KBzine - Your Kitchen, Bathroom, and Bedrooms Industry News

In case you're wondering - yes - it is still KBzine here. When this e-zine was launched it was one of a stable of several looked after by Richard and Debbie Schwarz, John and myself and we've now redesigned the masthead to bring it in line with the others. We hope you like the changes - together with the other improvements we've made over the last three issues - although if you have any comments or critisisms, we'd be delighted to receive your input.

My congratulations go to Apollo Blinds, which is using next week's National Child Safety Week to kickstart a new campaign to encourage child safety in relation to the operating cords on window blinds. Apollo's campaign comes on the back of new research that found on average that only one in eight households where small children either reside or visit on a regular basis have safety devices on blind cords and chains.

It is estimated that every year a child dies as a result of looped blind cords and there are up to 20 near misses. Three children have died in the past 18 months.

Apollo Blinds' campaign will involve Apollo's 75 stores throughout the UK and Ireland where staff will be helping to heighten awareness about the potential strangulation hazard associated with blind hanging cords.

Gary Chambers, general manager at Apollo Blinds, told KBzine: "All of our made-to-measure blinds come with a safety warning sign attached to them to alert customers to the potential dangers of looped cords, but our research has highlighted that more must be done to encourage parents to keep their homes safe.

"One of the biggest problems is the public's lack of understanding of the potential risks with young children and blind cords, so we're working with our team of consultants at grass roots level to ensure all customers are aware of the ease and importance of fitting blinds without cords or using additional safety products, which in some cases can cost less than a standard fitting."

Apollo has produced a new Child Safety brochure that focuses on how to manage the risks and safety features available. If the campaign saves just one child's life it will be worth all the work involved.

Something else that's going to involve some important work is the Department for Environment, Food And Rural Affairs' consultation on the best way of implementing minimum energy standards and the energy labelling of high street products.

KBzine readers will already be aware that the European Union Framework Directive for the Eco-design of Energy Using Products has begun to introduce minimum energy standards and labels for televisions, washing machines and fridges, but the portfolio of products bound by the guidelines is soon to be expanded and the Department is keen to get some input on how to do things properly.

The EU estimates that implementing these standards effectively will reduce EU energy use by 10%, while non-compliance with these standards costs £30m pa.

"The consultation will ensure that manufacturers can compete in a fair environment while consumers are guaranteed that the products they purchase meet the mandatory minimum energy performance standards and their declared energy label," says DeFRA.

To find out how to get involved, see the full story in 'This Week's News', below.

This Week's News

Arrangements for 2009 Annual Bathroom Conference now well underway

One of the most significant dates in the bathroom industry calendar has been confirmed and arrangements are now well advanced for this increasingly important annual event. October 20th 2009 will see this year’s Bathroom Conference held at the magnificent Carden Park Hotel, Cheshire.

“There really is no other event for the bathroom industry quite like the Bathroom Conference,” comments BMA Chief Executive, Yvonne Orgill, “and we are delighted that this year’s conference is set to be bigger and better than ever. We have built on the experience of previous years and anyone involved in the bathroom industry has an open invitation to attend.”
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Huge rewards for retailers in new incentive programme from Shades

In arguably the biggest bathroom promotion for some time, Shades is offering a fantastic opportunity to its retailers in the shape of a massive incentive programme with some truly show-stopping rewards including brand new cars and vouchers for exotic holidays. The programme - aptly called Star Rewards - is thought to be unprecedented on such a large scale in the furniture industry, and Shades is very excited about sharing so many fantastic rewards with its successful retailers.
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Defra launches consultation on safeguarding energy standards and testing

Smarter eco-design for energy using products could save £900m for the economy as well as protect the environment, according to evidence to be given to a new consultation launched by the Department for Environment, Food And Rural Affairs. The consultation seeks views on how to implement minimum energy standards and energy labelling of high street products.

Although the European Union Framework Directive for the Eco-design of Energy Using Products (EuP) has already begun to introduce minimum energy standards and labels for televisions, washing machines and fridges, more products are to be bound by the same guidelines. The EU estimates that implementing these standards effectively will reduce EU energy use by 10%. Non-compliance with these standards costs £30m pa.
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Mereway Bathrooms stride ahead with new Strada range

Mereway Bathrooms’ product launch this Spring sees the addition of many new door styles. The next product for release is new Strada, one of the latest additions to the company's newly branded Infinity fitted furniture collection.

The Strada painted white slab door boasts a built-in slender letterbox style handle. Contemporary in design, Strada expresses its individual style with handle inset panels available in three finishes; matching Satin White, contrasting Walnut or Light Oak.
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Tiler Andy Howard helps customer win national prize

When Stevenage resident Ian Moore was using the free www.tilerworldcom service to choose Andy Howard as the tiler to work on his kitchen, he did not imagine that the work might be paid for by somebody else. But that is exactly what happened. As the latest lucky winner of the website's monthly free draw, he is receiving back the £320 cost of the project. He was entered automatically into the draw by posting a rating of Andy's work onto the site.
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Setting the trend for any modern wetroom: Geberit's Uniflex shower channel

Create a stylish wetroom with the new Uniflex shower channel from Geberit, a leading manufacturer of plumbing and sanitary systems. Available in two popular finishes, stainless steel and enamel, the Uniflex shower channel provides a classic look for any interior theme. There is also a bespoke option that allows the channel to be installed with a variety of other materials including wood, Corian and even bathroom tiles.
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New tap ranges offer flavour of Italy

Pegler Yorkshire has announced the launch of several new tap ranges for 2009. As part of the development of the Francis Pegler portfolio, four long awaited new ranges of taps and mixers for the bathroom and kitchen have now joined Maverick and Storm. Named Haze, Loko, Rossi and Izzi, these new designs have a distinctly Italian flavour and have been designed to compliment the modern home in a stylish yet affordable way.
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Major move forward for Blanco

After 20+ years in its North London HQ, Blanco has relocated to larger purpose built premises in Radlett, Hertfordshire. To coincide with the move, the company's name has changed to Blanco UK Limited, bringing the UK company into line with Blanco's other daughter companies throughout the world.

Ron Blount, Managing Director of Blanco UK Limited reflects on the move:

"This is a very upbeat and exciting time, a major step forward for us, and an expansion which demonstrates our continued determination to support our dealership in these unarguably difficult times for our industry.
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Whirlpool research confirms consumers are committed to 'green'

Research recently commissioned by Whirlpool Europe reveals that 57% of UK consumers say that even in these recent tough times, impact on the environment is as important a consideration as getting the best value deal when making a purchase. And when it comes to buying household appliances, low energy and water consumption are top of the list. More and more, consumers are realising that it is an investment to buy ‘green’ in a down economy, seeing it as an opportunity to generate long-term savings both for the pocket and the planet.
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All change for leading grout range

BAL, a long-established market leader in tiling adhesives and grouts, has unveiled a completely new look for its popular BAL Microcolour grout range. All 14 vibrant colours are now provided in striking new packaging. The traditional bucket has been replaced with extra-strength, anti-dust polybags, offered in 2.5 kg and 5 kg sizes.

“Inside the great new packaging, fixers will still find their favourite grouts. The formulations are unchanged, so BAL Microcolour remains the UK’s only grout range offering Microban anti-bacterial protection," says Alex Underwood, BAL brand manager. "Equally important, it also means that setting takes just five hours instead of the 24 hours required by standard products.”
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A real diamond from MHS Radiators

The award-winning Carat range of panel radiators from MHS is proving to be a hit with housebuilders and developers, housing associations and local authorities.

Thought to be the only flat panel radiators in Europe to be laser welded, the Carat offers heavy gauge steel at lightweight prices. Rapid delivery times for Carat radiators are available thanks to the comprehensive ex-stock range from MHS. Contract consignments can also be processed and delivered promptly from the manufacturing plant in Germany.
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Belling and Liverpool footballer support launch of new cookery school

Liverpool footballer Jamie Carragher lent his support to the official opening of a new cookery school in the city which is the first of its kind in the North West. The Can Cook Studio at The Matchworks in Speke has become a reality thanks to Liverpool Primary Care Trust and leading cooking brand Belling.
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Atag's A+ refrigeration creates seamless fit for the kitchen

Atag, the premium Dutch built-in appliance specialist, has launched the KD8122AF MAGNA Design Line built-in refrigerator, perfectly designed for discerning consumers who aspire to a seamless look for their state-of-the-art kitchens.

With the trend for open plan kitchens growing, many consumers are opting for built-in and integrated appliances to achieve the contemporary, clean look of the modern kitchen. Integrated refrigeration plays a big part and Atag’s KD8122AF promotes the best of all worlds – high functionality, effortless good looks, and premium A+ energy efficiency.
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Hansgrohe AG sets new standards

Quality has always been of the utmost importance to Hansgrohe AG of Schiltach in Germany's Black Forest. The fittings and shower specialist has now had this confirmed for its environmental and occupational safety activities by Germany's independent Association for the Certification of Management Systems (DQS). After extensive tests in January and April 2009 at Hansgrohe's five facilities in Schiltach and Offenburg, DQS has certified the company in accordance with the international environment standard ISO 14001 and the standard for health & occupational safety, OHSAS 18001.
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Radiators by design

With homeowners choosing to stay put and improve rather than move, the new designer range of radiators and towel warmers from Plumb Center make a design statement in any room in the house.

This collection of 37 feature radiators and towel warmers, adds a touch of class and individuality to any renovation or extension project, with a range of sizes and outputs to choose from. From traditional, yet on-trend, column styles to leading-edge designs from across Europe, the designer range offers the homeowner the opportunity to select a ‘piece of art’ that will become a focal point in the room, rather than a necessary evil tucked away in a corner.
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Back to Black

Offering the ultimate in elegant, contemporary sophistication is the latest addition to Uform’s Kitchen Stori range of doors, available for the first time in a stunning black gloss finish.

With monochrome being hugely popular in the kitchen right now, this ultra modern gloss door at mid-market price is guaranteed to whet the appetite of trend-setting consumers looking to create a huge wow factor in their kitchen design without the huge expense.
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Beautiful Base for the bathroom

The new Base collection from Bauhaus has been designed for the clean, modern, minimalist bathroom; subtle in concept yet hugely practical, Base forms the ideal foundation for any modern bathroom layout without breaking the budget. The clean lines and superb styling allow for complete freedom in colour and design schemes.
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Classic curves never fail to be a turn on

Perfectly proportioned from every angle, there’s a pleasing symmetry to Franke’s new Basel tap, which is destined to bercome a design classic. From its elegantly curved spout, to its subtly rounded lever handles, the Basel will lend charm to any kitchen where style and substance is sought.

The new Basel tap is part of Franke’s Specialist range, a comprehensive collection of precision-made taps, combining stunning design with outstanding build quality. The tap’s design is simple yet chic, with a high curved spout making it easy to get large pans underneath, and a curved base and smooth lever style handles for easy operation, even with wet hands.
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BCG's second Golf Tournament a great success

Well known bathroom, kitchen and heating products distributor, BCG, recently hosted its second Annual Open Golf Tournament day with resounding success.

The Belfry Golf Course, the UK headquarters of the PGA and spiritual home of the Ryder Cup, set the scene for a day of friendly competition, where more than 35 guests from the independent kitchen, bathroom retailer and heating merchants sectors, were treated to a day of golf on the internationally recognised and revered championship course, the Brabazon.
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Cool prize!

Baumatic has joined forces with supermarket giant Tesco to promote its BW18BL wine cooler…

Just in time for the summer, Baumatic has generously offered six of its luxury BW18BL wine coolers as a prize give-away to Tesco’s wine club members.

The BW18BL can accommodate an impressive 18 bottles of wine, and thanks to the ‘Peltier’ absorption system, it is vibration free and has an incredibly quiet operation at just 42dB. With an adjustable temperature range between 10 - 18 ºC the BW18BL is designed to store wine at optimum temperatures for perfect preservation.
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Crosswater helps a 60 Minute Makeover

Crosswater’s Water Squared basin monobloc tap recently appeared on ITV’s 60 Minute Makeover.

The programme’s designer, Derek Taylor, put together a collection of fabulous designs for Jonathan Richmond, a cystic fibrosis sufferer from St Annes who wanted to do something special for his dad, Steve Richmond. The 60 Minute Makeover team redecorated four rooms – the living room, den, main bedroom and Jonathan’s room.
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100% Design London will celebrate Britishness, Design and Innovation

This year, 100% Design London will celebrate its 15th birthday at Earls Court, from 24th – 27th September. An integral component in the business of UK contemporary design and expected to continue to draw in vast crowds and exhibitors, the show is this year making changes to propel it into a new era.
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Second Year growth for Kitchen & Bathroom Show

Following its successful launch in November 2008, The Kitchen & Bathroom Show 2009 will take place at Sandown Park , Esher on 27 & 28 June and is forecast to grow in its second year. The UK’s only dedicated kitchen and bathroom show for 2009 has received excellent reviews from the leading kitchen and bathroom suppliers that exhibited at the first show.
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