Wholesaler of fence systems proves innovativeness with customer-specific solutions

New systems meet need

Dalupo, the country's largest wholesaler of screen components and systems, mainly supplies specialist screen manufacturers in the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany. But the company from Teuge in Gelderland is much more than that, says founder Hendrik Jan van Dalfsen. "Because also when it comes to customer-specific solutions - including for the window frame industry and the sunshade industry - we lead the way."

Started in 2010 as an importer of aluminum profiles, Dalupo then quickly went on to focus specifically on screen profiles. "Initially we did so without the accessories that go with them," says Hendrik Jan van Dalfsen. "Gradually we expanded the range to include all kinds of parts such as mesh, corner pieces, stainless steel springs and sealing brushes. In addition to materials for fixed insect screens, we supply parts for roller screens, pleated doors and angle profiles that are available from stock." Dalupo has since grown to become the largest wholesaler of screen parts and screen systems in the Netherlands.

Right the first time

During the final installation of the window frame at the consumer's home, it is important that the screen is immediately included, Van Dalfsen said. "It should therefore not be the case that the fitter has to go back to the customer for the installation of the screen; that causes unnecessary loss of time, increases costs and puts extra pressure on the planning. We help our customers avoid this. Because it is important to get the production and delivery of a screen right the first time."

According to Van Dalfsen, it is essential for his customer base that parts for the screen system are always available from stock. "By making screens themselves, a window frame manufacturer has more control over the production process and has more control over the delivery time. Moreover, due to the nitrogen problem in the Netherlands, the demand for window frames may temporarily decrease. Even if this creates extra space in the production capacity, you can still keep employees working. The latter is essential. Because as soon as the market picks up, these employees are badly needed again."

Easy to produce hor

To distinguish itself even more as an innovative company, Dalupo is constantly developing new systems that meet a specific need. "This allows us to give frame manufacturers - when capacity allows - the opportunity to offer extra service and therefore extra turnover with a related product," says Van Dalfsen. "For example, in addition to the usual insert screen system, we also have a screen system in our assortment that eliminates the disadvantages of an insert screen. A well-known disadvantage is that there is always a flange between the frame and the pivot panel. Thanks to the universal mosquito net system developed by Dalupo, this disadvantage is solved. On our website there is also an animation with all the technical explanations on how to measure and produce our universal mosquito net system."

Own 3D printer

In addition to the sun protection industry, Dalupo also makes customer-specific parts and aluminum profiles for numerous other applications, including for the window frame industry, the healthcare sector, bodywork construction and for home interiors. Not only at product level, but also at customer level, the company always tries to be innovative. Thus, according to Hendrik Jan, customers who have a good idea for a product improvement, but do not have the necessary knowledge and skills themselves, regularly knock on the door. "In such a case, we can assist in product engineering. An idea can then be made tangible using our own 3D printer. In this way, it is possible to develop a physical prototype in a short time that allows you to check whether the product the customer has in mind meets all the requirements, such as in terms of quality, design and regulations."

This much is clear: thanks to its drive for innovation, Dalupo clearly distinguishes itself from wholesalers who only supply parts from stock. "As a supplier of all kinds of customer-specific profiles, we offer pre-eminent customization, service, expertise and flexibility," is how Hendrik Jan succinctly sums it up.