Archives for July 2025

The GGF’s North West and North Wales regional meeting took place on Tuesday 8th July, which was an incredibly busy but productive day, including a GGF member site visit and regional discussion in Wigan. The day brought together a great range of members from across the region and industry, and provided valuable updates and the opportunity to connect in person.

Thermoseal Facility Tour in Wigan

The morning began with a guided tour of Thermoseal’s manufacturing facility in Wigan. Thermoseal, a long-standing GGF member, specialises in the production of warm edge spacer bars, and the visit gave members a detailed look at the manufacturing process. Feedback was very positive – many commented on how much more is involved in the production than expected, and the overall consensus was that it was an insightful and well-organised tour.

Regional Meeting at The Brick Community Stadium

From 10.45am, members arrived at The Brick Community Stadium, home to both Wigan Athletic FC and Wigan Warriors. With refreshments and breakfast pastries on offer, the setting proved to be a greatly practical and well-located venue, close to Wigan’s retail park and easily accessible for attendees.

The meeting itself got underway at 11.00am. As always, there was strong interest in training and technical updates, which continue to be key areas of focus for the GGF community.

The meeting wrapped up by 1.30pm, followed by a lucky chance to visit pitch-side at the stadium. A wonderful end to the day and an opportunity for a few photos together!

Regional Chair and Member Recognition

Feedback on the day has been overwhelmingly positive, as Members found the Thermoseal tour fascinating, praised the content of the meeting and thought the venue and it’s location was excellent.

As ever, regional Chair Martin Clarke of Bootle Glass brought a bit of fun to the day with his fantastic trademark quiz, with winners taking home the popular Bootle Glass Glass Cleaner, supplied by fellow GGF member Bohle Ltd. Martin’s energy and commitment to these meetings is always noted and appreciated by both members and GGF staff alike.

It was also shared during the meeting that Gill Riley, MD and Co-Founder of GGR Group, has been awarded a CBE in the King’s 2025 Honours List, recognising her services to the lifting industry. This follows a previous MBE and is a significant achievement that reflects her commitment to innovation, safety, and training across the sector. GGR Group, based in Oldham with additional depots in Haddenham and Glasgow, is a well-established name in specialist lifting equipment.

Thank you to all members who attended the event, Thermoseal for hosting our morning tour and The Brick Community Stadium for accommodating us for the meeting. The North West and North Wales region remains one of the GGF’s most consistently active and involved, and the strength of participation continues to make these meetings worthwhile for the entire GGF community.

We’re already looking forward to the next one!