Aqata
Expands Midlands Factory
Aqata,
one of the UK's leading independent British manufacturers of shower enclosures,
is extending its factory space at its headquarters in Leicestershire.
The extension, which will add another 16,000 sq ft of space to Aqata's
growing operations, is due for completion in August 2007. This will provide
over 66,000 sq ft of fully owned industrial space.
Aqata's
factory expansion will provide the family-owned company with more space
to optimise efficiency levels, increasing the capacity of the faster moving
products and providing more holding space for raw materials.
The factory in Hinckley, Leicestershire, is centrally located within the
UK and has good motorway links together with excellent facilities. The
location enables Aqata to service its nationwide network of specialist
retailers, ensuring the increasing number of orders are manufactured and
delivered to retailers on time.
Jayne Barnes, Sales and Operations Director of Aqata, says: 'Aqata is
growing and investing in its future. In order to support our careful and
controlled growth, and to maintain our strong and independent foothold
in the market, we need more space. Aqata took the decision to purchase
the land adjacent to our existing location, enabling us to remain on our
original site and expand naturally. The extension will allow us to continue
to use the highest quality materials and maintain the highest manufacturing
standards.'
In 2004 Aqata built an additional 9,000 sq ft of space in order to increase
its operations, and is pleased to be able to continue to further develop
the site which will provide over 66,000 sq ft of fully owned industrial
space and extra car parking.
For more information about Aqata's products please visit www.aqata.co.uk
or email info@aqata.co.uk.
Bathroom
Academy Students Lead on Water Efficiency
Bathroom
Academy students are leading the way on water efficiency with Dorota Pawlik
and Richard Clarke, both of Wilky Bathrooms, being the first two Members
of the Bathroom Academy to complete the Water Efficiency Merit.
The Water Efficiency Merit differs from other Merits as it is not linked
to a Generic Industry Guide and instead students must conduct guided research
using the BMA website at www.bathroom-association.org/watersaving,
the BMA fact sheets Let's Use Water Wisely and Sky To Tap, plus any other
useful sources they come across.
To attain this Merit, students must complete a workbook consisting of
generic questions covering all aspects of water efficiency in the UK.
They must also report about the work of other organisations that promote
water efficiency; research into water efficient products that are currently
on the market; answer 40 multiple choice questions; and finally, choose
a water efficient product which they would recommend to a customer and
write a 200-word report explaining why they would recommend the product.
Pawlik, who already holds her Certificate in Bathroom Studies for successfully
completing six Merits, plus a further Merit in Bathroom Furniture, was
able to attend B&K Expo in May 2007 to collect her Water Efficiency
Merit Certificate at the Bathroom Academy's Training Workshop held on
Monday 14 May.
In commenting on her achievement, Pawlik says: 'I was very keen to complete
the Water Efficiency Merit because it is such an important topic. I thought
I knew quite a lot about water efficiency, but there is always something
new to learn!
'Now, thanks to the research I conducted for the Merit, I am fully au
fait with the water efficient products currently available on the market
and I can confidently advise my customers.'
In praising Pawlik, BMA Chief Executive Yvonne Orgill says: 'We are extremely
proud of the students from Wilky Bathrooms. Dorota and Richard have done
extremely well to achieve their Certificate in Bathroom Studies and it
is a huge compliment to the Bathroom Academy that they are keen to go
beyond that with further studies.'
All study material in the form of Generic Industry Guides is available
free of charge from the new virtual Bathroom Academy at www.bathroom-academy.co.uk.
The Guides are extremely popular with more than 5,000 downloaded each
month.
Written by Industry experts, each Guide offers a consistent voice and
follows the same five elements: right choice of product; generic industry
design; generic industry installation; FAQ; and, Industry terminology,
providing invaluable product knowledge to installers, merchants and retailers.
Students wishing to receive a certificate to authenticate their knowledge
can pay a small fee to complete the workbooks and sit the tests, all online
at www.bathroom-academy.co.uk.
Pawlik concludes: 'I would recommend that all students complete the Certification
Programme. There is nothing like receiving the certificates to prove that
you have taken the time to become more professional. I am very proud of
my Bathroom Academy certificates and the level of knowledge I have attained.'
To find out more about the Bathroom Academy visit www.bathroom-academy.co.uk
or contact Training Manager Phil Lumley at phil.lumley@bathroom-association.org.uk.
Pyramis,
the Greek stainless steel sink manufacturer which produces over one million
sinks a year, has signed up a further four well-known companies to distribute
its range of sinks and taps throughout the UK. This brings the total number
of distributors to seven.
The new distributors are: Briten who have been established over 25 years
and distribute wholesale throughout the Midlands offering a next day delivery.
AC Distribution based in South Wales, a medium sized company who offer
a 'one stop shop' for kitchens, sinks, taps and worktops. WAD, a very
successful company who distribute appliances and kitchen sinks and taps
across the Hampshire areas and lastly, The Kitchen Sink Company, servicing
the Home Counties and specialise in the undermount market. They are delighted
to be associated with Pyramis.
The comprehensive range of designs within the Pyramis collection of stainless
steel sinks offer a selection of combinations and finishes manufactured
to stringent standards. Pyramis sinks are manufactured from high grade
18/10 stainless steel and are fully guaranteed.
The new range of precision made contemporary and traditional styled taps
have been selected for their aesthetic and ergonomic qualities and all
work well with the full range of sinks.
Visit www.pyramisuk.co.uk
to view the complete range of sinks and taps.
Bristan
Keeps Pace with Demand
Stealing
a march on the competition, Bristan reports that its 24 hour delivery
service is helping its customers to keep ahead of the game.
Bristan is offering its entire enclosure portfolio delivered within 24-hours.
Since today's customers are incredibly tight for time this is great news
for installers, designers and specifiers, who can now keep the customer
sweet and finish the job in record time.
"When we were planning our shower enclosure collection we conducted
a great deal of research into our customer's top priorities and speedy
delivery was one of the highest on their lists. So we began working with
a third party logistics company and are delighted that all our enclosures
are available within 24-hours of an order being placed," explains
Bristan Group head of marketing Judith Gibbons.
Launched in May 2007, Bristan's shower enclosure collection features three
ranges, Java is aimed at the merchant market, Jute is perfect for new
build and contract projects, while Prism is aimed at the designer market.
As with all its products, Bristan's enclosures are backed by the company's
renowned MascoCare after sales service and the enclosures also come with
a 5-year guarantee.
For more information/stockists call Bristan on 0870 4425555, www.bristan.com.
Clearwater
Distributor In France
Freestanding
bath manufacturer Clearwater Collection has announced a deal with a new
French distributor, Lazer.
Based in Marseilles, Lazer has specialised in bathroom products for over
20 years. It will be selling a selection of both the traditional and contemporary
styles from the Clearwater Collection portfolio.
Darren Allison, managing director of Clearwater Collection comments: 'We
are delighted with this new association. Our baths are proving extremely
popular with many overseas countries, particularly in Europe and the Middle
East. The outstanding design and high quality of our baths along with
their versatility makes Clearwater baths a hugely popular choice.'
Akhima Fakhir, director of Lazer comments: 'We are very pleased to be
selling Clearwater Collection baths in France. Freestanding baths are
a fairly new concept in this country; however they are gaining popularity
all the time, mainly because they add an additional element of luxury
and design to a bathroom.'
Clearwater Collection specialises in the manufacture of double-skin acrylic
freestanding baths and prides itself on the superb quality of its baths
along with the vast range of designs it offers, covering both traditional
and contemporary styles.
The company exports to 25 countries and has recently announced a significant
deal with a major American company. Americh Corp is a well-respected private
company that has been established in the USA since 1982 and has become
the exclusive importer and distributor for Clearwater Collection Ltd in
North America.
Clearwater Collection has also become the exclusive importer and distributor
of Americh products in a number of its export markets.
All Clearwater products feature the distinctive Clearwater badge, which
serves as a unique hallmark of excellence, and come with a lifetime guarantee.
Clearwater Collection recently achieved the internationally recognised
quality accreditation ISO 9001.
For stockist information, please contact Clearwater Collection on 01274
738140 or email: enquiries@clearwater-collection.com
www.clearwater-collection.com.
Dyson
Vacuum Ad Attracts 36 Complaints
A TV ad for Dyson vacuum cleaners featured a voiceover that stated 'The
filter in most vacuums clogs with dust, so there is a drop in suction,
but a Dyson doesn't rely on a filter so there's nothing to clog".
On-screen text stated 'others clog ... ours don't ... Dyson. No clogging.
No loss of suction'.
Hoover Candy Group and 35 members of the public challenged whether:
1. the claim 'a Dyson doesn't rely on a filter so there's nothing to clog'
was misleading, because it implied Dyson cleaners did not have filters,
yet they understood Dyson cleaners contained filters, which became clogged
over time and use and
2. the claim 'No clogging. No loss of suction' was misleading, because
they understood that Dyson cleaners lost suction as a result of clogging.
Dyson said vacuum cleaners picked up dirt and dust from the household,
separated it from the airflow, and retained it inside the machine. They
said all three of those tasks required the cleaner to maximise its suction
power. They said non-Dyson cleaners clogged and lost efficiency as they
performed those tasks.
They said cleaners that used barrier filtration (bags) clogged because,
as the dirty air passed through the bag, it deposited that dust and dirt
on the bag's interior surface. They said large particles hit the bag sides
and fell to the bottom but finer dust settled, penetrated the bag and
covered the small holes that allowed air to travel through the bag, causing
a reduction in the air flow and suction power.
They said non-Dyson bagless cleaners replaced the bag with a combination
of bin and filter. They said, in those cleaners, the larger dirt particles
collected at the bottom of the bin and the finer dust particles were carried
on to the filter. They said, as with the bag cleaner, the finer particles
settled on and penetrated the filter and covered the small holes that
allowed air to pass through the filter. They said that type of cleaner
also suffered from clogging, because the suction power dropped as more
dust was picked up.
Dyson said their cleaners were different, because they used two cyclonic
sections to separate dust and dirt from the air. They said the outer cyclone
separated out the larger dirt particles and deposited them at the bottom
of the clear bin. They said the inner cyclones spun the air around quickly
enough for the fine dust particles to be separated from the air and fall
to the bottom of the bin. They said there was no loss of suction because
there was no clogging.
Dyson said their vacuum cleaners used two filters: one was a pre-motor
filter, designed to protect the vacuum motor from fine dust that could
find its way into the motor, for example, if the machine was overloaded.
The second was a post-motor filter that captured emissions of carbon and
other particles from the motor itself, which ensured that the final air
emissions were suitable for allergy sufferers. They said the primary function
of a vacuum cleaner was to remove dust and dirt from the collected air
and neither of the filters in Dyson cleaners performed that function.
They said the instructions for the use of the Dyson cleaner stated that
the pre-motor filter should be cleaned every six months to avoid clogging
and loss of suction.
Dyson said the periodic cleaning of the filter as a preventative measure
was part of the instructions for normal use of their cleaners. They explained
that, if the instructions were not followed and the filter not cleaned,
there could then be some loss of suction performance. They said loss of
suction performance as a result of not following the instructions for
use was different from loss of suction performance as a result of clogging
in non-Dyson cleaners, which contained bags or filters that clogged even
if they were cleaned.
Dyson sent evidence which showed that five of their cleaners showed no
loss of suction when 500g of dust was added; one of their cleaners showed
no loss of suction when 550g of dust was added and another one of their
cleaners showed no loss of suction when 600g of dust was added.
Dyson said the ad did not claim that their cleaners did not contain filters
but merely stated that, unlike other machines (including other bagless
ones), theirs did not rely on a filter to achieve the primary separation
from the air of dirt, dust and fibres vacuumed from surfaces; that was
achieved by the outer cyclone and inner cyclones. Dyson said the ad, in
particular the claim in the voiceover 'The filter in most vacuums ...
but a Dyson ...' made clear the difference between the way in which filters
in Dyson cleaners and filters in other cleaners worked.
They said the fact that the ad stated 'a Dyson doesn't rely on a filter',
not '... a Dyson does not have a filter...', made clear to viewers that
Dyson cleaners had filters but that those filters operated in a different
way from those found in other cleaners. They said the complainants all
had Dyson cleaners and would therefore know that they had filters; they
said their point of sale material made clear that the cleaners contained
filters.
The Broadcasting Advertising Clearance Centre (BACC) said they sought
expert advice from a consultant and discussed the ad in their secretariat
meeting before clearing it. They said they agreed with Dyson's argument
that, although the ad stated 'a Dyson doesn't rely on a filter', it was
not misleading, because it did not state that there was no filter at all.
They said their consultant had stated ' ... As dust collects in a filter
it gradually fills all the spaces and this can be likened to the effect
on the letters. The demonstration [of clogging] is therefore a fair representation.
Dyson does not 'rely' on filters as at least 99% of filtration is undertaken
in the cyclones. However they [filters] are fitted to Dyson vacuum cleaners,
usually after the cyclones and after the motor (to prevent carbon particles
from the motor from entering the atmosphere) ...'.
They said they had previously approved the claim 'No Dyson cleaners lose
suction as a result of clogging'and had been satisfied by Dyson's evidence
at that time.
Assessment
The ASA noted the report the BACC had commissioned from their expert stated
'... The cyclones do not filter out 100% of the dirt and some of the finest
particles will pass completely through. These are trapped in the pre-motor
filter, which, on some Dyson cleaners, is meant to be washable to keep
it in best condition. There will inevitably be a collection of very fine
particles in this filter, however, in normal use and if treated in accordance
with Dyson's user instructions will not affect the suction. In addition,
any [dust] passing through the pre-motor filter will be trapped in the
final motor exhaust filter along with the carbon dust particles previously
mentioned. This final filter is not meant to be user serviced and is intended
to last the entire life of the vacuum cleaner without attention ...'.
1. Upheld
We understood that neither the pre-motor nor the post-motor filters fitted
in a Dyson cleaner were used in the primary separation of dust and dirt
from the air. We recognised that Dyson had intended the claim to highlight
the difference between the filtration system of Dyson cleaners and that
of other cleaners that relied on a filter or bag for the primary separation
process; the clogging of that filter or bag would result in an eventual
loss of suction.
We considered, however, that viewers were likely to understand the claim
... a Dyson doesn't rely on a filter so theres nothing to clog' to imply
Dyson cleaners did not have a filter, which meant they could not become
clogged, although we appreciated that this was not the message Dyson had
intended to convey.
We noted the post-motor filter collected carbon particles and other emissions
to prevent their passing into the atmosphere, but also understood that
it did not clog and was designed to last the lifetime of the cleaner.
We considered that with reference to this filter, therefore, there was
no viewer detriment in the ad's suggestion that that filter did not exist
and the phrase 'a Dyson doesn't rely on a filter', in isolation, in relation
to the post-motor filter only, was unlikely to mislead.
We also noted, however, although it was not involved in the primary separation
of dust, and this was the difference that Dyson wanted to point out, the
maintenance of the pre-motor filter was essential to ensure it did not
become clogged. We considered, therefore, to state, without qualification,
'... a Dyson doesn't rely on a filter so there's nothing to clog' was
likely to mislead.
2. Upheld
In the context of an ad that focused on the role of filters in vacuums,
we considered that viewers would understand the claim 'No clogging. No
loss of suction' to mean that Dyson vacuum cleaners did not have filters,
which meant they could not become clogged and lose suction.
We noted the expert commissioned by the BACC had accepted Dyson's evidence
that the suction power of certain Dyson cleaners remained constant when
the dust collection bin filled up with certain quantities of dust.
We also noted Dyson's operating instructions indicated that the pre-motor
filter should be washed periodically to prevent it from becoming clogged
and to maintain the suction power of the cleaner. In the context of the
ad, we considered that, because Dyson cleaners contained a filter that
required periodic cleaning to maintain suction performance, the claim
'No clogging. No loss of suction' was misleading.
On points 1 and 2, the ad breached CAP (Broadcast) TV Advertising Standards
Code rules 5.1 (Misleading advertising), 5.2.1 (Evidence), 5.2.2 (Implications)
and 5.2.3 (Qualifications).
Action
The ad should not be broadcast again in its current form.
Screwfix
Freshens Up With Grohe Showers And Taps
Grohe
is the latest leading brand name to appear in the new Screwfix catalogue
(issue 87). Incorporating showers, taps, cisterns and cistern frames for
use in domestic and commercial applications, the extensive Grohe range
has joined over 15,000 high quality, low cost building, maintenance and
refurbishment items for use by all areas of the trade. Full details can
also be seen at screwfix.com.
Featuring Grohe SilkMove technology for smooth operation as well as optimum
control on water flow and temperature, the taps also benefit from the
Grohe StarLight finish which provides a deeper chrome shine. Typical examples
include the Concetto, a super-slick design with forward-leaning body and
clean lines for a fresh modern look, and the Europlus, a bold, powerful
design with enlarged loop-shaped lever that is both convenient and comfortable
to use. Those who prefer a chic, sporty design will like the dynamic fin-shaped
lever of the Eurodisc, whilst the Victorian-style Arabesk offers the refinement
and elegance of days gone by with its' authentic cross-head design and
pleasing curves.
In showers, constant temperatures can be assured, regardless of water
pressure, with the Grohe TurboStat technology found in the Grohtherm 1000
and 2000, whilst the Avensys Traditional model combines period charm with
a Grohe StarLight finish. The Tempesta Duo benefits from Grohe DreamSpray
technology which offers two spray settings as well as Speed Clean nozzles
to prevent the build up of limescale, and Grohe CoolTouch technology to
ensure that it is never too hot to handle.
The ingenious design of the Freehander with its movable shower arm means
that it can switch from head to side shower in one easy movement. In addition
to two spray settings and DreamSpray technology it incorporates Stop and
Eco functions to save both water and energy. Grohe Precision Wireless
Shower Kits are also available to ensure that a warm, inviting shower
is ready and waiting at the touch of a button. The fully adjustable temperature
and flow rate can be pre-set and the use of Grohe TurboStat technology
ensures that the thermostat reacts instantly to any changes in water pressure.
Commercial ranges include Contropress Pillar Taps, Eurodisc Showers and
Taps, an Infrared Basin Tap, Automatic 2000 shower and an Anti-vandal
Shower. A water-saving, dual flush Concealed Cistern with discreet air
button (which does not require direct connection to the cistern and, therefore,
can be located in any position) is also offered for use with back-to-wall
WCs and bathroom furniture. In addition the Grohe range at Screwfix includes
pre-assembled Cistern Frames complete with sanitaryware and fixings to
provide a secure and quick method of installing wall-hung basins, bidets,
urinals and WCs.
Each of these items is supplied with a full 5-year manufacturer's warranty.
Fully committed to customer care and support, Screwfix despatches, on
average, more than 70,000 parcels a week from its state-of-the-art, 325,000
sq ft fulfilment centre. Each item in the catalogue can be ordered 24
hours a day, 365 days a year and all products are supplied complete with
a 30-day money back guarantee. Simply click online at the award winning
screwfix.com, call Freephone on 0500 414141 between 7am and 10pm from
Monday to Friday, and 8am to 8pm on Saturday and Sunday, or visit one
of the Screwfix Trade Counters.
For a free catalogue, call Freephone: 0800 317004 or Freefax: 0800 0562256,
for sales assistance Freephone: 0500 414141, or visit the Screwfix Internet
site: screwfix.com. Catalogues are also available at Screwfix Trade Counters.
Visit screwfix.com/tradecounters
for address information and opening times.
Whirlpool
Changes Air Control and Cooking Platforms in North America
Whirlpool
Corporation has announced changes to its North American air control and
cooking platforms to strengthen its position in the global home appliance
marketplace. The changes are part of an ongoing comprehensive worldwide
plan to optimise the company's regional manufacturing facilities, supply
base, product platforms and technology resources to better support its
leading global brands with innovative products.
As a part of the ongoing global initiative, Whirlpool is negotiating a
licensing agreement with potential global partners to manufacture, market
and distribute air control products that will carry the Whirlpool brand
name.
'This approach brings new opportunities for the Whirlpool brand presence
in air control,' said Marise Kumar, Whirlpool vice president, Business
Strategy and Core Competencies. 'This future transition will offer our
customers expanded product offerings and services.'
Dehumidifiers and air purifiers currently manufactured by Whirlpool at
the LaVergne, Tennessee manufacturing facility will be phased out after
the 2007 air control season. Approximately 330 positions will be eliminated
following the decision. The company will fulfill all consumer requirements
for the 2007 air control season before production ramps down at the LaVergne
plant. Beginning in 2008, Whirlpool customers will see expanded product
offerings and increased services through the new provider.
Whirlpool also announced changes for its North American manufacturing
cooking facilities. As part of the ongoing global initiative, Whirlpool
is optimising production capacity and adjusting its workforce levels to
optimize production capabilities within its cooking manufacturing facilities
and platforms. Single cavity freestanding range units built at the company's
Cleveland, Tennessee manufacturing facility will be relocated to Whirlpool
manufacturing locations in Tulsa, Oklahoma and Celaya, Mexico. Approximately
400 positions will be eliminated in Cleveland following the relocation,
mainly through normal attrition and the reduction of temporary positions.
The company has not yet determined the number of positions being created
at Tulsa and Celaya. The production ramp down of the freestanding cooking
platform in Cleveland will be complete by the end of 2008.
These changes reflect the strategic role of the company's North American
manufacturing base within its global manufacturing and distribution network.
Products from the North American facilities are sold to consumers in the
United States, Mexico, Canada, and in markets around the world.
Chalon
Ancestral Range to be Launched at House & Garden
Chalon
UK Ltd, designers and manufacturers of hand crafted kitchens and freestanding
furniture, will launch its new Chalon Ancestral kitchen range at this
year's Daily Telegraph House & Garden Fair (27th to 30th June) at
Olympia.
Constantly striving to create that nowadays all too hard 'wow factor'
for potential clients, the latest new kitchen range from Chalon is exclusively
handcrafted from Oak - the first time the company has created a whole
kitchen range using this premium priced, premium quality material.
Chalon's last new (consumer) kitchen range to launch was the modular,
fitted Simply Chalon range, which offered a more contemporary look than
the classic freestanding style for which the company is synonymous. By
contrast, the process for thinking about the new Chalon Ancestral range
started with the Research & Development (R&D) team metaphorically
turning around by 180 degrees and looking further back into the past.
Taking inspiration for the range from National Trust / English Heritage
properties and English kitchens of the past, there was a desire to create
an even more traditional kitchen range (a product offering that no main
manufacturer is satisfactorily fulfilling).
'At Chalon, we strongly believe that the traditional style and appeal
of our furniture will never go out of fashion,' commented Stephen Carter,
Managing Director of Chalon UK Ltd. 'There has been so much contemporary
and minimalist influence in recent years and at some point I believe there
will be a widespread return to more traditional designs,' he said.
After the House & Garden Fair, initial plans include displays at the
head quarters showroom in Hambridge, Somerset, as well as at the flagship
King's Road, London showroom.
Chalon UK Ltd view the launch of their new Ancestral range as another
important step in their continuous programme of investment in the brand,
one that has been growing in recognition for well over 25 years.
2007 continues to be a busy one for Chalon, with a new showroom opening
soon in St Albans, several new displays currently being completed at the
King's Road, London showroom and a media Open Day, planned for September
at their Somerset head office.
www.chalon.com.
Price
Increase for Lucite® Cast Acrylic
Lucite®
cast acrylic for sanitary ware, will be subject to a price increase of
€160 per tonne from 1 July 2007. The new pricing will be applied
to customers in the Europe, Africa and Middle East (EAME) region and is
a necessary step to underpin Lucite International’s firm commitment
to remain a reliable, quality supplier to the bathrooms sector.
Clive Makin, Materials General Manager of EAME region commented: 'Continuing
escalation of raw material costs and a marketplace where supply remains
tight, means prices must follow if we are to sustain and protect the health
of our businesses. While some are questioning their continued involvement
in this highly competitive market place, at Lucite International we remain
firm in our intent to invest and grow with our partners.'
Operations
Changes at Poggenpohl
The
senior management team at Poggenpohl has been strengthened with the appointment
of Simon Richmond as Operations Manager. With more than 15 years’
management experience with Saint Gobain Building Distribution, Simon is
bringing his knowledge and expertise to the contracts side of Poggenpohl’s
business.
'My primary focus will be to ensure the continued, controlled and targeted
growth of our contracts division and ensure that levels of service underpin
the brand’s enviable reputation for quality and cutting edge design,'
says Simon, who is 39 and based in the Northampton office.
Simon’s appointment enables Neil Bailey, formerly Sales Operations
Manager, to focus more clearly in his newly promoted role as Sales Director
for Poggenpohl Group UK Ltd. As part of his new role Neil will be responsible
for the further development and management of Poggenpohl’s retail
showrooms'
Whirlpool
Corporation has announced that Michael A. Todman, currently president,
Whirlpool International is being named president, Whirlpool North America.
Todman replaces David L. Swift who has resigned as president, Whirlpool
North America and as a member of the company's board of directors. Whirlpool
also announced that Paulo F.M.O. Periquito, currently executive vice president
Whirlpool Corporation and president, Whirlpool Latin America is being
promoted to the position of president, Whirlpool International, succeeding
Todman.
'Mike Todman is an experienced global leader with a strong track record
of performance in leading major parts of our global business,' said Jeff
M. Fettig, Whirlpool chairman and CEO. 'He has previous experience running
our North American, European and International businesses and is an outstanding
leader. I am confident that he will provide great leadership for our North
American business as we capitalize on the benefits from the Maytag acquisition
and continue our focus on growth by providing innovative products and
services to our customers under our leading brand names.
'Paulo Periquito's experience and success in profitably growing our Latin
American business make him an ideal fit to help fully leverage our global
operations, and continue to accelerate the positive growth momentum we
have in all of our international businesses. Paulo is an exceptional leader
who will add great value to all of our international businesses.'
Fettig continued: 'Dave Swift has contributed a great deal to our company
during his five and a half years at Whirlpool Corporation. Dave played
a critical leadership role in overseeing the successful integration of
the Maytag business into our company. Given that this integration is now
largely complete, I respect Dave's decision to now pursue his long-term
career aspirations outside of our company. I appreciate Dave's contribution
to the success of Whirlpool Corporation.'
Todman was named president, Whirlpool International and a member of Whirlpool's
board of directors in December 2005. Prior to this assignment, he served
as executive vice president and president, Whirlpool Europe since October
2001 and previously served as executive vice president, North America
Region.
Todman began his career with Whirlpool in 1993 as director, Finance, United
Kingdom and has held a variety of leadership positions since that time.
Prior to joining Whirlpool, Todman worked for 10 years at Wang Laboratories,
Inc., a computer hardware and software company. A native of St. Thomas,
U.S. Virgin Islands, Todman earned a bachelor's degree in business administration
from Georgetown University.
Periquito was named executive vice president and president of Whirlpool
Latin America in 1997. He joined Whirlpool as president of the appliance
business in Brazil in 1996. Prior to joining Whirlpool, he spent more
than 20 years at Alcoa-Brazil and Latin America. In 1989, he was named
Alcoa chief financial officer for Latin America and was also elected member
of the Alcoa Board of Directors in Mexico. From 1991 to 1993, he served
as chief executive officer of Grupo Aluminio (an Alcoa subsidiary in Mexico).
In 1994, Paulo was named executive vice president (responsible for all
operations) and member of the Board for Alcoa in Latin America. A native
of Recife in Pernambuco, Brazil, Periquito holds a degree in mechanical
engineering from the Federal University of Pernambuco.
FSC
Certified Mahogany from John Boddy Timber
John
Boddy Timber import and stock high grade FSC certified Central American
Mahogany for immediate delivery throughout the UK and Ireland.
Managing
Director Frank Boddy has established strong sources of direct supply in
different parts of Central America where the Mahogany is harvested and
cultivated in strict accordance with FSC regulations and the associated
Chains of Custody.
Apart from the increasingly popular Central American Mahogany and Cedar
stocked at the Riverside Sawmills in Boroughbridge, North Yorkshire, John
Boddy Timber is now importing lesser known species with versatile applications.
For the first time Tropical Hardwoods like Danto and Santa Maria are being
stocked in commercial quantities.
Danto is a likely substitute for Iroko and the grain, colour and properties
of Santa Maria offer a real alternative to Sapele.
As more and more furniture and joinery specialists look for interesting
Certified alternatives for bespoke projects the source of supply offered
by John Boddy Timber gathers growing interest and popularity.
The John Boddy Timber Complete Buyers Guide to Temperate & Tropical
Hardwoods & Softwoods 2007 together with our new MOULDINGS PROFILE
and FLOORING catalogue are available on request by calling 01423 322370.
Both publications are also available on CD.
Tel: 01423 322370
Email: info@john-boddy-timber.ltd.uk.
FIRA
to use ukfirst for New Membership Benefit
In
a move to deliver increased benefits to FIRA members, an exclusive agreement
has been reached with ukfirst - the furniture industry's experts in lean
manufacturing, process improvements and supply chain management. All full
members are entitled to a free, one-day consultation with ukfirst's team
of professionals who have in depth knowledge of how to improve the performance
and competitiveness of manufacturing organisations.
The one-day diagnostic, or health check, does not promise to resolve all
major issues but businesses will be furnished with a summary report that
will enable them to focus on actions that could deliver immediate benefits.
Programme Director John Baldwin said, 'We are very much looking forward
to working with FIRA members. We aim to listen to each company and to
identify key actions that will help them to kick-start a process of continuous
improvement. In addition our consultants will act as conduits for feedback
to FIRA so that it can continue to improve its support for industry.'
ukfirst has specialist knowledge of the furniture industry, working with
businesses of all sizes including retail, supply, and manufacturing. It
has already helped companies improve their operations and has delivered
bottom line savings in excess of £3.2 million.
To book a diagnostic day contact JBaldwin@ukfirst.org.uk
or e-mail info@fira.co.uk.
UK
Gets ‘Sloppy’ Solution to Rubbish Problem
UK
consumers are facing yet another knee-jerk initiative which will allegedly
help them separate household waste and increase recycling rates –
kitchen slop bins!
Announced as part of the Government’s wider waste strategy, the initiative
smacks of the dark ages and completely ignores simple, modern and cost
effective alternatives. In conjunction with fortnightly bin collections,
this could have serious implications for consumers. Summer incidents of
rat infestations have already increased 69 per cent since 1999** according
to a 2007 report.
Quick Facts:
6.7 million tonnes – the amount of food waste UK consumers throw
away each year*
69 per cent – increase in UK rat population since 1999**
1.8 million – the number of houses Gordon Brown has pledged to build
by 2016***
20 – the per cent by which consumers can reduce household waste through
food waste disposers ****
Ashley Munden, sales and marketing director for InSinkErator, said; “It
is ridiculous to think that a single slop bin in each kitchen would be
a sufficient solution for a country that produces around 6.7 million tonnes
of food waste a year*. With Gordon Brown’s plan to build 1.8 million
new homes in the UK by 2016*** this volume will only increase, and finding
a proper solution to ensure high waste standards for current and new homes
is imperative.
'Instead of limiting the options to one ‘grand idea’, UK consumers
need to be made aware of all the solutions available and given a choice.
The fact that food waste disposers can overcome hygiene concerns associated
with storing food waste and reduce the volume of household waste going
to landfill by around 20 per cent****, must mean they are an essential
consideration; particularly for new build homes.'
While many local authorities are introducing initiatives that limit or
penalise consumers, for example pay-as-you-throw or fines for overweight
bins, two forward thinking authorities are incentivising consumers to
dispose of their household waste more responsibly through food waste disposers.
The Sink Your Waste campaign run by Herefordshire Council and Worcestershire
County Council offers local residents cash back of up to £80 against
the purchase and installation of food waste disposers. A simple and proven
in-home solution, food waste disposers efficiently separate kitchen food
waste from household rubbish and reduce household rubbish by around a
fifth.
* Source: WRAP, 2007.
** Source: National Pest Technicians Association January 2007, National
Rodent Survey Report 2006
*** Source: www.24dash.com, 2007. Based on 200,000 houses being built
each year until 2016
**** Source: Based on information in the WRc Policy Document on Food Waste
Disposers, 2005, that shows biodegradable food waste accounts for around
20 per cent of household rubbish