Pro Installer July 2015 - Issue 28

www.proinstaller.co.uk ISSUE 28 | JULY 2015 FREE » 3 Why choice matters » 4 Unsung heroes » 38 Workers want retraining » 50 Legal protection for apprenticeships Celebrating 50 Years of Excellence On Saturday 4th July, one of the industry’s largest and longest established fabricators, Sash UK, marked a tremendous 50 years of manufacturing windows, doors and conservatories with a party to thank its staff, both past and present, for their contribution to the company’s success. Precious few have stood such a test of time and the story of Sash UK’s rise to success, led by Ron Bean and Terry Morrell, is proof that slow and steady wins the race. Held at Burntwood Court Hotel in Barnsley, close to Sash UK’s purpose-built factory and showroom in the former mining town of Grimethorpe, over 400 guests were greeted by stilt walkers and a glass of champagne. Live entertainment for the evening, hosted by professional compere, Lee Lard, was provided by male vocalists, Linacre & Knights, with music from The Sensations and rounded off by party band, Storm. At intervals, a spec- w o N Eurozone issues concerning manufacturers. P43. 2015: A change in construction. P53. tacular fire show took place outside on the terrace, followed by a breathtaking firework display. Stephen Morrell, Managing Director of Sash UK and son of original Co-Founder, Terry, thanked employees, both past and present, for their support over the years and remembered those who are no longer with us. Two current employees, Paul Winstanley and Darrell Kolka, were presented with a watch, a bottle of champagne and a meal for two at a local restaurant, to mark their 25 years with the com- ek e* e w im 2lead t “It all started as an idea between two school friends” pany. Not only does Sash UK have a commendable record for staff retention, with some employees having worked there 20, 25, even 30 years and more, but it also has several people who are third generation, following in the footsteps of their parents and grandparents who worked there before them. Stephen then went on to pay tribute to Co-Founders, Ron Bean and Terry Morrell, for what they have achieved, from humble beginnings in 1965 when the two men, who met at school, set up the business in a garage in Brierley, to the £20 million turnover company we know today. “Without their early determination to make a success of this venture we would not be here celebrating tonight,” said Stephen. They were each presented with a specially commissioned painting depicting their younger selves stood together outside the church at Ron’s wedding. Ron and Terry also took this special opportunity to thank everyone on what must have been a very poignant moment for them both. And as the dust settled on what was a truly fabulous evening, guests have since received a photograph taken of them on the red carpet as they arrived, along with a special 50th anniversary booklet detailing the history of the company, to commemorate the event. www.sashuk.com Alu miniu m Bi-Fold & Patio Doors Get a PRICE From only £pe3r le6af5 * COMPARISON today! Tel: 01642 610798 Fax: 01642 671026 * Price example applies to bi-fold doors per leaf only. * Lead times based on standard colour range made for trade www.madefortrade.co