For long-established installers, changing a key supplier is rarely straightforward. But, for South Devon–based Windows of Distinction, the move to Topline Glass proved that switching doesn’t have to be disruptive – when service, quality and support are done properly.

With more than 30 years in the industry, Windows of Distinction operates across Teignmouth, Newton Abbot, Torquay, Dawlish and Exeter, delivering predominantly domestic glazing projects for a loyal and often retired customer base. Family-run, with directly employed fitting teams, the business has grown largely through recommendation rather than sales-led marketing.

According to office manager, Stuart Gloyn, that reputation depends heavily on dependable suppliers.

“A good supplier isn’t necessarily about the cheapest price,” Stuart said. “It’s about having a good product and good backup. If something goes wrong, you need to be looked after – and that’s just as important as price.”

Long-standing relationship changes

Before working with Topline Glass, Windows of Distinction had relied on the same glass supplier for more than 20 years. While the relationship worked well initially, things changed following a corporate takeover.

“They had been really good,” Stuart explained. “But they were bought by a national company, and the personal touch left. We didn’t feel as important anymore, and they weren’t as flexible – and that means a lot to us.”

For a business known for going the extra mile, that lack of flexibility began to matter.

“Perhaps we go a bit too far looking after our customers!” Stuart adds. “But it means we don’t have to go looking for work – people come to us. That’s how you build a reputation.”

First impressions of Topline Glass

Windows of Distinction wasn’t actively seeking a new supplier when Topline Glass first came onto their radar.

“Jeremy Bartlett, owner of Topline Glass, visited the business to introduce himself,” Stuart said. “We got on well straight away, and the relationship developed from there.”

Rather than making an immediate switch, the company tested the relationship with a handful of small orders.

“We sent a few odd jobs across first just to see what the units were like and what the service was like.”

The results were encouraging.

“The units came in clean and good, and everyone always seemed happy,” Stuart said. “The driver, Andy, was great too. I’d just had an operation and couldn’t carry anything, and he just carried it all in – no fuss. Everyone just goes the extra mile, and that’s what I really like.”

A seamless switchover

As confidence grew, Windows of Distinction made the decision to transition fully to Topline Glass, a move that can often raise concerns about disruption. In this case, the switchover was straightforward.

“When we decided to swap, it was easy,” Stuart continued. “Setting up accounts, pricing and ordering processes was simple.”

Most importantly, the change caused no disruption to live projects.

“It didn’t affect any work at all,” Stuart explained. “From a certain point, you just order from somebody else – and that was it.”

Quality, service and confidence

Since switching, Windows of Distinction has relied on Topline Glass for a wide range of sealed units and specialist glazing.

“The quality has been top-notch,” Stuart said. “Everything’s been right so far – clean units, taped where they need to be, and untaped where needed.”

Consistency and reassurance have been key benefits.

“If something needs attention, I feel far more confident that it’s being handled properly,” he added.

That confidence is reinforced by responsive customer service.

“The customer service has been brilliant,” Stuart said. “If they promise a call back, you get it. They’ll ring to double-check details and make sure everything’s right.”

For Stuart, that has made a tangible difference.

“It probably has reduced my stress levels,” he admitted. “I’m not constantly worrying about units going through.”

A partnership built to last

While the move to Topline Glass hasn’t changed how Windows of Distinction operates day to day, it has reinforced the value of a dependable supplier relationship.

“We’ve carried on doing exactly what we do,” Stuart said. “But it’s been an easy move to make.”

Looking ahead, the future of the partnership is clear.

“As long as the service stays good and we’re happy with what we’re getting, we’ll keep ordering,” he said.

And when asked whether he would recommend Topline Glass to other installers?

“Yes º definitely!”