Added value – the real driver of success
Following FIT Show 2025, regional sales manager, Mike Wilson, at Everglade Windows, reflects on the event and how the show put a spotlight on the importance of added value in a product-rich market.
While another FIT Show has come and gone, it was a powerful reminder for us and the industry as a whole. Walking the corridors of the NEC, there was no shortage of product options – from slim sightline doors and advanced locking systems to automated smart tech and energy-efficient glazing.
It was a true showcase of just how far we’ve all come as an industry over the past few decades, in terms of product innovation – but it’s made it even more evident that simply offering a high-performance product just isn’t enough anymore.
Homeowners have become saturated with choice, with an abundance of well-designed and meticulously manufactured windows and doors. It makes you think, what can really make you stand out in a landscape bursting with choice? The answer has to lie in the added value you can deliver, far beyond the frame.
The door is just the start
Let’s be clear: delivering high performance products is non-negotiable. The products you manufacture or install are the essence of what you do and who you are, but that’s now becoming the standard offering.
While homeowners have countless choices at their fingertips, conversations with customers have gradually shifted from what you offer, to how you can help.
It’s no surprise, really. Installers of today are facing an ever-growing number of challenges, from continuously changing legislation and tighter fitting schedules to skills shortages, margin pressures and getting the next project over the line. They want support to navigate these obstacles, and it’s something we’ve always tried to do at Everglade Windows.
Supply that’s certain
Over the past few years, we’ve all experienced issues – from disruptions to supply chain, material shortages, labour gaps, implications from the changing government and budget, and more. That uncertainty still lingers in some parts of the industry and for installers, it creates risk.
That’s why being able to deliver a certain supply to our customers has become the cornerstone of our efforts year after year.
Controlling as much of the process as possible, from our 65,000ft2 in-house manufacturing facility to high-tech machinery and capacity to stock materials, has really helped us streamline our efforts, avoid delays and deliver on reliable lead times.
Without the technical awareness or wider understanding of regulations, you’re setting yourself up for failure. An installer shouldn’t be left scratching their head when trying to understand the capabilities of the products they’re selling or how the specification compares against current legislation.
At Everglade Windows, we’ve found that creating a dedicated space for regular knowledge sharing is essential, which is why we hold quarterly Techtalk sessions. It not only gives installers the chance to explore technical updates and discuss current challenges, but builds a stronger understanding of the trends and patterns in the industry, which means they can provide future-proofed solutions for their customers.
Networking and peer support shouldn’t be underestimated either. In a market as fast-moving as ours, it’s incredibly valuable to stay connected to others – whether it’s fellow installers, supplier partners, mutual connections, or other businesses within the industry. Tapping into shared experiences will not only help installers make more informed decisions and avoid some common pitfalls, but will help them build resilience.
To ensure our installer customers remain supported, we have hosted our annual trade customer conference for over 15 years. A day filled with advice, support and networking, our installer customers can talk to us and others about how they’re feeling and what help they need, while having valuable sessions from our team, as well as our network of connections.
For customers looking to sign up to its next Techtalk webinar on Friday 27 June 2025, book your place by visiting: https://www.evergladetrade.co.uk/techtalk/
