Door Industry Journal - Spring 2019

Domestic Garage Doors Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk Castle Doors Group Takes on the Wessex Brand Birmingham-based Castle Doors Ltd Group has taken on the Wessex Doors brand, with a mission to revive and improve the company after it has undergone a difficult time. A recent change of ownership at Wessex Doors was followed by operational problems related to supply difficulties and Castle has stepped in to save what is still a well-respected name and transform its fortunes. Wessex Doors has a history that dates back to 1974, It established itself as the premier GRP garage door manufacturing company in Europe and still has the largest range of GRP door styles and finishes available anywhere. The original Wessex Doors production facility in Verwood, Dorset has now closed, and manufacturing has moved to Castle’s Birmingham location. “Wessex Doors has had some well documented problems and gone through a difficult time recently, but that was due to supply issues rather than anything to do with the products, which are of a very high standard,” explains Lee Moon – Director at Castle Doors Group. “That’s why we stepped in, as the quality is so strong. Wessex Doors is long established in the garage door industry and we plan to keep it independent, but we have exciting plans in place that will see the brand expand and its range diversify – while keeping true to the Wessex reputation for excellence. Moving the business to our Birmingham facility from Verwood will ensure a better overall customer experience, experienced staff handling day to day queries and faster deliveries. We will deliver goods using new and existing vehicles nationwide.” And Lee is confident the changes will rebuild confidence among existing customers, and also bring in clients who are new to the brand: “We are going to bring long-term stability back to the brand and show customers that they can rely on Wessex to deliver. We will be offering improved pricing, whilst 3 and 4 crown options will be changed to one standard build method, which will streamline production methods. And all doors will change to a 60mm frame.” “Our team are already contacting customers with outstanding orders that have not been fulfilled, to discuss timescales for delivery - and a new brochure and price list will be delivered to all customers over the next few weeks, although new orders can be still be priced using the existing publications.” Wessex joins the Fort Doors brand in the Castle Group of companies. To find out more about Wessex Doors, visit www.wessexdoors.co.uk , or call 0121 749 3699