The Door Industry Journal: Business News

Showing posts with label Business News. Show all posts

Wednesday, 9 September 2026

Escape Door System benefits for retail environments

Abloy UK has launched a new video demonstrating how its Escape Door System (EDS) can help retailers balance security measures with safe, compliant escape routes in retail environments.

Retail environments are under increasing pressure to tackle issues such as run-out theft and unauthorised access to restricted areas. The video demonstrates how the ASSA ABLOY Escape Door System enables authorised personnel to move efficiently through secure spaces while maintaining control over sensitive areas and exit points.

It highlights how the EDS provides controlled egress and access through panic and emergency escape doors, helping to prevent unauthorised exits without compromising life safety.

A key feature explored in the video is the system's ability to resist forced exits and tampering. Doors remain secure even when subjected to physical pressure, helping to reduce losses, minimise risk and provide security teams with time to assess and respond to incidents.

The video also showcases delayed egress functionality, an important feature for retail settings where attempts at unauthorised exits can be deterred while maintaining compliance with escape regulations.

In addition, viewers can see how the system integrates with Central Management Control (CMC), allowing security personnel to monitor activity, remotely release doors and override delays when required.

During a fire evacuation event, the system automatically releases doors within one second, enabling occupants to exit quickly and without restriction. Even in the event of power loss or certain fault conditions, doors remain accessible for safe egress.

Neil Hughes, Business Development Manager at Abloy UK, said: “Retailers are under constant pressure to reduce losses while ensuring people can leave a building safely and without delay in an emergency.”

“The Escape Door System is designed to meet both of these requirements, providing strong control over unauthorised egress while maintaining compliant escape routes. This video shows how the system works in practice and why it has become an important part of modern retail security strategies.”

www.abloy.com

To view the video, go to https://bit.ly/4b8dFzy

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Monday, 7 September 2026

DHF is set to transform the industry with Building Hardware training launch

Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) has launched a new accredited training programme designed to give professionals across the building hardware sector the knowledge and recognised qualifications needed to support competence and career development.

DHF Core Competencies: Understanding Building Hardware is an innovative online learning programme leading to an Ofqual-regulated Level 2 certificate, accredited by the Awarding Body for the Built Environment (ABBE).

Developed for product managers, customer service teams, trade counter operatives and anyone working in or looking to enter the building hardware sector, the flexible programme provides a solid grounding in building hardware fundamentals while enabling learners to build specialist knowledge through a range of product-specific modules.

It is also ideal for employee induction and ongoing professional development. All learners complete a mandatory Core Module, comprising six guided learning units and multiple-choice assessments, before selecting at least one of 12 Product Modules. Additional modules can be purchased at any time, enabling learners to tailor their learning to their role and responsibilities.

On successful completion, learners receive a DHF Level 2 Certificate in Core Competencies: Understanding Building Hardware, as well as an Ofqual-branded certificate from ABBE. The certificate also lists every product module completed, providing employers with clear evidence of an individual's knowledge and achievement. To support learning, every participant can download a dedicated study guide containing module learning outcomes, guided note-taking sections and prompts to reinforce key concepts throughout the course.

"This programme, which launches on 30th July, represents a step change for the building hardware sector and is, without doubt, one of the most significant investments DHF has made in developing the competence of our building hardware industry," explains DHF’s Chief Executive, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens.

"From the outset, we listened carefully to our members to understand the knowledge gaps that existed across manufacturing, distribution, technical support, and sales. We then developed a programme that directly addresses those needs while aligning it with the CPA's White Paper on Construction Product Competence, which has since evolved into the draft BS 8670-2 standard. As an industry, we believe we are ‘ahead of the curve’ by providing a qualification that reflects both current and emerging competence expectations."

The ABBE Level 2 Certificate in Core Competencies: Understanding Building Hardware is an Ofqual-regulated qualification, giving learners a nationally recognised qualification that provides employers with clear evidence of the knowledge element of the Skills, Knowledge, Experience and Behaviours (SKEB) framework. It creates a credible, structured route for individuals to develop professionally, while giving employers confidence that their people have acquired knowledge that is directly relevant to their role.

The programme is delivered through the DHF Training Academy, built on the digital learning platform that DHF invested in back in 2019. This provides learners with the flexibility to study at their own pace, while enabling managers, HR teams and training professionals to monitor learner engagement, progress and achievement through a dedicated management portal. It ensures organisations can actively manage competence across their workforce rather than simply delivering one-off training.

“We are incredibly proud to add this qualification to DHF's portfolio,” concludes Patricia. “We believe it will transform the way building hardware competence is developed, providing our industry with a robust, future-proof training pathway that supports individuals, strengthens businesses and ultimately raises professional excellence throughout the entire supply chain.

"We would like to thank everyone who has contributed to this publication, particularly our Working Group Committees (WGCs), members, industry experts and partners, whose knowledge, time and commitment continue to strengthen our work and help promote standards across the industry.”

The programme is initially available exclusively to DHF members from July 2026 , with broader industry access planned as part of the next phase of the programme’s rollout.

To find out more about the programme, visit:

Programme overview: https://www.dhfonline.org.uk/pg/core-competencies-understanding-building-hardware-training-programme/1178.htm

Flexible learning pathway and course structure: https://www.dhfonline.org.uk/pg/flexible-learning-pathway--core-competencies-understanding-building-hardware/1179.htm

Preview video: https://www.dhfonline.org.uk/pg/new-a-teaser-of-the-building-hardware-training-programme/1239.htm

For training enquiries, please contact the DHF Training Department at training@dhfonline.org.uk

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Saturday, 5 September 2026

ADSA Welcomes Familiar Face in New Member-Focused Role

The Automatic Door Suppliers Association (ADSA) has appointed experienced industry professional Steve Rutherford as its new Membership Development Officer, reinforcing the association's commitment to supporting members, strengthening engagement and helping businesses maximise the value of their membership.

Steve brings more than 20 years' experience within the automatic door industry to the role, alongside a strong track record in training and skills development. Most recently, he played a key role in delivering the industry's pioneering Powered Pedestrian Door Technician apprenticeship programme, helping to develop training content and support more than 70 apprentices through the qualification.

In his new role, Steve will act as a dedicated point of contact for ADSA members, working closely with businesses across the UK to understand their challenges, identify opportunities for support and ensure they are fully benefiting from the association's extensive range of services, resources and training opportunities.

The newly created position reflects ADSA's continued growth and the increasing diversity of its membership base. With more than 600 member organisations, ADSA is investing in stronger member engagement and ensuring businesses of all sizes have access to consistent support, guidance and opportunities for professional development.

Said Steve: “One of the most important aspects of this role is listening to members and understanding what they need from ADSA. Whether that’s training, professional development, technical support or simply helping them navigate their membership, I want to make sure businesses are getting real value from being part of the association.

“I’m looking forward to meeting as many members as possible, learning more about their businesses and helping ensure ADSA continues to deliver the support, guidance and expertise that the industry needs.”

As part of his role, Steve will undertake a programme of member visits and meetings across the UK, gathering feedback that will help shape future services and training provision.

A particular area of focus will be skills development and competency, with ADSA continuing to explore how it can support members as industry requirements evolve and expectations around training, qualifications and continuing professional development increase.

ADSA Managing Director Ken Price welcomed the appointment: “Steve’s extensive industry knowledge, practical experience and passion for skills development make him an excellent addition to the ADSA team.

“Our membership has grown significantly in recent years and it is important that every member, regardless of size, receives the same high level of support and engagement. Steve’s appointment will help us strengthen relationships across our membership, better understand the challenges businesses are facing and ensure ADSA continues to evolve in line with the needs of the industry.”

Before joining ADSA, Steve spent four years delivering the PPD apprenticeship programme at South Staffordshire College, helping to address skills shortages within the sector and supporting the next generation of automatic door engineers. He previously worked for GEZE UK.

Away from work, Steve lives in Tamworth with his wife, Jackie. Between them, they have four grown-up children and share their home with a much-loved Border Collie. A keen runner, Steve has completed almost 300 Parkruns and remains an enthusiastic supporter of Aston Villa. When time allows, he and Jackie enjoy touring the UK in their caravan and spending time with family and friends.

For more information about ADSA membership, training and industry support services, visit www.adsa.org.uk

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Friday, 4 September 2026

New technical guide supports compliant fire doorset specification

Specialist door manufacturer JELD-WEN has launched a new doorset technical specification guide to support the compliant specification of fire-safe internal and flat entrance doors.

Designed for architects, contractors and specifiers, the guide provides clear, practical direction on selecting doorsets in line with industry standards and regulations. In the wake of regulatory reform, including the Fire Safety Act 2021 and the Building Safety Act 2022, the accurate specification of fire doors, particularly flat entrance doors, has become increasingly critical.

As well as detailing fire resistance requirements, the guide provides a framework for meeting other key performance standards, including smoke and acoustic performance, security features and aesthetics, helping specifiers balance compliance with project design demands.

Tony Pell, Product Manager at JELD-WEN, explained: “This technical guide has been developed to give specifiers greater clarity and confidence when selecting fire doorsets across a wide range of sectors. It provides comprehensive details for the selection, installation and performance requirements, and serves as a reliable resource for achieving high-quality solutions.”

The launch of the guide also supports the industry’s focus on maintaining the golden thread of information throughout a building’s lifecycle by providing clear, accessible performance data to support informed specification decisions.

Tony added, “Responsibility for fire door performance spans the entire supply and installation chain. From design and specification through to installation and maintenance, competence and accurate information are essential at every stage. Providing clear technical guidance is one way we can help strengthen accountability across the supply chain.”

The new technical specification guide forms part of JELD-WEN’s wider commitment to improving clarity and accountability across the specification process. This includes the recent refresh of its SecureFIT and ReadyFIT ranges, designed to simplify product selection and help specifiers make confident, compliant decisions amidst complex regulatory requirements.

To read the latest doorset technical specification guide, visit: www.jeld-wen.co.uk/literature

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Thursday, 3 September 2026

What is driving demand for modern front door designs?

Traditional composite doors continue to perform strongly, but homeowner tastes are evolving. Drew Pearson, sales director at Door-Stop explains why installers who understand the design trends shaping customer decisions will be better placed to offer advice and add value to every project.

A front door has always been one of the first things people notice about a house. Today it plays an even greater role in shaping first impressions and reflecting the overall character of a property.

Whether homeowners are renovating their entire property or simply looking to refresh their exterior doors, they are paying attention to how every element of their property works together. They are placing a greater emphasis on design and looking for products that reflect the style of their property

When choosing their front door, homeowners are now increasingly making style and colour decisions based on how it will look alongside other features in their home such as windows, brickwork, cladding, pathways and landscaping.

For installers, understanding these changing preferences is important. Offering a varied range that is supported by informed advice where needed, will help installers meet that demand.

Looking beyond the door itself

Homeowners are drawing inspiration from more places than ever before. Social media platforms, home improvement television programmes, design magazines, and property websites have made design ideas and trends more accessible. As a result, many homeowners are approaching front door replacement as part of a wider home improvement project, rather than just a like-for-like replacement.

These changing preferences are reflected across the wider construction products market. The recent Door and Window Fittings UK Market Report by Barbour ABI notes that today's mix of architectural styles requires products that are "adaptable and versatile". Homeowners are expecting more design choices that allow them to create an entrance which reflects the style and character of their property.

Traditional designs continue to have a strong place in the market, particularly for period properties, but demand for contemporary designs continues to grow as more homeowners look to create a clean, modern entrance that complements wider renovation and improvement projects.

What defines a modern front door?

Modern door designs utilise clean lines, flush finishes, symmetrical panel layouts, and ladder-style designs. These features all contribute to a simpler, more balanced appearance that suits both new build homes and modern renovation projects.

Glazing has followed the same direction. Rather than bold, decorative glazing patterns, many homeowners are choosing slim, geometric glazing that lets in natural light while maintaining privacy. This reflects the wider move towards minimalist design, with Barbour ABI’s report also noting that minimalist and slimline frames that maximise natural light continue to be in demand.

The same trend can be seen in colour choices too. Traditional favourites such as red, blue and green remain popular, but anthracite grey, black and Chartwell Green are increasingly being selected to match windows or provide a contrast to render and modern brickwork.

From fitting doors to giving advice

For installers, these conversations often extend beyond simply replacing a front door. Homeowners are looking for advice on styles, materials and glazing options that complement the property while meeting their practical requirements.

Manufacturers are responding with broader ranges of modern styles and configurable options. Door-Stop’s new Modern Collection is one example, bringing together eight contemporary door designs with a choice of glazing and hardware options, allowing installers to tailor each entrance to the property rather than steer homeowners towards a limited set of standard options.

The collection reflects the more contemporary designs many homeowners are looking for. Exclusive to the Modern Collection, the Modern 4 Square with Tahoe glazing and the Modern Mid Square with Aurora glass designs address the growing demand for doors that meet multiple homeowner needs.

Small details, lasting impressions

One of the biggest opportunities lies in helping customers appreciate how small design choices influence the finished result.

Door furniture has become more than a functional necessity. As Barbour ABI’s report shows, hardware has evolved into "a major design feature", making the finishing touches just as important as the door itself.

The growing choice of contemporary long bar, square, and bow handle, alongside more traditional handle styles, gives installers more flexibility when helping homeowners achieve the look they want. Matching the style of the hardware to the character of the property helps create a more cohesive appearance, while the choice of finish can complement other exterior features such as lighting.

While appearance is important, homeowners also expect secure and durable hardware, with high security products also being a key driver shaping today's market. For installers, that means specifying doors that combine contemporary styling with robust construction and high-quality hardware.

The opportunity for installers

Design trends will continue to evolve, just as they always have. Contemporary styles may be growing in popularity today, but homeowner expectations will continue to change as architecture, technology and lifestyles develop.

The installers best placed to meet changing homeowner expectations will be those who understand the trends shaping purchasing decisions, ask the right questions and recommend products that suit both the property and the customer's priorities.

Door-Stop's Modern Collection has been developed to reflect many of the design trends highlighted in this article, offering installers a wide choice of contemporary styles, colours, glazing options and hardware.

To find out more, visit www.door-stop.co.uk

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Wednesday, 2 September 2026

From pioneering electric strikes to intelligent systems

For more than 90 years, ASSA ABLOY has pioneered electromechanical locking technology, continuously innovating since the first effeff electric strike was patented in 1932 and Abloy began developing high-security electric locks in 1978.

Today, electromechanical locks represent the intelligent evolution of mechanical security, combining trusted engineering with seamless digital connectivity for safer, smarter, more efficient building management.

Modern electromechanical devices transform the way buildings are secured. Their embedded intelligence enables reliable communication between door and system, remote operation, and data insights. They give facilities managers new levels of control and convenience without the need to be physically present at every opening.

“When ASSA ABLOY´s effeff brand patented their first electric strike in 1932, it set a new standard for intelligent building security,” explains Julian Riester, Director & Head of Product Unit eStrikes & egress at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA.

“Electromechanical locking and opening were born. Doors became electrically controlled and remote operation was a new reality. We have continued innovating and setting new standards for this technology ever since.”

Electric strikes are compact, reliable electromechanical devices that upgrade existing mechanical locks by enabling controlled, remote unlocking and seamless integration with intercoms, access control, and digital systems. They are mounted discreetly within the door frame for smarter, more flexible entry.

For installers, OEMs, and resellers, they offer easy integration, broad application versatility, certifications, and high customer demand, making them simple to specify, sell, and deploy across commercial and multi‑residential buildings.

Effeff electric strikes are engineered for universal fit and long‑term reliability, offering more than 10,000 strike and latch‑plate combinations as well as customized solutions for specialized environments.

They deliver trusted security through rigorous DIN‑certified and TÜV‑audited production, high holding forces, extensive cycle testing, and durable components designed for harsh or high‑frequency conditions.

A compact, installer‑friendly design enables fast, clean, cable‑free integration into almost any door, supported by adjustable alignment, sustainable EPD‑verified construction, and low power consumption for energy efficiency.

Extending the applications for electromechanical locking

E‑strike technology laid the foundation for modern electromechanical locking, which ASSA ABLOY’s ABLOY brand advanced in the late 1970s by embedding electricity and intelligence deep within the door leaf to enhance mechanical security and meet demanding regulatory and architectural requirements.

ABLOY Electric Locks are trusted worldwide for meeting the highest security and compliance standards. They deliver a premium door experience, even in demanding, high‑traffic, or high‑security environments. They integrate seamlessly with access control, alarm, and building‑management systems to make every door intelligent and controllable, enhancing functionality, efficiency, and real‑time awareness across complex security ecosystems.

“The long service life of our electric locks gives building managers the peace of mind that comes with products designed for maximum reliability,” adds Mika Savolainen, Director & Head of Product Line Management ELMECH PU at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA. “These locks are backed by ASSA ABLOY’s global network of experience and expertise. They have proven performance over decades in a whole range of access control environments.”

Designed with concealed installation, architectural flexibility, sustainability, and low energy consumption in mind, they provide a durable, future‑proof, and aesthetically pleasing solution in both new-builds and retrofits, including for emergency escape doors meeting EN179 and EN1125 standards.

ABLOY offers one of the widest electric‑lock ranges on the market. Their premium single‑ and multi-point solutions fit virtually any door, sector, or security requirement while ensuring seamless retrofit and design flexibility.

ASSA ABLOY’s range of eStrikes and electric locks are part of a wider portfolio of digital access solutions, bringing intelligent, secure, and seamlessly integrated electromechanical locking to virtually any building type, including multi‑residential, healthcare, offices, manufacturing, education, public institutions, and critical infrastructure.

www.abloy.com

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Saturday, 29 August 2026

Inspiring future female talent

Endurance® Doors has demonstrated its commitment to nurturing future talent by supporting the WiME Raising Aspirations Programme in partnership with Women into Manufacturing and Engineering (WiME) and The Vale Academy.

The initiative is designed to encourage more young women to consider careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), showcase the breadth of opportunities available within modern manufacturing and engineering, and provide practical insight into modern industry, helping to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world careers. Confidence building is another key aim of the programme.

The programme reflects Endurance® Doors' wider focus on investing in local communities, developing the workforce of tomorrow and helping to promote greater diversity across the manufacturing sector.

Students were inspired by female industry professionals, including Endurance® team members, Emma Sloan and Jessie Meakin who led a series of workshops designed to help participants identify their strengths, develop confidence and think about their future ambitions.

Other speakers included Sarah Cook from Wood and Lisa Carter from Munich Re who shared their own career journeys and experiences and highlighted the value of determination, resilience and self-belief.

The second phase of the programme included a visit to the Endurance® Doors manufacturing facility where students were given a guided tour of the extrusion department by Ryan Clarkson.

The visit offered valuable first-hand insight into a modern manufacturing environment, allowing students to observe production processes, ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of the diverse range of roles available across the sector, including engineering, manufacturing, operations, quality, logistics and business functions.

Russell Hensman, Brand Engagement Manager at Endurance® Doors, said: “As one of the UK's leading composite door manufacturers, we are passionate about supporting the next generation and helping young people understand the exciting opportunities available within modern manufacturing and engineering. Programmes such as WiME play a vital role in raising aspirations, building confidence and challenging perceptions about careers in STEM and we are proud to champion and be a part of the initiative.”

“It was fantastic to see the enthusiasm and engagement from the students throughout the programme. By opening our doors and sharing real-world experiences, we hope we have helped inspire some of the future talent that our industry will rely on for years to come.”

Manufacturing and engineering continue to face a significant gender imbalance, with women remaining underrepresented across many technical and leadership roles. Initiatives such as the WiME Raising Aspirations Programme help address this challenge by increasing awareness of career opportunities and encouraging more young women to consider STEM-related pathways.

By supporting programmes such as WiME, Endurance® Doors is helping to invest in future skills and local talent development, strengthening links with local education providers, and contributing towards building a more diverse and inclusive workforce for the future.

www.endurancedoors.co.uk

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Wednesday, 26 August 2026

"We are delighted that our garage doors now meet this standard"

Huddersfield based manufacturer Crocodile Products has joined Secured by Design (SBD), the official police security initiative that works to reduce crime and the fear of crime in communities across the UK.

Founded in 2003, Crocodile Products is a manufacturer of garage doors with more than two decades of experience in the industry. Operating from its headquarters in Huddersfield, the company designs and manufactures its products in house, supplying customers across the UK with garage door solutions that combine durability, performance and security.

Crocodile Products has built a strong reputation for producing robust and reliable products designed to stand the test of time. All garage doors are manufactured using carefully selected materials and components that support long term performance and resilience. Wherever possible, the company sources materials from trusted UK suppliers, supporting local industry while maintaining strict quality control throughout the manufacturing process.

Bevis North, Crocodile Products, said: “Secured by Design accreditation sets a recognised benchmark for security, and we are delighted that our garage doors now meet this standard. It reflects the significant investment we have made in both product development and quality assurance, ensuring our customers receive solutions that are not only visually impressive, but built to perform.

“This accreditation reinforces our commitment to delivering products that provide genuine security and long term peace of mind. It’s an important step forward for the business, and one we’re incredibly proud to share with our customers.”

The company’s Secured by Design accredited product is the Stowaway HS Roller Shutter Range, a garage door solution developed with a strong emphasis on strength, reliability and secure operation. Achieving Secured by Design Police Preferred Specification demonstrates that the product has met the rigorous test standards required by the initiative.

Alongside its focus on manufacturing quality products, Crocodile Products places strong emphasis on customer service. The company provides comprehensive aftercare support following installation, helping to ensure long term performance and giving customers confidence in the security and reliability of their garage doors.

Alfie Hosker, Secured by Design, commented: “I am delighted that Crocodile have taken the step to become SBD members. They have had their Stowaway HS Garage Roller Shutter Range independently tested and certificated via the robust Certisecure security standard, demonstrating its ability to repel the opportunist criminal. I know that they are looking at expanding the range going forward and I look forward to a successful association into the future.”

www.securedbydesign.com

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Saturday, 22 August 2026

Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens appointed Chief Executive Officer of DHF

Door & Hardware Federation (DHF) has announced the appointment of Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens as its new Chief Executive Officer, following the retirement of Bob Perry. Patricia takes up the role after more than ten years with the federation, during which she has played a leading role in its growth and development.

Since joining DHF in 2015 as UK Marketing Manager, she has progressed through a number of senior leadership positions, including Commercial Manager, Head of Commercial Operations, Commercial Director and, most recently, Deputy CEO.

A Chartered Marketer and Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing, Patricia has helped shape many of DHF's most significant achievements over the past decade. She has led the federation's rebrand, expanded its industry-leading training and qualifications, introduced CSCS card schemes and played a key role in developing industry competence frameworks. Her work has strengthened DHF's position as the leading trade association representing the UK's door, gate, shutter and building hardware industries.

As CEO, Patricia will lead the federation's strategic direction, working closely with the Board, Executive Committee, members and industry partners to continue raising standards across the sector through technical guidance, training, advocacy and member support.

"I am absolutely delighted to be taking on the role of CEO at DHF,” says Patricia. “Having been part of the federation for more than a decade, I know first-hand the difference we make to our members and to the industries we represent. It is a real privilege to lead such a knowledgeable and dedicated team.

"Our purpose remains clear; to help businesses succeed while raising standards across the industry. We will continue to champion competence, professionalism and compliance, expanding our training and qualifications to meet the changing needs of the sector. We already deliver training that aligns with BS 8670-1 and the National Occupational Standards, and I look forward to building on that work as we support the development of BS 8670-2 and continue helping both individuals and businesses demonstrate the highest standards of competence.

"The industry is changing rapidly, with increasing expectations around safety, compliance and professional standards. DHF is well placed to support our members through those changes, and I am excited about the opportunities ahead. I look forward to working closely with our Board, our members, our partners and the wider industry as we continue to strengthen the federation and build on the excellent foundations already in place."

Under Patricia's leadership, DHF will continue its commitment to supporting members through trusted technical advice, accredited training, industry guidance and advocacy, while helping drive higher standards of competence, safety and professionalism across the UK's door, gate, shutter and building hardware sectors.

"Whilst we are very sorry that Bob Perry is standing down as the DHF CEO, we are delighted to appoint a very capable successor,” explains Chairman of DHF, Paul Browne. “Patricia has played a central role in the development of DHF over the past few years in terms of the growth of our membership and the range of services and benefits that the DHF offers its members. Given her outstanding track record and knowledge of DHF she is very well placed to lead the growth and development of DHF in the future. We wish Patricia every success in her new role, which she so deserves."

www.dhfonline.org.uk

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Saturday, 15 August 2026

The value of partnership

In the door and hardware sector, the most effective solutions rarely come from a catalogue alone. They come from conversation and a clear understanding of what a customer is wanting to achieve. There also needs to be willingness to work through challenges that are faced by the customer together.

Karen Nelson, business development manager at HOPPE (UK), details the company’s approach to customer collaboration, with insight from Robust’s commercial director Paul Williams.

For HOPPE, success is not simply about supplying hardware. It is about listening to customer needs, applying technical expertise and helping customers reach the right outcome for their market.

Its long-standing relationship with steel door manufacturer Robust UK is a strong example of that approach in action.

Over the past decade, the conventional supplier relationship has developed into something deeper. It is a prime example of a working partnership built on trust, continuity and a detailed understanding of a customer’s business.

Learning through collaboration

That depth of knowledge matters when a new requirement emerges. Robust recently identified a need for a cost-effective PAS 24-compliant panic exit hardware solution for its single and double steel security doors, bridging the gap between a basic low-cost offering and significantly more expensive higher security options.

The collaborative process began with exploratory testing using standard panic hardware from ARRONE, a HOPPE brand, and a typical door from Robust. This provided a benchmark and helped the team better understand the test itself. The early result provided valuable insight and was a crucial stage in development to help shape the solution required.

That first stage gave both businesses a clearer picture of what needed to change. Robust gained a better understanding of what was needed from the door, while HOPPE used the findings to refine and develop a more appropriate hardware solution. It was a process rooted in openness and problem solving.

As Paul Williams, commercial director at Robust, explains: “Both sides needed a clear understanding of the project goals and the flexibility to adapt their part of the solution to achieve them.”

Engineering support that adds value

Dan Savage, product engineer at HOPPE, played a central role in that development journey.

His involvement spanned research, design and testing, giving the project a more streamlined path from concept to refinement. The company invested in additional test equipment so it could build its own testing capability further, carry out more indicative work in-house and go into third-party testing with greater confidence.

From Robust’s perspective, that practical support was important. Paul added: “HOPPE took the lead in arranging early test fitting and indicative testing of the new SECUR-DOR 2.1, helping to prove the approach before Robust committed it to a full-scale test programme.”

All of that speaks to one of the biggest strengths HOPPE brings to customer relationships, which is practical support backed by technical expertise. Huge investment is made in training to help staff achieve the widely respected qualifications from the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI).

A relationship built to last

In the case of Robust, the relationship already had strong foundations. Years of liaison with the same team had created familiarity, responsiveness and mutual confidence.

Paul said: “HOPPE has demonstrated over time that it understands the Robust business, its product requirements and where value can be engineered into a solution without compromising quality.”

The wider benefits of partnership working are clear. There is the pooling of resources, with each side contributing what it knows and what it can do. Shared knowledge and learning help to improve the final outcome.

There is also the longer-term value that comes from the process including the confidence, capability and insight that can be taken into future projects.

“This strengthened partnership sets the scene for future collaboration and a better understanding of how to define the initial specification at the outset of a development project,” adds Paul.

Partnerships like this bolster HOPPE’s position, not just as a supplier, but as a responsive, solution-led partner with the engineering flexibility to tackle new challenges.

The relationship with Robust reflects a mindset that HOPPE wants to bring to customer partnerships more broadly.

It is a mindset built around listening first, staying engaged and being open to new ideas. Not every project follows a straight line. But when both sides are prepared to share expertise, work through obstacles and keep sight of the end goal, the result is often better than either could achieve alone.

Why partnership matters

In a market shaped by regulation, performance demands and commercial pressure, that kind of partnership has real value. The relationship between HOPPE and Robust shows that finding the right solution is not about forcing a standard answer. It is about understanding the challenge, bringing the right knowledge to the table, and working together to achieve the best possible outcome.

www.hoppe.co.uk

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Wednesday, 12 August 2026

Colourful and informative: VdS-FireSafety Cologne 2026

An international trade fair, hands-on fire protection technology, an extensive stage program, plenty of space for networking, and nine separately bookable conferences: At VdS Fire Safety

Cologne on December 2 and 3, 2026, Koelnmesse will once again become the hub of the fire protection industry.

The VdS-FireSafety Cologne is among the largest industry gatherings in Europe for preventive structural and organisational fire protection and fire protection systems. It offers an exciting mix of a large international trade fair, live demonstrations, expert forums, and the VdS-FireSafetyTalk on the exhibition stage, as well as nine VdS expert conferences that can be booked separately. In addition, they provide ample opportunity for networking and the exchange of experiences.

The extensive program attracts a large international audience of industry professionals to Cologne every year. On December 2 and 3, 2026, approximately 5,500 trade visitors are expected to attend to learn about the latest solutions and developments in preventive fire protection.

Guided trade show tours

Guided tours of the trade show allow visitors to get a good overview of interesting innovations. Students from Furtwangen University will once again develop a concept for the tours, including special tours for students. The idea is to get young people excited about fire safety and the wide range of careers it offers. For years, this program has been particularly well-received by vocational school students.

Special areas

A large special exhibition area dedicated to structural fire protection will be part of the trade show for the second time in 2026. Here, exhibitors will present various exhibits and live demonstrations that bring applications in structural fire protection to life. In addition, the Forum Structural Fire Protection by asecos academy will offer a high-quality program with selected neutral specialist presentations that impart practical knowledge on the topic.

The large sprinkler area will once again feature impressive live demonstrations of sprinkler systems in action.

VdS expert conferences

Nine high-profile conferences, taking place in the adjacent halls, can be booked separately. All conference attendees have free access to the adjacent exhibition hall and its diverse program of events.

For the first time, the popular VdS conference “Brandschutz in elektrischen Anlagen" (Fire Protection in Electrical Systems) is part of the VdS FireSafety Cologne.

Another new development is that Euralarm, the European trade association for the fire protection, fire detection, and security industries, is holding its symposium as part of this event.

All expert conferences of the VdS-FireSafety Cologne 2026 at a glance:

· 60th Professional Development Seminar for Fire Protection Officers, 02./03.12.2026

· Fire Extinguishing Systems, 02.12.2026

· Structural Fire Protection, 02.12.2026

· NEW: European Fire Detection Forum 2026. From reaction to prediction – the next paradigm of electronic fire safety (the conference will be held in English), 02.12.2026

· NEW: Fire Protection in Electrical Systems, 02.12.2026

· Impulse conference on hydrant systems, 03.12.2026

· Fire Detection and Alarm Systems, 03.12.2026

· Smoke and Heat Exhaust Ventilation Systems, 03.12.2026

· Construction and Fire Protection in NRW (compact seminar), 03.12.2026

Several of the expert conferences that take place as part of the VdS-FireSafety Cologne can be booked at a reduced combined price.

Detailed information can be found at vds.de/fire-safety

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