About Us
Windows Active magazine is produced by a team of journalists and advertising executives with over 60 years magazine experience in the windows, doors and conservatories sector. The online magazine utilises a revolutionary delivery method that allows readers to view Windows Active in their internet browser without the need to download pages. Produced in a standard A4 format, the magazine reads like a standard print journal and allows advertisers to produce their print advertisements online to over 16,000 readers. The print version is produced in a glossy A4 format and is mailed to 10,000 window, door and conservatory fabricators and installers.
The expert editorial offered on Windows Active gives readers an in-depth analysis of the market. The editor John Cowie has worked in the industry for over 20 years, and in this time has developed a high profile with all of the industry’s players. With this experience, the reader can be assured of the highest quality of editorial copy.
Our mission
Windows Active is a brand that aims to deliver information to all those involved in the manufacture of windows, doors and conservatories. Advertisers can be assured that their message will be seen by all the relevant personnel in the industry.
The team
John Cowie – Editorial Director/Editor
John has worked in trade journalism for over 20 years. He started his career at Hamerville Magazines working initially as Assistant Editor on Professional Heating and Plumbing Installer. He then moved onto Window Fabricator and Installer as Editor at the same company soon after. In 1997 he left to join Turret-RAI plc where he was Managing Editor of Window Industries. During his time at Turret RAI John launched another trade journal Building, Repair and Maintenance. He left in 2005 to set up Active Magazines Ltd, and edit Windows Active and manage Housing Active and Water Active. In 2006 Water Active was subject to a management-buy-out and left the Active Magazines stable.
Steve Gravestock – Sales Director
With nearly 25 years experience in the publishing industry, Steve has held a number of key management roles. More recently he was Publisher of a number of journals targeting the window, blinds & shutters and bakery industries. He has been involved in the advertising side of the Window Industry for 19 years. He left his former role of Publisher at Turret RAI to set up Active Magazines Ltd. His role is to co-ordinate the sales division and to develop new titles.
Donna Crockatt – Publishing Executive
Donna comes from a publishing background, having worked for many years on trade publications at a leading business-to-business magazine publisher. Prior to that she managed a successful design, surveying and architectural practice. Working across the editorial and advertising departments at Windows Active, Donna works closely with Editor John Cowie and Sales Director Steve Gravestock. Her role involves engagement with Windows Active’s expanding customer base, supporting them in their advertising and editorial needs. Donna also supports the growing number of customers of Windows Active’s exclusive Marketing Support Packages with tailored editorial and advertising solutions.
In April 2019 one of the founding directors of Active Magazines, Jon Glenister, sadly passed away after losing his battle against cancer. To read his obituary and our tribute to him, please CLICK HERE.