In 2021 JCP Fixings, the specialist fixing division of Owlett-Jaton, celebrates its 20th anniversary – having become a key player within the UK fixings market and able to provide a comprehensive range of products to suit a variety of construction applications.
Since the very beginning JCP Fixings focused on high-quality products, technical support, as well as building a great reputation within the market. It did all of this whilst staying one step ahead of the ever-changing demands of the construction industry.
“Meeting the growing challenges of the construction sector, with such a broad spectrum of influencing factors – for instance legislation and consumer expectations, has been a challenge we have thrived on over the last twenty years,” states Nick Beardon, general manager at JCP Fixings. “Regulations and standards in the construction industry adapt over time and it is up to us as a business to foresee these changes and ensure we are able to lead from the front. For instance, there has been a steady rise in demand for certified products over the years, which has been driven by distributors, architects, engineers and specifiers alike.”
Since its inception, JCP has offered a range of high-quality products, often certified and regulated, including CE approved, ETA certified, WRAS (Water Regulations Advisory Scheme) and fire resistant products. Over the last twenty years this product range has grown year-on-year, with that trend set to continue. “We are always looking to develop new products and applications,” mentions Nick. “For instance, we have a new 2021 JCP Fixings catalogue, which has already started hitting desks and includes even more items than ever before.”
Another factor that JCP has to account for is the continually changing consumer buying needs, with customers demanding more services and more support. “Any form of change, irrespective of origin, inevitably has an impact on the supply chain. Identifying, responding and adapting appropriately to these changes has been a fundamental element of our success over the last two decades,” states Nick.
A prime example is the range of ‘trade’ and ‘retail’ bags branded with the JCP Fixings logo and livery. Split into four categories (medium-duty, heavy-duty, nylon and cavity, and self-drilling screws) each product is clearly colour coded. The label also shows base material icons for which the product is recommended; clear instructions for installation; along with extended technical details ensuring the application is correct. Plus, there is a QR code on the packaging that takes the customer through to the relevant technical data sheet on the JCP Fixings website.
“This is a great instance of where we have responded to a change in the market,” points out Nick. “Today’s society has higher expectations regarding the retail environment and coinciding with this is the quality of packaging. The result? An improved retail experience, where the branded packaging is striking, regimental in appearance, and much more inviting. It is also easier for customers to find what they want and the clear instructions help consumers choose the right product. All of this leads to an increase in sales for our customers and ultimately us too.”
First-class technical support
A fundamental part of the JCP business is its ability to offer technical support and guidance via its in-depth technical website; on-site product testing; as well as various training session opportunities. “Whilst our target market is fixing distributors, we also look to create relationships with engineers/end users and a key factor in being able to do this is the technical support you can offer,” explains Nick. “By talking directly to the end users, it enables us to understand their requirements and guarantee we are providing the products and services they require.”
This is underlined by JCP’s website, which has been developed with distributors, architects, engineers and specifiers in mind. “We have continuously updated our website to guarantee that we deliver the most up to date information, as well as ensuring we keep in-line with changes in the product offering, legislation and market demands. Product information, load and range data, performance data sheets, installation instructions, and base material guidance, are just some of the options available on the website.
“We also have our Anchor Calculation Program (ACP), which is designed to simplify specifying connections to floors, ceilings, and walls, and factors in loadings, spacing and edge distances. Our Anchor Calculation Program is free of charge to download and available to anybody. Users can enter details for a specific job and calculate the correct number of fixings for their application. It also includes a wide range of information and data, including fire and seismic requirements, and can accurately suggest suitable anchors and base plate configurations – making calculations according to set guidelines.”
Alongside the ACP software, JCP also offers on-site product testing across the UK – carried out by the company’s highly experienced area sales managers. “Over recent years there has been a shift in the construction industry, whereby we have seen an increase in requests for on-site testing. Whether it is in-line with a building regulation requirement, or for peace of mind, our area sales managers provide advice on behalf of our customers. We are visiting sites on an almost daily basis and demonstrating the suitability of our products. The JCP Fixings technical support team can also provide technical back up for any troubleshooting that may be required.”
To add to this, the technical department also offers training sessions for distributors, project managers and designers. With three levels of training to choose from, they can all be tailored to meet the needs of the audience. The training provides an opportunity for users to get a ‘hands-on’ experience with products from the JCP Fixings range.
Nick adds: “By talking to end users, carrying out demonstrations, and offering training, end users can see our products in action and understand their advantages. It is only by having this connection with end users that we can make sure our range is meeting their needs. We can then be confident that the portfolio we are supplying to our fixing distributors is right for the market.”
Leading the market
Having achieved such success over the last twenty years, JCP will continue to support its customers with high-quality products, alongside first-class service and technical support. This is underlined by the appointment of Reza Jafari as technical manager – who replaces Brian Deluce who recently retired. Reza has a degree in structural engineering from the Milan Polytechnic and is a qualified Bachelor of Civil Engineering.
“Reza has been with JCP since 2017 and will bring a new level of expertise to the technical department through his knowledge and experience of previously working with design engineers,” mentions Nick. “I am sure Reza will further strengthen JCP’s reputation for delivering high class technical support. By doing this we can also not only maintain but build on our relationships with our customers, and end users, and ensure we stay at the forefront of the industry.”
Will joined Fastener + Fixing Magazine in 2007 and over the last 15 years has experienced every facet of the fastener sector - interviewing key figures within the industry and visiting leading companies and exhibitions around the globe.
Will manages the content strategy across all platforms and is the guardian for the high editorial standards that the Magazine is renowned.
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