CEO
Hans Stråberg Comments on Electrolux Q3
'The
result for the third quarter increased by 10%, which is largely in line
with our expectations. However, this does not mean that I am satisfied.
In Europe, we saw a continuation of the problems stemming from the strike
in Nuremberg, Germany. In North America we continued to improve the result
despite some temporary suppliers' problems at the Juarez factory in Mexico
that are now under control. I am especially pleased with the development
of floor care, which shows that it is possible to have good margins in
a tough market - if you have the right products and the right marketing
at a competitive cost position. Increasing costs for raw materials, a
weakening North American market and a continued challenging competitive
environment are concerns. The extra cash distribution of approximately
SEK 5.6 billion will benefit our shareholders and give us an efficient
balance sheet for future opportunities and challenges.
Our efforts to move production from high-cost countries to countries with
a lower cost base are now in an intensive phase in Europe. During the
last two years we have been moving 25% of our total European volumes to
new plants in low-cost countries. Earlier this year, I inaugurated two
Polish plants, in Zarow and Olawa, and this December we will see the opening
of a third Polish plant, this one in Zwidnicia. It goes without saying
that a program as complex as the current restructuring plan carried out
in such a short period of time cannot be conducted without some interruptions.
Due to the strike in Nuremberg, we lost volumes mainly in the higher price
segments. Nonetheless, I am convinced that we will regain our lost positions,
even if it takes a bit longer than expected. When the comprehensive reshaping
of the Electrolux Group is complete, we will have a very competitive cost
situation, which strengthens my belief that programs of this size will
not be necessary going forward.
The
result of our floor-care operation is a fine illustration of how our strategy
is working. In this sector, production has been moved to low-cost countries.
But more importantly, we are developing innovative products that consumers
want and we focus our marketing on one brand - Electrolux. The result
is that almost 50% of our vacuum cleaners in the market are younger than
two years, and our profitability is approaching the same peak level as
before the drop in 2002.
Another example is the appliance market in the UK. The UK market has long
been struggling with weak market growth and poor profitability. By introducing
innovative products backed up by well conceived communications under the
Electrolux brand, we have improved our mix and increased our profitability.
As I have said many times, I am convinced that by working efficiently
with developing new innovative products, continued brand building, profitable
growth and cost savings projects, we will reach a margin comparable with
the rest of the industry. In the long term, we will also be among the
best in the industry.
The Board proposes a procedure for a mandatory redemption of shares corresponding
to a total cash distribution of approximately SEK 5.6 billion to Electrolux
shareholders, in addition to the ordinary dividend and the ongoing share
buy-back program. With our new capital structure, we will be well equipped
for future opportunities and challenges within our operations.
As reported at the beginning of the year, I expect the operating result
for Electrolux indoor products, excluding items affecting comparability,
to be somewhat higher than 2005. We are on the right track, in spite of
many challenges.
Whirlpool
Reports Record Q3 2006 Third Quarter Revenue
Whirlpool
Corporation announced on 24th October record 2006 third quarter net sales
of $4.8 billion. Sales increased 35 percent from the previous year, reflecting
both the acquisition of Maytag Corporation and continued strong demand
for the company's innovative products. Excluding the Maytag acquisition,
net sales increased approximately 8 percent.
Third quarter 2006 net earnings from continuing operations, which include
the operating results, integration costs and purchase accounting impact
from the acquisition of Maytag, were $134 million, or $1.68 per diluted
share, compared to $114 million, or $1.66 per diluted share reported during
the previous year.
The company completed the sale of the Amana commercial microwave business
during the third quarter and finalised the sale of Dixie Narco vending
systems subsequent to quarter end. Combined proceeds were approximately
$100 million. There is no gain or loss associated with either of these
transactions.
As previously communicated, the company also intends to sell the Hoover
floor-care division and its Jade commercial products appliance business.
The third quarter financial results for Hoover, Dixie Narco and Jade are
included in discontinued operations. Total net earnings for the third
quarter, including discontinued operations, were $117 million, or $1.47
per diluted share.
Third quarter results, which included asset gains of approximately $40
million and a warranty settlement benefit of $15 million, were partially
offset by non-income based tax settlements of $22 million and a pension
curtailment charge related to a benefit change of $15 million.
Operating profit, which reflected strong international performance, was
negatively impacted by higher material prices, acquisition integration
related costs and purchase accounting expense in the company's North American
business.
‘Customer
response to our new product innovation remains strong as we continue the
largest new product launch in our company's history,’ said Jeff M.
Fettig, Whirlpool Corporation's chairman and chief executive officer (pictured).
‘Global industry demand was in-line with our expectations and is
evolving as previously anticipated. Given recent trends we continue to
expect moderate global industry unit shipment growth during the second
half of the year and anticipate global industry growth of 1-to-2 percent
in 2007.
'We remain on track to deliver our previous earnings and cash flow guidance.’
Fettig added: ‘The integration of Maytag continues to progress well
at an accelerated pace and is proceeding as expected. To date, we have
announced all phases of business integration necessary to realise our
previously communicated efficiencies.’
Year-to-date, cash provided by continuing operations of $296 million increased
from last year's level and includes the Maytag brand operations and $64
million of net cash outflow related to the combination of acquisition
efficiencies and integration costs.
INNOVATION
• The Maytag brand launched the new Epic front load washer and dryer,
reinforcing the heritage of quality, durability, dependability and performance
for which the Maytag brand is known.
• The Whirlpool brand fully launched:
- The revolutionary new Cabrio washer and dryer that offers a 4.5 cubic
foot capacity in a top-load design, handles the equivalent of three laundry
baskets in a single load and significantly reduces dry time through a
combination of the washer's ultra-fast spin speed and the dryer's AccelerCare
system. The Cabrio washer saves more than half the energy and water used
by conventional top-load washers.
- The Whirlpool brand Duet Sport HT model, which is a smaller version
of the popular Duet front-load laundry pair, with a six-point suspension
to reduce vibration and noise. Like the Duet pair, Duet Sport HT saves
more than half the energy and water used by conventional top-load washers.
• The KitchenAid brand launched Architect Series II - a new generation
suite of its premium, flagship appliance line with features inspired by
cooks, culinary professionals and design experts.
• The Bauknecht brand introduced two new built-in appliance lines,
Pure Line and Design Line, which integrate several different global design
trends. The lines also offer features like scratch-resistant surfaces
that make cleaning even easier and ‘Smart Cook’, an intelligent
system control with text display that offers perfect cooking results.
• Whirlpool Latin America launched:
- The Brastemp brand 6th Sense microwave in Brazil that automatically
delivers the perfect heating time for different types of food.
- A new line of 6th Sense side-by-side refrigerators in Argentina, ranging
from 540 to 707 liters, which includes the exclusive MICROBAN(r) antimicrobial
product protection technology* that helps eliminate bacteria that would
normally exist in a refrigerator's interior. (*MICROBAN is a registered
trademark of Microban Products Company.)
• Whirlpool Asia launched:
- The Whirlpool Sensation front-loading washing machine in India that
offers the best wash performance with 20% lower water consumption.
- The Whirlpool Sparkle fully loaded semi-automatic washing machine in
India with superior aesthetic and unique features like Aqua shower. The
Aqua Shower feature enables water and detergent to be poured into the
center of the wash load, increasing the concentration and resulting in
better washing capability.
- Whirlpool Genius XL direct cool refrigerator models in India, which
provide superior cooling and unique features like the 6th Sense Door-Open
alarm, Utility Drawer and Lemon-N-Onion holder.
AWARDS
• Whirlpool Corporation was named to the 2006/2007 Dow Jones Sustainability
World Index, an international stock portfolio that evaluates corporate
performance using economic, environmental and social criteria.
• Whirlpool Mexico received the ‘National Award for Ethics &
Values’ from the Confederación de Cámaras Industriales
de los Estados Unidos Mexicanos. The award was presented to the company
by President Vincente Fox.
• Whirlpool was elected one of the 150 ‘Best Companies to Work
For’ in Brazil for the tenth straight year by Exame/Voce S.A. Guidebook.
Whirlpool is one of only four companies included in the list since 1997.
• Whirlpool was recognised as the ‘Best and Biggest’ Household
Appliances Company in Brazil by Exame magazine.
• Whirlpool Corporation's Brazilian Embraco subsidiary was named
one of the ‘100 Top Companies from Rapidly Developing Economies’
by Boston Consulting Group.
• Whirlpool was selected as one of the top 500 brands in the UK by
the ‘Superbrands’ Council.
• Whirlpool Poland received the prestigious ‘2005 Benefactor
of the Year’ award for its support of Habitat for Humanity International.
Whirlpool employees have been active in builds in the cities of Gliwice,
Poznan and Gdansk. The company also donated appliances for each new home
built.
• Whirlpool India received the ‘HR Excellence Award’ at
the Global Human Resource Summit organised by Amity International Business
School.
Whirlpool Europe reported record third quarter unit shipments, revenue
and operating profit. Revenue of $887 million increased 9 percent from
the prior year period driven by strong Whirlpool brand performance and
continued strong demand for the company's new product offering.
Excluding currency translations, sales increased approximately 4 percent.
Year-over-year company unit shipment growth continued to exceed industry
demand, which is estimated to have increased 2-to-3 percent during the
quarter.
Operating profit of $60 million was a third quarter record improving by
26 percent over last year's reported results, led by strong productivity,
cost controls and an asset sale gain. Regional operating profit margin
of 6.8 percent expanded from the 5.9 percent reported in the previous
year.
Based on current economic conditions, the company expects full-year industry
unit shipments in 2006 to increase approximately 2 percent.
OUTLOOK
‘Overall, the factors which impact industry demand remain consistent
with our previous guidance and we continue to address the heightened material
cost environment by introducing new innovative products, driving productivity
throughout our global operations, controlling spending by reducing overhead
and infrastructure, managing our overall mix of business and implementing
cost based price adjustments.
‘Our company is well positioned to achieve the acquisition efficiencies
heading into 2007, with the continued execution of our Maytag integration
plans. We begin ramping down Maytag laundry production at two acquired
facilities during the fourth quarter and simultaneously begin transferring
production to our Clyde, and Marion, Ohio locations. Our integration plans
remain on track and we fully expect to deliver efficiencies in line with
our previous guidance of greater than $400 million in 2008,’ said
Fettig.
‘Based on our current assessment, we continue to expect full-year
2006 earnings per diluted share from continuing operations of $6.00 to
$6.25 and free cash flow to be in the $200-to-$300 million range. The
company also continues to expect 2007 full-year earnings per diluted share
to be approximately $9.00,’ added Fettig.
ATAG
is set to become a premium player in the built-in appliance market place
in the UK. The brand is to re-enter the market during the fourth quarter
of 2006 and will be offered exclusively to the Kitchen Specialist.
This is the first time since 2000 that ATAG has been represented through
its own operation in the UK. However, the market-leading brand in Holland
has been a principal manufacturer since 1948, and is a highly respected
innovator of top quality kitchen appliances. Specialising in built-in
appliances ATAG brings a comprehensive range of products to the market,
with a proven track record of celebrated Dutch design and style, focused
on the lifestyle requirements of the European consumer.
The
comprehensive range will feature the full spectrum of built-in appliances
you would expect of a leading brand, including a variety of unique gas
hobs with patented, high efficient standard burners and powerful wok burners
sited on either glass or stainless steel. Flexible induction hobs in various
combinations including mixed fuels and set in framed and frameless glass
are a must for the astute kitchen specialist. The impressive line-up of
ovens boast an array of cooking systems including microwave, steam and
multi-function combinations, with the option of pyrolytic cleaning technology;
plus there is a choice of either mechanical or fully electronic touch
controls. Extraction hoods feature the ATAG patented ‘Airlogic’
high efficiency filtration system in a variety of contemporary styles
and designs.
Newly appointed Business Development Director of ATAG for the UK, Ellis
Bardsley remarks, 'The UK consumer market is naturally dynamic and diverse,
characterised by the intense focus on brand, style and design, and the
demand for flexible options. This is the beginning of the development
of this exciting brand once again in the UK, which brings brand distinction,
unique styling and a superb assortment of options that are quintessential
attributes of ATAG - perfect for the meticulous kitchen specialist and
consumer alike.'
He adds, 'ATAG has always been warmly received in the past by UK kitchen
retailers and with its significant, differentiated, characteristic qualities,
it will stand out in the kitchen specialist market.'
Philip Sluiter, Managing Director of ATAG, Holland explains, 'This is
a very exciting opportunity for the brand, entering the UK market once
again with its own operation. The Kitchen Specialist will now have an
exceedingly good choice of premium quality, design-led, innovative appliances
with service excellence and up to 5 years’ of fully comprehensive
warranty to mirror the market leading status of the brand in Holland.'
Immediately available is a new glossy, high quality, all-encompassing
landscape format brochure, specially produced for the UK kitchen specialist.
For more information on ATAG kitchen appliances and brochure for the kitchen
specialist in the UK contact: Ellis Bardsley, Business Development Director
on 07879 008 689 or email: e.bardsley@homeproducts.nl.
BSH Commission New Production Line for Washing Machines in Nauen
BSH
Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH is commissioning a new production
line for washing machines in Nauen, Brandenburg. Regarded as the most
modern in Europe, the line will produce over a half million washing machines
a year for the Bosch and Siemens brands.
The washing machines, which will be exported worldwide from Brandenburg,
will feature a number of innovations, including a novel anti-stain system
that is a first for the household appliance segment. The investment volume
for the product family totals about 90 million euros. The new production
facility will employ approximately 400 people.
The Nauen production site comprises two production lines that have been
manufacturing washing machines and dryers since 1994. Over the past decade,
the site has become a major employer and economic factor in Brandenburg.
Numerous suppliers have now situated themselves in the immediate vicinity
and region. With this investment in the new production line, Nauen’s
high standards for manufacturing and process technology make it the state-of-the-art
site for washing machine production in Europe.
Especially noteworthy are the flexible prefabrication and assembly concepts
with extremely short setup times used to produce the versatile product
family based on the new front loading washing machine concept. Material
flow concepts developed in coordination with suppliers complement the
high level of adaptability. All this is based on a highly flexible personnel
concept with regard to qualification and working hours.
The startup of production signals the start of a new generation of washing
machines. They are the first machines worldwide to have an anti-stain
system with custom-tailored programs for the 14 most common stains. Achieving
this involved both the development of an intelligent automatic program
operation as well as the complete reconstruction of the mechanical components.
From the drum to the porthole – virtually everything about this washing
machine is new!
During the official ceremonial act attended by Brandenburg’s minister
president Matthias Platzeck, the CEO of BSH, Dr. Robert Kugler, pointed
out once again that BSH is the only company in the household appliance
industry to build a plant in the New Laender following German reunification.
'This resolve to create a dynamic region continues here today with the
construction of the new production site', said Kugler.
Currently, some 14,000 of BSH’s 35,500 worldwide employees work in
Germany. 65 percent of all appliances manufactured in Germany are for
export. In Nauen, a total of 350 employees currently produce washing machines
for Germany and the world market.
New
Business Development Director for ArtiCAD
ArtiCAD
Ltd, the CAD software specialist for kitchen, bedrooms, bathrooms and
home offices, announces that Daniel Allerton has been promoted from National
Sales Manager to the position of Business Development Director, and has
joined the company’s Board of Directors.
Daniel joined ArtiCAD in January 2002 with extensive experience in sales
and business development in kitchen and bathroom retail environments.
In his new role as Business Development Director, Daniel is responsible
for helping the company to target new market sectors in the UK and overseas,
and to work with the company’s growing number of international subsidiaries
and distribution partners.
He said: 'I am delighted to have been invited to join the Board of ArtiCAD
and to be in a position to influence the company’s future direction,
product evolution and sales strategy.
'This is a particularly exciting time for ArtiCAD as we are experiencing
substantial growth, most notably in our overseas markets. I am looking
forward to working with a very dedicated and dynamic team to help realise
the full potential of the company in the months and years ahead.'
Web: http://www.articad.cc
Gear
Up for New Consumer Credit Regime, KBSA Advises
The
Kitchen Bedroom Bathroom Association (KBSA) is advising its retail members
to be aware of the provisions of the new Consumer Credit Act 2006, which
comes into force next Spring.
The new regulations affect all businesses offering consumer credit and
give customers increased protection against rogue traders and access to
an independent dispute resolution scheme.
The act aims to create a fairer, clearer and more competitive consumer
credit market, and provides for the introduction of an alternative dispute
resolution scheme for consumer credit matters to be run by the Financial
Ombudsman Service.
The new regime will deal with complaints made on or after 6th April 2007.
The following year, from April 2008, businesses offering consumer credit
will be subject to a more targeted licensing system and appeals mechanism,
and will be obliged to provide clearer and more regular information on
the state of their credit accounts.
‘Retailers need to be aware of the regulations when they are selling
credit to customers,’ said KBSA operations director Lucinda Kenny.
‘Although the act will not affect the credit itself, customers should
be made aware of their enhanced rights under the new rules.’
For more information, retailers should visit http://www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk.
Lucite
to Raise Price of Lucite® Cast Acrylic
Lucite®,
the world’s leading brand of cast acrylic for the sanitaryware sector,
will be subject to a price increase of €190 per tonne from 1st January
2007. The new pricing structure is required to underpin Lucite International’s
continued investments in growth and innovation within its acrylics business
and will be applied to customers in the Europe, Africa and Middle East
(EAME) region.
Neil Sayers, Vice President of the EAME region & Technology at Lucite
International commented on the reasons for the increase: 'The escalation
in the cost of raw materials used to manufacture methyl methacrylate,
coupled with a tight market, is driving up prices which increase the cost
of manufacture of Lucite® sheet.
'We continue to focus on improving our efficiencies and reducing internal
costs, however we must recover margins in order to protect the health
of the business and support continued investment. This price increase
is a necessary part of that objective.'
Plimsoll
Names KBB Industry Winners
The
UK’s most successful kitchen, bedroom & bathroom manufacturers
companies have been named as part of a special study by industry analysts
Plimsoll Publishing Ltd. These outstanding companies have been grouped
into five different areas of financial success.
16 companies named as best overall financial performers
Included in this section are the companies considered to be getting the
balance right between commercial and financial success. They are managing
to increase sales and maximise profits. All this, and without compromising
financial strength.
Examples
in this category include H Morris and Co Ltd, The Symphony Group
plc and Oakwood Kitchen Design Consultants As best overall
financial performers, these companies also feature in the other categories
such as sales improvement and profit improvement.
David Pattison, Senior Analyst on the project, is impressed with the performance
of these leading companies and who can argue: they are reporting three
times the sales growth figures and three times the profits than the rest
of the industry. Pattison adds, 'The rest of the industry should be falling
over themselves to do business with these companies'.
16 companies named for best sales improvement
With the market growing at 5%, the majority of companies are, at best,
showing modest growth. The 16 companies named in this section are delivering
a minimum of 17% growth in the last period. Pattison is convinced these
companies will cause increased pressure in the market in 2007 as they
build on their aggressive business strategy. He continues, 'These companies
are in danger of taking the industry by storm'.
12
companies named for profit improvement
With profit margins in general depressed, it is refreshing to see 12 companies
clearly benefiting from tighter cost control and pricing policies. They
have been able lift their margins from previously loss making to a current
3.8% on average, well above the industry’s current 3.9%. David Pattison
continues, 'For me profits are the key to a successful company. As the
saying goes, anyone can give the stuff away but the real skill in business
is to make a profit'.
6 companies delivering a turnaround in financial performance
It is the nature of business that most companies in their lifetime will
encounter a difficult trading period. Some, during this time will fail
or be taken over. Others find a solution themselves. Named in this section
are the 6 companies who were facing an uncertain future. These ‘comeback
kings’ have staged a recovery, and the first stage of the turnaround
process is underway.
David Pattison comments, 'These 6 turnaround companies are proof that
failure is avoidable. They offer encouragement to 51 other kitchen, bedroom
& bathroom manufacturers companies that have seen a sharp decline
in their recent financial performance. Trading out is an option –
if problems are addressed quickly!'
7 companies named for productivity improvement
Showing how vital productivity is becoming to remain competitive in the
industry, 7 companies are named in this section. They are using their
staff to deliver 16 times the sales and 11 times the profit of the rest
of the industry. David Pattison concludes: 'As wages and employment
costs in general prove an increasing burden, lean companies like these
are discovering new productivity levels to combat this problem'.
Summary
The above is an extraction from a new study by Plimsoll Publishing Ltd.
The full analysis contains an individual profile for each of the UK’s
290 kitchen, bedroom & bathroom manufacturers companies. Included
with this special edition is a Successful Companies Pack available to
readers of this publication free of charge when ordering. When ordering
online simply enter the code SCP01 at the checkout.
Copies of the analysis are available for £350 from http://www.plimsoll.co.uk,
calling 01642 626400 or by email c.sherwood@plimsoll.co.uk
Distributor
Qualitex Launches Showroom Makeover Competition
Qualitex
Ltd (founded 1991) a premier distributor of bathroom and associated products
(including Kohler, Merlyn, Royo, April and Clearwater baths) has just
announced that it is launching ‘The Qualitex Showroom Makeover Competition’,
an initiative developed to reward excellence in Bathroom Showroom Design.
MD and Founder of Qualitex Ltd, Duncan Andrews says, ‘we are delighted
to be in a position to influence the design and layout of Bathroom showrooms
in the UK. The plethora of Home Interest magazines and TV shows has created
a new generation of discerning buyers who demand and deserve much more
from their Bathroom retailer. We believe these awards will go some way
to rewarding and encouraging excellence in this area.’
Over 3000 showrooms will be eligible to participate and those entrants
shortlisted for the final will be invited to an exclusive awards ceremony
in July next year.
The competition will be judged by TV Designer Graham Wynne (ex BBC Changing
Rooms and currently appearing on Living TV's UK Style). Graham will also
present the awards at the Eastwell Manor function next year.
The lucky winner will receive an all expenses paid holiday of a lifetime
worth £10,000: Two weeks for two to the Sandy Lane 5* Hotel in Barbados.
Contact: Tom Murdoch, Qualitex Ltd
Tel: 01622 79011
Web: http://www.qualitex.co.uk
A
Little Something for the Weekend from Stoves and Lec
Products
from both Stoves and Lec have been placed on set for a brand new Sunday
morning entertainment show on BBC2 called 'Something for the Weekend'.
Stoves' Genus oven, which can cook food up to four times faster than conventional
ovens with no need for preheating and without compromising the quality
of the end results, has been supplied to the show, along with the 700GE
four-burner gas hob, 600MWC built-in combination microwave oven and grill
and Lec's TF6096 60cm wide frost free fridge freezer.
The live show is centred around cooking, and also features a mix of music
and contemporary and classic TV moments, with interviews from some of
the biggest names in British entertainment. Celebrity guests are invited
to help cook a three course meal and 'brunch alternative' each week whilst
discussing topical issues.
Louise Morris, marketing services manager for Glen Dimplex Home Appliances,
comments: ‘We are delighted that Stoves and Lec have been asked to
supply product for this exciting new programme. The appliances have all
been designed to offer real benefits to the end user, so are an excellent
choice for a live studio environment.’
The first show aired on BBC2 at 10am on Sunday 8th October. For further
information on products featured or other appliances from the comprehensive
portfolio please visit http://www.gdha.com
or call 0871 222 2625.
Victoria
& Albert Bath Chosen for Hit Movie
Specialist
manufacturer, Victoria & Albert Baths has been celebrating one of
the company’s baths appearing in an award winning international film.
A
double ended Cheshire bath was supplied to the producers of Zwartboek,
a film set in World War Two Holland that is directed by Paul Verhoeven
of Basic Instinct and Robocop fame.
The movie made its premiere at this year's Venice International Film Festival
where it won best foreign film and has since gone on to win three 'Golden
Calves' at the International Dutch film festival. Having already been
sold to over 50 countries it is also widely tipped to be Oscar nominated
in January next year.
The Cheshire bath was supplied through Victoria & Albert's Dutch distributor,
International Bathrooms of Numansdorp to help recreate the bathroom of
the German's Dutch headquarters in The Hague. Its authentic Victorian
styling and single piece QUARRYCAST® construction proved an ideal
combination for the film makers, with the Cheshire offering all the period
splendour of a cast iron bath without the heavy weight to complicate the
logistics of propping. In addition, being part of a busy film set any
scratches or surface marks could be easily polished out in advance of
shooting.
Victoria & Albert Group CEO Edward Davies said, ‘Our baths are
sold in every continent of the globe, to hotels, developers and in high
end refurbishments, but it's the first time to my knowledge that one's
got to appear on the silver screen. Just like in the old Flake adverts,
freestanding baths have always been a hugely desirable addition to any
home and with our innovative designs they're also hugely attainable.’
Tel: 01952 221100
Web: http://www.vandabaths.com
De
Dietrich Induction Hob is Ideal Home's 'Best Buy'
Featuring
a guide to hobs in its November edition, Ideal Home, Britain's highest
circulation glossy home interest magazine credited the De Dietrich DTI304J
induction hob as its 'Best Buy'.
The magazine said:
'We like this induction hob's four cooking zones, each with its own timer,
which means you can heat food for the exact time required without having
to keep an eye on the clock.
'The zones all have 15 power levels, plus a booster function to take them
to the maximum power almost instantly - perfect for searing meats.
'Its safety features include automatic stop and anti- overheat.'
Richard Walker, sales and marketing director of De Dietrich says:
'Induction is gaining popularity all the time and being featured as the
'Best Buy' in Ideal Home is a fantastic endorsement.
'De Dietrich is the pioneer of induction and this superb technology is
achieving a very positive reaction in the consumer press.
'The more people are made aware of the enormous benefits of induction
over any other type of hob; the easier it will be for dealers to sell
in the long term.'
De Dietrich Sales (Trade) 01256 308 067
Email: sales@fagorbrandt.com
Web: http://www.dedietrich.co.uk
In-toto
Visit to Germany is Great Success
Seventy
franchisees and In-toto staff visited the headquarters of parent company
Wellman at Enger in Germany this month to view the new kitchen collections
for 2007.
All showroom owners are invited to participate in an annual visit that
allows them to spend a whole day at the company's extensive internal exhibition.
New showroom owners also have the opportunity for a tour around the Wellman
manufacturing plant.
Alno UK managing director, John Kinder welcomed the visitors to this year's
exhibition and gave a short presentation highlighting the key new trends
and exciting innovations on show, including a range of new contemporary
colours, a futuristic handleless kitchen door and 'servodrive' drawers
and pull-outs.
Steve
Saunders from In-toto with visitors at the Wellmann exhibition
‘This
year's trip was a huge success, feedback from showroom owners has been
excellent,’ said National Franchise Manager, Graham Russell.
‘Having this opportunity to preview next year's new designs is very
important as it allows our retailers to plan their introduction into showrooms
by the end of the year, when the new In-Toto brochure becomes available.’
‘The new designs, colours and innovations for 2007 are very exciting,’
he added. ‘Based around a theme of 'Inspired by life - designed for
living,' they reflect the current trend for the kitchen to be a meeting
place for families.’
JJO
Invess in New Production Facility
J
& J Ormerod Plc (JJO plc), the independent manufacturer of quality
kitchen and bedroom furniture continues to forge ahead by investing in
the latest technology in kitchen manufacturing.
Following
the company’s recent purchase of the revolutionary BIMA P480V instrument
by IMA, the German supplier of quality machinery, JJO plc has announced
the latest stage of its continued investment programme by placing an order
valued at over £2million with the newly formed Hi Tech Panel Division
of SCM Group UK. The order is for new machines including a 'Gabbiani'
Ocean 160 Angle Panel Sawing Plant with Stacker 140, two 'IDM' Squaring
and Edge Banding machines models SB -1 and SB-2 complete with handling
equipment from 'Mahros', two 'Morbidelli' Throughfeed Boring machines
model Zenith F2 CDM and two 'Morbidelli' Author 330 CNC Machining Centres.
Investment in new plant and machinery to increase capacity is essential
to maintain JJO's recent success with the launch of the ‘Eco’
brand at KBB2006. The company has seen sales of its eco kitchens go from
strength-to-strength, and is predicting it to become brand leader by the
end of the year as sales growth exceeds 400 per cent of target to-date.
JJO plc also manufactures Colonial Kitchens & Bedrooms to the highest
standards of the luxury brands which continue to build market share among
independent retailers and quality house builders.
Bob Myers, JJO plc's Production Director, commented, ‘We looked at
four potential suppliers for the new range of equipment over a 3 month
period, and finally decided to go with the SCM Group. We felt that the
company offered the best solution and gave value for money with its machines
for our continuing expansion programme and the increased production we
require going into next year, and the fact the machines can be incorporated
into our existing factory space.’
Hi Tech Panel Division's Area Sales Manager, Kelvin Wilkens, stated ‘We
are very pleased to obtain this order from such a large, well established
and leading supplier of kitchens. When the machines are installed and
running, JJO will be one of an increasing number of furniture manufacturers
that are now going with the SCM Group for the latest technology now available
from one source.’
Combining this new multi million pound investment with its established
heritage and expertise, JJO plc says that it is ideally positioned to
provide customers with an impressive range of high quality and practical
kitchens.
JJO plc is a corporate member of the KBSA (Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialist
Association), a long term member of ASFI (Association of Suppliers to
the Furniture Industry) and a supporter of FIRA (Furniture Industry Research
Association).
For further information please contact JJO plc directly on 01706 877877,
or alternatively email Natalie Peters at npeters@jjoplc.com
and visit JJO plc at http://www.jjoplc.com.
Orion's
Recipe for Success for Major Kitchen Supplier
Herefordshire-based
Orion Packaging Systems (UK) Ltd has clinched a major six-figure deal
to supply automatic packaging and materials handling equipment for a new
production line for Lancashire based Bernstein Group Holdings (BGH), a
leading manufacturer and supplier of kitchens to the trade.
The
deal will see Orion design and manufacture two orbital stretchwrappers,
a turntable pallet wrapper, belt conveyors, a palletiser and integrated
scissor tables for BGH's expanded production facility at Westhoughton
near Bolton.
The expansion follows a major growth in demand for BGH's product range,
particularly in rigid cabinets, which created a need to move to automated
production and wrapping.
Garry Lundgren, Operations Director at BGH, explained: 'We initially designed
the system specification and requirements which were put out to tender.
However, Orion was the only company prepared to work with us to develop
a flexible, bespoke solution rather than trying to supply off the shelf
equipment.
'The system needed to cope with moving and wrapping a variety of sizes
and shapes of product and then getting them to the warehouse without having
forklift trucks in the main production area. Orion has developed a system
which will do just that, quickly and effectively.'
The installation will take place during October. It is one of Orion's
first major installations involving both wrapping and materials handling
equipment following the addition of materials handling products to its
portfolio this summer.
Walter Williams, Managing Director of Orion Packaging Systems (UK) Ltd,
added: 'This is a highly prestigious project for us and one which reflects
the versatility of our product offering following our decision to branch
into materials handling. This has enabled us to become a single access
point for all equipment for product movement and packaging prior to despatch,
and we are working on a number or projects combining both of these areas
of expertise.'
Established in 1987, Orion is today one of only a handful of UK-owned
manufacturers of end of line stretchwrapping equipment for palletised
and unpalletised goods. Orion offers a full range of automatic and semi-automatic
systems, available either as stand-alone units or fully integrated into
the production line. It has also diversified into materials handling,
giving customers access to the complete offering for product movement
and packaging prior to despatch.
Publication
of Sanitec's Financial Information
Sanitec is since April 2005 under 100% private ownership, and therefore
has very limited financial publication obligations. For the time being,
Sanitec will not publish any interim or annual reports.
Sanitec is a European multi-brand group that designs, manufactures and
markets bathroom ceramics and bath and shower products. The Group is based
around locally well known brands, which have strong positions and deep
roots in the bathroom business, and is well positioned as a leading European
provider for bathroom solutions.
In
2004, Sanitec's net sales amounted to EUR 898.9 million. The Group employs
almost 7,000 people, mainly in Europe. The 28 production plants are located
in Europe whereas the sales and marketing network operates world-wide.
Web: http://www.sanitec.com
Top
Drawer Autumn 2006 Tops Visitor Figures
Top
Drawer Autumn 2006, (10-12 September, Olympia, London) wrapped up the
autumn buying season with an unforgettable show and an increase in visitor
numbers as buyers flocked to source the latest gifts for the Christmas
season and beyond.
‘We chose to exhibit at Top Drawer Autumn to launch our brand into
the UK market and were delighted with the results. The layout of the show
was fantastic, with great lighting and the atmosphere was really positive
- we picked up 60 new accounts!’, reported Alastair Cuttell of Silly
Gifts.
The quality of the product was reflected in that of the buyers, which
included Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Selfridges and John Lewis. New buyers
were spoilt for choice with 800 design led exhibitors offering a diverse
range of unique product from categories including fashion accessories
and jewellery, home accessories, china and glassware, gifts, greeting
cards, stationery and gift food.
Key independent retailer, Darch & Duff comments, ‘Top Drawer
Autumn has given us an injection of fresh ideas and new companies that
we have not seen before, with product enabling us to look at Valentine's
and Spring 2007.It was well organised and there was a great buzzy atmosphere.We
have found product that will keep us one step ahead of the competition’.
Top Drawer Autumn is the last chance for buyers and retailers to source
the very latest new products and bestsellers for Christmas and is renowned
for showing innovative and original product in an exciting environment.
Recognised for its dedication to providing insights into up-and-coming
market trends, Top Drawer Autumn hosted an eco product feature and launched
a new gift food area this year, both fast-growing sectors in the evolving
retail market.
The eco feature, which showcased new products selected by TV presenter
and Ecocentric founder, Oliver Heath proved a great success, reflecting
the growing eco-revolution among consumers. Also, for the first time,
Top Drawer Autumn dedicated an area to gift food, with Henrietta Green's
FoodLovers' Fairs, which gave buyers a new area to consider when building
their Christmas ranges, from ideal stocking fillers to luxury gift food.