The Door Industry Journal: April 2025

Wednesday, 23 April 2025

Hörmann to host ‘Germanfest’ at FIT Show

Hörmann UK will be holding a ‘Germanfest’ on their stand during the Wednesday evening networking event at the FIT show.

Visitors are invited to join the company in celebrating their German heritage and to enjoy plenty of fun and hospitality.

The evening will feature a traditional Oompah band, the opportunity to sport a stylish Hörmann Bavarian hat, a Hörmann Stein (or two) of German beer and some delicious Bratwurst and Pretzels.

There may even be some Lederhosen on display!

Look out for the Hörmann ‘Germanfest’ team for more details and come along to stand H20, Hall 9 to experience a warm German welcome.

For further information on Hörmann entrance and garage doors visit https://www.hormann.co.uk/ or call 01530 516868

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Tuesday, 22 April 2025

Don’t Do a Dave! It’s Time to Lock FIT Show 2025 in Your Calendar!

It’s that time again - FIT Show is back! You could be forgiven for thinking there won't be much new to see when FIT Show returns to the NEC from 29 April - 1 May. It’s only been a couple of years since the last show after all. It’ll be the same old brands, same old products.

Might as well wait until the next one. Wrong!

We get it, you might be like Dave. He’s still catching up on jobs from last year and has enough leads to see him well into 2026.

Maybe you’ve been so busy chasing leads that you can’t even think about taking time off the tools to visit FIT Show 2025.

Dave doesn’t realise that if he doesn’t visit FIT Show 2025, he’ll have to wait another two years until the next show in 2027.

Dave mustn’t have heard that almost 30% of the exhibitors at FIT Show 2025 are brands from overseas, over 20 different countries in fact.

Dave won’t get to see the latest products and innovations literally from across the world. He probably doesn’t know 48% of the exhibitors this year have never exhibited at FIT Show before either.

He also doesn’t know that he’ll be missing out on all of the exclusive product launches, show offers and discounts that exhibitors are offering for FIT Show 2025 visitors too.

And we’re pretty sure that Dave won’t realise that as well as turning his back on the chance to see the latest windows, doors, glass, hardware and components, he’s also missing out on more outdoor living products such as decking, fencing, awnings and garden rooms that will be on display, as well as an increased focus on roofing solutions.

Dave mustn't have heard about the Installer Demo Zone which will include live product demos from the likes of Made for Trade, ALUK, Bereco, SmartSystems and Brett Martin.

Dave won’t be able to receive training and support on how to install the latest products on the market, as well as speak directly to the people who manufacture and supply them at FIT Show.

He’ll also miss the BRAND NEW Installer Marketplace with tools, products and tech to help installers.

By missing FIT Show 2025 Dave is also turning his back on over 30 hours of CPD certified learning content delivered by industry experts, with technical and regulatory content delivered by GGF and FENSA.

He mustn’t want to know more about how to better market his business and drive more leads. That’s one more space in the seminar theatre for installers who do want to do better business!

He’ll be saying goodbye to sessions like these:

Lock It Down: Protecting Your Tools and Livelihood
Speakers: Alice Lester Brookes, Senior Brand and PR Manager at On The Tools, Shoaib Awan, AKA 'The Gas Expert', founder of Trades United
Description: This session explores practical tips and strategies to prevent tool theft, from site security to marking equipment.
State of nation: Behind the data
Speakers: Elton Boocock, Managing Director, Business Pilot & Tom Butler, Head of Sales & Marketing, GGF
Description: Presents curated data to provide insights into the glass and glazing market, focusing on future consumer trends and market demands.
Are you ready for the Future Home Standards?
Speaker: Kevin Jones, Senior Technical Officer, GGF
Description: Offers practical guidance on upcoming changes to ensure businesses are equipped to navigate the transition.
The Future of Training and Competence in the Glass and Glazing Sector
Speaker: John Mannell, GGF
Description: Showcases a bespoke course on the new GGF Training online learning platform, highlighting its capabilities for skill development.
Entrepreneurs and Leadership in the Industry
Moderated by: Robin Clevett
Description: A panel discussion offering advice on achieving business success and entrepreneurial perspectives from industry leaders.
Fabricators and Installers Under Fire: Cybersecurity Threats & Your Bottom Line
Speaker: Greg Du Feu, Managing Director, Du Feu IT
Description: Addresses rising cyber threats facing fabricators, focusing on real-world impacts like downtime and lost revenue.
Digital Transformation and AI: Moving Beyond the Hype to Practical Tools
Speaker: Elton Boocock, Business Pilot
Description: Explores how digital tools can streamline workflows, improve efficiency, and enhance project management.
Discovering the latest colour and texture trends to stay ahead of the curve
Speaker: Leon James, Product Manager, RENOLIT UK
Description: Provides insights into current market trends and future color demands, exploring popular colors and textures.

Dave mustn’t want to see four halls of brands showcasing products, materials, smart tech, software and services than ever before.

He mustn’t be looking to bolster his business, broaden his portfolio and secure his pipeline for the next two years.

Dave’s passing up on the chance to see brands like Supalite Tiled Roof Systems, Bereco, Clayton Glass, Hegla, SawStop, FOREL, Invisifold, Noton Blinds, Blakely Construction, Victorian Sliders, Kean Tools, Quickslide, Novoferm, SWS and Emmegi who have all joined the lineup in the last couple of weeks.

That’s on top of the 150+ other brands who have already secured their spot on the floorplan.

Perhaps he’s not a fan of networking, or hearing first hand advice and support from other people in his industry.

He also mustn’t be bothered about industry experts like Robin Clevett, a leading carpentry and building expert with over 113,000 YouTube subscribers who will be sharing hands-on demonstrations, expert advice on material selection, and tips on the latest installation techniques.

And he probably doesn’t realise that the show is open until 8pm on Wednesday 30th April meaning he could keep on top of his jobs during the day and still have time to visit for the late night opening.

He won’t be at the PiG’s party, that’s for sure. Or that it’s completely FREE to attend - we won’t tell him that!

If you’ve not got the biggest business days of 2025 locked in your calendar, what are you waiting for?

Can you afford to wait that long to secure new leads, speak to suppliers, see the latest products and innovations and stay abreast of legislative and regulatory changes?

Don’t do a Dave. Be more like Gary. Gary’s going. Miss FIT Show 2025 and miss out. Get this job locked in your books today, register for your FREE ticket at www.fitshow.co.uk.

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Monday, 21 April 2025

New: PIRUE doors - A modern solution for the demanding customer

One of the most prestigious and modern elements that has recently gained recognition among designers and property owners is pivot doors.

This solution revolutionises the current perception of the building's entrance, combining a non-standard technical approach, functionality and unique design.

Knowing this, the Polish manufacturer WIŚNIOWSKI has introduced a new proposition to its offering: PIRUE doors.

What are pivot doors?

Pivot doors are a type of door whose hinges are not located on the edges of the leaf, as with traditional doors, but in the lower and upper parts of the structure.

Thus, the doors open in a rotating manner, which makes using them highly convenient.

Pivot technology is based on an innovative hinge system that allows smooth door movement - even for large and heavy structures.

This solution is ideal for doors with really large dimensions, where, despite their weight, pivot doors move easily and smoothly.

PIRUE – Doors inspired by movement

PIRUE doors introduce an element of dynamism into the space, symbolising constant movement and elegance, inspired by the art of dance.

PIRUE doors combine elegance and dynamic movement, referring to the dance rotation of a pirouette.

Their design is intended to give the impression of lightness and fluidity of movement, as in ballet.

Each element of the door reflects the swirling energy, which symbolises constant flow and change, explains Robert Mastalski, product manager.

Elegance and minimalism

One key reason pivot doors are gaining so much popularity is their minimalist design.

The lack of traditional hinges on the edges allows for a clean, uninterrupted line of the door leaf, which fits perfectly into current design trends.

Contemporary architecture often refers to minimalism, as simplicity of form and harmony of space, and pivot doors perfectly meet these needs.

The PIRUE collection consists of 10 designs. The doors are available in a smooth version, with slats, delicate milling or glazing.

There is an apparent reference to simple lines and geometric shapes. Subtle details, such as screwed or recessed handles in the casing, determine lightness and sublime elegance.

The range is complemented by natural, original colours from the HOME INCLUSIVE 2.0 collection - 18 unique structural colours, with metallic particles creating a 3D effect that perfectly emphasises the unique character of the arrangement.

Functionality at the highest level

Using the pivot system means that PIRUE doors can bear a much greater weight than traditional doors, allowing extra wide doors to be installed.

Advanced functionality is accompanied by excellent acoustic and thermal parameters, enabling a comfortable atmosphere in the house.

Thermal insulation at 0.8 W/m²K is one of the best available on the market, effectively protecting interiors from heat loss while ensuring significant energy savings.

Additionally, the doors minimise external noise, allowing you to enjoy privacy in the comfort of your home.

Thanks to this, the living space becomes an exceptionally friendly place.

The safety guaranteed by PIRUE doors also facilitates this.

Two multi-point locks with an Autotronic HB electric motor as standard and a certified anti-burglary insert with an emergency function offer a high level of home protection.

Each door has an emergency power supply as a standard fitment, so it is possible to open the door even in the event of a power outage.

Optionally, they can be equipped with a door closer and a bolt position sensor for connecting an alarm and OneGo or OneTouch readers.

This makes the home safe. For people who value modern technologies, pivot doors can be equipped with intelligent opening systems and integrated with smart home applications, increasing their utility value.

Choose a proven manufacturer.

By choosing PIRUE doors from WIŚNIOWSKI, customers can adapt the door design to their individual needs, both in terms of aesthetics and functionality.

A wide range of patterns, colours, and additional technical solutions allow for the creation of a unique product that matches the interior.

Customers can count on the highest quality of workmanship and expert support at every stage of project implementation - from concept, selecting appropriate materials and measurement to professional assembly, which requires precise skills and specialist knowledge.

Precisely because PIRUE doors are pretty large and heavy (minimum width starts from 1400mm to 1850mm, and height from 2300mm to 3100mm), their sale is offered only with assembly carried out by WIŚNIOWSKI specialists.

Using the manufacturer's know-how, customers are assured that the doors will be installed well, without problems and will operate for many years.

WIŚNIOWSKI specialists have the experience and necessary equipment to install this type of door professionally, guaranteeing complete product satisfaction.

This process eliminates the risk of errors during installation and ensures the customer's satisfaction with the product.

For more information please visit www.wisniowski.pl

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Sunday, 20 April 2025

Get Lost: Project Safari - A Ground-Up Reimagining of the Elise S1

Get Lost is proud to unveil Project Safari - the first vehicle from the new automotive design and engineering brand.

A bold, ground-up reinterpretation of the iconic Elise S1, Project Safari blends rally-inspired capability, road trip practicality, and design-led innovation into a single, uncompromising package.

Founded by renowned automotive photographer GFWilliams, Get Lost is the result of over a decade immersed in the world’s most exceptional cars.

That industry experience shaped a vision: a car that delivers emotional connection through design, engineering, and a relentless pursuit of fun.

Bringing that vision to life is a passionate, multidisciplinary team drawn from motorsport, design studios, and fabrication.

Together, they’ve created something that not only breaks the rules, but makes you wonder why they were there in the first place.

The Design:

Get Lost: Project Safari began with a deep study of the original car’s form and function - not to overwrite what made it special, but to reimagine it without constraints.

George Williams, founder of Get Lost says:

“The idea of taking an Elise off-road might sound ridiculous, and that’s exactly why we leaned into it.
“That one silly idea gave us real creative freedom.

“Every element was considered from the ground up, not just to look good in isolation, but to enhance the character and capability of the entire car.”

Get Lost: Project Safari contrasts the Elise’s fluid curves with sharp, deliberate design choices.

Highlights include a custom roof scoop, bespoke rectangular headlights, and a completely redesigned interior using the highest quality materials - all contributing to a new identity while respecting the car’s roots.

The Build:

George said:

“It wasn’t enough for the car to look good - it had to be brilliant to drive too.”

Get Lost: Project Safari runs all-terrain tyres, as well as a completely bespoke suspension system, offering increased ride height and width while refining the body control to inspire confidence to always push on.

A new powertrain also delivers strong, reliable performance, while key functional upgrades - including a limited-slip differential, and a hydraulic handbrake - contribute to the car’s uniquely playful character.

The result? A car designed in form and function for fun adventures.

George Williams says:

“This is not a modified Elise, it’s our interpretation of what the platform had to offer.
“Everything has been considered - from the design to the drive - all in the pursuit of creating something that’s fun.
“If you get it, you get us.
“If not? Get Lost.”

Get Lost: Project Safari is the first vehicle from Get Lost, with customer builds due to start later this year.

Get Lost is now welcoming letters of interest from customers, collaborators, and anyone who sees themselves in this vision.

Website: https://www.getlostautomotive.com/

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Saturday, 19 April 2025

Plastic doors could circle the Earth - but at what cost?

Green Doors urges a rethink on uPVC waste ahead of Earth Day 2025

Every year, the UK produces over 12 million plastic doors and window frames.

Laid end to end, this uPVC highway would stretch more than 24,000 kilometres — far enough to leave London and keep walking through Paris, Berlin, Istanbul, Mumbai and Sydney, finally vanishing somewhere in the South Pacific.

Within two years, the uPVC could circle the Earth completely, go past London, and you'd end up somewhere in the Pacific Ocean

Joseph Holman, CEO of Green Doors, a Luton-based company that upcycles second-hand doors, says:

“We are wrapping the world in harmful plastic,”

“Yet the vast majority of this will eventually end up in landfill, and that’s an environmental catastrophe.”

uPVC — the plastic used in most modern doors and windows — doesn’t biodegrade.

As it breaks down, it leaches toxic additives into soil and groundwater.

Holman continues:

“We’ve rightly banned plastic straws and cotton buds, but we’re still throwing millions of giant plastic slabs into skips. It makes no sense.”

“Doors are expensive, but that means you can resell them if you're remodelling a house. Reusing doors makes sense for both the planet and your wallet.”

Green Doors is urging builders and homeowners to think again before dumping old doors.

The UK’s appetite for plastic doors peaked at 14 million units in 2014 and still sits above 12 million annually, according to figures from Statista.

That’s more than enough uPVC to circle the Earth once every two years — and globally, the picture is even starker.

An estimated 10 billion doors are produced worldwide every year. Stack those up lengthways and you could loop the Earth 500 times.

Says Holman:

“That’s not a statistic, that’s a warning.

“We are literally sealing ourselves into a toxic future.”

As Earth Day 2025 approaches - this year themed Our Power, Our Planet - Holman is calling for a rethink.

“Old doors and window frames should be reused, not thrown into landfill. Stop worrying about plastic straws and focus on something far bigger.”

“It’s a simple message: open the door to change - before we lock ourselves in with plastic.”

Joseph Holman is the CEO and founder of upcycling company Green Doors, which started with a door he found in a skip.

The business now produces revenues of close to £2m and has 14 employees.

Last year the business saved over 4000 items destined for landfill and currently has over thousands of doors and windows for sale in its 25,000 square foot warehouse.

Holman is on a mission to provide every door with a second life and to stop UPVC going to landfill.
greendoors.co.uk

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Friday, 18 April 2025

Pyroguard Unveils the Techlibrary

Pyroguard, the world’s leading independent provider of fire safety glass for timber, steel and aluminium applications, is pleased to announce the launch of the Pyroguard TechLibrary – an innovative digital platform designed to make it easier for architects, specifiers and contractors to access essential technical data and test results.

This online resource offers a comprehensive and regularly updated library of technical product information, test certifications and resources, tailored to the needs of fire safety glass professionals.

With its modern and intuitive interface, the TechLibrary allows users to quickly find the necessary information, saving valuable time at every stage of the specification process.

The Pyroguard TechLibrary offers advanced search capabilities, allowing users to filter results by country, application, glass type, dimensions and more, ensuring precision in the product selection process.

Continuously updated, it provides access to the latest system approvals and compliance resources, so professionals can be confident they are working with the most current information.

Fully optimised for mobile, it ensures essential data is always readily available, whether in the office or on the go.

Dr Vince Crook, Technical Development Director at Pyroguard, has overseen the development of the platform and is excited about its potential:

“We understand that sourcing accurate technical data for projects can be challenging, particularly when compliance and safety are at stake.
“Every piece of test data is critical to ensuring that projects meet rigorous safety standards.
“The TechLibrary simplifies this process by putting the information at users’ fingertips.

“It enables them to find the correct data with confidence, whether they’re in the office or on-site.”

Now available in six languages, the Pyroguard TechLibrary is a valuable resource for architects, specifiers and contractors worldwide.

It streamlines the fire safety glazing specification process, while reinforcing Pyroguard’s commitment to supporting its customers, making information accessible and offering high-quality assistance, ensuring the right products are specified with confidence every time.

For over 35 years, Pyroguard has been at the forefront of the manufacture and supply of the most extensive range of fire safety glass solutions on the market, backed by a wealth of rigorous testing.

Pyroguard is committed to supporting the industry in the transition to EN standards, providing high-performance fire safety glass that works seamlessly within interconnected building systems.

For more information, visit the Pyroguard TechLibrary www.pyroguard.eu

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Thursday, 17 April 2025

DHF issues warning about External Panic and Emergency Exit Doorsets

Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) and GAI (the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers) have recently been informed by the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) that they are aware of cases where external panic or emergency exit doorsets have been supplied, conformity marked against EN 14351-1:2006+A2:2016, but without the necessary third-party certification.

“There is concern that some economic operators may not be fully aware of the conformity marking requirements for these products, and we believe it is appropriate to issue a general reminder to the market,” explains Michael Skelding, DHF’s General Manager & Secretary. “There is no suggestion of course, that the suppliers concerned were members of either DHF or GAI.”

The testing and certification required for conformity marking (CE or UKCA) is specified in the Annex Z of EN 14351-1:2006+A2:2016. To conformity mark an external doorset that is neither fire-resisting nor an emergency/panic exit, no third-party certification is required.

Other performance characteristics, such as watertightness and resistance to wind load, will typically require third-party testing from a notified or approved test body, but not third-party certification.

“The requirement for third-party certification arises when an external doorset being placed on the market has either or both of the following special characteristics,” concludes Michael, “that it is a panic or emergency exit (fitted with appropriate hardware), and/or that it is fire-resisting.

“Third-party certification must be obtained from an EU notified certification body (for CE marking) or a UK approved certification body (for UKCA marking). The certification body will issue a Certificate of Constancy of Performance, which the manufacturer (or person responsible for placing the product on the market) must retain in their technical file for the product.”

For further information on this, please contact the DHF technical team on technical@dhfonline.org.uk; DHF is also grateful for any help given in ‘spreading this message’ through the supply chain.

Door & Hardware Federation

01827 52337

www.dhfonline.org.uk

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Wednesday, 16 April 2025

Not Another Golf Day: Why the ADIA Networking Event Is Exactly What the Industry Needs

When people think of industry networking events, they often picture golf courses, polos, and polite applause for a decent swing.

And while there’s nothing wrong with a good round of golf, it’s not everyone’s idea of a productive or inclusive afternoon.

That’s why the Automatic Door Installation Association (ADIA) is doing things differently this year.

On 18th September 2025, we’ll be hosting our annual Networking Event at Fairgame, Canary Wharf - a venue that combines interactive games, delicious food and a relaxed, urban atmosphere perfect for real conversations.

We know that engineers, business owners, and office teams across the industry are looking for more than just polite small talk.

They want genuine connections, real support, and practical partnerships that move their businesses forward.

This event is designed with that in mind.

Who Is It For?

This isn’t just for managing directors or sales reps. It’s for:

Engineers who want to meet others on the tools
Admin teams keeping operations running smoothly
Business owners building strong supplier and peer relationships
Anyone in the door and access industry who prefers connection over competition

What Can You Expect?

A fun, relaxed atmosphere with a mix of skill-based games and social time
Opportunities to network and collaborate without the formalities
The chance to build relationships that could lead to work, support, or training
A break from the usual - and maybe even a new tradition

And most importantly, no golf clubs required.

Why It Matters

Our industry is built on trust, word-of-mouth, and mutual support.

At ADIA, we believe events should reflect that.

Whether you’re a new member or a seasoned pro, this networking event gives you a chance to reconnect, recharge, and represent your business in an environment that’s welcoming and fun.

So if you’re tired of the same old swing-and-chat routine, we invite you to try something a little different this September.

Book your spot today: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/adia-2025-networking-event-fairgame-canary-wharf-tickets-1142730510719

Let’s make networking enjoyable again.

The Automatic Door Installation Association
Telephone: 020 7788 7676 | Website: www.theadia.co.uk

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Tuesday, 15 April 2025

FIT Show Launches Comprehensive CPD Learning Programme - Registration Now Open!

FIT Show, the UK's leading trade event for the window, door, flat glass, hardware, components, and roofing industries, has unveiled its extensive learning programme for the 2025 event.

Taking place at the NEC Birmingham from 29 April to 1 May 2025, FIT Show offers a unique opportunity for industry professionals, from installers, fabricators and construction professionals through to roofing contractors, architects and specifiers, to gain valuable insights and stay ahead of the curve.

Key Highlights of the Learning Programme:

Lock It Down: Protecting Your Tools and Livelihood
Speakers: Alice Lester Brookes, Senior Brand and PR Manager at On The Tools, Shoaib Awan, AKA ‘The Gas Expert’, founder of Trades United
Description: This session explores practical tips and strategies to prevent tool theft, from site security to marking equipment.
State of nation: Behind the data
Speakers: Elton Boocock, Managing Director, Business Pilot & Tom Butler, Head of Sales & Marketing, GGF
Description: Presents curated data to provide insights into the glass and glazing market, focusing on future consumer trends and market demands.
Are you ready for the Future Home Standards?
Speaker: Kevin Jones, Senior Technical Officer, GGF
Description: Offers practical guidance on upcoming changes to ensure businesses are equipped to navigate the transition.
The Future of Training and Competence in the Glass and Glazing Sector
Speaker: John Mannell, GGF
Description: Showcases a bespoke course on the new GGF Training online learning platform, highlighting its capabilities for skill development.
Entrepreneurs and Leadership in the Industry
Moderated by: Robin Clevett
Description: A panel discussion offering advice on achieving business success and entrepreneurial perspectives from industry leaders.
Fabricators and Installers Under Fire: Cybersecurity Threats & Your Bottom Line
Speaker: Greg Du Feu, Managing Director, Du Feu IT
Description: Addresses rising cyber threats facing fabricators, focusing on real-world impacts like downtime and lost revenue.
Digital Transformation and AI: Moving Beyond the Hype to Practical Tools
Speaker: Elton Boocock, Business Pilot
Description: Explores how digital tools can streamline workflows, improve efficiency, and enhance project management.
Discovering the latest colour and texture trends to stay ahead of the curve
Speaker: Leon James, Product Manager, RENOLIT UK
Description: Provides insights into current market trends and future color demands, exploring popular colors and textures.

The CPD-Certified learning programme, which is sponsored by the GGF & FENSA, will be supported by practical demonstrations on The Installer Demo Zone, sponsored by Smart Systems.

The Installer Demo Zone will include live product demos from the likes of Made for Trade, ALUK, Bereco, Smart Systems and Brett Martin.

The Timber Joinery Network will also be running live machinery and demonstrating the construction of a timber window.

With CSCS ending Grandfather Rights and a tightening up of MTC requirements for installers and surveyors, the GGF is also using this year’s FIT Show as an opportunity to demonstrate how companies can complete compliancy quickly, easily and cost effectively through its recently launched online training platform and industry partnerships.

Visitors to the stand will be able to participate interactively in course demonstrations, laying out a clear and navigable pathway towards ensuring its site teams are trained ready for accreditation.

Nickie West, FIT Show Event Director, commented:

“We're thrilled to launch our most comprehensive learning programme yet for FIT Show 2025.
“With expert-led sessions, live demonstrations, and a focus on the future of our industry, this is an unmissable opportunity for professionals to enhance their skills and knowledge.”

Registration for FIT Show 2025 is now open, offering FREE access to all exhibits and seminar sessions. Don't miss this chance to future-proof your business and connect with industry leaders.

To register and view the full seminar programme, visit www.fitshow.co.uk.

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Monday, 14 April 2025

Win a door with Wolf at the FIT Show

Hörmann have announced that Wolf from Gladiators will be joining them on their stand at the FIT Show.

Visitors will not only be able to view the company’s most popular entrance and roller garage doors but will also have the opportunity to join Wolf in some fun and win a Hörmann composite door.

Each day, one composite door will be the main prize on offer, won by playing the Hörmann claw machine and extracting the ‘golden’ ball - a steady hand and a fair bit of skill will be required.

A large selection of other prizes from the Hörmann Rewards programme will also be available to win.

Installers who are not yet part of the Rewards programme will have the opportunity to sign up on the day and receive bonus Rewards points which will be added to their redeemable points pot.

With Wolf on hand leading the Hörmann Door Secure Team, a wide selection of the doors displayed on the stand will feature Secured by Design accreditation and enhanced security features up to RC4 standard - making them some of the most secure doors available on the market today.

The recent award of SBD accreditation for the ‘fitter friendly’ range of RollMatic roller doors has been awarded to the standard door with no modifications or enhancements needed.

Click here for A message from Wolf or scan the QR code

Visit Hörmann on stand H20, Hall 9 and keep the Wolf from the door.

For further information on Hörmann entrance and garage doors visit https://www.hormann.co.uk/ or call 01530 516868

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Sunday, 13 April 2025

Alvis delivers its latest Lancefield continuation car, 88 years after the first

The Alvis Car Company will unveil its latest Lancefield continuation car at Automobile Council 2025 in Chiba City, Japan.

88 years since the first special order left Alvis’ Coventry factory for the 1938 London Motor Show, this model, fully certified for road use, features a celebrated Art Deco design, with modern engineering techniques and the finest of British manufacturing – in line with the ethos of a 21st-century Alvis.

Crafted entirely in the Alvis Works, in Kenilworth, UK, the almost 5 metre long 2025 Lancefield draws on Alvis’ unmatched archive of over 25,000 drawings, 23,000 car records and 300,000 original parts.

As a true continuation, it uses parts curated from the new old stock retained since the end of car production in 1968.

Power steering, electronic engine management and servo-operated brakes have been integrated without compromising the car’s original character.

Fully compliant to meet legislation to enjoy on the road, it has a catalytic converter, indicator repeater lights and a collapsible steering column.

Rooted in a design celebrated for its Art Deco elegance, the Lancefield was specifically created for the 1938 London Motor Show.

Dispatched from Alvis on 19 August 1937, the original would’ve cost £1,350, more than double the price of the average house at the time.

Designed by Lancefield Coachworks Limited, the car caused a stir at the show with its graceful proportions, concave flutings and disappearing hood.

Disappearing and reappearing from record frequently over the ensuing decades, the Lancefield was selected ‘as one of the worlds most beautiful cars’ in 1982, flown to Germany and displayed in the Autoshow der Superlative-Veedol Starparade in Berlin.

The car visited North America, Germany and Jamaica before returning to the UK in June 1994.

Now, Warwickshire-based craftspeople using a blend of contemporary tools and traditional techniques have faithfully recreated the bodywork, created using traditional coachbuilding techniques – carefully forming aluminium over a bespoke ash frame in a painstaking, 3,800 hour process.

Completing the appearance, the car is painted in-house in two-tone cream.

At its heart, the straight-six, 4387cc engine is assembled to the same specification as Alvis’ revered original but now benefits from fuel injection and electronic engine management for easy hot starting, smoother throttle response and improved torque.

The engine and body are mated to a fully galvanised steel chassis which carries a consecutive chassis number.

The result is an elegant and striking dual-purpose tourer – graceful and comfortable over long distances yet weighing just 1,500 kg it offers surprisingly punchy performance; a 0-60 mph acceleration of under 10 seconds is possible.

Before delivery, the Lancefield is put through its paces with a comprehensive road test on the same Warwickshire routes used by Alvis since the 1920s.

It is supplied with an updated owner’s handbook, faithfully based on the original.

Built to be used, this first Lancefield is destined for a Japanese enthusiast and follows three other continuation series to find homes via the local agent Meiji Sangyo, distributor for the marque in the country over 50 years ago.

Alan Stote, owner of The Alvis Car Company said:

“The Lancefield continuation car is a clear demonstration of Alvis’ rich legacy and our dedication to quality.
“The 1938 original is a car very close to my heart, and it's wonderful to continue the legacy of this special machine with a brand-new build.”

Publicly displayed at Automobile Council 2025 (11 – 13 April), in Chiba City, Japan, the Lancefield marks Alvis’ first delivery of the year, a year that will see further continuation cars leave the works, including a drop-head Graber.

Prices start at £325,000 for pre-war Continuation Series cars, and every model comes with a three-year warranty.

A brief history of Alvis and its ‘firsts’:

T.G. John began manufacturing Alvis cars in Coventry in 1920. Coachwork was supplied by Cross & Ellis and Carbodies.

In 1925 Alvis became the first car manufacturer in the world to design and race a front-wheel-drive model.

A year later, the Alvis straight-eight FWD GP racing car lapped Brooklands at 121mph and in 1928 Alvis FWD models finished first and second in class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The company started producing and marketing FWD cars that year.

Another world-first was achieved in 1933, when Alvis designed the world’s first all-synchromesh gearbox and started working on the first British car with independent front-suspension.

After the World War 2, Alec Issigonis joined Alvis to design a prototype 3500cc V8 engine.

In 1968, the Alvis passenger car division was relocated to Kenilworth after 22,000 vehicles had been built; 50,000 works drawings, technical data sheets and correspondence files are stored there.

Through wholly-owned Red Triangle, it continues to manufacture parts, service and restore Alvis cars for existing customers worldwide.

Synonymous with craftsmanship and innovation from the twenties until 1968, the Alvis name and fame continue thanks to The Alvis Car Company, which produces Alvis cars renowned for their outstanding quality and charismatic coachwork.

It started developing the original Alvis-designed 3-litre and 4.3-litre units in 2010, focusing on meeting global emission regulations whilst remaining as faithful as possible to the Works drawings still held at the Kenilworth factory.

The company manufactures its new range of bespoke limited-edition Continuation Series and in 2019 has nominated respected Japanese company Meiji Sangyo to be its distributor in the region.

www.thealviscarcompany.co.uk

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