SECTOR INSIGHT
DOUBLE AWARD WIN FOR UAP
The success of UAP - and its CEO - have been applauded with two top awards .
» BEATING STIFF COMPETITION , including leading global brands , UAP was crowned Hardware Company of the Year at the National Fenestration Awards 2023 . The business was set up in 1996 by CEO David Jennings who was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contribution to the fenestration industry .
Launched in 2013 , the National Fenestration Awards aims to be the fairest , most inclusive fenestration event , rewarding the very best in the sector . Following nominations from people working across the industry , the winners received their awards at a ceremony held at Doncaster Racecourse on 28 October 2023 .
Armed with just a computer , David launched UAP from his spare room . His idea was simply to manufacture installation-ready door knockers that were pre-drilled and finished . At the time , there was nothing comparable in the UK , marking the start of a journey which has seen UAP rapidly grow .
From humble beginnings , David has been instrumental in expanding UAP ’ s customer base and product portfolio both organically and through strategic acquisitions . Today , UAP stands as a £ 22 million business , boasting seven leading brands : UAP Locking Systems , UAP Fullex , UAP Intelligent Hardware , UAP Firemongery , UAP Trade Locks , UAP Security Hardware , and online specialist X-Fort .
Throughout his career , David has prioritised high-quality , market-driven products and championed innovation . As well as nurturing loyal partnerships with manufacturers across Asia , this strategy
David Jennings has seen investments in-house product development , including the recent launch of IONIC , an ultra-secure electronic lock . David has also embraced new technology , investing in 3D printing to reduce waste during product development , demonstrating his vision for a more sustainable future .
As the UAP family has grown , so has David ’ s commitment to people . He has cultivated a culture of inclusivity through initiatives such as the UAP Training Academy and by developing talent and promoting internally . In 2019 , he introduced a profit-sharing model , underlining his passion for treating people fairly and recognising their vital contributions to UAP ’ s success .
Beyond the boardroom , David has been a driving force behind the company ’ s Corporate Social Responsibility activities , from fundraising to build schools and a hospital in Nepal , to planting 50,000 trees , and donating PPE to local charities and community groups during the pandemic .
A leader beyond his business , David also serves as the Vice President of The Encephalitis Society and is the co-owner of the Manchester Thunder Netball team . Speaking at the NFA Awards , Sarah Rogers , head of the NFA said : “ This award celebrates the lifetime achievements of a
man who has not only built a remarkable business empire , but left an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals .
“ David Jennings is a visionary , a humanitarian , and a true inspiration to us all . This Lifetime Achievement Award is a testament to his unparalleled dedication , and we thank him for sharing his vision and passion with the world .”
Commenting on his award , David Jennings added : “ I feel very honoured to be recognised for my achievements and exceptionally proud of everyone in the UAP team . Their skills , hard work and dedication have been pivotal to our success and achieving the coveted Hardware Company of the Year award .
“ When I set up UAP , I didn ’ t expect to have a particularly long career in hardware . It wasn ’ t long though before I realised how dynamic the industry is . New legislation and evolving customer needs are delivering constant change and creating vast opportunities for innovation . This has translated into many new products and initiatives at UAP and why I ’ m so passionate about the business and the wider industry .
“ To also be recognised for life outside work is very humbling . I ’ ve always wanted to try and make a positive impact that extends beyond the corporate world and feel incredibly grateful to be in a position to do that .”
www . uapcorporate . com
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DECEMBER 2023
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