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How Much does your Fridge Really Cost?

'How much food do you throw away a year? How much does it really cost you? You could save money if you had the latest Maytag refrigerator with ClimateZone™ technology!' says the company.

For most of us there are two costs associated with a refrigerator - the initial purchase and the running cost. However, in reality there are several other costs that should be considered. Food spoilage is a very real issue and can contribute to its cost significantly. It's important to realise why you buy a refrigerator - for the preservation of food, through good performance, temperature maintenance and dedicated temperature controlled storage zones for food storage excellence.

Recent research shows that 74% of Americans throw out food at least every month or two, because it has gone bad in the refrigerator. Almost half threw out fruit and vegetables, which were unfit for consumption every week, and dairy and meat came in second and third as the most frequently disposed of items. Nearly half of those surveyed estimated that they threw away as much as 5lbs of spoiled food in a year and 11% throw away between 16-25lbs per year, - that's estimated at £17 billion annually in food waste!

Is this being addressed by the refrigeration manufacturers? Maytag claims it has the answer with the company's latest feature, ClimateZone™. This extends the storage life of produce, meat and dairy by as much as 154%! This technology takes the guesswork out on knowing how and where to store such items to extend their freshness. ClimateZone™ is a food storage facility that delivers freshness by design. Each of the individually refrigerated drawers maintains precise temperature and automatic humidity control, to ensure dairy, meat and produce keep fresher for longer.

'Trading up to a Maytag with ClimateZone™ will spare you the inconvenience of tossing away 'gone off' food, save money, and reduce trips to the supermarket with the benefit of quite substantial financial savings.' the company says.

Tel: 01737 231 000
Web: http://www.maytag.co.uk

*Source; Amana commissioned ORC lnternational to conduct the survey.

Pictured: ClimateZone™ Control Mechanism

Nolte Kitchens Launches Contracts Division

Nolte Kitchens has launched a Contracts Division, offering a dedicated service to architects and developers. On offer are several ranges including;

Uni Plus - a new range with a clean, striking design and matt laminate finish. Available in natural white, light grey and platinum beech - a new finish for 2003, a 600mm base unit has an approximate retail price of £246.00.

Line - a contemporary new design with a matt finish door with aluminium look strips along its vertical edges. Available in three colours, light maple, basalt grey, and royal blue, Line can be complemented with Nolte's wide range of aluminium handles. A 600mm base unit has an approximate retail price of £240.00.

Star - a best selling range that offers a variety of colour options from white to china red. A 600mm base unit has an approximate retail price of £250.00.

Spot - a stunning range with a high gloss laminate door. Available in vanilla, transparent green, cobalt blue, orange, grey and white, Spot also offers complementing coloured bullet waste bins. A 600mm base unit has an approximate retail price of £280.00

Lago - a contemporary door with a traditional finish. This range is available in several wood decor finishes including Nolte's latest creation 'platinum beech'. A 600mm base unit has an approximate retail price of £280.00

Tel: 01279 868500
Email: mailto:email@noltekitchens.co.uk
Web: http://www.nolte-kuechen.de

Stimulate your Senses with Twyford Bathrooms

Twyford Bathrooms has teamed up with specialist hydrotherapy manufacturer, Domino, to bring its Revita Hydromassage range to the UK.

Twyford and Domino are both part of Sanitec, and together they have developed a collection of hydromassage products suited to the UK market. Comprising two hydromassage baths, two hydromassage shower cabins and a top of the range combination unit - there is something in the range to suit all bathroom sizes and budgets.

Hydromassage is a whole new bathing experience for the home. Using air and water to create gentle or vigorous massaging jets, they provide an invigorating or relaxing alternative to a conventional bath or shower.

Domino has been an innovator in the hydrotherapy market for over twenty years and specialises in providing high specification domestic hydromassage units that are easy to install and maintain and deliver the ultimate in home spa.

The Revita range (pictured) incorporates a number of hydromassage systems designed to massage and de-stress the body. The Whirlpool system works on the simple but effective water massage technique that combines water and air to produce vigorous jets from the side of the bath to pummel the body. Filjets fitted to some of the range, produce three fine jets of water which can be adjusted to direct a massage where needed.

With Airspa also fitted to the hydromassage baths and combination units, introduces milder jets of air from the base of the unit to induce a double massaging action. Finally the steam option in the range of shower cabins brings all the benefits and comforts of a spa in the home.

The entire Revita range will be sold through the Twyford Bathrooms' retail sales team supported by a highly trained team of installation experts to handle any installation queries.

The entire Revita range is designed to bring high quality hydromassage into the home so that everyone can enjoy the sense of well being it brings.

The Revita range comprises:

Hydromassage baths
Margarita: Margarita is a compact corner bath that will utilise even the tightest bathroom space. Adding a touch of the indulgent, it comes with factory fitted Whirlpool jets fitted to the side of the unit and Airspa outlets on the base.

Sophia: Sophia is a compact rectangular bath in a choice of three sizes so it fits even the most demanding of bathroom schemes. It comes with either six Whirlpool jets or with both Whirlpool and 14 Airspa jets to offer an invigorating bathing experience at the end of a long day.

Hydromassage cabins
Kalambo: Available as either a quadrant or square, these shower and steam
cabins have a range of features to make showering a whole new experience. Both models have 12 factory fitted jets, which deliver a powerful directional all over body massage, while the chrome cascade outlet delivers a soft relaxing deluge of water. An optional steam option is also available on both models.

Combination Units
Tandem Reeve: the Tandem Reve hydromassage enclosure comes with whirlpool and Airspa bath and a stylish circular shower enclosure complete with 6 vertical filjets for total body invigoration.

An optimum water pressure of 3.0 bar is recommended for the installation of all
Hydromassage cabins and combination units.

Tel: 01270 879777, or for stockists and brochures Tel: 0870 0200090
Web: http://www.twyfordbathrooms.com

Shower Sales Boost First Quarter Profits for Bristan

Bristan has reported an impressive 25% growth in sales during the first quarter of 2003 compared with the same period during 2002.

This news comes hot on the heels of Bristan's announcement that profits for the year 2002 were some 31% up on 2001, some five times the growth rate of the bathroom industry as a whole.

The company attributes this growth to an increased interest in Bristan's showers portfolio thanks largely to consistent product development.

Managing Director Steve Lee comments: 'Bristan has always been renowned as prevalent in the brassware market, but we have made huge strides in the showers sector. With the introduction of our new Qube 'Pick n Mix' showering ranges which allow consumers the versatility to choose their ideal showering experience and the growth in popularity of our Thermotech shower valves, which have made the installation and maintenance ofshowers incredibly simple, we have become a serious player in the showers sector. This shift in perception of the Bristan brand has been reflected in our sales growth during the first quarter ofthis year and we are looking forward to similar growth rates throughout the rest of 2003.'

Web: http://www.bristan.com

'Side-Spray' Rinse Technology Arrives in UK

Hand rinses, or 'side sprays' as the Americans call them, have been standard in the States for sometime. Now these indispensable kitchen tools are fast gaining in the popularity stakes here, too, and ahead of the game is the rinse that has been patented by Avilion, manufacturers of the high-end Perrin & Rowe brand.

Greg Rowe, Managing Director of Avilion and one-half of namesake brand, Perrin & Rowe, explains, 'We discovered that consumers loved the idea of the rinse because ofits versatility - but that due to the UK's notoriously low waterpressure - many people couldn't easily use one.'

Until now. Avilion's solution comes in the form of a high-tech diverter, especially designed to allow a rinse to be used effectively from just 1 bar (the equivalent of 15psi) of pressure upwards. The diverter, which fits inside the spout of the tap was developed by Avilion's own research and development team under the guidance of company co-founder, Bob Perrin.

Greg Rowe says, 'There's a lot more knowledgeable and sophisticated consumers now, and the rinse, which effectively turns a kitchen tap into a mini-workstation has been very well received. There 's some novelty factor, but also a really good, functional product. Now we've cracked the pressure issue, I think rinses will really take off'

Hand rinses can be used forjust about everything - from spritzing dirty crockery and cutlery before going into the dishwasher - to rinsing fresh fruit and vegetables. Hot, cold or mixed water is sent to the rinse by pushing.a button on the rinse's handle and a 120cm, flexible hose makes the Perrin & Rowe rinse a lot easier to use than the old-style, traditional 'pull-out' type rinses.

In addition, the Perrin & Rowe rinse features an insulated handle for protection when using hot water and cannot be connected to the Mains water supply - making flooding virtually impossible.

13 mixer taps from The Perrin & Rowe Collection are currently available with matching rinses - including the new contemporary bridge mixer, the Io - and there are also plans to make the Ionian bridge mixer, one of the brand's best-selling traditional designs, available with a rinse. Selected TriflowR drinking water filtration taps, designed and manufactured exclusively for Franke by Avilion, can also be specified with a rinse.

Tel: 01708 526361
Email: mailto:sales@avilion.co.uk
Web: http://www.avilion.co.uk

John Sydney Invests Heavily in its Future

The John Sydney brand of luxury bathroom brassware is two years old. Inspired by its success to date and looking to grow its share of the luxury market, the company is significantly investing in the launch of a new design, JS2. In addition, it has bought out a new John Sydney Collection brochure and commenced a Trade advertising campaign. To complete the support package a complete re-vamp of the John Sydney Collection website is imminent.

Judith Gibbons, Marketing Manager at John Sydney provides an insight into the company's marketing strategy: 'We push ourselves to the limits of what is feasible. For instance, we only want the very latest and best in Italian design, we invest heavily in R&D to achieve superiority in product performance, we offer a ten year guarantee when our competitors offer five. With the launch of the new design, JS2, plus an array of new and innovative products being added to the existing John Sydney Collection, we plan to take further market share.'

The John Sydney Collection of bathroom fittings is guaranteed for ten years and fully complies with WRAS guidelines. John Sydney bathroom fittings are sold nationally for contract and domestic use via a select network of Bathroom Dealers ilnd Specifiers.

For stockist information contact John Sydney, Tamworth
Tel: 01827 304000
Web: http://www.johnsydney.com

Worktops - Orama Reveals What the Market Wants

Orama, the UK independent manufacturer of kitchen and bathroom worksurfaces, has completed the first phase of its initial market research project into the UK's purchasing chain for worktops. Having invested heavily in finding out the current and future trends in kitchens and worktops, Orama is confident that it is poised to take advantage of its initial findings about worksurfaces.

Peter Holt, Sales and Marketing Director, explains:
'Orama commissioned the first stage of ground breaking research in late 2002, with initial results in Quarter One 2003. The research was undertaken with retailers, distributors, installers and consumers and for Orama, the results have been revelatory.' He continues: 'Orama's research revealed that the worktop is considered one of the four most important items in a new kitchen, this finding was common across all participants. Being a large surface area, the worksurface provides significant colour and the first impression of the final kitchen.'

'The key finding of our market research is that the 3 metre worksurface is the preferred length for the industry, on the basis of its ease of installation.' Peter clarifies, 'Worksurfaces tend to be available in three or more lengths, either 3m, 3.6m or 4 metre lengths. Our research has confirmed to Orama that the consumer is not concerned about how long the worksurfaces he buys are, but it does matter to the trade. Worktops produced in 3 metres are more convenient, they fit into a van easily and do not infringe any Health & Safety legislation for carrying. Combine this with the growth in installation of larger range-style cookers, and most kitchens simply do not require long continuous runs over 4 metres.'

Peter discloses that the research confirms the continued demand for alternative worksurface finishes, particularly granite and solid surfaces. He also reveals that this once-staid and unresponsive market will be changing radically, with Orama poised to maximise this opportunity as a result of the company's recent substantial investment in infrastructure. Peter concludes, 'Orama has found that unit values are increasing, as consumers are prepared to pay more for the worksurface, and ultimately the kitchen, they want. This is good news not only for Orama as the manufacturer, but right through the supply chain from distributor to retailer. Orama is looking forward to working more closely with the trade during 2003 to deliver worksurfaces that meet the needs of the market, and deliver the benefits through the trade.'

This is the first stage in Orama's investigation into the UK market requirements of worksurfaces and Peter confirms that Orama intends to continue to invest into market research in this field. Orama offers high quality durable decorative panels and worksurfaces. Established for many years, Orama holds ISO 9002 certification and the Furniture Industry Research Association Gold Award for product performance. The company is also a corporate member of the KBSA (Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialist Association).

Tel: 01773 520560
Web: http://www.orama.co.uk

Heating Sector Late in Meeting Design Challenge says Myson MD

'Excellent quality and value for money are givens in modern society; we now seek design to match our lifestyle. Furniture, kitchens and bathrooms have all responded but only recently has the heating sector risen to the challenge.

For years consumers have resorted to hiding panel radiators, viewing them as a waste of wall space and an obstacle to achieving the room layout they desire. Manufacturers responded by introducing Compacts and improved styling, however this proved to be insufficient as purchasers now seek stylish as well as functional radiators that make as much of a lifestyle statement as all other home products.

As we all know we are restiess to improve our surroundings as television stylists enter our homes filling our minds with possibilities and then we trawl the lnternet to view as many opportunities as possible. Our customers meet these much better informed buyers every day of the week and must have stimulating showrooms and innovative manufacturing partners to ensure they do not disappoint.

For a long time Myson has been synonymous with designer heating in the bathroom with a very wide range of standard and bespoke elegant towel warmers. As the first name in designer warmth we now meet the challenge to heat all rooms in the home with high style radiators and towel warmers that the owner will have chosen to take a high profile position rather than hide away.

In the new Melody range, l4 models feature the best of European contemporary design to complement the existing traditional range. Whatever the need in terms of shape, size and finish is sure to be available in Mysons comprehensive selection and, if not, then more and more the company is being asked to use its specialist bespoke design & manufacturing service to create truly unique pieces.

Architects and interior designers have long valued this service but increasingly the company is assisting individual consumers to achieve something special.

Space efficient shapes, wide accessory ranges and integral mirrors bring many options for every room in the house. For those properties, particularly riverfront and city centre loft/warehouse conversions, where there is no central heating system, Myson has great expertise in specialist sealed electric units.

This major launch from Myson is the beginning of a new phase of continual innovation. 'We aim to provide a high quality, comprehensive designer product offer that will appeal to the discerning consumer. Everyone who associates with Myson - the first name in designer warmth - can be very excited about the future.' concludes Lawrence Warriner, Managing Director, Myson Towel Warmers.

Tel: 01204-863200

Lots of Space and lots of Motion Product Ideas by Blum for Interzum 2003

Interzum, the largest international fair for suppliers to the furniture industry, will again be a central platform for the presentation of the latest products by Julius Blum GmbH, manufacturer of fittings. The company will again be presenting its innovations for kitchens at its stand, in the traditional location, in Hall 14.2. The exhibit will focus on two main aspects. Firstly, the perfect motion and closing action of furniture fronts and secondly, the best possible utilisation of internal storage space. It is a matter of giving the furniture industry and, to a growing extent, cabinet-makers additional ideas for more benefits and added value for their furniture interiors and overall performance.

The reason why drawers, pull-outs and doors fitted with Blumotion are so special lies in the feature's 'adaptive' system. The system is unique because it adapts to the force and speed of the motion, precisely braking the closing action of the door or drawer. The result is motion under complete control from initiation to final closure. All doors and drawers close gently and quietly, without bouncing back.

A wide range of alternatives are on offer to facilitate the application of Blumotion to, for example, doors - the feature can be mounted directly or by means of an adapter.

The storage space solutions for kitchen base units such as sink units, corner cabinets and toe-kick drawers, which Blum previewed at ZOW, will now be presented to an international, expert audience at Interzum. In principle, it is a matter of being able to offer solutions that consist of standard elements. At the same time, the storage space available should be put to optimal use. The inclusion of a high level of ergonomic design is fundamental to all of Blum's new concepts.

If Blum had its way, no kitchen user would ever again have to kneel down and grope for 'hidden', 'inaccessible' articles stored on shelves in base units. 'No doors on base units' is the challenge which is met by full extensions for various applications that satisfy various needs. A good example in this context is the new, large-volume pull-out for toe-kick drawers with a special drawer box that has been designed for heavy loads.

All the pull-outs of the Tandembox plus system and the Orga-Line system, which allows users to organise interiors to satisfy their personal demands, are available for the new drawer types on show. The pull-outs can all be well organised, fully extended and glide smoothly even when fully laden. The possibilities of application are as diverse as the possibilities of differentiation. Customers not only have a vast array of finishes and materials to choose from, but can also opt for different designs. The glass Boxside, which adds height to drawer sides and is an important design element that produces more volume in pull-outs with minimum re-design, has recently been named one of the 'best design products of the year'. Design Zentrum Nordrhein Westfalen presented the 'red dot award', which is held in high esteem all over the world, to the product in the 'product design' category.

Tel: 01908 285700
Web: http://www.blum.com

Aestus Secures Cordivari Range and Extends Radiator Portfolio

Aestus has recently secured the UK agency for Cordivari, one of Italy's largest and most respected manufacturers. Its Willenhall HQ also houses the company's own manufacturing plant, producing innovatively designed radiators for the mid to top end market segment.

Aestus Ltd was founded in 1999 as part of the established Vogue (UK) Group and is becoming increasingly recognised as a cutting edge radiator manufacturer and importer. The Aestus head office is situated in Willenhall, West Midlands and is home to its distribution point, which imports high quality radiators and heated towel rails from selected European manufacturers, including Brandoni.

Aestus has become synonymous with stainless steel products, offering highly contemporary finishes to its radiator and heated towel rail designs. The Aestus product portfolio comprises vertical and horizontal radiators and traditional and modern heated towel rails, available in a selection of finishes offering a heating solution for every room in the home. Choose from polished or brushed stainless steel and a wide range of colours.

Aestus also offer a comprehensive range of cast iron and steel multicolumn radiators which are suited to both contemporary and traditional surroundings.
Aestus also offers a range of towel drying radiators, designed to complement the current collection of contemporary and traditional radiator designs.

Tel: 01902 632256
Email: mailto:sales@aestus-radiators.com
Web: http://aestus-radiators.com

KBSA to Establish New Customer Complaints Procedure

The KBSA is to establish a new conciliation service to deal with customer complaints. The independent conciliation and adjudication service, which has been provided by the furniture standards body, Qualitas, for the last three years, is to be replaced by an independent conciliation board. The new board will include KBSA members and non-members who have relevant experience and expertise.

'We have taken the decision to change the way we handle customer complaints, in order to provide our members with a better service,' says KBSA Chief Executive Graham Hayden.

'We take customer complaints very seriously and it is imperative that they are handled swiftly and effectively. We have established a working party to progress the new board and envisage that it will be ready to start in around 6 months.

'Advice packs for both the consumer and members, detailing how to deal with complaints has been prepared and will be used until the new board is operational.'

http://www.kbsa.co.uk

View the Latest Kitchen Concepts from Rational at its New Showcase

Rational has endorsed its presence in the UK with the recent opening of a new 530 square metre showroom in the heart of the country. The facility has a rotating display of 15 kitchen systems to demonstrate the diversity and design flexibility of Rational.

This will be the only dedicated subsidiary of the company throughout the world, it will be exhibiting the latest products concurrently with its headquarters in Germany and is expected to improve even further the close relationship Rational has developed with the kitchen industry. Situated just 30 minutes from Birmingham International Airport on the new Birmingham Northern Relief Road, it is in the centre of the country.

'The UK has always been an important market for Rational and we had to reflect this by establishing a permanent focal point for our operations here' said Bodie Kelay. 'Rational has always been known for its pioneering approach where product evolution can complement kitchen design. We now have the ability to not only continue to be pro-active with kitchen furniture innovation, but we can also offer the opportunity for existing and potential customers to see these advancements immediately they are launched. We are very excited at this time'.

The company has employed a dedicated design professional, Robert Clayton, who has more than 19 years experience in kitchen design and will put this invaluable attribute to good use. Based at the new head office and showroom, Robert will be able to demonstrate to visitors the capability of Rational.

A training facility is available to help interested retailers gain a deeper knowledge of not just the 'make up' of the offering, but also a host of different ways of applying that knowledge.

'We want to ensure that our retailers in the UK have the full vision at their fingertips. We want to demonstrate that virtually anything is possible with us.
Different materials, different programmes and different emphasis can all combine to create a fantastic vision everytime' Kelay concluded.

Contact: Bodie Kelay
Tel: 01543 459459
Web: http://www.rational.de

Franke Shuts Down Metal Construction Profit Centre at End of 2003

Franke Industrie AG, Aarburg, intends to shut down the metal construction profit centre, which currently employs 33 people, at the latest by the end of 2003. The legally required consultation proceedings were started as of May 5th, 2003.

Franke Industrie AG consists of three profit centres: Industrial Engineering, Tool Manufacturing and Metal Construction. The Metal Construction business has been losing market share for years, with losses constantly increasing. This negative development, situated in an even more difficuft environment during the last months, continued to worsen.

Nevertheless, the outlook for transferring the majority of the employees concerned to other Franke companies in Aarburg or within the Franke Group is good. A special 'task force' has been established for that purpose.

Web: http://www.franke.com

Electrolux to Supply Home Appliances to New Antarctic Research Station

Electrolux, the manufacturer of household appliances for kitchen, cleaning and outdoor use, has signed an agreement with the Italian research organisation Ente per le Nuove Tecnologie l'Energia e l'Ambiente (ENEA) to supply its new Antarctic research station with home appliances. The specific agreement, with ENEA's GSP1-ANTAR unit, in charge of Antarctic operations, was finalised in Italy recently.

The base, which is being constructed in partnership with France's Insitut Polaire Emile Victor (IPEV), is expected to be fully operational in 2004. Housing sixteen scientists during the winter months and a total of thirty-two during the summer, the inhabitants will rely on the durability and endurance of the appliances year-round.

Electrolux will deliver twelve appliances to the station, including dishwashers, washing machines, and clothes dryers. The appliances are being supplied free of charge. GSP1-ANTAR has also ordered sixteen additional appliances for its existing coastal research center Stazione Baia Terra Nova. 'Environmentally sound and durable equipment is extremely important in a region where winter temperatures can reach -80 deg c and hurricane force blizzards are part of daily life. The equipment in the research station takes on an absolutely vital comfort - and even a basic survival - role. In such harsh environmental conditions it is important to have the best products available,' states ENEA's GSP1-ANTAR unit.

The appliances have already been shipped from the port of Ravenna in Italy and are currently heading towards New Zealand. From there, a shuttle vessel will transport them to an Antarctic coastal station. A Twin Otter airplane will make the final 1,100km leg of the journey to Dome C.

Wolfgang Konig, CEO of Electrolux Home Products Europe, said: 'We are delighted that our products will be helping to make life at Concordia a little more comfortable and help ensure a safer environment. In this unforgiving place, basic distractions and inconveniences can easily become life-threatening dangers. Now the research team will be able to concentrate on their work, helping us all to understand the past and future impact of man on our environment. With that, Electrolux continues to provide innovative, trusted solutions for an easier, more enjoyable life on all of earth's continents'.

Electrolux Home Products Europe, based in Brussels, is the Group's subsidiary for the major household appliance business in Europe.

Web: http://www.electrolux.com

Click here for background on the Electrolux-Concordia project

Salton to Launch Beyond™ Icebox in UK

Salton Europe, the manufacturer and distributor of high-quality small appliances, has announced the UK launch of iCEBOX, the first product in the Salton 'Beyond' Connected Home Initiative.

Salton's 'Beyond' Line of networked home devices is designed to reach a broad spectrum of consumers, focusing on saving time and improving quality of life. Linked together via a home network, the 'Beyond' connected appliances will provide a convenient, stylish and highly efficient system for contemporary living.

iCEBOX is an all-in-one web-enabled entertainment centre designed specifically for the kitchen to provide busy families with quick and easy access to information, communication and entertainment (I.C.E).

Key features of iCEBOX include television, DVD/Audio CD player, broadband lnternet access, email, FM radio and home video monitoring. The iCEBOX also comes equipped with a washable, wireless keyboard and remote control and a touch screen LCD monitor with stylus. With its strategic location in the kitchen the iCEBOX offers invaluable services for homeowners to enjoy the value of a multipurpose entertainment centre and networked home control centre in one.

Graham Drage, Business Development Manager for 'Beyond', comments: 'The introduction of the iCEBOX heralds a new chapter of innovation for Salton and we are delighted to be launching this easy-to-use, premium product. iCEBOX is also the first product in Salton's 'Beyond' range, which will be expanded soon with other remarkable and affordable connected appliances.'

The iCEBOX FLipScreen, the flagship of the 'Beyond' product line, will be available for purchase in the UK from Q3 2003. The FlipScreen iCEBOX fits conveniently under a kitchen cabinet and features an adjustable LCD monitor that flips up and out of the way when not in use. The iCEBOX keyboard is wireless making it simple to move around and store, as well as shockproof and greaseproof.

The iCEBOX FlLipScreen was displayed on the KitchenVision stand and Alno's 'lmpuls' stand at the Bathrooms and Kitchens Expo at Excel, London on the 11-13 May 2003. KitchenVision is the nationwide distributor of the lcebox in the UK. For more details visit http://www.kitchenvision.co.uk.

At the 2003 Spring ELectronic House Expo (EHX) held on 28th February in Orlando, USA, iCEBOX won the prestigious Mark of Excellence Award for Best Video Component in 2003. The awards are nominated by manufacturers, distributors and installing dealers in the $15 billion dollar connected home industry. The award panel of industry experts evaluated more then 80 entries from 75 companies, recognising only the finest achievements in home automation and networking.

At the Gourmet Products Show, May 3-6th 2003, San Francisco, California, Salton's 'Beyond' initiative won the prestigious Gourmet Gold award for the best Electrics product.

Salton Europe is based in Manchester.

Tel: 0845 3004310
Web: http://www.iceboxeurope.com

New Premises for Falcon Interiors

Falcon Interiors of Melksham, Wiltshire, has moved to new purpose built premises.

Suppliers of kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms and home offices, Falcon (a member of the Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association) has grown dramatically in recent years and so the decision was made to build a new factory and showroom on Melksham's Western Way.

The showroom, entitled Bluesky House, incorporates a dedicated soft furnishings section and flooring display and the adjacent factory houses a comprehensive range of state-of-the-art equipment.

'Our customer base has gradually expanded beyond Wiltshire to areas as far afield as London, Birmingham and South Wales - in order to meet client demand without compromising our reputation for quality customer service we had to move to larger premises,' explained Falcon MD Paul Mansell.

The new showroom and factory were officially opened during a launch party early this month.

'It's good to see a KBSA member expanding their business in this way,' said KBSA chief executive Graham Hayden. 'Falcon Interiors has an excellent reputation within our industry and we wish them well in their new premises.'

Record Month for KBSA Membership Drive

March this year proved a record month for attracting new members into the Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association fold.

No fewer than 10 corporate members and four retail members joined the Association during the month - the most ever recorded within this space of time.

'It's very encouraging to see so many companies taking KBSA membership and clear proof that more and more people within our industry are appreciating the considerable benefits the Association offers,' says Chief Executive Graham Hayden.

'We fully expected a boost in membership once we had become the Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association and we have not been disappointed.

'In terms of recruiting new members the KBSA has seen an excellent start to the year and we anticipate this trend continuing throughout 2003 and beyond.'

New corporate members were: Bristan, Heritage, Huppe, Imperial Towel Rails, Lofra UK Ltd, Masco UK, Myson Convectors, Newteam, Recor and Shades.

New retail members were: Bradbury's of Exeter, Dajon Interiors Ltd of Gloucester, Nicholas Anthony of Ascot and Top Interiors of Glasgow.

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