Members News, Trade Association, Building & Home improvement Industry News & Events

• January 2012 Local employer celebrates 25 years of investing in Apprenticeships
  
  To mark the start of National Apprenticeship Week Stockport company GBS Joinery working in partnership with Stockport College, is celebrating offering apprenticeships to young people since it opened for business in 1984.
  
  GBS opened when Nigel (Managing Director), began his career as a bench joiner in the humble surroundings of a garage. The business grew and within 3 years he had taken on his first apprentice , David Lamb at the tender age of 18, Dave learnt his trade from Nigel, and is now after almost 25 years of loyal service is now a partner in the company, leading the team in the workshop which leaves Nigel time to focus on marketing and running the business.
  
  The company has always carried a strong belief in vocational training and in passing on traditional skills and giving young people the opportunity to learn those skills and that ethos continues today as four out of twelve of the current staff have served their apprenticeship with the company and have become valued members of staff .
  
  GBS customers ranges from those who choose timber windows and doors over UPVC because “Upvc costs the earth”, and wish to preserve the original architecture and character of their home.
  
  GBS will continue its role advising on and installing bespoke period windows and doors. The company has gained its reputation by taking on the most intricate and demanding projects, from reproducing windows in a Grade 2 listed chapel to making a replica Georgian style door for a collection of priceless items in a National Trust property.
  
  The team is also renowned for its experience and knowledge in dealing with both local and area government officers and other independent organisations that oversee the restoration of listed buildings.
  
  This gives Apprentices experience on working on a range of exciting and interesting projects. Read Full Item

• December 2011 What Will 2012 Bring for the Building Industry?
  
  Most people – no matter what their own housing situation might be – are aware that there is a significant housing shortage in the UK. But according to the latest reports it would seem that there is an innovative solution being considered by some in the government – self building.
  
  The Housing Minister Grant Shapps has looked into self build projects in places such as Amsterdam and is thought to be using them as inspiration for making self building part of the solution to the housing problem in the UK. It is unclear as to how this will work, but clearly self building could be part of the solution if it is approached in the right way.
  
  According to the figures far more homes in areas like Belgium are built by their owners than happens over here. The Housing Minister is thought to be keen to remove red tape and make it easier for people to build their own homes in the UK too. Whether they will be along the lines of some of the flat pack style homes built on the Continent or not, it remains to be seen. But it is an interesting step in the right direction. No doubt many self builders will be keen to see what the government does to make life easier for them in this respect. Not only would a change in the rules potentially make building your own home a lot easier, it would also open up the way to solve the housing crisis.

• December 2011 What House Awards Reach Their 30th Year
  
  If you are a builder in the trade you will probably already have heard of the What House? Awards. These take place on an annual basis and the 30th awards ceremony has just taken place in London at the Grosvenor House Hotel.
  
  One of the most notable things about this ceremony is that it doesn’t pit large builders against smaller ones. There are separate categories for large, medium and small building companies, so there is every chance for the smaller concerns to win an award as well as the bigger ones.
  
  2011 saw the Housebuilder of the Year Award go to United House Developments. The Gold award winner in the Large Housebuilder category went to Redrow Homes, while the winner in the Medium Housebuilder category was again United House Developments. Clearly it was a successful year for them. Finally the Gold winner in the Small Housebuilder category was the City & Country Group.
  
  There were also numerous other awards including Best Interior Design, Best Mixed Use Development and Best Sustainable Development. As you can see the awards aim to recognise the best in building in lots of different ways. It is undoubtedly a big win for those who do scoop the awards, and it earns them recognition in that category. One wonders whether the winners in the building industry will continue to do well during 2012, despite the current financial climate. With the threat of a double dip recession on the cards, the building industry could still find 2012 tricky to navigate.

• December 2011 Could Britain’s Housing Crisis be Solved by More Self Building?
  
  Most people – no matter what their own housing situation might be – are aware that there is a significant housing shortage in the UK. But according to the latest reports it would seem that there is an innovative solution being considered by some in the government – self building.
  
  The Housing Minister Grant Shapps has looked into self build projects in places such as Amsterdam and is thought to be using them as inspiration for making self building part of the solution to the housing problem in the UK. It is unclear as to how this will work, but clearly self building could be part of the solution if it is approached in the right way.
  
  According to the figures far more homes in areas like Belgium are built by their owners than happens over here. The Housing Minister is thought to be keen to remove red tape and make it easier for people to build their own homes in the UK too. Whether they will be along the lines of some of the flat pack style homes built on the Continent or not, it remains to be seen. But it is an interesting step in the right direction. No doubt many self builders will be keen to see what the government does to make life easier for them in this respect. Not only would a change in the rules potentially make building your own home a lot easier, it would also open up the way to solve the housing crisis.

• December 2011 Could the DIY Chain Focus Be About to Make a Comeback?
  
  If you were reading the news back in May of 2011 you will remember that the DIY chain Focus finally collapsed after months of difficult conditions in the marketplace. Focus had lagged behind other major DIY stores for months and it finally went into administration after failing to adjust to the market conditions.
  
  However it now looks as though it might be about to make a comeback, thanks to a big name that is making a comeback of its own. You may also remember that MFI was another big name casualty of the tough trading conditions in recent months. But it hit the headlines yesterday after relaunching itself as an online business instead of one operating out of dedicated stores. The Walker Group company has come to an agreement to buy Focus DIY to rescue it from administration, but it is unclear as to whether the new Focus could also be an online only brand. The directors of the Walker Group also bought MFI, and Land of Leather also appears to have been another recent acquisition for them.
  
  Part of the problem for many High Street stores – aside from tough trading conditions – is that they are competing with much cheaper prices offered by online stores. So it would seem that the solution for these newly reborn brands is to trade online only to keep down the costs. It remains to be seen how successful they will be in doing this.

• December 2011 Build It Magazine Points Out Advantages of Dealing With Small Problems
  
  Some of us are better at coping with DIY around the home than others. But even if you are not that good you shouldn’t let a lack of skills stop you from getting small problems fixed around the home.
  
  The editor of Build It magazine recently highlighted the importance of keeping on top of all the little maintenance tasks that continually crop up around the home. For example if the gutters are not swept out regularly it could lead to a build up of dirt and leaves that won’t allow rainwater to wash away as it should do. This in turn can lead to damage to the roof and walls of your home. Similarly small leaks can turn into bigger and more costly ones if they are not dealt with straightaway.
  
  The most important thing is to be alert to any problems or changes in the condition of your home. As soon as you see something that needs dealing with, make sure you deal with it properly. This will ensure that more damage does not occur over time. If you can take the appropriate steps on your own, do so, but if not make sure you get an expert in to take care of the problems for you. Not only will this be a lot cheaper than ignoring it and allowing the problem to get worse, it will also give you peace of mind to know that the problem is fixed.

• December 2011 What Can You Really Do to Renovate Your Home?
  
  The idea of home renovation is an exciting one to many of us. Whatever the current condition of your home might be, you probably have plans to improve on it in some way in the future.
  
  But how much can you really do in this respect? Can you achieve a lot of different things or would you be better off getting the experts in?
  
  This is one of the key things to bear in mind whenever you want to renovate or redecorate some part of your home. We all like to think we are capable of doing various things around the home, but we don’t all have the skills to tackle every single job. This goes beyond plumbing or asking an expert to tackle installations involving gas or electricity. It applies to everything you want to get done.
  
  For example, if you are no good at wallpapering yet you want a feature wall in your bedroom, you would be better off hiring an expert to come in and hang the wallpaper for you. When you are spending good money on expensive wallpaper you want to be sure you get the right result.
  
  So whenever you have a job in mind that needs doing, ask yourself whether you really have the skills necessary to get it done. If you hate painting but you want to redecorate your entire home, you’ll soon find it’s a lot easier to get the experts in rather than trying to do it yourself.

• December 2011 Competition Heats Up in the DIY Sector
  
  Everyone knows how tough the retail sector is at the moment, but certain parts of the sector are suffering more than others. Major purchases are being put off, and for many that means no new kitchens or bathrooms. These are two of the big ticket items that DIY stores up and down the land are always hoping to sell to help them get larger sales figures for the year.
  
  So it should come as no surprise to hear that competition is getting fierce to grab whatever cash people are still spending in this sector at the moment. Various DIY chains are reporting lower sales in the past few months, and things are not likely to get any better soon either.
  
  The major event in the sector in recent times was the demise of Focus, a chain of DIY stores dotted around the country. But many are wondering whether the major chains that remain could start to see some benefit from this player being taken out of the market. It remains to be seen if this is the case, but since we are expecting more sales figures to be released in the coming days, it will be interesting to see whether B&Q among other retailers has managed to profit.
  
  Whatever the sales figures turn out to be, it is still a tough trading time for those left in the DIY market. People are looking for cheaper solutions for home improvements, and these do not typically include new kitchens and bathrooms.

• December 2011 Is it Worth Spending Money Improving Your Home?
  
  More to the point, is it worth doing at the moment? The answer is that it depends on the reason why you are looking to make the improvements. If you find you cannot move home at the moment due to the state of the housing market but you need more space, a renovation or extension might be in order. But if you are doing it with the intention of adding value to your property, you should hang back. The market will not repay such an investment at the moment, so you should keep your cash firmly in your pocket.
  
  Remember too that there are lots of ways you can improve your existing home without resorting to any structural changes. You can redecorate each room in turn relatively cheaply if you stick to wallpaper and paint. Budgeting in advance is also a good idea, and it makes any home improvements easier to afford. This is particularly wise to remember when the cost of living has gone up and budgets up and down the country are squeezed. The last thing you want to do is to blow your budget by spending more than you can afford on your home.
  
  You might also find it useful to focus on what is needed and what is wanted. For example if you need to get something fixed, such as a broken drainpipe, you should put this kind of job at the top of your list. It can save on potentially larger bills later on.
  
   

• November 2011 More Jobs Created in the Construction Industry
  
  There is some good news in the jobs market – but only if you work in the construction industry. According to the latest news reports there has been an increase in the number of construction jobs available in this industry in recent times.
  
  The construction industry has experienced a slowdown when it comes to growth, but despite this a range of new jobs in the area has been created thanks to an increase in the number of homes being built. This increase is the best that the sector has seen in the past three years – good news for those who are skilled in this area and are looking for work.
  
  It does show that even in tough times some areas of the jobs market are more robust than others. The chief executive officer of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply, David Noble, shared the positivity that is no doubt being felt by those in the industry at the moment. More contracts are being won by construction companies, leading to a requirement for more skilled people to fill the roles needed to bring these projects to fruition. He used the word “optimism” to describe the feeling in the sector at the moment.
  
  But with the chances of a double dip recession becoming more prevalent by the minute, one wonders whether this optimism will last as long as those in the industry would like it to. We must just wait and see whether the increase in work continues.

• November 2011 Will Your DIY Skills Be Handy at Christmas?
  
  With finances stretched again this Christmas, more and more people are looking to cut costs wherever they can without ruining the spirit and excitement of the big day.
  
  The good news is that there are lots of ways you can put your DIY skills to good use without having to spend lots of money in the process. Lots of websites are reporting on the growing trend for people to create their own decorations and get the kids involved as well. Whether it is making homemade Christmas cards or even a few homemade presents, it is certainly a positive thing to have the DIY gene this festive season.
  
  Another bit of good news is that you don’t have to be creative in finding ideas to use. With so many people looking to develop their DIY skills to save a bit of cash, you will find lots of features and articles online and in magazines to help you in this respect.
  
  Those used to tackling various DIY projects around the home should look at the festive season as a way to use those skills in some different ways. You might be surprised at just how useful those practical skills can be when it comes to making Christmas decorations, gifts and more for Christmas time. It is something that can bring the whole family together in a very different way, particularly if you have young children. It’s also a different type of DIY skill to teach them.
  
   

• November 2011 How Do You Create a Green Building Design?
  
  There are two things you need in abundance to create a design for a new green building. These are time and knowledge. The more you understand about green building and how it affects the costs of the building when it comes to running it in the future, the easier the task will be.
  
  Despite the recession and the continuing fallout there are still people in the UK who are building their own brand new eco-friendly green homes. Obviously anyone wanting to join them will need a strong design that will meet all their energy needs in the future. For this you need an architect who is experienced in green and eco-friendly designs. But you also need knowledge and the time to invest in finding the best design for the site and location you are building in.
  
  There are plenty of new materials and methods you can use for this type of building, but of course you have to consider your budget when it comes to using them. In some cases you can spend more now in order to save on energy later on. These savings can be significant and they keep on coming in the months and years to come. This is why you need the knowledge and experience of an architect who has already had success in designing sustainable and green homes for today as well as for the future.
  
  Could you enjoy living in an eco-friendly building? More than that, do you have what it takes to design one?

• November 2011 The AA Finds Home DIY Skills are Waning
  
  A fascinating study by The AA has found that fewer people – men in particular – are able to tackle their own DIY projects. Indeed it is estimated that by 2048 the essential skills needed to take on a variety of jobs in home maintenance could be on the verge of total extinction.
  
  Most men learn these skills from their fathers. It was certainly this way in the past, according to the information given in the survey. For example as the years have gone on, fewer men have been taught the essential skills they need from their fathers to tackle various jobs. An impressive 71% of men learned the skills they needed from their dads back in the Seventies, but by the time the Nineties arrived the figure had dropped alarmingly to 44%.
  
  So if this decline continues we’ll all be calling out the professionals, even for the simplest of jobs such as changing a light bulb and fixing a leaky tap. Good news for the pros but not such good news for people who are strapped for cash and need to get some essential DIY tasks done.
  
  Of course we can all reverse this trend by learning these skills now. Even if we can’t turn to our dads to get the knowledge we need, outlets such as B&Q hold DIY classes and there are plenty of courses we can go on as well. The last thing we want is the death of DIY skills in the UK. They can be worth their weight in gold.

• November 2011 Grafton Group Sees Effects of Lull in DIY Business
  
  The effects of the recession and downturn – and now the potential of another lull in sales – have taken their toll on the building and DIY company Grafton Group. They have seen a slight increase in profits, but this is due to active growth in the UK, since its Irish arm has been struggling in recent months. Luckily the UK part of the business constitutes 70% of the total, with the Irish part making up the remaining 30%.
  
  This story is by no means unusual: in fact the group has warned that their results are likely to be worse during the second half of the year. Many people are putting off DIY plans in favour of saving their cash during these uncertain times.
  
  During the period from January 2011 to October 2011, the Grafton Group saw a marginal 1.7% increase in its turnover. However the last two months saw an increase of less than half the 4% average earlier on in the year.
  
  This group is particularly worth looking at more closely because it covers such a wide range of businesses. Buildbase, Selco and Chadwicks are just three of the brands the company operates, so its results cover a large base and are certainly indicative of a tough DIY and building market at the moment. This is not likely to improve anytime soon, owing to the general uncertainty in the marketplace. We can only watch and wait and see what happens next.

• November 2011 Should You Put Off All DIY Plans in the Current Financial Climate?
  
  You only have to look at the results issued by several of the major DIY chains recently to see that this is one market that is really struggling in the present financial climate. People seem to be putting off lots of DIY and building plans until times are a little more reliable and financially stable.
  
  But is it always such a good idea to put these kinds of plans on hold? The answer is that it depends on the nature of those plans. For example if you are just planning on freshening up a particular room, you could still go ahead with it. A pot of paint can go a long way to achieving a better result and it doesn’t cost much either.
  
  But this is very different from planning an extension. This costs thousands and may not be ideal to do in the present climate. You could delay this and instead spend a few pounds redecorating the rest of your home.
  
  A third situation however is worth a little more thought. Let’s say you discover you have a leaky bathroom roof – a flat roof for example. It makes sense that you should still go ahead and get this fixed, otherwise it will get worse, cause more damage and incur more costs at the end of the day.
  
  So in short you have to think about whether you are sprucing something up or repairing it. Repairs should never be delayed as they will invariably end up costing you more.

• November 2011 Are Remortgages the Way to Go if You Want to Renovate Your Home?
  
  Home renovations can add value to your home and also provide a way to make it easier to sell if you have this end game in mind. But how do you get hold of the cash to make the renovations possible to do?
  
  The answer could lie in the form of a remortgage. If you have equity in your property you can unlock some of it to do the work you want to do. But before you dive in, it is worth considering how best to make this work.
  
  For example, make a list of all the things you want to do to your home. Start with things that need doing as opposed to those you’d like to do at some point. For instance, if you have leaky windows you’ll save energy and make the house look better by getting them replaced. But if the existing kitchen is fine it makes little sense to replace it just for the sake of it. Total up the cost of the essentials and consider how much you would need to borrow.
  
  Again you have to think about your end game. If you want to sell, focus on those improvements that will bring you a return on your investment. Unless they are necessary or can bring value, you should leave them alone.
  
  Finally make sure you only borrow what you need to get the jobs done. Don’t borrow more than that otherwise you’ll be inflating your mortgage just for the sake of it.

• November 2011 B&Q Welcomes Home Expert Kirstie Allsopp
  
  Many people will know Kirstie Allsopp from her TV programmes “Location, Location, Location” and “Kirstie’s Homemade Christmas”. But they won’t have seen her in person giving tips and advice on how to organise a do-it-yourself Christmas.
  
  If you are anywhere near a B&Q store during November however, you might get the chance to get some tips from the woman herself. A demo session in a B&Q store in Sutton saw Kirstie providing a range of DIY Christmas tips to an eager audience. The DIY chain benefited from Kirstie’s advice on how to decorate the perfect tree, as well as getting that all important ‘wow’ factor on a small budget.
  
  The theme here is that you can enjoy a festive Christmas, do the decorations yourself and save money at the same time. The classes are a new addition to the usual You Can Do It classes that are always offered by B&Q. These DIY classes help the DIY chain stand out from the competition and they have been very popular in the past. Indeed the last year has seen a rise in bookings of a huge 184% for people wanting to have a spot in one of the classes. The classes given by Kirstie look to be just as popular as we approach the festive season once more.
  
  B&Q has embraced social media with the festive classes as well. Kirstie appears in a number of videos on YouTube to give advice on how to make the most of a do it yourself Christmas.

• November 2011 Industry Sees Big Increase In Window Companies Ceasing To Trade During 2011
  
  If there ever was a reason to supply an Insurance Backed Guarantee with your work, then this news item highlights the fact perfectly. Fabrication and installation companies in the windows / uPVC market sector have been closing their doors at an alarming rate during the past 18 months. It is down to several factors which include smaller companies in the uPVC market diversifying into new sectors such as Trade news continued.

• October 2011 Do You Have Millions to Spend on a Kensington Property in Need of Work?
  
  Most of us realise that when we buy a property, we might need to spend some money renovating it before we can really settle in. But how does £10 million in required renovations sound?
  
  If it sounds like it might be out of your budget, don’t worry – the property requiring the work is on the market for a cool £75 million anyway. The residence in Kensington, London, was a former ambassador’s residence and boasts sixty rooms.
  
  Furthermore the property has stood empty for a decade after it was bought for ‘just’ £17 million in 2001. Even though the present owner has done nothing to renovate it, it looks clear that they will still make a huge profit on owning it for ten years.
  
  Thankfully most of us won’t face renovation costs anywhere near as large as these. The £10 million is thought to be required to create two additional levels below ground. Various entertainment uses will be added in the process. However it has been stated that whoever buys it does not have to invest the £10 million to do the work that has been approved to go ahead. So if you do have the spare £75 million and you can’t quite reach to the extra £10 million, this could be for you.
  
  In times when many of us are putting off any DIY tasks in order to save money, it is amazing to see that several huge projects are still out there to be completed by those who are slightly better off. Always use a trade association to find your tradesmen when tackling a big home improvement job.

• October 2011 Are UK Homes Ready For A Cold Winter?
  
  As the clocks go back and we look forward to darker evenings, it makes more sense than ever to take the opportunity to ensure our homes are as energy efficient as possible. Energy bills are forever going up so the more we can do to reduce the cost of these bills the better off we will be financially. Our trade association members can contact Utility Trades directly and start saving money on their business energy bills and there is also help with switching to cheaper mobile tarrifs, cheaper broadband deals and more. FairTrades members should click here to find out more...
  
  A good place to start is to check your doors and windows for any gaps that might let draughts in or heat out. Repair these as soon as you can, or hire a reputable tradesman to do it for you. If your windows and doors fit badly or have seen better days, you may want to consider getting them replaced with double or even triple glazing. Not only will they retain the heat better, they will also block out a lot of exterior noise. The public should remmebr to request an Insurance backed guarantee (explanation of an insurance backed guarantee) when they have work done by a company which is a member of a reputable builders trade association.
  
  The next step is to think about insulating your loft if you have not already done so. Heat rises and if you don’t have any insulation to prevent it leaving your house through the roof, you will likely be paying more for your energy bills than you need to.
  
  You can also consider whether it would be wise to invest in eco-friendly energy sources as well. Solar panels are one of the more popular examples of getting free energy, but others exist as well, such as heat pumps and hydro power.
  
  Whatever you do, this is the best time of the year to ensure your home is as energy efficient as possible, here is some information on where to start.

• October 2011 Fewer Kitchens and Bathrooms are Being Bought at Present
  
  The floundering economy is hitting many businesses hard at the moment. But it would appear that DIY stores are being particularly hard hit, especially when it comes to major spends.
  
  The latest reports show that large purchases such as new kitchens and bathrooms are being put off as people save the pennies wherever they can. The past nine months have seen a large drop of 12.4% in this sector of overall sales at Wickes.
  
  However it is not all bad news at Wickes. The DIY chain is owned by Travis Perkins, and the group as a whole has still seen a rise in sales in recent months. It is very likely that more people are looking for simpler and cheaper ways to spruce up their homes, rather than investing in major purchases such as new kitchens and bathrooms.
  
  The downturn has hit the sector hard, with Focus DIY stores biting the dust recently as a result of poor sales. Wickes bought thirteen of the former Focus stores and these are all now trading as Wickes. However the stores are still trading in troubled times, and there is every chance that the kitchen and bathroom sales will remain low for the time being.
  
  It makes sense that people would want to find cheaper ways to improve their homes wherever they can. It is far cheaper to replace doors in the kitchen or even repaint them than it would be to replace the entire kitchen. Bathrooms are a little trickier, although tiling and repainting are cheaper options here as well.

• October 2011 Why is Boiler Servicing So Important?
  
  As the colder weather starts kicking in, it is vitally important to ensure your boiler is working as it should be. All boilers are more frequently used during the winter months as the heating goes on up and down the country. It makes sense therefore to time an annual service for this part of the year. You will then have the peace of mind of knowing your system is working fine before you need it the most.
  
  It can also help to ensure your boiler and central heating system are all working as they should be. Regulations change frequently and even while an existing boiler might be working fine, it may not be up to the current regulatory standards. This is why regular servicing is so important, because it identifies any potential problems in this area.
  
  Of course it is always wise to find a trained and experienced professional who can perform the service properly. It might be tempting to get someone else to service it for you, but if they are not trained or qualified to the latest standards it could cause more harm than good. Check your plumber is Gas Safe Registered. Here is a quote from the Glow Worm Boiler Manufacturers web site "Boiler installers carrying out work on gas boilers must be registered with Gas Safe Register. To check that your tradesman is registered check him out here >> The Gas Safe Register. If not, they are breaking the law and putting you and your family at risk." It is possible to arrange monthly cover with a company that includes a regular service every year. If you do this you will get the service done free of charge. They will also send you a reminder when the service is due, so you don’t forget about it. As you can see, with winter on the way a boiler service could be a very good investment in the months to come.

• October 2011 Could Your Business Qualify for R&D Tax Relief?
  
  Most businesses want to do all they can to bring down the amount of tax they have to pay. However there is one scheme available from HMRC that is surprisingly not very well known. This is the R&D Tax Credit Scheme, and many of the 150,000 eligible companies in the UK are either not aware of it or do not think they could benefit from it.
  
  The scheme is aimed at small to medium sized enterprises and focuses on getting money back on research and development costs. It is a form of relief on Corporation Tax, so you must have a limited company in order to qualify for the relief.
  
  GGTC (Government Grant and Tax Consultants) is a company that focuses on helping relevant businesses claim back relief on this part of their business. Surprisingly enough, many small to medium sized businesses are able to claim back as much as £80,000 in this way, freeing up cash to develop and stabilise their business in other ways as well. According to information provided by HMRC it can take around 42 days from making your claim to receiving the money.
  
  In times where business is hard in many ways, it makes sense to see if you are entitled to claim this benefit. You may be one of the 150,000 companies who are entitled but either they do not know about it or feel you are not eligible. Doesn't it make sense to work out whether you could be entitled to cash back?

• October 2011 Holidays are More Important Than Home Improvements
  
  So says a recent survey which found that people were more likely to cut back financially on home improvements in order to be able to afford a holiday each year.
  
  However 12% of those who responded to the survey by ABTA (the 2011 ABTA Consumer Trends Survey) said they would not be prepared to cut back on the amount of money they spent on home improvements. This could relate to anything from major improvements such as double glazing and new kitchens and bathrooms, to the more minor jobs such as repainting and decorating.
  
  While the survey results were focused more on the importance of holidays than anything else, it is interesting to see how people view the importance of DIY and home improvements as well. The state of the housing market has led some people to stay put rather than trying to move, and in this case they have often resorted to improving their current home rather than doing anything else.
  
  Obviously holidays are important to us and we view them as the best way to get away from it all and unwind. But it is important to remember that home improvements can also be afforded if we take them a step at a time. If only 12% are still spending on home improvements, it means a huge 88% are not. Is this a truthful figure or are we in danger of letting our homes go for the sake of enjoying a few days away from them?

• September 2011 Knowing When to Fix a Leak and When to Call in the Experts
  
  It always pays to have some basic DIY skills because you never know when you will need them around the home. Take a leaky sink for example. They never leak at the most convenient moment; it will always be when you least expect it.
  
  In this situation common sense will tell you to figure out where the leak is coming from. Put a bowl underneath it to catch the water and ensure you wipe over the shelf or interior of the cupboard to minimise the damage. If you do this quickly you might be able to prevent any damage at all.
  
  Wipe all the pipes and the underside of the sink and then turn the tap on slowly. Watch the underside of the sink to see where the leak is coming from. Once you have isolated the leak you may see how to fix it. Sometimes it can be as simple as tightening up a connection. This is particularly true if the sink is fairly new; it is easy enough for a connection not to be fully tightened when it is installed, leading to a slight loosening of it at a later stage. It’s always worth checking new sink installations for this very factor for a few months afterwards.
  
  Even if you cannot fix the leak at least you will be able to call out an experienced plumber and point it out to them when they arrive. It will save time and effort on both sides.

• September 2011 Could Schools Soon Have Solar Panels?
  
  They may well do, if a pilot scheme in a small number of schools is deemed to be a success. The scheme is looking to raise the funds needed for the solar panels from the local community of each school.
  
  The schools are located in four areas - Reading, Norwich, Cambridge and the Isles of Scilly. The idea is that cash that would otherwise have gone on electricity bills will now be diverted back into the schools, as a result of using the panels. If the scheme is successful it will be used in many other schools as well.
  
  The idea has come from a not for profit organisation called 10:10, which has set up the Solar Schools project. It is estimated that every £1 that is donated to the project could end up generating as much as £3 for as long as the panels last. This could be around 25 years at the very least.
  
  Clearly there is a good opportunity here to raise funds for schools and to help them generate their own power as well. It is also very likely that the pupils will get involved in learning about green energy and how it is being created in their own schools. The project is being watched closely and is also supported by the various councils in the areas that the schools are located in. Everyone is hoping it will be a resounding success, as it could have a marked effect on our future.

• September 2011 Task Group Will Reduce Chances of Greenwash
  
  Greenwash may be a new word, but it is one that may start cropping up more and more in the near future. The Task Group has been created by the UK Green Building Council. Its focus is on providing solid and reliable guidance for companies and people looking to find the most appropriate information on green building practices.
  
  The first meeting of the Task Group was on 28th September. It aims to release its first report at the beginning of 2012. Many businesses want to be sustainable and eco-friendly, but the proliferation of information that is now available on the topic is making this more difficult than it should be. Thus the group hopes to tackle a range of issues that will make it far easier for businesses to choose the information that is going to be most helpful to them with regard to sustainability.
  
  The Task Group is also looking to assist people who work in all areas of this business. As such those who are supplying products associated with sustainability and green living will also likely find the reports from the Task Group to be useful and interesting.
  
  The word greenwash has been coined to describe what happens when a business is faced with all kinds of information from different quarters. The idea is that they get too much information, with no idea of which parts of it are going to be the most helpful or useful. This new group aims to change that.

• September 2011 Statistics on Accidents in the Home Make Alarming Reading
  
  Regardless of the time of year, many of us end up trying to do odd jobs (or major ones) in and around the house. The sudden burst of very good weather at the end of September has seen many more people heading back out into the garden, but wherever we go it seems we are likely to get involved with some DIY or home improvement tasks.
  
  The trouble is that these tasks bring with them the danger of injury. According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA) some 2.7 million people seek treatment each year for accidents that occur in the home. Some four thousand of these lose their lives. These accidents occur in a variety of different ways, but they all bring to mind one message – don’t do more than you are able to and take all the necessary steps to stay safe.
  
  Sometimes it is better to hire a professional tradesman to do a job on your behalf. Before tackling any job ask yourself whether you have the knowledge and experience to do it properly. Jobs involving electrics should always be left to the experts, while plumbing tasks should also be considered carefully before they are undertaken. Hiring an expert to do jobs on your behalf is often the best way to get the best quality finish and also to ensure that everything is done safely.
  
  There are lots of ways to ensure you are not among the 2.7 million hospital goers every year – and this is one of them.

• September 2011 Would You Go For Red?
  
  According to B&Q lots more people are opting for bigger, brighter and bolder colours now. This has led to a drop in sales for magnolia, the paint colour we all arguably love to hate.
  
  The DIY chain has revealed that more and more people are shunning magnolia in favour of red. The bright and breezy colour now outsells magnolia by an impressive proportion of two to one. It is thought that the apathy in the housing market is partly the cause of this sea change, as dull paint colours are more likely to be ignored now than in the past.
  
  It would also appear that red is not the only brighter colour to be chosen for interior house painting. While no specific colours were mentioned, B&Q has stated that other bolder colours are also proving to be more popular now than they were in the past.
  
  As more people are opting to stay put instead of trying to sell their homes in a dull market, it seems that they want to invest a little cash in repainting their homes. Going for brighter colours seems to be the way to revitalise an otherwise dull magnolia property. The information from B&Q doesn’t say how many different shades of red are involved in the boost in sales, but you can be sure that there are lots of them to choose from. Whether you go for pillar box red or something a little more understated, you’ll be joining a large group of people in painting over your magnolia walls.

• September 2011 Warning Given Over Asbestos Threat
  
  Many people think that asbestos is no longer a threat. But it is still present in around half a million public buildings, according to the latest figures. This has led to the Health and Safety Executive’s announcement that it will provide extra training to encourage asbestos awareness for workers. Here is the HSE Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006.
  
  Asbestos is often referred to as the silent killer. Hence the HSE has called its new campaign the Hidden Killer campaign, in order to raise awareness of the issue. Young tradesmen are thought to be particularly at risk. Many believe that asbestos is a product of an earlier generation and does not pose any risk today. But this is untrue, as people are still dying from asbestos related diseases today, including asbestostosis, an emphysema-like condition, and mesothelioma, a cancer of the lining of the lung and abdominal cavities. These diseases can still be contracted as a result of asbestos being present in some buildings.
  
  The training is being aimed at tradesmen in specific trades. Plumbers and electricians are among those who will be targeted and are the most at risk from asbestos related illnesses. It is hoped that the training will prevent further exposure to asbestos and will thus prevent more deaths from occurring in the future.
  
  The HSE is providing the training free of charge and it will take place during October and November this year. Training courses are not always of a life saving nature, but it is clear that raising awareness of the dangers of asbestos in this way could well lead to lives saved in the years to come.

• September 2011 Green Homes are Becoming Cheaper to Build
  
  It may seem as if there is no good news coming out of the housing market at the moment. But if you know where to look there is plenty of it to find.
  
  Perhaps most notably it would appear that green homes are getting much cheaper to build these days. The main reason for this is market forces. More and more people are demanding that new homes are green and eco-friendly. This means that there is more demand for green products and thus the costs of producing them are coming down due to the higher demand.
  
  There have always been extra expenses incurred when building a home according to eco-friendly guidelines. Now it would appear that these expenses have dropped vastly. The communities minister Andrew Stunell released a report recently that showed the huge drop in additional costs. They used to be approximately £4,458 back in 2008, but now they have dropped to a far lower £1,128. This is almost a quarter of what they used to be.
  
  This good news has in turn made green building far more accessible for more people. It is not inconceivable that it will become even cheaper in the future, perhaps even costing the same as a traditional property would to build.
  
  There is definitely a trend for sustainable homes in the UK. It remains to be seen how quickly this trend continues to develop in the future. There is every opportunity for it to become even more noticeable both in towns and in the countryside.

• September 2011 House Building Industry Receives a Boost from Troubled Housing Market
  
  If you have been keeping up with the news you will know that housing prices are staying fairly flat at the moment. It is the rental side of the market that is exploding beyond all recognition, as more and more people find it impossible to buy their own homes.
  
  It should not come as a surprise then to learn that more people are considering building their way out of the rental rut they have found themselves in. Building your own home has always been the best way to get good value for money and the ideal home you want. But thanks to the state of the housing market it would appear that it has become even more popular in recent times.
  
  More than thirteen thousand homes went up in this fashion in the last tax year to the end of March 2011. There is every possibility that this figure will be even higher in the year to come, as more people try to find a way onto the housing ladder.
  
  This is good news for the housing market as a whole. It has often been said that too few new homes are being built to accommodate those who need them. By going out and building your own you are solving the problem in a practical and self sufficient way.
  
  It will be interesting to see whether this trend to build your own home continues into the future. It may well do so.

• September 2011 Should You Take Out a Home Improvement Loan to Get Work Done?
  
  If you are considering doing some home improvements you might be wondering how to finance them. It’s very important to consider all of the finance options, and one of them is a loan.
  
  But think about it carefully before you go ahead. Once you have added interest to the loan your intended home improvements could be a lot more expensive than you think. This means that it is most certainly is worth shopping around for the right loan for your needs, or alternatively taking some time to save up for the work you require and negotiate a great deal with your tradesman based on the fact that you can book him at a time convenient to both yourself and him. This frees him up to complete urgent projects and once completed you will command all his attention for your project.
  
  It’s also worth considering what work you want to have completed. Some DIY and home improvement tasks can be urgent, such as replacing PVCu windows that have seen far better days prior to the onset of those winter months for example. Plumbing problems are another classic example of jobs that really shouldn't wait. In this situation it may be a case of finding the best and most cost effective solution to get the job done as soon as possible and a loan may be the only practical option.  Always chose to work with a tradesman who has taken the time to register with a trade association and has been thoroughly vetted. This protects you and it also means that you have recourse should anything go horribly wrong. A tradesman who belongs to a trade association will want to protect his reputation and generally cares about what others think. This generally leads to a high calibre of work being done, good for the home owner and good for his business too.
  
  By listing all the things that need doing in order of priority, it will be far easier to determine how you will be able to afford them. You may be able to save for the less urgent tasks and get a smaller loan to pay for the most urgent ones.
  
  In the current climate some homeowners are delaying DIY work until they have more money coming in. Others are exploring all the options they have available to ensure they can tackle those urgent tasks that can no longer be left unattended. To find a tradesman click here

• September 2011 Would a Housing Boom Lead to More Work for Tradesmen?
  
  It is well known that there are too few affordable houses to go around at the moment. The housing market is sluggish and more and more people are renting because buying is becoming ever more difficult.
  
  An increase in the number of new homes being built would have many positive knock on effects if it could be afforded in the first place. Certainly many tradesmen would benefit from a surge in work in the marketplace, as more and more new homes begin to be built. Building companies may even look to take on more workers as they start building more new homes.
  
  A total of 95,000 brand new homes were built in 2010. It will be interesting to see how many are built this year. It is estimated that the figure should rise to around 98,938 but it remains to be seen how accurate this is. However by the year 2015 it is estimated that the figure will have increased to just shy of 119,000.
  
  Any increase in building is surely good news for the tradesmen who will be needed to build the homes, and perform all the electric and plumbing tasks that are typically required during first and second fit. With the jobs market struggling it would be good to see more building jobs made available for those who have the skills to take them. FairTrades is a UK Builders Association we certainly feel that the UK could do with more new housing to offer to people who are trying to get on the housing ladder as well.

• August 2011 Are Home Improvements Being Delayed Over Money Issues?
  
  According to some news reports it seems as if they are. Even though the recession is behind us, the fear of a double dip recession is never far from peoples minds. The cost of living has increased, wages are stagnant and there is little hope in sight of an improvement.
  
  This has led some people to delay the start of tackling some home improvement jobs. Retail sales have taken a marked dip in recent months, and DIY items are among those bearing the brunt of the downturn. This is according to figures that have just been released by the Confederation of British Industry.
  
  It is well known that Focus DIY stores closed down a short time ago, and the rest of the DIY industry is also experiencing a sluggish time. The good news is that these stores are trying various ways to get people through the doors. Certainly the Bank Holiday weekend was busy enough for those visiting Homebase, which had a 15% off deal running over the weekend.
  
  Perhaps it is fair to say that the smaller DIY jobs are still being tackled, if not as speedily as they were before the recession. People are still keen to keep their homes looking as nice as they can. Aside from essential tasks that have to be done, it is important to recognise that DIY jobs can be a good way to lift the mood during hard times. Perhaps we will see this as a new trend, instead of the usual expensive summer holidays abroad.

• August 2011 Solar Panels are Becoming More Prevalent in 2011
  
  As the year has gone on, we have seen more and more adverts for solar panels and more installations taking place as well. The generation of green energy is still very much in the news, and homeowners and businesses alike are seeking the opportunity to have solar panels installed. This allows them to generate some of their own power from the sun – and it doesn’t even need to be sunny for it to be a success either. The FairTrades Association recommends that homeowners insist on an Solar Insurance Backed Guarantee or IBG as it is also called.
  
  The latest convert to solar energy is perhaps one of the most unlikely ones too. It has also set a record in becoming the very first Cathedral in the entire world to be kitted out with the panels.
  
  The lucky recipient is Bradford Cathedral, and it began to generate its own power supply on Friday 26th August. The installation is said to have cost £50,000, but it aims to halve the amount of electricity the Cathedral uses in the average year. Since its normal bill is around £8,000 it’s easy to see that the savings will be significant.
  
  Apparently some people have been concerned that the solar panels will ruin the appearance of the Cathedral. This is perhaps understandable for a building that has centuries of history attached to it. It is also Grade 1 listed. But the panels cannot be viewed from the ground, so most people should be happy that those in charge of the Cathedral are trying to do their bit to save energy and money.

• July 2011 Office FairTrades Warns Consumers About DoorStep Selling Tradesmen
  
   As a leading Builders Trade Association FairTrades works hard to educate, remind and protect members of the public about rogue tradesmen and unethical selling techniques. The majority of unethical and pressurized selling takes place on the consumers doorstep by unscrupulous tradesmen who offer cheap deals for work to be done in and around the home improvement sector.
  
  According to some of the latest figures released by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT), the home improvement sector continues to top the list of public complaints about doorstep rogue traders.
  
  During the Summer months it is sadly a fact that this practice is most prolific and most at risk are the elderly and some of societies most vulnerable. The OFT is strongly urging the public to be on their guard against rogue traders appearing uninvited at their front door. In the literature that the OFT has produced TrustMark is promoted as 'Offering the Public Peace of Mind' Trustmark is one organisation FairTrades works closely with and we actively encourage our FairTrades Registered Members to agree signing up to TrustMark. Recently The FairTrades Associations membership fee was amended to includes TrustMark membership as standard.
  
  Last year Consumer Direct received over 13,000 complaints regarding uninvited traders with approximately 44% of these complaints relating in some way to home maintenance work. This year the Office of Fair Trading is launching an awareness campaign urging householders not to be pressurized in to buying services offered by these rogue trades doing the hard sell on their front doorstep.
  
  Here is a great report on done by the Office of Fair Trading – Buying on the doorstep. Protecting the people you love from rogue doorstep traders

• June 2011 Towards Zero Carbon Homes Report
  
  As a leading Builders Trade Association FairTrades we are always looking for new information which has been made available for UK contractors and general tradesmen to access. With green energy, green building and renewable products being discussed so frequently we thought that our members may be interested in downloading a copy of the latest Towards zero carbon homes report which is available to download from The Litchfield Group.
  
  They have just launched an updated version of its brochure detailing how six star ratings under the code for sustainable homes can be achieved using Sheerframe windows and doors. Whether or not you use their windows the information contained in the report is great.
  
  Outlining the government’s policy on reducing carbon and the nine identified design categories therein; this eight page guide provides information which contractors operating within the home renovations and general builders market can make use of. Local Councils and Registered Charities providing social housing and private home owners can also learn a lot from reading this guide.
  
  Copies of the Towards zero carbon homes – how to reach six star ratings’ are downloadable from the LitchfieldGroupDownloads site click here. Go to the downloads area via the left menu. Note: You will need to register first.
  
  If you would prefer to view the previous report which does not require registration click Previous Towards zero carbon homes.
  
  Here is another great report on marketing Zero Carbon Homes – This is a direct link so no registration required. Marketing Zero Carbon Homes Report

• May 2011 UK Builders Prospects Increase Q1 2011
  
   As a leading Builders Trade Association FairTrades is always excited about good news in the building and construction sector. According to a survey published during May 2011 many U.K. builders' have found more during the 1st quarter of business this year. It is speculated that this is due to increased activity in the private construction sector.
  
  The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors carried out the survey and their findings are in stark contrast to official estimates for U.K. construction sector output figures for this quarter published by the U.K.'s Office for National Statistics. Office for National Statistics reported that construction output in the U.K. shrank 4.0% in the first quarter of 2011 compared to the same period last year.
  
  RICS suggest that the improvement in the building sector is directly related to increased activity in private commercial construction and the home building sector.
  
  "With impending public spending cuts, the construction industry is still likely to face significant challenges over the next 12 to 18 months, but our latest results do provide a chink of light that things are beginning to get better," said RICS Chief Economist Simon Rubinsohn.
  
  The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors also found that most survey respondents reported a rise in the cost of building materials and a drop in the cost of hiring specialist staff.

• May 2011 The KBB London 2011
  
   Come and see us at this year’s KBB exhibition at Excel, London from 15 – 17 May. At the same time find out about various new products and benefits we are planning for our trade associations members. Would you like to see more on offer from us here are FairTrades? Let us know this coming weekend. The KBB show is the leading event for kitchen, bedroom and bathroom innovation and FairTrades is proud to be exhibiting alongside the world’s very best KBB manufacturers, retailers and designers.
  
  The FairTrades team will be on stand D102. We’All be on hand to answer any questions that you may have about our products and services and how they can benefit your business or just come and say hello to us.
  
  FairTrades has also arranged free entrance to the exhibition for our members - simply click on the link below and register your details. www.kbb.co.uk/london (quoting the ref number kbb101) To see the latest products from leading and up-and-coming suppliers, and hear from those at the forefront of the kitchens, bedrooms & bathrooms markets you need to be there.
  
  We look forward to seeing you!

• April 2011 Insurance Choice becomes preferred business insurance suppliers for FairTrades Association Members
  
   Insurance Choice is an insurance broker based in Royal Leamington Spa, Warwickshire.
  
  We can provide all types of commercial and business insurance. Our teams of experienced sales executives are on hand to help you with any advice or information as well as provide you with a competitive quote.
  
  We have numerous insurers on our panel, enabling us to find the best policy to suit your needs and price. This means we can also cover a large range of businesses from the sole trader to the large corporate enterprises.
  
  Types of Commercial Insurance provided included Commercial Combined, Liability, Professional indemnity, Commercial Property Owners Insurance, Small Fleet Insurance, Good in transit and much more. Members of the FairTrades Association should call 08432276817 for an insurance quote.

• March 2011 National Homebuilding Show 2011
  
   The FairTrades Multi Trade Association have will be exhibiting at the National Homebuilding and Renovating Show 2011 in Birmingham's NEC, the show is 24th to 27th March. Come and see us with your Free Tickets

• May 2010 Launch of the AllTradesInsurance Deal
  
  Fair Trades have struck up and amazing deal with AllTradesInsurance, this deal GUARANTEES you the very cheapest van insurance. Whether you have a fleet or a single van, save yourself some cash with AllTradesInsurance.

• Jan 2010 FairTrades offers ALL its members a free web site
  
   Within the FairTrades Group of Companies we run Contractor.co.uk. Contractor is our web site service, should you need it, we supply a FREE custom designed web site to all our trade association members.
  
  The Web site contains a customer quote/contact form and will appear on Google so you will benefit from new business from new potential customers.
  
  In addition to this you can change/add your own photos and text content as often as you wish for free!

• Aug 2009 Launch of the general "Home Protection" insurance policy
  
   Any property owner can now be covered for all guaranteed work performed on their home, provided in the form of a renewable annual policy at a great low fee.

• Jan 2009 FairTrades launches great van deals with BestVanDeals.
  
   For more details on this offer or any other vehicle call us now on 0845 003 7917 quoting ‘Fairtrades’.

• Aug 2011 Launch of the "Contractor.co.uk" web service
  
   An exciting addition to our services for members and non members alike, a personalised web site generated based on your company's data, fully customisable, the smartest way to get your business featured in the online world without breaking the bank.

• Feb 2007 FairTrades Association welcomed into the Trustmark Scheme.
  
   We are pleased to announce that The FairTrades Association has been accepted as a TrustMark approved Scheme Operator. FairTrades Association Members now have the chance to present their business as part of the Government endorsed national standard for home improvement, which is gaining momentum with consumer groups and the public on a daily basis.
  
  The scheme currently covers General Building, Glazing, Conservatories, Kitchens, Bathrooms, Roofing and Electricians - with the likelihood that more trades will be added in the future. Applications to become TrustMark registered can only be made via a Scheme Operator such as FairTrades - you cannot apply to TrustMark direct.
  
  Registered businesses can display the TrustMark logo to confirm to customers that the business has been inspected and meets the standards set by the Government.
  
  Call us now on 08707 38 48 58 for more information on how TrustMark and FairTrades can benefit your business.

• Jan 2006 FairTrades Association Members are entitled to preferential rates on AA membership.
  
   FairTrades Association members are now entitled to preferential rates and free enrolment from the AA. With a choice of five levels of service from Roadside/Home Start to the full Roadside/Relay/Relay Plus/Home Start/Accident Management package.
  
  For further information on this special offer, please click on the Products and Services section on the menu above.

• Jan 2006 FairTrades launches new Fiat and Alfa Romeo special members only offer.
  
   FairTrades gets its members on the road with fantastic money saving deals on FIAT commercial vehicles and selected cars from the FIAT and ALFA ROMEO ranges. For further information, please click on the Products and Services section on the menu above.

• Dec 2005 Cuisines Schmidt and Dream Doors recommend FairTrades and HomePro to their network of installers.
  
   Leading kitchen and bathroom brand, Schmidt are recommending the award winning HomePro Insurance Backed Guarantee scheme to their UK network of installers. Schmidt has been in the kitchen business for over fifty years as the leading French brand and exporter of kitchen furniture.
  
  Dream Doors provide amazing kitchen and bedroom facelifts installed by professional craftsmen and they have now recommended the HomePro Insurance Backed Guarantee scheme to their UK network.

• Nov 2005 Trade Lynks, a part of PROFILE 22 recommend HomePro Insurance to their installer base
  
   PROFILE 22, the UK's leading supplier of PVCu products for the window industry, has recommended FairTrades and the award winning HomePro Insurance Backed Guarantee scheme to their nationwide network of fabricators and installers.
  
  Trade Lynks Installer Support Scheme Manager, Andy Ball says, “Our partnership with FairTrades is in response to requests from our members asking for a quality IBG scheme to give peace of mind for their customers.
  
  It’s a good example of the practical business and marketing support that we bring to Trade Lynks members, designed to help grow their businesses.”
  
  Welcoming the Trade Lynks and PROFILE 22 members on board, FairTrades MD, Nick Egdell says, “We are very pleased to have formed a partnership with Trade Lynks and see the long term strength of supporting the industry at all levels for the ultimate good of the Home Owner“.

• Nov 2005 FairTrades Corporate Advertising Scheme launched with Thomson Directories
  
   To complement the highly successful Yellow Pages advertising scheme, FairTrades has now introduced an additional scheme with Thomson Directories. The new Corporate Advertising Scheme allows members to save an average of 20% on Thomson’s advertising lineage rates. Members can promote their businesses under the FairTrades banner – so the homeowner can see that they are registered with a renowned Trade Association.
  
  In addition to the printed directory, advertising is also available on the ThomsonLocal.com web site - within the enhanced FairTrades scheme box.

• Nov 2005 Come and see us at the KBB and Glassex exhibitions in 2006
  
   Make a note in your diaries - FairTrades and it’s sister company, HomePro Insurance are booked to exhibit at the KBB kitchen, bedroom and bathroom exhibition at the NEC in Birmingham from 22-25 January 2006 and the annual Glassex exhibition, also at the NEC from 5-8 March 2006.
  
  So, come and pay us a visit on stand P109 in hall 17 at the KBB show and C085 at Glassex and let our Sales Team explain how membership can enhance and build your business.

• Aug 2005 FairTrades launches promotional fridge magnets
  
   The FairTrades fridge magnet is a convenient way for homeowners to keep our web site and telephone number to hand, so it is always accessible whenever they require a reputable trade professional.
  
  The magnets will be sent out to homeowners throughout the UK with their insurance cover note, so that’s over 40,000 homes per year that will be reminded to use a FairTrades registered and vetted contractor – every time they open their fridge.

• 13 – 16 May 2005 FairTrades/HomePro at the Expo show in London
  
   Building upon the success of Glassex – in May, FairTrades also took a stand at the Kitchen & Bathroom EXPO at London’s Docklands.
  
  It was a great opportunity to promote FairTrades and HomePro to the KBB industry and to raise the profile of the Association to existing and potential customers. Once again, the Team were on hand to answer questions and to offer advice about FairTrades and HomePro products and services.

• 08 – 10 Mar 2005 FairTrades/HomePro at the Glassex show in Birmingham
  
   In March. the FairTrades/HomePro team took their new and improved exhibition stand to the NEC, Birmingham for Glassex - the exhibition for the glazing and conservatory industry. Over the four days of the show, our team enjoyed the opportunity to meet with both our current members and with companies wishing to join.

• Feb 2005 FairTrades launch Yellow Pages Corporate Advertising Scheme
  
   February 2005 saw the successful launch of the FairTrades Corporate Advertising Scheme from Yellow Pages. This highly popular scheme enables FairTrades members to promote and highlight their business to potential customers under the renowned “Scales of Justice” logo.
  
  This makes it easy for customers to find a reputable, vetted business and it also offers considerable savings on the standard Yellow Pages advertising rates. The scheme is available exclusively to FairTrades members.