The Door Industry Journal: 2026

Thursday, 12 February 2026

Alexandra Security Steps Up Protection with New SR2-Rated Fencing System

Fencing and security solutions specialist, Alexandra Security, is the latest company to join Secured by Design as they launch the newest addition to their fencing portfolio, the Protek Elite Defender, a high-security fencing and gate system certified to the LPS 1175 SR2 standard.

Developed in response to the rising demand for tougher physical security, the Protek Elite Defender range has successfully passed rigorous the SR2 industry benchmark, demonstrating its ability to withstand sustained attacks with a variety of tools. Despite its high level of protection, the system remains fast and easy to install, balancing strength and practically to provide robust defence for high-risk sites such as critical infrastructure, utility sites, data centres and government facilities.

Based in Kent, Alexandra Security was established nearly 40 years ago and has built a strong customer base and reputation for supplying high-security perimeter fencing solutions, security gates, anti-climb systems and barriers, supported by large UK stock levels and trusted technical expertise.

Recent projects include supplying 4,000 metres of anti-attack, anti-climb fencing to a sensitive government site, perimeter fencing to Potash Farm, a 20 acre solar energy site, to protect it from opportunistic and organised theft, and 2500 metres of high-security mesh fencing and steel palisade fencing for a new gas power plant.

Features include:

LLPS 1175/SR2 certified
Single-skinned panels and simplified fixings for efficient installation
Flexible slope adjustment eliminating the need for bespoke panel fabrication or lengthy surveys
Clamp bar and concealed fixings to minimise tampering risks
Refined mesh and hidden fixings create a professional, unobtrusive appearance
Available up to 5.2 metres and adaptable across uneven terrain

www.securedbydesign.com

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Wednesday, 11 February 2026

Abloy UK announces 2026 Academy training programme

Abloy UK has announced its 2026 Academy training dates, reinforcing its commitment to advancing knowledge and competence across security and access control specification and installation.

The Abloy Academy offers a comprehensive suite of training courses including Foundations, Foundations Plus, practical Digital Access Solutions (DAS) sessions, and a programme of RIBA-accredited CPD training designed to support professionals at every stage of their career.

The Foundations Course provides a full-day introduction to the core standards and legislation applicable to door sets and access control, helping delegates understand how different hardware and configurations affect compliance and safety.

It covers key standards including those for fire doors, escape routes and door hardware performance, and is suitable for installers, security managers, specifiers, facilities teams and end-users.

Building on this, the Foundations Plus Course offers advanced compliance insight for those who have completed Foundations. It explores deeper standards interpretation, specification requirements for electric locking and access control, and practical considerations for different door types and fail-safe/fail-secure scenarios.

The DAS training portfolio focuses on Abloy’s digital access technologies, including CLIQ and other digital key systems, in a hands-on environment at the dedicated Academy. Attendees gain practical skills in installation, system configuration, product analysis and application case studies that reflect real-world project demands.

In addition, Abloy UK continues to deliver a strong series of RIBA-approved CPDs, both online and face-to-face, covering important themes such as Digital Transformation in Physical Security, Electrical Locking for Fire and Escape Doors, Escape Door Systems (EN 13637) and Wireless Access Control.

These sessions support architects and designers with professional development while deepening understanding of access control standards and technology trends.

Pat Jefferies, Commercial Director at Abloy UK who leads the Foundations courses, said: “Our Foundations training is about building confidence while ensuring competence and compliance.

“Whether delegates are new to access control or looking to strengthen their technical knowledge, these courses provide a solid grounding in standards, legislation and best practice that can be applied immediately on site or at the specification stage, supporting safer, more effective access solutions across the built environment.”

Johnathon Dale, Digital Access Solutions (DAS) Academy Manager at Abloy UK, added: “Digital Access Solutions give organisations far greater control, flexibility and visibility over their access environments.

“Through our DAS training, we help attendees understand how digital key systems can enhance security, simplify access management and reduce the risks associated with lost or unmanaged keys, while ensuring solutions are specified and installed correctly for real-world applications.”

In person training courses take place at Abloy UK’s facilities in Willenhall, West Midlands, and most courses are offered free of charge with lunch provided, ensuring accessibility for professionals across the sector. In addition, there are a range of online webinar training sessions that can be accessed.

www.abloy.com/gb/en/about-abloy/academy

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Tuesday, 10 February 2026

Why Side-Hinged Garage Doors Are Gaining Ground

Homeowners continue to reimagine how garages are used, from utility spaces and home gyms to everyday storage and side entrances, the demand for garage doors that offer more than a simple up-and-over function is quietly evolving.

While much of the industry remains focused on automation and design minimalism, one product type is returning to prominence for its straightforward effectiveness: the side-hinged garage door. To be more specific, the Wisniowski side-hinged range, distributed in the UK by JDUK Door Systems, is seeing a steady rise in interest among installers and specifiers alike. Far from a novelty, it is emerging as a practical solution that aligns closely with the evolving priorities of both trade professionals and end-users.

Function & Performance Over Flash

Side-hinged garage doors have long offered the kind of simple, reliable access that suits a wide range of daily routines. Their swing-out design enables quick entry without needing to raise the full panel, a convenience that can be particularly useful when the garage is used for storage, utilities, or frequent access.

“Not every door needs to be automated or architecturally disguised to be considered high spec,” says Jason Wade, Sales & Marketing Director at JDUK Door Systems. “Our Wisniowski side-hinged doors are a reminder that durability, convenience and adaptability can be just as valuable, and that’s what homeowners are increasingly asking for.”

With steel outer shells, high-density polyurethane foam cores, and full-perimeter weather seals, the range offers more than just utility. These construction details support thermal performance and durability in a climate where garages often serve multiple purposes and need to stay dry and temperate.

Security Considered from the Start

One factor driving uptake is the comprehensive approach to built-in security. Models in the range are equipped with multi-point locking as standard: three points on the DoorPro 45, and five points on the higher-spec DoorPro 60, 70 and DoorTherm 86. Anti-burglary reinforcement bolts are integrated to deter prying and forced entry, while high-spec Euro cylinders provide resistance against snapping and drilling.

The added appeal of these features is that they are offered as part of the standard range, not as optional extras...

Design Freedom, Practical Foundations

While side-hinged doors were once seen as purely functional, today’s market expects more. JDUK’s Wisniowski range includes a choice of five panel styles, from classic Georgian to modern ribbed options, and four surface textures. There are over 45 standard RAL colours, alongside 40+ foil finishes, with optional glazing available for added light or visual detail.

“Installers often want to know if side hinge doors can be matched to other doors on a property,” adds Jason. “The answer is yes, and with minimal complexity.”

The availability of both inward and outward opening configurations, along with low or raised thresholds, makes the system adaptable to different site constraints and usage patterns. In practice, this flexibility helps installers meet a broader range of homeowner needs without custom fabrication or lengthy lead times. This represents a fusion of both functionality and aesthetics, based on the principle that customers should not have to compromise on their purchase.

Install-Friendly Engineering

From an installation perspective, the range’s consistency and finish are key strengths. Factory-fitted components such as the locking systems, stainless steel Jupiter handle and hinges mean that time on site can be reduced, while build quality supports smooth operation over the long term.

Optional upgrades, including closers, actuators, and enhanced locking cylinders, can be integrated without significant adjustments, giving installers control over how to meet project specifications without complicating the workflow. JDUK supports this with its trade-first service model, offering marketing materials, technical advice and installer guidance to ensure the process from quotation to handover runs smoothly.

An Evolving Role in a Changing Market

In a sector often shaped by emerging technology and visual trends, it is the quiet return of practical fundamentals that now seems to be shaping homeowner choices. Wisniowski’s side-hinged garage doors haven’t changed dramatically in recent years, but that may be the point. In an environment where purpose, longevity and ease-of-use are increasingly valued, they stand as a reminder that thoughtful design doesn’t always need to shout. For installers looking to offer solutions that speak reliability and usability rather than novelty, they remain a very competitive and compelling option.

For more information or to request a brochure, contact the JDUK Door Systems team via sales@jdukltd.co.uk, 01924 472 924, or visit their website at www.jdukltd.co.uk

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Monday, 9 February 2026

ADDRESSING SECURITY DOOR CHALLENGES IN SOCIAL HOUSING

Paul Williams, Commercial Director at steel door manufacturer Robust UK, looks at how contractors and installers can address security challenges when replacing existing doors.

Entrance systems and communal doors in social housing usually experience high levels of daily use with residents, visitors and support services relying on safe and reliable access. To ensure minimal maintenance and repair, careful consideration should be taken when selecting a door for communal areas, building entrances, storage facilities and fire exits, including factors such as door material, security, fire ratings and its hardware.

Material selection

Material selection plays an important role in determining whether a security door will perform in demanding conditions. Steel doors are widely known for their inherent strength and long-term durability. Unlike wood or aluminium, steel can withstand repeated impact, forced entry attempts and daily high-volume use.

For external doors in particular, long-term resistance to corrosion is essential. Exposure to moisture and fluctuating temperatures can significantly shorten the lifespan of timber doors, leading to premature failure and increased maintenance needs. A powder-coated finish can enhance the longevity of steel doors, making them suitable for various environmental conditions.

Security doors made with Magnelis® steel deliver exceptional anti-corrosion resistance in exposed or high-risk environments. Unlike traditional galvanised steel, they offer enhanced protection at cut edges and high-wear areas. For social housing, this improved resistance means reduced maintenance requirements, longer service life and better performance. With up to 10 years warranty, it also provides reassurance that doors will continue to meet long-term security and safety expectations.

Ensuring residents safety

One key challenge is ensuring entrances and doors remain secure in environments where wear, misuse and occasional vandalism can occur to ensure the safety of residents. While fire exits and entrance doors must allow for quick and safe access, durable steel doors help ensure these access points also offer the security and peace of mind residents need. Repeated door damage and misuse can also lead to higher maintenance costs if the correct material is not chosen.

To address this security risk, it is important to ensure that fire escapes and entrance systems are equipped with security-rated hardware or that the door itself is security-rated to prevent unauthorised access. In the UK, the minimum standard for security doors is PAS 24 or LPS 1175 SR1. For glazed doors, the glass must comply with EN 356 burglary resistance standards as well as passing relevant testing requirements. Type-approved solutions often feature multipoint locking (MPL) systems and other advanced components that enhance overall door performance.

Security-rated fire exit doors, such as SECUR-DOR 2.1, combine a high level of safety and protection and also include cost-effective panic exit hardware solutions from HOPPE (UK) that meet PAS 24 (2022) standards without compromising quality or performance.

Minimising security risks

When doors are damaged, it can lead to security risks and present an urgent need to protect the building and residents whilst waiting for permanent repairs. The traditional response involves the use of unsightly boarding-up solutions or expensive manned guarding services to provide basic protection. However, this can draw unwanted attention, leave residents feeling unsafe and vulnerable to intruders.

The latest innovation in temporary door solutions, TEMP-DOR, provides installers with a practical alternative to traditional boarding methods and a valuable additional service they can offer to social housing providers and other customers. Designed to be reusable, installers can hire out TEMP-DOR on a short-term basis, creating an opportunity for an additional revenue stream.

With overnight delivery or same-day collection available, temporary door solutions offer a quick and secure steel door solution that protects the building and maintains residents’ safety until permanent replacements can be installed. TEMP-DOR comes with an adjustable frame, accommodating openings from 875mm to 1095mm wide, and has a modular design to enable swift on-site assembly, enabling installers to respond rapidly with minimal disruption.

The steel construction of these modern temporary door solutions makes it ideal for use in an emergency in social housing settings, as well as part of planned building renovations or upgrades.

www.robust-uk.com

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Sunday, 8 February 2026

Mercedes-Benz sets off on epic journey to celebrate “140 Years of Innovation”

Since Carl Benz filed the patent for the first automobile exactly 140 years ago, Mercedes-Benz has dedicated itself to constantly innovate and to create the world’s most desirable cars for customers. This ambition has driven every innovation – from the world's first automobile in 1886 to today's intelligent, safe and highly-demanded electric vehicles, like the all-new GLC and the award-winning all-new CLA.

With its passion for performance and pioneering power, excellence and an unwavering commitment to customer service, the brand has consistently shaped the future of mobility. The result goes well beyond engineering achievement – it creates the unmistakable feeling that leads through everything Mercedes-Benz does: Welcome home.

In 2026, the inventor of the automobile is sharing its promise with customers and fans around the world through a year-long series of engaging activities. Everything begins today, 29 January 2026 – a milestone date marking exactly 140 years since the original patent was filed.

Blending heritage with what’s next, the celebration launches alongside the world premiere of the new S-Class at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart. This new flagship brings the “Welcome home.” feeling to life in its most refined form yet, combining innovation, engineering excellence, safety, comfort and elegant design. As the most significant evolution of an S-Class generation to date, it carries 140 years of pioneering spirit forward into the world’s most desirable cars of tomorrow.

140 PLACES

Right after the new S-Class world premiere, Mercedes-Benz will go on an epic drive across six continents, bringing the anniversary celebration directly to customers and fans. A symbolic 140 places will be visited in this special convoy, and fans, customers and owners’ clubs are encouraged to add their own celebrations throughout the year. The drive is planned to end in Stuttgart in October 2026, where the journey started.

Three new S-Class Saloons will embark on a global adventure. The journey spans more than 50,000 km across Europe, South America, North America, Australia, Asia, and Africa – visiting countries, cities and communities on every continent where Mercedes-Benz has left its mark. It is the most ambitious brand journey ever attempted, taking the most advanced brand ambassadors on four wheels to the world.

The route covers brand milestones and legendary routes – such as the Route 66, which will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2026 – to megacities like Buenos Aires, Shanghai and Sydney. Along the way, checkpoint companions will join the new S-Class: Classic cars, 2026 model premiere models and local fleet vehicles that reflect the current brand presence.

From history to the future: innovation is the basis for sustainable progress

The 140th anniversary year continues the biggest product launch programme in the company's history. Over the next two years, Mercedes-Benz will launch more than 40 new models that blend tradition with innovation and set new standards across all segments. Every model embodies the brand's promise: to build the world’s most desirable cars. Today’s Mercedes-Benz innovations carry heritage into the future – as a brand that understands progress programmatically, focuses on the needs of people and society, and continually redefines individual mobility.

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Saturday, 7 February 2026

Hörmann Truedor Website Strengthens Market Presence

Hörmann Truedor is celebrating the success of its updated website which was introduced in February 2025. Showcasing its complete range of composite doors, the site has delivered extraordinary growth in both visitor numbers and high-quality lead generation since going live, helping to reinforce the brand’s strong and growing presence within the residential door market.

Building on this momentum, the company is continuing to enhance the platform with additional consumer-focused resources. The latest addition is the new Door Knowledge Centre, designed to offer homeowners clear, authoritative guidance when choosing the right door for their property.

The Knowledge Centre breaks down the key differences in materials, security features, energy ratings and cost considerations, enabling customers to make confident, well-informed decisions. This is complemented by an expanded News section, which delivers the most up-to-date information on company activity and product developments.

The website delivers a clean, modern aesthetic with vibrant imagery, which guides visitors through Hörmann Truedor’s extensive range. It offers an intuitive user journey that not only features the wide variety of styles and designs available but also introduces the Hörmann brand and its commitment to sustainability.

The Hörmann Truedor collection features six ranges, each named after a Welsh river to reflect the natural beauty and heritage surrounding our manufacturing base. Together, they offer 43 distinctive door styles.

Specialist options such as the Clima-63 thermally efficient door, the Platinum 44 steel door and the Draig30 30-minute fire door are also highlighted, bringing the entire product portfolio together in one comprehensive online hub.

To further support homeowners during their selection process, the site features an easy-to-use door configurator that guides users step-by-step through the available choices, enabling them to design and visualise their ideal door with ease and confidence.

With additional developments already underway and more planned for later this year, 2026 is set to be an exciting and transformative period for the Hörmann Truedor brand as it continues to build on its strong growth trajectory in the composite door sector.

www.hormanntruedor.co.uk

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Friday, 6 February 2026

Innovative split spindle shortlisted for Product Design & Innovation Award

A split spindle designed to address challenges faced when installing escape locks has been shortlisted for the mechanical product design and innovation award at this year’s Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI) AI Specification Awards.

The AR227 split spindle from ARRONE, a HOPPE (UK) brand, was developed for use with the AR915 mortice apartment lock and uses an innovative clip-fix mechanism alongside the split spindle to remove the risk of overtightening during assembly.

Product engineer Dan Savage, who developed the clip-fix mechanism, said: “With a traditional type of spilt spindle, the two halves need to be screwed together manually but with that comes the potential of overtightening. The new split spindle solves this issue with a user-friendly clip-fix design that requires no adjustment and eliminates that risk entirely. The design therefore improves the longevity and effectiveness of the lock assembly, as well as speeding up fitting time.

“Being shortlisted is a testament to our ongoing commitment to innovation and problem-solving in the built environment. We’re delighted to see the AR227 spindle recognised for the practical value it brings to both specifiers and installers.”

The GAI’s biennial AI Specification Awards are organised in conjunction with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and celebrate excellence in architectural ironmongery specification.

The winners will be announced at the AI Specification Awards ceremony which will take place on 15 May 2026 at the IET London: Savoy Place.

For more information on the AR227 split spindle, visit bit.ly/ARRONESplitSpindle

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Thursday, 5 February 2026

RUGBY CLUB GETS AN UPGRADE WITH HIGH-PERFORMANCE STEEL DOOR

A local rugby club in Newcastle-under-Lyme has upgraded the security of its premises with the installation of a brand-new high-performance steel fire exit door from Robust UK.

Newcastle (Staffs) Rugby Union Football Club noticed its emergency exit door, located in the changing rooms corridor, was beginning to show signs of age, wear and tear. With the security of the building and its members a top priority, Newcastle (Staffs) RUFC needed a replacement door that offered high security, enhanced safety and great aesthetics.

Why did Newcastle rugby club select Robust UK for its fire-exit upgrade?

Robust UK was selected due to its reputation for delivering durable, high-security steel door solutions. The rugby club valued Robust’s technical expertise, quality of products and ability to provide support during the specification process. Following an in-depth site survey to assess the condition of the existing frame and surrounding environment, the team at Robust were able to recommend the most suitable replacement whilst ensuring a seamless installation.

Robust recommended OUTA-DOR, its durable steel fire-exit door, chosen for its strength, versatility and proven performance in demanding environments. Manufactured from Magnelis® steel, OUTA-DOR is known for its exceptional strength and resistance to corrosion, a key advantage for busy sports venues exposed to heavy use.

Faster installation with adjustable door frames

The installation process was made quicker and more efficient thanks to the use of Robust adjustable steel frames. These frames allow the installer to make fine adjustments during fitting, avoiding the challenges that often occur with traditional timber frames and helping to achieve a perfect fit more quickly. For the rugby club, this meant less disruption to day-to-day operations and a smoother overall installation experience.

Improved safety with door hardware upgrades

To further support safe and efficient emergency evacuation, the new fire-exit door was fitted with Briton two-point panic bolt hardware. This represents a significant upgrade from the single-point panic latch previously in place. The two-point system secures the door at both the top and bottom, increasing stability, enhancing security against unauthorised entry and offering more reliable performance in the event of an emergency. The hardware fully complies with BS EN 1125 and ensures that the door meets modern standards for emergency escape systems.

What are the benefits of choosing a steel fire exit door over timber?

Unlike a traditional timber door, steel doors offer significantly improved security and the ability to withstand knocks, dents and wear far more effectively. The enhanced durability ensures that Newcastle (Staffs) Rugby Union Football Club can benefit from lower maintenance and the anti-corrosion warranty of up to ten years provides additional reassurance that the door will remain in excellent condition for the long term.

The OUTA-DOR solution also provides the reduced need for ongoing upkeep. Timber doors require regular repainting, treatment and refinishing, especially in busy environments where they are exposed to moisture, weathering and physical impact. As it’s made from Magnelis® steel, this steel door solution requires minimal maintenance and does not compromise on appearance.

The chosen design features a timeless tongue-and-groove wood-panel effect that blends perfectly with existing surroundings, offering the style of wood panels while still delivering superior performance.

Kevin Bourne, Chair of Sponsorship and Team Captain at Newcastle (Staffs) RUFC, says: “On behalf of the club, I’d like to thank Robust UK for assisting us in finding a suitable replacement fire exit door. Their expertise has been invaluable in ensuring we selected the right specification to enhance safety and security at the club.”

OUTA-DOR can be fire-rated for up to 240 minutes and when specified as a THERM option, it delivers low U-values of just 1.5 W/m²K, surpassing the 1.6 W/m²K requirement set out in Part L of the Building Regulations.

Long-term benefits of the new steel fire exit door

Since the installation, Newcastle (Staffs) Rugby Union Football Club has benefited from a noticeable improvement in the security, durability and appearance of its facilities. The steel construction, combined with its anti-corrosion properties, has provided a robust and dependable solution that keeps up with the demands of a busy sports environment.

The adjustable frame, upgraded panic hardware and precision installation have all contributed to a safer and more efficient emergency exit route. These improvements will help protect players, staff and visitors, while the enhanced external security ensures the premises remain secure outside of operating hours.

For more information about OUTA-DOR visit www.robust-uk.com, or contact Robust at sales@robust-uk.com or call 01782 592900.

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Wednesday, 4 February 2026

DHF urges caution: Powered Garage Doors are not an ‘off the shelf’ product

The Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) is urging homeowners and installers to recognise that powered domestic garage doors should never be treated as simple ‘off the shelf’ products. Rather, they require careful assessment, correct documentation and appropriate safety measures tailored to each installation.

DHF’s Senior Training & Compliance Officer, Steve Hill, has raised concerns that too many powered garage doors are being sold and installed without the detailed discussions needed to ensure they are legally compliant and safe for long-term use...

“Many companies present powered garage doors as an ‘off the shelf’ product,” he says. “The customer chooses a colour, the installer measures the opening and the door is fitted. But this approach overlooks the essential steps needed to ensure that the door is both safe and compliant. A more detailed conversation is required between the customer and their chosen supplier.”

As a minimum, manufacturers must meet all legal requirements before placing a powered garage door on the market. This includes compliance with the Construction Products Regulations 2013 (CPR) using the relevant standard EN 13241:2003+A2:2016.

“To comply, manufacturers must test their doors with an approved testing body, demonstrate performance against all essential requirements, and provide a Declaration of Performance,” continues Steve. “A CE or UKCA conformity label must also be applied. In addition, they must meet the legal minimum safety standard under the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008 and support this with a Declaration of Conformity.”

Only once these steps are taken can a powered garage door be legally sold. However, legal compliance alone does not guarantee that the door is suitable or safe for the customer’s home environment.

“To ensure a garage door is safe for the location in which it is installed, far more information is needed,” he says. “How the client wants to operate the door, whether the door opens onto a public highway, and what extra safety features may be required all need to be considered from the outset.”

DHF has highlighted several examples that should be included in both manufacturer considerations and installer risk assessments:

- Whether vulnerable people will be using or passing through the doorway,

- Whether vehicles may stop beneath the door during operation,

- Whether pets could be in the vicinity,

- Any additional risks arising from how the garage is used, such as storage or workshop activity.

The law provides a minimum level of protection for pedestrians, but in many real-life situations additional safety measures will be needed. Installers should always carry out a residual risk assessment and advise householders accordingly. If recommendations are declined, the installer must record this to protect themselves from future legal claims.

DHF warns that installers who fail to consider or communicate these additional risks may face civil action if an accident occurs.

“In short, a garage door is not simply an ‘off the shelf’ product,” concludes Steve. “A proper safety assessment is essential if we are to protect end users and prevent avoidable incidents.”

DHF continues to encourage manufacturers, installers and homeowners to follow best practice and ensure all powered garage doors are supplied and installed with safety up-front-and-centre.

www.dhfonline.org.uk

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Tuesday, 3 February 2026

ASSA ABLOY Door Group highlights TEMPEST doorset benefits to safeguard data centres

As data centres become one of the world’s fastest growing critical infrastructure verticals, protecting information is no longer limited to cyber security alone. Electromagnetic emanation, where sensitive data can be intercepted from electronic emissions, poses a growing risk in the industry.

Designed for use in high-risk and high-value environments like data centres, secure server rooms, critical national infrastructure and other classified facilities, the TEMPEST door provides electromagnetic shielding and high physical security performance.

Tested to IEEE Std 299-2006, the door delivers shielding effectiveness ranging from 44.7 dB to 121.4 dB across frequencies from 30 MHz to 5 GHz, helping to prevent RF and EM signal leakage that could otherwise be exploited for unauthorised surveillance or data extraction.

TEMPEST offers high RC4 burglary resistance, combining reinforced steel construction, anti-burglary bolts and high-class locking systems providing a robust barrier against physical attacks. The doorset has also been engineered for integration into Faraday cages, SCIFs and secure RF rooms, ensuring a complete approach to both cyber and physical security.

The TEMPEST doorset has customisable sizes and finishes, which aligns security performance with architectural design and operational needs that are common in modern data developments.

Brian Sofley, Managing Director at ASSA ABLOY Door Group, said: “Critical infrastructure is always evolving, and the TEMPEST door has been developed to meet the growing need for solutions that don’t just protect access, but information itself.

“By addressing both electromagnetic and physical security risks, it will help the facilities managers of data centre and other high-risk environments meet compliance standards and safeguard their premises, assets and information.”

www.assaabloy.com

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Monday, 2 February 2026

Hörmann Garage Door Stands Firm Against Intruders

Despite the latest ONS Crime Survey for England & Wales showing a continued decline in burglary figures, the crime remains a significant source of distress and inconvenience for homeowners. As a result, security awareness is on the rise, with many households investing in products designed to protect access points to their homes and outbuildings.

Mr G, a homeowner from Bristol, recently reached out to the team at Hörmann to express his appreciation for the high level of security provided by his sectional garage door. Installed back in 2013, the door was a simple, single-skin, manually operated model secured with an external handle and standard euro-profile cylinder. However, when would-be thieves attempted to break into the garage - targeting the handle, lock, and even trying to force the door from the bottom and sides, the door’s robust construction held firm, ultimately deterring the intruders.

Commenting on the incident, Mark Stoddart, Senior Technical and Product Support Engineer at Hörmann, said: “It’s always great to receive positive feedback from our customers and in this case to hear that our door prevented a break-in and loss of property, even after a prolonged attempt to gain entry to the garage. The LTE40 garage door fitted in this case is a fairly uncomplicated door with a simple locking system, so it’s great to hear that its inherent quality and strength held and eventually deterred the thieves.”

Hörmann is now supplying a replacement door through its Partner Standard dealer, Garage Door and Automation Bristol, with the homeowner selecting a new fully automated RenoMatic Sectional Door in a white woodgrain finish. This will provide enhanced peace of mind thanks to the anti-lift technology and Secured by Design accreditation as standard, plus the added benefit of improved thermal efficiency compared with the previous door.

For further information on the Hörmann Sectional Garage doors visit Sectional Garage Doors | Hörmann or call 01530 516868

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Sunday, 1 February 2026

New imagery reveals top TALOS XXT customisation requests

Striking imagery released today by the British automotive engineering and coachbuilding specialists Talos Vehicles, reveal some of the most popular customisation requests it has received from prospective customers for its XXT model.

Limited to just five units worldwide, the TALOS XXT offers owners a fully customised race-inspired Grand Touring experience, with bespoke options including its finish and paintwork.

Indeed, paying homage to the XXT’s carbon fibre bodywork is the awesome ‘Full carbon’ design. This unique design showcases the craftsmanship of the XXT, with naked matt carbon fibre panels across the vehicle, complemented with a black interior featuring Alcantara seats and trim.

Meanwhile, the eye-catching ‘Verde Jewel’ customisation is set to turn heads with its striking colour combination. The car’s prospective UK owner has opted for a breathtaking green finish, offset with a stunning red Alcantara interior, in a nod to the car’s Maranello roots. Furthermore, to reflect the customer’s own heritage, the exterior features the Union Jack on the rear wing end-plates, also reinforcing the British craftsmanship of the XXT.

Jamie Thwaites, managing director at Talos Vehicles, said: “A major part of individual driving pleasure is the appearance of a vehicle. This is especially true when deciding on the exterior finish of the TALOS XXT, an ultra-exclusive race-inspired Grand Tourer with no two vehicles alike.

“We’re delighted with how the ‘Full carbon’ and ‘Verde Jewel’ designs are progressing and we look forward to working closely with, and providing the same level of passion and craftsmanship, to other potential owners looking to create their own automotive masterpiece.

“The exclusivity of the TALOS XXT is assured as there will only ever be five units, each one crafted to deliver pure driving enjoyment for discerning owners.”

As well as the obsessive attention to the finish of the carbon fibre bodywork, the TALOS XXT boasts performance figures including 0-62mph in 3.5 seconds, a 205mph top speed and 674Bhp.

Starting life as a donor 599 GTB, the TALOS XXT is available in both left and right-hand drive variants together with bespoke options including custom engine upgrades.

Additional bespoke options include interior trim, manual gearbox, while optional upgrades are available for the drivetrain, the exhaust, roll cage and in car entertainment.

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Saturday, 31 January 2026

VEKA marks 40 years of UK manufacturing and industry partnership

PVCu systems manufacturer VEKA is celebrating its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of growth, practical innovation and long-standing partnerships across the fenestration industry.

Key milestones in the company’s history include the launch of the Matrix system in 1995, the expansion into Fully Reversible and Vertical Sliders and Composite Door systems in 2008, and more recently, the introduction of digital tools WinDoPlan and VEKA Edge, which provide customers with specification data, technical content and marketing support.

In 2024, VEKA also launched OMNIA, the UK’s only a double-flush, double-rebated system available as a complete suite, while other recent innovations including Feinstruktur and Softline 82 have contributed to VEKA’s continued focus on innovation in PVCu systems.

VEKA is using the anniversary to celebrate its long-standing partnerships with fabricators, installers and specifiers, who have supported and championed the development of VEKAs window systems, colour strategy and technical support services. It’s this true partnership and collaboration with its partners that helps ensure VEKA’s extensive product range continues to reflect evolving expectations around design and fabrication efficiency, as well as the required product performance standards.

The company is also reflecting on its ongoing investment into people and skills, having continually invested into apprenticeships and structured development programmes to support the next generation of fenestration professionals.

Since opening its Burnley site in 1986, VEKA is now, and continues to be, a reliable, stable and reputable PVCu systems provider, supported by the global strength of the VEKA Group who continue to expand and develop to strengthen their global, expansive portfolio

Neil Evans, Managing Director for VEKA, said: “When you look back over VEKA’s 40 years in the UK, what stands out isn’t just the milestones – it’s the people and partnerships behind them. From day one, we’ve focused on supporting customers with reliable systems, consistent service and long-term stability, because responsible progress and doing things the right way have always been at the heart of VEKA. As the industry continues to evolve, that commitment won’t change. It’s what has brought us here, and it’s what will shape the years ahead.”

www.vekauk.com

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