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A Tale of Two Pauls …
Innovative lock brand bought by industry stalwart
The SASHSTOP brand was founded in 2017 and paved the way for a series of innovative additional security products . Initially based upon an internally / externally key-operated sash jamming concept , the range grew to offer ‘ no drill ’ upgrade options to doors and windows as well as the creating of an additional brand focusing on heat resistant , cover / repair plates that sit under uPVC door handles , known as TORCHGUARD .
Whilst exhibiting at the yearly Locksmith shows , Paul Batty , the inventor and co-founder of SASHSTOP , met Paul Souber , the man behind the highly-regarded and well-respected Souber Tools . Almost instantly the pair hit it off and could see a strong synergy for working together . Paul Batty brings experience of over 35 years working within the uPVC industry , whilst Paul Souber offers almost magician-like qualities when it comes to manufacturing and product development thanks to his industry experience of over 49 years .
Things got a bit more serious when an approach was made by Souber Tools to purchase the SASHSTOP and TOCHGUARD brands with the plan to bring them ‘ in-house ’ and to become part of the Souber Tools family . Although the acquisition took a while from a legal perspective , it has recently been formalised
and Souber Tools are pleased to announce their ownership of the SASHSTOP and TORCHGUARD brands , inheriting the IP , manufacturing rights , trademarks and the patent which covers the innovative mechanism and operation of the SASHSTOP product .
Speaking about the ‘ merger ’ Paul Batty said “ Working with someone of Paul Souber ’ s calibre has been fantastic . He knows his products , and what he doesn ’ t know about manufacturing processes is not worth knowing . We are really looking forward to what the future holds , and so many ideas yet to explore .”
Since working together , the two Pauls , alongside ‘ Al ’ ( Alex Appelbe ), the other SASHSTOP co-founder , have begun the development of a suite of new products which have translated into the launch of both the Window Mechanism Opening kit and the Door Spreader Kit – both focused around the uPVC locksmith / repair industry . These new products have gone down rather well with distributors and the feedback from the locksmiths has been so positive that the team wish to continue the momentum and have a number of new products in the development pipeline .
Since the merger Paul Batty and Al have developed their SOUTO brand to continue the sale of SASHSTOP and TORCHGUARD products whilst allowing for the further distribution of new and existing Souber Tools products , primarily focused around the uPVC repair , maintain and protect market . More information is available directly at www . souto . co . uk – or via any social media channels .
Photo credits : Adrian Waine ( Photography for Industry )
The latest ( 2024 ) Souber Tools catalogue is bursting with these recently acquired products , which are all in-stock and available to purchase through the Souber Tools distributors , including via SOUTO . Further information is available www . soubertools . com directly too .
24 NOVEMBER 2024 CLEARVIEW-UK . COM