Being the only independently owned and family run PVCu window and door profile system supplier in the UK, and being able to provide fabricators with a personal service and support package, are differentiating qualities of which are seeing the fastest growing PVCu extrusion company, Selecta Systems, reaping the dividends.

Sales Director, Andy Green, believes that fabricators are looking for more than just a faceless, impersonal and almost robotic window and door system supplier. Andy explains how recent conversations with potential and newly converted fabricators have transpired and demonstrate how Selecta have got the edge when it comes to providing that personal service and support.

“There seems to be a common theme amongst fabricators concerns and reasons for moving window and door system suppliers. Service and support, or the lack of, gets spouted out time and time again. From not being informed of shortages on deliveries to attempting to speak to someone whom can deal with the issue, only to be passed from pillar to post with no one understanding or resolving the issue or being given a ticket number like a customer at a meat counter and told to wait!”

“The personal touch seems to have disappeared and replaced by faceless, robotic systems or customer services departments with no idea of your business with requests or issues then batted around two, three or four different people and/or departments, with even the simplest of requests or requirements ignored or forgotten. I recall one new customer being over the moon because we responded to a few emails within just a few minutes of receiving them and they were flabbergasted by the quick response and action. They commented that it usually takes 2-3 weeks for a simple marketing request from their previous supplier or they were not responded to at all. They love Selecta, all because we did the simplest things, answering their requests in a reasonable timescale and helping their business.”

“As a team at Selecta, we work closely together and from that initial meeting with a fabricator, we look at developing a partnership. People buy off people and knowing that business relationships are a key aspect for many companies, we as a team have a firm set of traditional ‘family values’. It’s not just about supplying a quality window and door system, but also about providing a service and support package that works for those customers. This is an area where we as a business pride ourselves, where customers can talk to the ‘doers’ within Selecta, not just a random customer service person or an automated ticket vending machine awaiting a call back when it’s convenient to them to reply! Being the unique business that we are allows ourselves to be far more flexible than the competition in terms of our service and support.”

“At Selecta we have a strong ethos and sense of purpose. Service, Support and Satisfaction are at the heart of our business and these traditional values have been instrumental in crafting our identity and our sense of purpose. These values are reflected in everything we do and with which we have been long associated, with which we’ve been synonymous. We as a team, or family as we like to be referred to, work very hard to maintain these values and it’s something we are very proud of.”

“Combined with our excellent and versatile Advance 70 System, the industry is readily embracing a Selecta renaissance as more fabricators choose the Advance 70 System as their preferred window and door profile system and become ‘part of the family’.”

If you are looking for a window and door system supplier that can service and support your business or require further information, then contact Selecta on 0121 325 2100, email marketing@selectasystems.com

Selecta Systems Technical Manager, Richard Bent, looks into the future on what and how it could all change with energy efficient windows and doors in properties and why we should be looking in to providing consumers with more cost effective solutions and real value for money, especially in the replacement market.

The technical performance and specification of window and door systems has improved dramatically over the last few years as window and door solutions evolve on the back of the media pressure of climate control, industry statutory and regulatory requirements and consumer demand in relation to the ever increasing costs of energy supply. These factors have driven window and door system innovation and design during this period and I can only see these contributing to further product innovation over the next 5 years or so. However, consumer demand within the replacement market will not only be for energy efficient products, but for more cost effective solutions in being able to deliver those savings with a guaranteed financial return on their investment.

Replacing windows and doors within a home is amongst one of the larger investment renovations that a consumer will undertake on their property and will be undertaken to improve the security, thermal performance and aesthetics of their property. Adding PAS 24 / Secured By Design windows and doors is a given for improving security and aesthetics and looks are in the eye of the beholder but thermal performance is a different animal altogether!

Sales and marketing drives point to fabricators and consumers requiring A++ ratings and triple glazed windows and doors to improve the thermal efficiency of properties and reduce energy bills. However, this may not be the most cost effective solution where the cost may far outweigh the savings. It may also have effects on the performance of the building as a whole i.e. condensation. High relative humidity levels and a lack of air movement are two contributing factors to condensation and so having energy efficient windows can create further issues in stabilizing the temperature within a property, thus further outlay on temperature control methods or heaven forbid opening windows and doors to allow a flow through of air movement!

You have to ask yourself the question, does offering an A++ window have any real major performance improvements and savings against cost benefits to a consumer, over a standard A rated window or even a B or C? As a consumer I’d certainly like to know and have greater visibility on what the ‘extra’ outlay and potential savings are for the higher rated option against a standard A rated window. It should not simply be about trying to provide a window or door solution that achieves the highest rating, but we should be giving greater prominence in the ‘cost effectiveness’ achievement factor to the fabricator, installer and more importantly, the consumer. At the end of the day, current requirements only dictate that a C rating or above is required and the jump to an A rated window does not provide a large leap in potential energy savings.

I can however see the current C rated requirement being upgraded to a mandatory A rated obligation for all replacement windows and doors within the next few years. This would be a sensible approach as I believe that a large percentage of fabricators and installers are already installing A rated windows and doors already.

Innovation, and especially the thermal performance of products, has progressed considerably in just a few years, so what next without ‘over engineering’ a product just for the sake of achieving a higher rating? There must be a ‘cut-off’ point where the “efficiency” reaches a level that it could be detrimental to the building fabric and the whole cost against benefit of installing the windows or door is no longer pertinent.

That’s why we here at Selecta have retained our company ethos to provide fabricators and consumers with the most innovative, proficient and cost effective energy efficient window and door solutions.

Over the years PVCu System House Supplier, Selecta Systems, has grown a reputation for being the caring, friendly and supportive window and door profile system supplier, providing fabricators with a flexible and personal support package. The only UK based, independently and family owned window and door profile system supplier is building on its core values and ethos of providing a personal fabricator support and service package, as Marketing Manager, Mark Walker explains, with current and future developments from the marketing team at Selecta.

“Over the last 16 months we have expanded the marketing and customer sales support team, giving fabricators their own personal contacts for all their marketing and sales support requirements. The addition of Donna and Michele has enabled ourselves to focus exclusively on ensuring customers have access to all the latest marketing brochures and materials, whilst also providing support to the sales team. This pro-active approach has ensured that we make certain that customers don’t run out of marketing support materials, whilst giving them confidence that their requests are being dealt with effectively and efficiently and not miss out on promoting their range of products and sales opportunities.”

“This is backed up with a new range of elegant and lavish marketing brochures, with bold and fresh imagery displaying products in their surroundings whilst highlighting their benefits and technical innovations. Every piece of marketing material is not just a representation of Selecta, but a depiction of our customer and so it was important for ourselves to ensure that the marketing brochures stood out from the competition, something I believe we have achieved. The ever expanding marketing material collection does not end there with a series of new consumer product brochures and information based marketing and sales support materials in the design and development stage, whilst a 76+ page Profile Specification Guide will be launched and available in the very near future.”

The advancement in technology and digital presence, most notably through video and social media has seen businesses change the way they market their selves, their products and services. These are powerful platforms that if used correctly can reach a huge audience with very little expenditure. Selecta are certainly moving in the right direction and providing their customers with the promotional tools to take advantage of this lucrative area of marketing, as Mark highlights.

“New to our marketing armoury is the facility to offer fabricators branded promotional videos and electronic brochures. These really do provide customers with a personalised marketing package ready for use on their website and social media channels. The branded promotional videos have been a huge success, as they demonstrate the operation of products and work well on customers Facebook, Twitter and YouTube and other social media channels. The branded electronic brochures also work well especially when viewed as flip books on websites, providing a better visual presence. These compliment the hard copy versions and gives customers another avenue to promote their product range.”

Mark continues, “Talking of websites, we have just launched a brand new, fresh and easy to navigate website. The website is built around the new Selecta Systems and Advance 70 branding with defined sections for fabricators, installers, commercial and homeowner visitors. The website build has ensured that we focus on the Advance 70 brand and allows sales leads to be generated and passed on to our expanding pool of fabricators and installers. Phase two of the website development will see the launch of the Selecta Support Centre, which will be a dedicated customer only area with all marketing, technical and general literature downloads and information available to every Selecta fabricator. What this means is that all product related information is just a few clicks away whether it be images and brochures to technical manuals and test reports – information at their fingertips for their own promotional campaigns and website builds or for commercial and specifier requirements. There are other features in the pipeline that ensure that customers’ needs are met and surpassed.”

One of the key elements of the Selecta marketing package is that everything is prepared in-house in regards to design and creation. This gives flexibility and total control over everything that is produced for customers, with a graphic design service also available to those that require that extra support. This enables relationships to be built with a personal approach to customers’ requirements.

Mark concludes, “Ensuring that we offer a quality and comprehensive marketing and customer sales support package is of paramount importance to Selecta and that our products brand, durability and quality is well represented in front of the consumer. This in-turn gives our customers the right materials and confidence to promote and sell their range of products.”

If you’re interested in becoming a fabricator or installer and want to #bepartofthefamily contact us now on 0121 325 2100 or email marketing@selectasystems.com

30+ fabricators join the Selecta ‘family’

At a time where there seems to be a grey mist of uncertainty and the rumour mills are reporting that businesses within the industry are down by as much as anything in-between 5%-15%, Birmingham based PVCu window and door system extruder and distributor, Selecta Systems, are without doubt a business on the up. With 30+ fabricators already joining the Selecta ‘family’ in the first six months of this year, Sales Director Andy Green, opens up as to why he feels the Advance 70 is proving to be the astute businessman’s choice and why Selecta are ‘bucking the trend’.

A Crazy Twelve Months!
“With Brexit, the triggering of article 50 and the decision to hold a general election, all in the space of a crazy twelve months, have all certainly had an impact on a number of businesses within our industry and also on consumer confidence as they hold out to see how things will pan out. One of the main impacts on many a business has been the fall in the pounds value with goods and materials purchased outside of the UK seeing a number of price rises during this time. Those increases, some substantial and repeated every few months, have unfortunately had to be passed down the ladder with fabricators experiencing continued price increases.”

“What is probably more of a concern to fabricators, installers and consumers, is that with these demands and also to sustain some of these increases there may conceivably be other cost cutting exercises being deployed. Product quality could be potentially affected as alternative supplies are used or material ratios modified which may affect product consistency and performance levels. This in turn may well affect customer service levels with potential increases in customer concerns and add further pressure on businesses operations.”

No Contracts! No Surcharges!
“However, during this period Selecta have been able to remain positive and largely unaffected, owing largely to the shrewd business model, philosophy and nature of the business as a whole. With Selecta being independently and family owned, this has certainly given ourselves that competitive edge by having no outside investors wanting returns on their investments, on top of the turmoil of the last twelve months, ensuring that the business can continue to develop and grow organically.”

“Selecta have been able to ‘weather the so called storm’ with little impact and in fact invest further in our products, services and infrastructure. We don’t tie our fabricators down with any kind of contract giving what I feel is a greater trust and bond with our customers. We haven’t and don’t ever intend to apply any surcharges, which a lot of businesses seem to be applying to recoup potential losses and we certainly haven’t imposed incremental and regular price increases on our profile sections during this time. Again, this is down to our adapted business model and approach.”

No Compromise on Quality
“Another area where we will not compromise on is quality, whether product or service related. It can take time to build up confidence in a product or service of which can be destroyed very quickly through business decisions that affect the integrity and reliability of those products and services. The Advance 70 Window and Door System justifiably remains at the centre of our core range of products. We have invested in the development of the flush fit sash and a new 80mm frame, two products that integrate perfectly within the Advance 70 suite of profiles along with adding the innovative EASi-FOLD panoramic door solution to the system. The reputation and strength of the Advance 70 System and brand is becoming more and more established with fabricators, installers and specifiers as customers look for a fabricator friendly, cost effective and efficient window and door profile system. The fact that the system is fully accredited further enhances its status and capabilities within the market, whilst its versatility is recognised through the introduction and integration of the flush fit sash and EASi-FOLD door.”

Real Service and Support
“Customer service and support is and continues to be a major influence in a business’s decision to stay with or seek an alternative supplier. It’s all about having a broad, flexible and personal service and support package and more importantly one that works for the customer. Not every business model allows for this kind of flexibility, but with Selecta this is an area which we are confident that we can meet and exceed customers’ needs and expectations.”

“With Selecta you speak to and work with the ‘doers’, those that can make those decisions on a daily basis and can provide a flexible service and support package that suits your business. We recognise that every business is different and that you cannot afford to offer a ‘one-size-fits-all’ package, as this may work for one but not the other. This is the key area of Selecta’s service and support, flexibility, something that a number of other businesses cannot afford to provide or are not structured to deliver.”

“Whether it’s a branded marketing support video, your personal customer support contact or technical engineer our aim is to provide a first class service and support package as we welcome you in to the family. It’s this family connection, fronted by our marketing campaign, that a host of fabricators have been able to associate their selves and their businesses with, as the majority have family connections firmly rooted within their business and they have a similar ethos and set of business values as ourselves.”

“Over the last 12 months or so, we have invested further in our main areas of support for customers. Marketing and sales support has seen a host of new marketing brochures and materials, now including personalised videos and e-brochures. We’ve also included a design service for customer flyers and adverts, helping customers to promote their products and services within their area.”

“With four technical engineers covering the UK, your personal technician is always on hand to handle your questions and queries whilst providing an on hand technical support service for you and your fabrication shop.”

Bucking the Trend
“Feedback over the last six to nine months, from all corners of the industry, has been overwhelming and heart-warming. Being referred to as ‘the most active and progressive’ systems company are a testament to the strong team that service and support our customers and the industry on a daily basis.”

“With over 30 fabricators joining Selecta during the first six months of the year demonstrates that there is confidence and reassurance in what Selecta can deliver in terms of products and service. What’s even more noticeable is that there seems to be an increase in installers, whom were buying in frames, moving back in to fabrication as they look to take greater control over their business and be less reliant on ‘super fabricator’ delivery.”

“We’ve also seen the emergence of a number of new company start-ups, an area that has seen a decline in recent years. Homeowners seem to be looking more towards ‘improve, don’t move’, with renovation of their homes now a more cost effective solution. This can only bode well for the future of our industry as more homeowners look for more technically advanced and aesthetically appealing window and door solutions.”

“With the rumours of our industry being down, it does seem like Selecta are ‘bucking the trend’ at the moment and possibly for all the reasons mentioned. Fabricators and installers are now becoming more and more familiar and exposed to the benefits of fabricating and installing the Advance 70 System along with the unrivalled service and support package that Selecta deliver.”

If you’re interested in being a fabricator or installer and want to #bepartofthefamily contact us now on 0121 325 2100 or email marketing@selectasystems.com

The demand for a PVCu panoramic door solution that ticks all the boxes has seen a host of alternatives enter the market over the last few years or so, but none have entered the fray with as much of a stir as the innovative and revolutionary Advance 70 EASi-FOLD Doors. Selecta Systems Sales Director, Andy Green and Marketing Manager, Mark Walker, discuss the recent PAS 24 certification, the impact of EASi-FOLD Doors on the market and why they tick all the boxes when it comes to fabricators, installers and consumers.

Andy explains, “During the development process we worked very closely with VBH and Invisifold in ensuring that the hardware was specifically adapted to suit our Advance 70 System. This was of major importance and to ensure that all avenues were covered from fabrication, installation and operation. We didn’t see the value of offering a universal set of hardware, we wanted the hardware to be Advance 70 specific, tried and tested. This process may have taken longer than expected but it had to be right to ensure that operation was smooth and effortless, installation simple and that the doors were fabricator friendly – an ethos that Selecta has always adhered to when designing and launching new systems.”

“This pragmatic and idealistic approach, we feel, has paid dividends with the EASi-FOLD Doors not only catching the imagination of fabricators whom are looking to offer something different to consumers, but also in the smoothness of obtaining enhanced security PAS 24 certification without any obstacles, modifications or indicative testing. This, I believe, is justification for the time spent in the development stage of ensuring that the hardware was Advance 70 specific. We were proud to receive recognition of this achievement during the first day of the FIT Show with BSi presenting Selecta with our PAS 24 certificate for the EASi-FOLD Doors.”

Andy continues, “Fabricator and installer friendly EASi-FOLD Doors provide consumers with a panoramic door solution that is secure, effortless in operation whilst ingenious in their design and aesthetic appeal.”

The Advance 70 EASi-FOLD Doors are supported by a marketing and customer support package of which fabricators are free to use as part of their marketing campaigns. Mark clarifies what is available as part of this package.

“With the Advance 70 EASi-FOLD Doors, we felt that only providing brochures and supporting literature was not enough to show off the true capabilities and operation of the doors. Flat images don’t give consumers a real insight in to how the doors operate and so we decided that providing a sales video would be far more appealing to fabricators to show off the pioneering panoramic doors to consumers. Through video consumers get to appreciate the smooth operation of individual sliding sashes, effortlessly gliding along the track, lock in to place, pivot and fold with ease.”
“With the added capability to have the video branded with their logo and contact details, it has enabled customers to use it on their website and social media channels, as well as being used as part of their presentations to customers. Customer branded product sales and promotional videos form an important part of our long term marketing strategy, as we provide further backing in ensuring fabricators are armed with the necessary sales support tools to promote our range of products.”

Mark states, “Many customers have already embraced this opportunity to have branded marketing videos, with feedback very complimentary and reports of an increase in customer sales on the back of this advancement in our marketing and sales support service. We’ve also provided a ‘hints and tips’ video for installers of the EASi-FOLD Doors which is available on our YouTube Channel, SelectaTV.”

A pioneering panoramic door solution, Advance 70 EASi-FOLD Doors provide fabricators with a modern and revolutionary option to a bi-fold door that deliver PAS 24 certification, effortless operation and innovative design all from a fabricator friendly system.

Over the course of the three days of the FIT Show 2017, it become quite apparent to Birmingham based PVCu Window and Door Profile System supplier Selecta Systems that the recent success shows no sign of slowing down! Sales Director, Andy Green, gives his verdict and thoughts on why more and more fabricators are wanting to #bepartofthefamily

Andy explains, “Leading up to the show Selecta had achieved a record number of fabricators, not only interested in but also converting to the Advance 70 System and so we went in to the FIT Show on a high. Over the last 12 months, Selecta has seen an overhaul in the branding and marketing of the company and products, whilst also enhancing our Advance 70 range. These factors combined with the industry known awareness of our excellent customer service and support had put us in good stead for the FIT Show and during the three days it gave ourselves another opportunity to measure fabricator and industry response further – and it surely didn’t disappoint!”

“The stands design itself was a hit with visitors and industry professionals whom commented on how much they loved the new image and colours, a total contrast to which they had been used to previously. Our marketing campaign leading up to the show was also duly praised by not only well respected industry professionals but also by the FIT Show event team, as we were shortlisted for “Most Effective Use of Social and Digital Media” at the awards ceremony at the Gala Dinner on the Wednesday evening. Unfortunately we didn’t finish overall winner but to have your efforts recognised is pleasing and demonstrates Selecta’s enthusiasm and commitment to supporting the industry.”

“On the stand itself, we had two brand new products on display, both of which had generated a large amount of interest in the lead up to the show. The Advance 70 Flush Sash Windows and EASi-FOLD Doors were the stars of the stand with fabricators ‘wowed’ by the simplicity of the doors and the fabricator friendliness of the Advance 70 System. PAS 24 accreditation for the EASi-FOLD Doors was presented to Selecta by BSi during the show and it was this product acknowledgment that also provided fabricators with confidence in the products overall performance as well as its excellent operational quality.”

“The new Mountain Oak colour on the displayed flush sash window was a hit with fabricators as it gave the windows an authentic timber styled look with the square lead glass and monkey tail handles enhancing its appearance. Fabricator and installer interest in Selecta and the Advance 70 System was excellent during the three days and very pleasing with so many positive reactions and comments coming throughout.”

“We also had one of our new fabricators showcasing Advance 70 EASi-FOLD Windows on their stand. Again, interest was outstanding with orders taken whilst on the stand, with the fabricator very complimentary towards Selecta’s support in the lead up and during the show, something that had not experienced from their previous system supplier.”

Tuesday evening at the show saw Selecta host a stand party to celebrate their 35th birthday with beer, bubbly, cake and an 80’s / 90’s disco. Andy continues “It was great to be able to celebrate our 35th birthday at the show and it went down very well with all whom came on to the stand. We were certainly the noisiest and most entertaining stand in our section of the show!”

“All-in-all it was a very successful show for Selecta and the Advance 70 System. What we found during the three days were that we had a high volume of quality leads and there seemed to be less ‘tyre kickers’ visiting the stand. There was a solid interest in the products and the overall support package of which Selecta can offer them as a customer. More and more fabricators are being exposed to the quality and versatility of the Advance 70 System and also to the full support package available to them. With that in mind, this is why we believe more fabricators are wanting to use the Advance 70 Window and Door System as their preferred choice and ‘be part of the family’.”

Celebrating 35 years of business is no easy feat in this industry as many system houses and profile systems have found over the last 10 years or so. Selecta Systems go in to the FIT Show celebrating their 35th year with a very positive feeling about the future, but have never forgotten their roots that got them where they are today. It’s this delicate, but fine mix of past, present and future that see’s Selecta’s position in the market and most importantly the Advance 70 System, flourishing as they embark on a new chapter in their proud history.

Selecta History in Brief

The Selecta journey started in May 1982, in the South of England with the Selecta MK1 profile system shipped in from Germany. This was to be a mechanically jointed window system using a block system and rivets and was the original system that set Selecta on their way.

In 1984, Selecta Window Systems as they were known, moved to their present day home of Birmingham, occupying a small office building and warehouse. I say home, as the owners used to sleep and stay in the upper levels of the office block and work on the ground floor during the day!

Selecta grew throughout the 80’s with new system development and the addition of residential and patio door systems. The first major system breakthrough was the 4000 System which became the kickstart to Selecta’s success. It was an externally beaded system, but with a bit of fabrication knowledge could be turned in to an internally beaded system. The fabricator friendly system, with universal steel reinforcement, meant low stock holding for fabricators, a philosophy that Selecta have taken forward and continue to promote today – the need to ensure fabrication of their systems is as efficient and effective as possible, demonstrated by the current Advance 70.

Up until 1995, all of Selecta’s window and door systems had been extruded firstly in Germany and in the later years in the UK by other extrusion houses / companies. Following many expansions of the Birmingham site, with Selecta now occupying the majority of the warehouses at the top of Winster Grove and staff up to around 60-70, it was clear that Selecta had outgrown the facilities and there was a need to extrude their own systems. A plot of land sat behind the offices, which was purchased and work began on a purpose built state-of-the-art extrusion and distribution centre. By the end of 1995 Selecta moved in to the newly built premises, instantly increasing staff by approximately 20 as they began the process of extruding their own systems for the first time.

During the 90’s and early 00’s Selecta consolidated their position as a specialist in setting up new window and door fabricator businesses, as the industry grew and the demand for uPVC windows and doors blossomed. The industry was certainly booming but also developing. Selecta continued to develop their products and service with a vast emphasis on a personal and flexible service for fabricators – again part of the original ethos that has stayed with the business throughout the years.

The end of 2006 saw two years of research and development come to fruition with the launch of the original Advance 70 System. The all new 70mm system was ahead of its time with the thermal efficiency, robust and fabricator friendly system raising the bar considerably. Originally released as a chamfered system, an integrated sculptured suite was added to the Advance 70 System in 2013 which was quickly followed by the MASTERfold bi-folding door in 2014.

Over the years the Advance 70 System has been modified, improved and developed further, demonstrating the versatility, resourcefulness and ingenuity of the system.

Selecta Today

Today, Selecta Systems remain independently owned and by the same family whom started the business back in 1982. The original ethos and values remain, those that have served the business well over the years. Flexibility, customer care and support combined with a bespoke personal service continue to be key elements of the Selecta philosophy.

This uniqueness ensures that Selecta have a strong and distinctive place within the market when compared with the competition. Now employing over 120, the Selecta ‘family’ has grown steadily over the years and is now undergoing a recruitment drive with expansion within the Marketing, Customer and Sales Support teams.

The Advance 70 System has gone from strength-to-strength with the 2017 launch of the new flush sash section and the 80mm traditional frame. These new ingenious additions to the suite sit within the same principles applied all those years ago – providing a fabricator friendly system, making them more efficient with less stock holding, whilst offering greater product diversity. This includes the inspired design choice to enable the flush sash to be fabricated within the existing 70mm or the new 80mm frame.

Hot on the heels of the flush sash window comes the Advance 70 EASi-FOLD Door with hardware that has been specifically designed to fit the system to ensure smooth, consistent and flawless operation. This innovative and revolutionary alternative to the bi-fold door, demonstrates the versatility and superiority of the Advance 70 System, of which it is fast becoming known for.

It is on the back of the #bepartofthefamily campaign, the unique, flexible and personal service along with the excellent qualities of the Advance 70 System that has seen Selecta convert a record number of fabricators in the first four months of 2017. The business is developing and there is a new found confidence in Selecta and the Advance 70 system as larger fabricators make the change.

The new products, enthusiasm and energy of the Selecta ‘family’ will be there for all to see come 23rd – 25th May as they invite you all to visit their stand – C20. Join in the 35th birthday celebrations on the Tuesday evening between 5-8pm with an 80’s & 90’s disco, beer and bubbly and of course a slice of cake!

Selecta in the Future

It is certainly looking promising for the Advance 70 System and Selecta as they enter their 35th year. A new found enthusiasm, energy and desire amongst the invigorated long-term staff with the energised zest of the new employees is having a positive impact moving forward. It’s that passion and drive, backed up by a first class window and door system, that ensues what is looking like a very bright and encouraging future for Selecta.

After 35 years of existence it’s strange to refer to Selecta as the new kid on the block, as they’ve predominantly gone about their business quietly, but you cannot fail to see the galvanised spirit and desire of a business with long term ambitions and aspirations. 2017 and beyond see’s Selecta firmly installed as a forward thinking system house with a very proud history, whom is not afraid to forget their roots – that unique ethos and those core values that made them who they are today.

As for the future of Selecta, they will be the first to admit that they are not the largest extruder out there. With the versatility and superiority of the Advance 70 window and door system, supported by the experienced, knowledgeable family behind them, they do however, aspire to be the best… it’s time to #bepartofthefamily

There is a new found confidence that is really flourishing at Selecta Systems and this seems to be rippling out through the industry. Although the company has been recognised as a PVC-u extruder for many years, demand for the Advance 70 system is now really growing. Over the last 18 months Selecta appears to have gone through a renaissance, and this is giving the whole team an awful lot to celebrate.

The company exudes a ‘family feel’ in its approach to business, which is rapidly being acknowledged by fabricators and installers throughout the industry as a major benefit and a very appealing quality. Sales figures are soaring and there are new customer conversions every day. Senior management at the company consider that the focus of a committed team, which has utter belief in all it provides, from products through to customer service, is turning the privately owned company into a major player.

The changes at Selecta have seen the company convert many leads into new customers this year, with developments at the company continuing to re-establish its market presence.

Mark Walker, Marketing Manager comments, “The core philosophy of the company is coming out and becoming more evident by the day. We are finally showing the industry what we can really do and people are listening. This has come about because we are focusing on the core values of what the fabricator needs and we are working with them as we develop the range and grow the team.”

Thinking about the fabricator as being key and at the sharp end of the business, the management team consider them priorities.

Based in Birmingham, Selecta Systems prides itself on the unrivalled technical expertise it offers and the strong marketing initiatives it provides. With innovative re-branding now completed there is a new image being projected which will be launched initially at The FIT Show this year … it is extremely positive and there is enthusiasm in abundance throughout the team.

The introduction of a new flush sash and 80mm frame that has been adapted and integrated into the Advance 70 System portfolio, has caused great excitement because of the advantages to customers, including the fact that they do not have to buy any extra goods with the system. All the benefits will be demonstrated by a very keen team at the show.

For everyone at Selecta, technical superiority, premium quality products and performance standards remain paramount, with a commitment to provide only the best for customers in terms of support services and after sales care.

The exhibition is the ideal launchpad that the team has wanted, to highlight to the market all the new product innovations that have been rigorously developed and tested to the highest industry standards over the last 12 months. Advantages that have been impressing new and existing customers alike.

The Ready-2-Fit range of Composite Doors will be on display alongside the Easifold portfolio, which give customers greater scope for their business. These can now only be purchased via the new fabricator network which has been launched to ensure that only a Selecta fabricator can purchase the products.

The show will also allow the newly expanded team to meet and greet customers face-to-face, where they can demonstrate the finished products on-stand. New specifier guides, that are very fabricator friendly, have been designed and printed and there are now promotional videos being launched at the show that help customers to highlight the benefits of the Selecta range.

Andy Green, Sales Director comments, “We understand what customers need to do to convert leads into sales, and that approach with our tailored customer care is paramount to the whole team.”

For this reason Steve Keyte was appointed Customer Liaison Officer and he purely provides after sales care. With over 30 years experience in the industry, Steve promotes Selecta and its products to ensure that the customers voice is heard back at the Birmingham Head Office.

There is now a direct contact with customers ‘on the road’ that is purely dedicated to customer needs. This gives them a personal service that Steve believes is truly unique.

Steve states, “Other sales teams are very mechanical with data driven teams which can be very demotivating – this service, supports our guys and really helps to boost team morale. It also gives our customers renewed confidence in Selecta.

The company is standing there now as a real leader – people are seeing the benefits of the developments in the range and they want to be part of the Selecta story.”

Investment in the company will continue with further expansion plans in the pipeline. One of the most recent investments was the installation of a second, high-speed woodgrain line, which has been essential due to the popularity of the new Renolit colour foils that have been added to the range.

For Andy Green, perceptions are changing about Selecta, although the customer has always been King when it comes to quality assurance guarantees. As someone with a wealth of understanding at all levels of the industry and in relation to Selecta as a company, he is passionate about the future and the company’s potential.

Andy comments, “It’s not just about providing products and launching new developments here, it really is so important for us to give our customers support. Despite the quiet and and the busy times in the sector, our team has remained consistent and that is a quality our customers really appreciate. The team has remained loyal and that makes us different. Everyone here, including our customer base has a belief in the company and the products. We recognise that.

If customers try new products we want their feedback. We want them to feel appreciated and we want to ensure that they are using products that match their own business needs. Steve builds and maintains business relations, and that, helps us as a team, to maintain continuity as we evaluate comments and make improvements for the better accordingly. Combined, it all helps to support fabricators and the Sales Team.”

For customers the strength of a longstanding team behind the product developments and the support service gives credibility to the trustworthiness of Selecta. New conversions and existing customers alike are flooding Andy Green’s in-box, in recognition of the professional service, quality standards and friendly approach the company now exudes.

Alucare Limited recently commented “…can I say how refreshing it is to see a company focus on quality and loyalty rather than profit and turnover,” while the NU-Window Company wrote, “…we all look forward to working with a company who seem to genuinely care about helping this company grow.”

Realising the potential within a growing market, Selecta is now consolidating its leading market position by introducing high quality products and improved services that yield profits for customers. This continues to remain a priority for the whole team.

Andy comments further : “The encouraging response to the new products and services have already demonstrated very optimistic results. In fact, this company, has never seen anything like this.

We aim to provide customers with only the highest quality products and offer a forward thinking approach, that will assist in the progression and growth strategies of their individual business.”

All new products are considered valuable additions to an already extensive range, which are available for both domestic and commercial applications. As with all Selecta System’s products, the portfolio has been subjected to various independent tests to ensure performance and customer satisfaction.

At The FIT Show this year, the company celebrates its Thirty Five Year Anniversary, which will be heralded on stand, at the exhibition, between 5 – 8 pm.

Mark continues, “We feel as though we have finally been able to lift the lid on Selecta as a company and people are liking what they are seeing. That is providing great peace of mind to customers with more and more companies recognising the superior services and products we offer as standard.”

With a growing reputation for excellence the Selecta team clearly believes that the proof is undeniable, given the statistics, as the company differentiates itself from competitors because of product superiority and a passion to lead by example.

Mark concludes, “With a focussed and driven team Selecta is now creating the right solutions for an industry that requires premium quality products and exceptional support services. We are all anticipating that thirty-five years are really just the beginning for this company as we offer a strong, stable and viable alternative.”

Investment in key staff recruitment at Selecta Systems continues as three new experienced bodies strengthen the Customer and Marketing Support Team. The move further highlights Selecta’s continued commitment to providing their fabricator base with a support package that’s second-to-none.

Donna O’Reilly joins the Internal Customer & Marketing Support Team after previously spending four years at Vision Publications Magazine and her vast experience in customer relations proving a decisive factor in attracting Donna to join the Selecta ‘family’. A familiar face and voice within the industry, Selecta see Donna as an integral figure in providing a hands-on, friendly and helpful route of communication and support between the customer and Selecta.

As part of the Customer and Marketing Support Team strengthening, Michele Statham has also joined Donna and the team in providing vital support to both existing and potential customers. Michele’s recruitment is following 27+ years at Mitchells and Butlers, where her previous valuable experience of customer management will be a valuable factor in her new role at Selecta.

The third new appointment in Selecta is Steve Keyte whom brings 30+ years of window and door fabrication and installation experience to a newly created position within the Sales and Customer Support Team. Steve is predominantly based on the road, with the introduction of new products to existing and potential fabricators his initial objective, coupled with providing another communication link between fabricator and Selecta.

Marketing Manager, Mark Walker, says “We are delighted to welcome three experienced recruits to our expanding support teams and we are sure that they will all become a hit with our customers.”

Sales Director, Andy Green, comments “The recruitment of these three knowledgeable and skilled individuals demonstrates Selecta’s commitment to providing an unrivalled and personal support package to our fabricator base. Selecta wish them every success in their new roles.”

A wealth of experience, a strong support team and quality products are just three aspects of what is seeing Birmingham based systems house company Selecta Systems hit new targets and grow. As they celebrate their 35th year in business, Sales Director Andy Green, explains why Selecta and the Advance 70 System are fast becoming a bigger player in the market.

Andy explains, “The staff, or ‘family’ as we refer to ourselves at Selecta, are focused on what is becoming a new chapter in Selecta’s proud history. With a selection of new products that focus on the fabricator and fitter, an experienced team of employees combined with fresh and hungry new members and new marketing and customer support materials, Selecta has seen an increase in demand from both existing and interest from new customers.”

“We see ourselves as an approachable, friendly and flexible business which allows us to cater for all fabricator types and sizes. We don’t have a corporate styled ‘one size fits all’ approach as usually when that method is taken, flexibility is removed from the business and certain levels of customer focus and demands may suffer as these ‘flexible’ decisions are removed from the front facing staff as they are made at investor level.”

“Organic growth has always been the chosen and long term approach of Selecta, which has proven to work as 35 years in business demonstrates. As the only UK based family owned profile system supplier we connect with our customers. The original values and ethos have never been compromised by being part of a group which has allowed a flexible approach to be maintained as customers grow with the business. Every customer is valued and receives the level of support, guidance and care of which their business demands. This flexible approach works for Selecta and it certainly works for our customers.”

“From initial contact with Selecta a customer will deal with the decision makers and doers, those that can customise a service specifically for them – a personal touch with a family friendly approach! Our team of four technicians, soon to expand to five, provide an unrivalled technical support service that gives you the required on-site training and care to ensure that changeover and the fabrication of Advance 70 is and remains as efficient and effective as possible.”

“Selecta marketing, marketing support and materials have undergone a key change over the last 12 months. A brand new comprehensive range of suited marketing brochures, flyers and associated materials have been created with a bold, modern and prestigious look with greater emphasis on imagery to capture the audience. We’ve also expanded the Marketing and Customer Service Team, focusing even greater on ensuring customers have the relevant materials to promote and support their business, whilst also keeping them up-to-date with new product developments.”

“With Selecta you get a friendly and caring family business which I believe is where a large amount of fabricators can connect with and relate to. The whole business approach has been to engage with fabricators and invite them to #bepartofthefamily and not to be just another customer, but feel part of Selecta. The Selecta ‘family’ is made up of a long list of loyal, knowledgeable and experienced employees with many key staff having been with Selecta for 20+ years. This year also sees Selecta celebrate our 35th anniversary in May and it is a feat that we are duly proud of in an age where we have seen many a system house supplier come and go.”

“Over the last 12 to 18 months Selecta has grown organically, without the need of acquisition and mergers. Continued investment within the extrusion, lamination and transport departments of the business with key recruitments within the core areas of the business has seen the business develop. There has been major investment in the range of products that Selecta offer, giving customer’s diversity whilst ensuring that they operate efficiently and effectively.”

Andy concludes, “We here at Selecta acknowledge we are not the biggest extruder in the UK and we don’t have a board of directors, shareholders or investors to please. We are sticking to what we do best, growing organically with new product development and customer base expansion by providing a range of products and a service that puts the fabricator first, whilst meeting their business demands and consumer market expectations. Selecta has never lost its identity or roots whilst the flexibility of our approach encompassed with a versatile window and door system in the Advance 70 gives fabricators an outstanding package.”

“As I said previously, ‘we certainly are not the biggest extruder’ but we do aspire to be the best, with a first-class window and door profile system and an unrivalled level of service. It’s something I firmly believe we now are and have. It’s Selecta’s time to shine…”