For much of the last decade, the window and door industry in the UK felt like a real success story.  Volumes were up and profits were being made.  We responded well to the changing demands in the market for windows and doors which were ever more secure and, of course, energy efficient.

But, having faced the worst recession in a generation, the picture now looks quite different.  It is true that the majority of businesses have dug deep and somehow survived the onslaught but it has certainly exposed many of this industry’s shortcomings.

I would argue that, when things were going well, we were all guilty of not making the necessary investments in moving towards world class manufacturing or service, we  focused too little effort on attracting new young talent, and the ongoing pressure on prices meant that too many businesses found themselves in an unsustainable position.

I hope as we finally move towards the recovery, we can all learn the lessons of this recession and that the industry which emerges will be leaner, will aim higher and will be more willing to embrace 21st century standards of service and performance.

Richard Gyde
Managing Director
Mila Hardware