As the aluminium window makes a comeback, a Newport company is aiming to make the most of the trend.
Fentrade Limited manufactures and supplies aluminium windows, doors and commercial shopfronts from its base in Maesglas Industrial Estate, and Director Chris Reeks is confident the move to aluminium is here to stay.
“More and more people are having aluminium windows, inline patio doors and bi-fold doors in their homes and demand is increasing hugely,” said Chris.
This resurgence was partly due, he said, to the unlimited range of colours now available for the products, as well as strength and durability.
“An increasing number of architects are specifying aluminium products these days and there seems to be a move away from Upvc. People are drawn to the modern and stylish appearance of aluminium and the fact that they offer high levels of security,” he added.
Chris and the management team have many years’ experience in the window trade. The firm sells its products to retailers and commercial installers across Wales and the West, and currently employs six people. The short term plans for the next three years include increasing the workforce to 12, taking on apprentices and moving to larger premises.
Fentrade has benefited from a £1500 Business Support Grant funded by Tata Steel subsidiary UKSE and administered by Newport City Council, which the company used to buy essential equipment.
Martin Palmer of UKSE said he was pleased to support an ambitious company such as Fentrade. “It is good to see that Fentrade is aiming to create local jobs and foster skills through apprenticeships. The fact that Fentrade is manufacturing its own products is good, too, for the local economy.
“We are keen to encourage firms such as this, where an experienced management is looking to grow the business.”
Councillor Jane Mudd added: “This is another great Newport success story and I’m pleased that the council has been able to support it with financial assistance from UKSE.”.