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Wolseley Announces Ninth Set of Record Interims: UK Still Leading Europe

Wolseley announces another set of record first half results, the ninth consecutive improvement in interim figures. The UK has been the most positive of the Group's European markets in the first half, with demand in the RMI sector together with social housing remaining strong.

Wolseley's US businesses performed particularly strongly in the first six months of the year. Ferguson achieved organic sales growth of 17.0%, including the beneficial effects of commodity price inflation, and Stock Building Supply ('Stock') increased organic sales by 15.1% as a result of its improved market focus, restructuring and higher lumber prices. The businesses in the UK, Canada, the Netherlands, Italy and Luxembourg also performed well in their respective markets. Trading margin improvements were achieved in all three divisions with the Group trading margin up from 5.3% in the first half of 2004 to 6.0% in the first half of this financial year.

On a constant currency basis, Group sales increased by 16.5% and trading profit by 32.6% for the first six months compared to the previous comparable period. Currency translation reduced Group sales by £249.8 million (5.2%) and Group trading profit by £14.1 million (5.5%) in the six month period.

After taking account of currency translation, Group sales increased by 10.4% from £4,828.3 million to £5,331.9 million. Trading profit rose by 25.4% from £257.1 million to £322.3 million. After deducting goodwill amortisation of £20.8 million (2004: £19.2 million), operating profit increased by 26.7% from £237.9 million to £301.5 million.

Net interest payable was £14.3 million (2004: £11.6 million), reflecting acquisition spending and higher working capital required to support strong organic growth, notably in the USA. Interest cover was 21.1 times (2004: 20.5 times).

Profit before tax and goodwill amortisation increased by 25.5% from £245.5 million to £308.0 million. Profit before tax after goodwill amortisation increased by 26.9% from £226.3 million to £287.2 million. The increase in earnings per share before goodwill amortisation was 26.1%, from 30.44 pence to 38.40 pence. Basic earnings per share was up 28.4%, from 27.15 pence to 34.86 pence.

European Distribution

The results in the European Distribution division benefited from another strong performance by Wolseley UK and PBM and underlying profit improvements in almost all of the other European businesses.

Reported sales for this division increased by 11.2% from £2,028.0 million to £2,255.0 million, of which 5.3% was from organic growth. Recent acquisitions accounted for £132.5 million (6.5%) of sales, including Tobler (Switzerland) in December 2003 together with Brooks (Ireland) and Klockner (Austria) in August 2004. Trading profit rose by 18.2% from £107.8 million to £127.4 million.

Wolseley UK, PBM in France and the businesses in Austria (OAG), Czech Republic (Cesaro), Hungary (Mart), the Netherlands (Wasco), Luxembourg (CFM) and Denmark (Electro Oil), all increased their trading margin. These improvements contributed to the overall divisional trading margin increasing to 5.6% of sales (2004: 5.3% of sales).

In the first six months a further net 67 branches were added to the European network, giving a total of 2,460 locations (31 July 2004: 2,393).

UK and Ireland

The UK has been the most positive of the Group's European markets in the first half, with demand in the RMI sector together with social housing remaining strong. The commercial sector, including government spending, and the industrial markets are showing signs of improvement. Against the background of slowing new residential construction, Wolseley UK recorded a 13.6% increase in sales to £1,156.7 million (2004: £1,018.4 million). Organic growth at 7.7% outperformed the market. Wolseley UK's gross margin improved slightly in the first half compared to the same period last year. Brooks, the Ireland based timber and builders merchant, also traded well, ahead of expectations.

As a result of the high rate of organic growth and continued strong cost control, Wolseley UK's trading profit increased by more than 15% in the first half compared to the prior year period. The trading margin improved from 6.7% to 7.0%. This was achieved despite the major reorganisation in the UK which is on track to complete by September 2005.

As previously announced, the second half trading margin will reflect higher pension, restructuring and rebranding costs, and also the initial costs of the investment in the new national and regional distribution centres. The new national distribution centre in Leamington Spa is expected to be operational within 18 months and the regional distribution centre, in the North West, should open around a year thereafter. This investment and the current initiatives to centralise control of transport and branch inventory management, should support continued growth in the business and enhance customer service and lead to improved margins.

During the first six months, 31 net new locations were added taking the total number of branches for Wolseley UK (including Ireland) to 1,544 (31 July 2004: 1,513), including 18 branches added as a result of the Brooks acquisition.

Interim Dividend

The Board has decided to pay an interim dividend of 8.80 pence per share (2004: 7.80 pence per share) to be paid on 31 May 2005 to shareholders on the register on 1 April 2005. This represents an increase of 12.8% on last year's interim dividend and reflects the Board's confidence in the future prospects of the Group and its strong financial position. It is expected that the interim dividend will be one third of the total dividend for the year. The dividend reinvestment plan will continue to be available to eligible shareholders.

Outlook

Overall, market conditions in North America and the UK are expected to remain
favourable for the remainder of this financial year and should enable the Group to achieve further good progress, although there is likely to be a lower rate of growth in the second half of 2005 due to the stronger comparatives and the likely absence of further significant commodity price inflation.

In the UK, the RMI market should continue to be the main driver of growth with benefits arising from a relatively strong economy and further government spending, particularly in social housing. Whilst there are risks that consumer sentiment may soften over the remainder of the financial year, Wolseley UK has maintained its level of organic growth, so far, in the second half.

In France, the strong new housing market should have some positive impact on both PBM and Brossette but growth in the RMI market is likely to remain modest. PBM should continue the upward momentum of the first half and Brossette, following recent initiatives to improve performance, should see some progress in the second half.

In the rest of Continental Europe the Group's principal markets are likely to remain broadly flat but the Group expects a continuation of the general pattern in the first half of improved sales and profits.

It is expected that the US housing market will remain strong. The positive RMI market is expected to continue and the strong US economy should present further opportunities for organic growth. The improvement in the commercial sector is expected to continue and there are the early signs of a pick up in some industrial markets.

In Canada, the overall environment is expected to remain positive although the new residential housing market may fall slightly from the very high levels of 2004.

The Group is well placed to take advantage of the favourable market conditions in its key trading markets. Additional investment in a number of business improvement initiatives for achieving improved supply chain, sourcing and procurement should deliver increasing benefits. The Group will continue to pursue its objective of achieving double-digit sales and profit growth through a combination of organic and acquisition growth.

Maytag UK Launches New Appliances

Guests were invited to the launch of Maytag UK's new appliance ranges on 10th March 2005 with performance and design being the mantra of the day. Not only were the new Amana and Maytag appliances displayed in the splendour of Prestwold Hall, guests were treated to an exhilarating performance driving event featuring Lamborghini's, Ferrari's, Nobles, Classic Le Mans D Type Jaguar to name but a few, plus the opportvnity to drive a Mitsubishi Evolution 'V' on a rally stage.

The launch saw the introduction of the Maytag TriLogy™ with its double door system with a patented flexible mullion that retracts to give full width access to the top mounted refrigerator. Available in black and white and textured steel finish, it is also available fully clad or with doors only in stainless steel.

Amana refrigeration has new internal specification plus a complete make over on the outside featuring new designs in stainless steel, with new marques, Definition and Precision. And introducing and seen for the first time the Reflection, a cool mixture of glass, framed elegantly in stainless steel. Maytag's new refrigeration revealed internal upgrades and new external designs for the renowned side-by-sides SOV6O and the ZigZag. Also on display for the first time was a new and exclusive line up of stainless steel finished dishwashers with benchmark water consvmption, 7 wash levels and integrated controls. New consumer brochures for both Maytag and Amana are now available to reflect and detail the specification and design changes.

Richard Thompson Managing Director comments, 'Our new collections encompass the ultimate in quality and design combined with genuine American functionality and phenomenal performance. For the consumer our new lines will appeal to those who seek aspirational design as an expression of their individual lifestyle. For our loyal retailers, Maytag UK's new ranges expand the portfolio of the best selling American refrigeration in the UK, delivering more features and benefits with quality engineering that will reap the rewards for the future and great margins to boot.'

For details of the new products launched at the show and new brochures call your Area Sales Manager or Maytag UK on 01737 231000.

www.maytag.co.uk

New Products Boost Profits at Aga

UK stove maker Aga Foodservice says a growing range of products and higher international sales helped it post a 9.7% rise in profits for 2004.

Aga, known for its upmarket oil-burning country kitchen stoves, said pre-tax profits came in at £30.6m ($58.7m).

Looking ahead, its food trade division expects significant orders in 2005 for its new "healthy" fryer, the Infinity. Reduced oil and energy use means the fryer costs less than half that of current machines to run. The Infinity is currently being trialled by two fast-food chains.

The Solihull-based firm added that expansion overseas has helped it to reduce its exposure to any downturns in consumer spending.

'We have the international market positions, products and distribution to make 2005 an impressive year' says' William McGrath, Aga chief executive.

Aga also said it saw growth in its cookware products and planned to expand the range this year.

Overall sales at the group increased 10.9% to £435m.

'Our performance in 2004 was pleasing,' said chief executive William McGrath.
'We have the international market positions, products and distribution to make 2005 an impressive year.'

Aga shares were up 3% at 312 pence on the announcement.

ExCeL Yourself at Expo

So much more than just an exhibition, Bathrooms and Kitchens Expo 2005 is hitting the spot with its programme of seminars and workshops that are already booking up fast. Offering practical advice sessions (many CPD approved) together with inspirational design insights, the programme runs alongside the exhibition at London’s ExCeL from 8-10 May and has something to offer every visitor from retailers to housebuilders, designers to distributors.

The varied and inspiring programme includes contributions from TV presenter and interior designer Naomi Cleaver, international design celebrity Sebastian Conran, and a host of professionals each focusing on their own area of expertise.

Making sense of colour is the subject for Lisa Pilley of ICI Dulux Trade, while the latest regulations in lighting are covered by Chris Piff of Franklite. A live debate chaired by Joe Simpson of Tile and Stone Journal will look at developments in ceramic tile products while the future for appliance design and household technology will be examined by Alessandro Finetto, Director of Global Consumer Design at Whirlpool Europe and Steve Martin, Education Chairman for CEDIA.

Running alongside the seminar programme is a busy series of Workshops, many of which are RIBA CPD Approved. These include sessions on the vexed topic of Wet Room Applications and discussion of the most effective Concealed Bathroom Systems. In addition, very specific technical presentations give advice on specifying the right products and on Retail Customer Service. Organisers have worked closely with the Bathroom Manufacturers Association and the Association of Colleges to put these hugely relevant sessions together.

These are just some of the sessions included for 2005 in an education programme which is rapidly becoming a major attraction at this successful event. Organiser Clare Coe summarises: ‘The sessions in 2003 were packed out. The feedback we get from visitors is that while they mainly come to see the latest products, if they can combine that experience with education which will genuinely help their business, then that’s a huge bonus.’

Visitors should register in advance for these popular sessions and the full programme, together with a registration facility, can be accessed at http://www.bkexpo.co.uk.

Anticipation in the Air for Events at EXPO

Once the premier industry event of the season is firmly confirmed in the diary, the hopeful visitor can begin to look forward to a wave of new product launches. Bathrooms & Kitchens EXPO 2005 will certainly not disappoint, and the anticipation for the unveiling of many new designs and creations is palpable.

An action-packed seminar and workshop programme at EXPO 2005 will be complemented by over 170 varied exhibitor stands, all vying for visitor attention, within the exhibition venue at London’s ExCeL Centre.

Visit stand D632 for a glimpse of the new Colonade Shower range from Matki Showering. Glaverbel (UK) will also be making a valuable contribution to the world of showers – the company’s new Lacobel Range can be seen at stand J1242.

To look at kitchen design from a different angle, make your way to stand H1100, where Microcad Software UK is releasing Autokitchen 7. The AK7 package allows professional designers and space planners to create accurate plans, graphical displays and pricing elements.

Nolte’s contract division will be displaying several new ranges, and has recently been working with a number of new homes developers to bring the best in new build solutions for housebuilders. Meanwhile Twyford Bathrooms is looking forward to unveiling a new range to customers and press in a launch over 8-10 May, at EXPO.

Renowned TV personality and designer, Lawrence Llewelyn-Bowen will be present, by appointment only on Sunday 8th and Monday 9th May, at stand F910 to launch his new bathroom range, Venus, by RAK Ceramics UK.

It is not just the key players who are joining in with the excitement, many supplementary industries to the bathrooms and kitchens industry are looking forward to the EXPO 2005 launch-pad as well. One such example is Spevka UK who will be launching a new table range, My Way, this year.

Champagne bars, motorbike racing, and – if you pre-register for your ticket – entry to a prize draw for the fantastic chance to win a weekend break to Ireland, courtesy of London City Airport, all add to the excitement of the many product launches. With events like this, Bathrooms & Kitchens EXPO must be a dead cert for the industry diary this year!

For more information about Bathrooms & Kitchens EXPO, further material about the inspiring seminar and workshop programme, and to register for your free entry to the show, click onto http://www.bkexpo.co.uk.

VitrA to Host Seminar at EXPO

VitrA UK will be hosting a RIBA CPD approved seminar entitled ‘How To Live in the Modern World’ for visitors to EXPO on Monday 9th May at 11.00am in the Workshop Theatre.

Phil Baker, VitrA’s national contract and specification manager, will host the seminar, which aims to give a better understanding of how good bathroom concepts that meet design aspirations and lifestyle needs can be achieved despite restrictions of budget, space and time.

The hour-long seminar will explore current and future bathroom trends, and will unveil a simple process that can be used to develop solutions that answer modern life needs for both the domestic and commercial markets.

Seminar host Phil Baker joined VitrA in 2001 and has been the key attribute to the company’s growth within the contract market. He has over 35 years of experience within the bathroom industry.

To register for a free ticket to VitrA’s ‘How To Live in the Modern World’ seminar, visit http://www.bkexpo.co.uk and click on ‘seminars and workshops’. For further information about VitrA telephone 01235 750 990 or visit the team at stand D740 at EXPO.

Energy Promotion Unfair to Indies - EST Should Change Rules says AMDEA

Appliance manufacturers have told the boss of the Energy Savings Trust that the multi-million pound campaign promoting energy efficient products will only cause frustration to the customers of several thousand independent retailers.

‘If a consumer tries to find domestic appliances covered by the scheme, she will depart disappointed,’ says AMDEA Director General Peter Carver in a letter to EST Chief Executive Philip Sellwood.

‘The rules of the scheme are structured so as to impose on retailers complex auditing and reporting arrangements which are beyond the resources of these small businesses.

‘It means a significant percentage of the retail market in this country is effectively excluded from EEC – and it is often the independents who stock the better quality, most energy efficient product,’ he adds.

AMDEA says the rules of the scheme have two anti-competitive effects. They discriminate against the independents – who are largely SMEs – in favour of large plcs. They also discriminate against suppliers whose products are not sold by the retailers which the energy suppliers favour.

Mr Carver tells Mr Sellwood that manufacturers have raised the issue in meetings in the EST, who have made representations to Ofgem and Defra, who set the rules.

‘But there is no sign that anything is being done,’ he says. ‘We believe EST should raise the profile of this issue, and I invite you now to take some initiatives to ensure the rules are changed and to prevent the market being distorted.’

Tickets on Sale for KBSA Awards Ceremony and AGM

Tickets are now available for the Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association Design Innovation Awards presentation ceremony and AGM in June.

The event will take place at the Millennium Copthorne Hotel in Slough/Windsor on Thursday June 16th and members are asked to book places early to avoid disappointment. For the first time this year invitations to attend have been extended to all of the industry.

‘We have already had a number of bookings and we’re expecting an excellent turnout for this year’s AGM and our inaugural Design Innovation Awards presentation ceremony,’ said KBSA operations manager Lucinda Kenny.

‘Our venue is a superb modern hotel offering state-of-the-art conference facilities. Situated just 15 minutes from Heathrow Airport and two minutes from the M4’s Junction 6, it is within easy reach of Windsor Castle, Ascot, Saville Gardens and Kew Gardens.’

The AGM will begin at 3.30pm and is scheduled to close by 5pm, leaving members plenty of time to prepare for the KBSA Design Innovation Awards Champagne Reception at 7pm and presentation dinner at 7.45pm (followed by dancing to a live band, carriages at 1pm).

The judging panel for the Design Innovation Awards will comprise James Herriot of Callerton Kitchens, Martin Thomas of Denmore Kitchens, Debbie Schwarz of The K&BZine, kitchen industry consultant Richard Crisp, Hayley Chilver, editorial director of Essential Publishing and Milton Barrett, group publishing director of DMG World Media.

‘We’re delighted to have such an impressive line-up of judges for our first Design Innovation Awards and thank the panel for making the time to be involved,’ added Lucinda.

Judging will take place during April and finalists will be notified as soon as shortlists have been drawn up.

The package price for the event incorporates attendance at the AGM, the awards dinner plus wine and entertainment, bed and breakfast. Additionally there is a limited special offer discount for retail members – full details are available from KBSA head office, telephone 01905 621787. Non-members who are interested in attending should contact head office for details.

Ceramica Dolomite 'Sales' in to Spring

To support retailers during the traditional spring sale period, Ceramica Dolomite will be running a promotion starting Thursday 24th March 2005 in order to boost sales of the brand. This promotion will run throughout the months of April, May and June 2005 and will be on the following Ceramica Dolomite products: Pasadena, Capitol, and (pictured) Westside suites, the Ascento range, and Romagna, Oriana and Diadema brassware.

During the promotional period, retailers will be able to purchase items from the above product ranges with an additional 10% discount, therefore new terms on these will be retail less 50%.

The Ceramica Dolomite Spring Sale is a further incentive to support retailers in helping establishing the brand in the bathroom market and offering consumers a cosmopolitan and contemporary selection of bathroom suites and furniture.

Pictured above, the Ceramica Dolomite Westside suite is just one of the attractive, functional and affordable suites from this extensive bathroom collection.

For further information on Ceramica Dolomite, please call 01782 645406 or visit www.ceramicadolomite.co.uk

In-Sink-Erator Launches UK’s First Waste Disposal Installer Club

Food waste disposer manufacturer, In-Sink-Erator, has launched the UK’s first official food waste disposer Installer Club.

With a growing demand for food waste disposers in today’s modern kitchen, In-Sink-Erator is keen to ensure that consumers have access to professionally qualified and registered plumbers.

And by setting up an official Installer Club, In-Sink-Erator can direct consumers to registered members, giving the consumer peace of mind as well as driving new business to the installer.

Ashley Munden, sales and marketing director for In-Sink-Erator, commented: 'Not only have we recorded a 50 per cent increase in sales of food waste disposers in the last three years, but new research has recently revealed that as many as one in six of us want a disposer to deal with leftover food in the kitchen.

'In response to the increasing demand for disposers we have set up a dedicated hotline for installers and consumers, and we are already receiving a number of calls about installations. It was therefore a logical step to set up an Installer Club, where we can direct these calls to registered members.'

In-Sink-Erator is predicting a further boom for the food waste disposer industry as councils up and down the country introduce compulsory recycling schemes in order to reduce waste to landfill.

And food waste, which accounts for approximately 25 per cent of household rubbish, can be dealt with conveniently, hygienically and responsibly by using a disposer.

Ashley added: 'In order to reduce waste to landfill, councils across the UK are introducing recycling schemes with alternate weekly collections of domestic food waste and recyclables. This not only means people have more waste to deal with but they have to separate waste into different bins. Homeowners not complying with such schemes can even face hefty fines.

'Installing a disposer not only reduces rubbish output, but it negates the need for a separate food bin and prevents food waste from festering in the wheelie bin for two weeks. On this basis, we’re expecting the demand for disposers to significantly increase in the next few years.'

For further information on registering as an In-Sink-Erator installer, call 01923 297880.

BSH Set to Unveil New UK Brand at Amdea Show 2005

UK household appliance group, BSH Home Appliances Ltd has chosen AMDEA Show 2005 in April as the launch platform for an exciting new appliance brand.

Following on from an extensive 2-year brand-positioning project to define individual strategies and create clear identities for each of the four existing BSH brands, the company has identified a new area of activity to be targeted by a total newcomer to the UK.

The new brand – being launched simultaneously in France and Italy as well as the UK - will become the fifth component of the group’s successful UK appliance portfolio, currently comprising the well-known names of Bosch, Neff, Siemens and Gaggenau.

With all the hallmarks of the BSH name, the new brand will initially focus on a range of freestanding products targeted to a younger, more price conscious consumer. All the new brand’s appliances come out of BSH’s own factories to guarantee that they are engineered to a very high standard.

The company has declined to reveal the name of the new brand or any more details of the appliance range at this stage, as it plans to keep this information under wraps until the start of the AMDEA Show on 24th April 2005.

Comments BSH Strategic Development Director, Steve Holton: ‘This is a new, vibrant brand with a totally fresh approach, very different to the rest of our brand portfolio. It will also offer well-engineered functionality, no gimmicks, concentrating on what really matters and with better quality than comparable ‘value for money’ brands.’

Peter Carver, Director General of AMDEA comments: ‘There could be no greater confirmation that the AMDEA Show really is ‘the place to be’ for manufacturers than BSH’s decision to unveil its new brand there. They know it is the ideal platform from which to launch new product, not just to their regular customer base, but also to a large number of other retailers. And it’s another reason for all dealers to make sure they register for the Show!’

Bosch, Neff and Siemens will also be exhibiting at the Amdea show where new ranges will be on display from all three kitchen appliance companies.

The AMDEA 2005 Domestic Appliance Show takes place in Hall 12 of the NEC in Birmingham from 24th – 26th April 2005. For more details and to register, visit http://www.amdea.org.uk/show-2005

Tretzo Expands with Investment Support

Armagh-based Tretzo says that it has transformed itself from regional celebrity status to one of Europe’s most innovative bathroom furniture manufacturers and Ireland’s leading company in this market. This has been due to the dedication of the management team and the tangible support from Invest Northern Ireland.

Invest NI’s role is to change Northern Ireland into a high growth economy driven by innovation and enterprise. Specialist consultants ensure that companies receive the best advice and assistance, tailored to their needs. In Tretzo’s case it was help with marketing and exporting.

To be successful Tretzo had to launch its modern, minimal bathroom furniture designs into the ROI, UK mainland and other European countries. The five year programme is rolling out with just the acceleration the company needs at each stage (around 70% growth in the last two years). Now well-known in the whole of Ireland, it has formed strategic alliances with the famous Jacuzzi & Shires brands and landed several major projects in the UK, including two large high spec developments in Bradford with over 500 sets of bathroom furniture. Several more are in progress.

Invest NI support with marketing has been beneficial and recent exhibitions showing the company’s products in UK, France and the Far East has demonstrated to Tretzo how important it is to be a leader rather than a follower in product design. 'We have exciting new plans in development which will further position our company as a European and global leader in our market' says managing director Geoff Clarke. 'Recent research undertaken by us also indicates we are far outperforming quite a number of our European competitors.

'The business is at the stage where we are trading successfully with the established brands – Sixes, Zero and Module - but as a management team we are also working intensely with our designers to develop the next exciting product ranges. It’s a balance between managing new and existing customer requirements to a high level and setting serious time aside to develop our new idea’s. Invest NI advisors have been, and continue to be, respected partners on this journey.'

Tel: 028 3752 3735
Email: mailto:sales@tretzo.com
Web: http://www.tretzo.com

Gold for Neff At 2005 'House Beautiful' Awards

Built in appliance specialist, Neff has won one of the top prizes at this year's prestigious 'House Beautiful' magazine awards.

The winning appliance is the company's 'Point & Twist' ceramic hob model T1583, designed for safety and practicality, as well as good looks. It has a removable central magnetic control knob, which can be hidden away when the appliance is not in use for total safety at all times.

The Gold award was presented to Neff for the 'Appliance Innovation of the Year' at the 3rd annual 'House Beautiful' Magazine Awards ceremony held this year at BAFTA in London's Piccadilly on 9th March 2005.

Hosted by 'House Beautiful' editor, Kerryn Harper, the star-studded event was attended by many luminaries from the media design world including Jeff Banks, Graham Wynne, Lawrence Llewelyn-Bowen, Justin Ryan & Colin McAllister, Linda Barker and Tommy Walsh to name but a few.

As well as winning the 'Appliance Innovation of the Year' category, Neff was also shortlisted for the Best Advertisement of the Year' for the D99T7 extractor hood advertisement currently starring in key home interest titles.

Comments Neff Brand Manager, Hannah Watson: ‘The new Neff range is full of innovative appliances like the T1583 hob and it is always so exciting when this is widely acknowledged. We were up against some stiff competition this year and are absolutely delighted to win Gold at these prestigious awards’

For brochures & stockists, call 0870 513 3090 or visit http://www.neff.co.uk

Electrolux Products Win Five Prestigious 'red dot' Design Awards

Five Electrolux products including the Ergorapido 2 in 1, Oxy3 system vacuum cleaner and the AEG-Electrolux Favorit 84985 Vi 90cm dishwasher have been recognised for their excellence in product design at the 50th red dot design awards. The 2005 red dot competition ranks as one of the largest and most prestigious in the design industry. Over 4,000 entries from 40 countries compete for the red dot, an international seal of quality for outstanding design.

A panel of internationally respected design experts judge the red dot awards. The selection criteria includes degree of innovation, practicality, quality, symbolic and emotional content, as well as ergonomics and ecological compatibility.

'The award confirms the success of Electrolux at integrating dynamic design elements with concrete consumer needs,' states Henrik Otto, Senior Vice President of Global Design at Electrolux, 'This drive, to meet their specific needs, continues to have a major impact on how we develop household appliances and a recognition of this calibre can only confirm we are on the right path'.

The stylish Ergorapido 2-in-1 vacuum cleaner by Electrolux was awarded a red dot for product design. This new combined handheld and upright cleaner, designed by an Electrolux team led by Swedish duo Esbjörn Svantesson and Christian Ågren, has a unique design and compact shape that adds a touch of flair to any room and does not have to be hidden from view. With its compact size, the battery-operated Ergorapido 2-in-1 is one of the most effective and quietest cleaners on the market.

A red dot award was also given to the Oxy3system vacuum cleaner, again designed by a team headed up by Svantesson and Ågren. The Oxy3system has a sealed system that eliminates the leakage of hazardous particles and odour. An improved nozzle provides all-round suction performance, and contributes towards dust collection being much better than in a traditional vacuum cleaner. The blue display light in combination with an easy to use and appealing design has lead the jury at red dot to award this second product from Electrolux.

The winning Favorit 84985 Vi 90cm dishwasher was developed for the AEG-Electrolux brand by the in-house design team led by leading Italian designer Roberto Pezzetta. The appliance was conceived keeping consumer demand and comfort in mind: The product’s horizontal design respects the line of the modern kitchen, while the exclusive interior’s accessories make it easy to use. The choice of programmes includes an automatic programme which selects the optimum wash, rinse and drying phases to give perfect cleaning performance.

The fourth award went to the finely crafted, high quality, aluminium Electrolux Wine Keeper, developed by an Italian based team lead by German designer Martin Beeh. This appliance can store 107 bottles of all types of wine, at the optimal temperature, on six different shelves. In addition to storing wine and champagne, the Wine Keeper includes a special compartment to hold cigars and food items. The front glass panel, internal lighting and sleek design of the appliance ensure it compliments any modern kitchen.

The final red dot was awarded to the CaFamosa espresso machine, which was designed by product designer Rainer Mendler and his team in Germany. CaFamosa integrates the high-performance technology of big machines into a compact design-style body. CaFamosa includes clever features: the machine grinds, dispenses, presses, brews and cleans all by itself.

Electrolux Major Appliances:
For brochure and stockist information, call 08705 950 950 or visit the website: http://www.electrolux.co.uk

Trade Enquiries:
Electrolux Floorcare Trade Sales: 08705 146146

Electrolux Major Appliances:
Freestanding Tel: 08705 650 650 or Fax: 01753 872 571
Built-In Tel: 08705 822 886 or Fax: 01753 872 403

‘Blue Ribbon’ Bathroom Promotion Provides Spring Boost for Retailers

In support of its growing UK network of stockists and to provide a spring boost to sales during one of the key bathroom buying periods, British manufacturer – Imperial Bathrooms – has rolled out its Blue Ribbon promotion.

Running throughout April and May and encompassing the important and busy Easter Monday and Spring Bank Monday holiday periods, the promotion centres on two of Imperial’s popular ranges – the traditional Westminster and the timeless Classic ranges.

Throughout this important selling period, customers will be able to make substantial savings when purchasing a four-piece set package of sanitaryware with matching toilet seat on each of these ranges. While the offer on the Westminster range includes a large or medium basin, pedestal, cc pan, cc cistern and wooden toilet seat, the Classic range offer includes large basin, pedestal, cc pan, cc cistern and wooden toilet seat.

Managing Director, Antonio Garrido, said: 'Our latest major promotion featuring the Isis and Amena ranges was a resounding success and we feel confident that this latest Blue Ribbon offer will exceed past performance given its timing and product offering. The Classic and Westminster ranges have always been extremely popular and our no frills package will provide a welcome boost to both retailers and consumers’ pockets.'

He added: 'The Blue Ribbon promotion kick starts a hive of activity for Imperial that that will span throughout the rest of the year and beyond. This includes further promotions and exciting new product launches.'

In advance of the promotion, Imperial has provided retailers with a dedicated pack of promotional material for their showrooms that includes eye-catching point of sale displays. Complete with yards of cascading blue ribbon designed to emulate running tap water, the specially designed POS material serves to draw the consumer’s attention to the competitive retail price points across both ranges. Regional press activity will also ensue.

For a retailer pack including all details and POS support material, contact Imperial Bathrooms help desk on: 0870 6061623.