In a move to strengthen communication on interests seen as vital to the window industry, Fighting Back with Facts (FBWF) campaigner and chairman of leading trade manufacturer Crystal Direct Martin Randall has agreed to join forces with the British Plastics Federation Window Group.

Crystal is joining as a fabricator member of the BPF’s Window Group and Martin will sit on the group’s marketing committee, taking an active role in promoting fabricator and installer interests through the group’s PVCaware.org campaign. He is, however, emphatic that this will strengthen, not dilute, his commitment to FBWF. Randall has been vigorous in reminding the industry that fabricators and installers are in the front line, so must play a key role in any campaign to defend PVC.

Martin says: “Following discussions with Windows Group Marketing committee chairman Jon Skinner, it quickly became apparent that we have a common agenda and an ongoing desire to ensure the continuance of a healthy and vibrant industry. When Jon explained BPF plans to broaden its message to include fabricators and installers and to widen the scope from recycling to a broader, more active defence of PVC, I was immediately interested. I am looking forward to working alongside Jon and the team to help them deliver their objectives.”

Jon Skinner is equally excited by the prospects of having Crystal Direct as a BPF member. Skinner said: “There are two very clear benefits to Martin’s decision to join the BPF and work with us. As one of the country’s prominent trade fabricators Crystal Direct is very much in touch with installers which are a key group. This will provide valuable input on matters that are of concern to them and where we can give assistance.

“Secondly, in setting up FBWF Martin has demonstrated that he is prepared to invest personally to support the industry from where he does his business and give something back to try and make a difference. He is well placed to make a valued contribution to the organisation.

“We are hopeful that Martin’s decision will be seen as a move to strengthen further the positive messages on PVC-U windows and doors that the BPF’s PVCaware.org is promoting.”