Electrolux
Second Quarter Results 2007
Hans
Stråberg, President and CEO of Electrolux, discusses the latest
financial results: 'We have steadily improved Group operating income in
the last few years, and the result for this quarter maintains that trend.
Operating income rose by 9% compared to the second quarter last year and
by 16% relative to the first half of 2006.
I am satisfied with our performance in many areas during the second quarter.
In North America, I am pleased to say that we overcame market weakness
and an ongoing dip in volumes, and continued to grow and gain market share
while increasing operating income. Other highlights were the development
in Latin America and our floor-care operations, where we doubled operating
income compared to the second quarter last year. It is also pleasing to
note that we gained market share in most of the regions where we operate.
However, I am disappointed with the result of major appliances in Europe
in this quarter. Weakness here was primarily due to two factors - new
product launches taking longer than expected and higher raw material costs.
We are currently engaged in the most extensive product launches in the
history of Electrolux. New products are being introduced in more than
30 European countries, and we are renewing close to 15% of our offering.
In the UK, one of our most important markets, we are replacing 40% of
our product range. This is a complex task for us and our retailers alike,
and it has taken time to sell remaining stocks of previous models.
The new products have been very well received on the market, which strengthens
my firm belief that the launches will ultimately prove successful. However,
it will take a bit longer before we will see a positive impact on our
result.
Raw material costs continue to be a source of concern. This is true across
the Group but during the quarter especially in Europe. During the second
quarter raw-material costs continued to increase, and we expect the full-year
figure to rise by an estimated SEK 2 billion. This would amount to an
SEK 8 billion increase in our raw material costs since 2004.
I have repeatedly stressed that this huge transition at Electrolux - as
we introduce new, innovative products and shift much of our production
capacity to low-cost countries - may distort results in any one quarter.
However, I remain convinced that we will succeed in raising our operating
margin to the industry average through our strategy of developing new,
innovative products, continued brand-building, profitable growth and cost
savings. In the longer term, our aim is to have one of the best operating
margins in the industry.
And finally, to summarise, we maintain our forecast that full-year operating
income for 2007, excluding items affecting comparability, will be somewhat
higher than in 2006.
Hans Stråberg
President and CEO
Web: http://www.electrolux.com
Blum
Group Turnover Increases 12.6%
Fittings
manufacturer Julius Blum GmbH again achieved good growth in the 2006/2007
business year ending 30th June. In comparison to the last business year,
the turnover of the entire Group increased by 12.6 % to 1.0835 billion
euros. On average, 4,787 employees all over the world contributed to this
pleasing operating result.
Economic activity has differed in large economic areas. Blum can look
back on a good year in Europe, but the mood has been overcast in North
America since December 2006, where the weakening real estate market has
had an impact on turnover. For the most part, business on Asian markets
has undergone a very positive development. Services of all kinds are an
integral part of Blum's overall performance. In the field of e-services,
Blum has further extended the existing programme of information available
to its customers and has also redesigned http://www.blum.com,
the company’s corporate presence on the internet. With more than
50 national websites in more than 20 different languages, Blum offers
its partners a comprehensive platform with information on products and
services and the possibility to establish direct contact with Blum.
The price of almost all raw materials and start materials continued to
rise in the last business year. The greatest increases were registered
with high-grade steel, zinc, nickel and packaging material. And there
is no sign of raw material prices stabilising in the coming business year.
The investments of the Blum Group totalled 124.2 million euros in the
2006/2007 business year.
Blum Austria
Last
July, construction work was started on Blum's new office building at Plant
2 which will be completed and ready for use by the start of 2008. In August
2006, Blum's injection moulding plant was moved from Plant 4 to Plant
5. The extension to Plant 6 was completed ahead of schedule. Machinery
will be moved and put into operation this autumn.
In addition to extensions to buildings, major investments have been made
in tools, machinery and production systems in all plants to ensure that
Blum has the capacities it needs to implement the company’s new products.
A suitable plot of land has been bought in Dornbirn-Wallenmahd to expand
logistics capacities in Austria. Blum will begin detailed planning for
the new building after the company’s vacation.
Blum USA
Blum has expanded basic manufacturing and assembly of TANDEM plus runner
systems at its plant in the USA and in addition, strengthened its logistics
infrastructure with a new automated warehouse for small parts.
Blum Poland
Blum's Logistics Centre was put into operation in Poland and already proved
its worth in the last financial year.
Investments in sales organisations
Warehousing and logistics capacities were expanded in Canada and Sweden.
Blum moved into new premises with an office and warehouse close to Moscow.
In China, Blum now has three locations with offices, showrooms and distributing
warehouses in Shanghai, Bejing and Guangzhou. In the meanwhile, construction
work has started on a new head office in Shanghai. At the end of the last
business year, a new warehouse was put into operation in Mexico, which
will improve Blum's services to its customers in this huge market. Additional
projects are being carried out to build up and extend Blum’s warehousing
and marketing capacities in Hungary, the Ukraine and Australia.
Personnel and organisational development
Blum has expanded this field, providing more direct contacts and more
support for personnel and organisational development in all departments.
The Blum Path has been introduced in Austria. Based on the company’s
orientation statement, it involves a strategy of personnel and organisational
development and the introduction of coordinated methods and tools to guide
and lead staff. Another important point has been to extend the programme
of ongoing training offered on an international scale. Due to the retirement
of longstanding skilled workers and executives, it will continue to be
a challenge to prepare the handover of tasks to younger employees in all
fields of business.
Attractive training place
59 young men and women will start their apprenticeships with Blum in September.
The company offers training in eight high-tech trades: plastics engineer,
plant electrician, plant constructor, toolmaker, IT engineer, cutting
engineer, technical designer and production engineer. As of 1st September
2007, Blum will be training a total of 238 apprentices - 219 in the Vorarlberg
and 19 in the USA.
Looking ahead to the 2007/2008 business year
Blum's plans for the 2007/2008 financial year are again characterised
by guarded optimism. The greatest elements of uncertainty for the coming
business year are the strength of the euro against other important currencies,
uncertainty on raw material markets and last but not least the development
of the economy in the USA.
Tel: 01908 285700
Email: info.uk@blum.com
Web: http://www.blum.com
Nobia:
Earnings per Share up 12 Per Cent
Sales
for kitchen company Nobia increased by 4 per cent during the second quarter
to SeK 4,464 million (4,288). organic growth amounted to 6 per cent. Profit
after tax totalled SeK 306 million (273). Earnings per share increased
by 12 per cent to SeK 1.74 (1.55) after dilution.
Operating profit amounted to SEK 447 million (422) and the operating margin
was 10.0 per cent (9.8). The largest earnings improvement was in the UK
region.
Demand
for kitchens remained favourable in all principal markets except Germany.
Higher prices for raw materials resulted in upward pressure on purchasing
costs.
Effective from the second quarter, the acquisition of German company Plana
is included in 50 per cent-owned Culinoma's accounts. After the end of
the period, Culinoma signed an agreement for the acquisition of the majority
holding in the German Marquardt Group.
Since the beginning of the year, a total of 17 new stores have been opened
by the Group. At the end of the second quarter, Nobia had a total of 664
stores.
Comments from the CEO:
'Although the Group's earnings have improved, earnings in the Nordic region
are unsatisfactory. Measures have been taken to resolve the production
problems. We are very pleased that we have succeeded in completing another
exciting German store acquisition, this time with a unique concept, thereby
creating a strong platform for further organic growth in Germany. Furthermore,
Nobia has also decided today to increase the pace of store openings in
the UK and France, as well as entering Spain,' says President and CEO
Fredrik Cappelen.
Web: http://www.nobia.com
Wolseley plc - Pre-Close Period Trading Statement
Wolseley
plc, the world's largest specialist trade distributor of plumbing and
heating products to professional contractors and a leading supplier of
building materials, issues its regular trading statement for the 11 months
to 30th June 2007, prior to entering its close period. The preliminary
results for the 12 months ending 31st July 2007 are due to be announced
on 24th September 2007.
Overview
The results announced today demonstrate the benefits of the Group's diversity
and its ability to react swiftly to changing market conditions. Although
the US new housing market, which affects around one quarter of Wolseley's
revenues, has slowed significantly, the Group has continued to invest
in the business for future growth, made acquisitions that further increase
diversity and restructured its operations to reduce costs and improve
margins going forward.
Against this background, Group revenue for the 11 months to 30th June
2007 was up by almost 15%, after currency translation and including the
effect of acquisitions. Trading profit for the same period was up about
2%. In constant currency, revenue and trading profit would have been a
further 6% higher.
As previously indicated, the Group's results have also been affected by
lower lumber and panel prices in the USA, as well as adverse currency
translation and one-off restructuring costs. The effect of these factors
has been partially offset by good organic growth in the US plumbing and
heating business (Ferguson), an improved performance in continental Europe
and the contribution from acquisitions.
Group profit before tax and before amortisation of acquired intangibles
for the 11 months to 30th June 2007 was around 5% lower than the comparable
period in the prior year, reflecting a higher interest charge relating
to the recent acquisition spend and increased interest rates. For the
12 months to 31st July 2007 the Group's trading profit will be impacted
by further one-off restructuring costs which are expected to be in the
region of £9 million.
Further details of market conditions and financial performance in each
of the Group's business segments are set out below.
North America
In North America, revenue for the 11 months to 30th June 2007 in sterling,
including acquisitions, decreased by about 4% compared to the corresponding
period in the prior year. Trading profit in sterling, including acquisitions,
was down by around 17%, after charging previously announced one-off costs
relating to headcount reductions and branch closures.
In the USA, the new residential market continues to be challenging, but
the repairs, maintenance and improvement market ('RMI') and the commercial
and industrial sectors continue to provide opportunities for growth. Aggregate
local currency revenue from the Group's US businesses, including acquisitions,
was about 5% higher but US trading profit was down by around 10%. US Dollar
weakness has led to an 8.5% adverse currency translation impact when US
results are reported in sterling.
Ferguson produced a strong performance continuing to take market share,
with revenue in local currency for the 11 months to 30 June 2007 up by
around 15%, of which approximately 6% was organic growth. Trading profit
was up by about 20% on the equivalent period in the prior year. The higher
trading margin reflects the diversity of the business and of the specialist
product offering as well as a focus on cost efficiency.
At Stock, the US building materials business, revenue and trading profit
continue to be impacted by the challenging new residential market resulting
in increased price competition and also by the significantly lower lumber
and structural panel prices. Lumber and structural panel prices, which
when combined account for approximately 45% of Stock's revenues, have
fallen by 21% and 27% respectively. Including the impact of acquisitions,
local currency revenue was down nearly 15%. Stock continued to outperform
the market with organic sales volumes down by 15%, compared with average
housing starts which were 25% lower at 1.5 million, compared to 2.1 million
in the prior period. Commodity price deflation caused revenues to decline
a further 10%. Trading profit was down by two-thirds, after charging the
previously announced one-off costs of some $11 million, relating to 22
branch closures and headcount reductions of around 4,500 (25% of total
employees).
In addition, there are one-off charges, arising in July, of $12 million
following the decision to close a further 24 branches, involving a 370
headcount reduction, primarily in the MidWest, and $10 million from the
consequential goodwill impairment provision required in that region. Stock's
remaining branch network will comprise 287 branches across 33 states.
Wolseley Canada achieved modest local currency revenue growth, although
trading profit was lower compared to the equivalent period in the prior
year, primarily due to lower activity levels in the exploration industries
in Western Canada. With effect from 1st August 2007, Wolseley Canada will
be integrated into Ferguson, operating within the same business group
structure which focuses on specific customer types, and will benefit from
leveraging the US operations, including the distribution centre network.
Europe
In Europe, revenue in sterling, including acquisitions, increased by more
than 45% in the 11 months to 30th June 2007, whilst trading profit was
up by around 35%. Excluding DT Group, European revenues and trading profit
were up by about 15% and more than 5%, respectively.
Wolseley UK, including Ireland, achieved strong revenue growth of more
than 15%, including around 10% organic growth, reflecting market share
gains across most brands. Trading profit, including acquisitions, was
up more than 5%. The trading margin was lower as a result of competitive
market conditions in the first half and the effect of the previously announced
one-off costs and investments in the business, but has shown the expected
upward trend in the second half.
Wolseley France achieved double-digit revenue growth, approximately half
of which was organic. Its underlying trading margin improved slightly,
after adjusting for the net impact of one-off items in the current and
prior year.
DT Group's trading in the Nordic region in its first nine months of Wolseley
ownership continues to exceed expectations at the time of acquisition.
Over that period, revenue increased by approximately 15% and trading profit
increased by more than 20%, compared to the comparable period in the prior
year.
Central and Eastern European businesses showed strong revenue growth,
despite most principal markets remaining broadly flat. Overall, in sterling,
revenue was up more than 20%, with double digit organic growth, and the
trading margin also improved. There will be a one-off charge of around
£3 million in July, relating to restructuring in Italy following
the opening of the new distribution centre.
Financial
Since 1st August 2006, a total of 41 bolt-on acquisitions have been completed
for an aggregate consideration of approximately £374 million. These
41 acquisitions are expected to add approximately £656 million to
Group revenue in a full year. In addition, on 25 September 2006, the Group
completed the acquisition of DT Group for a consideration of £1,339
million which brings aggregate acquisition spend for the year to £1,713
million.
As expected, the interest charge is running at almost twice the level
incurred in the corresponding period in the prior year due to the higher
level of average borrowings as a result of recent acquisitions and interest
rate rises.
The Group's financial position remains strong with Group gearing, as at
30th June 2007, of around 78% at current exchange rates (89.6% as at 31st
January 2007), reflecting a strong improvement in operating cashflow during
the period to date.
Outlook
There are no signs of any upturn in the US housing market and the timing
of any recovery remains uncertain. The RMI and commercial and industrial
markets are expected to continue to provide good opportunities for growth.
In the UK, recent sales trends have been positive although the market
signals are difficult to interpret following the recent interest rate
rises. Housing starts in Ireland are expected to continue to slow from
the extremely high levels seen in recent years.
Markets across Continental Europe and the Nordic region are expected to
be generally positive and Wolseley's operations in those areas are expected
to show further progress.
The Group will continue to target margin improvement by pursuing the initiatives
relating to supply chain, sourcing and private label and by ensuring that
maximum benefits are derived from the investments in facilities, technology
and people, whilst continuing to focus on the cost base. The Group is
well positioned to benefit from any recovery in the US new housing market
and expects to continue to make good progress in other markets which account
for around three-quarters of the Group's revenue.
Chip Hornsby, Group Chief Executive of Wolseley, said:
'The Group has reacted swiftly and decisively to the difficult conditions
in the US housing market and will continue to pursue its strategy to create
competitive advantage and shareholder value from its leading market positions
and excellent platform for future growth.'
Exchange Rates
The average profit and loss account translation rate for the first 11
months was $1.95 to the £1 compared to $1.78 for the comparable
period last year, a fall of 8.5%, and Euro1.48 to the £1 compared
to Euro1.46, a fall of 1.6%.
Trading profit, a term used throughout this announcement, is defined as
operating profit before amortisation and impairment of acquired intangibles.
Trading margin is the ratio of trading profit to sales stated as a percentage.
Web: http://www.wolseley.com
Beauty
in Glass with FGI's Decoran
Decoran
- The distinctive design solution for kitchen and bathroom surfaces is
now in the UK and available to order from, Manchester based, Float Glass
Industries. This striking, 100% recycled material combines a unique visual
appeal with remarkable 3D properties to eclipse many other widely used
materials such as natural stone, granite and marble for kitchen &
bathroom surfaces. Decoran therefore offers huge design potential for
all sorts of high-end decorative items, from kitchen worktops, islands
and splashbacks to shower screens and wet room panels.
Decoran
is available in a variety of colours, textures and degrees of opacity,
translucency or partial transparency for use in a wide range of kitchen
and bathroom applications. Furthermore, as it is made from 100% recycled
glass cullet it is a totally sustainable material and does not contain
resins making it an environmentally sound solution - an increasingly important
consideration in the modern building industry.
Unlike stone, which is porous, Decoran has superb anti-stain, anti-acid
qualities and surface wear resistance, thereby providing a long lasting
and easy to maintain material for demanding environments. Also, the translucent
products can be backlit, offering beautiful illuminated and textured options
for today's kitchen and bathroom designers.
Decoran is available from FGI in a variety of colours including the translucent
options which produce an illuminated glow when back lit. As a further
benefit, the use of high-grade inorganic colour pigments in the 'solid'
products ensures excellent colourfastness.
Most products in the range can be supplied with a high quality polished
surface to suit modern interiors or alternatively a 'hammered' finish,
which provides a textured matt appearance to the surface.
In addition to its obvious aesthetic appeal, Decoran has recently passed
FGI's in-house impact resistance tests as detailed in the new European
standard EN12600:2002. This standard relates to the impact test method
and classification for flat glass used in buildings with the sample tested
remaining intact even at the maximum 1200mm drop height.
Decoran and Structuran (a sister product for use in external applications)
is supplied cut to size and with fully finished edgework.
Further details on Float Glass Industries' full range of glass products
and services, including advice on specification, are available at http://www.floatglass.co.uk.
Admiral
Chosen Again for ITV1's Daily Cooks
Maytag
UK's Admiral side-by-side fridge freezer was selected for a second competition
appearance on ITV1's Daily Cooks programme, following its debut on the
celebrity-hosted cookery programme in March.
The Admiral SAD224GB appeared on the Daily Cooks ITV1 show in the first
week of July, which attracted an audience of just under a million per
day. The refrigerator featured three times during each programme, giving
the audience the opportunity to see and hear about the brand fifteen times
throughout the week. One Admiral refrigerator was given away on each day
of the show.
Daily Cooks is a hugely successful ITV1 afternoon show. After an initial
5-week commission in January 2007, the show was re-commissioned twice
for a total of 19 weeks of episodes.
Daily Cooks is hosted by Anthony Worrall Thompson who is ITV1's most popular
and well-known TV chef.
Web: http://www.maytag.co.uk
GDHA
Appoints Jonathan Casley as Sales & Marketing Director
Glen
Dimplex Home Appliances, has appointed Jonathan Casley as sales and marketing
director with responsibility for all four of the company's household brand
names: Lec Refrigeration, Stoves, New World and the UK's number 1 cooking
brand, Belling.
With a career in the industry spanning 17 years, Jonathan previously occupied
the position of sales and marketing director for Belling and further to
this was appointed sales director for GDHA in 2002.
Having worked for the Glen Dimplex Group for 10 years, Jonathan's new,
wider role within the business will see him working more closely with
the marketing and product management teams on the development of targeted
customer communications, retailer support packages and product innovations,
as well as continuing to lead GDHA's national sales team.
In a role that now encompasses both marketing and sales, Jonathan will
be concentrating on further integrating the two functions at GDHA with
a view to keeping channels of communication open internally and externally,
making it even easier for customers to deal with the company on a daily
basis.
Jonathan said: 'Our sales and marketing teams are dedicated to making
it easier for customers to deal with GDHA - from listening to retailers
about their requirements and designing consumer friendly products to our
award winning customer care and service support.
'With plenty of new products being introduced throughout the course of
2007 and with the Lec brand now firmly integrated into the GDHA stable,
our aim is to keep Belling in its strong number 1 position whilst increasing
market share for the other three brands. Being able to work across both
teams from now on will ensure we continue to pursue our business goals
as effectively and efficiently as we possibly can.'
Coram
Appoints Acora Sales Manager
Coram
Showers has appointed Stephen Plant to the newly created position of retail
and distribution sales manager for its recently launched, flagship retail
range, Acora.
Stephen has over 20 years experience in the bathroom manufacturing industry,
including national sales roles in both the trade and retail markets. Having
worked at Coram for six years, this new appointment gives Stephen the
opportunity to utilise his extensive knowledge of the retail sector and
drive forward sales of Acora's enclosure and bath screen designs across
the UK.
Speaking on the new Acora range, Stephen Plant commented: ‘Coram
has been designing and manufacturing market leading enclosures, trays
and bath screens to meet the very specific needs of the UK trade for many
years, so transferring the company's advanced manufacturing capability
and technological expertise to a retail range has been a natural progression.
‘The Acora range has been designed to combine the contemporary styling
and luxurious finish that consumers expect, with the quality, durability,
ease of installation and watertight performance that interior designers,
architects and retailers expect. The result is a range of elegant, high
performance, professional products that set a new standard for the retail
market.’
There are six contemporary enclosure designs in the Acora range, which
include the Bow front, the Walk-in, the Crescent, the Frameless Hinged
door, the Pentagon and the Bi-fold. Designed to offer a spacious and luxurious
showering experience, each of these stylish enclosures is manufactured
using safety glass, the edges of which are rounded and polished.
The Acora range also offers two durable, easy clean shower tray options,
the slim-line shower tray and the standard Waterguard shower tray. The
combination of an Acora enclosure and tray provides a stylish, high performance
showering area, which is so effective at preventing leaks that Coram offers
a watertight lifetime guarantee.
In addition to the enclosures and trays, the Acora range includes a selection
of completely leak free bath screens, which are manufactured using toughened
safety glass and are available in a chrome finish. The range includes
the Sail shape screen, the Folding screen, the Square screen and the Curved
screen.
Coram Showers specialises in the design and manufacture of shower enclosures,
shower pods, shower trays and bath screens. The company's current range
includes the Premier and Optima ranges of shower enclosures, Waterguard
Showertrays, a range of bath screens and the new retail range, Acora.
Designed for fast and easy installation, as well as watertight performance,
all Coram products are designed and manufactured at the company's Bridgnorth
factory in Shropshire and enclosures are power shower tested to BS 6340
against leakage.
Tel: 01746 766466
Kitchen
Culture to Launch Second Surrey Showroom
Award
winning retailer Kitchen Culture has announced the acquisition of a new
head office in Guilford, Surrey. Scheduled for launch early October, the
facility will house a 356sq ft showroom, some 7000sq ft of warehousing
space and new offices for support staff and designers alike.
On show will be Valcucine, the exclusive specialist in contemporary Italian
design flair; Bespoke Culture, traditional or cutting edge - a flexiable
and exhaustive range limited only by a client's imagination' and Lema,
sleek Italian style for the bedroom. More companies are expected to join
this already comprehensive portfolio.
A fully functioning media room will exhibit the very best in sound and
vision, from modest systems to fully integrated multi room solutions,
demonstrating Kitchen Cultures vast knowledge and resources.
Percy Contractor, Director and designer at Kitchen Cultures comments ‘This
takes Kitchen Culture to an unprecedented level within the industry. The
showroom will be a theatrical extravaganza for our full product range,
encompassing only the finest and most exclusive furniture products from
Europe. A building of such generous proportions will also house our support
staff in brand new offices and give us both warehousing ad stock control
capabilities. In all my years in this industry I've never seen such an
innovative expansion, one of which I'm proud to be spearheading. Our company
vision, products and staff are already at the pinnacle of the market.
This project reinforces this fact.’
Kitchen Culture opened its inaugural showroom in Esher, Surrey, just four
years ago. In this time the company has won seven awards, scoring three
in this years kbbreview Industry Awards: best young designer, best designer
over £25,000 and the much lauded international designer of the year.
Tel: 01372 468 469
Web: http://www.kitchen-culture.co.uk
Mouldings,
Profiles & Flooring from JBT
John
Boddy Timber, supplier of hardwoods and softwoods, has invested significantly
in state-of the art machinery to produce accurate mouldings, profiles
and flooring.
Mouldings,
backing boards, planed all round (PAR) timber and end-matched t&g
flooring are the main products on offer. But due to the highly flexible
tooling set-up for the Weinig moulder, bespoke mouldings and profiles
can be produced in small quantities to short lead times. Kitchen, furniture
and architectural mouldings are all available.
The service is described in detail in a new catalogue which, among other
contents, includes 5 pages of scale graphics of the various standard profiles,
mouldings and flooring with all dimensions and clear surface photographs
of the standard stock species. Non-standard species available for machining
are also listed.
The catalogue also details John Boddy Timber's Environmental Purchasing
Policies and their accreditations with regard to Commitment and Quality
Assurance.
The new John Boddy Timber catalogue is an essential reference for all
timber buyers or designers in joinery and furniture workshops.
The catalogue is available on request from JBT on Tel: 01423 322370, Fax:
01423 324334, Email: info@john-boddy-timber.ltd.uk.
Web: http://www.john-boddy-timber.ltd.uk
Many
young people are keen to participate in projects and adventures from which
they can gain invaluable experience. Sailing is an activity where important
teamwork skills can be learnt – while having fun at the same time.
One person who has committed his life to making this pastime more accessible
is former Navy Commander Graham Neilson.
Since 1982, he has overseen the construction and restoration of many shipping
vessels. His latest project is the TS Pelican of London. Originally built
in 1946, it has been completely renovated with now only the original hull
remaining.
The TS Pelican is due to set sail on its maiden transatlantic voyage in
September with 30 trainees onboard. In future, it will also be used for
other voyages such as adventure holidays and corporate team building exercises.
Every part of the ship has been reconstructed to the highest standards
and meets all safety specifications. It has been designed with seven en-suite
cabins that can hold up to 40 people. Each bathroom has been fitted with
first-class fixtures and fittings, including Mermaid waterproof wall panels
from Bridport-based Ocean Bathrooms.
Mermaid is a specialist in the waterproof wall panel market. The panels
are manufactured in Sweden and available in three different sizes. One
Mermaid ShowerWall panel is equivalent to approximately 216 (100mm) tiles
and can be fitted to almost any surface. The panels have been used on
many projects, but this is one of the most unique.
A total of 50 panels have been fitted in the vessel in a variety of colours,
including rich Carnelian Gold, tranquil Water’s Edge and the refreshing,
clean Quartz White. They all create a desirable finish, which is durable
and easy to clean.
'We are really impressed with how the Mermaid panels look in the ensuite
showers,' says Graham Neilson, owner of TS Pelican of London. 'It is important
that we use products which are of high quality on projects like this.
They also need to be easy to install and maintain.
'Mermaid waterproof wall panels are ideal for us. The crew would rather
be enjoying their adventure than spending too much time cleaning the shower.
We received excellent service from Ocean Bathrooms and I wouldn’t
hesitate to use Mermaid again on future restorations.'
Robert Muhl, Director of Ocean bathrooms, found the whole project extremely
interesting and exciting. 'Our design team used their expertise and training
well,' he says. 'Commander Neilson was professional and astute to work
with and we would certainly relish an opportunity to work with him again.'
Ocean Bathrooms: 01308 420011
Norske Interiors U.K. Limited: 01472 240832
Successful
Mike Speeds Ahead with In-toto
Mike
Stringer has worked as kitchen and bathroom designer and showroom manager
in the Cheam In-toto kitchen showroom for over two and a half years yet
in his spare time he loves to sail and enjoyed recent success in an international
sailing competition, the 40+ World Finn Masters Championships in Spain.
Mike came 67th in the competition, which spanned 20 countries and included
148 competitors. The competition was held on the Mar Menor near La Manga
and Mike had sailed several regattas in England in order to qualify.
Mike comments: ‘I really enjoyed the World Finn Championships and
was pleased with my position. Many of the competitors were ex Olympic
country team members and I certainly picked up a number of tips from other
sailors! There was also a great, international atmosphere!’
The In-toto Cheam showroom part-sponsored Mike during the championships.
In-toto Cheam has a varied range of kitchens throughout its nine displays
in the showroom, from traditional woods to contemporary high gloss laminates.
The showroom aims to provide the highest level of customer service and
satisfaction.
In-toto Cheam is part of a network of over fifty In-toto showrooms.
Web: http://www.intoto.co.uk
Mark
Wilkinson Meets Charles & Camilla
Mark Wilkinson met Prince Charles and Camilla recently when the couple visited the designer's home village of Bromham. Our picture shows Mark Wilkinson meeting Prince Charles outside the Village post office.
The
Prince is very keen to maintain English village life and endorses the
survival of services such as the local Post Offices - he spent several
minutes speaking privately with Mark Wilkinson and the local PostMaster
- and applauded the continuing use of the Post Office by Mark Wilkinson
Furniture - rather than the company using franking machines.
The Postmaster confirmed that without support from local businesses, local
postal services, such as Pension collection for older people, would not
survive.
Later on Charles and Camilla toured a series of stands showing off local
producers and the Duchess of Cornwall, who was celebrating her birthday,
took great interst In Mark Wilkinson's jewellry cabinet, Marilyn. The
company's MD Cynthia Wilkinson is in the background of the picture.
Bang
& Olufsen Products Now Available on Planit Design Software
Planit’s
design and visualisation software now includes the full Bang & Olufsen
catalogue, providing dealers with a powerful tool to present customers
with photorealistic images of their own homes, equipped with the company’s
latest audio and video products.
A new BeoVision 7, BeoSound 9000 and BeoLab 8000, for example, can be
installed directly into high definition on-screen representations of the
customer’s own living space – complete with full walk-through
capabilities.
'This collaboration brings together two leaders in their respective fields,'
comments Planit’s managing director Alastair McPheat. 'Bang &
Olufsen is recognised as one of the world’s leading design and innovation
companies, while Planit’s ability to fulfil its demanding requirements
clearly demonstrates the strength of our software and services offering.
We are proud to be supporting Bang & Olufsen during the next phase
of its development.'
Planit’s state-of-the-art system enables Bang & Olufsen dealers
to demonstrate exactly how customers’ new installations will look
in their homes. Through the use of simple menus and intuitive commands,
the software allows fully furnished room layouts incorporating Bang &
Olufsen’s complete range of quality electronic equipment, to be accurately
displayed as 3D graphical images.
The Planit system’s versatility also enables customers to choose
whether the BeoSound 9000 should be stand or wall mounted – either
vertically or horizontally – and whether the BeoLab 8000 should light
up in green or red. The system’s advanced rendering package accurately
reproduces reflections of objects in shiny metallic or polished surfaces
within the room layout.
'It is an extremely powerful and realistic visualisation tool,' says Bang
& Olufsen departmental manager Claus Buelund. 'It allows dealers to
mirror the way estate agents demonstrate houses, enabling customers to
take a virtual 3D tour of each room – helping to guide them through
the decision making process. The system provides major benefits both to
our dealers and end users.'
Planit also enables ancillary equipment and cables to be easily modelled
and located within the final room set – an important consideration
with larger installations such as the BeoLiving system, Bang & Olufsen’s
concept of a fully equipped home cinema.
'Planit’s reach extends throughout the complete design to installation
process,' says Buelund. 'It provides accurate instructions for fitters
and ensures that everything is documented correctly; customers can thereby
choose the most appropriate product configuration for their home and lifestyle.'
The requirement for a powerful tool to bring their presentations into
the electronic age has long been recognised by Bang & Olufsen dealers.
Since its rollout to the reseller network, the Planit system’s versatility,
accuracy and impressive graphics have become an instant hit with users.
'Planit has already proved itself to be an excellent tool, permitting
our dealers to differentiate themselves from suppliers of competitive
products,' Buelund continues. 'Customers can have absolute confidence
in how our equipment will look when it is installed in their own homes.
The system therefore gives us the twin benefits of directly promoting
sales, while also fostering strong brand loyalty.'
Web: http://www.bang-olufsen.com
Tel: +44 (0)1233 649700
Web: http://www.planitsoftware.com
William
Ball Treats Retailers to a Taste of the High Life ...
There was no room for land-lubbers at William Balls annual customer awards recently. This year's prestigious event - a major highlight in the calendars of William Ball retailers nationwide - was held aboard the luxurious Sunborn Yacht Hotel, which is moored in London's Docklands.
Proud
winners Alex Kane (left) and Joe Weldon (right) of Homeworld Design with
their awards.
Awards
were presented to the best performing retailers within seven regions throughout
the UK, as well as National Retailer awards presented to the overall winner
for both standard showrooms and master showrooms. Deserving a special
mention is Homeworld Design from Kirkintilloch in Scotland, which won
two awards - the gold award for Regional Retailer 2006/7 and the gold
award for National Retailer 2006/7, while Oakdene Homes picked up the
National House Builder of the Year Award and Peterborough-based Premier
Kitchens & Bedrooms won National Master Retailer 2006/7.
‘There are 113 authorised William Ball retailers in the UK, so to
win two awards was an incredible honour, especially since it is a first
for a Scottish firm,’ commented Joe Weldon, who established Homeworld
Design 11 years ago with installation director Alex Kane.
Web: http://www.wball.co.uk
Caption: Proud winners Alex Kane (left) and Joe Weldon (right) of Homeworld
Design with their awards.
Housing
Units Wins Retail Award
Manchester-based
Housing Units has been awarded the accolade of Specialist Retailer of
the Year by one of the UK's leading cookware manufactures, Meyer Group
Limited.
The team at Housing Units was rewarded by Meyer Group for its outstanding
achievement in terms of sales, introduction of new products, point-of-sale
displays and training initiatives for members of staff.
Nick Fox, director of Housing Units said: 'The team gives its all in sourcing
goods and products, driving competitive pricing and delivering market
leading customer service - and sometimes it takes a pleasant surprise
like this to remind us how hard everybody does work.
'We are, of course, delighted and flattered to be recognised for our efforts,'
said Nick.
Geoff Gorst, Meyer Group Limited Sales Director, said: 'Meyer's specialist
retailers play a vital part in the overall success of the Meyer business
and the Housing Units team is an exceptional example of how commitment
and hard work lead to success.
'We have worked with the team for many years and its hard work has never
ceased. It gives us great pleasure to honour Housing Units with this award,
and Meyer looks forward to working with Housing Units in the future.'
Housing Units - known for its top-hatted doormen - was established in
1947. It is a family-owned furnishings retailer based in Failsworth to
the north of Manchester. It stocks 30,000 high-quality lines across a
range of departments in two buildings and prides itself on its unique
style of customer service, the value of its goods and the shopping experience
it provides.
For more information please contact the Meyer Group on + 44 (0) 151 482
8282 or visit http://www.meyergroup.co.uk.
Web: http://www.housingunits.co.uk
Premium
Appliance Brands Launches Rosemary Conley Cooking Appliances
This
month, Warrington-based Premium Appliance Brands has launched a new range
of health-conscious, small kitchen appliances under the Rosemary Conley
enerGi brand.
The high specification enerGi appliance range consists of:
* A mini smoothie maker
* A smoothie maker
* A vitality juicer
* A juice 'n' smoothie maker
* An easy clean health grill
* A wide feed juice centre
* An electric wok
The portfolio has been designed to be as flexible as possible, with nearly
all products in the range being dual-use, so purchasers get two functions
rolled into one compact machine, saving money and worktop space.
The range also aims to go one step further than competitors in terms of
specifications and ease of use. The easy clean health grill has a pull
out drip tray, removable plates for easy cleaning and double coated non-stick
plates so there is no need for oil or fat. Similarly, the electric wok
has a removable base which can be easily lifted off for cleaning, a wipe
clean pan and also a double butterfly element, which means that the pan
actually heats 2/3 of the way up, rather than just the base.
Guy
Weaver, Chief Executive of Premium Appliance Brands, comments, ‘The
new enerGi range of health-conscious cooking appliances look great, perform
well and don't cost the earth, making them an ideal solution for the current
market. Rosemary has had input into both the design and functionality
of all products and we believe that they are better value than anything
currently available. enerGi is set to become THE appliance portfolio of
2007.’
All products within the range come complete with a free Gi diet booklet
and a Rosemary Conley recipe book, giving purchasers a complete healthy
living package from as little as £16.99.
For enquiries about the Rosemary Conley enerGi range, retailers should
contact Premium Appliance Brands on 01925 248900.
'World's
Quickest Washing Machine at Full Load' Wins Environmental Award
The
7kg Xpress Washing Machine, recently launched by appliance manufacturer
BEKO plc, has been awarded the prestigious 'Plus X' Award for the most
ecologically friendly appliance on the market Europe-wide.
The 'Plus X' Award is considered by the industry as one of the most respected
competitions in Europe, awarding prizes across eight categories including
innovation, ecology, ease of use and design.
The Xpress Washing Machine has an electronic water control system which
calculates the exact amount of water required according to the type and
quantity of the laundry, meaning that the machine has an excellent A+
energy rating.
This award is great news for retailers with energy and water consumption
becoming an important selling point as consumers look to reduce their
bills and carbon footprint.
The Xpress Washing Machine is designed to present consumers with three
different washing options to suit all their laundry needs.
The 14min and 30min Xpress programmes are invaluable for washing emergencies
when clean clothes are needed fast, but the standard programmes with the
Quick Wash option are ideal for saving time, energy and water on an everyday
basis. The standard programmes are perfect for heavily soiled clothes
in less time-pressured circumstances.
Tel: 01923 818121
Web: http://www.beko.co.uk
Countdown
to BMA Conference
The
2007 Bathroom Conference will take place at the Oxford Belfry on 30th
October and promises to be an occasion not to be missed. Organiser of
the event, the Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA), believes this
year's Conference will attract more delegates than ever.
The BMA is keen to stress that although the Association hosts the event,
it is not purely for manufacturers.
BMA Chief Executive Yvonne Orgill says: ‘The 2007 Bathroom Conference
will appeal to anyone who works to meet the needs of consumers - and that's
all of us.’ The theme for this year's Conference is 'The Consumer
- Designing for Life, Trend and Spend'.
Speakers will explore the changing consumer - both domestic and commercial.
They will cover what is driving the market; how desires and expectations
are changing due to greater awareness of sustainability and the environment;
how requirements are shifting due to longevity; what we can expect for
the future; and, how the Bathroom Industry can fully service the needs
of consumers and fully capitalise of these emerging markets.
Delegates from manufacturers, retailers, sheds, merchants, installers,
government, related industry bodies and the media will leave with the
2007 Bathroom Conference with a greater understanding of designing for
life; inclusive design and sustainability; consumer behaviour and spending
habits; and, vital market forecast predictions. Armed with this information
we will be able to confidently enter into future markets and adapt this
knowledge into our own future business plans for greater profit.
After a day packed full with important information and messages, delegates
will have the opportunity to unwind and network with Industry colleagues
during a gala dinner, which if past events are anything to go by, guarantees
some sizzling entertainment and a fun night.
Orgill continues: ‘The Conference does have a very serious side.
It is important that the Bathroom Industry prepares for the changes ahead
and understands what is driving the shift. Then, of course, there is the
social side, which always remains a talking point months later!
‘Industry events, such as B&K Expo held recently, are extremely
important and are highlights in the Industry's calendar offering a perfect
opportunity to gain additional knowledge and network.
‘The 2007 Bathroom Conference is no exception and we would like to
emphasise that all Industry stakeholders will derive some benefit.’
For further details about the 2007 Bathroom Conference and to obtain a
booking form please contact Linda Williams: linda.williams@bathroom-association.org.uk
Tel: 01782 747123
Web: http://www.bathroom-association.org
Franke Acquires Defy Appliances Ltd in South Africa
An
agreement has been signed by Franke Holding AG and Defy Appliances Ltd
for the purchase of the Defy business by Franke. Defy is South Africa’s
leading manufacturer, importer and distributor of cooking, laundry, refrigeration
and air conditioning appliances with local production facilities in Durban,
East London and Ladysmith. Furthermore, Defy has a national sales organisation
with nine sales offices throughout South Africa and five more sales offices
in Sub-Saharan African countries.
The Group has a history of 100 years and achieved good results in 2006
with growth continuing in 2007. Defy sales reached 2,332.5 million South
African Rand by the end of March 2007 (fiscal year) which corresponds
to approxi-mately CHF 406 million. Defy employs more than 3000 people
with more than 600 employees in sales and service.
The Defy brand has a high market share in South Africa. Defy brand values
are closely in line with Franke standards (high quality, modern, reliable).
Defy products are sold in the South African Customs Union, a number of
Sub-Saharan African countries and the Indian Ocean islands. Defy is jointly
owned by Standard Bank Private Equity (a division of the The Standard
Bank of South Africa Ltd), Ayavuna Women’s Investments (Pty) Ltd
and the management of Defy.
The Defy acquisition represents a further major strategic investment in
Southern Africa by the Franke Group and will strengthen the position of
the leading supplier of kitchen systems. The acquisition will offer various
synergy options.
Franke is a privately owned Swiss company with sub-sidiaries in 42 countries.
In South Africa, Franke is the owner of both Franke Kitchen Systems (Pty)
Ltd in Durban which manufactures and distributes Franke kitchenware products,
and Franke Water Heating Systems (Pty) Ltd in Midrand which manufactures
and distributes hot water gey-sers in South Africa. Furthermore, Franke
entered into a Joint Venture with Dawn Group in South Africa (African
Swiss Trading Company) to develop further African markets. The transaction
is subject to regulatory approvals. The closing of the transaction is
expected during the third quarter of 2007.
Nobia
and DMG Acquire German kitchen Company Marquardt
Through
Culinoma GmbH, Nobia AB in Sweden and De MandemakersGroep Holding BV in
the Netherlands have acquired the majority shareholding in the Marquardt
Group in Germany. The Marquardt Group is leading within granite kitchens
in Germany with three factories and 26 stores. This will make Culinoma
the leader in granite kitchens, as well as the largest streamlined kitchen
store group in Germany. The seller is Michael Marquardt, founder and sole
owner of the company.
Culinoma was established in February this year, with the objective of
developing kitchen stores in Germany through organic growth and acquisitions.
With Marquardt's 26 stores and Plana Küchenland's 39 franchise stores,
Culinoma now has 65 kitchen stores, with kitchen retail sales of approximately
EUR 150 million. This means that it has the leading position in the kitchen
retail sector in Germany.
Fredrik Cappelen, CEO of Nobia and Ben Mandemarkers, CEO of DMG, jointly
comment on the acquisition:
'Granite is an increasingly prevalent material in kitchens. We strongly
believe in the Marquardt concept for continued favourable growth. Marquardt's
management group and the company's customer-friendly business model are
compatible with our plans for the development of the retail operations
within the framework of Culinoma. At the same time, we are delighted about
Culinoma's rapid expansion this year.'
Michael Marquardt:
'Through the sale to Culinoma, my wife and I have ensured that the company
is in good hands. I look forward to managing the company for the benefit
of customers, employees and the new owners.'
Michael Marquardt, who established the term 'granite kitchen' in the German
market through his business concept, will continue to head the Marquardt
Group.
The concept is about offering customers kitchens with a striking content
of granite components at attractive prices from the factories. The customer
chooses the granite either on the Internet or directly from the factories.
The Marquardt Group has a store chain comprising 26 stores, which provide
customers with guidance.
The company's operations have approximately 600 employees.
The acquisition is organised in two stages. Initially, 80 per cent of
the Marquardt Group will be acquired.
The acquisition of the Marquardt Group is conditional upon approval from
the appropriate competition authorities.
Web: http://www.nobia.com
Yesterday,
Nobia decided to increase the pace of its store establishment in both
the UK and France. A decision was also made to establish the Hygena concept
in the Spanish market.
UK
Magnet, with its 193 kitchen stores at mid-year, is one of the leading
kitchen companies in the UK. The company has been part of Nobia since
2001 and has since undergone major changes. These include a comprehensive
refurbishment programme for the store network and modification of the
Trade concept. Today, Nobia approved a considerable expansion of the store
network. The ambition is to open 100 new stores, of which about 30 in
2007.
France
Hygena is a store chain with 140 stores throughout France. The company
has been part of Nobia since 2006. Hygena has a leading position in the
economy and mid-price segments in France. Today, Nobia decided to expand
its store network by opening stores in central locations of major French
cities in addition to other locations. To achieve complete market coverage,
the ambition is to open a further 50-75 stores in France when integration
into Nobia's product supply system is completed.
Spain
Nobia also decided yesterday to establish the Hygena concept in Spain.
Establishment will be conducted region by region, commencing with four
stores in the Barcelona area.
'We have a high level of confidence in the Spanish market and that the
Hygena concept is appropriate,' says CEO Fredrik Cappelen, Nobia. 'During
the first year we will learn more about the Spanish market and acquire
an organisational platform. We will then accelerate to highest momentum
and establish stores in several cities.'
Web: http://www.nobia.com