Platform on window, door, frame technology, hardware, roof and facade technology, security
Corona has led to new opportunities at S2. Bert van Lieshout, director at Themans Hang- en Sluitwerk from Deventer, explains. "When you see the first signs of production and logistical problems, as a result of Corona, you can do two things: wait and see if things work out, or take immediate action." Bert chose the latter, because he didn't want to risk missing out. "Disappointing customers is the last thing you want to see happen," Bert concludes. The solution was found in "reshoring. In short, bringing part of the S2 production back to Deventer. A plan that took quite some doing, but has now been successfully implemented.
Themans began investigating the feasibility of its own manufacturing department in the spring of 2020. "The pilot for that took place in June 2020," Bert outlines. "We now have five employees working in the assembly department. Having our own production offers sheer benefits to both Themans and the customers." Bert lists, "We can now maintain direct control over the entire assembly process. Another advantage is that transport has become much easier and we can respond more flexibly and faster to the market."
Bringing production to Deventer made a virtue of necessity. "That this works out sustainably is nice. S2 always thinks in terms of 'how can we do better?' That not only involves developing better products, but we have also invested in solar panels on our own premises, for example."
During the tour, Bert proudly points out the assembly of the brand new line of S2 locking rails. "A well thought out design. It is wonderful to see a product emerge on the assembly table. The in-house production is also very interesting for making smaller series, we are suddenly a lot more flexible namely. For example, we have added a black closing strip to the range. This is available in textured paint. And yes, it is very chic."
The new S2 locking frame is quite something and bears the name CET. "It is a 1-lever system," explains Bert. "A further development of a well-known locking frame, designed at the request of our customers. Themans developed it completely in-house; of course, this locking strip complies with SKG class 3."
Another first to be presented is the new lift-slide hardware, which features a flat handle. "This makes this hardware ideal for facades where a roller shutter or screen is mounted. No more obstacle. Everything is done in solid aluminum, with an understated design. It fits perfectly within contemporary notions of architecture."
The space needed for the assembly department was gained by optimizing some of the storage. "Useful square footage came out of that," Bert explains. "Assembly runs smoothly and tastes like more. Assembly is definitely not a goal for us, but a means by which we can serve our customers even better. Right now we are assembling the new S2 locking frame, but we will soon expand to include other items."
Bert concludes that the new products will be on display at the upcoming Polyclose. "There we will show not only the new locking frame, but also our new black security hardware with cylinder pull security and a black multi-point locking system. Beautifully sleek and minimalist."
