Monday, 21 July 2025

Safe and Efficient Spring Tensioning with Surewinder and Brutewinder


Garage door spring tensioning is one of the most critical and potentially hazardous tasks for installers and service professionals. At SOMMER DOCO UK, part of the SOMMER Group, we understand the importance of safety, efficiency and precision in this essential process. That’s why we’re proud to be the official European distributor of the Surewinder and Brutewinder spring winding tools, trusted by professionals worldwide for their durability, ease of use and safety benefits.

Minimising the Risk of Spring Tensioning
 
Torsion springs are under immense pressure and require exacting force to install or adjust correctly. Traditional winding methods often involve manual tensioning bars and considerable physical effort, increasing the chance of misjudgment or injury.
With installers’ safety being a top priority, more professionals are turning to drill-operated winding tools that do the job more safely and with greater control.


Trusted Tools for Modern Installers

Available through SOMMER DOCO UK, the Surewinder and Brutewinder systems represent a significant advancement in spring tensioning technology.
 
Surewinder is our standard tool designed to replace traditional winding bars. It allows technicians to wind torsion springs using a standard cordless drill, delivering smooth, controlled tensioning with reduced manual effort.
 
Brutewinder, its robust counterpart, is a heavy-duty solution ideal for larger spring setups or commercial doors. Built for power and endurance, it offers similar ease of use while tackling even the most demanding spring systems.

Both tools are designed to work with industry-standard torsion springs and are compatible with a wide range of garage door systems, including those supplied by DOCO.


Key Benefits:
  • Enhanced Safety: Minimise the physical risks associated with manual winding, especially when working at height or under pressure.
  • User-Friendly: Designed for use with standard drills, the tools are quick to set up and simple to operate, even for new technicians.
  • Durable Construction: Engineered with professional use in mind, both tools are built to withstand the rigors of daily on-site work.
Both tools are available directly from SOMMER DOCO UK. Trade enquiries are welcome, with training and instructions provided. For more information, visit www.doco-international.com or email us at sales@doco-international.com

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Sunday, 20 July 2025

Four Ferrari debuts and 75 Years of Formula 1 at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025


Ferrari delivered its most extensive presence to date at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, unveiling four model debuts and supporting the Festival’s celebration of ‘75 Years of Formula 1’ with a striking heritage line-up.


At the all-new Ferrari display, the spotlight was on the public debut of the Ferrari Amalfi. The new 2+ coupé redefines the Grand Tourer formula with a front-mid-mounted twin-turbo V8 delivering 640 cv, everyday usability, and sculptural styling. Inside, the Amalfi introduces Ferrari’s latest HMI system and a return to tactile, analog-inspired controls on the steering wheel – including the return of the iconic ‘Engine Start/Stop’ button.


Debuting in the UK alongside the Amalfi was the Ferrari 296 Speciale. A lightweight, special-series evolution of the 296 GTB, it pairs a 120° twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor to produce 880 cv. Sharpened aerodynamics, reduced weight, and track-focused dynamics make it the most extreme interpretation of Ferrari’s hybrid berlinetta to date.

The Ferrari F80, Maranello’s latest limited-series supercar, stunned specators with its first worldwide dynamic debut following its global reveal at the Finali Mondiali in October 2024. Producing 1200 cv from a hybrid V6 powertrain derived from the 499P Le Mans Hypercar, the F80 introduces electric turbochargers, e-4WD, and generates 1050 kg of downforce at 250 km/h.


 The final debut was the Ferrari 12Cilindri, which also made its UK dynamic debut. Powered by a naturally aspirated 830 cv V12, the front-engined two-seater Ferrari combines a blend of elegance, versatility, and performance - representing the latest evolution of this lineage, passing on an unique heritage and elevating it to new standards of performance, comfort, and design.

Complementing the four model debuts, Ferrari’s expanded presence included a F50 and a bespoke Purosangue from Ferrari Tailor Made, bridging heritage and personalisation in one of the brand’s most significant static displays to date. Guests also marvelled at the latest Ferrari 296 Challenge race car: which made its UK season debut earlier this year in the Ferrari Challenge UK Trofeo Pirelli race series.


To support the Festival’s 75 Years of Formula 1, Scuderia Ferrari brought two modern F1 cars for dynamic demonstrations: the SF90 from 2019 and the SF21 from 2021, showcasing the latest Ferrari technological advancements on the Goodwood Hill. The celebrations were also supported by a collection of passionate Ferraristi, who contributed a remarkable selection of historic F1 cars, including the 312T, 640, and F2007.

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Saturday, 19 July 2025

Business owner ‘who started in a skip’ meets the King

A young business owner who set up his business by selling a set of second hand doors he found in a skip met the King to receive an award for sustainability.

Joseph Holman, founder of Green Doors, went to Windsor Castle this month for a royal reception hosted by his majesty Charles III, as his company has won a King’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development.

Green Doors, based in Luton, upcycles second hand doors and windows and sells them online. Since it was founded in 2014 the business has grown to 12 staff and produces revenues of close to £2m. Last year, its team of ‘door doctors’ saved over 3,000 doors from landfill which represents a major environmental issue.

“Everyone knows the King is very passionate about the environment and so it was great to tell him about the work we’ve been doing.

“We spoke for several minutes. He seemed very relaxed and comfortable talking with everyone.

“The whole experience was quite surreal and being in Windsor Castle feels like a totally different world from our warehouse in Luton.”

Holman says he believes his award will help him to raise awareness about the environmental issues regarding landfill and UPVC doors and windows.

“Putting UPVC doors into landfill is a dreadful thing as they release horrible toxins into the atmosphere as they degrade. We want to make sure every door and window gets a second life and we feel having this King’s Award will help us to do that."

Holman met many other entrepreneurs during the day. The King’s Award is given to businesses that have shown remarkable success in either exporting, social impact, innovation or, as in Green Door’s case, sustainable development.

“Entering the award was a difficult process. You have to put your business under the microscope and prove all you’ve done. But now we’ve gained the award and I’ve met the King, it feels great and it’s given myself and the team a tremendous boost.”

Green Doors will formally be presented with its King’s Award later this year by his majesty’s Lord Lieutenant for Bedfordshire at an event to be held at its Luton-based warehouse.

www.greendoors.co.uk

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 12 employees. Last year the business saved over 3000 items destined for landfill and currently has over 1600 doors for sale in its 50,000 square foot warehouse. Holman is on a mission to provide every door with a second life and to stop UPVC going to landfill. 

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Friday, 18 July 2025

How the Right Garage Door Opener Can Save Your Engineers Hours: Ellard’s E-GDO-1000


For businesses installing up-and-over or sectional garage doors, choosing the right opener isn’t just about features; it’s about keeping jobs on schedule, reducing callbacks, and protecting your hard-earned reputation. Every time an engineer spends extra time on-site due to a difficult setup or an underperforming Garage Door Opener, it adds cost and strain to your operation.

Underpowered motors stall with heavier doors. Wi-Fi add-ons can complicate what should be a straightforward job. And when faults arise, unclear documentation or slow support means more time lost, and your business bears the cost.

These inefficiencies add up week after week: fewer completed installs, more customer issues, and tighter margins.


The solution? A motor aimed at speed and ease of installation, performs reliably, and integrates smart functionality without adding complexity.

Ellard’s E-GDO-1000 garage door opener is designed to eliminate these friction points and deliver measurable gains in productivity, installation speed, and customer satisfaction.

Here’s what our customers get with the E-GDO-1000

1000Nm Torque Motor
More powerful than its predecessor, this motor handles heavier sectional and up-and-over doors with ease. That means fewer faults, fewer mid-install issues and fewer return visits.

Integrated Wi-Fi Connectivity
No extra hubs required. Setup is handled directly through a smart device or the new 2-button hand transmitter. Streamlining the process for both your engineers and your customers.

1400-Lumen Courtesy Light
High-intensity lighting improves safety and visibility, especially in dark garages or winter conditions. It also adds a clean, professional finish.

Streamlined Setup
Designed for fast, intuitive installation. Engineers can complete more jobs per day, even with smaller teams.


The E-GDO-1000 is more than just an upgrade; it’s a practical solution built around the realities of today’s garage door professionals:

  • Reduces installation time, allowing your team to take on more jobs with fewer labour hours.
  • Minimises callbacks and product issues, protecting your reputation and reducing unbillable site visits.
  • Delivers reliable performance with strong torque and stable smart controls, even in demanding environments.
  • Backed by real technical support, with trained staff available to help you or your engineers quickly and effectively
Every detail of the E-GDO-1000 is built for reliability, speed, and ease of use. It's a product that supports your engineers on-site, reduces business interruptions, and helps maintain high standards across every install.

To learn more about stock availability, support documentation, or for more information, get in touch at sales@ellard.co.uk. We’re ready when you are.

www.ellard.co.uk

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Thursday, 17 July 2025

Reduce downtime with zip technology from Hörmann


A new flexible, high-speed door has been launched by Hörmann UK which helps reduce downtime caused by damage and is quick to install. The V 5025 Z door is fitted with innovative zip technology and in the event of a collision the door curtain pulls away from the side rail to prevent damage. It is then automatically re-fed into the rail restoring the door curtain to its original position and operation.


The robust construction of the V 5025 Z door make them suitable for both internal and external installation. Manufactured from high quality PVC they are certified to DIN EN 12424-1, with Class 3 wind load resistance, Class 1 air permeability and Class 2 resistance to water penetration. With an opening speed of 2 m/second V 5025 Z doors help to optimise traffic flow and save energy. Their large, clear vision panels also enhance operator safety and help increase light in the working environment. Additional protection is provided by the safety light curtain which is included as standard.


Installation of the V 5025 Z is quick and straight forward with compact fitting dimensions and extensive pre-assembly, with Hörmann's unique SNAP cable concept making it easy to connect. Transport is easy and cost effective as the V 5025 high-speed door is delivered with the drive unit, control, and accessories in a single box. The Hörmann BK FU Z control is included as standard.

Doors can be supplied up to a maximum size of 5000mm x 5000mm, and offer an attractive price-performance ratio, impressive service life and have been designed to be low maintenance.

The V 5025 Z flexible door can be used in a combination with Hörmann sectional doors, roller shutters and spiral doors, and are suitable for either new build or retrofit installation. They are also available CO2 neutral as an option.

For further information on Hörmann flexible high speed doors visit www.hormann.co.uk/industry-commerce-and-public-authorities/industrial-doors/high-speed-doors/ or call 01530 516868

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Wednesday, 16 July 2025

Lorient Expands Drop Seal Range with Exclusive UK Planet Partnership



Lorient, a leading manufacturer of high-performance sealing systems for doors, is proud to announce its exclusive UK distribution of the Planet range of drop seals. This strategic partnership reinforces Lorient’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge, high-quality sealing solutions to the architectural and construction industries.

Planet, a trusted brand within ASSA ABLOY, has been at the forefront of drop seal innovation for over 70 years. Recognised globally for its exceptional quality, sustainable manufacturing practices, and continuous product development, Planet sets the industry benchmark in drop seal technology.

Automatic drop seals are fitted to the bottom of doors typically concealed within a grooved rebate, though face-fixed options are also available. The seal drops automatically on closing to form a secure seal with the floor, and lifts on opening to allow smooth door operation. Depending on the product, drop seals can offer fire, smoke, acoustic, weather, and thermal protection.

The Planet range offers precision-engineered solutions for a wide variety of door types, including timber, metal, glass, exterior, pivot, folding, and sliding doors - delivering reliable, high-performance sealing for virtually any application.

As the exclusive UK distributor, Lorient will provide nationwide access to the Planet product portfolio of drop seals, backed by its expert customer support and technical service team.

Kerry Hicks, Sealing Systems Director at Lorient, said: “We’re thrilled to be the exclusive UK distributor for Planet drop seals. This partnership perfectly complements our mission to deliver market-leading sealing solutions. Customers can now access Planet’s trusted technology with the confidence of Lorient’s technical expertise and service excellence.”

To learn more about Planet products or to place an order, visit www.lorientuk.com or contact the Lorient sales team.

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Tuesday, 15 July 2025

Built to Perform: Discover the Tools Behind Smarter Automation from Marantec UK


At Marantec UK, we don’t just supply automation - we deliver engineered excellence. From industrial roller shutters to residential garage doors, our solutions are designed for those who demand more: more reliability, more innovation, and more control. Backed by German engineering and direct UK support, we’re your go-to partner for smarter, stronger automation.

Eurodrive Tube Motors & Barrel Assemblies – Built for Demanding Jobs

Tough jobs need tougher motors. Our Eurodrive tube motors are the powerhouse behind countless roller shutter systems across the UK. Designed for strength, durability, and smooth operation, they’re trusted in the toughest environments. Paired with our custom-built barrel assemblies, you get a fully integrated, ready-to-install system - precision-engineered, fully tested, and built to your spec. No compromises. Just performance.


 Comfort Series Garage Door Operators – Quiet Power, Smart Control

Sleek, silent, and smart - the Comfort Series is the ultimate garage door solution. Engineered for silent operation and long-term reliability, these operators are packed with features - from integrated LED lighting to smartphone control via the maveo connect stick, it’s automation made effortless. Residential or commercial, this is next-level convenience.
 

Built to Perform: Discover the Tools Behind Smarter Automation from Marantec UK

Need bespoke metal components? Our new in-house laser cutting service delivers high-precision components with a rapid turnaround. Whether it’s a one-off component or a batch of custom fittings, our in-house laser cutting services are designed to support your unique projects needs with speed, precision, and quality you can count on.

Contact us to find your perfect solution:
www.marantec.co.uk
sales@marantec.co.uk
+44 (0)1928 579 050

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Monday, 14 July 2025

Choosing the right material for your garage door


Garador brings over 70 years’ experience to the manufacture of premium garage doors. While size, design, colour and opening mechanism are all important, selecting the right material is key to long-term performance and kerb appeal. Below, we outline the basic advantages of the four main materials on today’s market: steel, aluminium, GRP and natural wood.


Steel
  • Popularity & strength: Steel is by far the most common choice—our galvanised-steel up-and-over doors are trusted nationwide.
  • Durability: Highly resistant to impacts, dents, warping and harsh weather.
  • Low maintenance: A simple wipe-down keeps steel doors looking like new.
  • Design flexibility: Steel takes paint, powder-coat and embossing finishes beautifully, so you can choose from a vast range of styles and colours at an affordable price.
Aluminium
  • Corrosion resistance: Naturally impervious to rust, making it ideal for coastal or exposed locations.
  • GaraRoll roller door: Available in solid colours or timber-effect foil, this smooth-rolling roller door combines modern performance with authentic wood looks—without wood’s upkeep.

GRP (Glass-Reinforced Plastic)
  • Lightweight & tough: Modern GRP doors deliver high impact and dent resistance at a fraction of the weight of steel.
  • Virtually maintenance-free: No painting or staining required.
  • Premium finishes: Choose from realistic woodgrain mouldings or super-smooth panel styles—like our Kenmore range with elegant curved tops and classic box-indents.
Natural Wood
  • Authentic beauty: Solid red cedar doors showcase the unique grain and warmth only real timber can provide.
  • Warp-resistant: Sourced from cooler climates, our cedar develops self-protective qualities to stay straight and flat, even in damp conditions.
  • Customisable: Available in a variety of designs, stains and protective finishes to suit traditional or contemporary homes.
For tailored advice on which material best suits your home, visit www.garador.co.uk or call 01935 443701

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Sunday, 13 July 2025

A legend returns to Le Mans: Škoda Sport back on the famous circuit after 75 years


Seventy-five years ago, Škoda lined up for the first time at the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans with the Škoda Sport racing special. This unique car, meticulously restored to its original condition, has since made several return appearances on the renowned circuit as part of the prestigious Le Mans Classic for historic sports cars. This year, as Škoda celebrates its 130th anniversary, the car was again among the highlights of the event, also due to its performance on the track.

It is 24 June 1950. The second hand of the starting clock ticks past 16:00. Škoda’s racing driver Václav Bobek sprints across the start line, quickly slides behind the wheel of the Škoda Sport, car number 44, and sets off on his first 13.65 km lap at Le Mans. 

“Every time we climb into this original cockpit on this iconic circuit, we picture the Bobek–Netušil crew taking the start in 1950. It’s a truly special moment for Škoda and for us personally,” say Stanislav Kafka and Michal Velebný, the pair responsible for bringing this unique car back to Le Mans in recent years.


Le Mans 1950: the first and only appearance

Škoda’s entry in the 1950 Le Mans endurance race was a rare sight in its day. Europe had already been divided by the Iron Curtain, making the car from Mladá Boleslav a curiosity on the starting grid of the world’s toughest endurance race. 

The two-seater special, with its hand-built aluminium bodywork, was based on modified components from the 1946 Škoda 1101 ‘Tudor’ production model and made use of many standard parts. By dawn, the Škoda Sport held second place in its class for cars up to 1,100 cm³ and fifth overall on the performance index. 

After 13 hours – having averaged 126 km/h – a broken piston pin circlip dashed any hope of a surprise result. As the race regulations prevented this small, technical fault, from being repaired on site, lap 121 proved to be Škoda’s last at Le Mans.


Targeted technical adjustments for optimal performance on the track


The Škoda Sport features two additional headlights for better illumination during the night and special openings in the radiator grille optimized for the cooling of the drum brakes on the front wheels. An extended wheelbase of 2,150 mm ensures improved driving stability. 

The vehicle weighed in at 700 kg Including tools and spare parts. The water-cooled four cylinder engine with a displacement of 1,089 cm3 delivered an output of 50 hp (37 kW) at 5,200 rpm for a top speed of 140 km/h. 

The electrics were delivered by the Czech manufacturer PAL 12 V. The special fuel mix consisted of petrol, ethanol and acetone. The consumption of 12 litres per 100 km was low for its time compared to the competitors. Therefore, the Škoda crew had to refuel less often.


Back where history was made


Thanks to its start at Le Mans and its strong performance on the prestigious track 75 years ago, the original Škoda Sport as well as its drivers Václav Bobek and Jaroslav Netušil have a permanent place among racing legends. The vehicle now regularly competes in the prestigious Le Mans Classic. 

The 1950 Le Mans special – one of only two ever built – was long thought lost but was eventually rediscovered and brought back to life through a careful restoration that preserved as many original components as possible. The car’s aluminium body still bears the scars of battles fought on the race track more than seven decades ago. 

After a six-year restoration, the car made its return to the circuit in 2022. Last weekend, from 3rd to 6th July 2025, it once again lined up on the starting grid, commemorating both the endurance racing tradition and this year’s 130th anniversary of the Škoda brand. The Mladá Boleslav racing special finished in 36th place on the performance index.

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Saturday, 12 July 2025

Breaking the mould to shape the future of architectural ironmongery


Despite progress made in recent years, women still make up around only 15% of the UK construction workforce and just 1% work in manual trades. In specialist areas like architectural ironmongery and door hardware, female representation has traditionally been even lower. But at HOPPE (UK) that is not the case...

Across departments and disciplines, there are several women who are excelling in technical, sales and logistics roles while helping to redefine what a career in this traditionally male-dominated industry can look like.

Opening doors to a bright future

With a degree in industrial and product design and a suite of qualifications from the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI), Jessica Puri is a technical executive for ARRONE, a HOPPE Group brand.

Since joining the group as a technical assistant during the pandemic, Jessica has established herself as one of the most skilled users of its ERP systems, making her an extremely valuable member of the team.

Jessica’s path into architectural ironmongery was far from accidental – her background gave her strong CAD skills and a systematic approach to solving problems.

“GAI training has played a very important part in the development of my career,” Jessica explains. “Being a registered member ensures I’m always up to date with the latest standards and best practices, which benefits our customers and the business alike.”

Today, she advocates for companies to provide greater training and development opportunities across roles, genders and ages – much like HOPPE does – to create a more inclusive talent pipeline.

“A structured succession programme could help bring more women into key positions and build confidence early,” she says.


From apprentice to advisor

Sales executive Aimee Parry began her journey as an apprentice, aged 17. Fast forward a few years and she now manages her own sales area, balancing customer visits with her Level 3 GAI Diploma.

Previous experience working as a receptionist and in retail gave Aimee an early foundation in building relationships.

She’s now transferring those skills to nurture existing customer relationships, while supporting promotional projects to generate new opportunities and deepening her technical knowledge.

For Aimee, the way to create a more diverse and dynamic workforce within the industry is clear.

“We need to provide training – especially on how hardware works in real-life scenarios – for young people early on,” Aimee says. “That kind of hands-on experience really makes a difference.”


Exporting excellence


As a stock controller, Emily Hayward ensures HOPPE’s global operations run like clockwork.

She oversees all exports from HOPPE (UK) to mainland Europe and the Middle East, and her detailed understanding of customs paperwork and freight processes keeps exports on schedule and on spec.

It’s something Emily really enjoys and – armed with a BSc in global development with geography and GAI qualifications – she has brought a fresh perspective to the export function.

“GAI training has given me the confidence to answer customer queries directly and find solutions quickly,” Emily says. “It means I’m not just moving boxes but am adding genuine value.”

For Emily, encouraging more women into logistics and operations starts with demystifying the job: “It’s about showing that detail-oriented, fast-paced work is a great fit for a diverse range of people – and that support and training are available.”

Building an inclusive future

Together, Jessica, Aimee and Emily reflect the transformation taking place at HOPPE (UK): a culture in which women thrive in technical, commercial and operational roles.

Their stories prove that talent, determination and the right training can open doors for the next generation of talent in architectural ironmongery.

www.hoppe.co.uk


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