A manufacturing milestone
CDW Systems is celebrating 30 years in business. Glass Times talks to its chairman, Jeremy Phillips.
Gloucester-based CDW Systems, part of the East Manor Group, is said to be one of the UK’s most trusted and well-respected specialists in the trade supply of aluminium window, door, and curtain wall products. And this year the fabricator celebrates its 30-year anniversary.
A rich history
Established in 1992, making it one of the UK’s longest running aluminium specialists too, CDW Systems has been manufacturing and supplying high-quality aluminium products for trade and commercial installers nationwide for three decades.
Starting out as a trusted manufacturer of shop front systems, the company then expanded into curtain walling and high-end windows and doors. The company is said to be one of the first UK aluminium fabricators to use CNC machinery and punch presses, leading the field in industry innovation.
The original founders and present directors have been involved in the aluminium industry for many years and it’s this expertise and extensive market knowledge that has been responsible for CDW Systems growth across the business.
September 2017 marked the start of an exciting new chapter for CDW Systems when it was acquired by the existing management team, alongside its sister companies Clearway Doors & Windows and Designex Cabinets.
Today, the company offers a range of unglazed products to suit most applications using profiles from some of the most respected aluminium systems companies in the UK, including Technal, Reynaers, AluK, and Smart Systems, and a level of support that has seen it become a trusted supply partner for a broad range of projects across the UK.
Jeremy Phillips, CDW Systems’ group chairman, said: “This is an incredible milestone for any company and it’s through the hard work, passion, and dedication of our team, both past and present, that have made it possible.
“The CDW Systems name is synonymous with the best and most relevant products, comprehensive technical support, and continuous investment.”
Investing for its customers
CDW Systems’ 13,000ft² headquarters has seen continuous investment in machinery, new products, and staff to make sure the ever-changing needs of its customers are met.
In the last 18 months alone, the company has rolled out several new Smart Systems products, including the Alitherm Heritage Range, the Aliver Rooflight system and Designer Doors, invested in a new Italmac Spring 7000 CNC machine, and bolstered its operations to cope with the unprecedented demand of the last 18 months.
Jeremy said: “We are always investing in our manufacturing processes to stay up to date with the latest advancements in technology and enhance our products and services.
“It has certainly been a challenging last two years but, as always, we have made every effort behind the scenes to meet demand and ensure we are supplying our customers with the very best products and support.”
More than a supplier
CDW Systems is now working closer than ever with customers and getting more involved in their projects, helping with product, specification, and compliance with new regulations.
Whatever the size of the project, from small-scale domestic installations or a full commercial contract, the company can help to ensure the most cost-effective solution for the customer, and can speak to architects if needed.
“What has changed most over the last 30 years is that, as a fabricator today, you need to be so much more than just a supplier,” added Jeremy. “Quality products, lead times, and reliability have to be backed up with the right help, advice, and support.
“The reason we are still standing tall, 30 years on is our quality range of products combined with a commitment to delivering a pro-active customer service experience, built on incredible technical back-up and comprehensive pre-sales support.
“It’s why we’re still growing and still seeing tremendous demand for our services from both trade and commercial customers across the country.”
