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Retailers Losing up to £20m on Returns – ‘Enough Product to Fill the M20,’ says AMDEA

Electrical retailers are losing around £20m a year by taking back in excess of half a million major appliances as Returns from disgruntled or feckless customers. And most of the problem is due to their poor handling of products or trading policies.

Returns are now running at an average of 3.5% of sell-in, a survey by manufacturers trade association AMDEA reveals. But levels at some of the large retail chains are significantly higher.

Some retailers do not have central management of Returns and do not isolate the costs of dealing with Returns - and so assume that the problem is only a cost to manufacturers.

‘It's true that manufacturers take the biggest hit - well over £70 million a year. But any retailer who believes that there is no cost impact on their business is sadly very wrong. It has taken some time to do the calculations, but we now know that around £20m a year, and possibly more, is the real cost to the retail sector,’ said John Graham, Chairman of AMDEA's Major White Goods Committee and a member of the association's Board.

‘They've got very similar logistics costs to ours - transport, labour, warehousing and administration - and they don't always hold on to the sale. This is a problem for the industry as a whole, not just the manufacturers.’

AMDEA is now alerting all retailers to the dimensions of the problem and its Board has approved a new Code of Practice. Called ‘Keeping the Product Sold,’ it sets out quality commitments, packaging and handling standards and criteria and procedures for Returns.

Manufacturers want to agree the provisions of the Code in their contracts with dealers. The Code states: ‘They will seek to include in such agreements targets for and action by the Member and the seller for reductions in the level of Returns - to the financial benefit of both parties.’

‘Ours is a 'no blame' approach. We know we're not always perfect, but we know, too, that our product is frequently badly handled - a significant number of these Returns are caused by damage to the product in distribution or at the consumer's premises,’ said AMDEA Director General Peter Carver.

‘Research we carried out indicates that some retailers can handle a product anything up to 18 times. An awful lot of damage Returns are clearly due to handling. And the level of 'no fault found' product coming back is clear evidence that 'no quibbles' is also a major problem.’

Mr Graham, who represents Haier, is Chairman of AMDEA's Returns Task Force, which has established a special working group to produce a Guide on product handling for delivery and Returns.

‘We want to work with the retailers in a collaborative fashion to rid ourselves of this burden. We already face increased costs from a number of directions: raw materials, regulations - the WEEE directive is going to hit us all.

‘The volume of Returns uses enough pantechnicons each year to gridlock the entire length of the M20. And a hefty proportion of those products ends up in second hand retailers - low priced, good quality product competing with our new product. It is an insane way to run a business and we simply have to put an end to it.

‘Working with the retailers, we could dramatically reduce these volumes. It will be a win-win situation for not only the manufacturers but also the retailers - and consumers, because they're the ones who ultimately finance this inefficient way of doing business,’ added Mr Graham.

Scottish Freezer Firm Norfrost in Administration

NORFROST, the privately owned Scottish freezer firm has called in the administrators and laid off half its workforce. The company, the UK's only manufacturer of chest freezers, borrowed £1.2m a year ago from Caithness and Sutherland Enterprise to stay in business, but debts had spiralled out of control and Norfrost's lack of cashflow meant a complete overhaul of the business was now needed to save it.

Norfrost is one of the largest employers in the North-east of Scotland. It was started 32 years ago by Pat and Alex Grant. Its growth confounded sceptics in the late 1990s and turned the Grants into one of Scotland's richest couples.

It manufactures under the brand names of Norfrost and Aura, as well as for numerous household names and makes coolers for Coca-Cola and Mars.

At one point it was producing 12,500 chest freezers a week and planned a flotation, but in recent years the firm's performance has been hit by the strong pound, the growing cost of oil, cheaper imported goods and the poor retail sector performance.

Its current turnover is £13m, producing about 3,570 units a week, but KPMG said it would make substantial losses of six figures and above this year.

KPMG immediately cut 74 jobs yesterday, leaving 87 staff to carry out some hard-hitting measures. Those are now likely to include halving the size of the company's manufacturing site and shutting subsidiary businesses including transport and maintenance operations.

Blair Nimmo, KPMG Head of Corporate Recovery in Scotland and Joint Administrator, said:

'Norfrost has a reputation for developing and manufacturing quality products and has a strong brand presence in its market. We are confident that we will be able to generate interest in the business.

'As always, it is regrettable that a number of redundancies have been necessary but by refocusing the company on its core business a viable entity is created.

'We are hopeful that with the support of the customers, suppliers and employees we will be able to successfully continue to trade the business as normal and quickly conclude a sale protecting as many jobs as possible.'

Britons Throw a Third of Food in the Kitchen Bin

According to the latest BBC research around one third of food grown for human consumption in the UK ends up in the rubbish bin.

With the government facing EU fines if waste to landfill isn’t significantly reduced, these latest figures will place greater emphasis on homeowners to deal with their left over food in a more environmentally responsible manner.

Ashley Munden, sales and marketing director for food waste disposer manufacturer, In-Sink-Erator, said. 'We’re already starting to see councils toughen up on waste management, with homeowners in certain areas facing fines for not complying with compulsory recycling schemes.

'Participation in such schemes is fundamental to their success but many people aren’t recycling because they feel facilities are inadequate. Many also think that separating food waste from recyclables is a messy and time-consuming process and that fortnightly collections of food waste, which is the case in many areas, is too infrequent.

'Those of us that are recycling are looking for alternative solutions, such as installing a food waste disposer to deal with leftover food.'

In-Sink-Erator has recorded a 50 per cent rise in sales in the last three years and believes it’s due in significant part to the fact that disposers offer a convenient solution for dealing with food waste under these new compulsory recycling schemes.

The latest research from In-Sink-Erator also shows that while only six per cent of us have a food waste disposer, the demand for installing one is far greater, with one in six of us wanting one.

'The increasing pressure to reduce waste to landfill through home recycling schemes is going to force homeowners to rethink what they’re doing with their left over food in the future. The current growth of the food waste disposer market is already reflecting this.' adds Ashley.

For stockist information contact In-Sink-Erator on 0800 389 3715.

Hell's Kitchen Finance Deals could Burn a Hole in Your Pocket

Alliance & Leicester Personal Loans has warned people looking to spice up their kitchen that expensive kitchen dealer finance could be on the menu this Bank Holiday weekend.

Alliance & Leicester urges people to look around for a good finance deal, or risk burning a hole in their pockets by wasting up to £1.2 billion.

New research shows that with over 20 million* Brits splashing out on a new kitchen over the last five years, or looking to in the foreseeable future, billions of pounds is being wasted by choosing pricey finance from a kitchen retailer.

With the average cost of a new kitchen now over £6,000, it is not surprising that over a quarter (28%) are borrowing money to meet the costs. Yet, what is alarming is that over 800,000** people are choosing finance from kitchen dealers, many of whom charge interest rates into double figures.

In fact, by taking finance from a kitchen dealer at an industry average APR of 15.2% over 5 years, consumers would pay £2,425 in interest - more than double the interest from a low-rate Alliance & Leicester personal loan at 6.4%***.

This means that kitchen-lovers could be needlessly wasting £1,422. This is good money that could be saved, or even used to buy a top of the range fridge or cooking range for the new kitchen.

Despite this, 13% of these consumers choose this method because they wrongly believe it to be the cheapest or most competitive deal for financing their new kitchen.

Ash Mukadam, Personal Loans Manager at Alliance & Leicester explained:
'The devil is in the detail for those taking hellishly expensive kitchen dealer finance, which will probably end up burning a large hole in their pockets.

'As celebrity chefs and 'Food TV' make cooking such a hot topic, it is no surprise that people want to update their kitchens and borrow to meet the cost. What is surprising is that people do not appear to put as much effort into looking for a good rate of finance as they put into the style of their cupboards or the colour of their worktops.

'With the approaching Bank Holiday weekend being a time people sign up to home improvement deals, it is extremely important that they shop around for finance or risk putting their finances in expensive limbo for the duration of the loan.'

The research also found that the kitchen is the second most important room in the house, after the living room, when it comes to investing money. Fifteen per cent of consumers cite the kitchen as the room in their house that they have, or would, spend the most money on.

Of these:
* Over a quarter (28%) see the kitchen as the main focal point of their home
* One third (34%) say it's where they spend a lot of their time, particularly as they love to cook
* Nearly half (45%) say it's because their kitchen was in need of a design makeover
* Moreover, a quarter (24%) think it will add value to their home and help them sell their property.

For further information, consumers should visit http://www.alliance-leicester.co.uk, call 0800 068 6611 or visit their local branch.

Alliance & Leicester's research into kitchen finance was carried out between 27th and 29th April 2005 by YouGov Omnibus surveys among 2000 adults aged 18 plus.

* The research found that 46% of adults have had a new kitchen fitted or have updated/improved their kitchen in the last five years or hope to get a new kitchen in the foreseeable future. 46% of the overall adult population (44,200,000 - You Gov figures) equates to 20,332,000.

** 46% of adults have had a new kitchen fitted or have updated/improved their kitchen in the last five years or hope to get a new kitchen in the foreseeable future. 46% of the overall adult population (44,200,000 - Source:You Gov) equates to 20,332,000. Of these, 4% have or would take out kitchen retailer finance when buying a new kitchen or updating their kitchen. Thus 4% of 20,332,000 equates to 813,280.

*** £6,000 borrowed over 5 years from the average kitchen retailer finance deal at an average APR of 15.23% (worked out as an average from B&Q at 14.9%, MFI at 14.9% and Magnet at 15.9%). would cost a consumer £2,425 in interest. However, the same amount borrowed with an A&L Personal Loan at 6.4% APR would cost just £1,003 in interest - a difference of £1,422 in interest payments.

Fagor UK Appoints New Business Development Manager

Fagor UK has announced the appointment of Graham Gleave as Business Development Manager, with responsibility for contract business development and development of key accounts in the South. He joined Fagor on 23rd May.

Graham formerly spent a number of years with Maytag UK, where he held various positions including national accounts manager, national field sales manager and ultimately sales director.

Commenting on Graham’s appointment, Fagor UK commercial director Ellis Bardsley said:

‘Graham is a highly experienced sales professional who knows the UK white-goods market inside out. He brings a wealth of experience, and will play a key part in the development and implementation of our growth strategies in the UK.’

For information on Fagor’s range of built-in and freestanding appliances call the UK sales office on 020 7354 0044.

Email: mailto:sales@fagorappliances.co.uk

Zanussi-Electrolux and Ariel Capture Wimbledon Crowds with Championship Whites Campaign

A humorous poster campaign will keep ’Zanussi-Electrolux and Ariel’ top of mind amongst some half million Wimbledon fans who will be pouring through tube stations between 20th June and 3rd July.

Jetsystem: There’ll be Showers at Wimbledon this Year!

Taking over selected platform Sites and swarming ticket gateways around key stations including South Kensington, Earls Court, East Putney, West Brompton, Fulham Broadway and Putney Bridge to maximise the impact of this high profile campaign which features slogans that will ‘click’ with tennis fans from all over the country two of the leading laundry brands – Zanussi-Electrolux Appliances, and Ariel detergent, are set to clean up this summer.

The ‘Championship Whites 2005’ Advertising Campaign will commence in June and will run until the end of the tournament early in July (tournament scheduled from Monday June 20th to Sunday July 3rd, 2005).

Commenting on the objectives behind the campaign, Electrolux UK Brand and Marketing Director Andy Mackay says, 'As part of the Electrolux Group Partnership Programme with Procter & Gamble, we are looking to leverage the clear strengths and leadership of the Zanussi and Ariel Brands throughout the Wimbledon tournament under the positioning of ‘nothing serving up Championship Whites like the Zanussi Jetsystem Shower wash’'.

The Zanussi-Electrolux creatives are part of a broader campaign to promote the Zanussi-Electrolux Jetsystem, and also an extension of the Ariel brand TV Advertising . Arc Worldwide was responsible for the creative execution and Media Planning and Buying was undertaken by Starcom Media.

Trade Sales Line:
Freestanding: Tel: 08705 650 650
Built-In: Tel: 08705 822 886

Classical Woodworking Machinery at Homag Open House

Homag U.K. will host its June open house on Monday 6th and Tuesday 7th June. Machines which will feature strongly will be from Martin’s range of classical woodworking machinery - including the all new T92 throughfeed moulder series (pictured).

From Homag Group widebelt sanding specialists Bütfering the new brushing machine for profiled panels that was launched recently at Ligna will be shown and demonstrated. This machine features three counter-rotating interchangeable brush heads preceded by revolving brush discs mounted on an oscillating head at the infeed. The machine is capable of pre-finishing and finishing 3D profiled panels or 5-piece doors in a single pass.

Centre stage will be the latest in profile wrapping techniques from Homag Group specialist Friz with particular emphasis on the wrapping of complex window frame profiles. There will be live demonstration and experts on hand to discuss the latest developments in materials, adhesive application and fast set-up.

To obtain more information and an invitation fax Sylvia Albe on 01332 856465.

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

RB Farquhar Outsources Manufacturing

RB Farquhar, based in Huntly in Aberdeenshire, said it was likely to cut 80 posts after deciding to switch manufacturing to the Czech Republic. The company makes prefabricated buildings and bathroom and shower pods.

RB Farquhar said it would move jobs from Huntly to its £3m European factory in Chomutov.

The company's Michael Shand, said: 'The main reason for the decision is that the costs are far lower in the Czech Republic than in the north east of Scotland.

He added: 'I was born in Huntly so of course I would have liked to have kept the jobs here, but we have been finding it harder and harder to move forward.

Mr Shand said other opportunities within the company would be looked at for the workers, but added that the vast majority looked likely to lose their jobs.

Hoover May Move Scottish Jobs to China

Nearly 90 jobs at Hoover's vacuum cleaner plant in Scotland are under threat after the owners announced they might switch production to China. Hoover is now in a 30-day consultation on the future of the staff at the factory in Cambuslang, South Lanarkshire. The site employs 88 people in manufacturing, 35 in design engineering and 74 in customer services.

The Italian owners, Candy, denied they planned to close the plant and said only the manufacturing jobs were under review. Management said the company, which employs more than 1,700 people in Britain, was trying to haul itself back into profit after several years of trading loss.

Graham White, chief executive, UK and Ireland, said: 'This has been a very difficult decision. As all other manufacturers of floorcare have found, the economics of UK production clearly don't add up as they used to. Each unit produced in the UK costs us 30% more than it does if we make it in China. We know that this isn't a reflection of the productivity of our Cambuslang workforce or our management - it's a harsh economic fact.'

Staff after they fought off closure two years ago but lost 150 jobs. The Scottish executive agreed in 2003 not to claw back government aid totalling £1.7m if the owners kept open the factory, which has a history stretching back more than half a century.

Candy, whose British manufacturing base is in Merthyr Tydfil in South Wales, insisted it remained committed to the UK and said that its number of employees rose by 10% last year.

Jacuzzi Brands Announces Sale of Eljer

Jacuzzi Brands, Inc. announced on 20th May that it has entered into an agreement to sell its Eljer Plumbingware business to an affiliate of Sun Capital Partners, Inc. The transaction is expected to close by the end of Jacuzzi Brand's fiscal 2005 third quarter ending July 2nd, 2005. Terms of the sale were not disclosed.

Eljer Plumbingware, part of the Company's consumer Bath division, offers a line of ceramic, composite and iron sanitary ware including bathtubs, toilets, bidets, sinks and faucets under the Eljer® brand name. For the fiscal year ended October 2nd, 2004, Eljer recorded an operating loss of $30.7 million on sales of $150.5 million. For the first six months of fiscal 2005 ended April 2nd, Eljer recorded an operating loss of $2.9 million on sales of $69.2 million. Operating results for the year ended October 2nd, 2004 and the six months ended April 2nd, 2005 included restructuring charges of $19.4 million and $1.9 million, respectively.

An affiliate of Sun Capital Partners, Inc. will assume substantially all current assets and liabilities of Eljer, the long term retiree medical liability and certain other liabilities, and also take the Ford City, Pennsylvania and Tupelo, Mississippi operations. Jacuzzi Brands will retain the Salem, Ohio manufacturing facility property which was closed in fiscal 2004.

Jacuzzi Brands anticipates that it will incur pre-tax charges in the second half of fiscal 2005 of approximately $65.0 million in connection with this sale. The charges are primarily related to non-cash asset write-offs, transition services and termination expenses to be incurred.

David H. Clarke, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Jacuzzi Brands, said, 'We are pleased with this sale which has significant benefits. Despite ongoing product rationalisation efforts and other initiatives, Eljer has continued to incur losses and consume a significant amount of management's time. This sale, together with the sale of Rexair announced earlier this month, will enable us to devote all our energies on maximising the value of our Jacuzzi and Zurn operations.'

Bud Terry, Managing Director of Sun Capital, said, 'We are excited about the investment in Eljer as it has significant brand recognition, franchise value, dedicated employees and very strong and loyal customer base. We continue to invest in branded consumer products companies that have a strong market presence. We intend to operate Eljer as a stand-alone portfolio company and maintain the corporate presence in Dallas, Texas.'

http://www.jacuzzibrands.com

The Emerald Isle Enamoured with Ardesco from Orama

Orama, the independent manufacturer of worksurfaces and associated decorative products, has chosen Irish distributor Potter Cowan to supply its Ardesco range of worksurfaces across Northern Ireland and Eire. With over 50 years’ experience of the KBB industry, Potter Cowan is a specialist in kitchen distribution. Belfast-based Potter Cowan Kitchens and Dublin-based Potter Cowan Laminates supply customers including high street studios, kitchen retailers, joiners and kitchen manufacturers.

Adrian Allen, managing director, Potter Cowan, explains: ‘We are one of the very few distributors in the Irish market to enjoy extensive reach with a significant product range. With a growing customer base, Potter Cowan is keen to extend its offer in line with its ambition to become ‘the’ worksurface specialist in Ireland. We feel that Orama’s Ardesco range will give our customers a unique choice of new worksurface options. Ardesco is not only versatile but also incorporates many contemporary features drawing on very inspirational European kitchen design trends.’

Ardesco has been supplied to both Belfast and Dublin branches of Potter Cowan from April 1st 2005. Potter Cowan will offer the complete Ardesco range to its customers, which includes Orama’s 50mm product and mirror flat gloss finish, its timber worksurfaces, complementary splashback options, and solid surface products.

Comments Adrian, ‘With Ardesco, we will undoubtedly be in a better position to differentiate ourselves in the marketplace. Orama’s product is first-class and the Ardesco worksurfaces are at the cutting edge of new influences as the kitchen undergoes unprecedented transformation and attention in both style and layout. Worksurfaces are intrinsically difficult to distribute because of their size and weight. Being a shorter-length product, Ardesco worksurfaces are easier to transport and install and customers will benefit from less wastage.’

Adrian concludes: ‘Our vision is to offer our customers top, mid-range and budget options and Ardesco allows us to extend our current range quite substantially. The quality and professionalism of our burgeoning relationship with Orama coupled with the company’s uncompromising levels of support and knowledge of the market will ensure that our customers enjoy the best service available. We certainly expect Ardesco to contribute to our commitment to delivering the utmost levels of customer care and quality with a very personal touch.’

Peter Holt, sales and marketing director, Orama, comments: ‘Potter Cowan is perfectly placed in the Irish market to promote and represent all the passion, excitement, style and true contemporary versatility which are at the very heart of our Ardesco brand. With approximately1000 customers in Northern Ireland and Eire, Potter Cowan is a market leader in the region and we are delighted that the company has recognised the real contribution Ardesco can make to its business as it continues to grow. With a similar approach and commitment to customer service and quality, we look forward to strengthening our ties over the coming months.’

Orama offers high quality durable decorative panels and worksurfaces. Established for many years, Orama holds ISO 9001 certification and the Furniture Industry Research Association Gold Award for product performance. The company is also a corporate member of the KBSA (Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialist Association). All Orama’s chipboard and solid timber products are sourced from ‘responsibly managed’ forests.

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

Shires Bathrooms at The Chartered Institute of Housing Conference and Exhibition

Shires Bathrooms, the UK bathroom manufacturers, is to exhibit at The Chartered Institute of Housing Conference and Exhibition as part of the company's ongoing strategy to develop its services in the social housing sector. Taking place from Tuesday, 21st to Friday, 24th June at the Harrogate International Centre, the event is the largest of its kind in Europe.

Attendance at the event is a natural progression for Shires Bathrooms which has already developed a number of strong working relationships with housing associations and local authorities, mainly through the supply of ceramic sanitaryware. The exhibition will provide a platform for the company to launch its new Plover steel bath which has been designed and developed specifically to meet the needs of this market sector. A key feature of the bath is its moulded feet designed to ensure greater stability and to speed up installation for the contractor.

In addition to this, the event provides an opportunity for Shires to demonstrate its credentials as a 'one-stop shop' in terms of being able to offer everything customers need from steel and acrylic baths, sanitaryware, brassware and shower enclosures and bath screens.

Kenny Cameron, general manager at Shires Limited, comments: 'It's anticipated that over 5000 key decision makers will attend over a four day period so it will be the perfect environment to meet and communicate directly with key individuals from the sector allowing us to develop future relationships and nurture existing ones.

'Through dialogue like this, we have been able to customise many products for specific customers - most recently developing a specially reinforced bath for a council in Yorkshire.

'Participating in the event is an integral part of our business strategy moving forward this year. It will enable us to demonstrate our knowledge and understanding of this market, a sector we identify as a key contributor to the building of sustainable communities.'

Tel: 0870 160 4414
Web: http://www.shires-bathrooms.com

Myson's Hi-Tech System Extends Through Towel Warmer Range

Myson, the designer heating specialist has extended its APM system into the majority of its towel warmer range.

Having originally designed APM (Auto Power Management) as part of the company’s Petite kitchen rail (pictured), APM™ has now been registered as a trade mark in the UK and Europe.

'Myson is the only company in the UK using APM technology, and the benefits have proved so successful in Petite that it is now being used to offer either a sealed electric option or Dual Fuel capacity on many of the company’s towel warmers, both contemporary and traditional. The small diameter of the APM element means that we can offer this facility on even more of our range than we used to,' explained Peter Mawtus, Marketing Manager.

APM uses technology which is self-regulating/thermostat-free. Power consumption varies automatically, depending on requirements, giving optimal efficiency.
Benefits to installers and end users include:-

No risk of blowing the element if installers forget to fill the unit with water before switching on means that there is no costly call-out or replacement costs. This also removes the danger of fire resulting from an element operating in fresh air.

APM is energy efficient, due to reduced wattage, equaling lower consumption.

If a wet towel is placed on the rail, power consumption increases as the water draws heat from the rail. Once the towel is dry, consumption drops again.

There is no thermostat, therefore, the heat doesn’t cycle, temperature is arrived at smoothly and maintained. The lack of a thermostat also means there are no moving parts to break down , thus increasing the life expectancy of the element.

APM heats up faster from cold, giving an added benefit for holiday homes which may have stood empty.

It can be used with a standard dimmer switch.

Less risk of 'kettling', which can lead to customer dissatisfaction and call backs.

Peter Mawtus, Marketing Manager at Myson, said: 'APM has proved a major selling point with Petite, Myson is the only company in the UK using this technology as a standard part of their range, and we have now moved to make it a feature of most of our towel warmer range.

'As well as being energy efficient, APM has a number of safety features and also removes a number factors which have caused problems for both installers and end users alike. The extension of APM across the range also means that many of our already popular products can now come as either sealed electrical or dual fuel units, making them more versatile.'

Tel: 0191 491 7530
Email: mailto:sales@myson.co.uk
Web: http://www.myson.co.uk

J&J Ormerod PLC Announces BLUMOTION to be Fitted as Standard on all Colonial Kitchen Ranges

J&J Ormerod PLC, the independent UK manufacturer of quality kitchens and bedrooms, announced on 20th May that the BLUMOTION mechanism by Blum is to be fitted as standard on all J&J Ormerod Colonial kitchens. Comprising a perfect motion combined with sophisticated technology, BLUMOTION produces a soft and silent user experience when opening and closing drawers, doors and cabinets. Richard Proctor, Sales Director of J&J Ormerod explains, ‘We have added this feature as standard to our Colonial Kitchens. This means our retail customers can offer a better quality product at a competitive market price’.

The secret of concealed BLUMOTION technology lies in its adaptive system which absorbs the forces exerted when drawers and pullouts are closed. BLUMOTION will close a drawer, whether heavily laden or empty, with a perfect movement every time without rebounding or springing back. Integrated into the runner system or on the hinges, this adaptive feature created by Blum, the Austrian furniture and fittings specialist has been met with widespread approval within the industry.

By incorporating BLUMOTION as standard on all of its kitchens, J&J Ormerod is embracing new technically savvy developments. Additional accessories are available to enhance all of its kitchens, including cutlery trays, utensil dividers and plate holders. Over 100 different handles are also offered ranging from antique brass Escutcheon Plates and Knobs to matt chrome Square Bars.

Tel: 01706 877877
Email: mailto:npeters@jjoplc.com

Moores Also Offers Blumotion

'What goes on behind closed doors? Quite a lot when it comes to a Moores kitchen. Homebuyers are more aware than ever of changes in the kitchen market and expectations are high. The latest finish is only half the story, the mechanics of the kitchen are just as much of a selling point now.' says the company.

Moores has launched two new products to make the operation of cupboards and drawers an absolute dream. For the drawers there is the new Blumotion drawer system. This is a Tandem Box drawer system so all of the workings are hidden away. The effortless drawer action is complemented with a smooth closing system that means even a fully loaded drawer glides to an gentle close.

Similarly, the smooth door closers on the doors use hydraulics to soften the impact of a door closing.

John Boddy Timber - Underpinned by Certification

Never before in the timber trade has Certification, Accreditation and adherence to Standards been more important. The UK and the World are fast waking up to the issues of the Environment and Sustainability.

However the pressures on the need for natural - especially forestry - products become ever greater as emerging nations become more affluent, abundant and demanding.

The international news media increasingly reports incidences of poor - even criminal - practice in the areas of illegal logging and other forms of timber supply.

None of this is news to John Boddy Timber whose Managing Director Frank Boddy has long been a (somewhat frustrated) champion of Certification, accredited Chains of Custody and other international initiatives to ensure the controlled, legal and sustainable supply of timber at all levels and for all uses.

John Boddy Timber's recent initiatives in the acquisition of responsibly acquired tropical hardwoods is now widely recognised. But Frank Boddy readily agrees that it is a steep and rocky road with many pitfalls for the poor and developing world regions to be encouraged and protected in their, in most cases, laudable efforts along the lines of sustainable responsibility.

John Boddy Timber believes that everyone in the timber supply chain has an equal responsibility to establish the structure that will safeguard the future of the world's timber - and this extends right through to the end user and the consumer of the final product.

Frank Boddy senses that the tide is turning in the right direction and that international initiatives like the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC), The Program For The Endorsement of Forest Certification Schemes (PEFC) and the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) as well as all the associated national and regional bodies involved in the various Chains of Custody accreditation, are now being held in growing esteem as the public mood (in the developed world eventually) swings behind the logic of ensuring a sustainable supply of international timber for all.

John Boddy Timber has been at the forefront of championing causes, schemes and established standards in this area.

The very latest benchmark publication for any timber buyer - The Complete Buyers Guide To Temperate & Tropical Hardwoods & Softwoods 2005 - is a comprehensive 160-page colour encyclopedia for the trade. In it is detailed extensive material of John Boddy Timber's own register of accreditation to all the international and other standards with fully audited certification.

Tel: 01423 322370
Email: mailto:info@john-boddy-timber.ltd.uk

Cosma from EDP - The Focal Point

European Decorative Products' chief handle principal is the prominent Italian design and manufacturing house Cosma. ‘At Cosma the art of handle design reaches its zenith and with these extraordinary styles, finishes and concepts the handle can truly become the point of design singularity for inspired kitchens.’ Says the company.

All Cosma designs originate from a clean sheet of paper where designers are equipped with the most extensive scope of materials, and back-up manufacturing expertise to achieve the most extraordinary lines, combinations and shapes.

EDP's Terry Willett says that by using the handle as a starting point (or at least as a fundamental component of the design), unique final furniture products can emerge that sets the manufacturer apart and above the run of the mill mass products who almost seem to have bolted a handle onto the door as though they'd almost forgotten to do so just as the product was about to be dispatched.

The Cosma range is at the heart of EDP's decorative component section but the company has also recognised the need for these fittings along with other handles to be supplied on a minimum quantity and fast delivery basis. So EDP has established an on-line handle order service from the website http://www.handle-company.co.uk.

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

AEG-Electrolux Supports Project:LIFE - David Wilson Homes

AEG-Electrolux part of the Electrolux Group, the producer of powered appliances for kitchen, cleaning and outdoor use supports David Wilson Homes pioneering Project:LIFE to discover how houses need to be designed in the future.

The Project:LIFE house has been pioneered by David Wilson Homes who together with its industry partners has constructed and equipped this unique research house which a volunteer family will 'test drive' for six months from June 2005.

Research will be undertaken to identify how the Parnell family uses the 5 bedroom home, day to day, and the findings, due early next year, will provide an insight into how houses need to be designed in future. The research team will monitor the family's movements around the house using the latest radio frequency identification (RFID) tagging technology. They will also conduct environmental monitoring and study the usage of electrical appliances and energy consumption. Even the Parnells' disposal and recycling habits will be monitored on a weekly basis.

The house
The 3,500 square foot split level house is designed over four floors, including a basement, and is distinctive for its use of extensive glazing linked with balconies to bring the garden and living space closer together.

The Kitchen
Many of Electrolux's appliances have been chosen for the Project LIFE kitchen - a contemporary family kitchen complete with an informal eating area. The AEG-Electrolux appliances include: AEG-Electrolux Competence multifunction single oven with fully integrated steam functions to retain nutrients in the food. The AEG-Electrolux Micromat combination microwave which combines the speed of microwave cooking with the benefits of fan cooking and a powerful quartz grill. The AEG-Electrolux freezer and separate larder fridge with Longfresh chill zones to keep food fresher for longer. AEG-Electrolux's integrated coffee machine with accessory drawer makes hot drinks, from grinding the coffee beans to providing filter or cappuccino coffee or hot water for tea and hot chocolate. On the peninsula, the Parnell family will have their first experience of induction hob cooking, using the AEG-Electrolux Front-Line Future induction hob.

Located over the hob is AEG-Electrolux's chimney hood with automatic sensor which switches the hood on when needed and off when the air is clear. A quiet dishwasher is essential in a kitchen combined with a family room and an integrated 'Spotlight' dishwasher projects a red beam onto the floor to show it is running. For environmental reasons its 'Sensorlogic' ensures the minimum water and electricity are used.

In the Garden
The split level rear garden will benefit from Flymo-Electrolux's Vision Compact hover mower with its grassbox that collects and compacts more grass for less emptying. Its Easi-Reel tangle-free cable storage system is integrated neatly into the lid.. real easy. And the Parnells will know exactly when to empty the grassbox with the Vision interactive grassbox viewing window.

The following kitchen appliances have been supplied:

AEG-Electrolux Competence CB89201a Multifuction Single Oven with Fully Integrated Steam Functions
As healthy eating becomes increasingly important to families, the AEG-Electrolux CB89201 Multifunction oven with steam is the answer as it combines steam cooking with more traditional methods in one oven. Steam cooking helps retain nutrients in the food, giving a succulent, healthy result. The 'Vigorous steam' function is ideal for vegetables, rice, fish and reheating meals while the 'Interval steam', which combines steam and hot air is perfect for roasting, baking and complete meal cooking.

AEG-Electrolux FM7803K Front-Line Future Induction Hob
This streamlined hob offers the latest in hob technology; induction cooking. Induction cooking works by creating a magnetic field between the hob components and the steel core of the saucepan, giving fast responsive cooking. The pan becomes hot but the smooth surface of the ceramic glass remains cool; not only does this save energy as only the exact amount needed for cooking is used, but it is easier to clean too as nothing can bake on.

AEG-Electrolux HD8990AD Chimney Hood with Automatic Sensor
This powerful cooker hood ensures a pleasant environment in the kitchen whenever you are cooking. The automatic sensor programme switches the hood on when it is needed and off when its job is done. The electronic touch controls and LED display make it easy to use.

AEG-Electrolux Micromat MCC663Ea Combination Microwave
This top of the range combi microwave offers the best of both worlds combining the speed of microwave cooking with the benefits of fan cooking and a powerful quartz grill. The option to combine microwave cooking and grilling or microwave and fan cooking ensures cooking flexibility. The fast setting of time and delay start and the 4 auto weight defrost programmes make the oven easy to use.

AEG-Electrolux SK912004i Larder Fridge with Longfresh Chill Zones
This larder fridge includes two Longfresh Chill Zones which keep food fresher for longer. The two large drawers on telescopic runners include humidity controls to regulate condensation and ensure the best storage environment for salad, vegetables, meat and fish. The 'coolmatic' function quickly chills fresh food placed in the refrigerator preserving flavour, colour and nutritional value.

AEG-Electrolux SK988004i In-Column Larder fridge and AG988504i In-Column Freezer
A combination of fridge and freezer providing generous storage capacity. The fridge includes 'coolmatic', bacterial protection, auto defrost and electronic temperature control for precise operation. The freezer's 'Frostmatic' function quickly freezes fresh food preserving its texture, colour and nutritional value and protects the food already in there. The transparent freezer drawers make items easy to find. Both fridge and freezer have 'a+' energy rating.

AEG-Electrolux F88070Vi Integrated Dishwasher - The Worlds' Quietest Dishwasher
Operating at a whisper quiet 41decibles, you'd be forgiven for forgetting the dishwasher was even there, which is why the 'Spotlight' projects a red beam on the floor to show the dishwasher is running. A choice of 8 programmes guarantees the right programme whatever the load, while 'Sensorlogic' ensures the minimum water and electricity are used. A special 3-in-1 programme option is designed to get the best results from 3-in-1 detergent. The interior light, height adjustable upper basket, long knife tray and adjustable glass and plate racks feature within the dishwasher.

AEG-Electrolux PE8038M Integrated Coffee Machine with Accessory Drawer
This stylish built-in coffee machine, which is suitable for use with coffee beans, ground coffee or coffee pods, brings you 'coffee shop' coffee at home. The coffee bean grinder allows the beans to be ground to suit your taste. The steam/water spout allows a wider selection of hot drinks, such as cappuccino, hot chocolate and tea, in addition to coffee. The 2.5 litre water tank is easy to access and incorporates a Brita® filter, preventing the build up of limescale. The accessory drawer neatly holds the coffee filter holder, one and two cup filters and nozzles and the wire rack for espresso making.

Trade Contact Details:
Freestanding Sales: Tel - 08705 650 650
Built-In Sales: Tel - 08705 822 886

Bisazza Expands Indian Manufacturing Facility

Italian glass mosaic company Bisazza is planning to ramp up capacity of its manufacturing facility in Kadi, near Ahmedabad, India, to one million square metres from the existing 400,000 square metres.

The Rs 100 million expansion, due to take place by July, is designed to meet a surge in demand in the domestic as well as overseas markets. About 40 per cent of the total production in the Indian plant is used for domestic market consumption and the balance is exported to Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Maldives and Nepal.

The glass mosaic produced by the company is used in bathrooms, kitchens and swimming pools.

'The Indian market is expanding well and last year we witnessed a growth of 40 per cent; for this year we are targeting a growth of 60 per cent,' reported Jayanthi S Ramlal, general manager of Bisazza, India. 'With the enhanced production capacity, we will target export markets such as the Europe, the US and Australia. We are also trying to get into Pakistan, Burma and Far East.'