Welcome to the April edition of Fenestration Digital!
As spring breathes new life into the world around us, it’s clear that change and innovation are in full bloom across the fenestration industry too. This month’s issue shines a spotlight on the exciting advancements shaping our sector — from AI-driven automation and cutting-edge fire safety qualifications, to sustainable growth plans and product developments that respond to real-world challenges. Whether it’s manufacturers navigating the balance between human expertise and intelligent systems, or businesses expanding their footprints and future-proofing their operations, one thing is clear: our industry is not standing still. The ingenuity, adaptability and collaboration on display — from game-changing hardware and new sales tools to training programs raising safety standards — highlight just how dynamic fenestration continues to be. In this issue, we’ve packed the pages with inspiring stories of progress: from UAP Ltd’s success at the Fire Safety Event, to Sheerline’s new Bespoke division designed to help customers expand their horizons, and the continued conversations around sustainability, supply chain resilience and smart manufacturing. We hope this edition not only informs but inspires you to keep pushing boundaries, embracing new ideas and investing in the future — because whether it’s through technology, training or teamwork, our industry’s strength lies in its ability to evolve.
Happy reading!
FD Team
Contents
4 AI & Automation: Finding the Right Balance 8 An Update from VBH 12 UAP Ltd Makes Strong Impact at The Fire Safety Event 16 Velocity has Colours Covered 20 Woodgrain Foiling for the Win 24 Garnalex Reveals Plans for the Future as Planning Permission Granted 25 Introducing MB DIY 26 Hard work recognised as Sheerline Area Sales Manager Promoted 28 Sheerline Launches New Bespoke Division to Support Customers 32 Fire Door Maintenance launches industry-first GQA Level 3 Diploma in Inspection of Fire Resistant Doorsets 34 Stuga is Staying Fit
Neil parton
AI & AUTOMATION: FINDING THE RIGHT BALANCE
There’s no doubt that AI and automation are changing the landscape of industry, but with all the hype surrounding these technologies, it’s important to ask the right questions. Rather than simply adopting AI for the sake of it, we need to focus on where it delivers real, measurable benefits—and where human expertise remains irreplaceable. At elumatec, we’ve seen automation transform the fenestration industry over the years. CNC machining revolutionised production, boosting precision and efficiency. AI now presents another leap forward, but it’s not just about machines. This time, it’s about decision-making, process optimisation, and how manufacturers interact with data. The challenge isn’t whether AI has a role to play—it’s ensuring we use it in a way that genuinely enhances productivity, rather than overcomplicating tried-and-tested methods. AI in manufacturing: Cutting through the noise AI has the potential to make manufacturing smarter. Predictive maintenance can reduce costly downtime by identifying issues before they occur. AI-powered quality control can catch defects faster than human inspection, reducing waste. And with IoT integration, AI can monitor and adjust energy usage in real time, cutting costs and improving sustainability.
These are real, practical benefits—but they don’t apply universally. Manufacturers must be selective about where AI is implemented. For example, AI-driven scheduling can optimise production flow based on historical data, but it can’t anticipate last-minute order changes or unexpected supply chain disruptions in the same way a skilled production manager can. AI can assist with customer interactions, but when dealing with high-value projects, people want to speak to an expert, not a chatbot. In short, AI should complement human expertise, not replace it. The most effective businesses will be those that find the right balance between automation and hands-on experience. Where automation adds value in fenestration Rather than treating AI as a one-size-fits-all solution, manufacturers should focus on areas where automation drives genuine efficiency. Some of the most impactful applications include: Smart machinery – CNC technology is already highly automated, but AI-driven enhancements could improve precision and reduce material waste even further. Predictive maintenance – AI can analyse
that require adaptability, problem-solving, and hands-on craftsmanship, the human element remains essential. The Future of AI in Manufacturing There’s no question that AI will continue to shape the way we work. But while some claim that businesses failing to adopt AI will be obsolete within a decade, the reality is more nuanced. As with any emerging technology, the key to success is a strategic, considered approach. AI shouldn’t be implemented just because it’s the latest trend—it should be introduced where it genuinely enhances efficiency, quality, and service. At elumatec, we believe in automation where it adds value. AI has a role to play in manufacturing, but the companies that thrive won’t be the ones that blindly chase technology. Instead, they’ll be the ones that integrate AI thoughtfully— enhancing processes while preserving the skills and expertise that define their success. After all, technology is a tool. The businesses that get ahead will be those that use it wisely.
machine performance in real time, flagging
potential failures before they lead to costly downtime. Energy optimisation – With
energy prices fluctuating, AI-driven monitoring can help manufacturers reduce consumption without compromising performance. Supply chain management – AI-powered inventory tracking can prevent material shortages and improve production flow. These are areas
where AI can deliver real value. But for processes
NEIL PARTON Managing Director Elumatec
neil parton
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AN UPDATE FROM VBH
The VBH Group (VBH Holding GmbH) has recently issued the following statement in the German trade press. VBH Holding Continues on Course for International Success VBH Holding GmbH continued to show positive business development in 2024. This is due to the company’s strategy of focusing on international markets. The door and window hardware supplier has profitable subsidiaries in more than 20 countries. The VBH Group was able to expand its trading volume in almost all markets and strengthen cooperation with customers and suppliers. The Group’s international growth strategy has been very successful and we will therefore continue to drive it forward. This is the declared aim of Lubomir Bohac, who took over the position of CEO of VBH Holding on 1st April 2025, having previously been Regional Head of the Central-Eastern Europe region and Managing Director of the VBH subsidiary in the Czech Republic. While all VBH international subsidiaries have been performing well, often in challenging conditions, the German construction industry market has remained particularly sluggish. In this difficult environment, VBH Holding’s German sales subsidiary, VBH Deutschland GmbH, has been struggling for some time with falling sales and rising costs. Despite intensive efforts, the company has been unable to operate profitably. As a rapid improvement is not in sight, the German subsidiary is now reorganising itself as part of insolvency proceedings under self-administration.
“The self-administration proceedings only affect our activities in Germany. All of our international subsidiaries, including VBH (GB), have been sustainably profitable and growing for years. We are confident that we will also be able to make VBH Deutschland GmbH profitable again by reorganising and concentrating on the profitable business areas,” explains Mr Bohac. VBH offers window and door manufacturers a complete range of products and system solutions for the manufacture and installation of windows and doors. The product range is a mix of those from third party hardware brands, and products from its own greenteQ brand. The VBH Group is present in more than 20 countries with its own subsidiaries. The company employs around 1,600 people worldwide, and generated sales of around €500 million last year. Peter Rowlands, Acting Managing Director at VBH (GB) Ltd adds, “The UK market can rest assured that VBH (GB) Ltd continues to flourish, providing world class customer service and hardware products to door and window manufacturers and installers.”
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Investing For The Future
Hallmark Doors
& Panels ltd
Due to continual growth and the increased demand for Hallmark products, we have invested over a million pounds to further enhance our infrastructure. This investment will help us improve efficiency and continue to deliver exceptional service to our customers.
x20 New Delivery Vehicles Due to continual growth and expanding customer base, we've added x20 new delivery vehicles, increasing our fleet to over 40 vehicles. This expansion helps us meet the higher demand for Hallmark products and continue to offer deliveries up to four times a week.
10,000 sq.ft. Warehouse New 10,000 sq.ft. warehouse, housing over 16,000 door slabs. It also serves as a picking facility, meaning the components required for your composite door orders are readily available on- site. These enhanced stock holdings also help mitigate any potential supply chain issues. This enhanced stock enables Hallmark to provide customers with consistently fast lead times all year round.
5th Double Bed CNC Machine
We have invested in a new CNC machine for composite door production, bringing our total to x5 double bed CNC machines. This addition enables us to continue meeting the growing demand for Hallmark composite doors while maintaining high-quality production standards.
UAP LTD MAKES STRONG IMPACT AT THE FIRE SAFETY EVENT
UAP Ltd showcased its commitment to fire safety excellence at the Fire Safety Event 2025, marking a highly successful exhibition for the company. The event provided a brilliant platform for the UAP team to connect with industry professionals and showcase their innovative fire safety solutions. UAP’s prominent presence extended well beyond their own exhibition space, with their hardware solutions proudly displayed across more than 20 customer stands throughout the show floor. This widespread visibility demonstrated UAP’s significant market penetration and trusted position within the fire safety industry. Visitors to the UAP stand were particularly impressed by the unveiling of the company’s new door closer range, which attracted significant
attention throughout the event. This latest addition to UAP’s comprehensive portfolio seamlessly complemented their established security, fire and innovation solutions, demonstrating the company’s holistic approach to building safety. Attendees were keen to learn about how these integrated systems work together to create complete safety solutions that meet the highest industry standards. The event provided an ideal setting for UAP to demonstrate its ongoing commitment to developing cutting-edge fire safety solutions whilst reinforcing its position as an industry leader dedicated to protecting lives and property through excellence in fire safety technology.
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VELOCITY HAS COLOURS COVERED
VBH, the hardware expert behind the greenteQ range, has further expanded its range of residential door hinges with the addition of five new colour choices. The popular greenteQ Velocity hinge for PVCu doors is now available from UK stock in thirteen painted and plated finishes. Velocity was launched originally in the standard powder coated colours of White, Black and Anthracite Grey, along with PVD Gold, Satin, Smokey, and Polished Chromes and greenteQ’s unique Enduro Steel plated finishes. Followingfeedbackfromcustomersmanufacturing coloured PVCu doors, VBH has now added Cream, Light Oak, Chocolate Brown, Window Grey, and Chartwell Green to Velocity’s colour palette.
and carries doors weighing up to 100KG with ease. It has been successfully tested to PAS24:2022 and is recognised as a Police Preferred Specification by Secured by Design. Its ample 3D adjustment is well received by installers. Gary Gleeson, marketing manager at VBH says “There is a huge market for coloured PVCu residential doors. It’s not all about composites. Fabricators love the features, speed of fitting and security performance of Velocity, and now the five new colour options are available off the shelf, more fabricators of all sizes are making the switch to our flagship door hinge.” To find out more about the greenteQ Velocity hinge range, visit www.vbhgb.com, email sales@vbhgb.com or call 01634 263263.
VBH advise that Velocity is extremely quick to fit
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DRIVE axxent LS: the new concealed lift slide drive. Designed to look good. Made to perform. We have completely redeveloped our liftslide drive to reflect this philosophy. The batteryoperated motor is completely concealed within the sash and moves large elements both quickly and extremely quietly. What‘s special about this is that it doesn‘t just look like a manual solution. There is hardly any dierence in the production process either. No thicker frames, no covers and no special design. All the components in the DRIVE axxent LS are easy to integrate into conventional profile systems and connect with Plug & Play. From manual to motorised in just minutes. This has DRIVE! www.siegenia.com • infouk@siegenia.com
° room comfort
Rio French Door REHAU have expanded their Rio product range to include the Flush Fit French Door. We have taken the design elements of our Rio Flush Fit Window and developed a complementary French Door that allows you to apply its unique clean aesthetic to every element at home.
Windows. Reinvented for modern life. www.rehau.uk/rio enquiries@rehau.com Tel: 01989 762600
WOODGRAIN FOILING FOR THE WIN
A collaboration between installers Kettell Windows and fabricators Garden of Eden has won Sheerline’s Installation of the Month Competition for February. They worked together to transform this beautiful property in Rothley, Leicestershire. Kettell Windows replaced all the original timber frames with Sheerline’s Classic Windows with a stepped flush style. This product was specified over PVCu because of the slim sightlines, which made it a good match for the original windows. It was important to retain the property’s character and style, hence why an aesthetically similar product needed to be installed. That’s why the
homeowners opted for a woodgrain foil finish in cream, to give a textured wood look without the maintenance of timber. One of the challenges of this project stemmed from the fact the property is older, and some internal plasterwork required repair during installation. They also had to make sure the bay angles were accurate, as like most older character properties, the bays weren’t perfectly even. Garden of Eden were one of the first fabricators to offer Sheerline’s woodgrain foil service. It’s appealing because it gives homeowners looking for timber windows the best of both worlds – a
wood look, but with the benefits of aluminium – thermally efficient, hard wearing, low maintenance, and secure. When asked about their win, Lisa Kettell, Co- director at Kettell Windows, said: “We’re super pleased – during our 20th birthday month – to have our teams’ hard work, premium products, and finish be acknowledged.” Tony Basile, Sheerline’s National Sales Director, commented: “It’s fantastic to see two companies we know collaborating and achieving success together. It’s a beautiful installation they’ve completed and highlights the benefits of woodgrain foiling.” “It’s a great option for older, characterful properties and homeowners who are looking to upgrade their existing timber frames,” he added. To enter the Installation of the Month Competition, all installers need to do is email their photos to info@sheerline.com, or alternatively, mention Sheerline on social media when they’re sharing a project.
WE FIT Innovation, Security & Performance
Join us on stand H70 Hall 9, as WE FIT system houses, fabricators and installers with innovative products, services and solutions that provide a competitive advantage and aid in guaranteeing our customers’ success.
We will launch a host of new solutions including:
+ A new range of smart security solutions designed to work in harmony and meet the soon to be published enhanced security standards + A new premium range of sliding fittings and further additions to our innovative aluPilot window fitting system
+ Expansion to the scope of our extensive fire doorset solutions and expert advice on being 2029 ready
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SHOW
GARNALEX REVEALS PLANS FOR THE FUTURE AS PLANNING PERMISSION GRANTED
Garnalex, currently based in Nether Heage, Derbyshire, has secured planning permission for a purpose-built development near junction 27 of the M1. The facility will enable the company to prioritise sustainable growth, increase jobs, and improve transport links. As well as moving all current employees, the project will create new jobs and long-term employment opportunities for the area. Work is due to commence in the spring and will take between 18 months to two years to complete. The development has been split into two phases. The first phase will see a new manufacturing site being built to cater for the existing Sheerline business, enabling the company to continue its everyday operations without disruption to service. Phase two of the development allows for future expansion of the site, helping to keep jobs in the Ashfield district long-term. The fact that this additional
expansion was applied for at the same time as phase one reflects the company’s ambitious yet sustainable growth plans. Aside from ensuring the building is as green and sustainable as possible, it will be built with a façade that blends in with its natural surroundings, and there will be wildlife corridors and tree planting to mitigate the impact of the development. As well as environmental considerations, care is also being taken to support the road network around the site to ensure easy access to the M1 while keeping lorries out of residential areas. A sustainable cycleway/footway will be built alongside the development as part of phase two. After successfully launching two fenestration businesses in Derbyshire, Roger Hartshorn founded Garnalex in 2018 as a solution to the UK’s reliance on imported aluminium. In 2024, it was recognised as the ninth fastest growing company on the
Oresa Growth Index.
Sheerline, Garnalex’s aluminium window and door systems house, was launched in 2020. It has gained industry-wide recognition by challenging what is expected from an aluminium company, achieving awards for both its products and people. All this success has come in a relatively short time despite challenging external circumstances including the Covid pandemic and subsequent cost of living crisis. This not only shows the company has got the formula right, but that there is an appetite for UK aluminium. Roger Hartshorn, Garnalex’s CEO, said: “We’re thrilled to bring this development to Ashfield. Garnalex is ambitious and we have plans to expand further and create hundreds more jobs in the coming years.” To find out more about Sheerline, visit the website www.sheerline. com or contact the team directly on 01332 978 000.
INTRODUCING MB DIY MB DIY are a family owned and operated business based in the North East of England with decades of trading experience. The foundation of their company was originally built around the fenestration industry with the vision to supply high quality brands, including leading brands such as Yale, ERA, Maco, GU, Deeplas to name a few which makes them a “One Stop Shop” in the industry. These products are delivered nationally to professionals in the fenestration industry. Their company deals with all aspects of the fenestration industry, providing hardware for the manufacturing of doors, windows, and glass. Additionally, they supply fitting materials for installers and tradespeople daily through their award-winning trade counter. As MB DIY have grew over the years, so has the desire for them to provide new innovative products under their own brands, such as the EROS 3 Star High Security Door Cylinder, and other products such as 6 Pin Cylinders and Master Suited Cylinders which are be introduced in the near future. MB DIY is also a leading distributor of Decorative Wall Panels, Flooring, Ceiling Cladding and External products such as Composite Decking, Fencing and External Wall Cladding.
If you would like to find out more about MB DIY head over to their website on www.mbdiy.co.uk
HARD WORK RECOGNISED AS SHEERLINE AREA SALES MANAGER PROMOTED
Sheerline is delighted to announce Martin Hepburn has been promoted to Area Sales Director, reflecting the success Martin has achieved and his commitment to the company and its vision. Having joined the company in the summer of 2023 when he moved from a Commercial Sales Manager role at another aluminium systems company, Martin has become an integral part of the Sheerline team. In line with Sheerline’s customer-centric approach, Martin provides ongoing sales support, alongside information on the latest product innovations, how best to integrate them into a customer’s business, and advice on new showrooms including the layout and the best products to display. No two days are the same in what is a varied role. Most recently, Martin attended the GGP Installer Awards on behalf of Sheerline, where he collected the Best Technical Innovation award for the Prestige Reverse Butt Joint.
Martin commented: “This promotion is fantastic! It means a lot to me because I’m proud of what we’re all doing and what we’re achieving. I’ll keep banging the Sheerline drum because it’s important aluminium fabricators know there is another way – you can have innovative, truly compliant products and receive a first-class service – it really does exist at Sheerline.” Sheerline’s National Sales Director, Tony Basile, said: “Martin is a fantastic team member – he’s enthusiastic, hardworking, and shares Sheerline’s ethos and values. Not only has he got stuck in with existing customers, but he’s worked hard to secure new business, which is contributing to our ambitious growth targets.” “Congratulations, Martin! It’s a well-deserved promotion,” he added. Anyone based in the South West region interested in becoming a fabricator can talk to Martin direct by emailing martin.hepburn@garnalex.com
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SHEERLINE LAUNCHES NEW BESPOKE DIVISION TO SUPPORT CUSTOMERS
Launching at the FIT Show, Sheerline Bespoke is a new ‘specialist product focused’ division designed to support Sheerline customers with easy access to installation ready kits for S1 Roof Lanterns and S2 Glazed Roofs, alongside offering arched frames, SheerVents® and other roof related products. Building on the positive feedback about its existing in-house profile bending service, Sheerline Bespoke will cater for low volume requirements that can jeopardise quoting for the full project in the same system as they fall outside a fabricator’s typical day-to-day focus. Maximising their production efficiency while ensuring they can capture more sales opportunities in a controlled and timely manner. Sheerline Bespoke will bring the award-winning S1 Roof Lantern, the S2 Glazed Roof, and SheerVent®, under one roof as ready to install kits, alongside offering tiled roofs and flat roof lights to complete the offering. Strengthening Sheerline’s reputation for being an agile and reliable aluminium systems house. Headed up by two well respected and well-known names within the roof industry. Chris Baron, Operations Director, and Chris Cooke, Commercial Director, will ensure the market has the best possible access to Sheerline’s increasingly popular range of roofing and specialised products. Chris Baron, Operations Director, said: “Having previously worked closely with the Sheerline team, it’s clear our vision for innovative, high-quality products is
aligned. And with all the changes the industry has witnessed over the past few weeks and months, it’s an exciting time to be joining the team. I look forward to working with old and new customers to help them bring their designs to life.” Chris Cooke, Commercial Director, commented: “Sheerline Bespoke recognises that customers are frequently being asked to supply complex or niche products that take them away from their everyday work and supply chains. We’re here to help them streamline these requests, so they can accept complex jobs without making changes to how they operate or investing in specialist machinery and software that they’ll use infrequently.” The Chris’s also look forward to previewing the latest Sheerline product at the FIT Show. Giving Sheerline customers access to yet another ‘best- in-class’ product innovation! TofindoutmoreaboutSheerlineBespoke,customers – new and existing – are invited to visit the team at stand J57 during FIT Show 2025. Alternatively, they can be reached on 01332 978 070 or by emailing sales@sheerlinebespoke.com.
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FIRE DOOR MAINTENANCE LAUNCHES INDUSTRY-FIRST GQA LEVEL 3 DIPLOMA IN INSPECTION OF FIRE RESISTANT DOORSETS
FDM celebrated the launch of the diploma at its Bury headquarters, where guests toured its practical training centre and learned about the courses and qualifications it offers. Through its training centre, FDM has taught more than 700 industry professionals in its first 13 months of operation, offering hands-on, GQA-accredited education that bridges industry gaps in fire safety knowledge. Nicola John, Managing Director of Fire Door Maintenance, said: “By collaborating with the construction industry to create our new diploma, we’re providing holistic training and assessments that include all the topics fire door inspectors need to know — including legislation, which other courses and qualifications don’t cover. It’s very robust for two reasons: it needs to satisfy the 2022 Building Safety Act, and we need to raise industry safety standards. We’re extremely proud to be spearheading this widespread change.” Martin Sadler, External Quality Advisor and Technical Officer at GQA Qualifications, commented:“The Level 3 Diploma in Inspection of Fire Resistant Doorsets is a new approach to how qualifications are delivered and assessed in the market, and it’s just what the industry needs. We’re filling in the skills gap and creating a new generation of fire door inspectors who are qualified and demonstrably competent, which in turn makes buildings safer for everyone.” Debra Green, Business Owner of National Skills Centre, noted: “This is the comprehensive qualification the construction industry was missing. With this diploma, we’re changing the culture around how we demonstrate competence for inspectors, which will create a safer, more knowledgeable construction workforce.” Register for the Level 3 Diploma in Inspection of Fire Resistant Doorsets and FDM’s other accredited qualifications and courses here.
Fire and Development (FDM by UAP Ltd) has launched its GQA Level 3 Diploma in Inspection of Fire Resistant Doorsets, which certifies individuals as having the necessary levels of skills and knowledge to carry out non-invasive inspections. Door Maintenance Training The 65-credit diploma has been developed with awarding body GQA Qualifications and construction training provider National Skills Centre. It comprises 12 units and 313 guided learning hours — 8 additional units and 305 more guided learning hours than its closest competitor. The diploma focuses on the required practical skills and knowledge for fire-resistant door inspection, as well as legislative compliance. Assessment content includes identifying types of fire-resistant doors and components, the roles and responsibilities of a fire-resistant door inspector, and the importance of Continuing Professional Development for fire door inspectors. Candidates acquire relevant skills and gain experience, inspecting six different fire-resistant door types in FDM’s practical training centre — the first of its kind in the UK. They are then assessed on site, or via practical and video evidence, to demonstrate practical implementation of this training and ongoing competence in a workplace environment.
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STUGA IS STAYING FIT
to continually development. By integrating servo- driven functionality and incorporating a super- heated welding plate, we achieve faster cycle times, enhanced control and stronger welds. The power of connection Why is Stuga returning to the FIT Show? It’s not just about showcasing our products. It’s about connecting with customers, sharing insight, understanding the challenges they face in the current market, and offering assurance. FIT Show provides the perfect environment for these conversations. It’s an opportunity to meet with manufacturers, learn about their pain points, and offer practical solutions. It’s also about sharing ideas and ensuring that we’re all moving forward together as an industry. For Stuga, FIT Show is much more than an exhibition. It’s where we solidify the relationships we’ve worked hard to build over the years, and forge new ones. We’re proud to be part of a community that’s continuously evolving, and we’re
With a focus on cutting-edge technology, Industry 4.0, and exceptional aftercare, Stuga Machinery’s Managing Director Ed Williams explains why FIT Show 2025 comes at a fundamental time for fenestration As we get closer to FIT Show 2025, the Stuga Machinery team is excited to return to the event that’s always been a cornerstone for connecting our industry. But this time, our participation holds even more significance. The fenestration sector is evolving rapidly, and FIT Show offers us a unique platform to demonstrate how our innovations align with the changing landscape – not just in window machinery, but in the broader shift towards smart
technology and Industry 4.0. Industry 4.0 in action
At its core, Industry 4.0 is about making factories more connected, with machines and systems working together to increase productivity, reduce downtime, and improve quality. These have all been fundamentals of the Stuga Machinery business model for 40 years, so it’s fair to say it’s a concept we are running with. Industry 4.0 has already started to reshape our industry, and it’s crucial for manufacturers to embrace the changes it brings. The incorporation of advanced robotics, machine learning, and real- time data analytics is revolutionising how we work, and it’s these technologies that we’re championing with our machines. Industry leading innovation The Stürtz HSM 6-KV Turbo Corner/Transom Welder, is the latest example of Stürtz commitment
committed to supporting that evolution. Whether it’s discussing productivity improvements, explaining what smart manufacturing really means, or mapping out how our aftercare services save customers time and money, FIT Show gives us the chance to demonstrate how Stuga is a partner that manufacturers can rely on for the long term. More than machines We’re excited to show the industry how our machines, and our expertise, are contributing to a more efficient, productive future for fenestration. The Stürtz HSM 6-KV Turbo Welder, with up to a 20% productivity boost, is just one example of how we’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Another is the onus Stuga puts on after-sales support – a key differentiator of our business. The purchase of a machine is only the beginning of the relationship. Ensuring it operates efficiently for years to come is what matters most. That’s why we’ve recently expanded our after-sales team, welcoming Nigel Hampson as our new Head of After Sales. Nigel brings with him a wealth of experience, having worked in machinery across the military and food industries, and his focus has been on further strengthening our customer
support services, with initiatives like competency- based assessments and expanding our already 14-strong team of UK-wide field service engineers. Find us at FIT I believe the future of fenestration is about connection and collaboration. As technology evolves, so too should the way we work together. Industry 4.0 offers us all the tools to optimise production, reduce waste, and meet the demands of a competitive market. But none of this can happen in isolation. We need to be talking to each other, learning from each other, and pushing the boundaries together. Could there be a better time for FIT Show? You’ll find Stuga Machinery at U60 – and we’re an essential stop, come and see the Stürtz HSM 6-KV Turbo Corner/Transom Welder in action. The team and I are looking forward to seeing how we can support you in achieving your goals, whether that’s increasing productivity, improving quality, or embracing the changes that Industry 4.0 is bringing to the manufacturing world. For more information on Stuga Machinery, call 01493 742 348 or visit Stuga.co.uk
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