FORT Fencing
Agricultural & Equine Fencing
2022.FORT February Newsletter
01 February 2022
FORT Customer Update - February 2022
The year is starting to whizz by - until recently the weather has been surprisingly good and general demand seems to still be very young. Speaking to a wide range of Customers, the enquiry rate is still running well across all trades.FORT is moving forwards at a very brisk pace and we have plenty of new things to offer you, some of which we're covering in this newsletter.
General Availibility & Price Update
In terms of availability, there are far less problem areas, but it's still quite a patchy issue. FORT continues to hold excellent stock levels and the support systems to ensure that you get excellent service.
Here's our summary:
'Aircrete' blocks, clay tile products, block and beam, main brand bricks, steel cavity lintels are all very difficult and we're still not seeing improvements.
Demand outstrips supply. Imports from Europe seem to be difficult and this is probably down to less interest by European manufacturers to spend time on UK trade while they have high local demand.
Transport delays seem to be improving and coming back into balance. Haulage costs are rising significantly and feeding into general product inflation. Here's our round up of general indicators:
Inflation - As you can see, we're into very high general inflation at over 7%. There's still a constant stream of price increases coming through across all manner of building products.
Containers - As this link shows, container rates have fallen, but only from a huge high of around $10,000 to $9,000. There are signs that this may soften, but fuel costs are a factor.
Steel - As this chart shows, steel prices are continuing to rise again and up around 10% year on year.
Timber - As this link shows, after another huge rise towards the end of last year, prices have fallen back a little, but are still well over double the trend. UK Prices have fallen back at the moment but look likely to recover as we get into March/April.
FORT are holding good stocks and generally availibility is fine, apart from some specialist chipboard products.
Trex Composite Decking Service
Composite building materials are quickly catching up with their more traditional alternatives, thanks to increased options in colour and finish, less maintenance, and longer lifespan; the benefits of going composite can be enormous. As a result, FORT will soon be stocking our own line of composite options, and the first to hit our shelves is Trex Composite Decking. Trex is available in 11 different options, which cover any budget and style. As well as the decking boards themselves, we will be stocking the hidden fixing system or the colour-match screws to give your deck a seamless finish. Fully integrated lighting and balustrade options are also available on request. Trex is made from 95% recycled materials and thanks to its protective shell, offers a 25 year residential warranty and 10 years on commercial projects. To guarantee your deck will last, using the correct materials in the correct way is crucial. If constructing a timber sub-frame, we have all the relevant sizes and fixings you need. However, alternative materials such as composite or aluminium joists are also available on request.
Come into FORT or give us a call to discuss what you need, and we can give you an all-in quote for everything you need to create the perfect outdoor space.
Staff Profile of the Month
Each month we’ll introduce you to members of our fantastic team, from those at the sales counter through to those who you may not usually come into contact with.
Name: PJ Rebbeck
Job Role: Sales Advisor
Hobbies & Interests: Football, Beer and Food
I'll let you in on a secret: I always have one over on Matt!
Previous Work: If you know, you know.
Joined FORT In: March 2020
I’ve lived all my life in Marlborough, have two sisters and brothers. Fortunately or unfortunately now am related to the fabulous Jimmy Pye. I have worked for both Matt and Pat for several years, starting out in the yard, then onto the 3.5-ton lorries and on to the Class 2 lorries. More recently, I took my Class 1 lorry test and in true PJ style, passed with flying colours. After much thought, I have taken the decision to scrub up, become rather dapper and tame myself taking on the next challenge of sales advisor. I think this will be an exciting opportunity as I already have the product knowledge, know the site locations and customers. Using my driver experience it will help me to ensure FORT can continue maintaining delivery expectations for our great customers. Outside FORT I enjoy watching Swindon Town or any football with a beer. When the football isn’t on, you’ll find me chilling with my amazing wife and baby daughter.
Order from FORT, you may be lucky enough and I'll pick up the phone!
FORT Progress Update
After acquiring Unit B in June/July 2021, we spent our time thinking, plotting and planning, what to do with the vast office space. We had many different ideas and in November time concluded in the interests of you our customers and your clients, it would be best to build a vast showroom; giving you the opportunity to see, touch and feel our products. In January we started stripping back the previous offices. Phase one is now complete, we have two working showroom bathrooms, new interior doors and Touchstone composite flooring. Over the coming weeks phase two will begin and we hope to have the full showroom complete in Summer/Autumn 2022.
As a new business, our reputation relies on word of mouth and testimonials from our valued customers, and as such we'd love for you to share reviews of your experiences with us on either Google, Facebookor TrustPilotif you have the time.
Thank you very much for your understanding and support at this time.
Best regards,
Matt, Tim & Keith
The Directors