Kitchens & Bathrooms News June 2019

KI TCHENS &

BATHROOMS NEWS THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR KITCHEN & BATHROOM PROFESSIONALS

JUNE 2019

INDUCTION HOBS Will changes to legislation boost sales?

SHOWER TRAYS The influence of colour, texture and diverse sizes

INTERVIEW: SAMSUNG What’s new for its Kitchen Circle retail support?

news ■ expert views ■ company profiles ■ products ■ competitions ■ SME support www.kandbnews.co.uk

No 140 Vol 13 JUNE 2019

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contents

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NEWS & VIEWS First word ..................................................................................3 News ........................................................................................4

KITCHENS Induction hobs ......................................................................19 Just out ..................................................................................24

Out & about..........................................................................10 People....................................................................................12 Inbox ......................................................................................14

BATHROOMS Shower trays ..........................................................................29 Just out ..................................................................................37

Talking shop: Park House Kitchens ......................................15 Stewart Woodruff ..................................................................16 Most wanted ........................................................................17

DESIGN Design know-how ................................................................40

Competition: Franke ............................................................44

BUSINESS

Last word: Foolproof............................................................45

Interview: Samsung ..............................................................42 www.kandbnews.co.uk K&BNEWS JUNE

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first word

NEWS & VIEWS

Water carry on Following David Attenborough’s Blue Planet TV programme, Youth Strike 4 Climate marches and activism by Extinction Rebellion, never has there been such a focus on the environment. From discovering the extent of micro plastics in water, through to banning plastic drinking straws in fast food outlets, and demand for the Government to reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions to zero by 2025, there has been a seismic shift in the public’s attitude to sustainability.

And the kitchen and bathroom industry hasn’t been left behind. Manufacturers have already worked hard on delivering water and energyefficient products, as well as tackling a reduction in plastic and food waste. Just think of lowflushing WCs and air injection shower heads to reduce water use, filter water and boiling water taps – removing the need for single serve bottles and the power-hungry kettle. Not to mention, technical developments in fridges, designed to preserve food for longer, reducing organic waste.

There has also been a move by the industry to tackle waste across the supply chain; from the likes of Lakes using 100% recycled packaging and the Used Kitchen Company finding a market for second-hand kitchens. So far, so good, then.

Yet, at the same time, it seems there is still a mountain to climb to encourage water saving in the home. According to WRAS nearly 40% of Brits don’t seek advice on water saving and one in four don’t know how much water they use. In fact,

many people use up to twice the amount of water they estimate.

The Bathroom Manufacturers Association (BMA) has been working hard to campaign to consumers with radio interviews and videos to help them think about water use. It has been promoting the Unified Water Label, which highlights how much water a product uses. But is this a job just for manufacturers? Should retailers and designers play a greater role? Alongside meeting clients’ interior fashion wants and functional needs, should they also encourage them to think about the ecological impact of their new kitchen or bathroom?

Architects and specifiers of new build homes are already familiar and accountable for meeting targets for energy and water usage of 125 litres per person, as defined by Building Regulations.

There are already calls for this to be reduced to 110 litres, by NGO Waterwise, which is focused on reducing water consumption in the UK. And this will be the future housing stock which kitchen and bathroom designers will be refurbishing in 10 years’ time. So isn’t it worth considering waterefficient projects now?

KBN LIKES …DIY giant Homebase now has a “stable platform” for growth, specialist kbb showrooms are positive about sales and omnichannel retailer Bathroom Takeway is investing in the UK.

KBN DISLIKES ..to hear national kitchen and bathroom retailer brands have been brought into disrepute by consumer watchdog Which? for potentially misleading sales. However, it’s good to hear the issue is out in the open for consumers, perhaps levelling the field for specialist showrooms

KBN WANTS …to introduce you to our rdr.link service which combines the best of both worlds - print and digital. Type the links into your browser for videos, technical product downloads or online brochures

Philippa Turrell Editor Email your views on this subject, or any other, to pturrell@hamerville.co.uk To be removed from this magazine’s circulation please call 01923 237799 or email circulation@hamerville.co.uk Editor Philippa Turrell e: pturrell@hamerville.co.uk Designer Donna Booth Production Assistant Stephanie Stapleton e: stephanie@hamerville.co.uk Group Production Manager Carol Padgett e: carol@hamerville.co.uk Printer Walstead Roche Publisher Bryan Shannon

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© 2019 KITCHENS & BATHROOMS NEWS accepts no responsibility for damage or loss, however caused, to any material submitted for publication. While every effort is made to ensure facts are correct at time of going to press, no responsibility can be accepted for incorrect product descriptions or facts. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, in any form, without prior written permission from the publishers.

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NEWS & VIEWS

making headlines

Retailers part of investigation dispute claims

IN BRIEF ■ Congratulations to Mike Waller of MW Design in Lampeter who has won the InSinkErator competition featured in the April issue of Kitchens & Bathrooms News.

He correctly answered the 4N1 Touch Tap comes in L, J and U models and wins the 4N1 Touch Control tap.

■ Trade association The Kitchen Bathroom Bedroom Specialists Association (Kbsa) Conference and Awards Dinner is now open for bookings. Based upon the theme of ‘Staying ahead’, the 2019 event will take place at the Stratford Manor Hotel, on September 25. The Kbsa Conference includes three morning sessions that will cover Social Media Solutions, The Customer Journey and The Future Marketplace.

■ The Grohe XXL Truck tour is returning to the UK for the third time with a schedule of visits from June to October 2019 at consumer and industry events. Visitors will be able to see the company’s latest kitchen and bathroom products. For a full schedule of the dates go to

www.rdr.link/KF048

4 JUNE K&BNEWS www.kandbnews.co.uk

Kitchen and bathroom sales “misleading”, says Which?

National bathroom and kitchen retailers are using potentially misleading discount claims to encourage consumers into a purchase, says consumer watchdog Which?

In a year-long investigation, the watchdog analysed promotions for popular retailers between March 2018 and March 2019.

It found firms using “hurry now” techniques, which could pressurise customers into making a quick purchase, or nearly year-long sales.

Which? also discovered, in one case, a ‘sale’ launched after prices had been hiked, so the sale price was equivalent to the typical pre-sale price.

Which? has alerted Trading Standards and asked for the practices to be investigated.

A retailer’s actions could be in breach of the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations if they can be shown to be misleading.

Out of the retailers in the investigation, Better Bathrooms, Victoria Plum and Victorian Plumbing used prominent countdown clocks to promote time-limited promotions,

although they were running other offers that were not time-limited.

Victoria Plum ran two offers on January 14 2019 an ‘up to 70% off January sale’ and ‘an extra 10% off sales prices’ on a countdown clock, showing the discount ended in less than two days.

When Which? checked three days later, the ‘up to 70% off’ was still available but customers could have got ‘20% off sales prices’ – twice the previous additional discount.

Although the countdown clock only applied to one of the two offers, Which? thinks consumers may have been misled into believing the ‘70% off sale’ was ending, not just the additional discount.

Which? found Wren ran a multibuy offer for 50% off when consumers

purchased five or more kitchen units, although not promoted as being timelimited, ran for 246 days.

For 49 days prior, the discount was higher at 60% and a half-price offer, without the multi-buy stipulation, ran for 70 days before that.

Wickes ran a similar deal with 50% off its Showroom Kitchens, if consumers bought five or more units, for 199 days.

Head of home products and services at Which? Natalie Hitchins said: “It’s unacceptable for retailers to be using potentially misleading tricks to make a sale.

“Our research suggests this is an industry-wide issue. We want to see retailers being more transparent about their prices so consumers aren’t misled into parting with their cash for a deal that might not be as good as it seems.

“If they don’t make improvements then Trading Standards and the ASA need to intervene.”

All the retailers in the investigation have disputed the claims by Which?

Read their responses at

www.rdr.link/KF051

EBITDA losses decline by nearly £140million

Homebase cuts £100million costs in turnaround DIY retailer Homebase has cut £100million fixed costs, as part of its turnaround plan, following the sale of the business to Hilco.

EBITDA losses declined by nearly £140million to £33million, with a 21.8% increase in gross profit to £217.1million, as reported in its financial results for six months to December 30, 2019.

According to Homebase it now offers a “stable platform to support future growth”.

The reduced costs has included a head office restructure, with 38% job losses, as well as a Company Voluntary Agreement with a closure of 47 stores.

Homebase secured rent reductions on an additional 70 stores, and closed two out of its six distribution centres, in line with its store reduction The company delivered a turnover of £497.8million, reportedly buoyed by enhancing its kitchen and lighting offer, return of in-store concessions and staff training.

It has rebuilt its digital offer, generating a double digit increase in website traffic.

CEO of Homebase Darren McGloughlin said: “After the change in ownership last year, we put a plan in place to restructure the business with a clear focus on cost management, better shop keeping and bringing back the things our team and customers love most about Homebase.

“The benefits of the changes we have made are starting to come through and I am extremely grateful for the loyalty, energy and support we have received from our team members and suppliers.”

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Deal sees creation of UK’s largest privately-owned tile company

Tile Mountain acquires Walls and Floors The Tile Mountain Group has acquired Kettering-based Walls and Floors to reportedly become the UK’s largest privately-owned, tile company, As part of the deal, Tile Mountain has also taken ownership of Walls and Floors’ retail, distribution, and specification divisions.

The move means Tile Mountain is now a multi-faceted operation.

It is now competing in multiple tile markets including online, store-based retail, wholesale, as well as contractbased business.

Established in 1987, Walls and Floors employs nearly 200 people with

an annual turnover in excess of £30m.

Its purchase by the Tile Mountain Group, spearheaded by chairman Mo Iqbal and managing director Jeremy Harris, forms part of the pair’s expansion strategy.

This expansion strategy has also seen the recent acquisition of Coventry-based Capitol Tiles and online retailer Tons of Tiles, by Tile Mountain.

Speaking about its most recent acquisition, chairman Mo Iqbal, said: “Over the years, led by Richard and Duncan, Walls and Floors has developed into one of the major

players in the UK tiling industry and I am excited about leading the company into the next phase of its growth”.

Managing director Jeremy Harris also commented on the recent acquisition of Walls and Floors: “Walls and Floors has a significant supplier base and great customer loyalty, both online, across its distribution and contracts networks and in store.”

He continued to state: “We’re relishing working with suppliers and customers and developing opportunities further, with the ultimate goal of improving our offering across all our brands.”

Focus on digital, people and streamlining stock

Remain positive in uncertain climate

Bathroom Takeway invests £1.3million in UK

KBB retailers positive despite “unpredictable” market

Retailer Bathroom Takeway has announced plans to reduce its presence in Europe and invest £1.3million into its UK business.

It will see an emphasis on growing its digital footprint, investing in its people development programme and streamlining stock with suppliers to support growth.

Trading since November 2014, Bathroom Takeaway sells online and offline.

It has a flagship retail store in Salford, a store in Sutton Coldfield, plus a 10,500-pallett capacity distribution centre in Trafford, Manchester.

Director of Bathroom Takeaway Chris Norton said: “Digital marketing has always been a huge passion of mine and with this added investment, we can now further strengthen our digital capabilities and capitalise on the progress we’ve made so far.”

He continued: “For the time being, we will be reducing our presence in mainland Europe which frees up

Sales have been slow but have picked up, this year, reported retailers taking part in #KBNConvo, the first Twitter chat by Kitchens & Bathrooms News.

Lewisham-based showroom Deep Blue Bathrooms found the start of 2019 slow, but sales had “picked up significantly”, while Rob Mascari of Nottingham-based Mascari Designs said the end of last year was quiet but this year started well.

Scottish showroom Kitchens by Nick stated it had a good start to 2019, adding “political uncertainty hasn’t deterred or stalled home improvements and development in Edinburgh”.

This was also the story for Merseyside-based Stuart Henry Kitchens, with owner Russell Buckley stating: “I am working on 11 projects at the moment, and have orders booked until mid-June.”

However Rob Mascari also stated the market was “spectacularly unpredictable” and said uncertainty is not doing retailers any favours when

£100,000 to go towards the UK arm.

“With house price growth continuing to slow whilst we await the outcome of Brexit, we’ve seen an increased trend for homeowners to invest in their bathrooms and kitchens rather than moving home.”

He added: “So now seems like the perfect time to make this added investment and pass our savings onto our customers.”

business planning.

And Richard Hibbert of Sudburybased showroom KSL agreed, saying Brexit had affected business: “Uncertainty effects people. Three years is absolutely ridiculous and needs sorting as businesses need certainty!”

Despite this, kitchen and bathroom retailers participating in #KBNConvo seemed confident about trading.

Rob Mascari said he was adding to his showroom with bathroom displays,.

And Kitchens by Nick McNally said kbb retailers should remain positive: “The ‘glass is half full’ attitude is detrimental to business, regardless of the industry climate. If the market is poor, look for ways to adjust your business plan.”

www.kandbnews.co.uk K&BNEWS JUNE

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NEWS & VIEWS

making headlines

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@kandbnews

Largest warehouse in UK built in past five years

IN BRIEF ■ Furniture fittings and architectural hardware supplier Häfele has announced the shortlist for its fifth annual Studio Partner Awards, which will take place at Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland on June 27-28. The Häfele Studio Partner Awards celebrate the achievements of Häfele’s Studio Partners – a network of over 200 independent kitchen, bedroom and bathroom showrooms across the UK. See all the finalists at

www. rdr.link/KF049 ■ Household appliance manufacturer Hoover Candy has opened a 12,000sqft office, complete with 2,500sqft showroom, in Warrington.Yannick Fierling and Semmy Levit CEO and COO of Haier Europe, parent company of Hoover Candy Group, attended the official opening. Situated at Bridgewater Place in Birchwood Park, it boasts ‘Hoover’s Kitchen of the Future’ installation with smart appliances and a virtual reality experience.

■ Celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Society of International Design (SBID), the association has launched its SBID International Design Awards with a new website and venue. This year, the award ceremony will be held at the Grosvenor House Hotel in Park Lane, London. See more details at

www. rdr.link/KF050

6 JUNE K&BNEWS www.kandbnews.co.uk

BSH breaks ground on customer service hub Parent company of Bosch, Siemens, Neff and Gaggenau brands, BSH Home Appliances has broken ground on a custom-built warehouse and customer service centre in Corby, Northants.

According to BSH, the Central Customer Hub (CCH) will have the largest footprint of any warehouse built in the UK over the past five years.

The 945,000sqft development, which is more than double the size of its current site in Kettering, is expected to be operational from February 2020.

It will house the company’s warehouse operations and relocated

BSH Consumer Contract Centre and Customer Service Division.

The development project has been funded by Tritax Big Box REIT and is being built at Midlands Logistic Park.

CEO of BSH Home Appliances Andreas Meier said: “We’re extremely pleased to see construction underway on our new CCH in Corby.

“Once complete, the new office and warehouse will give us a state-of-theart facility to significantly enhance our logistics services and our wellrecognised customer service we currently provide.

“This new site is a significant investment for the company and demonstrates our commitment to a successful future for BSH in the UK and Ireland. We’re looking forward to seeing the development fully operational next year.”

Ninth centre for quartz, sintered and natural stone

Cosentino invests £500,000 in Newmarket centre

Manufacturer of Silestone, Dekton and Sensa surfacing brands, Cosentino has opened its ninth UK Centre in Newmarket, East Anglia.

Following a £500,000 investment, Cosentino has opened a 32,000sqft logistics and showroom facility, able to store 4,000 slabs.

The Centre covers East Midland and East Anglia and is headed by general manager Ross Stewart.

He commented: “It allows us to continue to provide the exceptional service we are renowned for, to our customers, and achieve at least two

deliveries to all customers every week.

“We will also be able to offer our local studios the amazing opportunity to use this facility as a sales tool to showcase our materials in larger formats to assist in their customers’ decision-making.”

Newmarket adds to Cosentino’s centres in Belfast, Darlington, Dublin, East London, Gloucester, Manchester, Scotland and its HQ in Hook.

Digital marketing and ad campaign for consumers

Stoves invests six-figure sum in marketing Household appliance manufacturer Glen Dimplex Home Appliances (GDHA), has invested a six-figure sum across consumer advertising and marketing for its Stoves brand.

Stoves will launch a digital marketing and print advertising campaign, targeting national news supplements and home and lifestyle magazines.

To support the investment, Stoves has continued its partnership with cookery theatre provider Chefs on Stage, which will see its appliances used in Stoves Cookery Theatres at more than 60 food events in the UK.

The Stoves branded stages will feature live cookery demonstrations by celebrity chefs and bakers, including James Martin, John Torode, Mary Berry, Brian Turner and 2016 Great British Bake-Off champion Candice Brown.

In addition, Stoves has sponsored The Hairy Bikers’ 36-date 2019 UK tour and supplied appliances to Tart, London’s only tart-based bakery and coffee shop, for use in its workshops and cookery classes.

Head of Marketing Communications at Stoves Jane Rylands said: “Stoves is an important brand for us and next year marks its

Centenary year.

“We wanted to increase the profile of the brand amongst consumers to support our retailers and we believe our partnerships with Chefs on Stage and The Hairy Bikers – plus our Cashback offer and Elite Retailers scheme – will ensure the popularity of the brand continues to develop in line with our ambitious growth plans.”

NEWS & VIEWS

making headlines

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Australian building fittings company buys NZ bathroom brand

IN BRIEF ■ Showering manufacturer Roman has joined the British Institute of Kitchen, Bedroom and Bathroom Installation (BiKBBI) as a corporate sponsor. The County Durhambased company has signed a three-year sponsorship of the Government-sanctioned organisation. Established for over 35 years, Roman designs and makes showering environments and operates in more than 56 countries.

■ According to research by the Water Regulation Advisory Scheme (WRAS), 38% of Brits don’t seek water saving advice and one in four people (24%) don’t know how much water they use. It revealed only 6% of people, surveyed by WRAS, ask a plumber for watersaving advice. According to WRAS, the average UK household uses 350 litres per day, but people estimate their family uses 157 litres – 55% less than they do.

■ The Mira Sport Max from Mira Showers has won a Queen’s Award for Enterprise and the company will be invited to Buckingham Palace on September 25 to receive the honour. The electric shower features patented Airboost technology, to increase flow without increasing water use.

In addition, it also boasts Opti-flow, which optimises water flow throughout the year, Clearscale technology to reduce limescale and Sensi-Flo to prevent scalding.

8 JUNE K&BNEWS www.kandbnews.co.uk

GWA Group acquires Methven Australian supplier of building fixtures and fittings GWA Group has acquired New Zealand brassware business Methven.

GWA Group designs, imports and distributes brands for residential and commercial bathrooms, as well as kitchens, across Australia, New Zealand and international markets.

Methven will join a stable of bathroom and kitchen brands, numbering Caroma, Dorf and Clark.

CEO of Methven UK Martin Walker commented: “GWA and Methven are businesses that are very much aligned

in terms of vision, culture, ambition and the ways we operate in our respective markets.

“Methven is passionate about delivering amazing showering experiences that do not cost the earth, which goes hand-in-hand with GWA’s company mission of making life better with superior solutions for water.”

He continued: “By combining the expertise of these two businesses, and associated brands, we will be able to offer enhanced opportunities to all of our customers and significant growth opportunities both in the UK market

and globally.

“This is an exciting opportunity and we look forward to what the future holds for the combined strength of the two businesses.”

Sales tracker The Builders Merchant Building Index shows February kitchen and bathroom sales were up against January, although relatively flat year-on-year Extreme weather can make comparisons difficult. Twelve months ago the country was hit by the ‘Beast from the East’, which spanned late February and early March. While construction was affected (especially outdoor trades), merchants still sold 4.0% more in February 2018 than in February 2017.

Against this background, Total Builders Merchant value sales to builders, contractors and timber trades in February 2019 were up 4.1% compared with February 2018. Looking back two years, sales were 8.2% higher this year than in February 2017.

A dry and mild February this year helped to boost external projects.

Landscaping (+11.6%) and the largest categories Heavy Building Materials (+4.7%) and Timber & Joinery Products (+4.3%) did better than merchants overall. Decorating grew more slowly, while Plumbing, Heating & Electrical and Kitchens & Bathrooms were relatively flat year-on-year.

Kitchen and Bathroom sales up 15.8% With February having two fewer trading days, sales were 0.9% higher than in January. Average sales a day (which takes trading day differences into account) were up 11.0%. Four categories did better, including Landscaping (+24.1%), Kitchens & Bathrooms (+15.8%) and Heavy Building Materials (+11.6%). Tools, Timber & Joinery Products and Plumbing, Heating & Electrical were among six categories that grew more slowly in the merchants.

Cumulative sales for January and February were 4.5% ahead of the same period last year. Landscaping (+9.4%) was strongest, with Heavy Building Materials and Timber & Joinery Products both up 5.3%.

The rolling 12 months March 2018 to February 2019 were 3.6% above the same period a year earlier, with one less trading day. Timber & Joinery did

best (+6.6%). Average sales a day over this period were 4.0% higher.

February’s BMBI index was 108.7, the highest February BMBI index to date. Plumbing Heating & Electrical was top (125.7). The average sales a day Index for February was 112.8.

Each quarter, BMBI Experts speak exclusively for markets, explaining trends, issues and opportunities.

The Builders Merchant Building Index (BMBI) The BMBI is a brand of the BMF. The BMBI report, which is produced and managed by MRA Marketing, uses GfK’s Builders Merchant Point of Sale Tracking Data which analyses sales out data from over 80% of generalist builders’ merchants’ sales across Great Britain. Read the full report at on www.

rdr.link/KF052

NEWS & VIEWS making headlines

Out & about Samsung exhibited its built-in appliances for the first time at Fuorisalone, as part of Milan Design Week Exhibiting its user-centred design philosophy under the slogan ‘Be Bold, Resonate with Soul’, Samsung revealed its interactive exhibition Resonate in the Tortona Design District. This was joined by its digital appliances business which revealed the Samsung 24-hour kitchen installation in the Brera Design District. The installation demonstrated how the kitchen forms part of consumers’ 24/7 daily routine and featured a 16m long island threading through morning, afternoon and night displays. It was created in collaboration with food designer Laila Gohar who showed how food is transformed from raw state to finished product, just as the kitchen evolves from morning to evening. Read the entire story at www.rdr.link/KF001

10 JUNE K&BNEWS www.kandbnews.co.uk

NEWS & VIEWS people

1. JP KITCHENS & BATHROOMS JP Kitchens & Bathrooms has expanded its sales team with the addition of three new sales managers. Tom McAllister and James Lovett have been employed as national account managers and Paul Atherton has been appointed to the new role of category manager (bathrooms) for the business. They bring with them a wealth of industry experience, with specific knowledge of bathrooms.

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2. CAPLE Wes Rose has joined multi award-winning appliance and kitchen furniture specialist Caple as business development manager. He will be covering the East Midlands and north Hampshire regions, plus Luton and Norwich. Rose has previously worked as a built-in and freestanding appliance sales manager for the last 10 years.

3. FIRA The Furniture Industry Research Association has confirmed the appointment of Andrew Story, head of product development at Moores Furniture Group, as a council member. It helps bolster the council’s representation from the kitchen sector, which accounts for nearly 10% of the association’s membership. Story was a British Standards Institute (BSI) committee member during the recent updates of two rulings for domestic kitchen equipment.

4. BEKO Appliance manufacturer Beko has employed Vijay Bhardwaj as marketing director, to lead the team across its five brands Beko, Grundig, Leisure, Blomberg and Flavel. He joins the company from KP Snacks where he was head of marketing. Bhardwaj has a wealth of brand building experience, having worked for fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies including Inbev and Pladis.

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5. KUDOS SHOWERING PRODUCTS Paul Booth has been promoted to the position of operations director for Cumbrian manufacturer Kudos Showering Products. He joined the company, last year, as operations manager and has implemented workflow improvements for the business.

Prior to working with Kudos Showering Products, Booth held operational roles in FMCG and pharmaceutical industries.

6. IDS International Decorative Surfaces (IDS) has expanded its marketing team with Paul Ricci as digital marketing co-ordinator and Megan Abbotts as marketing assistant.

Ricci has six years of experience and will oversee 14 websites, as well as handle the company’s digital functions from e-commerce to email campaigns. Abbotts will be supporting IDS branches on a daily basis with their marketing and POS requirements.

7. HIB Founded 30 years’ ago, HiB has appointed its 100th employee, Engin Fehim, as a customer service advisor. He will be responsible for upholding HiB’s standards of customer service. Prior to joining the company, Fehim was a manager in the pub trade and so is experienced in the role of customer relations.

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8. BETTE Manufacturer of glazed titanium steel bathroom products, Bette has strengthened its international project team with the appointment of Sebastian Noack as head of international project business. He has a Masters in Global Leadership from the University of Wales and has many years’ experience in the bathroom and international hotel sectors. Most recently, Noack developed the international project business division of sanitary product company TECE in Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

12 JUNE K&BNEWS www.kandbnews.co.uk

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CLASSICAL KITCHENS 2.0 Discard the design rulebook with hybrid styling

CLASSICAL KITCHENS 2.0 Discard the design rulebook with hybrid stylingCOLOURFUL

CLASSICAL KITCHENS 2.0

Discard the design rulebook BATHROOMS with hybrid styling Is Avocado making a comeback?

EXHIBITION REPORT COLOURFUL BATHROOMS Part Two: Bathroom trends COLOURFUL BATHROOMS Is Avocado making a comeback? for high street retailers from ISH

Is Avocado making a comeback?

news ■ expert views ■ company profiles ■ products ■ competitions ■ SME support EXHIBITION REPORT EXHIBITION REPORT Part Two: Bathroom trends

for high street retailers from ISH

Part Two: Bathroom trends for high street retailers from ISH

@kandbnews JUST OUT: Is it a skylight? Is it a ceiling light? It’s an extractor with LED panel!

news ■ expert views ■ company profiles ■ products ■ competitions ■ SME support news ■ expert views ■ company profiles ■ products ■ competitions ■ SME support

Kitchens & Bathroom News spoke to Liberty Director Mark Conacher for their Design it Out series in the May edition of the magazine. They ask him about struggles between designers / salespeople and installers. Mark said, “Overall, we need to find a way to work more closely with each other and discover better ways of communicating. Modern day technology is an amazing tool for communication, Liberty would certainly vouch for that, but as with social media it can actually be pushing us further apart.”

There are now even more ways you can get in touch Contact the editor via email pturrell@hamerville or through any of our social media channels: @kandbnews

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www.facebook.com/kandbnews/

14 JUNE K&BNEWS www.kandbnews.co.uk

@StaceyJSheppard Oh, I like this idea very much! @Modenus what do you think?

Just out

@TheBMBI Catch up with @kandbnews April issue for a comment from our #BMBIExpert Mike Tattam on bathroom trends. @HPPOnline Ooooh, it’s us on the same page

2. CTD ARCHITECTUR The Diesel Living collection o blocks is now available thro Architectural Tiles. It include range of textile effects, Diese by vibrant Mexican-inspired Cosmic Marble to replicate Completing the line-up is Di Blinds, inspired by natural lig the window treatment, and (shown) to replicate the retr

Readerlink 159 3. LITHE AUDIO UK-based Audio Visual bran launched a bathroom versio ceiling speakers. They featur amplifier, so there’s no need cables or servers, are AirPlay come with a dedicated Ap features Spotify Connect, De VTuner radio. Music can be

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@LitheAudio Great article from Kitchens & Bathrooms News – @kandbnews #bathroom #ceilingspeaker. See it here www.rdr.link/KF002

talking shop

NEWS & VIEWS

At all costs A little while ago guardian.com ran the article ‘Buying a Howdens kitchen? Make sure what you’re quoted fits the bill’. The article went into great detail about how Howdens - who supplies to builders rather than directly to the public - have varying costs for the same appliances and kitchen units.

[Read it at www.rdrlink/KF053].

The customer, in this instance, had been quoted three different figures for the same kitchen; “The first, via his builder, was for £16,003; the second, provided by Howdens directly, was for £9,916; and the third, for £44,895, was provided to show the “full” price before discounts.” Admittedly these three figures are very different, but there may be more to it than meets the eye. For example, we should take into consideration the building contractor’s margin; installation – what level of plumbing and fitting is included in these two prices?

And so on and so forth.

themselves up for a nasty surprise when it comes to the final bill.

Retailers should tell customers that purchasing a kitchen with a business that both designs and installs kitchens there is much more transparency with the price. Most independent retailers will also work with a recommended builder, so if building work is required in addition to fitting the kitchen, again, it will be clear for consumers to see where their money is going and why. It goes without saying kitchen retailers and builders factor in a mark-up on the manufacturer’s price; it’s how they survive.

project, will mean a much greater chance of setting

a consumer to feel disappointed with the price.

Create trust Owner of Park House Howdens, like other big kitchen companies will also “offer” huge discounts on both their white goods Kitchens Emily and cabinets. Whether these are just smoke and Rowland says mirrors it’s difficult to comment, but it’s always worth erring on the side of caution when such heavy retailers must be discounts are presented.

Remind customers It all comes down to trust. If consumers don’t feel transparent and Without knowing the full story and all the elements the kitchen company or the people who are fitting involved it’s difficult to comment why such price their kitchen are giving them all the details, then explain all costs to fluctuations existed in this particular quote. But they may step away and find a company that will. If gain consumers’ what I can say is retailers should remind their all the elements are clearly specified and included customers using a company that doesn’t install the from the get go (right down to the cutlery inserts trust and the sale kitchens directly or have overall control of the and finer details), there really should be no reason for

www.kandbnews.co.uk K&BNEWS JUNE

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NEWS & VIEWS Stewart Woodruff

Fit for your business Is an installer that cares about your business a unicorn in the kitchen and bathroom industry? Owner of MBK Design Studio Stewart Woodruff asks the question One of the most difficult and most important tasks we all have in this industry, if we offer an installation service, is getting good fitters and keeping them. An installer can either make your life blissful or make you wish you worked for someone else.

In an ideal world you want your designated installer to feel as passionate about your business as you do. You want them to be caring and considerate to your customers, and provide a service that reflects well on your business. In reality, it is very rare that any of these feelings are present on many of your projects. If you can honestly say you have never had a problem with a fitter, who does not have a vested monetary interest in your business, then I want together with many other retailers - to know how you manage it.

not their problem it’s yours and you will have to pay for it to be done again, because you can’t deduct their wages.

Sub-contracted fitter: They are working for you but are their own boss. You have to deduct their tax under the CIS scheme and although they have the motivation, as they will be on a fixed price contract.

If they go over the time allocated, the only person losing is them. They do not really care if they take longer, they just won’t be getting the maximum daily rate. Do they care about your business? Well they want more work but they are in business for themselves, and will be working for other people, so they have no real loyalty. If they fail to complete the project it will be very difficult to get them to finish

Fitting flaws

“If you can honestly say you have never had a problem with a fitter, who does not have a vested monetary interest in your business, then I want - together with many other retailers - to know how you manage it.”

In the 30 plus years I have been in business, I have tried every business model and each of these has their own flaws. So which route do you go down? My honest answer is I don’t know, I have tried them all and the jury is still out as to which method is the best.

Employed fitter: They receive a wage, you pay tax and National Insurance and are responsible for their mode of transport and tools. They have no great desire or motivation to complete jobs to time constraints, as there is always next week and the next job. Do they care about your business? They should but they can always get another job and that is their bargaining chip. If something goes wrong, it’s

16 JUNE K&BNEWS www.kandbnews.co.uk

the work and you will be left with remedial works that need to be completed, as it is your contract.

Contracted out fitter: They have no contract

with you. You have recommended them to your client and they have a contract with them to undertake the work. They are not working for you and so you have no control over their diary. They can only work for your client when they have the time and you have no control over their time keeping.

They are on a fixed price contract and you hope they complete the work on time and to the customer’s satisfaction. However their contract is with the client, so you ultimately have no control over the time they take and if there is a problem the client will inevitably come back to you. If they do not complete the work to the client’s satisfaction you are left with a moral dilemma. On most occasions, you end up picking up the bill for any remedial works.

Great installers required I should point out, I have had many good fitters working with me, in excess of 10 years, and who have worked hard for my business. And I still have teams that are doing that now. There are also many excellent installers out there, who continually provide contracts on time, on budget and to a great standard. However there is a definite lack of numbers across the board.

So, I urge installers to consider expanding their horizons, get some business advice and create a company who will be able to provide a fitting service to a number of retailers. You could be head and shoulders above the competition by fitting well, being reliable and caring.

top products

NEWS & VIEWS

Most wanted

Designer at KSL Rebecca Brown picks her favourite products from our May issue and explains why they caught her eye 1. MIELE

I’m so excited to see Miele’s range cooker offering, combining its intuitive MTouch controls along with a combination microwave, large oven and warming drawer. Functions such as Moisture Plus, rotisserie and a wireless

2

meat probe, alongside Pyrolytic cleaning, really bring the range cooker in line with modern built in appliances. Find out more detailed information at www.rdr.link/KF003

2. COSENTINO Having worked with Dekton in many projects, I already love how versatile this material can be. The introduction of the new Dekton Slim 4mm material brings yet another way of introducing this fantastic product into designs. The ability to clad furniture is particularly exciting for me, especially given the strength and durability Dekton can now bring to furniture fronts. See the video at www.rdr.link/KF004

3. BETTE It’s great to see colours making a comeback in bathrooms, and Bette’s new Craft and Silhouette ranges are both elegant and bold. With the ability to choose from a wide range of colours, clients can truly personalise their bathrooms. The most striking finishes Bette offer is its“effect-colours” which accentuate the soft curves of Silhouette baths, with stunning metallics such as Midnight and Forest. Watch the video at

www.rdr.link/KF005

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3 www.kandbnews.co.uk K&BNEWS JUNE

17

induction hobs

KITCHENS

1 2

In the zone

3

Could induction hob sales be spurred by changes to legislation, as well as consumer demand for easy-to-use, connected technology? Kitchens & Bathrooms News finds out With the Government’s Committee on Climate Change recommending all new home aren’t connected to the mains gas grid by 2025 – in just six years’ time - induction hobs are only set to build on their sales success. They are already a first choice for many consumers refurbishing their kitchen, as category manager of cooking for Whirlpool Dimitry Letsman points out: “According to the Houzz UK 2018 Kitchen Trends Study, 41% of homeowners included an induction hob as part of their kitchen renovation plans, with only 29% of consumers opting for a gas hob.” Tina Riley, owner of Leamington Spabased showroom Modern Homes and former retail chair of the KBSA says this is reflected in her sales: “Gas hob [sales] are now very rare, unless consumers are opting for a range cooker.”

Efficiency understood The energy efficiency benefits of induction hobs, with greater controllability and speed of cooking, are well understood by kitchen design professionals.

Brand manager of Indesit Sara Bazeley offers the reminder: “40% of the energy in a common gas hob is used to cook, whereas with induction 84% of the energy is used to cook.” Kitchen designers have been

able to pass this information on to their clients, encouraging sales. But energy efficiency is not the only driver of purchases. In fact, the popularity of induction hobs can also be attributed to the design and ease-of-use cooking technology.

Keeping clean With kitchens now an integral part of an ‘Instagrammable’ living space, there is a greater pressure for the working area to remain clean and clutter free. Unlike the traditional gas hob with a complexity of burners, pan supports and control knobs, the induction hob is one-piece. Dimitry Letsman of Whirlpool continues: “Cleaning is a necessity in the kitchen with open-plan living, creating greater pressure on keeping appliances pristine. Eliminating the need for elbow grease and time spent in the kitchen is a must-have for the time-challenged consumer.”

Integral extraction The pared-down design is a must to meet the sleeklined silhouettes of open-plan kitchen schemes. And where the induction hob also comes into its own, in terms of design, is for small kitchen spaces requiring

1. KUPPERSBUSCH Measuring 800mm wide, the Premium+ KM18500 is a two-in-one hob with 10 level power controls with bridging function. The extractor grid comes in a choice of seven colours. View the online catalogue

www.rdr.link/KF006 2. MIELE Part of the Generation 7000 collection is the KM7897FL induction hob which measures 900mm. The zoneless hob features full surface cooking, can track pans using SmartSelect technology and operates complementary hoods through conn@activity. Find out detailed product information at

www.rdr.link/KF007 3. FISHER & PAYKEL Measuring 900mm wide, the SmartZone CI905DTB3 offers a choice of five cooking areas. It features PowerBoost for intensive heat and GentleHeat function for slow, continuous simmering. Download the technical specification sheet at www.rdr.link/KF008

www.kandbnews.co.uk K&BNEWS JUNE

19

induction hobs

a hob and extraction. Enter the combined induction hob with integral downdraft extractor.

Product manager for kitchens at Miele GB Max McCormack continues: “Hidden, slimline hobs are still very much a leading trend in kitchens. It’s no surprise that our TwinInOne induction hob with integrated downdraft extractor is proving extremely popular, as is our SmartLine range of combi hobs with downdraft hoods.” And his view is reiterated by business development manager for Kuppersbusch James Smith who adds: “Our fastest-growing induction model is our Premium+ KMI8500, a twoin-one 800mm hob with integrated extractor.

Visually appealing, the flush-fitted induction model features a downdraft extractor and offers a seamless alternative to traditional wall-mounted models, ideal for where space is at a premium.”

KITCHENS

4

Advanced cooking But of course where the induction hob wins through is the advanced cooking technology which has been created so it is easy to use, which is important because “Research shows that only 22% of British consumers feel they have great knowledge of, and experience with, food and cooking, and that 27% of millennials are not interested in learning how to cook”, says brand manager of Indesit Sara Bazeley.

She adds: “In addition, with an increasingly ageing population, simplicity and ease of use are critical.”

It has seen the development of keep warm functions, through to overflow sensors and even built-in cooking guides. Head of brand at Hotpoint Jennifer Taylor highlights its ActiveCook induction hob boasts a guide: “My Menu is there to assist with cooking programmes. My Menu guides users through the cooking processes with step-by-step instructions and assists in the perfect cooking of 63 recipes.”

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5

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Full surface cooking This ease of use is matched by the flexibility of the cooking surface. While bridging technology, linking two small zones to create a larger cooking area, is nothing new, what may be less familiar is full surface induction.

It means fewer, if any, constraints for pan placement on the surface. And with pan tracking, it means consumers can shuffle them around the hob without needing to change the temperature. As part of its Generation 7000 appliances, Miele introduced zoneless induction hobs with pan tracking technology. Max McCormick explains: “The hobs will provide even greater cooking flexibility, allowing pans to be placed anywhere on the hob without any temperature adjustments needing to be made thanks to SmartSelect technology with intelligent pan recognition.”

Hotpoint, Whirlpool and KitchenAid are among the manufacturers offering the option of full surface

4. HOTPOINT

6. INDESIT

The ActiveCook induction hob (ACP 778

The Indesit Aria 600mm induction hob (VID 641

C/BA) measures 770mm and boasts three

B C) features residual heat indicators and a

technologies My Menu, Active Heat and Total

child safety lock. The four zone hob also boasts

Flex. Active Heat offers four zones at pre-set

a bridge zone, to combine two cooking areas.

temperatures, while Total Flex is full surface

Watch the video at www.rdr.link/KF011

cooking and My Menu is built-in advice See how it works at www.rdr.link/KF009

7. BORA Bora Pure combines a four zone induction hob

5. CDA

with centrally positioned extractor, with air inlet

Combining an induction hob with bridging

in a choice of colours. The induction hob can

technology with an integrated three-speed

cater for pan sizes up to 240mm and is

extractor is the HNE8 model. It has keep warm

operated by a vertical touch slider control,

and simmer functions alongside overflow and

which is ‘invisible’ when it is in standby mode.

overheat detection. Find out more information

See the award-winning Bora Pure in action at

at www.rdr.link/KF010

www.rdr.link/KF012

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KITCHENS

induction hobs

EXPERT VIEW Head of product management at Samsung Nick Bevan offers his view on the induction hob market

8 8. WHIRLPOOL The SmartCook induction hob (SMP 778/C/NE/IXL) features full surface cooking and Chef Control which divides the hob into four pre-set temperatures. It also boasts built-in culinary expertise.

See the video at www.rdr.link/KF013

9. CAPLE The DD935BK induction downdraft extractor hob features a 13 power level

9 cooking, but the hobs can equally be divided into pre-set temperature zones. Channel Controller of KitchenAid Lee Collett explains its Gourmet Induction Hob boasts 10 cooking zones which can be used as a single cooking area or divided zones: “The French Plaque function divides the hob into three or four zones, and activates them simultaneously at a pre-set power level. Pans can be moved from one area to another, without the need to adjust the power levels or settings, allowing the user to unleash their creative flair using similar techniques as a professional chef.”

Get connected But going forwards, arguably one of the greatest advantages of induction hobs will be its seamless integration with connected technology. Miele uses Conn@ctivity technology, which sees hobs ‘speak’ to compatible cooker hoods controlling the level of extraction and powering them off when the cooking process is finished. Sara Bazeley of Indesit adds: “At Indesit we expect to see connectivity in induction hobs develop, firstly

22 JUNE K&BNEWS www.kandbnews.co.uk

hob with four-speed hood. It features a bridge function connecting two zones together for a larger cooking area. View the space-saving features at

www.rdr.link/KF014 in premium appliances, and then filtering through to more affordable areas of the market in the years to come.”

Growing accessiblity And that’s possibily the challenge with induction hobs at the moment - accessibility.

Although the technology is available for all levels of the market, it is still more expensive than other options. Dimitry Letsman says: “Due to the initial cost of induction hob, they continue to be most popular among the most affluent households; 13% of households in socio-economic group A owns an induction hob, compared to just 3% in group E.” But as greater pressure is placed on the consumer, whether from the David Attenborough effect regarding climate change, or by regulations, induction will be at the forefront of hob sales. Jennifer Taylor of Hotpoint concludes: “With environmental concerns moving to the forefront of the consumer’s mind, induction will undoubtedly become the predominant type of hob preferred by customers going forward.”

In terms of volume sales, the overall hob market has been tough. In 2018 the total number of hobs sold shrank by nearly 4% year on year – and induction hobs saw a similar decline in sales volume. However, this has been counter-balanced by an increase in average price, particularly in the induction hob segment (where average price rose 10%) meaning that the value of the market remained solid, growing 2%.

So far, in 2019, the picture does seem a little healthier with the overall hob market growing again in both volume and value terms. Induction has been a key factor in this, growing 5% in volume during Q1 – which has helped to balance out a continued decline in gas hob sales – and shows a continuation of the consumer trend moving away from gas and into induction, particularly at the premium end of the market.

In 2018, induction hob sales made up more than 50% of the value of overall hob sales. In terms of units, around a third were induction hobs. This strong performance is something which we expect to see maintained throughout 2019. Total market sales have shown that induction hobs are already outselling gas hobs in both unit and value terms above the £250 price bracket. We expect this trend to continue within the mid to top-end market.

Gas hob sales have been declining in volume terms every year since 2015. The average sales price has also fallen every year, with over 60% of all gas hob sales now being under the £200 price bracket. It is expected that gas hob sales will continue to decline, as induction hobs become the standard for new homes. However, in the UK we don’t believe gas hobs will ever truly disappear, as they continue to occupy a solid space in the replacement market.

10 10. SAMSUNG The NZ6000K Induction Hob with Flex Zone automatically connects and controls a compatible hood. It also features Wi-Fi operation to allow remote monitoring from a smartphone. Find out more at www.rdr.link/KF015

KITCHENS

product round-up

2

1 1. BOSCH Appliance brand Bosch has brought together a selection of its Which? award-winning and most popular freestanding and built-in appliances in one collection. There are eight built-in appliances, at a range of price points, which includes the Serie 8 WIW28500GB washing machine. The stand-out feature of the WIW28500GB washing machine is the Reload function, which allows users to add forgotten items to their wash. Read more at

www.rdr.link/KF016

Just out 2. CROWN IMPERIAL British kitchen furniture manufacturer Crown Imperial has introduced a pantry, finished in Natural Oak silk lacquer with solid oak drawers. Created for its Midsomer and Aspen collection, it can be customised with spice drawers, wine and plate racks and door storage. The pantries are available for medium and high wall cabinets. Read more about the pantry storage units at www.rdr.link/KF017

3. TREND KITCHENS Milano Oxide, Milano Concrete and Jupiter are textured stone finishes now available in the Trend Kitchens portfolio. The slab MFC doors can be complemented with a range of wrap-over handles in Chrome, Graphite, Bronze, Copper, Black and Brushed Aluminium.

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JUNE K&BNEWS www.kandbnews.co.uk

All Trend Kitchens feature 19mm rigid carcases with 8mm solid backs and are supplied made to order. Find out more details at

www.rdr.link/KF018

4 4. REGINOX Adding to its sink and tap portfolio, Reginox has launched a range of waste disposer units that are stronger but quieter than its previous offer. There is a choice of four models – RD50, RD60, RD70 and RD100.

All feature an anti-bacterial coating, a removable splash guard for ease of cleaning, and a ‘quick fit’ mechanism to aid installation.

Download the brochure at www.rdr.link/KF019

5. BLANCO Building on the trend for industrial-style kitchens, Blanco has introduced concrete-effect sinks. Spanning across three ranges – Etagon, Pleon and Metra – there is a choice of 10 models in the PuraDur Concrete colour. They have the texture of stone and gradients differ just like real polished concrete. Find out more at

www.rdr.link/KF020

5

KITCHENS

product round-up

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6 6. DE DIETRICH

7. JP KITCHENS & BATHROOMS

8. CAPLE

French appliance brand De Dietrich has

Extending its Town & Country Kitchen

Handleless kitchen furniture range Verse, which

introduced Twist, Click, Cook, to demonstrate

collection, JP Kitchens & Bathrooms has

offers a choice of textured, matt and gloss

the simplicity of using its ovens. Users simply

introduced a trio of Shaker door furniture

doors, has now been added to Caple’s

twist the dial in the Chef Mode to select food

ranges. Apsley, Chatsworth (shown) and

portfolio. It features an integrated rail system,

type and then click on the food for the oven

Wentworth come in a choice of woodgrain

which comes in 12 colours for design flexibility.

to inform which shelf position to place the

and silk painted finishes. The ranges include

It is shown here, as a combination of acrylic-

recipe on. Once the door is closed, the oven

300 and 700mm base and wall units, 1000mm

faced Verse Zeta in Matt Graphite with

chooses how to cook the meal, determining

larder units, angled larder corner units and

textured MFC Verse Epos in Natural Oak. Read

the temperature and duration. See the video

broom cupboards. Download the Kitchen

the technical details about Verse furniture

at www.rdr.link/KF021

Buyer’s Guide at www.rdr.link/KF022

range at www.rdr.link/KF023

8 26 JUNE K&BNEWS www.kandbnews.co.uk

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10 9. BORA Launched at LivingKitchen, the Bora Pure induction hob with integral extraction is now available in the UK. Positioned at an entry point for the company, it features a four-zone induction hob with central vertical slider control, that is illuminated when in use. The central air inlet comes in a choice of six colours: Black, Rose Gold, Orange, Red, Jade and Blue. See it in action www.rdr.link/KF024

10. CRL STONE Adding to the CRL Quartz portfolio from CRL Stone is Antonella, which features a classic marble-effect. It has a white background with grey and brown pattern running throughout the surface and can be combined with dark cabinets or teamed with raw materials such as untreated timber, metal, exposed brick and glass. CRL Quartz Antonella comes in 20mm and 30mm thicknesses and in an extralarge slab format to use over large expanses of space, such as worktops. Find out more at www.rdr.link/KF025

shower trays

BATHROOMS

1

Take the floor

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While the grandeur of a shower head and large expanse of glass may create an eye-catching environment, bathroom designers shouldn’t forget what’s underfoot. The shower tray is a vital design element of the whole showering space. It’s a message that sales and marketing director of Lakes Mike Tattam agrees with, as he comments: “It’s important when designing and selling a quality showering space that you look at the complete space and define it. It’s easy to focus just on the beautifullyshaped shower head or contemporary hardware, but the ultimate showering experience comes from a combination of glass, hardware, frame and floor.”

In fact such is the design significance of the tray, to the complete shower environment, that both Grohe and Lakes have introduced their own collections. Grohe launched a seven-strong acrylic shower tray collection, last year, while Lakes has recently introduced stone resin trays with antibacterial protection.

Greater choice in colour, texture and size options increases the opportunity for shower tray sales 1. PJH Adding to the Bathrooms to Love Collection, is a slate-effect, cast stone shower tray which measures 25mm high. It has a slip-resistant finish and a tested flow rate of over 32 litres/minute. Download the brochure at

www.rdr.link/KF026 2. KALDEWEI The Nexsys 4-in-1 installation-ready shower tray is available in 17 colours, 20 dimensions, with five waste finishes and in three surfaces, including anti-slip. It makes a total of 5,000 possible design combinations. Read more at

www.rdr.link/KF027

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BATHROOMS

shower trays

3 3. BETTE

4. SANIFLO

BetteFloor Side shower features an outlet offset

Kinerock is shown here in Anthracite Grey and

to the wall and comes in a choice of sizes and

in a model which measures 1800 x 900mm but

colours. It is available with Bette Upstand for

can also be cut on site. It measures 40mm high

silicone-free connection to the wall. See the

and features a textured finish. Read the pdf

video at www.rdr.link/KF028

brochure at www.rdr.link/KF029

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30 JUNE K&BNEWS www.kandbnews.co.uk

Fashion and function Far from being a commodity product, the shower tray has been re-imagined as a fashionable and functional element of the bathroom. Low-level, almost imperceptible if required, the modern shower tray is now available in a raft of colours, materials and textures to suit the interior demands of many bathroom projects.

Texture has become increasingly significant for shower tray sales to offer the added protection of anti-slip. It allows designers to not only upsell but meet the needs of the ageing population and even help future proof their schemes for customers. And certainly anti-slip now seems central to the design of shower trays, rather than just an optional extra.

Ideal Standard introduced anti-slip shower trays at ISH, as did Roca which unveiled models in slim ceramic with anti-slip – Sanceramic.

But in stark contrast to the subtleties of anti-slip whether through integral texture or a surface treatment - one of the stories of shower trays this year has undoubtedly been colour, as evident at ISH.

BATHROOMS

shower trays

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Colour customisation

5. DURAVIT

7. ABACUS

Available in a range of fashionable and neutral palettes, designers can choose from a variety of decors to blend or standout in a bathroom scheme.

Head of sales for Kaldewei UK Adam Teal explains: “Through the use of colour, Kaldewei is enabling customers to express their individuality within the bathroom.” He continues explaining designers can either “bring harmony via co-ordinated design and a single colour palette” or “make a bolder statement contrasting colours and finishes.”

But what are the most popular options that designers should consider as part of their arsenal of bathroom sales? UK Country manager at Bette Samantha Wake points out: “While white is still the most popular colour in our shower trays and floors, there has been a change in the colours and finishes being chosen. Forty percent of Bette shower trays or floors are sold in matt, rather than gloss colours.

There is a high demand for various shades of grey and beige. Matt colours are also getting darker, with browns to dark anthracites popular.”

Head of marketing and product development at Saniflo Ann Boardman agrees, adding: “In terms of colours and finishes, products that replicate natural slate and stone have proved particularly popular and this trend looks set to continue.” She highlights that neutral tones of black, grey, sable, chocolate, white and grey, are making their mark in shower tray sales.

Certainly it can be reflected in recent product launches, with Merlyn adding Pure Black and Sandstone to its existing Slate Black, White and Fossil Grey Truestone Trays. PJH has also introduced a slate grey shower tray to its Bathrooms to Love collection. And Lakes’s collection of its Lakes Stone

Launched at ISH, Tempano acrylic shower

Designed to create wetrooms, the Infinity

trays come in 27 sizes, in a choice of square

single-fall wetroom tray is claimed to be the

and rectangular formats. The tray can be

only product of its kind where the slopes of the

installed flush with the floor, semi-recessed or

former and drain are fully integrated and

floor-mounted. Watch the video at

sealed. It can be installed level with the floor or

www.rdr.link/KF030

raised. View the installation video at

32 JUNE K&BNEWS www.kandbnews.co.uk

www.rdr.link/KF032 6. VITRA Designed for ease of accessibility, the Zero-to-

8. JT

Surface shower tray is designed to sit within the

Evolved by JT measures 25mm deep and has

floor. It is available as 900 x 900mm, 1000 x

been designed to offer the look of a wetroom.

800mm and 1000 x 1000mm models. See how

It comes in 13 sizes and five colours, plus gloss

the shower tray can be fitted at

and matt white. See how it is installed at

www.rdr.link/KF031

www.rdr.link/KF033

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shower trays

BATHROOMS

shower trays are available in a choice of White, Cotswold Grey and Anthracite.

The wide array of colours meets the growing trend for greater customisation in the bathroom. At ISH, Kaldewei introduced its Nexsys shower surface in 17 decors and five waste finishes, three surface textures and in 20 sizes. It offered bathroom designers a choice of up to 5,000 possible combinations. It’s possibly little surprise it has already won a Good Design Award and IF Design Award, after being singled out as Best of the Best for Innovative Materials and Innovative Architecture at the Iconic Awards.

Size matters But equally significant to colour, for bathroom designers, is the broad choice of shower trays sizes now available on the market, widening the opportunities for showering environment installations. Individuality and flexibility are key criteria for bathroom designers, particularly working in challenging spatial situations. And this need for a wider choice of shower tray sizes, to suit a greater variety of bathroom projects, was reflected by both Duravit and Kaldewei at ISH. Duravit introduced Tempano in a choice of 27 sizes, in square and rectangular versions. While Kaldewei extended the

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Easy, flat, flexible and secure Advertisement Feature

– the magic formula for successful shower solutions from Kaldewei Kaldewei, superior steel enamel bathroom solutions manufacturer, has a sustainable portfolio of over 600 shower surfaces, washbasins and baths. All meticulously crafted from 100% recyclable steel enamel, ensuring long lasting quality and durability with a 30-year guarantee.

With added sizes, ultra-flat waste fittings and even more solutions for easy installation, there are now over 100,000 options to choose from when designing a floor-level shower area.

Kaldewei’s latest award-winning shower surface Nexsys is an innovative 4-in-1 complete installation ready system, consisting of a waste channel, sloping support, sealing and an enamelled shower surface enabling ultra simple and fast installation. It combines the best of two worlds – all the advantages of an enamelled shower surface with the modern design of a shower channel.

Nexsys can be supplied in 17 colours, 20 dimensions for maximum flexibility and with 3 optional surface finishes, including Kaldewei’s Secure Plus anti-slip finish which ensures safe footing in the shower without detracting in any way from the design, as it is virtually invisible.

As well as brushed stainless steel, the stylish design cover is also available in polished stainless steel, polished gold, brushed rose gold and alpine white.

Creating the ‘Perfect Match’ in a single material in the bathroom, in either one harmonious colour or opting for a stand-alone colour statement, has never been easier thanks to the exclusive matt shades of the Coordinated Colours Collection.

W W W. K A L D E W E I . C O . U K

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BATHROOMS

shower trays

”Far from being a commodity product, the shower tray has been re-imagined as a fashionable and functional element of the bathroom. Low-level, almost imperceptible if required, the modern tray is now available in a raft of colours, materials and textures, too.”

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number of options of its Nexsys shower floor to include 12 additional sizes. Designers now have the option of using Nexsys in sizes measuring from 800mm to 1700mm.

However, manufacturers have also worked on creating trays which can be cut-to-size on site, such as Saniflo’s Kinerock and Kinestone. Ann Boardman of Saniflo explains: “Customisable options enable spaces to be converted that previously were potentially inaccessible due to some obstruction or another. Cut-able shower trays solve this issue.” Roca Sanceramic trays, which reach up to 1800mm, can also be ordered to size.

Iconic status Certainly bathroom designers cannot be floored with the array of shower tray options now available on the market. From a broad palette of colours, through to textures and materials – offering anti-slip and even antibacterial properties - shower trays remain an iconic part not only of the showering environment but the bathroom space, as a whole.

10 9. MERLYN Pure Black and Sandstone finishes have been added to the textured slate shower tray collection, Truestone. Measuring 30mm high, the trays come with a 90mm fastflow waste.

See more details at www.rdr.link/KF034

10. LAKES Made from stone resin, Lakes Stone shower trays are rectangular, matt finish trays with antislip and anti-bacterial properties. The 30mm trays can be inset into the floor. Download the brochure at www.rdr.link/KF035

11. ROCA Sanceramic vitrious china shower trays feature an anti-slip surface and are slim so can be

11 34 JUNE K&BNEWS www.kandbnews.co.uk

flush-fitted. They can also be ordered to size.

See the video at www.rdr.link/KF036

product round-up

BATHROOMS

1. GLASS DESIGN Adding to in Uniko range, Glass Design now offers the Bloom washstand with integrated towel holders and shelf. It comes in a choice of Matt White, Matt Black and Old Brass finishes.

Bloom can be teamed with the coloured crystal Globo basin which comes in a choice of four new colours, Ottanio, Storm Grey, Ruby Red and Ginger, as well as black and white.

Find out more at www.rdr.link/KF0037

2. VICTORIA + ALBERT Complementing its range of freestanding baths, now offered in a choice of 194 RAL colours, Victoria + Albert provides matching basins. The freestanding basins, made from the company’s Quarrycast material, are available

1

in gloss and matt finishes, such as Radford (shown in gloss pink). It means designers can choose from over 5,000 variants, spanning modern and traditional styles and in widths from 400mm to 800mm. Watch the video at

www.rdr.link/KF038 3. WATERS BATHS OF ASHBOURNE Extending its portfolio, Waters Baths of

Just out

Ashbourne has introduced Mediterraneanstyle blush colours to its range of baths and basins. These span rustic neutrals, such as clay and honey tones through to terracotta.

Pictured is the River back-to-wall bath in a Red Earth painted finish from Farrow and Ball.

Read more at www.rdr.link/KF039

2

3 www.kandbnews.co.uk K&BNEWS JUNE

37

BATHROOMS

product round-up

4

5

7

4. AQATA

6. MATKI

All the Aqata Design Solutions walk-in screens

The Matki EauZone Plus enclosure is now

are now available as part of the Matte Black

available in a Matt Black finish, which is a

Collection. There is a choice of three glass

marine grade industrial coating and claimed

patterns, in grid, horizontal and border, which

to be more hardwearing than powder

are applied to the glass before the

coating. It is featured on the fine frame of the

toughening process. Suitable for power

Eauzone Plus to create a style statement. Matt

showers, the screens can be used in

Black is available on all EauZone Plus shower

conjunction with shower trays or wetroom

enclosures as a bespoke option and comes as

floors. Download the brochure at

standard on selected bath screens and

www.rdr.link/KF040

wetroom panels. Read more about the range at www.rdr.link/KF042

6

38 JUNE K&BNEWS www.kandbnews.co.uk

5. SANIFLO Designed to appeal to the contract sector,

7. MERLYN

Saniflo has just launched the Fast 2000 range

Showering surround manufacturer Merlyn has

of Kinedo shower enclosures. Named because

introduced Squared Showerwall and Framed

of its 2000mm height and designed to be easy

Showerwall, as part of its Black collection. The

to fit, Fast 2000 features pivot, sliding and

Squared Showerwall boasts a matt black

corner entry doors, as well as quads with

Crittall-style design, while Framed Showerwall

sliding doors and fixed panels. They all boast

has a matt black frame. The Framed

top and bottom rollers, 20-40mm adjustment,

Showerwall measures 2000mm high and

anti-limescale protection as standard, and

features concealed fittings, and is

profile covers and concealed fixings. Watch

complemented by a Framed Bathscreen.

the Fast 2000 installation video at

Download the technical specification at

www.rdr.link/KF041

www.rdr.link/KF043

DESIGN

SME expertise

Design know-how PRODUCT KNOWLEDGE

The three ‘S’s of hot tap specification Marketing manager of Abode Leanne Adamson looks at the practicalities of specifying instant hot water taps, such as safety and cupboard storage

Whether you’re a novice or an experienced designer and just want a refresher, here we offer indepth knowledge on products, materials, applications and planning. So you can design your clients’ projects with confidence 40 JUNE K&BNEWS www.kandbnews.co.uk

It has been suggested, in certain European countries, three in four homes have a hot water tap fitted.

When you consider that sales in the UK are not yet at 5% of the overall tap market, there is a long way to go before we reach saturation and enormous potential for retailers and designers to tap into.

Saving space There are important practical points that consumers are likely to require reassurance over. One of the major considerations is how much space there is under the sink. There needs to be enough room to house the boiler that heats the hot water for the tap but the consumer will also want space for storing kitchen essentials such as cleaning products etc. Look for a tap with a compact boiler, to leave room for cupboard storage. And of course, with no kettle needed, there’s more room on the worktop too.

Ensuring safety Another hot topic surrounding hot water taps is

safety. With near-boiling water readily available on tap consumers naturally have concerns over scalding.

One of the great advantages of hot water taps is they eliminate the risk of accidently spilling large volumes of water and you don’t need to lift and tip heavy kettles Look for safety concepts, such as the patented Abode HotKey on the 4-in-1 range. It is attached to the front of the tap body to deliver steaming hot water but when not in use, it can be stored out of reach of children. Also ensure all kitchen products are compliant. Look for instant hot water taps which are WRAS approved, in line with Part G(3) of UK Building Regulations.

For designers and retailers, it is important to cover the three ‘S’s when discussing the addition of a hot water tap with customers – speed, safety and space. Explain how convenient a hot water tap can be and quash consumers’ safety fears. Finally, show how they can free up space on the worktop, while taking minimum cupboard space with a neat boiler.

Sponsored by PLANNING ISSUES

FITTER’S ADVICE

Sustainable designs

Don’t forget to annotate

2020 Fusion product manager of 2020, Jim Smalley says we need to take steps towards being a more sustainable industry

In our regular feature series, installers offer their experience to designers, enabling them to create plans which provide more efficient fits. Director of Liberty Fitting Services Mark Conacher says designers must remember to annotate drawings.

With the recent Extinction Rebellion climate change protests in London and school strikes, where 1.5 million students and children took to the streets, the issue of what is happening to our planet is now gathering political momentum. In order to mitigate the damage already done and prevent more, we need to consider our working practices, supporting suppliers that have adopted a sustainable approach, as well as responsibly removing and installing kitchens and bathrooms.

The good news is all the way up the supply chain there have been ecoimprovements, from the manufacture of cabinetry using sustainably sourced materials, to reduction in packaging and control of emissions in delivery vehicles. Plus, the design of products has improved, with energy-efficient appliances and a large number of sanitary and brassware engineered to use less water.

Eco options That means there are a range of sustainable options designers can take. Sourcing kitchens from manufacturers with good eco-credentials, choosing appliances with top energy ratings, specifying LED lighting and water-efficient brassware are ways to ensure designs are eco-friendly. Embracing the connected home revolution is another option, enabling appliances to run at the height of their efficiency. Other considerations are the responsible disposal of old kitchens or bathrooms, upcycling or recycling as much of the material as possible, and ensuring all packaging is recycled.

Change is not going to happen overnight but we can all do our bit which, collectively, will make a difference.

PEER POINT “Everyone is aware of the momentum behind the efforts to act on climate change, and in our industry we are no less responsible to do our part. As a business, Raycross Interiors offers a comprehensive project managed service, so we are able to offer the ability to be responsible for waste management in installations, and also packaging, which are two of the greatest areas where waste materials are generated in a project. We also only partner with manufacturers who show a demonstrated desire to be responsible in manufacture of the cabinetry, and transport. While we do offer from manufacturers in Europe, we always have one British manufacturer on board to provide a lower logistical carbon footprint. I believe both as a business, and as individual designers, we can make little changes to the way we work, which can make a big difference to the planet.”

Oscar Morrell, Raycross Interiors, 2019 Winner, Decorative Cloud category of the 2020 Fusion Inspiration Awards

I remember when I first started installing kitchens, it was around 1995, and OJ Simpson had been found not guilty and Eric Cantona was banned from football for his Kung-Fu kick on a supporter of the opposition. The company was MFI and at this time they appeared to be trading well. This was to be my first big introduction to dealing with kitchen designers / salespeople on an everyday basis. They were a wonderful bunch of people from all walks of life that all had their own take on design and how to sell a kitchen. Over the years, through being in the store way more often that an installer is now, you couldn’t help but learn the differences between the designers.

Coloured key One salesman, a lot younger than the rest, took it upon himself to have every colour of highlighter you could possibly buy. Why you may ask? One word - annotation.

From an installer’s point of view, the number one thing you have to learn is how to get inside the designer’s head. What were they thinking when they decided to do that? Why are they putting that there? What panel should I use for that infill? So many questions, that without annotation, you are left to second guess or waste precious time working out all your various materials.

This man was a genius. I absolutely loved installing his designs.

Everything was laid out in front of me in black and white…and pink and lime green and blue, you get my point. The more annotation a designer can give an installer, the more likely it is that everything is going to go the way the designer had planned and therefore there are less mistakes.

Less mistakes means everyone is happier.

Nowadays, annotating plans with highlighters would be seen as old fashioned. But annotation is as important as it has ever been. When you are the designer, the plan seems easy - you know where everything is and you know what’s to be used for what.

But show your installer some love and annotate your bathroom or kitchen plan. Mind reading is not a required skill for an installer, though without annotation it does help!

www.kandbnews.co.uk K&BNEWS JUNE

41

BUSINESS

interview

Ever increasing circle Samsung is already ahead of where it expected to be in appliance sales. But the global brand is continuing to listen and respond to retailers’ needs with its evolving Kitchen Circle support package As the seventh most valuable brand in the world, according to Forbes, it’s perhaps not a surprise Samsung has been able to power on to the UK kitchen appliance scene. What may be more of a revelation is how quickly it has been embraced by the kitchen showroom sector. Its success can not only be attributed to its product portfolio but its communication with retailers.

Connected journey

2

It has seen Samsung establish an estate of showrooms, covering 122 postcodes, throughout the UK. Channel manager of built-in appliances MDA Jonathan Hartley adds: “I can tell you 98-99% of the ovens placed on display are our new Dual Cook Flex – a connected product. It shows the desire from the retailer to have a connected product they can demonstrate and which the consumer can engage with.” And he points to the importance of education to help consumers buy into smart appliances: “The smart, connected journey, from our point of view, is about educating the retailer to have the skills and the knowledge set to demonstrate it to the consumer.” He adds: “But you’ve got to get the consumer through the door. So we’re also working on how to visualise connected appliances, through video, so retailers can bring it to life on their websites to attract the customer.”

Growing circle This forms part of a wide package of services to support, educate and reward independent kitchen

42 JUNE K&BNEWS www.kandbnews.co.uk

1 retailers offered under the overarching brand of Kitchen Circle. It includes a technical team, available seven days a week, as well as access to online marketing materials and instore videos. And now the company has introduced the tiered Samsung Ambassador Training programme offering Bronze, Silver and Gold levels.

Each of the levels takes one day to complete and retailers can either participate at Samsung training centres or receive one-to-one training at their own premises, over a 12 week period, for each level. “We are really working with our retailers to give them choice – and the best of both worlds – but also helping them understand the products in a way that’s meaningful,” explains Hartley. Head of marketing for digital appliances Ruth Storey adds: “We would want everybody to try and get through at least the Bronze level – and then they can choose whether to come back for Silver and Gold”.

Such has been the interest in the training, the first dates at Samsung HQ are already sold out, as Hartley adds: “This isn’t one-to-one training; it’s 15 to 20 people coming for a whole day. So already the uptake has been fantastic.”

Samsung has developed its training following two-way feedback with its retailers. Ruth Storey adds: “Our training team loves the two-way feedback because they like being challenged to help with objection handling. They then built that into the training programme.”

Samsung has also responded to retailers who are creating press advertisements to showcase their

1. KITCHEN CIRCLE Supporting, educating and rewarding kitchen retailers who are committed to the Samsung brand of home appliances

2. DUAL COOK FLEX The Dual Cook Flex oven can cook at two separate temperatures at the same time.

Featuring a hinged, flexible door gives access to the full 75 litre oven or the top half, without interrupting what’s cooking below. Find out all about the oven at www.rdr.link/KF044

2

Q&A: Ruth Storey Head of marketing for digital appliances at Samsung Ruth Storey says what’s been happening at the company and what to expect going forwards How are Samsung large household appliances sales developing?

In 2017, Samsung set out a strategic plan for builtin, underpinned with key milestones to achieve.

These included our range launch at KBB in Birmingham, as well as a targeted UK display drive throughout the UK. Our milestones keep being surpassed and we are actively building on relationships and product training to support all the retailers new to the Samsung brand.

3 3. FAMILY HUB REFRIGERATION As part of a journey into connected appliances, the Family Hub refrigerator enables users to share family calenders, stream music, and organise grocery shopping.

See its features at www.rdr.link/KF045

What has the reaction been like to the Kitchen Circle retail support?

We have received an incredibly positive response to the launch of the Kitchen Circle. The programme was developed to support, educate and reward our retailers and to ensure they felt part of the Samsung brand. We want an open relationship with our retailers and to feel like we are building this business together.

We have just launched the Samsung Ambassador Training programme (SATP). Three core modules have been created for kitchen retailers around the Samsung portfolio. We are also looking to add live cookery demonstrations and event support, as well as rich media and social media support for websites.

4. QUICKDRIVE WASHING MACHINE Featuring Ecobubble technology and a Quick Drive drum, laundry can be washed at lower temperatures and in half the time, according to the company. It also boasts an AddWash door, so items missed from the load can be added during the wash. Find out more at

Has anything surprised you on your retail journey and what you learned?

We have huge respect for all our competitors, but we have learned there is definitely an appetite for something new in this channel. We are not coming in to be a ‘me too’ brand, we have a clear strategy,

innovative products and functionality that adds value to retailers and consumers.

The feedback from retailers show they want great products from a great brand that engages and builds relationships on a local level.

Tell us about your London showroom opening…

We will have a Samsung showcase space at Coal Drops Yard, the new Heatherwick Studio-designed shopping and lifestyle district in Kings Cross.

Samsung KX LDN will bring the latest technologies to life with curated experiences. It will also be an excellent space to show how multiple Samsung devices and services come together to deliver a complete and harmonised experience.

Is the company where you expected it to be at this time last year?

Thanks to the incredible hard work from the sales team at Samsung, the support from the teams at Waterline and our retailer partners, we have exceeded every target we set ourselves in 2017. The speed of the estate growth and the level of commitment from retailers has been humbling.

What are the next steps for Samsung?

Connected living is a huge focus for Samsung and telling that story over the coming months and years. We are excited to be at KBB in 2020 where we will meet with existing and prospective customers, alike, listening to feedback and building the business together.

www.rdr.link/KF046

4

business and the appliance brand. Storey comments: “We love the enthusiasm, so we have produced templates which allow them to add a piece about their retail business. Every time we do a campaign, part of our assets will now be ‘co-opable’, so they can take it and add their own branding.”

Expanding range But that’s not to say the company is standing still with product development as Samsung is expanding its portfolio. Hartley comments: “We will be adding ovens and refrigeration in different formats. Retailers have been asking us for them and we’re responding to that feedback.” He adds: “That’s been good for the early adopters who said ‘I’ll come on board with you but will you be growing the range?’ We can go back with confidence and say we’re doing it.”

Following feedback And Samsung is keen to emphasise it will continue to listen to its retailers, as Ruth Storey says “there’s no point listening once to then walk away thinking we know what we’re doing – it’s about coming back to them and saying ‘What’s next?’.” She adds: “We have to be true to that and we’re really determined to stick to it.”

Certainly the business seems fast-paced with no signs of slowing, as Hartley says: “There is an investment, there’s a vision, there’s a desire and there’s a hunger.” He concludes: “If you have a strategy that’s one thing, but if you have a business behind you that can deliver, that is really exciting.”

For more information about the Kitchen Circle email builtin.appliances@samsung.com

www.kandbnews.co.uk K&BNEWS JUNE

43

NEWS & VIEWS competition

WIN Franke Vital Capsule tap Scoop a top-of-the-range Vital Semi-Pro tap in Chrome and Gunmetal or Matt Black and SilkSteel finishes, worth £849RRP Franke has launched the Vital Capsule filter tap, which features an ‘above the worksurface’ cartridge to simplify replacement. And to celebrate it is offering a top-of-the range Semi Pro model to one lucky reader.

Developed and made in Switzerland, Franke claims it is the first ever filter system to combine activated carbon with a hightech membrane, filtering water through 0.3 micrometre pore holes, almost 100 times smaller than the width of a human hair. According to Franke it sets a new standard in filtered water.

Fine filtering The triple filter process removes 99.9% of bacteria and viruses, together with rust, pesticides, hormones, chlorine and even micro plastics, while retaining all

beneficial minerals such as calcium, magnesium and fluoride. The filter is also selfdisinfecting thanks to embedded anti-microbial properties.

Unlike all other filtered water taps on the market, there is no filter system under the sink, saving valuable cupboard space. The 35 x 70mm filter cartridge is housed in a metal capsule designed as an integral part of the tap, enabling easy replacement above the counter.

Cold mains water is filtered as it runs through the capsule, which is operated by turning a dedicated control lever. The cartridge can filter 500 litres of water before an LED light indicates it needs changing, and an optional Chiller Unit can be connected for 5-12˚C filtered water.

Award-winning design Vital has been recognised for its “outstanding design, functionality, quality and innovation”, having already scooped a Red Dot Award in the Kitchen Sinks and Taps category. And it is offered in a choice of three styles; a dedicated single dispense; a 3-in-1 J-Spout and a 3-in-1 Semi-Pro with a flexible hose. In addition designers can choose from two combination finishes Chrome with a Gunmetal capsule or Matt Black with a SilkSteel capsule.

Check out the video at www.rdr.link/KF047

For your chance to win a top-of-the-range Vital Semi-Pro tap in your choice of combination finish, answer the following:

Name: ............................................................................................................

How much smaller are the filter pore holes than a human hair?

Company name: ..........................................................................................

❏ ❏ ❏

Job title: ........................................................................................................

10 times 100 times 1 million times

Send your answer along with your name, job title, company name and business type, address and work telephone number to: Franke Vital Capsule Tap Competition, Kitchens & Bathrooms News, Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF or fax to 01923 246901.

Alternatively email pturrell@hamerville.co.uk

Business type: ................................................................................................ (i.e. bathroom showroom, house builder, interior design) ........................................................................................................................

Address: ........................................................................................................ ........................................................................................................................

Telephone: ....................................................................................................

Email: ..............................................................................................................

TERMS AND CONDITIONS Entry deadline is June 30, 2019. The winning entry will be drawn on July 1, 2019 and the winner will be notified within 30 days. The competition is open to UK mainland residents except employees of Hamerville Media Group and anyone professionally connected to the competition. The winner’s name will be printed in the September 2019 issue of Kitchens & Bathrooms News. The prize includes delivery to a UK mainland address only. The prize is as stated, does not include installation or removal of existing appliances, and no cash alternative will be offered. The winner will be the first correct entry drawn. Tick here if wish your details to be passed on to third parties ❏

44 JUNE K&BNEWS www.kandbnews.co.uk

Sign here if you wish to receive/continue to receive a FREE regular copy of Kitchens & Bathrooms News

Signature:..............................................................Date: ............................

Are you involved in the buying, selling, specification, design or distribution of kitchens, bathrooms and associated products?

No ❏ Yes ❏

last word

NEWS & VIEWS

Digital generation is high street hope Co-founder of retail experience design agency Foolproof, Peter Ballard says don’t just assume digital will take over from all in-store purchasing

Findings released by European retail experience design agency Foolproof have revealed the high street has a surprising advocate: the younger ‘digital generation’. We asked a series of questions pertaining to online vs in-store purchasing behaviours, expectations and drivers. What we found was surprising and runs against the grain of assumptions about digital being the inevitable future for retailers.

For example, 58% of 18-24 year olds and 60% of 25-34 year olds stated they would rather shop for clothes in-store than online.

The figures suggest it’s not all doom and gloom for the high-street. Our generations of the future still see a place for the in-store shopping experience.

But retailers need to create an experience that plays to the strengths of in-store shopping, while fixing the pain points that are driving people away.

Assessing quality in-store The undeniable power of e-commerce has been a game-changing opportunity for businesses: According to the Office for National Statistics, around 18% of UK purchases are made online each month. Clearly, brands cannot afford to pass up on the potential of the e-commerce marketplace.

However, by neglecting physical stores, brands may be selling themselves short. The high street remains an important channel for brands to engage customers, which even “digital natives” appreciate.

Convenience is the biggest driver for shopping online. 42% of 18-24 year olds and 44% of 25-34 year olds prefer to shop online, but the driver is because they can do it at a time convenient for them — not just when the stores are open. However, over a quarter of the digital generation (27%) 18-24 year

olds and a further 30% of 25-34 year olds said they prefer to shop in-store because it’s a social outing with friends and family. And the greatest motivator for shopping in-store is assessing quality - nearly half of 18-24 year olds (47%) and 25-34 year olds (49%) prefer to shop in-store so they can check the quality of their purchases.

Retailers have an opportunity, but they need to act now or they will lose out forever. As the digital world continues to mature, we are seeing time and time again that truly beautiful and frictionless experiences are pulling favour. Some of the advantages of the in-store experience over online shopping, such as the tactile nature of browsing and assessing an item’s quality with your own eyes, may eventually be addressed with advances in technology.

But for now those aspects of shopping still have to happen physically, in-store, in person.

So a good place for retailers to start is building some of the advantages of online shopping into the in-store experience, for example providing more inspiration and guidance to consumers. Brands

should also play up the aspects of in-store shopping that cannot be replicated online: the ability to see and feel the quality of products, and the opportunity for a social outing with friends. By considering instore and e-commerce in tandem, brands can use the strengths and opportunities unique to both to safeguard the future of the high-street.

Online meets instore Get to know the strengths and weaknesses of your customer’s experience with your brand, in-store and online, intimately through some customer research.

This will give you valuable insight about your store, and the service offering your customers want you to deliver. Think where the digital and physical experiences of shopping can meet. Take each touch point and ask whether technology can enhance this in-store. Overall, think door-to-door in terms of the retail experience you offer, not just the browse and buy element. What role can your brand play from the moment someone has a need, to the moment they own the product and have it at home?

www.kandbnews.co.uk K&BNEWS JUNE

45

PRODUCT

SHOWCASE

To book a panel in this section please call Nina Goldberg on 01923 237799 or email nina@hamerville.co.uk SNICKERS

ITS TIME TO STAY COOL AT WORK – WITH SNICKERS WORKWEAR

MIX AND MATCH WITH KELLER’S ELBA & CRYSTAL MODELS

Lightweight fabrics in the new Topwear range will compliment Snickers Workwear Stretch Garments perfectly this Summer.

The warmer weather will bring a need for professional craftsmen and women to be cool and dry - to maintain wellbeing and working efficiency on site.

That’s why Snickers’ new Topwear for the summer uses 37.5® fabric technology, which is really good at ‘wicking’ moisture away from the body and keeping you dry.

Keller’s Elba and Crystal models are perfectly blended to create a beautiful and trendy kitchen mixing materials and textures.

These models give plenty of design opportunity so kitchens can truly reflect the homeowner’s personality. They can shake it up with bold or light tones with one of Keller’s 1,950 NCS colours on structured lacquer cabinets, such as Olive Green, and embrace the rustic rough oak cabinetry and build on this with matching oak shelving or an oak table.

The design is perfect for embellishing current trends; homeowners can embrace the industrial style or incorporate the growing trend for bringing the outdoors in.

You can call the Snickers Helpline on 01484 854788. You can check out the website and download a digital catalogue at www.snickersworkwear.co.uk or email info@snickersworkwear.co.uk

EASY BATHROOMS

BLANCO

INDUSTRIAL BATHROOMS HAVE ARRIVED

TRADITIONAL WITH A MODERN TWIST; BLANCO’S FARON SINK

Matte black shower enclosures are designed to create a sleek, ultra-modern, industrial look for any bathroom setting.

Framed in a dramatic matte black colour, the clean simple lines of Easy Bathrooms’ Taylor Penta screen provides definition, while creating a luxurious edge and timeless statement.

The slim, aluminium-profiled screens provide a feeling of light, while retaining an element of privacy and separation. With solid brass hinges; easy-clean, 8mm toughened glass; universal handing and measurements of W900 x D900 x H2000mm, the angular Taylor Penta unit is perfect for most bathrooms – particularly ensuites or master bathrooms.

Ever the pioneer for sink design, BLANCO has created the FARON XL 6 S; a large sink with a SILGRANIT® PuraDur® finish which is perfect for bringing a modern country house style into the kitchen.

The FARON XL 6 S comprises a generous bowl with a draining board which features double grooves. The look is reminiscent of country-style panelling; the grooving in the seamless surface enables water to run off and the SILGRANIT® PuraDur® finish prevents stains.

www.easybathrooms.com

For further information on BLANCO UK, please call 01923 635 200 or visit www.blanco.co.uk.

ABODE

Ideal for accommodating large pots and pans that won’t fit in the dishwasher and in line with the trend for industrial-style kitchens, Abode has extended its popular Matrix R15 range of sinks with the launch of the R15 Extra Large Bowl.

One of six different bowl sizes in the range, the R15 Extra Large Bowl can be installed into any surface, including laminate, enabling the customer to create an undermount look without the expense of solid surface. Alternatively, the R15 can also be undermounted and clips are provided.

For more information visit www.abodedesigns.co.uk

46 JUNE K&BNEWS www.kandbnews.co.uk

KELLER KITCHENS

PJH

Bold and beautiful, from PJH’s Bathrooms to Love Collection, is a range of Matt Black Wetroom panels added to complement its RefleXion 8 shower enclosure category.

Luxuriously styled and perfect for achieving the monochrome look, the new range includes glass with either a matt black profile or fully framed matt black panelled exterior.

Part of the top-of-the-range RefleXion 8 category, the panels are constructed from 8mm toughened safety glass with concealed fixings and Easy Clean glass treatment.

For more information visit www.pjh.uk

For further information, please visit www.kellerkitchens.com.

AKW AKW, one of the UK’s leading providers of accessibility solutions, is pleased to announce the launch of its new range of shower seats. Thanks to the addition of the new entry level 1000 Series and the upgrade to AKW’s 3000 Series, there is now a shower seat for every adaptation requirement and price-point.

Developed in consultation with occupational therapists, end users and installers, the 1000 Series and 3000 Series shower seats complement AKW’s 2000 and 4000 Series ranges.

Both are height adjustable and come with a 12-month warranty, with the 1000 Series able to hold up to 158kg/25 stone and the 3000 Series able to hold up to 190kg/30 stone.

For more information visit www.akw-ltd.co.uk.

KELLER KITCHENS

New from Keller is the classic GL5100 model. The elegant design makes use of classic green hues combined beautifully with chic golden handle trims and a melamine fronted kitchen island in Walnut for a warm wooden touch.

It is available in a range of stylish shades from the Master and Trend collections, along with 1,950 NCS colours, and a variety of lacquer finishes from structured to silk gloss and high-gloss. The handle trims are available in gold, bronze, copper, titan and gun metal.

For more information visit www.kellerkitchens.com.

MARKETPLACE

To book a classified in this section please contact nina@hamerville.co.uk Doors

Design Software

Kitchen manufacturers

Worktops

KITCHEN COMPANY LTD

Kitchens

T 020 77 23 51 31 E info@hackerkitchens.com W www.hacker-kuechen.com

KI TCHENS &

BATHROOMS NEWS

For further information on advertising please contact Nina Goldberg on 01923 237799 or nina@hamerville.co.uk

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ADVERTISEMENT INDEX 20-20 Technologies ..........................................................(page 41)

Reginox ..............................................................(inside front cover)

Bette ..................................................................................(page 35)

Reginox..............................................................................(page 14)

Blanco ..............................................................................(page 20)

Saniflo ................................................................................(page 39)

BMA ..................................................................(inside back cover)

Westin .............................................................................. (page 23)

CR Laurence ......................................................................(page 2) Caesarstone ......................................................................(page 9)

PRODUCT SHOWCASE

Crown Products ............................................(outside back cover)

Air Uno ..................................................................................Page 46

Dallmer ..............................................................................(page 35)

Snickers ................................................................................Page 46

Elica Division......................................................................(page 13)

Keller kitchens ......................................................................Page 46

Fisher & Paykel Appliances ............................................(page 18)

Easy Bathrooms ..................................................................Page 46

Franke ................................................................................(page 25)

Blanco ..................................................................................Page 46

Grohe ................................................................................(page 36)

AKW ......................................................................................Page 46

Hettich ................................................................................page 28)

Abode ..................................................................................Page 46

Hills Panel Products ..........................................................(page 27)

PJH ........................................................................................Page 46

Kohler Mira ........................................................................(page 31)

Keller ....................................................................................Page 46

Kronospan ........................................................................(page 11)

KI TC HE NS &

BATHROOMS NEWS THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR KITCHEN & BATHROOM PROFESSIONALS

APRIL 2019

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BATHROOMS NEWS THE BUSINESS MAGAZINE FOR KITCHEN & BATHROOM PROFESSIONALS

JUNE 2019

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KI TCHENS &

BATHROOMS NEWS For further information on advertising please contact Nina Goldberg on 01923 237799 or nina@hamerville.co.uk 48 JUNE K&BNEWS www.kandbnews.co.uk

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