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Since 1980 the names Dutton and Synseal have been virtually interchangeable. But this February the industry woke up to the news that after 30 years Gary Dutton MBE, chairman, founder and sole shareholder of Synseal Extrusions Ltd sold his company to a management buyout team with lead finance provided by HIG Capital.

One of the most profitable companies in the industry, and one feared by competitors, Synseal kept rivals on their toes with its operational efficiency, competitive prices, customer satisfaction and outstanding marketing. It became market leader in window systems and conservatory roofs in 2005. Now, Gary along with long standing colleagues is focusing on composite doors.

Less than two years ago Gary invested £11.5 million in Door-Stop International Ltd (www.door-stop.co.uk), appointing Nick Dutton as Managing Director and Malcolm LeMasurier to CEO. With three day deliveries, extensive choice, competitive prices, POS material that makes it easy to sell and constant innovative marketing the impact on the composite door market has been electric.

"We no longer have any involvement with Synseal," comments Nick Dutton. "But we've always focused on growth, we like markets where we can innovate and improve service, and make it easier for customers to buy and sell. Before Door-Stop the composite door market was sleepy and complacent, with customers waiting three weeks for a door that could be made and delivered in three days. They had limited choice of doors and sales aids, which is adequate for some social housing but hopeless for retail. We've opened up the market and grown rapidly. With 2,200 customers we are already the trade's favourite composite door."