VIP-Polymers, Business Development Director Luke Nethercot and Production Director Mick Gilchrist were recently invited over to Pandrol’s inaugural Global Supplier Forum in France.
The event was a real eye opener with conversations around sustainability and innovation, which lead to some interesting ideas being bought back to the office for discussion.
As a company we were extremely proud to have had all our hard work noticed by Pandrol with the presentation of a Global Supplier Award.
Many thanks to the Pandrol team for such an incredible event and experience and we look forward to taking the ideas and discussions raised and implementing them going forward.
VIP-Polymers – Will be exhibiting at the Trenchless Middle East
VIP-Polymers are delighted to be exhibiting at Trenchless Middle East 2024 on the 5th – 6th November at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Duabi.
After exhibiting at NO DIG Live the other week, VIP-Polymers are excited to be heading over to Dubai for Trenchless Middle East, showcasing our range of Trenchless Repair Solutions.
Luke Nethercote – VIP’s Business Development Director will be at the event on Stand 02, with our range of VIPWeco trenchless repair solutions along side a number of other products such as the VIPSeal product range, designed for quick installation and rehabilitation of pipelines.
VIP-Weco No-Dig pipe repair seals use WRAS approved material, comply fully with BS6920 and have a typical life expectancy of 100+ years.
During the installation process, rubber sleeves and a rubber lining made of EPDM or NBR coupounds are applied over the damaged are of the inner wall of the pipe. Stainless steel sheeting is then placed over the sleeve and lining. This is then held in place by stainless steel retaining bands allowing up to 20 bar of internal or up to 2.0 bar of external pressure.
Once the VIP-Weco is installed, a safe, durable and low-cost mechanical sealing solutions is achieved. Typical installation time of circa 40 minutes per seal.
For special applications such as longitudinal cracking or where aggressive chemicals are used, we develop bespoke sealing solutions.
VIP-Polymers – Will be exhibiting at the BTS Conference 2024
VIP-Polymers are delighted to be exhibiting at the BTS Conference and Exhibition 2024 on the 8th – 9th October at the QEII Conference Centre in London.
Luke Nethercote – VIP’s Business Development Director and Tunnelling Specialist will be at the event on Stand B68, with our latest Tunnel Segment Gaskets, including 2 new profiles launching this year and being shown for the first time at the show.
VIP’s tunnel segment gaskets are manufactured from high-grade rubber compounds, which meet many internationally recognised standards including EN681-1 (the material requirements standard for pipe and joint seals used in water and drainage applications).
Elastomeric (rubber) gaskets are one of the most effective waterproofing systems for segmentally lined tunnels and shafts where protection is required against water ingress or for retention in tunnels used for fluid transport or storage.
Each profile manufactured by VIP has been specifically designed so that the volume of rubber does not exceed that of its corresponding groove and the compression performance of the gasket is equal along the entire face of the gasket.
VIP offers a range of tunnel segment gasket profiles to suit various applications and specifications. In addition, our team of technical engineers have the experience and detailed knowledge to design bespoke gaskets for unique conditions.
Our dedicated test facility allows us to simulate the segment assembly, build conditions and sealing pressures as specified by the design. You can learn more about our range here.
The BTS 2024 Conference and Exhibition is the largest gathering of tunnelling professionals in the UK. Taking place on October 8th – 9th, 2024 at the QEII Conference Centre, Westminster, London, this event is an essential meeting point for everyone involved in the design, construction and operation/maintenance of today’s underground infrastructure.
The BTS 2024 Conference and Exhibition will be the biggest tunnelling industry gathering in the UK and it’s already looking like a not to be missed event, so keep you’re diary free for: October 8th – 9th, 2024, the QEII Conference Centre, London, be sure to register today.
VIP-Polymers – Will be exhibiting at No-Dig Live 2024
VIP-Polymers are delighted to once again be exhibiting at No-Dig Live at the NAEC Stoneleigh Park from the 1st – 3rd October
Jim Shaw VIP’s Sales Director and Pipe Sealing and Trenchless Repair specialist, will be on Stand 131 with our range of VIPWeco trenchless repair solutions along side a number of other products such as the VIPSeal product range, designed for quick installation and rehabilitation of pipelines.
VIP-Weco No-Dig pipe repair seals use WRAS approved material, comply fully with BS6920 and have a typical life expectancy of 100+ years.
During the installation process, rubber sleeves and a rubber lining made of EPDM or NBR coupounds are applied over the damaged are of the inner wall of the pipe. Stainless steel sheeting is then placed over the sleeve and lining. This is then held in place by stainless steel retaining bands allowing up to 20 bar of internal or up to 2.0 bar of external pressure.
Once the VIP-Weco is installed, a safe, durable and low-cost mechanical sealing solutions is achieved. Typical installation time of circa 40 minutes per seal.
For special applications such as longitudinal cracking or where aggressive chemicals are used, we develop bespoke sealing solutions.
Join us at No-Dig Live 2024, hosted at NAEC Stoneleigh Park in Kenilworth, Warwickshire. Don’t miss out on this premier event! Save the date, pin the location on your phone, and register now to secure your spot
If you work in utilities and you’re not using trenchless technology, you will be in the future! No-Dig Live, held biennially, is an unmissable event for professionals involved in trenchless technology. With rapid advancements and significant learning opportunities, this event is essential for staying ahead in the industry.
No-Dig Live is the only event in the UK where manufacturers and suppliers can display and demonstrate products in a working environment to an audience which is truly focused on trenchless technology, and No-Dig Live outdoor demonstrations are legendary! Don’t miss the opportunity to see the most up to date technology in the trenchless industry in this action-packed three-day event.
VIP-Polymers – Finalist – Innovation Initiative of the Year 2024
Innovative Initiative of the Year Finalist
VIP-Polymers are delighted to have been selected as a finalist at the Energy & Utility Skills Awards 2024 for Innovative Initiative of the Year.
VIP- Polymers have been shortlisted for our VIP-WECO “NO DIG” pipe sealing system and the innovative solution we have been able to manufacture, to aid an ongoing project in the rehabilitation of drinking water pipelines.
VIP-Weco is available in WRAS, and DWI Reg 31(4)a approved configurations. For more information, please visit www.vip-weco.com
Energy & Utility Skills – Conference & Awards 2024
This event is dedicated to sharing knowledge, collaboration and excellence in the energy and utilities industries. With so much change ahead of us, this conference has a specific focus on skills and jobs around the green agenda and net zero.
Immerse yourself in engaging conference sessions covering industry-wide topics and expert panel discussions. Listen to key speakers and take advantage of the opportunity to network with industry leaders.
The day concludes with an evening dinner and awards ceremony featuring a celebrity host to celebrate individuals and organisations shaping the future of the industry.
To learn more about Energy & Utility Skills head to their home page.
Jacob Parsons: Excelling in Product Design and Target Rifle Shooting
By day, Jacob Parsons is a skilled product design engineer for VIP-Polymers, creating innovative solutions with precision and attention to detail. By night and on weekends, he channels those same qualities into his passion for target rifle shooting. Jacob’s expertise in both fields recently earned him a sponsorship from VIP-Polymers.
From Engineering to Shooting
Jacob’s work as a product design engineer withing the company and his target rifle shooting shares a common trend: Precision. In his engineering role, he meticulously designs products, ensuring every detail is perfect. This same focus and care are evident in his shooting, where accuracy and control are crucial.
Jacob started shooting aged 14 with the Cadets, where he quickly got involved in competitive shooting and has since gone on to represent Great Britain on several occasions as a junior.
About Target Rifle Shooting
Target rifle shooting is a challenging sport which involves prone single shot precision shooting at targets set distances between 300 to 1200 yards (275 to 1100 meters). Jacob uses a specialized rifle, a System Gemini (7.62×51mm NATO), single-shot, bolt-action rifle ideal for both short and long-range shooting, built here in the UK. As well as being able to hold a steady aim, the key challenge is being able to judge and allow for the direction and strength of the wind and other weather conditions especially at the longer ranges.
Recent Competitions and Achievements
Jacob has recently competed in two major events, showcasing his skill and dedication:
UK NRA Inter Counties Challenge Trophy (June 8-9)
Jacob image 2
Held at the National Shooting Centre in Surrey, this event tested shooters over two days:
Day 1 focused on short-range shooting.
Day 2 moved to long-range targets.
Jacob represented Sussex; a county known for its strong shooting teams. The Sussex team, consisting of 8 shooters, 2 wind coaches, and a captain, competed against 21 other teams from 25 counties, totaling around 250 competitors. Despite tough, windy conditions, Jacob and his team performed exceptionally well, securing the bronze medal. This was a significant achievement, given how competitive it is to get a place in the Sussex team, which includes world champions, Queens Prize winners, and a Commonwealth Games medalist.
Scottish Open Championships (June 14-16)
Jacob traveled to the Scottish Highlands to compete in the Scottish Open Championships at Jubilee Range, Blair Atholl. Despite challenging wet weather, the competition saw very high scores. Jacob stood out as one of the top English shooters at the event:
During the long-range competition on Sunday, he achieved the joint top score, not dropping any points.
Overall, he placed 14th in the Association Gold and Silver Medal match at short range, highlighting his consistent performance across different conditions.
VIP-Polymers Sponsorship: A Boost to Excellence
VIP’s sponsorship is a game-changer for Jacob. It provides him with the resources to enhance his skills, upgrade his equipment, and compete in more prestigious events. This support is crucial as Jacob continues to balance his career in product design with his passion for shooting.
Looking Ahead
With VIP-Polymers backing him, Jacob is poised to reach new heights in both his engineering career and his shooting sport. He embodies the precision and dedication required to excel in both arenas. Whether he’s crafting the next innovative product or aiming for a distant target, Jacob is a model of excellence.
Stay tuned for updates on Jacob’s progress in upcoming competitions and his ongoing journey with VIP-Polymers sponsorship.
Learn More About Target Rifle Shooting
If you’re interested in learning more about target rifle shooting, check out the following resources:
VIP-POLYMERS TAKES A JOURNEY BACK TO MUNICH FOR IFAT2024.
The Stand
Two years since the last IFAT (which was the first big event after most travel restrictions had been lifted) VIP-Polymers were preparing for IFAT2024.
This time around it was decided to enlist the help of a stand builder to give the VIP booth a more eye catching look. The marketing team investigated a number of options but ended up enlisting the help of Mavonorm-Global a polish exhibition specialist who work very closely with Messe Munchen on a number of trade events.
After the initial brief had been given Mavonorm’s design team got to creating a number of CAD examples for us to work with, the initial concept was tweaked and the final design was signed off, ready for the marketing team to create the artwork for the printed panels.
IFAT2024 VIP-Polymers Concept VIEW1
IFAT2024 VIP-Polymers Concept VIEW1
IFAT2024 VIP-Polymers Concept VIEW2
IFAT2024 VIP-Polymers Concept VIEW2
IFAT2024 VIP-Polymers Concept VIEW3
IFAT2024 VIP-Polymers Concept VIEW3
IFAT2024 VIP-Polymers Concept VIEW4
IFAT2024 VIP-Polymers Concept VIEW4
IFAT2024 VIP-Polymers Concept VIEW5
IFAT2024 VIP-Polymers Concept VIEW5
Literature, Giveaways and Promotional Video
With the stand design all underway the focus was on the printed literature, and with a number of updates and new products having recently been launched, it was a case of reviewing all of the current printed material, and updating where needed.
Whilst this was happening we were discussing what would be best for the giveaways, and it ultimately came down to what would take up less room when it came to transporting everything over to Germany, so branded pens and bottle opener key-rings were chosen.
Printed Literature for IFAT2024
VIPER, VIPER FKM, VIPWeco Proline, VIPWeco and VIPSeal printed literature.
IFAT2024 VIP Giveaways
VIP branded pens and bottle openers.
A massive thank you to the team at PRINT4BIZ who helped us with all our printing requirements and giveaways, and turning everything around in a matter of weeks.
The final item that needed work on was the presentation video which would be running on the screen during the exhibition. With the help of Jacob our Technical Design Engineer, and the marketing team we were able to create some really interesting and captivating 3D CAD Models to be used in the main presentation video.
The Main Event
After weeks of preparation it was time to pack up all of the samples, displays and marketing material and hand over everything to our shipping agent 24/7 Worldwide Exhibitions Ltd. Flights and hotels booked we were ready to set off.
All the hard work had paid off, with a great start to the first day which only got better as the week went by. We caught up with so many current customers and met plenty more potential customers from all over the world.
Compared to IFAT 2022 it was notable busier with many more nationalities attending, which opened up new and interesting opportunities in territories we had yet to discover.
Until next time thank you to all of you that took time out of you busy schedules and came to catch up with us, and a huge thank you to all of the VIP Team who helped make the exhibition a success. A final thank you goes to Tobais from Crassus our German Distributor who came not only to help with translating but was more than happy to get stuck in helping breakdown and repack the stand at the end of the show, even with a 5 hour drive back home ahead of him.
VIP Celebrates it 100th Anniversary with a Day at the Races
VIP-POLYMERS MARKS ITS 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF INNOVATION, EXCELLENCE, AND SUSTAINABILITY.
VIP-Polymers, a global leader in sealing gaskets, tunnel segment gaskets, pipeline seals, rail support products drainage couplings and adaptors, proudly marks its 100th anniversary, celebrating a century of unwavering commitment to innovation, excellence, and sustainability.
Established in 1923 the Victaulic Company was formed by Stewarts and Lloyds who were steel workers and manufactured the “Grooved Type Victaulic Joints” which incorporated a rubber sealing ring inside the joint. The company then became part of British Steel until the early 80’s when the company was de-nationalised.
Over the years that follow VIP acquired several business’ building on the expertise and knowledge, which has led to VIP being at the forefront of providing high-quality rubber sealing products for a diverse range of industries, including infrastructure, construction, transportation, and utilities. Over the past century, the company has earned a reputation for its dedication to meeting and exceeding customer expectations through cutting-edge technology and a steadfast commitment to quality and service.
Throughout its rich history, VIP-Polymers has consistently demonstrated a forward-thinking approach to business, embracing innovation and adapting to the evolving needs of the industries it serves. The company’s success is built on a foundation of strong values, a talented workforce, and a customer-centric philosophy that has allowed it to thrive for 100 years.
“We are incredibly proud to reach this historic milestone,” said John Millar, Managing Director of VIP-Polymers. “Our journey to 100 years has been marked by resilience, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability. We owe our success to the hard work and dedication of our employees, the trust of our customers, and our ability to adapt to change. As we celebrate this momentous occasion, we look forward to the next century of continued growth and success.”
VIP-Polymers has been at the forefront of sustainable business practices, emphasizing environmental responsibility in its operations. The company is dedicated to reducing its carbon footprint and contributing to a greener future through investments in new energy efficient machinery, the complete switch over from Petrol/Diesel company cars to EV models and the research and development of recyclable materials and processes which meet the stringent requirements of their customers.
To commemorate its centennial, VIP-Polymers hosted a Day at the Races, which commenced with a tour of their offices, factory and laboratory based in Huntingdon Cambridgeshire, showing their customers a full overview of the manufacturing process, from R&D, testing, production, and quality control.
A short journey to the Jockey Club Racecourse kicked started the days main celebrations, with a wide range of customers from different industries and members of staff from all areas of the business having been invited, with a several customers traveling from Europe for the day’s events it was a great way to bring everyone together to celebrate such a big milestone.
Of course, there were some big wins on the horses, but everyone that attended the event had an exciting fun packed day. Not content with a full day of racing VIP arranged for an evening of entertainment with a casino, live music, food, and drink to complete the days celebrations.
As VIP-Polymers looks back on a century of accomplishments, it remains focused on the future, continuing to drive innovation, sustainability, and excellence in rubber manufacturing and engineering at the same time as continuing to build on its relationships with current and new customers.
Ecovadis have awarded VIP with a silver award for 2023
In 2022 VIP were awarded a Ecovadis bronze award. The Quality and Systems team completed VIPs 2023 Ecovadis submission in March 2023. Our submission has been assessed, and this year, due to implemented improvements, we received a silver award, placing VIP among the top 25 per cent of companies assessed by Ecovadis.
With increased customer demand for transparency, an environmental, societal governance rating is a valuable tool to show an organisation’s commitment to sustainability and ongoing development.
What does it mean for VIP-Polymers?
The assessment shows VIP-Polymers their strengths and areas of opportunity, helping us focus on how to make valuable improvements. It also provides our existing and potential customers with a transparent reflection of our sustainability initiatives.
Since its founding in 2007, EcoVadis has grown to become the world’s largest and most trusted provider of business sustainability ratings, creating a global network of more than 100,000+ rated companies.
Sustainability Requirements are Expanding. Are You Prepared?
Environmental, social, and ethical performance – or Sustainability – is an essential factor for smart business today. More and more companies, including your trading partners, are under immense pressure to improve their transparency and sustainability practices, and this includes the sustainability of their trading partners (you).
What a year 2022 has been; just when we believed life was getting back to normal after COVID, we have one month of rest-bite before the whole world gets turned upside down due to the conflict in Ukraine, which had some considerable knock-on effects.
It’s safe to say that as a country, we rely a lot on the efforts of other countries; the shortage of raw materials needed to produce rubber has been challenging; add to this, the increase in energy costs it’s been a difficult juggling act. We are now battling record-breaking inflation and the prospect of a tough recession, all of which are hitting each of us, not just here in the UK but worldwide. The UK Government was in turmoil for most of the year, with in-house fighting, coos, resignations (some sooner than expected), scandal and more.
Difficult times bring on some of the most significant changes; as the end of the year approaches, VIP-Polymers are getting ready to celebrate its 100th year. When you look back in the history books, VIP-Polymers have been through many ups and downs with Wars, Recessions, The joining of the EU & BREXIT, Changes in Governments, Laws, New Monarchs, Pandemics the list is endless. However, we have come through all these changes as a company and are still here to tell our story.
It’s pretty evident that as a business VIP have to look outside the box during these difficult times, which is not a wrong move as it allows the company to look at new ways to become more efficient, reduce energy cost, and reduce waste all while making sure we keep and improve on our ongoing commitment to you our customers in terms of support, development of new products, guidance and so on.
You may have seen our recent update regarding the significant investment of 3 new Maplan Rapid+460 Injection moulding machines, and the benefits these will have. Of course, there is also the ongoing updating/improvement of our current production lines to become more efficient and increase production capabilities.
We are also continuing to reduce our overall carbon footprint. Out of the 9 Company cars currently on the books, over half of these are EV/Hybrid, with 3 being full EVs. The vehicles that are still Petrol/Diesel models are due to be changed alongside the Hybrid models. Still, global car manufacturing industry delays are being seen due to difficulties in obtaining components. By QTR4, at the latest, all colleagues will have access to their new EV cars, meaning that the entire EV fleet of company cars will help reduce the company’s Carbon footprint substantially.
We are also increasing our In-House design, testing & development to look at new product lines and development of current products for our existing and new & emerging markets.
We want to thank all our Customers, suppliers, colleagues, and their families for their continued support throughout 2022; we hope you have a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year. We look forward to celebrating our 100th year together in 2023.
