Centor
Founded by German engineer Frank Spork, Centor was first formed in Brisbane, Australia in 1951. Initially manufacturing hardware and track for sliding doors, the business evolved as Frank’s reputation for producing solid dependable products with silky smooth performance grew. The family business expanded to a second generation under the guidance of Erwin Spork and is overseen today by Frank’s grandson Managing Director, Nigel Spork. Over the decades, Centor forged a reputation for designing and manufacturing the industry’s leading window and door systems. In 1998, Centor designed and patented hardware for the modern folding door that enabled them to be used as exterior openings for the first time. These doors allowed architects to design homes which could connect people to the world outside. Centor introduced this technology initially to Australia, and then worked with architects in the UK, Europe and North America, where Centor is the leading component supplier today. Following the success of its folding door technology, Centor delivered another world-first – a retractable insect screen that could be used on large door openings and operated with the touch of a fingertip. In 2010, Centor was introduced to Design Led Innovation, a method of strategically changing a business. Within six months, the company invested significant resources into designing and delivering the award-winning Integrated Door – a patio door with concealed hardware and built-in insect screens and shades.