The
countdown to Bathrooms & Kitchens EXPO 2003 has begun so log on now
to http://www.bkexpo.co.uk,
call the telephone registration line on 0870 429 4498 or click
here to Register online for your free tickets to the industry's 'must
see' event this year. EXPO is open from Sunday May 11th - Tuesday May
13th and will be held at London's easily accessible, purpose built ExCeL
exhibition centre. A
downloadable PDF showing more information about the Exhibition, as well
as how to get there etc, is available from this
link
Everyone who pre-registers and attends Bathrooms & Kitchens EXPO 2003
will be entered into a prize draw to win one night for two people aboard
The Sunborn Yacht Hotel. This luxurious, custom-built yacht hotel is berthed
alongside ExCeL's eastern entrance in the Royal Victoria Dock offering
the chic style and sophistication of a cruise liner in the heart of the
London's bustling city.
Kevin
McCloud from Channel 4's Grand Designs will officially open the show and
give a short presentation about bathrooms and kitchens which have featured
in this popular television programme.
The exhibitor list at Bathrooms & Kitchens EXPO 2003 reads like a
'who's who' of the premier industry companies. Just a few of the confirmed
names include Aqualisa Products Ltd, Aga-Rayburn, Candy, Cosentino, Geberit,
Ideal-Standard, James Theobald Ltd, John Sydney, Rangemaster, Roca and
Scottwood of Nottingham.
EXPO will play host to many of the industry's key manufacturers and designers
in the business. New products, services and topical seminars will form
the mainstay of the show where visitors and exhibitors will be in the
ideal networking environment to share ideas, thoughts and product knowledge.
So, don't delay, register today at http://www.bkexpo.co.uk
to get your 'must have' show ticket and find out who's in or who's out
and which products you won't be able to live without.
The Bathroom Business 2003: Some Growth Despite Slower Consumer Spending
Mike
Conlon, Sales & Marketing Director of Twyford Bathrooms, looks at
how the bathroom market is set to progress throughout 2003: 'The sanitaryware
market will see some growth in 2003, primarily in RMI and some commercial
sectors. RMI was the most stable sector in 2002, supported by strong household
expenditure. While remaining positive in 2003, the rate of consumer spending
is expected to slow. However, bathroom sales will remain positive as consumers
continue to move house and maintain existing properties (house transactions
drive bathroom sales).'
Government expenditure is expected to support the construction sector,
in particular declared school and health investment targets must be met.
Land availability and planning restrictions will continue to limit the
supply of new houses and as a result the new build sector will remain
flat at best.
Market sector growth
Supporting the points above, and based on data from Consult GB (May 2002),
Twyford's expectations for changes in market sectors (relative to sanitaryware,
bath and brassware sales) in 2003 are:
Showering products
Showering products will grow faster than traditional bathroom products
(such as sanitaryware & baths), with the greatest growth in 'hydrotherapy'
products.
Showering products (comprising trays, enclosures, cubicles, and screens)
are expected to grow by 5.5% (source Consult GB, May 2002). The substitution
of baths with trays and enclosures in RMI is expected to continue.
Hydrotherapy products, comprising hydro baths, hydro cubicles (eg steam
cabins), shower panels, and combined products (shower panel, enclosure
and whirlpool with a bath), will grow by C. 12% in 2003, and indeed, similar
levels of growth are expected over the next 3 years.
Key to the above growth is that consumer spending continues to be positive,
and that the high level of property transactions continue, as both drive
RMI activity and bathroom product purchases.
Bathroom styles
Modern contemporary style is now well established in the UK market and
this is reflected both within the current sanitaryware portfolios of UK
manufacturers and the influx of European imports.
The leading influence behind this strong trend is the fact that hotels
and house developers typically install contemporary style bathrooms. This
has created an aspiration in the domestic market and the trend towards
contemporary suites has now emerged as the key style in the RMI sector
Yet while consumer discretionary purchases are increasingly of a contemporary
style, nostalgic products still have a presence. However the 'traditional'
style itself is evolving and becoming more 'neo Classical' in appearance.
At the moment the style is very much evolving in the upper areas of the
market, but in time as its appeal grows, price points will become lower
as manufacturers introduce new products. The result will be a change in
the 'traditional' sanitaryware sector.
Distribution Consolidation
Two factors are important with respect to distribution - the growth of
DIY sector and the consolidation of merchants. DIY is growing, not just
in the UK but also across Europe, as the multiple retail outlets increasingly
look to grow their share not just of discretionary RMI consumer spend,
but also of the professional trade.
Also because the major merchant chains have the capability to operate
across countries within the EU, they too are consolidating across Europe.
As a result the 'purchasing pattern' of such multi-national merchants
is increasingly likely to be on a multi-national basis rather than a local
basis.
Plumbing practice
The construction industry of course faces many challenges, including increasing
skill shortages within the sector. This factor is increasing costs to
the professional tradesperson, not just in increasing labour rates but
also those arising from an increased remedial requirement thanks to unskilled
trades at large.
However, sanitaryware manufacturers can interpret this challenge to the
building industry as an opportunity to progress and develop their products.
The introduction of products that are 'easy' to install, that can be installed
'quicker,' that are 'easier' to maintain, and products that because of
'clever design' require 'less skill' to install, will quickly gain market
share as the construction industry seizes the opportunity to save time
and money.
Tel: 01270 879777
Web: http://www.twyfordbathrooms.com
Stockists & Brochures: 01270 242 2440
Electrolux
First Quarter Report Flags up Currency Issue and Asbestos Litigation
Net sales for the Electrolux Group in the first quarter of 2003 amounted
to SEK 32,062m, as against SEK 33,580m for the same period in the previous
year. This corresponds to a decrease of 4.5%, of which -11.2% refers to
changes in exchange rates, +0.1% to changes in Group's structure, and
+6.6% to price/mix/volume.
Operating income declined to SEK 1,798m (3,791), corresponding to 5.6%
(11.3) of sales, and income after financial items decreased to SEK 1,798m
(3,682), which corresponds to 5.6% (11.0) of sales. Net income declined
to SEK 1,246m (2,962), corresponding to SEK 3.95 (9.00) per share.
The above income figures for 2002 include items affecting comparability
in the amount of SEK 1,885m. This amount refers to a capital gain of SEK
1,800m on the divestment of the remaining part of the leisure-appliances
product line, and to a capital gain of SEK 85m on the divestment ofthe
European home-comfort operation.
Cash flow is normally weak during the first half of the year as a result
of a build-up of inventories and accounts receivable referring to a seasonal
increase in sales of outdoor products, room air-conditioners, refrigerators
and freezers.
Operations by Business Area
Consumer Durables Industry shipments of core appliances in Europe increased
by almost 4% compared with the first quarter of 2002. The market in Western
Europe grew by approximately 3% and Eastern Europe by approximately 8%.
Group sales of appliances in Europe showed good growth, particularly in
Eastem Europe. Operating income improved, mainly as a result of higher
volumes and lower cost for materials.
In the US, industry shipments of core appliances were largely unchanged,
compared with a strong first quarter in 2002. Shipments of major appliances,
i.e. including room air-conditioners and microwave ovens, increased by
approximately 6%. Group sales of core appliances in North America showed
good growth in local currency, particularly in the refrigerator and cooker
product areas. Operating income and margin improved. Sales of room air-conditioners
increased over the previous year. Operating income for the home comfort
product area improved and was slightly positive.
Overall, sales for the Consumer Durables business area declined after
translation into SEK. Operating income declined with a slightly lower
margin.
Asbestos litigation in the US
Litigation and claims related to asbestos are pending against the Group
in the US. Almost all of the cases refer to externally supplied components
used in industrial products manufactured by discontinued operations prior
to the early 1970s. Almost all of the cases involve multiple plaintiffs
who have made identical allegations against many other defendants who
are not part of the Electrolux Group.
As of March 31st, 2003 the Group had a total of 301 lawsuits pending,
representing approximately 18,OOO plaintiffs. A total of 96 new cases
were filed during the first quarter of 2003 and 13 were resolved. Approximately
17,900 of the plaintiffs refer to cases pending in the state of Mississippi.
Net sales for the parent company, AB Electrolux, for the first quarter
of 2003 amounted to SEK 1,587m (1,730). lncome after financial items was
SEK 2,136m (1,676), including dividends from subsidiaries in the amount
of SEK 1,673m (1,658).
• Electrolux
announced at the end of 2002 that it is to cut 5,000 jobs worldwide in
the next two years in a bid to trim costs and improve productivity. It
will also close an air conditioner plant in the US and consolidate its
operations in China and India.
Franke Group: Strong Swiss Franc Skews 2002 Results
In
the difficult economic year of 2002, the Franke Group managed to achieve
its set targets, with total sales of CHF 1,591.2 million and operating
results that were in line with the budget forecast. The Group-wlde optimisatlon
and rationalisatlon measures that were introduced in 2001, and the systematic
focus on core business operations, in conjunction wlth strategically important
acquisitions as well as specific disinvestments, all contributed to thls
good result
Total sales
Total sales in 2002 were CHF 1,591.2 million. This corresponds to an increase
of CHF +44.5 million or +2.9% compared with total sales for the previous
year (CHF 1,546.7 million). Assuming no changes in currency rates (comparable
exchange rates), sales amounted to CHF 1,682.1 million which corresponds
to an increase of +8.8% (CHF +135.4 milion) in comparison with the previous
year. The strong Swiss franc impacted the business results negatively
- results are much better if the figures are consolidated in Euro and
USD. The negative currency effects amounted to CHF -90.9 million or -5.9%.
In Euro, the increase was +5.8%, while in USD the increase in sales was
as much as +13.6%. Taking acquisitions into account, the increase in sales
(comparable exchange rates) was CHF +83.6 million or +5.4%.
Personnel
In 2002, the Franke Group had an average of 5,679 employees, corresponding
to an increase of +398 persons. As of December 31st, 2002, the number
of staff was 5,584, or 462 more than the previous year. The increase is,
on one hand, due to acquisitions, while on the other, an almost equal
number of new staff were recruited owing to operative expansion.
lnvestments
In the year under review, total investments were CHF 149.6 million (previous
year CHF 103.1 million). All investments were fully financed from cash
flow.
Future outlook
The economic forecasts in the current year are shrouded in uncertainty,
and generai economic activity should tend to slow further, at least in
the first half of 2003. Nevertheless, Franke is confident that it will
again be able to achieve its set targets. However, major difficulties
are anticipated in certain Asian countries, South America, and in particular
Germany. Even in the case of a further contraction in the world economy,
Franke is well positioned to post satisfactory results, thanks to its
innovative product range, high level of technical expertise, and global
presence.
Hansgrohe
Sales Increase to a Strong 360 Million Euros
Thanks
to solid growth in foreign markets, the Hansgrohe group's sales rose from
Euro 356 million to Euro 360.5 million in 2002, a gain of 1.4 percent.
A five percent increase in sales in foreign markets more than made up
for negative growth in Germany. The share of foreign sales in group sales
thereby rose to 73 percent.
Hansgrohe's business in its Northern Europe region was especially positive,
with Great Britain and Sweden posting double-digit rates. The southern
European markets also stood out with above-average growth rates, for example,
in France and Switzerland. The growth trend remained unbroken in Eastern
Europe, with an increase of 20%.
The biggest Hansgrohe company abroad is Hansgrohe Inc. in Atlanta, USA,
which increased its sales to 60 million dollars. Asia, the newest core
market, also posted positive development, above all with its growth in
project business. The forthcoming founding of a distribution subsidiary
in Japan will make it easier to operate in the second largest plumbing
appliances market in the world. With Singapore, Shanghai, and Tokyo, Hansgrohe
will possess 3 strong pillars in the Far East.
The long-standing German market has suffered from an unchanged, flagging
economy. Overall, the industry calculates that there has been a 10 percent
decrease in sales. However, with its Hansgrohe, Axor and Pharo brands,
Hansgrohe claims to be in a better position in the German market than
the competition. The ISH plumbing appliances trade fair in Frankfurt in
March was again be the starting point for a new product offensive for
all its brand name product lines, promising Hansgrohe further strengthening
of its market position in Germany and Europe.
Regarding earnings, Klaus Grohe, President and CEO, said: 'Our earnings
trend appeared very positive in 2002. We were successful in stopping the
decline in earnings. Now we are going to carry the successfully applied
program for increasing efficiency over to our subsidiaries abroad.'
The Hansgrohe group has approximately 2300 employees worldwide, two thirds
of whom are in Germany.
•
Earlier this year the US based
Masco Corporation increased its share in Hansgrohe AG: it raised its previous
27% share - which it has had since 1984 - to 64.35%, by acquiring interests
from various branches of the family. The parties agreed not to provide
information about the purchase price.
The Klaus Grohe family retains its equity share of the initial capital
of 61,137,180 euros. The existing Management Board also retains leadership
of the Hansgrohe Group, with Klaus Grohe, son of Hans Grohe who founded
the company in 1901, acting as Chairman.
Tel: +49 7836/51-1211/-1297/-1226
DIY
Spending to fall 10% this quarter
Spending
on DIY by UK homeowners is set to fall by 10% over the next three months,
according to the Alliance & Leicester 's latest movingimproving index.
Indeed, the average property owner plans to spend £1,126 on home
improvements in the coming months, down from autumn 2002, when average
spending was £1,239.
Earlier findings showed the number of people intending to move within
a year remains steady at 5%. However, the amount of money this group is
planning to spend on their property during the next three months has fallen
25%, from £2,016 in October 2002 to £1,614 at the start of
2003. And the DIY spend figures indicate homeowners are sitting tight,
rather than attempting to increase the value of their property with extensive
home improvements.
Major home improvement projects such as new kitchens and bathrooms have
become marginally less popular, but the number of homeowners intending
to decorate their property has risen from 28% to 33%, indicating that
homeowners are spending shrewdly to maintain their property.
People in their 30s continue to be the UK's biggest DIY spenders, with
£1,381 of improvements pencilled in. But they are also following
the national trend and will spend 10% less than they did in autumn 2002,
when they were planning to typically commit £1,522.
Around the regions, those living in the East Midlands will be spending
the most (£1,139), while those in Scotland will be committing the
least (£744).
Spectacular
Setting for KBSA AGM!
The
venue for this year's Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association
AGM will be the spectacular Oulton Hall near Leeds and members are urged
to book their places early to ensure they get tickets.
Last year's 25th anniversary event was a sell-out and this year's AGM
during the weekend June 20th to 22nd is shaping up to be a 'must' for
retail and corporate members alike - it will be the first the association
will hold since changing its name to reflect its new role within the wider
interiors industry.
'This will without doubt be the most important AGM in our association's
history,' says KBSA Chief Executive Graham Hayden. 'It will be the first
time that we are able to fully embrace issues relating to the interiors
industry as a whole and discuss key issues that affect the kitchen, bathroom
and bedroom markets across the board.
'We know that many members will want to come along to share their views
and as places are limited we would urge anyone keen to join us at this
momentous AGM to make their reservations as soon as possible.'
Oulton Hall is a luxurious five star hotel standing on high ground within
the breathtaking Yorkshire countryside just outside Leeds. Originally
a Victorian mansion, the hotel offers excellent guest facilities including
a swimming pool, sauna/steam room, health/beauty salon and a superb golf
course which is host to one of the country's oldest tournaments, the De
Vere Hotels City of Leeds Cup.
The hotel's restaurant boasts an enviable reputation (having won the coveted
Rosette Award) and both accommodation and conference facilities at the
Hall are second to none.
The AGM weekend package, comprising Friday night accommodation, Saturday
breakfast, buffet lunch on Saturday, the AGM itself on Saturday afternoon,
Gala Dinner and entertainment and Sunday breakfast, for the inclusive
price of £199 per person. Partners are invited to attend and a saving
of £50 is available if bookings are made and paid for before the
end of February. In addition, there is a 'gold option' for an extra £75,
which will include accommodation and dinner on the Sunday evening.
All members are welcome at the AGM, please call the KBSA office on 01905
621787, for more information.
Email: mailto:info@kbsa.co.uk
Web: http://www.kbsa.co.uk
Whirlpool Reports 1st Quarter Results in Line with Expectations
Whirlpool
Corporation announced on 21st April first-quarter 2003 results that were
in line with expectations.
Net earnings of $91m, or $1.32 per diluted share, compared to a net loss
of $529m, or $7.63 per diluted share, in the same period last year. The
first-quarter loss in 2002 included one-time charges totaling $8.95 per
diluted share for goodwill impairment (relating to a change in accounting
principle) and restructuring activities.
First-quarter net sales of $2.7bn increased 6 percent from the same period
last year. Excluding consolidated sales from the company's 2002 acquisitions
- Polar S.A. of Poland and Vitromatic S.A. de C.V. of Mexico - net sales
increased 2 percent.
'Our businesses delivered a solid performance for the quarter, despite
uncertainty in global markets and generally weak industry demand,' said
David R. Whitwam, Whirlpool Corporation's chairman and chief executive
officer. 'Our operations significantly improved productivity and lowered
costs, which helped partially offset year-over-year increases in pension,
healthcare, energy and material costs. Benefits from restructuring also
contributed to the earnings performance.'
First-Quarter Global Highlights
• Net earnings per diluted share of $1.32 were in line with expectations.
• Whirlpool North America posted record first-quarter sales.
• Whirlpool Europe and Whirlpool Latin America recorded solid operating
profit gains in challenging environments.
• Whirlpool opened a new technology centre in Pondicherry, India,
in January. The centre is part of the company's global product development
effort.
• Reader's Digest (Europe) recognised the Whirlpool brand as the
most trusted home appliance brand in France, Slovakia and Hungary.
• The Whirlpool brand Family Studio was introduced at the International
Builders Show in Las Vegas. Family Studio includes a suite of innovative
Whirlpool brand fabric care products, including the Duet® washer and
dryer pair, Personal Valet® clothes vitalizing system, SinkSpa™
jetted clothes washing sink, and DryAire™ drying cabinet.
Whirlpool Europe's sales of $564 million increased 19 percent from the
prior year period. (Excluding currency translations, sales decreased 1.8
percent.) The results reflect a solid performance in a challenging market
where industry unit shipments declined by approximately 3 percent. Despite
weak economic growth and low consumer confidence that negatively affected
industry demand and pricing, operating profit doubled from the prior year
period. Cost savings from improved total cost productivity and the benefits
of restructuring contributed to the improvement.
Based on current economic conditions, the company now expects full-year
industry shipments to decline 3 percent from last year's level. The company
had previously forecast an industry decline of 1-to-2 percent.
During the quarter, the Whirlpool brand Dreamspace™ washer - Whirlpool
Europe's version of Duet® - received top honours in comparison tests
conducted by two leading consumer magazines in France.
Outlook
'We continue to see uncertain economic and geopolitical environments in
most markets in which we operate,' said Whitwam. 'In this environment,
Whirlpool operations will maintain the emphasis on productivity and other
cost saving efforts as our global brands continue their rapid rate of
innovative product introductions to consumers worldwide. In addition,
we are evaluating measures to reduce the impact from year-over-year increases
in pension and employee-related healthcare costs.'
Whitwam added: 'Based on our revised industry outlook for Whirlpool's
key markets around the world, we are revising full-year earnings-per-share
guidance to $5.90-$6.10.'
The company had previously forecast full-year earnings per share of $6.20
to $6.40.
Web: http://www.whirlpoolcorp.com
CF Anderson Boosts Pfleiderer Service in London
CF
Anderson can now distribute Pfleiderer Industrie via a newly equipped
Islington sales centre and Tottenham distribution depot. This allows C
F Anderson to serve customers within London rapidly as well as operate
an efficient deliveIy schedule within the M25. This development was spurred
by the amicable acquisition of Blanco's Duropal worktop distribution earlier
this year. Duropal is Pfleiderer's worktop brand and while CF Anderson
was established as a national Duropal distributor from its' Mark Tey base,
Blanco handled smaller quantities to kitchen specialists.
In addition to Duropal worktop decors, C F Anderson supplies Pfleiderer's
new 'dimensions' range of colour matched high pressure laminates and 'Innotec'
melamine faced chipboards. Co-operation with Willesden based Brent Plastics,
an important distributor of Duropal high pressure laminate allows C F
Anderson to offer a large selection generally available within 24 hours
throughout greater London. A collection facility is proving popular for
urgent requirements.
C F Anderson's London sales manager Rupert Orton says, 'With 20,000sq.ft.
storage capacity within easy reach of central London we can meet the demands
of local customers. We offer a large range, fast track collection and
delivery underpinned by a high level of service from C F Anderson's professional
sales team. This overcomes the capital's logistical challenges giving
'right away ' service that Londoners value.'
While kitchen specialists and builders will appreciate the Duropal worktop
arrangements, a wider range of users can take advantage of Pfleiderer's
co-ordinated worktops, sheet HPL and melamine faced chipboard. Many customers
are specific to London and include set designers, fit out and exhibition
contractors, shop fitters, museums, local govemment and schools.
Contact: Tony Taylor, Pfleiderer Industrie Ltd.
Tel: 01753 886557
Web: http://www.pfleiderer.co.uk
Contact: Rupert Orton, C F Anderson
Tel. 020 7226 1212
Web: http://www.cfanderson.co.uk
Merloni
Dividend Raised after Reporting Profits up 45%
Meeting
on 20th March in Milan, the board of directors of Merloni Elettrodomestici
approved the figures in the consolidated balance sheet for 2002, which
closed with net profits of Euro 107 million, up 45% on 2001.
The board will invite the shareholders to approve a dividend handout of
Euro 0.322 per ordinary share, an increase of 46.4% on the previous year
(Euro 0.22), and of Euro 0.340 per savings share (Euro 0.238 the previous
year) to be disbursed from 22nd May. The proposed dividend includes the
portion pertaining to treasury shares (Euro 0,032 on the basis of the
treasury shares in portfolio today).
Income per share was Euro 0.97 (Euro 0.67 in 2001); 30% will be distributed
in the form of a dividend (30% in 2001 as well).
The dividend yield of the ordinary shares, calculated on the basis of
the average share price over 2002, was 3.4%.
Results for 2002 were confirmed as follows:
• Sales at 31st December 2002 amounted to Euro 2,480m, up 26% on
2001 (Euro 1,971m).
• The gross operating margin was Euro 319m, up 40% on 2001 (Euro
228m). Gross operating margin over sales rose to 12.9% from the 11.5%
recorded in 2001.
• The operating margin was Euro 203m, up 46% on 2001 (Euro 139m).
Operating margin over sales rose to 8.2% against the 7.1% recorded in
2001. Profitability has grown constantly in recent years, ROS having risen
over one point a year since 1998, when it was 4%.
• Indebtedness at 31st December 2002 stood at Euro 181m, against
Euro 151m at 31st December 2001. The debt/equity ratio at 31st December
2002 was 0.43 (0.41 at 31st December 2001).
Domestic
Kitchen Furniture Market Report 2003
AMA Research has recently published the Sixth Edition of the 'UK Domestic
Kitchen Furniture Market Report 2003. This report incorporates original
input and primary research and represents an up-to-date and comprehensive
review of the kitchen furniture market.
Product sectors covered in the report include: Kitchen Furniture, Sinks
and worktopsThe UK kitchen furniture market is a mature sector that has
exhibited relatively good levels of growth in recent years supported by
the buoyant housing market and high levels of consumer confidence. In
2002, the market was estimated at over £1 billion at manufacturers
selling prices.
Key points of particular interest:
* Increasing proportion of replacement purchases and trading up prompting
changes within the individual product sectors.
* Consumers have become more discerning resulting in a greater emphasis
on quality and service.
* Improvements in technology and materials, providing a wider choice of
worksurfaces, sinks and accessories in particular.
* Greater consumer awareness of products and fashion trends within the
industry has influenced the distribution mix.
This report reviews developments within the industry, with emphasis on
both Quantative and Qualitative market assessments. The report contains
over 90 pages of original research on the UK Domestic Kitchen Furniture
Market and provides incisive and thought-provoking views on its future
development.
Key areas covered in the report include:
The Market
* Total Kitchen Furniture Market - market background, product mix by value.
* Furniture and Worktops Market - historical market development, analysis
of market size by value 1995-2006.
* Sinks Market - market developments in recent years, analysis of market
size by value 1995-2002, market forecasts 2003-2006, market analysis by
material type and current trends.
* Factors influencing Market Development - economic situation, house building
and house price inflation, consumer confidence, growing influence of design/style
changes, population mix changes, increases in the number of second/third
time buyers, growing ownership of a greater number of kitchen appliances
etc.
* Fitted & freestanding kitchens furniture - household ownership levels
and analysis of the factors affecting the development of each sector.
* Imports and Exports - developments in import and export levels 1990-2002,
factors influencing the level of imports and the gradual increase in exports.
* Fitted Kitchen Furniture Ownership - changes in ownership levels 1985-2006,
factors influencing current and future ownership levels eg. new house
building, choice of products now available, public housing.
* Kitchen Appliances - annual value sales by built-in and free standing
products, mix by type of appliance, influence of appliance sales in fitted
kitchen furniture market.
Products
* Flat-Pack/Rigid Units - market share mix of each sector, quality levels
of flat-pack kitchens, factors affecting mix between flat-pack and rigid
kitchens, market share of flat-pack/rigid kitchens, assembly methods of
kitchen furniture.
* Trends in Design/Materials in Kitchen Furniture - Increasing proportion
of modern, continental designs eg. 'IKEA effect' lifestyle considerations,
greater consumer awareness; emphasis on performance and benefits, quality
and features, trends in colours and finishes, long term trends in styles
and designs, etc.
* Trends in Design/Materials in Worktops - share mix by material, improvements
in laminate products, colour/pattern trends in worktops, growth of non-laminate
materials such as solid surfaces, wood, stone, stainless steel advantages/disadvantages,
new product developments.
* Trends in Design/Materials in Sinks - historic and current developments
in materials, current and future trends, material share estimates, factors
influencing material trends eg. product development, fashion influences,
popular colours, trends surrounding other kitchen products. Sinks increasingly
designed as food preparation areas.
* Developments in the Components Market - Factors influencing trends in
size of the retail assembly market, strengths and weaknesses, changes
in kitchen design etc.
Distribution/Suppliers
* Distribution Channel Shares - analysis of shares by value, trends/developments
in shares, growth/declining sectors.
* Role of Distributors - importance of distributors in kitchen furniture
market, own branding by distributors, review of major national distributors.
* Analysis of Supply Structure - supplier market shares, recent developments
in supplier shares.
* Profiles of Leading Suppliers - furniture, worktops, sinks suppliers,
market position, analysis of activities, financial information etc.
Key Market Influences/Future Prospects
* Housing Market - analysis of developments in new house building and
house moving activity, influence of house prices and consumer confidence.
* Population Profile - analysis of changing profile and implications for
kitchen furniture sales. Personal Disposable Income and Savings - developments
in ratios and impact on consumer durable purchasing.
* Economic Influence - unstable global political and economic environment
and the effect on consumer confidence and market growth.
* Future Prospects - key factors influencing future market developments,
performance of the economy, housing market, consumer confidence, market
factors, future growth prospects.
Kitchen Furniture Market Report UK 2003 £565
AMA Research
Tel: +44 (0)1242 235724
Email: mailto:sales@amaresearch.com
Fisher and Paykel Appliances Sells Record Million Appliances in Single Year
New
Zealand appliance manufacturer Fisher and Paykel Appliances Ltd has a
million reasons to thank its staff and customers this year. The Auckland-based
company sold a record one million appliances in a single year for the
first time since the company was founded nearly 70 years ago.
Fisher and Paykel Appliances reached the million mark just days before
the end of its financial year on Monday 31st March, 2003. The sales milestone
represented an increase of 11.5% on the number of appliances sold the
previous year. The figure includes appliances manufactured at the company's
East Tamaki and Australian plants and exported to 40 countries.
Fisher and Paykel Appliances now earn some $600 million in annual export
revenues, more than the country eams from the marine industry, and several
times the export earnings from wlne.
Although the company has the lion's share of the New Zealand market, and
more than 20% of the Australian market, it is still a relativeiy small
player by world standards.
'We are not chasing turnover for the sake of it - we are firmly focused
on profitability,' says managing director John Bongard. 'There are many
manufacturers fighting for market share at the bottom end of the market
- that's not where we want to be.
'Our approach is to drive sales through significant technology advantages
developed in New Zealand and protected by more than 400 intemational patents.
'We want consumers to choose our products because they are the best, not
because they are the cheapest.'
Mr Bongard said Fisher and Paykel Appliances 'is committed to a policy
of continuous product development, which has so far produced four major
breakthroughs to give the company's appliances a significant competitive
advantage.'
These are:-
*The computerised Smart Drive® washing machine
*The 'DishDrawer®' technology which produced a new concept for dish
washers.
*The 'Active Smart®' system for controlling refrigerators.
*The new 'SmartLoad' high capacity, top loading clothes dryer announced
on April 4th, offering previously unobtainable features to the top end
of the US market.
Mr Bongard says the company's development programme also included updating
and refreshing existing product platforms with appealing new features
right across the company's appliance range.
AEG
Launches new 'Preference Centre' Concept
AEG
is to recognise excellent sales and service creating 80 'Preference Centres'
nationwide during 2003. The Preference Centres provide consumers with
a unique environment to view AEG's freestanding range and offer the opportunity
to talk to an expert who fully understands the brand and the benefits
AEG appliances have to offer.
Sites already identified include Bath, Glastonbury, Hereford, Cambridge,
Aberdeenshire and Glasgow.
All Preference Centre staff will receive tailor-made product training
to ensure they will be able to provide customers with the highest levels
of expert advice. The showrooms will receive an illuminated internal sign
and premium POS as well as direct marketing opportunities, accreditation
on AEG's website and special nett prices on selected AEG models to enhance
showroom profitability and ensure that all Preference Centres are recognisable
to consumers.
Comments AEG brand manager, Norbert Heinl,'AEG Preference Studios, the
brand's other unique endorsed stores offer customers expert advice on
built-in appliances. These have proved a great success since their launch
two years ago. We want to use the same concept now for freestanding appliances.
Continues Heinl, 'coupled with the launch of the new AEG Preference Centres,
our vision is to develop them into universally recognised 'centres of
excellence'.
The Bathroom Becomes a Feel-Good Centre
An
opinion poll conducted by the Forsa Institute for the German Sanitary
Industry Association (VDS) revealed just how important for well being
the bathroom is to the German citizen. The lightning poll questioned people
over 14 years of age.
Amongst other things, the social researchers in Berlin wanted to know
whether the statement, 'I need to feel good all round in the bathroom'
can find a majority. According to the poll, this statement is 'right on
target' for 75 percent of those polled (women 80 percent, men 70 percent)
and is at least partly true for another 23 percent. Only 2 percent couldn't
relate to the bathroom as a feel-good centre.
Bathrooms are developing away from their former strict functionality towards
a multi-purpose room. This is seen especially among younger people and
in multiple-person households. The study found out that a sauna (31 percent),
a separate sitting corner or relaxing area (21 percent) and fitness appliances
(17 percent) are the most important fittings for Germans. Even a TV (9
percent), minibar (6 percent) and a PC with Internet access (4 percent)
take up more space in the bathroom. The washing machine tops the list
with 33 percent.
The Forsa Institute also investigated what irritates Germans most in the
bathroom. Stress factor number 1 is dirt which annoys 25 percent of German
citizens. Untidiness, poor heating, ventilation, room size and water problems
are other causes of annoyance. But the VDS experts can comfort those who
feel pestered because these stress factors can be remedied with modern
fittings and technologies.
Waste Disposal Experts Join the KBSA
Specialist
manufacturers of domestic household food waste disposers Tweeny (the Haigh
Tweeny Company) is the latest company to join the ranks of the Kitchen
Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association.
Tweeny has been manufacturing waste disposal units at Ross-on-Wye in Herefordshire
for almost 50 years - the company was the first to design and produce
such a product in the UK.
The company's name has often been the subject of intrigue . . . managing
director Sir Colin Shepherd explains: 'In the Victorian era, the girl
who did the less pleasant jobs around the home for the cook and housemaid
was called the 'in-between' maid, or 'Tweeny' for short, and one of her
jobs was clearing up and disposing of kitchen waste. Today's Tweeny makes
this everyday chore a much more pleasant task!'
KBSA chief executive Graham Hayden says: 'We're delighted to welcome Tweeny
aboard as a new member. This company has an excellent track record and
has consistently set the pace in its field in terms of enhancing usability
and durability.'
Sir Colin adds: 'I was impressed to note the work being done by the KBSA
in promoting excellence in kitchen design through their participation
in the development of NVQs for kitchen designers and felt that Tweeny,
as Britain's first and number one manufacturer of quality household food
waste disposers, should be involved more closely.'
Tel: 01905 621 787
Email: mailto:info@kbsa.co.uk
Web: http://www.kbsa.co.uk
AW
Andes to Distribute Sovereign Excel's Aspect Shower Range
AW
Andes has announced that it is now a main distributor for Sovereign Excel
Ltd, in particular for the company's new Aspect range shower enclosures.
Aimed at bathroom showrooms and builders merchants in particular, the
Aspect range comprises of Quadrant and Offset quadrant shower enclosures.
Each frame is universally reversible for either left or right hand tray
application, and is accompanied by a range of acrylic capped shower trays,
for practicality. Smooth curves on the top and bottom profiles add stability
to the enclosures and being 1850mm in height offers greater protection
against splash.
Smooth glide is ensured by the colour co-ordinated pivoting door rollers
which is further enhanced by the central handles, found internally and
externally, for ease of opening. A concealed magnetic door closing system
guarantees a waterproof seal and the 'snap-fit door' fitments assist installation.
The Aspect range is available in six sizes, and with two contemporary
finishes; polished chrome and white.
A W Andes Sales Director Ray Andes says 'We are thrilled to be a distributor
for Sovereign. We feel the Aspects range has immense potential and is
a refreshing addition to our portfolio of bathroom products'.
Jacuzzi Whirlpool Bath to Supply Lowe's Home Improvement Warehouse
U.S.
Industries, Inc., a manufacturer of bath and plumbing products - led by
the Jacuzzi® brand and Zurn® family of brand names - and Rainbow®
vacuum cleaner systems, announced on March 24th that Lowe's Home Improvement
Warehouse has named USI's Jacuzzi Whirlpool Bath business the exclusive
supplier of jetted baths at over 850 Lowe's stores across the USA. Jacuzzi
will initiate store installations in April 2003 and expects to complete
this process prior to September 30th, 2003.
'We are extremely excited about the opportunity to bring Jacuzzi Whirlpool
Bath to Lowe's,' said E. Kent Baker, President, Jacuzzi Whirlpool Bath.
'With our brand heritage of bringing innovation to the marketplace and
Lowe's ability to deliver outstanding value and service to its customers,
we believe that we are poised for a long-term relationship that will bring
superior value to the consumer.'