After four decades in fenestration, Mark Smith, General Manager at Glazerite East, has witnessed significant changes in manufacturing, technology and customer expectations. Here, he reflects on the lessons learned throughout his career and why investment, experience and product innovation remain essential to successful fabrication.
When Mark Smith joined the business at its Peterborough site as a 17-year-old office junior, the fenestration industry looked very different.
Four decades later, he is General Manager at Glazerite East, overseeing a manufacturing operation specialising in Halo PVC-U windows and supplying installers across the UK.
Mark's career has developed alongside the business, taking him through a variety of roles and providing opportunities to further his education and professional qualifications.
“I started as an office junior,” Mark recalls. “The previous business looked after me. I grew with the business.”
During that time, the Peterborough operation has undergone considerable transformation. Originally based in factory units across the road from its current premises, the business gradually expanded before moving into its purpose-built facility around 25 years ago.
Following its acquisition by Glazerite, the site continued to develop its manufacturing capabilities, increasing production from approximately 200 frames a week to a capacity of around 700.
For Mark, one of the biggest lessons has been the importance of investing in the right equipment while making the most of the experience within the workforce.
“By investment in machinery. That's the key, you've got to work both,” he explains, reflecting on how the factory has increased output over the years.
Glazerite East has continued to invest in its manufacturing equipment, including a Hafner cutting centre, supporting improved efficiency and production capacity.
The site's longstanding employees have also played an important role in its development, bringing valuable knowledge of the products and manufacturing processes involved.
As production has evolved, so have the products installers are looking to offer their customers.
Glazerite East manufactures Halo Rustique, System 10, FlushSash and Timberweld, providing a range of traditional and contemporary window styles.
Mark has witnessed growing interest in flush sash windows and coloured finishes, reflecting changing homeowner preferences.
“We are seeing a big increase in volume in flush and in foil,” he says.
One product that particularly demonstrates the specialist skills involved in manufacturing is Halo Timberweld.
Designed to replicate traditional timber joinery, Timberweld features distinctive 90-degree butt-joint detailing, creating an authentic appearance suited to period-style properties and conservation areas.
Producing this finish requires additional manufacturing stages and careful attention to detail.
“There is a lot of labour involved in manufacturing a Timberweld,” Mark explains. “It involves three milling processes and a welding process.”
The result is a specialist product that gives installers an attractive option for customers seeking the character of traditional timber windows.
Another significant development during Mark's career has been the opportunity created by joining a larger manufacturing group.
As part of Glazerite UK Group, the Peterborough operation benefits from established manufacturing and distribution facilities in Wellingborough and Bolton, supporting installers nationwide.
Reflecting on the acquisition, Mark says: “We can also give all our customers a one-stop-shop scenario, which is a big benefit for our customers as well as for us.”
This wider support allows the team at Glazerite East to concentrate on its Halo manufacturing expertise while contributing to a comprehensive product offering.
Looking back over 40 years, Mark's experience demonstrates how successful manufacturing depends on continued investment, skilled people and the ability to respond to changing customer requirements.
As the fenestration industry continues to evolve, those principles remain central to Glazerite East's approach, helping the business support its installer partners and prepare for future opportunities.
