Growth or Firefighting.
Nothing ever seems to change, the fenestration industry it still gives the impression of being split into two distinct mindsets. One part being managed by those seeking to secure tomorrow and the other being in the care of those bogged down in the day-to-day toil of 'firefighting'.
Clearly there is the situation of growth being hampered by staffing shortages. Not a new phenomena, its always been that way. Though in recent times we have seen stalwarts and creators of the modern fenestration industry call it a day and choose to ‘chill’ as their next adventure. Then along with this comes the so-called consolidation or take-overs, which in reality just means lazy management removing competition instead of creating it. As always with a lack of competition and competition growth the only outcome is further decline, never expansion or growth of the whole - the result is the Fenestration Industry has never been a small as it is today.
The divide in management style creates big gaps in the much needed resource of experienced staff, as the indigenous recruitment pool has shrunk. While some wring their hands and huddle with like minded, others have identified the need for a constant flow of new of blood, that are all it up to speed and capable. This latter sector are the true industry drivers and they have set out to create solid foundations for tomorrows future-for all.
These are investors in people offering the training and development that causes the industry to grow. Here we have the likes of one of the worlds largest glass manufacturers Guardian Glass with their training centres open to all, Modplan Training Academy, Conservatory Outlet Training Academy, Hurst Plastics drive to qualification, Dekko Window Systems apprenticeships and many more. The reward for taking seemingly such selfless view is that these same companies end up as the wining teams.
Its not hard to see what causes success, just reflect, does a consumer facing go-getting enterprise associate with forward thinking management in the supply chain or snuggle up to those along for the ride? This of course leads to the divide in the industry becoming wider. We have those that give back and those that are lost while sucking the life out of those around them. Industry mirrors life.
Edgetech: "Free-form, organic facades are one of the most important architectural trends of recent years. Without world-class flexible components like the Super Spacer®, they would be extremely complex, slow and expensive to implement. " Comments, Managing Director Chris Alderson.
Conservatory Outlet: "Our model is all about adding value to our customers and this is another example where we have been listening to what they need and coming up with a solution that will hopefully make a big difference" . Commented, Chief Executive Greg Kane.
Hurst Plastics:"Our people are central to our business, and we have invested in the training and development of our team to help them reach their full potential and support further growth of the business" . Kevin Wheatman,’s director/general manager
Modplan: "We've always taken training very seriously and our Training Academy is an investment in the future of our business and the wider industry." said Managing Director, Heidi Sachs.
Dekko Window Systems: "The skills gap is a huge issue facing the industry at the moment, and I predict for a long time to come. Apprenticeships are invaluable in tackling this ever-growing issue, and strengthening the industry as a whole, while also giving young people the opportunity to learn on the job and develop valuable skillsets." comments Sales Director Kurt Greatrex.
Guardian Industries:"As a design material, glass is all around us. It has many different value propositions and technical capabilities, but many users of glass are not aware of what it can do and cannot do. The Guardian Glass Training Center supports continued learning and skills development. It offers a unique opportunity to enhance your knowledge and understanding about glass, in a structured, interactive, fun and engaging way" comments, Global Head of Digital Platforms Steven Scrivens.