The Installer - Issue 26 - Summer 2021

It’s crunch time! Skills gap starting to bite

As we all emerge from our homes and the world as we know it and hesitancy subsides, all I hear are pleas for fitter availability.

If I could monetise requests I've received for good installers, I’d be a millionaire! However, the reality is that the installers aren’t hard to find, why? Because they simply aren't there! The KBB industry has a real problem and this is just the tip of the iceberg!

I hate pessimism with a passion and subsequently, I’ve always been a glass half full guy, but lead times into 2022 during the August sale period is signalling a real issue for us all.

Is it Brexit? Is it COVID? Well, yes, in part, but the real issue is a lack of investment and appetite for vocational learning over the last 20 plus years. This is the heart of the problem and the real concern is that this cannot be undone anytime soon, regardless of what we throw at it.

Skills Gap = Demand Demand = Opportunity Opportunity = Opportunists

Opportunists = Reputational damage These combined = Bad for business!

Whether you’re a supplier, distributor, manufacturer, a retailer, designer or installer, it’s in your best interests to support anything that is working towards fixing this issue. If we don’t collectively 'weigh in' to solve this crisis, we simply won’t have the professionally competent installer resource available to service sales demand - and it doesn’t take a genius to work out how bad that will be for business!

Yes, yes, I’ve been harping on about this for years and I’m sure one or two of you will be bored of my somewhat doomsday tone, but this is OUR issue and we ARE working on a solution. This is no longer a projected catastrophic weather event. The winds are actually here, the skies are rumbling and the sunshine is obscured by big grey clouds. We needs to start building boats and we need a plan!

Fortunately plans are in place and we do have a solution. Whilst this won’t eradicate the pain of 20 years of failure, it will start the process of recovery. We are about to make some extraordinary announcements and we’re about to be the catalyst for positive change.

But, as ever, we need the entire industry to support what we do so now is your time to step forward and help us to help you. So please, whoever you are, whatever company you represent or work for, get in touch and help us to make a difference!

Damian Walters, BiKBBI CEO

BiKBBI CONFIRMS PLANS FOR ITS ANNUAL CONFERENCE & AWARDS 2022

The British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation and its Patron Stephen Metcalfe MP, have confirmed that the organisation will be hosting a very special Annual Conference & Awards event at The House of Parliament in February 2022.

The sponsored event, which will be attended by over 150 VIP delegates, a doubled capacity based on recent growth, will be split into two parts with the first being its Annual

Conference at the prestigious Parliamentary office at Portcullis House, followed by a formal reception and awards ceremony at the iconic Houses of Parliament later that afternoon.

Guest speakers and a new format will provide the organisation with the opportunity to update stakeholders on its progress, plans for the forthcoming year, with the reception providing a great stage to recognise key relationships and special achievements.

“Following what has been the most challenging time for us all, this special event will mix the formalities of conference, with some much needed celebration."

The event will be used to launch an ambitious year, including its plans for KBB 2022, an expansion into the US and the acceleration of its Apprenticeship Programme – with its overriding theme to be confirmed in due course.

The BiKBBI CEO Damian Walters enthused, “2021/22 marks our 15th Anniversary, which is a remarkable milestone and another proud moment for me and the organisation. We are privileged to be in a position to hold our event at such an outstanding and historic venue once again and I’m already looking forward to hosting what will be a remarkable occasion for our industry.”

He continued, “Following what has been the most challenging time for us all, this special event will mix the formalities of conference, with some much needed celebration. We have achieved so much over the last year, not by luck, but by sheer determination, focus and the support of our key stakeholders. This is our opportunity to share plans with this group, celebrate some phenomenal achievements and thank those who have made it possible. This will be an event to remember.”

The BiKBBI is offering unique sponsorship opportunities for its 2022 Awards & Conference – details of which can be obtained from:

eve.brown@bikbbi.org.uk

'Guest speakers and a new format will provide the organisation with the opportunity to update stakeholders on its progress, plans for the forthcoming year, with the reception providing a great stage to recognise key relationships and special achievements. '

BiKBBI ATTRACTS DIVERSITY OF COMPANIES AS CORPORATE SPONSORS

Three very different businesses have committed to the BiKBBI ethos by agreeing to become Corporate Sponsors.

First up in early June was instantly recognisable brand Graham Plumbers Merchants, this partnership was quickly followed by industry stalwarts Mereway and its brand Trend Interiors a few weeks later in mid- July it was announced that industry specialist recruitment and career

building business Foyne Jones had also pledged to Corporate Sponsorship.

The diversity of businesses highlights just how the institute has developed to a point where it is being globally accepted, if not acclaimed, throughout the kbb industry.

BiKBBI, CEO, Damian Walters enthused, “The growth in membership combined with recognition of businesses in the wider industry becoming Corporate Sponsors,

underpins the exciting initiatives we have introduced in recent times and helps give us the financial strength for upcoming projects.” He followed, “I just love the varied range of businesses that we are now attracting and they will all play their part in enabling us to tackle the immense challenges that lie ahead for the industry in the months and years ahead.”

Following, is a resume of how the news of each sponsorship was announced:

recent times and helps give us the financial

projects.I

love the varied range of businesses that we are now attracting and they will

play

part

tackle the immense challenges that lie ahead for the industry in the months and years ahead.”

Graham Plumbers Merchants

Graham is part of the Saint-Gobain Group and supplies the trade and public with innovative plumbing, heating, bathroom and smart technology solutions. With 139 branches nationwide, Graham is accessible to everyone from repeat trade account holders, to one off consumers.

Graham works with top brands allowing consumers to get their hands on exclusive ranges and products. The sponsorship of BiKBBI will allow Graham to connect with many designers, manufacturers and distributors within the KBB industry, who share the same objectives as the BiKBBI.

Graham is constantly exploring innovative ways to further enhance its customers’ experience and it now offers a streamlined e-account management system, which enables customers to view their account details, transaction history and current balances online for easy access via the transactional website (grahamdirect.co.uk).

Derek Charge, Bathroom & Showroom Marketing Manager (pictured), commented: “For many years, the

Graham Elite Bathroom Installer Scheme has looked to promote the best elements of the plumbing industry, prioritising quality installations and product solutions. Now, with the BiKBBI’s support and backing, we will be able to ensure even greater levels of service to our customers.”

Damian Walters, BiKBBI CEO, said: “Graham is a business that connects with thousands of reputable tradespeople and is part of the impressive Saint-Gobain Group. We welcome its support and very much look forward to working with the company.”

“Graham is a business that connects with thousands of reputable tradespeople and is part of the impressive Saint-Gobain Group. We welcome its support and very much look forward to working with the company.”

“The growth in membership combined with recognition of businesses in the wider industry becoming Corporate Sponsors, underpins the exciting initiatives we have introduced in

strength for upcoming

just

all

their

in enabling us to

Mereway

Founded in 1986, Mereway Group began manufacturing and suppling the local market in the Midlands with rigid kitchen cabinets. Since then the company has grown, including the successful introduction of Bedrooms into Trend Interiors is an accessible, affordable and stylish range of furniture, and most recently has developed a homeoffice collection as part of the Bedroom portfolio. www.trendinteriors.co.uk

Mark Mills, Managing Director at Mereway Group (pictured) said: “As a respected British brand we’re committed to quality and professionalism and this is reflected across our product ranges and we strive to offer exceptional service throughout our customers journey. We believe the installer has been one of the unsung heroes of the pandemic and it is our privilege to work with and support an organisation which supports them. Trend Bedrooms is extremely installer-friendly and we will be working closely with BiKBBI and its members over the coming months to support the vital and exciting initiatives in the pipeline.”

BiKBBI CEO, Damian Walters added: “What

a great addition to the BiKBBI family in 2021! It is so encouraging to see the team at Trend Interiors supporting installation standards via their Corporate Sponsorship of the BiKBBI. Mereway Group is highly recognisable and we look forward to working closely with the team over the course of their sponsorship.”

Foyne Jones Recruitment Group

Established in 2003, Foyne Jones has built a formidable reputation and its unique, dynamic style of recruitment, continues to positively shape the future of the KBB industry.

Working collaboratively with some of the most leading brands, businesses and design professionals in the home interiors market, Foyne Jones´ remit also includes national builders merchants, independent showrooms and large scale manufacturers through to executive search and talent acquisition. The collaboration with the BiKBBI will extend beyond the financial sponsorship, to include the support of members and their specific recruitment needs.

Peter Jones (pictured) commented on the membership by saying, “The BiKBBI´s ‘Together Stronger’ mentality is something my business has synergy with, it has always been a quality I support in business. This is why I am excited to support BiKBBI, so that together, we can optimise apprenticeship schemes for the next generation and continue to provide job support for the wider KBB communities. We hope our involvement

a Corporate Sponsor will have a positive impact on the calibre of design talent and exclusive career opportunities our industry is able to take advantage of - I am very confident that we can make a real difference.”

Damian Walters, BiKBBI CEO commented, “Career support and guidance is extremely important, especially when faced with the challenges from the past 18 month. Peter has a great deal of knowledge and expertise to offer and we look forward to working with the Foyne Jones team in supporting the industry over the coming months and years.”

as

“As a respected British brand we’re committed to quality and professionalism and this is reflected across our product ranges and we strive to offer exceptional service throughout our customers journey. We believe the installer has been one of the unsung heroes of the pandemic and it is our privilege to work with and support an organisation which supports them."

“The BiKBBI´s ‘Together Stronger’ mentality is something my business has synergy with, it has always been a quality I support in business. This is why I am excited to support BiKBBI."

REMAIN CAUTIOUS!

BiKBBI´s message to its members regarding restriction relaxation.

The BiKBBI CEO, calls for the industry to approach the relaxation of Coronavirus restriction “with extreme caution” as England prepared for change.

Speaking to the BBC, Damian Walters urged tradespeople in particular, not to fall foul of the changes and to fully support the Prime Minister’s statement that “this pandemic is not over” by saying, “We’re all keen to banish COVID to the history books, but we’ll only be able to achieve this if we’re sensible about how we go about our lives and businesses in the weeks and months ahead”.

England is being followed by other home nations by entering a new phase of relaxation

´PINGDEMIC´ DISRUPTS INSTALLER BUSINESSES

New evidence shows that thousands of home improvement jobs have been cancelled because of ‘pingdemic’ and needless cancellations have already cost kitchen, bedroom and bathroom installers millions of pounds and sown the seed for months of disruption for consumers and industry.

A survey of over 5000 kitchen, bedroom and bathroom installers revealed that 47% have had to cancel jobs due to customers or installers being ‘pinged’ by the NHS Covid app. Based on the average cost of installations this means that millions of pounds of lost income to installers who are mostly self-employed sole traders and SME workers.

The call comes in response to the results of the institutes own survey of its members which discovered that almost half of all kitchen, bedroom and bathroom (KBB) installers have had to cancel jobs because of ‘pinging’. This is costing millions of pounds to installers and paving the way for months of disruption for customers, with lead times for jobs already extended due to a shortage of skilled installers able to meet demand.

Damian Walters, BIKBBI CEO, said, “Installers are taking a hit on their incomes that’s as unnecessary as it is unfair. They’ve

spent the last year working to incredibly safe procedures, meaning that they could continue serving customers throughout the pandemic. For at least half of them to now have to stop working, and earning, as the rest of the country recovers, just seems utterly ridiculous!”

He added, “The disruption for customers is also a real kick in the teeth for people who want to invest in their homes after such a tough time and could create a crisis for the industry. Jobs won’t be able to be rescheduled for many months, creating the risk of a wave of cancellations. Having invested to meet the currently high demand, KBB retailers and manufacturers could find themselves at a breaking point in the coming months.”

“We of course, acknowledge that public safety and keeping the virus under control needs to remain the highest priority, which is why KBB installers introduced robust safe working procedures over the last year. Recognising this, by adding them to the list of workers exempt from automatic isolation would be an incredibly sensible thing for the Government to do.”

www.bikbbi.org.uk/news

measures, with updated government advice to tradespeople to be published on an ongoing basis. In preparation for change, The British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation published updated advice to tradespeople on its website, to include support for the continued wearing of face masks when working with others in confined space.

The BiKBBI will continue to monitor changes in all UK countries and will provide updated advice to the industry, as it has throughout the Coronavirus pandemic.

www.bikbbi.org.uk/news

“Installers are taking a hit on their incomes that’s as unnecessary as it is unfair. They’ve spent the last year working to incredibly safe procedures, meaning that they could continue serving customers throughout the pandemic. For at least half of them to now have to stop working, and earning, as the rest of the country recovers, just seems utterly ridiculous!”

KBB Retailers… TIME TO CHANGE

HELP US TO HELP YOU

Sustainability and the environment are high up the political agenda, with the Government likely to soon bring in new laws and regulations that could have an impact on our industry. It is important that the interests of our members are taken into account, so we'll be speaking to the Government and working with the media on your behalf.

Please take the time to complete this short survey to help us understand your views on environmental issues and the needs of your business.

All responses will be completely anonymous but we'll use the data that the survey generates to provide evidence of what the KBB industry is doing to protect the environment and where the Government needs to provide support for installers.

SUCCESS AT EVERY STAGE

How to create & manage a multistage retail customer journey. No matter the size of your business or the service you provide, when engaging with your company, potential customers embark on a journey.

The more stages of this journey there are, the more complex it becomes.

For KBB retailers, more often than not, there are a multitude of contributors, steps and milestones with installation being but one part of a larger puzzle.

Couple this with the fact that the average purchase now encompasses ten business communication channels and an intricate pathway begins to emerge.

Success at every stage is, therefore, a must to stay ahead.

Each stage, each interaction and each touchpoint can have a dramatic impact upon a prospective customer’s

experience. Either pushing them away or drawing them closer to converting.

Planning your customer journey is, therefore, a vital exercise in helping your business step into the shoes of the customer.

By mapping out the experience you provide, you can gain insights into common pain points, identify regular roadblocks and learn how to improve those stages requiring attention.

At the heart of this entire process is the most significant question of all, do your goals match those of your customers?

By understanding this, and evaluating how your processes match customer desires, you can structure your workflow to provide the most effective and enjoyable experience for your customers.

Recent studies have proven a significant shift in consumer behaviour, with 80% of people

now considering their experience with a company to be as important as their products.

That is why, at Anthill, we’ve created a guide to help you hit the mark at every stage.

In this guide, we aim to explore the various stages of the customer journey and explain how you can ensure success every step of the way.

Diving in to the pre and post-sale as well as the main sales cycle itself, we’ll cover:

• Creating an optimal customer

journey.

• Transforming a journey to a relationship.

• The benefits of mapping your experience.

By listening to those who have gone before and mapping out your ideal path, consistently achieving your desired outcome becomes much more straightforward.

To download your copy of “Success At Every Stage – How To Create & Manage A Multi-Stage Retail Customer Journey” click here.

HALF OF ALL HOMEOWNERS PLANNING NEW BATHROOM

Demand for new KBB projects continues to rise with half of all UK homeowners planning a full bathroom refurbishment, a new survey reveals.

The survey, from the Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA), also showed that was a rise from 45% back in January.

And plans are also being brought forward with 16% of respondents saying they plan to do it in the next 12 months compared to just 13% saying the same in January.

These numbers include DIY but slightly more (62%) are intending to do their planned work with professionals compared to January (59%).

Sustainability was a key feature of the survey with two-thirds of homeowners confused about where to start when making their homes eco-friendly, causing a significant barrier to uptake but creating considerable opportunities for knowledgeable retailers.

Just over three-quarters (77%) said that cost was a major issue as you would expect but

ARTICAD ADDS VIRTUAL MEETINGS FEATURE TO ITS ARTIVR SOFTWARE

CAD software specialist ArtiCAD has added a new virtual meetings feature to its ArtiVR virtual reality solution.

The new feature allows KBB designers to host a virtual meeting with their client within the ArtiVR package.

Virtual Meetings will allow a designer to take their client on

69% said that becoming more sustainable may cause too many disruptions.

Retailers could also take advantage of the 42% of homeowners that are planning on improving sustainability in their homes, according to the BMA. Of those property owners, 40% have already done building work to make their homes more sustainable.

However, the survey found that more than half (52%) believe that sustainability is not essential to them.

And while 89% of homeowners may think their homes are as not as sustainable as they can be, 58% of them have no plans to improve the sustainability in the home.

a virtual tour of their new room and demonstrate all the details and features of their design, in as much detail as they need to. Designers can also collaborate with their client to optimise aspects of the design in real time.

Virtual Meetings uses a device’s camera and microphone and ArtiCAD said that there is no need for any additional hardware, as all rendering and optimisation is handled in the Cloud.

The software, with the new Virtual Meetings feature, is available on a monthly subscription basis.

HAIER EUROPE REPORTS MASSIVE GROWTH AS ‘SMART’ SALES SOAR

Appliance giant Haier has reported a 20% growth in sales in its 2020/2021 financial year results boosting its global market share to 16.2%.

During the same period, it saw sales of its ‘smart’ MDA increase by 30% year-on-year and a 12% rise in sales for Haier Europe.

According to the brand, during the same period a quarter of all fridges and washing machines sold were from the Haier, Hoover or Candy brands.

The results which are said to put the company on track for its ‘ambitious’ business objectives – were shared at its annual conference.

The virtual conference, which saw 500 attendees across two days, included presentations from the CEO of Haier Europe, Yannick Fierling, UK & ROI CEO, David Meyerowitz (pictured) and Piergiorgio Bonfiglioli, Marketing Director IoT & smart solutions.

Meyerowitz reported on

consumer confidence increasing, which helped the group achieve #1 positions in several product categories: freestanding and built-in washing machines and washer dryers, freestanding and built-in tumble dryers, multidoor refrigeration and wine coolers.

Fierling said: “Our three-element strategy of accelerating value, increasing sales quantities and optimising brand value have supported brand expansion into new lines and categories. This, combined with increased manufacturing capacity, upweighting systems and our triple-brand and price quartile strategies, enabled us to mark a challenging but exceptional year.”

By the end of the 2020/21 financial year, the company had six production sites, with three new factories set to open this year in Romania, Turkey and China. It now employees 7,700 people, including 300 research and development engineers.

Shown: Zenith worksurface, breakfast bar, upstand and splashback in Marmo Grigio

SALES AND PROFITS AT ‘RECORD LEVELS’ FOR HOWDENS

Sales at Howdens for the first half of the year have shot up by 20% compared to 2019 and nearly 70% against the same period in 2020.

This performance, said chief executive Andrew Livingstone, meant sales and pre-tax profit were at ‘record levels’ for the period.

For the first half of 2021, sales hit £764m and pre-tax profit reached £119.2m. The company made a loss of £14.2m in the first half of 2020, reflecting the impact of the initial covid lockdown.

“Howdens delivered a very strong performance in the first half of 2021, with sales and profit before tax at record levels

for the period,” Livingstone said. “Sales were 69% higher than the first half of 2020 –which was materially impacted by covid – and 20% higher than the comparator period in 2019. Sales of ‘everyday’ and promotional items were particularly strong and our profit, compared with 2019, increased at a faster rate than sales.”

COMPUSOFT SUMMER DESIGN COMPETITION WINNERS REVEALED

Livingstone also confirmed that the company’s roll out of new depots would continue, in the first half of 2021 seven new sites opened and one closed in the UK, bringing the total to 754.

However, while acknowledging ongoing uncertainties Livingstone said he believes there is potential for “at least”

Ashley Chapman of AC Design in Scotland.

“As usual, there were some absolutely fantastic entries in this category,” said kbbreview editor Rebecca Nottingham. “Summer is all about fun in the sun, so we were looking for kitchens that brought the outside in and this space from Ashley had it all. The large-format bifold doors, floor-to-ceiling windows, natural stone flooring, skylights and a the ‘living’ wall all give that sense of being outside while, at the same time, being sheltered from the elements. And the natural light pouring through softens the stylish dark and moody handleless furniture.”

Nasser Fahad of Leonide Interiors in Chesterfield won the bathroom category with a design for a sophisticated, family space.

900 depots in the UK. “This robust performance demonstrates the strength of our trade only, in-stock, local business model and the benefit of pent-up demand as people choose to spend more on their homes. With that in mind, we now believe there is potential for at least 900 depots in the UK, including 20-25 in Northern Ireland, and plan to start testing the Howdens model in the Republic of Ireland in 2022.

“While we are aware that economic uncertainties persist and also of the strong comparatives we will trade against in the second half, we are encouraged by the progress made so far in 2021 and remain confident in our business model for the future.”

Compusoft has unveiled the best kitchen and bathroom spaces submitted by its customers for its latest design competition.

The summer contest was open to designers using Compusoft’s Winner or Innoplus software.

The criteria for the kitchen side of the competition reflected what this season is known for – spending time outside with family and friends. What better way to reflect that than with designs that bring the outside in. Think bifold doors, floor-toceiling windows and islands with garden views.

As summer is about spending

time with loved ones, in the bathroom category the brief called for functional, family bathrooms.

Entries were submitted via Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn and the judging panel was made up of Taylist Media managing editor Andrew Davies, Compusoft managing director Alex Ainge, Kitchens Bedrooms & Bathrooms editor Lindsay Blair, and kbbreview editor Rebecca Nottingham.

The winning summer kitchen design came from Ashley Chapman of AC Design in Scotland.

The winning kitchen design by

Commenting on the winning bathroom design, Kitchens Bedrooms & Bathrooms editor Lindsay Blair said: “When you hear the term ‘family bathroom’, you often think of a bright, fun space suitable for young children. But what happens when those children grow up? We loved the way Nasser turned this brief on its head and looked towards creating a stylish, multigenerational family bathroom with a freestanding bath and wet room.”

You can view all the entries on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn by using #csdesigncomp. Both winners will receive a hamper of tasty treats.

PRONORM INVESTS €15M IN NEW KITCHEN FACILITY

Pronorm is investing in a new €15 million (£12.7m) kitchen production facility that will increase manufacturing capacity by 30% and help reduce UK lead times.

Work on the new 2,500 sq m plant has started at its headquarters in Vlotho, Germany, and is scheduled for completion in early 2022. New equipment will include a fully automated panel store, converting the entire production line to batch size one.

Pronorm says the extension will increase capacity from 30,000 kitchens a year to 40,000.

VOGUE (UK) LAUNCHES BRUSHED BRASS OPTION

Vogue (UK), brings the raw beauty of brass to the modern bathroom with Studio: a contemporary heating design available in un-lacquered brushed brass and premium lacquered finishes.

Opulent and highly defined with straight cross rails and discreet wall brackets, Studio is both eye-catching and graceful by adding colour and warmth to the walls of the latest shower rooms, ensuite’s and master bathrooms.

“A fashionable alternative to popular chrome, the return of brass continues to carry favour in the bathroom with premium taps, accessories and heating solutions answering the trend for raw materials that evoke old glamour” says Steve Birch, Sales Director at Vogue (UK).

In harmony with current trends, Studio is available in

un-lacquered brushed brass as standard, in addition to a range of contemporary matt colours or premium lacquers that undergo an extra finishing process. Created with longevity in mind, the Studio towel warmer is made from the highest quality DZR brass, which is extremely malleable and resistant against dezincification so is suitable for all heating and hot water systems.

A design which is more than meets the eye, Studio creates the look and feel of a luxury spa thanks to its capped off smooth ends and hidden rear air vent, which promise a seamless quality finish.

The Studio Towel Warmer is available in 3 sizes: H720mm (14 bars), 1,000mm (21 bars), 1435mm (30 bars).

www.vogueuk.co.uk

INSINKERATOR® ANNOUNCES KELLY HOPPEN ENDORSEMENT

InSinkErator® has secured an exclusive endorsement with renowned interior designer, Kelly Hoppen CBE for its entire portfolio of specialist kitchen taps and food waste disposers. The EMEA partnership will also see multi-award winning designer, Kelly Hoppen taking on the role as brand ambassador for InSinkErator®.

As the inventor of, and a manufacturer of waste disposers, the company is also a player in the specialist kitchen tap market, InSinkErator® has a portfolio of products suitable for all types of kitchens and budgets alongside, a strong brand reputation built over the past 80 years. Kelly Hoppen is wellknown for her sleek and timeless approach towards interior design, which complements the modern, time-saving, convenient kitchen products offered by InSinkErator®.

Commenting on the partnership, Kelly Hoppen CBE said: “The kitchen has always been my favourite room in the house. It’s the place where you spend time with your loved ones, share meals and tell stories. I’m also a big fan of clean spaces and firmly believe that less is always more, especially in the kitchen. So, a hot water tap was a no-brainer for me. It’s perfect for anyone with a busy kitchen and lifestyle.

The food waste disposer is very convenient and makes sorting food waste much easier. They both save me so much time, they instantly became my favourite appliances in the kitchen.”

Ashley Munden, Managing Director, EMEA, InSinkErator®, says: “We’re elated to be announcing our endorsement and partnership with Kelly Hoppen. It’s a key part of our EMEA growth strategy for the next few years, especially with the topics of food waste and sustainability high on the consumer’s radar alongside Kelly Hoppen’s strong connections in the interior design network. Our range of specialist kitchen taps and food waste disposers align with Kelly Hoppen’s ethos of streamlining the kitchen and with the convenient and hygienic benefits offered to consumers, the products offer more than just a style statement.”

He added “We’re supporting our valued trade partners with a range of POS and marketing materials to highlight this endorsement to their customers, stating that a multi-award winning interior designer has given the full portfolio of InSinkErator® products her seal of approval.”

www.insinkerator.emerson.com

For the ultimate in hygiene, upgrade your existing toilet with Roca’s EM1 touchless automatic flush valve with sensor. This easy to install, water-saving dual-flush valve (adjustable to 6/4, 4.5/3 or 4/2 litres) can be retrofitted and requires no mains connection as it’s guaranteed to flush more than 40,000 times with just 4 x AA batteries.

COUNTRY-STYLE CHARM WITH FRANKE’S COTSWOLD KITCHEN TAP

Epitomising period-style charm, Franke’s new Cotswold mixer tap will make an elegant statement in any classic or country kitchen. In line with the growing interest in traditional design, this dual lever tap is ideal for consumers looking to embrace the cottagecore trend and add a relaxed, vintage look and feel to their kitchen.

Featuring timeless styling that will never go out of fashion, Cotswold combines exquisite detailing with tactile white resin levers. It is available in a Chrome

or SilkSteel finish, which adds a contemporary twist to the classic design.

With a handy swivel spout that makes it perfect for use with double and 1.5 bowl sinks, Cotswold stands 300mm tall with a spout reach of 238mm. It is suitable for low pressure systems and comes with a fiveyear warranty on working parts and one-year guarantee on the finish.

www.franke.co.uk

HiB MANAGING DIRECTOR NAMED AMONG WINNERS OF SME LEADERS 20 AWARD

HiB’s Managing Director, Robert Ginsberg, (pictured) has been ranked as one of the top business leaders in the UK, as part of the Growing Business Intelligence SME Leaders 20.

The award recognises and celebrates the achievements of leaders at small or medium-sized enterprises and is presented to those that have demonstrated strength, innovation, flexibility and resilience during the challenges of the past 18 months.

Robert, who has been MD for the bathroom supplier for more than nine years, was among the top 20 individuals chosen to receive the award by the panel of judges and be congratulated for his efforts. He said, “I am delighted to have been named among the winners of this year’s SME Leaders 20. Supporting HiB through its continued growth, navigating the current economic climate and putting together a strategy for the future has

been central to my role along with the other Directors. To see the business go from strength to strength while also doing as much as possible to support our employees, our partners and the wider community has been a real privilege and we’re driving forward with our vision to achieve even more in the coming years.”

The SME Leaders 20 award by Growing Business Intelligence, in association with Azets, identifies an elite group of individuals who have made a significant difference to their respective businesses.

Fraser Campbell, UK Head of Accounts and Business Advisory Services at Azets and one of the judges of this year’s awards, said: “Congratulations to our SME Leaders 20. SMEs are the backbone of the economy and they have faced some of the most challenging circumstances over the last 15 months with real courage and perseverance. All

entries were inspiring and full of a determination to succeed – an impressive trait in SMEs. We are delighted to share the SME Leaders 20 results and celebrate the leadership and ambition of SMEs across the UK.”

www.hib.co.uk

KEY ROLE FOR TRITON

SENIOR OPS APPOINTMENT SUPPORTS SUSTAINABILITY FOCUS

Shower manufacturer, Triton, has appointed a new Operations Director to play a vital role in delivering strategic sustainability goals, as the business works towards becoming net zero by 2025.

David Savage brings more than 14 years’ experience in the manufacturing, operations and supply chain sectors to Triton Showers. As well as making significant contributions towards reducing CO2 and improving efficiency levels, he will also be responsible for enhancing supply chain resilience.

Commenting on his appointment, David said: “I’m delighted to be joining an organisation that has such a progressive environmental strategy and is future focused. I’m therefore looking forward to exploring new ways of delivering both cost and carbon savings throughout the business by making best use of valuable resources.”

David Tutton, Managing Director at Triton, said: “We are extremely pleased that David has joined the business. His extensive industry background will be invaluable and his arrival couldn’t be better timed, as we have some pretty ambitious goals to accomplish in the next four years. While we’ve achieved a lot already, gaining fresh insights from David and getting his input into policies and procedures will mean we can do even more.”

www.tritonshowers.co.uk

Image: Franke’s new Cotswold Swivel Spout tap, pictured in a Chrome finish

“I am delighted to have been named among the winners of this year’s SME Leaders 20."

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

BRANDT DESIGN COLLABORATES WITH CELEBRITY CHEF

Cyrus Todiwala commissions Brandt Design for his new Academy

Kitchen and interior design studio, Brandt Design, has collaborated with premium appliance brand Gaggenau and THEWALL, supplied by Kitchen Alchemy, to create a new cooking academy above chef Cyrus Todiwala’s Cafe Spice Namasté restaurant.

Scott Davis, Director, Brandt Design says, “We are extremely proud to have the opportunity to work alongside renowned celebrity chef, Cyrus Todiwala, by designing and installing a unique purpose-built culinary space for anyone that wants to learn how to cook contemporary Indian cuisine from a true professional.”

Brandt Design, were approached by Chef Todiwala’s project team last year and commissioned for this particular project in the interest of creating a dynamic, hardworking kitchen space that is built for learning. The 385-square foot cooking academy features a custom arrangement of contemporary Hacker Classic matt lacquer finish furniture in Comet Putty Concrete Pearl Grey and Laser Brilliant Soft White from the Urban Collection by Brandt Design, along with premium range of appliances by Gaggenau and THEWALL: an innovative

furniture system supplied by Kitchen Alchemy, which behaves like an appliance by introducing light, power and storage to bare walls.

Mr Todiwala’s Cooking Academy from Chef Cyrus Rustom Todiwala OBE, is a new incarnation of Café Spice Namaste at Royal Albert Wharf, which offers wonderful waterside views. The Academy is on the first floor above the main restaurant and has been designed for amateur and professional chefs who seek tutelage from some of the best talents in the industry, including Michelin-starred chef-restaurateurs and executive chefs.

Julia Steadman, Commercial Director at Brandt Design explains, “We were delighted to develop an eye-catching industrial-style professional kitchen for one of the UK’s most loved chefs and champions of new talent. By specifying an anti-fingerprint lacquer and easy-clean bespoke quartz surfaces from the Brandt Collection, we have ensured a robust and resilient hygienic working and teaching environment.”

www.brandtdesign.co.uk

HiB SOLSTICE MIRROR NOW AVAILABLE IN EYE-CATCHING BRUSHED BRASS FINISH

Bathroom supplier HiB has introduced a new brushed brass finish to its Solstice mirror range.

Offering a sleek and decadent feel, the brushed brass finish is now available to complement the growing collection brassware and furniture released earlier this year and is perfect for those seeking to create a lavish design expression.

Customers can now choose between a black or brushed brass finish option in the 60cm and 80cm widths, ensuring there is an option to suit bathroom of all sizes and styles.

The round shape with hanging strap is complemented by a halo of ambient backlight which creates a stunning focal point in the room, while the illuminated ring of colour temperature changing LED lighting make it ideal for everyday tasks. The Solstice mirror also benefits from internal heated pads keep the glass clear and free from condensation, for a flawless and functional bathroom centrepiece.

Ash Chilver, Sales Director at HiB says, “The new brushed brass finish for the Solstice mirrors create a unique aesthetic that is perfect for creating a stylish and luxurious feeling bathroom. Having complementing mirror, brassware and handle finishes allow homeowners to complete the look of their bathroom design, creating a cohesive style that runs through the detail in the space.”

For more information about the new brushed brass Solstice mirrors visit hib.co.uk where you can also download the latest HiB brochure.

www.hib.co.uk

SIRIUS AWARDS CROWN D.A.D AS ‘DISTRIBUTOR OF THE YEAR 2021’

Sirius Buying Group, major buying group in the electrical appliance and kitchen retail sectors is proud to award Adrian Gillman, Group Chairman of Domestic Appliances Distributors (D.A.D) with the coveted trophy of ‘Distributor of the Year 2021’.

Steve Jones, Managing Director, at Sirius says, “I am absolutely delighted to present Adrian and his company, with this award as a way to personally thank him for his team’s tireless efforts and the results it produced with us last year. D.A.D has been able to keep our Members well-supplied and well-informed during one of the most challenging periods of retail for independents nationwide.”

With over 50 years’ experience in the electrical sector with an intuitive knowledge of kitchen

retail, Adrian Gillman, Owner of D.A.D, is well-known for his friendly and proactive sales team, which serves the UK & N Ireland.

Based in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, D.A.D more than lives up to its brand promise of ‘Going the distance to deliver the goods’ thanks to its constant innovation and key focus on customer satisfaction, 24/7 online ordering, wide brand assortment, clear sales processes and dedication to the end-user.

Adrian Gillman explains, “We are extremely pleased that our work has been recognised by such a discerning Buying Group and

would like to say a big thank you to all Sirius Members. As the bridge between suppliers and retailers, we have been very proud to partner with Sirius to keep the supply chain moving. Going the extra miles is part of who we are and it is great to be recognised for our efforts.

We won’t be resting on our laurels, though, as we are fully prepared to support the industry as home improvements and renovations hot up, following the boom in the property market.”

www.siriusbuyinggroupltd.co.uk

HÄFELE UK LAUNCHES NEW CABINET DOOR RANGE

Completing its kitchen fit out offering, the Aspekt ranges comprises four different door styles - standard slab, pressed shaker, integrated J-pull and a premium slab, each offering various finishes in seven different colour options. These vary from neutral tones, including cashmere and grey, to a select number of on-trend, bolder colour palettes, including midnight and aqua blue. The collection comes with a suite of complementary end panels, corner posts, cornices, plinths and more.

Each door within the Aspekt range has been paired with a selection of perfectly suited to help installers achieve the latest in kitchen fit out designs and trends.

The UK-manufactured doors are protected by Hafele’s lifetime guarantee and come complete with a 48-hour delivery promise if ordered from the company before 3:30pm, with delivery free of charge for customers who spend over £50. Additionally, there’s no minimum order quantity required on the door range.

Customers can expect to receive their doors individually custom-packaged to prevent damage in transit and reduce waste, minimising the range’s environmental impact. Kitchen manufacturers, retailers and studio partners can help their customers visualise

how the range can be used in their space, as Häfele has added the doors to its Ideas for Living website and Kitchen Planner, a consumer-facing tool which enables users to plan their kitchen in 3D and test different design schemes in line with their ideas. A new doors brochure and product information guide, now available online.

Martin Canning, head of category at Häfele UK, said: “Our strongest proposition has always been our breadth of range. Adding doors to what we already have available is a natural next step, and this range has been specially designed around what our customers are telling us they want from us.”

He added, “We’ve thought ahead and looked at how we can help installers save time by making recommendations on how the doors marry up with some of our existing product ranges, so they’re able to help their customers keep on top of the latest trends quickly and easily. With this latest launch, we’re now able to offer our studio partners, merchants and installers all the products required, both inside and outside of the kitchen cabinet, for a complete kitchen fit out. There’s no reason for them to look elsewhere.”

www.häfele.co.uk

ROMAN’S INNOV8 RANGE, NOW ALL AVAILABLE IN MATT BLACK

The UK and Europe’s leading shower designer and manufacturer, Roman, has revealed that all its Innov8 products are now available in matt black, as well as a silver chrome finish. The Matt Black finish is sandblasted on to the aluminium for extra durability and consistency of finish.

Roman’s high-quality 8mm toughened glass, used on the Innov8 range, encompasses a stylish collection of frameless shower enclosure options. These include curved quadrants, hinged doors with in-line panel, bi-fold doors; pivot doors, sliding doors and bath screens, all of which feature chromed brass fittings throughout.

The brand launched an innovative fastfix installation mechanism last year on all of its 8mm Innov8 sliding door and curved quadrant shower enclosures with Ultra Care glass protection. The fast fix system is designed to make installation easier and quicker than ever as the frame quickly interlocks and requires just simple tightening to lock together.

The outstanding differential of this range is its low threshold capability to allow level entry access as an option for all the inward and outward opening enclosures, all without decreasing the water integrity performance of a standard shower enclosure around the shower area.

www.roman-showers.com

NEW AWARD-WINNING BROCHURE LIBRARY FOR VITRA

VitrA Bathrooms has published a new library of award-winning stylish print brochures.

Covering both the company´s Bathroom Collection and its Designer Collection, the company has produced one brochure for the end-user and the other, a complete technical guide for retailers and specifiers.

Each brochure offers an easy,

instinctive journey through the best bathroom product design with the consumer brochure being peppered with style and design recommendations, sizes, prices, and advice to help complement ideas and products.

The brochures share lifestyle imagery of VitrA’s in-house designs and also collaborations with international designers. Available in print and online,

the design of VitrA’s brochures has been recognised with an award for Best Catalogue Creative & Print Production Partnership – awarded by the Direct Commerce Association to VitrA Bathrooms and its creative agency commissioned for the project Mark-Making*

Margaret Talbot, marketing manager for VitrA in the UK and Europe, explains, "These

brochures are a step change in bathroom marketing tools, each is a detailed and inspirational bathroom guide for consumers, designers and importantly our retailers. All complemented by online formats along with a range of videos, aims to provide maximum support for anyone interested in bathrooms for themselves or their customer."

www.vitra.co.uk

GRAHAM PLUMBERS’ MERCHANT

DISCOUNT TO NHS WORKERS

Graham Plumbers’ Merchant will offer a trade discount to all blue light workers who visit its showrooms and make a purchase. The discount is part of a wider scheme launched by the Builders’ Merchant Federation to recognise the work of healthcare staff on the front line.

Graham’s trade discount can be used on all products on display from its showrooms. NHS workers will simply be required to show proof of ID.

Graham’s showrooms display a wide range of products including bathroom suites, showers, wet rooms, taps, furniture, tiles and accessories. In addition, consultants are on hand to provide advice on planning and how to choose the right products for a project.

“Our NHS workers have worked tirelessly through the pandemic and we cannot thank them enough,” commented Derek Charge, Bathroom and Showroom Marketing Manager at Graham Plumbers’ Merchant. “We are delighted to take part in this discount scheme and offer them access to a wide range of products as well as our specialist advice when it comes to updating their bathrooms.”

All of Graham’s showrooms are open and operate with clear social distancing rules to ensure the safety of all visitors and staff.

For more information about Graham Plumbers’ Merchant, please visit

www.bathroom-showrooms.co.uk

GRAHAM LAUNCHES NEW CUSTOMER REFERRAL SCHEME

Graham Plumbers’ Merchant has introduced Plumber’s Best Mate, a new trade referral scheme which rewards existing customers for introducing a ‘friend’ who opens, and then goes on to use their Graham trade account. The Plumber’s Best Mate scheme uses a threetier system where tradespeople can receive up to £500 to redeem against future orders at any Graham branch.

To take advantage of the scheme, existing customers

can refer Graham to a friend who must then register via the Plumber’s Best Mate webpage and open an account. During their application, they must provide the details of the person who referred them, using that individual’s Graham account number.

After the new customer has opened an account, they can achieve one of three reward tiers depending on their total Graham account spend during the first three months. For

those that spend £10,000 or more excluding VAT, they will be eligible for the scheme’s Gold tier. This means that the new customer and existing customer that referred them will each receive a £500 voucher to redeem on future purchases at any Graham branch.

Those who spend £5,000 or more, the scheme’s Silver tier will reward both the new and existing customer with £250 while those that spend £1,000 or more will be eligible for the

Bronze tier and each receive £100.

Chris Panting, Marketing Manager at Graham Plumbers’ Merchant commented: “Plumber’s Best Mate is an industry leading offer. By simply referring Graham to a friend, after three months our customers can receive a voucher for either £100, £250 or £500 in what is our most generous scheme yet.”

Plumber’s Best Mate is available to existing Graham customers only. Any potential new customer must not have held a Graham account for 12 months and will not be eligible for any other Graham New Account incentive after opening an account through the Plumber’s Best Mate scheme.

Please register for Graham’s Plumber’s Best Mate scheme at: www.grahamdirect.co.uk

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A company spokesperson enthused, “Fitting a kitchen has never been easier than when purchasing from Kitchen Kit, as we despatch orders within just 48 hours flat-packed or 10 day rigid. We are known for our quality of manufacture and on-trend ranges but the growth in our brand appears to be coming from the reliability of our service, not to mention our

WORKWEAR COLLABORATION TO BENEFIT MEMBERS

Three years ago, a chance meeting at a trade show between BiKBBI Chief Executive, Damian Walters and Image On Directors, Neill Boatman and Dan Smith, began a relationship which was to develop and grow to where we are today and the launch of the all new ‘BiKBBI Workwear Store’.

The early relationship has been one of education and development as a partnership and now as we enter the second half of 2021 we can accelerate the collaboration developing to a point where we have an exciting portfolio to offer BiKBBI members and meet their requirements for quality, cost-effective workwear.

Founded in 2003, Image On is an established customer-focused supplier based in Rainham, Essex. Services include, Embroidery, Print, Digital Print, PPE and more recently Signage, Banners, Vehicle Graphics and more.

Neill Boatman comments, “Our passion is using our combined experience and knowledge to educate and advise on brand visibility to ensure that our customers, are getting the most from their investment in this area of their business.”

Dan added, “The relationship with the BiKBBI is one that we are incredibly excited to develop and will see more products, solutions, and benefits for members as we move forward.”

The dedicated online store offers numerous products from individual items to well thought out bundles that enable making purchasing quick, easy, and of course, great value for money.

Image On works with key brands that are renown for both quality and reliability, resulting in the Directors having full confidence in the standard of its products.

The company works closely with each supplier to keep pace with the ever changing workwear market and to identify new and improved products for its customers.

As part of its commitment to working with the BiKBBI, Image On is looking forward to hosting a regular feature in The Installer Magazine to share specialist advice on branding for installation and other related businesses business.

For all workwear enquiries, please contact: www.imageonworkwear.com

Neill Boatman and Dan Smith, Directors, Image On

THE STORM IS COMING

AQUASTORM, Aqualisa’s new state-of-the-art training vehicle will be touring the UK – accelerating smart shower training for installers and partners. a better shower

To book a visit or find out more about smart showers email training@aqualisa.co.uk or check out the Aqualisa Smart Hub. www.aqualisa.co.uk/smarthub

AQUALISA ´STORMING AHEAD´ WITH SMART SHOWER SUPPORT

Smart digital shower specialist Aqualisa, has announced a comprehensive education and training initiative to support trade partners in communicating the advantages of smart showering. The programme includes the launch of ‘Aquastorm’, the company’s brand new mobile training showroom, and ‘Smart Hub’, a dynamic online portal hosting a wealth of information, insights and advice on the benefits of smart showers for the consumer, installer and specifier communities.

As a pioneer in the category, Aqualisa considers itself at the forefront of smart shower technology and It has recently launched a range named the Aqualisa Quartz Collection, which the company feel has elevated smart shower functionality to the next level by bringing advanced personalisation with water and cost-saving features to showering for the first time.

The advantages of smart showers will be clearly exhibited inside the new Aquastorm training truck, which is fitted with fully working products including the top-of-the-range Aqualisa Quartz Touch shower. The truck is equipped with Google and Amazon Alexa activation, and a demonstration area with LED screen which has been designed to seat multiple customers and installers.

Trade

Designed to be an authority on, and a destination for smart shower information, the Aqualisa Smart Hub is a comprehensive online knowledge centre covering all aspects of the technology, from the wellbeing, safety and eco-friendly benefits to step-by-step installation processes and technical product specifications. This dynamic portal includes extensive multimedia content to grow awareness and engagement, and is fully optimised for mobile and desktop. The site will be continually refreshed with new content and the latest product information and trends, which will be available for trade partners to repurpose within their own marketing campaigns.

Tim Creedon, sales director at Aqualisa, commented, “With demand for smart home products rising at a rapid pace, smart showering is now considered one of the fastest-growing categories. Smart Hub and Aquastorm are just two initiatives that demonstrate our long-term commitment to smart technology, and to supporting our valued trade partners as they increase their engagement in this market.”

www.aqualisa.co.uk/smarthub

partners can book a mobile training session through the Aqualisa Smart Hub. The Aquastorm roadshow tour schedule will also be published on the Smart Hub platform, with regular updates.

‘DON’T HESITATE, REJUVENATE’

‘Don’t hesitate, rejuvenate’ is the latest business advice from leading KBB recruitment specialists, Foyne Jones.

As businesses up and down the land weigh up their short, medium and long term plans in the wake of Covid and Brexit, Peter Jones, Managing Director at Foyne Jones explains, “Managing and retaining talent is just as important as recruitment, so I urge employers to devote time and energy to optimising their existing workforce. With this in mind, make sure you fully communicate all the opportunities available in the future to your staff and do not short-change your business with hasty, knee-jerk decisions.

As the government begins to lay out plans to ‘build back better’, we all have a part to play in making traditional trades an attractive career path for school leavers and career changers.

job hunters, a key reason why they want a new role, outside of a recession, is that they felt they had to move on to pursue their career goals. It’s true that recruiting is a big investment, which is why we are always keen to assist with hiring decisions so that you have the best pool of candidates to choose from, but you also need to actively nurture your own talent and encourage progression to grow your profits as well as your people.

Looking to the future, the UK has a falling birth rate, so we need to support an ageing population as fewer people come into the workforce and people will tend to work longer. The average age of the UK worker is 42 with retirement age now 66. It makes sense to look to the needs of the ‘sandwich generation’ who are often mid-lifers supporting their parents and other older relatives as well as caring for their own children, who may well end up living with them for longer in a

The construction industry contributes 7% of the UK’s GDP, which might not sound much in comparison with our services industry which brings in 80%, but we should be proud that the building and interiors market underpins every structure in this country.

The customer journey is everything in trade and retail, but I invite you to consider the journey that your employees can go on with you. When I speak to

multigenerational household.”

Need some help navigating the future of work and creating the next generation of leaders? Speak to the Foyne Jones team about tailored consultancy packages to help your business go to the next level in lockdown and beyond.

www.foynejones.com

As the government begins to lay out plans to ‘build back better’, we all have a part to play in making traditional trades an attractive career path for school leavers and career changers.

Peter Jones, Managing Director, Foyne Jones

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STUNNING MID-CENTURY COLOURS ADDED TO PLURAL BATHROOM COLLECTION

Turning bathrooms into a social hub is the design philosophy behind Plural – a distinctive collection of midcentury inspired furniture, with complimentary designer basins and WC.

In addition to White, Matt White, Matt Taupe, Matt Mink, and Matt Black, the monoblock basins, vanity basins, and bowls are

now available in Matt Clay Beige, Matt Moss Green and Matt Terra Rossa.

Conceived by Milan-based American designer Terri Pecora, in collaboration with Design Studio VitrA, The Plural collection is inspired by the heritage of communal bathing spaces and rituals. Plural introduces the bathroom as a space for shared

intimacy where people meet and reconnect with themselves, close friends and family.

Terri Pecora explains the concept: Plural consists of a group of elements that are meant to be used together or separately and almost be in any home area. The colour palette and texture featured in the collection are not normally associated with a bathroom environment. Plural is very furniture orientated and aims at making the bathroom a versatile living space where one can spend time at their leisure.

Plural's design highlights include three innovative and technologically advanced waste solutions that conceal the untidy look of pipes, enabling washbasins to be fitted in any part of the room. Plural washbasins can be positioned away from the wall, even in the centre of the room, allowing for complete design freedom. The wall-hung vertical mirror swings from side to side, allowing different people to use it. The striking Plural basins and vanity basins can be used without Plural furniture to create standout pieces.

Margaret Talbot, UK and European Regional Marketing Manager for VitrA, explains, "Plural offers something unique in the market, in that it encourages people to see the bathroom as a social space. The new colours and finishes complement the furniture in the range beautifully. The updated Plural offer unlocks some fabulous design possibilities."

www.vitra.co.uk

"Plural offers something unique in the market, in that it encourages people to see the bathroom as a social space. The new colours and finishes complement the furniture in the range beautifully. The updated Plural offer unlocks some fabulous design possibilities."

TOOLS

SELLING THE PACKAGE

As demand for home improvements continues, Natalie Davenport, Head of Marketing at Häfele UK looks at how installers can secure more work by selling a vision to their customer and delivering on every aspect.

When a customer is choosing their kitchen, bedroom or bathroom, you can bet they’ve got a picture of their perfect design in mind. As a tradesperson, it’s easy to overlook that dream, instead focusing on, quite literally, the nuts and bolts of a job. But helping your client bring this vision to life, can equal more work and a happier customer.

Increasingly, homeowners want ideas and suggestions from tradespeople and while some may have that natural interior design flair or reams of experience that they can call upon, manufacturers appreciate it’s a skill set that not everyone has. That’s why suppliers can support with a wealth of tools to help installers with on-trend ideas and product combinations that will win over clients, as well as generate new income streams.

█ A new aspect

Rather than thinking about each product individually, installers should consider how things work together to create a look or feel for their client’s home. As part of our newest product range, Aspekt, Häfele is doing just that. Aspekt is a collection of UK manufactured cabinet doors that completes our kitchen fit-out offer. In the range, there are four different door styles in standard slab, pressed shaker, integrated J-pull and a premium slab.

To make it easy for installers to provide a style their client will love, there are various finishes in seven different colour options. These vary

from neutral tones, including cashmere and grey, to a select number of on-trend, bolder colour palettes that homeowners are increasingly wanting, including midnight and aqua blue. Customers can also mix and match between styles if they just want a splash of colour in their cabinetry, perhaps to highlight a feature unit or island for example.

Helping installers think about the bigger picture and achieve the latest in kitchen fit-out designs and trends, each door within the Aspekt range has been paired with a selection of perfectly suited handles.

The smooth classic Skye door, for example, can be matched with a rail handle in a brushed black finish for an

industrial look, or customers can mix a matt door finish with a metallic handle for a contemporary design. The traditional shaker styling of the York door can also be dialled up or down by pairing different handle combinations. Use a cup handle in polished nickel for an old-world finish or a more contemporary, angular look with a geometric bar design.

With endless combinations available, installers can point their customers to Häfele’s Ideas for Living website and Kitchen Planner tool where different door and handle combinations can be explored in 3D and different design schemes tested in line with their ideas.

Natalie Davenport, Head of Marketing, Häfele UK

"A wealth of tools to help installers with on-trend ideas and product combinations that will win over clients"

█ Get the look

To help installers think like interior designers, Häfele has also created a comprehensive brochure for the Aspekt range that includes simple and effective ways to style different cabinetry and accessories for a range of looks. Ultragloss doors, for example, can be placed alongside retro colour splashbacks for a mid-century finish or paired with muted natural tones for a calming vibe. And in great news for installers, these rich, block colour splashbacks are easy to install and do not require specialist skills or tools to fit.

While traditionally, splashbacks might require a tiler or carpenter, aluminiumbased splashbacks provide another option. Available exclusively through Häfele in the UK, AluSplash is a practical, hassle-free alternative to glass, acrylic and tiled splashbacks. Simple and straightforward, AluSplash can be installed with readily available tools and without specialist experience. This makes it a great, value-added offer to the customer and an easy extra profit stream for trades.

AluSplash is available in three pre-cut sizes, including up to 3050mm lengths.

Innovatively designed, it allows fitters to v-groove and fold around corners without joints and cut holes for sockets with ease. Häfele also offers an installation kit that includes everything needed alongside a standard fitter's toolkit and a series of YouTube videos that give step-by-step instructions from preparation to finish.

As well as being easy to fit, the product is constructed from a flame-resistant aluminium surface with a fire-resistant mineral core, meaning AluSplash can be used behind all cooktops, including gas burners.

█ Sparking ideas

Within the Häfele Aspekt brochure, installers will also find hints and tips on how to incorporate lighting into kitchen design to make it an attractive and workable space. Although lighting might not be the first thing that springs to your or your customer’s mind when planning a kitchen, when we asked consumers about what they’d do differently if designing their kitchen again, 88% said lighting would be up there.

Well-thought-out lighting can calm, motivate, inspire and even enliven our mood, as well as really enhance a design.

While lighting alone illuminates a space, combining different lighting techniques – in a practice called layering – can help installers achieve more for customers. Accent lighting highlights specific features within a room for example, while spotlights focus the eyes on a specific area, highlighting interesting objects or acting as pathfinders. Task lighting – often in strip form – is ideal for food preparation areas or if a kitchen is used as a home office, for work areas too. Meanwhile, ambient lighting helps achieve a specific mood and can make a space feel bigger or cosier.

It's also important to think about different cabinetry styles and lighting combinations. Polished chrome pendant lighting can make a traditional style kitchen feel elegant and understated. Or placed above an island, it creates drama and a focal point of a space. Meanwhile, subtle ribbon lighting on plinths really sets off a streamlined linear kitchen and creates a slick, hi-tech feel.

Adding to this futuristic aesthetic, concealed switches can be installed into wood, glass or stone so they are totally hidden from view for a minimalist finish. Additionally, lighting systems can combine with sound systems or include charging points for a fully integrated approach.

Smart LED lighting systems can also be controlled via apps or wireless switches giving the user full command over all aspects of their lighting. They also allow customers to set their own colours and brightness of the lighting in their room for a truly personalised experience that’s activated at the touch of a button.

█ Supporting lighting design

While lighting may feel like a specialist area that’s out of the typical installer’s remit, thanks to that latest plugand-play lighting technology, it isn’t actually the case.

For example, Loox by Häfele is a modular plug and play LED lighting system that doesn’t need an expert electrician to fit. Easy to integrate into a wide range of furniture designs, it can be used anywhere from under cabinets and worktops, to within drawers and cupboard interiors.

Designed for simplicity, Loox can be combined with the Häfele Lighting Design Service, giving direct support from a lighting expert, and products can be supplied cut to size,

assembled, tested and packaged to the installer’s needs through Häfele to Order. Combined, these services make Loox one of the easiest and quickest lighting systems to fit in the market, and a straightforward way to add a new string to the installer’s bow.

By maximising the product and service range available from manufacturers and suppliers, installers can take their offer to the next level, with additional services and new ways to add value to their client’s projects. While a fitter doesn’t have to be the next Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, with the right tools and resources, it’s easy to help create and bring a vision to life.

www.hafele.co.uk

"While lighting alone illuminates a space, combining different lighting techniques, in a practice called layering, can help installers achieve more for customers."

WORKTOP EXPRESS LAUNCHES MORE FENIX NTM® COLOURS

Worktop Express, online supplier of kitchen worktops has added five more cutting-edge colours into its FENIX NTM, highly contemporary worktop range.

Customers can choose from eye-catching worktops like Blu Fes and Verde Comodoro or elegant and refined colours like Beige Arizona and Grigio Londra. Titanio Doha with its unique but subtle flecks of colour completes this range.

All five colours deliver low light reflectivity resulting in ultra-matt aesthetics and are available in a contemporary 12mm profile and a standard 39mm thickness, giving customers even more choice when selecting the perfect worktops to suit their individual tastes and style.

FENIX NTM is made using a proprietary technology that creates a surface which is soft to the touch and anti-fingerprint, providing a luxurious kitchen centrepiece with a premium feel which only requires simple everyday care.

Beige Arizona

Blue Fes

Grigio Londra

Titanio Doha

Verde Comodoro

To complete what appears as a genuine seamless looking kitchen to onlookers, a selection of beautifully designed colour-matched sinks and accessories are also available, ensuring Worktop Express customers have all the products they need to complete their desired style.

These five new FENIX NTM colours are added to five existing colours and perfectly complement this already established and hugely popular worktop collection.

FENIX NTM is made using a proprietary technology that creates a surface which is soft to the touch and anti-fingerprint, providing a luxurious kitchen centrepiece with a premium feel which only requires simple everyday care. FENIX NTM worktops also have cutting-edge thermal-healing properties, which allow customers to easily repair superficial micro-scratches using everyday household items, making it perfect for those who want a statement worktop that's userfriendly.

NTM is available in a slimline 12mm profile and completely solid construction called Solid FENIX NTM. These worktops have all the benefits of this innovative material, as well as being waterproof. Solid FENIX NTM worktops have unbeatable durability with high resistance to heat, impact and abrasion. They are also

fully customisable, giving customers complete control over the aesthetics and functionality of their kitchen worktops. Worktop Express is so confident; they offer a 10-year warranty on Solid FENIX NTM worktops.

Worktop Express also offers the same range of colours and ultra-matt aesthetic in a 39mm profile. Known as Bonded FENIX NTM, it is a more cost-effective way to get all the benefits of a FENIX NTM worktop in their home, supported by a 3-year warranty.

Customers can complete the sleek, minimalist design with unique colour-matched sinks which are available in a special matt-composite material and complementing accessories, including splashbacks and upstands.

Visit our website to view the whole range of worktops, sinks and accessories or order a FENIX NTM sample pack and can order online at the website below.

Find out how easy it is to upgrade kitchen worktops with the UK's leading online supplier by visiting our website and view the whole range of worktops, sinks and accessories.

www.worktop-express.co.uk/fenixntm

FENIX NTM worktops also have cuttingedge thermalhealing properties, which allow customers to easily repair superficial micro-scratches using everyday household items, making it perfect for those who want a statement worktop that's user-friendly.

Houzz Inc. has announced an exciting collaboration with Dulux Trade to embed its colour portfolio in new visualisation tools within Houzz Pro, the all-in-one business management and marketing solution for residential construction and design professionals. As part of this engagement, Dulux Trade will provide paint colours for the Houzz Pro 3D Floor Planner and Mood Board tools.

“Our Houzz Pro visualisation tools were developed to help design and construction professionals communicate their ideas and align with their clients on important project decisions early in the process,” said Alon Cohen, Houzz cofounder and president. “Colour helps homeowners to envisage how a space will look and feel post-renovation and feel confident about moving forward with a project. We are excited to provide pros with a premium selection of paint colours through this collaboration with Dulux Trade.”

“We are so pleased to be collaborating with Houzz Pro on their new visualisation tools,”

EXCITING COLLABORATION BETWEEN HOUZZ AND DULUX TRADE

said Karen Wilkinson, Dulux Trade Lead. “It’s so important for professionals to have every tool at their disposal to ensure a smooth design process for their clients, and colour selection is a key place where homeowners and professionals can really benefit from being able to visualise the end result. By embedding our extensive colour range, designers will be able to bring their customers along on the journey, and really bring their projects to life.”

The Houzz Pro 3D Floor Planner allows professionals to create accurate 3D interior schematics which can be presented in walkthrough or dollhouse views to give clients a realistic preview of the finished project. They can enter specific wall dimensions

and ceiling heights, and resize windows, doors and furniture to match product selections. Floor finishes can also be customised to include a variety of tile, wood flooring and carpet options.

Houzz Pro Mood Boards are now available for designers and other professionals to showcase a project’s look and feel through products, colours and inspiration photos. Products can be uploaded from a computer or added through the Houzz Pro Product Clipper, which captures and stores product images and information from any website where pros source products. Pros can edit product images within each mood board, including removing backgrounds, layering products on top of each other, and presenting the room

with a 3D perspective to offer a comprehensive look at the space. Floor plans made with the Houzz Pro 3D Floor Planner can be added to any mood board and will automatically update in the mood board when they are edited in the Floor Planner tool.

Houzz Pro enables tradespeople to choose from thousands of Dulux Trade colours to customise 3D model walls and place paint swatches in a mood board. Once a 3D floor plan or mood board is approved, its easy to click on the paint swatch to order the exact paint colour from the Dulux Trade website or a decorator merchant stockist nationwide.

The 3D Floor Planner and Mood Board tools are completely

integrated within Houzz Pro, making it the only platform that seamlessly addresses key business needs across the entire project lifecycle from marketing to management. Combining all of these tools in one place streamlines processes for designers, builders and other professionals, so they can grow and run a more efficient, profitable business from their office or on the go with the Houzz Pro app. Houzz Pro subscription packages, priced to fit any budget or team, also include premium profile features, website building services, and lead and business management tools. Free trials are available at:

www.houzz.co.uk/pro

Keely

Surfaces continue to be one of the most popular ways to add character to a new bathroom or refresh a tired and dated space. More recently, the mid to premium end of the sector has particularly flourished as consumers seek out high-quality, longlasting materials to add a luxury finish to their very own at-home wellness sanctuary.

Currently, the three key looks most highly sought after in the bathroom are timber, industrialism and marble styles. For those

projects seeking a natural aesthetic, wood effects are all about a sense of bringing the outside in and restoring a feeling of wellbeing. Biophilia, or a tendency to connect with nature, has become the buzzword of recent times, as consumers look to ground themselves with the family, with their home and their health. The industrial trend meanwhile, is a mix of the raw and refined; vintage and modern, unfinished and sleek. And as for marble, it´s cool, serene finish with undulating veined detail is the epitome of luxurious bathroom design. This desire for greater personalisation and individual style choices in the bathroom, along with the wish

for a more hygienic solution has resulted in laminate bathroom panels coming to the fore: an easy to clean and simple to fit alternative to tiles that enables installers to create sophisticated and styles bathroom spaces with a premium feel.

◊

Advantages of bathroom panels

Bathroom panels can offer more choice in terms of variety and décor than tiles, with the most innovative, advanced solutions such as Mermaid Panels’ Elite range providing the added advantage of post-formed edges. This intricate design

Greenhalgh, National Sales Manager at Mermaid Panels, tells us more…

'Bathroom panels can offer more choice in terms of variety and décor than tiles, with the most innovative, advanced solutions such as Mermaid Panels’ Elite range providing the added advantage of post-formed edges.'

detail creates a seamless finish that doesn’t require any trisms, making it easier to keep hygienically clean. This in turn makes bathroom panels ideal for shower cladding, bath surrounds, splashbacks and feature areas in family bathrooms, wet rooms and en-suites. Mermaid’s Elite panels are manufactured with a waterproof core and post-formed edges, which creates a beautiful design feature out of external corners whilst eliminating the need for grouting, which is notorious for discolouration over time and requires lots of maintenance to keep clean. Designs in wood effects, marble styles, terrazzo trends and concrete imitations enable homeowners to emulate on-trend materials and finishes without the high maintenance, price tag and installation issues to match. There are also acrylic patterns and prints as well as composite waterproof panels that can provide the look of a metro tile with an easy-clean finish that avoids the need for grouting.

◊ Benefits for consumers

Bathroom panels provide many advantages for the consumer and they are becoming an increasingly considered option for specification in new build bathroom projects due to the superior benefits they can provide over other surface options in the bathroom and shower area.

Firstly, moisture and humidity doesn’t affect acrylic, glass or composite bathroom panels so there’s no need for homeowners to worry about mildew or mould ruining their new bathroom space. Meanwhile, the long-lasting, durable properties of laminate panels are, in fact, even better than the real raw materials when it comes to practicality and they are far more cost-effective too.

◊ Ease for installers

Bathroom panels are gaining increasing interest from the installer community thanks to their simple and hassle-free installation process. Not only are they quicker and more efficient to install than tiles but they don’t require a specialist to fit them either, which can really help to speed up the installation process of a project. The panels themselves can be cut down and adjusted to suit the project on site and can be fitted over virtually any surface. Versatile, flexible and available in a wide range of styles and colours coupled with the benefits of cost, installation and hygiene, could bathroom panels be the solution to triumph over tiles? www.mermaidpanels.co.uk

Enjoy cleaner, healthier, better tasting water with the Vital Capsule Filter System. The easy change filter removes 99.9% of bacteria, 99% of viruses, 99% of microplastics, plus rust, sediments and other small particles.

Vital also helps reduce single use plastics and can save the cost of buying bottled water. Offering a choice of designs and colours plus an additional chiller option, the Vital Capsule Filter System is clearly like nothing else.

FRANKE’S NEW CENTRO SINK MEETS TREND FOR LARGE BOWLS

Franke’s new contemporary style Centro CNG 611-78 XL Fragranite inset sink responds to the trend towards larger single bowls favoured by some consumers. It is available with a bundle of optional accessories for chopping, straining and draining, all designed to enhance everyday kitchen ergonomics.

Centro combines a capacious 492mm x 435mm bowl size with ample room for washing bulkier items and carrying out food preparation tasks by using the optional accessories of synthetic strainer bowl and bamboo chopping board which sit neatly on the sink and compact drainer area. Conveniently, Franke’s existing stainless steel synthetic Sanitised® mobile drainer is also compatible with the Centro sink and can be used to easily extend the draining area.

This new Centro inset sink is reversible and available in six stylish shades of Stone Grey (pictured), Matt Black, Polar White, Coffee, Oyster and Onyx. Featuring a hygienic overflow offering versatility for cleaning and supported by a 50-year warranty, it is designed to fit a 600mm cabinet and measures 780mmL x 500mmW x 200mmD overall.

As with all Fragranite models, the Centro sink is made from 80% quartz and 20% acrylic resin and is treated with the world-leading Sanitized® hygiene technology, which reduces bacteria and microbe growth by 99% for a more hygienic finish. Easy to clean and hardy too as it´s resistant to burns, dents, chips and stains, this tactile material is warm to the touch.

www.franke.co.uk

"As with all Fragranite models, the Centro sink is made from 80% quartz and 20% acrylic resin and is treated with the world-leading Sanitized® hygiene technology, which reduces bacteria and microbe growth by 99% for a more hygienic finish."

Franke’s Centro CNG 611-78 XL Fragranite inset sink in

"Sustainable development has been, and continues to be, a focal point for PORCELANOSA Group."

SUSTAINABLE BATHROOM AND KITCHEN PRODUCTS

WITH PORCELANOSA

Sustainable development has been, and continues to be, a focal point for PORCELANOSA Group.

The Group is committed to creating products and systems which minimise the consumption of natural resources and are environmentally friendly, whilst maintaining the aesthetics and functionality that have come to be synonymous with PORCELANOSA.

These actions include reducing air emissions, recycling generated waste and promoting the equitable and controlled use of water resources.

To meet the sustainable development goals, the group has created ECO, a management model that reinforces responsible production and consumption.

Many of the products manufactured by PORCELANOSA have distinct ecological features and benefits.

In terms of surfaces, there’s FOREST by PARKER® flooring made up of over 95% recycled materials, as well as kitchen and bathroom worktops with KRION® K.Life, which helps to purify the air around it.

FOREST produces up to 40% less CO2 when compared to similar materials manufactured through conventional means.

PORCELANOSA also offers taps with aerators, double-flush system toilets, with which you can save up to 89% of water. The building envelope is also kept in mind, with ventilated façade systems that reduce air conditioning costs and allow you to save more than 30% on energy bills.

The development of KRION Shell®, a material used in the manufacturing of bathroom

equipment, arose from the commitment to developing sustainable, durable products and systems that encapsulate the circular economy.

KRION Shell® combines sustainability, functionality and design all in one. It is an engineered mineral composite consisting of two parts: a structural inner core and a solid uniform outer surface made of mineral materials and resins.

At least 5% of the total composition KRION Shell® is made up of waste plastic, with most of the inner core made using dolomite, an abundant material. To bind the materials, an eco-friendly resin is used made of waste plastic. By using recycled PET plastics, waste materials are given a new life using a circular economy approach.

PORCELANOSA Group has also developed r eco – the first adhesive additive for ceramic tile installation that is made of 100% recycled plastic materials. R eco includes 250 grams of postconsumer recycled plastic, equivalent to 50 supermarket bags. If all PORCELANOSA ceramic tiles were installed using r eco, it would reduce annual quantities of plastic poured into the ocean by 800 MT / year.

Furthermore, 33% of all consumed energy is internally generated by the company’s cogeneration plant. What’s more, the hot air generated by the plant is used to dry the slip and to obtain spray-dried powder for use in the tile pressing process. The Spanish National Energy Commission certifies the energy from PORCELANOSA’s high-efficiency cogeneration plant as being green energy.

Find out more about PORCELANOSA’s sustainability initiatives here:

Porcelanosa-sustainability

"By using recycled PET plastics, waste materials are given a new life using a circular economy approach."

TAKING A LOOK AT FREE STANDING BATHS

It´s been a while since we´ve discussed freestanding bath at The Installer so we thought we would have a brief word with James Stevenson, Creative Director at Imperial Bathrooms who is a company that specialises in the design and manufacture of classic British-made bathroom products.

James said, “A Freestanding bath can be the cornerstone of any classic bathroom design scheme, as it not only adds grandeur, but it also elevates a bathroom to new heights by giving a hard-toemulate interior style that you could find in a 5* boutique hotel or luxury spa.

In fact, stand-alone bath tubs are now in high demand with the past year encouraging more qualitative home environments, and this has placed huge

focus on the bathroom as the space to relax and unwind. A freestanding bath is inevitably the star of any bathroom space, able to command attention and undeniably enhance your quality of life. Creating a sanctuary to take time out of your day for some much-needed pampering, this style of tub promises to deliver a statement focal point that will define your décor and instantly exude luxury.”

Imperial Bathrooms includes a series of authentically styled bath tubs, which are available in a range of different styles, finishes and configurations: Slipper, Double-ended, Freestanding or Built-in design and a choice to bathe by material, with a choice of cast Iron or composite.

www.imperialbathroom.com

COUNTRYSIDE COTTAGE REDEFINED WITH GIRA SOLUTIONS

Gira, has brought the very latest in technology to a luxurious and sustainable ´cottage´ in the Hampshire countryside which has been designed by Spanish architectural practice, AMPS Arquitectura & Diseño.

Set in the beautiful landscape of East Hampshire, this new smart home in the village of Bentworth is designed with modern familyliving in mind, which is brought to life with a range of premium Gira products.

The team at AMPS Arquitectura

& Diseño designed and built a modern summer house for guests and friends to enjoy next to an existing farmhouse, creating a state-of-the-art property with a pitched roof, black timber cladding and a light and airy glass interior. Known as The Friends Lab House, the exterior is inspired by the simplicity of traditional barn architecture and stable blocks, while the interior is a minimalist, open-plan living environment.

A spokesperson for Gira UK said, "It´s great to be part

of this exciting project as it demonstrates how our practical and intuitive systems can be easily adapted to suit every household as a family's needs change, year by year, by virtue of our modular and futureproof approach. As more and more people enjoy the benefits of smart home technology, they can enjoy greater energy efficiency and control of their environments all year around, ensuring that everything from home security and heating to lighting can be controlled remotely or at the touch of a

The Friends Lab is the ideal location to unwind in one of Britain's most picturesque counties, with rolling countryside, National Parks and an impressive coastline. 

button. Sensor technology is also becoming increasingly integrated into high-end developments so that presence can be detected instantly to initiate lighting scenes quickly, easily and touchfree - an important consideration in a multi-user environment when heightened home hygiene is increasingly under the spotlight."

Ensuring this rustic retreat enjoys the most up-to-date family-friendly technology, Gira has supplied the following intelligent solutions:

Gira G1

A compact, intelligent central control unit for the KNX system which operates all of the featured building technology in the Friends Lab. This includes the control and management of lighting, blinds, climate and heating. The Gira G1 device includes an elegant user-friendly exterior which is designed with an impressive interface: so it not only looks attractive, it is also very simple to use. The highresolution multi-touch display allows all functions to be intuitively operated with a touch or gesture just like you would with a smartphone or tablet.

Gira E2 Design Line

Everyone can manage all the systems in the summer house, by using the remote Gira App or via the Gira E2 Design Line, which complements the contemporary interior design with its Pure White Glossy colourway and minimalist aesthetic.

Gira KNX Pushbutton Sensor 3

The latest sensor technology controls lighting and blinds and ensures room temperature can always be comfortable. Guests in the Friends Lab can also use it to create the ideal ambience for a cosy dinner or movie night with mood scenes consisting of light, blinds and music.

Gira HomeServer

The on-board computer for the smart home, this is the intelligent mind of the Friends Lab which efficiently connect a vast range of technologies and functions – from lighting, blinds, heating and climate technology to ventilation, security and entertainment systems. The functions and connection possibilities are virtually limitless, and can be adjusted at any time to suit the owner's needs and lifestyle. A comprehensive security solution – implemented through the connection of external cameras and alarm systems – is just one example of what can be done.

The Friends Lab is the ideal location to unwind in one of Britain's most picturesque counties, with rolling countryside, National Parks and an impressive coastline. The house is clad in pre-fabricated cross-laminated timber with black-coated Accoya wood on the exterior and the roof. With floor-to-ceiling windows and a large open living room which extends to the south, the occupants can enjoy the view from every angle, as the pure and simple building design sits harmoniously within the landscape. www.gira.com

Mira Showers’ Mira Activate comprises the latest digital technology for smart bathrooms and allows consumers to bring technology into the bathroom whilst offering installers easy installation. Plus, following the launch of Mira’s exclusive InstallerPRO programme, there are even more advantages to installing the Activate range.

Available in single and dual outlets, the Mira Activate is designed for new installations

as well as to specifically retrofit the Aqualisa Quartz, for easy, familiar installation but with a superior kit. Thanks to this direct retrofit design, the range is engineered specifically for easy installation and is simpler to fit than many other showers on the market. There’s minimal pipework alteration required –which means no new holes or new tiles and with the three-pin plug it really is a case of ‘plug and play’.

The ceiling-fed fittings kit comes pre-assembled and has two 

Engineered specifically for easy installation and is simpler to fit than many other showers on the market. There’s minimal pipework alteration required – which means no new holes or new tiles and with the three-pin plug it really is a case of ‘plug and play’.

Bathrooms

digital valve platforms suitable for both high and low pressure systems, designed to make installers’ lives as easy as possible.

Installers will also receive additional benefits when fitting the Mira Activate range through Mira’s InstallerPRO programme, including double points. Mira Activate is complete with all the usual features that give Mira its outstanding reputation for

great showering experiences. A number of exciting new additions, including a stylish digital display and controller linked to app technology, create a personalised showering experience with up to ten customisable shower pre-sets, as well as the opportunity to create your own.

Additionally, using digital showering technology provides wider benefits such as being

more eco-friendly, and has sustainable advantages. Just as technology throughout the home allows consumers to monitor energy use through a smart meter or app-enabled home thermostat, Mira Activate allows for the monitoring and control of water temperature and flow through the Mira Showers app.

The Mira Activate also boasts an attractive modern design with a luxury 250mm

overhead, an award winning 4 spray Switch handset and a high-quality chrome plated finish. Additionally, controller bezel accessories are available to purchase separately in matt black, brushed nickel and titanium finishes, with a wireless remote-control accessory also available (purchased separately) to suit different bathroom styles.

www.mirashowers.co.uk

A stylish digital display and controller linked to app technology, create a personalised showering experience with up to ten customisable shower presets, as well as the opportunity to create your own.

The new Gira blind timer and timer Display not only controls the incidence of light, automatically stores travel times and make adjustments dynamically by means of astro function, it also saves energy and offers more space for the wiring.

As one of many Gira System 3000 top units, when it comes to comfort, it puts everything else in the

Light. Shade.

Gira / Smart Home / Blinds

QUIZ: SPOT THE FAULTS ...

It’s the details that can make the difference. Here are ten photographs from a recent kitchen inspection I was asked to carry out. Can you work out what the fault is in each image? Answers at the bottom of the page:

Renouf Furniture and Floorcoverings Consultant

Richard is a consultant member of the Contract Flooring Association, a member of the UK Register of Expert Witnesses and a provisional member of the Expert Witness Institute.

For more information please visit: www.richard-renouf.com

1. A rough screw hole. Easily avoided by using a countersink or a self-countersinking screw. But this problem can also be caused by removing screws, so make sure you do things right first time! 2. The worktop does not overlap the sink so water is catching – and mould is growing – along the sink edge. 3. Very poor worktop joint. Not helped by being very close to the wall with little room for the connecting bolts. 4. Grout has not been cleaned up properly in the corner. 5. Silicone should be neat and kept to a minimum. A colour-matched sealant would look better. 6. This tile is loose. The installer has not considered the void in the wall which should have been repaired before the tiling was done. 7. The floor tiles should overlap the face tiles on the step to help to avoid chipping. 8. The tap doesn’t open fully. This should have been thought through before the worktop was cut. 9. The waste has no securing clip and has the potential to come off under pressure. 10. The simple screw fixings do not allow for the natural movement that will occur in the solid worktop.

Richard

Shown: Geometry High Rise Splashback with Omega Venetian Marble worktop

Alloy by Bushboard splashback panels in Dappled Crackle Tile

SPLASHBACK

Alloy by Bushboard is being hailed as the new must-have kitchen splashback solution following its explosive launch in June, which saw more than 500 stockists including independent retailers and a selection of merchants place displays in their stores in the product’s launch month alone, with continued uptake and popularity expected to continue for the coming months.

The one-of-a-kind splashback solution by surfaces industry leader Bushboard, is a collection of 100% fire-safe and heat-proof aluminium splashback panels, available in twelve unique and decorative designs. Alloy’s splashback panels are a no-fuss, on trend alternative to tiles that are fire retardant, waterproof, scratch resistant and easy to fit and are proving to be a popular choice with consumers and installers alike.

The company sate that what sets Alloy apart, is its flexibility of application, offering three different panel sizes that can be used throughout the kitchen, from singular hob panels that offer a more stylish alternative to an aluminium upstand through to high-rise panels that can span the entire width of the kitchen wall-to-wall for a completely uninterrupted design.

With fire-proof and heat-proof aluminium composition that meets European standards for fire safety in the home, Alloy can achieve what many other

decorative materials such as wood and acrylic cannot: it can be safely placed directly behind the kitchen sink and even behind the hob and ‘hot zone’ with no additional safety measures needed. With many other standard decorative wall surfaces which do not offer heat- or fire- retardant qualities, a glass cover or aluminium upstand is required in areas where cooking takes place. As the kitchen transitions into becoming a “lived-in” space rather than purely a functional area, consumers are turning towards more design-led surfaces and features in their kitchens and shying away from practical features that are less aesthetically pleasing. Alloy combines safety and style into one convenient solution so that neither has to be compromised.

Tiles have long been the nation’s go to splashback surface solution due to their diverse range of colours, patterns and designs. However, tiling is a lengthy process for kitchen fitters and installers, and the hefty maintenance involved in preserving grout is a real pain point for consumers, and so there has long been demand for a fuss-free alternative. Alloy

splashback panels offer an easy-fit solution in a unique and eclectic range of decors that is suitable across contract, residential, commercial, and other kitchen project applications.

Straightforward to install and maintain, Alloy allows for various installation methods to ensure the desired look is achieved, whether it’s installing an on-trend look with a hob panel only for a quick kitchen transformation that packs a punch, or by joining panels together to create a wall-to-wall splashback as a part of a full new kitchen installation. Alloy designs are available in a regular rise, mid-rise and high-rise height, making it easy to tailor the products to suit the dimensions of the space. Installation couldn’t be simpler - just cut the panels to the required shape and size with a circular saw and install using Complete Adhesive and a variety of Alloy profile trims.

For added guidance, fitters can find easy to follow and readily accessible installation videos online:

Alloy by Bushboard splashback panel swatches

Bushboard

Online electricals retailer AO is celebrating recycling over two million fridges at its recycling plant in Telford – lined up, that’s a whopping 2,000+ miles, equalling the distance from Edinburgh to the North Pole!

With several council recycling sites forced to close due to Covid-19 restrictions, the nation has seen an increase in fly tipping over the last year. During the lockdown period of April 2020 to April 2021, AO Recycling received 68% more unwanted fridges compared to the previous year.

AO has been responsibly disposing of its customers unwanted fridges since 2017 –all thanks to a fridge crunching machine called Bertha. Fridges are notoriously tricky to dispose of safely, as they contain more harmful gases than your average appliance, but AO’s 80-tonne machine can tackle 100 fridges every hour. With Bertha’s help, AO can process over 700,000 fridges annually, which is 20 per cent of all white goods scrapped every year.

The machine is the height of a three-story house. It works by spinning heavy metal chains inside an airtight container at around 500 revolutions per minute, creating a vortex that breaks the fridge into tiny pieces – think of it like a supersized kitchen blender.

The machine also takes care of the harmful gases and oils stored in fridges that can damage the environment if released into the atmosphere. Dangerous gases are trapped between tiny pockets of insulation foam, but these are safely removed inside the sealed chamber. In fact, AO are the only fridge recycling plant in the world to collect 100% of harmful gasses released from a fridge – which is all down to Bertha’s efficiency.

Once Bertha has done her job, materials are then reused in other household items, such as sustainable ventilation products.

Robert Sant, MD of AO Recycling, said: “We’re so pleased that not only have we saved a huge two million fridges from being fly-tipped, but we’ve disposed of them in the safest way possible. At AO, we always want to do more. As a retailer, we want to take responsibility for the entire recycling process and hopefully it won’t be long before the plastics we produce can be used to create brand new fridges.”

To find out more about how AO collects and recycles fridges from customers, visit: www.ao.com/collect-and-recycle

Hamilton Litestat’s Hartland CFX collection of wiring accessories in a customised ‘primed’ finish has provided the final finishing touch to a chic apartment renovation in the iconic Almagro district of Madrid, Spain. The Bristol based manufacturer’s on-trend design embellishes the property while supporting all the lighting functionality requirements.

The renovation was conducted by Galan Sobrini Architects.

Based in Madrid and in operation since 2008, the firm has built a reputation for its passion to create clean, simple yet stylish spaces that are highly useable and meet the living requirements of its discerning clientele. For the architects, achieving the original vision of a project comes down to the smallest of details and finishes, which is why it selected Hamilton for the project’s decorative wiring accessories.

The clean lines, simplicity and contrast between the white plate and metallic switch elements result is an understated chic look that blends effortlessly with the classic yet contemporary feel of the property.

French styling with a modern twist

Spanning 375m2, the apartment was reconfigured to open up and optimise the space, increasing the natural light flowing in and making it better suited to the family living needs of the owners and their children. The project’s main challenge was to update the space while retaining its original, elegant essence. The finished interior design combines a classic French style with a modern twist. The original architraves and skirtings were

replicated, as were the ornate ceiling roses. Where possible, original features were retained and restored, such as the original handles and doorknobs throughout the property.

White primed a la mode

Complementing the look and providing a contemporary accent, Hamilton’s slim and elegant Hartland CFX decorative switch plates with concealed fixings were used to control lighting. Utilising Hamilton’s ‘Paintables’ powder coating

service, rather than select a standard RAL or NCS colour finish, Galan Sobrini decided to take an unconventional approach – the Hartland CFX plates were finished in primed white and specified with polished brass toggle switches. The clean lines, simplicity and contrast between the white plate and metallic switch elements result is an understated chic look that blends effortlessly with the classic yet contemporary feel of the property.

Albert Valdes, Hamilton’s

Barcelona-based EMEA Sales Manager who supported the project, said: “The final result is an apartment that is not only practical and functional, but effortlessly stylish with the finishing touches and details making it an extremely special project. We’re delighted that Hamilton and its decorative wiring accessories have played a part in creating this beautiful, elegant and functional living space in such a desirable area in Madrid.”

www.hamilton-litestat.com

Kiwa UK Regulation 4 (KUKreg4)

The KUKreg4 Approval Scheme is for manufacturers and distributors of sanitary and plumbing products and components intended for installation in the UK.

KUKreg4 is complying with ISO/IEC 17065 product certification scheme and has the option of conformity attestation level 1+ or 3. The scheme covers all products from different sectors such as sanitary tapware, pipes & fittings, valves, appliances, catering equipment and WCs.

One of the schemes advantages is that we can accommodate the combined offer with other Kiwa certificates issued for compliance with appropriate European standards, such as EN200, EN817, EN1111, EN13959.

Testing will be accommodated within the Kiwa laboratories, ISO/ IEC 17025 accredited by UKAS, RVA, Accredia.

Partner for Progress

Kiwa Watertec Unit 26a, Rassau Industrial Estate Rassau Ebbw Vale NP23 5SD

Tel. 01423 308185 uk.water@kiwa.com kiwa.co.uk/water

INSTALLER FRIENDLY KIWA REMOVES WATER REGULATION CONCERNS

Many kbb installers are unaware that if they use non-compliant components they are committing an offence and not the manufacturer!

The Installer magazine asked Jonathan Price, Business Development Manager at Kiwa, to explain how the regulations work thus avoiding any innocent installation misdemeanours.

What regulations cover water systems and components?

All components/products installed on water systems in the UK must comply with UK water regulations (specifically the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 for England and Wales, the Water Bylaws 2000, the Water Supply (Water Fittings) (Scotland) Byelaws 2014 and the Water Supply (Water Fittings Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2009)) and in particular Regulation 4 which lays out the specific requirements for the components which make up a water system. If you install components/ products on the system that are not compliant then you are causing an offence and could be prosecuted.

It's not an offence to manufacture non-compliant components, the duty lies with the installer to ensure that every product component connected to water supply or management will meet the relevant regulations.

Therefore, it's in the interest of all professional manufacturers of water system components, to ensure that all products are certified to meet the requirements laid out within Regulation 4 of the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations.

What tests must a product pass to be certified as meeting water regulation 4?

A product must be mechanically tested to conform to a specification approved by the regulator, an appropriate harmonised standard or conform to an appropriate British Standard, this is normally achieved by testing against the Regulators specification test codes sheets or relevant BS/EN standard.

All the non-metallic materials in contact with drinking water within components/products must also meet the requirements of BS 6920 ‘Suitability of non-metallic materials and products for use in contact with water intended for human consumption. This includes a number of tests to assess the suitability of nonmetallic materials to ensure they do not impart odour or flavour, cause a change in appearance (colour or turbidity), promote microbial growth, or leach substances (including toxic metals) harmful to human health.

How Kiwa UK water regulation 4 approval (KUKreg4) helps you demonstrate compliance?

KIWA is an international certification, inspection, testing, and training company and Kiwa Watertec specialise in testing water products and components to be certified for water regulation compliance across the world.

The Kiwa UK regulation 4 Approval (KUKreg4) is a robust method for demonstrating compliance with the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999.

There are many benefits to KUKreg4 over alternative approval schemes these benefits are accessible online: www.kiwa.com/kukreg4-brochure

KIWA certified products are listed under the Kiwa UK Regulation 4 approved product list which is accessible online: www.kiwa.com/water-products

A common myth is that WRAS is a mandatory requirement? WRAS is historically stated in project specifications, this is because in the past WRAS approval was the most common way to demonstrate compliance against water regulations, but WRAS is a voluntary scheme, the minimum legal requirement is for components/products to be compliant with water regulation 4 and this is exactly what KUKreg4 provides you with. KUKreg4 is widely accepted by water authorities, and since the terminology of ‘Regulation 4 compliance’ is more widely used and the decision making of WRAS approval no longer involves the water authorities KUKreg4 has much more visibility and acceptance in the industry.

The KIWA KUKreg4 approval mark demonstrates full compliance with the UK Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999, exactly like WRAS does, so can be universally accepted as equal to WRAS approval.

REASONS WHY YOU NEED PUBLIC LIABILITY INSURANCE

We all try to be safety conscious, but unfortunately and often unavoidably, accidents do happen that can result in eye watering compensation claims. This is where public liability insurance is essential for any business as it will help and also take away unnecessary worries. Ultimately, it’s there to help protect you if someone makes an injury claim against you or your business.

To help explain how public liability is right for KBB installation and retail businesses, we’ve highlighted six areas that could be at risk and how public liability insurance will benefit you.

Do you work in other people’s properties?

Hazzard Head of Business Insurance

Public liability insurance covers your business against the costs of legal action and compensation claims if a third party is injured or their property is damaged accidentally whilst you’re carrying out work at their place of business or their home. For example, if you own a kitchen installation company and a client’s tiled floor is damaged as a result of your installation (such as dropping a hammer), subject to this incident being purely accidental, then you would be covered for any damage caused.

Do you use special tools or processes?

Everyday tools might be safe in trained hands, but an accident can have serious consequences. Whether it’s accidentally dropping a hammer on a client’s floor or a customer tripping over a mislaid tool, small accidents could result in big damage claims or even legal action. Public liability insurance protects you against compensation costs and ensures your legal costs are covered too.

Are your premises open to the public?

Whether it’s a customer slipping in your showroom, tripping over a display or cutting themselves on a sharp edge, when your business is open to the public, you’re open to the possibility of accidents happening. Public liability insurance protects against the compensation costs linked to members of the public accidentally injuring themselves when in your premises.

Do you employ staff?

If you’re employing staff, you should already have employers’ liability insurance as it is a legal requirement, but it’s worth understanding that you’re not just responsible for the safety of your staff, you’re responsible for their actions too! Therefore If an employee accidentally causes injury or damages to the property of a member of the public, it’s your business that could face compensation claims.

Is your business growing?

Could your work or products hurt someone?

Although you are extremely careful to ensure that your work and products are as safe as possible, it’s sensible to consider the risk of injury if the fruits of your labour end up accidentally harming others. Public liability insurance could protect you in the result a member of the public makes a claim against your business. For example, if you are a bathroom installer , in the unlikely event that a customer inadvertently contracts legionella from a shower installation, public liability insurance can shield your business against compensation payments and legal costs.

Although public liability insurance isn’t a legal requirement, larger clients and professional bodies like the UK Government will expect you to have it. This is often the case for tradespeople working on-site for clients, and when you’re contracted by local government bodies like councils, it’s hardly surprising when the average settlement on a damages claim is £13,500.

As we all know, accidents do happen but public liability insurance will provide you with peace of mind knowing that you and your business is covered should the worst ever happen.

www.uibdirect.co.uk matthew.hazzard@uib.co.uk

Matthew

To help explain how public liability is right for KBB installation and retail businesses, we’ve highlighted six areas that could be at risk and how public liability insurance will benefit you.

Showerwall’s Find a Fitter programme has officially gone live, matching bathroom installers, plumbers and joiners with homeowners seeking professional bathroom wall panelling installation.

Thanks to a highly successful recruitment drive, Showerwall has seen installers across the UK register for the scheme, which allows consumers to easily search via their postcode on the Showerwall website to find trusted fitters. Registered installers are required to comply with terms and conditions, which include verifying that they are registered with well-known trade bodies such as Checkatrade™.

With the wall panelling market growing 25% year on year for the past six years, the Find a Fitter programme has been developed to help bathroom professionals benefit from the growing consumer interest in wall panelling, as a design-led, easy-to-clean and affordable alternative to tiles.

Steph Harris, Product Manager for Showerwall, comments: “Our Find a Fitter scheme offers a national network of approved installers who have been vetted to provide homeowners with the assurance and peace of mind that they are working with high quality professionals.

SHOWERWALL FIND A FITTER SCHEME GOES LIVE

is busier than ever. By offering this service we are providing a quick and simple way for consumers to find local fitters within their area to transform their bathrooms.”

Approved installers will benefit from increased business opportunities in their local area through the listing as well as receiving an enhanced service offering from Showerwall. This includes video guides to help with training and sales, regular product offers and a gift on registration.

Showerwall is a Corporate Sponsor of The British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom & Bathroom Installation (BiKBBI) and is helping to deliver positive change to the KBB installation sector. The wall pannelling experts have recently launched a new trade brochure to further support installers, which provides technical, product and installation advice. Two online training videos are also available, with stepby-step installation guides demonstrating how easy and fast it is to install the high pressure laminate around a bath and acrylic panels within a shower enclosure.

Available in a range of designs, Showerwall HPL panels are an easy to fit bathroom wall panelling system. The moisture resistant MDF core and highpressure laminate surface are designed to deliver a smooth, watertight finish that’s tough, hard-wearing, stain resistant and hygienic.

Showerwall’s stunning Acrylic and Custom Collections offer a library of stunning and bespoke design manufactured using a 4mm acrylic sheet that is rear printed to create a polished glasslike finish. The material is 100% waterproof, easy to maintain and doesn’t require trims so can simply be joined with sealant for a streamlined finish.

The bathroom wall panels can be fitted by a sole installer in less than a day using simple joinery tools, either by fixing them to a wall or over existing tiles. They result in a waterproof, easy maintenance system with near invisible joints in around half the time it would take to tile a like-for-like space. They are ideal for use in shower enclosures,

around baths, behind basins and to create impressive feature walls.

The full Showerwall collection offers over 80 decors to suit all tastes, with panels available in sizes 600mm, 900mm and 1200 x 2440mm, backed by a guarantee of up to 15-years. For further information to sign up to become a registered fitter visit:

www.showerwall.co.uk/fit-it/

“Bathroom fitting can be a competitive industry and with more people spending time and money on their homes, the sector

Ready.

With a tool that will stand the test of time.

The new TID 18 cordless impact screwdriver: This compact powerhouse offers an impressive service life thanks to its extremely robust hammer mechanism. The perfect combination of the new-generation brushless EC-TEC motor and the battery pack ensure maximum performance and endurance. In addition to this, the TID 18 with 1/4“ tool holder turns the screw without straining your wrist – thanks to the tangential hammer mechanism with no strength-sapping back torque. The machine weight of just 960 grams also allows you to work for longer without becoming tired. Find out more at www.festool.co.uk/ready

20% lighter and even more mobile: With Li-HighPower Compact battery and Systainer³.

UNDERSTANDING THE LONG TERM BENEFITS OF HEALTH & SAFETY

The Installer magazine asked major power tool manufacturer, Festool, to give us its thoughts on the importance of health and safety at work, with a special bent on dust extraction as respiratory illness for tradespeople is a big concern. This is how the team there responded:

Taking health and safety seriously pays off in the long run.

Healthy working and occupational safety are often neglected, especially in small and mediumsized enterprises, with employees in the construction industry known to be among the professional groups at the highest risk. Therefore these businesses should consistently increase awareness of health and safety at work. It does pay off in the long run because healthy employees are the most important commodity in any company.

In everyday working life, legal requirements and regulations for healthy working and safety at work are often viewed as a somewhat annoying duty as they pose organisational challenges, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). However, the long-term benefits, such as higher productivity and competitiveness, are convincing. Occupational health and safety measures contribute to the prevention of accidents, reduce absences and lower the cost of continued pay.

Many business owners may be surprised to learn that 50.8% of the days absent from work in the trades sector are attributable to long-term illnesses (over 42 days) (Source: IKK classic report 2018 Germany).

Employees in the trades sector are absent from work because of musculoskeletal disorders (33.5%), injury and poisoning (17.2%) and respiratory illnesses (14.5%) (see above source).

The "Safety and Health at Work" report published in 2019 by the Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA) on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (BMAS) shows that prevention measures are effective. According to this report, there were 33% fewer fatal accidents at work and 15% fewer reportable accidents at work in the metal and electrical industry in 2018 than in previous years.

Risk assessments form the basis for suitable and effective measures to make working in the company safer and healthier.

Risk assessments form the basis for suitable and effective measures to make working in the company safer and healthier. These are well worth the effort because weak points within the company can be identified and eliminated. Carrying out a risk assessment is thus part of the principle of a "continuous improvement process" (CIP) and results in higher productivity. The respective scope of a risk assessment is based on the operational requirements and conditions. All known work processes are recorded. This also includes events and tasks that take place outside "normal" operating conditions, such as maintenance work, commissioning and decommissioning, procedures in the event of breakdowns, cleaning work or waste disposal.

Depending on the size of the company, the management or respective team leaders carry out the assessment. The employees are actively involved, as they themselves are best acquainted with the operational work processes, the risk factors and the protective measures implemented so far.

The exact procedure of the assessment is determined individually. The Institute of Applied Industrial Engineering and Ergonomics (ifaa) provides further assistance in this respect.

It's worth the effort

Every employee matters, especially in small companies. Any absence due to an accident or illness has a negative impact on the operating result, especially kbb installer businesses where customers are usually given an estimated date when their installation should be complete.

Studies have shown that every pound invested in occupational safety and health by a business is money well spent, as it is estimated that it doubles its value to the company over time (International Social Security Association, ISSA).

Risk assessments as a basis for healthy working and occupational safety

Every employee matters, especially in small companies. Any absence due to an accident or illness has a negative impact on the operating result.

Protecting ourselves against the health hazard dangers of dust.

Even simply purchasing or providing safety shoes, work gloves, protective goggles and breathing masks increases safety and protects health. Festool, a German company, supports healthy work with a wide range of different mobile dust extractors. Philipp Stahl, Application Engineer at Festool, comments, "During renovation work and substrate preparation, in particular, sanding down cement-based filler, plaster filler, plaster or clear coats generates a huge amount of dust which is made up of particles that can cause permanent damage to your lungs and airways. Dust-free work is therefore imperative and with the suitable mobile dust extractors and the right system accessories from the dust extraction and sanding ranges, Festool provides the ideal all-inclusive package most tradespeople within the renovation and restoration sector.

A good example is Festool´s new MX stirrers with dust extraction that allow users to mix and stir in a healthy way, these are sophisticated in every detail since they are equipped with a new hoop guard, convenient ErgoFix height adjustment,

stable rubber corners, smooth start-up and a high-torque motor. This will allow painters, drywallers, plasterers and all other renovation professionals to mix and stir in a robust, ergonomic and, above all, healthy way.

Efficient dust extraction is so easy and quick to set up that you can get to work immediately. The right combination of a sander, abrasive and mobile dust extractor is crucial for lowdust work. The mobile dust extractor is the deciding factor here – its extraction and filter performance must be exactly right, so that the dust which has formed can be directly extracted, not thrown into the air. In this respect, the CTM 26 E AC, CTM 36 E AC and CTM 36 E AC HD mobile dust extractors with dust class M and Autoclean function are ideal for all painting and decorating renovation work. The more compact CTM 26 E AC, with its container capacity of 26 litres, is particularly suited to smaller areas and the larger CTM 36 E AC and CTM 36 E AC HD mobile dust extractors with a container capacity of 36 litres are particularly effective on larger surfaces."

www.festool.co.uk

Zero20 is a furniture line with a geometric volume, made up of primary units and formal lightness. The materials used are those with an industrial emphasis, which has almost become a signature of the MOAB80 brand.

ZERO IS HERO!

Sure to prove the hero products in any bathroom where installed, MOAB80 has introduced its eyecatching Zero20 furniture range, exclusively available through luxury bathroom supplier, Aquaplus Solutions.

The Italian designer and manufacturer is a celebrated brand, especially in architectural circles, as it utilises the experience gained in more than 30 years of activity on the national and international market.

Zero20 is a furniture line with a geometric volume, made up of primary units and formal lightness. The materials used are those with an industrial emphasis, which has almost

become a signature of the MOAB80 brand. A fusion of modern manufacturing methods and natural materials like, cement, lime, new and re-used woods with burnished metals and industrial glasses are uniquely combined to create superb individuality by closely relating to the shape and colours that coincide with those of the material. Alongside these contemporary materials, the ancient metals acquire a new life, highlighting their beautiful raw finish, in a perfect aesthetic synthesis.

MOAB80 offers contemporary home furnishings and surfaces with a precise identity that conform seamlessly with the trendiest of bathroom schemes.

Commenting, specialist bathroom agent, Pete Mills, Founder & Managing Director at Aquaplus Solutions says, “The products by MOAB80 perfectly complement the rest of my portfolio of contemporary bathroom products and we look forward to developing sales of their innovative products throughout the UK.”

For further information on MOAB80, please contact its exclusive UK agent Aquaplus Solutions:

www.aquaplussolutions.com

A fusion of modern manufacturing methods and natural materials like, cement, lime, new and re-used woods with burnished metals and industrial glasses are uniquely combined to create superb individuality

HOTPOINT LAUNCHES NEW BUILT-IN FRIDGE FREEZERS

Major domestic appliance manufacturer Hotpoint has launched a new range of built-in fridge freezers, designed to bring advanced cooling and food preservation technology into the built-in market.

Included in the new range is the Hotpoint Total No Frost built-in fridge freezer (HTC18 T532 UK), which benefits from Hotpoint’s Food Care System; a combination of innovative technologies that ensure ideal food preservation. For example, Active Oxygen technology removes odours from the fridge and helps to keep bacteria at bay; MultiCool Flow ensures a constant and uniform airflow in all sections of the refrigerator, while the Ultra Fresh Zone+ preserves the freshness of fruit and vegetables for up to 15 days.

What’s more, the Hotpoint built-in fridge freezer (HTC18 T532 UK) boasts Total No Frost technology, meaning the user never has to defrost their fridge freezer again. It also benefits from Fast Freeze, which enables the user to freeze fresh food in a shorter amount of time.

Kimberley Garner, Hotpoint Brand Manager, says: “We understand the growing demand for hidden appliances, which is why we have updated our built-in refrigeration offering.

“Hotpoint’s latest built-in cooling appliances ensure food is kept fresh for as long as possible. The range benefits from Total No Frost technology, which enables minimal user maintenance and effort. It also has the advantage of Active Oxygen technology,

“We understand the growing demand for hidden appliances, which is why we have updated our builtin refrigeration offering."

Hotpoint Total No Frost built-in fridge freezer (HTC18 T532 UK)

which removes odours from the fridge and helps to keep bacteria at bay.”

A few of the key features and benefits of the brand new Hotpoint Total No Frost built-in fridge freezer (HTC18 T532 UK) include a 70/30 fridge/freezer split with overall 250 litre net capacity. Vacation mode to be used in the event of a prolonged absence from home. Anti Mould Gasket prevents mould formation and reduces yellowing to ensure the door seals last longer, Dimensions of H 1770 x W 540 x D 545 mm and an ‘E’ energy rating (on the new A - G scale)

The fridge has a 182 litre net capacity for storing fresh food and drinks, an active Inverter Compressor that ensures a consistent temperature for long lasting food freshness. It rapidly corrects the temperature, even when the fridge door is opened, preventing thermal shock and ensuring optimal food preservation.

A Food Care System is a combination of technologies that ensure ideal food preservation, including: Oxygen technology, which removes odours from the fridge, such as strong cheese and fish, and helps to keep bacteria at bay, preserving food for longer. MultiCool Flow, which ensures a constant and uniform airflow in all sections of the refrigerator. Ultra Fresh Zone+ sealed drawer preserves the freshness of fruit and vegetables for up to 15 days. The drawer has an adjustable humidity control designed to choose the ideal setting for long lasting food freshness.

The freezer has a 68 litre net capacity for storing frozen food and batch-cooked meals. Never defrost the freezer again thanks to Total No Frost technology, which stops the build-up of ice. Fast Freeze lowers the freezer temperature and enables you to freeze fresh food, as well as make ice and ice cream in a shorter amount of time. A Party mode function to quickly chill drinks inside the freezer.

www.hotpoint.co.uk

'The fridge rapidly corrects the temperature, even when the fridge door is opened, preventing thermal shock and ensuring optimal food preservation.'

Hotpoint Total No Frost built-in fridge freezer (HTC18 T532 UK)

NOT JUST A WC ...

Whiteville Ceramics has introduced its water SAVER® system and rimless VORTIX® technology: both now available to the UK bathroom market.

Modern by design and innovative in function, the company’s range of contemporary WCs are designed to reduce water usage, optimise flushing and increase hygiene standards in the bathroom.

WATER SAVER® TECHNOLOGY - SAVER® reduces water usage by up to 50% and is available across all WCs. This technology reduces energy costs, as well as help save the world’s water resources and given only 2% of the earth's fresh supply of water is locked in ice caps and glaciers, water conservation is integral to the company’s product designs and advances in technology.

An average flush typically uses up to 6 litres of water each time. SAVER® actually reduces the volume of water on tank models, saving anywhere from 3 to 4.5 litres in full flush and from 2.5 to 3 litres in a small flush. This gives the average UK homeowner a total saving of up to 50%, reducing general household utility bills and creating a more sustainable bathroom and lifestyle.

Its VORTIX® SYSTEM ensures better hygienic standards, since every part of the WC can be easily cleaned, the rimless design when combined with the VORTIX® technology, results in optimized performance with every flush. By

removing the rim the powerful VORTIX® system pushes water both horizontally and vertically around the bowl, which means the water passes across more internal surface area and water is released through one or two separate nozzles.

This patented innovation creates a vortex effect, which efficiently cleans the pan without splashing over the sides. The rimless technology ensures better hygiene standards, since every part of the WC can be easily cleaned preventing mould growth in hidden areas. Furthermore, VORTIX® also reduces noise resulting in a rimless system that is functional, water saving, silent and with zero spray every use!

“Sustainability is at the forefront of everyone’s mind right now and finding ways to save money and water in the home has become a key criterion for greener living – especially in the bathroom. According to a new report by Garnier, 73% of UK homeowners want to be more sustainable in 2021, which goes to show us all that the past year has made us think differently about how we behave. Of those 73%, almost half agreed that 2020 was a wake-up call to protect the environment and this is clear when we consider the latest trend for eco interiors that incorporate sustainable product design,” says Graham Bucktrout, Managing Director at IBC Group.

www.whitevilleceramics.co.uk

The rimless technology ensures better hygiene standards, since every part of the WC can be easily cleaned preventing mould growth in hidden areas.

IN THE COMFORT ZONE

Rotpunkt´s new Comfort FL Shaker-style door is a ‘contemporary classic’

Rotpunkt, showcases its latest addition, Comfort – a solid oak, handleless Shaker-style door in modern grey, Lava finish.

A classic handleless design, Comfort is a versatile addition to the Rotpunkt door collection. Its integrated profile ensures easy access to kitchen furniture without disturbing the in-frame door front with indiscreet handles or marks left by greasy fingerprints. Shown here on one

of the company’s bestselling furniture ranges, Memory FL, this kitchen features the extra tall 234cm full height units with slab doors, ergonomic 910mm high island alongside a suspended furniture concept, which naturally kerbs the domestic qualities of this kitchen.

“This revolutionary new door is universal by design, able to reinvent the traditional characteristics of a Shaker-style in-frame door by offering a more modern, handlefree aesthetic that is discreet yet highly

functional” says Matt Phillips, Head of UK Operations at Rotpunkt. “Added to that, our choice of colour palette fusing dark grey furniture alongside matt black accents has allowed us to evolve the traditional look of a timber kitchen and recreate 18th century design elements so they can sit in the modern home.”

www.rotpunktuk.com

“This revolutionary new door is universal by design, able to reinvent the traditional characteristics of a Shaker-style in-frame door by offering a more modern, handle-free aesthetic that is discreet yet highly functional”

Flood, Rowland Hall Chartered Certified Accountants

HMR&C have taken a lenient position on tax debt collection over the last 18 months due to the impact of COVID 19. As the economy moves out of the COVID induced recession, HMR&C have issued guidance as to their stance on debt collection for businesses and individuals.

HMR&C GRANTS & TAX COLLECTION 2021 ADVICE

I hope that the readership remains well.

Fifth Self Employed Income Support Scheme Grant

For those self-employed readers whose income is still adversely affected by the Coronavirus pandemic, it should be noted that the latest SEISS grant is now open for applications. As with previous applications, these will need to be submitted by the taxpayer, but most advisors will assist should you need guidance in this area.

The basis of accessing the grant will be determined by whether turnover has been impacted by the virus.

Before making a claim, taxpayers must:

• calculate their turnover for a 12-month period starting from 1 April 2020 to 6 April 2020

• identify their turnover from either 2019/20 or 2018/19 to use as a reference year.

By comparing the two, the grounds for claiming will be determined and will also set the basis of the calculation. The claim will be 80% of 3 month’s average profit based on prior years, capped at £7,500. However, if turnover has reduced by less than 30%, the claim will be restricted to 30% of the same averaged profits, capped at £2,850.

Claiming the fifth SEISS grant is not entirely straightforward so please contact your accountant for advice on determining your turnover figures or eligibility.

HMR&C and Debt Collection

HMR&C have taken a lenient position on tax debt collection over the last 18 months due to the impact of COVID 19. As the economy moves out of the COVID induced recession, HMR&C have issued guidance as to their stance on debt collection for businesses and individuals. Their briefing on these matters can be found at www. gov.uk/government/publications/hmrc-issuebriefing-collecting-tax-debts-as-we-emergefrom-coronavirus-covid-19

The broad message for those taxpayers who are having difficulty in settling taxes, is that they must engage in communication with HMR&C on such matters and to not ignore contact from HMR&C. From September onwards, taxpayers that do not engage with HMR&C over outstanding debts will be pursued by HMR&C using the traditional enforcement powers available to them.

VAT Deferral

The VAT deferral scheme is now closed. If you have not already made arrangements to settle any deferred vat from the Spring of 2020, either in full or using the HMR&C instalment plan, then the deferred VAT is now due in full, and you will be subject to a 5% penalty and interest charges. If this has been overlooked, it is imperative that action is now taken on that matter.

Grants are Taxable

When completing their 2020/21 accounts and tax returns (companies or individuals), some taxpayers are expressing some ‘surprise’ that SEISS grants and grants received from local authorities are taxable. This is indeed the case and businesses should factor in these receipts when assessing their potential tax exposure for 20/21 trading periods.

Dean

Q& A with Michelle Kiely

´Victim´ of The Installer Magazine´s summer issue Q & A is BiKBBI ´newbie´ Michelle Kiely who has joined the institute as Compliance Officer. We asked her a few questions to get to know her a little better.

What are your impressions of the kbb industry and the BiKBBI, are they different to your expectations?

I didn’t have any knowledge of this sector before I started so I had no real expectations however, I love the work and passion that is put in to improve the standards within the industry.

Briefly explain your role within the BiKBBI?

I am a Compliance Officer, which means I help members to submit the correct documents and then process them.

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

Michael McIntyre.

Name 3 famous people past or present that you would love to invite to a girls night out?

Pink, Jennifer Aniston and Sarah Jessica Parker.

Name 3 you’d least like to invite?

Kim Kardashian, Mariah Carey and Susanna Reid.

What would be an ideal weekend?

A spa day followed by dinner and cocktails. What would you most like to hear said about you?

That I am loyal and kind. 

And what would be the worst?

That people couldn’t trust me. What car do you drive?

A Ford Focus.

Favourite cuisine?

Italian.

Favourite tipple?

Long Island Iced Tea.

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

There are two actually, the days that my two sons were born.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

That the key to happiness is letting each situation be what it is, rather than what you think it should be.

WHITEVILLE CERAMICS NEW WING COLLECTION

| DESIGNED BY DAVID EMMANUEL MICHAUD

Whiteville Ceramics, has unveiled its new WING Collection of winged and thin-lip washbasins, which unite three different design styles: Edgy, Smooth and Round.

Exclusively available in the UK and designed by world leading innovator, David Emmanuel Michaud, the WING Collection by Whiteville Ceramics demonstrates out-of-the-box design philosophies and a deep passion for style, ergonomics and attention to quality.

WING is available in four different applications: in set, countertop, with a semi pedestal and full pedestal and a contemporary colour palette adds to its high fashion look with options like matt Black, White, Grey and Brina, as pictured.

A complementary range of special order close-coupled and wall-hung WC’s are also available.

Brand new to the UK and available now, please contact Whiteville Ceramics:

www.whitevilleceramics.co.uk

IBC GROUP WELCOME TWO NEW APPRENTICES AT IMPERIAL BATHROOMS

Specialists in the design and manufacture of classic and contemporary bathroom solutions, IBC Group, welcome two new apprentices, Flynn Beddows, (pictured left) and Michael Noakes, (pictured right) to its British bathroom brand Imperial Bathrooms, as part of the company’s ongoing effort to attract new talent to the KBB sector.

In the pursuit to receive skilled training opportunities, which will help them build new skills and develop their own workplace experience, Flynn Beddows joins Imperial Bathrooms all-new Wood Division, with the second apprentice Michael Noakes, working in the company’s renowned Ceramics Division.

Both will have the opportunity to learn from highly-skilled and qualified craftsmen across their respective discipline, while simultaneously studying to complete a Level 2 Engineering Operations Apprenticeship. The Level 2 qualification will see Flynn and Michael become accomplished at working safely in an engineering environment, carrying out tasks, operating machinery efficiently and effectively, as well as producing components to an extremely high standard.

Managing Director at IBC Group, Graham Bucktrout says, “IBC Group is dedicated to creating opportunities for the next generation and we firmly believe that investing in future talent is vital, both

Jon Mortimore (left image) joins Wilsonart UK as its new Project Manager for bathroom brands to provide structure and alignment to the product development of the company’s fastest growing category in Europe. “Jon joins us with wide experience in project management, which will greatly benefit Wilsonart brands across Europe as we continue to expand and develop in both the commercial and residential bathroom sectors. We're pleased to welcome him to the Wilsonart family." says Neil Horton, Sales Director at Wilsonart UK.

Stewart Hooper (right image) has been promoted to Key Account Manager for Mermaid Panels. With over 20 years in Sales as an Area Sales and Business Manager, Stewart’s vast experience and knowledge will be used to continue to drive sales growth within the business. Keely Greenhalgh, National Sales Manager at Mermaid Panels comments: “Stewart has been with us for over 14 years and has worked closely and established key relationships with retailers, showrooms, and merchants within the buying groups. In his promoted role, Stewart will have a more dedicated focus on continuing to grow these connections whilst creating new business opportunities too.

www.wilsonart.co.uk

as a means of supporting young people in the workplace and ensuring traditional trade-skills are kept alive.”

“The challenges currently facing the youth of today looking for employment have definitely been exacerbated by the Coronavirus pandemic. Added to that, Government figures show that 23,400 fewer people participated in an apprenticeship in 2019/20 when compared to 2018/19, which indicates that participation in these types of training schemes are in decline. This has worrying implications for the skills of our workforce, the preservation of traditional trades and by virtue, the future of our industry. At Imperial Bathrooms, we are built on tradition and fortunate to be able to provide our apprentices with access to highly skilled craftspeople, in both our Wood and Ceramic divisions, in order to broaden the experience of generations to come and finely hone their abilities” says Graham.

James Stevenson, Creative Director at Imperial Bathrooms adds, “I am sure that both Flynn and Michael, will make the most of the opportunities that are now open to them, equipping them with the kind of practical knowledge they will need to embark on the next phase of their chosen career paths. I look forward to seeing them develop and progress over the coming months.”

www.imperialbathroom.com

Wilsonart UK is pleased to announce changes to its UK team, with a new Project Manager being appointed and an internal promotion within the Sales team.

JONES DIGITAL UNVEIL BRAND NEW WEBSITE

Jones Digital, is now fully equipped to transform company brands and business with the unveiling of its new ecommerce website www. thisisjonesdigital.com

Founder and Managing Director, Peter Jones says, “As pioneers in digital storytelling and creative video marketing, we have consistently proved that our range of social, content and branding strategies can and will, make a difference to businesses. I am very proud that our brand new online platform for Jones Digital will help grow and build on our partnership with Virtual 360° Tours Glos, which has created new opportunities for leading brands like Homebase, Bathstore, And

BLACK BEAUTY PORCELAIN IS A FEAST FOR THE SENSES

RAK Ceramics has launched Black Beauty, a new porcelain surface that will bring sophistication and luxury to the kitchen, bathroom and living space.

Manufactured to be extremely durable, scratch and stain resistant and very easy to clean, Black Beauty lends any setting a timeless charm. With all the elegance of marble combining with the practical advantages of porcelain, the surface can be used as a striking wall covering or worktop in the kitchen or bathroom.

Providing a brilliant contrast to lighter shades in furniture and fittings and working in harmony with on-trend brassware finishes such as antique brass and gold, Black Beauty displays elegant veins throughout that draw the eye and turn the surface into a centrepiece, wherever it is laid.

In a glossy finish that reflects the light to make the most of any sized space, Black Beauty can be chosen in a range of sizes, including 60 x120cm, 120 x 120cm and 120 x 240cm. The mega slab is ideally suited for installation over large spaces, creating a seamless and grout-free finish.

www.rakceramics.com/uk/

So To Bed and Poggenpohl.”

Jones Digital specialises in providing first class multi-media brand solutions, offering innovative and engaging online content and brand strategies for leading companies and design professionals in the KBB, interior design and new build sectors.

Now live, www.thisisjonesdigital.com is ready to offer organisations a new way to drive innovation in the digital age and ensure that they remain competitive and agile in the marketplace.

www.thisisjonesdigital.com

FRANKE’S ADDS NEW ATLAS NEO SOAP DISPENSER

Franke has extended its kitchen accessories collection with the introduction of the Atlas Neo Soap Dispenser, which is designed to perfectly coordinate with its growing Atlas Neo tap range.

Launched in response to increased consumer demand for stylish products that support enhanced hand hygiene in the kitchen, the surface-mounted Atlas Neo Soap Dispenser is compatible with all types of work surfaces. Ideal for homeowners looking to create a neat, sleek and streamlined aesthetic, this soap dispenser features the same minimalist, contemporary styling as the bestselling Atlas Neo taps, but will provide the perfect partner to any of the models in Franke’s comprehensive portfolio.

Made from and finished in premium-quality stainless steel, which is scratch and stain resistant, the Atlas Neo Soap Dispenser stands 80mm above the worktop and has a spout reach of 85mm. It is suitable for use with all liquid soaps and has an easy-to-operate pump action.

www.franke.co.uk

‘BE DISTINCT’ WITH NEW CONTRAST TOWEL WARMER BY VOGUE (UK)

Vogue (UK), has revealed a new addition to its award-winning heating portfolio with the launch of Contrast: a bold and beautiful towel warmer. Fusing statuesque rounded cross bars with the high impact of square mitred joints, the new Contrast Towel Warmer lives up to its name by bringing a touch of industrial chic to a bathroom.

“If a kbb installer is looking for hybrid heating for a project, then Contrast is a great fit as its designed where the electrical element can be fitted within the vertical square tubing. This means a T piece for dual fuel models is not required and so the overall aesthetics are discreet and seamless,” says Steve Birch, Sales Director at Vogue (UK).

Contrast is available in Matt Black and White Sparkle textured finish and is crafted from high quality Mild Steel, this designer towel warmer offers a 15 year guarantee and is available in three different heights and three different bar configurations including; 800mm (10 bars), 1200mm (15 bars), 1500mm (19 bars).

www.vogueuk.co.uk

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