This week’s Star is Emplas Trade Sales Manager, Darren Dow.

Name: Darren Dow

Company: Emplas

Been going to PiGs since: 2010

Favourite PiGs location: Currently between Birmingham and Bristol hard to choose.

Tipple of choice: Being Aussie, I do like a good Lager, but prefer a good Jack Daniels.

What’s the best thing about PiGs? Perfect setting to take customers and network for new prospective customers, but most all-seeing people from same industry letting hair down and enjoying a great night out.

Where in the world would you take PiGs to if you could? Yacht in Malaga would suit PiGs crowd 😊 or Las Vegas 😉

The post Star in the STY: Darren Dow appeared first on PiGs.

In this piece, Gareth will go through his experiences at REHAU, while also describing what he enjoys about the fenestration industry alongside his exceptional 100k marathon.

What did you do before joining REHAU?

I originally came out of university and went to work in China, completing a TEFL course to teach English as a foreign language. I then did that for 18 months, before returning to the UK, where, by chance, there was opportunity with a local company called Sun Trade.

Sun Trade is one of REHAU’s biggest customers here in Wales, so it was through them that I first heard about the company and learnt about a lot of their products. After eight years of this, I found a really exciting opportunity to join REHAU, and jumped at the chance to do so.

What does your current role entail at REHAU?

I’m currently an Area Sales Manager for the fabricators in the southwest. As part of my role, we’re constantly talking to customers, supporting them through providing the latest information on our products and services. However, this isn’t the only way we can help them, as we also assist in numerous other ways, including working with their own marketing teams to help build their own brands, and providing a foundation for their business plans.

This is actually what I’m currently doing with one of my fabricators, who I am helping to look down the route of funding so that they can grow their own business.

What have you achieved since joining REHAU?

At REHAU, we have something called the Champions Club. When you work in sales as I do, you are monitored year by year, and to help us track our stats, we have a have sort of league table. Obviously, we all want to be on top, which is why I’m proud that this year I’ve finished in the top three globally for new business sales.

How has REHAU assisted you with your career growth?

One thing that REHAU is doing for the sales team is to put us on a sales executive course to help develop our knowledge, which we’ve all really appreciated. The profession within the UK isn’t really chartered now, but this will eventually be the case. This sales executive course will be one of the first steps towards that.

REHAU is just supportive in general. They are willing to back you to look after your own area. So, if you think it’s right for REHAU, then you are proactively asked to go and do that. In terms of my future at the company, I hope to progress within REHAU, and hopefully be in a move into a management position in the near future.

How did you hear about the NFA Awards?

When you get nominated for something, it’s always nice!, but really this shows that I’m putting in the hard work and that it’s getting appreciated. Let’s just hope I win now, that’s all I’m hoping for!

How has REHAU supported you inside or outside of work?

Yes, they were really supportive of a charity run that I completed in June.  It took a lot of training, including spending time away from my pregnant wife, but she’s been cheering me on the whole way , as has everyone else at REHAU. I completed it in just under 14 hours of running, with over 8000+ calories burnt and 121,000+ steps across the Cotswolds. We’ve raised over £4600 for MacMillan Cancer Support, which has assisted my family through some difficult times, which I’m, of course, proud to help. This was all obviously for a good cause, but I think my legs will thank me if I give it a little bit of a break, I will not be in a rush to do this again!

REHAU – Engineering Progress, Enhancing Lives

The post The People in Glazing: Gareth Thomas – REHAU appeared first on PiGs.

More than 150 installers and industry press came from as far as Dundee and Southampton to attend this momentous industry event.

The event saw the unveil of several brand-new initiatives, including SleekSkin, its new door finish. Como Door has entered a new partnership with Kubu to offer a range of high-security smart technology and sensors into its doors as standard. In addition to its newly developed luxurious ultimate glass surrounds, border door styles, and enhancements to their marine grade hardware offering.

Richard Diliberto, Sales Director at Comp Door said: “The launch event was phenomenal. Customers instantly took to the new products and were blown away by the unveil, presentation, venue, and demonstrations. We have received an overwhelming response to all of the products launched and have already had a large number of customers signing up to have SleekSkin as part of their showroom display and to be part of the Kubu scheme in preparation for the full integration in December.”

He continued: “Due to the word spreading faster than we ever imagined, we’ve also vast enquires come through from prospect customers that we’ve never had contact with previously. These new initiatives are making real waves across the industry, which was our mission and intention, so that together we can ensure a positive future and growth in demand for composite doors in the UK.”

Comp Door’s newly launched products were designed with its customers centrefold, created to enable their installers to stand ‘head and shoulders above competitors, further exceeding their homeowners’ expectations, whilst also propelling sales and generating increased demand’.

Sam Kay, Managing Director of K Glazing Limited said at the event: “SleekSkin – ‘I love it! This is just what the market needs, I feel customers are really going to appreciate the aesthetic benefits of this product and how it truly replicates a timber door. Kubu is likewise going to be a game changer, the future is here and it is exciting! It’s exactly what we should be providing to our customers as standard.”

Shauna Brett, Marketing Manager at Emerald Windows & Doors concurred. She said: “The anticipation of what would be revealed by Comp Door was exciting, and the whole day from start to finish did not disappoint. The new products are incredible, a real game changer to my business, the ability to offer my customers a door with so much value-add and real quality puts me on a different level. My homeowners will love this new SleekSkin door finish and will be blown away by all of the other innovations built into Comp Doors as standard going forwards.”

www.compdoor.co.uk

The post Comp Door product launch event ‘out of this world’ appeared first on PiGs.

Steve joins the business in the strategically important post of Technical Manager, where he will have a major impact on the manufacturer’s current and future product offering.

Said to be a highly accomplished and qualified engineer, Steve has over 20 years of engineering experience gained in product design and manufacturing settings.

In his new role, he will lead product development, ensuring the Endurance Doors’ range continues to employ the latest technological advances and meets evolving homeowner demands and market trends.

He will also help to future-proof Endurance’s products. Adopting a proactive approach, he will ensure the manufacturer’s portfolio pre-emptively complies with changes in industry standards and regulations.

Commenting on his appointment, Steve said: “Joining Endurance offers me an exciting opportunity to work with some of the most technically advanced and well-engineered products of their kind.

“The progressive focus of the business and its commitment to continued evolution means I’ll be able to build on this already successful platform and make the best even better.

“I’m also looking forward to the challenge of exploring potential new revenue streams for both Endurance Doors and its installer partners.”

Stephen Nadin, Managing Director at Endurance Doors, added: “Steve’s experience, creativity and technical expertise make him a valuable addition to our team.

“His success as our new technical manager will help us to maximise sales and to enhance already high levels of satisfaction amongst both our installer partners and homeowners.

“By helping to ensure continued technical excellence across our range, he will also strengthen Endurance Doors’ reputation for being the leader in composite door innovation, compliance, and quality.”

Composite Doors | Composite Front Doors | Endurance®

The post Endurance Doors appoints new Technical Manager appeared first on PiGs.

Kurt, who was a member of the original team that co-founded Dekko Window Systems with Gary Torr in 2008, brings a wealth of experience and deep industry knowledge to his new role. His career in the glazing industry began in 1986 and includes three successful tenures at notable trade fabricators.

Throughout his career, Kurt has developed comprehensive experience across all aspects of trade fabrication majoring on sales and marketing areas but having input and involvement in supply chain, innovation, and operations – and the senior team at Inwido, who acquired Dekko in 2022, believe this will be vital in steering the company’s future direction.

“We are delighted to appoint Kurt as our new Managing Director,” said Jonna Opitz – Inwido EVP Western Europe & Communication. “His extensive industry experience, intimate knowledge of Dekko and strong leadership skills make him the ideal candidate to guide the company into its next phase of growth. We’re confident that under Kurt’s leadership, Dekko will continue to thrive and expand its market presence”.

Under Gary’s leadership, Dekko has grown from a start-up to a thriving business with an annual turnover exceeding £20 million. Gary’s vision and commitment to innovation helped position Dekko at the forefront of the fenestration industry, pioneering groundbreaking products such as the Residence Collection, seamless Graf welding and Kubu smart technology. Throughout this journey, Gary has maintained a strong personal connection to the business, creating a positive company culture and ethos that values employees, customers, and suppliers alike.

Gary commented on the transition: “While I’ll be stepping back from the day-to-day operations, I’m looking forward to continuing to contribute to Dekko’s success in my new role. Kurt and I have worked closely together for many years, and I have complete confidence in his ability to lead the company forward.”

Kurt expressed enthusiasm about his new role: “I am honoured to take on this position and build upon the strong foundation Gary has established at Dekko. We have a talented team, innovative products, and state-of-the-art machinery. I look forward to leading Dekko into a bright future, continuing to deliver exceptional value to our customers and partners.”

Under Kurt’s leadership, Dekko Window Systems plans to continue its trajectory of innovation and growth, leveraging recent investments in new products and machinery to strengthen its market position.

The company has an extensive product range, including offerings made with leading systems such as Deceuninck, Reynaers, and the Residence Collection, and they are the only fabricator in the UK that can offer a fully ‘seamless’ PVC-U window thanks to its partnership with machinery specialist Haffner.

Inwido, who are Europe’s largest window and door supplier operating in 11 countries with 34 business units and approximately 4,700 employees, recognised Dekko’s potential and strategic fit within their group. Since the acquisition have been working hard to accelerate Dekko’s development and enhance its ability to serve customers with premium window and door solutions.

www.dekkowindows.com

The post Dekko announces leadership changes appeared first on PiGs.

SGP specialises in high-quality curved, flat, and custom-made toughened and laminated glass products. These are used in various applications, including building facades, balustrades, spiral stairs, and shopfronts throughout the UK, Europe, and the United States. Notable projects include Globe Point, Leeds and Hendricks Gin Palace in Ayrshire.

Kevin brings nearly two decades of experience in the glass manufacturing industry, having spent 19 years with a Dundee-based company specialising in sealed unit glass manufacturing. Kevin’s extensive experience in the industry makes him well-equipped for his new role, where he will oversee all aspects of production operations. Some of Kevin’s responsibilities will include implementing production strategies, managing the production team, and driving process improvements.

The hiring of Kevin is said to strenghten the Yorkshire-based company’s commitment to expanding its product offering and exploring new markets.  Over the past 24 months, SGP has completed over 26,500 orders. With Kevin on board, the firm can better manage increasing demand while ensuring teams stay aligned with shared goals.

Alongside Kevin’s appointment, the glass manufacturing company has seen its workforce expand significantly in recent months. The roles of Assistant Works Manager, Quality Assistant, Transport, Dispatch, and Production Administrator have also been key additions to the team. Kevin’s hiring sees SGP’s workforce increase to 102.

Andrew Taylor, Managing Director of Specialist Glass Products, said: “Kevin brings abundant expertise in glass manufacturing, which will benefit the company’s growth. His experience in operational direction, people management and growth management will be crucial as we continue to expand.”

Kevin added: “Looking towards the future, a key objective for SGP will be to explore new market opportunities, push the boundaries of glass manufacturing, and place ourselves at the forefront of the industry, and I’m looking forward to being a part of that.”

https://www.specialistglass.co.uk/

The post New Operations Director for SGP appeared first on PiGs.

The award recognises Jon’s contributions to the home improvement sector, particularly in promoting high standards and competence within the RMI (repair, maintenance, and improvement) industry. The reception also served as a platform to launch the NHIC’s 2025 campaign, “Home is Where Our Heart Is,” focusing on sustainability, quality, and consumer protection in home improvement.

The Stunell Award, named in honour of The Rt Hon. the Lord Stunell OBE, a key figure in the construction and home improvement sectors, celebrates individuals and organisations who drive positive change through innovation, leadership, and collaboration.

Jon’s many leadership roles including Chair of Certass, Chair of Industry Competence Committee for Building Safety Regulator, and his work with the NHIC and the Construction Leadership Council RMI working group on competence, compliance, and quality have been pivotal in shaping industry standards across the UK.

Jon’s efforts to improve building safety, enhance tradesperson education and training, and foster collaboration across the industry have inspired real change. As a result, he was unanimously selected by the NHIC board and working group chairs to receive this prestigious recognition.

Commenting on the award, NHIC CEO Anna Scothern said: “A huge congratulations to Jon Vanstone on winning the Stunell Award for individual excellence at the NHIC Parliamentary Reception! Your dedication to promoting high standards and competence in the RMI sector has inspired positive change across the industry. We’re proud to recognise your incredible contributions.”

Jon’s recognition comes at a crucial time for the home improvement industry, which is increasingly focused on sustainability and safety, driven by ongoing reforms in building regulations and the Grenfell Inquiry. His leadership continues to inspire confidence in the industry’s ability to meet future demands while maintaining the highest standards of quality and consumer protection.

The NHIC Parliamentary Reception was sponsored by Recticel Insulation UK, EnviroVent, and Corgi Services, and brought together key figures in the sector to discuss the future of home improvement.

Home – Certass Limited

The post Jon Vanstone receives inaugural industry award appeared first on PiGs.

With a stronger team and a new year ahead, the Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB) has laid out its planned event support for members in a new document. Releasing this information towards the end of 2024 helps members plan their active year ahead, and it is hoped more member company teams will be available to attend events. The brochure, available on the CAB website, was released at CAB’s Autumn Forum, held at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff in October.

The Autumn Forum is the last of the main Members meetings of the year and chance for delegates to listen to topical speakers and to be able to network with other members. This years business forum was titled ‘Contemporary Façade Design and Delivery’ and included presentations from Ffion Lanchbury and Andrew Baker of Rio Architects, Oliver Bridge of Total Facade Solutions, along with the Q&A panel that included Andrew Lee of Bouygues, Liz Williams, Housing Delivery Specialist and Steve Bramhill of UL Solutions. With over 100 members and their guests in attendance, this year’s Autumn Forum proved to be a popular event.

As CAB moves into its fourth decade, the team decided that the events in 2025 should be reviewed, keeping the popular events, modifying others and introducing some new meetings.

2025 kicks off with the popular Spring Forum which is to take place at The Deep in Hull. The format will be a conference followed by an evening dinner and after-dinner speaker for Members and their guests. The Deep, situated overlooking the Humber estuary, is an educational and conservation charity that features an impressive Aquarium. It offers both formal and informal conservation education to a wide-ranging audience, aiming to inspire and engage. Committed to the highest standards of animal care and welfare, The Deep plays an active role in breeding programs and field conservation efforts.

Engaging with members and the wider trade sector sees CAB taking a stand at the FIT Show in April 2025. The stand will primarily serve as a networking and meeting area for Members and guests, providing an excellent opportunity to educate visitors about our CSCS Training and Closed Loop Recycling Schemes, as well as the advantages of joining the Association. The entire team will relocate to the NEC to address any enquiries that current and prospective members may have concerning CAB. For the first time, FIT is adopting post-event recycling and this initiative will be prominently displayed with our Closed Loop Recycling logos, ensuring that all visitors are aware of CAB’s commitment to sustainability.

CAB has recently initiated it’s membership drive in the home improvement sector, outlining the benefits of joining the Association and promoting product development based on one of the world’s most abundant metal, aluminium. Without aluminium, the advancements in engineering technology over the last century would simply not be possible. The membership drive explains the support services offered by the Association, but more importantly, it is about belonging to a ‘family’ where businesses meet and network, to the benefit of the whole Industry creating one voice for future change.

The team have decided to bring back the popular Technical Conference in May, last held in 2018. The event will return to Loughborough University which offers easy parking and excellent facilities for a day conference. A wide range of presentations will be delivered by industry experts which will provide comprehensive insights into the issues impacting the façade Industry. The CAB Technical Committee will oversee and organise this event to guarantee that the subjects addressed are pertinent and enlightening. This event is specifically for your technical teams, allowing them to engage in the Q&A sessions and networking opportunities during coffee breaks and lunch.

In a change to the yearly ‘Golf Day, AGM and Dinner’ midyear, CAB will be launching the ‘CABfest Golf Day & Festival’. Upon completing a round of golf or arriving later in the afternoon, Members and guests will be treated to an afternoon and evening filled with live music. To enhance the ambiance, a resident DJ will be present to keep the energy high while attendees savour a variety of street food, enjoy offerings from our CABfest bar, and indulge in a Pimm’s & Prosecco cart. The objective is to provide an event where Members can reward their teams, invite distinguished guests, or simply network with fellow members and attendees.

Replacing the Autumn Forum will be a series of Regional Workshops. These have been well attended in the past and will be held at locations in the North, Midlands and South. Attendance at these events will be complimentary, allowing Members the opportunity to engage with CAB whilst also enjoying some networking time over coffee and a bacon roll. Delegates can then return to the office for the afternoon. The primary purpose of these gatherings is to facilitate local interactions and keep Members informed about Industry developments and the development of the Association.

Completing the year, CAB will hold its popular AGM in October. The 31st Annual General Meeting will also mark CAB’s inaugural Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony, intended to honour membership and provide an opportunity to acknowledge your management teams or enjoy an entertaining evening with your partner. The event will feature after-dinner speakers, opportunities for engaging activities at the tables, and several surprises throughout the evening. Our Marketing Committee is committed to presenting a diverse array of awards, and importantly, the nomination process will be straightforward, eliminating lengthy forms. This will facilitate the recognition of those who have made significant contributions to promoting the use of Aluminium in the built environment.

More information about CAB’s 2025 events is available through the CAB website. It is important to recognise that an Association belongs to its Members and the more influence that Members can bring into the Association, the further it will grow. The CAB Board of Directors is committed to grow the Association and continue to increase value for membership.

c-a-b.org.uk

The post An exciting year ahead appeared first on PiGs.

The initiative, led by Sidey’s Community Benefits Manager, Donna Montgomery, provided students with a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in the construction industry by fitting and removing windows in purpose built timber pods.

As part of Sidey’s commitment to community engagement and supporting future generations, this hands-on experience aimed to inspire students to consider a career in the trade. During the event, Donna Montgomery provided the students with an overview of the apprenticeships available at Sidey, outlining the various pathways they could take to develop their skills and join a growing industry.

“We’re proud to work with local schools like Liberton High to offer young people real-world insight into the opportunities available in construction,” said Donna.

“Our apprenticeship programme is a key part of Sidey’s mission to nurture the next generation of skilled professionals, and we hope to inspire more students to consider careers in this sector.”

The day allowed pupils to get a feel for the technical aspects of window fitting, working with the timber pods in a controlled and supportive environment. By giving them first-hand experience of what a career in this field entails, Sidey hopes to ignite their interest in the apprenticeship programmes that offer invaluable training and development opportunities.

Sidey | Windows, Doors and Living Spaces

The post Nurturing the next generation appeared first on PiGs.

Taking place at the Hilton Syon Park in London, the competition aims to find the very best female business talent from across the UK.

NXGEN Lifting provide specialist mini cranes for the construction industry, glazing industry, and all businesses carrying out inspection, maintenance or installation in a restricted access environment.

Despite a challenging economic climate, the innovation, flair and passion of female entrepreneurs shone through. All winners, selected by a panel of business experts, demonstrated their business acumen, tenacity and courage.

The Best Businesswomen Awards are designed to recognise the achievement of female-owned businesses and charities across a wide range of business categories and are open to any female business owners.

Debbie Gilbert, organiser of The Best Businesswomen Awards, said: ‘This is the 10th Year of the awards, and we have recognised over 1000 women since we launched in 2015 across a huge range of industry sectors. The selection process is rigorous and to be one of our winners is a major achievement. The judges make their selections based on business expertise, innovation, and high levels of customer care.

“Our winners are shining examples of outstanding entrepreneurs who have proved their success to our judges and have shown they have the results worthy of being recognised and rewarded.”

The judges commented: “For a new business, results are phenomenal. Kelly has built a highly successful business from the ground up in a fiercely male dominated sector.

“Kelly proved exemplary market knowledge and outstanding customer service can build a business quickly. She has succeeded in spotting a niche and her passion comes through in leaps and bounds.

“A business that shows the direct correlation between innovation, sustainability and profitability, and a visionary leader with a people-first approach will deliver business success. She will lead her peers, and her growth potential is massive”.

Kelly added: “I feel humbled and incredibly grateful to receive the gold award amongst truly inspirational women, who have all built great businesses! I would like to thank my dedicated employees, loyal customers and my supportive family and friends. I receive recognition for this award on behalf of for all of us.”

Spider Crane Hire In Warrington | NXGEN Lifting

The post NXGEN Lifting Founder picks up Best Businesswomen award appeared first on PiGs.