The Door Industry Journal

Sunday, 12 July 2026

Best-of-Category Cars Across All Segments to First Edition of The Quail Auction

Broad Arrow Auctions, driven by Hagerty (NYSE: HGTY), is looking forward to its inaugural sale as the official auction partner of The Quail by The Peninsula, A Motorsports Gathering. The Quail Auction, set for August 13-14 during the world renowned motorsports and luxury lifestyle event, will feature approximately 175 exceptional collector cars, curated by Broad Arrow’s global team of veteran and expert car specialists.

Early featured highlights for the two-day auction are led by highly sought-after cars across all categories of collecting, from Classic Era elegance through to modern performance icons.

“Our team has already put together an exciting group of cars for our first sale at The Quail, and we’re adding consignments daily at broadarrowauctions.com,” says Barney Ruprecht, VP of Auctions for Broad Arrow.

“Highlights to date include a fantastic mix of millennium-era and modern performance hot topics combined with exceptional and distinguished examples of collector car market icons. With eight new auction world records set at our 2025 Monterey Car Week auction, we’re looking forward to bringing more fascinating cars to the podium as we begin a new chapter with The Quail.”

Highlights for Broad Arrow’s The Quail Auction to date include:

An eye-catching group of uniquely specified modern performance icons

• A single-owner 2020 Lamborghini Sián FKP 37 (Estimate: $2,500,000 - $3,000,000), a 284 mile, one-of-63 example of the very first Lamborghini equipped with hybrid technology. Powered by a 6.5-liter hybrid V12 producing a combined 808 horsepower, this stunning example is specified in Bianco Asopo and Grigio Liqueo fading with Verde Lampros accents over Nero Cosmus leather and features a host of options and Ad Personam exterior appointments.

• A 1990 Porsche 911 Coupe Reimagined by Singer known as the “Los Angeles Commission” (Estimate: $1,100,000 - $1,300,000), a gorgeous example of the now retired Singer Classic Study. Emerging from Singer in 2016, it is powered by an Ed Pink Racing-built 4.0-liter air-cooled flat-six and a six-speed manual transmission with limited-slip differential and finished in Paint to Sample Namib Yellow with subtle Ghosted Light racing side stripes and Bone White lettering over a White leather woven interior with Black leather contrast trim.

• A 2023 Ford Bronco DR (Estimate: $225,000 - $275,000 | Offered Without Reserve), one of only 50 Desert Racer examples produced and offered with just 19 miles from new. This is a turn-key off-road Baja truck developed by Ford Performance and built by Multimatic Motorsports, finished in a gold, white, and blue livery inspired by the legendary Baja-winning “Big Oly” Bronco.

• A two-owner 2016 Dodge Viper GTC (Estimate: $200,000 - $250,000 | Offered Without Reserve), offered with less than 10,000 miles from new. Finished in Viper White over a Demonic Red/Black leather interior, it is powered by a monstrous 8.4-liter V10 producing 645 horsepower through a TREMEC six-speed manual transmission, remaining one of the largest displacement motors fitted to a contemporary production car.

A sought-after lineup of wild millennium-era marvels

• A 1996 Nissan NISMO 400R (Estimate: $800,000 - $950,000), the 20th of just 44 limited edition 400Rs built to celebrate the R33 GT-R’s 24 Hours of Le Mans racing accomplishments. Powered by the Le Mans-derived RBX-GT2 twin-turbo straight-six producing 400 horsepower, this Sonic Silver example, recently imported to the U.S. after nearly three decades of Japanese ownership, is among the most collectible JDM cars ever to reach America.

• A wild 1996 Porsche 911 Turbo (Estimate: $400,000 - $450,000 | Offered Without Reserve), among the most dramatic and custom-ordered 993-generation 911 Turbos. Finished in PTS Violet Blue Metallic over a Leather to Sample interior, this powerful Rest of World (RoW) example boasts P408 S and four-wheel drive derived from the 959 supercar. Featuring extensive Exclusive options, the 911 Turbo benefits from thorough and comprehensive recommissioning at RUF Pfaffenhausen in 2023.

• A 2005 Acura NSX (Estimate: $200,000 - $225,000 | Offered Without Reserve), equipped with the desirable six-speed manual transmission and one of just 20 examples finished in New Formula Red over Onyx leather. Meticulously maintained from new and with under 27,000 miles at cataloging, this is a fantastic example of the most refined year of the revered first generation Acura NSX.

Highly important sports and racing greats

• A historically significant 1951 Porsche-Sauter 356 Pre-A Sportwagen Roadster by Klenk (Estimate: $1,800,000 - $2,200,000), the evolutionary link between Porsche No. 1, the America Roadster, and the 356 Speedster. The Porsche-Sauter was built by Hans Klenk Karosserie, the man who would go on to win the Carrera Panamericana in a 300 SL. Following period competition at the Nürburgring, Monaco, Liège-Rome-Liège rally, Montlhéry, Riverside, and Pebble Beach, the Porsche-Sauter was reacquired by the Porsche factory to develop the 1,500-cc Type 528 Super engine later used in the America Roadster. Returning to the Monterey Peninsula, the car remains eligible for premier historic events worldwide, representing an irreproducible link to the company's earliest competition era.

• A 1954 Maserati A6GCS by Fiandri & Malagoli (Estimate: $2,400,000 - $2,900,000), chassis no. 2078, the 25th of 52 Maserati A6GCS examples built, and retained by the factory for Works competition during the 1954 season. The car is credited with a remarkable period racing record, including 1st in Class at the Giro delle Calabrie, Circuito di Senigallia, and RAC Tourist Trophy, among other prominent results. It was piloted by legendary Works driver Luigi Musso, whose success with the A6GCS helped secure the 1954 Italian championship in the International Sports Class. It has been cherished in its current, devoted enthusiast ownership for nearly three decades, during which it has been actively campaigned at the Mille Miglia Storica, Monterey Historics, and Colorado Grand. The award-winning Maserati comes to auction extensively researched by leading Maserati authorities, including Ermanno Cozza and Adolfo Orsi, documenting its significance as an important Works Maserati sports racer from an exciting era of motor racing.

• A 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTR Brumos (Estimate: $600,000 - $800,000), the 1982 24 Hours of Le Mans IMSA GTO Class winner in BF Goodrich colors. One of only 17 factory-built 924 Carrera GTRs, this was the ultimate customer racing transaxle Porsche to emerge from Weissach. Campaigned in period by Brumos Racing with Porsche factory support, the 924 was a three-time competitor at both the Daytona 24 Hours and Sebring 12 Hours and was piloted by Doc Bundy, Jim Busby, Manfred Schurti, John O'Steen, Elliott Forbes-Robinson, and actor James Brolin among others. The car has been exceptionally restored and remains eligible for both European and United States-based historic racing classics.

• A 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing Coupe (Estimate: $1,850,000 - $2,200,000), a striking example of one of the most significant sports cars of the post-war era. Presented in Black over Green leather with seldom seen matching plaid cloth seat inserts, the unmistakable car retains its original matching-numbers chassis, body, engine, transmission, steering box, spindles, and rear axle and is eligible for the most exclusive driving and concours events worldwide.

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Low Cost and Free Publicity - Your company can easily benefit from some publicity like the posts above for a contribution towards our layout costs (£75 to £95 plus VAT), payable in advance or you can receive the service absolutely free of charge if you advertise (see below).

We post articles up to twice a day and never delete them - we only archive them each year so that they continue to remain visible to search engines.

To have your story published - just send us your news item, logo and image(s) and we will review the material, make any necessary changes to the wording / wordcount and then advise you when it will be published.

If you are a regular advertiser in our printed and online publications, placing series bookings for adverts or subscribing to our VIP Packages, you will qualify for a specific number of free postings on this blog while you continue to advertise with us. See our media pack for more details.

Also, if you purchase one of our Online and Print Combo packages, Featured Articles or Advertorial packages shown in our media pack, posting on this blog is included in the price.

For details and rates for all of our advertising options in print and online, download our media pack contact us or visit our website.

Door Industry Journal is a trading style of Clearview Group Limited - Company No. 06999111

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website

Saturday, 11 July 2026

A LETTER TO THE INDUSTRY FROM ANDY COLLETT, MANAGING DIRECTOR, GfA UK

The industrial door industry is entering a defining period of change. Across the UK and Europe, businesses are facing a growing shortage of skilled installation and service engineers. Experienced professionals are retiring, fewer apprentices are entering the trade, and companies are under increasing pressure to do more with less.

For manufacturers, installers and service providers alike, this presents a serious operational challenge. Margins are already under pressure. Time on-site is costly. Training new engineers takes time and investment. And as systems become more advanced, there is a growing risk that technology itself becomes viewed as another obstacle.

But this is precisely the moment when the industry must avoid paralysis through resistance.

The future of industrial doors will not be secured by avoiding change. It will be secured by helping engineers and businesses adapt to it confidently.

At GfA, this has long shaped our philosophy toward product development and training.

The Industry Cannot Afford Resistance to Innovation

There is often a natural hesitation whenever new control technology enters the market. Engineers who have spent years mastering familiar systems can understandably worry that “next-generation” products will mean complexity, disruption, or extensive retraining.

That concern is not unique to industrial doors. Every technical industry faces the same challenge: how to modernise without alienating the very people responsible for installation and service.

The danger comes when resistance slows progress.

Modern industrial doors are increasingly expected to deliver more than simply opening and closing reliably. Customers now expect smarter diagnostics, better compliance visibility, remote support capability, faster commissioning and more efficient maintenance processes. Regulations are evolving. Digitalisation is becoming unavoidable. Service expectations are rising.

If the industry resists these developments, the burden on already-stretched engineering teams only becomes greater.

Technology should reduce pressure on engineers — not create more of it.

That principle has guided the development of GfA’s new TS-C platform.

Familiarity Matters

One of the biggest mistakes manufacturers can make when introducing new systems is forcing installers and service engineers to completely relearn how they work.

That creates downtime, uncertainty and frustration.

The TS-C range was designed differently.

While the platform introduces major technological advancements, the operational logic remains intentionally familiar. Engineers already experienced with the TS Control Panel range will immediately recognise the structure, functionality and workflow of the new TS-C Control Panels.

This matters enormously in today’s labour environment.

Businesses do not have the luxury of removing engineers from site for lengthy retraining programmes. They need continuity. They need confidence. They need products that allow experienced engineers to transfer their existing knowledge directly into newer systems.

The TS-C platform delivers exactly that.

Instead of creating barriers to adoption, it creates a bridge between traditional engineering expertise and future-ready digital functionality.

Technology Should Support Engineers, not Replace Them

There is sometimes concern that increasing digitalisation removes control from engineers in the field. In reality, the opposite should be true.

Done properly, smarter systems empower engineers.

The introduction of GfA’s new digital ecosystem evodo, alongside the TS-C range, has been designed specifically to simplify commissioning, diagnostics and ongoing service support.

With tools such as:

● evodo-Sync for on-site software updates

● evodo-Toolkit for Bluetooth parameter access and diagnostics

● evodo-Web for remote monitoring and fault analysis

engineers can work more efficiently, identify issues earlier and reduce unnecessary return visits.

Importantly, these systems are designed to enhance field expertise — not replace it.

A skilled engineer remains central to the process. The technology simply removes inefficiencies that waste time and reduce profitability.

In a market suffering from labour shortages, this becomes critically important.

Faster Onboarding for the Next Generation

The industry also needs to think carefully about the next wave of engineers entering the sector.

If apprenticeship numbers remain lower than required, businesses must focus on reducing the time it takes for new engineers to become productive and confident on-site.

This is where intuitive product design becomes commercially valuable.

Features such as:

● integrated QR-code access to instructions and fault guides

● simplified wiring layouts

● lever terminals

● modular plug-and-play expansion

● USB-C parameter backup functionality

helps reduce avoidable installation errors and speed up familiarisation for newer engineers.

These are not simply “technical features.” They are tools that support workforce development.

The easier it is for engineers to commission, diagnose and maintain systems confidently, the stronger the industry becomes overall.

Compliance is Coming — the Industry Needs to be Ready

Another major driver of change is regulation.

The new EU Machinery Regulation coming into effect in January 2027 — with the UK expected to align closely — means businesses must prepare now for future compliance expectations.

This is not something the market can ignore or postpone.

The TS-C platform has been designed with future compliance already built in, helping manufacturers and installers protect both their stockholding and long-term product strategy.

Again, preparation matters.

Businesses that embrace change early will place themselves in a far stronger competitive position than those forced into rushed reactive transitions later.

Training Remains the Foundation

Technology alone is never the answer.

The real differentiator will always be people.

For many years, GfA has championed high standards of technical training because well-trained engineers do not just improve safety and quality — they improve profitability.

Confident engineers work more efficiently. They diagnose faults faster. They reduce costly callbacks. They strengthen customer relationships. And they help businesses protect margins in increasingly difficult trading conditions.

That philosophy continues with the rollout of the TS-C platform.

The objective is not simply to introduce a new control panel. It is to support the industry through a wider period of transition — giving businesses the confidence to modernise without fear of disruption.

A Moment for Leadership

The industrial door industry is undoubtedly facing challenges. Labour shortages, changing regulations and increasing technical expectations are real pressures for every business.

But periods of change also create opportunity.

Companies that invest in training, embrace smarter systems and support engineers through technological transition will be the businesses best positioned for long-term success.

The key is ensuring that innovation feels accessible — not intimidating.

That is why GfA’s message to the market is simple:

Change does not need to be disruptive.
Modernisation does not need to create barriers.
And engineers do not need to fear the future of control technology.

With the right support, training and product design, the industry can move forward confidently together.

To find out more, please call us on 01926 452452 or visit our product and news pages at www.gfa-elektromaten.co.uk

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website

Friday, 10 July 2026

Mila UK promotes Julie Holmes to Director & General Manager

Mila UK is pleased to announce the appointment of Julie Holmes to the role of Director & General Manager, strengthening the company’s ongoing long-term strategic growth.

The newly created role will benefit Mila customers by leading to faster decision-making, enhanced coordination across sales and operations, and a more responsive service aligned to their specific needs.

Julie has worked in the fenestration industry for 20 years and has extensive customer and market experience. She joined Mila in 2013 and has progressed through the roles of Area Sales Manager, National Sales Manager, and Sales Director, making this latest step a natural progression.

Julie comments: “Our mission at Mila is to become the most customer-centric and trusted partner in the fenestration industry, delivering reliable products and industry leading service to our customers – and that’s exactly what I want to achieve in my new role. I can’t wait to get started.”

Mila has been at the heart of the UK hardware industry since 1980. It supplies the trade, merchant, and retail sectors, and has a track record of exemplary service and product development.

www.milasecure.com

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website

Thursday, 9 July 2026

Integrated LED light strip and box strengthener combines two common installer requests

A new integrated LED light strip and box strengthener from Trojon Roller Doors has been developed to address two of the most common requests from garage door installers, bringing lighting and structural support together in a single component.

Set to launch this spring, the product combines an LED lighting strip with a box strengthener, offering installers a practical way to enhance both the functionality and finish of a garage door installation.

Two installer requests in one solution

When specifying garage doors, installers are frequently asked for two things: external lighting above the door, and additional support to reinforce the door box. Rather than providing separate accessories, Trojon’s new design integrates both functions into a single product.

Additionally, the new strengthener will solve another big issue faced by homeowners – that of the hood rattling in strong winds.

The LED strip sits neatly above the garage door, providing external illumination while also acting as a structural reinforcement for the door box. By combining lighting and strengthening into one element, the product reduces the number of components needed and simplifies the overall installation process.

For John Munday, owner of Trojon Roller Doors, and designer of this new product; it is a straightforward idea, but one that reflects the practical requirements installers encounter on site every day.

Flexible installation options

Flexibility was central to the product’s development. The integrated LED light strip can be installed at the same time as a new garage door, giving homeowners immediate exterior lighting.

It can also be retrofitted to existing doors, offering installers a solution when customers want to upgrade the exterior of their garage at a later date.

The lighting can be configured in different ways depending on the application. For example, it can be set to activate automatically when the garage door is operated, providing immediate illumination outside the door. This is especially useful for driveways, paths, and entryways where extra visibility improves safety and convenience.

Alternatively, the LED strip can function as a standalone light source, offering a permanent exterior lighting feature above the garage.

Designed to integrate with the door

Alongside functionality, appearance has also been considered in the design. The LED strip is supplied in white as standard, but Trojon laminates the units in-house so they can match the finish of the garage door. This allows the strip to blend seamlessly with the door’s design rather than appearing as an afterthought.

As garages increasingly serve multiple purposes and are part of the overall home frontage, homeowners are more conscious of aesthetics. A coordinated finish ensures the lighting feature feels like a natural and integrated part of the installation.

Practical benefits for installers

Combining lighting and structural reinforcement into a single component offers clear practical advantages.

By reducing the number of separate elements required, installations are quicker, simpler, and easier to specify. Installers no longer need to source and fit separate lighting and strengthening components, saving time and effort on site.

At the same time, the structural element helps support the door box, contributing to the long-term durability and stability of the door system.

This dual-purpose approach adds value both structurally and aesthetically without adding complexity to the installation.

A small change that makes a big difference

Innovation in the garage door sector is often about practical improvements that make installations simpler and the finished system more functional for homeowners.

By combining two commonly requested features into a single component, Trojon’s new LED light strip and box strengthener delivers exactly that kind of improvement.

More information is available at www.trojonrollerdoors.co.uk

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website

Wednesday, 8 July 2026

Growing Ellard’s JM Range: Supporting Fire Shutters of Every Size

Last year, Ellard refreshed its JM range of fire shutter and industrial door motors, reinforcing its commitment to providing reliable, easy-to-specify solutions for installers and manufacturers across the industry.

The refresh focused on improving consistency across the range and making it easier for customers to identify the right motor, control system and fire safety components for their application. It also reaffirmed the JM platform's position as a trusted solution for everything from compact fire shutters to large industrial door systems.

This year, that journey continues with the introduction of two new additions to the family: the JM3000 and JM4000.

These new operators extend the capabilities of the JM range even further, enabling manufacturers and installers to specify complete solutions for larger and heavier fire shutter installations than ever before.

Meeting the Demands of Larger Fire Shutters

Fire shutters are used in an increasingly diverse range of buildings, from retail premises and warehouses to manufacturing facilities and large commercial developments.

As building designs evolve, so too do the requirements placed on fire protection systems. Larger openings often require larger fire shutters, creating a demand for operators capable of handling increased door weights while maintaining reliable day-to-day operation and dependable performance in an emergency.

Recognising this need, Ellard has expanded the JM platform with the introduction of the JM3000 and JM4000.

Completing the JM Family

One of the key strengths of the JM range has always been its scalability.

From the compact JM150, designed for smaller fire shutters, through to the JM2200 for larger industrial systems, the range provides a clear progression of solutions for different door sizes and operating requirements.

The addition of the JM3000 and JM4000 now allows the platform to support some of the largest fire shutter installations in the market.

Delivering up to 765Nm and 825Nm of torque respectively, these operators have been developed to provide the additional power required for larger shutter assemblies while maintaining compatibility with the wider JM ecosystem.

For manufacturers, this means a single product family can now be specified across an even broader range of projects, simplifying product selection and reducing complexity when designing fire shutter systems.

Fire Safety at the Core

While the new motors provide increased capability, the primary objective remains unchanged: reliable fire protection.

The JM3000 and JM4000 have been designed to integrate with Ellard's wider fire safety offering, including the FCP-03 fire control panel and compatible fire release systems.

This allows installers and manufacturers to create complete fire shutter solutions that combine everyday operational performance with dependable fire safety functionality.

By ensuring compatibility across the entire range, Ellard continues to offer a joined-up approach to fire shutter specification, helping customers source motors, controls and fire safety products from a single supplier.

Investing in the Future

The launch of the JM3000 and JM4000 demonstrates Ellard's ongoing investment in the JM platform and the fire shutter market.

While last year's refresh strengthened the existing range, these latest additions expand what the platform is capable of delivering.

The result is a comprehensive family of operators that now provides solutions for everything from compact shopfront fire shutters to some of the largest fire shutter installations found in industrial and commercial environments.

As fire shutter requirements continue to evolve, Ellard remains focused on providing practical, reliable solutions that help manufacturers and installers meet the demands of modern building design.

With the addition of the JM3000 and JM4000, the JM range is now better equipped than ever to provide a solution for fire shutters of every size.

www.ellard.co.uk

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website

Tuesday, 7 July 2026

LiftMaster EVX: Smarter Installations, Stronger Business Growth

Built for Professionals. Designed to Perform

The LiftMaster EVX Series has been developed to support professional installers and partners with a new level of performance, flexibility, and efficiency in daily operations. Built with direct input from dealers, the EVX range is engineered to simplify installation while delivering powerful and reliable results across a wide range of residential garage applications.

With enhanced lifting capacity, adaptable speed settings, and installer-friendly features such as an extended power cable and optimised packaging, EVX allows you to handle standard as well as more demanding projects with confidence. Whether working with sectional, one-piece, or heavier garage doors, the system adapts easily to different environments, helping you reduce installation time while maintaining a high-quality standard.

In addition, included components such as TX4EVF transmitters ensure you can deliver a complete solution straight out of the box. Ultimately, the EVX Series is designed to support your business by making installations faster, more efficient, and more reliable enabling you to focus on delivering excellent results to your customers. LiftMaster stands for proven quality—with an outstanding warranty rate of just 0.05 % underlining its reliability. All products comply with current EU and UK regulations and are tested by accredited laboratories such as TÜV.

Smart Access with myQ – Connected Value for Your Customers

Smart access is extending today’s garage solutions. The EVX Series is fully myQ compatible, allowing the operator to be easily connected to the internet via the myQ Gateway and controlled through the app. Users can open and close their LiftMaster garage or gate from anywhere (infrared photobeams must be installed), receive real-time notifications, and invite trusted people via myQ to share access. For professionals, this creates clear opportunities to expand beyond classic remote controls and accessories. With myQ, you can offer a simple, scalable smart add-on that is easy to integrate into installations while adding real value for the end customer.

This can be further enhanced with the myQ LED Light (827EV), ideal for bright and efficient interior garage lighting. Thanks to its flexible design, it can be installed on walls or ceilings and connects wirelessly to the operator. With 1500 lumens and neutral white light (4000 K), it provides strong illumination. The light can be controlled via the myQ app, remote transmitters, or automatically through the operator during use—improving comfort, visibility, and overall user experience.

Infrared photocells (771EVK), required for myQ operation, not only enable remote closing but also increase safety by detecting obstacles and preventing the door or gate from closing when the path is blocked—ensuring reliable and secure everyday use. Required accessories for myQ operation: Infrared photocells and myQ Internet Gateway (828EV).

This combination of smart access and connected lighting helps you deliver a more complete, modern solution while increasing customer satisfaction and project value.

www.liftmaster.eu

Direct Contact: Andrew Buckler

+44 (0) 1935 823900

andrew.buckler@liftmaster.com

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website

Monday, 6 July 2026

A lifetime in the industry and a new chapter ahead

At the end of June, I officially retired from my role as CEO of the Door & Hardware Federation, handing over the baton to Patricia Sowsbery Stevens, who currently serves as Deputy CEO. It feels like the right moment to reflect not only on my time at DHF, but also on a career that has given me more opportunities, friendships, and experiences than I could ever have imagined.

I started work many years ago, although I will leave you to guess exactly how many! What I will say is that I became the very first Commercial Apprentice at Josiah Parkes, better known to many as Union Locks, based in Willenhall in the West Midlands. At that time, Willenhall was regarded as the heart of the locks and hardware world, employing more than 6,000 people across the town and surrounding area. Looking back now, it feels like I entered the industry during a completely different era, yet even then there was a sense of pride, craftsmanship, and community that stayed with me throughout my career.

Fast forward to 2008 and I found myself preparing for retirement for the very first time. Strangely enough, I was still working in Willenhall, in the very same building where I had started all those years before. Of course, a huge amount had happened in between. Parkes had been taken over by Chubb. Chubb later became part of Racal Electronics, famous for launching Vodafone, before becoming a separate PLC listed on the stock exchange. Then Williams Holdings, who already owned Yale, acquired the Chubb lock division, and eventually in 2000, the business became part of the ASSA ABLOY Group. It was quite a journey and certainly never dull.

After so many happy years in the lock industry, I genuinely thought retirement had finally arrived. As it turned out, retirement lasted only a few weeks. I quickly realised I still wanted a new challenge, and that challenge came in the form of becoming Executive Chairman of the Door & Hardware Federation.

Looking back on my time at DHF, there are several achievements that have given me enormous satisfaction, but training has to come first. In 2013, DHF introduced its very first training course covering automated gates and traffic barriers. At the time, we had no real idea what demand would look like, but it very quickly became clear that there was a significant need across the industry. The response was so strong that DHF appointed its first full-time Training and Compliance Officer. Encouraged by this success, further training programmes were introduced covering industrial doors and garage doors. Working alongside BRE, DHF also launched training courses focused on fire door installation and maintenance.

Today, DHF offers nine training courses and has welcomed nearly 7,000 learners. That growth is something I am particularly proud of because training and competency are absolutely essential for the future of our industry. Importantly, we have never stood still. DHF continues to develop new programmes to meet the changing needs of members and the wider sector. In the coming weeks, we will launch the new Building Hardware Training Programme, which is the biggest project DHF has ever undertaken in terms of both time and investment.

What makes the programme especially valuable is its flexibility. Companies can select training modules specifically suited to their employees and business activities. For example, if a company specialises in padlocks, there is a dedicated module focused solely on padlocks. Altogether there are twelve individual product modules, creating a truly tailored learning experience.

Another source of great pride has been the growth of DHF’s membership. Today, DHF represents six product groups and has more than 600 members. All areas have grown steadily, but the expansion within the automated gate and industrial door sectors has been especially significant, with 380 and 356 members participating in those groups respectively. Without doubt, part of this growth reflects companies recognising the value of access to high quality training and guidance at reduced member rates.

DHF has also continued to play a major role in supporting industry standards and developing its own Technical Specifications. This commitment stretches back many decades. In fact, DHF was instrumental in creating the well-known BS 3621 thief resistant standard for single point locks during the early 1960s, a standard still widely recognised today. More recently, DHF introduced TS 007, which addresses anti-snap protection for lock cylinders. Work is also nearing completion on a new Technical Specification for key safes.

As I prepare to step away, naturally my thoughts also turn to the future. One thing on my wish list is a return to more face-to-face meetings. Teams and Zoom meetings undoubtedly have their place, but I do believe we have become too dependent on them and, in so doing, have lost some of the benefits that come from personal engagement and networking. Another ambition is the creation of a proper apprentice scheme for gate and door installers. DHF has explored this possibility for several years, often encountering dead ends along the way, but there now appears to be a genuine opportunity to make it happen. I sincerely hope the industry can bring it to life.

I would also like to see a greater understanding and use of the Competency Frameworks developed by trade bodies across the sector. These frameworks provide clear pathways for becoming a properly trained and competent professional. The work has been done. Now the challenge is ensuring those pathways are recognised and adopted across the industry. Hopefully this will encourage greater uptake of NVQs, particularly those offered by Entrance Systems Alliance, a company jointly owned by DHF and the Automatic Door Suppliers Association.

As for me, after decades in the industry and many rewarding years at DHF, it is finally time for a new chapter and perhaps the biggest challenge of all deciding what to do with all my free time. It has been such a privilege to work alongside so many talented and dedicated people throughout my career, and I would like to thank everyone who has been part of that journey.

Finally, I must congratulate Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens who is taking over from me as CEO. Patricia has been with DHF for ten years and has played a major role in developing our commercial function involving marketing, membership and training. She works tirelessly for DHF and her promotion is well deserved. I am sure that you will join me in wishing her all the best in her new position.

Best wishes,

Bob Perry

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website

Sunday, 5 July 2026

The Rolls Royce Black Badge Ghost Tourist Trophy

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has presented the Black Badge Ghost Tourist Trophy on the Isle of Man, marking 120 years since Charles Rolls’ victory in the 1906 Isle of Man Tourist Trophy.

The commission takes its inspiration from the Light 20 H.P. Rolls-Royce driven by Rolls and his riding mechanic, Eric Platford. Held over four laps of the Isle of Man course, the Tourist Trophy tested touring motor cars in the most exacting terms: speed had to be balanced with endurance, mechanical sympathy and carefully judged fuel use.

The event took place on the Highroads Course, which was shortened to 40.38-miles. Rolls started fourth and was leading by the end of the opening lap. By the final lap, he had built a 10-minute advantage – a remarkable margin in a race governed by restraint as much as pace.

He and Platford completed four laps of the course in 4 hours, 6 minutes, and 0.06 seconds, at an average speed of 39.4 mph. There was just one pint and one ounce of fuel remaining in the 20 H.P. at the end of the race; it is this level of precision, aptitude and attention to detail shown by Rolls and Platford that continues to define Rolls-Royce Motor Cars today.

Charles Rolls was independent in thought, technically fluent and restless in pursuit of what machines could make possible. It was his restless quest for the new and the extraordinary which drew him to the exhilaration of early motor racing, ballooning and aviation. In Black Badge Ghost, that restlessness finds a contemporary form – assertive in character, exacting in detail and disciplined in execution.

The Black Badge Ghost Tourist Trophy carries the memory of the race through quiet, precise Bespoke details – each one connected to the Island, the course, the winning motor car or the man behind the achievement.

THE COLOUR OF VICTORY

The exterior of the commission is finished in Dark Emerald, selected to recall the green hue of the Light 20 H.P. Rolls-Royce driven by Rolls in the 1906 Tourist Trophy. A single Tan Coachline provides a restrained contrast, accompanied by a hand-painted Coachline motif featuring the number 4 in Arctic White. The number references Rolls’ starting position for the race, and the four laps of the course he completed in just over four hours.

A PRIVATE ARCHIVE

Inside, the Black and Tan palette creates an atmosphere of controlled intensity. Black leather and Black Badge Technical Fibre give the cabin a darker, contemporary edge, softened by Tan leather, stitching and seat piping, and the warmth of Mocassin lambswool.

The rear Waterfall carries an embroidered outline of the Isle of Man Short Highroads Course, placing the landscape of the victory within the intimacy of the cabin. Further references are concealed within the central ‘eyeball’ air vents, where engravings record details from the race-winning motor car and the event itself, including the registration number AX157, chassis number 26350B, race date 27.09.1906, and start and finish line coordinates, 54˚09’27.1” N 4°29’ 54.7” W.

Bespoke Illuminated Treadplates fitted to all four door sills also reference chassis number 26350B. Together, these elements form a discreet private archive within the Black Badge Ghost Tourist Trophy.

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website

Saturday, 4 July 2026

Ellard's Charity Golf Day Drives Support for Bereaved Families

At Ellard, we have always believed that strong relationships are at the heart of everything we do. Whether it's working alongside our customers, suppliers or industry partners, collaboration has been a key driver of our success for more than 65 years. This year, we had the opportunity to bring that community together for a truly meaningful cause through our annual Charity Golf Day, raising vital funds for Alder Hey Children's Charity and its support services for bereaved parents and families.

Held at High Legh Golf Club, the event welcomed customers, suppliers, colleagues and friends of the business for a day of golf, networking and fundraising. While there was plenty of healthy competition on the course, the real focus of the day was supporting families facing the unimaginable challenge of losing a child.

The atmosphere throughout the event reflected the generosity and spirit of everyone involved. From the first tee-off to the evening presentations, participants embraced the opportunity to not only enjoy a fantastic day together but also make a tangible difference to an incredibly important cause.

The work carried out by Alder Hey extends far beyond medical care. Through its dedicated bereavement support services, families are given access to counselling, emotional support and resources that help them navigate grief and find strength during an incredibly challenging journey. It is a cause that resonates deeply and one that our team felt privileged to support.

For Ellard, the golf day was about much more than fundraising alone. It was an opportunity to strengthen relationships across our industry, celebrate the power of community and demonstrate how businesses can come together to create a positive impact beyond the workplace. The willingness of so many organisations and individuals to contribute their time, resources and generosity was a testament to the values that unite our industry.

Events such as these are only possible because of the support of so many people. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who attended, sponsored the event, donated prizes and helped make the day such a success. Your contributions have helped ensure that families experiencing loss receive the support they need when they need it most.

Well done to everyone who took part in this year's golf day and persevered through the rain! Despite the challenging weather, the standard of play was fantastic, and it was great to see so much enthusiasm, sportsmanship, and friendly competition throughout the day.

Congratulations to all of our winners. Our Team Champions were MDS Industries, and the award for Best Player went to Red Simmons, also from MDS Industries, a fantastic achievement.

As we reflect on successful Charity Golf Day, we are incredibly proud of what has been achieved collectively. The event highlighted not only the strength of the relationships we have built over the years but also the remarkable difference that can be made when people come together with a shared purpose.

On behalf of everyone at Ellard, thank you to all who supported the event. Together, we have helped make a meaningful contribution to a cause that changes lives, and we look forward to continuing our support for Alder Hey Children's Charity in the years ahead.

www.ellard.co.uk

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website

Friday, 3 July 2026

Protect Fingers with Finprotect Plus

When fingers are trapped in a door, it can lead to severe pain, long-term injuries, and in some cases, irreversible damage. Finger protection guards help to eradicate this painful problem and are an important safety feature for doors in high-traffic public spaces, commercial buildings and settings that cater for children, such as schools and nurseries.

Finprotect Plus finger guards are precision-engineered to prevent finger trapping incidents on both sides of the door. Designed for universal application on all door types, Finprotect Plus minimises the risk of fingers being crushed on the hinge side of the door where gaps can easily trap fingers.

The Finprotect Plus range is rigorously tested to the highest safety and performance standards, helping fingers to remain safe whilst maintaining compliance with the latest building regulations. Assessed to BS 8613:2017 (Class 2) and durability tested to 1,000,000 cycles, the system offers reliable anti-entrapment performance in the most demanding, high-use environments and is successfully tested to Grade 4 (240 hours neutral salt spray exposure) in accordance with BS EN 1670:2007.

The Finprotect Plus is also fire-rated and suitable for use on internal and external fire doors in accordance with BS EN 1634-1:2014. In line with modern fire safety compliance, the independently tested system successfully provides fire protection regardless of the direction of exposure and can be installed on steel-based fire doors for a duration up to 240 minutes and timber-based fire doors for a duration up to 120 minutes.

Beyond its reliable safety features, FinProtect Plus finger guards are easy to install and feature concealed fixings, ensuring minimal interruption to your door’s aesthetic and its surrounding visuals. Available in 1980mm & 2500mm standard lengths, the range accommodates various door sizes and styles too, with white, black, light grey and anthracite dark grey finishes seamlessly integrating into modern designs.

Finprotect Plus proves that small changes can make a big difference – safeguard small fingers and prevent injuries in your building year after year with Finprotect Plus finger guards.

www.zeroplus.co.uk/finprotect

Why not Sign-up to Receive these Articles by Email each Day on our newsfeed site

>> Scroll down to read more articles like this which have been published recently on this blog <<

You can also read additional current and archived articles on our dedicated magazine website

Return to the Door Industry Journal Website