Clearview National December 2014 - Issue 157 | Page 56

ALUMINIUM

New bi-fold business
taking sector by storm
Terry Richardson, Managing Director of TWR Group, discusses the
rising popularity of bi-folding doors and explains how the company’s
new bi-fold division is helping installers win new business.
»»Bi-folding door systems have
been used in commercial projects for a
number of years. The product’s versatile style
and durability makes them an ideal entrance
solution for medium to heavy-use commercial
applications; from restaurants and hotels, to
shops and garages.
Unprecedented
domestic growth
In the last few years the domestic market
has also embraced bi-folding doors, and it
has become a ‘must-have’ home improvement
product, commonly incorporated together
with a conservatory installation or as a
replacement for a patio or French door.
High-profiled shows, such as Grand Designs
have certainly played a part in increasing
the popularity of bi-folding doors, helping
to create a wealth of profitable business
opportunities for installers.
Long-established and family run
manufacturer, TWR Group recognised the
potential of the bi-folding door market and
launched a survey, supply and support service
for installers, along with the ‘bi-fold doctor’;
an industry first, which provides a resource for
installers to ask bi-fold door related technical
questions.
The company recently established a
dedicated bi-fold division, TWR Bifolds,
giving installers a one-stop shop for bi-folding
door solutions.
Major launch
The resource and investment put in place to
launch the new division has been substantial
and a fully responsive, mobile optimised
website was built; detailing products and
providing information and advice on bifolding doors.
Terry Richardson, Managing Director,
comments: “Alongside offering market leading
bi-folding doors, the site gives information
and support to installers that may be

56 » DEC 2014 » CL EARVI E W- UK . C O M

New bi-fold division
As demand for bi-folding doors continues
to increase in the domestic and commercial
markets, TWR Bi-folds has invested in
a fourth bi-folding production line to
comfortably meet current and future
demands.
The company has also invested in an inhouse powder coating facility to streamline
the ordering and manufacturing process, and
make it quicker for installers to receive powder
coated bi-folding doors.
Terry elaborates: “Colour is a strong selling
point in the bi-fold market but it can be
frustrating for installers trying to capitalise
on this and being held up by long lead times
on powder coated frames. Having our own
powder-coat facility means we can coat bi-fold
door sets 30% fasters, on certain frames.”

unfamiliar. Installers can find valuable content
on our website, such as; the ‘bifold doctor’
column which provides technical information,
regular blogs talking about all things related to
bi-folding doors and the wider market.”
Quote engine goes
down a storm
Incorporated within the website is a new
bi-folding door quote engine, proving to be
a huge hit with installers as it allows them
to log on to the website and build their own
individually designed bi-fold by inputting
chosen specifications.
Terry comments: “We wanted installers to
be able to generate a quote within minutes.
It is also a useful tool when selling to
homeowners as it can create the ideal design in
front of the customer and give accurate prices
on the spot.”

Future Predictions
Terry comments on his prediction for the
future of bi-folding doors: “Bi-folding doors
will stay popular in the commercial market,
architecture is leaning towards minimalist and
angular trend, and bi-folds fit this.
“As for the domestic market, I predict
bi-folds will increase in popularity. Bi-folding
doors spanning the entire length of a wall
gives the full benefit of a bigger and brighter
looking home without sacrificing energy
efficiency, all strong selling points installers
can use to sell.
“However, as the market changes TWR
Group will look to stay on top of bi-folding
door trends and continue to offer quality
products and comprehensive support to
installers wanting to win profitable new
business from bi-folds.”

Wishing you a merry
Christmas and a
prosperous New Year