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KBzine: the original kitchen and bathroom industry e-newssince 2002
3rd April 2019

 

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Please note that you are viewing an archived issue of The KBzine.



International News
Products

Free up kitchen space with Fonda hob/extractor combination from Blanco by Gutmann

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The future of clean air in the kitchen has taken a leap forward with the ingenious Fonda hood from the Blanco by Gutmann portfolio. Combined with a stunning hob, the Fonda is a clever, space-saving, downdraft extraction system with an installation height of just 8cm.

Perfect for small or large kitchen design schemes and flexible in terms of installation and location, the Fonda sits quietly and discreetly in a streamlined, functional space.
more


Beko launches AutoDose Connected Dishwasher

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In what is believed to be a European first, Beko is launching one of its most highly anticipated products to date - the AutoDose Connected Dishwasher - perfect for those who sometimes forget to switch on the dishwasher or buy detergent!
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Circular reflection

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Sensio has expanded its collection of circular mirrors with three new designs. Como, Aria and Luna join Orla; all rounded mirrors boasting various LED lighting features.
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VitrA launches Equal - a new bathroom collection created in collaboration with Italian architect & designer Claudio Bellini

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Pursuing its longstanding tradition of working with acclaimed international designers, leading bathroom brand VitrA announces its latest collaboration with celebrated architect and designer, Claudio Bellini.

Launched at ISH this year Equal explores the fusion between the organic shapes found in nature with the architectural lines present in an urban environment.
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ViClean-I 100 combines purism with technology and comfort

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ViClean-I 100 from Villeroy & Boch sets a new standard in the design of shower toilets. It looks just like a conventional toilet, as the technology has been integrated into the ceramic and not the seat.

ViClean-I 100 boasts clear lines and a minimalist look, accentuated by the ultra-flat toilet seat. Add to that the intuitive use and convenient shower functions and the new ViClean-I 100 becomes a subtle centerpiece in any purist bathroom.
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LDL to offer L&S Italian lighting range

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L&S, the Italian lighting specialist, is the latest addition to the LDL portfolio of premium furniture component brands. Established over 40 years ago, L&S is an internationally renowned pioneer of high-tech lighting solutions for the home.

LDL is delighted to be the official UK distributor and to represent such a well-established and innovative brand.
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Welcome to the

KBzine 

I came across an interesting press release this week and have been wondering whether any organisations in this sector run schemes such as this or whether they're considering doing so...


Data from the One4all 'Workers on top of their game report' has found that 52% of UK trades and 50% of retail workers would be more productive if offered gamified rewards and bonuses, which are said to not only introduce an element of fun into the workplace, but which also increase employee performance.

The survey of 1,096 UK workers by the workplace incentives and rewards provider, encompassed employees from different age groups, genders and industries and revealed that 52% of UK workers in the trades industries and 50% in retail would feel more motivated to work hard and 20% would increase their performance if their employer introduced a points-based rewards and bonus system.

The technique works by setting small rewards for desired actions and then inviting workers to repeat that behaviour, which they do in anticipation of the same result, and 26% UK workers in the trades industries said they would work harder to unlock rewards and bonuses in this way. There are also clear softer benefits of gamified rewards systems, with the perception amongst workers that this would also increase their happiness at work and make them feel more engaged with their company, while making work more fun.

"In SMEs, finding the budget for a rewards scheme can be tough, but gamified rewards can be more flexible in some ways and they don't have to involve large budgets," says the company. "While some might think these kinds of rewards are more complex to implement, this isn't necessarily the case. As we can see from the survey data, and the sheer number of workers who said that the implementation of a gamified reward system would make them work harder, the cost of implementing this kind of rewards could soon be recouped by the increased productivity employers would benefit from."

I've always been someone who does my best at whatever I've set out to do - whether it be a personal task or work-related, but I can see that we're not all made the same. And with UK Plc's productivity levels being renowned for being low these days, I'm thinking that this type of scheme may well be worth investigating...

www.one4all.link

Yours,

Jan Hobbs

 

 


This Week's News

BMA says a voluntary label and changing consumer habits is best way to save water

* BMA-save-water.jpgThe Bathroom Manufacturers Association has responded to a recent statement from Sir James Bevan, chief executive of the Environment Agency, on ways to reduce average water consumption in England from 140 litres per person per day to 100 litres, by claiming that a voluntary - not a mandatory - water label is the best solution.

BMA CEO Yvonne Orgill said: "Whilst the Environment Agency is right to raise this issue and we support its efforts, the BMA does not believe that a mandatory water label scheme and controls via building regulations will lead to the required changes in consumer behaviour.
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Reflecting mirror technology

* Reflecting-mirror-tech.jpgA bathroom mirror isn't just a mirror anymore now it's loaded with so much style, choice and technology. An illuminated mirror has therefore become a real must have for any new bathroom.
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Trade rewards scheme launched by online builders' merchant

* Trade-rewards-scheme.jpgA leading builders' merchant has launched a new trade arm offering rewards for customers of its specialist online superstores. Trade customers of cmostores.com will be able to benefit from the company's new loyalty programme which offers a wide range of rewards from luxury holidays to supercar experiences, or they can opt for an annual rebate if they prefer.

Having seen almost 50% growth last year, cmostores.com is now having a major impact on the trade market.
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Nuance bathroom wall panelling celebrates new patent with new dedicated showroom

* NUANCE-MAIN-PIC-One.jpgBushboard, the renowned worksurface and bathroom panelling manufacturer, has secured a patent for its innovative, trim-free waterproof bathroom panelling system, Nuance. Invented by the Bushboard team, the Nuance brand leads the way as a more aesthetically pleasing and easier to install alternative to tiling.

Nuance is a 100% waterproof, trim-less wall panelling system available in a range of innovative decors. It's cleverly designed to look virtually seamless thanks to its smart jointing and preformed edges.
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Cosentino Group announces another record breaking financial year

* Cosentino-Group.jpgThe Cosentino Group has enjoyed another record breaking financial year, maintaining its leadership position in the global market.

The organisation has continued the expansion of its sustainable business model in international markets, the diversification of its products and distribution channels, as well as the creation of jobs. Throughout, the Group has continued to emphasise innovation and the importance of the circular economy.
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Königquartz - 28 colours to keep kitchens on trend

* Koenigquartz-28.jpgWith a pedigree in supplying top quality materials with a top-quality service, Königstone is proud of its growing range of quartz worktops: Königquartz.
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2019 Statement of Intent from Rotpunkt

* 2019-Statement-Rotpunkt.jpgIn the wake of the Brexit vote for EU withdrawal, award winning designer and manufacturer of quality German kitchen furniture, Rotpunkt, is fortifying its market position with a statement of intent for 2019/2020.

With the sole aim of minimising the possible impact of Brexit for its UK retail network, Rotpunkt has invited over 200 of the finest KBB retailers to its headquarters in Germany throughout Q4:19, so it can demonstrate its latest developments set to provide stability for its dealers and significant opportunities for new growth in 2020.
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LDL prioritises training and customer service

* LDL-training1.jpgLDL has declared its mission to prioritise training and customer service. Recognising the crucial importance of comprehensive product knowledge, the company is now running three product training sessions each week in the new dedicated design room at LDL's headquarters in Glossop.

As LDL's managing director Simon Ogden points out: "Exceptional product knowledge is what sets us apart. We take great pride in sharing that expertise with our customers, assisting them with practical advice and clear and concise answers, whenever and however they need it."
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RangeMaster to exhibit at Euronics Showcase 2019

* RangeMaster.jpgRangemaster will be exhibiting at this year's Euronics Showcase, which will take place on 7th and 8th April 2019 at the NEC, Birmingham.

During the event, the manufacturer will display a wide range of its appliances, from range cookers to fridge freezers and induction hobs to extractor hoods, providing visitors with an extensive overview of the company's trade offering.
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KBSA experts to meet consumers at Grand Designs

* KBSA-experts.jpgThe Kitchen Bathroom & Bedroom Specialists Association has announced that two retail members will be presenting at Grand Designs, which takes place at ExCel, London, from 4th - 12 May. Keith Myers from The Myers Touch and Robert Guinan (pictured) from Jacob Roberts Interiors will be presenting in the Design & Build Forum, where visitors can find dedicated advice for every aspect of their home renovation or build.

Keith will be speaking twice on Saturday 4th May and again on Wednesday 8th May on 'Creating Kitchens with Light Space and Laughter'.
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Reduce water waste with InSinkErator

* Reduce-water-waste.jpgOver two billion people worldwide are still living without access to safe water in their own homes, however in the UK, each household needlessly and unintentionally wastes gallons of water every day. InSinkErator is encouraging consumers to think more about the water they waste and offers consumers solutions to reduce water waste in the home.
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IDS hires two new members in marketing team expansion

* IDS-two.jpgIDS has expanded its marketing team by hiring two new members, Paul Ricci as the digital marketing coordinator and Megan Abbotts as marketing assistant.

"We're excited to be expanding the marketing team with the additions of Paul and Megan - particularly as this year IDS celebrates 20 years of business," says John Bagshaw, managing director. "It's a great opportunity to look forward, invest in talent and find the best ways of supporting our 17-strong branches nationwide to deliver the best service to customers. Increasing our marketing output is just one of the ways we're doing this."
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Jan Hobbs
Publishing Editor
Email:[email protected]
Tel: +44 (0)1372 811 307 
Mobile: 07980 288 373

 

 

 

 

John Austen
Publishing Director
Email:[email protected]
Tel: +44 (0)1580 755 863
Mobile: 07766 707 888
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Recent News

BMA announces date and venue for 2019 Conference

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The Bathroom Manufacturers Association has announced the date and venue for the 2019 Bathroom & Kitchen Business Conference: 7th and 8th October at the Carden Park Resort, Chester.
more


Entries now open for KBSA Designer Awards 2019

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The Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association's Designer Awards 2019 are now open for entries. And if you're not yet a full Association member it doesn't mean you're excluded. New members as well as KBB retailers in the processes of applying for membership also have the opportunity to enter.
more


Unified Water Label can help combat climate change

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The Unified Water Label can make a contribution towards combating climate change, says Bathroom Manufacturers Association CEO Yvonne Orgill.

Yvonne called for the industry to support the UWL, in response to the Committee on Climate Change's 'UK housing: Fit for the future?' recently published report.
more


Literature

Karonia updates Mistral worktop brochure

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Karonia Surfaces has refreshed its Mistral consumer brochure for 2019. Available now, the updated brochure features the four new colours introduced to the range last year along with more lifestyle images showcasing the work carried out by retailers and installers throughout the UK.
more


New Dealer Inspiration brochure from Blanco is beautifully illustrated

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Blanco UK's new brochure, Dealer Inspiration Range, offers retailers a detailed and beautifully illustrated guide to Blanco's sinks, taps, cooker hoods, hobs and accessories.
more



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