Pro Installer January 2024 - Issue 130 | Page 30

Annual Predictions
30 | JANUARY 2024

Annual Predictions

THE THREE MAIN AREAS OF FOCUS FOR OUR SECTOR IN 2024

Ged Ryan , CEO , HOPPE ( UK )
“ Consumer demand for smart home technology will continue to drive product innovation . In recent years , the number of UK households using smart devices for safety , security and convenience has grown sharply . This will only increase as people seek to automate everyday tasks and manage their home , so our sector will need to innovate to keep up with this .
“ Adding further impetus to product development is the need for higher levels of performance to meet the requirements of the Future Homes Standard and wider Net Zero targets . The much-needed replacement of underperforming doors and windows in existing housing stock can help to improve energy efficiency on the path to Net Zero . Technology and energy efficiency are both areas where the right hardware for the operation of
enhanced window and door systems will play a pivotal role .
“ Maintaining high levels of stock and service will also be a
priority for many . Market conditions are expected to be challenging throughout 2024 as the fenestration industry reacts to reduced
demand in response to tightening public and private finances . The supply chain can play its part by ensuring the right products are
available and helping customers to operate efficiently while remaining agile enough to flex up to take advantage of opportunities .
“ We hold significant stock at the HOPPE ( UK ) distribution centre in Wolverhampton and as all of our HOPPE products are manufactured in Europe , we can react quickly to customer requests .
“ Finally , I think we will continue to see customers wanting versatile finishes that add to the aesthetics of projects . The right combination of frames , doors , and suited hardware can elevate the finished installation . We are constantly researching new finishes for our aluminium , stainless steel , brass and nylon hardware to help customers keep up with the latest design trends . It will be interesting to see whether matte black and anthracite are as popular going forward or whether a new finish will emerge as the ‘ colour of 2024 ’?”
www . hoppe . com

2024 : ADDING VALUE FOR INSTALLERS

Rob Brearley , Group Managing Director , The Glazerite UK Group
The last 12 months have been challenging for fenestration , with the loss of some of the industry ’ s big names . The economy seems set to remain subdued for some time , which makes it more important than ever for installers to offer a distinctive portfolio ahead of competitors .
What does this look like in reality ? A range of products has to be at the core – those the homeowner is looking for and additions the homeowner didn ’ t even know they needed like colour , style , and smart technology .
By partnering with Glazerite , installers have access to a comprehensive portfolio that includes VEKA , Halo , the Residence Collection , Deceuninck , and DoorCo . This gives both domestic and commercial installers high-quality options at a range of price points with access to differentiators like heritage , premium security options , and smart tech from the likes of Kubu and Ultion .
During 2023 , Glazerite poured nearly £ 1 million into machinery and our delivery fleet to improve performance . This year , we have committed to further investment into cutting , welding , and cleaning machinery to ensure our products are manufactured to the highest quality .
A recent focus , and one we are continuing with into 2024 , is improved internal communication amongst our people to benefit our customers . We have integrated and deployed innovative delivery channels to ensure our teams fully understand our strategy and are involved in how we work day-to-day and how we plan for the future . Our teams actively contribute ideas that have already led to improvements in efficiencies and production .
As a national fabricator , the launch of our new Barnsley-based manufacturing site enables us to increase our Deceuninck offering without impacting the service and quality of our existing product range . We have a lot to look forward to in 2024 as we power ahead with our commitment to give Glazerite installer partners all they need for a successful business .
www . glazerite . co . uk