As 2011 draws to a close, I would like to take the opportunity to thank our loyal customer base and reflect on what has been a busy, yet rewarding year. Managing our Brands of Kestrel, BCE and Celuform had been challenging – in an industry where volumes have reduced and competition has become fiercer we have had to work even harder to add value for our customers. However, we have achieved a lot, and have much more to look forward to in the coming year! 

Our main aim has always been to provide our customers with what they require to be successful – especially now, in a more difficult economic environment. Specific developments, such as extending our guarantees for registered installers to 35 years, have helped to make our brands the number one choice for installers in the industry. We have also created an NVQ level 2 programme for installers, with free of charge training, helping to develop skills and service even further.

This year has also seen the introduction of a number of new products, including a wider range of foil colours, cream and grey PVC skins, and new dark greys ready for year-end. Other developments have included low maintenance Gallows Brackets and Finials, a new range of window boards, ‘F board’ fascias, and new textured products such as a Feather Edge system – all helping to improve the image of PVC cellular siding. One of our most exciting developments is ‘EcoCel’ – our new environmentally friendly range, which uses an advanced recycling process to reuse material traditionally destined for landfill – reducing our carbon footprint and improving environmental performance.

Manufacturing and Distribution have both seen significant improvements in level of service and Quality. Paul Copestick, our Operations Director, who joined Latium Building Products in January this year, has driven this. Paul is responsible for both Operations and Distribution at our North Lincolnshire manufacturing site and our Stoke on Trent warehouse.

Next year will continue to see even more new products and improvements. We are planning to launch more new colours and more foil finishes, a rain water system and decorative claddings. All designed to help our customers win in a competitive market.

I would like to thank my colleagues and their teams, who have helped to drive all these changes and improvements. Finally, thank you to our customers - We look forward to supporting you through next year and beyond.

Simon Reynolds
Sales and Marketing Director
Latium Building Products