Door Industry Journal - Summer 2022

THE door industry journal summer 2022 Industry News Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk 8 Masonite Opens New Exterior Door Manufacturing Facility 136,000square-foot plant brings Solidor® operations under one roof to increase efficiency, capacity, environmental sustainability and safety. Composite door manufacturer Solidor® has opened a new factory and distribution in Stoke-on-Trent that incorporates the latest in manufacturing technologies and will provide room for future growth. The facility combines five previous Solidor® production and storage sites into one manufacturing hub and utilises advanced manufacturing automation to improve production and efficiency, product quality and the work experience for employees. Solidor® is part of Masonite International Corporation, a leading global designer, manufacturer, marketer and distributor of interior and exterior doors. Vicky Philemon, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Masonite Europe, said: “The opening of this purpose-built facility reinforces Solidor’s position as a leader in the UK’s exterior door manufacturing industry and reaffirms our commitment to the Stoke area as we continue to bring employment and career development opportunities to the local community. “We are excited about the enhancements the new site will bring for our employees, communities, partners and customers in addition to supporting our future growth plans.” The interior layout has been optimised to improve material flow and reduce the need for forklift trucks to enhance safety and reduce emissions. The latter is just one of the ways in which the design has focused on sustainability, with the factory achieving a Planet Mark accreditation. Planet Mark is a sustainability certification which requires the measurement and reduction of whole-life carbon emissions, engagement of the supply chain and the inclusion of the local community. The development was constructed using responsibly sourced or recycled content materials and includes rainwater harvesting, natural lighting and a building management system to ensure that energy use is fully optimised. In addition, it yields a 17% reduction in embodied carbon compared to a notional baseline. Masonite employs approximately 280 people at the new plant, with over 85% of the staff living within the local community. Located on Whittle Road, Meir Park, Stoke, the factory is only five miles east of Junction 15 of the M6, providing it with good transport links. Solidor®, one of the United Kingdom’s most recognised manufacturers and suppliers of composite doors, was acquired by Masonite in 2018. Solidor® exterior doors are constructed with a solid timber core that is complemented by a variety of innovative designs and colour choices to provide the appearance of timber with the benefits of modern, low-maintenance materials. More information about Solidor® is available at solidor.co.uk . New MD at Zero Seal Systems Zero Seal Systems is delighted to announce the appointment of Mark Lockley as its new Managing Director with effect from 1st July 2022. Mark has been with the company for over 23 years, the last 14 of which have been as Sales Director. Regarding his new appointment, Mark said: “I am really excited to accept this new challenge and look forward to continuing the success of the business.” He went on to say: “Zero has some great products and a fantastic team who are totally committed to providing unmatched customer service.” Mark takes over from Mandy Greaves who is retiring at the end of this year after 24 years of service as Office Manager, Commercial Director and the last 4 years as Managing Director. “I am looking forward to retirement,” said Mandy. “Mark and I have worked closely together over the last 4 years and he knows the business inside out and will continue to be ably assisted by Gavin Hogan as Sales Director and Nicola Hewitt as Financial Director. It is an exciting time for the company.” www.zeroplus.co.uk

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