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Nobia Acquires Leading French Kitchen Retailer Hygena Cuisines

Nobia and MFI Furniture Group Plc ('MFI') concluded a transaction in which Nobia has acquired MFI's French kitchen retailer Hygena for a total consideration of SEK 1,255 million (EUR 135 million) including cash in the acquired company. The acquisition increases net debt by approximately SEK 1,150 million.

Hygena sells kitchen interiors in France ranging from the high-volume low price segment to the upper-middle price segment through its own network of 138 stores. Hygena offers complete kitchen and bathroom solutions based on flat-pack products, with a range of optional services that include full-service installation. The number of kitchens sold in 2005 amounted to approximately 60,000, rendering Hygena one of the leading retailers in France by volume. The kitchens sold are branded under the Hygena name and are currently sourced from MFI or other well-known French and foreign suppliers. Hygena does not have its own production facilities. The company employs 900 people and is headquartered in Lille.

Hygena's sales in 2005 were approximately SEK 1,800 million (EUR 195 million), which would represent a 14 percent increase of the Nobia Group's sales in 2005. The combined sales of Nobia and Hygena would amount to SEK 14,200 million. Hygena will be part of Nobia's Continental European business region and the acquisition would not have affected the operating margin of this business.

Since 2003, Hygena has achieved an annual organic growth rate of 8.3 percent, strongly supported by an ongoing refurbishment of its store network. At present, 98 of its 138 stores have been successfully modernised and modest investments are expected to complete the refurbishment programme. Total store area is 47,000 square metres.

Nobia anticipates positive synergy effects by 2007/2008 from the leverage of its own sourcing capabilities. A positive earnings per share development is expected during 2006.

'This is an important strategic move for Nobia. By acquiring Hygena Cuisine's extensive operations, we will strengthen our foothold in Continental Europe, while establishing a solid platform for growth in the French market. Developing a strong and inspiring retail network is an important part of our strategy. This acquisition brings the grand total of directly operated stores to 695 in the Nobia Group, representing about 75 percent of our total sales. Furthermore, the acquisition of Hygena increases the synergy potential within Nobia,' says Fredrik Cappelen, President and CEO of Nobia.

Matthew Ingle, CEO of MFI, comments, 'This is an excellent deal for MFI, as well as for the employees and customers of Hygena Cuisines. We are very proud of what the business has achieved under our ownership and I am confident that it will continue to flourish as part of Nobia.'

Nobia intends to retain Hygena's current management team and does not foresee any change in the number of employees at the present time.

MFI will continue to be a supplier of certain kitchen furniture products over the next three years and will also provide IT services to Hygena during a transition period. Nobia gains the right to use the brand in Europe excluding the UK, while MFI retains the right to use it elsewhere.

For more information about Nobia: http://www.nobia.se
More about Hygena Cuisines: http://www.hygena.fr
More about MFI Furniture Group: http://www.mfi.co.uk

Cabinets and Plumbing Divisions Lift Masco

Net sales from continuing operations for the quarter increased 6% to $3.1bn, primarily from organic growth, with North American sales increasing 9% and International sales decreasing 8%. Net sales from continuing operations for 2005 increased 7% to $12.6bn compared with $11.9 bn for 2004. North American sales increased 8% and International sales increased 1%.

Sales of assembled cabinets, plumbing products and windows in North America were particularly strong in the quarter increasing in the aggregate over 13 percent compared with the fourth quarter of 2004. Installation and Other Services sales were also strong and increased 11 percent compared with the fourth quarter of 2004.

Sales at retail continued the relatively slower growth exhibited in the third quarter. Key retailer sales from continuing operations increased five percent in the 2005 fourth quarter compared with the fourth quarter of 2004 and a two percent increase in the third quarter of 2005. The Company believes retail sales were negatively impacted by higher energy costs adversely affecting lower-income consumers and inventory adjustments by certain retail customers.

Income from continuing operations for the quarter was $211 million (excluding a non-cash, after-tax charge of $69 million for goodwill impairment related to certain European businesses) compared with $243 million (excluding a non-cash, after-tax charge of $104 million for goodwill impairment related to certain European businesses) for the fourth quarter of 2004. Reported income from continuing operations, including the goodwill impairment charges, was $142 million and $139 million for the fourth quarters of 2005 and 2004, respectively.

Sales changes by segment, which were substantially all organic growth, in the 2005 fourth quarter versus the 2004 fourth quarter were:

* Cabinets and Related Products sales increased six percent;
* Plumbing Products sales increased four percent;
* Installation and Other Services sales increased 11 percent;
* Decorative Architectural Products sales declined one percent; and
* Other Speciality Products sales increased seven percent.
* Sales in certain segments were negatively impacted by weaker foreign currencies and in addition, inventory adjustments by certain retail customers (principally in the Decorative Architectural Products segment).

Gross margins were 27.6 percent in the fourth quarter of 2005 compared with 29.8 percent in the fourth quarter of 2004. Operating profit margins as reported were 10.2 percent in the fourth quarter of 2005 compared with 8.8 percent in the fourth quarter of 2004. Excluding non-cash, pre-tax charges for goodwill impairment of $69 million in the fourth quarter of 2005 and $112 million in the fourth quarter of 2004, operating profit margins were 12.4 percent in the fourth quarter of 2005 compared with 12.5 percent in the fourth quarter of 2004.

Results for the fourth quarter of 2005 include the positive impact of higher sales volume, which was offset by the negative effect of previously communicated increases in a number of operating expenses, including such items as commodity, freight, energy and other petroleum-based product costs.

Full-Year 2005

In accordance with SFAS No. 144, ‘Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets,’ the Company has accounted for the 2004 planned dispositions of Jung Pumpen, The Alvic Group, Alma Kuchen, E. Missel and SKS Group, the first quarter 2005 planned dispositions of Gebhardt Consolidated and GMU Group and the fourth quarter 2005 additional dispositions of Zenith Products and Aran Group as discontinued operations.

Net sales from continuing operations for 2005 increased seven percent to $12.6 billion compared with $11.9 billion for 2004. North American sales increased eight percent and International sales increased one percent. In local currencies, International sales also increased one percent.

Sales of assembled cabinets, installation services and windows in North America were particularly strong in 2005.

For the full-year 2005, key retailer sales were $3.8 billion, an increase of approximately four percent over $3.7 billion for 2004.

Sales increases by segment, which were substantially all organic growth, for 2005 versus 2004 were:

* Cabinets and Related Products sales increased eight percent;
* Plumbing Products sales increased four percent;
* Installation and Other Services sales increased 11 percent;
* Decorative Architectural Products sales increased four percent; and
* Other Speciality Products sales increased four percent.

Excluding the charges for goodwill impairment in 2005 and 2004, earnings from continuing operations for 2005 were $2.19 per common share, compared with the Company's most recent guidance, as adjusted for discontinued operations, of $2.16 to $2.20 per common share, and $2.31 per common share for 2004.

The Company sold Zenith Products in North America and Aran Group in Europe in the fourth quarter of 2005 with combined annual sales of approximately $200 million for aggregate proceeds of approximately $200 million. Under Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, the net gain on these transactions, along with 2005 full-year and prior period operating results of these companies, is reflected in discontinued operations. The impact of including these businesses in discontinued operations is to reduce full-year results of continuing operations by $.05 per common share.

For the full-year 2005, reported income from continuing operations was $872 million compared with $949 million in 2004, including non-cash, after-tax charges for goodwill impairment of $69 million and $104 million in 2005 and 2004, respectively. Reported earnings from continuing operations were $2.03 per common share compared with $2.08 per common share in 2004, including the non-cash, after-tax charges for goodwill impairment.

Gross margins were 28.5 percent in 2005 compared with 30.9 percent in 2004. Operating profit margins as reported were 12.5 percent in 2005 compared with 13.4 percent in 2004. Excluding non-cash, pre-tax goodwill impairment charges of $69 million in 2005 and $112 million in 2004 and income related to the Behr litigation of $6 million in 2005 and $30 million in 2004, operating profit margins were 13.0 percent in 2005 compared with 14.1 percent in 2004.

Full-year 2005 gross margins and operating margins were adversely impacted by increased commodity, freight, energy and other petroleum-based product costs, as well as a less favorable product mix.

2006 Outlook

The Company in January 2006 announced a planned plant closure in the Plumbing Products segment. The costs associated with the closure are expected to be incurred over the remainder of 2006. These costs and other costs and charges related to the Company's cost reduction initiatives are anticipated to aggregate approximately $70 million in 2006. Including this $70 million of anticipated costs (approximately $.11 per common share) guidance for earnings from continuing operations would be in a range of $2.24 to $2.34 per common share.

Major Programme Components:

Asian sourcing has grown from $200 million in 2003, $450 million in 2004 to in excess of our $550 million goal in 2005. We have previously indicated that we save 25-30% on items we outsource to Asia.

Consolidations, together with divestitures, have reduced our business units from 67 in early 2003 to less than 40 at December 31st, 2005.

Factory Extension in Kolo, Poland

Sanitec will expand the factory for bathroom ceramics and double the capacity in Kolo in Poland. The extension will be made on the existing premises of the factory and logistic centre.

As a result of the project, the production capacity in Kolo will increase from 1 million to 2 million pieces per year. The construction will start in the second quarter of 2006, and the production is planned to begin in the second quarter of 2007.

'This is an important step to increase our capacity for bathroom ceramics in Central Europe, giving us the possibility to serve the markets in a flexible way,' says Lennart Sunden President and CEO of Sanitec Corporation

A new distribution centre has been built during 2005 in the same place.

Sanitec is a European multi-brand group that designs, manufactures and markets bathroom ceramics and bath and shower products. The Group is based around locally well known brands, which have strong positions and deep roots in the bathroom business.

In 2004, Sanitec's net sales amounted to EUR 898.9 million. The Group employs almost 7,000 people, mainly in Europe. The 28 production plants are located in Europe whereas the sales and marketing network operates world-wide.

Tel: +358 9 709 5400
Email: sanitec.corporation@sanitec.com
Web: http://www.sanitec.com

£25 Discount on ELECSA’s Part P Registration via Electrical Training Course

Are you looking for a training course to prepare yourself for self certification under Part P? Do you want to update your qualifications and expertise on electrical contracting? If you have attended a training course at one of the ELECSA recommended training colleges below, you will receive a £25 discount off the registration fee for self certifying under Part P with ELECSA.

http://www.elecsa.org.uk/

Franke Hails KBB Exhibition the Best Yet

Franke, the kitchen products manufacturer, has hailed KBB 2006 as its most successful UK exhibition.

The company unveiled its new range of appliances, which includes ovens, hobs, hoods and waste disposal units, and retailers and distributors were queuing off the stand in order to pick up new brochure packs and POS material.

Franke also launched a number of key sink and tap innovations as well as showcasing its range of Triflow filtered water taps.

Duncan Marr, managing director for Franke UK, commented: ‘The exhibition was extremely well organised. Attendance was strong in terms of quality and quantity and Franke signed up more business than at any previous exhibition in the UK.

‘It was without doubt that the new Laser sink was the hit of the show. It receieved applause from all sides in that it combines aesthetics with functionality and yet it is simple to install with the sink simply dropping into the worktop cutout.’

‘The launch of the appliances was also a success and I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the Franke team, as well as our distributors who worked hard to ensure everything ran smoothly.’

For further information on all Franke products, visit http://www.franke.co.uk or call 0161 436 6280.

Maytag UK Appoints New Marketing Director

Maytag UK the manufacture of genuine American household appliances has announced the appointment of Andrew Long as Marketing Director of Maytag UK.

Based at Maytag's International headquarters at Redhill, Surrey Andrew will be responsible for marketing all three of Maytag UK's brands, Amana, Maytag and Admiral. Andrew reports directly to Richard Thompson, Managing Director of Maytag UK. Prior to joining Maytag, Andrew held key marketing positions with the Electrolux group culminating in the launch of the Electrolux built in range of appliances in 1999. Andrew brings a wealth of marketing expertise including global marketing experience gained with the premium brand Windsor and Newton, famous for their artists' materials.

Richard Thompson, Managing Director, Maytag UK said, ‘Andrew's wealth of experience makes him ideally suited to leading marketing at Maytag UK and ideally prepared for the challenges that lie ahead. Understanding the educated, sophisticated and forever demanding trade channels and consumers are great additional assets and he will be an invaluable addition to our enthusiastic team. His appointment strengthens Maytag's commitment to the UK market and will be crucial in the strategic expansion of business opportunities across all appliance market sectors in the UK.’

Andrew Long says of his appointment, ‘This is a great opportunity to build and renew the focus on the world renowned and respected appliance brands marketed by Maytag UK. I will be striving to grow Maytag's brand presence and work closely with our trade partners to ensure we meet the increasing consumer demand for Maytag brands across the country.’

Kohler Daryl Appoints New Financial Controller

Showering manufacturer Kohler Daryl has appointed Geoff Ferguson to the newly created role of financial controller. Reporting to the board, he will take responsibility for the financial management of the company as well as business and systems development.

Geoff, 46, has joined Kohler Daryl from The Control Group, where he held the position of group finance director. He has over 25 years' experience in the finance and accountancy world and is CIMA qualified. Other previous employers include Lucas, The Heywood Williams Group and Rio Tinto Zinc.

Kohler Daryl's managing director, William Hogg, commented: ‘We are pleased to welcome Geoff to the team and are confident that his experience and expertise will be invaluable in the company's future growth and success.’.

Consumers Tap into Ashley Bathrooms' Free Brassware Promotion

Bathroom manufacturer Ashley Bathrooms has reported an excellent uptake of its retailer promotion to offer free brassware with selected suites ordered in February 2006. Backed up with a POS poster and leaflet campaign, approved dealers have successfully used the offer to surge through a typically quiet time of year with increased sales of Ashley product.

David Smith, Ashley Bathroom's Marketing Director says, ‘This promotion is all part of Ashley's ongoing commitment to fully support our network of approved dealers. I'm delighted that it's been met with such a positive take up.’

Tel: 01332 830 404
Web: http://www.ashleybathrooms.com

A Dishwasher in a Drawer = Money in Your Pocket

For a limited time only, buying a Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer® dishwasher through participating retailers throughout Great Britain will entitle the purchaser to a claim of up to £100 cashback, payable by cheque.

The DishDrawer® offers two fully functionally, independent dishwashing drawers in one standard 600mm module. Loading and unloading the top drawer requires no bending making it ergonomically superior, and the two-drawer format allows delicate glassware and crockery to be washed in one drawer on a delicate cycle, while the other drawer takes care of the heavy duty pots and pans.

Recently awarded a UK CoolBrand, the DishDrawer® is now in the elite company of a small minority of products deemed the best across all electrical product categories in the UK.

‘Both energy and water efficient, DishDrawer® is the only dishwasher to offer a genuine half load wash, meaning dirty dishes can be dealt with after each meal by stacking and running one of the drawers,’ said Richard St John, Fisher & Paykel's UK sales and marketing manager. ‘This is far more hygienic and preferable to storing dirty dishes in the machine waiting for it to fill before running it at the end of the day.’

To take advantage of the cashback offer, purchase a Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer® dishwasher before March 31st 2006, and send the completed claim redemption form to Fisher & Paykel prior to April 14th. A double DishDrawer® in EZKleen stainless steel comes with the entitlement of £100 cashback - a black or integrated model £75 cashback, and single DishDrawers £50 cashback.

For further information, visit http://www.fisherpaykel.co.uk or contact the Fisher & Paykel Customer Care Centre on 0845 0662200.

Waterline Showcase 2006

Waterline invites you to 'see all that's new in kitchen design for 2006' at The Waterline Showcase, an 8-venue tour that has been designed to be as accessible as possible for all customers. You can see the latest products from the biggest brands, benefit from exclusive Showcase offers, talk directly to manufacturers as well as to the Waterline team and enjoy lunch or supper in a relaxed and comfortable environment.

The tour opens at Stapleford Park, Melton Mowbray, 2nd March and continues to Holiday Inn, Bristol, 8th March; Mere Golf & Country Club, Cheshire, 16th March; Cambridge Belfry, Cambourn, Cambridge, 21st March; Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxon, 28th March; Spa Hotel, Tunbridge Wells, 4th April; Lords Cricket Ground, North London 12th April; Thorpe Park, Leeds, 25th April.

For further details, telephone 0870 5561560.

Whirlpool and Maytag Agree to Comply with Department of Justice

Whirlpool Corporation and Maytag Corporation announced on February 13th that they have agreed with the Antitrust Division of the U.S. Department of Justice to a limited extension of time to complete the review of the proposed acquisition of Maytag by Whirlpool. The companies have agreed not to close the transaction before March 30th, 2006, without the Division’s concurrence.

On December 1st, 2005, the companies announced they had certified substantial compliance with the Division in response to its request for additional information ('second request') and agreed not to close the merger before February 27th, 2006, without the Division’s concurrence, recognising that the Division could request additional time for review.

'We appreciate the work of the Department of Justice staff to date and will continue to work with them cooperatively as they complete their review,' said Jeff M. Fettig, Whirlpool’s chairman and CEO. 'The agreed upon extension is simply a continuation of the review process. This is a complex and rapidly changing industry, and it is not surprising that some additional time is required to fully understand and fairly evaluate it.'

Ralph F. Hake, Maytag’s chairman and CEO said, 'We believe this additional time will be sufficient for the review to be completed, and we are confident that the acquisition will close rapidly upon completion of the review.'

Fettig added: 'We strongly believe that the combination will create substantial benefits for consumers, trade customers and our shareholders. This transaction will translate into better products, quality and service, as well as other efficiencies that will allow us to offer a more competitive, wider range of products to a much broader consumer base in the highly competitive global home appliance industry.'

Whirlpool and Maytag are working closely with the Department of Justice and continue to cooperate fully with its investigation and respond promptly to its inquiries.

£3/4M Investment for Worktop Manufacturer

A North East company has made a major financial investment to build on its position as Europe's foremost kitchen worktop manufacturer. Wilsonart® International based in Shildon, County Durham has been producing worktops since the late nineties.

The kitchen remains at the heart of home improvement plans with consumers actively looking to differentiate their kitchen from others. The use of accessories plays an important role in this differentiation with a variety of components including upstands, shelving and kitchen elements enhancing the overall design. The steady growth of kitchen accessories and the more recent increase in demand for bathroom components has led Wilsonart to invest over £750,000 in a new, fully automated Accessories Line. Supplied by Biele in Spain, the new production line is capable of exceeding the increased demand in a more efficient and energy saving process.

Paul Howell, Financial Director comments, ‘This major investment is a result of our confidence in the future and is another step towards ensuring Wilsonart continues as a leading force in the highly competitive worktop and accessories market. Our commitment to develop and introduce exciting new products using the latest component technology is built on the back of our consolidated growth over the last six years. Now we have an even greater solid foundation for the future.’

The main focus of manufacturing at Shildon is the supply of worktops, including the Resopal range of worktops and accessories. The current Resopal range consists of 34 effects, from granites and stones to woods and abstracts, incorporating some of the industries most advanced surface technology. The new Resopal Gloss Finish, available in 6 natural granite effects, provides a depth and character to the design whilst offering an increased resistance to the everyday wear and tear of the laminate surface. In contrast, the combination of Resopal's smooth texture with 5 Melange designs recreates the appearance and touch of solid surfacing products at a fraction of the cost. Additionally, the range contains 5 Mesa granite effects featuring the ‘Silk’ finish, pleasing to the touch whilst still retaining wear and durability.

Full details of the Resopal range of worktops and accessories are now available from;
Sales – tel: 01388 770141
Sample support – tel: 0845 758 5038
Email: samples@wilsonart.co.uk
Web: http://www.wilsonart.co.uk

Unmistakeably a Mark Wilkinson Look-Alike!

Award winning kitchen designer and manufacturer Mark Wilkinson Furniture Limited was horrified to see what appeared to be an exact copy of its Milan and Arts and Crafts ranges in the October edition of the publication 25 Beautiful Kitchens.

The article headed 'In a league of its own' described the look-alikes as the 'shaker' design by Aleksandar Novicic of Kredenza for the company's clients Hannah and Anthony Orlean. In a recent settlement acknowledging infringement of Mark Wilkinson's designs, Kredenza Limited and Aleksander Novicic gave undertakings that they would not directly or indirectly copy or procure a copy of any furniture designed or manufactured by Mark Wilkinson Furniture now or in the future.

Following the discovery, Mark Wilkinson Furniture Limited took immediate steps and contacted its intellectual property lawyers Brecher Abram and instructed them to send a letter before action. On receipt of the settlement terms, Gordon Munro, Mark Wilkinson's Financial Director commented, 'We are members of ACID (Anti Copying In Design) and have a comprehensive anti copying strategy and our policy is to pursue what we consider to be infringements of any of our designs vigorously. We have become aware of several instances where other furniture makers and suppliers have been asked to reproduce designs illustrated in our brochure and the message is crystal clear, the law protects designers against the reproduction of a substantial or part reproduction of any of our designs. Even minor or trivial differences will not prevent a copy from infringing our rights'.

Dids Macdonald, ACID's Chief Executive added, 'Design laws have been strengthened during the past few years and there are very few loopholes remaining. Increasingly, design-led companies such as Mark Wilkinson Furniture Limited are determined to communicate both to the trade and the consumer that DESIGN = VALUE. The passion and commitment that the Mark Wilkinson organisation has invested in the design of its furniture is intended to remain as a supreme and lasting pleasure for the company's valued customers. The company is determined that its brand value will not be undermined in any way'.

Edwards Cheshire's New Streamlined Service

A National Warehouse and Distribution Manager has been appointed by hardwood flooring supplier, Edwards Cheshire, to streamline the operation of its new state-of-the-art warehouse for a fast and efficient distribution service.

David Hircombe, who has over thirty-five years of senior management experience in distribution roles for both single and multi-site operations, will be improving Edwards Cheshire’s national distribution service. All aspects of modern distribution are being explored including bar coding, express picking, stock location software and online order tracking.

These new systems will be implemented to make the experience of purchasing a wood floor as a trade customer an effortless and straightforward proposition. This will continue to benefit Edwards Cheshire’s customers by offering fast delivery from stock on a wide variety of flooring from only £15.95 per square metre.

With over one hundred thousand square metres of floor space in the new distribution centre, Edwards Cheshire says that it is able to deliver more choice, greater value and better service, stocking over one hundred and seventy varieties of quality solid, wide plank and engineered wood flooring, with over sixty FSC or PEFC certified options, plus a huge choice of mouldings, floor finishes, floor preparation products, adhesives and maintenance products.

In his new role, David will ensure all items are delivered quickly and carefully from Edwards Cheshire’s convenient location adjacent to junction twenty-one of the M6.

Tel: 01925 283000
Email: sales@edwardscheshire.co.uk

New Showroom to Showcase Britannia

Range cooker specialist Britannia attended the official opening of a new appliance showroom in the North West that includes a wide selection of Britannia's best selling range cookers.

Built-in Kitchen Appliances in Liverpool has 12 Britannia range cookers on display including the 150cm gloss black Sigma with a 150cm gloss black double flue hood. There are also two of the new XG models on display. The XG range cooker, which incorporates a separate grill compartment, was launched last September.

Built-in Kitchen Appliances has been in operation for over 15 years and has included Britannia in its portfolio for over six years.

Steve Woods, managing director of Built-in Appliances in Liverpool comments: ‘I am delighted to continue working with Britannia as it is one of the premium range cooker appliance brands. I am more than happy to offer a large representation of Britannia in the showroom and plan to continue working with the company for a long time to come.’

The showroom has been planned for over two and a half years and has been updated to offer a much more pleasant shopping environment than it did previously.

Barbara Leech, Sales Director, Britannia comments: ‘It is great to be working with such a good quality partner who is expanding his showroom. I am positive Steve will help grow Britannia sales in Merseyside and beyond.’

For further information, visit http://www.britannialiving.co.uk or call 01253 471111 for a brochure.

Hafele UK to Distribute Glass Doors Fittings by Metalglas S.r.l

Hafele UK has been appointed exclusive UK distributor for the range of high quality glass door hardware by family owned Italian maker Metalglas. Glass door hinges, locks and latches are traditionally made by Metalglas in solid brass and in a range of modern, hi-tec metallic finishes for interior and exterior use in the civic, public and commercial building sectors.

In addition to handles, locks and hinges, Metalglas also manufactures quality sliding and pivot door gear, frameless folding systems for glass walls and a range of door jamb profile options for glass infills in natural and anodised aluminium. There is also a range of contempory pull handles for glass door applications including ultra long and currently fashionable Inox plain straight and shaped pull handles for back-to-back glass door fixing.

Handle and latch combinations for glass doors are in corrosion proof solid brass and finished in a range of metallic sheens and colours including satin chrome, satin nickel and polished chrome or brass. Handle shapes have Italian style and quality, whether contemporary or traditional.

Metalglas locks and latches are compatible with Hafele's own Startec range of levers giving more than 200 alternative latch/lever design combination options. The architectural hardware of this range can also now be purchased complete with glass door and wall systems via Hafele's newly established Glass Partner network of installation outlets nationwide. Please contact Gary King for details of the nearest partner.

Tel: +44 (0)1788 548203
Email: gary.king@hafele.co.uk
Web: http://www.hafele.co.uk

Ideo Bain 2006 Confirms its Success

The third Idéo Bain, the bathroom exhibition, which took place from 17th to 22nd January 2006 at Paris-Expo porte de Versailles in conjunction with Interclima + Elechome & building kept its promises.

Occupying more than 32,000 m2, nearly 250 French and international exhibitors took part in this show, which marked another milestone and responded to visitor expectations. Idéo Bain confirmed the importance of offering manufacturers and their partners a major trade show in Paris capable of generating traffic and visibility for the whole of the industry.

An industry event
Idéo Bain, a biennial show case for the manufacturers sponsored by the Fédération des Industries de la Salle de Bains brought together bathroom professionals from across the spectrum.

Interclima+Elec-Home&Building and Idéo Bain together attracted 102,620 visitors, including 18,251 members of the public who came to Idéo Bain. This represents a 20.11% rise in trade visitor numbers and 22.41% for members of the public compared with 2004. This growth confirms the relevance of a unique event that brings together those involved in the HVAC, electrical engineering and bathroom/plumbing sectors.

Idéo Bain acted as a powerful magnet for a range of different trades and professions. Installers confirmed their interest in the bathroom, accounting for nearly 40% of the show's visitors (23% up on 2004). Merchants were also strongly represented making up 18% of the visitors (14% up on 2004). The bathroom universe was a major draw for specifiers and contractors (up 25% and 47% respectively).

A show that wowed consumers and brought together the full array of creative talents
All the stops were pulled out from 20th to 22nd January to make a big impression on the 18,251 consumers planning bathrooms (70% of them plan a project within the next year). They displayed considerable interest in ModesDeBains, a display of creative ideas and solutions without parallel in Europe that was entrusted to the combined talents of Daniel Rozensztroch (style consultant) and François Muracciole (architect) and the industry. Members of the public were both surprised and inspired by the forty very special bathrooms created by the designers and manufacturers.

The sequence was opened by the dream bathroom of the fashion designer Nathalie Garçon, who had been given carte blanche to create an exclusive bathroom for Idéo Bain.

The Advice and Build point for consumers was also a great success, providing members of the public with answers to all their questions and the addresses of tradesmen and showrooms throughout France.

Creativity rewarded

• The 'Hotel Bathroom Prize 2006'
Following on from the tributes to Andrée Putman and Terence Conran, the 'Hotel Bathroom Prize' was awarded in 2006 to India Mahdavi. She was the unanimous choice of the brands represented at Idéo Bain for her overall corpus of work. She created a new hotel bathroom exclusively for Idéo Bain.

• The Idéo Bain Awards
A jury of bathroom experts and buyers toured the aisles of Idéo Bain on the first day in search of innovative, creative or high performance products.

Design Award
DELPHA http://www.delpha.com
Inspired by minimalist fitting rooms, this piece of bathroom furniture makes a strong statement with its large angled mirror in front of which a sculpted basin top floats like a towel in mid air. Flipping the upper mirror reveals a series of small shelves lit by diffuse lighting.

Technical Innovation Award
ACTANA http://www.actana.fr
The 'Actalift' system allows a basin or WC to be installed so that it can rise or descend in accordance with the user's needs. It consists of a framework on which is mounted a sliding panel that can be painted, tiled, clad with wood or finished in any other way to match the décor of a bathroom...... Every user is therefore able to instantly adjust the height of the basin or WC.

ModesDeBains Set Award
TEUCO http://www.teuco.fr
Marking a complete break from traditional aesthetics, the Seaside bath is a piece of interior decoration in its own right that can be fitted as a built in unit. Here it is placed in an intimate setting for well being that combines a space for water and one for relaxation of each of the senses.

Best Solution Award
RITMONIO http://www..ritmonio.it
Bianconiglio is both a new tap, a smart device and a water management system for the home. Today, a tap consists of a body housing a cartridge whose job is to govern flow and temperature through one or two controls. Tomorrow, the box placed at the heart of the system will have different functions. It will no longer be the simple distribution of water, it will also govern the two parameters, temperature and flow that are traditionally the role of the tap. The box will therefore become the element that houses the components that shut off the flow, the drives and the electronic intelligence of the system.

Jury's Favourite
DABADABADA http://www dabadabada.fr
Basins in Ductal. This ultra high performance fibre-reinforced concrete offers unparalleled mechanical properties that allow it to deform without breaking. It has unequalled durability, resistance to freezing and heat, shocks and abrasion. The basins are body coloured with mineral pigments that enhance their looks.

Designs: Anne Durand and Patrick Millet

Images of all the award winners, the bathroom sets and the show spaces are available on request or can be downloaded from http://www.ideobain.com.

Sound Upgrades Provide Added Value Opportunity for Bathroom Specialists

Upgrading sound performance in bathrooms can make a major contribution to the quality of the home environment, yet is often overlooked during bathroom refurbishments. It's a task which, the Gypsum Products Development Association believes, could offer an additional business opportunity for bathroom specialists and increase the sales appeal of the service offered by them.

GPDA represents the UK's plasterboard systems manufacturers, whose products are integral to most properties built in recent years and can also be used to enhance the performance of traditional brick and block built properties.

Explains Crispin Dunn-Meynell, secretary of GPDA: ‘Depending on the design and age of a property the level of sound proofing within bathroom walls may be in line with current Building Regulations or fall well short of today's standards. Few people want to upgrade partition performance in isolation since it demands an element of disruption and re-decoration. However, when bathrooms are re-fitted there is considerable attendant disruption and existing wall finishes are commonly damaged as a result of the removal of tiles and fittings. The additional work and inconvenience associated with sound upgrades at this time is, therefore, minimal. Neither is the cost great, since the likely extra expenditure on materials will be less than £50 for a typical partition wall.’

Removing an original plasterboard lining to insert acoustic insulation into a partition cavity and replacing it with a higher performance board is a simple and quick process which, in many instances, may be easier than making good an existing lining prior to re-decoration. Similarly adding a layer of plasterboard on top of an existing masonry wall is quick and simple and brings enhanced sound performance. The greater the thickness of board, the greater the acoustic performance.

Current Building Regulations call for new homes to be built with 40 decibel (dB) sound attenuation between bathrooms and adjoining rooms. From the mid 1980s to 2003 it was common to build-in 38 dB performance to meet the guidelines set by the NHBC. Older properties may not necessarily achieve these levels, resulting in rather more being heard from the bathroom than might be acceptable.

Moisture resistant board products should be used in bathroom applications.
Adding a 12.5mm board on top of the existing facing, or blockwork, should increase sound attention performance by 3 decibels. Adding two layers of 12.5mm board will give a proportionate increase of 6 dB.

Boards can be fixed to masonry using special bonding compounds or with the aid of metal brackets which, if required, can be set so as to create a cavity to accommodate services.

Where the facings of studwork partitions retain their integrity after removal of tiles, additional boards can be fixed to them using special adhesives, as with blockwork. Alternatively, if the condition of the existing board indicates it is better to remove the original material, the new facing can be fixed to the studs using drywall nails (in the case of timber) or screws (for timber or metal studs). Adding a 25mm thick 'acoustic partition mat' (a special type of insulation) in the cavity makes a further improvement of around 5 dB.

Standard tiles can be fixed directly to drywall facings using tiling adhesive, following application of a suitable PVA bonding coat. Alternatively the boards can be decorated using a water resistant emulsion, or skim plastered, again after application of a suitable bonding agent.

Whilst drywall installation may not necessarily be part of the bathroom specialist's skill set, applications of this type are generally straightforward. Short training courses offered by all the main plasterboard manufacturers would enable most to acquire the necessary expertise in a matter of days.Says Crispin Dunn-Meynell: ‘There is little doubt that combining a stunning new bathroom with enhanced sound performance will add to customer satisfaction and can offer an additional profit opportunity for the bathroom specialist.’

Further details of drywall performance and manufacturers can be obtained by visiting the Gypsum Products Development Association website at: http://www.gpda.org.uk

Vitos on Tap for Boulevard Kitchens

An unstinting commitment to quality is critical to the success of Chris and Mike Ashton's business - no surprise then, that six months after buying their first Mercedes van they've returned for a second.

The brothers, whose company Boulevard Kitchens and Appliances is in Henleaze Road, Bristol, are now running a second Mercedes Vito 109CDI Compact alongside their first Vito, bought last summer.

Both vehicles are used by the company's fitters to carry tools and kitchen equipment to site, where they then double as mobile workshops.

Established 23 years ago, Boulevard now employs 11 people, and has a second showroom in Weston-super-Mare. The company installs 'high-end' kitchens manufactured by German firm Hacker, which can retail for anything up to £40,000.

Mercedes-Benz of Western-super-Mare supplied the Vitos, which have been fitted by Boulevard Kitchens with its own racking systems.

The Vito is the 'baby' of the Mercedes commercial vehicle range and was the International Van of the Year for 2005. Stylish, comfortable and car-like to drive - electric windows, remote central locking with 'comfort' closing and a radio-CD player all come as standard - it also has many safety features more commonly associated with luxury cars, including the ESP® anti-skid program and ABS anti-lock braking.

'The Vito is very comfortable and offers excellent performance,' says Co-Director Mike. 'It is also deceptively spacious, but small enough to manoeuvre into tight or awkward spots which larger vans would have trouble negotiating.

'As an installer of high-quality kitchens, we know our customers will demand quality for the money they invest. Equally, we demand exceptional performance from our suppliers, while the Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star complements perfectly the image we want to project.'

Caption: Three-pointed star performer.Boulevard's John Mitchell with his new Mercedes Vito

NKBA Announces 2006 Executive Committee

The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) recently announced the election of its 2006 Executive Committee as follows:

President - Allan S. Pattison, CMKBD, Kitchen Korner

Al is a Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer (CMKBD) with over 35 years of experience in the industry. He is currently the manager of Kitchen Korner in Aldergrove, British Columbia, Canada. Al founded the Western Canada Chapter of NKBA and has served as a chapter officer and on the National Board of Directors since 1988. He also served as a teaching professional for six years, travelling throughout North America presenting courses for the Association. Al was inducted into the Ambassadors Club in 1990.

President-Elect - Bob Garner, CMKBD, Medallion Cabinetry

Bob is a Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer (CMKBD) with over 25 years of experience in the industry. He is the National Training and Education Manager for Medallion Cabinetry an Elkay Company in Waconia, MN. Bob has served on the Baltimore/Washington Chapter for seven years, serving as President and held other positions on the Executive Board. He has also served on the National level for nine years including the Board of Governors representing the Wholesale Distributor member segment, the Board of Directors and the Finance Committee, along with serving on the National Executive Committee as past Secretary, Treasurer and Vice President. 

Vice-President - Sara Ann Busby, CKD, Sara Busby Design

Sara Ann has owned and operated Sara Busby Design, a residential kitchen and bath showroom in Northern Michigan for 15 years, where she specialises in resort properties. She holds a Michigan State Residential Contractors License as well as a Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD) designation she earned in 1994. She was involved in the formation of the Northern Michigan Chapter of the NKBA. She also serves as member-at-large on BKBG and is a past member of Rotary International. Sara's been an invited guest presenter at regional career days and industry related events. She was the 2005 National Secretary for NKBA.

Secretary - Max Isley, CMKBD, Hampton Kitchens of Raleigh, Inc.

Max has owned and operated Hampton Kitchens of Raleigh, Inc. in Raleigh, North Carolina, since 1974. He has been a Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD) since 1981 and a Certified Master Kitchen and Bath Designer (CMKBD) since 2002. Max was appointed as a founding member and is a past chairman of the advisory board for the interior design programme at East Carolina University. In addition, he is an advisor to the Centre for Accessible Housing of the School of Design at North Carolina State University. Max has been a member of the NKBA Board of Directors, as well as a past president of the NKBA Carolinas Chapter and is currently the first president of the recently created Eastern Carolinas Chapter of the NKBA.

Treasurer - Suzie Williford, CMKBD, Westheimer Plumbing & Hardware, Inc.

Suzie is Vice President, Sales for Westheimer Plumbing & Hardware, Inc., a premier Decorative Plumbing & Hardware showroom which has showrooms in Houston and The Woodlands, TX. She has served the Decorative Plumbing & Hardware industry in Texas since 1975. She has been a member of the NKBA since 1978 and has held a position on the Board of Directors representing the Decorative Plumbing and Hardware industry since 2001. She is an active member of numerous trade and community organisations. She has been an advisor to manufacturers in product development and has aided them in sales training. Suzie served on a National Speakers Bureau and has been invited to speak at high schools and colleges, showrooms, design centres and conventions.

Immediate Past President - Jeff Cannata, CMKBD, Designer's Showcase Kitchens & Baths, Inc.

Jeff is owner of Designer's Showcase Kitchens & Baths, Inc. in Carol Stream, Illinois. He is a graduate of Illinois State University where he received a Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Technology, with specialities in architecture and woodworking. He earned his Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD) in 1995 and Certified Bathroom Designer (CBD) in 2003, and was inducted into NKBA's Ambassador‚s Club in 1998. Jeff has served in numerous positions within the Chicago Mid West Chapter and previously held positions on the Board of Directors, and Advisory Council of Dealers.

Web: http://www.nkba.org