Regency Glass returned to production in early May, with most staff back from furlough by mid-June. Like most businesses, this was a structured return to work as demand grew.
The UK is served by three float glass manufacturers - Saint Gobain (Regency supplier), Guardian and Pilkington. Each has had to slow production volumes since the end of March lockdown, and bringing these giant production plants back to total volume is not a flick of a switch! This has led to the current glass shortages in the glass market. These low initial production volumes, backlog of orders, and continued increasing demand across the industry create a 'perfect storm', resulting in glass processors and IGU manufacturers being on reduced allocation.
Regency has proactively managed the supply chain challenges through our stock and production planning investment, keeping most product lines at usual lead times. We have extended laminated products by three days and standard units by one day, demonstrating our ability to manage volumes and order further stocks from non-core suppliers.
Despite the supply chain challenges, Regency is committed to maintaining normal operations. We are implementing measures such as customer help with the GGF visual guide to reduce waste glass for minor faults. Keeping to regular batch lead times also reduces waste, as optimisation of glass sheets is better than low-volume quick remedial units.
With good communication and cooperation, we will keep the glass supply near normal levels and work through this challenging period.
Many thanks, and stay safe.
Regency Glass Team.
