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Alno to Streamline UK Operation

Germany’s largest kitchen manufacturer, Alno announced a number of changes to its UK business in line with the group's European operational strategy.

From the end of 2004, the order processing function will be centralised at Alno’s factory in Pfullendorf, Germany. The accounts department for Alno and Wellmann will be combined and based at Wellmann’s head office in Dewsbury, Yorkshire. Alno's UK warehousing operation will also close at the end of the year.

Alno's UK showroom will remain in Hanworth, Middlesex until December 2005 when the property lease ends. The company intends to open a prestigious flagship showroom in central London during 2005.

John Kinder, managing director for both Alno and Wellmann said, 'These decisions have been made in line with the company strategy for all countries. We are determined to improve further the efficiency of the business and the level of service that we give to our customers.'

Tel: 0208 898 4781
Web: http://www.alno.co.uk

Change of Administration for Pyram

Pyram, the French kitchen and bathroom manufacturer has announced a change of administration in the United Kingdom.

Mo Tarkian, the current agent, has retired and his company, Cuisine Pyram Ltd, has ceased trading. His connection with the Pyram product is therefore at an end.

Marketing and representation within the UK will now be carried forward by the agency partnership of Mike White and Keith Brisley.

Mike has been working with Pyram in France for six years developing business in the north of England. Keith joins the company from the distributor James Theobald Ltd. Both have over 20 years experience within the industry and are therefore well known.

Pyram has revitalised its products with the re-launch of a highly contemporary bathroom furniture range in late 2003 and the complete reworking of the company’s kitchen offer which is available now.

The UK has long been an important market for Pyram and the company’s focus for the long term is to extend its presence by providing a dedicated service to a smaller number of retail partners. Pyram says that emphasis will be firmly upon delivery of a saleable product backed by consistent support.

Contact Mike White on 07795 148818 or Keith Brisley on 07841 847462.
Web: http://www.pyram.fr

Masco Reports Record Third Quarter and Increases Earnings Guidance for 2004

Masco Corporation reports that net sales from continuing operations for the third quarter ended September 30th, 2004 increased 12 percent, primarily from organic growth, to a quarterly record $3.2 billion compared with $2.8 billion for the same period in 2003. Sales of assembled cabinets, installation services, windows and plumbing products were particularly strong in the quarter.

The Company's strong third quarter performance benefited from market share gains, new products and positive economic conditions impacting the new home construction and home improvement markets.

Income from continuing operations for the third quarter of 2004 was $289 million compared with $258 million for the same period in 2003. Earnings from continuing operations increased to a third quarter record of $.64 per common share compared with $.53 per common share for the 2003 third quarter.

The Company continues to experience better-than-expected sales performance so far in 2004, and, based on current business trends, believes that it will achieve record sales and earnings for 2004 with full-year earnings from continuing operations in a range of $2.31 to $2.35 per common share. This new guidance represents an increase from the previous guidance of $2.25 to $2.30 per common share. The Company anticipates that fourth quarter 2004 earnings from continuing operations will be in a range of $.50 to $.54 per common share, compared with fourth quarter 2003 earnings of $.32 per common share, which included a non-cash charge for goodwill impairment of $.09 per common share. The fourth quarter is seasonally one of the Company's lowest quarters in terms of sales and earnings.

The new earnings guidance includes the benefit of recent common share repurchases and continues to reflect increases in a number of operating expenses, including such items as certain material, freight, energy and insurance costs, as well as costs and expenses associated with complying with the new requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Legislation. The year's guidance also includes income related to the Behr litigation of $.04 per common share in the first nine months of 2004 (principally in the first half), but excludes any fourth quarter Behr litigation income (as such amounts cannot be predicted), any gains or charges for businesses to be divested, other possible unusual items and the impact of share repurchases subsequent to September 30th, 2004.

The Company previously announced, in the first quarter of 2004, the planned disposition of several European businesses that are not core to the Company's long-term growth strategy. During the third quarter of 2004, the Company completed the sale of two of these businesses, Jung Pumpen in Germany and The Alvic Group in Spain. Total proceeds from the sale of these businesses were $191 million. The Company recognised a pre-tax, net gain on the disposition of these businesses of $108 million ($93 million or $.21 per common share, after tax).

In addition, the Company recognised an additional pre-tax charge of $31 million related to the remaining businesses held for sale due to lower-than-expected operating results as well as weaker-than-expected demand for the businesses that the Company is divesting (these items are included in discontinued operations). During the third quarter of 2003, the Company recognised a pre-tax gain from the sale of businesses aggregating approximately $91 million and also $6 million from the operating results of those businesses (aggregating $.12 per common share, after tax; these items are included in discontinued operations). Including discontinued operations, net income for the 2004 third quarter increased to $359 million compared with $319 million for the 2003 third quarter, and earnings increased to $.80 per common share compared with $.65 per common share for the third quarter of 2003.

Web: http://www.masco.com

Finalists Announced for Eleventh Annual Bathrooms And Kitchens Industry Awards

Following three days of intensive judging at the prestigious Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), in London, the finalists of the 11th Annual Bathrooms And Kitchens Industry Awards have now been announced.

The national awards programme features 10 categories, which recognise and reward excellence in design and retail.

Finalists for the Young Designer for Bathrooms are:
Darren Barker - Nicholas Anthony, Colchester; Julie Collins - Porcelanosa, Glasgow; Louise Tagare - Porcelanosa, Glasgow and Susan Quirke - Quirke McNamara.

Finalists for the Young Designer for Kitchens are:
Martin Brown - Connaught Kitchens, Breeda O'Donoghue - Houseworks, Becky Spellman - Nicholas Anthony and Zoe Gething - Treyone Woodcraft

Finalists for the Designer Award for Bathrooms are:
Andrew Bannister - Design Republic; Andrew Rizza - Dream Design; Marie Laurence Camara Ferguson - Ice Cube Design and Alison Ebanks - Obsidian

Finalists for the Designer Award for Kitchens are:
Martin Holliday - Chiselwood; Philip Ozario - Connaught Kitchens; Vikki Service - Houseworks and Tristan de-la-Haye - Kitchen Culture.

Finalists for the Showroom Award for Bathrooms are:
Charisma, Dream Design, John Nichols, Versatile
Finalists for the Showroom Award for Kitchens are:
Crabtree Kitchens, Design House, Houseworks (Belfast), Nicholas Anthony (London)

Finalists for the Marketing Award for Bathrooms are:
CP Hart, Dream Design, Ripples (Chichester), Versatile

Finalists for the Marketing Award for Kitchens are:
Crabtree Kitchens, Dream Design, Kitchen Culture, Norwood Interiors

Finalists for the Master Retailer Award for Bathrooms are:
The Bathroom Boutique, CP Hart, Versatile, The Yard

Finalists for the Master Retailer Award for Kitchens are:
Crabtree Kitchens, Design House, Dream Design, Norwood Interiors

The judging panel included eight experts, who were chosen for their wealth of experience in spatial design, contribution to the industry and business acumen. Each has made a major impact in the industry and was especially selected for their specialist skills in the relevant categories.

Chairman of the judging panel, Philippa Turrell said, ‘As always the standard of entries has been extremely high. It is fantastic to see so many designers and retailers putting tremendous effort into their work which shows through in the high calibre submissions.

‘New to the awards this year, are the product innovation awards, introduced to honour our belief that dream living spaces could not be realised without the creation of innovative bathroom and kitchen products. Ideal Standard, Jacuzzi, Sunshower International and Impey UK have reached the final 4 bathroom products while Beyond, Bushboard, Rieber and Siemens are in the shortlist for kitchen products.'

Now it is all down to the industry to decide which product is the best. Votes can be submitted online at http://www.bathroomskitchens.co.uk.

All the award winners will be announced a glittering award ceremony at London's Grosvenor House Hotel on 1st February 2005. Tables are still available but going fast. To book please telephone 020 8565 3091 or download a booking form from http://www.bathroomskitchens.co.uk/awards.

Trade Appliances Wins £40,000 in DTI backed Awards 

Nottingham based online appliance retailer, Trade Appliances, has been named the national winner of the sixth DTI / InterForum E-Commerce Awards 2004, sponsored by The Royal Bank of Scotland Group, for the innovative way in which it has applied technology to advance its electronic trading and supply chain efficiency, and transformed the efficiency, effectiveness and overall performance of its business. 

Trade Appliances (http://www.trade-appliances.co.uk), whose use of e-commerce technologies has enabled it to transform itself from a traditional retail and supply chain business, also won the East Midlands regional and national e-trading category and beat an incredible 74 other small and medium sized organisations from across the UK at the final of the National E-Commerce Awards 2004 to win the grand cash prize of £30,000.   

Mike O'Brien, Minister of State for Energy, and E-Commerce presented Darren Pepper, Managing Director of Trade Appliances, with the cheque at an awards ceremony held at The Grosvenor House Hotel in London on 6th October 2004 , also attended by the national E-Commerce Awards sponsors The Royal Bank of Scotland Group. 

Mike O'Brien commented, 'The E-Commerce Awards reflect that the UK has developed one of the most innovative and exciting e-commerce environments in the world. 

'We must continue improving the way technology is used to maintain and increase this competitiveness. The DTI is supporting this by ensuring that advice and resources are available for businesses, and that they have the right skills to implement developing technologies. 

'Britain can be proud of today's winners. They are showcasing best practice e-business. By sharing this best practice, they are encouraging other organisations to really exploit the benefits that technology offers, increasing their efficiency, productivity and profitability, and, ultimately contributing towards a stronger economy.'

As well as five national category winners, three new national innovation category winners were selected from a total 75 E-Commerce Awards finalists. Having all received £2,000 at the regional heats, the national winners won a further £8,000 at the national final.
 
Trade Applicances was awarded the overall title of National E-Commerce Awards winner 2004 for its implementation and use of e-trading and supply-chain technology, enabling the company to grow and manage its business, doubling turnover in the last 12 months, with 80% of their sales coming from the web.
Technology also has been instrumental in helping Trade Appliances to overcome a fire in their head office and warehouse to achieve their best-ever sales the following month. 

Phil Flaxton, Chief Executive of InterForum, said 'Since the Awards inception in 1999, we have seen entrants' steadily increasing maturity and innovative use of technology, endorsing clearly how technology is all about integration, transformation and enhanced business processes. In 2004, the Awards entrants demonstrate how the clever and considered application of technology represents a complete reassessment and shift in the way that business is done, and at its most successful, forms a core part of a fully integrated competitive strategy for business growth.' 

'Our congratulations go to all winners, and in particular to Trade Appliances, who has demonstrated just how an innovative use of technology can help to completely transform a business.' 

Dr. Andy Ross, Director of E-Commerce and Internet at The Royal Bank of Scotland Group, said:   'This is the sixth year that the Royal Bank of Scotland Group has sponsored these awards and it's a delight to see just how far e-commerce has become an integral part of our business. The benefits of e-commerce aren't just restricted to big businesses with three quarters of e-commerce businesses having less than 10 employees. What is very clear is that e-commerce allows all businesses to compete on a level playing field and these awards are about showcasing the best of them.' 

The E-Commerce Awards are open to any organisation with less then 250 employees and recognise and reward innovation in the application of Internet and information and communication technologies to transform small and medium sized businesses in the UK. 

Further information about this year's Awards and details on how to pre-register or nominate a company free of charge for next year can be found on the dedicated web site http://www.ecommerce-awards.co.uk. 

Trade Appliances: http://www.trade-appliances.co.uk

Broughton Crangrove Moves to new 100,000sq ft Premises

Broughton Crangrove, distributor of quality brands, has been storming ahead with successful promotional and incentive campaigns over the last half decade resulting in a move to new premises.

In September, Broughton Crangrove moved to a new state-of-the-art building on the Network 65 Business Park in Burnley, Lancashire. Providing a 100,000 sq.ft of office and warehousing, the facility provides easy logistical access for its commercial delivery fleet and provides an up to the minute customer care service to ensure the goods arrive swiftly the next day.

Allan Nutter, Commercial Director adds, ‘It is tremendous to be able to operate from superbly designed premises which are not only aesthetically attractive but provide the facilities we have been longing for. The fantastic growth we have experienced means we can support our 10,000 strong customer base with an even more efficient service.’ He goes on to say, ‘We retain the warehousing and distribution facility at both Worcester and West Horndon to ensure that we serve our customers as quickly and as efficiently as possible.’

Following the acquisition of Galley Matrix in 2003 the business has forged ahead bringing new opportunities for the industry, and all central functions are now in the same building. Galley Matrix also retains bases in St Albans and Leeds to achieve a proficient service throughout the UK.

Tel: 0870 6060601
Web: http://www.broughtoncrangrove.co.uk

Major Report on the DIY Multiples Market- UK 2004

A seventh major review ofthe UK DIY Multiples Market has been published by AMA Research. The report represents an informed and comprehensive review ofthis fast changing £7+ billion market and is fully updated for 2004, containing information on activities within the market during 2002/2003 and incorporating original input and primary research.

Emphasis is given to both quantitative and qualitative assessments of market developments - with interpretation of relevant data to give support to the trends and to provide a basis for extrapolating future prospects for the DIY Multiples market.

The report includes an analysis of the major DIY Multiples including sales by product group, relative strengths and weaknesses, and market positioning. There is also an expanded section reviewing purchasing procedures including information on range reviews, supplier selection criteria, systems, and environmental policies.

The key product sectors are examined with the report including information on market size, distribution channels, key influences and trends. Sectors analysed include Bathrooms; Fumiture; Windows & Floorcoverings; Building Materials; Garden / Leisure; Hardware / Housewares / Tools; and Lighting / Electrical. Commentary on competitor distribution channels includes performance comparisons with Builders Merchants, Garden Centres and Retail Specialists. This 139 page report is available now and is priced at £565.

Since 1990, the UK DIY multiples market has experienced growth of over 130% and in 2002 is estimated to be worth just over £6 billion at Retail Selling Prices (RSP). The following chart illustrates the performance of the market since 1990 with each year's estimated market value:-

The UK DIY Multiples market has often demonstrated an ability to withstand fluctuations in economic uncertainty as the continued growth during the early 1990's illustrates. During the mid 1990's, the market benefited from more positive housing and refurbishment levels as well as higher levels of consumer confidence driven by factors such as financial windfalls.

Towards the end of the last century, economic uncertainty prompted less optimistic growth forecasts in the market, although growth ofjust under 8% in 1999 was still evident, reflecting the sector's ability to outperform other competitive retail sectors. This growth continued into 2000 and 2001, with the market increasing by around 6-7%, despite a number of negative influences such as poor weather, the fuel crisis, the foot and mouth epidemic and a global economic slowdown.

During this period the market also experienced significant turmoil in terms of consolidation, with a major change in the structure of the market, following the acquisition of Wickes and Great Mills by Focus; and Homebase by venture capitalist Schroders. These acquisitions resulted in a number of important strategic changes for the main retailers in the sector, with Homebase withdrawing from 'warehouse' format stores, shifting the company's product mix and focussing solely on the UK market. This was followed by B&Q extending its activity both in Europe and on an intemational scale. In addition, the withdrawal of Homebase from large format stores, provided B&Q with the opportunity to ambitiously speed up its Warehouse format programme of openings.

2002 saw a continuation of these fundamental changes in the market, with the announcement of the acquisition of Homebase by GUS, the parent company of Argos. Over the last 2-3 years, these changes have offered greater differentiation opportunities by the multiples, with Homebase shifting more towards homewares and furniture in a mezzanine format store, while B&Q follows the larger scale warehouse format.

Focus Wickes, now the second largest DIY multiple in the UK, continues to operate the Focus and Wickes operations on a separate basis, with distribution and supply benefits indicated to be the main reason for the acquisition.

In terms of the number of outlets, the rapid growth of outlets experienced in the 1990's has stabilised in recent years, with current levels at around 1,100. Refurbishment of existing stores is becoming increasingly common. Homebase has begun installing Mezzanine floors to enhance ranges in furniture, furnishings and kitchens while B&Q has started to change supercentre formats to 'Mini-Warehouse' formats, offering wider choice.

Housewares/Hardwares and Tools continue to contribute around 10% by value to the overall DIY Multiples market, representing a value of around £600 million. The housewares segment of this sector is indicated to be showing strongest signs of growth and this area is indicated to hold significant potential for growth in the short to medium term. The Furniture sector is currently estimated to account for around 8% ofthe total multiples market in 2002, although indications are that this may increase with Homebase likely to augment their range in this area in the short term.

The Window and Floorcoverings sectors account for around £420 million at RSP in 2002, reflecting a share ofaround 7%. Bathrooms are also significant in this market, currently estimated to contribute just over £400 million or around 7%.

Tel: 01242 235724
Email: mailto:sales@amaresearch.com
Web: http://www.amaresearch.co.uk

Barwick to Distribute Vectaire’s X-Mart Range

Barwick has announced its immediate appointment as distributor for Vectaire’s X-Mart range of axial extractor fans. This introduction adds a new dimension to Barwick’s portfolio and gives bathroom retailers the opportunity to add further value to their bathroom sales.

Currently most extractor fans installed are basic low cost products, often purchased without alternatives being considered. Features such as an easy cleaning, removable front and an automatic self opening and closing shutter, which prevents re-entry of stale or cold air, ensure that X-Mart extractor fans offer a superior option. X-Mart fans also offer quality and durability, in addition to ultra quiet and efficient air extraction. A choice of modern white or stainless steel finishes are available, which combined with the minimalist shapes of X-Mart, provide the contemporary looks that customers demand to complement today’s stylish bathrooms. Combined with prices starting at £42.67 (retail ex VAT), this new concept offers retailers the opportunity of great rewards as an additional source of profitable turnover.

Vectaire offers a wide range of size and installation options for the X-Mart extractor fans, making them suitable for use in bathrooms, shower rooms, utility rooms and kitchens. There are three versions available; standard, timer and humidity control, each available in a choice of three sizes; 10, 12 and 15cm.

Tel: 01274 687555
Email: mailto:info@barwick-bradford.co.uk
Web: http://www.barwick-bradford.co.uk

Hibberd Distribution Wins Clayton Homes Contract

Clayton Homes Ltd, winner of the Built-In Quality Volume House Builder Of The Year Award 2004, has appointed Blackpool based Hibberd Distribution Ltd to supply and install the complete kitchen package for its latest development. H.D.L. has designed a package specifically for Clayton Homes' new 119 luxury apartments and penthouses development at Valley Mill, a 120 year old Victorian Mill in Elland, West Yorkshire, combining a selection of modern kitchen furniture with Hotpoint Built-in appliances.

Managing Director Mr Kris Clayton commented on the appointment: 'Hibberd has been chosen by Clayton Homes Ltd due to the company’s proven track record of delivering a high quality service. Hibberd is known for the supply of top quality products, tailored to fit individual builder requirements. Along with a first class kitchen design service using the latest CAD technology and a complete installation service, as well as the critical after sales care.'

The Marketing Suite created by Clayton Homes Ltd is proving to be a huge success with 28 units already sold, the suite consists of complete room settings including a sitting room, bedrooms with en-suite, bathroom, and a complete fitted kitchen incorporating Hotpoint's ST98P self cleaning single oven, the new ET7424 induction hob, the 6685 built in combined Microwave and Fan Oven, and Hotpoint's Built-In HCM 60 S/S coffee maker.

Tony Hibberd Managing Director of Hibberd Distribution Ltd comments on the partnership, ‘Its been a fantastic experience to work with both Kris and his Co-Director Steven Ellis, on yet another prestigious Clayton Homes development. The Marketing Suite looks amazing, and is testament to the standard to which these properties will be finished. We are very proud to have won this contract, it took a year of hard work to secure, and our Area Sales Manager for West York, Janet Fairclough, must be given huge credit for her efforts, on behalf of both Hibberd Distribution Ltd and Hotpoint Built-In appliances’.

For more information on Hibberd Distribution Ltd's products and services call 01253 345588 or visit http://www.hibberddistribution.co.uk. For further details on Hotpoint's Built-In Collection visit http://www.hotpoint.co.uk.

Hotpoint and Ariel Join Forces with £1 Million TV Ad Campaign

Hotpoint's new endorsement of Ariel has been kicked off with a £1 million TV ad campaign, launched on 16th October. The ad's message is that there is no better combination at cool temperatures than Hotpoint and Ariel. Star of the ad is the Hotpoint Ultima WF865 Satin Aluminium washing machine with Super Silent operation. In a darkened kitchen moths are attracted to the brightness of the laundry in the Hotpoint and Ariel wash.

Conveying Hotpoint's refreshed identity 'Designed for the real world', the ad uses the brand's distinctive theme music from its recent range ad. Running throughout October and November, this TV campaign is being supported by Hotpoint and Ariel in-store demonstrations in over 400 grocery stores.

Neil Tunstall, Marketing Director at Hotpoint comments; 'The TV ad is an excellent way to begin Hotpoint's relationship with Ariel. Together with our range commercial, the new advert again communicates the new Hotpoint brand identity to consumers reinforcing our 'Designed for the real world' message.'

Hotpoint Trade Brochure Line 0870 777 6485 or visit http://www.hotpoint.co.uk

Impulse Products for Upmarket Development

Prestigious house builder, Silver Homes, located in the South of England, enjoys a reputation for building beautiful executive homes in prime locations.

Happily for sanitary ware manufacturer, Impulse Bathrooms of Birmingham, the company’s products have been specified by Silver Homes for its latest exclusive housing developments in Tunbridge Wells. With as many as four luxurious designer bathrooms in each prestigious house, the Impulse Odessa range of sinks and cisterns/pans have been chosen for their stylish and contemporary design. Quality of manufacture was a ‘must’ for this superior development; top-notch fittings throughout these large 5 bedroom executive houses are evident.

The full range of Impulse bathroom products is distributed in the South of England by Qualitex, a successful distributor for a number of bathroom brand and it was this company’s knowledge of the Impulse range combined with contacts at Silver Homes that sealed the deal.

Gary Hawkins from Impulse said, ‘We are very pleased that Impulse products have been associated with these delightful housing developments. They are shown off to their best effect by the wonderful design and quality of all the bathroom fittings. We look forward to working with both Qualitex and Silver homes in the future to supply further products’.

The Impulse range is clean, modern and sophisticated, suitable for new builds of any sizes, as well as refurbishment projects. The range features space saving options, as well as bathroom furniture for the latest in trends and styling.

Tel: 0121 328 6824

Waterbury Lands Prestigious Listing with Manchester Store

Bathroom accessories brand Waterbury has landed another prestigious listing this season - with leading Manchester home furnishings retailer Housing Units.

The news has been welcomed as further high profile endorsement for Waterbury, whose products are already specified by the Hilton Hotel chain worldwide.

Waterbury's Chia (pictured) and Urban Spa bathroom ranges can now be viewed in the extensive showroom at Failsworth-based Housing Units - which is one of the biggest independent retailers in the north of England.

Sandy Madahar, Marketing Manager at Waterbury, said:‘We are really delighted to see Waterbury products in Housing Units, which is now one of the North's most important shopping locations.

‘The showroom has a distinctive and luxurious feel and this is just the kind of setting that highlights the unique qualities of our bathroom accessories. A trip to Housing Units is now one of the big shopping days out for people in this part of England.’

Elsewhere, Waterbury is hoping to bring a touch of old style Hollywood glamour to bathrooms with its new 23-carat gold Sienna collection. The range - which is being heralded as an alternative to chrome, stainless steel and plastic - is set to recreate the golden era of tinsel town in the '40 and '50s.

Available exclusively in John Lewis stores nationwide, every item in this range has been hand crafted and incorporates a 23-carat gold fitting, for a sophisticated look.

Tel: 0121 333 6062

Sanitec Strengthens its Position in the Middle East

Sanitec Group has been strengthening its sales significantly in the Middle East in 2004 and will continue throughout 2005. 'We believe the Middle East to be the dominant export region in 2007. Sanitec wants to offer reliable, innovative and high-quality partnership for projects and the retail industry in the area. We have achieved a very strong position in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) already, and our regional sales will increase by one-fifth in 2004,' analyses Marek Kukuryka, Senior Vice President, CA&E, Exports.

Sanitec's export sales in the Middle East are expected to grow to approximately 9 million euros (7.6 million euros in 2003), which will result in almost 20% growth in 2004. The most successful markets year to date September 2004 have been Saudi Arabia (+84.5%), Cyprus (+48.6%), Lebanon (+41.3%) and Jordan (+17.9%).

Twyford, Keramag, Albatros and Revita are Sanitec's top brands in the Middle East, which accounted for over 60% of total sales in the region in 2003. Year to date September, Twyford has even strengthened its market position, while Keramag succeeded to double its net sales. The most significant growth has been achieved by Albatros and Revita, which tripled their net sales compared to last year.

New Series and One-Piece Toilet for public construction and housing
Sanitec is enforcing its sales operations with product development projects focusing especially on customers in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Cyprus, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain and Lebanon. Going into this market requires in-depth understanding of the local market needs.

'We are dedicated to providing unique product offering in the Middle East, customised for the local requirements. One example of this is the one-piece toilet, which Sanitec developed as a completely new product for the Middle Eastern market,' describes Theo Fischer, Area Manager, Middle East and Asia. The one-piece toilet, made of a single ceramic piece, is often required for hotels and master bathrooms, as it is regarded as a high-end luxury product. Sales volume for the one-piece toilet is expected to reach 15,000 pieces per year. 'With such customised approach, we are confident to realise above average growth rates in the region,' adds Marek Kukuryka.

The high investment boom to the Middle East is predicted to continue over the next years. Approximately 80% of Sanitec's sales there is project-related. Currently, Sanitec's major projects are The Palm Project, Jumeriah Beach Residence, the Emirates Hills Residence, the International Finance Centre and The New Shopping Malls in the UAE, as well as the Cardiology and Orthopaedic Hospitals in Qatar. Annual growth of the construction business in the Middle East is estimated to be around 5.5%. Of the total volume, about 15% is estimated to be operated by foreign contractors.

New concepts developed by global top designers
Sanitec's product portfolio in the Middle East includes high-end and middle-range products. The newest addition to the portfolio is the F1 luxury bathroom ensemble developed by Keramag, F.A. Porsche design studio and Grohe. F1 complements Sanitec's offering for the most prestigious projects and hotels in the area.

Furthermore, Twyford introduced three new suites this autumn: Integrity, Distinction and Serenity. 'Serenity is designed by Antonio Citterio, while Distinction and Integrity are Twyford's innovations. The launch resulted in over 500,000 euros of orders taken in one day. Brand recall for Twyford in the marketplace is one of the highest after 50 years of being present in the Middle East,' explains Theo Fischer.

Sanitec entered the Middle East in 1998 and currently exports to 14 countries in the region. Sanitec shares the ownership of Lecico, the leading manufacturer of bathroom ceramics and tiles in Egypt and the Middle East.

Web: http://www.sanitec.com

105 Poggenpohl Luxury Kitchens for Manhattan Tower

Poggenpohl’s American kitchen experts in New York City are fitting out 105 apartments in a new 53-storey high-rise building at the heart of Manhattan with lavish luxury kitchens. One Beacon Court is the name of this 246-metre high glass tower which stands at 151 East 58th Street and was designed by architect Cesar Pelli, with interiors by Jacques Grange. The apartments equipped with Poggenpohl kitchens are located above the office space on floors 30 to 53. The penthouse right at the top costs around 26 million dollars.

The beige-white high-rise apartment block (with the white tower on top) seen in the left foreground is the building with the most expensive ever residential space in Manhattan: 515 Park Avenue. The 53 luxurious apartments and suites on 43 storeys are likewise equipped with roomy Poggenpohl kitchens. These homes were sold for over 30,000 dollars per square metre.

The ground floor of the brown tower building directly opposite the new glass high-rise block (on the right of the picture) houses one of the two Poggenpohl showrooms in Manhattan. The USA is one of Poggenpohl’s biggest export markets, accounting for 20% of sales. The American distribution company Poggenpohl U.S. Inc., based in Wayne / New Jersey, was formed in the seventies to look after the distributors and also runs nine studios of its own. Poggenpohl delivers to over 60 countries worldwide and is a well known kitchen brand internationally. The export share is well over 70 %.

For more information on the construction project:
http://www.onebeaconcourt.com

Steam Cooker adds Quality to Life

'Purchasers of Miele steam cookers are extremely satisfied with their product and use it regularly. Hardly anyone would like to do without their steam cooker again', a recent survey of Miele customers a few months after purchase revealed.
 
'The steam cooker achieved excellent results in this survey in the question of repeat purchases: Over 93% of the purchasers stated that they would opt for a DG 2000 again. This is a sensational result for a domestic appliance which set itself the task of revolutionising cooking.' said the company.

Voluntary product testers gave top marks to vegetables and potatoes cooked in the DG 2000. Marks were awarded according to the German school marking scheme ranging from 1 (excellent) to 6 (unsatisfactory). The steam cooker achieved a mark of 1.17, closely followed by a mark of 1.38 for cooking fish.

The evaluation of user habits revealed that vegetables were prepared most frequently in the steam cooker, on average 13 times a month. Once a taste for steam cooking has been acquired, the DG 2000 is used at least 2 to 4 times a week in 40% of all households. This is even more remarkable since ovens and hobs are standard appliances in most kitchens. In households with steam cookers, the hob is less frequently used. Seven out of ten people polled stated that the steam cooker was used to prepare an entire menu – evidence of the versatility of the appliance. Frequent use of the DG 2000 is clear proof of a change in cooking and eating habits.

In the 'design' and 'operation' categories, purchasers confirmed that the DG 2000 not only guarantees excellent cooking results, but also looks good in the kitchen. Special mention was given to simple programme selection as well as the excellent readability of the display. Marks for the operating instructions and the enclosed recipe booklet ranged from good to very good, making a Miele steam cooker the best in its category.

Almost 1000 households in Germany and Austria which had purchased a steam cooker prior to the survey were polled. The questionnaires were completed and returned by approximately half of the customers, providing information on personal habits and experience with their new appliance.

Texluce Comes to Lathams

A new concept for interior design is arriving at James Latham in the form of new panel product, Texluce, from Italian processor Piarottolegno.

The UK panel and timber distributor is exclusively supplying this product across all its depots, after maintaining a long-standing trading relationship with the family-run manufacturer.

Texluce is a solid timber laminated panel with alternative strips of 6mm acrylic, which provides good aesthetics and encourages exciting design capabilities.

Available in a range of species, such as European maple, birch, beech and cherry, Texluce is suitable for the up-market hospitality industry, including wine bars, restaurants, hotels and kitchens, as the product works well in contemporary open spaces that mix the modern with the traditional.

Group panel products director, Chris Sutton says, ‘It is fantastic news for us that we are constantly able to add to our range of products from Piarottolegno, as it helps us to provide even more choice for our customers.’

He adds, ‘We are now exclusively stocking a wide selection of species, thicknesses and sizes in Texluce throughout the UK.’

As well as Texluce, James Latham also supplies Texwood®, a range of laminated hardwood panels, and Texblock®, which are suitable for use as kitchen chopping boards, supplied in white and rustic beech.

James Latham continues to add to its extensive choice of panel products and high quality hardwoods, softwoods and timber flooring products.

Tel: 0116 281 2264
Email: mailto:marketing@lathams.co.uk
Web: http://www.lathamtimber.co.uk

Icebox Display Offers

In an effort to drive display sales of the Icebox entertainment unit, Beyond is offering free installation and a free CCTV camera with every Icebox ordered for showroom displays. Current feedback suggests that when the unit is shown with as many functions as possible connected, the retailer will experience a much higher level of sales. KitchenVision, the UK distributor for Icebox, is confident that this will boost display sales in the run up to Christmas and the New Year.

Icebox Sales Incentives
In addition to the display offers, Beyond is also offering the first ten consumers from each retailer a sales incentive in the form of either a glass Russell Hobbs toaster and Panini press or a Black and White Night vision wireless CCTV system to use with their Icebox.

For more information on how to take advantage of either these opportunities, contact KitchenVision on 01932 252458.

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

DIY-ers Go Round the Bend!

Britain's DIY-ers are going round the bend, or at least they should be according to leading psychologist, Dr David Holmes of Manchester Metropolitan University.

In a man-made world of sharp edges and straight lines, it seems that adding a few more curves to our environment could make us more productive and efficient.

In a report commissioned by Neat Concepts, he comments ‘Curves are an essentially natural feature, which has evolved from our environment starting in the womb. In fact, straight lines are almost non-existent in the natural world, which is why people prefer rounded shapes, as these make us feel comfortable and safe.

‘Feeling secure is essential when it comes to performance as it allows us to concentrate on the job in hand instead of expending energy on keeping safe - which is the primal instinct for survival.’

Manufactured by Neat Concepts, Neatform Bendy MDF is suitable for creating unusual, curved surfaces. As well as being easy to use, it is versatile enough to help create all sorts of different features, from covering up unsightly pipes in the kitchen, to producing curved desks, or creating an unusual seating area in a lounge.

Dr Holmes continues, ‘Neatform has broken the flat, straight limits of DIY and delivered more aesthetically pleasing curves into our homes and offices. Its unique bending properties allow DIYers to unleash their creativity and add more personal and inspiring touches to their environment.’

With its smooth surface suitable for painting, Neatform Bendy MDF is a good material for creating everything from a curved kitchen breakfast bar, to a piece of furniture such as a coffee table which will not only be practical, but will also help create a comfortable and relaxing environment.

Neatform is available at B&Q and is priced at £5.38 per board.

Tel: 020 8807 5805
Email: mailto:info@neatconcepts.com
Web: http://www.neatconcepts.com

Romans Build their Empire on Mercedes

Two brothers have taken the plunge and started up their own business selling bathroom suites and equipment - with a little help from Mercedes-Benz.

David and Tony Roman opened the doors of Roman Bathroom Studios on Foots Cray High Street, Sidcup, recently, and already the showroom and plumbing trade outlet has been awash with customers.

One of their first purchases was a Mercedes Sprinter 208CDI van, supplied by Sittingbourne dealer Sparshatts of Kent. The vehicle delivers bathrodm suites and associated products to new customers, and its wheels have barely stopped turning.

'We set a conservative target for our first month and already we've far exceeded that figure,' explains a delighted David. 'Tony and I have been in the industry for over 30 years between us and had always pondered on setting up our own showroom with a trade counter for plumbers. We know the industry very well; it was just a case of having the courage to do it.'

And this is just the start of the Romans' empire, says David. 'I've always wanted to be a millionaire and now I've taken the first step to achieve that goal. The shop is open six days a week, 7.30am to 5pm, and I work every hour to ensure it'll be a success.'

The brothers were determined to give their new venture the best start possible by investing in the finest tools of the trade - including their van. 'A friend advised us to approach Sparshatts and the dealer's salesman Tony Kitchen was as good as gold.'

He continues: 'Tony did us a fantastic deal. In fact, both the service and the van itself have turned out to be first class.

'As the company is just starting out we need a vehicle that will last us for at least five years. Sprinters are renowned for their reliability and our 208CDI will give us a good return when the time comes to part with it. And despite its size it's not a bit sluggish - it's a case of Sprinter by name, Sprinter by nature!'

Tel: 01795 479571