Independent Network

Network VEKA has announced that it's time for members to dust off their dinner suits and polish their dancing shoes. The organisation's Black Tie Gala Dinner and Awards Ceremony will be held at Eastwood Hall, Nottingham, on September 20th, 2014. Network VEKA MD John Ogilvie says: “We're encouraging all members to get their booking forms back to us asap as this popular event is already 80% full! “The official AGM has already been held for this year, so the members' weekend is simply a chance for everyone to let their hair down and celebrate another successful year. “Attendees will enjoy ‘An Audience with Steve Davis’ and we'll be presenting the prestigious Network VEKA Awards. As our host for the evening, Steve will be sharing snooker stories and secrets from his time in the 'I'm a Celebrity Jungle.' “We encourage all member companies to come along and join in with the ‘fun’ side of the membership. For new members, it’s a great opportunity to chat to other members and meet Steve, and for long-standing members it's a chance to catch up with old friends and see who's won one of our coveted awards!” Network VEKA members wishing to register their interest and book a place for the 20th September should contact rjohnson@networkveka.com. Pictured: Pete Mew of Mews Windows celebrates with Steve Davis at the 2012 AGM. http://www.networkveka.co.uk

The staggering milestone comes after Somerset-based Network VEKA member, Turner Windows of Somerton Ltd registered an installation to take the organisation's aggregated sales to more than ￡800m. Karen Lund of Network VEKA paid a visit to the installer member to present Craig with a bottle of champagne to mark the occasion. Director Craig Turner says: “We only joined Network VEKA earlier this year, but it has already proved really beneficial to us, and we are thrilled to have helped achieve such a great landmark in Network VEKA's history.” The organisation's Managing Director John Ogilvie comments: “Passing the ￡800m mark is without a doubt, a great achievement for Network VEKA and makes a strong statement of the quality of Network VEKA and its members as a whole. We know that our members are some of the most highly-trained, trustworthy companies in the country – and these sales figures are the proof of this. The growth of the Network has not come at the expense of our core focus on customer service excellence.” This was the 218,927th installation by members, since Network VEKA was formed in 1996. Craig continues: “Network VEKA is a fantastic organisation to be associated with, and we benefit greatly from the resources it gives us, from the iron-clad series of guarantees, to the Steve Davis endorsement, we really take advantage of the whole package. We have joined Assure, the DCLG and UKAS accredited competent persons scheme, which has also proved to be of huge benefit for us. As well as offering us training that we wouldn't get with other schemes, we have found Assure to be the most cost-effective route to compliance.” http://www.networkveka.co.uk/glazing/news/2013/12/10/network-veka-marks-impressive-%C2%A3800m-sales-mark.html

Network VEKA is pleased to announce that its long-standing brand ambassador Steve Davis' contract has been extended until 2016. Managing Director John Ogilvie explains: “We are thrilled that Steve will continue to be the face of Network VEKA. He wholeheartedly believes in the ethos of Network VEKA, and his enduring reputation for approachability and reliability make him the ideal ambassador for us. “Over the last eight years, Steve's been involved in a number of members' exhibition days, as well as his role at Network VEKA's AGM events. Steve's well-known and trusted personality has helped numerous Network VEKA fabricators and installers not only raise their profiles, but also raise considerable amounts of money for various charities. “When he's not playing the 'locals' at snooker for members' charity events, or signing cues for members to auction off, Steve can often be found helping out with generating leads for our member companies. “Steve recently joined Network VEKA member AWC Windows & Home Improvements at an open day where he helped the installer secure £42k worth of sales leads.” Director Michael Griffiths said of Steve's presence on the day: “Having Six-Times World Snooker Champion, Steve Davis there was a huge pull for us at the show, as his high profile reputation is a massive hit with homeowners, and something they really relate to.” Members of Network VEKA are able to feature Steve Davis on all of their marketing materials, including vehicle livery, newspaper adverts, websites and more. This already hugely popular benefit of Network VEKA membership is sure to become even more of an asset to members as Steve’s profile rockets even higher, following his stint in the jungle for ITV's I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! http://www.networkveka.co.uk/glazing/news/2013/12/03/snooker-ace-steves-to-remain-at-network-veka.html

Looking from left to right at our photographs of this lean-to conservatory, You can see that by removing the dwarf walls extending the roof and fitting internal sliding patio doors, We Have been able to give our customer a lot more space and light.

Network VEKA is thrilled to announce that its long-standing Brand Ambassador, Steve Davis, has been announced as one of the celebrity's heading to the Australian Outback for the 2013 series of I'm A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here! The Six Times World Snooker champion will join a host of other celebrities for another year of celebrity trials and tribulations, as they set up camp for the popular ITV reality TV series, hosted by Ant and Dec. Camp mates must complete Bushtucker trials in a bid to win the viewers votes when the show returns for its thirteenth series in November. Network VEKA's MD John Ogilvie comments: “Steve is ideal for the show – he's a well-known and trusted personality, known all over the world for being a winner. “Keeping his winning status in the frame, Steve recently beat defending champion Nigel Bond to capture the World Seniors Championship for the first time – his first major win in 15 years! Steve, won six world crowns when dominating the sport in the 1980s, and captured his first title at seniors level by edging Bond 2-1 in the best-of-three final at the Mountbatten Centre in Portsmouth recently. So we are hoping that his long-standing winning streak continues in the jungle. “We are sure that his enduring reputation for approachability and reliability are sure to help make him popular with both his camp mates and the viewers at home. “One thing's for sure, Steve has the backing from the entire team at Network VEKA, including our member companies and their army of loyal customers! We wish him all the very best and hope to see him crowned as King of the Jungle.” Members of Network VEKA are able to feature Steve Davis on all of their marketing materials, including vehicle livery, newspaper adverts, websites and more. This already hugely popular benefit of Network VEKA membership is sure to become even more of an asset to members as Steve’s profile rockets even higher over the coming months. http://www.networkveka.co.uk/glazing/news/2013/11/13/network-vekas-steve-signs-up-for-im-a-celebrity.html

Black fascia, black gutters & white vented soffit boards.

Mr & Mrs Horridge decided to go with Black foiled on the outside & White foiled on the inside. The finish looks a amazing.

There's been cause for celebration recently at Network VEKA, as the organisation has been awarded UKAS accreditation. MD John Ogilvie explains: “UKAS accreditation is a formal, third party recognition for competence to perform specific tasks - in Network VEKA's case, certifying window installers under our Competent Persons Scheme – Assure. Having Competent Person Scheme Certification Body status allows Network VEKA to certify window installers who want to self certify their installations. “This accreditation demonstrates our success at meeting the stringent requirements of international accreditation standards, something that can be difficult to achieve with a small team. The assessment process required Network VEKA to demonstrate the robustness of our documented quality management system, as well as witnessed audits and inspections, and UKAS were thoroughly impressed with our professionalism regarding new regulations and our commendation for the MTC programme. “It is without a doubt, a great achievement for Network VEKA and is a further endorsement of the high standards to which the organisation operates.” The United Kingdom Accreditation Service is the sole national accreditation body recognised by the government to assess organisations that provide certification, testing, inspection and calibration services. Accreditation by UKAS demonstrates the competence, impartiality and performance capability of these evaluators. John continues: “Our official UKAS accreditation will also provide a competitive route for those installers that are interested in the Green Deal to apply for certification to be registered with the scheme.” http://www.networkveka.co.uk/glazing/news/2013/09/11/ukas-accreditation-for-network-veka-.html

Paul the landlord of The Swan contacted us to redesign his old conservatory and bring it into the 21st century as it was looking very tired. With a brief chat i could see what Paul wanted to achieve and it was important that the conservatory was in keeping with the existing property.We decided to make the frames not so overpowering with just the georgian lights around the top. We installed a new UPVc double hipped conservatory onto a box gutter with georgian shape one end and edwardian shape the other. An emergency fire door was also installed. Due to the height we were able to use heatshield polycarb so the light is gained through the frames themselves. The whole build has revitalised the feel and looks bigger even though we used the same base. Paul is very pleased by the way the whole project was handled by shane and his work force from start to finish. Should anyone like a personal recommendation Paul would be delighted for you to call into The Swan at Staunton where he would be happy to speak to you and to show you around his New Conservatory. Please see below for the before and after photos

A very impressive installation with Network Veka Georgian Sash style uPVC windows designed to complement the property's character perfectly.

This Network Veka uPVC casement window was designed with a transom across each section to create a unique style for this property, complemented by a beautiful woodgrain finish

This impressive Gable End conservatory boasts Network Veka Bi-fold doors to really open up the home to the joys of the garden. The white uPVC frames and glass roof add to the ambience.

We've made a grand entrance with our Network Veka composite door which doesn't just look stunning; it's secure, practical and virtually maintenance free.

This is a perfect example of what can be achieved with Network Veka products. It's a beautifully designed conservatory in woodgrain uPVC, boasting a lantern roof and bi-folding doors to really let the light in.

This Network Veka uPVC bow window and bedroom window could easily be mistaken for traditional oak. The square leaded glazing adds a period feel to the property yet the windows maintain all the practicality, energy saving benefits and security of uPVC.

The industry-leading trade organisation has kicked off a number of MTC (Minimum Technical Competence) seminars for its Assure members, with fantastic turnouts at Manchester City Football Club, Leeds Tenants Enterprise Centre and Dunston Hall at Norwich. Over 60 delegates attended the Manchester seminar on 15th January, with a further 30 at Leeds on 22nd January and almost 20 at Dunston Hall on 29th January; all part of a series of seminars being held across the UK for its Assure members. Austin Greene Network VEKA Technical & Compliance Manager explains: “Minimum Technical Competence training is a mandatory part of Assure membership, so to ensure that all our members are up to speed and fully compliant with current changes in legislation in the glazing industry, we aim to run a series of MTC best practice seminars.” In total, Network VEKA will be running ten seminars across the UK, in locations such as Cardiff, Reading and Norwich. Austin Greene adds: “As well as explaining what the changes in legislation are for members of competent persons schemes, we will also be covering how Network VEKA can assist members with implementing such changes. Other topics in the sessions include CE Marking, the Green Deal and Energy Ratings. “At the end of each seminar, attendees are asked to complete an assessment to demonstrate their competencies, after which they are awarded ID cards to confirm their skills and knowledge.” One attendee that found the seminars particularly useful was Sash Windows' Craig Bedford, who said of the day: “Several of our staff attended the seminars in both Manchester and Leeds, and all agreed that these were friendly, informative and useful sessions. “Austin covered a lot of subjects in a short space of time, but we were informed of everything we needed to know in regards to the new regulations and when they come in to force. He also reconfirmed other important regulations and Health and Safety matters, which give you confidence that you know you are doing things correctly. We would like to say a big thank you to the Network VEKA team.” Ian McGrath of Grosvenor Windows commented: “The seminar covered such a wide range of topics, which Austin did well to explain in simple terms, so that everyone could understand and relate to.” As Austin explains, Network VEKA's Assure competent persons scheme expects to welcome around 300 attendees across all ten seminars: “These attendees will be among the first in the country to demonstrate compliance with the new MTCs.” Network VEKA is authorised to operate a competent persons scheme, called Assure. The scheme enables installer members to join Assure to self-certify every window and door installation in accordance with Building Regulations. http://www.networkveka.co.uk/glazing/news/2013/02/06/network-veka-competence-seminars-get-off-to-a-great-start.html

The Network VEKA board is thrilled to welcome new chairman, Dr John Moon. John brings with him to the board many years' experience and has particular expertise in a wide range of business processes, including; business strategy development, new product development, business development and process improvement. Network VEKA MD John Ogilvie is pleased to see John Moon joining the board, and is confident that he can play a key part in the future success of Network VEKA: “John has a proven track record and expertise in the field of sales and marketing as well as best practice techniques for both small start up businesses and larger, corporate groups – and we are looking forward to working together for the benefit of Network VEKA and its members.” John currently manages his own consultancy company, Blue Moon Consultants, as well as working for private companies and within the UK business support network. John occupies a non-executive position with three companies, providing advice at both Board and Management team levels. John also provides mentoring support to senior management in all three organisations. John says: “I am looking forward to helping coordinate the board as they take Network VEKA on to the next stages of its development.” http://www.networkveka.co.uk/glazing/news/2013/02/01/new-appointment-for-the-network-veka-board.html

Industry-leading trade association Network VEKA will be attending the FIT Show in April alongside VEKA Recycling. Located in Hall 1, Stand 1-325, members organisation Network VEKA will be looking to attract new installers to their ever-growing membership at the event, as MD John Ogilvie explains: “Comprising of the very best VEKA window, door and conservatory installers and fabricators in the UK, we see the FIT Show as the ideal place to connect with potential new members, as well as a great opportunity to catch up with existing members who are visiting the show. “There is no other show in the UK with such a targeted relevant audience as the FIT Show, and nothing compares with the opportunity it gives you to discuss what your business can offer someone face-to-face. “We will be promoting Assure – our authorised Competent Person Scheme. Since the self-certification requirements changed in June 2012, installers can now join Assure and self-certify their installations, instead of having to get Building Regulations approval for each individual installation. “We will also be highlighting the many benefits of Network VEKA membership to visitors, including access to sales leads, Marketing Support, our renowned Insurance-Backed Guarantee and so much more. Visitors to the show will also be introduced to the exclusive, soon-to-be launched 'Network VEKA Tools'. This exciting initiative is aimed at helping members maximise their marketing opportunities via state-of-the-art web tools. “Come along to one of the demonstrations and see for yourself how it works.” Also to be unveiled at the FIT Show, will be some exciting news from VEKA Recycling. Occupying the same stand, the pioneering organisation celebrated a momentous end to 2012, as MD Tony Cattini says: “2012 saw us ending the year with the largest tonnage recycled by our UK plant in our six year history. It also saw an investment of 8million Euros in our French recycling plant, VEKA Recyclage. “As part of the wider VEKA UK Group, we continue to invest in the PVC-U window industry. This includes the installation of a new extrusion line to produce recycled pellets for VEKA plc's Infinity profile, three new collection vehicles on the road and improvements to our recycling facility in Kent, which has allowed us to create 10 new jobs. “VEKA Recycling accepts old frames and manufacturing off-cuts of any brand - not just VEKA, so make sure you visit us at the FIT Show to hear about the upcoming developments from VEKA Recycling.” Both Network VEKA and VEKA Recycling are part of the wider VEKA UK Group, not only the industry's most powerful force but also the UK's largest manufacturer of PVC-U profile. http://www.networkveka.co.uk/glazing/news/2013/02/01/network-veka-and-veka-recycling-to-go-fit.html

Network VEKA has already received very positive feedback regarding the recent sales training workshop presented by sales 'guru' Paul Clifton. Paul's past workshops have been described as 'entertaining, humorous and very insightful'. Following national recognition and several awards presented in the 1990s, he wrote the book 'What master salesmen know that the average salesmen don't'. 24 installer members attended the one-day workshop at Network VEKA HQ where Paul explained how his customer-friendly approach enables him to convert an astonishing 82% of his newspaper and showroom leads into sales. The Sales Training day, held on January 31st included Paul's seven essential skills to helping more customers choose you, over your low-priced competitors. Network VEKA MD John Ogilvie explains: “We were delighted to offer our membership the chance to hear Paul Clifton present his sales workshop. It went extremely well and the attendees were given some great advice on setting themselves apart from the competition in a very positive light, which is really what Network VEKA is all about. “It was also another good opportunity for installers to gather together and discuss their own experiences and sales ideas with like-minded people; an added benefit of being part of an organisation like ours.” http://www.networkveka.co.uk/glazing/news/2013/02/01/network-members-share-sales-secrets.html

Network VEKA has won the award for 'Outstanding Achievement regarding Environmental Sustainability in the PVC-U Replacement Window sector' at the 2012 NHIC (National Home Improvement Council) Annual Awards. The NHIC Annual Awards are presented to organisations for innovation, and environmental consideration in projects involving energy-efficient initiatives that help raise public awareness of the importance of home improvements. The accolade was presented to Account Manager Karen Lund at a special Awards luncheon in London on 29th November, and as MD John Ogilvie explains, acknowledges the first recycled PVC-U window to be installed in a UK household. “The Infinity recycled window system was chosen by a family of keen environmentalists, and the installation, which was a true closed loop process, was done with the help of Brand Ambassador Steve Davis. “Snooker legend Steve has also featured in a DVD which promotes the recycling concept to homeowners. He can be seen removing old PVC-U windows, following their journey to VEKA Recycling and then helping to fit the Infinity windows in to another home. “This award is an important reflection on the emphasis Network VEKA places on home energy efficiency and the achievements we have made.” http://www.networkveka.co.uk/glazing/news/2012/12/07/award-win-for-network-veka.html

Thistle Windows and Conservatories MD, Nick Robson, is the latest member to join the Network VEKA Steering Group. Nick joins existing Steering Group members Peter Blair of Blair Neill (Chairman), Charlie Berry of Andrew Wright, Steve Hancox of Goliath, Jason Thompson of Glazerite, Gary McCartan of Trent Valley, Mark Pearce of KJM, VEKA’s Colin Torley and MD John Ogilvie. Nick founded Thistle Windows and Conservatories in 1994, and with his many years' experience is well versed for the challenges this new role with bring: “I am really looking forward to being involved in the future of Network VEKA as a Steering Group member; as a member company for 14 years, Network VEKA has played a huge part in the growth and success of Thistle Windows and Conservatories. Consistently at the forefront of what Network VEKA stands for, we have won numerous awards and I hope that our extensive experience can not only help Network VEKA as an organisation, but also the members. I am a firm believer in sharing our experiences and knowledge with others, and hope that I can share with other member companies how we have dealt with tough times, while also gaining new ideas and partnerships myself.” Thistle, whose fabricator Sash UK nominated Nick to join the Steering Group, recently snapped up a record 11th trophy at the Network VEKA AGM awards ceremony, held on the weekend of 29 September at the impressive Cranage Hall in Cheshire. The evening saw the the presentation of the annual Network VEKA awards, hosted by the organisation’s brand ambassador, Steve Davis. http://www.networkveka.co.uk/glazing/news.html

Network VEKA's recent 2012 AGM was a fantastic success, with Cranage Hall in Cheshire playing host to member companies from every corner of the UK. Delegates attended three different seminars before the 'main event', which covered 'The Green Deal', 'CE Marking' and 'Minimum Technical Competences' and focussed on informing members what they need to do to remain fully compliant and stay ahead of the competition. The AGM followed the theme of 'A Time of Change' and included speeches from Dave Jones MD of the VEKA UK Group, and Network VEKA's MD John Ogilvie. The evening's awards and glittering 'white tie and tiara' dinner dance, attracted more than 230 guests. Network VEKA's Brand Ambassador Steve Davis was on hand once again to present the awards, and even found time to play a few games of pool for charity. This year saw a new 'Outstanding Achievement' prize introduced, which was deservedly awarded to Mews Windows, AWC Home Improvements and Rugby Double Glazing. They were acknowledged for immersing themselves in the spirit of Network VEKA and going beyond even the high standards already expected from the membership. They were commended by Network VEKA MD John Ogilvie for their hard work, exemplary customer satisfaction results, great use of the Network VEKA support package and consistent willingness to go the extra mile. David Brunskill was crowned the National Winner, as well as the regional winner for the North East and Yorkshire - for the fourth time running! John Ogilvie commented: “This year's AGM - perhaps more than any other - has really demonstrated how willing our members are to go above and beyond the call of duty. All the customer satisfaction awards were closely contended, and more members than ever before have achieved 100% in the results this year. A third of our installers achieved these impressive results, and its a great representation of what Network VEKA is all about.” http://www.networkveka.co.uk/glazing/news.html

Members prepared for change Network VEKA's recent 2012 AGM was a fantastic success, with Cranage Hall in Cheshire playing host to member companies from every corner of the UK. Delegates viewed products from Bowater Doors, Force 8, Legacy Windows, Doors & Conservatories and Prefix before attending three informative seminars that preceded the main AGM and followed the theme of 'A Time of Change'. All speeches and presentations were designed to help companies 'future-proof' their businesses with regards to current changes in legislation within the industry. The event was topped off with the evening's awards and a glittering 'white tie and tiara' dinner dance that attracted more than 230 guests. Learning a great deal about the Green Deal and more Three seminars were presented on the afternoon of the 29th to help companies keep up-to-date with current industry developments. The three sessions covered 'The Green Deal', 'CE Marking' and 'Minimum Technical Competences' and focussed on informing members what they need to do to remain fully compliant and stay ahead of the competition. The Green Deal seminar was presented by VEKA's newly appointed Head of Technical Mark Barsby and detailed how the Green Deal initiative is likely to affect the way members do business, and what they need to do to be eligible for the Green Deal Register. Mark explained aspects of the Green Deal such as the 'Golden Rule' and was on-hand to answer questions throughout the day. Tim Williams' CE Marking seminar ensured that delegates knew the 'ins' and 'outs' of the changes in legislation that will require all windows and doors to be CE Marked by July 1st 2013. Austin Greene hosted the third seminar explaining more about MTCs and how Network VEKA has access to free NVQs to help surveyors and installers surpass minimum standards. You can download the presentations via www.network.co.uk. An all time high A record number of Network VEKA installer members have been accepted into the organisation's '100% club' for this year, with a third of installers achieving these impressive results. Network VEKA MD John Ogilvie explains: “More members than ever before have achieved 100% in the results this year, which really demonstrates the whole organisation's unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction... and we don’t do grade inflation. “It's a great representation of what Network VEKA is all about. These ratings come directly from the homeowners, and we collate the results from around 16,000 questionnaires each year. It's a true reflection of how our installers' customers feel they are treated. “Network VEKA members collectively have an average customer satisfaction rating of 96%, compared with a recognised industry average of just 83%. Now, it seems that our membership is doing everything they can to drive this up even higher!” Competition for a good cause The evening of the AGM saw Steve Davis, Network VEKA’s Brand Ambassador, face some new opponents. In the run up to the event, delegates were invited to make donations to the North West and Midlands Air Ambulances and therefore enter a prize draw to play a game of pool against the Six-times World Snooker Champion. Three lucky entrants were selected to pit their talents against the snooker legend on the day; Ian Beswick of Barrington Lewis, David Boyd of Better Homes and Steve Hancox, MD of Goliath Homeworld. David Boyd commented, “the game was great fun, proceeds from the event went to a very worthy cause and everyone seemed to really enjoy the AGM overall. But I still think the really important thing to take away from the weekend is... I beat Steve Davis at pool!!” All donations received before the event, and those collected on the night, were put towards the North West and Midlands Air Ambulances and more than £500 was raised in total. National Winner David Brunskill was not only announced to be the regional winner for the North East and Yorkshire for a fourth time, but was also crowned 'National Winner' at the evening's awards ceremony. The entire table erupted in cheers and applause, joined by the rest of the room as MD David Brunskill collected the trophy from Steve Davis. Outstanding Achievement This year's AGM saw a new 'Outstanding Achievement' prize introduced, which was deservedly awarded to Mews Windows, AWC Home Improvements and Rugby Double Glazing. They were acknowledged for immersing themselves in the spirit of Network VEKA and going above and beyond even the high standards already expected from the membership. These three companies were commended by Network VEKA MD John Ogilvie for their hard work, exemplary customer satisfaction results, great use of the Network VEKA support package and consistent willingness to go the extra mile. Battle of the big winners Aberdeen-based Thistle Windows and Heavers of Bridport have both broken their previous records for the number of regional awards won over the years. Thistle proudly claimed the company's eleventh prize, while the Heavers of Bridport team were delighted to lift their twelfth trophy. Both companies were warmly congratulated by Steve Davis, to whom they have become very familiar faces over the years! Good things come from those who wait Surprise entertainment was the order of the day at the evening's dinner dance and awards ceremony thanks to The Three Waiters. These talented singers began the evening incognito, serving starters and clearing glasses before surprising the audience with astounding operatic performances that resulted in an overwhelming standing ovation. Live music was also provided by events band Elbow Room, before a disco that carried partygoers through to the early hours. Thelma Wade of Rugby Double Glazing and Gary Sage of Sage Home Improvements celebrated their style in style with a bottle of bubbly each, after winning 'Best Tiara' and 'Best Tie' respectively. Smile please! A full gallery of photos from the event can be viewed at http://www.networkveka.co.uk/agm12 http://www.networkveka.co.uk/glazing/news/2012/10/08/network-veka-agm-report-2012.html

De Vere Wychwood Park, one of the country’s leading championship golf courses, hosted the PGA EuroPro Tour this weekend, as some of Europe’s best young golfers gathered to contest the VEKA and Network VEKA Open. The tournament was won by Cambridgeshire’s Paul Maddy, who finished the three-round event at 10-under par for a two-shot victory over Scott Fallon from North London. Maddy entered the final round with a two-stroke lead following a blistering second round course record of 62. With victory he picked up the winner’s cheque of £10,000 and climbed to third place in the Order of Merit, in line to claim one of the five Challenge Tour cards up for grabs at the end of the season. Players and sponsors were quick to praise the impressive venue, which will host the European Tour Qualifying School next month. “We’ve witnessed some fantastic golf this week, especially from Paul, whose second round 62 was a remarkable performance,” noted Jon Farmer, Head Professional and Golf Manager at De Vere Wychwood Park. “The tournament was a resounding success from start to finish and the ideal way to begin what is a busy couple of weeks here at Wychwood Park. The course is in phenomenal condition and received rich-acclaim from all the players. We’re looking forward to welcoming the European Tour Qualifying School, which kicks off next month.” Maddy entered the week on the back of a second place finish in his last EuroPro Tour event, yet his record-breaking performance came as a surprise to the Gog Magog native. “On Thursday morning I walked onto the course with no expectations, but I got some momentum with a birdie at the first and then it was a case of taking the opportunities when they came. It was obviously my day. For most of the round I wasn’t thinking that something special was on, but then I managed to birdie the hardest three holes on the course, 13, 14 and 15, and I capped it off with an eagle on the last.” http://www.networkveka.co.uk/glazing/news/2012/09/04/paul-maddy-wins-veka-and-network-veka-open-at-de-vere-wychwood-park-.html

If you’re on the hunt for a reputable window, door and conservatory specialist, look out for the Network VEKA logo. When a company carries this logo, you know it has been tested, tried and trusted by this reputable standards organisation. Every member company offers Network VEKA’s 10 year guarantee, which is insurance backed so it remains valid even in the unlikely event that the company ceases trading. Prospective members are rigorously vetted before being accepted, so that only the most professional companies are admitted. Learn more about Network VEKA, find your local member or order a complimentary copy of the 'Hassle-free guide to home improvements’ at http://www.networkveka.co.uk or call 0800 80 00 80. http://www.networkveka.co.uk/glazing/news.html

As a specialist sectoral trade association, Network VEKA certainly has its fair share of dedicated members, and this year several will celebrate a special anniversary with the organisation. After celebrating 15 years itself in 2011, Network VEKA MD John Ogilvie asked some of the members to reflect on their time with Network VEKA. Founding member, Eddisbury Construction Co Ltd joined the trade association right at the very beginning, when the installer wanted to become part of an organisation that was committed to raising standards in the replacement window industry. Sharing that same ethos is what has led the company to continue its membership for 15 years, as MD Nigel Bird explains: “Being a part of Network VEKA sets us apart from our competitors, allowing us to compete on something other than price, and we benefit greatly from the resources that we wouldn't be able to provide independently; from the Ten Year Insurance-Backed Guarantee to the Assure Competent Person scheme. Network VEKA always keeps us up-to-date with the constant changes that impact on our industry, such as the Green Deal, WERs and Minimum Technical Competences, which is a huge advantage to us.” Describing their membership as like having a 'big brother', Bedford-based installer, Addison Ousebank celebrates ten years with Network VEKA this year. Joint owner Colette Cox said: “As a small business it has given us a platform to work from, reassuring customers that, at any time, they can not only contact us, but they can also go direct to Network VEKA with any concerns they might have. During the difficult economic times, being a part of Network VEKA has given us the confidence to add new products to our offering and via the extensive branding and marketing materials Network VEKA offers, we have actually increased repeat business sales and recommendations.” One benefit that many members make use of is the representation of Brand Ambassador Steve Davis. The high-profile, instantly recognisable endorsement of Steve is one aspect of its membership that installer company, Mews Windows uses most, as MD Peter Mews explains: “The connection with Steve Davis is something that customers really are interested in. It's a benefit that we use a lot, whether it be graphics on the van or on presentation folders for customer quotes. Over the last ten years, our Network VEKA membership has helped the company look more professional and stable to the general public, and in these uncertain economic times we know that customers need reassurance that they are handing their hard-earned money over to a company that they can trust.” Trade fabricator Glazerite Windows is another member that that joined the first-of-its-kind standards organisation based on its shared ideals and values. Formed in 2000, Glazerite Windows has been with Network VEKA for ten years, and according to National Sales & Marketing Manager, Chris Thompson, the brand recognition has helped generate business for Glazerite, and its customers: “When the company first started up it was hard to prove the quality of our products and service to companies that weren't actually dealing with Glazerite Windows, and this is where Network VEKA has helped. Here was an independent trade organisation that audited every single aspect of our business, from quality to service, ensuring that the high standards they demand are constantly maintained – and allowed us to use the results to promote our business. We are looking forward to celebrating the subsequent 15th and 20th Anniversaries with Network VEKA, as we see a partnership we are keen to continue with and strengthen.” John Ogilvie adds: “It's fantastic to be celebrating ten and 15 year anniversaries with some of our members, without whom, we wouldn't be where we are in the industry today. “We have grown as a result of the specific benefits we offer our members, from our national consumer advertising with Steve Davis and extensive marketing support to our free lead generation, professional training, Assure self-certification scheme and of course, the famous insurance-backed guarantee.” http://www.networkveka.co.uk/glazing/news/2012/08/10/network-veka-celebrates-long-standing-members.html

Industry-leading trade association Network VEKA have confirmed their attendance at the FIT Show as they look to attract new installers to their ever-growing membership. Network VEKA is comprised of the very best VEKA window, door and conservatory installers and fabricators in the UK and provides property owners with an easy and trusted way of choosing a home improvement firm they can rely upon. Established in 1996, the organisation intends to promote the many benefits of Network VEKA membership to visitors at The FIT Show, such as access to FREE sales leads, Assure (Network VEKA’s authorised self-certification scheme), their renowned Insurance Backed Guarantee, Marketing Support and much more. Managing Director John Ogilvie, believes The FIT Show offers Network VEKA many exciting opportunities: The FIT Show is something entirely different with a new team and new venue. There is no other show in the UK with such a targeted relevant audience and nothing compares with the opportunity to discuss what your business can offer someone face-to-face. We hope to meet with quality prospects and gain new members. It will also be a good chance to remind existing member visitors of the benefits of Network VEKA membership.” Network VEKA are already heavily promoting their presence at the FIT Show via a number of creative channels and plan to release further PR/e-shots etc. nearer to the time. http://www.networkveka.co.uk/glazing/news/2012/07/04/network-veka-recruited-for-the-fit-show.html