Kitchen Showcase 06 in Exclusive Partnership Deal with Gaggenau

Gaggenau, Europe's foremost manufacturer of luxury built in appliances for the domestic kitchen, has joined forces with Masterclass Events ltd, organisers of Kitchen Showcase 06, to deliver the largest UK event in 2006 dedicated entirely to kitchen design.

Kitchen Showcase is a design focused kitchen exhibition and conference launched by Masterclass events (publishers of the Designer magazine) in 2003. The 2006 event will be held at Olympia 2, London between 27th and 29th June and will see more manufacturers exhibiting than ever before. Over 20 of the world's leading kitchen companies including Linea Quattro, Santos, Waterline and Crown will exhibit at the show alongside a number of appliance manufacturers including Gaggenau, who recently signed an exclusive deal as the show's main partner and sponsor.

Gaggenau and Kitchen Showcase 06 are both set to benefit from this mutual association. In partnership with the most important high end kitchen exhibition and conference in the UK in 2006, the Gaggenau brand will be positioned with an audience comprising more than 2000 design professionals and over 500 consumers who will visit on the closing day when doors are opened to the public.

This audience will be the focus of the exhibition's publicity and marketing campaigns, which will incorporate the Gaggenau logo as the show's main partner. A carefully targeted direct mail, advertising and emarketing campaign has already been implemented and is set to secure exposure of the Gaggenau brand in the architectural, property development and interior design markets as well as the self build sector.

At the show itself, Gaggenau will be represented at a dedicated and exclusive
product presentation area in the main visitor registration hall and will be sited throughout the exhibition guaranteeing exposure of the brand and product portfolio from the moment visitors enter the show and throughout the entirety of their visit.

Commenting on this sponsorship agreement, Adam Roddan, Sales Director for
Gaggenau UK, said, ‘We are absolutely delighted to confirm that Gaggenau will be the main sponsor of this year's 'Kitchen Showcase'. Both 'The Designer' magazine and 'Kitchen Showcase' exhibition are excellent business partners for Gaggenau as we share the same brand values and synergy. This sponsorship agreement is yet another example of our determination to grow our position as the leading force in the UK's luxury kitchen appliance arena by increased investment in the future of this important market’

Accreditation and acknowledgement from the worlds' only appliance brand with 'Super Brand' status worldwide is a fantastic attribute for Kitchen Showcase. Indeed association with the Gaggenau name is certain to reinforce kitchen showcase with the very best in design and product innovations, making it a must visit event for all serious professionals involved in kitchen design. 27-29 June are key dates in the industry diary for 2006.

Web: http://www.kitchen-showcase.co.uk

Find it at 100% Design - The UK's Leading Contemporary Furniture and Interiors Event

100% Design, the leading contemporary design show established in 1995, continues to be the one stop shop for architects, interior designers and specifiers to source international contemporary design. An impressive list of over 450 UK and international exhibitors will excite industry and consumers alike. A host of world and national launches and award winning designs of international calibre will be exhibited at 100% Design, Earls Court 2, London from 21-24 September.

100% Design is aimed at interior design professionals, but allows the public unprecedented access on its final day, showcasing the latest innovations in product, furniture, wall, floor, lighting, contract, retail and residential accessories and fabric design. By bringing a wide range of award winning and specialist design manufacturers together under one roof, 100% Design creates a unique contemporary design hub, showcasing the latest technological developments for interiors, new surfaces and product launches for bathrooms and kitchens.

International Exhibitors
100% Design has an excellent reputation for setting trends and being at the cutting edge of design by presenting a host of world premiers. Following the successful launch of 100% Design Tokyo, this year's show will feature a dedicated Japanese group stand previewing the latest trends in Japanese furniture and product design. A host of individual and group exhibits from around the world will be on show, including group stands from Denmark, Spain, Canada, Germany and Holland. First time exhibitors this year include Swedish lighting designer Tenje and Italian designer/maker duo, Sofarsonear who will be launching a range of furniture and wallpaper products with a sustainable and fair trade focus. Other international launches at 100% Design are by German bathroom and kitchens manufacturer, Dornbracht, Swarovski Crystal Palace, Plank and Turkish luxury rugs manufacturer, Stepevi exhibiting for the first time in London.

First timers
A newcomer in 2005, Autoban, a Turkish based designer/maker and 100% Design Bursary winner, launched at 100% Design - and has now become one of the most sought after and published young design companies in Europe. Naughtone, another first-timer, made a splash with its seating and storage solutions, and has since been critically acclaimed in the design media. Both companies will be returning to launch new products at 100% Design this year.

British Design
There will be a strong British design debut at 100% Design with an emerging design talent feature; product launches by Hitch Mylius, Tom Dixon, Mathmos and first time exhibitor Timorous Beasties. Hidden Art - winners of the 100% Design/Blueprint Award for best contribution to the show in 2005 - will show home grown young talent.

Interactive
Several interactive visitor features will be new at 100% Design this year. Podcasts by leading industry figures as well as show pods on relevant topics will be downloadable from the 100% Design website close to the event and from pod portals around the show.

The 100% Design website has been re-launched and the new international site will incorporate information in four languages, French, Italian, German and English and will be updated and revised continually, featuring blogs, pods and sneak previews.

The Best
The high quality of 100% Design's exhibitors is maintained by the stringent vetting procedure which allows only the very best in design into the show. A panel of respected industry leaders assesses every potential new exhibitor, judging whether or not the newcomer has what it takes to make the grade. In addition, the panel welcomes up and coming companies, allowing 100% Design to be a breeding ground for the fresh talent of smaller designer-manufacturers many of whom are supported by bursaries to enable them to exhibit.

Judged by a jury of leading designers, design editors and furniture retailers, the 100% Design/ Blueprint Awards will once again reinforce the professional standards set by exhibitors.

Debates
Concurrent with the exhibition, 100% Design hosts a dynamic programme of seminars and discussions at Earls Court 2. These popular events are free, and cover a range of topics from the professional status of the interior designer to the factors that inspire designers in their work. Panelists and speakers come from all areas of the design community and make it their mission to get to the bottom of their chosen specialist subjects.

Now in its twelfth year, it is hard to believe that in 1995, contemporary design was not readily accessible to the public in the UK. 100% Design pioneered contemporary design in the UK, bringing a new vision to the market by continually introducing new designs and pushing the boundaries.

Ian Rudge, brand director and co-founder of 100% Design comments, '100% Design has changed the face of design in this country forever, placing it high on the agenda for consumers and professionals alike. At 100% Design 2006, yet more new designs and designers will be placed in the public eye, ensuring that this legacy of championing design continues into the future.'

Launching 100% Light
Situated between 100% Detail and 100% Design, this year will see the launch of
100% Light, the new lighting event. 100% Light will present a breadth of architectural and contemporary lighting and will present a logical link between the two established shows, 100% Design and 100% Detail. http://www.100percentlight.co.uk

Show information
Venue: Earls Court 2, Warwick Road, London SW5
For more information: http://www.100percentdesign.co.uk

Admission is free for trade and professional visitors who book online (http://www.100percentdesign.co.uk) Tickets will also be available on the door.

Visitors to 100% Design can also gain free entry to its co-located events, running at the same time (100% Light at Earls Court 1; 100% Detail at Earls Court 1 and 100% East, at The Truman Brewery) on production of a valid 100% Design entry badge.

100% Detail: 21-24 September, Earls Court 1 London - http://www.100percentdetail.co.uk
100% Light: 21-24 September, Earls Court 1, London- http://www.100percentlight.co.uk
100% East: 21-24 September, Truman Brewery, Brick Lane, London - http://www.100percenteast.co.uk
100% Tokyo 2-7 November 2006 at Jingu Gaien in central Tokyo -
http://www.100percentdesign.jp

Making a Meal out of Grand Designs Live

Grand Designs Live organisers are working closely with the pick of celebrity chefs to create a show-stopping feature - the 'Celebrity Chefs' Surreal Meal' - inspired by exclusive menu selections from Gary Rhodes, John Burton Race and Giorgio Locatelli, whose culinary accomplishments have earned them a constellation of Michelin stars.

The family-friendly feature will be fashioned from each of the celebrity chef's favourite recipes - comprising an aperitif, starter, main course and dessert - resulting in a mouth-watering, larger-than-life, mobile menu. Each element of the feature will be hidden amongst a drapery of (uncooked!) rigatoni pasta, so visitors will feel completely immersed in this food fantasy!

The perfect opener to stimulate the appetite, an aperitif, will take the shape of a magnificent champagne-style fountain, made up of enormous cocktail glasses overflowing with drink.

Demonstrating his flair for Italian cuisine, Giorgio Locatelli has cooked up a sumptuous starter of Risotto Primavera, which will be represented by a giant Perspex egg timer with grains of rice marking the sands of time passing through as the risotto cooks. Gigantic faux spring vegetables will hang from the ceiling, giving an Alice-in-Wonderland fairytale 'feel' to the feature.

Well-known as an ambassador for British cuisine, Gary Rhodes has created a magical main course of Braised Oxtail, which will be characterised by a herd of fibreglass cows from the Cow Parade, highlighting the origin of this classic British dish.

John Burton Race has concocted a devilish dessert, Chocolate & Vanilla Charlotte, which won't fail to tempt visitors' taste buds. A white chocolate tree, bearing fruit in the form of delicious puddings will shape the final element of the feature.

For visitors inspired to make their own Grand Meal, special recipe cards featuring each celebrity dish will be available to take home.

2-4 June 2006, ExCeL London

Web: http://www.granddesignslive.com

1st VDA Bathroom Forum

On 1st June 2006, the first Bathroom Forum of the Association of the German Sanitary Industry (VDS - Vereinigung Deutsche Sanitärwirtschaft) will take place in the Side Hotel in Hamburg.

Under the title 'The bathroom, the consumer and the end of mass marketing', the 1st VDS Bathroom Forum will offer a platform for profound analyses, information, prognoses and discussions.
 
Cigar czar Zino Davidoff once said, 'I didn’t do any marketing. All I have ever done was love my customers.' This motto has not been sufficient as a recipe for ongoing success for quite some time now. Also or particularly in the sanitary industry, the world has become more complicated, more complex and often less transparent. At the same time the industry is attractive, innovative and thus extremely promising, despite difficult economic phases and global competition. Therefore, the 1st VDS Bathroom Forum is an information platform that wants to open new perspectives and create new and unusual food for thought.

Furthermore, profound analyses, information and prognoses will also be provided by presentations by experts of the Association of German Sanitary Industry (VDA), Fritz Wilhelm Pahl and Jens J. Wischmann as well as the contribution by Professor Dr. Peter Zec, president of the world umbrella organisation of industrial designers and initiator of the red dot design award, who will make a presentation on the topic 'Product designer(s) in the bathroom – less focus on zeitgeist and more target group responsibility?'. Further speakers are Prof. Dr. Jürgen W. Falter, head of the Institute of Political Sciences at the Johannes Gutenberg University in Mainz, and Prof. Dr. Martin Fassnacht, who holds the chair of Business Studies and is the director of the Centre for Market Oriented Management at the WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management in Vallendar near Koblenz.

Clearwater Makes a Splash at K/BIS

The recently established American arm of Clearwater Collection, Clearwater USA exhibited a selection of its free standing baths at K/BIS in April, and gained outstanding feedback.

The kitchen and bathroom exhibition was held between 20-23 April at McCormick Place, Chicago.

Clearwater Collection is Europe's largest manufacturer or free standing baths and decided to enter the American market when it identified a need for quality, well designed baths at affordable prices.

Darren Allison, Clearwater managing director was thrilled with the response from the show. He explains: ‘With over 1,900 enquiries and over 100 display orders, it seems we really took the States by storm!’

Darren continues: ‘All of our baths are made with quality in mind. We have a variety of shapes, different frames and size options to offer the ultimate in choice for those looking for the luxury of a freestanding bath. This means that a Clearwater baths not only make a stunning focal point in a larger bathroom but can also fit easily into smaller bathrooms and even en-suites.

‘For example, the Shanghai is a showpiece bath that will create a statement in larger bathrooms.The Apollo creates the same strong contemporary look when less space is available. It is the same shape as the Shanghai but fits easily into a standard bathroom. The Apollo has been ergonomically designed with gently curving ends to offer an extremely comfortable bathing area.

‘Clearwater Collection specialises in the manufacture of double-skin acrylic freestanding baths and prides itself on the superb quality of its baths along with the vast range of designs it offers, covering both traditional and contemporary styles.’

Tel: 01274 738140
Email: enquiries@clearwater-collection.com
Web: http://www.clearwater-collection.com

Cesana Makes a Statement at Salone Del Mobile

Italian shower manufacturer Cesana exhibited its range of stylish, contemporary showers at Salone del Mobile, the International Kitchen and Bathroom exhibition in Milan last month.

This year's much anticipated Italian kitchen show included a much larger bathroom section than in previous years, in which Cesana demonstrated its creativity and design flair.

Included in Cesana's selection of shower enclosures at the show was the Eclisse. This stylish enclosure meets the growing need for wet room style shower enclosures.

The 'snail shape' design of the Eclisse creates a space that retains water well in the wet area, yet also provides a complementary warm and comfortable walk-in area. Like a true eclipse, the overlapping of two discs formed from clear glass panels produces a showering space makes a design statement.

Another enclosure on the stand was the Tecnostar. Versatility is key with this enclosure as the Tecnostar includes a selection of combinations to create solutions for niche and corner arrangements. With silver polished aluminium and 8mm safety glass, the company says that the contemporary style of the Tecnostar adds a touch of grandeur to any bathroom.

The Tecnostar is also a good choice for large bathrooms as extra glass panels can be incorporated to create a shower enclosure that is a perfect fit.

The ethos behind the design of all Cesana showers is to make showering a daily pleasure and respond to the continuing trend for well-being and relaxation in the bathroom. Whether the bathroom is large and spacious or compact, Cesana says that it has the solution. Cesana has been established in Milan for almost 40 years.

This range is now available as part of the new Moods Ultimate Bathrooms Collection from the UK bathroom, kitchen and appliance distributor, PJH Group.

Tel: 01204 707070
Web: http://www.bathroom-moods.com

Britannia Proved to be Hot Hit at Homebuilding & Renovating

Range cooker specialist Britannia was extremely pleased with the results from the Homebuilding & Renovating Show held at Birmingham's NEC earlier this month. The company far exceeded its expectations for brochure requests, with an increase of over 30% on last year, despite similar visitor levels this year.

Britannia's latest range cooker model, the XG which offers three grilling facilities, was amongst the appliances at the show and drew lots of attention throughout. Also on display was Britannia's Chef Top, a versatile solid stainless steel gas hotplate that helps make cooking a pleasure.

Henneke Duistermaat, Britannia marketing manager on the Britannia stand at the Homebuilding & Renovating Show

‘This show is an excellent event and one which provides the perfect showcase for our appliances. We thought we had a very good show last year and didn't expect to do even better this year,’ said Britannia marketing manager Henneke Duistermaat.

‘We have found that when potential buyers have the opportunity to see and feel the quality of our products they quickly realise what a great investment a Britannia range cooker is,’ she added.

Britannia ran a competition during the exhibition and one lucky visitor to the stand has won a brand new XG worth £3,199.

The Homebuilding & Renovating Show annually brings together over 400 top exhibitors, new products, new services and all the latest innovations in the self-build and renovation market.

100% Light Launches September 2006

100% Light is a brand new show launching at Earls Court 1, 21-24 September 2006. The new lighting show will be located alongside 100% Design and 100% Detail, adding to these already highly successful international exhibitions. According to 100% Design co-founder and Brand Director, Ian Rudge, ‘100% Design is now a global brand, recognised for making an enormous contribution to the architecture and design industries. The 100% branded shows held at London's Earls Court attract an unrivalled audience of over 36,000 visitors. 100% Light is a natural extension to the existing brands and a much welcome addition’.

100% Light will provide a forum for the very latest in architectural and contemporary lighting products, welcoming first time companies to the show. Acting as the launch pad for the latest unseen lighting products, 100% Light will showcase a broad mix of new manufacturers and designers, providing a focused, comprehensive lighting show for the UK. Adding to the mix will be a series of light dedicated seminars aimed at professionals and exciting installations.

100% Light has created a new opportunity for many lighting manufacturers and architectural lighting companies to participate and exhibit at the 100% shows for the first time. Positioned between the 100% Design and 100% Detail shows at Earls Court, 100% Light exhibitors will benefit from this central position attracting 100% Design and 100% Detail visitors whilst introducing key new visitor groups to the show.

100% Light, like its sister shows, has a panel of dedicated experts to advise on show content. This year's 100% Light panel will consist of: Laurent Louyer - Creatmosphere; Jason Bruges - acclaimed lighting designer; John Nordon - Architect, Paul Cocksedge - award winning lighting designer and Cressida Granger - Managing Director, Mathmos. The calibre of the panel is reflected in the exhibitors already committed to exhibiting, BLV, Concord: Marlin, DeltaLight, Hi Designs, Isabel Stanley and conciLUCE.

Creative Director, Tim Pyne, will design the 100% Light space. As Peter Massey, Show Director for 100% outlines ‘The environment and atmosphere is essential to the show's success and our aim is to create an exhibition space, which reflects and enhances the needs for our particular exhibitors’.

Show information
Dates and opening times for 100% Light 2006:
Thursday 21st September: 1000 - 2100
Friday 22nd September: 1000 - 1900
Saturday 23rd September: 1000 - 1800
Sunday 24th September: 1000 - 1800

Venue: Earls Court 1, Warwick Road, London SW5

For more information: http://www.100percentlight.co.uk

Admission is free for trade and professional visitors who book online (http://www.100percentlight.co.uk) Tickets will also be available on the door.

Visitors to 100% Light can also gain free entry to its sister shows, running at the same time (100% Detail at Earls Court 1; 100% Design at Earls Court 2 and 100% East, at The Truman Brewery) on production of a valid 100% Light entry badge:

100% Design: 21-24 September, Earls Court 2 London – http://www.100percentdesign.co.uk
100% Detail incorporating 100% Materials: 21-24 September, Earls Court 1, London – http://www.100percentdetail.co.uk
100% East: 21-24 September, Truman Brewery, Brick Lane, London E1 – http://www.100percenteast.co.uk

Alessi, Seymourpowell, BMW and Palomba Serafini Included in Unique Speaker List at this Year's Masterclass Conference

Some of the world's most inspirational product, industrial and award winning designers will be brought together under one roof in London this June, at the Masterclass 2006 conference and seminar, to present their own unique perspectives on design.

Held on 27th and 28th June at Olympia 2, London alongside Kitchen Showcase 06, the UK's only exhibition dedicated entirely to kitchen design this year, the Masterclass 2006 conference is set to deliver one of the widest and inspirational speaker lists since its launch in 2001.

Masterclass is an annual event, originally created to promote discussion of key issues relating to kitchen design in the UK. Now in its 5th year, this 2 day conference and seminar programme, entitled 'Perspectives on Design', promises to be an effective and inspirational forum for any professional involved in kitchen design comprising keynote presentations from a wide range of guest speakers and interactive demonstrations and discussions lead by industry experts.

Guest speakers have been asked to present the audience with insights into the inspiration behind their own designs and to share their visions of where they believe design trends are heading. Speakers confirmed to date include:

* Matteo Alessi - born to the world of design, Mattel Alessi's name carries its own design credentials. As head of Alessi London, Matteo is charged with establishing the Alessi brand as the ultimate in design in the UK.

* Roberto Palomba, Palomba Serafini - an ever growing force in Italian design, Palomba Serafini has an extensive portfolio of work across all products, including a direct relationship with the kitchen through their partnership with Schiffini.

* Erik Demmer is an exciting young designer from Germany. Best known for his work with bathroom products, Erik's wide portfolio of projects includes architectural models for Dieter Sieger, Ceramics for Duravit and the Quadriga tap series for ARWA. His range of work and unique design ideas are sure to stimulate discussion with delegates.

* Stephen Johnson has been involved in British furniture design almost since birth, and is now establishing his own reputation as a furniture designer with new concepts such as his ICE range launched in 2006.

* David Fisher is a Creative Director for one of Europes's most celebrated product design consultancies, Seymourpowell and was the lead designer on the new Mercury Thermostate cooker.

* Kevin Rice is part of the BMW design team and will talk on the importance of design to brands, and how the experience of the automotive industry could relate to kitchens.

Over 400 delegates including Architects, Interior Designers, Kitchen Retail Designers, Kitchen Manufacturers and Independent Designers are expected to attend Masterclass this year. Delegates will have the opportunity to meet with all those participating in the conference informally to share ideas and opinions ensuring they gain an insight into the many contrasting styles and ideas that will be presented across the 2 days.

As places are strictly limited, anyone wishing to take part in this event is being advised to book early. Tickets are available for single day or 2 day entry and may be booked by contacting Masterclass events directly.

For more information visit http://www.kitchen-showcase.co.uk.

interclima+ Confirms Cross Industry Approach

interclima+elechome&building, the international smart building technologies show, which ran from 17th to 20th January 2006 at the Paris Parc des Expo-Porte de Versailles in conjunction with Idéo Bain, was staged against a stimulating economic and legislative background for all those involved in the HVAC and electrical industries.

The new interclima+elechome&building concept reflected these changes. It also reflected the expectations expressed by the visitors and exhibitors at previous shows, especially their desire for a display of innovative solutions in a multi-technique universe and the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the legislative and regulatory framework.

interclima+elechome&building and Idéo Bain attracted 102,620 visitors, including 18,251 members of the general public who visited Idéo Bain. This is a 20.11% rise in trade visitor numbers compared with the 2004 show (see appendix) and such growth confirms the relevance of a single event that brings together everyone involved in HVAC, the electrical trades, bathrooms and plumbing.

A Wide Range of Visitors Representing a Variety of Interests
interclima+elechome&building 2006 saw visitor numbers grow for each of the trades it serves. Installers continue to represent the largest block of visitors (39.31% of the total) and increased by 13.75%. The multi-technique, multi-energy universe of the new concept was a major draw for specifiers and contractors (up 20.73% and 23.06% respectively) as well as for operators, maintenance companies and after sales services (+39.90%). Merchants too rose by 8.68%.

French visitors rose by 20.79% and foreign visitors by 12.35%.

There was also a strong presence of visitors from the provinces (61.29% of the total), with a 22.5% increase over 2004.

Events that Address the Heart of Concerns
interclima+elechome&building has established itself as a platform for exchanges and meetings between professionals. A programme of events specifically aimed at various trades (Installer Awards, Électricien Top Plus Competition, Seal of Quality...) provided a stage for the industry's leading lights.

The extensive conference programme put together by the organisers of interclima+elechome&building, which very much focused on topical concerns, was the perfect response to the desires of both visitors and exhibitors for a better understanding of the legislative and regulatory framework. The conferences were a great success and attracted over 3,000 people.

Specific initiatives aimed at specifiers (architects and design studios) together with the launch of the Energy Performance+Architecture Award undoubtedly had an extremely positive effect on visitor numbers, which were 20.73% up on 2004. For the record, the Energy Performance+Architecture Award went to Mario Cucinella and the show staged a display of his work on the energy performance of buildings.

The solutions offered by exhibitors at interclima+elechome&building provided a particularly good illustration of the importance in the current context of the problem of the energy performance of buildings and communicating buildings.

The Innovation Awards were a clear demonstration of this. The winning solutions, products and systems symbolised what the manufacturers at the show, whose focus was very much on reducing energy expenditure, had to offer.

The presence at the show of François Loos, Minister of State for Industry, was a clear demonstration of the government's interest in and commitment to the search for improved energy performance, one of today's major challenges for the building sector.

Franke Showcases Latest Innovations at Waterline Show

Kitchen systems manufacturer, Franke, is showcasing a range of new products at this year's Waterline roadshow.

The Laser sink with Slimfix fixing system, the Kubus multi bowl sink and a selection of products from the new appliance range are on display on the Franke stand and are attracting a lot of interest from retailers attending the roadshows.

John Swain, product manager for Franke UK, commented: ‘The slimline Laser sink, which sits flush with the work surface and can be simply placed into a cut-out without the need to attach it with clips, is proving to be extremely popular as it offers consumers a completely streamlined look while also being easier to install.

‘The Kubus multi bowl undermount sink is also proving to be popular. Offering a tight 25mm radii to give the sink a modern, geometric look, the Kubus multi bowl only requires one cut out of the granite worktop and therefore makes it easier to install than two separate bowls.

‘We're also showcasing a hood, hob and oven from the new range of appliances and we've had some really positive feedback from customers attending the show.’

The 8-venue Waterline road show enables retailers from across the UK to see the latest product innovations at some exciting venues, including Blenheim Palace in Oxon and Lords Cricket Ground.

The tour opened at Stapleford Park, Melton Mowbray, 2nd March and has visited the Holiday Inn, Bristol, 8th March; Mere Golf & Country Club, Cheshire, 16th March; Cambridge Belfry, Cambourn, Cambridge, 21st March; Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxon, 28th March; the Spa Hotel, Tunbridge Wells, 4th April and continues at Lords Cricket Ground, North London, 12th April and Thorpe Park, Leeds, 25th April.

For further information on any of the Franke products currently on the Waterline road show, visit http://www.franke.co.uk or call 0161 436 6280.

Blum at Sasmil

Italy's premier international exhibition for furniture fittings and furniture materials - Sasmil - takes place in May alongside the international woodworking machinery show Xylexpo. Both shows are important destinations for British visitors and will be held in a brand new location and environment.

International furniture fittings specialist Blum will exhibit its latest products and concepts which enhance the performance and use of future-orientated furniture - especially in kitchens.

Blum's holistic approach to furniture performance and design is underpinned by providing adequate and efficient storage systems in the context of the company’s Dynamic Space® system for planning kitchens according to five fundamental zones of activity.

Access, organisation and motion have all become primary features of the fittings solutions that Blum has created.

Most prominent is the motion of the Blumotion system for controlled action and closing of drawers and now doors. With Blum's tried and tested Tandem full extension runner systems the integration of Blumotion has created the ability for kitchen manufacturers and designers to incorporate sublime action with even the widest and deepest (heavily laden) drawers. The same goes for the special Blum space saving drawers like the Space Corner, the under-sink drawer, the plinth drawer and many others. Inside these drawers Blum continues to develop the company’s Orga-Line internal system for dividing and organisation. This is a flexible and practical system available for every eventuality.

Now Blum has moved the concept of perfecting motion to doors and top cabinets with the integration of Blumotion into the company’s Clip hinge system and the new Aventos lift system for top cabinets which will be shown in three configurations.

Finally, Blum will show the future in handle-free drawer action in base and wall units to give designers discretion.

Tel: 01908 285700
Web: http://www.blum.co.uk

Ideo Bain 2006 Confirms its Success and Positions Itself as the Show to Discover Bathroom Trends

The third Idéo Bain, the bathroom exhibition, which took place from 17th to 22nd January 2006 at Paris-Expo porte de Versailles in conjunction with Interclima+Elechome&building kept its promises.

Occupying more than 32,000 m2, nearly 250 French and international exhibitors took part in this show, which marked another milestone and responded to visitor expectations. Idéo Bain confirmed the importance of offering manufacturers and their partners a major trade show in Paris capable of generating traffic and visibility for the whole of the industry.

An industry event
Idéo Bain, a biennial show case for the manufacturers sponsored by the Fédération des Industries de la Salle de Bains brought together bathroom professionals from across the spectrum.

Interclima+Elec-Home&Building and Idéo Bain together attracted 102,620 visitors, including 18,251 members of the public who came to Idéo Bain. This represents a 20.11% rise in trade visitor numbers and 22.41% for members of the public compared with 2004. This growth confirms the relevance of a unique event that brings together those involved in the HVAC, electrical engineering and bathroom/plumbing sectors.

Idéo Bain acted as a powerful magnet for a range of different trades and professions. Installers confirmed their interest in the bathroom, accounting for nearly 40% of the show's visitors (23% up on 2004). Merchants were also strongly represented making up 18% of the visitors (14% up on 2004). The bathroom universe was a major draw for specifiers and contractors (up 25% and 47% respectively).

A show that wowed consumers and brought together the full array of creative talents
All the stops were pulled out from 20th to 22nd January to make a big impression on the 18,251 consumers planning bathrooms (70% of them plan a project within the next year). They displayed considerable interest in ModesDeBains, a display of creative ideas and solutions without parallel in Europe that was entrusted to the combined talents of Daniel Rozensztroch (style consultant) and François Muracciole (architect) and the industry. Members of the public were both surprised and inspired by the forty very special bathrooms created by the designers and manufacturers.

The sequence was opened by the dream bathroom of the fashion designer Nathalie Garçon, who had been given carte blanche to create an exclusive bathroom for Idéo Bain.

The Advice and Build point for consumers was also a great success, providing members of the public with answers to all their questions and the addresses of tradesmen and showrooms throughout France.

Creativity rewarded

o The 'Hotel Bathroom Prize 2006'
Following on from the tributes to Andrée Putman and Terence Conran, the 'Hotel Bathroom Prize' was awarded in 2006 to India Mahdavi. She was the unanimous choice of the brands represented at Idéo Bain for her overall corpus of work. She created a new hotel bathroom exclusively for Idéo Bain.

o The Idéo Bain Awards
A jury of bathroom experts and buyers toured the aisles of Idéo Bain on the first day in search of innovative, creative or high performance products.

Design Award
DELPHA http://www.delpha.com
Inspired by minimalist fitting rooms, this piece of bathroom furniture makes a strong statement with its large angled mirror in front of which a sculpted basin top floats like a towel in mid air. Flipping the upper mirror reveals a series of small shelves lit by diffuse lighting.

Technical Innovation Award
ACTANA http://www.actana.fr
The 'Actalift' system allows a basin or WC to be installed so that it can rise or descend in accordance with the user's needs. It consists of a framework on which is mounted a sliding panel that can be painted, tiled, clad with wood or finished in any other way to match the décor of a bathroom...... Every user is therefore able to instantly adjust the height of the basin or WC.

ModesDeBains Set Award
TEUCO http://www.teuco.fr
Marking a complete break from traditional aesthetics, the Seaside bath is a piece of interior decoration in its own right that can be fitted as a built in unit. Here it is placed in an intimate setting for well being that combines a space for water and one for relaxation of each of the senses.

Best Solution Award
RITMONIO http://www..ritmonio.it
Bianconiglio is both a new tap, a smart device and a water management system for the home. Today, a tap consists of a body housing a cartridge whose job is to govern flow and temperature through one or two controls. Tomorrow, the box placed at the heart of the system will have different functions. It will no longer be the simple distribution of water, it will also govern the two parameters, temperature and flow that are traditionally the role of the tap. The box will therefore become the element that houses the components that shut off the flow, the drives and the electronic intelligence of the system.

Jury's Favourite
DABADABADA http://www dabadabada.fr
Basins in Ductal. This ultra high performance fibre-reinforced concrete offers unparalleled mechanical properties that allow it to deform without breaking. It has unequalled durability, resistance to freezing and heat, shocks and abrasion. The basins are body coloured with mineral pigments that enhance their looks.

Designs: Anne Durand and Patrick Millet

Images of all the award winners, the bathroom sets and the show spaces are available on request or can be downloaded from http://www.ideobain.com.

Eurocucina Saloni 2006

The very best offerings from the Italian and overseas kitchen furniture industry will be on display at Eurocucina, now celebrating its 16th edition. Along with its regular stablemate FTK (For the Kitchen), an event focusing on built-in appliance technology, it is indisputably the landmark event for the worldwide market.

The new hi-tech Fiera Milano exhibition complex in Rho-Pero is all set to welcome the 45th Salone Internazionale del Mobile and related shows: 222,000 square meters plus two hundred thousand visitors add up to a record show.

The show is moving to 'Fieramilano', the new Rho-Pero exhibition complex situated at the gateway to Milan. The new facility, designed by architect Massimiliano Fuksas using the most advanced technological solutions, is our beautiful new home. And with its dazzling hi-tech features and clear and rational signposting and visitor routes it couldn’t be more functional. What’s more, all the related fairs running synergically and concomitantly with the Salone Internazionale del Mobile will all be optimally located for maximum exposure.

From 5 to 10 April 2006, our new house at “Fieramilano” will be the backdrop for the exciting and trend-setting 45th edition of the foremost international event for the furniture industry. An impressive 222,000 square meters of display space will be occupied by the Salone Internazionale del Mobile, the International Furnishing Accessories Exhibition, the biennial Eimu and Eurocucina shows and the new International Bathroom Exhibition, which will also be held every two years. Plus, of course, the always eagerly awaited launching pad for young creative talents, SaloneSatellite.

The Salone Internazionale del Mobile and the International Furnishing Accessories Exhibition will be showcasing everything from one-off pieces to coordinated suites and everyday household articles.

The accent will be on materials and technologies, as well as on styles, ranging as always from the classic to the ultra-modern. And the show has gained an important new sector, bedding, featuring a vast array of innovative proposals.

Eimu.2006 Wellness@Work is the name of the fair specialized in showcasing the finest furniture and accessories for offices, banks, insurance companies, post offices and communities, as well as proposals and solutions for the home office and workplace. The subtext running through the 13th International Office Furniture Exhibition will be conveyed through the creative capabilities of the exhibitors with the support of several special events, and reflects the concept of tailoring the office environment to meet specific human needs, in other words, how improved surroundings can enhance the quality of work.

This year also importantly marks the debut of the International Bathroom Exhibition. The bathroom sector first made its appearance at the Saloni shows three years ago; having met with amazing success, the sector now has its own separate event, alongside the events focusing on the other rooms in the home.

Products on display include bathroom accessories and furniture, showers and saunas, sanitary ware, radiators, wall and floor coverings, tapware, and traditional and whirlpool baths.

And finally, the symbol of youthful creativity, SaloneSatellite, the unchallenged mascot of the Saloni.

In keeping with the Saloni’s new home is the theme of the customary parallel event exhibit. The show entitled 'Il diavolo del focolare' (The Devil of Hearth & Home) explores the home as the symbolic realm of today’s New Woman. The event will be staged at the Triennale di Milano, and runs until 30 April 2006.

KBSA Design Innovations Awards Ceremony and AGM Announced for 2006

A date has been announced for the 2006 Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association Design Innovation Awards presentation ceremony and AGM.

The event will take place at the Radisson SAS Hotel at Stansted Airport on Thursday July 6th.

‘We received very positive feedback after last years inaugural event and we are expecting an excellent turnout for this year's AGM and Design Innovation Awards presentation ceremony,’ said KBSA operations manager Lucinda Kenny.

‘The venue is a fantastic new hotel offering state-of-the-art conference facilities. Located adjacent to the airport terminal the hotel is also easily reached by either rail or road, being just of the M11 motorway at junction 8.

‘The hotel facilities include a health and fitness centre, spa and swimming pool and the rooms are all themed in three unique styles, Urban, Chilli and Ocean. The hotel has a spectacular and unique 'wine tower' in the main bar, which is 13 meters tall and houses over 4000 bottles of wine.’

The AGM will begin at 3.30pm and is scheduled to close by 5pm, leaving members plenty of time to prepare for the KBSA Design Innovation Awards Champagne Reception and presentation dinner which will begin at 7.00pm.

Booking forms for the event and entry forms for the Design Innovation Awards are now available from the KBSA.

Kitchen Showcase 06 - The Only UK Event Dedicated to Kitchen Design Gets Bigger

27th June 2006 will be the opening day of the UK's only design focused exhibition and conference dedicated entirely to kitchens, Kitchen Showcase 06.

With more stunning kitchen designs than ever before and a new product showcase, Design Additions, Kitchen Showcase 06 will be the largest and best event since its launch in 2003. To accommodate its growing exhibitor list, Kitchen Showcase 06 will be held at a new, prestigious venue, Olympia 2, London between 27th and 29th June 2006. More than 2000 design professionals will visit the show with an exclusive audience of consumers expected on the closing day when doors are opened to the public.

This year's show will deliver over 20 kitchen room sets exhibiting latest designs from a wide cross section of design led kitchen manufacturers. Many designs will be exhibited for the first time having been created specifically for the show; others will come direct from Eurocucina in Milan. Exhibitors confirmed to date include Mirari, Charles Yorke, Zimmer, Cuisina, Remp, >Rational<, Dada, Allmilmo, Parapan, Living in Style, Callerton, Mobalpa, Vama and Linea Quattro.

Many exhibitors are returning to the show for the third time. James Herriott of Callerton is one such as exhibitor who joins the show again because it ‘... provides the industry with a unique platform to parade all the latest ideas and concepts in kitchen design to inspire designers and consumers alike. The same size pre built room-set for all, provides a level playing field and doesn't favour those with the deepest pockets, so encouraging the smaller innovative British companies to participate alongside the multi nationals’.

As the biggest show to date, Kitchen Showcase 06 will see more manufacturers exhibiting than ever before. Sub-zero, will be exhibiting for the first time. Juliet Raine explains why they have decided to join the show. ‘We are delighted to be exhibiting at Kitchen Showcase 2006 in partnership with Living in Style. This show is the most innovative, well thought out event which attracts excellent clients such as architects, specifiers and house builders - exactly the type of market we are keen to work with’.

Launching for the first time in June will be Design Additions, an extension to Kitchen Showcase with over 40 companies displaying unique product ideas and design innovations. Open to the Trade on the first 2 days, this section of the show will support the main purpose of Kitchen Showcase, to inspire visitors through a multitude of new design ideas and products.

As in previous years, the Masterclass conference will run alongside the exhibition for Trade visitors on 27th and 28th June. The conference remains dedicated to promoting discussion of key issues relating to Kitchen design in the UK and will this year bring together a mix of leading Industrial, Product and Award Winning Designers as well as Design commentators through an inspirational and wide ranging speaker programme entitled 'Perspectives on Design'.

Confirmed speakers at Masterclass include:
* Roberto Palomba, Palomba Serafini Design - one half of the design partnership behind Schiffini kitchen and the new Palomba bathroom range from Laufen
* Kevin Rice, BMW Design - presenting his view on where kitchen brands can learn from the car industry
* David Fisher, Seymour Powell - designer of the stunning new Mercury range cooker
* Erik Demmer, Erikd Demmer Design - upcoming German industrial designer
* Makio Hasuike, Makio Hasuike Design - possibly Japan's best known industrial designer working with kitchen products

‘All 3 elements of Kitchen showcase, the highly designed kitchen room sets, the new and innovative Design Additions section and the Masterclass conference undoubtedly make Kitchen Showcase 06 the largest exhibition dedicated entirely to Kitchen design in the UK,’ say the organisers. ‘The 2500 audience including Architects, Interior Designers, Kitchen Retailers, Property Developers and consumers will experience much more than an exhibition. Kitchen Showcase 06 will be an ideas forum dedicated to inspiring visitors through every aspect of the show.’

Web: http://www.kitchen-showcase.co.uk

Builders Challenged to Join Largest Building Blitz in History

Builders had the opportunity to join a massive nationwide effort to make affordable housing a reality during the 2006 International Builders’ Show in Orlando at the Whirlpool Corporation booth. The effort, known as the Habitat for Humanity Home Builders Blitz 2006, partners Habitat for Humanity (HFH) with the building industry to build 1,000 homes across the nation, including homes in communities directly affected by recent hurricanes.

'The Home Builders Blitz will be quite a challenge, but an extremely exciting and worthwhile one. With the help of builders and manufactures from across the country, we can help create or restore hope for thousands of families more quickly than ever,' said Kevin Campbell, national director of HFH’s Home Builders Blitz.

While at the show, builders could learn more about becoming involved, register to join the Blitz and enter for a chance to win great prizes provided by Whirlpool Corporation and Habitat for Humanity. Three drawings per day took place at the Whirlpool Corporation booth. Attendees could enter for a chance to win:

  - Whirlpool Duet Fabric Care System
  - Whirlpool Velos SpeedCook Oven
  - Whirlpool g2microven SpeedCook Appliance
  - Habitat for Humanity Merchandise Gift Package – each
    including a windbreaker, hat, mug, leather portfolio, tote
    bag and a Rite in the Rain Pad

On Friday, January 13th, Paige Hemmis from ABC’s 'Extreme Makeover: Home Addition' was on site to sign autographs, take photos and assist with prize drawings throughout the day. As a spokesperson for Habitat for Humanity Home Builders Blitz 2006, Hemmis is dedicated to raising awareness of the mission to eliminate poverty housing. In 2005, Hemmis launched Tuff Chix™, (http://www.tuffchix.com), a line of workwear for women, which includes her famous pink belt.

Home Builders Blitz 2006 building is scheduled to commence the week of June 5th, 2006, when more than 700 Habitat homes will be built from start to finish in more than 175 communities throughout the United States. Additionally, builders are actively being engaged for rebuilding in hurricane-devastated areas where the remainder of the 1,000 homes will be built for those who have lost nearly everything.

For more information on the Home Builders Blitz, e-mail homebuildersblitz@habitat.org, call 800-422-4828 x4333, or visit http://www.homebuildersblitz.com.

Waterline Showcase 2006

Waterline invites you to 'see all that's new in kitchen design for 2006' at The Waterline Showcase, an 8-venue tour that has been designed to be as accessible as possible for all customers. You can see the latest products from the biggest brands, benefit from exclusive Showcase offers, talk directly to manufacturers as well as to the Waterline team and enjoy lunch or supper in a relaxed and comfortable environment.

The tour opens at Stapleford Park, Melton Mowbray, 2nd March and continues to Holiday Inn, Bristol, 8th March; Mere Golf & Country Club, Cheshire, 16th March; Cambridge Belfry, Cambourn, Cambridge, 21st March; Blenheim Palace, Woodstock, Oxon, 28th March; Spa Hotel, Tunbridge Wells, 4th April; Lords Cricket Ground, North London 12th April; Thorpe Park, Leeds, 25th April.

For further details, telephone 0870 5561560.

Maytag's Family of Brands Brings Home Innovations in Refrigeration, Cleaning and Cooking

Maytag Corporation's family of brands introduced new products that combine the conveniences consumers want with the performance they demand during the US 2006 International Builders' Show, January 11-14.

From the industry's first refrigerator that combines consumers' favourite features in one appliance to the world's first 'sport utility vacuum' to a slide-in range that makes kitchen island cooking and entertaining easy, Maytag Corporation showcased innovations for the home through its Maytag®, Hoover® and Jenn-Air® brands on display at booth #W501.

Maytag® Ice2O™ French Door Bottom-Freezer Refrigerator Offers Everything for Everyone
Today's time-starved families demand a lot from their refrigerators: easy access to ice and water for the kids to cool down after the big game; plenty of room to store fresh food, including large deli platters for entertaining; and well-organised storage that puts everything from beverages to frozen meals within convenient reach.

There no longer is a need to compromise on any of these features, thanks to the new Maytag® Ice2O™ French Door Bottom-Freezer Refrigerator. The company says that it combines the best features of a side-by-side and bottom-freezer refrigerator in one design, with the industry's first external filtered ice and water dispenser on a French door and the largest-available fresh food capacity.

Until now, consumers had to choose either a side-by-side refrigerator with ice and water on the door or a bottom-freezer model that offered wider storage for fresh foods, but no external ice dispenser.

Establishing a new high-water mark for convenience and versatility, the Maytag Ice20 French Door Bottom-Freezer Refrigerator includes the generous fresh food compartment and convenient organisational features that Mum wants for keeping foods neatly stored and at eye level; the bottom-freezer access that Dad wants for his next late-night ice cream snack; and, for the entire family, the ease of external ice and water. An ENERGY STAR®-qualified appliance, the Maytag Ice2O French Door Bottom-Freezer Refrigerator also exceeds federal energy-efficiency standards by 15 percent - helping consumers conserve energy and save money.

Hoover® Introduces Sport Utility Vacuum for an All-Terrain Cleaning Experience
Hoover has introduced a sports utility vacuum designed to seamlessly conquer any surface for a high level of cleaning. The Hoover® Z™ Bagless Upright Vacuum is a first-of-its-kind cleaner that comes fully loaded for an entirely new performance in the floor-care category.

Consumers' cleaning needs have changed due to the growing trend of multiple floor surfaces within the home. Today's home requires a single vacuum that can adjust to different carpet levels and transition from hard to delicate surfaces, both on and above the floor. The features of the Hoover Z Bagless Upright address major concerns voiced by vacuum users - the starting and stopping motion of the cleaning process as users switch between vacuums and modes, the need for efficient cleaning across multiple surfaces and heights and the maintenance associated with cleaning and replacing the main filter. The Hoover Z bagless upright focuses on all aspects of vacuuming from set up and start to use and storage.

Features of the new vacuum include a DigiTouch™ control pad allowing for a seamless, automatic adjustment between surfaces and settings without the need to bend over the vacuum, and a patent-pending self-cleaning HEPA filter that automatically cleans itself every six seconds and never needs replacing to maintain a high level of cleaning. Its super-stretch hose extends 20 feet for convenient above-the-floor cleaning of curtains, drapes, moulding and tops of stairs. The patent-pending collapsible Z-Fold™ design also offers the performance and convenience of an upright with the flexibility and stability of a canister in one vacuum. The new, flagship product of the Hoover line of high-performance cleaning appliances is available in two models, the Hoover Z 700 and Hoover Z 400.

Jenn-Air® Slide-In Ranges Create a Kitchen Island Paradise
According to a recent survey from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), 77 percent of homeowners say that a kitchen island is an important consideration when buying, building or remodelling a home. When it comes to island cooking, no appliance is more popular or versatile than a slide-in range. At the same time, the kitchen island is a utilitarian area for food preparation and an appealing space for entertaining. The new Jenn-Air® slide-in ranges serve both functions, with flexible fuel sources, built-in warming drawers and new performance features. The standard 30-inch width provides installation flexibility, while the flush-to-counter styling gives the range a high-end, built-in look.

The new slide-in range collection also features models with Jenn-Air's downdraught ventilation system. Downdraught ranges eliminate smoke and odour from the cooking surface, eliminating the need for an overhead hood. And as downdraught captures the smoke and odours at the point of creation, it operates more efficiently than an overhead hood. In fact, a downdraught system is nine times more efficient than an overhead hood of similar power.

The new models combine high-performance features with Jenn-Air's styling, including the popular Floating Glass finish. New Jenn-Air slide-in range offerings include completely re-engineered downdraught and updraught gas models, a Euro-Style Stainless dual-fuel model and a sleek 'Gas on Glass' look that couples gas power with the popular glass cooking surface that dominates new electric cooktops.

Jenn-Air's new ranges feature the industry's largest slide-in oven capacities, while convection models include the MultiMode® convection system for ideal results when baking, roasting, drying or thawing. Plus, Jenn-Air's new convection element improves heat distribution and airflow, making the new Jenn-Air slide-in ranges a good choice for serious home gourmets.

Maytag Corporation is a leading producer of home and commercial appliances. Its products are sold to customers throughout North America and in international markets. The corporation's principal brands include Maytag®, Hoover®, Jenn-Air®, Amana®, Dixie-Narco® and Jade®.

Homag's March Open House

Homag U.K. will be hosting its first open house exhibition of 2006 with a special focus on CNC technology from March 14 - 16.

With its extensive showroom and demonstration bay as well as the training and service facilities, customers have increasingly found these events to be a highly practical and beneficial way to see high quality demonstrations in a working environment.

Homag U.K.'s exhibitions have as much come to be known for their professionalism as well as the warm and informal atmosphere and appreciated hospitality.

This first open house event of 2006 - a year in which Homag will exhibit internationally in Milan and the newly formatted W6 (previously Woodmex) show in Birmingham - will feature the latest CNC technology for all manufacturing sectors at all levels - from furniture, joinery and shopfitting applications through office furniture and fabrication specialists.

From CNC specialists Weeke two of the Venture machines (3 and 5) will be on show. The former provides a good opportunity for small to medium companies with a high specification including the patented LED positioning system on the table and a C axis. The latter is a high-tech CNC centre for a wide range of applications and has a C axis, a 14 place tool changer at the rear and an 8 place tool changer in front.

Also from Weeke the BHC 280 machining table with a matrix table for nesting processes and the similar BHP 200 machining centre with a gantry head configurations.

For all panel processing in a single clamping the Homag BAZ 222 with 3mm PVC edging capability on shaped parts will be demonstrated.

From beam saw specialist Holzma the HPL 380 (rear lift) saw will be on display representing good value for a high specification saw.

Anyone wishing to attend or requiring further information should contact Michelle Spencer on (Fax) 01332 856400 or (email) Michelle.Spencer@homag-uk.co.uk

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

Hybrid Event for Designers

After its launch last year, 100% East returns to the Truman Brewery, from 21-24 September 2006 with a new focus. Unlike its sister show, 100% Design, held over the same dates in Earls Court 2, 100% East will be noticeably more multidisciplinary casting its net more widely by including photography, product design, furniture, graphics, jewellery, ceramics and textiles by the best emerging talent, internationally.

Organised by design entrepreneur Undu with support from 100% Design co-founder Ian Rudge, the show aims to offer something completely new. '100% Design is the place to go to see great design and new product launches from companies/designer that are already commercially viable in the market,' says Jimmy MacDonald, co-founder of Undu along with partner Rachel Isherwood. 'With 100% East we’re trying to complement that by producing something visitors will find consistently surprising and unexpected. Not only will the work be new to the UK market but it will come from a genuine mixture of disciplines.'

100% East 2006 will be split into two distinct sections: the main hall – reserved for designers/companies who have had 2-4 years of experience in the industry or want to checkout the UK market – and the Talent Zone, populated by the best UK graduates, sourced by industry talent scouts. 'The idea is to throw the spotlight onto a bunch of really talented people who are on the cusp of making it big but just need an extra push over the publicity precipice,' explains MacDonald. Indeed he and Isherwood are so enamoured with the new structure that they’ve decided to integrate their previous student event, Undu Graduates, into 100% East to focus solely on one project.

Ultimately MacDonald hopes to see a steady flow of designers move year on year from the Talent Zone to the main hall itself and then across London to Earls Court 2. By way of guaranteeing fresh blood and development, designers and companies will only be permitted to show three times at East. 'At its best East should act as an incubator for designers and 100% Design,' says MacDonald. 'Using the exhibition as a vehicle, we can teach them to understand their market, deal with the press, and structure their business correctly by putting a professional structure ahead of them. We can only offer them this because of the combined experience of these two events.'

And not only will the visitors benefit from the show’s eclectic nature, MacDonald believe the exhibitors themselves will also reap rewards. 'We aim to encourage a cross-fertilisation of ideas,' he adds. 'By the end of the show we want to see photographers collaborating with glass-blowers to get their work into the media; furniture designers talking to graphic designers about new restaurant concepts; and animators working creatively with product designers to communicate their designs.'

Another area where East will differ from its older sibling will be in its exhibition design. At the moment plans are very much in the gestation stage but MacDonald promises intriguingly: 'We’re going to work a lot more with the building this year.'

'We are delighted with the number of serious trade visitors we attracted to the Brewery last year and by our choice of location,' says MacDonald, 'and we feel it has given us an excellent base to push the show into new territory.'

Web: http://www.100percenteast.co.uk
Undu Graduates 2005 website link http://www.undugraduates.co.uk

KBB and Expotile 2008 are Moving.....

KBB incorporating Expotile, the kitchens, bathrooms and tiling industry event, will be held at a different time of year from 2008. The event will continue to be a part of The Interiors Event in January 2006, but the biennial event will move to 9-12 March in 2008, situated in Halls 6, 7 and 17 - 20 at the NEC, Birmingham.

The move of KBB incorporating Expotile is a result of research within both industries, which has found that the event would serve the industries better at this time of year when buyers are looking to source new products for the season ahead. With approval from exhibitors, KBB incorporating Expotile now has the chance to grow even bigger, utilising the space of an extra hall in 2008.

Andy Braid, Event Director comments, 'We feel that bringing KBB incorporating Expotile forward in the year will not only please our visitor audience, giving them an even better opportunity to source the new industry launches, but also gives us a chance to grow into an even bigger and better event!'

KBB incorporating Expotile 2006 will take place from 22-25 January 2006 at the NEC, Birmingham. Please visit http://www.kbb.co.uk for more details.

Pack-Mate Collection at Spring Fair 2006

Scott Brothers will be exhibiting its growing Pack-Mate brand of home storage products at Spring Fair 2006, at the NEC, Birmingham, 5th-9th February 2006, Stand HPE9, Pavillion. Present on the stand throughout the show will be Pack-Mate AnyLock food storage and beverage products, Pack-Mate CarryLock and making its debut is the new Pack-Mate CooLock.

Pack-Mate AnyLock™, a new product to the UK market, is a reusable food freshness storage bag with sealing rods. The patented rods provide a totally airtight, watertight and odour-tight seal, and can also be used to seal other bags such as rice, pasta etc., once opened. AnyLock is not only a suitable tool for preserving fresh foods, such as fruit and vegetables, but it can also be used to contain the smell of troublesome foods, such as fish and onions.

Pack-Mate AnyLock provides a good retail opportunity, with impulse prices and good margins for a wide range of outlets including housewares, food and cook shops, department stores, grocers and major retailers. The company says that with domestic food storage at a premium due to more and more people buying fresh foods, and no other similar products on the market, Pack-Mate AnyLock is guaranteed to be a huge retail success.

A variant on the AnyLock concept, Pack-Mate CarryLock™ is a new portable liquid storage system. CarryLock is a super-tough bag designed specifically to carry and store liquids. The bag comes complete with a handle and pouring spout and is sealed using the patented rods. All CarryLock bags are reusable, allow easy transportation of liquids and are a compact space-saving solution.

Making its debut on Stand HPE9 is the new Pack-Mate CooLock™, a personal possession protection bag. Pack-Mate CooLock comes complete with a sealing rod, safety clip and adjustable neck band and is suitable for protecting valuables, such as passports, money, mobile phones and MP3 players from dust, dirt, sand etc. Being 100% waterproof Pack-Mate CooLock can be worn when swimming, meaning that it is no longer necessary to leave valuables on the beach when going for a quick swim.

In addition, Pack-Mate's clothing and bedding range consisting of Protect & Store, Pack-Mate Stack&Vac, Pack-Mate VacuSac and Pack-Mate Home & Travel and Outdoor Roll-Bags will be present on Stand HPE9.

For more information on Pack-Mate please visit Scott Brothers Ltd. on Stand HPE9, at the Spring Fair 2006, call 01606 837 787, e-mail sales@scottmail.co.uk or visit http://www.packmate.co.uk

Grand Designs Live at NEC Birmingham

Following the successful launch of Grand Designs Live 2005 at ExCeL London, Media 10 Limited has announced the launch of Grand Designs Live Birmingham, 6-8 October 2006 at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham.

Following research of visitors to Grand Designs Live 2005, studies of the TV shows viewing demographics and feedback from readers of Grand Designs magazine, it is clear that there is demand for a second season event further north.

Like its London counterpart, Grand Designs Live Birmingham will be a spectacularly vibrant exhibition following the same sectionlised format.  It will feature a host of celebrities, creative displays and show-stopping features and of course will showcase the UK's leading companies from the design and build sectors.

'Grand Designs Live Birmingham, 6-8 October 2006 - to be a part of it contact us today! 

'To reserve the best stands please contact us by phone on 01992 570030 or mike@media-ten.com'

Grand Designs Live London - ExCeL, 2-4 June 2006
Grand Designs Live Birmingham - NEC, 6-8 October 2006

Web: http://www.granddesignslive.com

Home & Gift Revises Layout for 2006

Following the success of this year's Home & Gift, exhibitors will benefit from a revised fair layout which will include the following sites: Harrogate International Centre; Cairn Hotel; Design Point marquees; George Hotel; Majestic Hotel; Collectible and General Gift marquees and the Old Swan Hotel and marquee. However, due to planning restrictions the Interiors Accessories marquee will no longer be situated at the Harrogate Ladies College.

As Home & Gift enjoys its 45th successive year in 2006, Clarion Retail continues to improve and develop the show while maintaining and nurturing its relationships with local businesses, institutions and residents. The initial planning application to house a marquee at the Ladies College was withdrawn by Clarion Retail in good faith following a joint decision with the Ladies College and local residents as it was felt that the marquee would prove to be too disruptive to the local residents.

Joanna Carter, Show Director of Home & Gift said, 'Naturally, we are disappointed not to be able to use the playing fields at Harrogate Ladies College but due to planning restrictions and our concern for the impact on local residents, this is not possible. We are looking forward to another busy and successful fair as it continues to attract more exhibitors and visitors every year. Home & Gift makes a considerable financial contribution to the Harrogate economy, and we will continue to work with the Harrogate Borough Council to ensure that the fair remains the most successful event in the Harrogate calendar.'

http://www.homeandgift.co.uk

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