Dallas is buzzing this week as GlassBuild America, the leading glass, window, and door industry event, unfolds at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center.
Exhibitors and suppliers from across the globe have converged to showcase the latest innovations and connect with industry professionals. This year’s show is characterized by a strong emphasis on customer feedback and the development of solutions tailored to meet evolving market demands.
The exhibition floor is brimming with a diverse range of products, from advanced machinery and components to finished glass products. Several companies highlighted their commitment to innovation and customer-centric design.
Forel, an Italian machinery manufacturer, generated significant excitement with the unveiling of its high-speed insulating glass production line. Designed for the efficient production of thin glass triples, this line directly addresses the growing demand for high-efficiency glass in the US market. Joe Hague, the company’s international business development manager, emphasized the line’s ease of integration into existing factories, allowing fabricators to quickly begin producing this in-demand product. “It’s about manufacturing the highest performing products in the most efficient and effective way possible,” Hague stated.
McGrory Glass is responding to the increasing need for enhanced security in public spaces. Focusing on fire-rated and security glazing applications, particularly for schools, the company showcased its products capable of withstanding forced entry up to Level 8 bullet resistance. Patrick Tackney, security and architectural sales consultant, highlighted the crucial role these products play in delaying intruders, providing valuable time for emergency responders.
Demonstrating a commitment to improving customer experience, Walker Glass introduced WeConnect, a new online customer portal. Developed in direct response to customer feedback, this system provides enhanced order visibility and tracking capabilities. Claudine Brun, director of customer service, explained that the portal allows customers to manage their orders directly, simplifying the process and fostering better communication.
C.R. Laurence also unveiled a noteworthy innovation: the Zero Hinge for shower doors. This patent-pending detachable hinge boasts a significantly improved installation process, allowing glaziers to work more efficiently. Product manager Marco Gaebel emphasized the hinge’s superior strength and capacity, capable of supporting glass doors that are substantially heavier and wider than competing products.
GlassBuild America 2024 underscores the industry’s dynamic evolution, driven by customer needs and technological advancements. The show serves as a powerful platform for collaboration and innovation, showcasing the dedication of companies to providing superior products and exceptional customer service. The focus on listening to customer feedback and integrating that feedback into new product development and service delivery is a key takeaway from this year’s event.
Source:GlassBuild America 2024 with additional information added by GlassBalkan
