Newsline

Laird Security Hardware was formed in the late nineties combining the manufacturing strengths of Cego Frameware with distributors Feneseal and Furnex into one business. These companies supplied different hardware solutions to the market, therefore collectively, was able to become a major player, tailor-made to meet the needs of the industry. A leading innovator and manufacturer of door and window hardware, Laird has a reputation for supplying robust, practical and highly secure hardware solutions for both windows and doors.

All security products are fully tested at its own UKAS accredited test facility, meeting BS 7950 and PAS 23/24 respectively and licensed by ‘Secured by Design’. These standards are vital for meeting Local Authority specifications. Richard Sheppard, marketing manager explains: “ The ‘Decent Home’ initiative has been a major boost to the industry and providing you can meet the specification will continue to offer good solid business for the next few years’.

Richard also comments on the polarisation in the industry which is why the company has to keep in close contact with trade fabricators. “We need to make sure that our products are in tune with the changes in the design of profile which are more decorative and slimmer. As hardware designers we have to devise solutions which will fit within the envelope of those windows and doors as well as being easy to fit, ideally fabricator friendly.”

For installers, Laird actively promotes the Saracen Secure Scheme which is designed to offer homeowners peace of mind through a security guarantee, insurance savings and financial compensation in the event of hardware failure. The scheme is supported by promotional material and through the internet.

Product range

Laird Security Hardware is in a unique position with the flexibility of own manufacturing and worldwide partnerships with leading suppliers offering its customers a choice from one source. ‘We recognise that customers like to mix and match brands to meet specific technical and marketing needs. We have arrangements with leading manufacturers to offer brands from Siegenia Aubi, Roto, Hoppe alongside our own. By doing this we’re offering the customer an opportunity to single source. It’s about choice.’ The company prides itself on its support for fabricators as Richard comments; “We have four service engineers on the road, plus a technical manager who deal with any practical issues, supporting the fabricators.

The engineers form a vital part in the successful introduction of a product, liaising with the designer and Area Sales Manager to overcome any technical issues. It’s to iron out any potential problems from day one, and ensure that the customer’s production is uninterrupted.”

The companies focus for the future is on innovation. “The forecast for the industry is fairly pessimistic, if correct the market is going to get smaller, and the opportunities for growth harder to achieve. We need to anticipate customer needs, identify trends and design innovative solutions which offer real consumer benefits in terms of security and ease of use. We will offer a better and broader offering to the fabricator.” We are a “Multidisciplined business with a proven expertise in developing unique solutions, professional managed with experience people, there is no doubt the company will continue to offer a high level of service to its customers”.