The Door Industry Journal

Friday, 23 January 2026

Charter Global delivers trusted protection with SBD security shutters

Charter Global, a leading designer, manufacturer, installer and maintainer of specialist security shutter systems, continues its long-standing association with Secured by Design (SBD), the official police security initiative, with an extensive range of accredited products meeting the rigorous Police Preferred Specification.

With over 20 years’ experience, Charter Global has established itself as an industry leader in physical security solutions, trusted by architects, contractors and end-users worldwide. The company’s innovative approach, in-house design capabilities and manufacturing facilities have positioned it at the forefront of the high-security shutter market.

Charter Global Founder and Managing Director, Roger Humphreys, said: “We’ve been privileged to work on some of the most prestigious and high security projects around the UK, across a wide variety of building types and security risk profiles. Our security certifications have been used by security consultants and risk managers in protecting properties including national infrastructure sites, retail, community and public buildings, as well as cultural and government sites.”

Charter Global has delivered bespoke solutions for projects across multiple sectors, including government buildings, embassies, high-value retail, private residences and critical national infrastructure. The company’s Obexion and Integr8 shutter ranges have achieved Secured by Design accreditation, offering specifiers and end-users trusted protection against a wide range of security threats.

The Obexion range represents the most comprehensive portfolio of LPS 1175 independently certified roller shutters on the market. Featuring unique ‘LockDown’ technology that prevents shutters from being left in an unsecured position, Obexion systems combine exceptional performance, lightweight aluminium construction and aesthetic versatility suitable for public-facing environments.

The Integr8 range of built-in roller shutters provides discreet, integrated security by embedding protection within the building structure itself. Suitable for commercial, educational and healthcare environments, Integr8 shutters deliver robust physical security while maintaining the architectural integrity of a building.

Kenny McHugh, Secured by Design, commented: “It’s a pleasure to continue working with Charter Global, whose Obexion and Integr8 ranges have achieved Police Preferred Specification. Their commitment to quality, performance and design excellence is evident across their entire portfolio, and their long-standing partnership with Secured by Design reflects a shared dedication to creating safer buildings and environments.”

You can find out more about Charter Global and their Secured by Design accredited products on their dedicated member page.

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Thursday, 22 January 2026

Fullex Crimebeater Autolock Rose advances security and compatibility for fire doors

UAP Ltd has announced the launch of its Fullex Autolock Rose, an innovative evolution of the popular Fullex Slam Shut Autolock, designed to deliver enhanced security and greater compatibility with modern doors.

Suitable for use with timber, composite, 44mm/54 or thicker, the Fullex Autolock is specifically engineered to meet the needs of the fire door market, offering installers and homeowners a versatile and robust solution for contemporary construction projects.

Building on the success of the Crimebeater Slam Shut Autolock, the Fullex Autolock Rose introduces a deeper 55mm gearbox, while its flexible design supports two handle spindle options either lever on backplate or lever on rose, so allowing easy integration with a range of door designs. It also boasts a new and improved hardened gearbox casing made from a stronger plate material that ensures a higher degree of resistance to attack.

The lock continues to offer fire-rated protection, supporting FD30 and FD60 timber and composite doors when used with perfectly cut intumescent kits, delivering confidence and peace of mind for both installers and end users.

Reliability and long-term performance remain at the heart of the Fullex Autolock’s design. The lock has been endurance tested for 200,000 full cycles and is BSEN1670 Grade 5 corrosion-resistant certified, providing 480 hours of protection against environmental wear.

It is Secured by Design accredited and PAS 24 compatible, and when combined with a Kitemarked Euro Cylinder via the Kinetica Freezeguard 3-star euro cylinder system, it offers an additional layer of security. Supplied as a complete set with strike plate options, the Fullex Autolock Rose ensures fire-rated protection while simplifying specification and installation.

Richard Morris at UAP Ltd, said: “At UAP, we are always looking for ways to drive progress in security hardware. The Fullex Crimebeater Autolock Rose represents our latest step forward - improving on an already trusted product to deliver enhanced compatibility, flexibility, and durability for modern fire doors. It’s our commitment to making homes and buildings safer without compromising on quality or convenience.”

www.uaplimited.com

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Wednesday, 21 January 2026

Next Generation Safety with the ISEO Push Electro Motorised Panic Bar

In an era where safety, hygiene, and smart building functionality converge, M Marcus Ltd is proud to announce its partnership with ISEO to bring to market a transformative new product, the Push Electro motorised panic bar. This is not just an incremental upgrade, it’s a meaningful leap in how we think about emergency exits, access control, and user wellbeing.

Traditional panic bars have long served their purpose as mechanical safety devices: simple, robust, and reliable. But modern buildings demand more. High-traffic areas — such as hospitals, schools, offices, and public institutions — need solutions that can handle constant flow, integrate with electronic systems, and maintain rigorous hygiene standards. The Push Electro meets these needs.

Intelligent Motorisation for Effortless Access

Thanks to its built-in motor, the Push Electro can open the door automatically, triggered via buttons, switches, or access-control systems. This reduces reliance on manual operation, offering a smoother, more controlled exit.

Flexible Operating Modes

Hold-Open: For times when doors need to remain open (e.g. during busy hours) the hold-open function keeps them unlocked, though this should not be used in fire-rated doors for safety compliance.

Seamless Integration with Access Control

Push Electro integrates with ISEO’s access control platforms, including existing systems. That means buildings can retrofit or expand their security architecture without ripping everything out, an important consideration for renovations or phased upgrades.

Permanent Antibacterial Protection

Hygiene is built into the device. The Push Electro is treated with AntiGerm®, a permanent antibacterial coating that continuously releases silver ions to reduce bacteria by up to 99% over its lifespan and with no maintenance needed.

In settings like hospitals, clinics, schools, and other high-sensitivity environments, this level of protection is a game changer.

Safety doesn’t just mean a secure exit, it means knowing the door’s status. The Push Electro provides real-time feedback on whether the door is open or closed, enabling proactive security management.

Complying with EN 1125, the device meets the rigorous European standard for panic exit devices.

Furthermore, its self-locking steel latchbolts enhance physical security and reliability.

The Push Electro is available in a range of finishes including black, metal grey, white, and a durable “ENDUR4NCE” finish, so it can blend seamlessly with the architectural style of any building.

For existing installations, there’s even a motor retrofit kit, enabling the motorisation of existing Push rim devices without full replacement.

For M Marcus Ltd, this launch is more than just adding a new product to our catalogue , it's about championing smarter, safer, and more future-proof building design. As a leading UK distributor of high-quality security hardware, our mission is to align with manufacturers who are genuinely pushing the boundaries. The ISEO Push Electro is exactly that: innovation that does not compromise on compliance or robustness.

The ability to retrofit existing panic hardware with motorisation means our clients can modernise their infrastructure in a cost-effective, minimally disruptive way. Coupled with its hygiene credentials and tight integration into access-control ecosystems, the Push Electro represents a strategic investment for architects, specifiers, and facility managers alike.

The introduction of ISEO's Push Electro by M Marcus Ltd is a clear statement: safety hardware is evolving. No longer should emergency exits be purely mechanical afterthoughts, they can and should be part of a broader, intelligent access-control strategy. With the Push Electro, M Marcus is delivering a product that doesn’t just keep people safe it offers smarter, cleaner, more controllable exits.

We believe that in the coming years, motorised panic bars like the Push Electro will become the norm, not the exception. And M Marcus Ltd is excited to lead that shift in the UK market.

For more information, please contact our ISEO Sales Office: iseosales@m-marcus.com

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Tuesday, 20 January 2026

OKNOPLAST joins Secured by Design

OKNOPLAST, an international manufacturer of high-quality windows, exterior doors, roller shutters, garage doors and accessories, is one of the latest companies to join Secured by Design (SBD), the official police security initiative.

Operating across 21 countries throughout Europe and North America, OKNOPLAST has earned a reputation as one of Europe’s most recognisable and trusted names in the window and door industry. With over three decades of experience, the company combines advanced manufacturing technologies with uncompromising product quality and innovation.

Mike Żyrek, R&D Director, OKNOPLAST, said: "Obtaining Secured by Design accreditation for our NEO line confirms that our solutions meet the highest standards of safety, quality, and innovation. At OKNOPLAST, we continuously invest in technological development so that our products not only provide comfort and aesthetics, but above all, significantly increase user safety. This distinction motivates us to further improve our solutions and introduce products to the market that meet the growing demands of customers in terms of protection and durability."

OKNOPLAST’s NEO Range has achieved Secured by Design’s Police Preferred Specification, meeting the initiative’s rigorous standards for security and performance. This accreditation reinforces OKNOPLAST’s commitment to delivering products that not only enhance comfort and design, but also offer proven protection and long-term reliability.

The company’s dedication to excellence is supported by a robust product development department that continuously researches and responds to changing customer expectations. With stringent internal quality controls exceeding industry requirements, OKNOPLAST ensures that every product provides safety, comfort and durability for years to come.

Kenny McHugh, Secured by Design, commented: “We’re delighted to welcome OKNOPLAST as members of Secured by Design and to recognise their achievement in securing Police Preferred Specification for their NEO Range. OKNOPLAST’s strong focus on quality, innovation and customer confidence aligns perfectly with the principles of Secured by Design, and we look forward to developing our partnership as they continue to expand across international markets.”

You can find out more about OKNOPLAST and their Secured by Design accredited products on their dedicated member page.

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Monday, 19 January 2026

New extra feature for DIJ Spring 2026: Why Quality Matters

Quality underpins every decision in the industrial door, shutter, and garage door sector: from material selection and fabrication methods to installation, service, and long-term performance. For Spring 2026, Door Industry Journal is introducing Why Quality Matters, a brand-new premium supplement and the first in a new series of exclusive DIJ features launching throughout the year.

Designed to set the tone for what follows, Why Quality Matters will spotlight manufacturers, suppliers, and installers who place quality at the heart of their business. This isn’t about shortcuts or box-ticking; it’s about craftsmanship, consistency, accountability, and pride in delivering excellence across products, people, and processes.

As the inaugural feature in this new series, participants will have the opportunity to be first to shape the conversation and be associated with the launch of a major new DIJ initiative. The supplement will explore how businesses define and uphold quality internally, from leadership and company culture through to the factory floor and installation teams. It will examine the role of materials, fabrication processes, testing, and attention to detail in delivering doors and shutters built for demanding commercial environments.

Quality doesn’t stop at production. The feature will also highlight best practice in installation, aftersales support, training, compliance, and maintenance: recognising the teams behind the products, from skilled fabricators and engineers to installers, service professionals, and customer support staff.

To protect the focus and premium positioning of the supplement, participation is strictly limited. While a number of companies will be approached directly by the DIJ team, a small number of places are available on a first come, first served basis, subject to alignment with the ethos of the feature.

If quality genuinely drives your business and you’d like to be among the first companies featured in this new DIJ series, now is the time to get involved. Once places are filled, no further opportunities will be available.

To find out more, call Rob or Steve on 01226 321450 or email rob@cvgroup.co.uk or steve@cvgroup.co.uk

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Sunday, 18 January 2026

Hagerty UK reveals ten cars to watch in 2026 Bull Market List

Classic car insurer Hagerty UK is proud to announce its highly anticipated 2026 UK Bull Market List, ten cars that its experts and extensive market data predict to be rewarding buys this year. The list features cars for all budgets, from a few thousand pounds to nearly £100,000, all of which hold a special place in motoring history.

1966 – 1986 Alfa Romeo Spider (average price 2000 Veloce £21,200)

The Alfa Romeo Spider has always had an element of mystique about it, a car to enjoy summer days or embark on scenic road trips. It achieved cult Hollywood status when it starred in the movie, The Graduate and is surprisingly practical with a big boot, simple soft-top, comfortable interior and plenty of specialists to keep it in good shape.

2004 – 2009 Ferrari F430 (average value for the Spider £95,400)

The Ferrari F430 was a step up from its 360 predecessor both in terms of powertrain and design with its 4.3-litre F136 V8 engine setting the standard for future models. Designed by Frank Stephenson and Pininfarina it took visual styling cues from many previous iconic Ferraris. Values have risen 19% over the past five years, making it a safe and extremely enjoyable buy.

1965 – 1977 Ford Transit Mk 1 (average value 2-litre petrol £17,200)

The Ford Transit has been the UK’s most popular commercial vehicle for over 60 years, regularly lauded as being the backbone of the UK’s economy. First introduced in 1965, it has been the tradesperson’s choice, as well as being popular with Police forces, logistics companies and famously in the 1970s, bank robbers. Values of the first generation Mk 1 have increased by 6.2% over the past five years and while the extremely rare 3.0-litre V6 is the most desirable, Hagerty’s experts have chosen the 2.0-litre petrol as the one to watch.

2004 – 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK R171 (average value £5,200)

Mercedes-Benz’ passion for performance and quality ensures that eventually every convertible that bears the three-pointed star becomes collectable. Values have remained flat for the 2004-2011 R171-generation SLK over the last five years as the car sits between being a used car and a classic car, but this currently makes it excellent value for those seeking a quality roadster that is great to drive all year round.

1955 – 1962 MG MGA (average value £25,700)

Like many British sports cars of the 1950s and 60s, values of the MG MGA has declined over the past five years, but Hagerty’s market data and Collectability Algorithm both agree it is good buy. It certainly has a lot going for it with a race-derived design, plenty of parts suppliers and specialists and an incredible ability to put a smile on your face whether on a quick jaunt to the pub or even a long distance road trip.

1997 – 2006 Porsche 911 996 (average value £17,800)

The 996-generation of the Porsche 911 has often been maligned as the first water-cooled version of the iconic sports car and the one with the “fried egg” headlamps. It also suffered from mechanical issues, but with the 996 now over 20 years old, these will all have been sorted out resulting in a really good sports car with a great interior, superb performance and sound and with plenty of upgrades available to enhance the ownership experience.

1934 – 1935 Riley Nine Imp (average value £60,100)

Values of pre-war cars have dropped significantly in recent years, but while values of the Riley Nine have declined around 20% during that time, the experience of driving one is utterly exhilarating. Fitted with a 1087cc straight-four engine, the Riley Nine Imp was almost a lightweight version of Riley’s MPH, a car that took on MG on the race track.

1993 – 2002 Toyota Supra A80 (average value £40,000)

The A80 was the fourth iteration of the Toyota Supra and the one that became a poster car for an entire generation who watched The Fast and the Furious movies, or spent ages tuning one in the Gran Turismo or Forza console games. Sold in limited numbers in the UK, prices have risen 41.8% over the past five years, although down from their peak after prices shot up when the famous Candy Orange Supra from the movie sold for $550,000 in 2021.

1971 – 1979 Vauxhall Viva HC (average value £4,300)

The epitome of a Hagerty Festival of the Unexceptional car, the Vauxhall Viva was immensely popular in its time, with over 650,000 produced. Today it is an extremely rare car, often overlooked by all but the most dedicated of enthusiasts, but it is a benchmark of 1970s British motoring that has a lot going for it. Notoriously robust for the time, both mechanically and in the bodywork department, the Viva’s simplicity makes it relatively easy for an enthusiast to maintain and a great option for those seeking an affordable, enjoyable and practical classic.

1983 – 1992 Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk II (average value £15,300)

The Volkswagen Golf GTI is one of the most iconic cars of motoring history and it celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026. The second generation Mk 2 GTI features a larger, more modern body than the original, as well as improved handling, comfort and from 1986, a 139bhp 16-valve engine. Regarded by many as the benchmark hot hatch compared to the Ford Fiesta XR2, Peugeot 205 GTi and Renault 5 GT Turbo, the Golf delivers that ideal combination of a spirited driving experience with modern classic styling and everyday comfort, ensuring it will continue to be one of the most loved of the hot hatch genre.

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Saturday, 17 January 2026

DHF marks the retirement of Senior Training & Compliance Officer, Nick Perkins

The Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) is announcing the retirement of one of its Senior Training & Compliance Officer, Nick Perkins, recognising his long-standing contribution to the Federation’s work and to the continued professionalisation of the Automated gate and door industry.

In 2010, Nick joined the sector at a time when the understanding of safety legislation and standards was uneven and, in some areas, limited. Since 2000, DHF records indicate around 30 deaths and serious injuries associated with non-compliant systems, leading to more than 20 criminal prosecutions.

The tragic incidents that occurred in 2010 involving automated sliding gates brought into sharp focus the urgent need for clearer guidance, improved competence and consistent training across the industry. In response, DHF strengthened its focus on safety, compliance and education, establishing a dedicated automated gate group and developing structured guidance and training for members and the wider sector.

Nick was closely involved in this work from an early stage. As part of the committee formed to support the development of DHF’s first automated gate training courses, he contributed a growing technical understanding that helped shape training that was both thorough and accessible. Following the successful launch of the initial courses, Nick accepted a permanent role with DHF, beginning a long association with the Federation’s technical and training activity.

Since that time, DHF’s training provision has grown significantly. More than 6,500 learners have now completed DHF training across a comprehensive programme covering automated gates and traffic barriers, shutters, industrial and garage doors, fire shutters and dock levellers, delivered through a range of formats including distance learning.

Working in collaboration with partners, the Federation has also expanded into fire door inspection, timber and steel doorset installation repair & maintenance and security &emergency exit doorsets training, as well as the provision of CSCS cards for the door, gate, shutter and loading bay equipment sectors. Alongside this, discussions are underway with a national college network to develop a new apprenticeship scheme for the industry, while relevant NVQs are being delivered through DHF’s sister organisation, Entrance Systems Alliance (ESA).

Training has been just one aspect of DHF’s work during Nick’s tenure. The Federation’s technical team now responds to around 6,000 technical enquiries each year, delivers seminars to members, undertakes on-site system assessments and provides expert witness support to investigating authorities. This breadth of activity reflects DHF’s wider role in supporting compliance, raising standards and promoting best practice across the industry. The impact of this collective effort is clear. Where once compliance with key safety standards such as EN 12453 was limited, awareness and implementation are now far more widespread.

“Today, the industry today is far better informed, more professional and more accountable, with safety firmly embedded alongside commercial growth,” explains DHF’s Commercial Director, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens. “While this progress is the result of many contributors, it is clear that Nick has played a considerable part in supporting DHF’s mission to drive improvement and reduce risk across the sector.

“As he retires, DHF thanks him for his tireless commitment and service over many years. The Federation will now look to grow its technical team further, building on the strong foundations already in place and continuing to lead the industry on safety, competence and compliance.”

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Friday, 16 January 2026

Maintenance Matters: How to Keep Door Hardware Running Smoothly

David Knollman, Brio business development manager at Allegion UK, provides a how-to-guide outlining the essential maintenance and care steps for sliding and folding door applications.

As modern architecture continues to embrace open plan living, space saving convenience and indoor and outdoor interconnectivity, sliding and folding doors have surged in popularity. These systems deliver style and versatility across a variety of projects, but all too often, one key detail is widely overlooked.

Behind the seamless operation and sleek appearance of sliding and folding doors, there’s a concealed truth. Where these modern door systems exude elegance, many users neglect that they, like any precision mechanism, demand regular care and maintenance. In fact, the difference between doors that simply look good upon installation and those that perform smoothly for longer periods of time lies in how you care for the hidden parts, explains David Knollman:

“Hardware is a core component of any door system, a fact perhaps more evident with sliding and folding doors. From the tracks, rollers and pivots to the hangers, hinges and bolts that hold them all together, each part is instrumental when operating the contemporary systems found throughout our residential and high-end commercial spaces.

“However, even the most durable door hardware is subject to deterioration. Everyday use can impact a system’s condition, with hardware becoming even more worn and tired in harsh and demanding settings. With this in mind, there is value in developing a greater understanding of the common issues and correct care and maintenance procedures that can extend the life of sliding and folding door systems."

Neglecting hardware, on the other hand, can lead to a range of avoidable issues, such as:

· Track and roller degradation: Over time, dirt, grit and salt can build up in tracks, increasing the door’s resistance under movement, which wears down bearings and causes uneven motion.

· Misalignment: As buildings gradually settle - or through repeated use - sliding and folding panels can shift, with loose fastenings or misaligned rollers causing doors to drag and making them difficult to open and close.

· Corrosion and material wear: Metal hardware components are vulnerable to humid, salty or chemically aggressive environments, with the effects of corrosion and wear able to hinder a door’s operation.

· Seal and gasket wear: Damaged or imperfect seals can lead to drafts, water ingress and higher loads on frames, increasing the strain on systems.

· Locking and handle mechanism faults: Should locks and handles become stiff or damaged, the security and usability of a system may suffer.

“When left unchecked, these problem areas can result in significant operational issues, often leading to exaggerated repair costs or full system replacements.”

Routine care and maintenance

A proactive approach to care and maintenance can significantly extend the life of your door systems. Basic habits, such as regularly running doors through their full cycle, for example, can make a difference, but regular inspection, cleaning and adjustments are highly advised. In view of this, there are a few routine steps to ensure everything keeps running smoothly, David continues:

“Generally, it’s recommended that visual checks are performed over six month periods. In doing so, users should inspect all fixing bolts, looking for loose attachments, misalignment issues, signs of rust and other elements of visible wear. During inspections, it’s also important to secure brackets and tighten fixing bolts where necessary. High-traffic or exposed systems may require more frequent checks, and if a part is excessively worn, it should always be replaced.

“When it comes to tracks and rollers, it’s practical to keep the door’s track free from obstruction by removing debris and any build-up of dirt and water. To do this, visible surfaces can be cleaned using a soft brush, damp cloth and a mild non-abrasive cleaner - and don’t forget to dry, as any moisture left in the track or hardware can accelerate rust and corrosion. All rollers should be fitted with sealed precision bearings which require no maintenance.

“Attention must also be paid to hangers and pivots. On trusted hardware products, hangers are fitted with lubricated ball-bearings or plain bearings, which require no greasing. Though, if doors ‘settle’ and clearance is reduced, causing restriction as a result, the door may need to be raised by hanger adjustment nuts. Cleaning should be approached in a similar manner to the other hardware elements found in these systems, adding a light application of corrosion preventative to all surfaces where necessary.

“Hinges and flush bolts should also be cleaned and dried in the same way. For hinges specifically, again, it’s recommended to apply a light corrosion preventative - however, this process should ideally be repeated over three month intervals. For flush bolts, users can also apply a light application of lubricant to internal mechanisms and bolts by using a suitable nozzle-spray.”

Unique considerations

The longevity of sliding and folding door systems depends on informed care, and there are some environments that may require adjusted care routines, especially when you consider that not all doors are put under the same amount of stress. When unsure, users are reminded to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, concludes David:

“Finally, there are some special considerations to make for systems found in high stress environments such as coastal areas or industrial settings. In these settings, the recommended period for maintenance rises from six months to three months, with close attention needed for all metal components, where signs of surface corrosion are more likely to show if not washed regularly. During cleaning, users should wash with soap or a mild non-abrasive cleaner and warm water, followed by a rinse with clean cold water, before wiping dry.

“When using lubricants or corrosion protection compounds, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Harsh cleaners can scratch finishes and degrade protective coatings and seals. Similarly, using an unsuitable lubricant can have the adverse effect after a while, attracting dust rather than keeping a system smooth. If a door feels stiff and adjustments are needed, it’s also important to note that over tightening or forcing parts can cause further damage to hardware, so it’s always beneficial to refer to the manufacturer’s documentation and fitting instructions.

“Ultimately, the reliability of sliding and folding door applications may begin with accurate specification and installation, but the systems that perform for decades are the ones that have been maintained with care. Whatever the project, maintenance must always remain part of the plan.”

www.allegion.com

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Thursday, 15 January 2026

Gateway Automation Wins Gate & Barrier Contractor of the Year

Gateway Automation has been named the winner of the Gate and Barrier Contractor of the Year award at the 2025 Association of Fencing Industries UK Fencing Awards. The category was sponsored for the third consecutive year by the Door & Hardware Federation (DHF), with the ceremony taking place on Thursday 13th November at Mercedes Benz World. The event brought together leading voices from across the fencing and automation sector.

The Gate and Barrier Contractor of the Year category recognises excellence in precision, attention to detail, innovation and creative approach. Entrants were required to submit a full Risk Assessment Method Statement, a Compliance and Residual Risk Assessment, and a Declaration of Conformity. These documents formed an essential part of the judging process and helped demonstrate safety, regulatory compliance and professional integrity.

DHF’s Senior Training & Compliance Officer, Steve Hill, represented the federation on the judging panel and helped evaluate entries, selecting both the finalists and the overall category winner. And DHF’s Commercial Director, Patricia Sowsbery Stevens, presented the award to Gateway Automation during an evening that also featured an entertaining keynote from Perry McCarthy, known to many as the original Stig from Top Gear.

“DHF is proud to support the Gate and Barrier Contractor of the Year category and continues to champion high standards of professionalism, training and technical competence across the industry,” commented Patricia. “The 2025 AFI Awards once again highlighted the depth of talent within the sector and celebrated the organisations that are raising expectations of quality and safety.”

Gateway Automation was selected ahead of fellow finalists, Alpha Rail, and the Littlewood Group. Speaking following the announcement, Ollie Male, Sales and Estimator at Gateway Automation, expressed pride in the recognition. He noted that the team was delighted to be involved in the AFI Awards and praised the organisation of the event, the impressive venue and the warm and engaging hosts. He added that the award holds particular significance for the team because it confirms that their commitment to quality has been recognised by respected industry experts.

In his reflections, Ollie also highlighted the role that DHF’s training and membership has played in developing the company’s technical confidence. He explained that the team regularly receives enquiries that relate directly to the training they undertook through the federation, and as a result of this training, staff are able to provide customers with accurate advice that aligns with the expectations of industry regulators. Gateway Automation completed the ABBE Level 2 Award in Automated Gate and Traffic Barrier Safety Accreditation and found the programme valuable because it addressed the real issues that frontline workers encounter every day. Ollie described the course as ‘essential’ for helping companies navigate technical challenges and deliver consistently high quality outcomes.

Pete Clark at AFI said: “Every year I am blown away by the talent, pride and professionalism within this industry. These awards started in 2022 with a tight budget and a lot of favours – and to see how far they’ve come is a testament to the incredible people who make fencing what it is. From apprentices starting their journey to the contractors, manufacturers and suppliers driving innovation, this industry never stands still – and that’s something worth celebrating.

"Thanks to all the sponsors and the great AFI team that make the awards possible. I have always said that good fencing keeps people safe, and nowhere is that more evident than in the Gates & Barriers category. These systems protect homes, businesses and critical sites every day. The quality of entries this year shows a group of contractors who take that responsibility seriously, and I am proud to see the expertise in this category growing year on year.”

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Wednesday, 14 January 2026

Not Just a Letterplate

With increasing scrutiny on fire safety compliance and security standards in building hardware, it is more important than ever that everyone in the supply chain, from specifier to fabricator, installer to locksmith, understands exactly what is required when selecting and fitting a letterplate. Here, John Prosser, Marketing Services, HOPPE (UK) discusses the role of the fire-rated, TS 008 Tested Letterplate in today’s security and compliance landscape.

The AR708HS TS 008 tested letterplate from ARRONE, a HOPPE Group brand, addresses evolving threats such as ‘letterbox fishing’ and offers third-party Certifire certification when fitted with its associated intumescent kit. However, recent certification updates and product adaptations highlight the importance in educating the market on fire compliance and when it is required.

Security is no longer a 'nice-to-have'; it’s a regulatory necessity. The AR708HS has been tested to TS 008:2022, the latest and most robust standard for enhanced security and general requirements applicable to letterplate assemblies. All new doors fitted with a letterplate must meet this standard to be compliant with PAS 24 and Approved Document Q.

Beyond security, fire safety remains a defining issue in new builds and retrofits, especially in multi-occupancy dwellings such as flats and apartment buildings. To meet these needs, the AR708HS can be fitted with an ARRONE-specific intumescent kit, enabling it to carry Certifire certification for use on 30- and 60-minute timber fire doors. The fire-rated solution is available as a package with the AR708HS and intumescent kit.

The journey to Certifire certification involved real-world fire testing and product modification. To meet performance criteria, the letterplate was updated with two stabilising pins. This addition provides strength while ensuring structural integrity in fire conditions, enhancing overall strength, Crucially, the ease of fitting has not been compromised with these stabilising pins.

When Fire-Rated Letterplates Are - and Aren’t - Required

A common misconception is when to specify a fire-rated letterplate.

Required: Flat/apartment entrance doors that open onto shared escape routes (internal corridors or stairwells).

Not Required: External front doors of new-build houses, where the door opens directly to the outside and is not a designated fire door.

This distinction is critical. Using a non-rated letterplate in a required fire-resistance scenario may compromise safety, while over-specifying can introduce unnecessary cost or complexity.

Accessories are purchased separately where fire-rated letterplates are required. To simplify this process, HOPPE (UK) has identified four options for obtaining the additional components needed for AR708HS fire compliance. Door manufacturers can source components separately (option 1) to suit their production facilities or opt for a compliance kit (option 2), with both options offering an optional fitting tool for multiple uses. For online sales, small orders are available, with a fitting tool included for single-use: a 44mm tool (option 3) and a 54mm tool (option 4), neither of which are part of a factory manufacturing system.

High security that looks good

The AR708HS offers a design that proves high-security products can also be visually appealing. At just 21mm projection, its internal cover maintains the aesthetics of any door while allowing full, non-restrictive door opening. Internally, the adjustable stepped sleeve restricts full flap opening, preventing key fishing or manual manipulation; a technique still used by opportunistic burglars. In fact, 72% of burglaries in England and Wales (April 2022–March 2023) involved entry via a door, underscoring the importance of physical deterrents.

The fit and the kit

Despite these features, the AR708HS remains installer-friendly. It is crucial that the intumescent kit supplied by ARRONE is used for fire-rated installations. Third-party certification is only valid when the correct kit is fitted, ensuring that all components have been tested together under Certifire standards. Specifiers, fabricators, and merchants must ensure that the letterplate and intumescent kit are supplied together when required.

And, to ‘finish’...

With seven finishes available, anthracite, black, chrome, graphite, satin chrome, white, and brass, the AR708HS matches ARRONE’s broader hardware range, including handles, numerals, and knockers. The option for split finishes, e.g., white internal with black or brass external, offers even more flexibility to suit modern interiors and traditional exteriors.

www.hoppe.com

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