Welcome to THE K&BZINE News 26th May

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LG Combines Style and Function with new Steam Washers

LG has joined up with Designers Guild to launch a new range of limited edition Steam Washing Machines

The new limited edition Steam Direct Washing Machine from LG and Designers Guild combines state of the art home technology with cutting-edge interior style. The collaboration has produced four eye-catching home appliances created to challenge the design and function of traditional white goods.

The limited edition Steam Direct Drive comes in four stylish prints: Cloisonné - gloss butterflies and flowers on a black matt background; Imperial Flower - a red floral damask design on a white background; the fresh spring green trailing floral on white Sevilla and a modern geometric design of graphic circles Ribailagua.


Tricia Guild, Head of Designers Guild and Brian Na, President of LG Electronics, launching the new limited edition Steam Washing Machines at The Serpentine Gallery

The machine itself uses a unique Dual Spray system to spray hot steam and water on fabric continuously and improve washing performance. Plus your conscience can rest as the technology is eco-friendly - using 35% less water* and 21% less energy than traditional washers** and rated 'A++' for energy efficiency. Best of all, the machine's Refresh programme uses steam only to remove creases in garments in just 20 minutes, eliminating the need for ironing!

The LG Steam Direct Drive washing machine operates silently as the drum is attached directly to the motor without a noisy belt connecting the two. Plus there's the option of a remote monitoring system so you can check the progress of your washing from anywhere in the house.

British Interiors specialist, Designers Guild, is famous for its contribution of colour and pattern to interior design since the company was established by Tricia Guild in 1970. Today the company is one of the most influential and creative forces in interior design, famed worldwide for its luxury fabrics, wallcoverings, upholstery and home accessories.

  
Debbie taking a peek inside one of the new Designer LG steam washing machines (right) a good turnout of trade and consumer press at the Serpentine Gallery presentation

Tricia Guild, Founder, Designers Guild says:
‘Our philosophy is to combine creativity and innovation with the highest levels of quality, therefore working with the launch of the most technologically advanced washing machine in the UK was a perfect fit. Over the last few years, consumers are demanding more unique design outside of the traditional fabric and wallcoverings and we hope our limited edition LG Steam Washing Machines are a tremendous successes.’

Hugh Jung, General Product Manager for White Goods, LG says:
‘At LG we are committed to innovative technology and design so we're thrilled to link up with top interiors house Designers Guild. With its revolutionary steam feature the Steam Direct Drive offers people a new way to manage their laundry as well as the environment. Plus the creative prints make these limited edition washing machines as stylish as they are innovative.'

The limited edition LG Steam Direct Drive Washing Machine will be available at Harrods and John Lewis in Imperial Flower, Sevilla and Ribailagua from June 2006 and in Cloisonné from October 2006.

* In comparison with 80L consumption per average wash
**In comparison to 'A' rated conventional washing machines

Web: http://www.lge.com


Whirlpool Updates Expected Cost Efficiencies from Maytag Acquisition

Whirlpool Corporation announced this week that its merger with Maytag is expected to generate pre-tax annualised cost savings in excess of $400 million. Cost efficiencies are expected from all areas of the value chain, including product manufacturing, infrastructure and support areas, global procurement and logistics.

The company expects to gain the majority of efficiencies during 2007, and anticipates savings to be fully realised in 2008. The company will incur approximately $450 million in pre-tax, one-time costs to realise the annualised savings estimates. Approximately $150 million of these costs are expected to impact earnings over the next three years with the remainder capitalised under purchase accounting.

The company's previous estimated cost savings were $300-to-$400 million with one-time costs of $350-to-$500 million.

'Our increased savings estimates further demonstrate the value creating opportunity of this acquisition. The actions we have recently announced, including the consolidation of laundry production into our Clyde and Marion, Ohio, facilities, will represent a significant portion of our expected annualized savings,' said Jeff M. Fettig, Whirlpool's chairman and chief executive officer. ‘We have moved quickly to integrate the Maytag business since closing the transaction seven weeks ago and we are pleased with our progress to date.’

Following a thorough review, Whirlpool also announced its decision to sell the Hoover floor-care, Dixie-Narco vending systems, Amana commercial microwave and Jade commercial products appliance businesses. The financial results of these businesses will be classified as discontinued operations in the company's future financial statements.

'The decision to divest the floor-care and commercial businesses will allow us to focus on our core appliance business,' said Fettig. 'We have received strong interest from a number of potential buyers and anticipate completing these transactions by the end of this year.'

The company also revised its guidance to reflect the integration of Maytag and now expects full-year 2006 earnings per diluted share from continuing operations of $6.00 to $6.25, compared to the pre-acquisition range of $7.00 to $7.25. Free cash flow is estimated to be in the $200-to-$300 million range for 2006. The company also announced that it expects 2007 full-year earnings per diluted share to be approximately $9.00.


£1/4 Million Investment at Burbidge

Having recently undergone an improvement programme in conjunction with the Design Council, as well as making an investment in computer simulation software that won a manufacturing IT award, Burbidge is demonstrating its commitment to customer service with a further £1/4 million investment in new production equipment and sales information systems.

The company has taken delivery of a double sided edge profile sander which will improve the speed of production and provide Burbidge with even greater flexibility regarding the production of non-standard doors.

Ben Burbidge, managing director, comments: ‘We want to be able to help our customers by providing them with one-off non-standard doors with a short lead time. With this new equipment, we can do exactly that. Customers can now design Burbidge kitchens that may require an unusual size door to disguise tricky areas, or simply to give a kitchen a unique touch, and we can produce these one-off doors at a marginal premium, within only two to three weeks. In such a competitive market, we believe it's important for us as a components supplier to help give our customers a competitive edge through limiting the restrictions on design as far as possible. We're not offering a bespoke kitchens service, but hopefully by being able to produce occasional unique door sizes, we're providing our customers with greater design opportunities.’

Additionally, Burbidge has invested in new customised palmtop PDA systems for its salesforce, which provide instant access to live sales information. This means that each member of Burbidge's sales team has a full customer history available at their fingertips, is able to advise on which ranges are selling well across Burbidge's entire customer database and can review customer-specific sales data.

With their ability to collect as well as review data, these new systems will also provide Burbidge with better information on customer showroom displays, which will enable the company to direct consumer telephone and website sales enquiries to appropriate showrooms where the relevant products are displayed.

Burbidge is a leading UK kitchen frontals and accessories manufacturer. For further information on the company's range of wood, painted, foil wrap and metal frontals and accessories, please visit http://www.burbidge.co.uk or call 024 7667 1600. Burbidge's products can also be viewed in realistic room sets in the company's showroom at its Coventry manufacturing facility. The showroom is open five days a week between 9am and 5pm.


Ideal Standard Launches the Lightest Shower Tray on the UK Market

Ideal Standard, a leading provider of design-driven bathroom and kitchen solutions, this month announced the launch of Simplicity, a completely new range of shower trays that are significantly lighter and stronger than standard trays.

Created by award winning designer Robin Levien, these lightweight trays have an engineered finish, are simple to clean and have been designed for ease of installation. Simplicity trays will replace all existing products and are part of the company's promise to improve on its already successful range of shower trays and enclosures.

Simplicity trays are made from Idealite, a new material developed by Ideal Standard that is a combination of resin and mineral filler. Tests show this material is stronger than traditional resin stone but remarkably lighter. The company says that all of the trays weigh considerably less than others in the market. The Simplicity 760 weighs 2.5kg less than the closest offering.

Sharyn Coleman, Ideal Standard Commercial Manager for Acrylics and Wellness comments; ‘The development of Idealite allows us to produce shower trays that are stronger and lighter than other resin trays on the market. The lightness of Simplicity shower trays means they are easy to transport and install and are ideal for new build and renovations alike.’

The surface of the Simplicity trays is made up of a layer of tough but smooth acrylic, available in either a white or cream finish. Extremely clean and modern, Simplicity trays are without tread patterns adding to the minimalist look and ensuring a high level of hygiene. This comprehensive collection incorporates the most popular sizes and formats including flat top, integral upstand, standard, riser and adhesive upstand options offering a winning solution in shower tray installation.

Robin Levien, who created the range, says Simplicity stands out due to its contemporary and elegant design and its clear benefits to both installer and consumer. The Idealite material enables the development of trays that are both significantly lighter and stronger than traditional resin stone trays. The weight and the smooth engineered finish mean ease of handling for plumbers. The installation process has also been made simple with features like quick fit riser feet and panels which allow for waste pipes to be installed at floor level, reducing the work of taking up flooring. Consumers will appreciate both the design and Idealite's durability.

Simplicity highlights:
* Simplicity is offered in a full range of shapes and sizes and available in upstand, flat top, standard and riser versions
* The surface of the tray is made of a layer of tough but smooth acrylic, available in white or cream finish
* Simplicity trays have been designed without tread patterns adding to the minimalist look, ensuring a high level of hygiene
* The installation process has also been made simple with features like quick fit riser feet and panels that easily convert standard trays into riser versions
* Simplicity trays weigh significantly less than the nearest offering in the market, with the 760 and 800 trays weighing in at less than 25kg

For further information regarding Ideal Standard shower enclosures and trays call 01482 346461 or visit http://www.ideal-standard.co.uk


New Quadrant from Aqualux 'Fits in Perfectly'

We’re always hearing about the latest bathroom trend – wet rooms and walk-in showers, funky stone sinks as well as other luxurious products. But in a constant fight for space in increasingly compact bathrooms it can be difficult finding products that are not only stylish and design-led, but practical too.

In the same way that fitted kitchens have become the norm when it comes to a fashionable, practical cooking space it seems the trend for a fitted bathroom is becoming increasingly popular too.

Space-saving bathroom furniture can include countersunk basins with storage underneath and now even bath panels can now conceal extra room for toiletries. But installing a stylish shower enclosure into a fitted bathroom can be tricky.

Traditional shapes and designs aren’t always savvy with space, so Aqualux’s new Augmented Quadrant shower enclosure is a suitable shape for fitting units around it.

Measuring 900mm x 900mm and able to fit neatly into a corner, the unusual curved shape of the Augmented Quadrant allows fitted cupboards to seamlessly sit next to the shower surround. The enclosure is available in polished silver with 5mm toughened glass and the frameless pivot doors have watertight gel magnet seals.

Sandra Hyde, marketing manager at Aqualux, commented: 'This is a brand new design for Aqualux and has been developed in response to the greater need for enclosures to seamlessly blend into fitted bathrooms, maximising storage space. This enclosure is ideal as it means people can still have a stylish shower solution without compromising on more practical elements of the bathroom – such as where to keep everyday toiletries.'

For further information on Aqualux and its products, please call: 0870 241 6131.

http://www.aqualux.co.uk


PJH Adds Design-led Brand Gorenje to Range

The UK's largest distributor, PJH Group has teamed up with one of Europe's leading manufacturers of domestic appliances, Gorenje, by adding the premier brand to its already comprehensive appliance portfolio.

Among the top six largest domestic appliance manufacturers in Europe, the introduction of a wide range of built-in products from the stylish and high-tech Gorenje brand, meets with PJH's requirement of offering a superior service coupled with the latest, cutting-edge products to its customer.

Featuring a wide range of ovens, hobs, hoods and refrigeration products, PJH has also decided to include the precision-built Pininfarina collection from Gorenje. Designed by the legendary Italian Ferrari designer, Paolo Pininfarina, this ultra-stylish collection is finished in brushed aluminium and black glass and is designed to complement any contemporary kitchen.

A range of Gorenje retro-style fridge freezers is also part of the new PJH appliance collection - featuring a classic 1950's curved door design and a choice of subtle colours such as burgundy and cream.

In addition, earlier this year, Gorenje launched a free five-year Parts & Labour Guarantee across nearly its entire built-in offer.

Said Sally Hough, marketing manager for PJH Group: ‘The PJH portfolio continues to evolve, focussing on high quality, reliable, technologically-advanced and highly stylish products.

‘The latest range from Gorenje certainly exceeds such expectations, as well as being extremely environmentally-friendly, with mostly A-energy ratings and a long-lasting performance history. The free five-year guarantee is also great news for our independent customers, providing a superb selling point and terrific consumer peace of mind.’

Bill Miller, sales director of Gorenje UK added: ‘We are very excited about the opportunity to work with the UK's largest distributor and we are certain that this development will maintain our position as one of the UK's fastest growing appliance brands. What attracted us to working with the PJH Group was its on-going commitment to customer service.’

Available from PJH Group from July, the Gorenje range is currently being supported by a six-figure national PR and advertising campaign.

For further information on PJH Group and Gorenje, call PJH on 01204 707070 or visit http://www.pjhgroup.com


Trevi Introduces the Logical Solution

This month Trevi, Ideal Standard's brand for shower valves and kits, is previewing its new remote control shower TREVI LOGICAL.

TREVI LOGICAL is controlled by an easy-to-use remote handset which uses a two way radio frequency feedback. This communicates to a thermostatic processor unit, which can be installed anywhere from under the bath to the loft. The TREVI LOGICAL remote control can operate a shower from up to ten metres away, and even works through walls, enabling the user to start the shower from outside the bathroom, allowing time to reach the desired temperature. When the temperature is reached this is indicated by a light on the remote control.

The easy-grip handset has been designed to be as simple and user-friendly as possible featuring: one on/off button; two buttons to move up and down through the flow settings, from a gentle low spray to a more invigorating boost; and two buttons to control the temperature. When the temperature is adjusted, LEDs on the handset flash quickly to demonstrate the shower is adjusting and then slow down once it has reached the desired temperature. An adjustable holder which can be fixed either to the shower kit or on the wall, keeps the remote control close to hand whilst using the shower.

TREVI LOGICAL can run continuously, delivering top performance without a break. This 'stamina' sets it apart from other offerings on the market with some digital valves needing as much as 45 minutes of 'resting time' for every 15 minutes of use.

As the remote control receiver is built-in to the processor unit there is no need for any electrical wiring in the bathroom. The installation of TREVI LOGICAL, is very simple, therefore reducing the time taken to install a shower. Also, for installations with low pressure, a pump version is available, meaning a separate pump does not need to be ordered, again saving on costs.

The processor unit gives maximum installation flexibility over conventional wall mounted showers as it allows installation of the unit almost anywhere in the home, enabling a shower to be installed without the costly expensive of re-tiling.

TREVI views safety with the utmost importance. The thermostat can be set to a maximum temperature, therefore avoiding scalding. In the event of a cold water breakdown the system will cut out.

John Hardy, Ideal Standard, Product Development Director, UK comments: ‘TREVI LOGICAL is, we believe a response to consumer desires and needs that will become a new addition to every household's family of remote controls.’

TREVI LOGICAL will become available from Ideal Standard distributors in the Autumn of 2006.

For further information regarding TREVI call 01482 346461 or visit http://www.trevishowers.co.uk


Clearwater Collection a Hit with Croft

Clearwater Collection, the manufacturer of luxury handmade freestanding acrylic baths, is bathing in success because its Bateau bath is being featured in a major advertising campaign.

Croft sherry decided this beautiful, double ended slipper bath with classic, elegant feet was perfect for its national advertising campaign that will run in many major consumer titles over the next few months.

The strap-line in the advert is 'Have you got a Croft spot' and the image shows someone enjoying a relaxing soak in the Clearwater bath, which is the same green colour as the Croft Sherry bottle.

Darren Allison, managing director of Clearwater Collection comments:

‘We are delighted that Croft chose one of our classic slipper designs for this campaign. It is a fantastic image that illustrates how a traditional bath can be used to create a cool contemporary bathroom. Clearwater Collection specialises in the manufacture of double-skin acrylic freestanding baths and prides itself on the superb quality of its baths along with the vast range of designs it offers, covering both traditional and contemporary styles.’

Clearwater Collection offers more than 40 different bath models, 14 of which were recently launched at the industries showcase exhibition, KBB2006. The company, which has grown considerably since its inception only 7 years ago, now exports to 25 countries and has recently launched in the States with Clearwater USA.

All Clearwater products feature the distinctive Clearwater badge, which serves as a hallmark of excellence, and come with a lifetime guarantee.


Broughtons Latest Bathroom Range Takes to the Road

Broughtons, the specialist bathroom brand from Broughton Crangrove, takes its latest bathroom suites to the retailers.

From 15th May, Broughtons own brand of bathroom suites, Aquos, will be touring the UK, taking the product to the retailer. The Broughtons Mobile Showroom vehicle has been specially customised and converted for the tour. Inside, the Broughtons range of suites are displayed with complementary taps and fittings; point of sale materials; new dedicated brochures; give-a-ways and details of the latest display offers.

 
The Broughtons Mobile Showroom vehicle has been specially customised and converted for the tour

The Broughtons Aquos range is designed to bring stylish design into an affordable and highly versatile bathroom range. Retailers can see, touch and feel the value of the brand, get to know and understand the range with their Area Sales Manager and draw from the large stocks available for immediate delivery from the company; Broughtons offer a 24-hour delivery to the majority of major conurbations throughout the UK.

'This is an opportunity not to be missed for the retailer. The Aquos bathrooms are exclusive to Broughtons. The range offers phenomenal quality, exclusivity, combines style and affordability for the consumer, and for the retailer a desirable profit! There is no better time to invest and we're making it as easy as possible by bringing the product to the retailer in the new Broughtons liveried vehicle,' explains Allan Nutter, Commercial Director of Broughtons.

To see the latest bathroom range from Broughtons contact your Area Sales Manager directly or call Broughtons National Hotline number 0870 60 60 601 to make an appointment and bring the showroom to you.


Eurocucina 2006: Häcker Kitchens chooses Iris Ceramica

In April Eurocucina, the biennial international kitchen furnishings show, was held as part of the Cosmit trade fair. Iris Ceramica was there with Häcker Kitchens.

At Eurocucina 2006 the focus was on the products showcased: the Häcker Kitchen German Made display area incorporated new high-tech porcelain stoneware tiles from the MA.DE collection, which suited the clean, detailed, minimalist lines of the surrounding environment.

Light effects are reflected on the shiny surfaces of the new Häcker kitchens and the seductive surfaces of Victoria, literally the cream of Iris Ceramica's MA.DE collection.

Linearity, elegance and functionality are features of Häcker's latest new line: Romeo, a new kitchen model launched by the German firm designed by architect and designer Stefano Semprebon.

The architect has developed a new concept of the kitchen featuring a stone countertop, clean lines and polished surfaces. To emphasise the simplicity of his design, Semprebon suggested Orlov for the floor: a tile of elegant design which encloses all the elegance and material qualities the architect was looking for.

The exhibition complex with its combination of thrills and architecture was a success acclaimed by all those present at Eurocucina, enthusiastic about the practicality of the products and materials used by Semprebon with Häcker and Iris Ceramica.

Web: http://www.irisceramica.com


Electrolux Design Lab 2006 Promotes 'Healthy Eating Habits in 2016'

In the 2006 edition of the popular Electrolux Design Lab competition, design students worldwide will have to seek food preservation and food preparation solutions that promotes 'Healthy eating habits in 2016'.

A jury of internationally renowned members of the design community will judge the entries based on their design and innovation, while taking functional, aesthetical and emotional aspects into account. This year, the proposed appliance concepts will also be evaluated on their ability to promote a healthy lifestyle and healthy eating habits.

The finalists will be invited to the final award ceremony in Barcelona in November, where the winner of Design Lab 2006 will be announced.

Last year's Design Lab competition attracted over 3,000 students from 88 countries. The 2005 Award went to Airwash, a waterless washing unit that uses negative ions, compressed air and deodorants to clean clothes, and features an intuitive, ecological and beautiful design.

Second place in the 2005 competition went to ‘Flavor of Sunshine’ from students at Zhejiang University, China.

Third place in the 2005 competition went to ‘Happy Feet’ from students at Korea University of Technology and Education in South Korea.

The competition is open to all registered students anywhere in the world. They can register by logging onto http://www.electrolux.com/designlab.


Proadec Express Line from EDP

Express Line is a versatile and fast edgebanding service from European Decorative Products (EDP).

Essex based EDP is UK agent for Probos, the European manufacturer of a vast range of high quality Proadec edgebanding materials.

The Express Line service comprises 64 basic patterns and colours all matched to the HPL or MFC boards of ten major manufacturers and presented in a highly organised and usable folder that includes all matching colour codes, finish descriptions, widths and thicknesses.

The technical description is matched by 64 corresponding swatches mounted on hinged flaps with further technical information on the reverse.

The Proadec Express Line service from EDP means delivery within 7 - 10 days in minimum quantities (a single roll if required) and extremely competitive prices.

The wall mountable Express Line folder is available from EDP on request. EDP's Terry Willett says that the concept has proved hugely successful and extremely popular.

Tel: 01702 618877
Email: edpgroup@btconnect.com
Web: www.edpgroup.co.uk


P.J. Livesey Relies on Homag for Capacity

The Manchester based P.J. Livesey Group is one of the UK's most successful developers and renovators of both new and old residential properties. The company particularly specialises in reclaiming old commercial properties like the famous mills of the North West.

The company has a policy of controlling all its own manufacturing for internal re-fitments and new furniture - especially for kitchens, bedrooms and other fitted cabinet furniture.

Steve Phillips is Production Manager at the company's modern Ashburton Park site where the cabinet furniture (among other products) is manufactured. His team has recently benefited from the installation of vital equipment from the Homag Group - mainly a Weeke Venture 1 CNC machining centre and single-sided Brandt edgebander.

General Manager Barry Tyson is responsible for procuring production equipment for the site and does so on the criteria of the machinery being flexible, reliable and fit-for purpose. P.J. Livesey also looks for technical supply partners who will offer the full package - prior technical consultation and advice, the best available technology, a total back-up and engineering support infra-structure. Homag U.K. was able to tick all these boxes with confidence.

Steve Phillips explains that production schedules and demand on through flow is highly fluid as big projects come on stream and are then completed. ‘One thing that never changes are strict deadlines’ he explains. ‘Our manufacturing section cannot ever hold up any aspect of a construction project.

‘The new equipment that we've installed from Homag has made a major difference to the service and quality we provide to our own Group.’

What P. J Livesey has benefited from is the unsurpassed engineering of Weeke machinery in terms of bed rigidity for absolute, repeatable accuracy and long-term reliability. The Venture 1 machine is capable of all operations needed to construct the full range of carcase components, doors and accessories required - vertical and horizontal drilling, hinge boss boring, shaping and contouring. The tooling has been specified to P. J. Livesey's requirement and the software makes for instant set-up between jobs with a substantial programming capacity.

Likewise Brandt has a similar international reputation for the quality and performance of the company’s huge range of edgebanders. The Brandt machine at P. J. Livesey is a modern single-sided edgebander capable of applying a variety of edging materials and with all operations (including contour trimming) undertaken in a single pass. The new controllers on the Brandt machines mean that the operator has no setting to do ‘under the hood’ and the controller is programmable so that all units immediately position themselves at the touch of a button.

Both the Weeke and the Brandt benefit from the Homag Group's high-tech integrated diagnostics and this gives Steve Phillips the peace of mind to know that, along with the on-the-ground engineering support from Homag U.K., he is able to operate his facility with total efficiency for the progress of the P.J. Livesey Group.

Tel: 01332 856500
Email: info@homag-uk.co.uk
Web: http://www.homag-uk.co.uk


Record Day Set for Distribution of Husqvarna AB Shares

On April 24th, 2006, the Electrolux AGM decided to distribute all shares in Husqvarna AB to Electrolux shareholders in accordance with a prospect published on April 6th, 2006.

The record day to receive shares in Husqvarna has been set to June 12th, 2006. The last day of trading in the Electrolux share including entitlement to dividend of shares in Husqvarna will be June 7th, 2006. As of June 8th, 2006 the price of the Electrolux share will be adjusted naturally to reflect the fact that Husqvarna is no longer part of the valuation of Electrolux. Trading in the Husqvarna share is expected to start on June 13th, 2006, on the O-list of the Stockholm Stock Exchange.

A supplement to the prospectus regarding the distribution of shares in Husqvarna AB was published on May 22nd on the Electrolux website at http://www.electrolux.com/prospectus. The supplement includes financial information for Husqvarna for the period January to March 2006. As operations from Electrolux to Husqvarna are transferred at book values according to the predecessor basis the supplement also include, in accordance with internationally accepted accounting practices, Combined Financial Statements for the new Husqvarna Group for the years 2004-2005.


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