KBzine: the original kitchen and bathroom industry e-news - since 2002
1st February 2019
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 International News
Products The RIBA + VitrA Talks series continues into 2019
Taps and showers one step closer to voluntary agreement says European Bathroom Forum
Silestone launches the new minimalist kitchen sink, Integrity Q
New colours, finishes and revamped brochure for Cucina Colore
'New Traditional' with Dark Gold Art Moderne II Towel Warmer by Vogue (UK)
First in Danby's UK range arrived - and it's a Red Dot Award winner!
CRL Stone launches six new colours of Ceralsio ceramic
Splash up colour schemes with Lustrolite panels
Spring cleaning in store with The Signature Collection
Bespoke concrete solutions from The Poured Project
Swiss Krono's CamuStyleTX wins prestigious German Design Award
Minimalist vanity basin, WC & electronic-flush urinal for Istanbul
Keller's chic Chelsea kitchen: vintage style with a modern twist
Fashionable tap for modern kitchens
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Our industry makes some fabulous products, designed to make our lives easier and more enjoyable and more often the innovations are also designed to help protect the environment by using less energy and water (and, in the case of many products, making us think we're using the same volume of water when really, we're using a lot less). I sometimes wonder where it will all end... when we'll have reached that pinnacle of luxury and opulence and there'll be no more improvements left to make. As a consumer, I've always felt that the weak link has been in the fitting; that unless you're lucky (or clever) enough to employ a fitter who really knows the ropes, you're not going to get the best out of your purchase, however wonderful it might be. That's one of the reasons I'm behind trade bodies such as those in our industry, which are championing the need for comprehensive training and education and a recognised accreditation for those that have proved they won't let their trade body down; that they won't bring it into disrepute for poor workmanship, overcharging or bad customer service. I applaud the moves made by the British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation to ensure its members not only boast solid expertise, but that consumers are going to find it easier to access their local members in future (see its latest announcement, below). Although things may have changed in the interim, I'd never heard of a specialist accredited body for fitting these centerpieces of our homes, prior to joining this industry. We still have a long way to go before we reach the same level as 'Gas Safety' (ex-Corgi) fitter specification - but we're on our way. I also applaud the Kitchen Bathroom & Bedroom Specialists Association for getting behind the move to develop higher education apprenticeships for the furniture industry following the success of the Level 2 and Level 3 apprenticeships that have recently been developed. Today it has sent an email to its members, reminding us of our responsibility to help with the development of higher education apprenticeships via a survey by The Furniture Makers & the British Furniture Manufacturers Associations, on behalf of trade associations from across the UK furniture and interiors industries. It's our chance to shape our future, not only as an industry but as consumers too. The survey took me about two minutes to complete. Please have your say too at: Yours,
 This Week's News
BiKBBI makes major announcements at Annual Conference
And the organisation did not disappoint the 100 industry representatives as it unveiled a new service which launches in the Spring. Benchmarx Kitchens and Joinery website now open for business
CIH implements European rebrand in the UK
The UK rebrand encompasses a new logo, marketing materials, vehicle liveries, fasciae for members and a new website. Furthermore, the CIH reception has been refurbished to include kitchen furniture that is now available to CIH members through its unique partnership with DER KREIS (KBBG). Clever evolution of tap technology with Blanco's Evol-S
This revolutionary smart tap has an integrated measuring function with a precise rotary control to give users the exact amount of water they need. The specific volume is set with the scaling wheel while the measured amount is delivered via the intuitive touch sensor system. The standard mixer tap functions of temperature and flow are controlled by the lever on the opposite side - the Evol-S is available handed left or right. Simon Acres launches new consultancy business for KBB sector
Simon has brought together a team of experienced professionals to offer considered recruitment, accredited sales training, video marketing, social media solutions, end to end web development and business consultancy. Congratulations to Roger Cooper; Bathroom Brands' new chairman!
New POS for Vista statement splashbacks
Vista includes a compelling showroom lure like Summer Palms along with Moorish patterns, geometrics, weathered London brick, metro tiling and vintage prints (just some of the inspiring options in the new collection which includes 14 designs in 9mm mdf and six in 4mm acrylic). Kai by Crosswater: part of the New Essentials collection
Kai is the first range to join the collection; combining modern style with everyday usability, each component has been manufactured using the latest materials and water-control technology to ensure the ultimate bathing experience for every member of the family.
HiB hits the right note with groundbreaking launch
The inclusion of a remote control also allows the user to adjust the volume or skip a track at the touch of a button. IDS's new state-of-the-art worktop picker improves efficiency
The multi-directional picker allows operators to pick from both sides of the warehouse's cantilever racking, with the capacity for up to 450 worktops per day. Capable of picking a worktop load of up to 1500Kg from a height of up to eight metres, the custom-designed platform reduces the likelihood of damage and is safer and easier for operators to use. Out now: Maurice Lay Distributors' new trade price guide
Inside, you will find everything you need from high-performance appliances and durable sinks and taps to top quality kitchen and bedroom furniture. 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. How to contact us at The KBzine:
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