Perhaps I can answer your questions:
As many here know, the magazine was launched in February with first issue being produced with the support of The British Window Cleaning Academy. I am pleased to say this was a resounding success, with a great response from the industry and some very positive feedback received.
As well as the UK, something we had not expected, we also received a phenomenal number of requests for the free issue from overseas, particularly the United States, and this was of course very welcome.
Another unexpected effect has also occured which I'm sure most here will be shocked to hear: I'm sad to say that a new magazine for the window cleaning industry was not welcomed by everyone. In fact, it is now very clear to me that there are some organizations that have clearly been profiting from a lack of information in the industry.
Although I am not at liberty to disclose any details, I can say that a publication that will shed light on issues which have so far been suppressed is something that some have found to be threatening. This has resulted in outright opposition to this new magazine from some quarters.
Again, this was something of a surprise and to demonstrates the urgent need for window cleaners to have a source of trade information to discuss the issues that are important, no matter how unpalatable this may be to some.
This being the case, it became apparent that it would be necessary to structure the magazine so that its position could be legally defended, as this is likely to become necessary. Also, the fact that there is to be an international readership has meant further re-organization of the publishing operation.
As you may imagine, these are serious issues and has meant some major changes have been needed here at the magazine. This will secure its future, and also mean that the magazine is not vulnerable to opposition by those who would rather that window cleaners were left in the dark about certain, vitally important issues.
The resulting delay in publication of the second issue has been frustrating to say the least, and I can only apologise for this. The ongoing activity has also been affected, including the sending out of the free issue to those who requested one after April.
This restructuring is now almost complete, and the next issue should go to press later this month, being distributed early in June. I believe you will not be disappointed with the next (or subsequent) issues. The first issue was our launch issue, and it was good, but this one will have real meat to it. We've compacted the format so that more information and a greater variety of articles are included, and most importantly I've listened carefully to what window cleaners have said about what they liked and disliked about the first issue.
I would like to sincerely thank those who have subscribed, I arranged for an email bulletin to be sent to subscribers to explain the delay. Most did get this, but some were "bounced" meaning we have the email address wrong (perhaps incorrectly spelled). I have also placed an announcement on the PWC website explaining the same.
I had also planned to send out letters, but as we're so close to going to press with next issue now anyway, it seemed a bit pointless.
If you have requested the free issue, you will receive it in due course.
I hope that you understand the reasons for the delay, and again I'm sorry that this has led to a little frustration. However, I'm sure that you understand the need for the magazine to be properly structured and easily defended. The window cleaning industry is fast geting its act together, and becoming more professional. Its clear that Window cleaners are no longer content with inadequate representation, and a publication that will stand up for their interests is long overdue, and needs to be legally established if it can speak out against rougue practices.
I hope you enjoy the next issue, and again I thank you for your understanding.
-Philip
