AluFold Direct, one of the UK’s best known aluminium fabricators, is supporting the Glass and Glazing Federation (GGF) as founder members of its new aluminium group. Russell Yates, Alufold Direct’s managing director, said that the business wants to help shape how the GGF supports the aluminium sector in the coming months and years, and to have direct input into the technical guidance given out to GGF members.
“This is arguably the most exciting time in aluminium for decades,” argued Russell. “Retail and commercial demand are at record levels, and new products and systems are being developed all the time. If we’re really going to make the most of the opportunities which lie ahead however, I think we need to work together as a sector and make aluminium an even easier choice for both installers and homeowners.
“For AluFold Direct, joining the GGF is an important part of our plan. We can have input into the training programmes and technical information provided by the GGF, so that they absolutely align with how the market is moving and we can ensure that, via the GGF’s lobbying activities, aluminium has a louder voice on the national stage.
“Individual businesses, like AluFold Direct, are obviously forging ahead with our own support and communications programmes to help lead the charge for aluminium right across the windows and doors market. But, by giving our collective backing to both the GGF and the Council for Aluminium in Building, I think we can potentially achieve even more.”
Of the 500+ members of the GGF, around 160 are involved in aluminium, and more than 30 are fabricators. While there has long been a window and door group within the GGF, which covers all materials and which all members can join, the GGF had not offered a dedicated aluminium group until now.
Members of the new group will have input into the GGF’s expanded technical hub, particularly its resources around the selection and installation of aluminium products. Through this, it is hoped that the group will be able to shape how the sector responds to proposed changes to legislation.
David Borland, the GGF’s senior technical officer and secretary of the GGF’s aluminium group, added: “It’s great to have the backing of such an influential and well-respected figure as Russell. as we push ahead with our new aluminium group. His vast technical knowledge and experience, right at the cutting edge of the industry, will be a real asset to us, and there will undoubtedly be mutual benefits for AluFold Direct as aluminium gains a higher profile within the GGF.”
