Based in Devon, Michele Muir, Managing Director of Exmoor Fascias, celebrates 30 years of trading and growth in 2019. In an ever-evolving market, the company’s partnership with Freefoam has been a constant over the last 20 years.
Michele explains: “We started installing roofline products at a time when double-glazing was the big focus for consumers, so it was vital to have reliable suppliers that would help us to establish our reputation and name. When we became a roofline stockist in 1994, we were the only ones stocking a full range of roofline products in North Devon. Identifying the best relationships for our business and cementing them was crucial in the early years.”
After twenty years, Freefoam’s enthusiasm and drive for excellence remains unchanged. “Since the 2008 recession, lots of manufacturers have cut corners – reducing quality in order to save money. This hasn’t been the case with Freefoam,” says Michele. “The quality of their products has been consistently high. Whenever they’ve introduced new products, they’ve lived up to these high standards, so we know we can rely on them.”
“The growing trend for coloured roofline has been a major change in the market,” notes Michele. “Anthracite has been popular on newbuilds in recent years, and we have it installed in our showroom. It really helps customers considering non-traditional colours, as they get to see the product. We’re also seeing people who are choosing to stay in their homes are therefore more willing to invest more money for quality work and products, so it’s reassuring for them to see something in person.”
“We’re still unique in being the only stockist in the area who carries a wide selection of coloured products and stocks all sizes. Freefoam’s wide range of coloured products has allowed us to adapt to this market, as we have another USP despite the local market evolving.”
As well as maintaining high standards throughout their product range, Freefoam’s service has supported Exmoor Fascias to make the most of the market for PVC-UE roofline.
“We have two deliveries a week from Freefoam. They’re very reliable, and always easy to get hold of if ever we come across a problem. The regularity of deliveries means that our customers can usually make a start on a project, even if they have to wait a few days for additional materials they need to come in to complete their project. We can be candid with them and they’re always willing to be flexible.”
For Michele, Freefoam’s customer service has been crucial to their ongoing relationship. “Today, the market is a different place to when we started out – there are lots of other PVC stockists in Devon now, but we’ve seen a decline in the number of suppliers as so many have merged. Freefoam are great to work with, which we really value because the relationships we have with our suppliers are part of what makes or breaks our day-to-day experience. Freefoam have great service, quality products, and their staff are always thinking of how to help – whether that’s when we’re on the other end of the phone, or coming up with innovative products.”