BMA Launches Dedicated Training Micro Web Site

The Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA), the trade association which represents 87% of bathroom manufacturers trading in the UK, has announced that its dedicated training micro web site has gone live.

The site aims to be recognised as the 'hub' for information on training within the Bathroom Industry and offers the visitor a host of information including advice on career paths within the bathroom industry, manufacturers training courses, useful links to relevant bodies and bathroom manufacturers to a set of Industry Generic Guides covering the broad spectrum of bathroom products.

Included in the Guides are Sanitaryware and Fittings, Baths, Shower Controls, Enclosures Screens and Trays, Brassware, Furniture, Wet Rooms, Special Needs and Health and Safety. The Guides offer essential information which allows all sectors of the supply chain to sell the right product for the end user needs and is ideal support material to existing NVQ courses.

The BMA working alongside the education system and lead training and development bodies across the UK, wants to actively encourage the right people to undertake careers within the Bathroom Industry and therefore the career paths section of the micro site contains valuable information about modern apprenticeships, NVQ, lifelong learning, work based learning and university foundation and degree courses.

The training micro website forms part of the BMA's ongoing commitment to help the Bathroom Industry meet modern business demands and endorses the BMA as not only the 'Voice for the Industry' but also the 'eyes and ears'.

‘For further information on the BMA and its training initiative come and visit us on Stand E791 at B&K Expo, you could even take the 'Test' on bathroom products - now there's a challenge!’

Tel: 01782 747123
Email: mailto:info@bathroom-association.org.uk

Bushboard is a Huge Hit!

Due to a considerable amount of interest, averaging at nearly 3.5 million hits per year, Bushboard has redesigned the website to reflect its popularity. The new improved website provides lifestyle imagery, along side useful information and a new homepage, with flashing images and bursts of text drawing attention onto the site.

Contributing to the popularity of the site, the layout of sub-divided categories is both clear and comprehensive; including detailed information on Bushboard product ranges with an option to download brochures. Amongst which is the new Prima brochure with three new designs. The comprehensive media centre allows the user to browse through recent press releases and receive up-to-date news of activity within the company. A call-back service is also available if more information is needed or a sample is required.

Full details are provided on each of Bushboard's key brands including full specifications on the sizes available. The Prima collection hosts an extensive range of Worktop, Splashback and Upstand designs and has recently been further enhanced by new designs including Perlato Granite and Natural Black Walnut continuing the natural look of the Collection. The Omega range offers built-in Microban antibacterial protection and to complete this collection is the Odessey range available in 3 metre lengths to complement the Omega 4 metre collection; providing the retailer with additional flexibility. Bushboard's Nuance collection also offers a range of bathroom surfaces providing 12 designs suitable for any bathroom style.

To view the updated Bushboard website visit http://www.bushboard.co.uk

Electronic Recruiting Exchange Recognises Whirlpool for Recruiting Excellence

Whirlpool Corporation recently announced it has been recognised by Electronic Recruiting Exchange for its recruiting efforts. The company received honourable mentions at the first annual ER Excellence Awards in the categories of Best Corporate Careers Web site and Most Innovative Recruiting Process or Departmental Structure. 

The ER Excellence Awards, which celebrate excellence in the field of corporate recruiting, are given to a select group of leading corporations and individuals in recognition of their recruiting accomplishments over the past year.

'At Whirlpool, our goal is to create and maintain loyal customers for life. Attracting and retaining top talent is critical to accomplishing this goal,' said Kristen Weirick, manager, Employer Brand for Whirlpool Corp. 'We are pleased to have our recruiting efforts recognised by Electronic Recruiting Exchange.'

Whirlpool's career web site was designed to make it as easy as possible for potential employees to find information about the company, its culture and career opportunities.  The site (http://www.whirlpoolcareers.com) offers employee testimonials, detailed information on many career paths, and interactive components covering global locations, company history and benefits. In addition, the site includes a campus section that provides information on undergraduate and graduate opportunities, tips for interviewing with Whirlpool, and a video featuring celebrity Ben Stein that demonstrates the company's global, innovative and industry-leading position. The site also makes it easy for candidates to apply, allowing them to sign up for email updates for openings in their field of interest, and create a profile that is password protected and easily updated.

Whirlpool's Exceptional Candidate Experience is a candidate management process that focuses on customer loyalty - an important element of the company's overall culture and corporate strategy. The Experience includes three components - initial touch points, candidate engagement and candidate closings. During every interaction with potential employees, Whirlpool strives to convey a consistent, positive message about the company as an employer. The company also conducts interviews with a customer loyalty focus, working to ensure candidates are treated like valued customers throughout the interview process. Lastly, whether the candidate is offered a position or not, Whirlpool maintains a positive experience with the person as a customer through thoughtful and conscientious communications with the candidate.
 
'We know that our recruiting efforts play a key role in how customers feel about the company and its products,' added Weirick.  'Therefore, it's crucial that our candidates have a exceptional experience whether or not they become Whirlpool employees.'

Applications for the Excellence awards were reviewed by a panel of recruiting industry experts and practitioners, including Dr. John Sullivan, Gerry Crispin, Lou Adler, Kevin Wheeler, as well as top staffing executives from T-Mobile and Starbucks. The judging panel recognised excellence in nine specific categories pertaining to corporate recruiting, including best employer brand, best career web site, most effective use of staffing metrics, most effective use of recruiting technology, best employee referral programme, most innovative recruiting process or departmental structure, best college recruiting programme, and recruiter of the year.

GDHA Launches New Look Website

Glen Dimplex Home Appliances, the UK supplier of cooking appliances, has unveiled a new look website containing comprehensive information about the company and its brands.

The site charts the progress of the company, from its conception and the acquisition of Stoves, New World and Belling to its recent name change. It also contains information about the brands, with links through to the consumer websites, and the extensive customer care and spare sales support available.

Visitors to the site can view the latest brochures, which can be ordered online or downloaded in pdf format. In addition, the latest press releases and images can be obtained by visiting the online news and image library.

Jayne Hall, Marketing Director for Glen Dimplex Home Appliances, comments: ‘The launch of the new-look website, which follows the company’s recent name change, is part of Glen Dimplex Home Appliances’ ongoing commitment to its trade customers.

‘The informative site is easy to navigate and, with comprehensive information on our brands and services along with details of the latest news and products, we hope it will prove a valuable resource for on-line visitors.’

For further information on Glen Dimplex Home Appliances please visit the new website at http://www.gdha.com or call 0870 248 9663.

Win £100 to Spend on Tiles

Visit The Tile Association website at www.tiles.org.uk and you can win £100 to spend on tiles. Just fill in a short questionnaire and your email address will be put into a prize draw to win £100 to spend with any TTA member company.

On this site you will find the latest industry news, lots of photographs of tile and contact information for your local TTA member, distributor, retailer or tile fixer. There are FAQ's and a downloadable version of the DIY publication Tile it Right.

Tel: 020 8663 0946
http://www.tiles.org.uk/competition.shtml

With an increasing number of people tapping into the internet to find out more about a product they plan to purchase, Franke has launched an online survey to look at how its site could be improved to better meet visitors’ needs.

The leading sink manufacturer is aware that the internet has become an important research tool for customers, and is keen to ensure that the site meets changing requirements.

John Swain, product manager for Franke UK, commented: ‘Not only have we recorded a 65 per cent increase in visitor sessions between February 2004 and February 2005, but with an ever increasing number of products in the Franke range we want to ensure that people can easily find what they’re looking for.

‘The results of the last website survey resulted in a few good initiatives, including the ‘help me choose’ section of the site and the new multimap feature, which enables people to locate their nearest Franke dealer very simply.

‘It’s also important to get feedback from retailers because the website’s a valuable resource for them to gain knowledge and understanding of the Franke range for when customers visit showrooms.’

The survey, which will run for three months, consists of 11 questions and should only take six minutes to complete. Everyone participating will be entered into a prize draw to win one of six Grand Gourmet knife sets from WMF worth £149.00.

To complete the survey, visit http://www.franke.co.uk

Tel: 0161 436 6280

Pfleiderer Industrie Ltd's new Website makes Browsing Easy

Pfleiderer Industrie Ltd. the UK subsidiary of Pfleiderer AG, one of Europe's largest HPL/wood based panel manufacturers has a new website specifically for UK customers. Users choose between retail and trade sections. Consumers are led to the Duropal worktop section where they see the decors, surface textures and profiles. They may then easily request actual A5 size HPL decor pieces. In addition they can review Duropal's benefits and download the Duropal Guide to Good Worktops. This publication has been very popular within kitchen studios.

The trade section includes both Duropal HPL worktops and sheet laminate, introduces the Wodego brand Decor laminate and samples are easily requested. While in Europe this brand encompasses logistics, products and other activities, in the UK it refers to Pfleiderer's MFC and melamine faced MDF. MDF is now manufactured in Pfleiderer's recently acquired modern fastory. The Dimensions co-ordinated range spanning all Pfleiderer's brands is also featured, giving an invaluable guide to interior and furniture designers. Again, A5 size decor pieces are easily requested.

This is a large, comprehensive site but easily navigated. In particular, the sample request programme is very simple and reliable, giving everyone a 'try before buying' facility. The web address is http://www.pfleiderer.co.uk.

Zendor Launches New Website Review Service

Manchester-based multi-channel retail specialist Zendor is launching a new ‘Online Experience Review’ service to help retailers and manufacturers improve their e-commerce proposition and increase response rates, average order values and profitability. Zendor’s new service involves a two-pronged approach which aims to get both the offer and the website right. Assessing the whole proposition from product range to customer experience is key, as the success of any e-commerce offering will depend on one as much as the other.

Zendor’s new Online Experience Review is therefore far more than simply scrutinising a website’s aesthetics and usability. It addresses the client’s entire e-commerce proposition, providing a complete, holistic analysis of both its online strategy and website. The phased service includes the following:

Phase 1 – E-commerce study: The Zendor team breaks down and reviews key elements of the online strategy, including product range, pricing, offers/promotions and the look, feel and flow of the website, against best practice standards.

Phase 2 – Online Customer Experience Research: Using the ideas and recommendations generated as a result of the first phase, a ‘real world’ testing session is undertaken, reviewing the site through the eyes of the retailers’ customers. This involves monitoring how a representative sample of customers interacts with the website on a one-to-one basis (in laboratory conditions) in order to measure key site strengths and weaknesses.

Phase 3 – Roadmap: All results are analysed and a roadmap is drawn up providing range, pricing and promotions advice and key website issues, including practical recommendations for implementation.

By taking on board these recommendations, online retailers and manufacturers can expect to improve their offering on all fronts, impacting customer conversion rates and order values, and leading to a better return on investment.

Nick Allen, Chief Executive of Zendor explains: ‘Making a success of e-commerce is dependent upon so many elements from product range and the use of promotions through to a website’s flow and usability. As each element impacts on another it is important to consider the entire online proposition and not just its separate elements. The Online Experience Review takes this inclusive approach and also provides the client with a detailed roadmap of how its e-commerce offering can be made more profitable.’

Retailers and manufacturers who are interested in challenging and improving their online proposition or would like further information about Zendor’s Online Experience Review should contact Zendor direct on 0161 237 4900 or by emailing mailto:curious@zendor.com.

Web: http://www.zendor.com

Barnes of Ashburton's New Website Takes the Hard Work out of Choosing your Next Kitchen

Barnes of Ashburton Ltd has taken its reputation for offering great customer service on-line. Its new website not only showcases the company's kitchens but also provides design advice and planning tips that will help guide you through the kitchen buying process.

'Buying a new kitchen can be very daunting and it represents a considerable investment. Instead of having a pure product-led website, we wanted to offer our customers that little bit extra,' explains Barnes' founder and head designer Patrick Gunning. 'Our advice section offers non patronising, practical tips that are designed to take the hard work out of choosina vour kitchen.'

A passion for natural materials and design is at the heart of the Barnes website, which also displays the company's handmade kitchens and freestanding furniture. To help you envisage the final result - a selection of case studies will also be on show, offering further design inspiration.

'We put our design expertise, experience and craftsmanship at your disposal to give you a uniquely individual kitchen,' adds Patrick.

With more than 20 years' experience in the industry, Bames ofAshburton Ltd make beautifully crafted bespoke furniture, with prices ranging from £10-25,000.

Tel: 01364 653613
Web: http://www.barnesofashburton.com

All You Need to Know About Tiles at the Click of a Mouse

The Tile Association website is only just over one year old and it is currently attracting over half a million hits per month. ‘Not surprising as it is a one stop shop for anyone who wants to know anything about tiles and where to find them.’ says TTA.

TTA isn’t resting on its laurels – the site is currently undergoing a face lift. The new site with a more ‘newsy’ front page but with all the same valuable information about tile ranges, tile stockists and tile fixers went ‘live’ on January 17th 2005.

The new look site will still have over 100 photographs of tiles in the TTA galleries and links to hundreds and thousands of tiles on TTA members’ sites. New additions are industry news on the front page, members’ press releases, a glossary of tile terms and a situations vacant page for all those people who want to start a career in what is one of the UK’s fastest growing markets.

Web: http://www.tiles.org.uk

Tiling Solutions at the Click of a Button with H & R Johnson

H & R Johnson Tiles, the UK manufacturer of ceramic tiles has launched an extensive new website, www.johnson-ceramics.com, specifically created to answer the on-line needs of architects, specifiers and contractors.

H & R Johnson’s new website has been created for the specification market, with it’s design carefully compiled to reflect architectural interest in the presentational style of such sites.

Furthermore, this design-focussed site utilises an easy navigation system for on-line tiling solutions, providing specifiers with rapid access to the latest product information, technical solutions and fixing guidelines. Specifiers can also use the site to view the various product lines and to request copies of product literature.

With simple navigation, all information is clearly mapped out allowing ease and speed of use. All necessary details from product lines and recent projects, to specification guidelines and maintenance advice can be called up within seconds, providing industry professionals with a variety of contemporary options and effective tiling solutions at the click of a button.

Steve Whitehurst, Contract Marketing Executive for H & R Johnson commented: 'The Internet has become an invaluable global tool with many relying on it as their primary source of information. Our new website has been created specifically to meet the on-line needs of specifiers, architects and contractors and to update industry professionals with H&R Johnson’s latest designs, product information and industry issues. The flexibility of the website also ensures that we can continuously develop the site in line with the needs of the industry.'

Web: http://www.johnson-ceramics.com

Astracast Nexus Goes 'Live'

Astracast, the British sink and tap manufacturer has launched an in-depth web site for its Nexus range of design-led kitchen products. 'Nexus leads the way in fresh approaches to kitchen solutions through new ideas, design innovation and technological advancements.' says the company.

'Astracasts' heritage has allowed for the creation of a range like no other - precision and elegance in its purest form.'

The web site enables visitors to download templates and technical information for the Nexus range of sinks which includes stainless steel undermounts, composite and ceramic offerings. Every sink within the range is featured and if the visitor does not have Acrobat Reader then, this too is catered for. Just click on the symbol to download.

The range of tap innovations combine the latest manufacturing trends with both quarter turn and progression valve technology to give an uncompromising blend of form and function. Again, the complete range of styles is featured within the site and visitors can click on each one to view them separately and in-depth.
A full list of distributors are outlined and if further information is required then the contacts page will give help before visitors leave the site.

Mike Shaw, Product Manager for Nexus said: 'The web site is not designed to sell Nexus products direct to consumers, it is purely to enhance our service and give the trade more time to concentrate on selling. The decision to go on-line supports our dedication to the trade in giving their customers a visual brochure at their fingertips outlining our unique choice of styles in both sinks and taps.'

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

Zanussi-Electrolux Launches New Websites

Zanussi-Electrolux, part of Electrolux, has launched two new websites, one for freestanding and one for built-in appliances.

The main aim for the new websites was to make it easier for the consumer to navigate and find exactly the product they are looking for. The new designs have a fresher, cleaner look and specific features and benefits have been clearly defined - in some cases these are illustrated with images.

‘Now consumers understand more about the benefits of the product features, they are able to 'sell themselves up' to a better, more specified model.’ Comments Leanne O'Callaghan - Assistant Brand Manager for Zanussi-Electrolux.

To make life even easier for Electrolux consumers - the sites have been designed so that the user is able to navigate simply and easily between the freestanding and built-in websites.

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

Zanussi and Zanussi-Electrolux
Tel: 08705 727 727
http://www.zanussi.co.uk
http://www.zanussi-electrolux.co.uk

Zendor Advises Retailers on How to Achieve True Multi-Channel Integration

The growth of the Internet has permanently altered the retailing landscape as more and more retailers are now choosing to develop a multi-channel business model. However, many retailers find it a challenge to adopt a truly integrated multi-channel approach and present a uniform, seamless face to the customer.

The result – a confused and disloyal customer base, and potentially lost revenue. So, how can today’s multi-channel retailer achieve TRUE integration between shopping channels? Distance shopping specialist Zendor provides the following top tips:

Define the retail strategy – From the outset, identify what the retailer is trying to achieve by going multi-channel. For one retailer the objective may be to simply generate online revenue, for another improved customer service, for another maintaining market share. Whatever the objective, the retailer needs to determine how each channel fits into this overall strategy.

Determine a cross-channel branding approach – Once the retail strategy is clear, the retailer needs to identify how the brand values can be most effectively translated across the channels (store, web, catalogue, phone) and communicated to customers. A retailer’s brand encapsulates everything the company stands for in terms of type and quality of product, service and ethos.

Educate all employees – All employees from call centre staff through to couriers need to fully understand and ‘buy-in’ to the retailer’s multi-channel strategy. Therefore, teaching staff about what the retailer is trying to achieve with its multi-channel strategy and how one channel impacts on another is imperative. Staff across all channels and business units also need to be trained so that their actions and the messages they give out, for example, are consistent with the retailer’s brand values.

Ensure good communication across business units – Staff across all business functions need to ‘sing from the same hymn sheet’ for consistency. Good communication is especially important with multi-channel retail as any one element in the chain can impact customer service and hence, a customer’s view of the business as a whole.

Establish a suitable infrastructure – Successful multi-channel integration requires an appropriate, automated infrastructure that integrates the front-end channel interfaces, be it web, store or phone, with the back-end fulfilment systems. This enables the front and back-end to have access to the same information in ‘real time’, be it stock levels or customer data.

Delivering consistent customer service across all shopping channels is vital in today’s multi-channel world. Retailers that meet the challenge will enjoy numerous benefits including enhanced customer loyalty, promotion of the ‘halo effect’ (the term applied to the customers who shop across more than one channel and actually spend more), a wider geographic market for the retailer’s brand, a single customer view for targeted marketing and ultimately, increased profits.

Zendor works with multi-channel retailers to help them achieve full multi-channel integration as part of its end-to-end distance shopping services. Zendor’s clients include Daisy and Tom, River Island, Early Learning Centre, and Sony Computer Entertainment UK. Retailers interested in finding out further information about Zendor’s services should contact Zendor on mailto:curious@zendor.com visit http://www.zendor.com or call 0161 237 4900.

Get a Handle on This ...

Furniture components and fittings suppliers EDP has launched an on-line service to supply high quality handles, knobs and accessories direct in any quantities and to short delivery schedules.

The products are designed by leading manufacturers in Italy and Britain.

The website – http://www.handle-company.co.uk - is a concise, easy to navigate, catalogue of a wide range of designs and styles. The service sections of the site detail EDP’s (European Decorative Products) background and structure, the Support section gives complete information of ordering, charging and delivery structures, and there is also a Contact section and the final ‘View cart’ page to monitor purchases.

The main product sections are clearly illustrated and divided into sections with sub-sections. Each gives full product details including dimensions, finishes and other relevant features.

The sections are Contemporary Pull Handles; Contemporary Cupboard Knobs; Traditional Cabinet Pulls; Black Antique items; Accessories.

The site offers manufacturers, designers, retailers and also end customers the opportunity to add individual style to any furniture outside of standard and catalogue options.

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

New Trade Mouldings Website

Manufacturer of wrapped furniture components and doors, Trade Mouldings, has launched a new website with a complete presentation of products and other information.

The new site at – http://www.trademouldings.com - comprises five main sections: Home Page, Products, News, How to Find Us and Order our New Brochure.

The Home Page is illustrated with a photograph of the company's head office facade at its factory in Cookstown, Northern Ireland where the 8-acre site has one of Europe's most advanced production facilities of its kind. The page also describes Trade Mouldings' history and outlines the company’s products and services.

The Products Page is comprehensive and well illustrated, photographically, throughout. It is made up of distinct sections detailing Kitchen Doors, Bedroom Doors, Accessories, Mouldings and New Products. Each of these is, in turn sub-divided to offer even greater detail. For example, the Kitchen Door section has sub-sections like Traditional, Contemporary, Shaker, Framed and Timber.

The News Page contains regular updates of new products, appointments, exhibition activities and the like - all regularly updated.

How to Find Us gives both geographical and contact information regarding the Cookstown factory and distribution centre as well as the main hub distribution centres at Rochdale and in Dublin.

The site is ended with an easy-to-use form for emailing brochure requests.

Tel: 01706 753600
Email: mailto:sales.uk@trademouldings.com
Web: http://www.trademouldings.com

Franke Group Bowled Over by UK Website

The Franke UK website has been recognised as the most successful within the Franke Group.

In a recent internal survey, the UK website was marked against 20 other countries’ sites, including USA, Germany and China, and came top of the group in all areas.

The Franke website scored highly on ease of navigation, developing the most comprehensive retailer database and the greatest number of visitors to the site, recording over half a million visitor sessions between October 2003 and October 2004.

John Swain, product manager for Franke UK, commented: ‘More and more people are using websites as a facility to find out more about a product before making a purchase so it was important that we created a site that consumers and retailers could navigate easily.

‘We are delighted that this has been recognised by Group and we plan to keep developing the website to ensure that it continues to meet changing consumer demands.’

Tel: 0161 436 6280
Web: http://www.franke.co.uk

Bauformat Launches New UK Website

Bauformat has launched its new UK website www.bauformat.co.uk. The site features online catalogues of the company's Kitchen and Bathroom furniture, together with other products available to the UK market, such as Concrete Worktops, Exclusive German Chairs and Tables, and 'Kitchen Media' Drop Down TV's with DVD / MP3 & Radio.

The online catalogues for 'Meyer' chairs enables dealers an extension to their showroom displays, in what is proving to be a successful 'add-on' to furniture sales.

All products attract special showroom display discounts.

Tel: 0845 658 1949
Email: mailto:sales@bauformat.co.uk
Web: http://www.bauformat.co.uk

www.prospectiles.com

Tiles are beautiful and practical but there are so many to choose from, how can you select the correct product for your project? Is it sufficiently slip resistant? What about scratch hardness and frost resistance, not to mention adhesives and grout?

The Tile Warehouse introduced Prospec for exactly that reason. It's a one stop webshop for all you need to know about specifying tiles and it's online 24/7.

Prospec offers you dedicated professional support, an online tile sample ordering service, an online guide to finding the perfect tile and an information resource library. All that from a company with 25 years experience and a selection of over 2,500 wall and floor tile designs.

To find out more go http://www.prospectiles.com.

Imperial Webwatch

Imperial Bathrooms has launched a new comprehensive user-friendly website. Simple and easy to use, the site guides you through the company’s collection of bathroom suites and furniture with colour images that can be enlarged. Specific measurements for all products can be found under the 'Tech Spec' heading, while the menu for fittings and ancillaries includes installation and aftercare advice.

If after looking a consumer would like to know more, they can find details of their nearest stockist in the dealer section, or request a brochure to be delivered their home. Visit Imperial Bathrooms' website at http://www.imperial-bathrooms.co.uk

Electrolux Launches a Website for Students - Fresh Advice and 'Piece of Cake' Recipes for Tough Times in College

Electrolux has launched a new website for students in Europe. StudentLife (http://studentlife.electrolux.com) is for university students who live away from home and provides first hand advice on how to make washing, cooking and cleaning less boring than it sounds.

Any party animal can do with a bit of advice for a successful bash (as long as it's none of that boring 'don't drink alcohol' stuff you wouldn't follow anyway). StudentLife gives useful tips, like, how to get rid of that last person who just doesn't get that the party is over - even after your subtle hint of changing from party gear into nightwear.

Apart from practical advice, the website offers a recipe exchange where you can vote for the hottest cook, or submit your own favorite recipe to compete for the cool compact washing machine Electrolux has put on offer. The washer is small enough to fit into any humble student castle, but big enough to save you those dreaded trips to the launderette when you've got better things to do, like sleep!

You can also find more serious stuff, like hassle-free ways of giving the environment a break. And a few examples of cool Electrolux products that could make college life a little easier - to help you write that Christmas wish list.

‘StudentLife allows us to reach a large group of young people across borders and help them adjust to university life, at least where household appliance use is concerned,’ states Sue Burgess, PR Manager, Electrolux. ‘First year students especially find that living away from home requires quite a lot of getting used to, no longer being able to rely on those home comforts, like clean washing magically appearing in your room each week. StudentLife will take up part of that role, helping to make their lives a little easier and offering them more time to spend on schooling or, let's face it, partying’.

Cartoon designs for the website were specially commissioned by Electrolux.
The Electrolux StudentLife website can be found via http://studentlife.electrolux.com.

Bushboard’s 'New Look' Website goes Live

The 'new look' Bushboard website is now live and can be accessed at http://www.bushboard.co.uk Offering lifestyle images, alongside useful information, the updated website provides a comprehensive guide to the products and designs available.

The new, easy-to-use site is sub-divided into clear categories: Product Range, Product Information and Media Centre and News. Alongside product specifications, there is a distributor listing and useful tips for kitchen makeovers. It is also possible to download and request brochures from the site, view colour charts, request samples and it offers a call back service for further information.

Detailed information is provided on each of Bushboard's key brands. Offering designs ranging from wood-effect to granite-effect finishes, the Prima collection of Worktops, Splashbacks and Upstands offers a variety of designs to suit any kitchen. Designed to coordinate with the 3 metre Odyssey collection, the 4 metre Omega collection also includes Worktops, Splashbacks and Upstands, ensuring maximum flexibility for the customer. Bushboard's Nuance collection of Bathroom Surfaces offers a selection of designs to update the bathroom, available in a 360mm and a 600mm size option.

The website also promotes Bushboard's sponsorship of ChildLine and exclusive use of Microban® antibacterial protection on its Worktops, Splashbacks and Upstands. Bushboard offers Microban® antibacterial protection on its Omega and Odyssey collections, providing protection against the growth of bacteria and lasting the lifetime of the product.

To view the updated new Bushboard website visit http://www.bushboard.co.uk
For further information on Microban® please visit http://www.bushboard.co.uk/microban

More Visitors Tap into Franke Website

Franke UK has recorded a 50 per cent increase in the number of visitors to its website in the last year.

The site has been carefully designed to target the consumer and the retailer, and in the last 12 months, various features have been added which John Swain, product manager for Franke UK, believes have triggered a significant rise in visitors over the period.

John commented: ‘Consumer retail habits are changing. More and more people are using the internet as a tool for doing their research on a product before making a purchase. It was therefore a real priority for us to ensure that the website is as user friendly as possible, which is why we’ve invested time in adding new features.

‘The ‘Help Me Choose’ section is a recent addition which simply helps people find the product they want. It allows customers to specify the material, the bowl configuration, the cabinet size and the type of fitting and then it brings up a list of different sink designs with the same specifications.’

Franke has also introduced ‘Find a Franke Dealer’ which enables consumers to locate their nearest showroom by simply typing in their postcode.

John continued: ‘Find a Franke dealer is proving to be very popular because it not only enables potential purchasers to view products within the kitchen environment but it’s also driving people into retailer showrooms. For this reason, it’s important that all Franke dealers are registered on the website and keep their contact information up-to-date.’

Mike Peters, Owner of The Realistic Kitchen Company, Penarth (near Cardiff) is one of the 1500 dealers who have registered their details on the site and commented: ‘With kitchen design now playing such a key role in home improvement, people are spending more than ever before on products and appliances. The information that’s now available on the website is therefore essential as it enables consumers to make a more informed decision when purchasing their sinks and taps.

‘We’re currently recording between two and four visits a week from people that have been directed to us from the website so it’s proving to be an extremely valuable resource for us.’

For further information visit http://www.franke.co.uk

Virtual Bathroom Inspiration on www.showerlux.com

Bathroom specialist Showerlux has added a collection of virtual 3D bathrooms to its new-look website, www.showerlux.com.

This web feature uses the latest internet technology to provide users with 3D bathroom examples, which they can view to gain inspirational bathroom design ideas.

Each of the eight virtual room sets, ranging from a luxury bathing paradise to a stylish space saving solution, showcases a range of contemporary bathroom looks that can all be created using the latest Showerlux products. Users can navigate each room to view products in detail and can select individual products to view a full specification.

Showerlux Marketing Manager Danielle Lillis comments: ‘The bathroom panoramas have been created to demonstrate how Showerlux products can be used to create a whole range of bathroom looks, from luxurious sanctuaries for rest and relaxation to ultra contemporary bathrooms, ideal for city living apartments. What’s more, at the click of a button, visitors can instantly access detailed information on each of the products featured to find out how they can recreate the look for themselves. This is a tool useful for consumers, retailers and architects alike, and hopefully the rooms will provide inspiration for them to utilise Showerlux products within their own bathing haven.

‘This latest addition is one of many improvements, all designed to make the website much more useful, relevant and accessible to our customers.’

To access these new facilities or to take a tour of the virtual bathrooms, visit http://www.showerlux.com.

Kohler Launches Online Technical Support Service

Bathroom manufacturer Kohler, which launched in the UK last year, is expanding its customer support services by making detailed product information instantly accessible at a click of a mouse.

Kohler has launched a comprehensive on-line technical information service via its UK website www.kohleruk.com. Over 300 product specification sheets can now be downloaded free of charge from the 'Help me find' section of the Kohler website. A CD containing all the specification sheets is also available for retail showrooms and architects.

Specification sheets are available for a wide variety of products including: Sanitaryware, bathing, brassware, shower enclosures and trays, showers and accessories and freestanding furniture. Each technical sheet contains the following detailed information to assist in specifying bathroom equipment:

• Technical line drawings
• Materials and finishes
• Approvals and compliances
• Pressure and Flow graphs (for brassware and showers)
• Recommended coordinating items

The technical support service joins Kohler's established customer service telephone line: 0870 850 5551 open from 8.30-5.00pm Monday-Friday. A team oftrained Customer Service representatives can provide help from locating showrooms, to technical product information and purchasing spares for all product ranges.

Customer enquiries can also be directed through the 'Contact us' section of the Kohler website ensuring that each query is personally dealt with by a trained customer service representative.

Tel: 0870 850 5551
Web: http://www.kohleruk.com

Zendor Provides Top Ten Tips For Online Retail Success

The online retail industry is booming, with online spending growing 36.1% in 2003, which is almost twice the rate of 2002. The number of online shoppers in the UK is estimated to double in the next 5 years from 10 million to nearly 20 million (Verdict on e-Retail 2004). There now has never been a better time for retailers to consider moving their proposition online, if they have not done so already. Zendor, a provider of total distance shopping solutions, provides the following expert advice to retailers on how to make a success of online selling:

1. Develop a realistic business plan – Fundamental to online success is a good, realistic business plan which answers the question ‘why am I doing this?’. It is important to understand the strategic fit of online selling within the rest of the business and be clear about overall objectives, and how they are going to be measured. For one retailer the objective may simply be to generate online revenue, for another improved customer service, for another maintaining market share.

2. Choose simplicity of the website – It is well accepted that simplicity of websites should be the goal for retailers transacting with customers online. Experimenting with the latest website features is less important than ensuring that customers can buy in as few clicks as possible. Do not be distracted by technical wizardry or gizmos. Ask instead whether changes to the website will increase sales, improve the customer journey through the website or meet a legal requirement. If the change does not meet these simple benefits, reject it.

3. Involve customers in the design of the website –Ensure that the website is easy to use and understand, by involving customers in the design process. By conducting a ‘usability lab’ (a user testing programme which assesses how customers interact with the website), customers can pick out the flaws in their online experience. Eliminating these flaws will reduce the number of customer who leave the site dissatisfied, which will, in turn, increase the number of orders taken through the site and average order values.

4. Choose the right technology - Not all retailers will benefit from implementing the same software solutions and fulfilment systems and so choosing the right technology for the size and needs of the business is vital for online success. For example, one retailer may find that a ‘till’ system, which provides a basic standalone Internet presence is adequate for their needs whereas another retailer may require an integrated solution that links into other areas of the retailer’s business including back office systems.

5. Use online marketing tools – Take a proactive approach with customers by using online marketing tools that recommend products that a customer is likely to be interested in and predict when a customer is most likely to buy. And you do not have to be an ‘Amazon’ with an Amazon-sized budget to afford the technology. Software solutions can be bought relatively inexpensively and incorporated into the website.

6. Make the most of customer data – An online shopping channel provides extensive data about customers and their shopping habits. By segmenting this data (grouping it into ‘types’), customers can be targeted more effectively in terms of timing and personalisation of marketing activities. Improvements to the content, personalisation and timing of marketing material will ensure increased loyalty and maximum return on investment.

7. Be aware of legal obligations – There are numerous regulations surrounding retailers trading online. For instance, the new Electronic Communications Regulations 2003 mean that a business can now only send marketing emails or text messages to a person that has been given the opportunity to ‘opt out’ or has proactively ‘opted in’ to receive marketing emails/SMS from that business. Retailers also need to be aware that the Disability Discrimination Act (1995) is pushing online retailers to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ to their websites so that they are accessible to disabled people (primarily the visually impaired). Companies who do not make ‘reasonable adjustments’ will be liable for prosecution.

8. Integrate the online channel – When developing an online channel, as an extension of your retail business, it is imperative that it is fully integrated into the rest of the business systems including store, catalogue etc, so that customers receive the same experience and message irrespective of the shopping channel they use. If the online channel is treated in isolation from the rest of the business, customers will receive confused, mixed messages and this will ultimately damage the brand.

9. Consider an end-to-end solution – When developing an online strategy, the full customer experience needs to be considered- from initial order through to delivery and, if necessary, returns. If one stage of the process provides poor customer service, the retailer’s entire proposition and brand will be detrimentally affected.

10. Establish the right relationships – If the right skills, knowledge and resources to ensure a successful and integrated approach to online retail do not exist in-house, establishing relationships with the right partners is vital. Third-party distance shopping professionals know how to make e-commerce a success and have the skills, expertise and infrastructure to do so.

Zendor has inherited 140 years of distances-shopping expertise from its parent company, N Brown plc and so has the skills, expertise and knowledge necessary to make a success of online retail. Zendor provides end-to-end solutions to retailers interested in selling from a distance from marketing and e-commerce services through to fulfilment (order processing, warehousing, delivery and returns). Zendor’s clients include River Island, Early Learning Centre and JD Williams. For further information please e-mail mailto:curious@zendor.com visit http://www.zendor.com or call 0161 237 4900.

New Site Allows Visitors to Customise Their Search for the Right Appliance

In response to the growing number of people conducting online research before making an appliance purchase, Whirlpool has re-launched its flagship Web site at http://www.whirlpool.com. This new site offers improved functionality features and a clean, contemporary design that reflects the personality and character of today's Whirlpool brand customers. The new whirlpool.com is more attractive and easier to navigate than before, providing consumers with thorough, precise and customised information about the products and services offered by the world's largest major appliance manufacturer.

'As the world's leading appliance brand, consumers often turn to Whirlpool first when researching or shopping for a new appliance,' said John Alexander, vice president of Whirlpool brand North America. 'This dynamic, efficient and thorough new site lives up to Whirlpool's reputation as being a trusted appliance source and is designed to make information all the more accessible to our consumers.'

Accessible information is important to Whirlpool brand consumers who research shows spend an average of 3.3 hours per day on the Internet. In response, Whirlpool created a selection criteria function that allows consumers to select what features are important to them in a particular appliance and then the site will immediately respond with the most appropriate model(s).

The new site also has improved photography that allows consumers to view appliances from a variety of different angles, such as doors being both opened and closed and close-ups on the control panels. People who visit whirlpool.com before heading to a retailer will already have a good idea of what their appliance is going to look like.

In order to revamp the current site, which was five years old, a rigorous approach was applied to gain consumer insight and determine the most important attributes to the Whirlpool brand consumer. Whirlpool studied other sites' best practices, administered surveys and conducted numerous focus groups and user testing. Through this research Whirlpool developed real-life consumer scenarios that address the wide-variety of Whirlpool brand consumers' needs and expectations from the site. These scenarios were instrumental in developing the site's carefully crafted content, a visually-pleasing, clean design, and clear site navigation.

'This site was designed to further Whirlpool's consumer relationships through the online channel and arm consumers with the appropriate information that fits their needs,' said Dan Cooke, Manager, Interactive Marketing. 'Everything on this Web site went through exhaustive market research to ensure it would be the ultimate online destination for appliance shoppers and Whirlpool consumers.'

Whirlpool Corporation is a manufacturer and marketer of major home appliances, with annual sales of over $12 billion, 68,000 employees, and nearly 50 manufacturing and technology research centers around the globe. The company markets Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Brastemp, Bauknecht, Consul and other major brand names to consumers in more than 170 countries. 

Electronic Info from Instarmac

A novel method of accessing the information contained in Instarmac’s new ‘Ultra Tile Adhesive and Grout Product Guide’ has just been introduced by the Tamworth based adhesives and grouts manufacturer.

The complete 44 page booklet is now available (and can be requested by email) in electronic format. Once downloaded, each double page spread is easily flipped and viewed by a click of your computer button. The document can be stored on your hard drive and retrieved as and when it is necessary to determine the most suitable product for any particular job.

The original booklet, which is also available in conventional one-third A/4 hard copy format, is specifically designed to assist with the critical decisions relating to the selection of adhesives and grouts for particular situations and environments.

The ‘Ultra Tile Adhesive and Grout Product Guide’ clearly details specific products for walls and floors, in dry and wet conditions, internally and externally. It also describes how to create level floors (incorporating underfloor heating, if desired) prior to the application of tiles, as well as how to seal surfaces to make tile application easier and how to seal subsequent gaps and joints around sanitaryware.

Each product’s use is explained and is supported by technical data. A ‘Product Selector’ section plainly shows which products are suitable for which substrates and where priming would be necessary. In order to determine quantities required, the document also contains an estimating guide for both adhesives and grouts.
To receive a copy of the electronic guide, or the hard copy version, contact The Instarmac Group plc.

Tel: 01827 872244
Email: mailto:denaf@instarmac.co.uk

Play it Safe...Plug into the ELECSA at www.elecsa.org.uk

ELECSA, the scheme given government approval to operate the latest Competent Persons Scheme under Approved Document P for electrical contractors, has launched its website.

In line with its simple, no nonsense approach to helping electricians comply with the Building Regulations, the ELECSA website offers an array of information about Building Regulations and the ELECSA scheme in an easy to understand, straightforward format.

Located at http://www.elecsa.org.uk the website breaks down the complexity of Approved Document P for electricians ana householders alike. Electricians can request an Application Pack and find out how they can easily register with ELECSA to comply with the Building Regulations.

There is clear breakdown of costs and requirements for registering, with links to other important on-line resources such as the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister. Enquirers can put forward their comments/questions to ELECSA through its online form. This will enable ELECSA to better serve the electrical contracting industry's and householders' needs. The website will be continually updated to keep everyone in touch with the latest news on the Building Regulations and how they will affect them.

ELECSA is operated by FENSA, the scheme credited by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister with being the the most successful of the Competent Persons schemes to date, and the British Board of Agrement. The ELECSA website will help ELECSA to spread the word about the benefits of its scheme with its proven administrative system of registering installations, sending out certificates to householders and notifying Local Authorities. It will also give ELECSA the opportunity to publicise forthcoming events - such as the ELEX show at Donnington Park on 16th-17th September 2004 where ELECSA will be taking an exhibition stand.

Commenting on the launch of ELECSA's website, ELECSA PR Director Catherine Hogan said 'We are excited to offer electricians and householders the opportunity to find out what Approved Document P is about. Our website will facilitate increased communication by giving everyone the opportunity to freely access all the information that they need to know about ELECSA, how to comply with the Building Regulations and what ELECSA can do to help them comply.'

Contact: Frank Allain
Tel: 020 7864 9913
Email: mailto:fallain@elecsa.org.uk

Finally – You Become Your Own Kitchen Planning Expert

According to Blum the unfortunate reality is that most ‘kitchen planning’ is still working out how many boxes (base and wall units) can be squeezed into a given room space. Still too few ‘experts’ involved in kitchen individual kitchen planning pay any attention to the crucial aspects of storage and actual positioning of specific units relative to the customer’s requirements.

That was the past says Blum.

Now there is Dynamic Space® - a groundbreaking concept in future kitchen planning developed over many years by the international kitchen fittings manufacturer Blum.

Blum’s new Dynamic Space® website – http://www.dynamicspace.com – shows you how to plan your customers’ kitchen along with them so that everything they store, from food and drinks, to cutlery and crockery, utensils and appliances, and things like cleaning materials, pet or baby food …..anything, is stored in the correct way, place and zone of activity.

The five zone concept behind Dynamic Space® has been ergonomically devised and tested to turn time in a kitchen from a chore to a pleasure, to save time, energy and hassle. Above all it turns the kitchen into a truly multi-purpose room for family activities, pure cooking and right through to partying or formal entertainment.

‘The website is informative, easy to use and, above all fun. says the company. ‘As a manufacturer your products need to be strategically equipped internally and this can definitely benefit your design, planning and production. You’ll also be able to significantly optimise your unit production programme! If you are retailing this is the sales tool for the 21st century. If you’re buying a kitchen ….well make sure you never step into another kitchen retail studio again without sitting down and logging on beforehand and there.’

Tel: 01908 285700
Web: http://www.blum.com

Indesit’s 'New Look' Website Goes Live

The 'new look' Indesit website is now live and can be accessed at www.indesit.co.uk. With its range of on-line product catalogues, where-to-buy sections as well as interactive games and competitions, this new on-line resource is designed to inform, entertain and encourage the end-user to stay on site and play.

Its contemporary design and use of vivid imagery make for compelling viewing, while stylish photography is used effectively to convey an ethos of fun-filled, free leisure time - in line with Indesit's 'we work, you play' brand philosophy.

This new, easy-to-use site is sub-divided into clear categories. The I-Zone has a choice of interactive sporting games, competitions and customer questionnaires, all offering considerable entertainment value. A media facility highlights Indesit's latest press and TV ads as well as Indesit's sponsorship deals across a number of high profile international volleyball, football and tennis events. Emphasis and explanation is also given to Indesit's Pitch Project, the nationwide community campaign initiated in support of grassroots football.

Detailed product information on each appliance range, together with new catalogue details are also listed. A store locator pinpoints the consumer's nearest retailers, whilst the 'Contact Us' section contains a comprehensive list of European company locations with corresponding contact details plus after-sales telephone numbers.

To view the updated new Indesit web site click on http://www.indesit.co.uk

Roman's Customers Clean Up on the Net with New Facilities

Shower enclosure specialist Roman has revised its website to further improve its service, and help customers 'clean up'.

The company has added on-line registration for Roman's ten year product guarantee; a rapid response to overseas enquiries; and advice on cleaning showers.

While traditional product registration is still possible, buyers of new shower enclosures can forget about visits to the post box if they wish. With a few clicks of the mouse, they can access the Roman website, type in their details, and it's 'job done'. They will get automatic acknowledgement for peace of mind, and can step into their new shower with total confidence knowing their 10 Year Consumer Guarantee is registered.

For overseas brochure requests via the Internet, customers' details will automatically go to the new dedicated Export Department. This new service follows the success of the UK brochure enquiry page which ensures the despatch of literature within 2 - 3 days.

And all that 'cleaning up'? The final website addition is a 'product care' section which gives advice on the best way to clean shower enclosures, panels, trays and tiling without damaging the surface finishes. Earlier this year Roman introduced Ultra Clean, its own dual action cleaner and protector that not only cleans surfaces but also repels the build-up of grime, lime scale and stains. Ultra Clean's non-filming formula makes it effective on all bathroom surfaces, including aluminium frames, shower seals and taps.

http://www.roman-showers.com

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