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Topps Tiles Reports nearly 80% Increase in Profits as Tile Market Takes off in UK

Topps Tiles Plc , the UK’s largest tile and wood flooring specialist with 220 stores, has announced preliminary results for the 53 weeks ended 2nd October 2004. reporting an overall increase in profit before tax of 78.9% to £33.8m compared to a profit before tax of £18.9m last year. Turnover was only up 32.5%.

Financial Highlights
• Group turnover up 32.5% to £157.6 million (2003: £118.9 million)
• Like for like sales increased 21.5%
• Core store (stores opened pre September 2002) like for like sales up 20.3%
• Gross margin improved to 60.5% (2003: 57.5%)
• Operating costs decreased to 39.9% of Group turnover (2003: 41.9%)
• Profit Before Tax up 78.9% to £33.8 million (2003: £18.9 million*)
• Group profit before tax margin 21.4% (2003: 15.9%)
• Dividend policy changed to 1.41 x cover (2003: 1.67 x cover)
• Final net dividend of 6.00p payable 31 January 2005
• Total dividend of 8.00p per share (2003: 3.48p) up 130%

Operational Highlights
• 27 new stores opened (net 24 new stores)
• 24 Topps Tiles
• 3 Tile Clearing House
• New Distribution and Marketing Centre fully operational
• Now a national brand name with a 20% UK market share
• Market continues to grow – forecast 26% over next 4 years
• First seven weeks of new financial year, overall turnover increased by over 25% with like for like sales showing over 16% increase.

Commenting on the results, Nick Ounstead, Chief Executive said:
'We have had another excellent period of strong sales and profit growth and we are delighted to announce another record performance for the Group. Topps is now a truly recognised national brand and we are confident that we have the right strategies, management and people to deliver another period of growth and progress.'

CHAIRMAN'S STATEMENT

We are pleased to report another record performance for the Group underpinned by a strong financial position. Since flotation in 1997 we have achieved consistent double digit growth in both turnover and profits whilst keeping tight controls over costs. The key to our continued success is our commitment to the highest levels of customer service and both the range and quality of products that we offer. This period saw the completion and opening of our new purpose built distribution and marketing centre at Grove Park in Leicestershire. The new facility was officially opened on 28th May 2004 by the Right Honourable Patricia Hewitt, Secretary of State for Trade and Industry. This now gives us the capacity to achieve our target of over 350 stores on the UK mainland and also to distribute more product ourselves thereby cutting down on the number of third party distributors that we use.

Financial results*
Group turnover has increased by 32.5% over the period to £157.6 million with profit before tax increasing by over 78% to £33.8 million. We again experienced strong growth in like-for-like sales for the period of 21.5% demonstrating the strength of our brand and the underlying continued growth in the ceramic tile and laminate and wood flooring markets. This is particularly encouraging given that prior period like-for-like sales growth was challenging at over 15%. Our business is highly cash generative and at the period end we had net cash balances of £23.1 million.

People
During the period we created a further 161 new jobs through our expansion programme and we are delighted to have this opportunity to welcome those who have joined our team as well as to thank all our people for their individual contribution to another record set of results.


OPERATING REVIEW

Store openings
Our controlled store opening programme continues with 27 new stores (24 Topps and 3 Tile Clearing House) opened in this financial year. This now gives us an overall total of 220 trading stores (187 Topps and 33 Tile Clearing House) with three stores being closed or relocated giving us a net 24 new stores opened in the period. We have re-fitted 14 outlets in line with our policy of continuous review to ensure we achieve the maximum potential from our sites. We now have 69 stores with our tile studio concept of extra choice of up-market tiles available on a special order basis and 16 floorstores with an enhanced stock range of laminate and real wood flooring. The rollout of the Stoneworks concept within the stores continues as consumers’ appetite for natural product grows. This area of the market is growing rapidly and we are well placed to take advantage of this trend with 17 stores now open.

New distribution and marketing centre
We successfully completed the move to our new central distribution and marketing centre in April this year, without any disruption to trading. The tripling of capacity will be sufficient to take us from our current store number of 220 through to our stated target of over 350 stores in the UK.

Holland
We now have a total of eleven stores trading in Holland under our 50/50 joint venture including three new stores opened in the period. It is our intention to open a further two stores in the next financial period.

Marketing and advertising
We operate two brands in the market, Topps Tiles and Tile Clearing House. Topps is Britain’s biggest tile and wood flooring specialist group with the largest choice in the UK to suit all tastes and budgets. Tile Clearing House is a true 'cash and carry' tile store selling end of lines, job lots and seconds, appealing to small builders, local contractors and bulk purchasers. Over the past 18 months, Topps has undertaken a significant programme of sponsorships across various broadcast channels including GMTV National Weather, UK Style and Carlton Weather.

Customer service
Across both our brands, we differentiate ourselves from the competition not only by the range and availability of our stock but also, most importantly, by the standard of customer service provided by our high quality, well trained staff. We have a teamwork policy at Topps of which training is a key feature. We train all staff on both existing and new product and procedure developments within the business thus equipping them with the necessary tool kit to serve our customers. We have our own training department and training centres along with in-store training via our e-learning software and our radio station Tiles FM.

The Market
The tile market continues to grow with the non-contract sector estimated at 43.1 million square metres (source: MSI) for 2004. Growth is forecast to reach 54.5 million square metres by 2008, an increase of 26%. The UK has traditionally had a very low usage per capita of ceramic tiles compared with our European neighbours but this is now changing with tiles becoming increasingly more popular. The continued growth in the market is driven by a number of factors, in particular the increase in second bathrooms and shower areas, conservatories and utility rooms and the trend for larger kitchens at the expense of formal dining rooms. Consumers today are increasingly aware of health and hygiene issues in the home and are replacing traditional soft flooring products with easy to clean ceramic floor tiles or wood and laminate flooring. There is also an increase in the use of under floor heating systems in family rooms where hard flooring is now becoming more popular. The Alliance & Leicester’s Moving Improving Index revealed that Britons were forecast to spend a record £17 billion on their homes during summer 2004. A record number of people are getting into DIY, more are planning serious projects and the average expenditure on DIY will rise by 23% during summer 2004.

Current trading
In the first seven weeks of the new financial period we have recorded a like-for-like sales increase of over 16% and overall sales have increased by over 25%. This period’s target expansion is for another net 24 new stores and we have already opened stores in Barnsley, Edinburgh, Clacton and Camberley. Topps has had another excellent period of strong sales and profit growth. The first few weeks of the new financial period have begun well and we are confident of delivering continued growth to our shareholders.

Profit and Loss Account

Turnover
During the period Group turnover increased by 32.5% to £157.6 million from £118.9 million last year. Like-for-like sales increased by 21.5%, with new store openings contributing a further 8.2% increase, with the remaining 2.8% increase due to the 53rd week in this period.

Gross margin
Overall gross margin was 60.5% compared to 57.5% last year. At the interim point of this period gross margin was 59.4%. The second half has shown a gross margin of 61.5%.

Operating expenses
Costs as a percentage of sales were 39.9% compared to 41.9% last year. This reduction is mainly due to the economies of scale that the business is now benefiting from as it continues to grow.

Profit before tax
We have achieved an overall increase in profit before tax of 78.9% to £33.8 million compared to a profit before tax of £18.9 million last year.

Glen Dimplex Home Appliances Announces Number One Position

Just 18 months since its formation in April 2003, Glen Dimplex Cooking has announced its newly confirmed position as the largest supplier of cooking appliances in the UK.

According to Gfk's latest figures, the company now occupies the number one position within the UK market, having increased its volume share to 24% from 20% and its value share of the market to 24.4% from 21.8%.

Growth has been fuelled by a number of gains across each of the sectors during the year to end of September 2004, and continued investment in marketing and sales support for its leading brands - Stoves, Belling and New World.

In freestanding and range cooking, Glen Dimplex Cooking has increased its share by 3% in value and 6% in volume to become the market leader within this sector. Belling is currently the biggest brand in the freestanding and range sectors, while Stoves is at number 4.

New World has become a real success story and is continuing to grow. Its Spirit and Ellingwood range cookers and new new-look marketing package have all contributed to the brand seeing 90% growth over the same period.

Latest statistics also suggest that Glen Dimplex Cooking is fast growing its share of the built-in market, with all three brands showing signs of strong growth.

Denver Hewlett (pictured), Chief Executive of Glen Dimplex Cooking, said:
'We have come a long way since the Stoves, Belling and New World brands came together in April 2003. At that point in time, we entered the market as the number 2 player but from the outset our aim has always been to be number 1.

'To become the biggest cooker company in the UK in such a short space of time is indeed an achievement and one we are extremely proud of.'

BMA Conference 2004 - Tomorrow and Beyond

Members of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association recently held their 4th Annual Conference at Hellidon Lakes Hotel and Country Club, Nr Daventry, Northampton, with the theme ‘Tomorrow and Beyond’. 10 speakers explored how the bathroom Industry is progressing in terms of growth, design and innovation and how influences from the field of new materials, technology and social awareness are driving the Industry forward.

51 delegates participated in a full agenda which was packed with information on BMA activities to date, including the launch of a micro web site which contains a host of information specifically for the ‘Special Needs’ market, statistical data on the success of the main BMA web site which has attracted over 5 million visitors, with over 12,000 requests for manufacturers brochures during the last 12 months.

Judith Hann, key speaker and BMA Vice President Ted Goold

David Osborne, Marketing Chair, highlighted future marketing initiatives for the 2005 calendar. Richard Moss brought members up to date on Training Initiatives and the launch of the first of 9 Industry Guides which are available from the BMA web site from late November. Roger Cooper, American Standard gave a presentation on ‘State of Trade’ and shared with member’s statistical data on the growth of the Industry.

Over the years the BMA has changed the format of its meeting structure from a technical specific base to more forward facing forums, with members exchanging information on Industry specific issues. 2004 Conference included presentations from Tony Lloyd, DEFRA on metallic water supply fittings, Dr Elizabeth Shove, Department of Sociology, Lancaster University - ESRC sustainable domestic technologies.

Keynote speaker, Judith Hann, ex TV presenter ‘Tomorrow’s World’, shared many interesting ideas with members on bathroom’s yesterday, today and how future bathrooms may evolve.

'The BMA continues to develop its stance as the ‘Voice for the Bathroom Industry’ and thrives on the challenges it faces, from membership growth to lobbying government.

'The Bathroom Manufacturers Association, the trade association for the manufacturers of bathroom products, offers a wide selection of useful, informative fact sheets that will aid in your planning process plus the opportunity to send for manufacturer’s product information on line.'

Web: http://www.bathroom-association.org

American Standard Withdraws from KBSA

The UK's largest bathroom manufacturer American Standard, which trades under the brand names Armitage Shanks, Ideal-Standard and Trevi Showers in the UK, has not renewed it's membership in the Kitchen & Bathroom Specialist Association.

Spokesman for the company Richard Moss said: 'American Standard joined the KBSA a couple of years ago, when the association added bathrooms to its name. While we are known mainly as a bathroom manufacturer we work in both industries - in the kitchen sector we produce Fine Fireclay sinks and a huge range of brassware. We are a leading member of many industry associations and sponsors of awards, especially those aimed at furthering the careers of young designers and quality retailers.'

American Standard added that the company is a key member of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association, which has a membership representing around 80% of the bathroom business in the UK and which the company feels makes a very positive contribution to the bathroom industry.

PWS’ Design Centre Opens for Inspiration

PWS has recently opened the doors to its extended Design Centre. Increased by 25% to 700sq metres of floorspace, it now has a completely fresh look and feel to the interior. Encompassing 42 kitchen displays, the new layout with its spacious walkways and light and airy atmosphere, is conducive to design and creativity. Further touches of lifestyle imagery include a series of mood boards, a door gallery and regular meeting areas.

The Design Centre has been a success for PWS, and the new look facility has simply moved up a gear, taking kitchen design to the next level. Comments Andrew Langford, Marketing Manager at PWS, ‘The response has been simply overwhelming. In the few weeks since the opening we have received over 200 visitors to the Design Centre with a full diary of appointments taking us well into the New Year. With our packed programme of product development, the Design Centre is a must-visit for our customers, simply to keep pace with all our exciting new products and innovations. It serves as an oasis of inspiration, and our customers come back time and time again to soak up the latest trends and take away many ideas to replicate in their own showrooms. Design is truly at the core of PWS business and the Design Centre is testament to this.’

Web: http://www.pws.co.uk

Sanitec Interim Financial Report January - September 2004

Sanitec's year to date net sales were EUR 692.7m, 2.2% above the first nine months of 2003. Operating profit for the first nine months of the year increased to EUR 46.7m or 6.7% of net sales compared to EUR 40.9m or 5.7% in the prior year.

Highlights
 
Third Quarter 2004
* Net sales for the third quarter 2004 were EUR 209.9 million finishing generally at the same level as the prior year when eliminating the EUR 16.2 million share of our Vacuum Sewage Systems business segment, which was divested early in the second quarter of 2004.

* Pressured by higher energy costs and restructuring and integration consulting costs, EBITDA was EUR 30.9 million or 14.7% of net sales for the third quarter finishing EUR 1.3 million or 4.0% lower than at the same time last year when eliminating the net EUR 1.4 million share of the divested Vacuum Sewage Systems business. Excluding the Vacuum Sewage Systems business segment and restructuring and integration consulting relating charges of EUR 4.3 million, EBITDA margin, on a comparable basis, of 16.8% of net sales was at the level of last year's 16.9%.

* Operating profit for the third quarter decreased to EUR 11.1 million or 5.3% of net sales compared to EUR 12.2 million or 5.4% last year. EUR 0.4 million of the decrease is attributable to the disposal of our Vacuum Sewage Systems business segment. This quarter's results are strongly burdened by integration consulting and restructuring items of EUR 4.3 million as well as higher costs of manufacturing due to energy cost increases.

* Total capital expenditure in the third quarter was EUR 5.6 million or 2.7% of net sales.  This represents a decrease of EUR 4.8 million or 46.2% compared to last year.

Year to Date September 2004
* September year to date net sales were EUR 692.7 million. Net sales were EUR 14.6 million or 2.2% above the first nine months of 2003 when eliminating the net EUR 35.7 million share of our Vacuum Sewage Systems business segment divested in the second quarter of 2004.

* Despite pressure from increased energy prices, EBITDA for the first nine months of 2004 was EUR 108.3 million or 15.6% of net sales compared to EUR 106.3 million or 14.9% in the first nine months of 2003. Excluding the net EUR 3.8 million effect of our divested Vacuum Sewage Systems business segment, EBITDA was EUR 107.3 million i.e. 15.9% of net sales. Excluding Vacuum Sewage Systems business segment and restructuring and integration consulting charges of EUR 13.3 million, EBITDA increased to EUR 120.6 million or 17.8% of net sales compared to EUR 110,3 million or 16.7% in the first nine months of 2003.

* Operating profit for the first nine months of the year increased to EUR 46.7 million or 6.7% of net sales compared to EUR 40.9 million or 5.7% in the prior year. The divested Vacuum Sewage Systems business segment reduced the improvement by EUR 2.0 million.

* Total capital expenditure was EUR 16.2 million or 2.3% of net sales for the first nine months of 2004, which is a decrease of EUR 6.6 million compared to last year.

* The net indebtedness was reduced to EUR 593.5 million excluding the shareholder and PIK loans, which is EUR 94.0 million or 13.7% lower than on September 30, 2003 and EUR 20.0 million lower than in the second quarter of 2004.

Web: http://www.sanitec.com

American Standard Confirms European Commission Investigation

American Standard Companies Inc. confirmed on November 11th that the company has been contacted by the European Commission as part of an industry-wide investigation into alleged infringement of EU competition regulations relating to bath and kitchen fixtures and fittings in certain European countries. The company is cooperating fully with the investigation.

American Standard is an $8.6 billion global manufacturer with market leading positions in three businesses: air conditioning systems and service, sold under the Trane® and American Standard® brands for commercial, institutional and residential buildings; bath and kitchen products, sold under such brands as American Standard® and Ideal Standard®; and vehicle control systems, including electronic braking and air suspension systems, sold under the WABCO® name to the world's leading manufacturers of heavy-duty trucks, buses, SUVs and luxury cars. The company employs approximately 60,000 people and has manufacturing operations in 29 countries. American Standard is included in the S&P 500.

In-toto Kitchens Opens in Harrogate

In-toto, the UK kitchen specialist, has opened its flagship new showroom in Harrogate's Montpellier Quarter, an area that is recognised as a part ofthe town specialising in quality home interiors. Located at 27 Montpellier Parade, the showroom features the latest rigid-built German kitchens demonstrating the best contemporary and traditional designs, all intended to make kitchen life easier.

Previously an antique shop, many of the period details, including the Victorian frontage have been retained, while the transformation inside is outstanding. 'The nine inspirational displays truly show the best European design and German quality. Even the former basement is transformed with space generating kitchen displays.' says the company.

Each In-toto showroom is independently owned and operated to provide the best combination of personal service and expertise, backed by the security of a reputable company. In-toto was established twenty five years ago by Wellmann of Germany, now part of Alno AG, Germany's largest kitchen manufacturing group, part owned by Whirlpool appliance group. The concept behind In-toto is to provide a one-stop specialist kitchen service, with design, advice, supply and installation to high, professional standards. From a single showroom, the company has now grown to a national chain of over forty.

Since the showroom is new, the displays include 2005 contemporary and traditional designs that appeal to a broad range of tastes and budgets. Sleek laminates, lacquer finishes, fine woods and ergonomically designed cabinets combine with stylish worktop options. The result is affordable high quality kitchens with many storage solutions.

Installation, the bugbear of so many kitchens, is under In-toto's Gold Star scheme. All gas and plumbing works are carried out to current safety standards, while tiling, joinery, decorating and even building work is done with minimal inconvenience and to a professional standard. The showroom proprietors, Rob Spencer and Nigel Bentley have several combined years experience in quality kitchens together with an interior design background.

They are fully aware of the importance of a job well done and commented 'Our aim is simple, to provide the very best combination of creative design, quality products and value for money, backed by an efficient, personal service. We offer over 150 designs of superb quality kitchen furniture by Geba and Wellmann, innovative worktop solutions and leading appliance brands, all installed to a high standard. With deposits and products guaranteed by Wellmann and Geba and overall guarantees by the Kitchen, Bathroom and Bedroom Specialists' Association (KBSA), there really isn't a safer way to buy!'

To mark In-toto's opening in Harrogate, there are special offers available on complete kitchens promoted for a limited period. Contact Rob or Nigel at In-toto for information and a free buyers' guide on 01423 701555 or visit the showroom at 27 Montpellier Parade, Harrogate, HGI 2TG.

De Dietrich and Raff UK add some Steel Appeal to the BBC Good Food Show

A wealth of De Dietrich products were featured on the Raff UK stand at the BBC Good Food Show at the NEC, Birmingham. Specifically featuring stainless steel as the theme, the stand included the DOD348, the double pyrolytic double oven, the DME399 combination microwave, the DOP390 intelligent ICS single oven and the latest addition to the range, the DED400 built-in coffee maker.

Andrew Smithson (pictured), managing director of Raff UK says:
‘We wanted the public to view appliances that are not seen in an average showroom. Many of the De Dietrich products are unique, like the double pyro double oven, and this is why we wanted to feature products such as these at the show.’

Caroline Bovey, marketing manager of Brandt UK says:
‘The BBC Good Food Show was a perfect platform in which to exhibit our appliances as it is an ideal way to target a discerning and upmarket audience, specifically interested in food and cooking.’

De Dietrich also featured its home economist service. At the show, a home economist was available daily to demonstrate the features and benefits of cooking with De Dietrich appliances.

Contact Details:

Raff UK - 01737 784 800
Web: http://www.raff-uk.com

De Dietrich trade enquiries: 01256 308 067
Email: mailto:builtinsales@elcobrandt.com
Web: http://www.dedietrich.co.uk

CNC Components - Puting a Gloss on Things with NEY

CNC Components in Ulster, manufacturer of membrane pressed cabinet fascias and big users of Bonlex vinyl foils from NEY, is reporting 'huge growth' in the demand for high gloss finishes. Sales Director Warnock Watson says: 'growth has gone from 1 to 2% of total sales a year or two ago to 8 - 10% today - and it's still growing fast.'

Fitted cabinet furniture studios and apartment developers are looking for the 'wow
factor', he says, and they are getting it from Bonlex. Single colours have the look and the 'touch' of real lacquers but without the emissions problems and Warnock Watson says that, as a result, high gloss and satin finishes are the fastest growing products in the thermoplastic foil finishing sector - now and for the foreseeable future.

'Quality is the key,' he adds. 'There are gloss foil products on the market that are very difficult to use - they stretch and distort and their resistance to scuff, scratch and impact damage is very low. Poor quality foils also yellow or discolour, particularly the whites, which are the biggest sellers of all - or they are not sufficiently colour-fast ... they fade'

NEY's in-house foils expert Martin Ney believes that 'the joy of cabinet furniture finished in poor quality materials also soon 'fades' and leaves end users wanting replacements. But deterioration is very rarely uniform so cabinet fascias in faded or discoloured gloss foils can't be upgraded as they fade because newly finished replacements really stand out. It's all-or-nothing' he says.

Bonlex high gloss and satin foil finishes compete well in standards testing which measures scratch, impact, scuff, staining, high temperature and UV exposure resistance. Anti-static treatments are available to inhibit dust during application and protective masking films can also be applied to further protect high gloss foil finishes right through to the end user customer.

Warnock Watson at CNC says that slab and other minimalist door styles including shakers and saponettas finished in single colour Bonlex gloss foils are fast becoming best sellers. For kitchens and bathrooms, white is the biggest seller currently followed by cream - but reds and blacks are also very much on the up. Sales of gloss foiled doors trebled for CNC Components within the last trading year.

Tel: 02476 308100
Email: mailto:geoff.canning@ney.co.uk

Dolphin Bathrooms Advert - Complaint to ASA Not Upheld

A complaint objecting to a national press advertisement for bathroom suites issued by Dolphin Bathrooms of Worcester was not upheld in either of the two objections according to published details from the Advertising Standards Authority.

Complaint:
Objection to a national press advertisement, for bathroom suites, that was headed 'dolphin wall to wall sale great savings on complete bathrooms?'. The cross was linked to a footnote that stated 'From selected ranges.' The body copy stated 'this minuet bathroom sale price £4798* fully installed includes all this Unique space saving 'D' Bath Corner basin with pedestal and WC in best quality vitreous china Designer mixer bath taps and monobloc basin taps Chrome mixer valve shower with wall mounted head Matching chrome accessories Luxury Italian wall tiles Disposal of your old bathroom On-site technical survey Every step project managed by us All the plumbing, electrics and tiling work taken care of 'choose from British and European branded suites installation by dolphin qualified fitters '. A footnote linked to the asterisk stated 'Price shown is the discounted price and excludes Floor Tiles, Listello decors, Heated Towel Rail and Shower Screen plus general props and bathroom linen. Discounted price is based on prices charged prior to current promotion. Discounts available on UK minimum orders of £3000 and above. Excludes special building work '. The complainant challenged:

1. the availability of the Minuet bathroom for the advertised price of £4798 and
2. whether the quoted price included VAT.

Adjudication:
1. Complaint not upheld
The advertisers sent a copy of their VAT inclusive price list, which showed the full price for the advertised minuet bathroom was £12970. They said the overall level of discount available during the Wall-to-Wall Sale was 63%, which meant the sale price of the advertised bathroom was £4798. The advertisers sent examples of three invoices that showed customer orders for bathroom products and their prices including VAT; the invoices showed that customers had bought products from the Minuet bathroom advertised as well as other bathroom products and that a discount of 63% was applied to all the bathroom products bought. They said the invoices they had provided did not list the exact bathroom shown in the advertisement because customers ordered bathroom products that were specific to their needs.

The Authority considered that the advertisers had shown that the advertised bathroom had been sold as individual products at a discount of 63%, which was the discount applied to achieve the advertised price of £4798 for the Minuet bathroom. The Authority concluded that the advertisers had shown that the Minuet bathroom was available for £4798.

2. Complaint not upheld
The Authority noted the advertisers' price lists showed that the full price of the products shown in the advertisement included VAT. It also noted the invoices showed that the discounted price of the products in the advertisement included VAT. The Authority concluded that the advertisers had shown that the quoted price included VAT.

Showerlux Proves Monster Hit with Scottish Property Developer

A stunning new development of upmarket holiday lodges situated on the edge of Loch Ness now offers the ultimate in luxury bathing, thanks to the specification of deluxe hydrotherapy baths from Showerlux's Hydrozone collection.

As well as boasting stunning views and an idyllic location, each of the fourteen Canadian inspired log homes in 'The Lodges on Loch Ness' development features a Showerlux Hydrozone combination hydrotherapy bath, in keeping with the developer's vision of creating luxurious rural retreats characterised by the highest quality fixtures and fittings.

Featuring a soothing combination of eight spa and eight whirlpool jets as standard, each of the Hydrozone Tuscany double-ended baths was supplied with additional spa and whirlpool jets for optimum invigoration and revitalisation. Each bath also came equipped with an easy to use electronic sensor touch control panel, intermittent spa and whirlpool pulsator for alternative massage options and a Venturi mixer for a more soothing massage effect.

Showerlux's Hydrozone baths offered the combination of quality, luxury and durability, and it was the help and support of the Showerlux sales team that persuaded David Munro, developer of The Lodges on Loch Ness, to choose the Coventry-based bathroom specialist to help introduce a touch of luxury into one of the most important rooms in the properties: ‘Based up here in the Scottish Highlands, we find it extremely difficult to find suppliers who are willing to work with us and to transport their goods this far north. With Showerlux, this simply wasn't the case. Sales representative Steven Lamb went out of his way to help and was extremely co-operative throughout the whole process, from advising us on the best product to meet our needs and budget, right through to arranging delivery.

‘What's more, the Showerlux Hydrozone collection offered us the flexibility to install hydrotherapy baths that could offer our discerning customers the ultimate in luxury bathing. The opportunity to specify additional hydrotherapy jets enabled us to create an extra special bathing experience for our guests, which is so important when you consider how key bathrooms are to the sale of any property.

With the lodges on the market as both holiday homes and investment properties, choosing the very best in quality and design was key, making Showerlux the perfect choice for our bathing solutions.’

The Showerlux Hydrozone collection includes twelve different bath shapes, available as spa, whirlpool or combination hydrotherapy baths. Together with additional hydrotherapy jets, other optional extras include an underwater light for a relaxing bathroom ambience, multiplex trio bath filler and waste system, and a UV disinfectant system.

The Hydrozone collection retails from £1099 (ex VAT). For further information, visit http://www.showerlux.com or contact Showerlux on 02476 882515. For further details of The Lodges on Loch Ness, visit http://www.lodgesonlochness.com.

Moores Furniture Group Commissions BRE Social Housing Kitchen Furniture 'Whole Life Cost' Report

Moores Furniture Group commissioned BRE (formerly Building Research Establishment) to carry out a Whole Life Cost analysis on Moores kitchen products in the Social Housing environment.

The construction industry is being driven to understand the cost of building components over their lifetime as opposed to concentrating on initial capital costs.

BRE research has shown that kitchen furniture can be as much as 15.79% of a social landlords housing replacement budget costs. A Whole Life Cost analysis on a high capital cost and high maintenance cost building components such as kitchens offers the greatest benefit or potential cost saving.

This report has taken into account the factors that are most likely to vary between one organisation and another in order to understand the sensitivity of such factors as maintenance intervals, capital costs, replacement intervals and discount rates.

The Whole Life Cost analysis has been carried out using the BRE developed WLComparator model that provides output in graphical and tabular format. BRE concluded that 'the Pioneer MR product, due to its durable and repairable nature has the lowest Whole Life Cost of the three products considered'.

Web: http://www.bre.co.uk

Payload Wins the Day for Roundel's Canter

The high payload and driver acceptability of its first 7.5-tonne Mitsubishi Canter has so impressed Roundel Kitchens & Bedrooms that the South Shields company is already contemplating another three units.

The Canter's chassis was lengthened by Wheelbase Engineering to accommodate a 24ft box body built by Robinsons Truck Bodies, of Newcastle-upon-Tyne. It arrived via Newcastle-upon-Tyne dealer Bell Truck Sales, which also supplied Roundel Kitchens with its other seven vehicles, all 7.5-tonne Mercedes Atego.

Lindsey Oman, Managing Director of Roundel Kitchens & Bedrooms, confirms: 'Our Mercedes continue to perform superbly but the Canter is a lighter vehicle all-round and at 3,760kgs offers around a tonne more payload.

'This extra carrying capacity is particularly appealing given the way that our business is developing. In the past the emphasis has been on volume but as well as furniture we are now being called upon by our customers to carry more heavy appliances such as cookers, dishwashers and washing machines.

Mr Oman was just 21 and his brother Geoffrey 26 when they founded Roundel Kitchens & Bedrooms 35 years ago. Today the company is a leading supplier to some of the country's biggest housebuilders, as well as operating a retail business under the Nixons Kitchens banner.

Roundel manufactures built-in kitchen, bedroom, bathroom and home office furniture and employs around 180 people - including Mr Oman's 31-year-old daughter and 26-year-old nephew - who work from seven factories at four sites at the Horton Centre in South Shields, the Sedling lndustrial Estate in Washington, and Seaton Burn.

Mr Oman admits: 'When Bell Truck Sales first mentioned the Mitsubishi Canter to me I was initially scepticai - we are a premium quality business, so the association with Mercedes-Benz has always been one that we were very happy with.

'However, at a recent event organised by the dealer I spoke to a transport manager from Federation Breweries and he was very enthusiastic about the Canter. Given that the Canter is also backed by Bell Trucks we decided to give it a try and have been very impressed.

'As well as offering a significantly higher payload the Mitsubishi has gone down very well with its driver, who particularly likes its exhaust brake. It's a very tidy and versatile workhorse and although these are still early days, if it continues to do well then we anticipate ordering three more before long.'

Roundel Kitchens is now a semi-national company, delivering its products as far south as Northamptonshire and Welsh borders, and north into Scotland's Central Belt - it also has a Scottish office.

'We've been growing in partnership with our customers and our vehicles have been venturing further afield,' explains Mr Oman. 'Because of this we are also considering a couple of larger Mercedes rigids with twin sleeper cabs so we can send them away for longer periods. It's all about horses for courses and the Mercedes Atego will continue to play a key role in our fleet.

'Bell Truck Sales, meanwhile, provides a first-class service. We have an excellent working rapport with the dealer and it's now more than 10 years since we bought a vehicle from anyone else. Bells has exciting plans for the future development of its business and we want to be a part of that.'

KBSA Urges Retailers to Take on Board Assessment for Part P

The KBSA has announced an association with FFINTO, the KBB National Training Group and the National Association of Professional Inspectors and Testers (NAPIT) to offer a pre-training competence assessment programme, which will help kitchen and bathroom fitters determine how much training they need to fulfill the requirements of the new Part P legislation.

This follows the completion of five KBB NTG seminars which were held around the UK to introduce the Part P regulations on electrical work carried out in domestic installations. The seminars included a presentation from the ODPM (Office of the Deputy Prime minister) explaining the details and background to the legislation, which comes into effect Jan 1st 2005. Also present were representatives of the Competent Scheme Operators who were able to advise delegates of the best way that they could ensure compliance with the imminent legislation.

NAPIT is one of the Competent Scheme Operators who were present at the seminars. KBSA Chief Executive Graham Hayden says, ‘The KBB NG Seminars were exceedingly well attended and proved that there is an extremely urgent need to communicate the requirements of Part P and help our members deal with the implications.

‘This assessment programme will give kitchen and bathroom fitters the opportunity to determine how much training they need to undertake and should save any unnecessary costs and time being expended on training that is not required.

‘We appreciate that there are costs associated with this legislation and that it comes at a busy time of year but would urge members to take it on board as a positive opportunity. Members will be able to promote their compliance and offer the customer extra comfort that they are dealing with a professional company rather than a rogue trader.’

The pre-training assessments will take place on 4th December at 30 venues around the UK, The overall time taken for the assessment will be no more than one hour and an assessment will be given immediately. The cost is £30 per delegate and full details are available from the KBSA, FFINTO or NAPIT.

The KBSA has also issued a Part P guidance note for members and these can be obtained by contacting the KBSA head office.

Tel: 01905 621787
Email: mailto:info@kbsa.co.uk
Web: http://www.kbsa.co.uk

Details of how each of the five operators plans to proceed are now being finalised and issued into the market place, more information is available from the relevant websites as listed below:

ELECSA - http://www.elecsa.org.uk
NAPIT – http://www.napit.org.uk
NICEIC- http://www.niceic.org.uk
OFTEC – http://www.oftec.co.uk
CORGI – http://www.corgi-gas.co.uk

Wigan Reflections Showroom Celebrates First Anniversary

The Wigan branch of Reflections, the Plumbase bathroom showroom, celebrated its first anniversary with music from Wish FM, valuable prize giveaways, and bucks fizz for its customers old and new.

Showroom Manager Barbara Palmer was delighted that after just one year of trading under the name of Reflections, the showroom is becoming so well known within the area.

'Although we've got a good location in Woodhouse Lane, just round the corner from the JJB Stadium, we don't have a shop window, so it has taken longer for people to realise that we were here.

'Saturday was a good opportunity for new customers to come in and have a look, and the response I got from them was really positive. They were pleasantly surprised not only by the stock, but also by how nice the showroom is.'

The day was also a chance for the Reflections team to catch up with some familiar faces. They were particularly delighted to greet one elderly customer who has used the showroom for many years, but didn't realise that it had been taken over by Reflections last year.

'She's a very loyal customer, and she had come to tell us that another showroom had opened next door,' says Manager Barbara. 'She was quite relieved when she realised that it was us, and she put in an order for a new bathroom suite.'

The celebrations will continue at Reflections with a 20% discount on all prices for a limited period.

Aired and Gently Cushioned: Miele's New Honeycomb Drum

The patented honeycomb drum on the Miele tumble dryer offers the double benefits of cushioning laundry as it tumbles and improving the exposure of laundry to airflow. A certificate issued by Germany's Hohensteiner Institute after testing the honeycomb drum which now also features on Miele tumble dryers highlights the 'evener drying results and the reduced creasing' as being tangible consumer benefits. This endorsement by experts underlines the practical laundry-care value of the honeycomb drum.

The most striking feature of the dryer drum are the hexagonal sections which arch outwards. In the tumble dryer, this traps tiny pockets of air between the laundry and the walls of the drum. These reduce friction and also act as miniature cushions, gently catching laundry as it tumbles and represent a major contribution towards reducing the strain on laundry. Another positive effect of the pockets of trapped air is that laundry is exposed to warm air from both sides during drying.
This results in faster and more even drying, allowing the air temperature to be reduced. Lower mechanical action and reduced drum speeds thanks to the introduction of the honeycomb drum improve the gentle treatment of fabrics and reduce creasing levels.

Mechanical action through friction is reduced through the smaller contact surface and by suction forming in the hexagonal air pockets as the air cools down, effectively turning these air pockets into tiny suction pads which transport laundry further around the clock face.This results in a greater fall height and consequently prolonged exposure to the air stream. This in turn results in improved, more even drying results. These properties are so effective that Miele design engineers were even able to reduce drum speeds.

'The honeycomb drum is an invention which mimics structures which occur in the natural world around us. Why shouldn't what is second nature in the world of flora and fauna find its way into state-of-the-art appliances? For example in washing machines and tumble dryer drums. Bionics – a term bringing together biology and technology – is nothing other than plagiarism from the natural world, putting good ideas to technical use, a trend which is starting to take off in industry.' says the company.

Maytag Highlights Growth Strategies at Analysts' Conference

On 19th November Maytag Corporation presented its strategies for improved performance during a conference with financial analysts in New York City, saying that Maytag is a much different company than it was just a year ago.

Chairman and CEO Ralph F. Hake commented, 'Through our One Company restructuring initiative, we have laid the foundation for a much reduced cost structure, improved profitability, enhanced customer responsiveness and accelerated decision-making that will positively impact our overall competitiveness.'

Hake said that the One Company initiative announced in June, which integrated Maytag Appliances, Hoover floor care and Maytag's corporate headquarters, will transform the organisation into a faster, leaner and more unified Maytag. 'While this initiative brings with it many changes, our strategy remains a constant. Innovative products, preferred brands, best-in- class quality and best-in-class costs are the key to future profitable growth.'

At the conference, Maytag executives outlined plans to achieve improved earnings in 2005, expected by the company to be in the range of $1.50 to $1.60 per share, including 5 cents per share in restructuring and related charges. This shows marked improvement over full-year 2004 earnings per share.

Hake told analysts that Maytag is on track to achieve $150 million in annual savings from the One Company restructuring. 'An additional $30 million in annual savings is expected as a result of our new refrigeration strategy now in place,' he added.

Maytag has broadened its focus beyond North America as the company expands global sourcing opportunities. 'We will achieve cost improvement and become more market-responsive as a result of accelerated global procurement, the start-up of a China design center to supplement existing R&D resources, and product supply partnerships with Asian companies,' Hake said.

George Moore, Maytag's executive vice president and chief financial officer, pointed out that aggressive cost-saving initiatives and appliance pricing increases have been implemented to help offset steel and fuel cost increases, which continue to pressure profitability.

'Net debt levels have decreased, and we have consistently generated strong cash flows,' Moore added.

The company demonstrated its commitment to product innovation by citing the numerous launches over the past year, including:

• Maytag®, Amana® and Jenn-Air® French door bottom-freezer refrigerators
• Maytag® Double Oven ranges
• Jenn-Air® Dual-Fuel ranges
• Jade™ wall ovens
• Neptune® Top Load washers
• Neptune® Drying Centre
• Maytag® compact front load laundry
• Maytag® and Jenn-Air® stainless steel tall-tub dishwashers
• Hoover® Agility™ extractors
• SkyBox™ by Maytag Rookie™ mini refrigerators with customisable front panels
• Dixie-Narco® ice cream venders and snack venders.

Among planned, upcoming product launches are Jenn-Air® glass front refrigerators and dishwashers, additions to Maytag® high efficiency laundry offerings, Jade™ residential cooking products and refrigeration, Jenn- Air™ small appliances, additions to the popular SkyBox™ by Maytag line, Hoover® extractors, hard surface cleaners and high-end vacuum cleaners.

Other Maytag executives appeared at the conference to discuss the company's progress and strategies including Annette Bravard, senior vice president - marketing, Maytag; Dave Baker, vice president and general manager - Hoover floor care; Bob Hardin, senior vice president - research and development, Maytag; Steve Ingham, senior vice president - manufacturing, Maytag; Craig Breese, president - Maytag International; Art Learmonth, president - Maytag Services; and Doug Huffer, president - Dixie-Narco.

Update Saves Time and Ups Quality with Hoffmann

Based near Woodbridge in Suffolk, Update Interiors says that it exemplifies the growing trend for using high quality cabinet makers to create bespoke designs for individual customers. While the company’s product description reads ‘kitchens, bedrooms & bathrooms’, the company is well equipped to undertake a variety of interior work in other areas from living rooms to home office fit outs.

Started five years ago, Update has experienced year-on-year growth and has set up a showroom of kitchen designs (accounting for some 70% of its work) adjacent to the company’s workshops. ‘We rely on referrals and word of mouth for new business’ explains partner Peter Esteller, ‘but we also get much repeat business as a result of our reputation.’

In order to provide both the quality of product and service for which its products and business have become known, Update has a policy of equipping with the latest technology to provide the company with flexibility, product quality and efficiency.

Two years ago Update ordered the Hoffmann system for constructing face frames for in-frame cabinet frontals. The Hoffmann system uses the Morsø guillotine to cut out the haunch joints for rails, stiles and outside frames and the Hoffmann MU2 keyway routing machine that cuts the apertures for the renowned Hoffmann serrated dovetail key.

The system will cope with any width of frame section and the profile can be plane or include an integral cock bead.

Peter Esteller estimates that now almost one in three of the company’s kitchens will include the in-frame design. He cannot speak highly enough of the Hoffmann system: ‘The joints are superb and accurate every time. It is fast, efficient and can be operated by unskilled workers. I just can't think how many thousands of man hours it's saved us.’

The Hoffmann dovetail key jointing system is highly successful in applications worldwide. The serrated dovetail key is available in a wide range of sizes and, once inserted into the accurately routed keyway actually acts to pull the jointed components together in a secure and permanent bond that wont work loose.

Hoffmann has installed this system in the workshops and factories of cabinet furniture manufacturers throughout the UK and Ireland. It is also suitable for creating simple or complex mitre joints and has applications in both joinery and construction. The range of the Hoffmann machines available cover small, bench-mounted manual models right through to double mitre cutting combination automats.

Tel: 015242 62500
Email: mailto:info@hoffmann-uk.com
Web: http://www.hoffmann-uk.com

Masterclass Conference A Huge Success

For its first year, NKBA members attended the Masterclass Conference: Perspectives on Design, an international-themed education conference at Le Parker Meridien Hotel in New York City, October 28-29, 2004.

The conference, presented by Kitchen + Bath Designer magazine, the National Kitchen & Bath Association, and sponsored by Planit, a leading kitchen and bath design software company, challenged designers to reach new heights in the art of design through a series of inspirational seminars led by world-renowned Design Masters.

Through two full days of keynote presentations, breakout sessions, and roundtable discussions, NKBA members learned how to advance their design skills and expand their vision from a variety of experts from across the world including: Paolo Pininfarina, Jamie Drake, ASID, Steven J. Livingston, Randall Whitehead, and Johnny Grey.

Paolo Pininfarina, most famous in the U.S. for his Ferrari and Cadillac 'Allante' automobile style, presented 'Attaining the Height of Form & Function.' To find a balance in today's 'era of complexity,' when family members find themselves taking on several roles, Paolo showed attendees how to make a bathroom a place to relax and be alone.

'His pure design sense is fresh and liberating,' NKBA Member Richard Raffel, CKD said. 'He brings in a great outside perspective that is eye opening.'

Pininfarina's designs focus on finding solutions to make living easier such as his automobile-inspired bathtub with a television resembling a Ferrari made with a good engine and elegant body, and an island in the kitchen with technological accessories. All of the products designed by Pininfarina have six qualities: essentiality, intimacy, well being, innovation, emotion, and relaxation.

Jamie Drake, ASID, a New York City-based designer and owner of Drake Design & Associates, presented 'The Power of Colour' based on his experience working for an impressive roster of clients including Madonna, Phyllis and Victor Grann, and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

Drake creates unique designs by using citruses, bright blues and yellows to make a bold impact and balances it with blacks and whites and always thinks a ceiling needs attention. He refers to colour as 'the spark that lights my fire.'

'Jamie Drake is so inspirational with a wide range of style and body of work,' attendee Leslie Hart said. 'He's very stimulating and very inspirational. He makes you see a space in a new way.'

Johnny Grey, designer and owner of a design studio in the San Francisco Design Centre, demonstrated his practical vision and skills as an observer and thinker during his 'Developing a Design Vision' presentation.

'Johnny was intriguingly creative,' NKBA Member Deborah Kollmeyer said. 'The use of space and opening up the home to make the space more functional was very inspiring.'

Grey, who believes the kitchen is not just an area for food preparation and eating, but the centre of all domestic life and the true 'living room' of any home, designs open spaces for people to be together.

His rooms are inspired by a changing society moving toward a more informal life. Private homes, or houses with too many rooms, are dated and don't fit the needs of today's family.

Grey believes the house is an owner's soul, inner person, and should be created by an emotionally intelligent designer. He has authored The Art of Kitchen Designs, The Hard Working House, The Kitchen Work Book, and Kitchen Culture.

'The Creative Crafting of Kitchens' keynote was presented by Steven J. Livingston and his partner Joan, high-end contemporary kitchen designers with more than 20 years of experience creating well-crafted, inventive spaces, and premier representatives of Snaidero Italian custom cabinetry.

Steven and Joan took attendees through their journey in kitchen and bath design to their development of a new cabinetry line incorporating unique, proprietary design elements that is scheduled to launch in early 2005. Steven has received numerous design awards, including a special honour from the American Institute of Architects.

Closing the Masterclass Conference, Randall Whitehead, a respected authority in the lighting field with more than 25 years of experience designing lighting for an extensive array of commercial projects, presented 'The Power of Light.'

Whitehead has been known as an informative and humorous speaker having gained rave reviews for his keynote presentation.

'Phenomenal! End with a bang and a whimper from laughing so long, but also really informative,' Barbara Morrissey, CKD said.

Another attendee added, 'Through all the humour, the concepts are well remembered and really important for me.'

Today, Whitehead specialises in residential lighting design, and is author of seven books including the most recent, Residential Lighting: A Practical Guide, published by John Wiley & Sons in 2004. He has appeared as a guest expert on the Discovery Channel and House & Garden Television.

Members also gained hands-on experience working side-by-side with fellow leading designers in creative, problem-solving workshops, intended to sharpen a designer's insight and expertise.

'The Masterclass Conference and all the speakers were wonderful,' Deb Bell, CKD, CBD said. 'Finally, this was something for designers who have many years of experience and are in the higher end of design and need to be challenged and interface with new ideas and trends.'

The next Masterclass Conference is scheduled for March 3-4, 2005 at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco, CA. For more information, please visit http://www.nkba.org.