behind the GGF Training courses including some of the trainers themselves.  

I would also welcome suggestions from GGF members, for new courses and also ideas on how we can develop courses to suit members’ needs.

During the webinar, we are also aiming to provide an exclusive preview of a brand new GGF Training course which should be of great interest to members. It promises to be a great online event and one we are very much looking forward to.  

Training the Industry webinar which takes place on Wednesday 30th September at 3.30pm via video-link.  To reserve your place click the banner below

Home Secretary Priti Patel Visits Masterframe Windows

Members News |

Home Secretary Priti Patel who is also the MP for Witham visited Masterframe Windows on Friday 04th September 2020.

Carol Slade, MD for Masterframe said “Being very interested in the welfare of local businesses, over the years Priti Patel has visited Masterframe several times.  We have also written to her on occasions when we believed we needed to express our views to government, for example on covid-19 testing and more recently on the Green Homes Grant Scheme.” 

Carol continues, “It was a pleasure to welcome Priti again, this time as Home Secretary and to discuss how Masterframe as a small business had navigated through the covid-19 pandemic adopting new measures for the safety of our employees and customers, whilst returning to full manufacturing capacity. 

At our meeting I commented on how the Furlough Scheme was instrumental in our survival, along with our determination to continue our marketing on digital platforms, building virtual showrooms for our Master Installers whilst physical showroom visits were not possible for the retail customer.  I explained that even though we were extremely busy, we were going to increase our capacity to ensure that our customers did not miss any opportunities to take advantage of the current renewed interest in sash window replacement and the sash window style in general.”

The Directors and staff at Masterframe Windows would like to thank Priti Patel and her team for taking the time to visit.

For all your Masterframe sash window options, please visit www.masterframe.co.uk or contact our sales team on 01376510410.

Media Glass Technology

Events, Glassi, News, Technical News |

One of the special presentations at Members’ Week will be by Sanmukh Bawa of G-Smatt Europe, who will be presenting on the exciting and developing sector of Media Glass Technology.

Sanmukh has been Technical Director at G-Smatt Europe since 2017 with a remit to place G-Smatt media glass on the market primarily in Europe, the Middle East and USA. Prior to joining G-Smatt Europe, Sanmukh worked with Eckersley O’Callaghan as a structural glass and façade engineer, where he had been mainly responsible for the facade design and structural design of complex glass structures including the Apple HQ in Cupertino and Apple flagship retails stores worldwide.

He has increasingly been involved as a Technical Adviser for projects with complex glass processing and extensive testing requirements. Having a glass processing family run business makes him more astute in dealing with material properties of glass fabrication and applications.

In this interview, Sanmukh provides a background to his career in the glass industry and indicates what GGF members can expect from his presentation, which takes place on Thursday 1st October at 2pm via video link.

How did you get into Media Glass Technology?

My experience in the glass industry has been broadly with structural design jumbo glass units that are highly technical and complex to fabricate. When I was approached by G-Smatt, it felt like a natural progression to join the team and take this futuristic technology forward. It is the first of its type that combines architectural and IT technology into one and integrates IOTs (Internet of Things – devices, platforms etc) within the built environment.

What has been your greatest success in using the technology?

Since it is a relatively new technology, we have gone through an educational drive by conducting CPD (Continued Professional Development) seminars and workshops with leading architects, façade engineers and developers to outline the potential benefits and applications of our technology. This has had an excellent response from the industry and we have already been specified for a number of projects currently in construction in Europe, with over 130 existing installations worldwide within the last 4-5 years. We feel that the start of curve has been very successful and are looking forward to transforming more cityscapes.

What can GGF members expect from your presentation/webinar?

An understanding on principle of media façade and its applications, knowledge into production of these units and a case study showing transforming of before and after installation of G-Smatt glass on a conventional structure.

What are your predictions for the future of the Media Glass Technology?

Large façades will facilitate far more creativity and we should be prepared to expect the unexpected. Even at this early stage in the uptake of this technology, architects, designers, app-developers and organisations are coming together and developing ideas that, as they come to fruition, will truly transform the digital and glass cityscape.

Media Glass Technology – a presentation by Sanmukh Bawa takes place on on Thursday 1st October at 2pm via video link. You can reserve your place at this webinar by booking here.

Two New And Very Different Debates

Events, Glassi, Health, Safety and Environment, News |

In this GLASSi interview, James MacPherson, GGF Health, Safety and Environment Manager discusses his background, his plans for health, safety and the environment and previews two new and very different debates for GGF Members’ Week including; “Health and Safety the New and Different Normal” and “Our World, Our Future”, a look at how companies can play their part in helping the environment for future generations.

What attracted you to work for the GGF as Health, Safety, and Environment Manager?

I remember reading the job advert and it was hard to gauge at first. It sounded interesting, but I needed more details and when it was described to me, I immediately had visions of what that role could be. I was excited as this is an industry I am interested in.

Also, the challenges that the glass and glazing industry has from Health, Safety, and Environment are huge and complex and I was excited by the prospect of working with members to help them tackle those challenges. In addition, I think that trade associations are uniquely placed in the industry to coach and support members to succeed and drive change. With our relationships with stakeholders like the HSE (Health and Safety Executive), we can support members like no other trade body in our sector. However, I wasn’t sure if that’s where the GGF’s focus lay, a lot of trade associations mostly signpost and collect data, but I wanted to get stuck in. So after a great conversation with John Agnew (GGF Managing Director) it was clear that we both shared the same vision, that we could do more and be more for members. I was instantly sold. I then just had the task of passing the interviews!

In the short time you’ve worked in the glass and glazing industry, what do you see as the big health safety challenges for the GGF and for you personally on the health and safety front?

For Health and Safety, the biggest challenge is breaking down the complexity. Health and Safety as a profession is constantly going through change. Health and Safety professionals are becoming increasingly people focussed. The best way to explain it would be my own example. Now working for the GGF, I have never worked in glass and glazing so I can’t be a technical expert on the risks in the industry, but I can be an expert facilitator and coach of good health and safety practice and to ultimately help members. Similar to sport coaching, some of the best coaches were not the best players or even played the sport and this can be essentially an identity crisis for my profession – but a good one none the less. One of the big challenges for the Federation, is to help members ensure their safety systems reflect reality. A lot of us have safety clutter in our business and it’s a challenge to fix that. Another major challenge is to shift a common culture in companies from being simply “compliant” organisations to being resilient organisations and in doing so, enabling businesses to fail safely. 

The GGF Health and Safety Committee is a long running part of the Federation, what is the status of this crucial committee?

I am really excited to be involved with this committee and I have my first meeting on the 28th September. I am keen for this committee to be refreshed and to become a “think tank” for improvement and innovation in Health and Safety. We have a great group already but if anyone is interested in joining, please contact me. You don’t have to know a thing about health and safety or have a NEBOSH, just an interest in betterment, a knowledge of the industry, and a curiosity for improvement.

I am also really keen to start an Environment Group to develop this side of the GGF, so keep your eye out for that and if people are interested in this side of the industry, then again, please don’t hesitate to let me know.

Over the last four or five years, the GGF has produced some very useful health and safety brochures, are you planning to add to the library?  

For sure, we have a few codes of practice, booklets, etc. and just before I arrived, the GGF had produced two excellent Safe Guides for homeowners and installers with regard to COVID-19 guidance. Before we develop new guides, we’ll first, working with the Health and Safety Committee review the current library of publications. Thereafter, I want to build the resource for the members to use as and when it’s needed. I see this being an information and multi-media mix of in-depth industry-specific codes of practice, bitesize guides, articles, videos, podcasts, etc. It will take us time to build this, but I am looking forward to developing it.

You are hosting two webinars during GGF Members’ Week; on Health and Safety “A New and Very Different Norm” and on the Environment “Our World, Our Future”, what can Members tuning into these webinars expect?

I am really looking forward to this. I wanted to do something a little different, not to say what we are doing has never been done before, but a lot of the time when we go to conferences, especially Health and Safety ones we get spoken to or worse just sold to and don’t really learn anything.

So my aim is that members walk away from these webinars having learned something or have been inspired to make a difference. I am a huge fan of panel discussions. It’s a way for the audience to hear different sometimes even polarized opinions. So both the Health and Safety and Environment webinars, will have two very strong panels and I will be happy to host and moderate. Both will be about looking forward to the short medium and long term future. It has been an unbelievable year so far and I want us to focus on the future and how we can learn from this extraordinary year. Members who login will be hear varied discussion on the future relationships between trade bodies, influencers, enforcers, consultants and architects. Not something you’ll hear every day.

Finally, have you any plans for the GGF’s Health and Safety Merit Scheme – the GLASS Charter?

The Glass Charter is a huge part of what we offer to members, however it has had relatively low engagement regardless of updates and reviews. We will refresh it to ensure it becomes the scaffolding that enables members to grow and improve their health and safety practice, standards and culture. We want it to be the framework that we can coach members through, but also we want it to be of real benefit to members – not just a badge of honour or assessment but something that is more meaningful. How do we do that? Well first things first, we need to discuss with members and find out their views? Why are they engaged with it? Why they are they not engaged with it? What would they want to see from it? It must be developed with the members’ interests right at the very core. So in the near future, we will be surveying members and looking for them to discuss this with to help us develop the new Glass Charter.

To book your place at the Health and Safety webinar “A New and Very Different Norm” on 1 October (10.30am to 12 noon) please click on the banner below.

To book your place at the Our World, Our Future webinar on the environment on 1 October (3.30pm to 4.15pm) please click on the banner below.

BREXIT 2021 – The end of ‘The Transition Period’

Events, Glassi, News, Politics |

During Members’ Week, on 29th September, GK Strategy (the GGF’s political advisers) will host a special webinar on BREXIT 2021 – The end of ‘The Transition Period’.

Ahead of the webinar, GK Strategy has provided this update for GLASSi, on the status of the key issues that may impact business as the UK prepares to leave the European Union with or without a deal.

State of play in Brexit negotiations and what the end of the transition period with the EU will mean for business

With less than four months until the UK exits the EU Single Market and Customs Union as the agreed transition period comes to an end, it is vital that members are aware of what this exit means in practice, what are the changes you may have to make and the wider implications for trade with the EU.

Although several elements of future trade with the EU are the subject of ongoing negotiations – on which more below – several decisions have already been reached that are of particular relevance to the glass, glazing and fenestration sectors and it is important that members are familiar with them.

Import and export:

Although negotiations will determine the extent of checks on the UK-EU border, and the levels of tariffs and quotas on goods, the core framework for the new Border Operating Model (BOM) has been published. Known as the BOM, the new model will be phased in from 1st January 2021, and all businesses will be required to complete point of importation customs requirements for all goods from 1st July 2021. All businesses that import and export from the EU need to research what steps they need to take in advance of 2021. Further information is available here.

Product standards:

Product standards are still subject to negotiations, but the UK has announced plans to replace CE marking with a new UK Conformity Assessed (UKCA) mark from 2021. It is expected that the UK will accept both marks on products placed on the UK market for a time-limited period following the transition period.

Businesses should be aware that, if no agreement is reached in talks, products covered by the Construction Products Regulation (CPR) by Notified Bodies and Technical Assessment Bodies (TABs) in the UK will no longer be permitted on the EEA market.

There is also a possibility for a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) with the EU and UK recognising the standardisation (and documentation) for products under the CPR. Though any such agreement has yet to be confirmed by either the UK or EU.

Please see the latest guidance on CE Marking and UKCA mark here: https://www.ggf.org.uk/brexit-update-government-issues-guidance-on-ukca-mark/

Data protection and GDPR:

The UK will no longer be covered by GDPR following the conclusion of the transition period on 31st December 2020. Although the UK has transcribed the EU legislation into UK law, there is no guarantee that the EU will accept the UK’s data protection standards from 2021.

The issue of data protection is not on the table in negotiations, and the UK will be subject to a judgement by the UK Commission which will decide whether personal data can continue to flow freely from the EU to UK. The UK has already announced that this data will be allowed to move in the opposite direction after transition.

The GGF/GK Strategy will provide a update on any changes to this situation either from the EU and from the UK Commission.

Immigration:

Regardless of the outcome of negotiations, the UK will implement a new ‘points-based’ immigration system from 1st January 2021. Details of the new system have been known for some time and makes no distinction between EU and non-EU citizens.

You can read more details on this from the Government’s website. https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/uk-points-based-immigration-system-further-details

Status of wider negotiations:

In the ongoing trade talks with the EU, timeframes are tight and goodwill lacking. The EU has stated that an agreement would need to be reached by the 15 October to allow for ratification by the end of the year, raising the stakes for negotiations in September. The UK would also like to have clarity on the likely outcome by this time, in order to help industry prepare for a ‘no deal’ outcome, if this is the likelihood.

Both sides have expressed frustration at the way the negotiations are being conducted. The UK have been vocal in criticising the EU’s insistence that the most contentious issues, such as state aid and environmental standards must be agreed before moving on to issues on which agreement can easily be reached. This should not come as a surprise to the UK, as this is standard practice for the EU in trade talks, but it means that very little further agreement has happened.

The UK insist that the ability to deviate on standards was an essential factor in the decision to leave the EU and claim that it is unreasonable for the EU to insist on alignment following the conclusion of the transition period. EU negotiators are adamant that UK access to the EU single market will be correlated with the degree of alignment on standards.

Both sides still insist that agreement on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is still possible by the October deadline, but it is difficult to imagine that this will amount to more than a thin agreement on tariffs and quotas for goods.

The GGF is continuously gathering information from the UK and EU Governments on BREXIT and translating into guidance for the sector.

On 29th September at 3.30pm, as part of Members’ Week, the GGF in conjunction with GK Strategy will be hosting the end of ‘The Transition Period’ webinar with former Cabinet Minister, David Laws, who will share his views on Brexit and open the discussion on the issues and scenarios.

Book your place at Members’ Week, BREXIT 2021 – End of ‘The Transition Period’ webinar on 29th September at 3.30pm, please click the banner below

The Economic Landscape

Events, Glassi, News, Politics |

Professor Noble Francis, Economics Director, Construction Products Association will be presenting a special webinar on “The Economic Landscape” on 29th September at 2pm via video-link for Members’ Week.

The webinar will provide an overview of the economy, the drivers and the political backdrop as well as outlining some of the potential scenarios that could be ahead as we enter even more challenging times in 2021. The online presentation will be followed by a Q&A as Professor Francis invites questions on the economy from GGF Members.

In this exclusive GLASSi interview Professor Francis provides a background to his career in economics and a preview of his presentation.

When and how did you start working on the economic analysis for the construction sector?

After my PhD, which was on the economics of the English Land Market, over 20 years ago now, I started doing forecasts for the UK economy in the economic modelling team at Experian.

The construction team there needed some help setting up some models to do employment forecasts in the construction industry for CITB (Construction Industry Training Board) and construction inflation forecasts for government.

Since then I haven’t stopped doing construction research. Back then I focused mainly on the contracting side of the industry but once I moved to the CPA (Construction Products Association) in 2008 I learned to take a broader view of the whole construction supply chain and I have been focusing on construction forecasts, issues around the major contractor business model and the impacts of these issues on SMEs lower in the supply chain.

What are the main obstacles in making accurate forecasts for the UK economy and the construction industry?

The two main obstacles are the impacts of government policies and uncertainties. This year, government has had a constant stream of announcements affecting the economy and, in particular, the construction industry. However, working out to what extent these are re-announcements or merely allocations of existing finance is increasingly difficult.

Plus, government’s poor record of policy implementation in construction over the years, whether it is CERT, the Green Deal or Feed-in Tariffs, makes it very difficult to take account of the possible impacts of any new major policy announcement.

In terms of uncertainties, we have our early indicators that imply how the economy and each construction sector are going to fare but the key question is how relevant are they in abnormal circumstances, whether it is a global pandemic, the sharpest recession on record but with unprecedented government stimulus or the end of the Brexit implementation period? The impact of these significant background factors are unpredictable to say the least.

How quickly do you think the global economy can recover from the COVID pandemic? And what are the main areas of concern?

The initial part of the recovery in June and Q3 will be quick as we are coming from such a low point after easing social distancing restrictions and re-opening the economy. After this growth rates are likely to slow but we are still likely to continue to recover.

The key issues are likely to be based around potential second waves or significant spikes of COVID-19, the end of the furlough scheme and the end of the Brexit implementation Transition Period. If we face a second wave of COVID-19 when the cold weather comes in winter alongside flu, and so face further social distancing and other restrictions, then we may see economic recovery come to a grinding halt.

Economic activity in this case would be unlikely to return to April’s low levels as there’s a degree of learning and business continuity but it would lead to a second dip in GDP. However, government would want to avoid lockdown restrictions again at the national level even with a second wave.

The end of the furloughing scheme in October, assuming that it is not extended into 2021 as it has been in France and Germany, will lead to a sharp rise in unemployment and this is likely to impact upon demand in the wider economy.

Job losses are likely to impact on the services sector, particularly where it involves person-to-person interaction or is tourism related. It is also likely to impact on central London given the high cost of commercial offices, retail and residential space, especially with a considerable proportion of people that work in London but living outside the capital working from home.

What can GGF Members expect from the webinar on The Economic Landscape at Members’ Week?

From my presentation at Members’ Week, I hope GGF Members will gain some insights and potential scenarios for the UK economy, that may help with their plans for the challenging times ahead.  

The Economic Landscape webinar for GGF Members’ Week, is scheduled for 2pm to 3.15pm on 29th September. To book your place at this webinar click the banner below

Substituting Standards?

Events, Glassi, Legislation, News, Technical News |

At Members’ Week, the GGF Technical Forum on 30 September will feature Mark Barsby of BSI who will present and open the debate on product substitutions and standardisation in the industry, here’s Mark’s initial overview of the subject.

“Product substitutions may seem simple but they can also be complex and time consuming. It can save money but many product substitutions do not prove to be a cost saving when unforeseen risks have not been effectively evaluated.

GGF Members and many companies in the industry should be concerned about the issue of product substitutions not being up to standard and causing a lot of unnecessary hassle and money down the line.

At the GGF Technical Forum, I will be aiming to highlight some of the issues around product substitution from a wider perspective and looking at what should be considered during the decision making process and how this could affect product certification.”

Meet the Speaker: Mark Barsby, BSI

Mark has been with the BSI Product Certification team for Construction since September 2018, but has worked in the Fenestration industry for more than 35 years having joined PVC-U window system supplier Plus Plan from school in 1985 and within two years became a Training School Technician.

In his career, he has gained a wide range of experience through various appointments, the majority being of a technical nature, including UK Head of Technical positions at well know GGF Members like Deceuninck and Veka and also Plus Plan.

Mark was instrumental in BSI joining the GGF in 2019 and has since been involved in technical groups including the GGF Systems House Group and the Window and Door Group. 

Originally from Leicestershire, Mark is an ardent fan of the Foxes (Leicester City FC), but since 2008 he has lived in Wiltshire with his wife and two teenage children.

On being asked to speak at Members’ Week Technical Forum Mark commented:

“I am very much looking forward to presenting at the GGF Technical Forum during Members’ Week and hearing Members’ views on the area of product substitution”.

To hear Mark’s presentation and to book your place at the GGF Technical Forum click the banner below

Mark Austin – The President’s Perspective

Events, Glassi, Membership News, News |

In this exclusive GLASSi interview, GGF President Mark Austin shares his views on the state of the industry, the GGF and has a message for GGF Members on how to cope and prepare for better times ahead. 

It is over 8 months since your Presidency began and it’s fair to say no one could have predicted how 2020 would have unfurled. What have been the major challenges for you?

There is no way to sugar coat what the entire industry is currently still in the mist of going through, including on-going supply chain problems, logistical issues, adapting to the necessary social distancing and costs of Covid-19 precautionary measures, which has had its own challenges in terms of getting hold of adequate and sufficient PPE, hand sanitiser and screens etc., and the GGF has provide good guidance to help the industry follow the restrictions and operate safely.

One major challenge was the extremely difficult decision during lockdown was to have to take the legal advice from the GGF’s auditors and solicitors to close the GGF Fund Ltd to any new business from 1st April 2020 at very short notice. It was the last thing GGF Members needed to hear during lockdown with the uncertainty that was swirling around at that time and we were all wondering how long this was going to last and how on earth each business was going to survive.

Whilst very unfortunate, the strong advice given proved to be very sound, when only 2 days later the underwriting insurers also withdrew from writing new deposit indemnity insurance business. It was always the intention of the GGF to find an insurance based product to replace the Deposit Indemnity Fund and it is hoped we can announce more details on a new product soon.

Adapting to the new normal of all GGF meetings being virtual ones, and all GGF staff working from home has not been without its challenges as all mail had to be redirected and dealt with to ensure both GGF Members and Consumers continue to receive the best possible customer service possible in such circumstances.

As GGF President it was a major blow when we also had to cope with the fallout from the loss of Everest Ltd (one of the GGF’s founder members), when the company went into pre-pack administration.

I dare not think the state the industry would be in today without the Government’s furlough scheme, but thankfully the Government realised they had to do something substantial, which thankfully they did.

Another major challenge our industry faced in the last few months was the Government’s Green Homes Grant Scheme. When it was announced in early July that the Scheme would be launched sometime in September, it was a real set back to the glazing industry as the lack of detail until mid-August (which at the time of writing has still not all been finalised i.e. which composite doors will be included or excluded).

For the first week my phone was running off the hook as I was contacted by GGF Members and non-Members from across the industry wanting clarity. The GGF and FENSA did all they could in the circumstance, by reporting accurate factual timely information for members and in pushing Government for more details.

Normally, the industry would welcome any scheme that incentivises consumers to spend on energy efficient home improvement but Government had not consulted with industry beforehand and left so many unanswered questions with the early announcement.

When more details were released (over 5 weeks later), it was revealed that the scheme was limited to the replacement of single glazing (with double, triple or secondary glazing) only, along with potential some composite doors being restricted to being “secondary measures”, which only can be accessed once one or more “primary measures” have been installed.

With a further restriction was detailed that the spend on the secondary measure is limited to either equal or less than that of the primary measure, it was clear that the Green Homes Grant Scheme is a major disappointment and a significant set-back for our industry. It has also left the industry with the task of educating consumers on the scheme’s complicated details from which the vast majority of equally disappointed as they are unlikely qualify for the scheme.  

How do you feel the Federation has coped since the COVID-19 outbreak?

I was very proud of the way the GGF Management and staff have rallied round throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, taking steps before the actual lockdown to pre-empt one should it come, to ensure that GGF Members and FENSA Registered Installers were still able to make contact and receive help and support. Many of the Managers and staff worked long extra hours and weekends for no extra pay, something for which I wish to formally thank them on behalf of all members and clients connected to the GGF and its group of commercial subsidiary companies including FENSA, BFRC, InstallSure RISA and Borough IT.

What are the big challenges facing the GGF over the next 6-12 months?

Not being able to use the GGF Offices at 40 Rushworth Street in London since mid-March has been a real challenge, and I am delighted a safe phased return to the building is starting in September. For the re-opening, we had to carry out the necessary risk assessments and ensure new precautions and policies were put in place, so anyone entering the building would be as safe as is possible. Like most businesses, the GGF has had to permanently change the way it operates to ensure it adapts to the new normal in order that its capacity to serve its members is not reduced. As a consequence, it was had to invest in many new extra laptops and mobile phones to ensure that its staff can work as effectively from home as if they were in the GGF Offices, as not all the staff will be returning initially due to general safety, social distancing and to ensure all Government guidelines are followed.

With the GGF focus over the next 6-12 months being helping and supporting all GGF Members during what is clearly going to be a slow, painful and cautious recovery, the GGF will continue to invest in its Members’ services. With plans in place and in action, when we do reach the end of the tunnel, the whole industry should be in a genuinely strong position to then kick-on once there is an up-turn.    

Members’ Week is your first annual conference as GGF President, how do you feel about it being entirely virtual?

Personally I’d much rather GGF Members Day was able to happen and we were all able to gather together in person and network as we have done so effectively in the past. As this is clearly not remotely possible, holding my first annual conference as GGF President virtually is to be embraced, as the new way of working, doing business, supporting members and interacting has also brought about many ways to improve the ways we communicate and deal with suppliers and consumers alike. We all know we won’t ever be going back to how things were in the past, as GGF Members have found they can save so much time, money and resources by not travelling, which in terms of reducing our carbon footprint is to be welcomed.

Members’ Week is a unique and ambitious project for the GGF, what do you think Members should expect?

My hope is that GGF Members will engage with the GGF throughout Members week and by the end of it feel they have really benefitted from contributing and from seeing and hearing the many different contributors. The fact the GGF is offering a “Menu” of events and information targeted at its Members, it gives each and every GGF Member the opportunity to dip in and out online as it suits them so that they can feel the time they do spend virtually interacting with the GGF Group and its Members proves genuinely fruitful.

What message would you give to the GGF Members for the future?  

There is no point trying to put an overly positive spin on the short term future, as nobody knows how long the pandemic will be around for and the extent to which it will affect business, consumer confidence and the confidence of all GGF Members staff to return to working in the office – particularly those who have offices in large cities with insufficient office space to enable all staff to socially distance.

My personal view is that 2021 in financial terms could turn out to be even more challenging than 2020, so it is very fortunate the GGF Group has a strong financial foundation and sufficient reserves to weather the many storms that I still think sadly are ahead. My suggestion is that, as they have always done, GGF Members support one another, rally round and stay in the boat, as we’ve proven together we are stronger and by doing so, better equipped to cope with the rough seas ahead with all hands on deck.

Mark will open proceedings at Members’ Week on 29th September at 10.30am.

To join both Mark and John Agnew at the GGF Members’ Week webinar click the banner below:

GGF Welcomes Aspire Bifolds into Membership

Uncategorized |

The GGF is pleased to welcome Aspire Bifolds into the Membership.

Aspire Bifolds has over a decade of experience in the specialist home improvement sector and their experienced team has worked on some of the most prestigious projects and properties throughout London and the South East.

With a diverse client base ranging from the budget conscious homeowner to the client with very specific requirements, Aspire provide some of the bestselling and most trusted windows and doors in the UK, designed to meet the needs of any home.

Aspire Bifolds offer:

•             Windows and Doors

•             Bifolding Doors

•             Sliding Patio Doors

•             Roof Lanterns and Glazed Roofs

Aspire Bifolds Ltd are based at 11 Castle Parade, Ewell Bypass, Epsom, Surrey, KT17 2PR. The Directors of the company are John Small & James Wenlock

To find out more about Aspire Bifolds please visit their website www.aspirebifolds.co.uk or call them direct on 0208 224 7431.

Three companies apply to join GGF this week

Membership News, News |

The GGF is pleased to confirm that three companies have applied to join the Federation in the last seven days. Please see details below.

The Window Doctor Care & Repair Service Ltd (trading as) The Window Doctor

The Atkins Building

Lower Bond Street

Hinkley

LE10 1QU

www.thewindowdoctorltd.com

Directors: James Rawlings, Allen Rawlings, Anne Rawlings

Mourne Craft

40 Drumcro Road

Kilkeel

County Down

BT34 4HA

www.mournecraft.com

Owners: Ronald McConnell, Ryan McConnell

Entire Group Home Ltd

Unit 19 Wynard Industrial Park

Belbins

Romsey

Hampshire

SO51 0PW

www.entiregrouphome.co.uk

Directors: Paul Smith, Stephen Screech

If as a GGF Member you have any reason to object to these applications being processed, please contact the Membership department by email membership@ggf.org.uk

Brexit Update: Government Issues Guidance on UKCA Mark

News, Politics, Technical News |

On 2nd September the government has published guidance on the Placing of Manufactured Goods on the market in Great Britain from 1st January 2021.

This will be covered under the new UKCA Mark. See below from the government and full details can be viewed here.

The government proposes to amend the statutory instrument  No.465 to consider the effect of the Withdrawal Agreement and Northern Ireland Protocol. Further changes may be made if the UK and EU establish different arrangements under the future trade agreement.

The amended statutory instrument will come into effect on 1 January 2021 replacing the current statutory instrument.

The 2019 No. 465

EXITING THE EUROPEAN UNION

BUILDING AND BUILDINGS CONSTRUCTION MARKET STANDARDS

The guidance is about placing construction products on the GB market. The GB market refers to England, Wales and Scotland.

The government document sets out their intentions as to what the legislation will say. The legislation will need to be approved in Parliament, so there may be changes. The government will review the guidance once the legislation has been passed through Parliament.

The guidance does not cover goods placed on the Northern Ireland market or goods placed on the GB market from Northern Ireland. Guidance on this will follow.

Businesses must prepare for the end of recognition of the CE mark in GB and affix the UK marking using a UK-recognised ‘approved body’ by 1 January 2022.

Businesses are being encouraged now to be ready for the full implementation of the new UK regime, as soon as possible after 1 January 2021. Businesses will be able to use the UK mark from 1 January 2021. To allow businesses time to adjust, some CE marked goods, that meet EU requirements, may continue to be placed on the UK market.

However, this arrangement will end on 1 January 2022, and businesses should ensure they are prepared for the new system before it comes into effect.

All existing harmonised European standards will become UK ‘designated standards’. This will mean that immediately after the end of the transition period harmonised European standards and UK designated standards will be identical.

The government will publish and maintain the list of these designated standards on a UK Database.

The GGF will publish more updates as it receives information from government and will be assisting GGF Members through the transition.

There will also be an update and summary presentation on this change at the GGF Technical Forum at Members’ Week, starting at 10.30am on Wednesday 30 September. You can book your place here https://www.ggf.org.uk/the-ggf-technical-forum-booking-form/

GGF Reflects on Tough but Steady Year

News |

The GGF has released its Annual Report 2020 reporting on the activity and performance of the Federation for the year ending 31st December 2019.

The report reflects on difficult but steady year that saw the GGF gain 42 new members during 12 months of uncertainty, anticipation and preparation for the UK’s pending exit from the European Union.  

The report also highlights a year of outstanding background work by the GGF technical team and the ongoing political activity the Federation carried out on behalf of Members.

From the Report, the GGF External Affairs and Marketing team delivered a best ever year in terms of brand awareness with over 133 million opportunities to see the GGF brand in the trade, consumer and political media. In addition, the GGF’s high quality content saw 300k unique users visit the GGF websites – GGF. org.uk and MyGlazing.com in 2019.

The accounts yet again showed the organisation’s formidable financial strength and stability whilst also continuing high productivity.

In the Report, Mark Austin, GGF President commented, “Despite the many challenges, the GGF continued to operate and deliver the level of services and benefits that our Members no doubt expect from the industry’s leading trade organisation.”

John Agnew, GGF Managing Director added, “The Annual Report and accounts clearly show the GGF is in a strong position to help members cope with the challenges ahead, during these extraordinary times.”

To read the GGF Annual Report please click here

Masterframe to attend second virtual Homebuilding & Renovating Show

Members News |

After attending the first virtual Homebuilding & Renovating Show in summer, Masterframe are to attend the autumn version to take place online on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th September 2020.

Carol Slade, Managing Director for Masterframe says “This will be our second virtual show and we are once again looking forward to giving customers the chance to come and ‘Meet the Manufacturers’ to ask all their questions from the comfort of their home.  With all the experience gained by the organisers from the first show, we are hoping that this will be an even better virtual experience for visitors.

Carol continues “We are pleased that by attending these virtual shows we are enabling customers to continue to plan their sash window replacement, whilst inspiring them with all the literature and video material they need to reach a decision on what is a very important investment. We will also be on hand to offer up advice a on their choices and to help if a bespoke solution is required.  Amongst the many videos that customers can download will be our own virtual showrooms located at our manufacturing facility in Witham, Essex.  These showrooms not only show off our products but also feature a series of video hotspots that highlight the many ‘Invisible heroes’ that are integrated into Masterframe sash windows.

Masterframe manufacture two beautiful, high quality sash window collections each with a choice of three specifications.  The Bygone Collection is marketed to retail customers exclusively through a network of Master Installers and the Classic Collection is available through Masterframe trade customers and Master Installers nationwide.  To find out more about your choices and to chat to a Masterframe specialist on the day, register for the show free here: https://bit.ly/2DpIqmV or visit the brand new website at www.masterframe.co.uk.

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