The Door Industry Journal: September 2024

Monday, 30 September 2024

Aquara U200 Smart Lock - The Ultimate Smart Retrofit Lock

Smart Locks are becoming increasingly commonplace across the country as we strive to incorporate smart technologies into our daily lives.

With the recent launch of the Aqara U200 Smart Lock, EasyGates Direct is looking to take this one step further.

This simple-to-use, easy-to-retrofit kit incorporates some clever yet common-sense features to make the transition to Smart Locks easier for both the installer and the end user.

The U200 Smart Lock truly brings the concept of Smart Locks to your doorstep.

It features a tool-free installation method and a variety of retrofit options for Euro Cylinder doors.

The U200 Smart Lock offers a key differentiator that sets it apart with the ability to use the Smart Entry Keypad OR the standard key to open the door from the outside.

This clever engineering means that less techie users can still use their key to access the property.

However, for those that prefer to take the Smart approach, the U200 features multiple unlock methods for end-user convenience, including Passcode, Fingerprint, NFC Tag, or, best of all Apple Home Key, allowing you to tap your compatible Apple Phone or Smart Watch to unlock the door.

Utilising the U200’s NFC technology, it has the capacity to read an iPhone or Apple Watch even when its battery is empty!

Additional states such as Do Not Disturb and Passage Mode can also be accessed from your smartphone, giving you complete control over your home’s accessibility – even when you are not there.

Complementing the impressive array of access options, the U200+ Kit also boasts some clever quality-of-life benefits over its competition.

An included NFC tap card provides an additional easy entry method, perfect for visitors or guests.

The included AA battery adaptor ensures uninterrupted service, allowing you to keep the Smart Lock powered while charging the Li-ion battery pack.

With a choice of silver or gunmetal grey, the U200+Kit also includes a stylish wood grain replacement battery cover, adding a touch of sophistication.

Setting up the U200 couldn’t be simpler. It boasts two distinct communication methods.

Bluetooth is used for close-range setup and configuration and Thread is used for longer-range connection to a compatible Hub or Gateway, allowing remote management of the Smart Lock.

This is further enhanced by the temporary passcode feature, making the U200 a powerhouse for access control of short-term rental properties.

Taking this a step further, Matter-over-Thread support allows the U200 to be adopted into numerous existing Smart Home ecosystems such as Apple Home, Google Home and Amazon Alexa, dramatically increasing the scope of use for many end-users.

Whilst there is an extensive range of Matter Border Routers the U200 can interact with, we recommend investing in a hub such as the Aqara M3 to maximise remote access and complete smart home integration.

Aqara, a specialist in designing and manufacturing intuitive smart home technology, has developed this groundbreaking lock.

Commenting on how we continue to move towards automation and communication within our homes, Aqara CEO and founder Eugene You stated:

“We believe that the relationship between people and their smart homes should be intuitive and almost as an extension of themselves.
“Behaviours, gestures, and voice can all be seen as touchpoints of communication tools in their smart homes.
“Over time, smart homes will grow to be even more adaptive to our users’ everyday needs.”

With the U200, Aqara clearly continues to create and design with these future-compatible, instinctive processes in mind.

EasyGates Direct has always displayed a particular understanding of the user.

They put themselves in the shoes of those who may be completely new to the technology by compiling comprehensive tech kits that allow instant use without additional purchases.

Tony Daniels-Gooding, MD of EasyGates Limited said:

“We have been particularly interested in the U200s usage with the popular Aqara G4 Video Doorbell and M3 Hub.

“Our kits are designed to allow users to start benefiting from their purchases immediately.

“The seamless harmony of these three devices is a fantastic example of how these instinctive products work together; when you receive a notification on your smartphone for a visitor, tap to access a live feed and video chat, then open the door immediately and remotely with just another tap on your phone.”

The Aqara U200 Smart Retrofit Door Lock embodies the idea of Smart Technologies enhancing and improving our day-to-day lives.

The ability to leave and enter the home in a smooth, keyless fashion is not a new notion, but the U200 has refined it into an affordable, accessible and simple package.

EasyGates Direct is a leading trade distributor of smart home, access control, automation, and safety products located in Halesowen, West Midlands.

We supply most products nationally and offer next-day delivery.

Find out more at www.easygatesdirect.co.uk

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Sunday, 29 September 2024

Best of British heads impressive collection of 160 classics for auction

An eclectic array of 160 classic, collectible and performance cars spanning some 120 years of motoring will go under the hammer with H&H Classics at its final Cambridgeshire auction of 2024.

Taking place on Wednesday 9th October at the Imperial War Museum, Duxford, the cars on offer have an estimated combined value of more than £6.5 million and virtually every decade since the start of the twentieth century is represented.

Among the cars being offered for sale are 10 which come with six-figure estimates, while for those with more modest budgets looking to acquire a potential bargain, 23 models are offered without reserve.

James McWilliam, sales manager, H&H Classics, said:

“It’s great to mark our final Duxford sale of the year with such an impressive collection of vehicles for sale. We always have fantastic and well-attended auctions in Cambridgeshire, and with such an extensive and diverse offering, I expect October’s sale to be no different.”

British marques, in particular, are taking centre stage with twenty Jaguars, sixteen Bentleys, seven Rolls-Royces, six Austin Healeys, six MGs, four Aston Martins, three Lagondas, a pair of Lotus and one Morgan included in those catching the eye.

Among the stand-out homegrown lots is a rare 1957 Bentley S1 Continental Park Ward Drophead Coupé Adaption, also the highest estimated value car at the auction, expected to fetch between £300,000-£400,000.

Fast-forward to 1980, and a pre-production Lotus Esprit ‘Essex’ Turbo that was later developed with Active Suspension for Formula One, and with an estimate of £70,000-£80,000, deserves special mention being a highly significant car in the history of the world-famous British car maker. It is thought it could have been the first car in the world with the ground-breaking suspension.

While the Lotus Esprit conjures up images of Britain’s most famous fictional secret agent, another marque synonymous with James Bond is Aston Martin, which is well represented at the auction with a 1967 DB6 estimated between £250,000-£300,000, a 1966 DB6 Vantage, estimated between £140,000-£160,000, and a 1968 DBS ‘V8’ Prototype, expected to fetch between £120,000- £150,000.

A 2001 Aston Martin Vanquish, the first car to drive down the M6 Toll road to commemorate its opening and also used by Pierce Brosnan and EON Productions to promote ‘Die Another Day’ is one of the star lots looking for a new home. It is estimated £50,000-£70,000.

Another car going under the hammer with a celebrity connection is a no-reserve 1967 Jaguar Mark X 4.2, purchased by world-famous singer Madonna for use by her son Rocco, while one of the rarest models being offered for sale is a 1970 Ford Escort Mexico, the oldest known surviving Ford Advanced Vehicle Operations (AVO) car, estimated between £60,000-£70,000,

Strong interest is also expected at the auction for an exceptional 1930 Bugatti Type 46 Weymann Coach, estimated at £300,000-£350,000, a very smart 1962 Jaguar E-Type 3.8 litre ‘Semi-Lightweight’ Coupe, estimated at £120,000-£160,000, a 1939 Frazer Nash-BMW 327/80 Cabriolet, one of just 19 examples manufactured, estimated at £130,000-£150,000, and a rare 1955 Austin Healey 100M BN1 ‘Le Mans’, estimated at £60,000-£80,000.

All lots will be available to view in person at the Imperial War Museum, Duxford from midday on Tuesday 8th and from 9am on Wednesday 9th October, while the sale then commences at 1pm. Anyone looking to bid on one of the magnificent lots can do so in person, online, by telephone or by leaving a commission bid.

For more details about any of the cars or to register to bid, visit www.handh.co.uk.

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Saturday, 28 September 2024

Hörmann UK launch ProductPortal

Leading door and loading solutions manufacturer Hörmann UK has introduced a new online portal to provide architects and specifiers with access to information across its wide range of industrial, commercial, and domestic construction products.

Designed and developed to make life easier, ProductPortal is quick and easy to use and brings together everything required to specify Hörmann products into just one place.

The portal has been created with a clear, simple layout offering quick and flexible searches for Hörmann products, with multiple functions and filters which allow for further refinement of product details.

In-depth information is provided which includes a full product description, technical data, tender texts, downloadable CAD drawings and BIM models. All relevant product brochures, datasheets, videos, and certification documentation are also available.

As a quick introduction and to illustrate just how easy it is to use the new portal, Hörmann have produced a short, demonstration video which is available by clicking

Hörmann Product Portal on YouTube or visit the Business Portal on the Hörmann Website.

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Friday, 27 September 2024

LPD Doors launches new website to enhance customer journey

Following a period of success, leading door manufacturer and supplier LPD Doors has launched an innovative new website that is set to improve the sales journey for its valued customers.

Building on further investment into its marketing function, LPD Doors’ new website features a refreshed brand and improved functionality to enhance the user journey for its target audiences, including homeowners, tradespeople, architects and specifiers.

One innovative upgrade includes a market-leading stockist finder function, which showcases LPD Doors’ trusted network of stockists and offers new ways for end users to source and shop.

Each business listed on the stockist finder is a verified and trusted partner of LPD Doors’, so end users can be confident in the product and service they will be receiving. From the stockist finder, end users and tradespeople will also be able to determine which stockists have LPD Doors’ showrooms within their area. Tradespeople and end users also have the option to view stockists based on delivery options, trade counters and supply, as well as source stock from LPD Doors’ online retailers.

LPD Doors is one of the UK’s leading door manufacturers and suppliers. It has been importing and distributing internal and external doors since 1981. A Leeds-based, family-run business, LPD Doors sets the standard for high-quality, cutting-edge door designs in the UK. It offers an extensive collection of internal and external doors and accessories with premium, traditional, and modern finishes.

Stuart Gordon, Managing Director at LPD Doors, said:

“As a company that’s been innovating in the door industry for over 40 years, we’re always looking for ways to improve the journey for our stockists’ customers.

“Our doors have always offered the highest quality that reflects the latest consumer trends, so it’s fitting to continue this online, too, with our new website. The first phase of our launch incorporates our refreshed brand, updated stockist finder and specific customer landing pages.

“We’re particularly proud of our stockist finder, which will work to create a seamless customer journey from enquiry through purchase. We have invested in our new brand and website and are extremely excited for our existing, new, and potential customers to see what we have been working on behind the scenes to improve their experience. We hope they enjoy exploring what LPD Doors has to offer.”

Experience LPD Doors’ brand new website at https://www.lpddoors.co.uk/

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Thursday, 26 September 2024

Hospitals Still Seen as Safest by Public Despite Rising Fire Incidents

A survey of 2,000 adults found that despite an 18% increase in fires across NHS trusts – averaging nearly four fires daily – 52% of people still consider hospitals the safest due to their fire prevention measures.[1]

The survey, conducted as part of this year’s British Woodworking Federation’s Fire Door Safety Week campaign, which runs from 23rd - 27th September, focuses on the theme ‘A False Sense of Safety’.

The campaign aims to bridge the gap between perceived safety and actual fire risk, encouraging the public to engage in fire safety awareness and report any fire door issues, regardless of location or the assumption that fire safety is someone else’s responsibility.

When asked about fire safety in other buildings, 36% of respondents considered schools to be as safe as hospitals and 26% felt the same about care homes.

This contrasts with recent reports from the East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service where two care home directors were fined nearly £125,000 for multiple fire safety violations, which included defective fire doors and a lack of detection equipment and alarms, across four premises.[2]

Helen Hewitt, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) that manages and funds Fire Door Safety Week, said:

“Our latest research shows that people often have a greater sense of fire safety in buildings like schools and hospitals.
“Regardless of where you are, it is crucial to be aware of fire safety measures, such as emergency exits and fire doors, because the risk of fire is present in any building.”

When considering building safety, emergency exits were cited as the most important factor in feeling safe by 75% of respondents, followed closely by visible fire safety measures, including alarms and fire doors (70%).

Additionally, 46% of respondents said they always or often notice fire doors in the buildings they visit.

Regarding the buildings where respondents believed fire doors are well-maintained, 47% felt that fire doors in public buildings, such as hospitals and cafes, are properly maintained.

The survey also found that 29% of people would not report a fire door issue because they would not know who to contact, despite 74% saying they would report a door that appeared damaged.

Concerningly, this is a decline from last year’s campaign, ‘Recognise it, Report it’, where 86% said they would report a faulty or propped-open fire door.

For unresolved fire safety concerns, 43% would escalate the issue to the Health and Safety Executive, while 5% would not escalate it at all, and 14% did not know who they would escalate it to.

Helen added:

“Fire doors are crucial in preventing the spread of fire and smoke.
“It’s encouraging that more people are noticing fire doors in the buildings they visit, but there’s still work to be done to ensure people feel confident in spotting and reporting fire door issues.
“Knowing who to report these problems to is key—start with the premises manager or owner, and escalate unresolved issues as needed.
“With the correct information, we can all contribute to maintaining fire safety.”

Fire doors require expert maintenance to remain effective.

However, 29% of respondents would trust management and 27% would trust the building owner to handle fire door issues, while 13% would trust a handyman and 19% a caretaker.

For fire doors to function correctly, they must be installed and maintained by a competent, trained professional.

Gavin Tomlinson, Protection and Business Safety Scrutiny Committee Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), said:

“Fire doors are an essential feature in most buildings, helping to protect both occupants and responding firefighters in the event of a fire.
“When well-fitted and properly maintained, fire doors provide vital protection against the spread of fire within buildings.
“While legislation requires those responsible for fire safety to have arrangements for testing and maintaining fire safety measures, people should feel safe in the buildings they visit or work in and they should feel empowered to report faults and raise concerns, particularly those related to fire doors.”

Discussing the ongoing importance of Fire Door Safety Week, Helen Hewitt commented:

“This campaign raises awareness of the critical role fire doors play in saving lives.

“The support we receive each year from individuals and businesses helps us spread this important message.”

For more information on Fire Door Safety Week, visit: www.firedoorsafetyweek.co.uk.

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Wednesday, 25 September 2024

Abloy UK supports Fire Door Safety Week 2024 with Educational Initiative on Fire Door Compliance

To mark the start of Fire Door Safety Week 2024, Abloy UK has called for greater awareness and education of fire door compliance, highlighting the need for proper installation, regular maintenance and adherence to legal standards.

By educating building owners and the general public on assessing and maintaining compliant fire doors, Abloy UK aims to improve safety outcomes and ensure fire doors provide maximum protection in emergencies.

Recent figures reveal a trend in fire-related incidents across England. In the year ending March 2024, Fire and Rescue Services attended 600,324 incidents, marking a 4.1% increase compared to five years ago. Of these, 138,977 were fires, including 61,970 primary fires involving significant property damage or personal risk and 74,881 secondary fires.[1]

In the same period, there were 251 fire-related fatalities and 6,339 non-fatal casualties, with 2,743 casualties requiring hospital treatment, reflecting a 5.8% increase from the previous year.1 These statistics highlight the importance of maintaining fully compliant fire doors, which play a crucial role in containing the spread of fire and smoke, protecting lives and limiting property damage.

Doors must be installed, maintained, and regularly checked to meet compliance standards. A faulty or non-compliant door can significantly compromise safety, increasing the risks for building occupants in the event of a fire.

Pat Jefferies, Commercial Director at Abloy UK, explains:

“The recent statistics surrounding fires in England are a reminder of the importance of proactive fire safety measures.

“A compliant fire door is a critical line of defence in the event of a fire, but only works when properly installed and maintained. Our aim for Fire Door Safety Week this year is to educate people on how to ensure their fire doors meet safety standards.”

With this in mind, the Abloy Academy has been educating delegates on fire door compliance for over a decade, offering a free-of-charge Electrical Locking Fire and Escape Doors CPD course.

This RIBA Approved CPD covers the fundamental requirements when incorporating access control systems in commercial buildings, including the electric locking options available and how to design standard-compliant access control systems.

It also explains how to ensure that electric locking specifications meet fire door and escape door legislation requirements. This includes BS EN 179 Emergency Escape (for when the building occupants are aware of the building environment), BS EN 1125 Panic Escape (for environments used by the general public) and BS EN 13637 Electronically Controlled Escape Systems (for use on escape routes).

These standards state that even if a door is electronically controlled for access, there must be a compliant mechanical means of escape in an emergency. In the case of fire doors, this is essential to provide fire protection, compartmentalise a building and protect the escape routes.

As well as providing free courses on fire door compliance, Abloy UK also offers a range of compliant security product packages that are specifically designed for panic and escape doors. Its range of electric locks includes motor and solenoid locks, which are the most effective forms of electric locking and adhere to the mandatory fire and escape standards.

Pat concluded:

“Compliance must be taken very seriously – the shocking increase in fires over the last five years in England makes this an even more pertinent issue. With the free courses available at the Abloy Academy, specifiers of access control solutions for emergency escape and fire doors can ensure that systems adhere to the latest regulations.”

To view the full range of training options available and book your place, go to www.abloy.co.uk/en/abloy/abloy-co-uk/academy/.

For further information on products and services available from Abloy, visit www.abloy.co.uk, call 01902 364 500, or email info@abloy.co.uk.

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Tuesday, 24 September 2024

New XtraD Gate Lock from Codelocks Delivers Robust Outdoor Access Control for Gated Facilities

Codelocks introduces Gate Solutions by Codelocks – XtraD Heavy Duty Gate Lock to its expanding range of access control lock solutions. Codelocks’ single point, bolt through, fixed gate lock is specifically designed for gates where a coded lock is the preferred method of entry for secured perimeters and outdoor areas.

The XtraD Heavy Duty Gate Lock is a robust, durable access control solution designed to withstand the toughest conditions.

The XtraD Gate Lock is engineered to work with Codelocks’ heavy duty CL500 and CL600 mechanical locks for basic access control and the electronic CL5000 lock for enhanced flexibility with time-sensitive codes.

These options make the XtraD Gate Lock suitable for a wide range of gated access control environments, including those with high traffic use and in corrosive environments.

The range of options available for the XtraD Gate Lock include a marine grade finish for harsh outdoor and coastal environments and knob or sprung lever options where a single-handed means of access is required.

The XtraD Gate Lock is especially suitable for public facilities that close to visitors at certain times to prevent access by unauthorised people but allow access to workers for out-of-hours maintenance.

It is also a workable solution for industrial, commercial and building sites to provide site access for workers and delivery drivers without having to have a gate operator on hand.

Jo Milne-Rowe, Managing Director at Codelocks said:

“Perimeter gates are necessary to control access to outdoor areas that you find in industrial or commercial property, including residential communal areas like bin stores and bike storage as well as publicly accessible areas like sports facilities, schools, parks and playgrounds.
“The XtraD extends the convenience and quality of Codelocks’ mechanical and electronic locks to outdoor gates around areas where controlling access is important.”

Codelocks’ XtraD Gate Lock has a full stainless-steel construction for corrosion resistance and durability and has been tested to over a million cycles.

Its adjustable heavy-duty latch bolt and anti-thrust snip allows up to 15mm adjustment without the need for lock removal.

For more information on XtraD Gate Lock by Codelocks visit www.codelocks.co.uk/gatesolution-xtradgatelock

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Monday, 23 September 2024

Allegion Launches New Fire Door Hardware Guide for Responsible Persons

Allegion UK, a leading name in fire safety hardware and manufacturer of ‘Briton’ door controls, has launched a new ‘Fire Door Hardware Fundamentals’ guide, designed to support responsible persons through the latest fire safety regulations and fire door hardware best practice.

The newly published guide draws upon key insights from Briton’s leading industry experts, and in response to the UK’s developing regulatory framework, aims to deliver accessible information on the Fire Safety Reform Programme and the responsibilities associated with fire door safety.

Allegion’s guidance details the pivotal issues associated with fire door safety in the current landscape and looks to further raise awareness on the role of fire door hardware, before sharing trusted advice on specification, installation and maintenance.

Now available digitally, electronically and in print, the Briton ‘Fire Door Hardware Fundamentals’ guide intends to assist responsible persons, duty holders and trade professionals by providing the foundations and frameworks needed for planning, delivering and maintaining fire door safety strategies in UK buildings.

Speaking on the launch, Pete Hancox, country manager at Allegion UK, commented:

“Fire door safety impacts all of our lives and following the latest period of legislative updates, there has been continued discourse concerning accountability, competence and collaboration.

“At Allegion, we help keep people safe and secure where they live, learn, work and connect and we believe it’s more important than ever before to understand essential procedures, standards and set guidelines.

“In launching our latest Briton fundamentals guide, we’re aiming to bridge the gap between awareness and expertise by providing an invaluable resource to our customers.

“Our experience shows us that fire door safety is often compromised due to incorrect fire door hardware specification, poor installation and lack of maintenance and providing a broader understanding of these areas has been crucial to our campaign.

“Briton experts share extensive knowledge and know-how in these areas and by applying it throughout this guide, we’re able to deliver a timely and unique piece of literature packed with insightful advice, useful checklists and helpful terminology support.”

To download a free copy of the Briton ‘Fire Door Hardware Fundamentals’ guide, visit: https://briton.co.uk/en/knowledgecentre/firedoorsafety.html.

To find out more about Allegion UK, visit: www.allegion.co.uk

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Sunday, 22 September 2024

Carl Fogarty’s Ultimate Ride: The Isuzu D-Max AT35

Isuzu UK is excited to announce that Carl Fogarty, also known as “Foggy,” has selected the latest Isuzu D-Max AT35 as his daily driver. The AT35, known for its exceptional off-road performance and rugged design, has been customised by Arctic Trucks to meet Foggy's demanding needs, both on and off the road.

Foggy, one of the most successful World Superbike riders of all time, has been a proud Isuzu ambassador for several years.

His ongoing collaboration with the brand underscores his appreciation for the durability, reliability, and unrivalled toughness of the D-Max – qualities that echo his own storied career.

The Isuzu D-Max AT35 is no ordinary truck. Based on Isuzu’s top-spec D-Max V-Cross model, Arctic Trucks has added world-class off-road enhancements to make the AT35 the ultimate adventure vehicle.

Equipped with Bilstein off-road suspension and 35" all-terrain tyres fitted on heavy-duty off-road wheels, the D-Max AT35 is built for conquering the most extreme terrains.

The wheel arch extenders give it a bold and aggressive stance, while its heightened ride ensures exceptional ground clearance.

Finished in Spinel Red colour, and with the added Mountain Roll Shutter, Sports Bars, and powerful Lazer Lamps, it will surely turn heads on and off the road.

With its robust design, the Isuzu D-Max AT35 sets the standard for what a true off-road truck can achieve.

Carl Fogarty is a motorcycle racing legend, known for his fearless riding style and record-breaking success.

With 59 World Superbike wins, four World Championships, and seven world titles in total, Foggy remains one of the sport's most iconic figures.

Since retiring from racing, Carl has continued to make waves, including winning the TV programme “I’m a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!” in 2014.

Throughout his career, whether on the racetrack or in the wild, Foggy has always demanded the best from his vehicles, and he finds that same level of performance and reliability in his Isuzu D-Max.

As a long-standing Isuzu ambassador, Carl praises the D-Max for its exceptional design, toughness, and capability, qualities he relies on both in everyday use and during off-road adventures.

Fogarty says:

“The D-Max is more than just a vehicle – it's built to last and perform, no matter where you take it.
“It's the perfect companion for my lifestyle.”

George Wallis, Head of Marketing at Isuzu UK said:

“We’re absolutely thrilled to continue our partnership with Carl Fogarty and deliver the Isuzu D-Max AT35, which perfectly matches his adventurous spirit.
“Carl has been a fantastic ambassador for the brand and the AT35’s exceptional off-road capability and rugged design will complement his lifestyle perfectly.
“We’re confident this customised vehicle will once again exceed his expectations.”

Isuzu UK is proud to continue its partnership with Carl Fogarty and provide him with a vehicle that embodies the same spirit of endurance and excellence that he brought to the world of motorsport.

The D-Max AT35 is ready to take on any challenge, just like its new owner.

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Saturday, 21 September 2024

Operational Excellence: 97.3% On-Time in Full Delivery Rate

Winkhaus UK, an industry leader in window and door security, is proud to announce its achievement of 97.3% reaching on delivery commitments in August, and an average of 96.5% over the last three months.

This milestone reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering our products to meet our customers’ expectations, the enhancements made by our operational teams as they strive to achieve operational excellence, and strengthen the value added products, services and solutions that Winkhaus provides our customers.

When it comes to fulfilling our customers’ orders, Winkhaus has consistently maintained an on time in full (OTIF) performance, with orders typically reaching our customers in line with their request.

In August alone, 97.3% of products were readily available when customers needed them, demonstrating our commitment to maintaining a smooth and efficient supply chain for our customers.

Consistent Delivery Performance

Winkhaus UK’s consistent OTIF performance is a testament to our dedication to operational excellence.

Gaynor Walton, Senior Operations Manager at Winkhaus UK, said:

“I’m incredibly proud of our team for achieving this remarkable level of performance, particularly during a period when 40% of UK retailers are struggling to meet delivery deadlines and supply chains across the industry are facing unprecedented challenges.

“This accomplishment speaks volumes about our resilience, commitment, and the robust systems we’ve put in place to ensure our customers receive the high level of service they expect from Winkhaus.

“Surpassing our new targets for 2024 is no small feat, but what truly sets us apart is our ability to maintain this exceptional standard consistently, at a level that few B2B companies in our sector can claim.

“It’s a testament to the dedication and collaboration of every department within our organisation.”

Delivery of this high OTIF performance has been enabled through 5 key initiatives:

Collaborative Departmental Efforts

Our high OTIF rate is the result of close collaboration across various departments at Winkhaus UK.

Our teams work together to streamline processes, ensuring that our customers experience a hassle-free service from order placement to delivery.

Each department brings specialised expertise, enabling us to provide tailored solutions and comprehensive support that simplify our customers’ processes and enhances their production efficiency.

Advanced Warehouse and Inventory Management

Our warehouse plays a vital part of our OTIF performance, with continuous enhancements being made to improve efficiency and accuracy of product picks.

The space in the warehouse has also been expanded in recent years, contributing towards increased productivity.

Together, these improvements have contributed towards Winkhaus’ holding stock of 4-6 weeks, which alleviates the need for customers to store products, reducing their capital outlay.

Effective Planning and Customer-Centric Communication

Our customer service strategy revolves around understanding and meeting the unique needs of each customer.

By focusing on effective planning and open communication, we ensure a quick and reliable supply chain process.

The recent renovation of our Kettering office into a more open-plan workspace has fostered even greater collaboration among our teams, and this closer interaction has enabled us to fast-track customer projects and bring innovative solutions to market more rapidly.

Beth Dudley, Customer Experience Manager at Winkhaus UK, said:

“We prioritise working closely with our customers to understand their unique needs and requirements.
“By developing rolling forecasts that accurately reflect their future demands, we are able to proactively plan and manage our supply chain to ensure that our customers receive a consistent and reliable supply of products.”

Precision Engineering: Made in Germany

Our products are designed and manufactured in Germany, where each of our production facilities in Meiningen, Münster and Telgte is dedicated to specific aspects of our product portfolio, ensuring that every item is crafted with the highest standards of durability and ease of use.

The proximity of our German plants to the UK allows us to maintain optimal inventory levels and respond promptly to our customers’ needs, ensuring timely deliveries that meet their expectations.

Therefore, with this close proximity to our manufacturing location, product produced today can be shipped and with us within 24 hours.

Innovative Customer Portal

Winkhaus UK’s Customer Portal is a groundbreaking digital platform that offers 24/7 access to real-time transactional data.

Customers can easily manage their orders, track deliveries, and access a comprehensive overview of both live and historical transactions.

The portal’s user-friendly features, including access to technical specifications and how-to guides, empower our customers to enhance project efficiency and streamline their operations.

www.winkhaus.co.uk

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Friday, 20 September 2024

APECS joins Secured by Design

West Midlands-based APECS, a leading supplier of door security hardware, is proud to have become the latest member of Secured by Design (SBD), the official police security initiative.

Since establishing its UK operations in 2015, APECS has quickly become a prominent and disruptive player in the lock and architectural hardware industry. The company is renowned for its innovative designs and high-quality manufacturing processes, which leverage advanced technologies and tap into a strong network of industry specialists. APECS’ dedication to excellent service ensures that products are delivered promptly and cost-effectively, focusing on meeting the UK market's specific needs.

Operating out of state-of-the-art laboratories, APECS employs the latest technologies to manufacture products that adhere to the highest standards, not only in the UK but also on a global scale. By maintaining professional relationships with leading testing organisations, APECS produces door hardware that stands out in the industry, building trust and confidence among its customers and ultimately bringing peace of mind to entire communities.

With a long-standing international pedigree and a supply chain that meets global standards, APECS focuses firmly on the UK market, delivering high-quality products that embody the company’s core values. As an independent, family-owned business, APECS values close working relationships and is strongly committed to reliability.

As part of their commitment to securing communities, the following APECS door hardware products have achieved Police Preferred accreditation from Secured by Design:

APECS AP Cylinder

APECS XS Cylinder

Nik Goncharov, Managing Director for APECS, commented on the achievement:

“We are thrilled to join Secured by Design, a move that underscores our ongoing commitment to protecting communities. This recognition highlights our dedication to providing reliable, high-quality locks and door hardware that people can trust.”

Ruari Robertson, Secured by Design, added:

“I am delighted that APECS have become members. It is a testament to the reputation within the industry that membership of SBD holds. I look forward to working with them in developing our relationship over the next three years.”

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

Secured by Design (SBD) is owned by the UK Police Service with the specific aim of reducing crime and increasing safety for businesses and individuals.

SBD seeks to improve the physical security of buildings and the surrounding area using products such as doors, windows, locks and walling systems along with fencing systems that meet the SBD Police Preferred Specification security requirements.

SBD have many partner organisations, ranging from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government through to local authorities, housing associations, developers and manufacturers and work closely with standards and certification bodies.

SBD is the only way for companies to obtain police recognition for security-related products in the UK, through the Police Preferred Specification - a product-based accreditation scheme developed 25 years ago, which provides a recognised standard for all security products that effectively deter and reduce crime. SBD work with manufacturers and standards authorities to ensure that security standards are current and updated to keep pace with emerging crime trends.

Learn more about Secured by Design and their member companies at: www.securedbydesign.com

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