Clearview National March 2015 - Issue 160 | Page 10

INDUSTRYNEWS Small Business growth »»Sir Peter Bonfield, Chair of the Small Business Charter recently commented that small businesses and start-ups are the engine of our economy, accounting for 49% of all private sector turnover in the UK and employ an estimated 14.4 million; 59.3% of total UK private sector employment. “The window industry is a great example of this as most windows and doors are manufactured and installed by local businesses.” says Jon Skinner, Swish Window and Door Systems. Stedek Windows & Doors Ltd is one of these successful local businesses, and the Walsall-based Swish fabricator has seen growth from long-standing customers as well as attracting new business over the last year. “Our local area was hit very badly but as the recession is lifting new opportunities are coming up for installation companies,” says Richard Hammond, Sales Director at Stedek. “The Swish installer scheme is a great way to help customers get the most out of the improving market. We have also put in place a new growth programme to support installers that will see every part of the business developed over the next few months.” For more information visit www.swishwindows.co.uk SCORING A CENTURY IN LESS THAN A YEAR »»Glazerite Windows Ltd has signed up its 100th customer into the VEKA Approved Installer Scheme, giving the fabricator nearly a third of all the members in the entire scheme in less than a year since launching the scheme. Manchester-based City Glass & Window Systems was the customer to pass the threefigure milestone and Glazerite’s Peter Smith and Amy Grundy, the Scheme’s National Sales Manager, were on hand to mark the occasion for City’s Warren Cahill. Director Jason Thompson said: “Glazerite offers its customers a very powerful support package combining our own extensive offering with a number of recognised trade schemes. The VEKA approved installer scheme has really taken off and it has been welcomed by our customers. “Through Glazerite, installers also have a route to numerous alternatives including the entire Network VEKA package, which in our opinion is still the best there is. “There has been a lot of talk in the industry about the pros and cons of such schemes. Our customers can pick and choose what parts of our support package suits their own business best and I genuinely believe we have something to offer everyone.” Jason adds. For more information visit www.glazritewindows.co.uk Anniversary Celebrations »»Tradesmith is marking 22 years in business by rewarding its customers with a new retail brochure for homeowners, which will display the range of products that make up Tradesmith’s brand; TS Collection. 10 » M AR 2015 » CL EARVI E W- UK . C O M With the TS Collection, homeowners can opt for products fabricated with a choice of Halo’s three profiles – System 10, Rustique or FlushSash – respectively offering contemporary, classic or traditional looks to complement the style of virtually any home. Tradesmith’s Marketing Director, Mark Hutchinson explains the company’s continuing commitment to Halo, having worked with the brand throughout its history: “The Tradesmith business sprang from an engineering background, which was a key factor in taking on Halo systems as they have a similar pedigree. “The new brochure demonstrates how we have continued to expand our offering, including the new and well-received Sussex range of fully fabricated and authentic-looking entrance doors.” Already planning the introduction of three more new and exciting products in 2015, Mark goes on to say: “It’s now just three years until our 25th anniversary and, with Halo’s continued support, I can see exciting times ahead - not only for Tradesmith but, more importantly, our customers and homeowners.” For further information visit www.halo-uk.com