SEVENTHINGS ...
7 things we ’ ve learned in 30 years at Freefoam
Freefoam is a specialist manufacturer of PVC-UE roofline and external cladding , PVC-U rainwater systems , and interior decorative paneling . 2020 is a major milestone for Freefoam , as we celebrate 30 years of trading .
1 . Opening a UK manufacturing base was one of best decisions
Freefoam was established in Cork in 1990 with just one extrusion line . Freefoam was set up to provide the growing home improvement market in Ireland with PVC fascia and soffit as a high quality , low maintenance and long lasting alternative to timber roofline . We quickly grew from there and at the turn of the century we made a commitment to the UK market by investing in a modern , integrated manufacturing plant to include extrusion , mixing and distribution . The site in Northampton now has 16 extrusion lines and employs 150 people .
2 . No two markets are the same
From small beginnings Freefoam now has a 300-strong team and the UK is at the core of the business . We also have a significant presence across Europe , with distribution centres supplying customers in France , Germany , Belgium , the Netherlands , Spain and Sweden . Over the past 30 years we ’ ve learned no two markets are the same , but our approach in each country remains unchanged . We ’ ve built the Freefoam brand around quality , product choice and support and we work closely with customers to give them the products they say they need to sell more in their markets . We ’ ve also invested in each of these markets to ensure we have a smooth , reliable supply chain and high-quality products .
3 . Colour is the future
Colour is the fastest growing trend in roofline , reflecting its popularity in windows and doors . Over the whole market it accounts for around 30 % of sales , and we know that many window companies selling premium products are reporting 50 % or more in colour sales . And if a homeowner has invested in a high-end suite of foiled window and doors they want the roofline colour to match .
As the innovator in roofline colour , Freefoam led the way with a wide range of colours in fascias and soffits , and rainwater guttering . Our patented Colormax ® technology helps stockists and installers capitalise on this growth area . It ’ s one of the most technically advanced colour processes for roofline and rainwater , incorporating a unique selection of stabilisers and pigments , specifically chosen for their high colourfastness .
14 » DEC 2020 » CLEARVIEW-UK . COM