Karl celebrates 5 years at Window Ware

10 September 2021

Karl Williamson, our Business Development Manager, is celebrating five years at Window Ware. And it’s fair to say we've kept him pretty busy from the outset.

As one of the brains behind Xpert Tools, the well-known brand of high-quality air tools, hand tools, and glazing tools, Karl was originally brought in to embed the range when Window Ware became sole distributor. He is now fully integrated into our management team and a key player in the company’s strategy for growth and continued success.

“I wouldn’t say I was forced on them,” jests Karl, “but when Xpert was purchased by the group, I sort of came along as part of the package.” He goes on to explain, “When I first joined Window Ware, there were plenty of challenges to overcome. The move pretty much happened over the course of a single weekend, and we were still actively trading, so for the first year at least, I spent much of my time making sure the Xpert brand and the product range was firmly established in its new home, all while looking after existing Xpert customers at the same time.”

Over the years, Karl’s role has evolved. Initially, he worked with the Area Sales Managers to grow the business through cross-selling and help position Window Ware as a one-stop shop for fabricating and fitting essentials. Today, Karl is Business Development Manager (Repair and Installation), and his primary role is to develop the tools and consumables side of the business on a national scale, as well as help support some of Window Ware’s key accounts.

Karl was also instrumental in launching Window Ware’s popular reXon range of sealants and adhesives to market, as well as Kendo professional-grade hand tools. And when it comes to ‘tools for the trade’, there’s no doubt he really knows his stuff!

Karl starting out selling hand tools for his stepdad’s business and has worked in the industry since he was 18.  Around 2006 to 2007, Karl began selling windows to the trade, as well as carrying out installation work. That’s when the idea of Xpert tools started to take shape.

“We constantly struggled to get hold of decent tools specifically designed for window fitters. We’d usually end up buying general purpose tools and customising them ourselves to do the job right. We got tired of making do!”explained Karl. “So, we decided to do something about it and design a fit-for-purpose range of tools ourselves. Armed with my previous tool-selling experience, we went to market with Xpert Tools and ultimately, Window Ware became a key distributor.”

“Five years ago, when we took over sole distributorship of Xpert Tools,” recalls Window Ware Managing Director, Sam Nuckey, "the business was entering an exciting new phase and expanding its product portfolio to meet customer needs. As it turns out, not only did we land a fantastic range of tools, but we also gained a top colleague in Karl too - that made it a double win for us!”

The last 12-18 months have been hugely challenging for the whole industry. After Lockdown 1.0, demand for hardware quickly ramped up as the door and window industry resumed operations, and it was all hands to the pump at Window Ware. Consequently, Karl was un-furloughed early to help manage stock, source alternatives and fulfil the growing number of customer orders.

“I got to go back to my roots and get more involved in the operational side of things again, helping to clear back orders and resolve out of stock situations.  Given the well-publicised supply chain challenges of late, naturally there have been some difficult conversations with customers. Nobody likes bad news but being upfront and honest about delayed shipments or temporary stock shortages, and offering alternative solutions wherever possible, was vital to minimising disruption for our customers and keeping their projects on track. The ASMs and everyone at Window Ware have worked extremely hard to ensure our customers continue to receive the best service despite the ongoing squeeze on supply.”

Even though many COVID restrictions are behind us and the world is doing its best to return to ‘almost’ normal, demand has shown no signs of slowing down. Karl believes we’ll be riding the wave for a little while longer yet.

“I think trading volumes could revert back to 2019 levels at the beginning of next year if it turns out the current boom has effectively brought 2022’s business forward. The general feeling amongst my customers is that we’ll reach Christmas at the current levels and then foreign holidays may take over.”

“Having said all that, nothing is set in stone. Indeed, the last year has taught us all just how quickly the market can change.  Whatever happens though, our customers can rest assured Window Ware will be there to serve and support them every step of the way.”

Sam Nuckey agrees. “Window Ware has listened, learned and adapted, and emerged from the pandemic stronger than ever. Karl has played a significant role in that success. His all-encompassing industry knowledge, no-nonsense honesty and strong relationship-building skills have made him invaluable to the team, and I know he’ll continue to help drive the business onwards and upwards.”

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