Roto Inside | 11.2015

Issue No. 31 Roto Window and Door Technology Partner and Employee Information

■■ Timber ■■ Event ■■ Aluminium ■■ PVC Erich Schillinger, Germany:­ FENSTERBAU Roto Object Business: VEKA Plastics: Burglary protection with FRONTALE 2016: In tandem for a New to the market Roto NT Designo Stability unites – successful order with highly insulating ­welcome to Roto! sliding doors

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Red Dot Award 2015 Congratulations: WECO Windows wins ­prestigious design award

■■ Event On 29 June, the coveted Red Dot Awards for exceptional design were presented at a celebratory gala in Essen. Among the winners: the WECO Windows team, which received the nod from a 27-member expert panel for its ‘WECO 2C’ design window, reported in Roto Inside’s March issue. The editors met with the company founder Iciar de las Casas, who travelled from Spain, and Francesc Gimeno, Roto Managing Director Southern Europe, shortly before the award ceremony.

The WECO founder reported that at the end a sense of this award’s importance and inter- of March she had received a personal let- national reputation: this year, just under 5,000 ter on the forthcoming award from Prof. Dr products from 56 countries were submitted for Peter Zec, Red Dot Awards Initiator and CEO. the competition. This included design ideas from “Red Dot is by far the world’s most famous brands as famous as Apple, Samsung or Audi. I design competition and is also considered am pleased for WECO and naturally also for our extremely prestigious in Spain. The fact that we Montmeló developers’ team. Perhaps we will have won an award is a very special recogni- even be able to repeat this success with one of tion and confirmation that our development of our next jointly implemented product ideas.” the ‘WECO 2C’ is an ­important contribution to the traditional­ ­timber-aluminium window’s The evening award ceremony’s festive sup- further development.” porting programme even matched the prize winners’ good mood: the red carpet led to the One of thousands official award ceremony in Essen’s famous Aalto Francesc Gimeno, Roto Managing Director Theatre, where around 1,200 guests cheered Southern Europe, who together with his team the Red Dot Award winners. This was followed Excited by the ‘WECO 2C’ window’s Red Dot Design Award: (from left) Francesc Gimeno, Iciar de las Casas, one developed special ‘WECO 2C’ window hard- by a colourful ‘Designers’ Night’ in the Red Dot of the two founders of WECO Windows, and Antonio Dominguez, Roto Sales Manager responsible for Spain and ware and also participated in the Essen award Design Museum, where night turned to day. Portugal. Photo: © Red Dot ceremony, was just as excited. “Just to give you

The Red Dot Design Awards The WECO window idea is based on transparency and sim- were presented on 29 June plicity: large glass surfaces up to six metres wide, which are in Essen’s famous Aalto not interrupted by profiles. Only glass and the chestnut timber ­Theatre. Photo: © Red Dot frame are visible from the outside. Aluminium sash profiles and hardware are concealed and connected directly to the glass using special adhesive. The overlaid glass frames can be coated in any colour on the inside. Triple glazing means that the window complies with the passive house standard. Turn-Only, Tilt&Turn or sliding versions can be implemented depending on the application, and maximum ease of operation is guaranteed, even for extremely large sashes. This is supported by various factors, including special hardware developed by the architect team together with Roto’s Montmeló technicians.

How it all began German design award for Spanish windows

■■ Event The Red Dot Awards presented in Germany for WECO Windows, based in Majadahonda, north-west of Madrid, product design are one of the world’s most famous design is supported by an entire group of experienced architects. The awards. Once a year, an international jury of specialists two founders Iciar de las Casas and Rosario Chao knew each votes on outstanding product designs in a total of 31 other from numerous international projects. “We ­designed ­competitive ­categories. single- and multi-family houses as well as public educational and cultural facilities,­ among other things. Over time, we es- At the end of January 2015, a preassembled ‘WECO 2C’ win- tablished our own studio, which then led to the formation of The two founders of WECO Windows: (from left) Rosario Chao and dow was transported from Madrid to Mülheim an der Ruhr in WECO ­Windows”, says Iciar de las Casas. You can find more Iciar de las Casas order to be assessed by around forty judges. ­information on the Red Dot Award at www.red-dot.de.

| 1 Roto Inside | 11.2015

In demand

lose than others … But, given that Roto Frank AG companies and That is why we are also on a successful path in countries such A discussion with Dr. Eckhard Keill, business divisions are continuing to grow in other parts of the as ­Argentina, from which others have quickly withdrawn. Roto Chairman of the Board of Directors at world, the losses in Russia were able to be partially offset. ­respects the circumstances and customs in all regions of the Roto Frank AG world and we do not find it unreasonable if we have to adapt here Roto Inside: In what circumstances would Roto actually and operate according to the rules of the market. ­withdraw from a market? Roto Inside: German made tolerance? Dr Keill: I cannot imagine such circumstances. A number of things occur and tests are performed before Roto enters a Dr Keill: German made tolerance and thoroughness if you like. Roto Inside: You recently had to publish some fairly poor country. If we establish our own national company, we do this Yes, respect for different opinions and work methods is one of the ­numbers after years of continuously pleasing business because we have decided that we do not want to exit a market, foundations of Roto’s identity, just as the willingness to diligently ­developments. When do you believe the Roto board of or a country, in the future. Roto always reaches decisions and prepare for entry into a new market. But the most important thing ­directors will be able to once again inject optimism? makes investments with a very long-term perspective. Our capital for our customers is that we do not buckle. Not if a market suffers consists of exceptionally long-lasting relationships with window a downturn and not if we have to help them push through difficult Dr Keill: We have not lost our optimism, we at Roto are realists. fabricators, who do not simply enter or exit a market from one periods. Once Roto, always Roto – we effectively see ourselves It was clear that economic issues in a market as large as Russia day to the next. Window fabricators and door manufacturers need as a legal immigrant in countries in which we operate. And as a would also impact our sales. Accordingly, Roto ensured that its reliable partners who do not simply disappear when conditions legal immigrant, we follow the laws in our new homeland. operations were cost-effective and still managed to record an take a turn for the worse. acceptable result. At the same time, our employees in Russia Roto Inside: Your personal forecast for the Russian market? helped their customers to compete successfully in a difficult Roto Inside: Does this also apply for political headwinds? ­environment, which is a remarkable accomplishment. Dr Keill: I think that the bottom has been reached. Russia’s strong Dr Keill: To be honest, to date, no government has had companies will continue to be successful and significantly reduce Roto Inside: But the fall in sales in Russia still had a significant ­anything against Roto delivering to a country. But there are the country’s dependency on the oil price in the long-term. In any impact on Roto’s overall result … ­naturally ­markets, such as in South America, where ­importing event, Roto Russia will make a contribution and support a return ­requires administrative effort and customs fees due to the stat- to stability on the European continent. Dr Keill: That is not surprising, given the market position that utory conditions. In these cases, I get the impression that Roto Roto has since achieved in Russia. Market leaders have more to can be slower to frustrate and more committed than others.

Roto NT Designo Further development at a high level

■■ New at Roto Roto broke new ground the result is an extremely easy-to-install and safe with the introduction of the Roto NT Designo system”, says Thomas Steiert. Roto NT Designo “All the potentials that we identified during the continuous development of the hardware system in 2006. All system com- is already available for delivery for more than Roto NT Designo range can now be optimally utilised with the new hardware gen- ponents are completely concealed in the ninety PVC and timber profiles. “The profile port- eration”, Thomas Steiert, Head of Research & Development of Window and Door ­window rebate. Since then, there have been folio, which can be fitted with Roto NT Designo, Technology at Roto, is convinced. no limits to the realisation of the aesthet- will continue to grow in the coming months. ically demanding profile views with fully Our development team is continuously working concealed hardware. The second, improved on the relevant modifications.” generation of the Roto NT Designo turn-only/ Turn&Tilt hardware system has since been Highly flexible platform strategy ­released, which offers benefits in window According to Thomas Steiert, the wide range of and balcony door production as well as in hardware innovation applications is particularly their assembly at the building site. made possible by the fact that Roto consistently pursues its platform strategy. “Our goal was and “Roto was the first provider of a fully con- is to keep the individual parts’ variation as low as cealed hardware system and our experience possible. Roto NT Designo customisation only is also ­second-to-none”, states Thomas Steiert, takes place at the very end of the value creation Head of Research & Development of Window process, effectively during window and balcony and Door Technology at Roto in Leinfelden. door installation. This provides two benefits for The improvements in the new genera- us as a hardware manufacturer: We can respond tion of the range is also of great benefit for much more quickly to customer requirements window fabricators. and wishes and we can deliver smaller lot sizes.”

The Roto NT Designo’s new generation perfor- The new Roto NT Designo generation is good mance values shine in its established strengths: news for all Roto partners: Window fabricators Sash weights of up to 150 kg can be supported, who already produce using concealed hardware and sash heights of up to 2,600 mm and large can now use the new hardware without any opening angles of 100º can be implemented conversion. The new Roto NT Designo range without any problems. “For one thing, window has also simplified the conversion for manufac- fabricators’ assembly has been simplified: turers who currently still use surface-mounted While pin holes previously had to be drilled in hinge-sides. the profiles, this operation step is no longer re- quired for the new Roto NT Designo generation. You can also find more information on Roto The Roto NT Designo hardware system was an outstanding function and design innovation when it was launched The on-site window installation is also much NT Designo for windows and balcony doors on the market in 2006, as its components disappear completely in the window rebate. Many window fabricators easier, as the sashes can be inserted in just a in the relevant installation, maintenance and now offer windows fitted with Roto NT Designo, whose aesthetically sophisticated profile views delight architects few steps. Together with the convenient 3D stay operating instructions. and builders. arm, corner hinge and pivot rest adjustments,

&& Roto NT Designo for timber windows and balcony doors – With the new fully ­interesting facts on installation, maintenance and operation concealed hardware can be found here: ­generation, Roto ensures that the www.roto-frank.com/en/roto-nt-designo/timber/imo hardware set from the Roto NT Designo range can be quickly adapted && Roto NT Designo for PVC windows and balcony doors – tovarious profiles. This ­interesting facts on installation, maintenance and operation facilitates and accelerates can be found here: the change in window production between www.roto-frank.com/en/roto-nt-designo/pvc/imo various models.

2 | Okna Barinoff, Russia A second pillar

■■ PVC “The Russian building industry currently has to rise to a huge challenge”, reports General Director Alexander Barinov, founder and owner of the Moscow based company Okna Barinoff. “Building has to continue, but all investors and builders have been forced to keep a close eye on costs. Window fabricators or distributors also need to take this into account and we are convinced that with Roto and the Roto OK range we are absolutely on the right path.”

Private builders’ demand for windows in the first half of 2015 fell function well and are leak-proof, which we can sell with a by about 35 percent compared to the previous year. “As a result, good conscience.” we had to secure our company’s strong growth rate from the past few years with a contemporary product range expansion”, The Okna Barinoff sales and service network, established over the 41-year old entrepreneur is convinced, after over ten years of ten years, provides commercial and public investors with support, developing and marketing windows. Naturally, he himself prefers which is the foundation for even cost-effective building leading to timber-aluminium windows, such as the Okna Hobbit brand, good results. “Our commitment to this is just as passionate as and Roto NT and Roto Patio range hardware. “But we now also our support for private builders who want to equip elegant houses have to contribute to giving people across all income classes in with the best PVC or timber windows. This commitment can also Russia an opportunity to live in new apartments with high-quality be found at Roto. Whether we are discussing applications of the windows. Times are hard and everyone is being forced to save, Roto Patio range or projects for which we recommend Roto OK, so we cannot simply exclusively retain products that only a few our hardware partner is always on the ball and committed to the can afford”, reports Alexander Barinov and says: “I consider this a task. The people at Roto have the same mindset and attitude customer-friendly approach.” that we find in our own carefully selected employees”, stresses Alexander Barinov. Quality at a low price The qualified production technician and businessman describes Recognise and accept the tasks himself as a critical thinker when it relates to component and Despite the current economic problems, he is optimistic of the Alexander Barinov is convinced by the Roto OK range: “This hardware material quality. “Cost-effective should not and must not mean future: “Every period has its specific challenges and if, like us, turns sashes up to a weight of 80 kg into durable Tilt&Turn windows, poor quality. The Roto OK range constitutes the best evidence you are absolutely committed to having in stock at precisely the which are leak-proof and provide a high functional safety. And at a of this. Only 35 parts in stock can be used to equip traditional right time the windows that are in demand , a company will be cost-effective price. Good windows for all. For me, this is an expression PVC Tilt&Turn windows up to a sash weight of 80 kg”, he says sustainable, regardless of changes that arise from political or of democracy. Especially in difficult economic times.” with a smile and emphasizes: “PVC windows that ­permanently economic developments.”

Aries, Poland A heart for the preservation of monuments

■■ Timber Aluminium These days, allowed us to invest in our machinery technology and Edward Skał can do so by paying a visit to the fate of the Polish window and door and make the leap into a new era. Additional Warsaw. The royal palace as well as the historic ­manufacturer Aries is controlled by father funding, which we received for a development Dominican monastery, among others, have been and daughter together: Over the years, based on a ­submitted patent, helped us through fitted with Aries products. If you were to take a Edward Skał, who founded the company in the most exciting phase of the company’s look into those windows and doors you would 1992, and his daughter Iwona have devel- ­history”, remembers Edward Skał. discover a great deal of Leinfelden technology. oped into market-leading specialists. With “We have worked together with Roto since the great attention to detail and even greater In 2012, the former Aries production plant had establishment of the company and practically all technical know-how, they develop windows to make way for a large road-building project in our windows and doors have been fitted with and doors for heritage listed buildings, the region. Edward Skał and his daughter Iwona Roto hardware and locks. Besides the close which externally comply with their ­historic only had five months to get a completely new cooperation and the valuable consulting in mat- aesthetics, but impress ‘internally’ with plant up and running. Today, around twenty ters of production control, we also benefit from their modern technology. This means that specialists work in the modern production area, the good Roto brand name when marketing they are esteemed and in demand beyond which recently also expanded its timber window our products abroad. In particular, Roto is very Poland’s borders. and door production to include aluminium and well known in Great Britain, where we deliver timber-aluminium elements. “This diversification to various distribution networks, architects and The company name Aries refers to the Latin was inspired by our customers in Great Britain, building companies, and the name is associated In 2012, Edward Skał and his daughter Iwona had word ‘ram’, the star sign of both the owner which has become our most important export with quality and reliability”, says Edward Skał. just under five months to establish a new plant, Edward Skał and his daughter Iwona. “I decid- market behind Norway and Dubai. England and after it became clear that the former manufac- ed on the name fairly quickly when I founded Scotland have a greater focus on aluminium, so Smooth generational change turing plant would have to make way for a major the company in April 1992. It has a personal they demand Aries windows in this design.” The Aries company concept has been successful road-building project. Today, around twenty spe- ­reference to myself and my daughter and it for over two decades and was also recognised cialists work in the modern manufacturing plant is also understood at an international level”, Special solutions for heritage listed buildings in 2014 by the Polish window and door manufac- in Łódź. remembers Edward Skał. The qualified engi- In the export markets as well as in the domes- turers association, which awarded the ­company neer previously spent many years working at tic market, especially in central Poland around the prestigious business award “Adler der pol- a state-owned company. In 1989, the then 42 the cities of Łódź and Warsaw, Aries remains nischen Fenster- und Türenhersteller” ­(Eagle in year-old Edward Skał felt a certain atmosphere sought-after for its expertise in renovation Polish window and door manufacturing). But the of change: “It was clear to me that I wanted projects in line with the monument protection founder is particularly pleased with the fact that to do something completely­ different in my provisions. Accordingly, the Aries success is the family-owned enterprise’s future is secure: professional life. I quickly found a position as the not defined by production quantities, but by the “Over the past few years, my daughter has tak- head of a foreign company’s Polish subsidiary, development of windows and doors tailored pre- en over a great number of management tasks. which manufactured timber products, including cisely to customer requirements. “The special She will now gradually start to take over the for the construction industry. As part of this solutions for heritage listed buildings certainly entire management of the company. A develop- activity, I learnt a lot about company manage- represent our unique selling point (USP). But ment that reassures me as an entrepreneur and ment and laid the foundation for the final step their production still requires a relatively high which fills me with pride as a father.” towards independence.” workload, despite modern machinery. For ex- ample, we manufacture special solutions with a Growth from year to year 4 mm clearance so that the frame widths of the In Łódź, together with a handful of employ- new windows are identical to those of the old ees, Edward Skał started developing and designs. Our extensive experience in monument ­manufacturing timber windows and doors, preservation is a clear benefit in this respect as the material with which he was already very well as for the execution of stylistic details, such familiar. His business and production-technical as historic decorations. We make sure that our experience paid off as the young company grew products reflect the aesthetics and the original from year to year. Aries experienced a genuine character of old windows and doors. This also growth spurt in 2004 as Poland entered the allowed us to quickly receive an official license Specialising in the production of special solutions European Union. “We suddenly had unrestricted from the Polish monument protection authority, for heritage listed building projects means that the access to the ­Western European markets and which recognises our expertise.” Aries production workshop boasts both modern were able to access technologies which we had Edward Skał, founder of the Polish window and machinery technology as well as craftsmanship previously only seen at window and mechanical Anyone wanting to familiarise themselves door specialists Aries with sound judgement. engineering fairs. The EU funding programme with the work of the team headed by Iwona

| 3 Roto Inside | 11.2015

Erich Schillinger GmbH, Germany Tradition meets modernity

■■ Timber Just over fifty employees work my extremely critical father was impressed Timber-aluminium windows in security grade window can withstand such an attack. But our at the traditional company Erich Schillinger and encouraged me to continue in this direc- RC3 with support from Roto window passed the test, probably also because, GmbH in Oberwolfach, Baden. If you con- tion.” Thus encouraged, Wilhelm Schillinger The fact that this is possible in the first place for the past two years we have been using adhe- sider the size of the projects for which the toured Europe for three months in order to almost came as a surprise to the experienced sive technology that obviously does not just pay family-owned company delivers timber inspect and select the right systems. In 1992 window fabricator himself: “I was there when off with respect to statics, but also in burglary and timber-aluminium­ windows, doors and thetime had come: the completely modernised the tester at Roto ITC in Leinfelden started on protection.” Wilhelm Schillinger will continue to facade solutions, it is safe to assume that the ­manufacturing department commenced oper- our window. You even start to doubt whether a make use of the services provided by the Roto owner family has been able to establish a ation. “Right from the start, we were able to particularly efficient manufacturing depart- save between 15 and 20 percent of window pro- ment. They also seem to have good and duction costs”, remembers Wilhelm Schillinger. close contact with a number of ­renowned Diocese of Rottenburg-Stuttgart architects, as building elements produced by Higher productivity through further the company can be found in a ­number of investments Schillinger timber windows for an prestigious buildings in both the public sec- In 2016, a new CNC-controlled machining tor as well as in the hands of large investors centre will provide the next leap forward in ­impressive new build in southern Germany. increasing productivity. “In particular, we want to ­significantly reduce throughput times in “The impression is correct. We have deliberate- ­construction of main doors, sliding doors and The Rottenburg Episcopal ordinate building, redeveloped and extended within four years, was ly targeted the needs of innovative ­architects special solutions”, explains Wilhelm Schillinger, inaugurated and moved into in July 2013. Based on architect Prof. Arno Lederer’s drafts, the working for demanding builders and the public ­“because these areas are developing very well, new construction is a harmonious addition to the ordinate’s historic buildings. sector”, confirms General Manager­Wilhelm just as the facade and conservatory construc- Schillinger, who now manages the company, tion, and we want to continue to stand out founded by his grandfather in 1911, together from the competition.” with his sister Edith Chrobok. “Since 1980, we have specialised exclusively in the production of The Schillinger Company also became a favour- timber and timber-aluminium windows, facades, ite with many architects last but not least for its conservatories and main doors. And, since the decision to use high-quality materials and com- 1990s, we have established a special type of ponents. “We now predominantly incorporate window production, which allows us to use a Black Forest silver fir, a very high-quality lacquer range of special solutions for handling even large as well as, upon request, architectural bronze orders very quickly and flexibly.” instead of aluminium for the weather shell. This is intended for people who are interested in A study trip motivated the change sustainable construction and the use of natural At Roto’s invitation as part of a study trip to materials from the region. At the same time, America at the start of the 1990s, he visited the with the Roto NT Designo and Roto Patio ranges window fabricator Anderson and marvelled at its we can also accommodate demands for delicate extensive automated manufacturing department. profiles with concealed hardware and extremely “At the time they were already producing 8,000 convenient operation. Since this year we have windows a day, also due to the fact that they been focussing on the design of timber-alumin- were efficiently coating the individual compo- ium windows in security grade RC3, a 123 x nents rather than the entire frame. As we were 150 cm window has already successfully passed thinking about rationalisation of the surface testing at the Roto ITC, the Leinfelden Inter- treatment plant, this was naturally a fantastic national Technology Centre. That’s why we are inspiration. A paint shop based on the Anderson now adding a French door with fanlight. We will model required less space, but the new method soon be in a position to offer an entire range of of operation involved a complete change of all timber-aluminium Tilt&Turn windows and balcony the production processes. ­Nevertheless: even doors with high burglar-resistance.”

A total of 360 timber windows, which are equipped with Roto NT Designo Tilt&Turn hardware, were installed in the new office building’s facade. In each case, two adjacent windows were positioned at an angle of 45° to each other to create the visually interesting ‘zigzag facade’. The window elements were manufactured from an oak-robinia composite, while weather resistant robinia wood was used on the outside.

Edith Chrobok and Wilhelm Schillinger now manage the company, founded by their grandfather in 1911, which since The entrance to the Episcopal ordinate’s new building was also supplied by Erich Schillinger GmbH. 1980 has exclusively been producing timber and timber-aluminium windows, facades, main and sliding doors as The outer side of the door elements are coated with copper. well as conservatories.

4 | ITC in future: “We also receive very prompt services with attractive photo books, featuring and down to the Swiss border. Installation takes plant in Oberwolfach in order to save time on- ­support when we want to or have to provide test displays of facade, window and main door place using in-house fitters or selected installers site and facilitate installation. Cranes and a great documentation for a special solution. This makes system designs. “In particular, this is more with whom the Schillingers have established deal of technical support are then used on-site. us flexible and credible.” appealing to architects than traditional advertis- long-term relationships. “These companies also ing for series-production windows.” Schillinger have to know a great deal about their craft, as The right partner for individualists An avid photographer, Wilhelm Schillinger pri- delivers high-quality timber building elements we rarely ask them to install standard windows.” With so many large projects, do you still have marily advertises the family-owned ­company’s between the Black Forest, Frankfurt and Munich Most facade elements are preassembled at the time for private builders from the surrounds

University of Applied Sciences Offenburg All-day care at the Salier-Gemeinschaftsschule Waiblingen ­comprehensive school Timber windows for a passive (low-E) house Timber-aluminium windows for modern,

A new University of Applied Sciences Offenburg seminar building was officially inaugurated bright rooms on 1 December 2014. The five-storey new build boasts around 2,500 square metres of floor space for seminar rooms and lecture rooms as well as offices and it satisfies the passive (low-E) house standard. This was achieved thanks to the building shell’s energy quality, the After lessons, many of the 390 primary school children at the Salier-Gemeinschaftsschule high internal thermal storage masses, modern systems technology with highly efficient venti- Waiblingen comprehensive school attend the adjacent all-day care facility, which since 2013

lation systems and almost CO2-neutral cooling using a well water system. The modern timber has been housed in a new building, constructed for about 2 million euros. The striking tim- window elements were produced by Erich Schillinger GmbH. ber-aluminium elements, which shape the facade’s character, were produced by Erich Schillinger GmbH. But, the building doesn’t just look good, it was also perfectly tailored to the students’ needs, says the sponsor.

For this new build at the University of Applied Sciences Offenburg, the Erich Schillinger GmbH shop, in Oberwolfach, Baden, produced 160 passive house-compatible facade elements using Black Forest Erich Schillinger GmbH manufactured modern timber-aluminium elements for this new build on the silver fir. On the outside, thermal insulation was installed under the frame. All visible parts have an premises of the Waiblingen Salier-Gemeinschaftsschule. The yellow-green anodised shells accentuate the aluminium veneer. facade’s opening elements. They consist of revolving doors and tilt-only elements lying above them.

The elements consist of a fall protection fixed glazing as well as an adjacent ventilation flap, which was fitted with Roto NT Designo. Erich Schillinger GmbH also used Black Forest silver fir to produce these elements.

| 5 Roto Inside | 11.2015

Schreinerei Metzdorf, Germany When work becomes a calling of the Black Forest? “Of course”, says Wilhelm within a radius of about 100 kilometres. We are ■■ Timber “Wine and culture in Germany’s oldest wine region” is the slogan used by the Schillinger, pleased. “We take great pleasure always successful where our specialists can small municipality of Neumagen-Dhron for advertising itself and its picturesque setting in being able to produce a conservatory project show you what they are capable of from the in the Moselle valley, in Germany’s extreme south-west. Anyone familiar with the local with generally a somewhat more relaxed planning stage. This applies for private builders joiner ‘Schreinerei Metzdorf’, would probably extend this list to wine, culture ‘and timber deadline or beautiful windows for a private resi- as well as for our regular architect customers. ­windows’. The company founder has been working with timber for over five decades. dence. Even so, we currently build around thirty Schillinger is always the company you come to conservatories every year, which are constructed when you want something special.” In 1952, Matthias Metzdorf founded his own apple, 12:00 p.m. to precisely 1:00 p.m. is the joinery, which he has since gradually expand- lunch break. No one in the company can ever ed to an impressive commercial enterprise. remember him taking a longer break. At 5:30 Today, under his son Karl-Josef Metzdorf’s p.m., Matthias Metzdorf has a short break A centre for education, meeting and culture management twelve employees also manufac- that is often used to maintain the vegeta- ture about 4,000 timber and timber-aluminium ble garden before he returns to work until The new Hospitalhof Stuttgart windows as well as 800 main doors every year. 8:30 p.m., ­depending on the order situation. But the company founder Matthias Metzdorf’s working day still starts at 7:30 a.m. on the dot And, to avoid misunderstandings: Various concepts for its refurbishment were considered for ten years and once the every morning. ­Matthias Metzdorf does not just provide final decision was reached two years were spent on the construction of the so-called guidance and advice. The master joiner still ­Hospitalhof Stuttgart. The building, which combined old and new in an extraordinary On 13 June this year he celebrated 93rd operates all the machinery, such as for the manner, was opened on 27 April 2014. Erich Schillinger GmbH delivered the timber birthday, but a retirement free of work is not prefabrication of windows, independently. ­windows in a range of individual shapes. likely to come into consideration for the oldest Incidentally, he often works in his polo shirt active master joiner in Germany. “This work or a cap with the Roto logo. Roto has been You can find an interesting book published on the internet at the Hospitalhof inauguration.It has secured the livelihood of me and my a partner of Schreinerei Metzdorf since the contains interesting facts on the idea of the building project and its realisation as well as on family for over half a century and I have taken formation of the company. the Hospitalhof’s history, starting from the middle of the 15th century: great pleasure in what I do here over that time. http://www.­hospitalhof.de/ueber-uns/architekturkonzept/. So, why would I stop?” the craftsman asks “If diamond master craftsman’s certificates himself and amazed visitors to the workshop. were issued by the trade guild, my father The monastery and almost all surrounding buildings were completely destroyed in the Second would have earned it”, his son Karl-Josef World War. The church choir was rebuilt, but the south wall of the nave remained in place 93 years young Metzdorf is rightly convinced. There was no as a ruin, monument and memorial. A Protestant Church administration and meeting centre A ripe old age in excellent shape – many wish badge of honour, but Christoph Wagner, Roto was built on the monastery’s foundation walls, for which from 2013 to 2014 an extraordi- for it, but only a select few can connect the regional sales employee, recently extended nary ­building ensemble was constructed based on the drafts created by architects Lederer idea with simply continuing in their profession- our heartfelt thanks with deep respect for the ­Ragnarsdóttir Oei, with a complex and layout reminiscent of the original medieval monastery. al life. But, perhaps the foundation for Matthias life’s work of Matthias Metzdorf. Roto created Metzdorf’s robust health and mental fitness a photobook especially for the proud crafts- lies precisely in the daily routine. He stays man, as a small memento. Naturally, Matthias absolutely true to his customs every day of Metzdorf only let a look through this personal the week: 7:30 a.m. start work, 10:00 a.m. gift briefly distract him from his work … a fifteen minute morning break with a daily

The main facades of the new Hospitalhof Stuttgart building were fitted with 290 Roto NT Designo Tilt&Turn windows. The timber-aluminium windows are made from oak. Sun screening is integrated into a capital form frame on the outside. A historic church wall with its medieval arched windows is directly connected to the new building and protects the attractive inner courtyard.

Probably the oldest active master craftsman in Germany: in 1952, in the small Moselle community of Neumagen-Dhron, Matthias There was no badge of honour, but Christoph Metzdorf founded a woodworking company that Wagner, Roto regional sales employee, recently has always manufactured windows, which have extended our heartfelt thanks with deep respect been equipped with Roto hardware from the for the life’s work of Matthias Metzdorf. Roto very start. He still works on all the machines, created a photobook especially for the proud just as every other team member. craftsman, as a small memento.

Thousands of people every year attend around 350 lectures, seminars, art exhibitions, concerts and pastoral discussion groups in the education centre. Erich Schillinger GmbH These circular windows provide exceptional ­manufactured a variety of window units, light reduction properties: two folding timber such as these triangular windows with shutters are fixed to a twisting rod in the rounded tops. centre of the window. Father and son: Matthias Metzdorf and Karl-Josef Metzdorf work together in the joint workshop every day.

6 | FENSTERBAU FRONTALE 2016 Stability unites – welcome to Roto!

■■ Event In 2016, some things will be business as usual at Roto and FENSTERBAU FRONTALE. partner. This will let them reach end customers are extremely excited about the Nuremberg ex- But much will also be new and inspirational, emphasizes Marketing Manager Udo Pauly in that have been mobilised by our campaign”, hibition, as we are looking forward to receiving discussion with Roto Inside. “Our customers appreciate the stability that Roto stands for. announces Udo Pauly, reporting on the excellent valuable feedback on our sector’s key issues”, We naturally also take this into account in Nuremberg”, he explains. At the same time, under response to the ‘Roto Quadro Safe’ campaign summarises the marketing manager. “For us, the motto ‘Stability unites’, Roto will show that every window fabricator can venture into that commenced at the start of 2015. FENSTERBAU FRONTALE 2016 will be the something new with Roto as their partner for progress towards a secure future, no matter starting point. The starting point for two further the projects to which they commit. “Our customers use Roto windows and doors to build all United on the path to new success years in which stable relationships and services kinds of buildings. This should show up at first glance in Nuremberg. In 2016, the Roto exhi- “Roto sales departments’ colleagues worldwide will pave the way for innovations.” bition stand will consist of a diverse ensemble of buildings with an urban character to reflect the Roto customers’ world”, says Udo Pauly on the exhibition stand concept at ­FENSTERBAU FRONTALE 2016.

Stability unites – innovations pave the way trends. “We are looking forward to holding for future success. But where is the market discussions with our customers”, he adds. heading and what is the hardware technology “Stability unites – this is the motto we have of tomorrow? Roto held intensive discussions chosen for the upcoming exhibition, because in 2014 on this topic with Nuremberg window it is the stable relationships with premium fabricators. A product idea presented at the window ­fabricators that form the basis for time, the Roto Patio Inowa hardware for air-tight ­innovative product developments.” sliding doors was subsequently introduced in projects worldwide. Whether aluminium, PVC United strength in marketing or timber window fabricators, this Roto innova- Since the last exhibition stable relationships tion is now in daily use and will be displayed at have also matured with the ‘Roto Quadro Safe’ ­FENSTERBAU FRONTALE 2016 in combination marketing offensive. The topics at FENSTERBAU with all profile materials. FRONTALE 2016 therefore will also include individual window fabricators’ noteworthy Joint innovation marketing measures. “In Nuremberg, we will “The Nuremberg concept study on the inno- show how customers have used our practical vation sought by extremely different window burglary protection windows campaign in order Roto hardware technology in windows for all kinds of buildings. The FENSTERBAU FRONTALE 2016 exhibition ­fabricators in equally different markets was to approach homeowners and builders. And, stand will reflect the Roto customers’ world in a diverse ensemble of buildings with an urban character. Product a fantastic experience”, says Udo Pauly and because the practical examples displayed by us developments, which window and door manufacturers developed together with Roto, will be on display under the emphasizes that the FENSTERBAU FRONTALE entice people to become active themselves, we exhibition motto ‘Stability unites’, together with outstanding practical examples of the work with ‘Roto Quadro 2016 ‘House of Ideas’ will once again contain are offering interested parties the opportunity to Safe’ campaign marketing tools. studies on the sector’s important development register at the exhibition as a ‘Roto Quadro Safe’

Ventex, Argentina European windows for a dynamic market

■■ PVC “We are marketing ourselves as an Argentinian window fabricator of high-quality PVC windows based on the Euro- distributors in the country. We expect that in the future Ventex pean model. And with great success.” Pablo Zaratiegui, who is positioning the Ventex company on this distinct foundation, will continue to distinguish itself thanks to our supply of the best manages a small, ultra-modern window factory on the outskirts of Buenos Aires together with his brothers Diego and Andrés. European product quality and an extraordinarily extensive product In 1993, together with their father they founded Metales La Plata SRL, which started producing PVC windows in 1998. The range in a variety of colours. The fantastic delivery performance company has maintained close contact with Roto since 2008. “This has since led to excellent cooperation in every respect provided by Ventex will ensure us sustainable success. We deliver and is also the reason why we now operate such an extensively automated and extremely modern ­production area”, says every window within six weeks, regardless of how unusual the ­Pablo Zaratiegui. design, regardless of colour, regardless of which Roto hardware and regardless of the location in Argentina.” Roto employees provided dedicated consulting support to Grupo expected to generate additional sales. “The demand for PVC win- MLP SRL, the successor company to Metales La Plata SRL, in dows is constantly rising in Argentina and, despite the fact that A new factory for even higher Ventex quality its efforts to structure the Ventex brand PVC window production. there are around 200 manufacturers in the country, the currently In 2016, or by 2017 at the latest, Grupo MLP SRL will construct a “Roto helped us combine the latest generation of German ma- existing demand cannot be met”, explains Pablo Zaratiegui, when second production area for Ventex brand windows about 20 kilo- chines in an efficient manufacturing process”, remembers Pablo asked about why the family of entrepreneurs is already preparing metres away from La Plata. It will cover an area of 7,000 square Zaratiegui. The result: with just thirteen employees in the man- for new, significant investments. metres, with an additional 5,000 square metres of outdoor space, ufacturing department, Grupo MLP SRL now produces 10,000 and provide a fantastic logistics connection to one of Argentina’s windows and balcony doors every year, of which about 60 per “At the moment, just over 5 percent of all windows sold are PVC most important transport corridors. “We believe in the dynamic cent are sliding windows and doors and 40 per cent are Turn-Only windows, but all experts agree that this share is certain to rise development of our company and the Argentina building indus- windows and balcony doors. to between 15 and 20 percent within ten years. As a result, we try”, stresses Pablo Zaratiegui. “That’s why we are investing now will be building a second machining centre in our factory, which and why everyone in the family is committed to the success of Rapid growth with a strong sales department will enable us to increase our capacities to 120 elements in eight Ventex. And if the Argentinian government can also find a way to The Ventex sales team itself handles sales in the La Plata region hours of operation. At the same time, the new machine will relax the extremely complicated import regulations for compo- and in the nearby metropolis of Buenos Aires. Three recently also place us in a position to produce Fold&Slide and Lift&Slide nents, which our industry urgently needs, then the signs for a founded sales offices in Buenos Aires, Neuquén and Mendoza doors based on the European model. This addition to our range stronger national economy are genuinely positive.” as well as a network of independent sales representatives are will make us a particularly attractive partner for planners and

Since 1998, the renamed Grupo MLP SLR produces PVC windows, which are sold under the Ventex brand Brothers Diego, Pablo and Andrés Zaratiegui (from the left) jointly manage a small, ultra-modern window factory in Argentina. on the outskirts of Buenos Aires. In 1993, together with their father they founded Metales La Plata SRL.

| 7 Roto Inside | 11.2015

Roto in Argentina Roto Object Business provides ­comprehensive service More than Tilt&Turn In tandem for a success- ■■ PVC Aluminium “At first, Roto was only considered to be a high-quality PVC Tilt&Turn window hardware manufac- turer in Argentina”, remembers Ariel Ferrari, Country Manager, in discussion with Roto Inside, “but we were gradually able ful ­order to convey the Group’s wide-ranging expertise, such as in the aluminium sector. This is also the reason behind Roto’s pleas- ing growth in Argentina as well as the growing interest in PVC windows.” ■■ Aluminium It has been almost two years since the new, internationally operating team of specialists was established Roto hardware technology has been sold in Argentina since ­companies who can provide high-quality construction knowl- at Roto. ‘Roto Object Business’ is the title used to describe 2007. As one of only a few companies, Roto was able not only to edge and components and are willing to invest in Argentina. the activities of those responsible for planning and develop- remain in the country, but also to grow significantly, despite the At the same time, our country’s legislators also have to increase ment of hardware configurations, which make aluminium high number of import hurdles imposed by Argentinian regu- awareness of environmentally sensitive and energy-conscious windows the perfect solution for virtually every building pro- lations. Ariel Ferrari, who has been responsible for the market construction. This in turn will have a positive impact on the ject. Roto Inside talked to sales manager Stefano Gianfreda since 2009, now has a team of ten colleagues. “I first came into demand for modern windows.” on how aluminium window fabricators benefit from cooper- contact with Roto in 2007 and have to admit that I was imme- ating with him and his colleagues in Roto Object Business. diately excited about the company and its philosophy”, sums up the 40-year-old businessman. “Then, when I received the Roto Inside: Mr Gianfreda, which target group does the Roto offer in March 2008 to help establish a sales company for Roto Object Business specifically target? in Mexico, I took the opportunity. Since then, I have been able to further develop myself enormously within the Group, both Stefano Gianfreda: We provide consultation for aluminium sys- professionally and personally.” tem providers as well as architects, specialist planners, general contractors and metal workers throughout the world. The aim is Cementing partnerships to support the planning and construction of windows and balcony According to Ferrari, 2016 will be a year of business consolida- doors so that they add maximum value for builders and subse- tion in Argentina: “We have grown dramatically in the past few quent building users. The Roto Object Business team therefore years and we want to stabilise and qualitatively develop our first identifies the specific requirements and develops impressive business relationships, some of which are still young. We see standard or even special solutions for the ideal hardware. ourselves as long-term partners to Argentinian window fabri- cators and will certainly not be withdrawing from the market. Roto Inside: What services does Roto Object Roto Argentina sees itself as a local company committed to the Business provide? country in good as well as in difficult times; a philosophy that is expressly supported and promoted likewise by the German Stefano Gianfreda: Besides technical consulting and the drafting parent company.” of solutions, we also build and test prototypes. This often ends with a certified project solution for which Roto also offers individu- According to Ferrari, every window fabricator in Argentina sees al warranty extensions. Furthermore, during hardware installation, perfectly customised services as a particular strength of the we also support metal workers with completion of the design Roto Group: “Depending on a manufacturer’s size and its needs, elements with standard or special hardware solutions, which we always provide precisely the support that a window fabri- can then be inspected by the client. We often also supervise cator needs for positive company development. Regardless of the production and installation of windows. And we can prepare whether this involves product development or the establishment ­project-specific documentation for our partners if required. of a machining centre, our organisation has specialists available for all activities.” Roto Inside: Do contracting companies recommend you?

Stimulus for new approaches Stefano Gianfreda: Window fabricators generally approach us In future, Ariel Ferrari wants to systematically develop his independently, because they are looking to pitch for a special customers’ knowledge of different opening types of windows. ­window and a Roto hardware solution contract. We essentially “Initially, Roto was primarily considered to be a high-quality work in tandem together with many renowned aluminium window Tilt&Turn hardware manufacturer in Argentina. Now an increas- fabricators worldwide, in order to develop optimal windows and ing number of customers are also interested in our Lift&Slide balcony doors with metal workers. And, because there’s nothing hardware. In the future, we want to have an even greater focus more convincing than a first-class solution, after monitoring, we on sharing the Roto Group’s extensive knowledge of different use precisely this form of practical consulting and close project opening types, profiles and production modes with window supervision to help window fabricators compete successfully. fabricators and system vendors. This is the foundation for joint product developments that allow a market to develop. It will Roto Inside: How many projects has Roto Object Business be to the benefit of our customers as well as for the sake of been involved in? ­architecture and housing culture.” The Ventex brand Tilt&Turn windows and Lift&Slide doors with Roto hardware can be found in the ‘Pampa Building’ in Palermo, Buenos Stefano Gianfreda: Since Roto Object Business was established However, Argentina’s legislative role must not be underesti- Aires. The forty spacious apartments are expected to be completed by about two years ago, worldwide we have supported over 100 mated in dynamic window market development, says Ariel the end of the year. projects from planning through to completion. Incidentally, during Ferrari. “We need Argentina to be much more open to foreign the cooperation with metal workers we individually adapt the flow of materials and goods to the respective project requirements. Once window production starts, we provide local support for the first production steps. The 50 residential unit ‘Azure Towers’ complex is also expected to have its building operations completed by the end of this year. Grupo MLP SRL delivered Ventex brand Tilt&Turn windows and Lift&Slide doors with Roto hardware for this impressive building in Punta del Este, Uruguay.

Stefano Gianfreda, Roto Object Business Sales ­Manager, has been part of the Roto specialist team that has supported aluminium window fab- The new El Calafate Hospital was built in the Argentinian province of Santa Cruz. Grupo MLP SRL delivered Ventex Tilt&Turn windows equipped ricators since 2007. He and his colleagues can be reached via the email with Roto NT. ­address [email protected].

8 | FenêtréA, France Automate, qualify, communicate

■■ PVC Aluminium The French window and door manufacturer FenêtréA, with its systems production workshop in 2014, increas- as it literally solely depends on the natural force headquarters in Beignon, near Rennes in north-western France, is now one of the coun- ing capacities to about 50,000 units per year. of the wind. The trimaran in the ‘Multi 50’ class, try’s market-leading­ window fabricators. A consistent growth strategy over more than two This indicates one of the critical factors for the which stands for a hull length of 50 feet, has decades has turned the company into one of the largest and most reliable providers. Roto success of FenêtréA according to ­Dominique already participated in numerous renowned Inside met with Dominique Lamballe the Board of Directors Chairman, who has controlled Lamballe: “In the past few years we have events, such as the ‘Trophée des villes’, a regat- the fate of FenêtréA since 2006. consistently worked on increasing the produc- ta from Gran Canaria to ­Saint-Quay-Portrieux. In tion department’s level of automation. Together 2014 we even managed to win and celebrate a The roots of FenêtréA go back to 1993. At the “They are all united by their expectations of with sustainable employee development and new speed record on the ‘Route du Rhum’, a time, Roland Desnoyer founded FMPB, initial- ­first-class PVC and aluminium systems in con- qualification, we have established the basis for famous solo transatlantic regatta. And we can ly a regional window and door manufacturer. sistently high quality, whether on a small scale the consistently high quality so appreciated by naturally also on every occasion use our involve- In 2006, the married couple Dominique and for a single-family house or as part of an exten- our customers.” ment in sailing to establish customer contacts Christelle Lamballe took over the company, sive order for a large commercial project.” and build customer loyalty. We regularly invite while the name change to FenêtréA, renowned Environmentally friendly our partners to certain events and for a day on now amongst French craftsmen, took place High automation level guarantees Operations had to be sustainable, according to our boat”, says Dominique Lamballe. two years later. “We have come through a huge high quality the entrepreneur, and the focus had to be on development process. In its first year 1993, In order to be able to supply all building projects, the long-term, for the in-house workforce as FenêtréA has been ‘sailing’ together with Roto FMPB employed eighteen staff members. About regardless of size, FenêtréA has invested equally well as for external organisations supported by in everyday production since 2006. According to 340 employees in total now work at FenêtréA, in flexibility as well as production capacity over FenêtréA. For example, FMPB, now FenêtréA, Dominique Lamballe, the Roto NT range, in par- of which 280 are employed in manufacturing the past few years. For example, in 2010, the have been supporting sailing in France for almost ticular, supports manufacturing automation. “The and customer service. We organised the sales PVC windows and doors production lines were twenty years, and with its own so-called trima- hardware technology is easy to integrate into department as an integrated team of highly consolidated in a modern production hall. It can ran since 2007. It participates in various regattas our manufacturing process, provides maximum qualified sales representatives and technicians”, now manufacture up to 220,000 window units and competitions, financed by FenêtréA and flexibility and guarantees precisely the quality explains Dominique Lamballe. every year. This was followed by the expansion another Breton company as a co-sponsor. “Sail- that we want to offer our customers. That’s why and complete reorganisation of the aluminium ing is surely one of the most sustainable sports, Roto is the perfect ‘sailing partner’ for us.” This sales team has ensured that FenêtréA now operates throughout France and on the Mediter- ranean island of Corsica. France will remain the company’s core market in the future, contin- ues Dominique Lamballe, although they have ­recently been working on expanding customer relationships in the border regions of Belgium, Luxembourg and Switzerland. Dominique Lamballe exclusively targets professionals as ­domestic and international customers: crafts- men, window fabricators, aluminium facade manufacturers and other building specialists.

FenêtréA in Beignon, near Rennes in north-­ western France, produces about 220,000 PVC windows and doors as well as 50,000 aluminium windows and doors every year. Modern, process-optimised and highly automated manufacturing processes form the foundation for by FenêtréA’s consistent high quality, which is appreciated by specialists.

FenêtréA has been using Roto hardware techno­logy since 2006. According to the owner ­Dominique Lamballe, Roto NT supports manu- facturing automation and is a perfect match for FenêtréA currently employs around 340 staff and is an important employer in Brittany, France. FenêtréA’s development strategy.

| 9 Roto Inside | 11.2015

My Window, Oman Wisdom from experience

■■ PVC “It is now ten years since we installed PVC windows in one of our family’s homes for longer keep up with the annual growth rates, father Sulaiman al Fahdi, who has invested in the first time”, recalls Ahmed al Fahdi, General Manager of Almakassab Altyib, the company explains ­Sulaiman al Fahdi in his interview business start-ups for many years, to secure his which his father founded in 2005. “We purchased these windows from Dubai back then and with Roto Inside. The company’s turnover has large family’s future. “Property and land value, were so impressed that we contemplated building our own PVC window factory. We were increased ­almost tenfold since it was found- but also real estate value is constantly rising, convinced of the PVC window product’s success but we still gathered very precise information ed. “This is also certainly due to the fact that which ensures continued demand for companies beforehand and chose our suppliers carefully.” we have ­employees who have been with us in the building industry.” for many years, some even since the com- Roto was among the group of suppliers from PVC windows were really durable enough for a pany was ­founded”, states Ahmed al Fahdi Good reasons for optimistic planning the outset. The Almakassab Altyib company public sector property. “We were able to make confidently. “We want to further expand our Ahmed al Fahdi nods. He also considers the and the ‘My Window’ brand have been supplied it clear at this meeting that our windows are vir- success ­together with them and our part- Sultan’s stability-orientated policy to be trend-­ directly from Leinfelden and supported by the tually maintenance-free and totally durable, but ners in the ­industry. This also justifies the setting. “There is a lot of building activity in export team for six years. “The good working also that we can handle a project of this mag- recent investment.” Oman because prosperity is rising continuously ­relationship has improved even further since nitude with our partners because, for example, thanks to a far-sighted national policy”, confirms then”, Ahmed al Fahdi is pleased to report, we have a quick and secure exchange of data”, Overall, the Sultanate of Oman offers a good Ahmed al Fahdi with delight. “Major events, ­“because our Leinfelden contact partners reg- says Ahmed al Fahdi with satisfaction and adds: environment for real entrepreneurship, adds his such as a football World Cup in Qatar, also ularly join us here, answer technical questions “Of course, we are happy to inform people but I and even plan joint marketing measures.” fear that we will soon have to deal with a wors- ening attitude towards PVC windows if more However, marketing in Oman is not in demand and more customers are irritated by the cheap due to the fact that the demand for PVC win- products.” The reason for this trend towards dows is too low, but rather in order to secure the cheaper components is the tough competition market in the long term. Ahmed al Fahdi is con- among the ever increasing number of providers. cerned: “Unfortunately, too many providers in Oman now sell windows with cheap profiles or With a 35 per cent share of the total PVC hardware and, naturally, regular customers are window market, Oman is regarded as the Gulf unable to see that these are unsuitable for use region’s most developed PVC windows market. in our country with its extremely high outdoor Eberhard Mammel, Head of Export at Roto, and air-conditioned indoor temperatures. Our recalls how the development began more partner Rehau extrudes profiles with specific ad- than ten years ago: “Initially, predominantly ditives for the region so that the window profiles ­Turkish component manufacturers’ sales offices do not fade or become deformed after they are delivered to Oman. However, when demand installed. Roto supplies hardware with a Roto Sil grew rapidly, some manufacturers like Rehau Nano surface, which withstands saline air and and Roto decided to invest in providing direct sand significantly longer than any other surface. support to their partners in the Sultanate – with This type of component provides a unique basis resounding success we can now say, because for us to build PVC windows, which justify the it allowed ‘My Window’ to receive support that trust our customers place in us.” formed the basis for a quality brand.”

Explanation and information A new factory for an experienced team Together with Rehau and Roto corporate repre- Despite concerns about PVC windows’ image, sentatives, Ahmed al Fahdi also explained these the al Fahdi family decided to build a new issues to a Ministry of Defence delegation and PVC window factory on a recently acquired to a number of government representatives in 8,000 square metre site. The ‘My Window’ June 2015, who, in relation to a new housing brand awareness level is steadily increasing project, were dealing with the issue of whether and the current location’s production can no

Khalid Alharshi flies passenger aircraft to major European cities for Oman Air. He got to know about different windows and opening types whilst over there. When he began building a new house for himself and his young family in 2014, he looked for a manufacturer Builder Khalid Alharshi is satisfied: “I can’t tell you how excited I was when I found ‘My Window’ and got exactly who could build him ‘German’ windows and a folding what I had hoped for at reasonable prices. I had previously considered importing windows from Europe. But that system for the living area. would have cost me a fortune.”

Sulaiman al Fahdi (left in picture) founded a PVC window factory in Oman in 2005 after he himself realised its impact on living conditions. His son Ahmed (right in picture) also joined him in the business. He quickly grew into Energy-efficient houses with durable construction could also be built in Oman in the near future. Dipl.-Eng. the responsibility. Ahmed’s secret passion is travel. “I would like to see 50 countries in the world in this lifetime. Nikolaus Knebel (right in picture), in Oman since 2010, as an Architecture and Urban Development Professor at the I have already travelled to 36”, confirms the father of three. He particularly enjoyed his trips to China and the USA. Muscat GUtech, heads up a project for which students and graduates built a low energy house. The GUtech is a Among the major European cities, London, was the one in particular that appealed to him. collaborative effort between the Sultanate of Oman and RWTH Aachen University.

10 | Sunview Patio Doors, Canada Toronto is booming, the building business is ‘buzzing’ promote interest in the region, which should ■■ PVC Aluminium Toronto, the magical city in Eastern Canada, has increasingly become a in demand, continues Tony Margiotta. Sunview already be pleased with the growing tourist ‘boom town’ in recent years, a truly prospering metropolis that is attracting people in increas- relies on Roto Fasco products and systems, numbers. We therefore believe that good ing numbers. The result: Many companies in the Canadian building industry, such as Sunview especially the ‘9700 series door handle’, which PVC windows have a future if we succeed in Patio Doors, can look forward to exciting projects and jobs. Innovative, high-quality products can be found in all three of the manufacturer’s adequately raising people’s awareness.” are now in demand. door lines. “Our long-term partnership with Roto Fasco is extremely important to us”, explains Incidentally, the World Cup is also of interest “If you drive through ‘Downtown’ Toronto today, out to one of the building sites”, reports Sunview Tony Margiotta. “Alongside the hardware, han- to the widely travelled family man for another you will see a truly astonishing number of new Patio Doors General Manager Tony Margiotta. dles and accessories’ quality, the Roto Fasco reason: In his spare time, Ahmed al Fahdi buildings on your left, your right, and above “We have benefited from the good economic service particularly impresses us. The relation- is an international football commentator at you”, explains Roto North and Central America situation in Toronto and throughout Ontario, but ship between our two companies enables truly a radio station. He is regarded as a talented ­Business Manager and Roto Fasco President we would not currently be in the position that successful collaboration.” sports expert, sponsors a national football and CEO Chris Dimou, whose jobs regularly we are in if we did not also continuously invest. team and is already looking forward to the take him to Ontario and the Toronto metropol- Highly qualified employees, high performance For example, Fasco sales representative personal challenges that he too will face with itan area. “A lot of owner-occupied properties cutting and punching machines and a fully Domenic Amendola has been working with the World Cup in Qatar. are currently being developed into some truly automated insulating glass line – these are the Sunview Patio Doors for 35 years. “Over the breathtaking buildings.” secrets of our success. And of course being decades, he has become part of the Sunview part of a fully customer-oriented yet technology-­ family”, emphasises Tony Margiotta. “He visits Demand for quality continues to grow driven company group, the Vision Group.” our manufacturing facilities for virtually every A company that has developed and produced new major project development or adaptation, balcony doors for many of these apartments is Two valued supporters: Vision Group and and ensures that Roto Fasco products meet the Sunview Patio Doors. In its large Woodbridge Roto Fasco requirements.” Sunview Patio Doors’ growth in production plant, on the outskirts of Toronto, According to Tony Margiotta, the Vision Group recent years is also supported by Roto’s Kanban Sunview Patio Doors manufactures aluminium comprises only building industry companies that logistics system in North America. “Thanks to and PVC balcony doors with unrivalled quality, are considered to be Canada’s leaders in their automatic restocking, we work with very little convenience and, in particular, energy efficiency. sector. The Vision Group’s fortunes are direct- of our own storage capacity, but can still access For example the ‘Sunview 2900’ series was just ed by Vic de Zen, one of Canada’s best known the full Roto colour palette or safety range. We recently distinguished as the first, and to date entrepreneurs and also Chairman of the Sunview are proud of both our balcony doors’ quality and only, Canadian balcony door to receive the ‘Zone Patio Doors Board of Directors. The advanced our quick response and delivery capacity. Roto 2 Energy Star’ rating. And demand is rising. profile extrusion processes and facilities now Fasco plays a key role in both of these aspects”, “We manufacture more or less ‘just-in-time’ also allow Sunview Patio Doors to deliver says Tony Margiotta. here. As soon as a product is complete, it goes consistent premium quality for the volumes

Tony Margiotta (left), Sunview Patio Doors General Architects and builders in Oman love design- Manager, and Vic de Zen, the Vision Group owner ing window shapes and tinted glass. Builder and Chairman of the Sunview Patio Doors Board Ali Aldugashi (left in picture) is looking forward of Directors, value the more than 35 years of to moving into his new home. ­collaboration with Roto Fasco.

This two-part ensemble with almost 350 housing The 42-storey RCMI skyscraper accommodates units in total has been erected in Toronto’s historic 315 owner-occupied premium segment apart- Corktown District. Each of the two buildings has ments, and is a good example of newly created its own lobby and the two buildings are connected ­living space in the heart of Toronto. With its dy- by a three-storey high glass bridge (on the left of namic facade design, the tower fits harmoniously the picture). into ‘Downtown’ Toronto.

Roto Fasco Canada and Roto Frank of America Canadian fenestration industry partners

The Fasco company’s founding in Missis- Roto Frank of America Ltd, founded in 1979, sauga, Ontario, dates back to 1956. In 2012, is domiciled in Connecticut and delivers Roto AG acquired it and consolidated it with an extensive range of products, including Roto Frank of America. Since then its name X-DRIVE™ sashes and roller shutter hard- Prospering metropolis: Like virtually no other big has been changed to Roto Fasco Canada and ware, the Roto NT range, TITAN hardware for Canadian city, these days Toronto draws peo- it handles the production of turn-only balcony sliding doors as well as hardware from the The GUtech low energy house was built ple from all over the world. New ‘Downtown’ door and sliding door hardware and handles Roto Patio Life range, the comfort hardware exclusively from products and materials residential properties are highly sought-after. As a as well as zinc die-casting components for a for large sliding doors. manufactured in Oman, such as ‘My Window’ result of this, and the currently low construction range of industries. Roto Fasco Canada hard- windows. Fitted with Roto hardware technol- loan and mortgage interest rates, Toronto has ware can be found in many Canadian and ogy, these windows provide energy-saving quickly become one of the world’s ‘hottest’ real North American residential building windows ventilation and cooling. estate markets. and doors.

| 11 Roto Inside | 11.2015

VEKA Plastics Shanghai, China New to the market with highly insulating sliding doors Imprint

■■ PVC Renowned PVC profile providers have been active in South Asia and China for many In particular, in the Korean market, there has Publisher years in order to introduce the benefits of their product range to builders and window fabri- been increased demand for a triple glazed sliding Roto Frank AG cators in a market that traditionally favours aluminium windows. And with growing success, door system, which is highly insulating and can Wilhelm-Frank-Platz 1 as PVC windows with good insulating properties, based on the European model, are now in be used in multi-storey buildings. “We were D-70771 Leinfelden-Echterdingen demand, at least in residential construction. VEKA Plastics in Shanghai worked together with able to develop the ideal solution by using Roto Roto to develop a new system of highly insulating sliding doors, which eliminate what has Patio Inowa, with its five locking points, and the Editorial board been a shortcoming in the past. “We are convinced that this innovation will boost the region’s ISS 190 profile, which enables the installation Ingrid Lenz, image of PVC windows and offer our customers an extremely promising system”, asserts Kay of a complete circumferential gasket”, says Kay Udo Pauly Puppe, Managing Director VEKA Plastics Co. Ltd., in discussion with Roto Inside. Puppe, pleased. ”We believe that the overall interest in sliding doors will increase enormously Editorial office VEKA profiles have been produced in China 65 million ­residential units are waiting to be because we have eliminated the major weak- Comm´n Sense GmbH since 1994. As a result, the company is one sold, even though only about 8 to 10 million ness of the old systems, the lack of insulation, Lensbachstraße 10 of the region’s most market-savvy and experi- additional apartments are required every year. by using Roto Patio Inowa.” D-52159 Roetgen enced system vendors. “We operate in almost ­Circumstances that residents in European cities Telephone: +49 (0)2471 9212865 all ­countries in South East Asia as well as in can only dream of …” Marketing support and short delivery times Telefax: +49 (0)2471 9212867 the Asia-Pacific region, in parts of India and in In future, VEKA and Roto jointly want to also [email protected] China. And other windows and different opening Energy efficiency in demand for renovations help system fabricators market their new sliding types with single, double and triple glazing are Interesting stimulus for the region’s building doors. “We will ensure that attractive advertis- Design and production in demand in almost every country”, reports Kay industry is currently coming from Korea, says ing instruments are available, as is appropriate avency GmbH Puppe and adds: “Even within China, different Kay Puppe. “A great deal of refurbishments as for such an interesting innovation”, promises Kiebitzpohl 77 systems are preferred depending on the region. well as demolitions and new builds are in pro- Kay Puppe. “We and our customers have an D-48291 Telgte This means that VEKA Shanghai and VEKA gress here. The energy efficiency of the building absolutely unique position in the market with Telephone: +49 (0)2504 888-0 ­Singapore essentially require and produce all shell is also starting to play an important role.” the Roto Patio Inowa system. We must take Telefax: +49 (0)2504 888-199 of the group’s globally relevant profiles. Our VEKA has become aware of a growing number advantage of this opportunity, and we will also [email protected] profiles are used to manufacture between of ­window fabricators looking to get established make sure that we do. The high VEKA and Roto roughly 800,000 and a million square metres of on the market with high and certified quality. supply readiness in the region provides the Printers windows in the region every year.” “This is good for VEKA, because we do not sell ideal foundation.” Griebsch & Rochol Druck profiles by the ton, but rather a system in whose GmbH & Co. KG Success in residential construction with the correct fabrication we provide extensive training Gabelsbergerstraße 1 Roto Patio Inowa system for our partners and their employees.” D-59069 Hamm The innovation developed with Roto was met Telephone: +49 (0)2385 931-0 with a lot of interest, as shown by a market test [email protected] in Korea. “Window fabricators can use our VEKA ISS 190 profile, which was perfectly aligned to The new VEKA ISS 190 profile with Euro-groove Total print run Roto Patio Inowa, to build extremely high-quality can incorporate triple glazing up to a thickness of 12,500 copies solutions at an attractive price.” It is the first 52 mm. An independent institute confirmed that a time that a highly insulating triple glazing up to a sliding door with this profile and Roto Patio Inowa thickness of 52 mm can be used in a PVC sliding achieves a Uw value of 1.1. “With a bit of fine-tun- door. “We have already received test results ing, I am sure that we will even be able to reach from an independent institute, which indicate a Uw value of 1.0”, says Kay Puppe, pleased. VEKA that this sliding door achieves a Uw value of 1.1. customers will soon be able to offer a sliding door With a bit of fine-tuning, I am sure that we will with the best insulation values currently available be able to reach a Uw value of 1.0”, says Kay in the Asian market. Puppe, pleased, and adds: “Our customers will soon be able to offer a sliding door with the best insulation values currently available in the Asian market.” The innovative product is also the ideal solution for apartments in multi-storey high rises for another reason: “High resistance to wind and Kay Puppe, Managing Director VEKA Plastics rain, even in the event of a typhoon; the markets (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., (right in picture) is confident of in South Asia and China have been waiting for a the of the innovative system’s success: “Together product like this.” with Roto we as a sole provider offer a system which window fabricators can use to produce Better quality sells better highly insulating sliding doors for high and very In China, in particular, building quality is playing high buildings. In view of this unique position and an increasing role for the successful market- the high VEKA and Roto supply readiness in the re- ing of real estate in light of a huge vacancy gion, we will use professional marketing to ensure rate, especially in residential units, reports that we write a new success story for ourselves Kay Puppe. “In many cities, anyone looking to Impress customers with the highly insulating Roto Patio Inowa sliding door system: The Hajum window factory and our customers.” Left in picture: Béchér Jelajla, buy an apartment in China is spoilt for choice team intends to seize its opportunity and is banking on partnership with VEKA and Roto. Project Manager at Roto Frank AG. and can pay ­attention to quality. Currently,

Roto Patio Inowa For highly insulating sliding doors

The fully concealed Roto Patio Inowa hardware stands for simple and safe ­operation. The sashes can be moved extremely easily thanks to their fully roller-mounted construction method. “The striker movement transverse to the frame profile enables a circumferen- tial gasket system, which significantly

improves the Uw value for the overall system and still allows sliding doors to be installed even in exposed positions and heights. Roto Patio Inowa passed the ‘Typhoon test’ and provides optimal protection against draught, noise and The market test with selected window fabricators, such as at Yungki, near Seoul, also clearly showed that this system allows VEKA customers to produce extremely safe and energy loss. efficient sliding doors at an attractive price.

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