The Installer - Issue 21 - Spring 2020

magazine

TOGETHERSTRONGER

A WORD FROM OUR PATRON STEPHEN METCALFE, MP

The Coronavirus is the biggest threat this country has faced in decades, and we are not alone!

Globally, we are seeing the devastating impact of this invisible killer. Which is why the Government is working to a scientifically-led, step-by-step action plan and taking the right measures at the right time.

During this difficult time for the country, we recognise the extreme disruption these necessary actions are having on people’s lives, their businesses, their jobs and the nation’s economy. And that’s why we have produced a huge and unprecedented programme of support both for workers and for business, and we’ll do everything we can to ensure people can pay their bills, stay in their home and put food on their table.

But this crisis will pass, and we will emerge the other side ready to face the challenges that await us. There is no doubt this experience will change many of us and the way we work.

However, it has been heart-warming to see the nation come together and remember what is most important to us

all – our health, our family, our friends and our loved ones. It is also wonderful to see the small acts of kindness carried out every day to help us all get thought this, from checking on an elderly vulnerable neighbour to setting up street based WhatsApp groups to keep people in touch and offer support when needed.

It is also fantastic to see the army of people who have responded to local and national calls for help. People of all ages and backgrounds have stepped up to the mark and volunteered to help in a myriad of different ways.

In a time of national crisis we are seeing the best in people as they stay home, protect the NHS and save lives. When we do emerge on the other side of this, we will have challenges to address, but we will be stronger in the knowledge that when we face a crisis, we do not turn our backs on one another, we come together.

As I said, this will pass, but until then stay safe and know you are not facing this alone.

Stephen Metcalfe Member of Parliament for South Basildon & East Thurrock

DESIGNER ARIK LEVY

“It’s very difficult for me to kick the magazine off with the usual enthusiasm."

The human challenge we face globally is quite frankly staggering, especially considering the speed in which this situation has escalated. It doesn’t feel like five minutes ago were elbow bumping each other at KBB Birmingham, speculating about the potential impact of some new strain of flu from China and how silly we all looked wearing masks.

What has subsequently developed over the weeks after KBB has undoubtably changed our lives forever. OK, there may be some good that comes from this, but I’m not sure the price is justified. The loss of our friends, family and those in the community around us feels like too harsh a lesson for whatever we as a race have ever done.

So, before I continue, the first thing I hope for is that you and your family is well, physically, mentally and financially. These are tough times, but we do face these together. You’re not alone and no matter what this disgusting virus does, we will defeat it, return and do so stronger than ever.

As we remain in a period of temporary social distancing, communication has never been so important or relevant, which is why we have decided to push forward with the magazine. Special thanks must go to both the editor and designer for their efforts over recent weeks and their support of BiKBBI during this difficult time.

So, as usual, another great issue ahead – yes, we do cover COVID-19, but it certainly doesn’t dominate the issue.

My final words in this opener are simple.

Now is the time to be guided by those who know. For us to applaud those who do so much for us. To be thankful for our own health. To be optimistic of a return. To be ready for when it does.

Together we are stronger and we will overcome this situation.

Walters, BiKBBI CEO

Damian

First and foremost, I hope you and your family are well and coping with all of this. Tough times.

Never before has our generation faced such a challenge, or perhaps truly understood the fragility of our own mortality. We must all look out for each other, our families and the wider community. We each have a responsibility to protect the NHS and save lives by staying at home.

But for small-to-medium sized business owners, the pressure is also on to protect our livelihoods and the enterprises that many of us have spent years building. We can’t just shut shop and hope for the best.

So, what can we do?

Our advice is simple.

Aside from staying at home and following government instruction, we should be using this downtime wisely. Evaluating commercial relationships, assessing our business health and planning for the future. Preparing for a return to work and ensuring we’re ready to hit the ground running when we get the green light to do so.

This situation will pass and we will commercially recover. But the world will almost certainly be a different place and we need to both accept and prepare for it if we’re to recover quickly.

Never before have trade associations been needed as much. It’s during times of adversity that a pack strategy works the best. Strength in numbers and togetherness is vital.

This pack is designed to help you and your business over the weeks ahead. Please take time to review its content and don’t hesitate to get in touch. Remember, our offices are closed as per government guidance, but you can email the team at member@bikbbi.org.uk anytime.

I’m here for you. BiKBBI is here for you and we will get through this together.

TOGETHER, STRONGER.

Damian Walters Chief Executive

One thing is for sure, the global impact of the Coronavirus is unprecedented, and these are uncertain and unsettling times for us all.

Steps to support you and your business:

STEP 1: Personal Affairs

Mortgage holidays

Many UK mortgage lenders are offering penalty free payment holidays. Contact your lender and discuss the options.

Personal credit cards and loans

The FCA have now introduced measures to ensure personal credit card and loan providers allow a three-month payment holiday on repayments.

Interest free personal overdrafts

Banks are now providing an interest free overdraft facility for the first £500 of authorised overdraft facilities. Contact your bank.

Utility bills

Energy prices are at their lowest for three years. Use price comparison websites like USwitch to save money.

It literally takes minutes and the new provider takes care of everything.

Universal Credit

The self-employed can apply for Universal Credit online and find out more about eligibility.

See: gov.uk/universal-credit

STEP 2: Business Affairs

Business support website & helpline

The government has set up a free helpline for all businesses. Call 0300 456 3565 Monday-Friday, 9am-6pm. You can also visit businesssupport.gov.uk

Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS)

Claim up to 80% of profits, up to £2500 per month for March/April & May in the form of a government grant (which is not repayable).

STEP 3: Institute Support

Free 3-month membership extension

All new member applications and renewals in 2020 will receive a free 3-month membership extension. As standard. This will be automatically added at the point your membership is renewed.

Interest and fee free

Direct Debits

Membership fees can be spread over 12 monthly, interest free Direct Debit payments. We have removed the £25 administration fee for those applying for Direct Debit payments for the remainder of 2020.

Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS)

If you employ people, you may be eligible to place staff on ‘Furlough Leave’ – an alternative to making staff redundant.

You can claim up to 80% of their salary to a max of £2500.

Coronavirus Business Interruption Loans (CBIL)

You may be eligible to apply for a CBIL via your bank of up to £250,000. Deferred repayments and interest free periods are standard, but lending

is dependent on your personal circumstances. Contact your bank or visit: british-business-bank.co.uk

Small Business Grant Fund (SBGF)

Many businesses will be eligible to apply for a SBGF via their local authority. For some this will be up to £25,000 if you retail from premises, for others it will be £10,000. Contact your local authority Business Rates Department.

HMRC rebate

Members can claim a rebate from HMRC against their membership fee. Speak to your accountant for more information or claim the rebate via your Tax Return.

Compliance & documentation

Working with The Health & Safety Executive, we have made some significant changes to our membership compliance requirements to help you stay compliant.

Please see: bikbbi.org.uk/covid-19-measures

Regular updates

We will continue to provide weekly updates via email and our website as this situation unfolds.

Visit: bikbbi.org.uk/bikbbi-news

Free training

See overleaf for details, but online training and development is now FREE for the foreseeable future.

Visit bikbbi.org.uk/about/online-learning

Prepare for the return

Our advice is to prepare for the return to work. Here’s some things you can be doing to ensure you’re ready to hit the ground running when our government gives us the green light:

Keep your membership updated

 Compliance

Working with HSE, we have updated our compliance requirements (see: bikbbi.org.uk/covid-19-measures).

We know you’re not working now and compliance may not feel a priority, but when the green light is given to return, we expect to be inundated with membership documents.

Avoid delays if your compliance is due, by updating us ASAP, following the instructions provided within our automated emails.

Need further guidance? Email compliance@bikbbi.org.uk

Stay in the loop

s Updates

 Membership

Remember, we’re Stronger Together. Don’t let your membership lapse.

If you need to renew, contact: member@bikbbi.org.uk

Take advantage of the interest and fee free Direct Debit option to keep your subscription going and remember, you can claim a rebate from HMRC against your annual Tax Return.

If you’re not receiving email updates from BiKBBI on a weekly basis, you will be missing out on vital information. This could be for a number of reasons, including your decision to opt out of email communications or that we have your email address recorded incorrectly.

If you think you’re missing emails from us, first check the ‘Junk or Spam’ folder in your email account. If you’re still missing the updates, email comms@bikbbi.org.uk – remember to quote your membership number which can be found on the cover letter.

Use the downtime wisely

 Reduce your costs

You are eligible to join the BiKBBI Insurance Scheme for public & employers liability. Visit www.bikbbi.org.uk/protection/ tradesman-insurance - save money and get protected.

 Review your shop

In this fast changing world of consumer expectation, is it time you invested in a new look or perhaps shop window for your business? Take a look at our digital partners at Polar for inspiration: www.wearepolar.com

R Kit yourself out

Order online branded workwear at: imageonworkwear.co.uk/bikbbi and get ready for the return.

l Learn

Take advantage of FREE online training at bikbbi.org.uk/about/online-learning

 Know your benefits

If you haven’t yet, login to your member account at: cams.bikbbi.com/login.aspx - You’ll have access to news, benefits and downloads to help your business.

Seek new opportunities

 Skills Bank

Register within our Skills Bank to work with our Partners. Open up new business contacts and work with some of the UK’s most respected brands. Visit bikbbi.org.uk/skills-bank

 Protected

Launched in January 2019, Protected is a new and innovative platform for BiKBBI members. Work with new retailers and use the new platform to protect your income, stand out from the competition and earn more money. More information can be found at: protectmyinstall.co.uk/installers

TOGETHERSTRONGER

This Information is in accordance with government guidance at the time of publication (25/4/2020). Updated government advice can be found at www.gov.uk

Coronavirus - Advice Continuing or starting

Are COVID-19 Symptoms present?

This includes a high temperature and a new, persistent cough experienced your customer or anyone they have been in contact with. Full symptoms

Unoccupied Properties

Safe Operating Procedures can be on the gov.uk website: CLICK HERE

CORONAVIRUS PROTECT YOURSELF OTHERS & THE NHS

After 15 years we say goodbye to the Kubus KBX range and hello to our new Mythos MYX bowls. This extensive range boasts a tighter bowl radius and an increased bowl depth of 200mm. Available as a flushmount with a sleek 6mm rim, these sinks can also be installed as an undermount. Easy to install, the Mythos MYX range offers an exclusive set of accessories such as the Franke branded rollamat.

The wonderful art of accuracy with the Mythos MYX Stainless Steel Sinks.

COVID-19. WHAT GOV.UK IS DOING TO HELP INSTALLERS

It perhaps comes as no surprise that the content of my article for this edition is entirely focussed on the government measures being implemented to address some of the financial difficulties suffered as a consequence of the Coronavirus pandemic.

These measures are changing on a daily basis with only very recent announcements for significant sectors such as the self-employed. Some announcements are still lacking detail and clarity. This article therefore tries to summarise the broad position on the main measures that may be of assistance to you.

Managing existing debt

Whilst not a government initiative, many finance companies and general lenders are offering payment deferrals for personal and commercial mortgages, business loans and finance products such as Hire Purchase agreements. As these obligations often form a significant part of individuals and companies outward cashflow, it is highly recommended that you contact your lenders directly to discuss your options.

VAT

The government has announced that VAT liabilities for all VAT registered UK businesses and individuals will be deferred for payments due between 20th March and 30th June 2020. At the moment it is assumed that this will apply to all businesses irrespective of size although further clarification may be forthcoming. The deferral will be to early 2021 and further clarification on that will be issued shortly. VAT returns must still be submitted on time. If you pay via BACS or cheque, you will simply not make the payment. If paying by the direct debit facility you must contact your bank to cancel that direct debit arrangement, otherwise payment will still be taken by HMR&C.

Useful Contacts

www.gov.uk/coronavirus - provides details of all the above measures and more 0800 0159 559 – HMR&C Time to Pay helpline for all businesses and individuals 0800 0241 222 – General HMR&C helpline

It is vitally important that all readers contact their accountants or HMR&C should they have any queries in relation to the above measures and before taking action. As indicated above, detail on these measures are changing daily and your advisors will be best placed to update you.

Best wishes to all readers during these difficult times. Stay healthy.

Financial advice by Dean Flood | www. rowlandhall.co.uk

Income Tax Deferral

Self-assessment tax payments due by the end of July 2020 are being deferred until January 31st 2021. It is understood that this will apply to tax liabilities arising from self-employment but there is no indication that this applies to those with liabilities arising from investment income, rental income or other forms of income untaxed, or not fully taxed at source.

Rates

Businesses operating from commercial premises and for whom Small Business Rates Relief may apply, may be able to obtain grants from their local authority of up to £10,000.

Businesses in the leisure, hospitality or retail sector who are most impacted by the COVID-19 may be able to receive a full year’s payment holiday for rates and access grants up to £25,000. This is primarily aimed at businesses with commercial properties with a rateable value of between £15,000 and £51,000.

The above provisions will be administered by local authorities and further clarification on their application is expected.

Job Retention Scheme

The government will support employers by making payments to businesses to cover 80% of the wage costs of ‘furloughed’ workers up to £2,500 per employee per month. The payments will be backdated to 1st March 2020 and the scheme will currently operate for 3 months. The concept of a ‘furloughed’ worker is broadly somebody who would have otherwise been made redundant as a consequence of reduced demand for services or productivity. It is not presumed to be an alternative to sick pay where an individual is forced to self-isolate or may be unfortunately off sick due to infection. A furloughed worker should be advised (preferably in writing by their employer) that their status has changed. The furloughed worker should have absolutely no involvement in work from that point. It is only the employer that can make the decision in relation to the change of status. It is not yet clarified as to whether this scheme applies to owners where the owner is a salaried director although it would seem somewhat inequitable if it didn’t.

The employer may wish to enhance the 80% from HMR&C but that is optional. Given that the alternative may be redundancy it is expected that most employees and employers will reach a mutually satisfactory agreement on these matters. At the moment, HMR&C are still designing the online platform to facilitate claims from employers and this is unlikely to be ready until early April, with payments being processed later in that month.

Self Employment

The biggest recent announcement from the Chancellor is the package to assist self-employed workers largely overlooked by other measures save for the deferment of July tax bills.

The scheme will essentially be limited to the self-employed where profits (not turnover) are less that £50,000 per annum. Where there are mixed sources of income, self-employment must be at least 50% of taxable income. The amounts will be based on 80% of the average profits (not turnover) declared in self-assessment tax returns for the three years 16/17, 17/18 and 18/19. If self-employment is

Business Loans

The government has effectively offered to indemnify banks for up to 80% of loans issued to businesses impacted by COVID-19. This measure is expected to free up additional lending by the banks and is available on loans up to £5m. Initial feedback on this facility is, however, not very positive. Businesses are still expected to present business plans to their bank as part of this facility.

Time to Pay

HMR&C are extending facility to all tax payers who wish to defer existing tax debts over a longer period. This facility has been in place since the last economic downturn. HMR&C will entertain proposals from tax payers to pay any taxes (corporation tax, VAT, PAYE) upon reasonable presentation of the facts of their current hardship. It is likely that written assertions to settle debt will be expected from HMR&C and they have advised that they will act as ‘lender’ of last resort rather than first resort.

more recently registered, the amount will be based on those returns submitted in that period.

The payments will be up to £2,500 per month for the next 3 months. Unfortunately, due to the complexity of this system, HMR&C do not envisage payments being made until June at the earliest.

There is currently no facility to claim on this scheme at the moment and it is expected that HMR&C will write to those self employed tax payers who are entitled to a claim under the relevant criteria, and provide them with online registration details to make the claim.

FREE ONLINE TRAINING

WELFARE SUPPORT FROM FMC

Following the launch of their its online training platform ‘Campus’ at KBB Birmingham in March, the BiKBBI, in partnership with training provider Cortexa, has confirmed that it is providing access to training, completely free of charge during the Coronavirus lockdown until further notice.

Access includes all product and businesses online courses providing the industry with access to a growing prospectus of bite sized online learning opportunities, ideal at this time of immobilisation! Campus allows users to network with other learners and engage technical specialists for advice and guidance.

Campus will be widely available to all and not restricted to members for this period. BiKBBI, CEO, Damian Walters comments: “We might as well use our downtime productively, learn something new and perhaps add another string or two to our bow during the current enforced situation.”

The BiKBBI also welcomes expressions of interest from manufacturers who may wish to add training content to Campus.

Interested parties to contact comms@bikbbi.org.uk for more information.

Click HERE to view courses.

The BiKBBI is delighted to confirm that The Furniture Makers Company, the industry’s charity, has outlined a number of financial support strategies to help those affected by the COVID-19 situation.

This support is available for installers operating within the sector, subject to criteria, and the institute will work with The Furniture Makers Company to help the processing of applications if required to do so.

The BiKBBI would like to thank the Company and its Master Dids Macdonald OBE for its continued support of education and welfare within the sector and would urge those who meet the criteria to make an application using the link below.

Info & Application

BiKBBI SIGN THE ARMED FORCES COVENANT

In a time where our nation’s troops are once again called upon, this time in the form of supporting our public services to fight this global pandemic, The British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation further confirmed its commitment to the Armed Forces Community by signing the Armed Forces Covenant today.

The Armed Forces Covenant is a promise by the nation which ensured to those who serve or who have served in the armed forces, and their families, are treated fairly. The BiKBBI’s commitment, as defined within the Covenant itself, is to work with The Ministry of Defence, its partners, charities and associates in the promotion of opportunities within the KBB industry and to support veterans, serving personnel, reservists and those working within the Cadet Forces.

As part of Armed Forces Day 2019, the institute announced its support of veterans in the form of discounts for membership

to the organisation, which was a continuation of its work with various charities that work on the subject of retraining.

The BiKBBI CEO, Damian Walters, says, “There are two primary reasons that we’ve pledged to the Covenant. Firstly, it’s the absolute right thing to do as these men and women have given so much for our country. We believe that it’s the least we can do to support them when they reach the time to

move back into civilian life.” He continued, “Secondly, this is a group of highly trained, disciplined and focused professionals and so anything we can do to bring them into our industry, especially at a time where we face a skills shortage, is simply, straightforward sense.”

In this issue of The Installer magazine we feature current BiKBBI member and kitchen installer Andrew Walker (pictured) for our regular ‘Installer Profile.’ Andrew joined The Royal Engineers Apprentice College way back in 1985 aged just 16; he served his early military career as a carpenter. He went on to join the infantry unit, D Company and later in his career, following a promotion to Lance Corporal, Andy specialised in Physical Training, representing the regiment at various sporting disciplines across the world, including China.

Andrew was part of a Guard of Honour in 1993 for Her Majesty, The Queen and eventually trained as a combat medic

before retiring from the Armed Forces. He now lives in Berkshire and has been installing kitchens for a number of years. Andy said, “I am a proud ex-serviceman who uses skills acquired as a soldier in my new civilian life as a kitchen installer.”

Damian added: “Andrew is a shining example of how transferable skills can be and how relevant they are to our industry. I’ve known Andy for many years and can testify that his service levels, professionalism and indeed craftsmanship are amongst the best I’ve seen. We need more veterans to invest in our industry and I will make sure that I do everything in my power to ensure we give them the opportunity and chance they so very much deserve.”

More on Andrew on page 46 You can view the signed documents and find out more about The Armed Forces Covenant by clicking below.

Covenant

VICTORIA PLUM BECOMES A BiKBBI PARTNER

Victoria Plum has become the latest BiKBBI Retail Installation Standards Partner, following the launch of its national bathroom design and installation service.

As a result of the partnership, Victoria Plum will provide its customers with the option for an end-to-end experience including a free design, home surveying and the connection to professional installers, all of whom have been independently accredited by The British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation (BiKBBI).

The company also joins a growing number of specialist retailers as a result of the partnership. These collaborate with the institute on subject of standards, compliance and education.

Speaking on behalf of Victoria Plum, Liz Lakin (pictured) Head

of Installations said “We’ve been working on building our network of specialist bathroom installers nationally and we’re delighted to be working with BiKBBI. Compliance plays a huge role in the delivery of home improvement services, so our partnership with the institute will give confidence to our customers and help us to both manage installer documentation in accordance with legislation, as well as connect with their members as we grow.”

BiKBBI CEO Damian Walters added: "We’ve a lot of experience working with Liz over the years. She has a proven track record of success within the delivery of domestic installations on behalf of retailers and I look forward to working with her and The Victoria Plum team on what is a very exciting project."

ROMAN TO RESUME PRODUCTION

British shower manufacturer is to reopen its County Durham factory in response to predicted demand

Around a quarter of the firm’s more than 200 UK employees will return to work at its plant in Newton Aycliffe, Country Durham.

Roman’s managing director David Osbourne was interviewed for BBC News at Ten, discussing the firm’s plans to reopen its doors, as part of a wider segment on impact of the lockdown on the nation’s businesses.

“We’re sort of envisioning pentup demand,” Osborne told BBC business correspondent Katie Prescott. “We’ll see hopefully quite a busy May, June… and we’ll see where it settles from there.”

He added: “I don’t know what

normality is going to be, whether it’s going to be October, November before we have a normal month.”

The announcement comes as two of the country’s largest homebuilding companies, Persimmon and Vistry, reopen sites with new social distancing guidelines in place.

KBBG RELEASES ADVICE FOR INDEPENDENT KBB SPECIALISTS WORKING FROM HOME

influential European kitchen and bathroom buying group KBBG, has released a statement of advice for independent kitchen and bathroom specialists who are working from home as a result of the COVID-19 crisis.

The advice is aimed at independent kbb specialists for whom working from home is not a straightforward task, and covers topics such as social media, video communication and training.

“There are positive things you can do from home to keep your business in front of customers” says Bill Miller, MD

AMTICO USES FACTORY TO HELP PRODUCE THOUSANDS OF NHS FACE MASKS

Coventry-based flooring firm Amtico has transformed its manufacturing facilities to produce up to 20,000 parts a day for life-saving face shields used by frontline NHS and critical key workers in the battle against COVID-19.

Better known for is luxury vinyl tile (LVT) flooring, the company has adapted the materials and machinery used in its production to create parts for essential PPE for use throughout the UK.

This comes as the result of joining forces with schools from around the country, who were working on producing face shields using 3D printing before assembling and distributing them nationwide.

As the headband is the most complex and time-consuming component of a protective face shield, Amtico stepped in to help

improve the efficiency and speed of production.

The company assembled a dedicated team of technical, CAD and cutting specialists and, within a few hours, modified the design of the headband to ensure it was more secure and structurally sound, as well as faster and more efficient to assemble, with less wastage.

Amtico also created a new composition of its flooring material specifically for the headstraps, ensuring the best balance between flexibility and rigidity, with the ultimate aim of making them as comfortable and practical as possible for frontline NHS staff and critical key workers.

The company has already produced 4,500 of the headbands to date, with capacity

to produce up to 20,000 per day, and furthermore is now listed on the Government’s official PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) procurement service.

The final samples were taken to Watford General Hospital on Thursday 9th April 2020, where

the design was approved and 2,000 units ordered. These were then produced by Amtico, free of charge, within seven hours of NHS approval. A further 12,000 parts have been ordered to create face shields for many hospitals throughout North and West London.

HOMEBASE TO REOPEN ACROSS BRITAIN

ONLINE TRAINING

“We’re committed to making the best of a bad situation, which is why we have new remote training sessions to maintain brand focus, update suppliers on our current products and services and help our supply chain “add-value” to their knowledge and expertise.”

Homebase has announced that it will reopen 50 additional stores across the UK, following a successful trial period in 20 of its branches.

CEO Dan McGloughlin explained that certain stores will be reopened for customers to browse and shop, but strict controls have been put in place to ensure shopping is safe for everyone.

German kitchen manufacturer Rotpunkt, has announced that it is supporting its UK retail network by offering free online training sessions twice-a-week.

The online seminars, which will take place every Wednesday and Friday at 10am and 2pm, will last approximately 30 minutes, and Rotpunkt clients will get a chance to raise any questions they have related to the brand.

Matt Phillips, Head of UK Operations at Rotpunkt says,

Rotpunkt has an extensive product portfolio with many new kitchen solutions for 2020 now available for the UK retailer. The newly introduced online-training sessions will ensure that the company is regularly communicating with its customers so they in turn, can create new dialogue with theirs.

All existing Rotpunkt customers will be sent a personal e-vite to join the online-training sessions and be provided with a session ID and password for private access.

In March, Homebase was classified as an essential retailer by the Government, but senior leaders of the company decided that it would operate online only in a move to protect both its customers and teams.

The reopening follows an announcement from DIY retailer B&Q, which stated that it will reopen 155 of its stores following a successful trial period at 14 shops. Home improvement retailer Wickes also announced that it will reopen six stores as

part of a trial run, with strict new social distancing measures in place designed to protect colleagues and customers.

McGloughlin commented ‘It has taken a tremendous amount of hard work and commitment from our teams across all parts of the business, to ensure we are ready to safely welcome customers back through our doors.’

‘I’m extremely grateful for the dedication shown by every single team member, and to our customers, for the huge support and understanding’ he added.

KBB 2020 GOES AHEAD AND PROVES A GREAT SUCCESS

So KBB 2020 has been and gone, many predicted that it would be gone before it began (if that makes sense) due to the dreaded coronavirus outbreak.

Many other major trade and consumer exhibitions in the UK and globally had cancelled in the days leading up to the Birmingham event but it went ahead anyway. If I’m honest, I nearly didn’t attend as I was flying in from abroad and was very concerned about the dangers to my health both whilst travelling and at the show itself.

So it was with some trepidation that I entered the show. I’m not sure what I was expecting to be honest, maybe some visitors wearing masks, hand sanitisers everywhere, but there was little or none of that to be seen.

So then came the awkward moment where I meet industry friends or introduced to their colleagues or even the team from the BiKBBI, what would I do, shake hands? Kiss if it were female? But apart from an initial reluctance on the first morning and a bit of banter it became business as usual with hand-shakes and kisses all around as per normal.

This set the stall-out for the rest of the show as it really was business as normal as kitchen, bedroom and bathroom manufacturers and came out to support the industry and were rewarded with much better than expected visitor numbers in my opinion.

The BiKBBI had driven its much publicised big red London bus and ensured that it was positioned prominently and the team were rewarded with a constant stream of visitors from members, industry partners and curious tradespeople interested to find out more about the organisation.

Any visitor would have been impressed with not just the size of the show but the creativity and quality of the stands and displays. There were many genuine new products showcased and my feeling is that anyone who took the time out to attend, would have been rewarded with genuine full day rather than depart feeling it had been wasted.

We all know what has happened since! However, by visiting the KBB 2020 exhibition I am heartened by the fact that the industry is in good shape and strong enough to see this pandemic off without too much damage. Yes it will change businesses, and even ourselves, but I am confident that this period of ‘adjustment’ will have genuine long term benefits. A lot will happen between now and the next KBB in two years’ time, that’s for sure!

New Core Carbon Brushed Metal by Rotpunkt

New Wall Panelling Storage Solution by Rotpunkt

Nuance by Bushboard Sirius

SAFETY FIRST WITH VOGUE (UK)

Vogue (UK), a manufacturer of premium designer radiators and towel warmers, puts safety first, due to the devastating global impact of COVID-19.

With the aim of reassuring its client group, Vogue (UK) is doing all it can to protect the health and safety of its customers, suppliers and staff throughout this time of great upset and disruption. Advocating good health and wellbeing for its workforce, the company has implemented an auxiliary operation method to provide the safety of others and ensure an appropriate level of service and delivery, in accordance with government guidelines.

The company’s remote sales office is in a position to serve new and existing customers by email or phone, with only select keyworkers in the warehouse working to fulfil outstanding orders, albeit with a slower lead time. Steve Birch, Sales Director at Vogue (UK) says “Please stay safe and virus-free by looking after what

matters most, your health.”

If you have a sales or product enquiry during the COVID-19 government lockdown, please contact:

t: 01902 387 000 e: info@vogueuk.co.uk www.vogueuk.co.uk

OPTIONS RELAUNCH FOR BUSHBOARD

comprehensive marketing suite that includes a new brochure, display stands, point of sale and sample-service.

Caroline Elliott, Head of Product for Worktops at Bushboard, explains, "We have revisited the Options collection and created a range that combines practicality and quality with trend-led, hyperrealistic decors.”

Fresh updates across Bushboard’s Options laminate worktop range were displayed at the recent KBB 2020 exhibition. The Options post-formed range, has been a favourite kitchen surface throughout the UK for its style, durability and affordability.

An array of new decors are being unveiled, supported by a

Manufactured with a smooth edge Q3 profile, and available in both 4.1m and 3m lengths, Options worktops are easy to install and coated with anti-bacterial protection. The fifty decors comprise 40 (number) x 38mm across eight textures and 10 x 28mm across three textures.

The new Bushboard Options collection brochure can be downloaded at www.bushboard. co.uk and is also available in print. www.bushboard.co.uk

AQUALISA SPONSORS BRITISH SUPERBIKE TEAM FOR 2020

BiKBBI sponsor, Aqualisa, has announced that it is sponsoring the leading British Superbike team, PBM Ducati, for the 2020 season.

Defending Bennetts British Superbike champions Paul Bird Motorsport (PBM) got its season off to a high-flying start when it launched the 2020 livery from the plush and world-famous surroundings of The View from The Shard in London recently.

In keeping with its reputation as Britain’s most successful BSB team, which has now won a total of seven BSB titles and over 100 races, it chose Britain’s tallest building to unveil the factorysupported VisionTrack Ducatis to be ridden by Josh Brookes and Christian Iddon this season.

In front of a select number of celebrity and VIP guests and with

the bright lights of London in the background, as well as the open-air Skydeck some 244m (800ft) above the capital’s streets, team owner Paul Bird welcomed sponsors both new and old to the exclusive event, the first of its kind to be held in the 95-storey skyscraper.

The PBM Team is the most successful motorbike racing team of all time, and this year will carry Aqualisa branding on its race winning Ducati’s, all its team wear, transporters and pit garage surrounds. All races of the 12 round series will be televised live, including the one overseas round - from the famous Assen TT circuit in Holland.

Commenting on the deal to bring Aqualisa on board, PBM team owner Paul Bird said: “I am delighted to

have the Aqualisa name associated with our team, especially a brand that so clearly stands for quality and innovation. Aqualisa will sit nicely alongside our Ducati pedigree.”

Aqualisa launched the first ever digital shower in 2001. With a completely new product proposition based on clever technology, simple, one touch control and easy installation, the groundbreaking Quartz changed the world of showers forever.

CEO of Aqualisa, Colin Sykes said: “We are really looking forward to supporting PBM Ducati and believe the connection with a team that has been at the top of the British Superbike Championship for many years, will prove to be an ideal

platform for the promotion of our brand.”

Aqualisa will be running customer competitions throughout the year, in which winners will receive full hospitality tickets as guests of the two-rider team, as well as having the opportunity to experience the inside workings of the team.

The season starts on the 12th April, with the first round being held at the home of British Motorsport, Silverstone, in Northamptonshire. Prior to that the riders, Josh Brookes and Christian Iddon will be testing in Spain.

For more information, head for: www.aqualisa.co.uk. www.pbmuk.net www.britishsuperbike.com

VITRA PUBLISH THIRD DESIGN UPDATE: THE WATER ISSUE.

VitrA has published its third Design Update, this time the focus is water. Arguably the most important element in bathroom design, VitrA delves into the debate on modern day water consumption, water consciousness and how our relationship with water is changing. With a foreword from Margaret Talbot (Marketing Manager for VitrA UK), the water issue explores views from bathroom specialists, architects and designers exploring past, present and future perspectives on water.

One of the lead features in this issue is a discussion with Jane Withers, leading design consultant, curator, writer and founder of Jane Withers Studio. Water is a recurrent source

of inspiration in her projects, including a prototype drinking fountain and Wonderwater café, Withers discusses how we perceive water as an “unwelcome guest” and her recent collaboration with A/D/O, called Where Will the Water Come From? in New York.

The cover pictures CJ Lim’s visionary project: Twenty Thousand Fish Above the Sea and is paired with a spread in VitrA’s Design Update exploring his project and an analysis of the challenges that rising sea levels pose to architects, engineers and planners. Read VitrA Design Updates here: Edition 3 Edition 2 Edition 1

WILSONART SMASHES 10K ALZHEIMER’S SOCIETY FUNDRAISING TARGET

Wilsonart staff and management have surpassed its £10,000 charity fundraising goal.

Launched in February 2019, the team at Wilsonart pledged to raise £10,000 for Alzheimer’s Society, a charity very close to two of the staff: John Goldsborough and Kevin Allen. As the UK’s leading dementia charity, Alzheimer’s Society provides information and support, funds research for a cure, care and to improve the lives of people affected by dementia.

Nick Jones, Head of Sales for Wilsonart UK, said “2019 was our

biggest fundraising year yet. Right across the business, all of our teams have got stuck in to support the Alzheimer’s Society. Working with Dan Nelson (community fundraiser for the charity) and meeting him earlier in 2019 has been tremendous and provided the inspiration we needed to reach our £10k target. Huge thanks to everyone involved in our many fundraising activities. Wilsonart feels proud to have supported this great cause."

To kick off a year of activities ‘Dress Down Friday’ saw team Wilsonart dressing up as their

younger selves from the 80s and 90s inspired by Alzheimer’s Society’s own Flashback February campaign. Followed by months filled with charity bake sales and a sponsored slim and a pyjama party, the staff at Wilsonart announced 2019’s gruelling cycling challenge: Shildon to Shore, a 250mile journey from their Lambton Street, Shildon site to Shore Laminates in Perth, Scotland.

“I am proud of this year’s charity ride for Alzheimer’s society as I’ve experienced first-hand the impact Alzheimer’s has on people and families.” – Ian Dowd, Production

Planner. Leaving at 8 am on the 28th of June, a team of 20 cyclists hit the road to Perth. En route, the cyclists were met by locals who made generous donations, some even providing refreshments to keep the team pedalling.

Cycling past some of the region’s iconic landmarks such as the Angel of the North and Alnwick Castle, and battling through challenging Scottish weather, the team completed their journey in 3 days raising an outstanding total of £7000 and combined riding a total of 5000 miles.

COMPUSOFT

REMOTE WORKING PACKAGE TO HELP CUSTOMERS THROUGH CORONAVIRUS CRISIS

VITRA WINS TWO 2020 IF AWARDS

VitrA has won two iF Design awards for their Equal bathroom collection and CementMix, VitrA's new tile range. The iF award is a globally recognised symbol of design excellence, with both collections being awarded for aesthetic quality, and userfocused, efficient design.

The Equal collection, designed in collaboration with celebrated designer Claudio Bellini, explores the blend between modern architecture and natural forms, utilising monochrome tones which infuse the bathroom with tranquillity. The bathroom series previously won a Good Design award in 2019.

Inspired by the minimalist trend, the CementMix tile range softens the harsh, industrial look of cement and through neutral colour tones and textures, creating a calm and warm aesthetic suited for indoor and outdoor design. Aided by modern geometric speckles, natural stone and marble chips, the range echoes the Terrazzo tile

design with a contemporary twist. VitrA's CementMix tile range was also called a "trendsetter" by WGSN, an authority on global trends, in its report for Cersaie 2019.

Established in 1953, the iF Design awards received 7,289 submissions this year from 56 countries. Submissions are evaluated by an international panel of 78 including design and architecture experts. The award ceremony will be held in Berlin in May this year.

VitrA products have previously received numerous prestigious international awards, among them EDIDA, Design Innovation, Design Plus, Good Design, Iconic Awards, Interior Innovation, PlusX, Red Dot and Wallpaper awards.

Caption: top left VitrA Equal Collection by Claudio Bellini. bottom right CementMix featuring Light Greige.

www.vitra.co.uk

CAD software specialist Compusoft is offering a free Remote Working Package to customers using its Winner and Innoplus software to support those working from home during the Coronavirus crisis.

Tools available in the package include a free temporary home-working licence to enable customers to continue designing out of their office, as well as the free use of Showcase 360 to share designs and communicate with customers in a dedicated online portal.

Webinars

Compusoft will also provide free webinars for its customers on specific advanced training topics that will help them master new skills, such as creating 360 images and virtual online showrooms. This will help retailers to better present their designs online and continue to communicate with customers online in the best way possible.

Online training

In addition, the company has moved its classroom-based training to online training sessions, so that all planned training can continue for customers.

Tips and advice articles on how to maintain sales whilst working remotely are also being sent to all customers to provide some helpful tips on what to do to keep their customer communication going through digital platforms.

Details on how to access and activate this package have been sent out to customers by email but any customer who haven’t received the communication can get in touch through the online contact form.

www.compusoftgroup.com

“Everyone is facing a very difficult and uncertain time and we want to support our customers through this crisis. We hope the Remote Working Package and the online training resources will provide some support to our retailers.”

Alex Ainge, MD of Compusoft GB.

CLEARABEE EXPANDS SERVICE RANGE AND REACH WITH SKIPBAG ACQUISITION

Clearabee, has announced that it has completed the acquisition of SKIPBAG, a national provider of skip bags and skip hire services based in Ripley, Derbyshire.

SKIPBAG serves thousands of business and domestic customers across the UK, selling skip bags to customers online and through a network of stockists, and arranging collection of them when full. The company was one of the first skip bag providers in the UK when it was launched in 1999 by brothers Lance and Jim Chapman.

Chapman, Co-Founder of Skipbag

The purchase of SKIPBAG accelerates Clearabee’s expansion into the skip bag market and provides the company with a wider range of capabilities for handling construction waste. SKIPBAG will continue to exist as a retail platform and brand to facilitate the sale of skip bags to tradespeople, businesses and domestic customers across the UK.

With SKIPBAG now part of Clearabee, the company is forecasting sales of more than £21m in 2020. Daniel Long, co-founder and Managing Director at Clearabee, comments: “SKIPBAG is a fantastic brand which has provided a convenient, low cost alternative to traditional skips for more than 20 years. We are thrilled that SKIPBAG is now part of Clearabee. This acquisition complements our existing services and expands our reach and customer base across the UK.”

Lance Chapman comments: “It has been a pleasure to see the SKIPBAG business flourish and expand since it was founded. Clearabee shares similar values to us and I am confident that the SKIPBAG brand and service will continue to grow as part of Clearabee.”

www.clearabee.co.uk

It has been a pleasure to see the SKIPBAG business flourish and expand since it was founded. Clearabee shares similar values to us and I am confident that the SKIPBAG brand and service will continue to grow as part of Clearabee."

Lance

TAKING THE PANIC OUT OF PANDEMIC

Have you noticed that the word PANDEMIC comprises within it, the word PANIC!

Which is pretty apt when you think about it as never in our lifetimes have we been hit with such a sudden crisis that effects business and more importantly the health of our friends, colleagues and loved ones.

Panic, though is not the thing to do as every crisis creates opportunities and the downtime that has been forced upon many, many kbb installers should be embraced somewhat because, believe it or not, it does give an opportunity to do some things that will benefit them long-term.

Rob Nicholls Editor & Publisher, BiKBBI The Installer Magazine

I therefore want to use this article to remove those letters that comprise panic from that fearful word (pandemic) and instead concentrate on the remaining three letters and use them to illustrate how we can do things now that will affect our business in the medium and long term positively.

So let’s look at THAT word again and highlight those three remaining letters, i.e., the DEM in panDEMic

D – DEVELOP

It’s been a while since you’ve had as much free time right? Then forget the next episode of Breaking Bad or Tiger King and use it to develop your business positively.

Look at your website, how good is it? When did you last bring it up to date? Do you even have one? If not, create one! There are plenty of sites online where you can design your own company website using templates completely free of charge. A good starting place might be a best website builder’s comparison website called: www. best10ecommercesitebuilders.com but if you’re not impressed just do a google search, there’s plenty of choice.

If you want something more professional then approach a local web designer, it needn’t cost a fortune as there are plenty of these guys who work from home, and remember, they are in the same difficult situation as the rest of us so I’m sure you will get a good deal.

Think about how you can develop your business for when the lockdown restrictions are lifted. Do you need to change direction a little, could you get closer to major retailers for work? You may have preferred until now to avoid this by almost exclusively working directly with consumers but perhaps moving forward, you would feel safer by having at least some guaranteed work from a retailer?

Could you get closer to a developer and take on some site work, again it may not be what you had wanted in the past but perhaps it’s different now?

Could you source and promote your own kitchens? There are both suppliers and kitchen designers out there who would be prepared to supply and freelance design. This could see you make profit on the kitchen that you are fitting as well as what you earn from the fit.

And don’t forget, when the market does begin to pick up again, the BiKBBI can help you stand out from the competition by listing you on its find-amember online consumer directory.

This is the time to market your business, especially as your competitors are probably not being productive or proactive right now.

E - EDUCATE

Educate yourself by brushing up on your installation knowledge and skills, you can do this completely free of charge if you go to the BiKBBI website. The BiKBBI provides tailored training & development opportunities for members, including CPD & apprenticeships.

Perhaps you’ve always specialised in kitchens and feel you need to know a little more about bathrooms, that way you could add bathroom installation into your remit in addition kitchens thus increasing your profit rather than paying your mate who’s a plumber whom you’ve needed until now to complete a project.

Are you up to date with regulations and bylaws? Could these have changed and passed you by because you have been so busy working? Remember, the BiKBBI and NICEIC & ELECSA have an agreed strategic partnership to promote electrical safety in the home, visit their websites for more information.

Check out the BiKBBI’s recently launched Campus which offers FREE online training and development to installers throughout the social distancing period. BiKBBI Campus is a new and innovative online learning & development platform that connects retailers and manufacturers with installers.

Are you up to date with product information? If you fit the same manufactured products all the time are you able to advise customers with authority on hot-taps, oven functions, smart appliances, digital shower technology. Are you missing a trick by not supplying designer radiators, they are extremely popular and a nice little margin can be earned by supply and fit.

Could you learn new skills that will help you diversify a little, installation of Smart Home technology for instance. This is a market that’s already began its path and is about to explode in the UK. Some of the better manufacturers even provide dedicated training and those very competent installers could easily learn and become proficient. Remember, smart technology gives you access to work in every room of the house, even outside the home with security door entries and exterior sensor lighting.

Established manufacturers of these products advertise in every issue of this magazine to attract installers like yourselves, it is a fast-growing market and expands your range of fit which could mean less risk further down the track.

M – MARKET

This is the time to market your business, especially as your competitors are probably not being productive or proactive right now.

If you are unsure and want some guidance then the BiKBBI offers business support to help members maintain or grow their business, including marketing and coaching.

Make contact with existing and past customers, ask them if they are happy with their installation and are they contemplating changing another room that you can help them with? It may be that you are one of many BiKBBI members who undertake general building work too so you could even end up landing non-installation work, especially if they are happy with your service from previous experience. Perhaps they are unaware that you do other things?

A nicely composed letter stating that you are concerned for their welfare at this difficult time and ready to help whenever you can, even if it’s just for emergency remedial work. These little jobs, though maybe not ideal in ‘normal’ times, can help put a few extra pounds into your household whilst keeping your business visible during the lockdown. Use your mailer to reassure them that you are extremely COVID-19 aware and work only whilst wearing masks and gloves and will observe social distancing guidelines for both their safety and yours.

The BiKBBI’s recently launched Campus offers FREE online training and development to installers throughout the social distancing period. An innovative online learning and development platform that connects retailers and manufacturers with installers.

As you can see there is much that you can do that is productive during this lockdown, some may make you a few extra bob, now some longer term, but do use this time productively. And do go for the easy targets first, for instance … Have you ever taken time out to discover exactly what the BiKBBI can do for you? You could be pleasantly surprised, it’s even a source of business leads if you take the time to look. And have you even, apart from now of course, properly read this magazine, The Installer? Every issue is packed with information that directly affects you and your business. Do take time out to have a read once every quarter and remember, we would love to hear from you. I would love to get a letter section going so do feel free to email me anything that may be on your mind, even if it’s not industry related and if it’s not slanderous and polite and doesn’t ‘call out’ a specific person or business I am happy to use it. I’m always looking for ‘victims’ for our Installer Profile feature so don’t be shy, put yourself forward and I would be happy to promote you and your business.

Write to me at rob@casapublishing.co.uk

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Integrated magnetic bit holder and belt clip that can be mounted

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Packed in a Systainer³, the TID 18 can be integrated perfectly into the bott vehicle fixture for easy transport from the body shop to the building site

Fully covered thanks to the comprehensive range of services from Festool Service.

For more information, go to www.festool.co.uk/service

THE INSTALLER MAGAZINE GETS THE KEY OF THE DOOR WITH ITS 21ST ISSUE!

The Installer Magazine has reached its 5 year milestone with this spring issue, our 21st - a real achievement!

It has grown steadily over this period from its humble beginnings of just 40 pages to a whopping 132 pages in the summer issue last year. The pagination has come down in recent issues only because we have reduced the size of the font due to making it more suitable for a limited amount of printed copies. The word count remains just as high.

Rob Nicholls Editor & Publisher, BiKBBI The Installer Magazine

Our thanks goes to all our friends at the BiKBBI, its members and all the other contributors from the industry including BiKBBI sponsors and partners.

We would like to single out two advertisers who have been with us in every single issue - Vogue and Festool. These two companies have shared the journey with us

and we hugely appreciate their support.

Below, you will see their original adverts and you will find there very latest contributions on pages 34, 35, 44 and 47.

The industry has never been challenged like it is now and we urge you to read every issue for the latest in how you are being affected and what the institute and its wider community are doing to help.

Please feel free to drop me a line to ask any questions or to have your say on the industry. I am very happy to give you your own platform to address your fellow members and industry at large. To make it into the magazine though, It must be decent, constructive and not singling out any other business by name or obvious implication please. Here's looking forward to the next 5 years …

the

years

As businesses of all sizes are being hit with the stresses and the knock-on effects from the COVID-19 coronavirus situation, surely at some point now or in the near future we need to look back at this situation and learn from the issues that we faced (or are still facing).

There will be many if not all of you reading this, be it self-employed; business owners; entrepreneurs (call yourself what you want), that will have lost out financially and faced unneeded stresses. Some will be talking about this for the next 20 years, whilst others will actively seek to protect themselves and their businesses from not going through a similar thing again (be it coronavirus or any situation that can deem us out of pocket and running at 1,000% mental capacity)

So ...what’s the best way to learn from this? The phase is called “Business Continuity Planning” or BCP for those who love to sound like they know what they’re talking about.

Let’s be frank, no one could have predicted and in turn protected themselves for a specific situation as like COVID-19, but there are many simple steps that can be taken to reduce your financial loss and save your mental health (what’s left of it).

Business Continuity Planning is the process of giving some thought in advance to how you would maintain service to customers and recover from damage to, or loss of, a particular element of your business and developing those thoughts into positive plans.

An example away from the dreaded C-word (I mean Coronavirus, not the naughty c-word)…I am a selfemployed kitchen installer and I’m involved in a work

place injury, where I’m off work for 12 weeks. It’s my own fault as I was working alone. My work has been steady for the last few years, so I bought a van on hirepurchase; I pay my van and public liability insurance monthly; I have a mortgage; a couple of grand debt on credit cards; but little to no savings. I’m married with two kids. My wife is a stay at home Mum. I, like most people, live month to month, pay cheque to pay cheque.

So how am I going to survive in the above example? No income for 12 weeks is going to cripple me! Food, mortgage, household bills, van payments etc. all need to be paid...I’m trying to recover physically, yet I’m now causing myself mental injuries through stress.

The question to ask yourself is how long can you last with no income?

This is by no means an article to give you all the answers, because some questions just can’t be answered, it’s an article to make you think of how to protect you and your business if something unexpected happens.

Take some time, when you’re not busy doing other things, to think about Business Continuity Planning. It could save you a lot of unneeded financial loss and save your sanity.

www.uibdirect.co.uk

Christopher Bates, Divisional Director, Corporate and Commercial Division, UIB Group.

THE RISE AND RISE OF THE SMART HOME …

WELCOME TO SMART SHOWERING …

Almost imperceptibly, the smart home is becoming a reality. It’s a fully-fledged sector – not just a niche market anymore and UK shower manufacturer, Aqualisa is responding to the emerging demands of a marketplace it believes will be increasingly driven by the benefits of smart technology in the bathroom.

Becoming more mainstream, smart products are popping up in even the most conservative homes across the UK. BSRIA reports that the value of the UK’s smart home solutions market, which includes installation, servicing and maintenance work, has grown by more than three times in value over the last five years. With a current market valuation of £400m, the association cited demand for HVAC and control products as key factors behind the anticipated market growth

The research concludes: “In countries like the UK, anyone connected with the residential housing market needs to be aware of the implications of the smart home revolution. Consumers may not necessarily be expecting a fully configured smart home, but they are likely to want a home that is flexible enough for them to make it as smart as they want it to be without undue cost or effort.”

Specifically relating to the UK shower equipment market, AMA research suggests that despite a challenging economic climate, longer term prospects are more positive. The report reinforces the digital growth forecast by saying that ‘flexibility, durability, and ease of use will be key influences in a shift towards higher value products. For example, while the digital shower category is set to grow at a steady rate, the greater use of smart technology in the home is now expected to create a new Smart category that has the potential to grow at an even faster rate . This growth will come from both new shower installations and bathroom refurbishments, when a shower upgrade is part of the package.

57% of UK homes now own some sort of smart device. Clearly, smart tech is no longer just for gadget lovers. Homeowners are beginning to realise that technical updates are making homes cheaper and more

As with all Aqualisa showering products, it’s designed for the end user, but equally for the installer who will love working with these products for their ease of location and simple pipework connections.

efficient to run than ever before. Even those who have traditionally been reluctant to invest in technology in the home are starting to spend their money on smart products if it clearly makes sense from a financial or common-sense point of view. Smart technology can reduce energy consumption, save money and offer unprecedented levels of security and convenience. It’s really happening and companies in these sectors –like Aqualisa - are responding with innovative solutions that just a few years ago might have seemed at best fanciful.

In this context and based on its long established leadership in digital technology, Aqualisa’s best-selling Quartz digital shower has been succeeded by the new Smart Quartz Collection – a genuinely smart shower range, that brings internet connectivity and control via an App, through the Aqualisa Smart Valve, the brains behind intelligent showering. Quartz digital, that was groundbreaking innovation in 2001, has now evolved into the Smart Quartz Collection, that fully establishes showering as an integral part of the smart home.

Importantly, the new collection remains easy to install and ultra-reliable – so this is still a true ‘fit and forget’ range of showers. As with all Aqualisa showering products, it’s designed for the end user, but equally for the installer who will love working with these products for their ease of location and simple pipework connections. Aqualisa Quartz has built its reputation with installers on quality and reliability and the new Aqualisa Smart Quartz

Collection evolution enhances that reputation still further. It offers the best of both worlds for installers and their customers alike and is set to become the latest instalment in the company’s impressive success story.

No longer confined to ‘techy enthusiasts’, we know that more and more consumers are looking for smart devices to make their lives easier, to facilitate busier lifestyles, to meet increasingly complex needs - helping mobility for example. Technology gives them more personalised experiences and of course, vitally, can save them money.

The new Smart Quartz Collection from Aqualisa offers a new generation of showers to increasingly demanding customers who are looking for the very highest standards of design and functionality. Indeed, the

Shower profiles can be pre-set for each member of the family to ensure they can each, consistently, get into a shower they enjoy. They can start their shower remotely.

QuartzClassic

QuartzBlue

product story for Quartz over the last twenty years has been all about style while its high performance and reputation for reliability have never been bettered. Now comes the next development stage which sees smart technology take the iconic Quartz name once more to the forefront of modern showering.

Establishing WIFI connection, app technology and voice activation as integral to the showering experience – all things that come as standard with the new Smart Quartz Collection from Aqualisa – is the next big step for showering here in the UK.

App technology allows homeowners to control their Smart shower via WIFI, connecting through residential WIFI networks to the Aqualisa Smart Valve (ASV) using safe and secure best practice for IoT/Connected devices. It utilises the simplest on-boarding techniques possible to establish secure and robust connection with the ASV via WIFI. It also integrates into established smart home eco-systems via voice control – using Alexa. So, the new Smart Quartz Collection delivers the usual quality Aqualisa showering experience homeowners are used to – but with enhanced smart features that take that showering experience to new levels.

These benefits include precise temperature and a powerful showering experience whatever water supplies it is connected

to. Shower profiles can be pre-set for each member of the family to ensure they can each, consistently, get into a shower they enjoy. They can start their shower remotely from anywhere in or away from the home via WIFI, confident that the shower is at the perfect temperature and ready to step into. A clearly visible LED display indicates when the shower is ready – so there’s no need to lean in and test the water.

The new Smart Quartz Collection puts showering at the cutting edge of home automation – but the sophisticated technology remains simple to use for homeowners, who just want their desired shower experience at a single touch. With connectivity comes efficiency and with the intuitive and practical Aqualisa app, you can monitor the duration, water usage and cost of your shower from your smart phone, to optimise performance, if you choose.

The company states that it's a new shower range that will surpass the expectations of installers, specifiers and end users, with its innovative added value features. With Aqualisa’s industry track record we are not about to doubt them.

For more details of the new Aqualisa Smart Quartz Collection please visit: www.aqualisa.co.uk

QuartzClassic

QuartzClassic

QuartzBlue

QuartzTouch

FROM SERVING HIS COUNTRY TO SERVING HIS CUSTOMERS – ANDY MAKES THE PERFECT TRANSITION

ANDREW WALKER – WALKER CONSTRUCTION

How long have you been installing and what areas do you cover?

I have been installing kitchen and bathrooms for over 10 years and I cover the Berkshire area.

What do you install and what’s your specialty?

I install a range of both kitchens & bathrooms; my specialty is fitting bespoke kitchens.

Do you install yourself or do you have a team/teams of installers working for you?

It depends on the customer and the job; I am always on hand should my sub-contractors need me.

How did you become a kbb installer?

I became a BiKBBI installer over 10 years ago when I was installing for John Lewis of Hungerford.

What has been your biggest business challenge?

Having to be adaptable in an ever-changing economy. I have established myself locally as a reliable and professional tradesman/ businessman and that is because I’m always going the extra mile, regardless of what challenges that have been thrown at me. The customer is always right!

What’s been your biggest personal challenge?

Trying to get the right balance between home and family life and work life.

Do you have any concerns for the future of the industry?

I do sometimes hope that there will be a good enough supply of quality tradesmen coming into our industry in the future.

What do you want to be doing in 1 year/5 years/10 years?

1 Year – To continue growing my company

5 Years – To come off the tools completely and running a team of sub-contractors

10 Years – Retired!

Why did you join the BiKBBI and how long have you been a member?

Firstly, due to the fact that the BiKBBI is a recognised UK trade body. As a member, I can therefore provide my customer’s with peace of mind knowing that they have engaged a qualified and reputable tradesman. I have been a member 10 years now!

If you were a youth worker, would

you recommend your career to young people?

Yes, I would as it is a very rewarding job and it gives a full sense of achievement. At the end of every day, you can literally stand back and see that you have produced something to be proud of. You produce something tangible every day of the working week.

What would I change about the industry?

I wished that being a Tradesman/ woman is better valued by society generally.

A FEW PERSONAL QUESTIONS:

Have you a family?

Yes a wife, 2 daughters, 1 golden retriever and a hamster!

What about hobbies?

I am a registered cub scout leader and enjoy all outdoor pursuits.

Favourite holiday destination?

The Swiss mountains – skiing.

Favourite sport/team?

All Rugby Union

What would be a perfect weekend for you?

Anything with the family and dog, especially getting away spending time with my daughters

Against an increase in multi-generational living and as housing blueprints continue to decrease, space is becoming a premium for homeowners. As such, fittings and fixtures which aid flexibility and help families to adapt their homes as they mature, are in demand. Equally, open plan living, and clean, stylish aesthetics remain a priority.

Installing sliding doors is one way of helping a homeowner strike the perfect balance of these factors. From the more traditional systems homeowners might be more familiar

with, to pocket doors, or technological solutions such as e-drive wardrobe systems, sliding doors are becoming integral to the look and feel of modern homes while simultaneously solving ageold, space-saving challenges.

As these systems become more popular, installers might face questions from homeowners who want to know how they can achieve their desired look and space with sliding doors. Similarly, installers who aren’t yet experienced in fitting sliding doors might have questions about how easily they can add this to their portfolio of services.

In this article, Elizabeth Briggs, category manager for sliding, room and building at Häfele busts the top five myths associated with installing sliding doors so you can support your customers in selecting and fitting the right system for their home.

Sliding door systems are made up of lots of different parts – is that true?

“This is a question we get asked a lot. The important thing to remember is that every sliding door system is made up of a track, two rollers and a guide, whether that’s on the top or bottom of the door. Even pocket doors or technological sliding doors use these same core products.

“Depending on the system you’re fitting, you might also need additional door stops or soft close fittings. But we’re doing everything we can to make the ordering of popular sliding door systems as easy as possible by putting all the components you require into a single door set.

“This means installers order just one part number but receive all the fittings they need for a complete sliding door system. Teamed with Häfele to Order – a bespoke service which allows installers to specify products to exact size, quantity and finish – the components can be delivered cut to a door’s exact width and pre-assembled.”

component, this isn’t necessary for lighter doors. Soft close fittings perform at their best in partnership with a heavy door, above 20 kilos.”

I’ve heard sliding door systems can take hours to install. Are there any solutions that are quick to install but don’t compromise on quality?

“Our advice to installers who don’t regularly fit sliding doors is to not be afraid of them –many systems can be installed in under an hour, and they still look great and perform brilliantly.

“If you are installing a sliding door within a kitchen cabinet, for example, your doors and cabinets would be ready made so you just need to cut your track to size, add your guide and fit a door stop or soft close fitting. Using Häfele to Order would cut this time down further, as the track and bottom channel would already be cut to size.

“For example, one client is currently working on a student accommodation project, producing sliding door wardrobes for student bedrooms. His team of four joiners produced 30 wardrobes a day – so approximately one sliding door an hour. They utilise Häfele to Order to cut their track length, which makes their job much easier and more efficient.

My customers think the heaviest sliding doors gear systems are the highest quality. How can I explain that’s not the case?

“The belief that quality relates to weight is a misconception when it comes to sliding doors. In fact, opting for a heavy door when a lighter door would be more suitable could mean a homeowner experiences poorer functionality. This means you’ll get complaints and the customer will feel like they’ve not made the right choice for their home.

“The first step in approaching this with your customer is to show them you’ve correctly calculated the perfect door weight for their individual system. Our sliding door weight calculator simply asks for your customer’s preferred door material – whether timber, glass or aluminium – as well as the width and height of door required. It will then tell you the maximum door weight required for perfect functionality and smooth movement, so you can choose a suitable product set for the customer’s needs.

“Also bear in mind that although consumers regularly ask installers to fit a soft close

“Our sliding door range is extensive, and some systems are more complex to fit than others, but they’re all based on the same basic components. For every system we manufacture, there are simple, printed fitting instructions with pictorials, and each of these guides is available online; additionally, they come with installation videos available on our website and YouTube.

“Other branded products we distribute, such as Hawa Concepta, have their own online product configurator and selector which offer clear advice on how the system can be fitted easily; we are also currently in the process of developing our own sliding door configurator.”

My customers are worried that sliding doors can cause problems, like coming off their runners. What reassurance can I provide to them?

“A lot of Häfele-own sliding door systems are tested to 100,000 cycles, so are rigorously and heavily tested to ensure that doesn’t happen. Brands we distribute are well established in the sliding door gear market, and have their own standards of testing

This means installers order just one part number but receive all the fittings they need for a complete sliding door system. Teamed with Häfele to Order – a bespoke service which allows installers to specify products to exact size, quantity and finish – the components can be delivered cut to a door’s exact width and pre-assembled."

which are equally reputable. We offer a 10 year guarantee on many of our ranges, and we use only the highest quality of materials and components to develop our sliding door systems. By using Häfele’s products, you can pass all these reassurances on to your customers.”

If I’m going to start fitting sliding doors, I want to work with a supplier which provides me with ongoing support and service. Is that something you offer?

“We’ve worked hard to develop a series of services and tools which make ordering and installing sliding door gear as simple and professional as possible, including our sliding door weight calculator, which is coming soon, and Häfele to Order. As well as this, our highly experienced Häfele Assist Advisors are on hand to support installers with technical queries if they need any help whilst specifying or installing these products. For larger jobs, our Projects team consists of DipGAI qualified professionals, and sliding door specialists are available in each regional area of the UK, so that wherever you are in country, you can speak face to face with one of our experts.”

Smart Home. Smart Building. Smart Life. gira.com/uk

Bright.

Moving light or intelligent feeling of security? With the Gira outdoor motion detector Cube, you install more than On or Off. A feeling of security. Because it reacts sensitively to thermal motion and ambient light, and automatically turns any terrain light or

Dark.

GIRA REVEALS NEW 2020 INNOVATIONS FOR HOME AUTOMATION

Gira, has announced it is introducing an extensive range of new products spanning innovations in design, door entry & communication, the eNet SMART HOME and KNX system technologies.

Innovations in BUILDING INTELLIGENCE

Ease of use is a huge growth area in 2020, as consumers invests in more interconnected devices (IoT) and has come to want the benefits associated with sensor technology, one-system platforms with multi-device capabilities and digital assistants like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa to control their home-environment.

Gira is launching new products for the eNet SMART HOME that can be retrofitted to introduce new ways to operate lighting, blinds and heating or enable design-led connectivity to one or more devices,

The KNX System is also set to reveal a selection of new solutions by Gira including control sensors, motion and presence detectors, comprehensive software updates, security mechanisms and a dynamic collection of switch and blind actuators – and these innovations have all been designed to create a new benchmark of data integrity, encryption and development for the KNX system and in turn, the connected home.

“The progression of KNX system technology throughout the home has made linking devices much less complicated, so that a variety of devices can now share one single, simple network and work together as required. Consequently we offer more ways to control and influence different protocols via KNX - depending on the type of smart living experience the end user aspires to” says Mark Booth, Managing Director, Gira UK.



A variety of devices can now share one single, simple network and work together as required."

Innovations in DOOR COMMUNICATION

Gira has included a range of new door communication systems to be launched this year that promise on-trend and secure door entry. Striving to be the first line of defence for both home and individual, Innovations will present new colour variants and network-based systems with individual configuration, through to DSC resources and optimal software updates: watch this space!

Innovations in DESIGN

Given the rising demand for attractive, user-friendly controls, Gira is launching a series of new finishes and colours across two of its bestselling Design

Lines, Gira Esprit and Gira E2, which offer access to over 300 intelligent building functions via Gira System 55 and embody the best-in systematic design.

Home automation or domotics are now rapidly gaining traction in the marketplace, transforming the functional and luxury attributes of building design to offer intelligent homemanagement of lighting, climate, blind control, AV solutions, home security and door entry systems.

You can experience all of the new 2020 products and applications by Gira, along with the company’s new brand identity by visiting its website:

www.gira.com

INSTALLED WITH CONFIDENCE

No bathroom collection is complete without VitrA’s high quality wall-hung frames and flush plates. Discover more at www.vitra-fitandforget.co.uk

VITRA LAUNCHES THE VOYAGE COLLECTION BY AWARD-WINNING DESIGNER ARIK LEVY

VitrA

Inspired by his time living and working in Japan, Arik Levy worked closely with VitrA’s inhouse design team to create a bathroom collection that allows both mind and body to relax.

He comments: “Taking time for ourselves in the bathroom each day can be extremely purifying. Our daily habits are deeprooted, but I hope that the Voyage collection will help us to indulge ourselves and make time to enjoy our daily rituals”.

With more than 130 products available in the range,

Arik Levy worked closely with VitrA’s in-house design team to create a bathroom collection that allows both mind and body to relax

Voyage is one of VitrA’s most extensive collections to date, offering endless possibilities for customisation. The vast number of furniture and sanitaryware pieces can be individually tailored using the extensive range of colour, material and size options, and by taking advantage of the variety of horizontal and vertical units and wall panels

to create the ideal layout to suit any bathroom space or style. The collection is entirely wall-hung.

Both open and closed storage options are available, from hooks and open shelving, through to mirrored wallboxes and a variety of storage units, and each piece can be positioned anywhere in the room to suit individual needs. Coordinating accessories including a heated towel rail and a toilet roll and brush holder is also available to complete the look.

Voyage bathroom furniture is available in five different dual colour finishes, including flamed grey and natural oak, planked sand and stone grey, and flamed grey and forest green.

Cast from hygienic and easyto-clean ceramic, the Voyage collection includes a range of countertop and wall-hung washbasin units which offer a convenient combination of wet, dry and semi-wet areas, blurring the lines between a traditional bowl and a vanity unit.

This collaboration is the latest in VitrA’s long-standing programme of working with world-renowned designers to create distinctive and modern bathroom collections. Arik Levy joins a group of designers such as Ross Lovegrove, Sebastian Conran, Terri Pecora, and most recently, Claudio Bellini,

Levent Giray, Managing Director of VitrA UK, comments: “The Voyage collection highlights the importance of taking time to practice self-care on a daily basis and we are delighted to see it in production.”

www.vitra.co.uk

The Voyage collection, designed by Arik Levy for VitrA (from left to right) – flamed grey wall box with mirror, flamed grey and natural oak unit, white washbasin with Origin basin mixer in copper; white and natural oak unit, white and natural oak washbasin unit, Origin basin mixer in matte black, black towel hooks.

has introduced its Voyage collection, a collaboration with the awardwinning multi-disciplinary artist and designer Arik Levy.

Both open and closed storage options are available, from hooks and open shelving, through to mirrored wallboxes and a variety of storage units, and each piece can be positioned anywhere in the room to suit

FRANKE’S COMPREHENSIVE NEW SINK ADDITIONS OFFER DESIGN SCOPE AND INSTALLATION FLEXIBILITY

Franke has launched a host of new products for 2020 that showcase its ability to deliver on-point design and its renowned quality to a range of customers in the mid-to-luxury segment.

Among the highlights in the company’s comprehensive offering of sinks, taps, waste management solutions, customised stainless steel worksurfaces and decorative hoods are two brand new sink ranges, as well as an extension of one of the brand’s most popular models. All three sink designs benefit from flexibility of installation and are easy to fit.

Granite in muted monochromes

The company has extended its popular Fragranite sink offer to include the new Urban range, which is available in three brand new monochrome colours of Orion Grey, Sage Grey and Denim Grey, responding to the trend for muted shades and tactile finishes in the kitchen.

Urban can be flushmounted or inset as the outer edge is vertical and it is the first Fragranite sink to feature Franke’s patented Slimfix® fixing system, which anchors the sink firmly to the work surface without the need for any under-sink fitting. The patented system reduces the time spent squeezing into cramped spaces and resulting in a sink which is virtually flush with the worksurface.

Also available in five existing colours of Polar White, Coffee, Onyx, Stone Grey and Graphite, the high-performance Urban sink features sanitized anti-bacterial protection and is available in two single bowl options and a 1.5 bowl.

Jeanette Ward, communications manager at Franke, says: “Our new sink additions reflects Franke’s commitment to serving our customer base with high quality, well designed products that offer installers a wide choice of designs and flexibility of installation in a range of worksurface materials.

“We’ve interpreted the trend towards texture and monochrome colour in the kitchen with the new Urban Fragranite sink range while the new Mythos range features enhanced design features and is set to become the new gold standard in our stainless steel

undermount offer. We’ve also extended our popular spacesaving Box Center range with three new models to offer more size and installation options.”

Contact Franke: 0161 436 6280 or www.franke.co.uk

The modern undermount reimagined

The new minimalist Mythos sink range re-imagines the modern undermount with refined design details and heightened aesthetics. The range includes eight undermount options plus four inset models which can be installed as an inset Slimtop or a true Flushmount, with a polished slimline 6mm rim visible on the worksurface, adding a precision design detail.

A successor to the popular Kubus undermount sink, Mythos differentiates itself with an increased bowl depth of 200mm, tighter bowl radii of 25mm at the corner and 10mm at the base, ensuring the bowl is easy to clean, together with a circular flush-fitting waste cover with radial brushed finish, giving a smoother base which helps protect crockery and glasses.

Award winning range extended

The award-winning, multitasking Box Center sink range has been extended with three new models, offering more size options and the flexibility to be installed in a variety of worksurface materials.

Featuring the original two bowl design and integrated accessories, there is now a reversible option that can be installed as a Slimtop inset or true flushmount, alongside a further reversible undermount option.

Completing the line-up is a single compartment bowl which can be installed inset, flushmount or undermount. It houses an accessory pack, making it ideal as a small prep sink on an island unit or as a companion task bowl to any Franke sink.

Box Center features a high-quality accessory set includes chef quality knives, knife holder, stainless steel strainer bowl, food preparation platter, chopping board and wire rack, which can be stowed away neatly after use.

Our new sink additions reflects Franke’s commitment to serving our customer base with high quality, well designed products"

Franke Mythos MYX 210-55 stainless steel sink for inset or flushmount installation

The new minimalist Mythos sink range re-imagines the modern undermount with refined design details

Franke Mythos MYX 210-55 stainless steel sink with flushmount installation

TALK BUDGETS WITHOUT THE AWKWARDNESS

Broaching the topic of budget with a new client can be tricky, but it is a vital step to ensure that you’ll be able to deliver the project on time and within planned expenditure. It’s important to come to the conversation with confidence and you’ll be able to demonstrate your experience and professionalism, and remember, these conversations will allow you to determine whether the person is your ideal client. Here Houzz.co.uk, the leading platform for home renovation and design and their community of professionals, share valuable tips to make these conversations easier.

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KNOW YOUR WORTH

Work out what your average projects cost and how much money you need to charge to be profitable and go into all your budget conversations knowing this information to ensure you are not pitching yourself too low. You can also add this typical job cost to your Houzz profile, as a clear indicator to potential clients of the average budget needed before getting in touch.

GET AN IDEA OF THE CLIENT’S BUDGET

The first important step when speaking with a new client is to try to gauge their budget, however, some clients may be reluctant to reveal this straight away or are unsure about what it should cost, but there are ways to tackle this. Offer a price range as a starting point and you may find that your potential client is more forthcoming.

If the answer to your question about budget was, “We’re not really sure what our budget is”, give the client a range such as £5,000 to £10,000. This will often prompt the response “£10,000 is too much, but we’d perhaps be able to pay £7,000”. By suggesting some

figures, you’ll usually trigger a response that will give you an idea of what they want to pay.

EXPLAIN THE FIGURES

Once you have an initial starting point to work from, you can then fully explain what your services entail and the costs involved. From here you can discuss your client’s plans and provide a detailed breakdown of the costs involved to realise their vision. By being upfront and clear about your costs, your client can make an informed decision.

Jessica Gay, marketing manager at Bath Bespoke, a joinery firm on Houzz, says: “We encourage the client to discuss their ideas for the project and aims first, then ask if they’ve thought about budget. We can then discuss whether their ideas are achievable or if things need to be adjusted.”

Professional on Houzz, Ilya Karpenko of Illya Kitchens, says: “Let the client know the price range of your products and services. Be transparent to ensure the client is aware of all associated costs which they might not have accounted for when budgeting for their project initially.”

TALK ABOUT PAST PROJECTS

A simple way of reassuring a client that they’re receiving a good deal is to give them examples of past projects. Ensure you upload photos from past projects to your website and Houzz profile and most importantly, request reviews from your previous clients. Think of your website and Houzz profile as your CV for winning new jobs.

William Jones of Clermont Carpentry, a joinery company on Houzz, says: “When I’m discussing ideas with a potential client, I’ll

15 brand new designs have been added to the collection to showcase the best of current and upcoming trends including three new breathtaking marble decors.

often show them around past projects and talk about costs. I’ll even put them in touch with previous clients.”

A customer will appreciate you taking the time to share detailed information, and this will help to set a realistic budget right from the start.

GIVE A QUOTE AND BE FLEXIBLE

Don’t assume that a high quote will scare a potential customer away. Be confident in your work and avoid the pressure of providing the lowest quote. An informed client won’t necessarily go for the lower price, this decision will be based on a number of factors. Instead, give a range for the potential client to work from, as this will allow you to be flexible.

“The key to a profitable business is to be adaptable to the consumer’s needs, which does mean you need to be flexible with your pricing,” explains Karpenko. “If we can beat a competitor’s quote and still be profitable then we will do it. You always need to find a golden middle with your client.”

STICK TO WHAT WORKS FOR YOU

Having a good understanding of your business model and how this works best for you can be an effective way to streamline budget discussions, and by being upfront about pricing you can ensure you’re both on the same page straight away.

“My business is about offering a good service and high quality craftmanship, and I make that clear from the start,” says Jones.

“I stick to my pricing and get the message over to them about quality. If a client’s initial email says they want to keep costs right down, I know they’re probably not right for me.”

Houzz is the leading platform for home renovation and design, providing people with everything they need to improve their homes from start to finish. With the largest residential design database in the world, Houzz is the easiest way for people to find inspiration, get advice and hire the professionals they need to help turn their ideas into reality. Houzz connects professionals with homeowners who are actively looking to hire the right home professional for their project.

www.houzz.co.uk

“The

HOME IS WHERE THE HARTLAND IS

Jan issue)

PE Product Tester, Norman Bradshaw, gets to grip with the latest batch of accessories from Hamilton Litestat.

Fashions fade, style is eternal’ and that is so true when choosing not only the location but the brand of accessories for your client. One way I used to help my clients choose their accessories and best locations to showcase them, was to keep a couple of samples in the back of my vehicle. I’d go and collect the accessories out of my van, sit them on the kitchen worktop, (that’s the accessories, not the client!) and let them imagine how their new kitchen was going to look. Very often by the next morning they were convinced, and orders could then be taken.

Today the stakes are so much higher because so many clients just want that minimalistic look in their kitchen, which often excludes seeing our electrical accessories on display – banishing them to the back of a dark cupboard. So, I ask you fellow sparkies, if our clients can’t see our masterful work (as most of it is hidden behind plaster board or under flooring anyway) how are they going to really appreciate what we do?

One way is by fitting accessories that they WANT to see and show-off and to this end Hamilton has definitely risen to this challenge with its new Hartland G2 screwless range.

What’s in the box?

After receiving my package of accessories my interest was piqued immediately as the cardboard box in which they arrived didn’t just open up by lifting the top flap – oh no, this box opened up by removing the two side flaps simultaneously and then lifting the lid to reveal the satin stainless steel sockets and switches inside.

Hamilton describes them as ‘quality accessories on a stylish slim plate’, and slim

they certainly are. The G2 range comes in a number of finishes, so be sure to check them all out to maximise the options available to you and your client base.

The cover plate is removed by inserting a small terminal screwdriver in the two slots at the bottom, and the plate simply slips off. To replace it, you just place over the socket frame and push the four corners – it’s that easy. On closer examination I could see that the screwless plate was secured by four spotwelded metal clips. The sockets each had a 

Reproduced courtesy of Professional Electrician Magazine (PEI

plastic profile which stylishly clipped itself to the socket frame. This means that when you second fix these sockets they’ll sit snuggly on the wall. No gaps, no shadowing, no bowing, just pure style.

The kitchen that I chose to showcase Hamilton’s G2 range already had a well-known brand of accessories installed, so the big question was whether my client would want the upgrade.

As I had no previous samples of the Hartland G2 range I arranged the order and placed them down on the worktop counter. I then let my client get on with their work while I began fitting the accessories. As it was just a faceplate change, it didn’t take long to carry out, but in no time the kitchen was transformed from a standard kitchen to a bespoke kitchen. One of my client’s original requests was that they were not keen on have many accessories on display, so I opted for the 20A grid plate method to control all the different kitchen appliances and central heating. When I explained my requirements to Hamilton the company looked at the brief and provided accessories for the kitchen and master bedroom.

One nice element here is that Hamilton can provide bespoke labelled switches, which is particularly useful for kitchen installations where the ability to indicate switch usage in this domain (i.e. control of appliances), can have a significant impact on the selection of wiring accessories. I requested switches that were labelled up as: Fridge/Freezer, Boiler, Washing Machine, Tumble Dryer, Cooker Hood, and Dishwasher. On completion my client was fully satisfied.

The biggest selling feature of the Hartland G2 range of accessories is that they have a screwless face plate which, in my view, improved the styling tremendously. The switches on the accessories when operated have a clear ‘click’, which the client said was slightly more noticeable than on the previously fitted accessories, but not so audible to be of a major concern. All the socket outlets had double poled switching, so excellent when complete isolation is required.

The other feature I really like is that if you need to decorate a room the screwless plateswitch covers can be removed and replaced after the painting has been finished, thus saving you the time required to take the accessories off, only to have to put them all back on again. This can be very frustrating, especially as clients rarely want to pay you more for your extra work.

Hartland’s G2 double sockets are also available equipped with two 2.4A USB outlets for charging tablets and phones alike. For this project two were ordered – one in the kitchen and one in the master bedroom. The USB double sockets were slightly deeper than the standard double socket outlets so, in my opinion, they would benefit from being installed in a deeper back box so that dressing the connecting cables is not such of a tight squeeze.

Overall, the difference these Hartland accessories made to the whole feel of the project was enchanting. I’m confident that wherever you fit this range, your client is going to be pleased that they’re not hidden in the back of a cupboard, behind some tins of beans or similar items.

Because the range comes with an impressive 25-year warranty you could say that, once fitted, they’ll likely see out your mortgage. My next job now will be to convince the client to get the rest of the house kitted out with the same accessories – a much easier task than when I first started the job. For more information about Hartland G2, contact your local wholesaler or email:

info@hamilton-litestat.com

It didn’t take long to carry out, but in no time the kitchen was transformed from a standard kitchen to a bespoke kitchen."

SHOWERWALL EXTENDS EASY

BATHROOM WALL PANELLING RANGE WITH 26 NEW DECORS

Showerwall has extended its bathroom wall panelling range with 26 new designled décors reflecting the latest bathroom and interiors trends and advances in registered embossed printing technology.

Ideal for use in shower enclosures, around baths, behind basins and to create impressive feature walls, Showerwall’s versatile wall panelling system not only offers installers the benefit of fast and easy installation, it presents superior design scope with a choice of 84 stylish decors now available across the full collection.

Design choice

Highlights of Showerwall’s expansive new collection include 14 new HPL designs including four new designs featuring a Synchronised texture which replicate the look and feel of real marble and stone of Ocean Marble, Shell Marble, Apollo Marble and Athena Marble. In addition, three new fashionable terrazzo designs of Positano Blue Terrazzo, Positano Grey Terrazzo and Stone Terrazzo reflect one of the most popular interiors trends of the moment.

The Acrylic range provides a glossy, polished effect that can be likened to glass, while being easier to cut and handle. New additions that will further enhance the range include three pastel colours of Sage, Blush and Sky, five striking wallpaper styles of Vintage Birds, Flamingo, Botanical, Oriental and Pineapple together with four stylish metro and hexagonal tile effects.

Steph Harris, product manager for Showerwall, says: “We pride ourselves on bringing innovative new designs to the bathroom wall panelling market and have made significant investment in refreshing the collection so that it remains on-trend and relevant to consumer demand.”

Fast and easy installation

Showerwall’s large format bathroom wall panels offer an excellent alternative to traditional tiles and are unrivalled at providing a quick and hassle-free installation. The panels provide a 100% waterproof and hard-wearing surface with near invisible joints.

Installation is quick and simple as its Proclick panels use clever click design technology that locks the panels together without the need for joining trims between them for a seamless finish. Since no grout is needed to connect them, there’s minimal risk of mould, leaving them easy to maintain. Square-cut panels are also available which require trims. Both installation methods give the end result of large expanses of decorative surface that requires minimal upkeep.

The lightweight and high-performance panels are available in sizes of 600mm, 900mm and 1200mm x 2440mm. Although they are large, they are easy to transport, cut and handle and can be installed in less than a day with simple joinery tools. The panels can also be placed over existing tiles, preventing the need to take down tiles.

Find a Fitter

Coinciding with the extension of the range, Showerwall is reflecting its commitment to embedding installation standards with the launch of a Find a Fitter scheme and by becoming a corporate sponsor of BiKBBI to provide a network of approved installers. The new partnership recognises the important role that installers play in maintaining Showerwall’s brand values and is designed to provide end consumers with extra peace of mind of a high-quality bathroom wall-panelling product that is backed by the assurance of guarantee of up to 15-years.

The new Showerwall range is available exstock nationwide from IDS, Ideal Bathrooms and Formula 1. For more information or to find out about becoming an approved installer contact Showerwall:

t: 0845 604 7334 e: info@showerwall.co.uk www.showerwall.co.uk

Showerwall’s versatile wall panelling system offers installers the benefit of fast and easy installation.

TIPS FOR LONGER LASTING TOOLS

For professional tradespeople, power tools are an integral investment to their jobs. It is therefore vital to ensure that they are kept working at their best for as long as possible. In this article we look at a few ways to prolong the life of your power tools.

There are a few things that can be done on a day to day basis to help keep your power tool working at its best. If you are working outside in poor weather or constantly moving between sites and having to transport your tools, then you might be surprised how simply storing them carefully when not in use will help protect it. Using a systainer, is a good example of this.

When in use, using dust extraction with your power tool not only protects your health but

also protects your machine. With dust being collected in the extractor from the point material is removed, means there is less dust to get into the parts, therefore, they last longer.

Beyond these small day to day considerations, regular servicing and a check by specialists can help avoid any small issues becoming a major problem. Festool understands the importance of regular servicing of power tools and therefore has a policy for its registered tools in which servicing is automatically covered. This Warranty, an all-inclusive policy, covers the registered tool for first three years with no cost involved. Festool has a team of expert engineers and specialist software to analyse tools, provide a clear breakdown of everything from the gears that have been

Festool understands the importance of regular servicing of power tools and therefore has a policy for its registered tools in which servicing is automatically covered.

used, to how long it was in use for. This all helps to ensure that it is thoroughly and efficiently checked. The service will guarantee your tools get back to you as quickly as possible, includes wear parts and the machine will also be reset for accuracy to ensure that it performs perfectly.

Sadly, when it comes to caring for your power tool, some things are beyond your control. Tool theft is unfortunately, not uncommon, but thankfully Festool’s all-inclusive warranty also covers registered tools with

three years of theft protection too; helping you get back to work as quickly as possible in the event of this happening.

Remember, your tools are your livelihood. Taking simple steps to look after your tool kit can mean a long-lasting machine that it always performs at its optimum, allowing you to get on with your job.

For more information on Festool Service visit:

www.festool.co.uk/service

#Installation Systems

Roca installation systems offer an affordable solution when a practical, hygienic and modern bathroom design is called for.

A wide range of different installation options are available, allowing easy install of wall-hung and back-to-wall WC’s along with bidets and basins.

Discover more at www.uk.roca.com

Q& A with TANYA DUFFY

In our spring issue we feature Tanya Duffy for our staff Q & A. Tanya leads the admin team at HQ and works with our key retail partnerships. An experienced team leader, Tanya’s claim to fame is her son Thomas who plays football for England Schoolboys.

Can you explain briefly your involvement with the BiKBBI?

• I joined the institute in January 2020 as Team Leader. I work mainly within the retail department of the BiKBBI, supporting the retailers and their installers. I also oversee other departments within the organisation and give support where necessary to the teams and the CEO.

What interests you most about your association with the institute?

• I have learnt a lot since joining BiKBBI about the industry that I would never have otherwise known. Hopefully I can use this knowledge to help the institute grow and become even more efficient in our services.

What one thing in the industry would you develop further?

• To further offer education, training and development via apprenticeships around installation, so we fill the skills gap in the industry.

On the lighter side, who or what makes you laugh?

• I like Stand-up, (Lee Evans, Michael McIntyre etc), relating to the situations they make fun of. I also like the tv shows Friday Night Dinner, League of Their Own and Gogglebox. I’m easily pleased

Name 3 people past or present that you would invite to a dinner party?

• Harry Rednapp – for the amusing stories he tells

• Gordan Ramsey – to do the cooking

• Hugh Jackman – to look at 

Who would you least like to invite?

• My Ex-Husband

• Donald Trump

Favourite sport and team or sports person?

• I enjoy watching Football as both my boys play, I support their teams. They support Manchester United.

• I like tennis and athletics and when I was younger I used to play Badminton for the county.

Favourite movie?

• I do like Mary Poppins, the original. But I enjoy action films, the Jason Bourne movies, Mission Impossible, John Wick etc.

Name one possession you could never do without?

• I’m struggling with this question as I’m not very materialistic but I certainly would miss my car as I need to run my children about (Mums taxi)

What animal do you most resemble at work?

• I’m more of an insect…..a busy, busy BEE

Favourite quote (business or otherwise)?

• Treat others how you would like to be treated

• It takes a long time to earn someone’s trust and a second to lose it - so think

• Always put yourself in the other persons position.

Tell us a secret about yourself?

• If I told you that it wouldn’t be a secret ssssshhhhhhh

What’s been the best day of your life (keep it clean)?

• Apart from having the two boys become part of my life, the day my eldest son was selected to Play for England U18 Schoolboys football and watching him play in an England Shirt.

Finally, what’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

• Never ask permission to be yourself!

Name your 3 Desert Island discs?

• Don Mclean – American Pie (Or the Madonna version, its shorter)

• Remix of you’ve got to show me love…… tuuuuuuuune (Play this on repeat)

• Any from Ed Sheeran but the song ‘Take me to church’

And at home?

• An orangutan – they have a very strong bond between the mother and her young. I read the young rely solely on their mother for food and transport…. That is exactly me! Although where the young orangutan stay with their mum for just 6-7 years mine are now 14 and 18!

Name your first car?

• Blue Mini Metro. I won’t buy any more blue cars as I have either smashed them or they have had serious mechanical faults with them…. Obviously blue is not my lucky colour.

THE IMPORTANCE OF GETTING IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME

What is a bespoke kitchen or bathroom? The term comes from tailoring where a bespoke suit is ‘tailored or designed to the client’s measurements’ (Chambers Dictionary). You don’t expect a bespoke tailor to find the right suit from his standard range and offer it to you, you want something rather more special.

There are many companies claiming to offer ‘Bespoke Kitchens/Bathrooms/Interiors’. If this means they find the right combination of standard units to fill the space you have available, then in my opinion this is not bespoke at all. ‘Planned to measure’ maybe, but certainly not ‘made to measure’.

Richard Renouf, Furniture & Floorcoverings Consultant

The customer‘s view of the installer was already at an all-time low but it plummeted further. As did the chances of the installer being allowed back to rectify his work and avoid legal action.

But in almost every kitchen we installers have to adapt or create something that really could be called ‘bespoke’. It might only be one filler panel cut to the exact size needed to cover the space between the standard units and the wall, or it might be the cutting down or adapting of a unit to house the customer’s existing boiler or to overcome a step in the wall.

Some companies and installers won’t entertain the idea. It’s standard units, worktops and filler panels and nothing else. Mustn’t slow the job down, there’s another one waiting. Come across a problem? Quickest fix possible.

I went to see a kitchen recently to examine a complaint about poor workmanship. It was a legitimate complaint and the items on the customer’s list were all faults. The kitchen had been installed for about nine months so I asked ‘Have you had your washing machine or boiler serviced since the kitchen went in?’

‘No.’ He said. ‘Why do you ask?’

I flipped down the cover on the control panel. It opened about 7 cm before fouling on the cross rail of the cupboard the installer had adapted. I opened the washing machine door and tugged at the plinth. It was

held in place and although I could work out how to remove it, I knew the customer didn’t and I doubted that a washing machine engineer would be willing to try.

The customer‘s view of the installer was already at an all-time low but it plummeted further. As did the chances of the installer being allowed back to rectify his work and avoid legal action.

The work we do today will show our skills -or otherwise – for as long as the installation lasts and may well be the stuff of legend for a long while after that. Let’s make it for all the right reasons.

www.richard-renouf.com

JAMES GARRISON, HEAD OF TRADE

We’re very proud to become a Corporate Sponsor of BiKBBI and be part of the great work they do through Education, Standards and Support.

At VictoriaPlum.com, we strive to give Best in Sector customer service through our dedicated Trade Account Management Team, supporting our industry through providing over 6,000 products and advice while making sure that the installers we work with, feel supported and valued, which is reflected in our TrustPilot score.

I am really looking forward to working closely with BiKBBI and its members in the coming months and years.

TRIO OF NEW BROCHURES SUPPORT EXPANDING PRODUCT RANGES

With a host of new products launching into its portfolio of design-led sinks and taps in 2020, Abode has published new literature to aid retailers and support sales.

The new expanded sinks and taps brochure has dedicated sections for both product categories. The brochure offers a comprehensive reference guide to the different styles, sizes and materials available, helping consumers to make an informed choice. With full product details also included, the brochure is an important point of sale tool for retailers that also simplifies the ordering process.

As well as covering its comprehensive sinks and taps ranges, the wide range of Abode Pronteau steaming hot water taps are included, along with new lines such as Coniq-S, Coniq-R and Tubist.

The Pronteau range also expands to include a new boiler, the ProBoil2X and new taps including the slimline Prothia and Abode’s most cost-effective 4IN1 tap yet, the Propure, the complete Pronteau portfolio is encompassed in an updated selfcontained brochure. Completing the literature line-up is a New Additions brochure.

www.abode.eu

NEW ECO-FRIENDLY ASTUTE RADIATORS BY

VOGUE (UK)

Vogue (UK), has unveiled a new range of Designer Radiators. ‘Astute’ that is manufactured from high quality aluminium, which is recognised as a superconductor of heat for greater efficiency and rapid warmth.

The simple clean panel design of Astute means that it could be positioned virtually anywhere in the home as shown:

eAstute Single & Double Vertical DR035 – Single pictured in Anthracite

Astute Single & Double Horizontal DR036 – Single pictured in white

Steve Birch, Sales Director at Vogue (UK) explains “We chose to craft our collection of Astute heating designs in aluminium to provide the market with a sustainable heating solution that is built to last. Not only is aluminium long-lasting, recyclable and extremely lightweight, each new design of Astute captures the latest trend for minimalist decors met with high functioning accessories.”

Available in two contemporary colours, White and Anthracite, the new Astute radiators are defined by single (pictured) or double-column profile in either a vertical or horizontal arrangement. These options include:

Astute VERTICAL

Designed with an 1800mm height and three available widths. Suitable for heating and hot water systems, this high rise heating solution offers

GIRA UK REMAINS AVAILABLE FOR ITS CUSTOMERS THROUGH THE PANDEMIC

Gira has announced that its UK technical support team remains available during the global Covid-19 outbreak.

The statement demonstrates its total commitment to safeguarding both its UK customers and its staff and it has also put in place special measures so that its technical support team remains available on a remote-basis, from Monday to Friday, 8am6pm. Details are as follows:

UK Technical Support: e: hotline-uk@gira.com | t: 0203 936 8095

Gira has ensured that its supply chain is business as usual by ensuring that customers can still place new orders or discuss current sales orders by contacting Gira Germany:

Sales Enquiries: e: sales@gira.com | auftragsabwicklung@gira.de t: +49 2195 602 721

The impact of Coronavirus has created an unprecedented level of market uncertainty and Gira wants to reassure the industry that it is taking all possible measures to protect the health and welfare of its customers and employees globally.

Mark Booth, Managing Director Gira UK says, “We will update our customers about any new products, offers and our next steps as we navigate

the unfolding Covid-19 situation together. Our technical support team is hugely experienced will help with any queries, and for convenience, our office systems will redirect any requests to our UK representatives automatically.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the NHS and all of the key worker services that are keeping this country going, they are doing an amazing job under the most stressful of conditions.

www.gira.com

ROLE

a heat output ranging from 843/2876 to 1405/4794 Watts/BTUs, model dependent.

Astute HORIZONTAL

Designed with a 600mm height and six available widths. Suitable for central heating, dual fuel and electric systems, this modern radiator offers a high heat output ranging from 653/2229 up to 1762/6012 Watts/BTUs, model dependent.

Aluminium construction gives installers more options in terms of fitting as its lightweight core means the Astute DR035 and DR036 can be mounted on all types of internal wall: stud or solid.

t: 01902 387 000 | e: info@vogueuk.co.uk | www.vogueuk.co.uk

Retailers in the South of England will soon see a new face on the Virtual Worlds team, as Josh Carver joins the company as Regional Sales Manager.

Josh will cover the south of the country, from the River Thames down to the south coast, and west to east from Portsmouth to Margate, looking after existing customers and introducing new customers to the many advantages of Virtual Worlds design technology, including the award-winning 4D Theatre.

Josh brings a wealth of experience to his role, thanks to his background as a kitchen designer. Commenting on his appointment, Josh said: “My background is mostly creative, and I have had lots of experience with CAD which is very beneficial when working with Virtual Worlds.

For more information on Virtual Worlds, please visit: www.virtualworlds.co.uk

JOSH HEADS SOUTH FOR NEW REGIONAL SALES MANAGER

Astute Single Horizontal Radiator DR036

NEW HAMILTON 2020/21 CATALOGUE AVAILABLE ONLINE NOW

Hamilton Litestat’s 2020/21 catalogue is now available online, illustrating Hamilton’s comprehensive product offering that makes it a one-stop-shop for all installers wiring needs.

New for 2020 is the Guardian consumer unit range, which has a ten-year guarantee and the full support of Hamilton’s UK-based team for on-site installation questions.

Get a design update with Hamilton’s new range of Wide Rocker Switches, or the Hartland G2 collection, a value engineered upgrade to one of the most popular box-fix designs, providing a screwless plate at a cost-conscious price.

Another new addition is Hamilton’s Wireless Audio range: WSA50 Wireless Streaming Amplifier, 6-inch 80W stereo ceiling speakers, Appio wireless active speaker and Oyster Wireless Audio Receiver.

The intuitive catalogue illustrates all available plate finishes and contains configuration information and part numbers.

To order your copy(ies) please email: info@ hamilton-litestat.com or view online here: www.hamilton-catalogue.co.uk

BRANDT DESIGN LAUNCH FRESH

NEW WEBSITE

Brandt Design, is tackling the COVID-19 crisis headon and showing other kitchen retailers the way by launching a new website and announcing that several other marketing initiatives will be unveiled whilst it complies with the Government directive of closing its retail showrooms.

The website, www.brandtdesign.co.uk features a modernised brand logo and gives visitors an opportunity to review its collection of completed residential projects & developments, and for them to view news and press coverage, past showroom events, and generally find out more about the company and its team. Dedicated sections include Urban kitchen collection, Heritage kitchen collection, appliances, accessories, worktops, Lifestyle & Bedrooms.

Celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, Scott Davis, Director at Brandt Design comments, “We are delighted with our brand-new website, which now more than ever, needs to work as a virtual showroom for our customers as we maintain day-to-day affairs and most importantly, client contact through this difficult time.” He added, “The new website includes a Project Portal where customers can upload plans and communicate safely with Brandt’s design team without risk to anyone’s health. We recognise how plans have been put on hold, which is why we have made our team available to you on a remote basis until we’re in a position to design, cost and supply like before. Whether your project is a single property or multi-level development, we have all the relevant

knowledge and accreditations to work with you during these unprecedented times and beyond”

Final word goes to Julia Steadman, Head of Operations at Brandt, who commented, “We are aware that the situation for business is fluid right now and we will constantly review how things change and react accordingly. We are working hard to create new ways to communicate with our customers during this uncertain time and have one or two great initiatives up our sleeves, so watch this space!”

RETAIL SYSTEMS AWARDS SHORTLIST FOR IN STORE INNOVATION

Virtual Worlds has made the shortlist for the Retail Systems Awards 2020, earning its place in the In Store Innovation of the Year category.

Virtual Worlds has caught the attention of the judges with 4D Theatre, pioneering 4D technology which is progressing the digital revolution for independent kitchen and bathroom retailers throughout the UK. 4D Theatre is changing the format of traditional showrooms, helping retailers overcome the problem of restricted display space and providing consumers with a fully immersive design experience which changes their buying behaviour.

For more information on Virtual Worlds, please visit: www.virtualworlds.co.uk

“To all our customers, please keep yourself and others safe during the COVID-19 pandemic and we will make sure that we can fulfil any home décor and future design pursuits that you may have in the months and years to come.”

For further information on Brandt Design during the Covid-19 crisis, please contact: t: 01438 729062 | e: info@brandtkitchens.co.uk | www.brandtdesign.co.uk/coronavirus www.brandtdesign.co.uk

www.aqualisa.co.uk www.armitage-shanks.co.uk www.blum.com www.bushboard.co.uk www.classic-marble.com www.clearabee.co.uk

www.anyjunk.co.uk www.compusoftgroup.com

www.hafele.co.uk www.myappliances.co.uk www.kbbg.co.uk

www.fitfrankefirst.co.uk www.festool.co.uk www.hippowaste.co.uk www.ideal-standard.co.uk www.wearepolar.com www.publicityengineers.com

www.showerwall.co.uk www.enterprise-home.by.me

www.trade-point.co.uk www.ubm.com

www.victoriaplum.com

www.vitra.co.uk

www.roman-showers.com www.wilsonart.co.uk

www.uk.roca.com www.worktop-express.co.uk

BiKBBI

www.symphony-group.co.uk www.wrenkitchens.com

BiKBBI

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