Planning for the future

Glass Times editor Nathan Bushell reports on efforts to look at what lies beyond the lifting of all restrictions.

As we come to terms with another four-week delay to the complete lifting of restrictions, the general news emerging from industry is more of a long-term view.

Many companies have been about fighting fires for the last 18 months, with long-term strategic planning put on hold for many.

However, it seems business are once again looking at the bigger picture and tackling the maybe unforeseen effects of the pandemic.

For example, as homeowners turn their attention to home improvements, Fensa has been promoting the benefits of windows in terms of aesthetics, return in investment, and effect on the environment on the radio. The longer view is very much in focus, as many in the fenestration industry don’t want a repeat of the Green Homes Grant scheme – where windows were undervalued – if the government devises a new retro-fit initiative.

We also have Bohle discussing how glass shortages could lead to situations where suppliers deliver products that don’t meet the required specification, which could lead to accusations of passing off.

Also on the subject of glass shortages, Mackenzie Glass discusses how they could lead to positive results, such as the strengthening of relationships in the supply chain.

Finally, one analyst has reported that it expects to see a ‘digital transformation’ within the manufacturing sector, as companies learn from the pandemic and design in systems that will help to prevent future disruptions.