We take a closer look at how Hurst Doors is said to be combining product innovation, manufacturing investment, and a strong people-first culture to set new standards in UK door fabrication.
From the launch of the UK’s first PAS24-accredited 28mm PVC-U door panel (as part of a full doorset), to investment in smart automation, sustainable manufacturing and industry-leading customer tools, Hurst Doors says it is ‘blazing a trail’ for modern door fabrication.
Demonstrating strong commercial resilience, Hurst has grown panel sales by 20%, and maintained a 99%+ OTIF, in a challenging economic climate.
“At Hurst, we believe excellence in fabrication is defined by more than just output,” says Mark Atkinson, sales director at Hurst Doors.
“For us, it’s about continual investment, innovative product development, outstanding service, and a strong commitment to people and progress.”
A significant step forward for the Hull-based manufacturer of PVC-U door panels, composite doors and fire doors, has been the launch of Securicore, a next-generation PVC-U door panel that is able to meet the requirements of PAS24.
Providing enhanced security and high thermal performance in a cost-effective format, Securicore opens-up access to sectors where compliance is non-negotiable such as new build and social housing.
Securicore provides our customers with a unique market advantage, in terms of what can be achieved with a competitively priced panel product,” says Mark.
“It forms part of a broader transformation in our panel range, enabling us to align PVC-U doors with composite and aluminium alternatives.”
This includes the introduction of seven new contemporary PVC-U panel designs that close the gap between traditional panel doors and modern composite aesthetics. Backed by new decorative glass options and the popular Harmony Glass Collection, this provides more choice and enhances appeal for both fabricators and homeowners.
Continuing its investment in manufacturing infrastructure, Hurst has injected more than £750k into advanced machinery. Significant purchases include a new paint facility, glue machines, vac-forming tools and CNC-supporting equipment.
With operations underpinned by a commitment to sustainability, all Hurst door panels, including Securicore, are predominantly recyclable. Maintaining closed-loop waste streams for glass, MDF, polystyrene, and PVC-U, the company works with specialist partners to ensure materials are reused and kept out of landfill.
In addition to the use of machinery that reduces waste and energy consumption, Hurst also prioritises the energy performance of its products. With U-values as low as 0.9 W/m²K, carbon reduction goals are addressed and heating bills are lowered for homeowners, delivering environmental and economic benefits.
While all these things contribute to Hurst’s success as a fabricator, none of it would be possible without its valued workforce, as Mark explains:
“Hurst’s power is its people,” he says. “Customer support is integral to what we do, but it’s also about nurturing our own. Of our 170-strong workforce, 47 staff members have been with us for more than 20 years. They bring invaluable knowledge, quality and consistency to our operation, and we wouldn’t have got to where we are without them.”
With long-serving team members leading departments such as warehouse operations and composite order processing, Hurst prioritises internal progression and promotes from within, with continuous skills development through mentoring and cross-functional training.
Investing in Securicore is designed to position Hurst customers ahead of anticipated Document Q revisions while opening new opportunities in the social housing and newbuild sectors.
“As an agile business that’s quick to respond to regulatory shifts and consumer demand, our focus is on innovation, excellence and delivering ongoing value to our customers,” says Mark.
“We’re more than just a fabricator, we’re a business that invests in our products, our people and our service offering in a way that redefines the standard for door manufacturing in the UK.”
