Key achievements

Carl F Groupco has reported a successful year with ongoing development of its extensive catalogue of over 7,000 lines catering for all window and door hardware requirements.

Brands that have performed particularly well for the distributor include SmartSecure that provides new generation electronic door locking and access control. This has achieved a 90% year-on-year increase in sales since its launch in 2016.

Key achievements during 2018 include the launch of a new Carl F Groupco hardware website. The company also upgraded its Carl F direct website for its e-commerce tools and consumables business, which provides next-working-day delivery.

Managing director John Crittenden said: “Expansion of our product range is a real achievement, particularly in light of turbulent market conditions with fluctuating exchange rates. And, as we brace ourselves for the impact of Brexit, it has to be acknowledged that the beginning of 2019 could be a slightly rocky road for the UK as a whole, but we have plans in place to ensure we continue to meet our performance and delivery targets.”

Looking ahead to 2019, Carl F Groupco said demand for SmartSecure is set to continue to grow in a range of markets including housing associations and designer installations.  Specialist products are also on track for growth including fire rated fittings, high specification aluminium door locks, and hardware for Liniar’s new reversible window that is suited to high rise installations.