The
Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) has recently welcomed two new
members to the Association.
Hampshire-based
bathroom accessory manufacturer Croydex Ltd and Irish shower enclosure
and tray manufacturer Merlyn Industries Ltd boost the number of new members
to seven for 2007.
Commenting on joining the BMA, Martin Lynch (pictured), Merlyn Industries
Group CEO, says:
‘Merlyn is delighted to be admitted to the Bathroom Manufacturers
Association. The Company looks forward to networking with other leading
manufacturers and through the Association keep in touch with latest Industry
trends as well as participating in an active way within the BMA to contribute
to the ongoing success of the Association.’
The other five companies to join the BMA this year are The Deva Tap Company,
Mayfair Taps and Showers, Intatec, Classic Marble and the Imperial Bathroom
Company.
Speaking about the growth in membership, BMA Chief Executive Yvonne Orgill
says: ‘We've had a fantastic growth in membership this year. We believe
this is testimony to the credible and valuable work the BMA does on behalf
of its members.
‘Our Industry is certainly changing and with potential modifications
to building and water regulations it's vital that our members' voice is
heard when lobbying and that they are kept fully abreast of all Industry
developments and activities.
‘At the BMA we're very fortunate to have an active and supportive
membership and I look forward to working closely with all members next
year.’
The BMA enjoys a long-standing, dedicated membership including major players
such as Ideal Standard International, Twyford Bathrooms, Roman Showers
and the Bristan Group.
Web: http://www.bathroom-association.org
Strategic
Alliance for KBSA and IBSA
The
KBSA and IBSA have announced a strategic alliance that will bring the
two associations together with the aim of creating one combined association
in the future. The development was announced by KBSA sales and marketing
director Ruth Ward and IBSA director Jim Healy following a period of consultation.
‘We are absolutely delighted to be merging the industry's two main
associations who share similar views on standards of membership and consumer
protection,’ says Ruth.
‘This announcement marks the first step in a period of growth for
both associations. It will strengthen our bathroom presence considerably,
adding high quality bathroom retailers and major industry brands.’
Jim said: ‘IBSA has achieved a great deal for its members and the
consumer over the years. The combining of two very successful associations
can only make both stronger and it is envisaged that our members will
benefit in many ways especially from the full time support and infrastructure
the KBSA can provide for them.
‘Consumers will also benefit from a greater number of high quality
retailers who specialise in bathrooms and we will be able to raise consumer
awareness jointly via our websites and a comprehensive PR campaign.’
KBSA
Corporate Networking Forum Looks to the Future
KBSA
National Chair, Tony Nicholas announced a number of exciting developments
at the Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association corporate networking
forum which was held at Ansty Hall in Coventry on November 15th.
Tony outlined the details of a strategic alliance with bathroom specialist
association IBSA and the appointment of Graham Ball as a new consultant
as part of his update on KBSA activities.
He said, ‘This alliance marks the first step in a period of growth
for both associations. It will strengthen our bathroom presence considerably,
adding high quality bathroom retailers and major industry brands.
Charlie
Browne, Barbara Leech, Graham Ball and Tony Nicholas
‘Graham
Ball will focus on new developments and review our membership offer to
ensure that the KBSA continues to provide valuable and tangible benefits
to both retail and corporate members.
‘Graham is well recognised and respected in the industry having had
an outstanding career with a number of top appliance brands.’
John Andrews, CEO NAPIT, gave a presentation illustrating the support
and advice regarding new legislation that NAPIT can offer the industry,
Renee Mascari, CEO KBB NTG, provided an update on the activities of the
KBB NTG and Bruce Thomas, who was appointed Corporate Vice Chair earlier
this year, gave a brief presentation about his vision for the future.
The meeting concluded with an extremely informative and thought provoking
talk from guest speaker Charlie Brown, environmental manager of IKEA UK.
Charlie illustrated how the environmental initiatives that IKEA has implemented
have made good business sense as well as being environmentally sound.
‘Doing your bit for the environment is no longer something to do
as an afterthought - all businesses need to incorporate a policy that
is an integral part of a workable business strategy,’ says KBSA Corporate
Chair Barbara Leech.
‘The excellent presentation given by Charlie provided much food for
thought and lots of great ideas for everybody to take away.’
Web: http://www.kbsa.co.uk
Think
Before You Flush on World Toilet Day
As
part of World Toilet Day on Monday 19th November, Waterwise urged everyone
to think before they flush, to use cistern displacement devices in their
toilets to save water or consider upgrading their toilets to new water
efficient models.
Waterwise welcomes the WaterAid campaign to raise awareness of the 2.6
billion people – 40% of the world's population – who do not
have somewhere safe, private or hygienic to go to the toilet.
Over seven million of the toilets in the UK use 13 litres of water with
every flush, Waterwise challenges everyone to reduce their water wastage.
Fill up a one litre water bottle and place it in your cistern or write
to your local water authority to claim your free displacement device –
these methods will reduce the amount of water used in every flush.
‘It is a real waste to use high quality treated drinking water for
flushing the toilet. Each person flushes around five times a day. By saving
one litre per flush a household can save around 20 litres of water per
day’ says Jacob Tompkins, Director of Waterwise. ‘3% of the
UK’s energy is used for treating and pumping water and one third
of this is flushed down the toilet. So reducing water used for toilet
flushing saves energy as well as water and helps you reduce your carbon
footprint.’
Since the 1930’s the UK’s water consumption has been rising
annually by 1%. There are around 45 million toilets in UK homes, using
an estimated two billion litres of fresh water every day. Toilet flushing
accounts for the second largest proportion of water use in the home -
30% of the average households water use (personal washing accounts for
33%).
An old style single flush toilet can use up to 13 litres of water in one
flush. New, more water-efficient dual-flush toilets use only six litres
for a full flush and four litres with a reduced flush.
The key to water efficiency is reducing waste not restricting use. ‘Each
person in the UK currently uses 150litres of water every day. It is easy
for us all to reduce our water waste by around 20% at little or no cost’
says Jacob Tompkins. 'Turning off the tap when you brush your teeth can
save as much as 6 litres of water a minute, and a cistern displacement
device in your toilet will save water every time you flush.'
For more tips on how to save water please visit http://www.waterwise.org.uk
The
State of the World's Toilets
Monday 19th November was World Toilet Day. WaterAid has marked the
date with the launch of a report; 'The State of the World's Toilets'.
While most people avoid the subject WaterAid are embracing the opportunity
to get the world talking about toilets - the good, the bad and the ugly.
WaterAid's report covers every aspect of the humble yet vital toilet from
silly facts like: women are more apt to be grabbers and wadders of toilet
paper, whereas men are more likely to be folders, to the world's greatest
toilet 'a sleek, tankless, one-piece toilet with integrated washlet seat'.
There's also a brief history of the Great British toilet and a description
of the worst toilet in the world!
'Toilets are a taboo subject, but we cannot and we must not ignore the
global crisis in sanitation, diarrhoeal diseases are the second biggest
killer of children in the world. Simply providing safe water, sanitation
and hygiene education could save 5000 children's lives every day. Governments
must act now to prioritise sanitation provision for the world's poorest
people.' Oliver Cumming, WaterAid Sanitation and Environment Policy Officer.
'The State of the World's Toilets' ranks the worst countries in the world
for sanitation provision, with 40% of the world's population lacking somewhere
safe to go to the toilet the list is long and made up of some of the poorest
countries in the world.
Download the full The State of the World's Toilets report (PDF - 491Kb)
http://www.wateraid.org/documents/the_state_of_the_worlds_toilets_2007_1.pdf
Web: http://www.wateraid.org
William
Ball Expands to Channel Islands
William
Ball has announced that its kitchens have now crossed the channel to Jersey,
where islanders can enjoy four kitchen and two bedroom displays at the
newly refurbished showrooms of David Hick Interiors.
Part of David Hick Interior's 12,000 sq ft expansion, the new showroom
feature two traditional kitchen ranges, Merlin and Melissa, and two modern
kitchens, Helena and Nero (pictured), as well as William Ball's stylish
Sophia and Caprice fitted bedroom ranges.
Signifying the continued growth of William Ball's Authorised Centres,
which now total 113, the new David Hick Interiors showroom is now open.
For further information contact: William Ball on 01375 375 151; http://www.wball.co.uk
Or David Hick Interiors on 01534 865965; http://www.davidhickinteriors.com
InSinkErator
Welcomes New Report Backing Green Credentials of Food Waste Disposers
A
new, independent report developed for Worcestershire County Council and
Herefordshire Council highlighting the environmental benefits of food
waste disposers has been welcomed by InSinkErator.
The paper acknowledges that food waste disposers are 'a cost effective,
convenient and hygienic method of separating kitchen food waste (KFW)
at source and diverting it from landfill'. The study also finds that food
waste disposers have a smaller carbon footprint than other kerbside collection
methods, 'separating a difficult fraction of waste using existing infrastructure
and without entailing any regulatory bureaucracy.'**
The report, which was part funded by the County Surveyors’ Society,
spotlights a pioneering initiative operated by Worcestershire County Council
and Herefordshire Council. The Sink Your Waste scheme actively encourages
local residents to install a food waste disposer by offering them a cash-back
incentive. This campaign has been very successful and to date more than
1000 rebates have been handed out to enthusiastic householders who want
to tackle the issue of food waste head on.
Commenting Joe Ferrara, managing director of InSinkErator Europe, said;
'This new report underlines the role food waste disposers can play in
reducing landfill problems in the UK. Food waste disposers are not just
convenient kitchen appliances. They can significantly reduce the amount
of household waste sent to landfill. They do not discourage home composting
and can make it far easier for UK householders to manage their waste more
efficiently. August was the best ever month in the history of InSinkErator
UK and this can be attributed mainly to awareness raising of the benefits
of installing a disposer, especially in areas where alternate weekly collections
are in place.'
Tel: 01923 297 880
Web: http://www.insinkerator.co.uk
** Environmental Impact Study of Food Waste Disposers, Worcestershire
County Council & Herefordshire Council, 2007
£2.7
Million Franchise Group Shut Down
A
group of companies based in Exeter called Key Edge that sold locksmith
and plumbing franchises countrywide has been wound up in the High Court
in the public interest following an investigation by Companies Investigation
Branch (CIB). Some 250 people invested franchise fees totaling £2.7
million.
The investigation found that franchisees were misled by false and misleading
statements about the level of training, support and potential earnings.
Also that support under the Government's Small Firms Loan Guarantee Scheme
of £150,000 to finance the development of a national 24 hour call
centre was applied instead to a significant extent for the directors'
own benefit.
In ordering the companies into compulsory liquidation Registrar Christine
Derrett said:
'I am satisfied that it is appropriate in each of the three cases to make
the usual compulsory order'.
SOFFICE2
- The Quest for the ‘Silent Office’
Ambient
noise in the modern office environment is an increasing problem. The advent
of open plan office space and greater levels of electronic and human noise
have led to the average office noise levels reaching 75 decibels while
the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommend 55 decibels before stress
levels rise unacceptably leading to significant losses in productivity.
Now FIRA International Limited (Furniture Industry Research Association)
with support from the Technology Strategy Board are leading a consortium
of highly capable technical partners to reduce ambient noise in the office
by researching the use of acoustically advanced composite materials and
special fittings in the design and manufacture of office furniture.
The technical partners involved in the SOFFICE2 project are leading office
furniture manufacturers Eurotek, polymer solutions and component specialists
Rehau, leading international fittings and motions systems manufacturer
Blum.
Noise in open plan offices comes from a variety of sources other than
voice such as PC's with voice recognition software, photocopiers, mobile
and landline phones and slamming cabinet drawers and cupboard doors. All
of this noise is then reflected and therefore amplified by hard surfaces,
floors and ceilings, and even windows all of which tend to make office
workers talk at even higher volumes so the cycle is accelerated.
Over the next 2 years the SOFFICE2 project aims to optimise the design
and manufacturing process of office furniture to exploit fully the commercial
potential of the 'silent office'. Already advanced, sound absorbing composite
materials have been identified for possible use in constructing items
like partitions, desks, cupboards, drawers and filing cabinets.
Each partner brings their own special area of expertise: Obviously FIRA
has some of the most advanced research and test facilities in the world.
Eurotek have sophisticated manufacturing and design capabilities with
the flexibility to use different materials in prototype construction.
Rehau has already made big advances in researching and using sound absorbing
materials like their RAUvolet Acoustic-Line roller shutters with patents
pending. Blum has made major advances in the smooth and silent movement
of drawers with their integrated BLUMOTION soft close systems which is
now also able to be integrated into cabinet doors and overhead AVENTOS
cupboard lift systems.
SOFFICE2 follows the original DTI feasibility study (SOFFICE1) which FIRA
undertook in January 2005. The success of this study has been the catalyst
for the whole project to move into he next phase with a highly competent
technical team all contributing to an exciting and important outcome.
Tel: 01908 285700
Email: info.uk@blum.com
Web: http://www.blum.com
ukfirst
Offers an Exclusive Visit to Blum
ukfirst
has teamed up with Blum, the international furniture fittings manufacturer
to provide a unique opportunity to gain a new perspective of your company's
operations.
ukfirst
Master Engineers will lead the two day programme geared towards furniture
manufacturers on 27th- 29th February 2008. A number of Lean teach points
will be addressed from workplace organisation, inventory and waste management,
creating added value and employee training.
Based in Hoechst, Austria the manufacturing hub of its global operations,
Blum is renowned for manufacturing high quality hinge, lift and pull out
systems. In particular, the ‘Dynamic Space’ concept applied
to kitchen planning will be of interest to those beginning their Lean
journey.
‘The benefits your business can gain as a result of this best practice
package are endless,’ said ukfirst Programme Director John Baldwin.
‘Following the visit, you will be able to return to your business
with a renewed perspective and enthusiasm for making significant improvements.
These changes can not only benefit your day to day activities, but can
also enhance your overall profitability and customer satisfaction.’
The package includes return flights from Heathrow to Zurich, two nights
hotel accommodation, transfer and travel in Austria and all meals and
refreshments.
Places are restricted to two delegates per company, and the cost is only
£150 per delegate.
To reserve your place on this exclusive best practice visit, please contact
Alex Woodfield at ukfirst on 01438 777725 or email info@ukfirst.org
William
Ball's Bianca Range Eco-Friendly Choice for UK's First Zero Carbon Self-Build
Home
William
Ball's high gloss Bianca range has been selected by Potton Homes for the
show home of its innovative new Lighthouse project in Watford. Designed
in line with the Code for Sustainable Homes, every building material and
component used for this net zero carbon show home has been specified for
its ability to optimise the house design's overall sustainability credentials.
The appeal of Bianca lies in its UK-based production, which minimises
the damaging affects of importing, and the fact that it is made from materials
sourced from recognised suppliers with a policy of protecting the environment.
The cabinetry is made to incredibly high standards - and tested and endorsed
by FIRA (Furniture Industry Research Association) - which also means that
it will stand the tests of time and not end up filling precious landfill
sites a couple of years down the line.
For more information on Lighthouse by Potton visit: http://www.lighthousebypotton.co.uk
Franke
Impresses on Nigella Express
It's easy to be a domestic goddess when Franke products are in the kitchen, as recently proven on Nigella Express, the cookery programme fronted by Nigella Lawson.
Providing the perfect seasoning to food preparation, the BBC Two show
featured ergonomic essentials: the one-and-a-half bowl Planar (PPX 651)
and two-bowl Infinito (INX 621-S) stainless steel sinks, with the Swiss
Pro pull-out and Davos 'J' taps. The extra bowls and pull-out spray provide
much needed space and convenience for preparing food.
For further information, contact 0161 436 6280, or visit http://www.franke.co.uk.
Graham
Ball Appointed as a Consultant to the KBSA
Tony
Nicholas, Chairman of the KBSA has announced that Graham Ball has been
appointed as a consultant to the KBSA with immediate effect.
Tony commented: ‘The KBSA is about to enter an exciting phase of
substantial growth and development. We are introducing ConsumerCare Plus
into the marketplace and have also announced today (15th November) a strategic
alliance with IBSA which will strengthen our bathroom presence considerably,
adding high quality bathroom retailers and major industry brands to the
KBSA membership.
‘The board is delighted that Graham has agreed to work alongside
the team at head office to support our continued growth and to enable
the association to maintain its position as the voice of the industry.
‘Graham will focus on new developments and review our membership
offer to ensure that the KBSA continues to provide valuable and tangible
benefits to both retail and corporate members.
‘Graham is well recognised and respected in the industry having had
an outstanding career with a number of top appliance brands. He is also
a former corporate chair of the KBSA and so understands well the challenges
that we face.'
‘I believe that the KBSA has an extremely important role to play
in our industry and I am very much looking forward to the opportunity
of contributing once again,’ adds Graham.
Web: http://www.kbsa.co.uk
PWS
Announces New Sales Manager for Scotland
PWS has announced the appointment of Jim Stirrat as Area Sales Manager for Scotland. Jim has joined PWS following a successful career with brand-leading appliance manufacturer BSH Group where he was area manager for the Neff portfolio. Prior to this Jim worked for Kenwood for 18 years.
Comments
David MacArthur, PWS' National Sales Manager, 'Jim has gained extensive
knowledge of the kitchen market from his previous roles and his wealth
of industry experience will prove invaluable to PWS' long-term growth
strategy'.
Web: http://www.pws.co.uk
Prestige
Contract Order for New Duropal 60cm Worktops
Laminates
Ltd. decision to stock Duropal 60mm thick worktops has paid off with a
prestigious contract order. Crosby Lend Lease's Greenquarter apartments
in Manchester are fitted with Poggenpohl kitchens. Poggenpohl's group
business development manager Ray Tollerfield selected Duropal 60mm thick
worktops to give a luxury look that complements such high quality kitchens.
Four Duropal decors, Glacial Stone, Anthracite, After Eight Maple and
Brushed Aluminium were chosen to suit the kitchen style.
Crosby's Greenquarter project comprises high rise apartments and studios
on the northern edge of Manchester's centre. Each is fitted with superior
quality components and reflects the aspirations of buyers.
Sheffield based Laminates Ltd. was the first distributor to retain stock
of Pfleiderer Industrie's new 60mm thick laminate worktops and found that
they appeal to mid/upper budget kitchen buyers. Laminates Ltd. managing
director, Jon Rusby comments, 'The extra thickness adds a top quality
aspect to the kitchen. Duropal's tight radius 'Quadra' postformed edges
give a solid chunky appearance valued by kitchen designers while the composition
of the worktop guarantees a long, trouble free life. We are delighted
that these worktops are so well received at Greenquarter and look forward
to supplying them for both domestic and contract kitchens.'
Tel: 01625 660410
Email: info@pfleiderer.co.uk
Web: http://www.pfleiderer.co.uk
Laminates Ltd.- Tel: 01142 403434
Bosch
Dishwasher Advert Misleading, says ASA
According
to information provided by the Advertising Standards Authority, a TV advert
for Bosch Dishwashers was deemed to be misleading after a member of the
public complained about the claims made.
A TV ad, for Bosch dishwashers, showed a woman washing up in the sink.
The voiceover stated 'Did you know that washing up by hand uses up to
three times more water than if you used a fully loaded Bosch dishwasher.
You could be saving up to 75% of your water. That's more than a shower
every day ...’
A viewer challenged whether the ad misleadingly implied washing up by
hand in a bowl of water used more water and energy than the dishwasher.
She believed that could only be true if the person washing up left the
tap running.
Euro RSCG replied on behalf of BSH Home Appliances Ltd (BSH/ Bosch). They
said that the comparison was deliberately shown to be between a fully-loaded
dishwater and hand washing dishes under a running tap. They said their
evidence for the claim came from a piece of research conducted by academics
at the University of Bonn and sent a section of this research as substantiation.
Euro RSCG said there was no intention on the part of the advertiser to
imply energy saving but only water conservation in the ad.
Bosch also replied on their own behalf and said that they believed a full,
energy efficient dishwasher cleaned best and had the lowest environmental
impact of any method. They said the Bonn study on which they had based
their claims had been repeated in laboratories in France, Italy, Spain
and the UK to make sure that the results were a correct picture of consumer
behaviour for a specific country. They said they believed the achieved
cleaning performance was the most important measure for the whole washing
up process and that dishwashers out-performed hand washing in this respect.
They further said that the Bonn study showed that in the UK the average
water consumption when handwashing 12 place settings (140 items) was 63
litres of water, and an AAA rated Bosch dishwasher used 12 litres of water
on the Eco 50 cycle and as little as 9 litres of water on automatic cycles
where sensors can decide to reduce the water consumption if the load is
only slightly soiled. They said they believed the Bonn study was conclusive
and showed that hand washing uses far more water than a Bosch dishwasher
for the same result.
The Broadcast Advertising Clearance Centre (BACC) said they had requested
detailed evidence from the advertiser before clearing the ad. They said
they had requested the on-screen text ‘AAA rated machine used during
the test’, and ‘assumes 3 minute shower’ as qualifiers.
The BACC believed the ad clearly showed someone washing up with the tap
running, rather than using a filled sink, and that indicated the comparison
was being made with dishes done by hand under running water. They said
the ad did not make any mention of energy saving with respect to using
an electric dishwasher, and the claims made in the ad were entirely concerned
with water conservation.
Assessment: Upheld
The ASA noted EuroRSCG's evidence showed some electric dishwashers (those
rated AAA) were more efficient in terms of water use than most of the
hand dishwashers participating in the Bonn University study. We also noted,
however, that the comparison depended both on the efficiency of the machines
in question and the hand washing techniques applied. We acknowledged that
the Bonn report showed that average manual dishwashing in the sample consumed
significantly more water than an AAA electric dishwasher (a high resource
conserving machine as rated under the European energy labelling scheme)
but also that there was enormous variation in hand dishwashing techniques
and that some techniques were water intensive and some conserved water.
We acknowledged that the results of the Bonn University study showed that
AAA dishwashers used less water than the majority of hand dishwashers
in the sample under the test conditions. However, we also noted the research
had not ensured participants in the study constituted a representative
sample of European households but had been selected on a volunteer basis,
albeit with a concerted attempt to recruit a range of nationalities.
We noted that the repeat of the test in the UK, on which Bosch had based
the claims in the ad, used a sample of just 20 people. We did not consider
that 20 people, or indeed the 113 people who participated in the main
study in Bonn, constituted a sufficiently large sample upon which to base
a claim that implied AAA-rated dishwashers were unequivocally more water
efficient than all hand dishwashing techniques in the UK, and that 'washing
up by hand uses up to three times more water than a fully loaded Bosch
dishwasher'.
We also noted the comments of the author of the Bonn report, who said
the study contained a relatively low number of participants, which meant
it was not possible to draw conclusions regarding hand washing techniques
based on nationality. He also said in his conclusion, that the insights
from his study were preliminary and needed to be verified under different
conditions, for example using heavily soiled dishes and real household
conditions.
We noted BSH had over thirty models of dishwasher on the market in the
UK and the majority of these were rated AAA. We acknowledged that, in
general, the report found that an AAA electric dishwasher was more efficient
in terms of water conservation than hand washing techniques which used
a running tap but considered that it had not been proven that AAA dishwashers
were always more efficient than hand washing techniques without continuous
tap running and which used a variety of techniques such as pre-soaking
dishes, removing food scraps by hand first and re-using water.
The ASA considered that the visual in the ad of washing up taking place
under a running tap when coupled with the voice-over stating ‘Did
you know that washing up by hand uses up to three times more water than
if you used a fully loaded Bosch dishwasher?’ was not sufficient
to make clear that some hand dishwashing techniques, particularly those
using running water some or all of the time, were less water efficient
than a dishwasher but some potentially more so.
Although we noted the ad claimed washing up by hand used ‘up to’
three times more water than a fully loaded dishwasher, we considered the
whole ad implied that washing up by hand would always use more water than
a fully loaded Bosch dishwasher. We concluded that BSH had not justified
that implication and the ad could mislead.
The ad breached CAP (Broadcast) Television Advertising Standards Code
rules 5.4.6 (Comparative advertising) and 5.2.2 (Implications). We also
investigated the ad under CAP (Broadcast) Television Advertising Standards
Code rule 5.2.1 (Evidence) but did not find it in breach.
Action
The ad should not be broadcast again in its current form.
Chalon
Announces Two New Bathroom Displays
Chalon
UK Ltd, designer and manufacturer of hand crafted kitchens, bathrooms
and freestanding furniture has announced the installation of two of its
latest Bathroom displays - one for the company’s flagship King's
Road, London showroom and the other for its north of England base, in
the market town of Harrogate.
The Chalon freestanding bathroom range is relatively new to market but
means that the Chalon look is now available throughout the whole home,
from the traditional, distinctive kitchen, via dining room, living room
or study, on to bedroom and now bathroom. The collection was initially
launched via the Hambridge, Somerset head office showroom, but with new
displays in two of its key outlets, the company is preparing to push this
part of its portfolio a little further.
Handcrafted from Ash at the Chalon's Somerset workshops and head quarters,
the bathroom collection is available in the full range of the company's
distinctive hand painted finishes (although due to the nature of the material,
no distressing is available). All sanitary ware is supplied via an exclusive
relationship with Lefroy Brooks.
With a wide variety of new imagery available, as well as the new displays
in London and Harrogate, the Chalon Bathroom range seems ready to move
to the next level.
Future Chalon developments
The past couple of months have been productive ones for the company. The
recent launch of its new St Albans showroom is already proving a good
decision given current levels of prospect interest. A series of new paint
colours are the next item due for launch, as well as new kitchen displays
for the company’s Edinburgh showroom and its contract range, Chalon
Designed & Crafted. Next year marks the 30th Anniversary of the company's
inception.
Web: http://www.chalon.com
Bathstore
Makes a Splash with Major Marketing Campaign
Bathstore
is making a major splash with a national integrated broadcast, print and
online marketing campaign which is set to reach over 35 million potential
customers.
The Water Wonderland campaign has been created by WFCA and features an
innovative TV commercial which uses CGI technology to incorporate water
animation to bring life and movement to the static products being showcased.
The 30” and 10” commercial, which is again voiced by Spooks
and Cold Feet star, Hermione Norris, carries the strapline 'Come in and
let us run you a bathroom' and airs across ITV, Channel 4, Sky and otherdigital
channels.
As well as placing national press adverts in key titles, WFCA has also
produced magazine inserts, leaflets and in-store point of sale to feature
as part of the promotion, which aims to highlight the style and quality
of Bathstore products and drive customers in to store with a 40 per cent
discount offer.
This is the fifth major campaign undertaken by the UK’s largest bathroom
retailer this year and follows from the success of its September sale
marketing push which reached 85 per cent of the UK adult population and
directly contributed to making the sale one of the best in Bathstore’s
history.
Brian Harris, creative director at Bathstore, said: 'This campaign
marks a milestone in Bathstore’s marketing activity as it is the
first time that we have used the cutting edge CGI technology in our TV
advertising to really bring the brand and our products to life.
In doing so, we have been able to achieve a highly visual, impactful commercial
that set us apart from the rest of the bathrooms market.'
Tel: 08000 23 23 23
Web: http://www.bathstore.com
From
day one, specialist kitchen designer and manufacturer, KBBC has pledged
its allegiance to eBuilders Ltd, the company behind the series of online
consumer home improvement websites. And it is a loyalty that has reaped
substantial benefits, with the whole of the business now operating purely
over the Internet and orders coming in from the rich and famous!
‘We are a forward thinking company that provides quality results,
which is why we have continued to place our trust in the value of eBuilders,’
comments Chris Jay, MD of KBBC. ‘Since January, we have had over
1000 leads from eBuilders which have generated a lot of business. We are
the company behind Katie Price's well publicised pink kitchen and we recently
completed a kitchen for the Queen of the Vic, Barbara Windsor!’
What Chris values above all in eBuilders is the company's total commitment
to efficiency. ‘Every lead is passed on to us in literally minutes,’
he continues. ‘There is no doubt that of all the lead generating
companies, eBuilders is the most efficient, with good honest leads forwarded
to us all through the day every day.’
And another factor that impresses Chris is the personability of the men
behind the concept. ‘Peter (Jervis) and Barry (Dunlop) genuinely
care about the companies that advertise with them,’ he says. ‘Between
them, they have an extensive knowledge and understanding of the industry
and personally take an interest in all of their advertisers. We have been
loyal to eBuilders since we established the company in March 2001 and
this loyalty has been completely reciprocated.’
eBuilders Ltd set up in 1998 and today, the company's web sites are now
responsible for producing more than a quarter of a million sales leads
and referrals for advertisers and sponsors and is the key to lead generation
for many home improvement suppliers in the glazing, kitchens, bathrooms
and other sectors.
‘This is a concept that has been designed to help create a new and
dedicated forum for those homeowners who are increasingly using the Internet
to make major buying purchases, and as far as KBBC is concerned, it has
been well worth the investment over the past six and a half years,’
concludes Chris.
The
newly re-branded kbbreview EXPO (ExCeL London, 10-12 May 2009), London's
premier event for the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom industry, has launched
its all new show website - kbbreviewexpo.com.
A
comprehensive resource for visitors and exhibitors alike, the site provides
a wealth of event information and will be regularly updated with the latest
news from kbbreview EXPO. Visitors to the site will be able to easily
access information on the exclusive competitions, impressive line-up of
visitor attractions and the very latest exhibitor and product news. Nearer
to the event opening, show goers will be able to register online to receive
free tickets and a show guide.
‘In line with the fresh and exciting new look for kbbreview EXPO,
the new website is a bright and informative way of letting everybody know
about the exciting show developments and offering detailed information
on the added value features that visitors to EXPO will enjoy’, explains
Graham Martin, Event Manager.
First appearing in 2001, EXPO has grown to become an important part of
the bathroom and kitchen calendar, attracting over 7,000 visitors in 2007.
The revitalised kbbreview EXPO is set to build on this success, drawing
in senior managers, architects, retailers, specifiers, contractors, property
developers, designers and decision-makers who have a specific and dedicated
interest in kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms.
As well as a range of exhibitors launching new products to the market,
EXPO will feature a cutting-edge seminar programme, interactive workshops
and a number of exciting visitor attractions. The new website will provide
detailed information on all the developments for 2009 including a full
exhibitor list and the latest floor plan.
For details on exhibiting at the event, contact Mark Pearson on MarkPearson@dmgworldmedia.com
or call 0208 515 2139.
Web: http://www.kbbreviewexpo.com
Move
Over Gordon, Zilli's Back
Celebrity
chef, Aldo Zilli, will appear on the Caple stand at next years KBB event,
offering a cooking demonstration on the new range cooker, Gastron. Highlighting
the capability of the cooker, Zilli has endorsed this product, realising
the huge benefits that Gastron will have to todays chefs.
Amanda Cawood, Product & Marketing Manager of Caple comments,
‘We are delighted to be exhibiting at the 2008 KBB. The opportunity
to showcase the Caple brand for the first time in front of the entire
industry is certainly a forward progression, strengthening our brand recognition
and further establishing Caple as a major industry figure. Caple is also
lucky enough to have Aldo Zilli demonstrating the latest range cooker,
Gastron, at the show. We are sure that with his personality and flare
in the kitchen, his live cooking will not be soon forgotten!’
Aldo Zilli is the chef owner of Zilli restaurants in Soho and opened his
first restaurant 20 years ago. Since then, Zilli has gone from strength
to strength, authoring books, opening more restaurants and cafes, opening
a cookery school and appearing on many TV programmes, such as Saturday
Kitchen and Light Lunch as well as featuring on Classic FM with 'A Taste
of Italy.'
The appearance of Aldo Zilli at KBB further celebrates the magnitude of
the event and it's prime place in the industry. Last year, KBB attracted
over 19,000 visitors and this year will showcase over 300 companies across
the kitchen, bedroom, bathroom and tiling industries. The very first event
of the year to source these products, KBB will lead the way in new and
exciting launches for the seasons ahead.
KBB incorporating Expotile will take place from 2-5 March 2008 at the
NEC, Birmingham.
Fab
& Fix 10 Year Anniversary Celebration
Fab
& Fix, established by Phil Freeman in 1997, is already a success story.
The 10-year anniversary is being celebrated with a series of events, including
a weekend event at Warwick Castle, New Showroom opening and launching
a new and improved website. Phil comments, ‘For more than a decade
we have been offering good quality products with exceptional levels of
customer service. Fab & Fix now boasts an international presence with
over 5,000 products and is growing faster than ever before’.
Warwick Castle
Capturing the imagination of its employees, Fab & Fix's recent visit
to Warwick Castle 'Kingmakers Feast' was deemed a complete success by
all who attended, with the company taking over the whole of Warwick Castle
for the event. Employees from the Coventry headquarters, Asia and Eastern
Europe all attended the celebrations.
Over 80 guests took the opportunity to talk, mingle, and enjoy the fine
wines, food and period entertainment. But the celebrations did not end
there, with the festivities carrying on well into the early hours. Games,
activities and competitions were held throughout the course of the following
day including a treasure hunt within the Castle grounds. Commenting on
the success of the event, Fab & Fix's MD Phil Freeman said: ‘This
event has been very successful for us, our aim was to tailor the weekend
to suit the employees by creating a relaxed atmosphere designed to reward
our staff for all their efforts over the last decade'.
New Showroom
Fab & Fix has also officially opened its new modern showroom at its
Coventry headquarters. Over 400 products are showcased, ranging from Window
and Door Handles to Kitchen Hinges and Drawer Runners.
Hardware supplier Fab & Fix is inviting customers, whether they be
Architects, Specifiers, Fabricators, or Contractors, to view the company’s
continuously expanding product range available. Products on display include
traditional hardware for UPVC, Aluminium and Timber as well as the latest
in 'Intelligent Window and Door Hardware' .
Phil Freeman, Managing Director explains ‘A lot of time has been
spent making sure that virtually all of our product lines have exposure
in the showroom. The Showroom and adjacent Conference Room are the perfect
venue to complement the continued growth of the company, showcasing the
quality products that Fab & Fix have developed over the past decade.
I encourage all customers 'New and Old' to visit the showroom, to fully
appreciate how our creative solutions make good business sense’.
Website
Fab & Fix is poised to launch its new and improved website –
http://www.fabnfix.co.uk.
The site contains details of all products available and is set out in
a new structure that allows customers to locate exactly what they are
looking for. Technical information is available in downloadable PDF formats
so customers can store information on their own PC's.
Phil comments, 'A fresh new website dedicated to sharing knowledge with
our customers has now gone live in readiness for 2008. The site incorporates
all the latest news and product launches so customers can keep up to date
through our secure area which allows access to a wide range of technical
documentation and images including video files'.
The Future
The key to Fab & Fix's future success is encompassed in the banner...Positive
Thinking. Phil Freeman, Managing Director believes, ‘Fab and Fix
has many years' experience of developing product ranges to comply with
constantly changing Regulations, as well as British and European Standards.
Currently, more than 75 products incorporate patented or registered designs.
Regulations are getting even more complex but by working with Fab and
Fix in the future, customers will be able to find the right solution for
commercial or domestic installations in the UK and overseas’.
World
of Pine Taxes itself in Support of Forestry Commission
Salisbury,
Poole and Blandford Forum based furniture retailer, A World of Furniture...
A World of Pine is helping to offset the depletion of natural resources
- i.e. trees - by imposing an unusual 'green tax' on itself. Inspired
by Ray Mears and in support of the Forestry Commission, the scheme is
thought to be the first of its kind within the UK furniture industry.
In its three large, out of town superstores, A World of Furniture...A
World of Pine sells mainly oak and solid pine lines provided by over 30
UK and international suppliers. From late November 07, in selected areas
close to A World of Furniture's stores, the Forestry Commission is carrying
out the replanting of trees. For every item of furniture sold, one deciduous
or coniferous tree will be replanted.
Mark Hotson, proprietor, says: 'We came up this 'green tax / offsetting'
idea because we want to help sustain a resource that our industry is directly
responsible for diminishing. The scheme will be ongoing and, with assistance
from the Forestry Commission, we hope to subsidise the planting of many
thousands of trees every year. So, A World of Furniture really does create
trees!'
He adds: 'We hope that other furniture retailers and manufacturers, including
the large national ones, will be inspired to follow our example.'
Mr Hotson has been greatly influenced by Ray Mears, whom he met on a trip
to the Arctic in 2003, after his wife won a competition for this memorable
vacation. He says: 'Visiting the Swedish high Arctic led me into a journey
of discovery about our natural surroundings. Having been under the tutelage
of Woodlore - Ray Mears' own company - for the last few years, my understanding
and respect for the great outdoors has increased. Now, at last, using
A World of Furniture as a vehicle to put something back, I can do my bit
to help the environment.'
Tel: 01722 413532
Web: http://www.aworldofpine.co.uk