Major GAI event to unlock the future of the door and window hardware industry

A major free virtual conference this week for all door and window professionals is set to explore the future for industry and architectural ironmongery, upcoming technical standards, product showcases and CPD, as well as unveiling the new logo, leadership and growth strategy for the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers (GAI).

The GAI Members’ Day on Thursday 27 May has a fully customisable agenda. This includes the chance to take part in a transatlantic exchange of views on the comparison between BS, EN and American standards, led by GAI’s technical manager Douglas Masterson (below) and Laura Frye Weaver, vice president of education, certification and technical activities at the Door Hardware Institute in the USA.

Another keynote presentation delegates can choose to attend online will be a debate on the long-term vision for architectural ironmongers and their business models, in a world increasingly feeling the impact of artificial intelligence, machine learning and smart technology.

Looking at the global trends that could significantly impact on the role of a door and window hardware professional will be…

 – Hannah Mansell, UK group technical director Masonite UK
 – Steve Bewick, chief operating officer for access control EMEA dormakaba
 – Richard Waterhouse, a consultant and former chief executive officer at NBS
 – Paul Martin, managing director of dline eisenware

The Chair will be Liz Male, director of PR and communications consultancy LMC. Panellists will spell out how they believe the industry will change, and its implications for businesses, individuals and the GAI.

In addition to breakout sessions on issues like best practices in recruitment, the role of BSI technical standards and the UK’s standards-making process, the GAI Members’ Day will include multiple opportunities to preview new products from a wide range of manufacturers and suppliers.

Amongst these include…

 – GEZE
 – Forza Doors
 – HOPPE (UK)
 – Codelocks
 – Croft
 – Strand Hardware
 – Mann McGowan
 – Masonite (UK)
 – Simonswek
 – ABLOY

As part of the GAI AGM, which will be held during the event, the GAI will announce its new President and Executive Committee team. The organisation will unveil a new strategy and major refresh of its corporate identity to recognise the changes ahead.

There will also be a mental health and wellbeing presentation by Bill Hill, chief executive of the Lighthouse Club. This charity provides emotional, physical and financial wellbeing support to construction workers and their families.

The event concludes with virtual horse racing and lots of online networking.

Participants can pick and choose their own agenda online, with every session free to book and free to attend. They can also request private meetings with the main sponsor and supporter brands.

These include…

 – CES
 – Masonite (UK)
 – ABLOY
 – UL
 – GEZE
 – Lorient
 – Em-B Solutions
 – Forza Doors
 – Mann McGowan
 – Codelocks
 – Croft
 – Frank Allart & Company
 – Harbrine
 – Oxford Ironmongery
 – dormakaba

Simon Forrester, chief executive of the GAI (top of article), comments: “The Guild has never held an event as big, as ambitious and as customisable as this before.

“It’s an incredible opportunity to get direct access to all the industry leading speakers, to discover the latest innovative products on the market, to network internationally with like-minded peers and to have the chance to book one-to-one meetings with your industry target list.

“This event is free of charge to attend by anyone involved in door or windows fabrication and supply and the whole architectural ironmongery industry, not just our members.

“We are inviting the wider industry to experience the benefits of being part of our organisation, and it will be of relevance for anyone in research and technical, sales and marketing, HR, international standards and specification roles – there is something for everyone.

“The agenda can be tailored to suit your interests, and we will be facilitating as much networking as possible.”

The GAI is the body representing the interests of the UK architectural ironmongery industry. Its qualifications, education and CPD programmes are widely respected in the UK and overseas. Its technical information service is the only specialist service of its kind and provides GAI members with comprehensive advice. 

Register your free place at the GAI Members’ Day at www.gai.org.uk/GAIMembersDay

Visit the GAI website

Visit Supplier's page