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Kelly Hoppen's New KH2 Range Launched at 100% Design

Waterfront Bathrooms recently unveiled the next phase of its design collaboration with Kelly Hoppen at the suitable platform of the super-stylish London exhibition 100% Design.

Complementing the existing Kelly Hoppen range, KH2 - which was extremely well received at the exhibition - has joined other 'designer' ranges in the Waterfront portfolio. KH2 features new monobloc deck and wall taps, as well as a compelling 'tower' version which offers a selection of alternative spout lengths for differing specification requirements. The wet room showering suite comprises a thermostatic mixer control, with flexible diverters for personal spray control of hand, head or body jets. New hi-volume shower heads complete the total-shower experience. One design note (and an industry first) is the Waterfront Exafil bath filler - protruding just 4cms from the bath, this new product allows for enhanced streamlining when specifying for design-led bathing.

To complement the showering suite there is a new line up of KH2 accessories including a bathroom cabinet, robe hooks, a variety of shelves, towel rails/ rings and soap dish holders etc.

Tel: 01527 584244
Email: info@waterfrontbathrooms.com
Web: http://www.waterfrontbathrooms.com

Mike Conlon Appointed Managing Director of Twyford Bathrooms

Sanitec, Europe's leading sanitaryware manufacturer, announced on Monday 24th September, that Mike Conlon, Twyford Bathrooms' Sales and Marketing Director is to become the Senior Vice President of Sanitec UK & Ireland and Managing Director for Twyford Bathrooms, effective from October 1st 2007.

Current SVP and MD Alan Brown has been appointed to a senior position within Sanitec to head up a major group project to develop Sanitec's global footprint and expand into new territories and product categories.

Bengt Pihl, CEO and President of Sanitec says:

‘It is imperative that we focus our best people on ensuring that we grow our business and provide the greatest value to our customers and shareholders. With this in mind I have made some changes within the group to maximise the effectiveness of my senior team.

‘I would like to thank Alan for the success he has brought to Twyford Bathrooms and wish him well in his new role. Equally I am also sure that you will join me in wishing Mike well in his new role.’

Mike joined Twyford Bathrooms in 2001. He had previously been International Business Director for Caradon and had also held positions at Blue Circle, Alcatel and Sony. Mike joined the Twyford Board in 2001.

Commenting on his new position, Mike says;

‘I am very excited about my new role. It is a thrilling time for Twyford Bathrooms as we continue to grow our market share in both UK and Ireland as well as overseas. Sanitec's global expansion plans provide a wonderful platform for me to move Twyford Bathrooms into new product categories and sectors.'

Web: http://www.twyfordbathrooms.com

Waterline Flies The Flag For New White-Westinghouse Portfolio

Waterline Ltd has recently become the latest distributor of Premium Appliance Brands' American-styled, White-Westinghouse portfolio of kitchen appliances.

To further enhance the portfolio's appeal, a number of additions have also been included, to fit with the growing requirement for value-added, luxury extras. The range, which began life as 3 single ovens, 2 double ovens, 5 electric hobs and 7 gas hobs, now incorporates a professional style 2-litre built-in espresso machine, two warming drawers, and two integrated wine coolers. The 300mm wine cooler has an 18-bottle capacity, whilst the larger 600mm model has a 46-bottle capacity. The warming drawers are available 14cm and 29cm high and can be installed alone, or with an oven/microwave.

Tim Hutchinson, Waterline's Marketing Director, comments, 'We have recently launched the complete White-Westinghouse portfolio; and the feedback has been extremely positive. The range has been designed to be an exclusive proposition and will therefore not be available to multiple retailers, to offer independents and smaller retailers the opportunity to stock a portfolio of high-quality products at a great margin.'

Guy Weaver, Chief Executive of Premium Appliance Brands, comments, 'We are thrilled that Waterline are working with us on our White-Westinghouse portfolio, as it really is one of the most carefully planned and unique collections on the market. With the introduction of the luxury additions, such as the built-in wine coolers and coffee machines, we have added substantially to the portfolio so that retailers can now buy what is truly a complete appliance package. The new range is also complemented with a new White-Westinghouse brochure, which is available for customers now.'

For further information on the White-Westinghouse portfolio contact Premium Appliance Brands on 01925 248980 or visit www.white-westinghouse.co.uk.

Whirlpool Chairman Jeff Fettig Accepts Human Capital Award

Whirlpool Corporation Chairman and CEO Jeff M. Fettig has been named the 2007 recipient of the Human Capital Advantage Award by Hunt-Scanlon Advisors.

The annual award is designed to recognise a leading chief executive who has displayed excellence in human capital management while increasing shareholder value. Mr. Fettig accepted the award at Hunt-Scanlon's ‘The Talent-Minded Organisation’ conference on September 26th in New York City.

‘The best investments that we make to profitably grow our business are in our people,’ said Fettig. ‘As the world and the business environment have changed dramatically, Whirlpool has made significant changes in its approach to talent and the development of leaders. This recognition is a tribute to the many people at Whirlpool who have contributed to the transformation of our talent and development practices to help us deliver value to our shareholders.’

Under Fettig's leadership, the company's stock price has risen more than 50 percent while winning a spot on Business Week's top 100 Most Innovative Companies. Additionally, Whirlpool has been recognised as one of the 100 Best Corporate Citizens by Business Ethics magazine for seven years, named to the Dow Jones Sustainability and FTSE4Good indexes, and acknowledged by numerous other sources for its proactive approach to social responsibility. Fettig is also the recipient of the CEO Leadership Award from Diversity Best Practices magazine, and the company was recently named to the 2007 list of Top Companies for Leaders as published in FORTUNE magazine.

About Hunt-Scanlon Advisors
Hunt-Scanlon Advisors is the leading and most-respected source of news, information and analysis on the human capital industry for executives in human resources, recruitment, diversity and professional services. For more company information, visit http://www.hunt-scanlon.com.

About Whirlpool Corporation
Whirlpool Corporation is a manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances, with annual sales of approximately $18 billion, 73,000 employees, and 70 manufacturing and technology research centres around the world. The company markets Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Brastemp, Bauknecht and other major brand names to consumers in nearly every country around the world. Additional information about the company can be found at http://www.whirlpoolcorp.com.

William Ball Appointed as Appliance Distributor for Hotpoint & Indesit

Expanding its appliance distribution portfolio, William Ball has been appointed a national distributor for Hotpoint and Indesit built-in appliances.

The company has long been a national distributor for Baumatic, Neff and Belling and this expansion of its appliance offering reflects the success it has had with such quality brand appliances. With 110 dedicated William Ball retailers across the UK, William Ball is in an ideal position to provide the logistics and livery that is required to distribute appliances and this has been recognised by Hotpoint and Indesit.

‘We are a UK-based company that has 44 year's experience in delivering fitted furniture on time and in pristine condition, so it makes sense for us to include appliances at the same time. It speeds up the installation process but also helps the environment by reducing the number of deliveries per project,’ explains Terry Ball, md, William Ball. ‘As retailers become more concerned about their carbon footprint, I believe this kind of one-stop-shop service will become more important.’

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

Zaccariotto Cucine Makes its Debut in the UK

Zaccariotto Cucine, one of Italy's leading high quality manufacturers of bespoke kitchens, is now set to enter the UK market following the appointment of its exclusive UK distributor Hullu Service Ltd.

Established back in 1956, Zaccariotto Cucine has firmly established itself as one of Italy's foremost kitchen design specialists, and now exports to the key European markets of France, Germany, Spain, Portugal, Greece. The company has also succeeded in securing a strong and high profile presence in the United States, Russia, The Ukraine and Hong Kong. Its entry into the British market is seen as a major step forward for the company.

Zaccariotto Cucine kitchens are all manufactured at the company's headquarters in Gaiarine, close to the city of Venice. Clients from the building and contract furnishing industry are welcome by appointment to view the company's full range of contemporary and traditional style units at the company's impressive 30,000 square metre showroom.

Zaccariotto Cucine has been the chosen name on a number of high profile projects within the past year. One major contract completed recently was for the Gran Madison Hotel in New York in which 220 luxury self-catering apartments were fitted with exclusive Zaccariotto Cucine kitchens.

London based Hullu Service Ltd will undertake all Zaccariotto Cuisine contracts both in the UK and in Hong Kong and will see the project through from initial layout and 3D design to delivery and project management. The company have appointed Pittura Ltd to handle all fitting requirements in the UK.

Hullu Service will be introducing the new ranges of Zaccariotto Cucine for the first time at the UK's premier building trade show Interbuild 2007 at The NEC Birmingham from Sunday 28th October to Thursday 1st November. The company can be found in Hall 3 at Stand 03/3A-G-45 and are keen to meet with contractors and developers for both new build and refurbishment projects.

Zaccariotto Cucine and Hullu Service are to unveil a number of special events which will take place on the company's stand at Interbuild 2007, including a special prize draw with a first prize of 2 tickets for the 2008 Gran Prix Formula One in Monza. The runner up will win a luxury weekend holiday in Venice. To register for this competition simply visit the company's stand and complete an entry form. The draw will take place in January once the dates for the Gran Prix have been confirmed.

Hullu Service is confident that the extremely high levels of design, quality and skilful fitting afforded by the company will ensure that Zaccariotto Cucine repeats its international success here in the UK and become one of our most sought after quality kitchen choices.

Full details of Zaccariotto Cucine and its current ranges can be seen at http://www.zaccariottogroup.com.

Julius Blum and Van Hagen - Utopia Suppliers of the Year

Utopia has announced that Julius Blum and Van Hagen have won the 2007 Utopia Supplier of the Year awards. Each year the UK bathroom furniture manufacturer makes two 'Best Supplier' awards, one in the distributor category and one in the manufacturer category, based on its vendor appraisal system.

This year the winner in the distributor category is Van Hagen, suppliers of furniture components, and the winner in the manufacturer category is Julius Blum, suppliers of hinges and other components. Commenting on the award, Joanne Brooke, Utopia's Operations Director, said, ‘We are delighted to present these awards to two excellent suppliers, Blum and Van Hagen. We thank them for their great service to Utopia and look forward to continuing our relationship with them in the future.’

The winning companies were invited to Utopia to receive their awards, an engraved Waterford crystal bowl and a certificate, during the recent supplier day on 18th September.

Left to right, Steve Holder (Getalit), Gordon Thompson (Worktop fabrications), Andrew Laidler (Egger UK), Lionel Vassel (Egger UK), Keith Siddle (Lamplas), Roy Woodward (Van Hagen), Peter Taylor (Hamberger), Steve Williams (Renolit), Anthony Smith ( Van Hagen, Winner of Distributor Vendor Appraisal award), Graham Horton (Blum, Winner of the Manufacturer Vendor Appraisal award), Joanne Brooke (Utopia), Matthew Hall (East Coast Fixings), Steve Bratt (Probox), Andrew Keady (Clouting), Steve Cox (Managing Director, Utopia) and Paula Gilbert (Utopia) at the Utopia supplier day.

BMA and Three Valleys Water Promote Water Efficiency to Children

The Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA), as part of its ongoing water efficiency initiatives, is teaming up with Three Valleys Water to offer schoolchildren aged between four and seven who live in the South East the opportunity to learn all about sensible water usage in the bathroom and win a trip for their class.

In its quest for a responsible Bathroom Industry, the BMA believes it's important to reach tomorrow's consumers today and start educating them early in the importance of hygiene, sanitation and conscientious water usage.

Supported by the National Home Improvement Council Educational Trust, the BMA's educational 'How To Wash' pack contains the fact sheet, a line drawing to colour in, a lesson aid and supplementary information and is downloaded by teachers from the BMA website at http://www.bathroom-association.org.

A fun and interactive lesson with important messages, children learn how to use water wisely, then colour in the line drawing and send them in as a class entry to be judged as part of a competition.

The winning class will receive a trip to the Three Valleys Water Environment and Education Centre, Clay Lane, in Bushey, which since opening in September 1998 welcomes about 6,000 visitors a year. All transport to and from the venue is provided, together with lunch and goodie bags for each child.

Speaking about the project, Yvonne Orgill BMA Chief Executive says: ‘We have a problem with water in the UK and the key to water efficiency is reducing waste, not restricting use. It's important we communicate this message to our children to influence their future bathing behaviour.

‘We're starting in the South East as that's where the greatest water problem is. We will team up with utility companies in other areas and offer similar competitions to schools in those areas.’

Competition entries from schools in the South East should reach the BMA no later than 20 January 2008. If you live in the South East and have a child aged between four and seven, make sure their teacher knows about How To Wash and encourage the class to enter the competition.

Other ongoing BMA water efficiency initiatives include the Water Efficient Product Labelling Scheme launched earlier this year with a website containing a database of water efficient products and guidelines for joining the Scheme at http://www.water-efficiencylabel.org.uk. The voluntary Scheme is open to all companies manufacturing or selling water efficient products in the UK if they meet the Scheme's criteria.

Web: http://www.bathroom-association.org

Coram Specified For Luxurious Millwood Homes Development

Coram Showers' Optima range of shower enclosures and its completely leak free bath screens have been specified by housebuilder, Millwood Homes (Devon) Ltd, for Littlewood Meadow, a luxurious village style, residential development in Hatherleigh, Devon, which consists of 63 high specification properties.

Coram's 800mm Bi-Fold enclosure and 800mm Quadrant enclosure were installed in the development's three bedroom homes to create spacious and luxurious showering areas within the ensuite and family bathrooms. The Bi-Fold enclosure was fitted with a 400mm in-line panel and finished in plain glass, with a polished silver frame. The Quadrant enclosure, also finished in plain glass and polished silver, was installed with Coram's patent protected Waterguard shower tray, providing a combination that is so watertight, it is backed by the company's Watertight Lifetime Guarantee.

Coram's Sail shape bath screen was fitted in the family bathrooms in Littlewood Meadow's two bedroom homes to deliver watertight performance and contemporary style for over-the-bath showering.

On selecting Coram for the Littlewood Meadow development, Dwight Atkinson, company buyer at Millwood Homes, commented: ‘We have specified Coram for a number of Millwood projects, as we share the company's enthusiasm for quality, style and attention to detail. Littlewood Meadow is a luxurious development, which has been built to an exceptional specification and Coram's bath screen and Optima range of shower enclosures are ideal for these properties as they combine attractive, contemporary design with guaranteed watertight operation.’

In addition to the Quadrant and Bi-Fold enclosures specified for the Littlewood Meadow development, the Optima range features five further designs, which include the Pivot Door, the Sliding Door and the Tri-Fold Door, along with the Pentagon and Corner Entry enclosures, each offering contemporary style, straightforward installation and completely watertight performance.

Other designs in Coram's leak-free bath screens range include the Square, Sliding, Curved and Four and Five Panel folding designs, which can be finished in white or chrome. Like the Optima range of enclosures, Coram's bath screens are quick to install and designed to offer contemporary styling and leak free performance.

Coram Showers specialises in the design and manufacture of shower enclosures, shower pods, shower trays and bath screens. The company's current range includes the Premier and Optima ranges of shower enclosures, Waterguard Showertrays, a range of bath screens and the new retail range, Acora. Designed for fast and easy installation, as well as watertight performance, all Coram products are designed and manufactured at the company's Bridgnorth factory in Shropshire and enclosures are power shower tested to BS 6340 against leakage.

Tel: 01746 766466
Web: http://www.coram.co.uk

Maytag's Christmas Incentive for Retailers

In the run up to Christmas, retailers can boost their sales by taking advantage of Maytag UK's Capital Bonds incentive for their staff.

Maytag UK, the supplier of premium refrigeration and laundry appliances, has reintroduced the Capital Bonds incentive promotion due to its earlier success with both retailers and staff. Retailers' staff have the opportunity to earn up to £65 on selected Admiral and Maytag refrigeration models, from October through to the 31st December, earning more for each selected Maytag or Admiral refrigeration model they sell.

A great incentive to motivate staff in the run up to Christmas, Capital Bonds can be used in hundreds of retail outlets nationally, including high street fashion and home retailers, hotels, and restaurants. They can even be put towards leisure activities, contributing towards Christmas shopping or providing a fabulous opportunity for an indulgent little treat at such a hectic time of year.

Stuart Frost, Product Marketing Manager for Maytag UK, says: ‘Capital Bonds are a fantastic way for staff to earn great rewards for their sales efforts. The vouchers are so flexible; there really is something for everyone. It is a superb opportunity for retailers to boost their sales in the run up to the New Year.’

Capital Bond vouchers can be earned on a total of six models across the Admiral and Maytag brands, from £25 on the Admiral SAL2027GBS, right up to £65 on the Maytag SOV626ZB, the TriLogy SOV026TB and the SOV225GB.

For more information please contact your Area Sales Manager, or to renew or apply for the scheme call Leigh Spiking on 01737 231269. For information on Capital Bonds, please visit the website at http://www.capitalbonds.co.uk.

A+ Electrolux Freezer is One of Complete Set Chosen for Antarctic Project

The Electrolux EUF27391X upright freezer is one of a complete set of Electrolux kitchen appliances to be chosen for the world's first Zero Emissions Antarctic Base Station. This station has to be self sufficient - it will use solar power and wind power - so every fraction of a kW counts! This station has just been built in Belgium as a dry run before it will be dismantled and shipped to Antarctica in 2008.

So what is the news? ' Well, these energy efficient products chosen by the International Polar Foundation for their outstanding energy efficiency are available NOW in the UK. A good selling point for retailers to be able to tell consumers that this product was chosen by the IPF for its first Zero Carbon Emissions antarctic base station,' says Dawn Stockell, Electrolux's Marketing Manager.

Appliances the same as or equivalent to those selected by the world's first Zero Emissions Antarctic Base Station:
Electrolux Insight Time Manager EWN14991 - A+AA washing machine with big 8kg load
Electrolux Condenser Dryer EDC77570W - B rated, 7kg load
Electrolux Dishwasher ESF66010 AAA rated, low noise 47dB
Electrolux Fridge ERE39392 A+ rated, stainless steel 380 litres capacity
Electrolux upright Freezer EUF27391 X - A+ Frost Free freezer , 266 litres capacity

For more on the Antarctic Base Station and Electrolux please see http://www.electrolux.com/antarctica

Ecoforce/Sensaflow Director Disqualified for 7 Years

According to information provided by the Insolvency Service, Peter Branch has been disqualified as a director for 7 years after his company Sensaflow Ltd (company No 04196833, registered in Bridgwater) - which produced and marketed an electronic urinal flush-flow regulator was placed in compulsory liquidation with debts of £68,685.00

The Insolvency Service reports that:

1. He caused Ecoforce Limited ("ECOFORCE") to trade to the detriment of HM Revenue & Customs ("HMRC") in respect of VAT, PAYE and NIC, and to my benefit, from at least 31 August 2003 to May 2004, in that:

· VAT totalling £11,159 remains outstanding in respect of all quarterly periods from the quarter ended 31 July 2003 (due for payment by 31 August 2003 at the latest) to at least cessation of trading in May 2004.
· PAYE and NIC of £6,738 remains outstanding in respect of the 2003/04 tax year (out of total liabilities for that year of £15,371). In addition, PAYE and NIC of £1,881 remains outstanding for the 2004/05 tax year, representing the total liabilities for that year.
· ECOFORCE made payments totalling £97,855 from 1 September 2003 to liquidation on 16 February 2005, of which £7,650 was paid to HMRC. At liquidation, ECOFORCE had one trade creditor for £710, whereas it owed a total of £20,405 to HMRC in respect of VAT, PAYE and NIC.
· Accounts for ECOFORCE for the year ended 31 October 2003 showed an outstanding director's loan account of £48,990, which he failed to repay despite the ECOFORCE's overdue Crown liabilities. ECOFORCE's records also show that he took at least a further £22,040 of benefits from ECOFORCE from 1 November 2003 to liquidation.

2. He caused Sensaflow Limited ("SENSAFLOW") to trade to the detriment of HMRC in respect of VAT, PAYE and NIC, and to his benefit, from at least 31 October 2004 to 14 April 2006, in that:

· VAT totalling at least £25,660 remains outstanding in respect of all quarterly periods from the quarter ended 30 September 2004 (due for payment by 31 October 2004 at the latest) to at least cessation of trading on 14 April 2006.
· The last payment in respect of PAYE and NIC was made in November 2005, however this was not sufficient to repay the amount due from the 2004/05 tax year, due for payment by 19 April 2005 at the latest. This left PAYE and NIC totalling £6,358 outstanding for the 2004/05 tax year (out of total liabilities of £12,890 for that year).
· In addition, PAYE and NIC of £18,678 remains outstanding for the 2005/06 tax year, representing the total liabilities for that year. Although no specific wage records are available for the 2006/07 tax year, SENSAFLOW's records show wage payments in April and May 2006 of £9,809, giving rise to estimated PAYE and NIC liabilities of £1,962 for that year.
· SENSAFLOW's ledgers show that £261,325 was paid by SENSAFLOW between its commencement of trading in April 2004 to liquidation on 31 May 2006. Of this, £123,677 was paid to me, or for my benefit, and £124,972 was paid to other creditors, whereas £12,676 was paid to HMRC.
· Trade creditors decreased from £3,862 in March 2005 to £3,369 by the date of the liquidation. Over the same period the debt due to HMRC increased by at least £28,873. He stated that the oldest trade creditor had been outstanding since February 2006.

3. He caused SENSAFLOW to make transactions to his benefit and to the detriment of other creditors, especially HMRC, in that:

· On 04 October 2004 he caused SENSAFLOW to repay the overdraft on ECOFORCE`s bank account, in the sum of £14,441. At this time ECOFORCE was no longer trading and had substantial overdue liabilities to HMRC of £20,405 and SENSAFLOW itself was in arrears with its own payments to HMRC.
· There was no benefit to SENSAFLOW in making this payment, however, it did benefit him because he had personally guaranteed the overdraft. In addition to the above, various other inter-company transactions (including SENSAFLOW`s purchase of ECOFORCE`s assets) resulted in a total balance due from ECOFORCE of £15,997, which was never repaid to Sensaflow.
· From 1 November 2004 to March 2006, during which time SENSAFLOW was trading with overdue liabilities to HMRC (which remained unpaid at liquidation), he drew at least £44,768 from SENSAFLOW by way of director's loans, in that those amounts were in excess of the remuneration he declared to HMRC. In addition, he drew £10,469 from SENSAFLOW from April 2006 to liquidation, despite the fact that SENSAFLOW ceased trading on 14 April 2006.

4. He acted from 01 November 1996 to 31 May 2006 as a director of the following companies using the trading name of "Sensaflow", which was a name prohibited under the provisions of Section 216 of the Insolvency Act 1986 ('s216'):
Pumpkin Services Ltd 01 November 1996 to 13 July 2000
ECOFORCE 13 July 2000 to 16 April 2001
ECOFORCE 08 September 2000 to May 2004
SENSAFLOW April 2004 to 07 September 2005
ECOFORCE SENSAFLOW 16 February 2005 to 31 May 2006 .

The Laundry Room - Some Useful Facts from Electrolux

Dawn Stockell, Brand & Marketing Manager at Electrolux answers a variety of consumer questions on The Laundry Room

Question:
Why are washing machine programs so long these days? If I bought a machine 10 – 12 years ago it would take about an hour for a cotton wash at 40°C or 60. These days it takes me twice as long .

Answer:
Since the introduction of energy labels washing machine programmes have been extended to achieve the highest ‘A’ grade wash performance. Sometimes this long programme time is not necessary as generally the clothes we wash these days are not very dirty. There are a number of ways the customer can shorten their wash times and still get a good wash result.

Most machines have a quick wash programme and this is generally a 30 minute programme at 30 degrees and has really been designed for smaller, lightly soiled loads. However, a more effective approach is available on machines with a quick or time saver option. This facility reduces programme times by up to 50% and gives the consumer the flexibility to use different temperatures for different fabric types and levels of soiling.

The most flexible timesaver available is an option for consumers to control their own program time, so making their wash time fit with their life rather than their life fit with the wash time. All of the models in the new Electrolux Time Manager washing machine range, both free standing and built in, provide the customer with the flexibility of being able to select their preferred program time. This means the consumer can wash a cotton load in as little as 45 minutes and synthetics in an amazing 20 minutes! This really puts consumers in control of their laundry time.

Question:
Why do wash load sizes seem to be getting bigger while I still need to separate the wash by fabrics and colours meaning smaller loads? Surely this must be wasting water, energy and time?

Answer:
Yes, load sizes are increasing and over 60% of the UK washing machine market is 6KG or over, so it is really important that the consumer chooses a machine that is able to adjust consumptions according to the load size. Intelligent machines – like the new Zanussi’s Jet system+ range - use sensors to detect the load size and only use the water, energy and time required for that particular load. Zanussi’s unique Jet system+ wash technology not only adjusts the wash parameters to suit the load size automatically, it also offers outstanding performance and provides the cleanest, most economical wash performance ever.

Larger load capacities give you the option to wash bulky items such as duvets, bed spreads and curtains. Being able to take advantage of a 7 or 8KG load size means less trips to the laundrette to wash these oversize items saving time and some considerable inconvenience

Question:
There are machines for doing the dishes, the washing, the cooking etc - how about a machine that does the ironing as well?

Answer:
Yes. Ironing is probably the UK consumer’s most hated household chore because of the time it takes - and the longer you put it off, the worse it gets. Now Electrolux does have a machine that helps with the ironing, it’s a new tumble dryer and it’s called Iron Aid. Iron Aid helps with the ironing; well actually, we think it mostly does the ironing. Iron aid uses a steam programme during the cycle to remove creases. In the tests we’ve done with shirts, bedding, table linen, for example, the results have been either minimum ironing or no ironing required. As you would imagine, a machine like this saves loads of time and effort… and that’s not all:

it can cleverly sense if the laundry is wet or dry, and then either dries and irons, or just irons.

But there are some clothes you can’t wash – suits, dry clean-only dresses or blouses etc. Sometimes they’re not dirty, they just need refreshing – for example after a night out in a smoky atmosphere. For these Iron Aid’s refresh programme removes the creases and odours and well ….refreshes them. Another benefit of this is that it reduces the dry cleaning bills and saves time.

Question:
Why do some washing machines have a filter and some not – and does it matter where it is?

Answer:
All washing machines and washer dryers have a filter to collect the lint and fluff from fabrics during the wash. Coins, buttons and small items can sometimes be left in pockets and find their way into the wash. These items can cause a blockage which could eventually result in mechanical failure.

Some washing machine and washer dryer filters are internal and not accessible to the user meaning that any blockages would have to be cleared by a service engineer and that could be costly and very time consuming.

All Electrolux Group washing machines and washer dryers have external filters which can be accessed and cleaned by the consumer –any items caught in the filter can be reclaimed at the same time.

The filter access on washer dryers is particularly important as regular cleaning is recommended in order to maintain efficiency and keep the machine in good working order.

Providing easy access to machine filters is even more important when the machine is built in to kitchen furniture. Otherwise filter cleaning could become a major inconvenience and very time consuming for consumers if they have to remove the kitchen plinth and sometimes even remove the product from it’s housing to gain access to the filter. .

A unique and important feature of all Electrolux Group built in washing machines and washer dryers is the: 'Above the kitchen plinth, easy access filter'. This filter is fully accessible and can be easily removed for cleaning without having to remove furniture or the appliance, saving time and inconvenience.

Question:
Why do washing machines have so many programmes when most of us only use two or three?

Answer:
Most washing machines have the required standard number of ITCLC (International Textile Care Labelling Counsel) programmes which provide the correct washing conditions for different types of fabrics. Additional ‘special programmes’ can often offer you real time and labour saving solutions. For example many models in the Electrolux Group washing machine and washer dryer ranges include a ‘Handwash’ program. This extra gentle programme takes great care of the most delicate fabrics and of course saves the consumer the time and effort of a tedious and messy chore.

Whirlpool Corporation Develops Breakthrough High-Efficiency Washer Cleaner, giving Owners a Powerful Solution

In an effort to combat odour-causing residue in high-efficiency (HE) washing machines, Whirlpool Corporation, the laundry specialist, has announced a washer cleaner - Affresh™ tablets. Until now, some HE washing machine owners have attempted to clean mould and mildew stains with everything from bleach to vinegar with limited results.

Due to the efficient design of HE machines, mould and mildew stains have a higher potential for build-up in HE machines. Previously, no cleaning product provided a complete solution to effectively combat this problem. Affresh™ tablets, specifically designed for these washing machines, help remove and prevent odour-causing residue build-up in all brands. The oxygenated bubbling action of Affresh™ washer cleaner penetrates and dissolves unseen odour-causing residue, providing a more effective cleaning option than bleach alone.

‘Since modern high-efficiency washers use less water and seal more tightly than older, less-efficient machines, these washers are more prone to residue build-up,’ said Anthony Hardaway, microbiologist and lead fabric care engineer for Whirlpool Corporation. ‘To address this issue, Whirlpool pioneered the development of Affresh™ tablets, a simple, powerful and universal solution. As the leader that introduced large-capacity, front-load laundry to the United States, we believe this introduction will not only address the issue, but once again change the industry.’

All brands of HE washing machines have the potential for mould and mildew stains if not properly cleaned on a regular basis. To ensure maximum performance, appliance manufacturers recommend a monthly maintenance and cleaning routine. Many cleaning products currently on the market with ingredients such as bleach adequately maintain the washer, but results may vary and are not always consistent.

If used once a month, Affresh™ washer cleaner prevents odour-causing residues from accumulating. Heavily soiled washers may require repeated treatments to remove traces of odour and residue. In this case, Whirlpool recommends running three successive washer cleaning cycles with an Affresh™ tablet in each.

Affresh™ washer cleaner can be purchased at http://www.affresh.com beginning September 25th, 2007. The product will be available at national retailers this autumn with an MSRP of $6.99 for a package of three tablets. From September 25th to December 31st, 2007, Whirlpool will offer free shipping on all online Affresh™ brand orders. Additionally, the product will be available via a subscription through the Affresh brand Web site, helping consumers save time and money.

Visit http://www.affresh.com to learn more.

Whirlpool Corporation Offers Behind-the-Scenes Look at Brand Differentiation

As a specialist in the highly competitive home appliance industry, Whirlpool Corporation knows the value and necessity of clear brand differentiation. Whirlpool offers a wide array of choices of leading appliance brands to best meet consumers' needs.

For every Whirlpool Corporation brand - including Whirlpool®, Maytag®, KitchenAid®, Jenn-Air®, Amana® and Gladiator® GarageWorks - there is a unique brand identity that is defined using proprietary consumer research about preferences, lifestyles and values. Whirlpool Corporation uses this research to make tough, strategic decisions about the kinds of product innovations, features and designs it will offer to consumers.

‘Each of Whirlpool Corporation's branded products is designed to meet the specific needs and preferences of consumers from a psychographic standpoint. What's important to one consumer may not even occur to another,’ said Michael A. Todman, president, Whirlpool North America. ‘For instance, the consumer who buys Maytag brand focuses on reliability, so the durability of internal nuts and bolts means everything. The time-starved nature of the Whirlpool brand consumer means placing greater value on getting more done quickly, so the brand's focus is timesaving features.’

Creating Distinct Identities
The company says that the legacy of insight-driven innovation has made Whirlpool brand the number one home appliance brand and the best-selling laundry brand in the world. The Whirlpool brand ignited the trend toward large-capacity, front- load laundry appliances in 2001 by introducing the Duet® Fabric Care system - which leads the industry in energy and water efficiency - to U.S. homeowners.

Today, ongoing consumer research has fuelled new versions of the Duet model, including Duet steam, the laundry system which incorporates the natural, pure power of steam in both the washer and dryer. Steam technology relaxes wrinkles and removes odours from clothing in just minutes without chemicals, reducing trips to the dry cleaner and saving time and money. Additional research has led to the development of a new colour palette that will be introduced by Whirlpool brand starting this autumn.

For 100 years, the Maytag brand has represented strength and lasting durability. Whirlpool Corporation says that it is building on that heritage by reinvesting in the Maytag brand - infusing it with new innovation, creativity and excitement. The brand's strength and durability attributes are conveyed through the powerful good looks of Maytag brand products, which are built with commercial-grade components.
In addition to solid internal engineering, Maytag brand products continue to take a leadership position in terms of meaningful technology. Maytag brand dishwashers now feature the first-to-market SteamClean option to clean glassware the first time, every time. The new SteamClean option enhances the proven performance and commercial-grade components already found in Maytag brand dishwashers.

With a common-sense approach to life, Amana brand consumers believe in creating a pleasant atmosphere in their home. Amana consumers want quality and style at an affordable price. Amana is a recognised leader in clever, affordable solutions in cooking, laundry, dishwashing and refrigeration. The brand's reputation of design innovation continues with the Jot™ Refrigerator. The first dry-erase refrigerator in the United States, the Jot offers a new, fun way for the family to express itself by writing notes and creating drawings on the refrigerator doors.

KitchenAid brand consumers enjoy cooking with others, savouring the journey of making great food with great friends and family. As part of the new Architect® Series II appliance collection, KitchenAid now offers a line of wall ovens that combine convection cooking with steam-assist technology to deliver professional results. The brand also is giving two popular appliances a dual role in the kitchen with its slow cook warming drawer. In addition to the new slow cook function, the warming drawer features a sensor temperature that helps to ensure that selected temperature is reached and stays at the right level.

The Jenn-Air brand takes the lead on style and performance, appealing to a consumer who loves to entertain, has uncompromising taste and pays great attention to detail. Jenn-Air brand's complete and varied line of kitchen appliance collections, or ‘suites,’ has been expanded to include a new Oiled Bronze finish that offers a warm, richly-hued alternative to stainless steel. Combining the rich, traditional colour of bronze sculpture and fixtures with stainless steel handles, Oiled Bronze offers a new style and colour palette that is equally at home in traditional and modern kitchen designs.

Gladiator GarageWorks, the ultimate garage organisation solution, emerged from a Whirlpool company innovation brainstorm. These rugged products are for consumers who desire a coordinated organisational solution that also brings increased functionality to their garage. Additionally, leveraging the know- how of Whirlpool appliances, Gladiator GarageWorks offers the only ENERGY STAR® qualified, calibrated appliances specifically designed for use in the garage. The innovative Gladiator GarageWorks Freezerator® system can perform in conditions ranging from -10 to 110 degree temperatures and convert from 100 percent freezer to a 60-40 freezer/refrigerator based on consumers' garage needs.

Whirlpool Corporation says that it offers the widest portfolio of brands in the home appliance industry, supported by consumer insights, distinct looks for each brand and innovation leadership.

Web: http://www.whirlpoolcorp.com