Astra targets commercial glazing growth as installers look beyond housing

Astra Windows is stepping up its pitch to trade installers seeking a route into commercial glazing, as refurbishment, public-sector work and renewed investment in physical retail reshape parts of the UK construction market.

The Greater Manchester aluminium fabricator, founded in 1989, says installers that have traditionally relied on residential work are increasingly looking at shopfronts, schools, healthcare buildings, offices and high-traffic entrances as a way to broaden their order books. UK construction output rose by 1.8% in 2025, according to the ONS, while PwC said public non-residential work was a key source of resilience, helped by health and education projects.

David Jackson, Astra’s managing director, said the move into commercial aluminium could open up “larger projects, repeat business, and long-term contracts” for installers able to meet tougher specification demands. “Our aluminium systems are perfectly suited to these environments because they deliver the strength, durability and aesthetic flexibility that modern commercial buildings demand,” he said.

Astra fabricates ALUK commercial aluminium systems including entrance doors, shopfronts and curtain walling. The company says the range includes PAS24 and Secured by Design-approved options, anti-finger-trap technology for public settings, single and double-door configurations, screening and fanlights, and slim profiles intended to maximise natural light.

The push comes as energy performance and compliance remain central to refurbishment decisions. Approved Document L continues to set out building regulation guidance on fuel and power conservation, while commercial landlords and occupiers are under pressure to improve the performance of older building stock.

Jackson said commercial projects placed “far greater demands” on glazing systems, particularly around security, durability and safety. Astra said fabricating in-house at its Radcliffe facility gave it tighter control over quality, specification accuracy and lead times, with nationwide delivery including direct-to-site supply.

Alongside commercial systems, Astra also fabricates aluminium windows, sliding patio and bifolding doors, entrance doors, internal glazed doors, screening and roof glazing. The company said offering multiple aluminium systems through one supplier was designed to simplify procurement for installers handling more complex projects.