Roto Inside

Roto Inside | 11.2015
Issue No. 31
Roto Window and Door Technology Partner and Employee Information
■■ Timber
■■ Event
■■ Aluminium
■■ PVC
Erich Schillinger, G
­ ermany:
Burglary protection with
Roto NT Designo
FENSTERBAU
FRONTALE 2016:
Stability unites –
­welcome to Roto!
Roto Object Business:
In tandem for a
successful order
VEKA Plastics:
New to the market
with highly insulating
sliding doors
Page 4
Page 7
Page 8
Page 12
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
of March she had received a personal letter on the forthcoming award from Prof. Dr
Peter Zec, Red Dot Awards Initiator and CEO.
“Red Dot is by far the world’s most famous
design competition and is also considered
extremely prestigious in Spain. The fact that we
have won an award is a very special recognition and confirmation that our development of
the ‘WECO 2C’ is an ­important contribution
to the ­traditional ­timber-aluminium window’s
further development.”
One of thousands
Francesc Gimeno, Roto Managing Director
Southern Europe, who together with his team
developed special ‘WECO 2C’ window hardware and also participated in the Essen award
ceremony, was just as excited. “Just to give you
a sense of this award’s importance and international reputation: this year, just under 5,000
products from 56 countries were submitted for
the competition. This included design ideas from
brands as famous as Apple, Samsung or Audi. I
am pleased for WECO and naturally also for our
Montmeló developers’ team. Perhaps we will
even be able to repeat this success with one of
our next jointly implemented product ideas.”
The evening award ceremony’s festive supporting programme even matched the prize
winners’ good mood: the red carpet led to the
official award ceremony in Essen’s famous Aalto
Theatre, where around 1,200 guests cheered
the Red Dot Award winners. This was followed
by a colourful ‘Designers’ Night’ in the Red Dot
Design Museum, where night turned to day.
Excited by the ‘WECO 2C’ window’s Red Dot Design Award: (from left) Francesc Gimeno, Iciar de las Casas, one
of the two founders of WECO Windows, and Antonio Dominguez, Roto Sales Manager responsible for Spain and
Portugal. Photo: © Red Dot
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
product design are one of the world’s most famous design
awards. Once a year, an international jury of specialists
votes on outstanding product designs in a total of 31
­competitive ­categories.
At the end of January 2015, a preassembled ‘WECO 2C’ window was transported from Madrid to Mülheim an der Ruhr in
order to be assessed by around forty judges.
WECO Windows, based in Majadahonda, north-west of Madrid,
is supported by an entire group of experienced architects. The
two founders Iciar de las Casas and Rosario Chao knew each
other from numerous international projects. “We ­designed
single- and multi-family houses as well as public educational
and cultural ­facilities, among other things. Over time, we established our own studio, which then led to the formation of
WECO ­Windows”, says Iciar de las Casas. You can find more
­information on the Red Dot Award at www.red-dot.de.
The two founders of WECO Windows: (from left) Rosario Chao and
Iciar de las Casas
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Roto Inside | 11.2015
In demand
A discussion with Dr. Eckhard Keill,
Chairman of the Board of Directors at
lose than others … But, given that Roto Frank AG companies and
business divisions are continuing to grow in other parts of the
world, the losses in Russia were able to be partially offset.
Roto Frank AG
Roto Inside: In what circumstances would Roto actually
­withdraw from a market?
That is why we are also on a successful path in countries such
as ­Argentina, from which others have quickly withdrawn. Roto
­respects the circumstances and customs in all regions of the
world and we do not find it unreasonable if we have to adapt here
and operate according to the rules of the market.
Roto Inside: German made tolerance?
Roto Inside: You recently had to publish some fairly poor
­numbers after years of continuously pleasing business
­developments. When do you believe the Roto board of
­directors will be able to once again inject optimism?
Dr Keill: We have not lost our optimism, we at Roto are realists.
It was clear that economic issues in a market as large as Russia
would also impact our sales. Accordingly, Roto ensured that its
operations were cost-effective and still managed to record an
acceptable result. At the same time, our employees in Russia
helped their customers to compete successfully in a difficult
­environment, which is a remarkable accomplishment.
Roto Inside: But the fall in sales in Russia still had a significant
impact on Roto’s overall result …
Dr Keill: That is not surprising, given the market position that
Roto has since achieved in Russia. Market leaders have more to
Dr Keill: I cannot imagine such circumstances. A number of
things occur and tests are performed before Roto enters a
country. If we establish our own national company, we do this
because we have decided that we do not want to exit a market,
or a country, in the future. Roto always reaches decisions and
makes investments with a very long-term perspective. Our capital
consists of exceptionally long-lasting relationships with window
fabricators, who do not simply enter or exit a market from one
day to the next. Window fabricators and door manufacturers need
reliable partners who do not simply disappear when conditions
take a turn for the worse.
Dr Keill: German made tolerance and thoroughness if you like.
Yes, respect for different opinions and work methods is one of the
foundations of Roto’s identity, just as the willingness to diligently
prepare for entry into a new market. But the most important thing
for our customers is that we do not buckle. Not if a market suffers
a downturn and not if we have to help them push through difficult
periods. Once Roto, always Roto – we effectively see ourselves
as a legal immigrant in countries in which we operate. And as a
legal immigrant, we follow the laws in our new homeland.
Roto Inside: Your personal forecast for the Russian market?
Roto Inside: Does this also apply for political headwinds?
Dr Keill: To be honest, to date, no government has had
­anything against Roto delivering to a country. But there are
­naturally ­markets, such as in South America, where ­importing
­requires administrative effort and customs fees due to the statutory conditions. In these cases, I get the impression that Roto
can be slower to frustrate and more committed than others.
Dr Keill: I think that the bottom has been reached. Russia’s strong
companies will continue to be successful and significantly reduce
the country’s dependency on the oil price in the long-term. In any
event, Roto Russia will make a contribution and support a return
to stability on the European continent.
Roto NT Designo
Further development at a high level
■■ New at Roto Roto broke new ground
with the introduction of the Roto NT Designo
hardware system in 2006. All system components are completely concealed in the
­window rebate. Since then, there have been
no limits to the realisation of the aesthetically demanding profile views with fully
concealed hardware. The second, improved
generation of the Roto NT Designo turn-only/
Turn&Tilt hardware system has since been
­released, which offers benefits in window
and balcony door production as well as in
their assembly at the building site.
“Roto was the first provider of a fully concealed hardware system and our experience
is also ­second-to-none”, states Thomas Steiert,
Head of Research & Development of Window
and Door Technology at Roto in Leinfelden.
The improvements in the new generation of the range is also of great benefit for
window fabricators.
The Roto NT Designo’s new generation performance values shine in its established strengths:
Sash weights of up to 150 kg can be supported,
and sash heights of up to 2,600 mm and large
opening angles of 100º can be implemented
without any problems. “For one thing, window
fabricators’ assembly has been simplified:
While pin holes previously had to be drilled in
the profiles, this operation step is no longer required for the new Roto NT Designo generation.
The on-site window installation is also much
easier, as the sashes can be inserted in just a
few steps. Together with the convenient 3D stay
arm, corner hinge and pivot rest adjustments,
the result is an extremely easy-to-install and safe
system”, says Thomas Steiert. Roto NT Designo
is already available for delivery for more than
ninety PVC and timber profiles. “The profile portfolio, which can be fitted with Roto NT Designo,
will continue to grow in the coming months.
Our development team is continuously working
on the relevant modifications.”
“All the potentials that we identified during the continuous development of the
Roto NT Designo range can now be optimally utilised with the new hardware generation”, Thomas Steiert, Head of Research & Development of Window and Door
Technology at Roto, is convinced.
Highly flexible platform strategy
According to Thomas Steiert, the wide range of
hardware innovation applications is particularly
made possible by the fact that Roto consistently
pursues its platform strategy. “Our goal was and
is to keep the individual parts’ variation as low as
possible. Roto NT Designo customisation only
takes place at the very end of the value creation
process, effectively during window and balcony
door installation. This provides two benefits for
us as a hardware manufacturer: We can respond
much more quickly to customer requirements
and wishes and we can deliver smaller lot sizes.”
The new Roto NT Designo generation is good
news for all Roto partners: Window fabricators
who already produce using concealed hardware
can now use the new hardware without any
conversion. The new Roto NT Designo range
has also simplified the conversion for manufacturers who currently still use surface-mounted
hinge-sides.
You can also find more information on Roto
NT Designo for windows and balcony doors
in the relevant installation, maintenance and
operating instructions.
&& Roto NT Designo for timber windows and balcony doors –
­interesting facts on installation, maintenance and operation
can be found here:
The Roto NT Designo hardware system was an outstanding function and design innovation when it was launched
on the market in 2006, as its components disappear completely in the window rebate. Many window fabricators
now offer windows fitted with Roto NT Designo, whose aesthetically sophisticated profile views delight architects
and builders.
With the new fully
concealed hardware
­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 –
­interesting facts on installation, maintenance and operation
can be found here:
tovarious profiles. This
facilitates and accelerates
the change in window
production between
www.roto-frank.com/en/roto-nt-designo/pvc/imo
2|
various models.
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
by about 35 percent compared to the previous year. “As a result,
we had to secure our company’s strong growth rate from the
past few years with a contemporary product range expansion”,
the 41-year old entrepreneur is convinced, after over ten years of
developing and marketing windows. Naturally, he himself prefers
timber-aluminium windows, such as the Okna Hobbit brand,
and Roto NT and Roto Patio range hardware. “But we now also
have to contribute to giving people across all income classes in
Russia an opportunity to live in new apartments with high-quality
windows. Times are hard and everyone is being forced to save,
so we cannot simply exclusively retain products that only a few
can afford”, reports Alexander Barinov and says: “I consider this a
customer-friendly approach.”
Quality at a low price
The qualified production technician and businessman describes
himself as a critical thinker when it relates to component and
material quality. “Cost-effective should not and must not mean
poor quality. The Roto OK range constitutes the best evidence
of this. Only 35 parts in stock can be used to equip traditional
PVC Tilt&Turn windows up to a sash weight of 80 kg”, he says
with a smile and emphasizes: “PVC windows that ­permanently
function well and are leak-proof, which we can sell with a
good conscience.”
The Okna Barinoff sales and service network, established over
ten years, provides commercial and public investors with support,
which is the foundation for even cost-effective building leading to
good results. “Our commitment to this is just as passionate as
our support for private builders who want to equip elegant houses
with the best PVC or timber windows. This commitment can also
be found at Roto. Whether we are discussing applications of the
Roto Patio range or projects for which we recommend Roto OK,
our hardware partner is always on the ball and committed to the
task. The people at Roto have the same mindset and attitude
that we find in our own carefully selected employees”, stresses
Alexander Barinov.
Recognise and accept the tasks
Despite the current economic problems, he is optimistic of the
future: “Every period has its specific challenges and if, like us,
you are absolutely committed to having in stock at precisely the
right time the windows that are in demand , a company will be
sustainable, regardless of changes that arise from political or
economic developments.”
Alexander Barinov is convinced by the Roto OK range: “This hardware
turns sashes up to a weight of 80 kg into durable Tilt&Turn windows,
which are leak-proof and provide a high functional safety. And at a
cost-effective price. Good windows for all. For me, this is an expression
of democracy. Especially in difficult economic times.”
Aries, Poland
A heart for the preservation of monuments
■■ Timber Aluminium These days,
the fate of the Polish window and door
­manufacturer Aries is controlled by father
and daughter together: Over the years,
Edward Skał, who founded the company in
1992, and his daughter Iwona have developed into market-leading specialists. With
great attention to detail and even greater
technical know-how, they develop windows
and doors for heritage listed buildings,
which externally comply with their ­historic
aesthetics, but impress ‘internally’ with
their modern technology. This means that
they are esteemed and in demand beyond
Poland’s borders.
The company name Aries refers to the Latin
word ‘ram’, the star sign of both the owner
Edward Skał and his daughter Iwona. “I decided on the name fairly quickly when I founded
the company in April 1992. It has a personal
­reference to myself and my daughter and it
is also understood at an international level”,
remembers Edward Skał. The qualified engineer previously spent many years working at
a state-owned company. In 1989, the then 42
year-old Edward Skał felt a certain atmosphere
of change: “It was clear to me that I wanted
to do something c­ ompletely different in my
professional life. I quickly found a position as the
head of a foreign company’s Polish subsidiary,
which manufactured timber products, including
for the construction industry. As part of this
activity, I learnt a lot about company management and laid the foundation for the final step
towards independence.”
Growth from year to year
In Łódź, together with a handful of employees, Edward Skał started developing and
­manufacturing timber windows and doors,
the material with which he was already very
familiar. His business and production-technical
experience paid off as the young company grew
from year to year. Aries experienced a genuine
growth spurt in 2004 as Poland entered the
European Union. “We suddenly had unrestricted
access to the ­Western European markets and
were able to access technologies which we had
previously only seen at window and mechanical
engineering fairs. The EU funding programme
allowed us to invest in our machinery technology
and make the leap into a new era. Additional
funding, which we received for a development
based on a ­submitted patent, helped us through
the most exciting phase of the company’s
­history”, remembers Edward Skał.
In 2012, the former Aries production plant had
to make way for a large road-building project in
the region. Edward Skał and his daughter Iwona
only had five months to get a completely new
plant up and running. Today, around twenty
specialists work in the modern production area,
which recently also expanded its timber window
and door production to include aluminium and
timber-aluminium elements. “This diversification
was inspired by our customers in Great Britain,
which has become our most important export
market behind Norway and Dubai. England and
Scotland have a greater focus on aluminium, so
they demand Aries windows in this design.”
Special solutions for heritage listed buildings
In the export markets as well as in the domestic market, especially in central Poland around
the cities of Łódź and Warsaw, Aries remains
sought-after for its expertise in renovation
projects in line with the monument protection
provisions. Accordingly, the Aries success is
not defined by production quantities, but by the
development of windows and doors tailored precisely to customer requirements. “The special
solutions for heritage listed buildings certainly
represent our unique selling point (USP). But
their production still requires a relatively high
workload, despite modern machinery. For example, we manufacture special solutions with a
4 mm clearance so that the frame widths of the
new windows are identical to those of the old
designs. Our extensive experience in monument
preservation is a clear benefit in this respect as
well as for the execution of stylistic details, such
as historic decorations. We make sure that our
products reflect the aesthetics and the original
character of old windows and doors. This also
allowed us to quickly receive an official license
from the Polish monument protection authority,
which recognises our expertise.”
Anyone wanting to familiarise themselves
with the work of the team headed by Iwona
and Edward Skał can do so by paying a visit to
Warsaw. The royal palace as well as the historic
Dominican monastery, among others, have been
fitted with Aries products. If you were to take a
look into those windows and doors you would
discover a great deal of Leinfelden technology.
“We have worked together with Roto since the
establishment of the company and practically all
our windows and doors have been fitted with
Roto hardware and locks. Besides the close
cooperation and the valuable consulting in matters of production control, we also benefit from
the good Roto brand name when marketing
our products abroad. In particular, Roto is very
well known in Great Britain, where we deliver
to various distribution networks, architects and
building companies, and the name is associated
with quality and reliability”, says Edward Skał.
In 2012, Edward Skał and his daughter Iwona had
just under five months to establish a new plant,
after it became clear that the former manufac-
Smooth generational change
The Aries company concept has been successful
for over two decades and was also recognised
in 2014 by the Polish window and door manufacturers association, which awarded the ­company
the prestigious business award “Adler der polnischen Fenster- und Türenhersteller” ­(Eagle in
Polish window and door manufacturing). But the
founder is particularly pleased with the fact that
the family-owned enterprise’s future is secure:
“Over the past few years, my daughter has taken over a great number of management tasks.
She will now gradually start to take over the
entire management of the company. A development that reassures me as an entrepreneur and
which fills me with pride as a father.”
turing plant would have to make way for a major
road-building project. Today, around twenty specialists work in the modern manufacturing plant
in Łódź.
Specialising in the production of special solutions
for heritage listed building projects means that the
Aries production workshop boasts both modern
Edward Skał, founder of the Polish window and
machinery technology as well as craftsmanship
door specialists Aries
with sound judgement.
|3
Roto Inside | 11.2015
Erich Schillinger GmbH, Germany
Tradition meets modernity
■■ Timber Just over fifty employees work
at the traditional company Erich Schillinger
GmbH in Oberwolfach, Baden. If you consider the size of the projects for which the
family-owned company delivers timber
and ­timber-aluminium windows, doors and
facade solutions, it is safe to assume that the
owner family has been able to establish a
particularly efficient manufacturing department. They also seem to have good and
close contact with a number of ­renowned
architects, as building elements produced by
the company can be found in a ­number of
prestigious buildings in both the public sector as well as in the hands of large investors
in southern Germany.
“The impression is correct. We have deliberately targeted the needs of innovative ­architects
working for demanding builders and the public
sector”, confirms General Manager ­Wilhelm
Schillinger, who now manages the company,
founded by his grandfather in 1911, together
with his sister Edith Chrobok. “Since 1980, we
have specialised exclusively in the production of
timber and timber-aluminium windows, facades,
conservatories and main doors. And, since the
1990s, we have established a special type of
window production, which allows us to use a
range of special solutions for handling even large
orders very quickly and flexibly.”
A study trip motivated the change
At Roto’s invitation as part of a study trip to
America at the start of the 1990s, he visited the
window fabricator Anderson and marvelled at its
extensive automated manufacturing department.
“At the time they were already producing 8,000
windows a day, also due to the fact that they
were efficiently coating the individual components rather than the entire frame. As we were
thinking about rationalisation of the surface
treatment plant, this was naturally a fantastic
inspiration. A paint shop based on the Anderson
model required less space, but the new method
of operation involved a complete change of all
the production processes. ­Nevertheless: even
my extremely critical father was impressed
and encouraged me to continue in this direction.” Thus encouraged, Wilhelm Schillinger
toured Europe for three months in order to
inspect and select the right systems. In 1992
thetime had come: the completely modernised
­manufacturing department commenced operation. “Right from the start, we were able to
save between 15 and 20 percent of window production costs”, remembers Wilhelm Schillinger.
Higher productivity through further
investments
In 2016, a new CNC-controlled machining
centre will provide the next leap forward in
increasing productivity. “In particular, we want
to ­significantly reduce throughput times in
­construction of main doors, sliding doors and
special solutions”, explains Wilhelm Schillinger,
­“because these areas are developing very well,
just as the facade and conservatory construction, and we want to continue to stand out
from the competition.”
Timber-aluminium windows in security grade
RC3 with support from Roto
The fact that this is possible in the first place
almost came as a surprise to the experienced
window fabricator himself: “I was there when
the tester at Roto ITC in Leinfelden started on
our window. You even start to doubt whether a
window can withstand such an attack. But our
window passed the test, probably also because,
for the past two years we have been using adhesive technology that obviously does not just pay
off with respect to statics, but also in burglary
protection.” Wilhelm Schillinger will continue to
make use of the services provided by the Roto
Diocese of Rottenburg-Stuttgart
Schillinger timber windows for an
­impressive new build
The Rottenburg Episcopal ordinate building, redeveloped and extended within four years, was
inaugurated and moved into in July 2013. Based on architect Prof. Arno Lederer’s drafts, the
new construction is a harmonious addition to the ordinate’s historic buildings.
The Schillinger Company also became a favourite with many architects last but not least for its
decision to use high-quality materials and components. “We now predominantly incorporate
Black Forest silver fir, a very high-quality lacquer
as well as, upon request, architectural bronze
instead of aluminium for the weather shell. This
is intended for people who are interested in
sustainable construction and the use of natural
materials from the region. At the same time,
with the Roto NT Designo and Roto Patio ranges
we can also accommodate demands for delicate
profiles with concealed hardware and extremely
convenient operation. Since this year we have
been focussing on the design of timber-aluminium windows in security grade RC3, a 123 x
150 cm window has already successfully passed
testing at the Roto ITC, the Leinfelden International Technology Centre. That’s why we are
now adding a French door with fanlight. We will
soon be in a position to offer an entire range of
timber-aluminium Tilt&Turn windows and balcony
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
­support when we want to or have to provide test
documentation for a special solution. This makes
us flexible and credible.”
An avid photographer, Wilhelm Schillinger primarily advertises the family-owned ­company’s
services with attractive photo books, featuring
displays of facade, window and main door
system designs. “In particular, this is more
appealing to architects than traditional advertising for series-production windows.” Schillinger
delivers high-quality timber building elements
between the Black Forest, Frankfurt and Munich
University of Applied Sciences Offenburg
Timber windows for a passive (low-E) house
A new University of Applied Sciences Offenburg seminar building was officially inaugurated
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
high internal thermal storage masses, modern systems technology with highly efficient ventilation systems and almost CO2-neutral cooling using a well water system. The modern timber
window elements were produced by Erich Schillinger GmbH.
and down to the Swiss border. Installation takes
place using in-house fitters or selected installers
with whom the Schillingers have established
long-term relationships. “These companies also
have to know a great deal about their craft, as
we rarely ask them to install standard windows.”
Most facade elements are preassembled at the
plant in Oberwolfach in order to save time onsite and facilitate installation. Cranes and a great
deal of technical support are then used on-site.
The right partner for individualists
With so many large projects, do you still have
time for private builders from the surrounds
All-day care at the Salier-Gemeinschaftsschule Waiblingen
­comprehensive school
Timber-aluminium windows for modern,
bright rooms
After lessons, many of the 390 primary school children at the Salier-Gemeinschaftsschule
Waiblingen comprehensive school attend the adjacent all-day care facility, which since 2013
has been housed in a new building, constructed for about 2 million euros. The striking timber-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
Schillinger, pleased. “We take great pleasure
in being able to produce a conservatory project
with generally a somewhat more relaxed
deadline or beautiful windows for a private residence. Even so, we currently build around thirty
conservatories every year, which are constructed
within a radius of about 100 kilometres. We are
always successful where our specialists can
show you what they are capable of from the
planning stage. This applies for private builders
as well as for our regular architect customers.
Schillinger is always the company you come to
when you want something special.”
A centre for education, meeting and culture
The new Hospitalhof Stuttgart
Various concepts for its refurbishment were considered for ten years and once the
final decision was reached two years were spent on the construction of the so-called
­Hospitalhof Stuttgart. The building, which combined old and new in an extraordinary
manner, was opened on 27 April 2014. Erich Schillinger GmbH delivered the timber
­windows in a range of individual shapes.
You can find an interesting book published on the internet at the Hospitalhof inauguration.It
contains interesting facts on the idea of the building project and its realisation as well as on
the Hospitalhof’s history, starting from the middle of the 15th century:
http://www.­hospitalhof.de/ueber-uns/architekturkonzept/.
The monastery and almost all surrounding buildings were completely destroyed in the Second
World War. The church choir was rebuilt, but the south wall of the nave remained in place
as a ruin, monument and memorial. A Protestant Church administration and meeting centre
was built on the monastery’s foundation walls, for which from 2013 to 2014 an extraordinary ­building ensemble was constructed based on the drafts created by architects Lederer
­Ragnarsdóttir Oei, with a complex and layout reminiscent of the original medieval monastery.
■■ Timber “Wine and culture in Germany’s oldest wine region” is the slogan used by the
small municipality of Neumagen-Dhron for advertising itself and its picturesque setting
in the Moselle valley, in Germany’s extreme south-west. Anyone familiar with the local
joiner ‘Schreinerei Metzdorf’, would probably extend this list to wine, culture ‘and timber
­windows’. The company founder has been working with timber for over five decades.
In 1952, Matthias Metzdorf founded his own
joinery, which he has since gradually expanded to an impressive commercial enterprise.
Today, under his son Karl-Josef Metzdorf’s
management twelve employees also manufacture about 4,000 timber and timber-aluminium
windows as well as 800 main doors every year.
But the company founder Matthias Metzdorf’s
working day still starts at 7:30 a.m. on the dot
every morning.
On 13 June this year he celebrated 93rd
birthday, but a retirement free of work is not
likely to come into consideration for the oldest
active master joiner in Germany. “This work
has secured the livelihood of me and my
family for over half a century and I have taken
great pleasure in what I do here over that time.
So, why would I stop?” the craftsman asks
himself and amazed visitors to the workshop.
93 years young
A ripe old age in excellent shape – many wish
for it, but only a select few can connect the
idea with simply continuing in their professional life. But, perhaps the foundation for Matthias
Metzdorf’s robust health and mental fitness
lies precisely in the daily routine. He stays
absolutely true to his customs every day of
the week: 7:30 a.m. start work, 10:00 a.m.
a fifteen minute morning break with a daily
apple, 12:00 p.m. to precisely 1:00 p.m. is the
lunch break. No one in the company can ever
remember him taking a longer break. At 5:30
p.m., Matthias Metzdorf has a short break
that is often used to maintain the vegetable garden before he returns to work until
8:30 p.m., ­depending on the order situation.
And, to avoid misunderstandings:
­Matthias Metzdorf does not just provide
guidance and advice. The master joiner still
operates all the machinery, such as for the
prefabrication of windows, independently.
Incidentally, he often works in his polo shirt
or a cap with the Roto logo. Roto has been
a partner of Schreinerei Metzdorf since the
formation of the company.
“If diamond master craftsman’s certificates
were issued by the trade guild, my father
would have earned it”, his son Karl-Josef
Metzdorf is rightly convinced. There was no
badge of honour, but Christoph Wagner, Roto
regional sales employee, recently extended
our heartfelt thanks with deep respect for the
life’s work of Matthias Metzdorf. Roto created
a photobook especially for the proud craftsman, as a small memento. Naturally, Matthias
Metzdorf only let a look through this personal
gift briefly distract him from his work …
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.
But much will also be new and inspirational, emphasizes Marketing Manager Udo Pauly in
discussion with Roto Inside. “Our customers appreciate the stability that Roto stands for.
We naturally also take this into account in Nuremberg”, he explains. At the same time, under
the motto ‘Stability unites’, Roto will show that every window fabricator can venture into
something new with Roto as their partner for progress towards a secure future, no matter
the projects to which they commit. “Our customers use Roto windows and doors to build all
kinds of buildings. This should show up at first glance in Nuremberg. In 2016, the Roto exhibition 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
for future success. But where is the market
heading and what is the hardware technology
of tomorrow? Roto held intensive discussions
in 2014 on this topic with Nuremberg window
fabricators. A product idea presented at the
time, the Roto Patio Inowa hardware for air-tight
sliding doors was subsequently introduced in
projects worldwide. Whether aluminium, PVC
or timber window fabricators, this Roto innovation is now in daily use and will be displayed at
­FENSTERBAU FRONTALE 2016 in combination
with all profile materials.
Joint innovation
“The Nuremberg concept study on the innovation sought by extremely different window
­fabricators in equally different markets was
a fantastic experience”, says Udo Pauly and
emphasizes that the FENSTERBAU FRONTALE
2016 ‘House of Ideas’ will once again contain
studies on the sector’s important development
partner. This will let them reach end customers
that have been mobilised by our campaign”,
announces Udo Pauly, reporting on the excellent
response to the ‘Roto Quadro Safe’ campaign
that commenced at the start of 2015.
United on the path to new success
“Roto sales departments’ colleagues worldwide
are extremely excited about the Nuremberg exhibition, as we are looking forward to receiving
valuable feedback on our sector’s key issues”,
summarises the marketing manager. “For us,
FENSTERBAU FRONTALE 2016 will be the
starting point. The starting point for two further
years in which stable relationships and services
will pave the way for innovations.”
trends. “We are looking forward to holding
discussions with our customers”, he adds.
“Stability unites – this is the motto we have
chosen for the upcoming exhibition, because
it is the stable relationships with premium
window ­fabricators that form the basis for
­innovative product developments.”
United strength in marketing
Since the last exhibition stable relationships
have also matured with the ‘Roto Quadro Safe’
marketing offensive. The topics at FENSTERBAU
FRONTALE 2016 therefore will also include
individual window fabricators’ noteworthy
marketing measures. “In Nuremberg, we will
show how customers have used our practical
burglary protection windows campaign in order
to approach homeowners and builders. And,
because the practical examples displayed by us
entice people to become active themselves, we
are offering interested parties the opportunity to
register at the exhibition as a ‘Roto Quadro Safe’
Roto hardware technology in windows for all kinds of buildings. The FENSTERBAU FRONTALE 2016 exhibition
stand will reflect the Roto customers’ world in a diverse ensemble of buildings with an urban character. Product
developments, which window and door manufacturers developed together with Roto, will be on display under the
exhibition motto ‘Stability unites’, together with outstanding practical examples of the work with ‘Roto Quadro
Safe’ campaign marketing tools.
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 European model. And with great success.” Pablo Zaratiegui, who is positioning the Ventex company on this distinct foundation,
manages a small, ultra-modern window factory on the outskirts of Buenos Aires together with his brothers Diego and Andrés.
In 1993, together with their father they founded Metales La Plata SRL, which started producing PVC windows in 1998. The
company has maintained close contact with Roto since 2008. “This has since led to excellent cooperation in every respect
and is also the reason why we now operate such an extensively automated and extremely modern ­production area”, says
­Pablo Zaratiegui.
Roto employees provided dedicated consulting support to Grupo
MLP SRL, the successor company to Metales La Plata SRL, in
its efforts to structure the Ventex brand PVC window production.
“Roto helped us combine the latest generation of German machines in an efficient manufacturing process”, remembers Pablo
Zaratiegui. The result: with just thirteen employees in the manufacturing department, Grupo MLP SRL now produces 10,000
windows and balcony doors every year, of which about 60 per
cent are sliding windows and doors and 40 per cent are Turn-Only
windows and balcony doors.
Rapid growth with a strong sales department
The Ventex sales team itself handles sales in the La Plata region
and in the nearby metropolis of Buenos Aires. Three recently
founded sales offices in Buenos Aires, Neuquén and Mendoza
as well as a network of independent sales representatives are
expected to generate additional sales. “The demand for PVC windows is constantly rising in Argentina and, despite the fact that
there are around 200 manufacturers in the country, the currently
existing demand cannot be met”, explains Pablo Zaratiegui, when
asked about why the family of entrepreneurs is already preparing
for new, significant investments.
“At the moment, just over 5 percent of all windows sold are PVC
windows, but all experts agree that this share is certain to rise
to between 15 and 20 percent within ten years. As a result, we
will be building a second machining centre in our factory, which
will enable us to increase our capacities to 120 elements in eight
hours of operation. At the same time, the new machine will
also place us in a position to produce Fold&Slide and Lift&Slide
doors based on the European model. This addition to our range
will make us a particularly attractive partner for planners and
distributors in the country. We expect that in the future Ventex
will continue to distinguish itself thanks to our supply of the best
European product quality and an extraordinarily extensive product
range in a variety of colours. The fantastic delivery performance
provided by Ventex will ensure us sustainable success. We deliver
every window within six weeks, regardless of how unusual the
design, regardless of colour, regardless of which Roto hardware
and regardless of the location in Argentina.”
A new factory for even higher Ventex quality
In 2016, or by 2017 at the latest, Grupo MLP SRL will construct a
second production area for Ventex brand windows about 20 kilometres away from La Plata. It will cover an area of 7,000 square
metres, with an additional 5,000 square metres of outdoor space,
and provide a fantastic logistics connection to one of Argentina’s
most important transport corridors. “We believe in the dynamic
development of our company and the Argentina building industry”, stresses Pablo Zaratiegui. “That’s why we are investing now
and why everyone in the family is committed to the success of
Ventex. And if the Argentinian government can also find a way to
relax the extremely complicated import regulations for components, which our industry urgently needs, then the signs for a
stronger national economy are genuinely positive.”
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
■■ PVC Aluminium “At first, Roto was only considered to be a high-quality PVC Tilt&Turn window hardware manufacturer in Argentina”, remembers Ariel Ferrari, Country Manager, in discussion with Roto Inside, “but we were gradually able
to convey the Group’s wide-ranging expertise, such as in the aluminium sector. This is also the reason behind Roto’s pleasing growth in Argentina as well as the growing interest in PVC windows.”
Roto hardware technology has been sold in Argentina since
2007. As one of only a few companies, Roto was able not only to
remain in the country, but also to grow significantly, despite the
high number of import hurdles imposed by Argentinian regulations. Ariel Ferrari, who has been responsible for the market
since 2009, now has a team of ten colleagues. “I first came into
contact with Roto in 2007 and have to admit that I was immediately excited about the company and its philosophy”, sums
up the 40-year-old businessman. “Then, when I received the
offer in March 2008 to help establish a sales company for Roto
in Mexico, I took the opportunity. Since then, I have been able
to further develop myself enormously within the Group, both
professionally and personally.”
c­ ompanies who can provide high-quality construction knowledge and components and are willing to invest in Argentina.
At the same time, our country’s legislators also have to increase
awareness of environmentally sensitive and energy-conscious
construction. This in turn will have a positive impact on the
demand for modern windows.”
Stefano Gianfreda: We provide consultation for aluminium system providers as well as architects, specialist planners, general
contractors and metal workers throughout the world. The aim is
to support the planning and construction of windows and balcony
doors so that they add maximum value for builders and subsequent building users. The Roto Object Business team therefore
first identifies the specific requirements and develops impressive
standard or even special solutions for the ideal hardware.
Roto Inside: What services does Roto Object
Business provide?
Stefano Gianfreda: Besides technical consulting and the drafting
of solutions, we also build and test prototypes. This often ends
with a certified project solution for which Roto also offers individual warranty extensions. Furthermore, during hardware installation,
we also support metal workers with completion of the design
elements with standard or special hardware solutions, which
can then be inspected by the client. We often also supervise
the production and installation of windows. And we can prepare
­project-specific documentation for our partners if required.
According to Ferrari, every window fabricator in Argentina sees
perfectly customised services as a particular strength of the
Roto Group: “Depending on a manufacturer’s size and its needs,
we always provide precisely the support that a window fabricator needs for positive company development. Regardless of
whether this involves product development or the establishment
of a machining centre, our organisation has specialists available
for all activities.”
Roto Inside: Do contracting companies recommend you?
Stefano Gianfreda: Window fabricators generally approach us
independently, because they are looking to pitch for a special
­window and a Roto hardware solution contract. We essentially
work in tandem together with many renowned aluminium window
fabricators worldwide, in order to develop optimal windows and
balcony doors with metal workers. And, because there’s nothing
more convincing than a first-class solution, after monitoring, we
use precisely this form of practical consulting and close project
supervision to help window fabricators compete successfully.
Roto Inside: How many projects has Roto Object Business
been involved in?
The Ventex brand Tilt&Turn windows and Lift&Slide doors with Roto
hardware can be found in the ‘Pampa Building’ in Palermo, Buenos
However, Argentina’s legislative role must not be underestimated in dynamic window market development, says Ariel
Ferrari. “We need Argentina to be much more open to foreign
■■ Aluminium It has been almost two years since the new,
internationally operating team of specialists was established
at Roto. ‘Roto Object Business’ is the title used to describe
the activities of those responsible for planning and development of hardware configurations, which make aluminium
windows the perfect solution for virtually every building project. Roto Inside talked to sales manager Stefano Gianfreda
on how aluminium window fabricators benefit from cooperating with him and his colleagues in Roto Object Business.
Roto Inside: Mr Gianfreda, which target group does the Roto
Object Business specifically target?
Cementing partnerships
According to Ferrari, 2016 will be a year of business consolidation in Argentina: “We have grown dramatically in the past few
years and we want to stabilise and qualitatively develop our
business relationships, some of which are still young. We see
ourselves as long-term partners to Argentinian window fabricators and will certainly not be withdrawing from the market.
Roto Argentina sees itself as a local company committed to the
country in good as well as in difficult times; a philosophy that
is expressly supported and promoted likewise by the German
parent company.”
Stimulus for new approaches
In future, Ariel Ferrari wants to systematically develop his
customers’ knowledge of different opening types of windows.
“Initially, Roto was primarily considered to be a high-quality
Tilt&Turn hardware manufacturer in Argentina. Now an increasing number of customers are also interested in our Lift&Slide
hardware. In the future, we want to have an even greater focus
on sharing the Roto Group’s extensive knowledge of different
opening types, profiles and production modes with window
fabricators and system vendors. This is the foundation for joint
product developments that allow a market to develop. It will
be to the benefit of our customers as well as for the sake of
­architecture and housing culture.”
In tandem for a successful ­order
Aires. The forty spacious apartments are expected to be completed by
the end of the year.
Stefano Gianfreda: Since Roto Object Business was established
about two years ago, worldwide we have supported over 100
projects from planning through to completion. Incidentally, during
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-
8|
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 object.business@roto-frank.com.
FenêtréA, France
Automate, qualify, communicate
■■ PVC Aluminium The French window and door manufacturer FenêtréA, with its
headquarters in Beignon, near Rennes in north-western France, is now one of the country’s ­market-leading window fabricators. A consistent growth strategy over more than two
decades has turned the company into one of the largest and most reliable providers. Roto
Inside met with Dominique Lamballe the Board of Directors Chairman, who has controlled
the fate of FenêtréA since 2006.
The roots of FenêtréA go back to 1993. At the
time, Roland Desnoyer founded FMPB, initially a regional window and door manufacturer.
In 2006, the married couple Dominique and
Christelle Lamballe took over the company,
while the name change to FenêtréA, renowned
now amongst French craftsmen, took place
two years later. “We have come through a huge
development process. In its first year 1993,
FMPB employed eighteen staff members. About
340 employees in total now work at FenêtréA,
of which 280 are employed in manufacturing
and customer service. We organised the sales
department as an integrated team of highly
qualified sales representatives and technicians”,
explains Dominique Lamballe.
“They are all united by their expectations of
­first-class PVC and aluminium systems in consistently high quality, whether on a small scale
for a single-family house or as part of an extensive order for a large commercial project.”
High automation level guarantees
high quality
In order to be able to supply all building projects,
regardless of size, FenêtréA has invested equally
in flexibility as well as production capacity over
the past few years. For example, in 2010, the
PVC windows and doors production lines were
consolidated in a modern production hall. It can
now manufacture up to 220,000 window units
every year. This was followed by the expansion
and complete reorganisation of the aluminium
systems production workshop in 2014, increasing capacities to about 50,000 units per year.
This indicates one of the critical factors for the
success of FenêtréA according to ­Dominique
Lamballe: “In the past few years we have
consistently worked on increasing the production department’s level of automation. Together
with sustainable employee development and
qualification, we have established the basis for
the consistently high quality so appreciated by
our customers.”
Environmentally friendly
Operations had to be sustainable, according to
the entrepreneur, and the focus had to be on
the long-term, for the in-house workforce as
well as for external organisations supported by
FenêtréA. For example, FMPB, now FenêtréA,
have been supporting sailing in France for almost
twenty years, and with its own so-called trimaran since 2007. It participates in various regattas
and competitions, financed by FenêtréA and
another Breton company as a co-sponsor. “Sailing is surely one of the most sustainable sports,
as it literally solely depends on the natural force
of the wind. The trimaran in the ‘Multi 50’ class,
which stands for a hull length of 50 feet, has
already participated in numerous renowned
events, such as the ‘Trophée des villes’, a regatta from Gran Canaria to ­Saint-Quay-Portrieux. In
2014 we even managed to win and celebrate a
new speed record on the ‘Route du Rhum’, a
famous solo transatlantic regatta. And we can
naturally also on every occasion use our involvement in sailing to establish customer contacts
and build customer loyalty. We regularly invite
our partners to certain events and for a day on
our boat”, says Dominique Lamballe.
FenêtréA has been ‘sailing’ together with Roto
in everyday production since 2006. According to
Dominique Lamballe, the Roto NT range, in particular, supports manufacturing automation. “The
hardware technology is easy to integrate into
our manufacturing process, provides maximum
flexibility and guarantees precisely the quality
that we want to offer our customers. That’s why
Roto is the perfect ‘sailing partner’ for us.”
This sales team has ensured that FenêtréA now
operates throughout France and on the Mediterranean island of Corsica. France will remain the
company’s core market in the future, continues 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: craftsmen, 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 manufacturing 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
the first time”, recalls Ahmed al Fahdi, General Manager of Almakassab Altyib, the company
which his father founded in 2005. “We purchased these windows from Dubai back then and
were so impressed that we contemplated building our own PVC window factory. We were
convinced of the PVC window product’s success but we still gathered very precise information
beforehand and chose our suppliers carefully.”
Roto was among the group of suppliers from
the outset. The Almakassab Altyib company
and the ‘My Window’ brand have been supplied
directly from Leinfelden and supported by the
export team for six years. “The good working
­relationship has improved even further since
then”, Ahmed al Fahdi is pleased to report,
­“because our Leinfelden contact partners regularly join us here, answer technical questions
and even plan joint marketing measures.”
However, marketing in Oman is not in demand
due to the fact that the demand for PVC windows is too low, but rather in order to secure the
market in the long term. Ahmed al Fahdi is concerned: “Unfortunately, too many providers in
Oman now sell windows with cheap profiles or
hardware and, naturally, regular customers are
unable to see that these are unsuitable for use
in our country with its extremely high outdoor
and air-conditioned indoor temperatures. Our
partner Rehau extrudes profiles with specific additives for the region so that the window profiles
do not fade or become deformed after they are
installed. Roto supplies hardware with a Roto Sil
Nano surface, which withstands saline air and
sand significantly longer than any other surface.
This type of component provides a unique basis
for us to build PVC windows, which justify the
trust our customers place in us.”
Explanation and information
Together with Rehau and Roto corporate representatives, Ahmed al Fahdi also explained these
issues to a Ministry of Defence delegation and
to a number of government representatives in
June 2015, who, in relation to a new housing
project, were dealing with the issue of whether
PVC windows were really durable enough for a
public sector property. “We were able to make
it clear at this meeting that our windows are virtually maintenance-free and totally durable, but
also that we can handle a project of this magnitude with our partners because, for example,
we have a quick and secure exchange of data”,
says Ahmed al Fahdi with satisfaction and adds:
“Of course, we are happy to inform people but I
fear that we will soon have to deal with a worsening attitude towards PVC windows if more
and more customers are irritated by the cheap
products.” The reason for this trend towards
cheaper components is the tough competition
among the ever increasing number of providers.
longer keep up with the annual growth rates,
explains ­Sulaiman al Fahdi in his interview
with Roto Inside. The company’s turnover has
increased ­almost tenfold since it was founded. “This is also certainly due to the fact that
we have ­employees who have been with us
for many years, some even since the company was ­founded”, states Ahmed al Fahdi
confidently. “We want to further expand our
success ­together with them and our partners in the ­industry. This also justifies the
recent investment.”
Overall, the Sultanate of Oman offers a good
environment for real entrepreneurship, adds his
father Sulaiman al Fahdi, who has invested in
business start-ups for many years, to secure his
large family’s future. “Property and land value,
but also real estate value is constantly rising,
which ensures continued demand for companies
in the building industry.”
Good reasons for optimistic planning
Ahmed al Fahdi nods. He also considers the
Sultan’s stability-orientated policy to be trend-­
setting. “There is a lot of building activity in
Oman because prosperity is rising continuously
thanks to a far-sighted national policy”, confirms
Ahmed al Fahdi with delight. “Major events,
such as a football World Cup in Qatar, also
With a 35 per cent share of the total PVC
window market, Oman is regarded as the Gulf
region’s most developed PVC windows market.
Eberhard Mammel, Head of Export at Roto,
recalls how the development began more
than ten years ago: “Initially, predominantly
­Turkish component manufacturers’ sales offices
delivered to Oman. However, when demand
grew rapidly, some manufacturers like Rehau
and Roto decided to invest in providing direct
support to their partners in the Sultanate – with
resounding success we can now say, because
it allowed ‘My Window’ to receive support that
formed the basis for a quality brand.”
A new factory for an experienced team
Despite concerns about PVC windows’ image,
the al Fahdi family decided to build a new
PVC window factory on a recently acquired
8,000 square metre site. The ‘My Window’
brand awareness level is steadily increasing
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
already be pleased with the growing tourist
numbers. We therefore believe that good
PVC windows have a future if we succeed in
adequately raising people’s awareness.”
■■ PVC Aluminium Toronto, the magical city in Eastern Canada, has increasingly become a
‘boom town’ in recent years, a truly prospering metropolis that is attracting people in increasing numbers. The result: Many companies in the Canadian building industry, such as Sunview
Patio Doors, can look forward to exciting projects and jobs. Innovative, high-quality products
are now in demand.
Incidentally, the World Cup is also of interest
to the widely travelled family man for another
reason: In his spare time, Ahmed al Fahdi
is an international football commentator at
a radio station. He is regarded as a talented
sports expert, sponsors a national football
team and is already looking forward to the
personal challenges that he too will face with
the World Cup in Qatar.
“If you drive through ‘Downtown’ Toronto today,
you will see a truly astonishing number of new
buildings on your left, your right, and above
you”, explains Roto North and Central America
­Business Manager and Roto Fasco President
and CEO Chris Dimou, whose jobs regularly
take him to Ontario and the Toronto metropolitan area. “A lot of owner-occupied properties
are currently being developed into some truly
breathtaking buildings.”
Demand for quality continues to grow
A company that has developed and produced
balcony doors for many of these apartments is
Sunview Patio Doors. In its large Woodbridge
production plant, on the outskirts of Toronto,
Sunview Patio Doors manufactures aluminium
and PVC balcony doors with unrivalled quality,
convenience and, in particular, energy efficiency.
For example the ‘Sunview 2900’ series was just
recently distinguished as the first, and to date
only, Canadian balcony door to receive the ‘Zone
2 Energy Star’ rating. And demand is rising.
“We manufacture more or less ‘just-in-time’
here. As soon as a product is complete, it goes
out to one of the building sites”, reports Sunview
Patio Doors General Manager Tony Margiotta.
“We have benefited from the good economic
situation in Toronto and throughout Ontario, but
we would not currently be in the position that
we are in if we did not also continuously invest.
Highly qualified employees, high performance
cutting and punching machines and a fully
automated insulating glass line – these are the
secrets of our success. And of course being
part of a fully customer-oriented yet technology-­
driven company group, the Vision Group.”
Two valued supporters: Vision Group and
Roto Fasco
According to Tony Margiotta, the Vision Group
comprises only building industry companies that
are considered to be Canada’s leaders in their
sector. The Vision Group’s fortunes are directed by Vic de Zen, one of Canada’s best known
entrepreneurs and also Chairman of the Sunview
Patio Doors Board of Directors. The advanced
profile extrusion processes and facilities now
also allow Sunview Patio Doors to deliver
consistent premium quality for the volumes
in demand, continues Tony Margiotta. Sunview
relies on Roto Fasco products and systems,
especially the ‘9700 series door handle’, which
can be found in all three of the manufacturer’s
door lines. “Our long-term partnership with Roto
Fasco is extremely important to us”, explains
Tony Margiotta. “Alongside the hardware, handles and accessories’ quality, the Roto Fasco
service particularly impresses us. The relationship between our two companies enables truly
successful collaboration.”
For example, Fasco sales representative
Domenic Amendola has been working with
Sunview Patio Doors for 35 years. “Over the
decades, he has become part of the Sunview
family”, emphasises Tony Margiotta. “He visits
our manufacturing facilities for virtually every
new major project development or adaptation,
and ensures that Roto Fasco products meet the
requirements.” Sunview Patio Doors’ growth in
recent years is also supported by Roto’s Kanban
logistics system in North America. “Thanks to
automatic restocking, we work with very little
of our own storage capacity, but can still access
the full Roto colour palette or safety range. We
are proud of both our balcony doors’ quality and
our quick response and delivery capacity. Roto
Fasco plays a key role in both of these aspects”,
says Tony Margiotta.
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
Prospering metropolis: Like virtually no other big
Canadian city, these days Toronto draws peoThe GUtech low energy house was built
ple from all over the world. New ‘Downtown’
exclusively from products and materials
residential properties are highly sought-after. As a
manufactured in Oman, such as ‘My Window’
result of this, and the currently low construction
windows. Fitted with Roto hardware technol-
loan and mortgage interest rates, Toronto has
ogy, these windows provide energy-saving
quickly become one of the world’s ‘hottest’ real
ventilation and cooling.
estate markets.
The Fasco company’s founding in Mississauga, Ontario, dates back to 1956. In 2012,
Roto AG acquired it and consolidated it with
Roto Frank of America. Since then its name
has been changed to Roto Fasco Canada and
it handles the production of turn-only balcony
door and sliding door hardware and handles
as well as zinc die-casting components for a
range of industries. Roto Fasco Canada hardware can be found in many Canadian and
North American residential building windows
and doors.
Roto Frank of America Ltd, founded in 1979,
is domiciled in Connecticut and delivers
an extensive range of products, including
X-DRIVE™ sashes and roller shutter hardware, the Roto NT range, TITAN hardware for
sliding doors as well as hardware from the
Roto Patio Life range, the comfort hardware
for large sliding 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
years in order to introduce the benefits of their product range to builders and window fabricators in a market that traditionally favours aluminium windows. And with growing success,
as PVC windows with good insulating properties, based on the European model, are now in
demand, at least in residential construction. VEKA Plastics in Shanghai worked together with
Roto to develop a new system of highly insulating sliding doors, which eliminate what has
been a shortcoming in the past. “We are convinced that this innovation will boost the region’s
image of PVC windows and offer our customers an extremely promising system”, asserts Kay
Puppe, Managing Director VEKA Plastics Co. Ltd., in discussion with Roto Inside.
Publisher
Roto Frank AG
Wilhelm-Frank-Platz 1
D-70771 Leinfelden-Echterdingen
VEKA profiles have been produced in China
since 1994. As a result, the company is one
of the region’s most market-savvy and experienced system vendors. “We operate in almost
all ­countries in South East Asia as well as in
the Asia-Pacific region, in parts of India and in
China. And other windows and different opening
types with single, double and triple glazing are
in demand in almost every country”, reports Kay
Puppe and adds: “Even within China, different
systems are preferred depending on the region.
This means that VEKA Shanghai and VEKA
­Singapore essentially require and produce all
of the group’s globally relevant profiles. Our
profiles are used to manufacture between
roughly 800,000 and a million square metres of
windows in the region every year.”
Success in residential construction with the
Roto Patio Inowa system
The innovation developed with Roto was met
with a lot of interest, as shown by a market test
in Korea. “Window fabricators can use our VEKA
ISS 190 profile, which was perfectly aligned to
Roto Patio Inowa, to build extremely high-quality
solutions at an attractive price.” It is the first
time that a highly insulating triple glazing up to a
thickness of 52 mm can be used in a PVC sliding
door. “We have already received test results
from an independent institute, which indicate
that this sliding door achieves a Uw value of 1.1.
With a bit of fine-tuning, I am sure that we will
be able to reach a Uw value of 1.0”, says Kay
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
rain, even in the event of a typhoon; the markets
in South Asia and China have been waiting for a
product like this.”
65 million ­residential units are waiting to be
sold, even though only about 8 to 10 million
additional apartments are required every year.
­Circumstances that residents in European cities
can only dream of …”
Energy efficiency in demand for renovations
Interesting stimulus for the region’s building
industry is currently coming from Korea, says
Kay Puppe. “A great deal of refurbishments as
well as demolitions and new builds are in progress here. The energy efficiency of the building
shell is also starting to play an important role.”
VEKA has become aware of a growing number
of w
­ indow fabricators looking to get established
on the market with high and certified quality.
“This is good for VEKA, because we do not sell
profiles by the ton, but rather a system in whose
correct fabrication we provide extensive training
for our partners and their employees.”
In particular, in the Korean market, there has
been increased demand for a triple glazed sliding
door system, which is highly insulating and can
be used in multi-storey buildings. “We were
able to develop the ideal solution by using Roto
Patio Inowa, with its five locking points, and the
ISS 190 profile, which enables the installation
of a complete circumferential gasket”, says Kay
Puppe, pleased. ”We believe that the overall
interest in sliding doors will increase enormously
because we have eliminated the major weakness of the old systems, the lack of insulation,
by using Roto Patio Inowa.”
Marketing support and short delivery times
In future, VEKA and Roto jointly want to also
help system fabricators market their new sliding
doors. “We will ensure that attractive advertising instruments are available, as is appropriate
for such an interesting innovation”, promises
Kay Puppe. “We and our customers have an
absolutely unique position in the market with
the Roto Patio Inowa system. We must take
advantage of this opportunity, and we will also
make sure that we do. The high VEKA and Roto
supply readiness in the region provides the
ideal foundation.”
The new VEKA ISS 190 profile with Euro-groove
can incorporate triple glazing up to a thickness of
Editorial board
Ingrid Lenz,
Udo Pauly
Editorial office
Comm´n Sense GmbH
Lensbachstraße 10
D-52159 Roetgen
Telephone: +49 (0)2471 9212865
Telefax: +49 (0)2471 9212867
roto.inside@commn-sense.de
Design and production
avency GmbH
Kiebitzpohl 77
D-48291 Telgte
Telephone: +49 (0)2504 888-0
Telefax: +49 (0)2504 888-199
info@avency.de
Printers
Griebsch & Rochol Druck
GmbH & Co. KG
Gabelsbergerstraße 1
D-59069 Hamm
Telephone: +49 (0)2385 931-0
info@grd.de
Total print run
12,500 copies
52 mm. An independent institute confirmed that a
sliding door with this profile and Roto Patio Inowa
achieves a Uw value of 1.1. “With a bit of fine-tuning, I am sure that we will even be able to reach
a Uw value of 1.0”, says Kay Puppe, pleased. VEKA
customers will soon be able to offer a sliding door
with the best insulation values currently available
in the Asian market.
Kay Puppe, Managing Director VEKA Plastics
(Shanghai) Co. Ltd., (right in picture) is confident of
the of the innovative system’s success: “Together
with Roto we as a sole provider offer a system
which window fabricators can use to produce
Better quality sells better
In China, in particular, building quality is playing
an increasing role for the successful marketing of real estate in light of a huge vacancy
rate, especially in residential units, reports
Kay Puppe. “In many cities, anyone looking to
buy an apartment in China is spoilt for choice
and can pay ­attention to quality. Currently,
highly insulating sliding doors for high and very
high buildings. In view of this unique position and
the high VEKA and Roto supply readiness in the region, we will use professional marketing to ensure
that we write a new success story for ourselves
Impress customers with the highly insulating Roto Patio Inowa sliding door system: The Hajum window factory
and our customers.” Left in picture: Béchér Jelajla,
team intends to seize its opportunity and is banking on partnership with VEKA and Roto.
Project Manager at Roto Frank AG.
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 circumferential 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
energy loss.
12 |
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
efficient sliding doors at an attractive price.