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Sanitec Announces First Quarter Operating Profits up 58% on 2003 on Sales up only 4.5%

Sanitec has reported operating profit for the first quarter of 2004 at EUR 23.9 million, which is a substantial increase of EUR 8.8 million or 58.3% over the first quarter of 2003. The operating profit margin was 9.5 % of net sales compared to 6.2% in the first quarter of 2003 and 3.6% in the last quarter in 2003. The improved sales situation and restructuring efforts in Bathroom Ceramic production and cost savings in the Sales, General and Administration functions contribute to this notable increase.

* First quarter 2004 net sales of EUR 252.9 million improved significantly over the same quarter in 2003, by EUR 11.0 million or 4.5%, driven by increased volumes and good average selling price performance.

* EBITDA improved by EUR 7.1 million or 18.9% to EUR 44.6 million or 17.6% of net sales compared to EUR 37.5 million or 15.5% of net sales in the first quarter last year, driven by higher sales and a leaner cost structure.

* Operating profit increased substantially by EUR 8.8 million or 58.3% to EUR 23.9 million or to 9.5% of net sales compared to EUR 15.1 million or 6.2% in the first quarter of 2003, underpinned by improved sales and efficiency.

* Total capital expenditure reduced to EUR 4.5 million or 1.8% of net sales for the quarter compared to EUR 5.2 million or 2.1% in the same quarter last year.

* Cash flow for the quarter was EUR 0.7 million or 3.8% better than in the same quarter in the previous year and the cash position improved considerably by EUR 19.8 million against Q1 2003.

* Sanitec's revolving credit facility of EUR 50 million remained undrawn and the company was in full compliance with its loan covenants.

Consolidated Net Sales for the first quarter 2004 were considerably higher than net sales in the first quarter of 2003 and the Last quarter in 2003. Net sales for the quarter were EUR 252.9 million (241.9 million), a solid increase of 4.5% or EUR 11.0 million against the first quarter of 2003 and EUR 15.6 million or 6.6% ahead of the last quarter in 2003.

Stronger sales volumes in France and the United Kingdom, particularly in the DIY market, a positive product mix in the Southem European region, as well as good volumes in the Scandinavian countries, particulariy Sweden and Denmark, and improved average selling prices in the Central and Central Eastern Region all contribute to this improvement.

Bathroom Ceramics net sales for the first quarter 2004 were EUR 165.4 million (155.6 million), an increase of (EUR 9.8 million or 6.3% over the first quarter of 2003 and EUR 16.3 million or 10.9% over the Last quarter in 2003. Increased volumes in the French and United Kingdom markets with DIY retailers, improvement in volumes in the Dutch market, and significantly higher volumes in the Polish market underpin this increase. Additionally, increased average selling prices in the Scandinavian countries and Southern Europe help reinforce this growth.

Bath and Shower Products net sales for the first quarter of 2004 were EUR 73.0 million (68.4 million), an increase of EUR 4.6 million or 6.7% compared to the first quarter of 2003 and EUR 5.0 million or 7.4% above the Last quarter in 2003. lncreased net sales in a majority of the regions, particularly the central eastern region, due to new product introductions, compensated for slower sales in the Central Europe region driven primarily by a product portfolio change.

Topps Tiles Announces Q1 Profits Nearly Doubled on Sales up 28%

Topps Tiles plc, the UK tile and wood flooring specialist founded by Barry Bester (right) has announced interim results for the 27 weeks ending Saturday 3rd April 2004. Turnover for the period jumped from £56.2m to £78m while pre-tax profits were nearly double at £15.2m (£7.8m). The company also announced that sales were up 20% in the first six weeks of the second half.

Financial Highlights
- Group turnover increased by 38.6% to £77.115m
- Group like for like turnover increased by 22.7%
- Gross Margin increased to 59.4% (2003: 57.0%)
- Profit before tax and exceptional items increased by 95.4% to £15.324m
- Net Margin, excluding joint venture and exceptional items, increased to 19.9% (2003: 14.1%)
- Earnings per share rose 108.3% to 5.00 pence (2003: 2.40 pence), post share split
- Interim net dividend declared of 2.00 pence (2003: 0.60 pence), post share split
- Net Cash Position of £16.14m
- Sales growth continues to be strong with overall sales increasing by 26.7% and like for like sales up 19.2 % for the first 6 weeks of the second half.
- Share split of 5:1 completed on 6th May 2004.

Operational Highlights
- New warehouse fully operational
- Net 10 new stores opened in the period
- 7 major store refits
- On target to open net 24 new stores this financial period
- Continued investment in national advertising

Commenting on the results Nick Ounstead, Chief Executive said:
'Today’s figures demonstrate the success that Topps is now achieving as a growing UK brand. Sales have grown by more than 38% and, as ever, we remain committed to bringing ideas, inspiration and value to our customers as well as creating value for shareholders.'

Executive Board Statement

'Trading has continued to be buoyant. Growth in like-for-like sales for the period was 22.7%, with overall sales growth in the same period at 38.6%. Gross margins have improved to 59.4% compared to 57.0% in the same period last year, with operating costs excluding exceptionals in the period equivalent to 40.0% of sales compared to 43.2% in the same period last year.

'Profit before tax and exceptional items for the 27 weeks ended 3rd April 2004 amounted to £15.324 million an increase of 95.4 % over the same period last year even though the current year also has a Long- Term Incentive Plan (L-TIP) provision of £928k. Earnings per share rose by 108.3% from 2.40 pence to 5.00 pence (post share split).

'The exceptional items relate to the cost of writing down fixture and fittings of £344k and the profit on disposal of fixed assets of £542k, following the sale and lease back of three freehold properties.

'Net margin, excluding joint venture and exceptional items, has increased to 19.9% from 14.1% in the same period last year.

Balance Sheet
'The Group currently owns 8 freehold sites, two development sites and the new warehouse facility with a total net book value of £10.0 million. Within the period one freehold site was acquired at a cost of £0.4 million and expenditure on the development sites totalled £0.3m. The new warehouse expenditure in the period totalled £4.8m (building £3.7m and fixtures and fittings £1.1m) bringing the total expenditure on the warehouse to £8.0m which now completes the project.
'In the period the Group completed 3 property sale and leaseback transactions generating proceeds of £3.0 million.

'Capital expenditure, excluding freehold property and the new warehouse, amounted to £1.8 million. This reflects a total of 12 new stores opened in the period with two being closed and relocated and 3 Tile Clearing House stores rebranded to Topps. There were 7 major store refits and other minor refits along with further development and upgrading of the Group’s I.T. infrastructure.

'We continue with our programme of national store roll-outs opening 12 Topps Tiles stores and Tile Clearing House outlets in the period giving us a total of 206 stores in the UK. We have closed and relocated 2 stores and completely refurbished 7 stores and rebranded 3 Tile Clearing House stores to Topps stores.

'Our most significant activity in the period was the move to a new purpose built warehouse which was successfully and seamlessly completed over the Easter Weekend. The new facility totals 105,000 sq feet and gives us increased cubic capacity of 3.5 times over our previous site. The additional space will see us through to complete our expansion target of 350 stores in the UK and has the capacity to support additional stores should we increase that number further. It will also mean that we will be able to distribute more product through our own warehouse rather than using third parties. The warehouse was officially opened on 28th May 2004 and we were delighted that the Right Honorable Patricia Hewitt, Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, conducted the opening ceremony.

'We are pleased with the progress of our joint venture in Holland. We are currently trading from 8 stores which sell both ceramic tiles and wood and laminate flooring. We plan to open a further 3 stores this financial period.

'The UK consumer’s appetite for DIY and home improvement continues and to capitalise on this we have continued to invest in national and television advertising. We are currently running campaigns with GMTV, Sky’s UK Living channel and Carlton TV weather.

'We now employ over 1300 staff across the business and we endeavour to train and support all staff as well as employing a strong culture of rewarding performance.

'In March Topps was voted Company of the Year at PriceWaterhouseCoopers PLC Awards. Having won Best Annual Report in 1998 we were delighted to be awarded the top prize this year.

'In the first 6 weeks of the current period sales growth has continued to be very positive with overall sales increasing by 26.7 % and like for like sales up 19.2%

'The fundamentals of our business are strong, we continue to increase our market share and brand awareness and our finances are robust. As ever, we remain committed to bringing ideas, inspiration and value to our customers as well as continuing to create value for shareholders.'

Mirari Finds A Place In Greece

The European-styled kitchen collection, Mirari - which is designed and produced by the Symphony Group plc - has received its first TV coverage through a new Channel Four television show. A Place in Greece follows the lives of Coventry couple Brian Saunders and Andrew Sutton (pictured right) as they pursue their dream of building their very own home in Greece, and sees a Mirari kitchen selected to feature in their new villa.

The villa, which is still being completed, is on Crete, the largest of the Greek islands. It was built specifically on a site to give stunning views across Souda Bay and the open plan kitchen/dining room/lounge benefits from a 4.5m x 2.5m picture window.

Andrew Sutton commented: ‘We were impressed with the style and quality of the Mirari collection, and wanted a kitchen that would complement the ‘traditional with a modern twist’ theme that we have running through the villa. We were very keen to ensure we had beautiful views from our new home, so we wanted to create an interior style to match.’

‘We were also very impressed with the service we received from Mirari and the Symphony Group. The design, delivery and installation of our kitchen ran extremely smoothly, in what was otherwise a very eventful project.’

Andrew and Brian were also filmed visiting the Mirari showroom at the Symphony Group’s Leeds headquarters to select and help plan their kitchen and eventually choose Kitchen 08 from the collection, in a cherry finish with a rippled effect.

Robert Lawrence, retail marketing manager for Mirari, concluded: ‘Mirari is unique in that it brings together British craftsmanship with European design flair and was therefore a perfect choice for the villa. The collection offers flexibility and versatility and can be adapted to suit a wide range of interior styles.
‘We are delighted to be involved with this project and that a Mirari kitchen will take pride of place in this stunning new Cretan villa’.

The Mirari collection includes a variety of contemporary and traditional materials, colours and accessories and - rather than separating the collection with style categories or names - Mirari kitchens are simply numbered from 01 to 15. This system allows people to choose one overall style or select items from a number of kitchens to create a unique environment for their home.

Tel: 0870 837 1444
Web: http://www.mirarikitchens.com

No Significant Improvement in Underlying Conditions Says Villeroy & Boch in Q1 Report

When compared with the previous year, only insignificant changes were seen in the underlying economic conditions in the first three months of 2004. The generally expected revival of economic activity has not yet become apparent. Exports to US-dollar regions in the initial months of 2004 continued to be dampened by the high Euro exchange rate. This was contrasted in the Euro region by a positive sales trend. Although consumption data showed a slight improvement in February, these figures declined once again in March. A revival in overall construction activity also failed to take place.

Although market conditions remained weak, when contrasted with figures for the comparative period of 2003, saies in the Villeroy & Boch Group in the first three months of 2004 increased 5.6% to a total of Euro 251.5 million. Sales were generated on both the domestic and foreign markets, though the rise of 6.6% on foreign markets was even more distinct than that of 3.6% reported in Germany. Foreign sales are still at a high level and account for roughly 69% of total sales.

Orders received in the Villeroy & Boch Group in the first quarter of 2004 exceeded sales, with the effect that the Euro 70.0-million volume of orders at the end of the quarter was Euro16.1 million higher than in the previous year. The Tableware Division accounted for 81% of the increase in orders received. A higher volume of orders was also recorded by the Bathroom and Kitchen Business Segment. At the end of the quarter, the Project Business Division reported an order volume of Euro 2.6 million.

Compared with the prior-year value, the Villeroy & Boch Group was able to increase its result before taxes on income (EBT) for the first quarter of 2004 by Euro 1.9 million, bringing the total to Euro 4.6 million. The positive result effects were brought about by the increase in sales and also the restructuring measures initiated in all Divisions - except the Tile Business Segment - in the previous year.

Bathroom, Kitchen and Tile Division: continuation of positive ceramic sanitaryware trend
A clear sales increase was reported in the Bathroom and Kitchen Business Segment in the first quarter of 2004. Sales rose from Euro 82.6 million in 2003 to Euro 87.5 million in 2004 (+5.9%). Having already risen considerably in the 2003 business year, the result saw a further strong improvement of 45.2% in the first quarter of 2004, bringing the total to Euro 9.0 million (previous year: Euro 6.2 million).

Following a long period of stagnation, the Bathroom and Kitchen Business Segment achieved a clear sales increase for the first time again in the initial quarter of 2004. The consistently strong international business trend confirmed the Business Segment's strategic goal to further expand export markets.

The new products launched at last year's ISH trade fair have been appropriately positioned in all markets and are showing an extremely pleasing development. 'Subway' has established itself as one of the best collections.

Reporting sales of Euro 64.6 million, the Tile Business Segment failed to achieve its prior year sales level of Euro 65.7 million. A more pleasing development was, however, experienced in Germany in the first quarter of 2004 with a slightly more positive sales level than in the previous year. The decline in international business was marked by a clear slowdown in sales in France and the consistently intense competitive pressure in Eastern and Western Europe. Despite their positive effects, the initiated restructuring measures and product-range improvements have not as yet showed any trend reversal in the result.

Adjustments to production capacity in particular are still not completely concluded and their effects will not be noticeable until at least the second half of the year. A negative operating result of Euro -2.3 million (previous year: Euro -1.4 million) is, therefore, to be reported in the Tile Business Segment for the first quarter of 2004.

Regarding the year as a whole, the Division expects a further scheduled positive trend for the Bathroom and Kitchen Business Segment. A trend reversal is not expected in the Tile Business Segment until at least the second half of 2004.

Wellness Division: sales in first quarter of 2004 7.0% above prior-year value
After the disappointing year 2003, the Division succeeded in increasing its net sales by 7.0% in the first quarter of 2004, bringing the total to Euro 26.1 million.
The reason for this increase is to be found in the growth in domestic sales, which already began in the second half of 2003 and again totalled more than 20% in the first quarter of the current year.

Rising sales figures were also recorded in Italy, while stability was achieved in the Benelux region. This means that the Wellness Division is gaining market share in all these markets which are still reporting declining overall figures.

Due to the sales increase, a positive trend (Euro +0.2 million) is seen in the result for the first quarter of 2004. The rise in productivity expected in the course of production facility specialisation will be expressed during the coming months in the form of improved results.

The second brand, 'Vitaviva', is also enjoying extensive growth. Positioned under the Villeroy & Boch brand name, the entire range has greatly supported the Wellness Division's market penetration.

Since restructuring of the Villeroy & Boch whirlpool range has taken place, customers now have much better opportunities to arrange their own whirlpool package. This has exerted an extremely favourable influence on whirlpool sales.
Although the trend remains weak in the majority of Wellness Division markets, we expect a continuation of the existing positive trend reversal in sales and result during the remainder of the year.

Project Business Division:first 'e.motion' orders
The Project Business Division has recorded its first orders for the modular bathroom concept 'e.motion'. A start is therefore currently being made on the first reference projects. These should accelerate the market launch of this concept which is attracting a great deal of attention. The reference bathrooms are being installed at various locations in Germany and in diverse projects abroad.

Despite the generally difficult underlying conditions surrounding overall construction activity and the relatively long lead times in the project-planning sector, the course of business in this newest Division is developing according to expectations in the current year. Orders received should total well over Euro 10 million by the end of the year.

Slight Rise in Volume of Investment

Villeroy & Boch invested Euro 8.5 million in the Group in the first three months of 2004, as compared with Euro 8.2 million in the same period of the previous year. A total of 47.0% was invested in Germany and 53.0% abroad.

Outlook for 2004 as a Whole

The trend in the first three months does not enable us to deduce a lasting upturn in economic activity. Although the leading economic research institutes have made a downward adjustment to their growth forecasts for Germany, it is nevertheless expected that the economic recovery will commence later in 2004.

Given a market environment which lacks any essential improvement, we expect the level of Villeroy & Boch Group sales to be on the whole higher in 2004 than in the prior-year. In view of the weak domestic market, Villeroy & Boch will continue to promote growth in foreign markets.

Initiated in the second half of 2003, the measures in the production sector and the international markets give reason to expect growth and a positive result in 2004. Further relief will also be created by the discontinuation of costs previously incurred for production conversion measures.

Bathrooms And Kitchens Magazine Industry Awards 2005 - Call for Entries

Organiser of the Bathrooms And Kitchens Magazine Industry Awards, Bathrooms And Kitchens Magazine has begun its search for the leading designers and businesspeople for 2005.

The 11th annual Bathrooms And Kitchens Industry Awards recognise and reward excellence in design and business acumen. There are ten categories, which industry professionals can enter, which span both bathrooms and kitchens: Young Designer, Designer, Showroom, Marketing and Master Retailer.

Winners of these prestigious awards will be presented with a trophy at a glittering, black tie ceremony in front of 1,000 industry peers at the Grosvenor House in London on February 1st, 2005.

Last year, the Bathrooms And Kitchens Industry Awards were presented by Ruby Wax and were acclaimed as the best in the event's history. And it is expected that the 2005 event will better the previous year.

Editor of Bathrooms And Kitchens Magazine, Philippa Turrell said: 'It has been proven, time and again, that winning an Industry Award improves career prospects and helps boost business. It simply makes sense to enter.'

For information on how to enter the Bathrooms And Kitchens Industry Awards call Jillian Meade on 020 8565 3091 email mailto:jillianm@quantumbusinessmedia.com or visit http://www.bathroomskitchens.co.uk/awards

The Bathrooms And Kitchens Industry Awards are supported by: Neff, Ideal Standard, Jacuzzi UK, Twyford Pure, Hansgrohe, Küppersbusch, Gagenau, Hotpoint, Nolte, Lucite, Planit, Poggenpohl, Grohe Water Technology, Qualceram Shires, Vitra, Teka and the KBSA.

How De Dietrich Home Economists Can Help Dealers Boost Sales

The De Dietrich home economist service has two ways to help dealers sell its products. The first is by attracting customers to specially organised showroom demonstrations, and the second by providing a post sale home demonstration for the purchaser.

De Dietrich is keen to support and encourage open weekends and special events organised by kitchen specialists, as they are the ideal opportunity to promote the features of its new range. De Dietrich home economists are ideal for these events as not only are they able to talk about the products...they can also show customers how they work. Dealers interested in organising an open weekend can contact their De Dietrich Sales Manager to find out how they can qualify.

It is a known fact, that when technologies, such as induction, are demonstrated, the likelihood of making a sale of these high margin products is dramatically increased, in the same way that a customer who has had a chance to feel and touch the kitchen furniture in the showroom is much more likely to go ahead and buy a new kitchen.

Additionally, all customers who purchase a pyrolytic oven plus three or more DD appliances can claim a free home demonstration of their new products. The benefit to the dealer is twofold. Firstly, the dealer is able to offer a value added service that reflects well on him (customers just love home demonstrations!). Secondly, if the customer has any technical queries about the day-to-day use of their appliances, they can be answered while in the comfort of their own home by a De Dietrich fully trained home economist, allowing the dealer to get on with selling. This is a benefit both for first time buyers and those who are trading up, as their previous purchase may have been five to ten years ago, and appliances have significantly advanced in that time.

De Dietrich believes in supporting its dealers with every available tool to help them sell its products and to continue providing additional benefits post sale. Further information and application forms can be obtained from De Dietrich area sales managers or by contacting Brandt UK Marketing on 01256 308 068 or by e-mail: mailto:marketinguk@elcobrandt.com.

Pegler’s Entry into Showering Marketplace - Shaking up the Sector

Pegler says that its entry into the showering market with shower ranges offering a cross sectional approach in pricing, style and design - 'from new low cost traditional and modern showers through to the new minimalist styling of Visio and Xia concealed showering products' – has set the pulses racing in the industry.

'Pegler’s new range of showering products provides the opportunity for customers undertaking new installations, up-grades and refurbishment of existing bathrooms and en-suites to benefit from designer product ranges consisting of matching taps, showers and accessories, but at affordable prices.'

The new portfolio now has a complete range of dual control and single sequential showers in many differing product styles. In addition, two new key shower ranges – Memento and Euphoria – have been introduced, new low cost ranges launched to provide products that have been designed to give maximum performance with style and design, whilst being price pointed to attack the budget end of the shower market.

Dual control allows the shower temperature and flow to be controlled separately through the use of two ‘simple to use’ control levers. This allows the user to control the flow of the shower from full force to a relaxing flow while retaining their ideal water temperature for showering. The showers are thermostatically controlled with factory pre-set maximum temperatures to avoid scalding and makes these new Pegler showers suitable for use by those wanting to have the ultimate control of their shower.

Single sequential control showers use one ‘simple to use’ control lever to control the shower temperature and flow. These showers are also thermostatically controlled with factory pre-set maximum temperatures to avoid scalding, making these new Pegler showers suitable for use by the young, the elderly and the less able.

Pegler showers are easy to install and require no electrical connections. The shower operates by mixing together hot and cold water to the desired showering temperature - thermostatically controlled, they maintain the required temperature, even when other water appliances are being used in the home - and have a built in safety shut down for cold water failure.

All the new showers in the Pegler range are provided as a shower body only, as Pegler has introduced an extensive new range of showering kits and accessories. Their styling provides attractive designs that can be used on all systems including those with low pressure.

Tel: 0870 120 284
Web: http://www.pegler.co.uk

Imperial Acts on Impulse in Renaming Mandarin

Parent-company Imperial Bathroom Products Ltd has announced that, on May 1st, it has renamed its UK sales and distribution company ‘Mandarin Buildings Products Ltd’ as Impulse Bathroom Products Ltd, in order to reflect and reinforce the success of the Impulse brand.

The move follows the successful launch and rapid growth in the UK of the company’s Impulse range of sanitary ware. The popularity of the Impulse designs, together with the quality and superior margins has led the company to continuing successes and it made sense to align the name of the company with the brand.

The view of the Group Managing Director, Mr. Mike Keegan, is that: ‘Impulse is now emerging as a well known and accepted brand. This name change will reinforce the marketing arm and generate even greater brand awareness.’

James Hardie Springs into 2004 with A Wealth of Business Successes

2003 saw building products specialist, James Hardie launch into the UK amid considerable trade interest. James Hardie continues this success in 2004 with a number of significant business alliances and distribution deals for both its water-impervious, Hardibacker and its exterior siding, Hardiplank.

Insulation Distributors Limited (IDL)
James Hardie has announced a distribution agreement with IDL as of 1st, March 2004. Serving both the Republic and Northern Ireland, IDL supplies products to over 3/4 of Ireland's 800 builders merchants. This deal will give James Hardie extensive penetration into the Irish market.

Topps Tiles
Hardibacker has now replaced Knauf's Aquapanel in 97 Topps Tiles stores across the UK. In addition, Hardibacker is now available through a total of 170 Topps Tiles outlets. 'This is a reflection of James Hardie's success with Topps Tiles and the company's continued investment in training and support for Topps Tiles staff, which allows the company to offer its customers an unrivalled service and an unrivalled product.' says the company.

Travis Perkins
James Hardie has signed a nationwide agreement with Travis Perkins, the UK's largest builders merchant. This sees Hardibacker available across all 37 of its UK regions. The Travis Perkins announcement gives James Hardie national high volume availability but does not affect the company's complementary deal with Sheffield Insulations Group.

Sheffield Insulations Group (SIG)
James Hardie has had an exclusive distribution deal for its Hardiplank siding products with SIG since 2003. This continues to prove successful for both parties with Hardiplank now in 12 locations and Hardibacker in 16. February 2004 reported the best figures to date for sales of Hardiplank and the second highest figures so far for James Hardie sales overall.

Ivarsson
Into Europe, James Hardie has entered into an exclusive distribution agreement with the Danish company Ivarsson to sell Hardiplank in Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland and Iceland. Previously Ivarsson had worked with Eternit but has now chosen Hardiplank instead. The deal was celebrated with a joint stand at the Byggeri 2004 trade show (February). Commenting on the show and the joint venture Klaus Kristensen, Director, Ivarsson said,'Thanks to the James Hardie product we had a fantastic week at Byggeri. Interest was very good and we look forward to our future working relationship together.'

Commenting on James Hardie's continued developments and successes, Mark Fisher, General Manager, said: 'James Hardie values its partnership relationships and makes a point of investing in them to the benefit of both parties. As a company we offer ongoing training for sales teams and management and this is reflected in the excellent success levels that we can see in return.'

Caption: Klaus Kristensen, Director. Ivarsson and Mark Fisher, General Manager, James Hardie, mark the companies' exclusive distribution agreement

Bushboard Launches Omega Range with Built in Microban Anti-Bacterial Protection

A laminate worktop offering permanent anti-bacterial protection has been launched by Bushboard. The company's range of Omega worktops and patented splashbacks, excluding the brushed aluminium design, is now available with built-in Microban technology. This is designed to protect against the growth of harmful bacteria associated with everyday living and guaranteed to last for the lifetime of the worksurface.

With the exception of the brushed aluminium design, Bushboard's range of 40mm Omega worktops and splashbacks is now manufactured with built-in Microban protection, which the company says is proven to reduce bacterial contamination from salmonella, listeria and E-coli by up to 99%. When incorporated into the worktop, it remains colourless, odourless and invisible to the eye, ensuring that the original product design remains not enly unchanged but also practical and easy to maintain.

Recognising the benefits of this new protection means appreciating the hygiene risks associated with worksurfaces. Everyday living involves contact from adult and children's hands food falls and spills and dirty dishcloths. Microban protection offers an additional peace of mind, especially to parents in the kitchen.

Microban antibacterial protection has ensured that Bushboard's Omega worktops and splashbacks will remain cleaner between regular cleanings. While it is not a substitute for normal hygienic cleaning practices, Microban protection helps reduce the likelihood of stains and odours, as well as the risk of cross-contamination, which can cause infections.

Commenting on this new development Martin Lowe, Business Development Manager at Bushboard says, 'food safety will always be a major priority and consequently the surface on which food is prepared will constantly be a high-risk area, particularly when one cannot always be there to monitor its cleanliness. The extra peace of mind guaranteed by this new technology is immeasurable, reducing the hygiene risk in this area of the kitchen.'

Tel: 01933 232242
Email: mailto:info@microban.co.uk

Roman Goes 'Off the Page' in Offering a Bespoke Shower Service

Roman has launched the latest Original brochure, with a picture of a custom understairs shower door alongside Roman's statement: 'We consider almost no space too small and can provide made to measure items to fit almost anywhere'. That's a pretty bullish claim. So, if you are thinking of investigating the bespoke route, what is now realistic?

First, the bad news. Trays are not a custom item. It is simply not economically viable to design and cast a single shower tray, it's the same story with curved glass but from here on the news is all good.

Fixed panels in non-standard sizes certainly are feasible and can be ordered from both Roman's Wetrooms and Collage ranges. Standard panel heights or widths (or both) can be reduced. Think in terms of an increased cost about 40 per cent higher than the price of an unreduced standard panel.

The quality and finishes will be the same high standard, so you can combine custom and standard panels with confidence. You might need only one bespoke panel to solve a problematic shower location.

For example, maybe the intended shower room has a recess only 450 mm deep. Not enough for an alcove with three tiled walls but an 800 mm tray would only project 350 mm into the room. So a semi-alcove shower enclosure is achievable with a pair of 350 mm custom-made panels.

Another feasible modification is a right-angled notch taken out of the corner of a standard component. This can be useful to accommodate boxed-in pipework or to fit round a structural beam that is a prized character feature in an old cottage.

Flat hinged doors can also be made with a reduced height or the top corner 'cut off' at an angle to match the slope of a ceiling in, say, a loft conversion, or to squeeze in under a staircase, as illustrated in the Original brochure. Think in terms of 60% extra for an angled 'cut'. The unit cost reduces for short runs as opposed to one-offs.

Note that 'cut' is in inverted commas. It's absolutely vital to remember that it is not possible to cut toughened glass. If you try, you'll end up with a pile of little pieces. The custom cuts are made by the glass manufacturer prior to the toughening process. So the dimensional drawings supplied by the customer must be accurate.

Roman checks the measurements on a bespoke order back with the customer by supplying a three-dimensional CAD drawing of the custom component with the written price quotation. As well as confirming that all the sizes are correct, the drawing serves as a check that the customer and the supplier are talking the same language when it comes to panel geometry and orientation.

Custom components are normally delivered in flat packs with any framing or fittings in place, so there is no need for on-site frame trimming unless the customer has specifically requested that option.

All Roman‚s enclosures, doors and screens use toughened safety glass complying with BS6206 Class A and provide for simple on-site adjustment where the framing meets room walls. This planned-for adjustability is carried over into custom components wherever that is practically possible. Preservation of the essential squareness, fit and sealing of the door(s) of a shower enclosure is critical to their satisfactory operation and leak-free water containment.

If the available space prevents you from using one of Roman's shower trays, one solution could be to create a fully waterproofed wet room by tiling over a watertight membrane. This eliminates the need to install a shower tray but it is essential to use materials specified for the rigours of wet room conditions. Roman has produced a free leaflet jointly with Alfix entitled 'Creating the Perfect Wet Room'.

Tel: 0845 0504 032
Web: http://www.roman-showers.com

Hoffman Dovetail System Proves Essential to Dry Jointing Innovation

Sometimes things do go wrong with furniture – especially fragile items like sliding glass or mirrored doors which are particularly susceptible to breakage either during delivery or installation – or even in use.

Nowadays many fitters throughout the UK and Ireland are experiencing a new situation when called out to repair a broken glass panel – no longer is an entire new door required, rather they are able to easily unassemble the frame, insert a new mirror or glass sheet and re-secure the frame in place.

This innovation is the design of Keith Chalklen, proprietor of the Malthouse Joinery in Wouldham, Kent whose invention has swiftly taken over 80% of his company’s work. ‘We exhibited this dry-jointed frame at the ASFI exhibition a couple of years ago and it has just taken off!’ enthuses Keith.

However the essential secret to the success of the design is the Hoffman dovetail key jointing system that allows him to create accurate and secure dry mitre joints – no glue – for the rails and styles of the sliding door frames.

The mitre is cut on the profile and two corresponding dowel holes are drilled. Then, in between the dowel holes, a keyway is routed on the manual Hoffmann MU2 machine and the entire door frame is boxed as a kit. After assembly – which is swift and accurate and can be achieved on site – the frame can be once again taken apart by removal of the Hoffmann dovetail key and the two sections pulled part exposing the dowels.

It is the insertion of the Hoffmann key that pulls the joint together and permanently secures it, the dowels offer extra stability.

The design has been taken up by building merchants, the new build sector and OEM bedroom manufacturers.

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

New Kohler Colours Demonstrate Character of Kohler Cast Iron

Kohler Co. continues to explore new colour dimensions in the kitchen and bathroom with the introduction of six new colours available exclusively on key Kohler Cast Iron products. Enamelled Kohler Cast Iron provides an opportunity to explore how colour moves across a material and the role light plays in connecting with the material to heighten the effectiveness of colour.

These new Kohler Vapour™ colours for the bathroom, available in five distinct hues, and Black ‘n Tan for the kitchen, all demonstrate new colour techniques on Kohler Cast Iron and allow consumers to discover the personality, attitude and individual freedom that colour brings into the home.

Kohler Vapour Colours
New Kohler Vapour colours – available in light blue, green, pink, orange and indigo – are a collection of colours that the company says glide across the fixture surface to create an ethereal translucency and highlight the artistic curves and substantiality of the cast iron material.

'The new Kohler Vapour colours are atmospheric and allow consumers to playfully maximise the emotion of their space,' said Mary Reid, director of advance concept development at Kohler. 'Enamel is a glass material that when handled differently, allows light into the surface. These five Vapour colours interact with light to bring a rich, deep visual effect to the surface.'

Kohler Vapour colours are available on select cast iron products whose design lines create the most ideal canvas for showing the translucency of the colours. Some of the more popular lavatories and baths that will offer the new Vapour colours include Vessels Dolce Vita™, Vessels™ Iron Bell, and Paradox™ lavatories; and Iron Works Historic™ and Tea-for-Two™ baths. Kohler Vapour colours can be mixed and matched with other colours, materials and textures to create a bathroom with an individual dimension.

Black ‘n Tan
Neutrals continue to dominate the colour palette in the kitchen, however designers and consumers are demanding products that experiment with different effects and textures while maintaining a neutral aesthetic. Drawing from the organic colour palette of black, brown and tan found in nature, Black ‘n Tan is a new colour for kitchen sinks that answers this product need while retaining the durability of Kohler Cast Iron sinks.

Through several rounds of a hot enamelling process, the three-dimensional, highly glassy, stone-like effect of Black ‘n Tan is created. Browns and blacks intermingle to create a smooth, durable surface, yet give the appearance of a deep, highly textured material. The resulting colour effect blends well with popular kitchen materials like granite, marble, metal and wood without competing with the other colours or patterns of the room, countertops or cabinetry. Rich, textured faucet finishes like the new Kohler Vibrant® Brazen Bronze and Brushed Bronze, complete the neutral, Old World appeal of Black ‘n Tan.

Black ‘n Tan is available exclusively on select Kohler Cast Iron undercounter models such as Iron/Tones™ and entertainment sinks.

Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Kohler, Wisconsin., Kohler Co. is a world leader in products for the kitchen and bathroom, and one of the oldest and largest privately held companies in the United States.

Wirquin's Flexivision Changes Toilet Connectors' Market

Wirquin Plastiques of France is now making its Flexivision range of PVC toilet connectors and pipes available to British and Irish plumbers. The Magicflex, an addition to the product range, provides 1,000 possible positions with a single connector, and is a completely flexible outlet connector available on the market.

The range comprises ribbed flexible polypropylene socket-to-socket connectors that can be placed at any angle from 0° to 120°, and are set with PVC glue.

Wirquin Plastiques, the inventor of the Jollyflex, has developed the Magicflex, both being part of the Flexivision range of connectors, which has been specially created to allow several solutions to be presented in a single display unit.

With the Magicflex, 1,000 positions are possible with a single connector. It is a completely flexible outlet connector. The ribbed flexible polypropylene socket-to-socket connectors can be placed at any angle (from 0° to 120°) and are fixed easily and quickly with PVC glue. The connectors are available in 11/4 inch, 11/2 inch and 4 inch sizes. In each diameter, Magicflex replaces five models of rigid elbows.

The Jollyflex range of pipes provides a solution in all connection layouts. This makes it possible to replace the outlet pipes without having to remove the toilet pan. Suitable for renovation projects, the pipes have a removable elastomer washer to make replacement easier. The flexible PVC pipe, with its smooth inner wall, allows optimum flow of waste matter. The Jollyflex range is available in an extendible version, and the flexes take and then retain the position that is needed.

About Wirquin Plastiques
The company, which is based in North-Western France, has developed a range of flexes to be applied to plumbing and toilet installations. About a quarter of Wirquin's turnover is presently generated by sales outside France. The company, with its network of distributors in the UK and Ireland, already has 250 customers in the two countries.

Web: http://www.wirquin.com

New Advertising Campaign in US Shows Consumers Trust Hoover Products to Help them Move Beyond Housework

Hoover, a division of Maytag Corporation, says that it comes to the aid of busy people by providing products that help them clean faster and more easily - products for every budget, cleaning need and life stage. Its new ad campaign was launched recently on national network and cable TV in the US with spots for the new Hoover® EmPower™ bagless, upright vacuum cleaner.

'We want to help people get the job done right the first time so they can move on to more important things in life - like playing, relaxing or spending time with family and friends,' said Annette Bravard, Hoover vice president - marketing.

Conceived in conjunction with the company's new advertising agency - Element 79 Partners of Chicago - the campaign for the Hoover EmPower upright and future products will focus on the benefits provided by Hoover appliances. The EmPower was developed in response to consumers' pleas for quieter, lighter-weight, more versatile floor care products.

The Hoover EmPower upright premieres with two new buttons: the Hush™ mode decreases the sound level of the machine and lets the consumer vacuum whenever and wherever regardless of other activities in the household; and the Power Boost button that provides vigorous cleaning for extra dirty areas. It also comes with a switch that folds down the handle for easy storage and is fully assembled straight out of the box.

'We're showing people that 'Hoover gets it' - both the dirt and the pressures of contemporary life,' said Janel Dufek, director of market development. 'We 'get it' because we've spent a lot of time talking with consumers to understand how they clean, how they feel about cleaning and how they want to clean. In fact, 'Hoover gets it' will be our tagline going forward.'

'This is a new way for us to speak to the consumer,' said Dufek. 'It blends emotional and rational elements.'

Susan Bertocchi, senior vice president and group creative director at Element 79 Partners, thinks the new campaign will be relevant and fresh for the category.
'This work showcases how consumers rely on Hoover's quality to get the job done right, because what comes after the vacuuming is done is what really matters,' she said.

Founded in 2001, Element 79 Partners is part of Omnicom Group, Inc. A full-service agency, Element 79 has headquarters in Chicago and an office in New York. For more information please visit http://www.element79.com.

Hoover offers a full line of uprights and canisters, extractors, stick cleaners, hand-held cleaners, hard-floor cleaners, central vacuum systems, commercial products, air purifiers and an outdoor sweeper. Hoover is a division of Maytag Corporation, a leading producer of home and commercial appliances. Its products are sold to customers throughout North America and in international markets. The corporation's principal brands include Maytag®, Hoover®, Jenn-Air®, Amana®, Dixie-Narco® and Jade®.

Web: http://www.hoover.com