Meeting the demands of a shifting commercial market
As the commercial construction sector becomes increasingly complex and sustainability-led, Glass Express Midlands says it is proving that adaptability, technical expertise and responsible manufacturing can coexist at scale.
From office blocks to schools, retail developments to high-rise apartments, the needs of commercial glazing have never been more diverse. It’s a challenge that technical manager, Kirsty Fortnam, and her team are meeting head-on.
“Today’s clients don’t just want glass, they want performance,” Kirsty explains. “Whether that’s improved acoustics, energy efficiency, wind load handling or embodied carbon reduction, the technical brief is becoming more rigorous and more bespoke.”
She adds that Glass Express Midlands has built a reputation for translating those briefs into reliable solutions. The company’s in-house technical support, close supplier collaboration, and membership in the prestigious Guardian Select programme means specifiers and contractors gain access to a wide portfolio of advanced IGUs – backed by real expertise.
“Our customers often come to us with a challenge, not a product,” Kirsty says. “They might need to meet a particular thermal target, reduce solar gain, or comply with updated Building Regulations.
“It’s our job to recommend the right combination of glass to deliver that outcome – with no compromise on aesthetics.”
That technical confidence is underpinned by a deep sustainability ethos. Glass Express Midlands is proudly Made in Britain-accredited, sourcing materials locally to reduce transportation emissions and support UK industry. The company also returned over 200 tonnes of cullet into the recycling stream last year – part of its circular production strategy that keeps valuable resources in use.
“Glass is the only material that can be infinitely recycled,” Kirsty notes. “We take that seriously, and our clients do too. More and more are asking about our carbon footprint or our glass’ embodied carbon, and we’re working closely with suppliers like Guardian Glass to offer low-carbon alternatives.”
Beyond specification, Glass Express Midlands’ commercial agility is winning praise. Investments in smart machinery, fleet upgrades and enhanced logistics mean customers benefit from fast lead times, national coverage and responsive service – even when projects shift due to planning or financing issues.
“We’ve structured our operations to flex with the market,” says Kirsty. “That might mean adapting a delivery schedule at short notice or supporting an urgent compliance question on-site. We’re not just suppliers – we’re problem-solvers.”
This responsive, service-led approach is helping Glass Express Midlands strengthen its relationships across the commercial sector. Increasingly, the company is being seen not just as a glass supplier, but as a practical collaborator – offering both reliable product performance and technical clarity.
“It’s about more than just manufacturing units,” Kirsty concludes. “We aim to support our customers with a consistent, informed service, helping them meet their project goals more effectively.”
