At the recent GGF Industry Connect event held at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, GGF President Michael Butterick delivered a strong message to the glass and glazing sector about the urgent need to adapt to a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape.

Mike warned that the current regulatory framework is “more complicated and challenging than it has ever been before,” stressing that compliance and engagement with policymakers should be seen as strategic priorities, not just back-office tasks.

He highlighted that the publication of the Future Homes Standard is only the beginning, with further significant changes expected, including the potential revision of Document Q.

There is an ongoing conversation that could extend Document Q beyond new build housing in England to include accessible replacement windows and doors. This could have an even bigger impact on our industry than the Future Homes Standard.

he said.

Addressing an audience of 250 GGF and FENSA Limited members, Mike emphasized the value of industry engagement with government. He praised the work of the GGF Consultation Response Group, a cross-industry forum coordinating responses to government consultations. “In that group, we have collective strength and expertise that does not exist anywhere else in our industry. Government recognizes our leadership, and it gives us access to conversations that are vital to shaping policy,” he explained.

He also warned of the serious consequences for businesses that fail to meet regulatory expectations, referencing a recent Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) report that revealed deep compliance issues.

Compliance is not a tick-box exercise anymore. It is the difference between leadership and liability, between quality and risk. The OPSS can stop businesses that are non-compliant, and that is a disruption no one needs, especially now.

he stated.

Mike encouraged companies to improve point-of-sale conversations with customers to guide them in selecting products that make homes warmer, more comfortable, secure, and energy-efficient. He also highlighted the role of the sector in driving sustainability and product circularity, presenting it as an opportunity to attract new talent and demonstrate real environmental impact.

“When we look at our industry through that lens, we are helping deliver the country’s net zero and energy independence plans. We can be proud to be part of that solution,” he added.

The focus on standards and change was reinforced by newly appointed GGF Director Lauren Mawford, who framed the event around collaboration and raising industry standards.

When we work together effectively, we do not just respond to change, we shape it. The future of this industry is something we build together.

she said.

The event also explored the role of AI in the industry and featured a keynote from boxing legend Frank Bruno, who spoke about his career and mental health journey. Lauren noted that the new Industry Connect format was designed to modernize and energize the event: “We wanted to step outside the traditional format and create something dynamic, engaging, and a celebration of our industry.”