KBzine: the original kitchen and bathroom industry e-news - since 2002
11th January 2019
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 International News
Products Quartz in a quarter of the time (and cost)
KBBG introduces a supplier of kitchen bar stools
New to the portfolio of clever innovations for the installer, designer and retailer is a range of four products for simple, effective installation of basins. Fish scale/mermaid tiles conjure up a little mythical magic
Gold mermaid fishscale tiles from Otto Tiles & Design appeared on George Clarke's 'Old House, New Home' featuring a property in Portsmouth, Claverdon, recently. Otto Tiles & Design sees fish-scale tiles as the new trend upcoming over the next year, possibly to replace terrazzo tiles. |
It's been a funny old Christmas, hasn't it, with the lack of sales in our town centres and scaremongering over the ever-growing political uncertainty? It isn't all bad though, with official figures revealing that construction output grew by 2.1% for the period September to November compared with the previous three months, and today's UK kitchen market report by MTW Research (www.marketresearchreports.co.uk) suggesting sales will rise by £50mn in 2019, despite ongoing challenges for the kitchen products industry. Suppliers' data shows that higher value rigid kitchen cabinets, cooking appliances, premium taps and dishwashers are performing exceptionally well, although the mid-market stays squeezed on prices and profits, with online retailers steadily gaining share through aggressive pricing strategies. The 170-page report identifies top kitchen design trends, noting increased complexity as consumers personalise their kitchens rather than accept traditional off the shelf solutions. Design innovation continues to support the higher value market, with the 'unobtrusive kitchen' also gaining share thanks to increased building of smaller, urban open plan homes. MTW says sophisticated consumers realise the old binary choice of traditional or modern kitchen design is defunct, with the market more complex regarding design, specification and purchasing criteria... Urban, industrial, chic rustic and vintage designs drive the market and knowledgeable consumers are seeking retailers and manufacturers who can help create a distinctly personalised kitchen. The report identifies several growth opportunities, while warning suppliers they'll suffer if they're slow to identify new trends and underestimate the growing threat of price deflation. Based on data from companies reporting over £180 million profit, the report finds that the 'connected kitchen' is driving value growth in the luxury and high-mid markets, with smart extractors, voice activated hobs and built in cabinet smart speakers demonstrating how retailers are using technology to personalise kitchen designs. The report also identifies a shift in distribution, with retailers have mostly won the battle against the Sheds, which are repositioning to more traditional DIY market positions. Growth in the lower value sector is likely to be elusive in 2019, forcing online and DIY channels to engage in price battles, while lower mass market growth is likely to be compounded by the 'kitchen refresh', with cost-conscious consumers changing doors, handles and taps rather than undertaking full refits. Happy New Year to you! Yours,
 This Week's News
KBSA starts new year with 10 new members
The latest new members include eight new retail members, one corporate member - Gardner Distribution based in Kent, and one Foundation member - New Forest Designs in Hampshire. In addition, Ekco (Edinburgh) has added a new branch to its membership.
After his apprenticeship he went to work at Baxi Boilers and then to Myson as a sales representative. He then spent 21 years working for Aqualisa, first as a sales representative, then to northern regional contract manager and later as national contract manager. Swiss Krono's CamuStyleTX wins prestigious German Design Award
Available exclusively in the UK from IDS, the collection harnesses the aesthetics of natural limestone and open weave fabric, expertly combining them into the unique CamuStyleTX texture.
The deal, initially announced in May, has now been finalised and will see Hisense UK assume control of Gorenje's UK operations and logistics, as well as launching new products to the market. Tim joins Masterclass as national sales manager
With over 30 years' experience in the industry, Tim brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the role. Joining Masterclass from Hepplewhite where he managed retailer accounts throughout the UK, Tim prides himself on being a 'hands on' manager who has built lasting relationships within the industry over the years. Minimalist vanity basin, WC & electronic-flush urinal for Istanbul
New financial support for BiKBBI members
The new BiKBBI Funder Finder provides free and simple access for its members to source financial funding for their businesses, including vehicle & asset financing, cash flow loans, commercial mortgages, invoice finance, pension-led funds, term loans and trade finance. Keller's chic Chelsea kitchen: vintage style with a modern twist
KBSA confirms date and venue for 2019 Conference and Awards
Fashionable tap for modern kitchens
Pelipal wins the German Design Award with Solitaire 9025
A beautiful and timeless design that's also noted for its outstanding functionality". New brochure and new look for Amica
"It emphasises that Amica appliances are designed and manufactured with the needs of the consumer firmly in mind," says marketing manager Steve Corbett. Formica Group to be acquired by Broadview
The sale includes Formica Group businesses in North America, Europe and Asia as well as its Homapal laminates business in Germany and is subject to regulatory approvals and conditions. The KBzine Archive Search We keep an extensive archive of news stories and product information that have featured in past issues of The KBzine. If you would like to run a search of the The KBzine web site using the search tool below please just go ahead by entering in the name of the person, product or company or any other key words that you are looking for. News in Brief How to contact us at The KBzine:
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