Grohe
Opens Design & Technology Centre
Grohe UK Ltd yesterday opened a prestigious, 400m2 Design & Technology Centre at its Barking headquarters. Reflecting Grohe's position as a global brand, the new Centre will enable Grohe and all its customers - retail, installer, building/specifier and architects - to maximise their understanding and use of the company' s products.
A
full house on the day - and an equally bustling event the day before when
Grohe invited its distributors - bodes well for the popularity of this
new centre in Barking
The Design & Technology Centre has four key elements:
• A showroom displaying all the company's showers, taps and concealed
flushing systems. In addition to presenting the products in aspirational
roomsets, many of the showers, taps and wc flushes are connected to the
water supply enabling visitors to activate them and witness the individual
performance characteristics.
• Fully functional public washrooms that are replicas of those supplied
to the renowned McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, where Grohe's water
management system ensures optimum efficiency in an advanced working environment,
computer monitored at every stage, twenty four hours a day.
• A fully equipped training suite with state-of-the-art AV facilities.
• A 'hands on' working laboratory where installers can practice installing
fittings in different pressure conditions and full product testing and
demonstration facilities are available, including fully operational water
systems that replicate those commonly found in UK homes.
Grohe
expects architects and designers to make the trip out to Barking, not
just because of the tantalising roomsets and product innovations on show,
but also because of the technical explanations available. The technical
content - such as this display showing various configurations of wall
mounted units - gives the centre a CPD rating.
The Design and Technology Centre was conceived to be just that: a living
exhibition where aesthetic design values share a platform with technological
performance. The showroom will enable all to appreciate on first sight,
the styling of the company's products. With working examples of most taps
and showers, they will also be able to interact with and observe the performance
capacity of the range. In particular, distributors and retailers will
make great use of the showroom for product training and awareness, however,
the Centre's facilities go far deeper.
The laboratory area will be used for training all involved in the installation
and specification process. Plumbers can learn how to install shower valves
and experiment with the working examples of all Grohe's concealed flushing
systems, together with the concealed frames that house them. 'This area
of the Design & Technology Centre will prove invaluable' says David
Doust, Marketing Director. 'The UK, with its diverse heating, plumbing
and pressure systems poses real challenges for installers across the board,
but we have anticipated the problrms they face and set up real working
systems where they can learn the solutions'.
All visitors will find courses and presentations that will add to their
stock of knowledge about Grohe, its products and how to use them. In a
fully equipped training suite, courses will be run that the company is
confident will soon be perceived as the industry reference. The facilities
will also be available for customers to use for running their training
programmes where appropriate.
Finally, all who visit the Centre for Design & Technology will not
fail to be impressed by the washrooms. Fully electronic urinals, wcs,
taps and hand dryers mirror those installed by Grohe at the recently completed
and internationally acclaimed McLaren Technology Centre in Woking - home
ofthe Formula One racing team - where 640 outlets have been installed.
A computer management system designed by Grohe monitors the flow of water
throughout the premises from the moment it enters at the mains where it
is UV treated to render it sterile.
The computer identifies any wastage, regulates flows and even reports
of which soap dispensers need topping up. Grohe believes that its water
management system, as installed at the McLaren Technology Centre, is the
most advanced system of its kind anywhere in the UK.
'The washrooms underline far more effectively than words Grohe's market
leading design competence' says David Doust. 'The Centre for Design and
Technology brings to Grohe facilities that reflect its market position
and will help the company and its customers to achieve its and their future
growth ambitions'.
Tel: 020 8594 7292
Email: mailto:info@grohe.co.uk
Web: http://www.grohe.co.uk
SMEG Enlists Support of Matteo Piano to Create Indoor Gardens
When
Architect Matteo Piano and Smeg put their heads together to think of a
new addition to Smeg's household range, a domestic greenhouse was the
natural choice. As a home for plants, a greenhouse immediately ties in
with the rest of Smeg's product for the home. The link is further reflected
by the Home Garden's design in the shape of a house with roof and two
side entrances.
The Home Garden provides shelter for plants, allowing them to thrive in
apartments that do not have balconies or a terrace. A home within a home,
the discreet stainless steel frame vision glass panels allow unimpeded
views of the greenery from all angles.
The technology used ensures healthy plants growth while the design enhances
the fascination of living with the beauties of nature. Right from the
start, the Home Garden was conceived as a simple, easy-to-use object catering
for those who want to be able to look after their " garden under
glass" throughout the year. Plants and flowers give boundless pleasure
but in return demand lots of loving care and attention. In bringing together
both these aspects-relaxing pleasure and tender care- the Home Garden
adds more than a touch of interest and enjoyment to life.
Each
plant, and this includes houseplants, has its own requirements in relation
to LIGHT. Not many plants will survive if exposed directly to the full
sun and it often causes blemishes to their leaves. In general, foliage
houseplants need less light than flowering plants or succulents.
The Home Garden has a light source which supplements natural light and
allows for a better development of the plant.
Another deciding factor is the TEMPERATURE. In general, houseplants thrive
in ambient temperatures which we ourselves find most comfortable, so in
daytime, room temperatures of between 18?-25? degrees and a slightly lower
temperature at night-time. The cooler night-time temperature allows the
plants to recuperate moisture lost during the day and it intensifies the
colours of the plants, increasing the length of life of any flowers. Houseplants
will also grow well at temperatures which are slightly higher or slightly
lower than the optimal range, as long as the temperature is constant.
The thing which is most damaging are changes in temperature. The Home
Garden maintains a constant microclimate, protecting plants from sudden
drops in temperature.
Most
houseplants, unlike many succulents, originate from tropical areas, which
are not only hot, but also very humid. Whilst watering the potted plants
obviously increases theHUMIDITY of the potting compost, it is much more
difficult to regulate the humidity present in the air. The problem is
most evident in the winter, when central heating inevitably brings with
it a drop in the humidity in the air.
Achieving the correct air humidity in a heated house or flat remains an
arduous task. The Indoor Home Garden is equipped with a system of 'ultrasound
misting', which allows you to increase the level of humidity.
The POT is that which allows the cultivation of plants within the home.
It needs to be sufficiently large to contain a clod of earth which will
accommodate the plant's roots and it will need holes in the base in order
to allow for drainage and the aeration of the compost. The choice is wide
with regards to materials as well: it can be of the classic terracotta
or of modern resins, of decorated ceramic or of minimalist plastic.
The pots which come with the Indoor Greenhouse are light but robust. They
have been specifically designed to be placed within the glass and steel
structure. Their elegant form and neutral colour will harmonize with whichever
plant you decide to cultivate. They have holes in the bottom to allow
for the aeration of the compost and the drainage of excess moisture, which
is collected in a specially designed outer pot which can be removed.
http://www.smeghomegarden.com/English/homeUk.htm
KBSA
to Support Kitchen Showcase
The
Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association will be supporting the
second kitchen showcase exhibition, which will be held at The Commonwealth
Institute Galleries on 1-3 July. The KBSA will have a trade stand on the
1-2nd July and will then participate in the Kitchen Clinic on the consumer
day, 3rd July.
‘We are delighted to be able to support this exhibition,’ says
KBSA Chief Executive Graham Hayden.
‘It provides a unique opportunity for architects, designers and developers
to research new trends and see for themselves some stunning new kitchen
designs.
‘There are many KBSA members amongst the 150 companies that will
take part in this years exhibition, these are some of the most innovative
and progressive companies in our industry.’
KBSA members who attend the Kitchen Showcase Seminar on the Friday 2nd
July can benefit from a specially negotiated rate of only £40 for
the whole day. The seminar programme features internationally renowned
design luminaries such as Mark Wilkinson and Richard Eiserman.
‘We look forward to welcoming many exhibitors to our Gala dinner
which will be held at the Royal Garden Hotel on Saturday 3rd following
the KBSA AGM which will also be held at the Commonwealth Institute during
the afternoon of the 3rd July,’ adds Graham.
UK
Logistics Company Opens Trade Link with Libya
A
UK company has despatched a shipment of kitchen fittings valued at £200,000
to Libya, thanks to the Sales Leads Service of UK Trade & Investment
- the government organisation that provides support services for UK companies
trading overseas.
Essex-based International Food Link Ltd specialises in logistics management
for the catering industry. The company responded to a UK Trade & Investment
sales lead notice, issued on behalf of a Korean company, to source kitchen
equipment and canteen furniture.
Mike O’Brien, Minister for Trade & Investment, said, 'I am delighted
to learn that International Food Link, has benefited from the improved
climate of bilateral trade between Libya and the UK.
'The Libyan Government made it clear to me on a recent visit that the
country was open for business and I hope to see more British companies
playing a part in Libya's modernisation process.'
Rodney Nichols, director at International Food Link, said, 'We are excited
to receive our first order from Libya. The kitchen equipment and spare
parts will be used by a Korean company to refurbish a canteen and restaurant
at the Attahatay oil and gas refinery in the hinterland of Libya.'
International Food Link had a turnover of £5.7 million in 2003 and
employs around 30 people. It specialises in catering, foodstuffs, kitchen
fittings and equipment and has a client base made up of foodstuff suppliers
and major restaurant chain franchisees in 64 countries worldwide.
UK Trade with Libya in visible goods was up 12% in 2003 to £241
million while Libya's exports to the UK were up 21%. This upward trend
is forecast to continue as more UK companies seek out business opportunities
in Libya.
UK Trade & Investment is aiming to organise a series of trade missions
and conferences to help UK companies target business opportunities in
Libya. The main sectors include oil and gas, airports, ports and logistics,
education and training, healthcare, and tourism.
Management
Buy Out Secures Future of Kent Based Aquadart
Dartford
based business Aquadart has successfully been acquired following an MBO
assisted by Europe's leading business finance specialists, NMB-Heller,
and advised by Grant Thornton Corporate Finance.
Aquadart, a UK manufacturer of quality premium shower enclosures for 25
years, with a broad customer base consisting of independent specialist
retailers and leading house builders, has been bought out of Andover-based
parent company, Croydex Group Plc.
Aquadart has undergone a substantial turnaround in the past year following
a significant reconfiguration of the business, seeing a rise in customer
service leveis from 50 to 90 per cent. The MBO, led by Mike Johans, Managing
Director, effectively secures the future of the business and will allow
Aquadart the necessary funding for its future development and growth.
Mr Johans said: 'I am delighted that we have been able to acquire a company
with such a strong pedigree with excellent manufacturing facilities and
a truly committed workforce. Thanks go to Grant Thornton and NMB-Heller
for the success of the acquisition.
'These are exciting times. Aquadart has maintained a good position in
the shower enclosure market but has not been given the opportunity to
fully realise its potential. We have a new Management team with a new
focus.'
Tel: 01322 629888
Web: http://www.aquadart.co.uk
New
Designer Kitchen Furniture Range Launched by Moda Cucina
New
UK-based company Moda Cucina is putting the finishing touches to plans
for the nationwide launch of its range of designer kitchen furniture.
First of the firm’s products to be released for retail sale is a
Chef’s Trolley, the Corrello (pictured), which has been designed
to give customers the ability to personalise their own bespoke kitchen
furniture.
Starting with a smart, stainless steel frame, the Corrello can be customised
with a robust worksurface in one of seven different surfaces ranging from
traditional Beech or Oak to the more exotic Indian Iroko or stainless
steel.
The Corrello is further complemented by a comprehensive choice of high-quality
kitchen utensils, from razor-sharp meat cleavers to baskets of woven seagrass.
Prices start at £299 including VAT.
The Corrello is the first item in a range of freestanding kitchen furniture
from Moda Cucina. Designed and manufactured in the UK, the company uses
traditional craftsmanship and hardwearing materials, to provide fashionable
and functional modular accessories that complement both traditional and
contemporary kitchens.
The range is available via mail order, the company’s website http://www.moda-cucina.com
and also through specialist kitchen shops.
Geoff Clarke, Director of Moda Cucina explains: ‘The entire Moda
Cucina range has been created to appeal to both professional chefs and
highly accomplished home cooks who take pride in their kitchens.
'All the products have been designed to be highly functional but also
benefit from cutting-edge style that will enable our customers to have
a hard-working and stylish kitchen that will be the envy of their family
and friends.
'Corrello is the first product in the range to be launched and its practicality
and good looks are a great example of the Moda Cucina philosophy.’
Pegler
Supports Local School’s Engineering Status
Pegler,
manufacturer and supplier of taps, mixers, showers, heating controls and
valves and fittings to the sector – based in Doncaster - is joining
in the on-going celebrations that Ridgewood School in nearby Scawsby has
been awarded Engineering Specialists School Status.
The headmaster of Ridgewood School – Mr C J Hoyle – recently
visited Pegler’s headquarters in Doncaster to receive a cheque for
£3,000 from Pegler’s managing director Tony Clarkson. This
represents the sponsorship the company pledged to help the school through
the bid process en route to achieving this status.
‘We’re delighted that we were able to play a part in helping
Ridgewood School,’ said Tony Clarkson. ‘As a major employer
in the area and one with a vested interest in seeing young, enthusiastic
engineers coming through the education system, we were only too pleased
to be associated with the school’s bid and to join it in the on-going
celebrations.’
Headmaster Mr Hoyle was equally enthusiastic about Pegler’s involvement:
‘Pegler’s pledge of help was a significant contribution towards
our achieving this status for the school and it would have been very difficult
for us to have obtained specialist status without it. I’m optimistic
that we can develop a closer relationship with Pegler that will see our
pupils visiting the company and seeing for themselves the importance of
engineering skills and manufacturing industry in tandem, on our doorstep.’
Contact: Tony Clarkson
Tel: 01302 560560
Web:
http://www.pegler.co.uk
Victoria
& Albert Smashes Sales Record
Specialist
freestanding bath manufacturer Victoria & Albert is celebrating a
record 1st quarter in 2004. Following KBB this year the company reports
that sales of its expanding range of contemporary and classic baths have
rocketed. March saw the best sales ever by a clean 40%, with turnover
up by over 100% on the end of 2003.
Much of the growth is attributed to new models in the range.Two particular
stars are the minimalist Ella with its various real wood plinth options
and the Capri which was the centre of Victoria & Albert’s ‘Dare
to be Square’ launch campaign at KBB this year.
Victoria & Albert’s Managing Director, Joe Matthews is delighted
with the results: 'By providing highly distinctive baths in an innovative
solid surface material, the new models successfully appeal to a more design
aware consumer. Our two subsidiary companies in America and South Africa
are also showing similar growth as is the mainland Europe operation -
Victoria & Albert is fast becoming an international player in the
industry. In the forthcoming months we’ll enhance our offering even
further with several exciting product launches that will take us into
new areas'.
Wolseley
UK Site Visit for Analysts and Investors
Wolseley
plc, the specialist trade distributor of plumbing, heating and building
materials products, is hosting a visit for analysts and investors to some
of its UK operations.
This will include visits to Wolseley UK's Melmerby Distribution Centre
and branches in Middlesbrough. No material new information will be disclosed
in the presentations, nor will there be any statement on current trading.
Copies of presentations made during the course of the visit will be made
available on the company's website http://www.wolseley.com.