The Installer - Issue 6 - Summer 2016

issue 6 - summer 2016

theinstaller magazine

SKILLS SHORTAGE WARNING!

ANNOUNCEMENT AT THE HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT

WIN A TOWEL WARMER FROM VOGUE (UK)

iKBBI LAUNCHES iACADEMY

Contents

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INDUSTRY CRISIS WARNING

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iKBBI NEWS

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CARE AFTER COMBAT INITIATIVE

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iKBBI NEWS

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INDUSTRY NEWS

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INDUSTRY NEWS supplied by kbbdaily

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SPONSOR NEWS

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BLUM ADVERTORIAL

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NO TIPPING WARNING

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BMA MATTERS

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COMPETITION!

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EDUCATION & DEVELOPMENT

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iACADEMY

INDUSTRY CRISIS WARNING

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INSTALLER PROFILE ADAM CULLIMORE

iACADEMY LAUNCHES

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NO TIPPING WARNING

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EQUIPMENT ADVICE

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COMPANY PROFILE, FRANKE

OUR SPONSORS

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Welcome

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COMPANY PROFILE Franke

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INSTALLER PROFILE Adam Cullimore

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FINANCIAL ADVICE

by Dean Flood

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EQUIPMENT ADVICE

by Festool

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Q&A with Janice McBeth

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INTERVIEW with Steve Birch, Vogue (UK)

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INSTALLER OPPORTUNITY HSK Showers

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SOCIAL SCENE

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PRODUCT PORTFOLIO

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DIRECTORY

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Welcome ...

2016 is an important year for the iKBBI. Not only have we reached our ten-year anniversary, we’re also busy working on a number of key initiatives in line with our core pillars.

We hosted a reception event at The Houses of Parliament this week, which I’m delighted to report, was warmly received and well attended. A number of key contacts were in attendance, including representatives from our safety partners Gas Safe Register and NICEIC, our consumer partners at Which? and The Furniture Ombudsman, our Installation Standards Partners at Bathstore, B&Q, John Lewis, Omega and Symphony.

We used the event to launch our new iAcademy, which is an online training and development portal, specifically for our industry. The iAcademy is working with The Chartered Institute of Trading Standards (CTSI) and their TradeSimple training platform.

This edition of the Installer Magazine holds the details of the exciting initiatives, I do hope you enjoy the read!

COMPETITION Damian Walters, iKBBI CEO

OUR SPONSORS

www.ikbbi.org.uk

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iKBBI News

CEO PREDICTS SKILLS SHORTAGE

STARK WARNING TO INDUSTRY AT PARLIAMENTARY EVENT

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iKBBI News

At its tenth anniversary reception, held at The Houses of Parliament last week, iKBBI CEO Damian Walters expressed his concern over a UK skills gap within the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom installation sector and said he feared an inevitable crisis as installer numbers are already failing to meet growing retail sales demands.

He stated, “Without a nationally available KBB installation apprenticeship, the industry is missing out on a generation of young talent, who are already choosing other trades over KBB installation” he continued, “A combination of tough economic trading conditions, a lack of training, and no cohesive approach to tackling the subject will inevitably lead to a shortage of installers over the next few years and I fear it’s a situation that we wont be able to avoid.”

Guest speaker Dean Weston, Chief Commercial Officer at Bathstore, shared the concern by saying that installation numbers had doubled over recent years, yet installer recruitment “remained a challenge” he said, “We’re fortunate enough to have taken the Bathstore business model to Qatar, however it is a land without labour. This rich nation is willing and financially able to spend on luxury goods, yet there’s no workforce to meet the demand and unfortunately, I can foresee the UK following suit as my generation chose the dot-com revolution over bricks and mortar. Our partnership with the iKBBI is crucial, not only for our success, but also for the well-being of the wider industry.”

Fellow guest speaker Katherine Newton, Installation Manager at John Lewis Partnership explained how the iKBBI has supported the recent re-launch of their bathroom installation proposition,

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iKBBI News

by saying, “The iKBBI supported the recruitment process enormously at every level and the institute has proven a very useful resource for our business because as you can imagine, we focus on working only with the best installers in the marketplace.”

The iKBBI used the Parliamentary event to discuss its own strategy on tackling the skills gap issue, with CEO Walters using a farming analogy to describe the steps they’re taking to address the situation.

“Preparing the soil is where it starts” stated Walters, “We’re already working with secondary schools and those in years 9-11 who are at the stage of deciding upon their future. It’s crucial we get kids excited about the prospect of a career that can be both rewarding and really quite enjoyable.”

Damian continued, “We’ll then work on sowing the seeds and this is where our pioneering work with PROCAT [Prospects College of Advanced Technology] comes

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into its own. Developing a nationally available and relevant apprenticeship is crucial to the future success of the KBB industry and is something we all need to get behind.”

The iKBBI also launched its new iAcademy at the event, with Walters grouping the initiative with the farming analogy by calling this phase “nurturing the crop”.

Damian said, “As well as attracting new prospective young installers into the industry, we must also develop those time served professionals who already operate in the sector. The industry, products and legislation have changed enormously over the last 20 years and continue to do so. Our new online training portal, delivered in conjunction with CTSi [Chartered Trading Standards Institute] brings quality and affordable training to the industry, recognising the time constraints tradespeople face. Installers can learn online, gain relevant knowledge, a commercial edge over competitors and do so at their own pace.”

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iKBBI News

To conclude the farming analogy, the iKBBI also unveiled its “harvesting the crop” initiative in the form of a new iKBBI Skills Bank which will be an online portal for installers to register their interest in working within the industry.

The database of installers, already home to over 1,000 installers looking for new installing opportunities within the retail sector will be exclusively available to iKBBI Installation Standards Partners.”

The iKBBI announced that blue-chip industry brand and long term supporter of the institute Blum, has pledged a threeyear sponsorship of the iAcademy, which compliments its own ethos on installer training & development.

The iKBBI also used its Parliamentary reception to reveal even more breaking news with an announcement of a new and exciting relationship with UK charity ‘Care after Combat’, a charity that’s

dedicated to the support of military veterans and their families. Damian said: “This initiative will involve retraining a group of disciplined people, introducing them to the industry and opening up opportunities for them to retrain as KBB installers. Many industry leaders view veterans as their number one choice for recruitment and we share their opinion.”

Damian brought the event to its conclusion by thanking the institutes members, partners, sponsors and supporters and said: “We should all be viewing installation as a top priority.

Whether you’re a manufacturer, supplier, distributor, retailer or sales person, professional installation is crucial to the future success of our industry. We should all pull together and ensure that we’re tackling the problem as a collective, and therefore invite you all to collaborate for the benefit of us all in this important market sector.”

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iKBBI News

BLUM SUPPORTS iACADEMY Industry fittings manufacturing giant and long-term supporters of the iKBBI Blum, has pledged its support for the newly launched iKBBI iAcademy by agreeing to become sponsor.

The 3-year deal to sponsor the iAcademy coincides perfectly with Blum’s own training & development ethos. The iAcademy will feature a portal that links through to Blum’s training & development programme both online, and at their incredible, state-of-theart HQ in Milton Keynes. iKBBI CEO Damian Walters said, “Blum has always been a staunch supporter of the iKBBI since the very beginning and its sponsorship of the iAcademy is simply an extension of the ongoing support as we

jointly focus on the training & development of professional installers.” He continued, “Blum understands that education is a vital ingredient to the future success of the industry and has invested heavily in its own initiatives. The support of the iAcademy simply demonstrates its total commitment to installation and I’m delighted and grateful of Blum’s continued support of the institute."

CLASSIC MARBLE RENEWS iKBBI SPONSORSHIP Founder iKBBI sponsor Classic Marble has renewed its sponsorship with the institute for a further three years.

The Northern Irish based company is renowned for its award winning Classi Seal product which is a flexible waterproof upstand for sealing baths, showers and worktops quickly, simply and effectively and its CM Seal Tanking Kit. Speaking on behalf of Classic Marble, Director

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Christopher Hackett said, “The enormous strides the team at the institute have made in recent years especially have been remarkable. This is reflected in the growth in membership and importantly, acceptance by the industry of the organisation being a serious player with genuine influence. All of us here at Classic Marble are proud of the fact that we could see the potential and committed to be founder sponsors. We

look forward to a mutually beneficial three more years together.”

Speaking on behalf of the iKBBI, CEO Damian Walters said. “We are greatly indebted to all of our sponsors and the founder ones in particular for placing their trust in us as a fledgling organisation. Classic Marble is an iKBBI stalwart and we thank its team for their continued support.”

iKBBI News

‘GLOBAL’ UBM BECOMES AN OFFICIAL IKBBI SPONSOR The iKBBI staged another coup when one of the worlds leading business-tobusiness event organisers, UBM, agreed to become an official sponsor.

The 3-year deal to sponsor the institute will see both parties enjoy the mutual benefits of their collaboration. The agreement commits the institute to participating at relevant kitchen, bedroom and bathroom market leading trade fairs that UBM organise over the term of the sponsorship. The trade shows affecting the iKBBI include: K & B Design in March 2017 and KBB Birmingham 2018. iKBBI CEO Damian Walters said, “It speaks volumes that industry giants like UBM recognise

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our importance to their visitors at these key trade shows. We are indebted to them for showing their faith and support in us and I look forward to sharing successful shows over the term of the sponsorship.”

Speaking on behalf of UBM, Marketing Manager Rebecca Wynn said, “The iKBBI has been involved in the KBB related shows at UBM for many years now and we have witnessed the growth of the iKBBI. I feel that we have the perfect platforms across our exhibition portfolio for the institute to further expand its membership whilst at the same time they can deliver growth in our visitor attendance, it’s a ‘win-win’ situation for us all.”

Rebecca Wynn

“The iKBBI has been involved in the KBB related shows at UBM for many years now and we have witnessed the growth of the iKBBI. I feel that we have the perfect platforms across our exhibition portfolio for the institute to further expand its membership whilst at the same time they can deliver growth in our visitor attendance, it’s a ‘win-win’ situation for us all.”

iKBBI News

WINNER! Winner of the competition in our Winter issue for a Vitra Select whiteflush panel, M-Line wall-hung Rim-Ex WC with Vitra Fresh, and a soft-closing matching seat worth over £500 is Chris Chappel of Pro Plumbing in Hertfordshire.

Chris has been a member of the iKBBI for six years

now and was delighted to receive his prize he said "This is a cracking piece of kit, I'm well chuffed" a great endorsement of the quality of Vitra's prize.

Why not enter our summer issue competition, its so easy, just click on the link on the competition page number 29.

ANOTHER INNOVATION AWARD FOR IKBBI’S FOUNDER SPONSOR Founder Sponsor of the iKBBI, Classic Marble, has strengthened its industry reputation by winning yet another ‘Product Innovation Award’ at Northern Ireland’s Plumbing and Heating awards 2016.

Competition for the Innovation award was fierce with eight companies shortlisted in the category.

The award was presented for Classic Marble’s Highly Commended CM Seal tanking kit which is a bathroom waterproofing product that’s specially designed for showering areas, including standard tray installations or for a bath with an overhead shower. It’s extremely installerfriendly and can be fitted in under an hour and tiled upon immediately.

The prestigious award ceremony was held in June at the Hilton Hotel in Belfast and was hosted by broadcaster Lynda Bryans; it was attended by some 300 guests.

Speaking after the event, a delighted Christopher Hackett who is a Director of Classic Marble commented “It is great to be picking up an innovation award for

another of our bathroom waterproofing products, the entire team at Classic Marble will be so proud to learn that yet again their hard work in taking a new and innovative product to market has been recognised by our industry peers” Classic Marble is no stranger to winning Innovation awards; in 2008 they won the UK Housing Product of the Year for its Classi Seal product. www.waterproofyourbathroom.com

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iKBBI News

NEW PARTNERSHIP EXPLORES EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES FOR VETERANS At its tenth anniversary reception, held at The Houses of Parliament in July and hosted by its Patron Stephen Metcalfe MP; The Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom and Bathroom Installers (iKBBI) announced an exciting new partnership with Care after Combat – a UK registered charity providing professional assistance for the well being of military Veterans and their families.

At the milestone event, iKBBI CEO Damian Walters addressed the guests by saying: “The industry has a long-standing challenge on its hands, one that by far pre-dates the destabilising referendum result recently.

Our challenge is in the form of addressing a widening skills gap that has manifested in a shortage of professional installers choosing to operate in the retail market”.

Damian continued, “Our exploratory work with Care after Combat has left us in no doubt that this is a genuinely viable and worthwhile opportunity. This charity does an amazing job by supporting a community of ex-servicemen and women and I am confident that many will have the attributes and appetite to succeed in our industry.”

Damian added “Here’s a group of people that are deserving of a new challenge in

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life and already possess many of the skills that our industry would greatly benefit from.

Former military personnel have acquired a varied skill-set and are inherently punctual and demonstrate a great work ethic, these make ideal candidates to address the national installer shortage.”

The iKBBI and Care after Combat are committed to working together to identify and address the training needs of exservicemen and women over coming months.

Care after Combat Chairman and comedian Jim Davidson OBE (pictured) commented by saying: “All of us are proud of our service men and women. We have the best armed forces in the world. We must now show that we are the best supporters of our forces in the world as well. Our troops have

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iKBBI News

fought a succession of battles over the last 50 years and some Veterans are still fighting those battles; our aim is to help their rehabilitation back into life beyond the armed forces. Business leaders are united in the opinion that ex service personnel top their recruitment list. The training and discipline that they have is second to none.

They simply are the best.”

The announcement today forms just part of a number of initiatives that the iKBBI are focusing on in relation to the skills shortage that Damian Walters referred to in his speech.

celebrating 20 years

He also reported that the apprenticeships for school leavers is “progressing well”, with the formation of a working group including blue-chip industry retailers Bathstore, B&Q and manufacturer Blum.

The iKBBI’s iAcademy, providing an online Continual Professional Development (CPD) portal for the industry was also unveiled at the event today, with an exciting development that addresses training needs for the time served professional. www.ikbbi.org.uk www.careaftercombat.org

The kitchen, bedroom & bathroom market specialists in: Public Relations Advertising Publishing Marketing

Telephone: 01992 478 109 www.publicityengineers.com PROUD TO BE OFFICIAL SUPPORTERS OF THE iKBBI

iKBBI News

iKBBI MEMBERS PROVE TO BE A MODERN DAY CRYSTAL BALL Forget Ipsus Mori, forget Gallup, forget YouGov, you can even forget Mystic Meg! When it comes to gauging and predicting political elections and referendums no one comes near to our iKBBI member installers!

Political commentators and observers completely called the general election wrong a year or so ago by predicting a hung parliament despite the fact that Ed Milliband was the leader of the Labour party! They were astounded when the Tories won with a clear majority. Not so our readers who forecast a clear win for the conservatives at 41% Tory, UKIP 19%, Labour 10% with 20% either undecided or not planning to vote at the time of the poll.

Now you’ve done it again! In the Spring issue of The Installer magazine we published the results of another iKBBI poll, this time for the EU referendum, which produced a result of 65% in favour of leave with 25% remain and 10% weren’t sure at the time of asking!

Maybe the next time a major vote is due, Sky News or the BBC should contact the iKBBI for an accurate barometer on how the result may eventually materialise. On a personal note, can you guys predict the result of the 3.30pm race at Newmarket on Saturday please? ☺

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Industry News

POST BREXIT GOOD NEWS WITH KITCHEN INSTALLATIONS TO REACH A NEW HIGH IN 2016 After all the post Brexit uncertainty its great to hear some good news, and all of us in the kbb industry will feel more confident about the immediate future with the publication of a report by a respected source (JKMR). The report indicates that the number of kitchen installations taking place in the UK is set to reach a new peak by the end of 2016, with numbers having exceeded 1.1million last year. The homeowner refurbishment market remains the strongest market sector and is responsible for some 57% of installations by client type in 2015; this represents an increase of some 7.5%.

The report also discovered that the amount of kitchen retailers in the UK grew a little last year, mainly due to new store openings by Howden and Benchmarx which off-set closures by Homebase and B&Q. This said, independents still comprise the greater market share with an impressive 40% plus of the total market value. Despite this fact the report does indicate that the number of retailers is expected to decrease a little in the next few years.

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More encouragingly though, the analysis demonstrated notable sales growth to new build/housing developer market, this is of course good news for manufacturers and distributors who supply this market sector.

Finally; although all kitchen product sectors fared well by experiencing sales increases of at least 6.5%; the sink and tap sector did particularly well, with growth in excess of 10%!

TradeUp™ is a new kitchen proposition exclusively available to trade professionals.

The collection features a comprehensive range of kitchen styles to suit any homeowner’s taste, all available to iKBBI members at trade prices.

TradeUp KitchensTM are supplied on a complete basis through a network of independent trade manufacturers throughout the UK. Each highly experienced trade manufacturer offers quality, custom-built complete kitchen solutions with on-site delivery as standard. Many manufacturers have showrooms for your use and offer a design service to help you plan your client’s perfect kitchen.

VISIT THE iKBBI MEMBER BENEFITS AREA FOR YOUR FREE TRADEUP MARKETING PACK

Find your nearest trade manufacturer by visiting: www.tradeupkitchens.co.uk

Industry News

supplied by

KSL SUDBURY KITCHEN INSTALLER BUILDS PROP FOR KATIE PRICE SHOW Jonathan Flint, a kitchen installer at Suffolkbased kitchen and bathroom designer KSL Sudbury, was recently drafted in to create a “bespoke pink castle” to promote a new ITV programme, Pony Club, starring TV personality Katie Price.

According to Flint, when he was contacted by a television company asking whether he could create the prop, he was shocked and thought it was a “wind-up”. However, Flint added that he had built the castle within a few days and took it to the ITV studios for a photo shoot.

“It was slightly strange but Katie Price and her family were really nice,” Flint said, pointing out that it was his most unusual request to date. The six-part series will air on TLC in the summer and features Price teaching children – including two of her own – how to ride horses.

KSL Sudbury Managing Director Richard Hibbert said: “Jonathan is a valued member of the KSL team and while this might be a slightly different request, we are delighted he has played a big part in helping to launch a television show on ITV.”

HOOVER BECOMES RETRA MEMBER Appliance manufacturer Hoover has joined the Radio, Electrical and Television Retailers Association – RETRA – as an associate member to “increase its support to independent retailers in the UK”.

Hoover has joined around 1,000 other members – including electrical retailers, service engineers and custom installers – in RETRA, which is a trade association for independent electrical retailers and servicing organisations.

“By joining RETRA we will be able to increase our awareness within the independent retail sector, while also working with the association to take on board any recommendations that will help improve our offering,” said Hoover Freestanding Division Marketing Director Steve Macdonald.

“We are always looking at ways to support independent retailers and becoming an associate member of RETRA is one of several investments we are making to support this important channel,” he added.

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Industry News

supplied by

PLUMBING AND KITCHEN INSTALLATION COMPANY GOES INTO ADMINISTRATION

West Yorkshire-based plumbing company V&T (Plumbing, Central-Heating & Bathrooms) Ltd, which traded as Aqua Interiors, has gone into administration, with Howard Smith and Jonny Marston of KPMG appointed administrators of the company.

KPMG was appointed administrator of V&T on 17th June 2016, citing “cash flow difficulties in recent months” as part of the reason. V&T, trading as Aqua Interiors, was an independent installer of kitchens, bathrooms and central heating systems “predominantly to local authorities, housing associations, local house builders”, according to KPMG. The joint administrators have made 110 redundancies following their appointment, with 17

employees retained in the short term to assist the administrators in winding down remaining projects of the company.

According to KPMG, V&T had an annual turnover of around £15m.

The administrators will focus on releasing the assets of V&T following appointment, including around £11m of contracts won but not yet commenced, work in progress, a fleet of owned commercial vehicles and three separate pieces of development land in West Yorkshire.

“The company had suffered from cash flow difficulties in recent months, and had been unable to reach agreement with HMRC regarding historic tax arrears, which ultimately led to the company entering administration,” said Smith.

MAX-TOP TO BE DISTRIBUTED IN IRELAND Kitchen and bathroom surface company Max-Top has partnered with Irish kitchen and wardrobe component supplier The Panelling Centre to distribute Max-Top Quartz in Ireland.

The Panelling Centre – which is part of the Grafton Group – will distribute Max-Top to kitchen installers and retailers from its branches in Dublin, County Dublin, Limerick, Galway and Cork.

“Ireland has been identified as a key market for Max-Top, and since our launch in 2014 we have been eager to provide a reliable source of supply to installers across the country,” said Max-Top Managing Director Stephen Moss.

“We are delighted that MaxTop is now available in Ireland, The Panelling Centre is a wellrespected company that has been operating for over 40 years, so it is encouraging to have an experienced and trusted supplier that can talk installers through the features of our worktops,” added Moss.

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Industry News

supplied by

GROHE CELEBRATES WORK SMARTER TOUR 2016 SUCCESS Grohe's 2016 Work Smarter Tour for installers, which took place in May, saw 3,100 visitors across the 12 locations it visited across the UK – a marked improvement on the 800 visitors who attended the first Work Smarter Tour.

Throughout the two-week tour, Grohe trained 355 installers, according to the company. The tour allowed installers to participate in installation and product training for Grohe products.

It also highlighted Grohe's Smart bonus scheme, with 132 installers signing up throughout the tour.

“We are delighted with the results of the 2016 Work Smarter Tour,” said Grohe UK Training Manager Michael Gray.

“We understand that not all installers are able to take the time out to attend a training session, however through the tour Grohe took the training

to them. It was a great opportunity to meet a wide variety of our customers, and we’d like to thank everyone who came along."

HOME IMPROVEMENT MARKETPLACE START-UP RAISES £2M Plentific, a UK start-up that provides a local online directory for finding tradespeople and home professionals, has raised a £2m investment from several 'angel' investors as well as venture capital platform Pi Labs.

The start-up offers a home services directory that allows consumers to search for tradespeople and home professionals, including appliance installers, bathroom and kitchen specialists and plumbers.

According to Plentific, its platform already lists more than 75,000 professionals across the UK covering 350 services.

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The company will use the funding to “increase brand awareness”, it said. “We’re delighted with this investment, which allows us to continue evolving our product and to start stretching our marketing legs,” said Plentific co-founder Cem Savas.

“We are driven by making home improvements better value by removing the hassle of back-and-forth phone calls, protecting consumers identity, scheduling, sourcing quotes and payments, so people can focus on getting the work done.”

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Sponsor News

HIPPO™ EXTENDS ITS SPONSORSHIP OF THE iKBBI FOR A FURTHER THREE YEARS We are delighted to confirm that national waste logistics company HIPPO™ has extended its corporate sponsorship of Installers for another 3 years.

HIPPO™ is a highly innovative and market leading waste solutions provider who has actively supported the iKBBI for many years by providing a highly flexible service to its members.

HIPPO™ Managing Director Gareth LloydJones commented on the announcement by commenting, “We are delighted to have extended our sponsorship with the iKBBI and continue to assist the team in their drive to support its members. We are particularly excited by their commitment to improve education, service and standards within the KBB sector.”

consistently high, despite the business being on a steep upwards growth curve.

HIPPO’S commitment to the providing a branded, service that’s focused to waste solutions within our industry is impressive and demonstrates that the team there truly understands the needs of the KBB sector.”

iKBBI CEO, Damian Walters, added: “Sponsorship plays a key role as the income generated is invested directly into the many exciting initiatives that we’re working on, including our own commitment to apprenticeships and learning opportunities for industry professionals.”

HIPPO™, creators of the innovative yellow HIPPOBAG™, caters for the waste removal needs of a huge range of industries, from facilities management to building and construction. The business currently works with a number of KBB retailers, including iKBBI Installation Standards Partner John Lewis.

He continued, “We are incredibly proud to be aligned with great industry brands, especially HIPPO™. Its environmental policies and recycling rates are very impressive, as is their customer satisfaction rate, which remains

The iKBBI will continue to support HIPPOTRADE™, which is HIPPO’S tailored service for professional tradespeople. The Institute will be further communicating the commercial benefits to its members over the coming weeks.

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Advertorial

BLUM’S NEW TECHNICAL SUPPORT HOTLINE

The leading fittings supplier to the KBB sector in the UK, Blum, has implemented for fitters, designers and manufacturers, an extended hours technical support hotline: 0800 230 0898 The hotline offers 8am - 8pm support Monday - Friday, and 8am - 12 midday on Saturdays.

Blum realises that a strict 9am – 5pm contact availability is no longer adequate for today’s working environment and, with the new hotline, have proved that they are once again at the forefront of service to industry, exceeding expectations.

The decision follows the results of a widely circulated questionnaire asking if out of hours support would be useful.

Seventy five percent of respondents said “yes”.

Blum UK Sales & Marketing Director David Sanders said: “We realise that in today’s busy world, normal business hours no longer apply…and this is true of the KBB industry as any other. The most used service in our business is Technical Support so we are now meeting the demands of our customers by extending the hours that this service is available.”

Blum UK 0800 230 0898 www.blum.com

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Information

INSTALLATION COMPANIES SHOULD BEWARE OF INNOCENTLY FALLING FOUL OF THE LAW!

Making the news recently was Essex based The Bathroom Fitting Company, who’s Director was found guilty of a “waste duty of care offence” from April 2016.

According to Epping Forest District Council, the prosecution related to flytipped building waste found in Pick Hill, Waltham Abbey. The Director of the bathroom company pleaded guilty to the offence in court and was fined £1,250, as well as being ordered to pay prosecution costs of £965.75 and a victim surcharge of £120. According to the Council, employees 24

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at The Bathroom Fitting Company Ltd “gave their trade waste to an unlicensed man in a van, despite the company's usual practice of arranging removal with a skip company.” The bathroom company did not carry out the necessary checks or request a waste transfer note, resulting in the waste being fly-tipped “as a result of their negligence.”

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Information

Under these circumstances it’s hard not to have a modicum of sympathy for the guy who was penalised, providing that he was unaware that the offence was being made of course, but it is a reminder to us all to be more vigilant and take waste disposal more seriously. Thankfully, iKBBI members have access to preferential rates and a fabulous waste removal service supplied by iKBBI official sponsor, HIPPO™.

so getting rid of your waste has never been easier, safer or more cost effective’ So there really is no excuse for KBB companies or installers to fall foul of the law but do be warned. Last word goes to councillor and environment portfolio holder Will Breare-Hall who says “It’s important as a business owner and householder to remember that you have

‘HERE TO CLEAR’ is an ideal waste removal solution which enables kbb installers to continue with their work while HIPPO’s trained professionals clear the waste.

For those who are unfamiliar with HIPPO™; the company is renowned for its HIPPOBAGS that are already hugely popular with kbb installers as they are so convenient and affordable. Better still, HIPPO™ has recently launched a new skip brokering service complete with prices on 6, 8 and 12 yard skips. The company says that it has carefully vetted the list of skip partners that they are working with and is confident that they will help bring great value and service to KBB installers across the UK.

a duty of care when employing someone to dispose of your waste. You may not be the person fly-tipping, but you will be held accountable if you do not make reasonable checks to ensure that the person you are entrusting is legally compliant.”

HIPPO™ also has a wholly owned man and van rubbish removal service branded, ‘HERE TO CLEAR’. It’s an ideal waste removal solution for those occasional projects where a HIPPOBAG™ or skip may just not be appropriate, and enables kbb installers to continue with their work while HIPPO’s trained professionals clear the waste. Gareth Lloyd-Jones (HIPPO’s Managing Director) comments ‘HIPPO provides iKBBI members with flexible and cost efficient waste services with full traceability, using only audited partners,

www.hippowaste.co.uk/trade E: info@hippowaste.co.uk Tel: 02392 282 981.

HIPPO™ provides a membership scheme tailored to the needs of iKBBI installers which is free to register. For a limited time, iKBBI members will receive a free HIPPOBAG™ when they join.

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BMA Matters

BATHROOM AND KITCHEN BUSINESS CONFERENCE 2016 A SPECIAL INVITATION TO IKBBI MEMBERS The date, the venue, the theme and the first of the speakers for this year’s Annual Bathroom and Kitchen Business Conference has been announced by the conference organisers, the multi-award-winning Bathroom Manufacturers Association.

The Conference is open to all in the industry but since the theme is so important for installers a special offer is available for iKBBI members only the ‘Day Only Delegate’ rate has been reduced by a massive 40%. iKBBI members can enjoy the day’s presentations and discussions, all morning and afternoon refreshments, lunch, networking, and entry to the conference exhibition all for just £99 plus VAT. Use the Booking form here: www.bathroom-association.org.uk/ images/editor/Conference_2016/ Members_Booking_Form.pdf and mention your iKBBI membership number in the Job Title box.

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THE DATE Tuesday 4 October 2016 is the main conference day, and as in previous years will include presentations and speeches, open forum sessions, the exhibition and, in the evening, the Gala Dinner and BMA Media Awards.

The day before, Monday 3 October 2016, is reserved for the fringe activities which will include the Annual Charity Golf Tournament (raising much needed funds for The Children’s Burns Trust), Technical and Marketing Seminars, the BMA’s General Council meeting and the annual networking dinner which is a relaxed and informal affair, always enjoyed by the industry.

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BMA Matters

THE VENUE This year, the conference moves to the Belfry Hotel and Resort, Sutton Coldfield.

It is easily accessible and large enough to accommodate the 200+ delegates and the various activities.

Installers will be particularly affected by the new regs. How will it affect them?

Where will they be able to dispose of used bathroom equipment? What will be the costs involved? This conference will help answer some of those unknowns.

THE THEME Towards the Circular Economy is the theme of the conference. As in previous years, delegates will be encouraged to look outside of their usual comfort zones and absorb new ideas. This year's conference will investigate how enterprises that are not usually associated with bathrooms and kitchens, wrestle with the corporate, social and economic consequences of cradle-to-cradle manufacturing, marketing and selling, whilst meeting customer needs.

THE LINE UP An outstanding panel of speakers, who are both knowledgeable and entertaining, is being lined up. They will present their view of the burgeoning Circular Economy.

Repair, recycling and re-use will be top of the agenda since the EU is pushing hard to make landfill a thing of the past. It may surprise some to learn that the EU has already set 2030 as the deadline beyond which no more than 10% of all waste can go into landfill. The use of secondary raw materials, and sustainable product design, manufacturing and marketing are all set to be affected by possible new regulations.

Sophie Long - host Sophie is the facilitator and host for the Conference. She is one of the main presenters on the BBC News Channel and the 8pm Summary on BBC1. She has covered many big stories and can regularly be found anchoring the channel's output on location covering anything from weather storms to political storms and four general election campaigns. Sophie also chairs conferences and seminars and is a highly skilled conference facilitator.

She has a wealth of experience and is ideally placed to host our industry conference.

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BMA Matters

Steve Head Steve comes to conference highly recommended. During the past decade or so Steve has delivered over 1500 presentations in the UK and Europe.

He is now one of the most sought after speakers in the UK. Steve challenges audiences to maximise their potential and improve personal and business performance. He will be speaking about change management – vital to the success of the drive to a circular economy.

Tim Pollard Tim will be known to many in the Bathroom and Kitchen Industry. He is Head of Sustainability for Wolseley UK and was responsible for delivering the Sustainable Building Center at Leamington Spa. Tim’s breadth of knowledge stretches across a wide range of products and technologies together with the implications and requirements of a sustainable supply chain. In 2008 Tim was included in the ‘Building’ Magazine Top 40 list of ‘Green Gurus’ and in 2010 he was named as one the West Midlands Top 50 Green Leaders.

Professor Margaret Bates Margaret has been involved in wastes management for over 25 years. She is a Chartered Wastes Manager and a Chartered Environmentalist. Margaret has advised a range of governments on wastes management issues. She appears in the Hot 100 (Resource Magazine) most influential people in wastes management and acts as an expert for a range of local and national organisations.

Chris Goodall Chris taught economics at Harvard, worked as a consultant for McKinsey and BSG and is now Head of Competition Practice at Europe’s leading media analysis firm. He’s also one of the UK’s most influential and considered voices on how individuals, business and government can best respond to climate change. In his presentations Chris acknowledges that whilst many businesses want to be greener it’s often easier said than done.

Chris writes for The Guardian, Sunday Times, Independent and a variety of magazines.

“Plans for this year’s Bathroom and Kitchen Business Conference are coming along really well and we are delighted with the extremely strong line-up of speakers we have secured so far,” commented Yvonne Orgill, Chief Executive of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association. “We have speakers from the world of commerce and education, renowned experts in their field and as usual they have been carefully selected to open our eyes. We will particularly welcome members of iKBBI” Yvonne Orgill, Managing Director of EWL

BOOKING NOW Bookings are now being taken www.bathroom-association.org.uk/annual-conference/bookingform. Sponsorship and media opportunities are available. More information from info@ bathroom-association.org.uk, www.bathroom-association.org/annual-conference and at www.bandkconf.blogspot.co.uk.

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WIN

A SUPERB AXIS OR TUNE TOWEL WARMER COMPLETE WITH AROMA PLUG WORTH NEARLY £300 FROM VOGUE (UK) The iKBBI Installer magazine has teamed up with leading British manufacturer and supplier of high quality designer radiators and towel rails, Vogue (UK), to give you the chance to win the AXIS or TUNE Towel Warmer, both available with the highly innovative Aroma Blanking Plug.

Designed to awaken the senses and pamper your customers mind, body and soul with this highly original Aroma Plug. Uniquely combining the sensations of warmth and scent, your customers are able to simply add fragrance in their bathroom via the towel warmer.

The vast choice of fragrances available makes it possible to bring the luxury of a spa in to any home or space. From Lemon to Jasmine oil, Ylang Ylang to Cedarwood, you can achieve whatever scent desired: earthy, woody, fruity, floral, herbal or even spicy.

Perfect for installation with either the AXIS or TUNE Towel Warmer: the pictured AXIS Towel Warmer in Chrome with Aroma Plug is worth £174 (21 bar design) and TUNE in Chrome with Aroma Plug is worth £281 (25 Bar designs): both from Vogue (UK)’s exclusive Ladder Rail Collection.

For your chance to walk away with either the AXIS or TUNE Towel Warmer complete with innovative Aroma Blanking plug, simply subscribe to the iKBBI Installer magazine by clicking the link below:

ENTER HERE

Education and Development

A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY FOR KBB COMPANIES TO HELP SHAPE A BETTER FUTURE In the autumn of 2016 the iKBBI announced a radical and historic initiative to create thousands of apprenticeship opportunities for the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom industry, more specifically, for the installation sector.

It is generally acknowledged across a raft of trade bodies and industry commentators that there has been a progressive decline in apprenticeships over the last 30 years across all trade sectors in the UK, including building, engineering, mechanical to name just a few.

The iKBBI was founded to improve kbb installation standards and decided that there could not be a better way to achieve its objectives than by creating a bespoke module that offered structured apprenticeship education that resulted in the awarding of certified qualifications.

The thinking being that this would attract high quality young people to the industry who, though not yet experienced in the field, were ready to add their skills to their new employers.

The apprenticeship enterprise forms a key component of the iKBBI’s three core pillars being education, standards and support. The institute is committed to exploring current educational routes whilst researching for the future. Subsequently, the iKBBI turned to PROCAT, a ground-

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“Its fundamental for an institute of our nature to support the industry at grass-roots level as these lads and lasses will form the bedrock of the industry in years to come, the apprenticeships will afford them automatic membership to the iKBBI thus ensuring that the next generation coming into our industry will be well-trained, skilled and will adhere to our high installation standards.”

Education and Development

breaking organisation as the synergy between the two organisations was and is irresistible.

PROCAT was formed by a group of local Engineering employers who wanted a training facility to provide the first year off-the-job training for their craft and technician apprentices. The Engineering Industry Training Board (EITB) provided funding to build an engineering training centre and then invited the employers to appoint the Board of Trustees/Directors to run the centre. In total over 150 were set up across England and they were called Group Training Associations or GTAs. There are currently fewer than 40 GTAs of which PROCAT is the second largest.

Today PROCAT is a specialist college which has been established to meet the workforce development needs of businesses which operate in sectors which are critical to the UK economy.

This includes advanced apprenticeships to secure a pipeline of new talent, higher

and degree apprenticeships to support advanced engineering capability and bespoke training solutions to develop the expertise and skills of the existing workforce. iKBBI CEO, Damian Walters, says, “Its fundamental for an institute of our nature to support the industry at grass-roots level as these lads and lasses will form the bedrock of the industry in years to come, the apprenticeships will afford them automatic membership to the iKBBI thus ensuring that the next generation coming into our industry will be welltrained, skilled and will adhere to our high installation standards.” He continued, “The iKBBI is committed to supporting the development of apprenticeships and is already working with schools and training providers on the subject in addition to our work with PROCAT” The next step of the apprenticeship evolution will involve the formation of a working group to help formulate and steer

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Education and Development

the scheme. Damian explains, “PROCAT and the iKBBI are to form a standards group from employers wishing to help develop just what they want from an apprentice, be it in manufacturing, retail or installation. The group needs to have at least 10 members and they will work with PROCAT and City & Guilds to develop their expectations. I will be networking when attending the celebratory dinner next month at the Houses of Parliament and look forward to building a new future of apprenticeships in this highly skilled area.”

“The iKBBI is committed to supporting the development of apprenticeships and is already working with schools and training providers on the subject in addition to our work with PROCAT.” Speaking on behalf of PROCAT, Interim Head of Faculty – Building Services, Jerry Whitely says “ We are very excited by our collaboration with the iKBBI and integral to its success is the formation of a group of employers to help develop a module that is sympathetic to the standards expected of an apprentice, be it in manufacturing, retail or installation.”

He added “The group needs at least 10 members and they will work closely with PROCAT and City & Guilds to help formalise their expectations.” He added “ I look forward to playing my part in creating a new generation of highly-skilled apprenticeships for this very important industry.

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Those already showing interest in the working group include blue-chip brands: B&Q, Bathstore and John Lewis, This is a unique opportunity for other progressive companies to join the group and make a real difference by helping shape the future of the industry. For more information on the working groups or iKBBI apprenticeships generally contact: denise.mayell@ikbbi.org.uk

FITTERS OF BRITAIN, WE WANT YOU We want you to fit our products, but we’ll make it worth your while. You demand the best and we deliver the best products and the best support for fitters. We want you to have offers and freebies that help your business and make your life easier.

We want customers to know you’re a cut above the rest.

We want you to be part of something special.

We want you to Fit Franke First.

To find out more visit fitfrankefirst.co.uk

iAcademy

iKBBI LAUNCHES ONLINE iACADEMY The iKBBI has proudly launched its online Continual Professional Development (CPD) website which facilitates for tradesmen to sharpen up their customer service skills and learn more about their contractual obligations. Working with The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI), the new iAcademy has several TradeSimple e-learning modules aimed at improving legal compliance.

CTSI Training & Development Executive Mandy Garnham, warned installers who are not sufficiently informed that they could be putting themselves at risk by saying, “Installers already have a lot of regulations to comply with to make sure that their work is up to standard and safe, but that does not make them immune from consumer law and their responsibilities in terms of cancellations, refunds and the right to repairs and replacements.” She continued, “Consumers are becoming increasingly more demanding and an installer’s skills and knowledge are fundamental to the success of their businesses. Installers that understand their customers’ rights get fewer complaints and more repeat custom, and that’s got to be good for the bottom line.”

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SPONSORED BY

iAcademy

CTSI is the membership body for the trading standards profession and is responsible for training and leading the profession. The low-cost TradeSimple modules show installers how to comply with consumer law in a jargon-free way and can be accessed on most devices.

In addition to the compliance element, the new iAcademy, which has secured long-term sponsorship from industry giant Blum, offers a number of learning opportunities across a wider subject range and will include health & safety.

Furthermore, it’s associate section links the industry to partner learning sites, with lots of free downloads from organisations including The Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA), iKBBI Sponsors HIPPO and strategic partners The Gas Safe Register and NICEIC. Damian Walters, IKBBI chief executive, said, “This is another demonstrable development, not only for the iKBBI, but also for the industry. Our iAcademy is available to both members and nonmembers, so our reach is infinite.”

He continued, “Learning will play an incredibly important role in the future success of our industry and those keystakeholders that operate within it. It’s not something that should be ignored, especially considering the complexity of our sector. In fact, learning and those credible qualifications that can be achieved via the new iAcademy should be viewed as a way to gain commercial advantage and another way to separate yourselves from others you’re in direct competition with”.

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COURSES Work Skills and Employability Courses A range of courses designed to assist those seeking employment.

Health & Safety Courses A range of courses relating to Health and Safety.

Courses for people working with adults A selection of courses of interest to those who work with or support adults.

Business Courses These courses are designed to improve business skills.

Trade Courses A range of courses useful for those working within construction, engineering and electrical trades.

Tradesimple Courses These courses have been created in partnership with Chartered Trading Standards Institute electrical trades.

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Company Profile

The 36-strong Frames by Franke collection of appliances, sinks and taps boasts a premium specification, minimalist design and innovative technology

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Company Profile

DESIGN & INNOVATION ARE THE CORE VALUES BEHIND FRANKE'S SUCCESS Franke of Switzerland is the world’s foremost kitchen sink manufacturer, renowned for a commitment to quality and an unmistakable flair for design.

Franke’s distinctive portfolio of appliances, sinks, taps, cooker hoods and waste management products excel in form and function and are developed with the company’s world class approach to design and innovation.

The Franke story began as a small sheetmetal business in Roschach, Switzerland, established by Hermann Franke in 1911.

Today the company employs around 8,500 staff worldwide in 40 countries.

The Fit Franke First initiative Recognising the key role of installers in delivering professionalism across the kitchen industry, Franke launched the Fit Franke First initiative two years’ ago with a website featuring a series of short training and information videos covering popular topics on installing sinks and

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Company Profile

taps. The site has now been extended so that installers benefit from rewards and exclusive offers, brochures, installation guides, technical support, spares, business advice articles and details of approved Franke retailers. There are also opportunities to win prizes throughout the year. Installers can check on the website, www.fitfrankefirst.co.uk, for full details.

Innovation with the new Frames by Franke collection The 36-strong Frames by Franke collection of ovens, hobs, hoods, sinks and taps boasts a premium specification, minimalist design and innovative technology. Ultrastreamlined and ultra-functional, Frames provides a complete and unique kitchen system with a sophisticated edge.

Make it Wonderful In 2015, Franke worked with eight internationally renowned artists, to launch its bold, new ‘Make it Wonderful’ brand campaign using inspiring illustrations – or ‘doodles’ – to show how their products make everyday life less ordinary. Franke’s aim is to help make working in the kitchen – the hub of the household – a pleasure, using the finest materials and state-ofthe-art production technology for their Specialist and Pro-Value product ranges and their new state-of-the-art Frames collection.

What sets Frames apart is that all products have the same design style and footprint to achieve exceptionally streamlined aesthetics and a co-ordinated design look throughout the kitchen, with the assurance of maximum performance.

All Frames by Franke products have the same design style and footprint to achieve exceptionally streamlined aesthetics and a co-ordinated design look throughout the kitchen.

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More than just products, Frames by Franke is a total concept that is designed to transition the kitchen effortlessly through day and night for cooking, dining, entertaining and relaxing, turning the kitchen into an extension of the living space, rather than simply a work area.

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Keep a clean sheet.

Festool dust extractors. For healthier work. For better results.

You´ll never work alone.

A clean job is more than a perfect result. The Festool mobile dust extractors work discreetly in the background, but are immediately

Tools for the toughest demands

on site when they are needed. Sawing, sanding, routing. Perfectly matched to the tools, they extract the dust where it is generated.

They thus guarantee not only health-friendly work, but also save you time and effort on time-consuming cleaning.

For more information please visit www.festool.co.uk/dustfree or your retailer. www.festool.co.uk

Company Profile The easy-to-fit Omni 4-in-1 tap can be installed in less than two hours and delivers filtered 100⁰C boiling, filtered cold and mains hot and cold from a single, lever-operated tap.

Leading the way with 4-in-1 tap technology Franke also continues to innovate in tap design and technology, launching the lever-operated 4-in-1 kitchen mixer tap, the Omni, in 2015. Omni delivers filtered boiling water at 100°C, filtered cold water and standard mains hot and cold, all from a single tap mixer for the ultimate in lifestyle convenience.

Safe, super easy to operate and fully reversible, one lever is for mains hot and cold, while the other lever dispenses the filtered boiling and filtered cold water.

Omni has been designed for fast and easy installation, in as little as two hours.

It features colour coded plug-and-play assembly in conjunction with existing plumbing and the ‘no tool’ Nutrunna® technology on the hoses allows for handtightening so minimal plumbing and tools are required.

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The Fit Franke First website has now been extended so that installers benefit from rewards and exclusive offers, brochures, installation guides, technical support, spares, business advice articles and details of approved Franke retailers.

REDEFINING HYGIENE AND COMFORT STANDARDS

Contemporary Design Contemporary, comfortable and complementing any bathroom, this stylish and modern WC is setting the standard for design in shower toilets. The ergonomically designed seat and ceramic shower toilet with its concealed, integrated electronics provides the perfect blend of design and functionality.

Remote Control V-care can be used via the remote control for optimum hygiene, comfort and convenience.

Personal Cleansing

Redefining Hygiene

Specially designed nozzle enables the user to adjust the water spray for the perfect cleansing experience.

Water temperatures and nozzle position can also be adjusted by the user via the remote control.

A rimless (Rim-Ex™) wall-hung design offers effortless cleaning. Airpurification is automatically activated when the toilet is in use, ensuring optimum bathroom hygiene.

vitra-vcare.co.uk vitra.co.uk

Installer Profile, Adam Cullimore

ADAM PUTS SERVICE FIRST (AND THE BRITISH AND IRISH LIONS A CLOSE SECOND!) ‘Lion hearted’ Adam Cullimore loves nothing more than following Welsh national teams and Irish Lions around the globe, among his list of ports-of-call have been far-away Hong Kong and Australia!

A proper supporter is Adam.

Much closer to home in South Wales, Adam works in the family business that was established some thirty years ago!

Complete Installations Ltd installs kitchens and bathrooms mostly in and around the South and Mid Wales areas and specialise in offering a ‘complete’ service from design to installation. The team specialises in the installation of solidsurface worktops along with granite & timber and are also trained to cut on site.

Adam says, “As a small team that offers a complete service, we have the ability and skills to remove the need for customers to employ outside trades. We offer the complete package from plastering and tiling, to one electric socket or a full house rewire and replacement consumer unit, gas work to include cookers, hobs and boilers. As a business we believe a complete service is what customers now want.” He continued, “We pride ourselves on being registered: Gas Safe, Benchmark Electrical Contractor, Benchmark Kitchens & Bathrooms, Benchmark Heating,

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Installer Profile, Adam Cullimore

Water Safe as well as iKBBI. Most of our business is generated from previous clients and customer recommends, we also contract Homebase and Magnet.”

Adam began his kitchen and bathroom installation career as an apprentice for a company who is now called AC Distribution and Aztec Kitchens in Pontypridd, and soon progressed to become CORGI (now Gas Safe) and electrically qualified before embarking on working for himself. He prides himself on being a perfectionist and not discriminating between his wealthy and less wealthy customers; he states, “Everybody deserves the best service regardless of how much they spend.”

When asked what the future holds more broadly he stated, “Moving forward within our industry we see our biggest challenge as keeping up to date with the ever changing rules, regulations and

“Customers should have confidence that their installer’s ability is second-to-none, and by using a member of the iKBBI any fears are quickly allayed which helps us win business.“

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Installer Profile, Adam Cullimore

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Installer Profile, Adam Cullimore

new developing products, ensuring our qualifications and product knowledge is always current. As a small business we must evolve to offer potential customers and when we tender contracts that we remain affordable but without impacting on the quality of service we provide.”

“There is an ongoing joke in our house that we can go anywhere in the world on holiday as long as there is a Welsh Rugby or Football match there!"

So what of the iKBBI and how has it worked for him over the three years that he has been a member? He commented, “Being an iKBBI member is important to us and gives our business the prestige and credibility that our customers can believe in. Customers should have confidence that their installer’s ability is second-to-none, and by using a member of the iKBBI any fears are quickly allayed which helps us win business. “He added, “Consistently providing an excellent service, high quality workmanship and excellent standard of care to the standards is a required standard of the iKBBI and members should introduce this commitment to potential customers from the very outset of negotiations.”

Adam continued “Since joining the iKBBI I have witnessed how it has grown in recognition within the industry including private customers, sub-contract clients and an increase where we are tendering for contracts and they insist that we are members. Some potential clients even ask about our iKBBI logos and we always refer them to the website (www.ikbbi.org. uk) and verbally give them the outline of what the iKBBI stands for. We are sure this gives us the edge on non-members within our trade and better still, the institute occasional provides us with leads."

We asked Adam what he sees of his future in the longer and he replied, “My interests within the industry are project management, inspection & testing both gas and electrical Installations and my ambition is to be undertaking this role in a full time capacity within his company and beyond.”

Currently his life is always busy working on the tools as well as undertaking pretechnical surveys but he does make time for personal pleasures and ambitions; for example, he and his wife Lisa are presently renovating a Grade 2 listed cottage in Abergavenny, South Wales.

However, according to Lisa, his passion for rugby and football and in particular the Welsh teams and the British & Irish Lions, is in effect extending the length of their renovation project! She says, “There is an ongoing joke in our house that we can go anywhere in the world on holiday as long as there is a Welsh Rugby or Football match there!"

Adam’s greatest sporting pleasure was taking Lisa in 2013 to Hong Kong and all round Australia following the British and Irish Lions Tour.

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Financial Advice

TAX TIPS by Dean Flood The issue of Brexit is clearly dominant in the news and financial press, if only temporarily side-lined by the exit of the England team from the Euros. However life goes on and tax compliance remains.

This quarter’s review therefore covers a couple of possible tax saving opportunities.

VAT and the Flat Rate Scheme As well as having a compulsory requirement to register for VAT once turnover exceeds the registration thresholds, businesses do have the option of registering voluntarily for VAT. Assuming that the charging of VAT to customers is not detrimental to a business’s competitiveness, the voluntary registration should be considered. In the first instance it would allow the business to recover input VAT on purchases. Secondly, the business may wish to register under the Flat Rate Scheme which can be used for businesses with VAT exclusive turnover up to £150,000. The Flat Rate Scheme is quite simple to administer and can in fact mean that businesses could make a modest profit from operating the scheme. Speak to your tax advisor as to whether this may be a beneficial move for your business.

Small Gifts to Employees HMR&C have now simplified the rules in relation to small gifts to employees.

Under the new legislation, employers are permitted to purchase gifts for their employees up to the total of £300 per employee each tax year, as long as individual gifts do not exceed £50 each and are in the form of a gift that cannot be readily exchanged for cash. This would 46

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Dean Flood Chartered Certified Accountant and Partner at Rowland Hall

www.rowlandhall.co.uk Tel: 01375 373 828 / 01268 696 878

include gift vouchers where cash refunds or change paid in cash is not available.

Also the gifts cannot be as a reward for performance.

The gifts are tax deductible for the business and are not assessed for tax on the employee. For smaller owner managed companies, where employee numbers may be limited to family members, the above does provide a small means to receiving some tax free benefit from the business as it applies equally to directors as well as other employees.

Interest on Company Loans Some companies operate on a basis whereby working capital is provided by way of a short or medium term loan of monies from the directors themselves.

Recent changes to the manner in which investment income is taxed has given rise to the possibility of those directors receiving some tax free interest on those loans should the loan values be of a sufficient amount. Speak to your tax advisor if your director’s loan account is continually in credit.

Harmonique MD060

Sequel V TM006

UK TOWEL WARMERS & RADIATORS Vogue (UK) Ltd Strawberry Lane, Willenhall, West Midlands, WV13 3RS United Kingdom T: +44(0) 1902 387000 F: +44(0) 1902 387001 E: info@vogueuk.co.uk W: www.vogueuk.co.uk

Tools, Power Tools & Equipment Advice

ACCURACY, TIME-SAVING, VERSATILITY WITH HEALTH BENEFITS, FESTOOLS KAPEX KS 120 TICKS ALL THE BOXES Using a sliding compound mitre saw to achieve a clean accurate cut on a wide variety of materials, is easily portable, whilst providing efficient dust extraction is a challenge for any manufacturer. However, the good news is that the Festool KAPEX KS 120 sliding compound mitre saw (SCMS) performs all of these functions to perfection.

Ideal for KBB installers who often work with pre-finished materials, KAPEX is suitable for this type of work as the material that is cut can be used without further re-work thus saving them time and money.

Using a KAPEX enhances the system approach that Festool are renowned for.

So what is the system approach? It involves a machine hose and extractor working in unison to ensure a clean working environment, with a better

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quality finished product and critically, a professional result whenever it is used.

The KAPEX weighs 21.5kg but if fitted to the wheeled stand its weight is irrelevant.

It can easily be set up wherever the work is based and its 900mm height is the perfect working position for installers.

Material over 4.8 metres can easily be cut to size once the side leg extensions are fitted for the left and right hand sides and also extended.

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Tools, Power Tools & Equipment Advice

Providing a quality finished edge is a fundamental requirement of any power saw, however KAPEX surpasses expectations with the finish provided by its 60t blade. To have an increase in the surface finish, an 80t blade can be used so that when cutting solid timber, a ‘mirror’ finish can be achieved with great accuracy. Using the Festool system approach means blades are available for laminates and also non-ferrous metals like aluminium.

Sliding compound mitre saws are notorious for producing unwanted dust, however this is easily controlled by attaching one of Festool's extractors to the KAPEX KS 120 saw. This not only results in more professional finish but is much healthier for the installer.

Festool's crown stops are accessories that can make a huge difference, so what are they? Basically, the crown stops will permit

the cutting of compound mitres on cornice in one cut. The crown stops can be fitted to the main base of the saw and a small ‘stop’ can be adjusted to the correct width.

The only other adjustment is to place the saw at the correct angle, for example 22.5 degrees and then cut the cornice, it is quick, easy, simple and cost effective to use.

KAPEX is a leader in its class especially as housings can be cut accurately, angles can be bisected with the angle finder, and with the use of a laser even the process of marking out is reduced which saves valuable time. On the job time-saving means that installers will enjoy a return on investment on their KS120 purchase.

Peace of mind is assured as Festool provides a three year all inclusive service warranty. www.festool.co.uk

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Safety Initiative

SAFETY FIRST The iKBBI has teamed up with NICEIC and ELECSA to promote consumer safety within the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom installation market.

Paul Collins, Technical Services Manager at NICEIC and ELECSA, said: “We are pleased to be working alongside the iKBBI to look at ways that the NICEIC and ELECSA can support the iKBBI and help it achieve its aims. Many NICEIC, ELECSA and iKBBI registrants will already be undertaking work in the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom sector so it makes sense to come together and look at ways that we can support installers and promote consumer safety to ensure that work is completed to a high standard by competent installers”.

Paul continues, “NICEIC and ELECSA are both committed to improving safety within the home and by working with other industry partners we can share experiences on a range of initiatives such as training, complaints and recommended standards to improve safety for consumers looking to employ competent and reliable installers.”

The iKBBI already works with a range of partners across the consumer and retail sectors to improve standards, including Gas Safe and Which? Trusted Traders.

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“The safety of our members and their customers is of paramount importance to our organisation and something we are passionate about." iKBBI Chief Executive Damian Walters commented on the new partnership by saying: “The safety of our members and their customers is of paramount importance to our organisation and something we are passionate about.

Our latest strategic partnership with NICEIC and ELECSA is another important milestone and a relationship we are incredibly proud of.”

He continued, “Our members can operate in potentially dangerous environments on a daily basis, often working with a combination of gas, electricity and water. It therefore makes perfect sense to partner with those whose specialist subject is safety in the home.”

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Safety Initiative

The NICEIC and ELECSA are two of the most recognised names in the electrical contracting industry and wider construction sector. They represent more than 37,000 registered enterprises and have a reputation amongst consumers, specifiers of work and industry for promoting safety, integrity and technical excellence.

The NICEIC brand on its own has been around for more than 60 years and is the UK’s leading voluntary regulatory body for the electrical contracting industry.

“Our members can operate in potentially dangerous environments on a daily basis, often working with a combination of gas, electricity and water. It therefore makes perfect sense to partner with those whose specialist subject is safety in the home.”

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Q & A with Janice McBeth

Q&A

with Janice McBeth Answering this issue's Q & A is iKBBI inspector Janice McBeth. Janice recently joined the institute and brings with her a wealth of industry experience and a sense of fun, unless you're a politician ...

What attracted you to your role as an iKBBI inspector?

I have over 30 years experience in the fitted furniture industry and I thought that the role was innovative and interesting.

I wanted therefore to be a part of this new initiative and play my part in helping to raise industry standards.

I think it is important that we raise consumer confidence for our industry.

Have you witnessed a marked improvement in installation standards or would you say that growth could be quicker?

Growth has been slow especially in the North East, however all new ventures take time and I feel that the message is finally getting through to the general public. I am confident that the inspector service will prove useful and will help create a benchmark for both customers and installers.

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And what makes you feel good about it?

Knowing that I’m at the forefront of this new service that will become highly regarded throughout the KBB industry.

Who would you like to be stuck in a lift with?

David Beckham ha ha!

Who would you most hate to be stuck in a lift with?

George Osborne or any other politician as I may get arrested for voicing my opinions.

If you had a super power what would it be?

I would like to have the same power as Samantha from the tv show Bewitched; she just wiggles her nose and instantly arrives at any destination she chooses.



Q & A with Janice McBeth The Amalfi Coast, Italy

Animal you most resemble at work?

I asked my team this question and they said I’m a Rottweiler, I thought I was a lamb!

I love travelling but hate the time it takes to reach my destination.

Favourite holiday destination?

Italy, the Amalfi Coast is spectacular.

Animal you most resemble at home?

A Sloth.

Finally, what would be at the top of your bucket list?

I would like to see all 7 Wonders of the World. I have walked the Great Wall of China and have visited the Pyramids at Giza. Two down, five to go!

Beach or pool?

Pool, I can’t stand the beach.

Book or kindle?

Neither, I prefer watching TV, especially a good comedy All time favourite movie?

Gone with the wind.

What makes you laugh?

My youngest grandchildren Charlie and Jack, they have me in stitches with their one-liners. I bet their teachers could write a book!

What makes you cry?

Sad movies especially when it involves animals.

I am one of the millions who cried buckets when Bambi’s mother was killed.

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Interview

THE CRAFT BEHIND THE BRAND

Steve Birch, Sales Director of leading British designer and manufacturer of radiators and towel warmers Vogue UK, takes time out to talk to The Installer magazine and tells us what the company is doing to help its skilled tradesman.

“At Vogue (UK), our metalsmiths have spanned generations of family, seeing sons; fathers and even grandfathers work the very same factory floor. Even though Technology has rapidly advanced, Vogue has never forgotten the fundamental importance of quality craftsmanship and the value of its skilled artisans: which haven’t strayed far from traditional timehonoured methods and processes.

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Interview

I think it’s important that we continue to produce authentic design and manufacturing platforms at Vogue to encourage and motivate the younger generations to take up this skilled craft otherwise, quality British design and manufacture will simply cease to exist: if this were to happen I’m sure that installer wouldn’t be happy having to fit cheap imported products?

"Vogue has never forgotten the fundamental importance of quality craftsmanship and the value of its skilled artisans."

minor renovations or even a completely new refit, they don’t want to be fitting something that will be out of date or fall apart in a year’s time.

To validate our product confidence, we actually offer lengthy product guarantees to ensure a safeguard for all our customers, as well as give greater peace of mind at time of install. We also cater to the individual, giving endless options in terms of finish, style and appearance For example, if an installer’s customer wants a matt cappuccino towel warmer or copper effect panel radiator, Vogue (UK) will have something within its comprehensive product portfolio to satisfy the customers requirements.

Vogue has created a family environment that has engendered a unique staff loyalty who wants to create a ‘quality product’ like no other. I think this alone will look to inspire the next generation of heating designers, manufacturers and installers and go a long way in keeping a shrinking trade alive. Let’s face it, a period bathroom is never going to be complete without an authentic traditional towel horse or ball joint towel rail is it?

We feel that there should be good design for kbb installer’s customers at every level of the market, they deserve a quality built product, beautifully designed and with dependable after-care. If installer’s customers are spending a lot of money on

www.vogueuk.co.uk info@vogueuk.co.uk 01902 387 000

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Interview

"We feel that there should be good design for kbb installer’s customers at every level of the market, they deserve a quality built product, beautifully designed and with dependable after-care."

www.vogueuk.co.uk E: info@vogueuk.co.uk Tel: 01902 387 000 56

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MADE TO MEASURE | Your individual shower experience

HSK − Made to measure options There is no don´t have, or can´t do: We can supply customised shower enclosures for unusual spaces or requirements quickly and at competitive prices. Most size variations are possible. We also offer a large variety of profile colours and different glass options. Delivery time approximately 3 - 5 weeks including delivery − other product solutions on request.

E EASUR M 0 T R E DE OR D FR OM MA LI VE RY

S TO DE 3-5 WEEK

CONCEPT, PRICE + QUALITY IS OUR PROMISE

www.hsk-showers.com

Tel: 01889 565877 | hskuk@aol.com

Make sure you get the next issue of The Installer completely free of charge simply by clicking the link below:

SUBSCRIBE HERE

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Installer Opportunity

CALLING INSTALLERS NATIONWIDE FOR A NEW MADE-TO-MEASURE SERVICE OPPORTUNITY Staffordshire based bathroom manufacturers agent Colin Richardson, is currently recruiting installers nationwide to perform site visits to measure, and subsequently fit, a range of high-quality HSK shower enclosures as part of a new made-to-measure service.

The business model is an interesting one: At the point of sale, the bathroom retailer introduces to his/her customer a local measure and fit service which will be performed by one of the appointed installers. The installation service costs are levied by the installer directly to the retailer’s customer with no input from either the retailer or HSK. The product itself is manufactured in Germany and imported into the UK. When the time is appropriate the product will be delivered to the installer who would then take it to the purchaser’s home and install.

Speaking on HSK’s behalf Colin Richardson comments “This is a unique opportunity for installers and we particularly welcome enquiries from iKBBI members purely because of the standards that they adhere to. No matter how removed HSK may be from the actual fitting process, bad installation will ultimately tarnish the brand somewhat.

It is an exciting proposition especially as the HSK range is so well made and more importantly, installer friendly.”

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Still family owned, HSK is a widely recognised brand throughout Europe; uniquely, it manufacturers its own glass ensuring the ultimate in quality control of its enclosures. The brand also has an excellent reputation here in the UK accumulated over some 13 years by the original and existing distribution network.

A flyer for the new made-to-measure service is available.

www.hsk-showers.com Tel: 01889 565877

Installer Opportunity

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Social Scene

e ... n e c ial s ny Soc fun w e from Af s t e p snip orld of w the edia m l a soci

That drawer for the things we never use!

Genius space saver!

Schoolboy error!

Hope this stairwell isn't a fire exit!

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Social Scene

For those that like to share their toilet time. #cosy

Improvisation at it's best!

I've heard of a kitchen diner, and now the bathroom diner!

Oops ... a tape measure may have helped!

Social scene ...

A few funny snippets from the world of social media

Seen anything funny on the net? Follow us. Join us on our Social Networks www.ikbbi.org.uk

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Product Portfolio

VitrA unveil D-Light Global bathroom manufacturer VitrA has unveiled D-Light as its latest exciting bathroom range.

With its fresh, modern look with hints of Scandinavian design, D-Light offers a range of washbasins, wall-hung tall and side units with tailored accessories.

D-Light is defined by the softly rounded edges of the units, a handle-less design with integrated LED basin lighting. It also has clever, practical storage features including a recessed shelf on top of the side unit and a towel holder that attaches to the unit. www.vitraglobal.com 01235 750 990

Vogue (UK) launch AXIS An addition to Vogue's 'Ladder Rail Collection', the new AXIS towel warmer is available in a new 'Bright' or 'Brushed Nickel' finish.

The AXIS towel warmer is crafted from high quality mild-steel and can be supplied with an optional 'Aroma Plug'. This innovative dished blanking plug is something you may find in many a premium steam room or sauna, providing aromatherapy benefits to a bathroom via the towel warmer.

There is a vast choice of fragrances available from Lemon to Jasmine oil, Ylang Ylang to Cedarwood so virtually any desired scent can be provided for including earthy, woody, fruity, floral, herbal or even spicy! www.vogueuk.co.uk 01902 387 000

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Product Portfolio Bring the outdoors in with BAUHAUS’ new Driftwood finish The new Driftwood finish from Bauhaus, brings sophisticated design to the brand’s Glide ll collection.

The wood veneer finish offers customers a refined take on the ever-popular ‘rough luxe’ interior design style, whilst still retaining all of the range’s signature functionality.

Expertly crafted from superior quality and durable materials, the Driftwood finish offers a deep grained hard-wearing surface, ideal for withstanding the hustle and bustle of day-to-day living. Reflecting time honoured cabinet making skills, the entire Glide ll range epitomises fantastic value, no matter the finish you or your customer chooses. There are three finishes: Wenge, American Walnut or White Gloss. www.bauhaus-bathrooms.co.uk 03458 738 840

New ARIES radiator by Aestus 'reflects' quality Leading British manufacturer and supplier of high-quality designer radiators and towel rails, Aestus, has enhanced its range of luxury heating solutions with the launch of its ARIES radiator.

ARIES is a completely new concept and the radiator pictured has a highly practical integral mirror adding to its contemporary appeal which can be finished in either white or anthracite.

This new model provides a high heat output of 1122W (3828 Btu/hr). The new ARIES radiator belongs to the Contemporary Collection by Aestus. www.aestus.co.uk 01902 387 080

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Product Portfolio

Urban Interiors spices up the kitchen Championing the latest trend for farm-to-table food preparation, luxury interiors showroom, Urban Interior brings nature back into the home with the innovative granite Herb Garden, featured in the URBAN Kitchen Collection by SieMatic.

It can be designed as a one-line solution, around the corner or as a small top-box upon a countertop, the options seem endless. The waterproof stainless steel inserts in accommodating dimensions have been specifically designed to plant and grow herbs, in the comfort of a home! www.urbaninterior.co.uk 02077 394 644

The Bathroom Shop gets ultraviolet Specialist retailer of luxury bathroom solutions, The Bathroom Shop demonstrates how to add colour an originality to a bathroom with a clever use of modern colour paired with traditional sanitaryware and furniture by Silverdale.

The wall colour pictured complements the violet finish of the ornate dual roll-top freestanding bath which is accentuated by the gilded chrome claw feet.

Balance is restored with the traditional white ceramic sanitaryware, natural wood finishes and classic finishing touches. www.thebathroomshop-carlisle. co.uk 01228 512 428

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Product Portfolio

Franke extends its popular Omni range with the new Omni Classic Franke has expanded its Omni 4-in-1 tap offering by introducing the Omni Classic offering the benefits of Omni technology in a design to suit more traditional kitchens.

Virtually no tools are required for fitting thanks to the Omni Classic’s plug and play installation and with a triple safety action and cool-touch chassis, the Omni Classic is very safe to operate.

The Omni Classic marries the timeless appeal of a swan-neck spout, gentle curves and elegant white levers with the exceptional build quality and prestige of hi-shine solid stainless steel. It delivers filtered boiling water at a full 100°C, filtered cold water and standard mains hot and cold, all from a single tap mixer.

The Omni Classic comes with a three year warranty. www.franke.co.uk 0161 436 6280 Grange Design is on trend with its new metallic finishes Grange Design has embraced the latest trend of bringing mixed-metal design to a bathroom by introducing a premium collection of new metallic finishes to its comprehensive portfolio of MGS bathroom taps and shower solutions.

The MB289 Single Lever Basin Mixer (pictured) is available in Antique Brass, 24K Gold and Copper finishes. This stainless steel tap features a hidden aerator for the height of performance, along with precision single lever control and universal pop-up waste.

Designed with an eye-catching curved spout, the MB289 is 180mm high, has a reach of 136mm and is available in either a matt or polished finish. www.mgsbathroomtaps.co.uk 01732 760 079

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Directory Associates & Supporters

Bathroom Manufacturers

www.vitra.co.uk Bathroom Retailer

www.bathstore.com Building Supplies

www.trade-point.co.uk Cabinet Fitters

www.blum.com Domestic Appliances

www.liebherr.co.uk

www.vzug.com

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Directory Insurance Services

www.ukspecialrisks.co.uk

Kitchen Furniture

Sinks & Taps

www.fitfrankefirst.co.uk Tile Sealant

is produced on behalf of the iKBBI by public relations, marketing, Vivid IV IVCN021 advertising and publishing specialists, Publicity Engineers Ltd.

Integral Collection v as featured on the Vivid

www.siematic.co.uk Power Tools

www.classic-marble.com Towel Warmers & Radiators

W

For editorial enquiries contact: rob@publicityengineers. com Integral Valve

Compression nu

VOGUE UK

www.festool.co.uk Price Comparison Services

Towel Warmers & Radiators www.vogueuk.co.uk www.vogueuk.co.uk Waste Management

Rob Nicholls

Vogue (UK) Limited, Strawberry Lane, Willenhall, West Midlands, WV13 3RS T+44 (0) 1902 387000 | F+44 (0) 1902 387001

Email - info@vogueuk.co.uk

www.insightdiy.co.uk PR & Advertising

www.publicityengineers.com Sanitaryware

www.hippowaste.co.uk Website Design

For advertising, advertorial, directory and promotional enquiries contact: olly@ publicityengineers.com Tel: 01992 478 109

www.stressfreemedia.co.uk Work Surfaces

Oliver Anthony

www.cdukltd.co.uk

www.perrinandrowe.co.uk

www.publicityengineers.com

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Education.

Standards.

Support.

The Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installers (iKBBI) represents over 3,500 installation businesses across the UK, as well as a network of local, regional and national KBB retailers, specialist suppliers, distributors and manufacturers.

This year, the organisation celebrates its 10-year anniversary and is hosting a number of regional events to demonstrate how KBB businesses can get involved, including an event at The Houses of Parliament. To find out more about an event near you, or how you can view live broadcast, please email denise.mayell@ikbbi.org.uk or call 01375 659 524.

The Chief Executive and the board would also like to take this opportunity to thank its members, retail Installation Standards Partners, associates, supporters and members of the press for their support over the last decade. Your support has been invaluable and is immensely appreciated. Thank you.

ikbbi.org.uk | 01375 659 524 officialikbbi