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At its annual briefing for trade media, international bathroom brand, VitrA told journalists assembled at the Absolut Ice Bar of its plans to become a top three brand in the UK.

The company has - under the 14 year leadership of outgoing Managing Director Levent Giray - risen to a top five player in the UK. In his outgoing address Levent said that when he joined VitrA back in 1992 it was an obscure manufacturer with a very limited range of sanitaryware, serving a narrow segment of the market and with a turnover in the region of £200,000.

Levent Giray continued: ‘Today VitrA is a major force in the UK market with an extensive contemporary product range covering baths, furniture, brassware and accessories, as well as ceramic sanitaryware. From a turnover perspective, we will do over £18m this year, and despite two difficult years in this industry, VitrA UK has achieved growth in both 2005 and 2006.’

Levent, who is leaving the UK operation to head VitrA's US operation in Atlanta, said that strong foundations were now in place for VitrA to build on its position and that Erol Donmez (pictured, right, at yesterday's presentation), his successor who joins from the pharmaceutical division of VitrA's holding company, Eczacibasi was the man for the job.

Erol Donmez has a background in sales and marketing and is credited with establishing the NIVEA and Avon brands as number one in his native Turkey. His fmcg background and brand building experience will bring a new dimension to VitrA and indeed the bathroom industry.

Commenting on his plans for building the VitrA brand in the UK Erol said: ‘We have the product offer, the distribution network and the team in place, my job now is to build the VitrA brand.’

Your humble scribes, hard at work in the Icebar yesterday

Erol Donmez said that VitrA already had plans in place to take it there.

‘The Istanbul collection designed by Ross Lovegrove for VitrA has already put VitrA firmly on the map in the design world, winning awards from the design community, and we will continue to leverage this success to build our brand with both consumers and contract customers.’

He said that the Istanbul collection had already been specified for a number of high profile developments including the UK's first women only powder room - WC1 - due to open in early December and the soon to be opened St Alban Restaurant, the latest venture from Chris Corbin and Jeremy King, the team behind The Ivy and The Wolseley.

VitrA's collaboration with Ross Lovegrove will continue into 2007, the designer is working on a more mass market range that addresses such issues as water conservation, the concepts for which are due to be shown at ISH in March.

The company announced that it is extending its collaboration with the design cognoscenti. Italian designer, Matteo Thun, creative director for Swatch between 1990-93 and winner of several design awards within the hotel sector, is designing a new collection specifically for the hotel and hospitality sector.

Erol said that growth will also come from VitrA's tiles and brassware businesses, which to date had been viewed as 'accessory' products. He said that VitrA now had the depth of product range and capabilities to be a significant player in both of these markets.

From its tile manufacturing plant in Eire, VitrA is to supply its retail Showrooms of Excellence with a dedicated range of tiles in 2007.

The company's success is not just being driven by the retail side of the business. Phil Baker, VitrA's Contracts & Specifications Manager said that a number of high profile contract wins in the last 12 months, including the supply of sanitaryware to T5, had put VitrA firmly on the map of the UK's top architects.

Phil Baker said it was VitrA's ability to be 'flexible not fixed' that was winning contracts. He said the T5 win came about because ‘unlike several manufacturers who were called in, VitrA was prepared to listen to what the design manager wanted to achieve at T5, and perhaps more unusually in this industry, was prepared to work with the design team to design and manufacture a bespoke product.’

The result of this collaboration is, what is believed to be the world's first fully compliant DDA toilet - a product that is opening up other new opportunities, most recently with McDonalds restaurants and the Welcome Break group. For both of these specifications accessibility and water conservation were high priorities.

Next year VitrA plans to capitalise on its special needs range by extending into the retirement homes sector - where it feels it has a range that reflects all current standards whilst not compromising on style.

In the housebuilding sector, VitrA has strengthened its team with the appointment of Ross Rigby who will focus on working closely with the UK's leading developers. The company continues to work with Wimpey Homes nationally and has recently won contracts from Bloor Homes.

Amongst its more high profile wins in the housebuilding sector are further projects with Urban Splash, including the CHIPS development in Manchester and the Langworthy 'Chimney Pots Park' project in Salford. Both of these projects involve off-site pod manufacture - an area that VitrA is becoming increasingly involved in.

Being 'involved' is also VitrA's approach to winning specifications for the 2012 Olympics. Rather than stand back and wait, Phil Baker explained that VitrA was actively talking to water companies, local authorities and the ODA. He said that the company's presence at Expo 2007 would focus on its contract offer – ‘Expo will be the shop window for those specifying washrooms for the 2012 Olympics and our focus will be on showing our capabilities.’

Phil Baker wrapped up the briefing with a toast to Levent Giray and a welcome to Erol Donmez. He concluded that 2007 signalled the start of a new and exciting era for VitrA.

Aqualux is the Best of the Best

Aqualux has proved only the best will do as the company celebrates scooping 'Business of the Year' at the prestigious 'Best of the Black Country Awards'.

The UK manufacturer of shower surrounds and bath screens was named as the winner of the highly respected award at the black tie ceremony hosted by the UK's biggest regional newspaper, the Express and Star.

Over 100 companies from across the region initially entered the Business of the Year category and Aqualux was amongst three finalists which were short listed to attend the glittering awards ceremony held at Dunstall Park racecourse. As the winner, Aqualux won £1000 and a stylish glass trophy that will join the Best Bathroom Product award the company won at the House Beautiful Awards this year.

Managing Director James Cadman (centre) celebrates with staff at the awards ceremony.

The managing director, James Cadman, is exceptionally pleased that Aqualux has been recognised as the best business in the Black Country. He said: ‘Aqualux is not just about bringing innovative new products to the marketplace, we address every aspect of our business. We are extremely committed to making sure our staff have the best training available so they can provide excellent service - which all plays a huge part in making Aqualux as successful as it is.’

The Wednesbury-based company unquestionably proved to a panel of judges that its business strategy, which includes expanding into new markets and innovative product developments, significantly impacts on the economic success of the region.

Aqualux was also able to successfully demonstrate its long-term commitment to the area and the importance it places on staff training and development.

More than 500 movers and shakers from leading businesses attended the event where the Governor of the Bank of England, Mervyn King, entertained the audience with stories about his memories of the region during his childhood.

Stoves Ovens and Hobs on Set for the New UKTV Food Series

Four Stoves built-in electric ovens and built-in gas hobs have been placed on set for the new series of UKTV Food's Local Food Heroes 2006, which began on Monday 20th November 2006.

Presented by Gary Rhodes, Rosemary Shrager and Oliver Roe, the show searches for the nation's local food heroes, from cafes serving freshly cooked regional dishes to butchers selling meat from nearby farms, with a series of regional heats to discover the overall winner for 2006.

Showing weekdays at 8pm on UKTV Food from 20th November, the four Stoves ovens and hobs will be in use throughout the series, helping the shortlisted contenders compete against each other to win the coveted Local Food Hero Award.

The 600EF single electric fanned double ovens have a whole host of practical features to make cooking under the studio lights less stressful. With a high performance variable grill and LED clock/automatic programmer function, the 600EF also has twin side lights and a handy door arrest position whilst the 700GE 70cm gas hob has five variable burners, powerful central wok burner and twin enamelled pan supports. Suitable for the serious chef, the ovens also feature wide mirrored viewing windows so it's easy to keep an eye on how things are cooking.

With Stoves Pristine® enamel, which is up to three times easier to clean than standard enamels, and removable control knobs, shelf supports and inner glass, these ovens are guaranteed to make the whole cooking process more hassle free for each contestant.

What a Waste of Water, says BMA

The 60 million people in the UK use a staggering nine thousand six hundred million litres of drinking water each day for domestic use. As the climate changes and we enjoy drier winters and hotter summers, supplies will become scarcer and there simply won’t be enough water in parts of the country to sustain current levels of supply. This topic is here to stay so the Bathroom Industry needs to listen and take appropriate action.

Recent reports from retailers, however, claim some consumers remain apathetic towards water efficient bathrooms and instead they want bigger, better and more powerful products. However, whilst it’s the Industry’s duty to deliver the experience consumers want, with water conservation such an important issue where’s the common ground?

Most stakeholders would no doubt agree that there has to be a collective effort, and this was certainly a message delivered throughout the BMA’s Inaugural Conference ‘Precious Water – Water Pressures’ held in October.

What would make consumers favour water efficient products? Would increased availability of more water efficient products encourage consumers to buy them? Perhaps mandatory water metering is the way forward. How about increased usage of grey water for the garden and flushing, which would reduce the burden on treated drinkable water? Repairing leakages would save water. Each of this has potential, but only if we educate first.

The Water Saving Group believes metering will save water and this week the Government has taken some decisive action to tackle the issue. On 20 November Environment Minister Ian Pearson, who also chairs the group, announced a consultation on metering for areas affected by serious water stress, which will be identified by the Environment Agency.

Water metering in the UK stands at around 28 per cent, and is growing by two per cent a year on a voluntary basis. Defra statistics show that water savings made from metering are around 10 per cent for a typical household.

Pearson said the consultation will take place next year and aims to make water companies in seriously affected areas consider mandatory metering, but it would not propose compulsory metering on a national basis and nor did he see metering as an alternative to a tough approach on reducing leakage.

'Of course, metering is not a solution in itself, and in areas where water is in short supply water companies need to use the full range of measures including tackling leakage, encouraging water efficiency, and bringing on new supplies, and we must take into account any impacts on customers’ bills,' says Pearson.

After consultation, each water company will decide whether to include a programme for introducing compulsory water metering in its final 25-year plan. However, if the case for metering isn’t strong enough Ministers may direct the removal of metering proposals from the final plan, so there are no guarantees, but it’s a step forward in a lengthy process.

Other European governments are taking a different approach. The Irish Government believes dual flush toilets are the solution. From 2008, they will become compulsory in all new builds and existing buildings where WCs are being replaced. The initiative will save water companies an estimated €700,000 per annum.

Ireland’s Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government believes dual flush toilets will reduce treated water consumption by approximately 27 per cent, or at least 700 million litres of drinking water every year. Could this idea take off in the UK?

With the introduction of the Home Information Packs on 1 June 2007, energy and water conservation is a pressing issue, which will also feature high on political parties’ agendas at the next General Elections.

Various ideas are already floating around such as incentives making it easy for home owners to release equity to make their properties more energy efficient and a reduction of VAT on home improvement products. The reduction already applies to 17 European countries and the Isle of Man until 2010.

Lord Brooke President of the National Home Improvement Council (NHIC) said at the Council’s Annual Awards on 23 November that the UK must embrace an additional range of housing priorities that are crucial for our planet’s survival, because homes produce a third of the national carbon dioxide emissions.

'Despite the NHIC’s endeavours and those of like-minded organisations, the Government’s approach to the private sector problem has so far been limited with measures only targeted at ‘the most vulnerable’ households,' says Brooke.

There’s no doubt that the market for water efficient bathrooms could certainly be a lucrative one, but we have to begin creating demand through effective education and we must champion the cause. We need to start at the beginning of the supply chain with designers and manufacturers and filter it down to distributors, retailers and installers.

For those stakeholders who feel energy and water conservation is not an important topic the BMA strongly urges you to look at its WaterHog website at www.bathroom-association.org designed to aid in the educating process and help identify bathroom products that use water efficiently to bring optimum results.

WaterHog is cram-packed with hints, tips and educational fact sheets for all ages, together with a product selector and useful links.

For further information please email karen.myles@bathroom-association.org.uk or telephone 01782 747123 .

Indesit Q3 Includes 'Excellent Performance' from UK

The board of directors of Indesit Company, chaired by Vittorio Merloni, met on 26th October to approve the consolidated figures for the 3rd quarter, which closed with sales of €871m, up 5%. Net profits rose to €23m (up 127% on 2005). Ebitda amounted to €80m (up 24% on the same period in 2005).

The net financial position improved by €120m, moving to €614m (€734m in 3rd quarter 2005) partly due to a reduction of around 27% in net working capital to €218m (€298m at 30th September 2005). The restructuring charge for 3rd quarter 2006, in line with the Group's three-year industrial plan presented last year, was €7m (€11m in the same period of 2005) and for the first nine months of 2006 was €27m (€21m in 2005).

‘Today's results follow on from a series of positive quarterly results,’ commented chairman Vittorio Merloni. ‘This gives us even more confidence about the challenges facing us in the international competitive arena’.

‘We are on track with the three-year plan announced last October, which remains our point of reference,’ said Indesit Company's CEO Marco Milani. ‘In all the regions where the Group operates we've seen increased sales and market share. In terms of profitability, there was excellent performance in the UK. In short, 2006 has built on the turnaround we achieved in the second half of 2005’.

Streamlining and internationalisation of the new management structure, tight control of general expenses, improved production efficiency and successful new product launches over the year are enabling Indesit Company to sharpen its competitive edge and provide an increasingly effective response to different needs in different countries.

In this context, Indesit Company has started building two new washing product plants in Poland. Production is scheduled to start up in the first half of 2008.
The results of these processes are reflected in both the 1st half results and the quarter just closed.

The Board also approved the half year report.

Main results in 3rd quarter 2006 (3rd quarter 2005 figures in brackets)
Sales amounted to €871m (up 5%, €829m).
Ebitda before restructuring costs was €87m (up 14%, €76m). The impact on sales was 10%.
Ebitda was €80m (up 24%, €65m). The impact on sales was 9.2%.
Ebit before restructuring costs was €52m (up 31%, €40m).
Ebit was €45m (up 59%, €28m). The impact on sales was 5.2%.
Profit before tax amounted to €38m (up 79%, €21m).
Net profits amounted to €23m (up 127%, €10m).
The net financial position improved, moving down to €614m, against (€734m).
Net working capital stands at €218m (€298m at 30th September 2005).
Results for 1st half 2006 (1st half 2005 figures in brackets)
Sales amounted to €1,461m (up 5%, €1,394m).
Ebitda before restructuring costs was €145m (up 9%, €132m). The impact on sales was 9.9%.
Ebitda was €124m (up 1%, €122m). The impact on sales was 8.4%.
Ebit before restructuring costs was €73m (up 16%, €63m). The impact on sales was 5%.
Ebit was €52m (-1%, €53m). The impact on sales was 3.6%.
Net profits amounted to €19m (€19).

In-toto Announces Best Sales Figures to Date

Independent fitted kitchen retailer, In-toto Kitchens, has reported a bumper year to date for retail sales, despite industry fears of a downturn.

The company, which is part of the German kitchen manufacturer, Alno/Wellmann Group, saw an increase in sales of more than 20% for the first three quarters of 2006 compared to the same period last year, reflecting the continued growth of the nationwide network of In-toto franchised showrooms as well as the popularity of the stylish, contemporary product range.

Commented Graham Russell, National Franchise Manager at In-toto Kitchens, ‘The high quality of our German manufactured product range, combined with imaginative design and a professional end-to-end service, is proving a winning combination. Essentially, In-toto is able to provide the look and feel of a designer kitchen but at considerably less than designer kitchen prices!’

This year, In-toto Kitchens has opened new showrooms in Amersham, Ealing, Northwood Hills, Portsmouth and Swindon with Norwich, Derby and Cardiff opening early next year.

Graham Russell concludes, ‘We will shortly be introducing the exciting new styles and colours from Germany into our showrooms. They look fantastic, our franchisees love them and we anticipate strong response from our customers - so watch this space for better than ever sales figures for 2007!’

Stellar Performances from New Acquisitions

The latest stars in Aga's blue skies are Stellar, with its boilerless steamers, and Eloma, with its combi-ovens, both of whom have begun to earn significant new sales volumes in several North American markets. Indeed, according to Mitch Cohen, VP of Cooking System Sales for Stellar, Eloma and Infinity fryers, ‘growth for AFE's 'hot side' companies in the high-volume retail food and several non-commercial sectors has surpassed all 2006 sales projections.’

Stellar's boilerless steamers are proving particularly popular in the healthcare and senior care markets whilst Eloma's combi-ovens, having only entered the North American market earlier this year, have seen strong sales activity, including a growing relationship with a national big-box retailer that will include the installation of the company's combi ovens in more than 70 stores.

As Mitch Cohen explains: ‘There are several reasons why Stellar and Eloma products are beginning to take market share away from longer-established competitors. Our first advantage is better build quality, which we support with exclusive two-year standard parts and labour warranties. End users are also recognising that they can save more energy, water, time and money with Stellar and Eloma equipment thanks to their boilerless designs, patented heat exchangers and ability to prepare foods just as fast as conventional models while consuming less electricity or gas.’

Glen Dimplex Acquires Metal Fab Industries

The Glen Dimplex Group has acquired a 65% shareholding in Metalfab from its founding shareholders, Colin Mitten and Brendon Massey. Metalfab is based in Auckland, New Zealand and has an Australian subsidiary Metal Fab Pty Limited based in Melbourne.

Metalfab manufactures and distributes gas and wood burning fireplaces and stoves which are sold under the Masport and Logaire brand names.

It has a turnover of NZ$30 million (Euro 15 million) and employs 120 people.
Colin Mitten and Brendon Massey remain with the business in their current roles as Chief Executive Officer and Finance Director respectively.

Glen Dimplex Chief Executive, Sean O'Driscoll said ‘we are delighted to have invested in Metalfab and in its Masport and Logaire brands. We see a significant opportunity in increasing sales of the Glen Dimplex Group’s patented Optiflame (r) and Electraflame (r), and electric fires in New Zealand and Australia through the Metalfab distribution system. We look forward to working with our new colleagues to further grow and develop the Metalfab business.’

The Glen Dimplex Group is the Worlds no. 1 in electric heating and electric fires. It also holds significant worldwide market positions in gas and electric cooking appliances, small domestic appliances and sustainable, renewable energy appliances.

Group turnover exceeds NZ$3 billion (Euro 1.5 billion) with 8,500 employees worldwide. Included in the Groups business portfolio are brands such as Dimplex, Morphy Richards, Stoves, Belling, Nobo and Noirot.

Top Level Talks between Ideal Bathrooms and Ideal Standard

Newly appointed Ideal Standard European President - John Rietveldt (pictured) - visited the UK recently to take an in-depth look at the UK market and product trends.

In order to ascertain exactly what is happening in the UK market and how it differs from other parts of Europe, he paid a visit to Ideal Bathrooms at the company’s Milton Keynes headquarters to hold in-depth discussions with Martin Carroll and his team.

‘John wanted an impartial view of the UK bathroom industry as a whole, so he came exclusively to the country's leading bathroom distributor. It was an excellent meeting and we had a long and productive discussion on all aspects of the market’ says Ideal Bathrooms' Managing Director, Martin Carroll. ‘As Ideal Standard’s leading distributor in the UK, we are in the unique position of being able to provide a highly detailed analysis of sales and trends, so it was no surprise that John took time during his trip to visit us.’

In addition to covering industry trends, Martin Carroll was also able to advise on potential new product development areas. The discussion also included the background to the successful business growth between the two companies over the years and ideas for further improvements in both business and communication programmes.

‘The meeting was highly encouraging,’ adds Martin Carroll. ‘We were reassured of our important role in Ideal Standard’s marketing and sales plans and were advised of new developments under consideration to assist our own planning. John Rietveldt assured us that our businesses would go from strength to strength with each other’s support.’

Ideal Bathrooms is also due to be visited by Ideal Standard’s European President of Wellness - Lucio Colussi - in the next few weeks, again with a view to receiving Ideal Bathroom’s knowledge and wisdom on the UK marketplace.

What next? A New York presence for Ideal Bathrooms at Ideal Standard world headquarters...

Electrical Inspection and Testing, Part P of the Building Regulations

The Faraday Centre is a specialist high and low voltage electrical safety training provider and will be conducting an evening seminar (Free of charge) covering the requirements for inspection and testing of domestic and commercial equipment and installations. The seminar is intended to provide businesses, electricians, electrical contractors, bathroom/kitchen fitters, etc information and advice relating to the requirements 'Part P' of the building regulations in the inspection of electrical systems, testing and completing of documentation (Test Forms).

The seminar will be held on the evenings (6-9pm) of 25th Jan 07 in Middlesbrough, 15th Feb 07 in Newcastle and 1st March 07 in Leeds.

To book your Free place, please contact The Faraday Centre.

Faraday UK seminars (Free):.
* Electrical Inspection and Testing.
25th Jan 07, 6-9pm, Thistle Hotel Middlesbrough.
15th Feb 07, 6-9pm, Thistle Hotel Newcastle.
1st Mar 07, 6-9pm, Weetwood Hall Leeds.

Faraday Cyprus seminars:.
* Electrical Safety in Offices, Hotels, Homes.
30th Jan 07, 9am-1pm.
* Electrical Troubleshooting Techniques.
31st Jan 07, 9am-1pm.
* Use of Electrical Equipment in Hazardous Area.
1st Feb 07, 9am-1pm.

To book your place, please visit http://www.faradaycentre.co.uk.

KBSA Corporate Forum Embraces Change

The Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association corporate forum was well attended by more than 60 corporate members, publishers and journalists who participated in a lively debate about the future of the corporate members of the association at Ansty Hall in Coventry on November 16th.

KBSA National Chair, Tony Nicholas, led the debate after a number of presentations from a series of guest speakers. Hannah Wooldridge from the Environment Agency spoke about the impact of the proposed new WEEE directive on manufacturers and dealers. Renee Mascari, CEO of the KBB NTG, introduced the new NTG training calendar and Carol Downing from CDC, the KBSA's PR agency, presented a review of the past year's PR and marketing activities.

KBSA Corporate Chair, Barbara Leech and Tony Nicholas, also spoke of the need for the KBSA to evolve into an industry wide association embracing the changes that may be required. Barbara presented a potential new umbrella structure that would encompass the three channels represented in the industry - the KBSA, who fulfil the needs of all current retail members, the NTG and the creation of KMA a home for potential new members who are currently not served by the KBSA.

‘Support for the KBSA is strong with over 107 major brands and distributors currently enjoying corporate membership benefits such as the membership directory, The Specialist magazine, the KBSA website and the Design Innovation and Excellence Awards,’ said Lucinda Kenny, KBSA Operations Director.

‘However, we are being made increasingly aware that we may need to add additional benefits to the corporate membership package in response to changing needs. A list of key areas has been established by the KMA working group led by Martin Gill of Poggenpohl. The KBSA has responded to this by illustrating that several of these needs can already be met by current KBSA activities and that others could be provided with the extra investment from members.

Tony proposed a number of options for the future direction of the KBSA and asked those corporate members present to indicate their preferred choice. The majority of those present indicated that they supported a move towards a new enhanced industry association with the option of additional benefits for corporate members that would in turn enhance the consumer branding of the KBSA.

Barbara said: ‘Our industry is facing many challenges and the KBSA is ready and able to respond to these as well as the changing needs of our members. We have also been involved in the discussions that have been generated by the embryonic group the KMA, offering them proposals on how we could all work together to develop a new industry wide association that is a true and strong 'voice of the industry’. We are fully supportive of the KMA's objective to provide the industry with a more effective voice, however we believe a splinter group will weaken rather than strengthen the objective. The current Association can evolve to encompass all the identified requirements, which is why we offered the use of our facilities for the group to meet prior to our corporate forum, and why we will continue to work with the KMA to fulfil the known objectives.

‘I am delighted that the initial response from members is that we should continue to explore the option of a new 'super industry association' which we will progress with the NTG, KMA and other interested parties.’

Lucinda Kenny concluded by saying that a consultation period would follow so that members' views could be discussed more fully. ‘This is not something that will happen overnight, KBSA strategic policy does not advocate a quick fix and we will pay solid attention to the needs of our members.’

Web: http://www.kbsa.co.uk

Bristan Expands Successful Online Shower Training Academy

Following the successful launch of the Online Shower Training Academy last year, Bristan is already expanding the reach of its training. A new module, Ceiling Fed Showers, is the latest addition to the academy which is designed to help installers become familiar with the principles of specifying showers.

The free of charge training programme is designed for both installers and trade counter staff and the latest module on ceiling fed showers gives technical features and benefits of the products as well as offering installation advice. One of the most attractive benefits of ceiling fed showers for example is that they provide an easy solution to fixing a shower to a solid wall. They can be fitted directly onto existing tiled surfaces and rise up into the ceiling without the need for chasing out walls for pipework. For installers and trade counter staff wanting to be able to buy, sell or fit ceiling fed showers, the addition to the Online Shower Training Academy will be invaluable.

Divided into three parts, the module covers the three styles of Bristan ceiling fed showers including Twinline and Dual Control. To gain a certificate, users can browse the module at their convenience to gain an in-depth understanding of the subject, and then correctly answer a series of multiple-choice questions.

Rather than taking time out to attend a day course, an installer can tailor this course around other work duties, simply logging on at any time of the day or night and working at a pace that suits them. The new Ceiling Fed Showers subject can be taken separately from the original six module Bristan Shower Specialist which covers aspects of plumbing systems, WRAS approval and accreditation, shower pumps and specification of different shower types.

The training site will also act as a vital information resource for notifying installers about upcoming legislation changes and give troubleshooting advice and installation tips.

Judith Gibbons, Head of Marketing for the Bristan Group says: ‘We have been delighted with the response to our Online Shower Training Academy and we have been inundated with both novice and seasoned installers and trade counter staff logging on to learn, refresh and update themselves on key issues within the industry. We identified ceiling fed showers as another strand for the academy and feel sure that this module will be as well-received as the others. Installers have been particularly impressed with the flexibility of the system and the ability to fit it into their busy schedules. The speed with which new legislation and information can be accessed is another major benefit and we will continue to update this section to include anything of relevance.’

Web: http://www.bristanshoweracademy.co.uk

Dynamic Growth at AFG, although Miele Slow

AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG, a leading European supplier to the construction industry, recorded net revenues of CHF 553.6 million or a 9.7% increase in the first six months of 2006 (compared to CHF 504.8 million for the same period last year). Adjusted for acquisitions, this represents a first-semester growth of 6.3%. Above average increases were recorded for all key income figures. EBITDA increased by 25.3% to CHF 55.9 million (CHF 44.6 million last year). EBIT rose by 50.1% to CHF 33.0 million (CHF 22.0 million last year), reaching 6.0% of net revenues, a level never attained before in the first semester. Corporate after-tax profits increased by 95.7% to CHF 22.2 million, almost double the amount recorded last year (CHF 11.4 million).

Due to favourable economic developments, especially in the domestic markets of Switzerland and Germany, all four Divisions made clear-cut progress in various areas. ‘The strikingly better numbers are a function of the high quality of our products and services as well as of the structural and organisational measures that were taken last year to improve cost structures and sales,’ said Edgar Oehler, Chairman of the Board of Directors and CEO of AFG Arbonia-Forster-Holding AG, about the encouraging developments of the first semester of 2006. This is the Group's first semester report in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

Outstanding growth in Heating Technology and Sanitary Equipment Division

During the first six months of 2006, the Heating Technology and Sanitary Equipment Division benefited from the Europe-wide recovery of the construction industry with its correspondent investment increase. Sales trends varied in all other markets. Further sales increases were achieved in most countries during the first semester, with parallel increases in market share.

Overall the Division recorded net revenues of CHF 266.3 million (compared to CHF 248.2 million last year), which represents an organic growth of 7.3%. Thanks to the increase in revenues, cost savings and lower cost of materials, the Division's EBIT was disproportionately high, climbing to CHF 21.8 million (compared to CHF 10.3 million last year).

Kitchens: success in Switzerland and export markets - problems in Germany

The Kitchens and Refrigeration Division increased its net revenues by 19% to CHF 123.5 million (compared to CHF 103.8 million last year) during the first six months of 2006. Adjusted for the acquisition of Miele Kitchens, the growth is 3.2%. The below-average increase is due to the investments that were made in the development and expansion of international markets following the acquisition last fall of Miele Kitchens and its international distribution network. These investments were higher than originally planned. ‘They are investments of strategic importance,’ explains Oehler, ‘as we announced last spring and will have a positive impact on the globalisation of AFG's kitchen business in the mid-term.’ Both Bruno Piatti AG and Forster Kitchens showed remarkable improvement, however, proving that the continued consistent implementation of the integration strategy for both brands is increasingly paying off.

On the other hand, sales of Miele kitchens were still unsatisfactory, especially in Germany. Higher international expansion costs and sales problems in Germany resulted in an EBIT for the Division of CHF 0.4 million, a drop from last year's CHF 3.0 million. The corrective measures that have been taken in the organisation and management of Miele Kitchens should begin to produce noticeable improvements in the second semester of 2006.

Optimistic outlook
Although a rise in demand may lead to an increase for the cost of materials, energy and salaries during the second half of the year, the Board of Directors and Corporate Management anticipate a continuation of the clearly better business climate that contributed to the encouraging developments at AFG during the past semester. A clear-cut year-over-year increase in the number of orders on hand supports this expectation.

Küchen Holding GmbH Acquires Shares of ALNO AG

On 17th October the board of ALNO AG, Pfullendorf, was informed by GermanCapital GmbH, Munich, as representative of the main shareholders in Küchen Holding GmbH, Munich, that Küchen Holding GmbH had acquired 20.6% of the shares in ALNO AG from Commerzbank AG subject to the agreement of the monopolies commission.

It was also announced that Küchen Holding GmbH was to present the remainder of the shareholders in ALNO AG with a voluntary public takeover bid. The offered price would be 7.20 euro, and according to information from GermanCapital GmbH included a premium of 13% on the average price of the past six months. ALNO AG will submit its recommendation after presentation of the offer document.

GermanCapital has declared that the involvement in ALNO AG was by agreement with the current major shareholders, IRE Beteiligungs GmbH, Schorndorf, a subsidiary of Whirlpool Greater China Inc., Benton Harbor, Michigan/USA and the Hellwig family and its affiliated shareholders. The aim is to achieve a combination of solid continuity and strategic durability on a mutual platform under the umbrella of Küchen Holding GmbH that would lead the company into the future.

Küchen Holding is a constructively supporting shareholder that provides strong, competent frameworks for corporate-based group policies. The corporate-political aim expressed by GermanCapital is to provide the optimum support for the current board of ALNO AG in its continued realignment of the ALNO group in line with its strategy programme FUTURA III.

By continuing the company's development of recent years, FUTURA III is aimed at enhancing the value of the ALNO group by increasing the company's profitability through relative growth and performance efficiency.
Above all, the focus is on optimising the added-value, process and management structures of the national organisation and the development of foreign business, including the construction of international production sites.

In addition to the operational strategies, in view of the high level of indebtedness and the need for growth in further developed structures, capital management also plays an important part in FUTURA III. Here too, the involvement of a long-term, strategically orientated financial investor will be of benefit. GermanCapital has stated its intent to provide its core competence as part of its investment for the benefit of the ALNO group.

At this year's general meeting, ALNO AG stated the profile of requirements for a major investor to be:
* content and financial support for the strategy programme FUTURA III
* long-term orientation
* guarantee of strong, calculable and competent environment structures

The board of ALNO AG believed that this would provide a highly significant base for the future of the group.

The board, or company, will thoroughly check the documentation for the voluntary public takeover bid to shareholders of ALNO AG. In the event of a positive result, the perspectives given to shareholders at this year's general meeting with regard to the acquisition of a suitable investor in the above sense will have been realised successfully ahead of schedule.

Blum - Innovative Products Produce Further Growth

Thanks to product innovations and consistent commitment to international markets, Julius Blum GmbH has again accomplished a successful operating result for the 2005/2006 business year ending June 30th. Gerhard E. Blum, managing director and co-owner of the manufacturer of fittings, reported to representatives of the business press in Hoechst, Austria, that the provisional turnover of the Group amounted to 962.3 million euros (in comparison to 821.1 in the previous year). Key factors have been new products and applications to perfect the opening and closing action of furniture doors, drawers and wall cabinets.

Positive development of markets
The economy has fared well in large economic areas, which has contributed greatly towards the company's increase in turnover. All in all, European markets have prospered, and business has even improved in Germany.
Blum has also benefited from the upward trend in America which has persisted for some years now. The same can be said of Asian markets.

Innovative products to support latest trends
The worldwide trend towards enhanced comfort in kitchens and consequently high-quality fittings systems continued in the 2005/2006 financial year. Blum has actively supported this trend with product solutions such as BLUMOTION for doors and pull-outs, and AVENTOS, the company's latest generation of lift systems. Everyday kitchen chores should be made to be as enjoyable as possible, and Blum provides just the right products. The company's latest developments by the name of SERVO-DRIVE and TIP-ON give customers the possibility to combine the latest design trends such as handle-free kitchens with top-quality motion. Design and function go hand in hand.

Extended package of services
The provision of a wide range of services is an important part of Blum's overall performance. The company's marketing support in the form of 'DYNAMIC SPACE' has already produced successful results in many markets. It helps end users plan kitchens to suit their needs. Many customers also make the most of Blum's logistics services to optimise their inventories. These services simultaneously give them a high degree of delivery reliability. New and interesting services have also been offered via the internet.

Material prices continue to soar
In the last financial year, there was a great deal of uncertainty as far as raw materials were concerned. The uncertainty will continue this year. During the 2005/2006 business year, the price of zinc alloys almost tripled. The price of aluminium and high-grade steel is on a continuous upward trend. And there is no sign of steel prices easing. Further price increases are in the offing in the coming business year. The high price of oil is an additional cost factor. It has an impact on both the procurement of plastics and the cost of shipping.

High investment
Investments were high throughout 2005/2006. The investments of the Blum Group totalled 108.7 million euros in the last business year.

At Blum's production site in Vorarlberg, the 11th building phase of Works 4 (Bregenz) was put into operation in September 2005. The extension has increased the company's production capacities for drawer and pull-out systems. A new builsding with a high bay warehouse for Injection Moulding was completed on schedule at Works 5 (Fussach). The entire department will move from Works 4 to its new site during the 2006 vacation shutdown.

May 2006 saw the start of construction work on the new building at Works 6 in Gaissau. The extension is designed to further optimise production processes and increase production capacities for pull-out systems. In addition to extensions to buildings, investments were also made in tools, machinery and production systems to increase capacities and rationalise processes at all plants.

A production building and automated high bay warehouse were added to our works in America. They were built for the new TANDEM production plant in the USA. A fully automated assembly plant for 120-degree hinges was also put into operation during the last business year.

The long winter slowed down work on the logistics and packaging centre in Poland. However, it was still completed on schedule in June.

Projects will be carried out to expand sales organisations in various countries this business year. The extension to the warehouse in Canada should be completed by this autumn. The new building for Blum Russia is making good progress, and the new offices and warehouse should be completed at the end of this year. In addition, a project to add more warehouse space to Blum Sweden has also been started. Further expansions will be carried out in Australia and China this financial year.

Organisational development of the company
The first step was taken towards a two-level management structure with the introduction of an executive board and a corporate management group in 2004. This has created a sound basis for the further development of our company. The next step in the organisational development of Blum is to enlarge the corporate management group.

The new members will take up already existing and newly created fields of responsibility. Furthermore, the production field has also been streamlined. Comprehensive measures are continuously being taken in the field of further education and ongoing training throughout the company. They are now being internationalised step by step.

Looking ahead to the 2006/2007 business year
The executive board has based its planning on a further positive development in the 2006/2007 business year because executive board members believe that most markets will continue to flourish. Elements of uncertainty are, for example, the development of the euro and raw material prices.

Blum has sales organisations all over the world and hard-working employees whose commitment has contributed greatly towards the company's success. That is why Blum believes it is well-equipped for the future.

Emerson Sales Top $20 Billion in 2006; Earnings Per Share of $4.48

Emerson (parent company of InSinkErator) announced on November 7th record net sales for fiscal 2006 of $20.1 billion, an increase of 16 percent from the prior year. Sales for the fourth quarter ended September 30th, 2006 were $5.5 billion, an increase of 19 percent over the $4.6 billion reported in the same period last year. The Company achieved underlying sales growth in the quarter of 11 percent, which excludes increases of 6 percent for acquisitions and 2 percent for favourable exchange rates.

Highlights:
Quarterly dividend increased 18 percent to $0.525 per share, 2-for-1 stock split declared

• Fourth Quarter Sales up 19 percent to $5.5 billion
• Fourth Quarter Earnings per Share of $1.29, up 28 percent
• Operating Cash Flow for 2006 of $2.5 billion, up 15 percent
• Return on Total Capital of 18.4 percent, up 290 basis points from fiscal 2005

‘The sales performance for both the year and the fourth quarter was exceptional,’ said Emerson Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President David N. Farr. ‘Customer adoption of our technologies has been strong all year, and our global platforms enabled Emerson to capture accelerating growth outside the United States during the fourth quarter.’

Earnings per share in the fourth quarter of $1.29 represented an increase of 28 percent over the $1.01 achieved in the fourth quarter of 2005. The earnings increase was driven primarily by leverage on higher sales volumes and benefits from prior cost reduction activities. Results in the fourth quarter of 2006 included a pretax gain of $31 million, or $0.05 per share, related to the sale during the quarter of the Buehler materials testing business. This business had been part of the Industrial Automation segment.

For fiscal 2006 earnings per share rose 32 percent to $4.48 from the $3.40 reported in 2005. In 2005, the Company recognised a tax expense of $63 million, or $0.15 per share, related to repatriation of foreign earnings under the American Jobs Creation Act. Excluding this expense, 2006 earnings per share increased 26 percent over 2005.

‘Emerson had a great year in 2006 and achieved some significant milestones,’ Farr said. ‘Our long-term focus on growth platforms has paid off as revenue exceeded the $20 billion mark for the first time. This year also marked the 50th consecutive year of dividend increases for the Company. We are proud of these accomplishments and the value creation they have generated for our shareholders over many years.’

Balance Sheet / Cash Flow
Operating cash flow was $2.5 billion in 2006, a 15 percent increase from 2005. Of this record operating cash flow, 63 percent was returned to shareholders during the year in the form of dividends and share repurchases. Managing increasing working capital needs as our business expands is an important element of cash management. Emerson saw continued improvement in working capital efficiency as the average days-in-the-cash-cycle improved from 71 days in fiscal 2005 to 65 days in fiscal 2006. Return on total capital, a key measure of earnings and balance sheet performance, increased by 290 basis points to 18.4 percent in 2006.

‘Emerson maintains a sharp focus on having a strong and flexible balance sheet. Generating significant amounts of cash and putting that cash to the proper use is at the heart of how we create value for our shareholders,’ Farr said.

Fiscal 2006 Operating Highlights
Process Management's strong performance continued in 2006 as sales increased 16 percent to $4.9 billion. Underlying sales growth was 13 percent, led by 15 percent growth in the United States and Asia and 20 percent growth in Latin America. Reported sales included a 3 percent positive impact from acquisitions. Emerson Process Management continued to be recognised as the industry technology leader in 2006 as it was again named the best supplier of process management technologies in the CONTROL magazine's Readers' Choice Awards and was recognised by Frost & Sullivan as the Industrial Automation and Process Control Company of the Year. Margins for this business expanded by 200 basis points to 18.0 percent, driven primarily by leverage on sales volume increases.

Industrial Automation experienced another strong year as global capital spending remained favorable for these businesses. Total sales were $3.8 billion, an increase of 16 percent versus the prior year. Underlying sales growth was 11 percent, with balanced growth from the United States (12 percent), Europe (10 percent) and Asia (13 percent). Reported sales growth included a positive acquisition impact of 6 percent and an unfavourable currency impact of 1 percent. The margin for this segment was 15.1 percent, an increase of 80 basis points from 2005. The margin improvement reflects primarily leverage on higher sales and benefits from prior cost reduction activities.

Network Power sales were $4.4 billion in 2006, an increase of 31 percent versus the prior year. Underlying sales growth was 21 percent with the strongest growth coming from Asia (37 percent) and the United States (22 percent). Reported sales growth included a positive acquisition impact of 10 percent. End markets were strong across this segment with particular strength in the computing and data-center markets, which led to strong growth in the AC power system and precision cooling businesses. The margin for this segment was 11.1 percent, a 10 basis point decline versus the prior year. The margin decrease was primarily the result of dilution from acquisitions.

Climate Technologies sales for the year increased 13 percent to $3.4 billion. Underlying sales growth was 13 percent with the strongest growth coming from the United States (14 percent) and Europe (20 percent). The Copeland Scroll(tm) compressor was a main driver of growth for this segment as it continued to provide energy efficiency benefits to customers in heating, ventilation and air-conditioning applications around the world. The 2006 margin for this segment was 15.3 percent, a 40 basis point improvement from 2005. Sales volume leverage and cost reduction activity were able to offset the unfavourable impact of commodity and other inflation.

Appliance and Tools achieved sales of $4.3 billion, an increase of 8 percent which included underlying sales growth of 6 percent. The growth was led by strength in the tools and storage businesses and modest growth from the motors and appliance component businesses. Reported sales included a favourable impact of 2 percent from acquisitions. The margin for this segment was 12.8 percent, a decrease of 50 basis points as significant material costs and other inflation could not be offset by price increases and cost reductions.

HOMAG Group AG on Course for Further Growth

The successful performance of the HOMAG Group in 2006 has continued into the third quarter of the year. This positive performance has also been reflected in the business figures of the manufacturer of machinery and equipment for the woodworking industry in the first nine months of 2006, with the order intake expanding by 26% to EUR 499 million between January and September (previous year: EUR 395 million) and orders on hand increasing by 29% to EUR 214 million (previous year: EUR 166 million). Corporate turnover rose by 19% to EUR 521 million (previous year: EUR 436 million). With this positive growth, lying well above both the market and industry average, the HOMAG Group was able to further expand its market share in the first nine months of 2006. All figures should be regarded in the light of the retroactive deconsolidation of IMA Klessmann GmbH of 1st January 2005 - the previous year's figures have been adjusted accordingly.

After the profit situation in the last few years failed to meet the expectations of the Board of Directors, Board spokesman Dr Joachim Brenk appears satisfied with the company's current performance: ‘Various optimisation measures have allowed us to lower our cost of capital and overheads, and our nine-month figures are on target. However, we can still see even more potential, and intend to improve the situation even further in future.’ Overall, Brenk envisages an increase in turnover of a good 10% in 2006. ‘After the boom at the beginning of the year, our order intake has now normalised and lies within our ambitious targets’, Brenk continues. According to the Board spokesman, the current order backlog is sufficient to take the company into 2007 and it is thus expecting a good start to the new business year as well.

At 30th September 2006, the HOMAG Group had a staff of 4,635, as compared to 4,472 after the first nine months of 2005. The third quarter alone saw the creation of over 100 new positions - predominantly at the domestic sites. ‘The new build completed at the end of September at our headquarters in Schopfloch, which provides 8,000 square metres of additional production space, is a testament to our commitment to doing business in Germany’, says Board spokesman Joachim Brenk.

The individual regions around the world have experienced a continuation in the trends seen in the first half of 2006. Thus, the North American markets continued to develop surprisingly well according to company data. The HOMAG Group is also very satisfied with performance in the CIS states and Eastern Europe, while the Asian market cooled, leading to weaker demand in that region. Brenk characterises the market development in Germany, Austria and Switzerland as ‘very tidy’; however, the remaining western European markets are stagnating at a high level.

As already announced, in the weeks to come there will be some changes in the shareholder structure of the HOMAG Group: the publicly traded Deutsche Beteiligungs AG - which has had a share in HOMAG ever since 1997 - and private equity funds administered by it have concluded agreements with other shareholders for the purchase of a further 43.0% of HOMAG's shares. The purchase agreements are still conditional upon, among other things, approval from the cartel authorities. After completion of the transaction, Deutsche Beteiligungs AG will control 64.4% of the company's shares. The remaining 35.6% will be retained by the existing family shareholders. This reorganisation of the company's shareholder structure will create the conditions needed in order for the long-standing successful development of the HOMAG Group to continue

Homag UK
Tel: 01332 856500
Email: info@homag-uk.co.uk

Whirlpool Extends Sponsorship of Sony Ericsson WTA Tour

Whirlpool Europe and the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour announced recently the extension of their sponsorship agreement for an additional three years, through 2009. The extension marks an incredibly successful and innovative partnership that was launched in April 2004, and that has been highlighted by increased brand awareness, consumer engagement and community outreach for Whirlpool. The deal also signals the increasingly global popularity of women's professional tennis, the world's leading sport for women.

Whirlpool will continue its relationship with the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour to help leverage its integrated marketing campaign to raise awareness of the Whirlpool 6th sense technology and engage with consumers across Europe. The Tour, which comprises the world's leading women's tennis players will continue to provide the perfect brand match for Whirlpool. The core characteristics of Whirlpool 6th sense technology - intelligence, precision and performance - closely replicate the skills required to compete and succeed at the top of women's tennis, providing an ideal platform to showcase Whirlpool products.

‘We are extremely excited to be continuing our partnership with the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour,’ said Giuseppe Perucchetti, Vice President, Brand Marketing, Whirlpool Europe. ‘The Tour offers us an ideal opportunity to connect with our consumers and showcase our technology across Europe. We are also delighted by the amount of money raised for Habitat for Humanity from the Aces for Homes initiative and would like to thank the players on the Tour for scoring so many aces!’

‘Whirlpool has done a great job leveraging the power, glamour and appeal of our players and matching it with their core brand strengths’ said Larry Scott, CEO of the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour. ‘We are thrilled that our partnership with such an innovative world-class brand such as Whirlpool will be continuing into the future.
This sponsorship has been incredibly successful because of the integration of television, new media and community outreach to engage consumers. Our players and tournaments have truly engaged with Whirlpool and we look forward to building on the success to date over the next three years.’

‘Whirlpool has become a great partner of women's tennis and I'm really excited that this partnership has been extended,’ said Elena Dementieva. ‘It's a great brand and players really support the community outreach and charitable initiatives, which have made this sponsorship unique in many ways.’

Whirlpool's sponsorship of the Tour has been marked by a series of innovative elements. Activities include broadcast sponsorship of women's tennis on Eurosport and significant on-court signage presence at tournaments throughout Europe, including the Sony Ericsson Championships, highlighted by a new and consistent look for the player bench and umpire's chair area. Further activities include print advertisements utilising Tour stars to promote Whirlpool's 6th sense technology, sponsorship of the Tour's TV News Service in Europe, the ‘Aces for Homes’ charity programme in partnership with Habitat for Humanity, Whirlpool Fantasy Tennis, which enables fans to select teams of real players and chart their progress throughout the season and finally, the 6th Sense Player of the Year award. Whirlpool will continue to benefit from and build upon these elements under the new deal.

In addition to the renewal, Whirlpool and the Tour announced that €163,000 has been raised through the joint initiative 'Aces for Homes', which aimed to raise money for Habitat for Humanity, the official social cause of Whirlpool and the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour in Europe. In June 2005, €10 was pledged for every ace scored on the Tour. Since then, a staggering total of 16,300 aces have helped raise the funds, which will go towards rebuilding 45 homes in the community of Nochikuppam, a village in Chennai region, South East India that was decimated by the tsunami.

Don Haszczyn, Area Vice President, Europe and Central Asia, Habitat for Humanity said ‘The exemplary support and advocacy of Whirlpool and the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour over the initial three years has helped many families out of slum housing and into simple, decent homes. Their continued partnership will give hope to many more families in need and a big boost to getting the issue of inadequate shelter onto the public agenda across Europe and beyond. A huge thanks to Whirlpool and the Tour from all at Habitat for Humanity and from those families whose lives they have touched.’

In addition to Aces for Homes activity, Whirlpool will continue to have access to some of the top seeded women players to carry out projects and raise the profile of Habitat for Humanity. Top players Amelie Mauresmo, Nadia Petrova and Mary Pierce have all served as official ambassadors for the programme and participated in various activities to support Habitat for Humanity. Initiatives involving Tour players in Habitat for Humanity builds across Europe and the Whirlpool 'Love Food' cookbook, a unique collection of favorite recipes from the players, endeavor to raise awareness and further funds for the charity.

Whirlpool will also utilise its sponsorship to provide unique opportunities for consumers to watch live action tennis and personally meet some of the world's leading players.

The partnership extension with Whirlpool represents the continuation of another premium brand among the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour's growing list of market leading partners, which includes Sony Ericsson, Dubai Duty Free, Porsche, Travelex, Wilson, Bed Bath & Beyond, Gatorade, USANA, Luxilon, Waterford and Saddlebrook Resort, among other Tour partners.

Whirlpool Europe
With 14,000 employees, a sales presence in over 30 European countries and manufacturing sites in seven countries, Whirlpool Europe is a wholly owned subsidiary of Whirlpool Corporation. A world's leading manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances Whirlpool Corporation has annual sales of more than $19 billion, more than 80,000 employees, and more than 60 manufacturing and technology research centers around the world. The company markets Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Brastemp, Bauknecht and other major brand names to consumers in nearly every country around the world.
Whirlpool's European Operations' Centre is located in Comerio (VA), Italy. For further information on the company, please visit the Web Site http://www.whirlpool.eu.com

About the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour
The Sony Ericsson WTA Tour is the world's largest premier professional sport for women with more than 1,300 players representing 75 nations competing for $60 million in prize money at the Tour's 63 events in 35 countries. More than 4.5 million people attended women's tennis events in 2005 with millions more watching events on television networks around the world. The Sony Ericsson WTA Tour season concluded with the Sony Ericsson Championships at Madrid Arena in Madrid, Spain, November 7-12, 2006. Further information on the Tour can be found on the Internet at http://www.sonyericssonwtatour.com.

About Whirlpool/Habitat for Humanity Relationship
Whirlpool is the largest global partner of Habitat for Humanity International, an International housing charity. The company has supported the charity since 1999 and recently introduced this partnership to the Sony Ericsson WTA Tour. Habitat for Humanity International is seeking to eliminate poverty housing from the world by inviting people of all backgrounds, races and religions to build houses together in partnership with families in need.

Whirlpool has supported the charity in many different ways over a number of years, both through conventional and unconventional means. Support has ranged from product donations through to Whirlpool employees actively helping in building projects.

Through product donations, Whirlpool Europe donates 3 products to every Habitat Home built in Europe and Central Asia. Worldwide, Whirlpool Corporation has donated more than 50,000 appliances at discount to Habitat for Humanity affiliates and families.

Almost 3,500 Whirlpool employees have helped to build Habitat Homes in Whirlpool locations and further Habitat houses in North America, Europe and South Africa. The partnership in now active in 18 countries worldwide and Whirlpool has more recently been involved in rebuilding communities throughout SE Asia who have been effected by the Tsunami. The charity is close to the hearts of all Whirlpool employees and goes far beyond financial donations.