8 April 2005

CRYSTAL UPVC EXPANSION CREATES TOTAL PRODUCT OFFERING

Ashton-under-Lyne based Sheerframe approved window manufacturer and installer Crystal uPVC has significantly expanded its production facilities with the creation of a new 11,000 sq. ft. factory in the town, a development which will enable the company to grow its conservatories and specialist shaped frames business as well as its aluminium offering.

The expansion into additional premises has been necessary for Crystal to keep pace with the growth in its business, particularly in the commercial and public sector markets, but also in conservatories and specialist windows.

Crystal manufactures and installs conservatories under its Carrodale brand using the new Sheerlite roofing system, launched earlier this year by Sheerframe systems company L.B. Plastics. Around half the entire new premises will be solely devoted to conservatory making with the rest of the facility providing a studio for manufacturing shaped PVC windows and a home for its growing aluminium operation.

"Through our careful selection of new machinery, we have created a truly unique offering," says Russell Crank, Crystal uPVC’s managing director. "For many years we have strove to be much more than just a windows supplier and with the support of L.B. Plastics we have done exactly that.

"In our diversification into conservatories, we have opted for the excellent Sheerlite roofing system, which I think really stands out in the marketplace. Having used the Sheerframe system for more than 20 years, we had no hesitation in choosing Sheerlite to deliver the quality finish and look that our customers demand."

Crystal uPVC works extensively in the commercial market, supplying and installing PVC windows for major housebuilders – often for prestigious projects – throughout the North West, as well as working with numerous local authorities and housing associations.

Growth in Crystal’s windows business is set to increase further with the addition of the most advanced profile bending machine in the UK. The recent installation of the Form8tor at Crystal’s new facility means the company can complete eight bends at once, rather than the normal one at a time approach.

Russell continues, "Our investment in additional premises is part of an exciting five year expansion programme to ensure we can provide customers with the total package. We are one of the few companies that can offer PVC windows – including expertly shaped frames, complete conservatories and aluminium doors side-by-side. This is extremely important when you consider that contractors often have to wait weeks for one of those product types, usually doors."

In addition to its new premises, Crystal uPVC has also recently invested significantly in improving its existing Mossley Road window production facility. As part of this, the company has commissioned two new Stuga machines, a fully automatic prepping centre and a fully automatic saw centre.