Issue 23 | Nov 2017
THE IDEAL BATHROOM Essential information for bathroom retailers
ry in business
centu Roca celebrates a
CONCEPT AIR ARC WHEN LIGHTNESS DESIGNS SPACE The beautifully rounded forms of Concept Air Arc inspire a serene mood. The range offers a choice of WCs, all available with AquaBlade® flush technology and a range of thin circular washbasins with pedestal or furniture options when storage is needed. Visit Ideal-standard.co.uk for more information.
WHAT’S INSIDE… BAGSHAW’S INDUSTRY VIEW 4 JOHN Our Managing Director discusses the first Ideal
Industry Report and some of its interesting insights.
BUZZ 5 THE All the latest industry news in one place
10 ROCA’S CENTURY IN BUSINESS
SEEING OUT 2017 IN STYLE Welcome to issue 23 of The Ideal Bathroom, the last issue of 2017 – another year has flown by! What a year it’s been here at Ideal Bathrooms. We’ve celebrated another successful ‘Race to…’, launched a new website, welcomed new employees into the Ideal family and much, much more. And to do that against a backdrop of Brexit and market uncertainty has been quite an achievement.
Managing Director, Alan Dodds talks about the business turning 100 and its plans for the future
THE BEST 12 SIMPLY Get ready for the best ‘Race to...’ yet
14 ESSENTIAL NEW EVERYTHING All new Category manager, wetrooms, brochure and furniture swatches from Essential bathrooms
16 THE SMART WATER SENSOR
GROHE announces revolutionary app-controlled water security system
As ever, there’s plenty of interesting articles to read. In the main feature, we look at the big bath vs shower debate, weighing up the pros and cons of each. The Buzz covers off all the latest industry news, and is introduced by John’s final industry view of the year.
18 THE IDEAL WEBSITE
For the In Focus section, we talk to Fiona Lowry from The Bathroom Company, and in the ‘Who Is…’ hot seat this month we have Neil Horton from Nuance. Both pieces offer great insight into the companies.
22 BICENTENARY CELEBRATION
In the Idealists section, we celebrate four members of the team and the role they play here. Continuing with the celebration theme, Roca and Armitage Shanks are both enjoying huge milestones in this issue – Roca has been in business for a century while Armitage Shanks turns 200 this year. I would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to all our customers. It’s a pleasure working with each and every one of you. I hope you’ve all had a successful year, and that you’re ready to welcome in a new year and all the challenges and excitement that come with it.
Danielle Lillis Commercial Director Cover image - Roca celebrates a century in business. See pages 10-11 for more information.
An update on our new website and the features we will be implementing
Armitage Shanks marks 200 years in business with a range of activities
BIG BATH VS SHOWER DEBATE 30 THE We discuss the growing impact of showers and if
the bath still has a place in the modern bathroom
FOCUS...THE BATHROOM COMPANY 34 IN Director Fiona Lowry talks about the company’s history and exciting future.
TO SUIT 36 DESIGNED Versatility is key to new VitrA brassware IS... 38 WHO ...Neil Horton
If you would like to contribute to The Ideal Bathroom please email emma.hahn@idealbathrooms.com
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
JOHN BAGSHAW’S INDUSTRY VIEW Ideal Bathroom’s Managing Director reflects on the year and how the company has fared. Q. In the last issue of The Ideal Q. 2017 has been a busy Q. Ideal have strengthened Bathroom, we introduced year – the new distribution the sales team, particularly Nuance by Bushboard. How centre, new partners and with the appointment is the partnership going new website (which we’ve of Steve Heney as Head and what can customers already touched on). What of Sales. How have the expect from Nuance? have your highlights been? changes to the sales team impacted the business? I’m very pleased with the initial response We’ve achieved a lot, but I don’t feel like and the results. With this addition, I believe we have the most rounded panel offer in the market. They’re easy to install and easy to clean, so all in all it’s a great product and I’m very pleased to have them on board.
Q. Launching the new website was a big milestone – how has the launch gone? Amazingly well. The joy on peoples’ faces when we finally got the website up and running was a sight to behold. The work that’s gone on in the background is incredible. It’s been more than two years of hard work for a team of people. We’ve already got close to 1,000 customers using it. It’s achieving what we want in this digital age – giving customers the choice and service they expect.
4
it’s been busier than any other year. We seem to be in a flux of perpetual change across the industry. We’re all learning to run longer and faster to stay ahead. We’ve seen continuous growth, which is fantastic from a business perspective. One of the many highlights for me would be the trip to Mauritius. The race culminated in a fantastic event that we got to share with customers.
Q. There have been lots of changes this year, and change always brings new challenges. What’s the biggest challenge Ideal faced?
I’m delighted with the appointment of Steve, I think he brings a skillset to the organisation that’s slightly different to what we’ve had before. Steve’s hit the ground running and it’s great to watch him develop. We’re always looking at diversity and how we can make it a vibrant and inviting place for everyone to work. We have a great demographic here that’s beyond the targets of the industry – everyone plays their part and helps to make Ideal the forward-thinking, varied company that it is.
Stability in the workforce is a challenge – a new generation of people that won’t spend 20 or 30 years working at the same company. There’s a lot of work going on in the background to make Ideal the most desirable place to work. The exchange rates are really hitting home, that’s being reflected in pricing. Then our customers’ customers are being more cautious with their money. Challenges exist everywhere. Politically, we’re moving into an unknown area and it’s going to be an interesting few years moving forwards.
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
THE BUZZ LATEST NEWS
Find your flow
Quiet as a salamander
Introducing the new Mira Relate bar valve
Salamander pump models achieve quiet mark status
Ready for a drenching shower – even when water pressure is as low as 0.1 bar. Patented Mira Magni-flo™ technology means the new Mira Relate bar valve delivers up to three times more flow. Fine tune controls allow every member of the family find their perfect settings with ease, while the in-built thermostatic temperature stability keeps showering safe.
Salamander Pumps has achieved Quiet Mark status for most of its range of shower and whole house pumps. The UK Noise Abatement Society’s Quiet Mark ranks excellence in quiet product design and is awarded to products proven to be some of the quietest in their class. Salamander’s RP50PT, CT Force 15PT and CT 50 Xtra pumps are all rated some of the quietest in the 1.5bar class; while the RP75PT and the CT 75 Xtra are rated some of the quietest in the 2bar class. The CT Force brass range holds noise ratings as low as 42dBA.
Boasting a minimalistic chrome design, Mira Relate is also available with a luxurious deluge head and a separate hand shower for added practicality. Easy to install and easy to service, the Mira Relate is the perfect choice for the modern bathroom. Mira Relate has been designed with the installer in mind, and includes all of the benefits expected from a Mira shower. For ease of installation, 150mm pipe centres are provided as standard. In addition to this, large long-life filters and a replaceable cartridge mean Mira Relate is also easy to service. For more information visit www.mirashowers.com
The CTForce30PT and CT Force 20PT are also rated quieter than the biggest selling brass twin ended shower pumps on the UK market. Technical Director Gareth Richards said: “We have invested thousands of pounds to cut noise levels by 15% in the last five years. Having achieved Quiet Mark status for our HomeBoost pump in 2014, undergoing independent testing for other models was the next step. While there is no such thing as a silent pump, we are confident that they are some of the quietest available.” For more information visit: www.salamanderpumps.co.uk
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
Spoilt for choice
Start your day off bright
A range of wall panelling options always available with Ideal
New colour options for JTFusion
Wall panelling is fast becoming the alternative to tiling your shower or bathroom. At Ideal we have access to a market-leading range of wall panelling products in stock from Showerwall, Splashpanel, Proplas and Basix. To help you identify these, we have introduced the above icon – it will feature next to the product code in the Yellow Book. Products featuring this icon are for delivery within your usual Ideal Bathroom lead-times, other items are available to order and delivered within 7 working days. There is a revised PDF of the Yellow Book wall panelling pages on our website. Don’t forget you can use our new website to easily check stock when logged in with your trade account.
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Just Tray have just announced that the JTFusion, the ultimate low-profile shower tray, is now available in five stunning new colours – Sage Green, Mistral Grey, Malbec Red, Pastel Blue, Astro Black and Matt/Gloss White. Manufactured from ABS capped acrylic stone resin that’s double-skinned for extra strength, the range is available in 47 sizes. The optional integrated upstand is just 13mm and enables the low-profile tray to create a watertight enclosure. The JTFusion is also available with an Anti-Slip solution, a Class C, independently tested, colourless application. Part of the UK production process and available exclusively to JT, the Anti-Slip solution ensures a premium look.
Visit www.idealbathrooms.com
Further information can be found on the website www.just-trays.com
News from Geberit
A wall order
The brand appoints a new National Retail Sales Manager
For practical, attractive style
Geberit is delighted to announce Mark Humphries has assumed the role of National Retail Sales Manager. Mark will be working with distributor accounts at a senior level following 11 years in a regional sales capacity at Geberit. Raffaela De Vittoria, Sales Director said, “Mark brings a wealth of industry experience and I look forward to a further strengthening of the partnership with the team at Ideal Bathrooms.” Supporting Mark with Ideal Bathrooms will be Adam Ester, Senior Sales Manager. This new approach to customer management will ensure we build relationships with our partners at several levels and consequently provide an all-round better service.
The new easy fit shower kits from Splashpanel remove the hassle from shower area installation. Available in four designs, the panels measure 1200mm wide by 2532mm tall and can be trimmed to any size. They are quick and easy to fit with a tongue and groove system, come complete with either a colour matched or silver corner seal and end caps for a professional finish that is 100% waterproof. Designed for two sided shower enclosures, everything you need comes in one handy box, simple! For more information, visit www.splashpanel.com
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com
We’ve cut splashing by over 90%* to reduce the spread of waterborne infections. Nobody looks deeper into infection control than Armitage Shanks. Every detail of our MARKWIK 21+ mixer and CONTOUR 21+ basin has been designed in collaboration with infection control experts. Our new clinical mixer and basin solution includes: • Patented HydroFin to reduce splashing by over 90%* • Antimicrobial SmartGuard+ hydrophilic glaze • Simplified waste to improve water flow and reduce water retention • High levels of brass and a reduced waterway bore in the tap to minimise biofilm formation Visit armitage-shanks.co.uk to find out more about our complete range of hospital solutions. *Splash reduction recorded during development testing
Our patented HydroFin reduces splashing by over 90%*
OF
uired
US
ng
easy-fit shower kits
EASY-FIT SHOWER KITS FOR PRACTICAL, ATTRACTIVE Style
easy-fit shower kits
ONE BOX SOLUTION
One box contains all you need
100% WATERPROOF Suitable for wet areas
COST EFFECTIVE Value alternative to tiling
FAST FIT
Quick, easy fit, no wet trades required
NO HASSLE Virtually maintenance free
NON POROUS
ONE BOX SOLUTION
One box contains all you need
Non porous and mould free
EASY CLEAN Hygienic and wipe clean
COVER IT
TOUGH
TOUGH
YEARS
INSULATING
INSULATING
Can be installed over existing tiling
Domestic use warranty
FIRE RATED Tested to BS EN 13501 - 1:2007
Durable and hard wearing
Excellent insulation & sound proofing
Durable and hardwearing
Excellent insulation & sound proofing
NEW
Contact your local Ideal ASM for more information info@splashpanel.co.uk | www.splashpanel.co.uk
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
Nobody looks deeper into infection control Armitage Shanks launches Markwik 21+ fittings to battle bacteria in hospitals Following extensive research into bacteria growth, the Markwik 21+ range has been developed to combat bacteria and infection spread in hospitals. Markwick 21+’s composition is almost entirely free of polymers, instead containing brass and antimicrobial copper components. Waterways are smaller in size, reducing the amount of water in the tap by 34%. This is important, as Pseudomonas Aeruginosa present a particular threat up to two metres back from the outlet. A manual thermal flush feature lets maintenance staff override the thermostat to flush the fitting with hot water to decrease bacteria deposits. An integral thermostat enables water to be mixed closer to the point of discharge and auto-flush technology on the sensor operated variants means irregularly used fittings are flushed daily. Markwik 21+’s ‘hydro-purge’ facility flushes water through pipework and inlets to ensure its system are debris-free postinstallation and flushed following disinfection. It also features detachable spouts and one-piece designs to allow for complete immersion disinfection. For more information, visit www.armitage-shanks.co.uk Ideal Bathrooms
Commercial Solutions for the Trade - August
Your essential
Armitage Shanks
Armitage Shanks Armitage Rugeley Staffordshire WS15 4BT
Welcome
New Sandringham Fittings
Repair, Maintenance and Improvement Commercial Plumbing Solutions
REPAIR MAINTENANCE & IMPROVEMENT
England
Tel: 01543 490253 Fax: 01543 491677 armitage-shanks.co.uk
Public Buildings
Offices
Hotels
Stadia
2017
Healthcare
Commercial Solutions for the Trade
Or call the Armitage Shanks Technical Helpline 0870 122 8822
Armitage Shanks & Repair, Maintenance and Improvement Range Ideal Bathrooms
Armitage Shanks
The Contour 21+ clinical ceramics range features advanced maintenance procedures to provide an ongoing toolkit to continually fight bacteria and HAIs – a major problem for health services. Developed in partnership with leading scientists, the products can respond to evolving threats in hospitals and significantly push forward hygiene innovation and bacterial prevention.
Leisure
Hospitals Schools Social Housing
Whether you need to replace a washbasin, change a WC Hospitals or even upgrade a tap, you will find all the products you need and their related parts in this guide. For detailed information on each part visit idealspec.co.uk or scan the QR codes found alongside each product with your smartphone.
thebluebook.co.uk idealspec.co.uk
Armitage Shanks helps healthcare institutions battle bacteria in washrooms
Choose from Armitage Shanks’ extensive specialist product range
Welcome to the Armitage Shanks Repair, Maintenance and Improvement product guide which has been specially compiled to make the task of selecting products to update, maintain or repair your facilities easier.
You can find further assistance and guidance with all Armitage Shanks water saving products at:
Bacteria has nowhere to hide
A solution for every sector Schools
Product guide
New and improved fittings for Help is on tap... Sandringham with matching dual control options Armitage Shanks has recently launched Sandringham 21 Single Lever Fittings, a new range to replace and refresh the successful Sandringham Single Lever range. The improved aesthetics and metal handles make the fittings easier to install and more robust.
Business & Leisure
Renowned for qualitySeptember products 2017 Huge range for schools, hospitals, business, leisure and healthcare facilities Delivered from stock when you need it
IDEALBATHROOMS.COM
Part M WC and Shower Solutions
For further information please call 0870 122 8822 or visit www.thebluebook.co.uk
PXXX 09/17
2
For help and advice
call the Technical Helpline 0870 122 8822
The competitively priced fittings are manufactured in their own European Factories, so quality is guaranteed at every step of the process and are cast using virgin brass ingots smelted in house. The vigorous endurance testing on this range exceeds industry standards with 500,000 cycles, to create products that are built to last. All products are also WRAS approved. The range consists of a basin mixers and pillar taps, a bath filler and pillar taps and a bath shower mixer with shower hose retainer. For more information, visit www.armitage-shanks.co.uk
Features of Contour 21+ include Integral SmartGuard antimicrobial additive technology to reduce the threat of cross-contamination and keep surfaces clean and hygienic across their lifetime, plus a HydroFin feature — an innovative fin at the basin base which deflects and reduces splashing. Contour 21+ also features advanced drainage to combat water pooling, a prevalent source of bacterial growth. For more information, visit www.armitage-shanks.co.uk
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com
Find essential product information online at
thebluebook.co.uk & idealspec.co.uk
Trade for you New from Armitage Shanks – commercial solutions for the trade The Armitage Shanks Commercial RMI (Repair, Maintenance and Improvement) product guide is an easy-to-use guide for trade counter teams and installers alike. Celebrating Armitage Shanks’ 200 year anniversary, the marketing team have worked together to develop the first Armitage Shanks Commercial RMI brochure as an aide to support sales of over the counter commercial bathroom and washroom products. Products have been carefully selected, and the new product guide focuses on the key RMI products conveniently broken down by sector. For more detailed information the QR codes found alongside each product can be scanned with a smartphone. Now available as a pdf for you to download or use as an on-line page turner brochure, the product guide also indicates the products that are available from stock from Ideal Bathrooms – that’s Ideal. For more information, visit www.armitage-shanks.co.uk
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
CELEBRATING A CENTURY IN BUSINESS Alan Dodds, Managing Director of Roca, talks about the business turning 100, and its plans for the future. Roca began as a family workshop in 1917 and is now a global bathroom company. Tell us a little about Roca’s journey? Established at the end of World War 1, Roca’s early years in Spain saw the great depression of the 20s, the rise of Fascism and the Spanish Civil War in the 30s and then the Second World War. So from an early date, Roca was used to operating in uncertain and volatile times. This ability to be flexible and adaptable has been a hallmark of the group.
Beginning in 1917 with cast iron boilers and radiators, then diversifying into cast iron baths and vitreous china manufacturing, the group expanded rapidly in the second half of the 20th century by expanding into brassware, acrylic and steel baths, ceramic tiles and showering products. Via acquisitions and greenfield start ups, by the early 21st century Roca had become the biggest bathroom manufacturer in the world, with factories in 17 countries around the globe.
Remaining relevant to customers for 100 years is no small achievement. What are the secrets to Roca’s success? Adaptability and flexibility combined with an innovative, entrepreneurial culture. Still privately owned, Roca has been able to plan and operate based on long-term goals and strategies.
What have Roca done to celebrate their centenary? A variety of small and large activities throughout the year. The ISH exhibition in Frankfurt earlier this year was a major time to celebrate the successes of the past and preview an exciting future.
What can customers expect from Roca as they move into their second century of business? Roca will continue to grow both organically and by acquisition. New product launches and product innovation will continue to be at the heart of the group’s activities.
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
Ideal Bathrooms is your largest Roca distributor, and have been partnered for over eight years, a relatively short time in your history! What makes the partnership a success? We had traded with In Line since 1998 who Ideal bathrooms acquired. The Roca philosophy of having a long-term strong relationship with our customers is perfectly borne out with Ideal Bathrooms. Ideal support the Roca brand very strongly and mutual business continues to grow successfully with great relationships at all levels across every department.
The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
SIMPLY THE BEST BETTER THAN ALL THE REST
Anyone for sailing?
In 2015 we dared you to join us in
DUBAI
Our sunset Welcome Reception
“The incredible places we experienced as part of this spectacular trip were definitely the destination’s finest!” Cheryl de Val
- DeVal Bathrooms Ltd 12
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
“It was an amazing experience that we will never forget, it was more than just a holiday!” Anita Cheal - Gas Centre Solihull
Stay in 5* luxury every time
Now, as we near the end of our 2017 race, you are all going crazy for
CAPE TOWN! Getting into the swing of things!
Island Life
In 2016 you were mesmerised by the magic of
MAURITIUS
For those of you involved in the Race to the Cape, the finish line is fast approaching. It’s going to be incredible you do not want to lose your chance to be there! You’ve seen the spectacular experiences our previous winners have enjoyed in Dubai and Mauritius and we guarantee that Cape Town will be no different.
LOGIN AND TRACK YOUR PROGRESS VISIT cape.idealbathrooms.com 0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
NEW EVERYTHING - Category Manager, wetrooms, brochure and furniture swatches
It’s been a busy few months at Essential Bathrooms, and there’s lots of exciting news to share with readers. Andrew Cotterill named new Category Manager We’re delighted to announce that Andrew Cotterill is the new Category Manager for Essential. Andrew has been with the business for almost four years in a purchasing role. He knows both the business and the industry inside out with strong working relationships and product knowledge, making Andrew a great addition to the team. We’re very excited to welcome him on board.
DuraDec wetroom trays We are excited to have extended the Essential range further with the addition of wetrooms to the portfolio. With DuraDec, wetroom solutions are made easy. The products are designed for fast and straightforward installation – four simple steps show the customer exactly what they need to complete their wetroom. This British product is perfect for residential, commercial and healthcare settings and is ideal for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility. The wetroom trays come in 19 sizes, and can be cut to fit awkward or unusual spaces. The trays are BBA approved and can be coupled with DuraDec waterproof boards for a smooth finish. We also offer tanking systems to make sure your wetroom stays watertight.
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0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
New brochure for September The latest Essential brochure is now available and features the new wetroom solutions from DuraDec. The 67-page brochure also boasts a new inspiration page which showcases the latest styles and trends available. Furniture pages now also include ‘Get the look’, which makes it easier for customers to identify which products are used in the lifestyle images.
Swatch this space Essential is proud to announce that Nevada, Vermont and Hampshire is 100% in stock! Customer expectation is key therefore ensuring stock levels are accurate is a must. The furniture range is extensive; having close to 120 products, you’ll be sure to find your ideal bathroom. To help customers decide on a finish, Essentials’ has introduced a furniture swatch booklet for Nevada, Vermont and Hampshire. The furniture swatch showcases a true colour match and texture of the furniture. This comes as an A4 booklet and features eye-catching lifestyle images, perfect for showroom countertops!
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
WATERTIGHT PREVENTION PROTECTION
GROHE announces revolutionary app-controlled water security system Don’t underestimate water damage
GROHE Sense and GROHE Sense Guard address the issue of water damage in homes – an often-underestimated risk. GROHE’s survey showed half of European households have experienced water damage at least once. A report by the German Insurance Association showed that 93% of cases it investigated were preventable. With these stats in mind, GROHE has developed the intelligent devices to monitor and prevent water damage incidents.
Smart peace of mind This innovative system is based on industry standard wireless LAN technology, controlled through the GROHE ONDUS app – the centrepiece of the of the system. Offering the highest level of water safety, it allows homeowners to continually monitor and control GROHE Sense and GROHE Sense Guard – wherever and whenever. Users receive alerts if an issue arises and can use the app to shut off the water supply. The app also lets users track their water consumption. “Mains-related water damage is the most frequent damage in the house. Prevention is the best remedy. That is why we developed the GROHE Sense water security system: enjoy the day – enjoy peace of mind, while GROHE Sense and Sense Guard take care of your home,” says Michael Rauterkus, CEO GROHE AG.
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0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
GROHE Sense A smart water sensor, GROHE Sense is easily placed on the floor and can detect flooding by tracking room temperature and humidity. Using multiple devices across different rooms means home owners are instantly notified of any issues.
GROHE Sense Guard This smart water control can detect frost risk, micro leakages and pipe breaks. Installed on the central water pipe by a professional installer, GROHE Sense Guard allows homeowners to automatically turn off the water supply with the device in case of a burst pipe. Even a running tap won’t go unnoticed anymore.
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
THE IDEAL WEBSITE… DESIGNED FOR YOU Marketing Manager Stewart Perry discusses Ideal’s new website, how it’s designed with customers in mind and what you can expect to see in the future.
It’s my pleasure to report that not only is our new website up and running, but that it’s been extremely well received by our customers. To date, we’ve had just over 20% of our current customers register for
a login, which is great. However, we’d love to see that number grow even more over the coming months. The project has taken two years up to this point and we still have a lot of work to do to make it the platform we want it to be. It’s a great tool at the moment – it’ll be even better in the future!
If you haven’t been on our new website, why not give it a try? Visit www.idealbathrooms.com or request your trade login today by visiting register.idealbathrooms.com If you have been using our new website, we’d love to know about your experience. Your feedback means we can continue to improve the platform and provide the best possible experience.
HOW THE WEBSITE CAN HELP YOUR BUSINESS Another point of contact Ideal’s website “provides a fast, efficient stock check and ordering system. I have used it from day one and wonder how I managed before!”
Alan - Fairfield Builders Supplies
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Our telephone support and email ordering services won’t be going anywhere. Our website is just another (much more effective) platform for customers to communicate with us. Our customers are busy people so we also want to provide a service that doesn’t always rely on someone being on the other end of the phone and that they can access as and when they require.
were getting around 1,800 calls a day to the sales office with 75% of those calls enquiring about stock. The main priority of the website was to offer customers a simple way to view all our 20,000 products and their availability, helping improve their experience of dealing with Ideal Bathrooms.
Reduce errors
Ordering online helps reduce human errors, such as a misheard product code if ordering over the phone. It gives Stock check customers much greater control and Primarily the new site is a stock checking allows them to see exactly what they’ve tool. Pre-launch research showed that we ordered – and when they can expect it.
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
Ideal’s new trade portal is fantastic and “saves the business so much time, particularly
site is so simple and easy to use it “hasThebecome part of the daily routine for all
with their stock check function. It loads fast and is predictive to the search parameter used, and I only wished that all suppliers had a similar tool to aid our business.”
members of staff. Due to the simple stock search function and the great product information, we have been able to answer customer queries quicker and more effectively leading to us making sales we wouldn’t have in the past.”
Mark - UKBathrooms
Adrian - Bluewater Bathrooms & Kitchens
FUTURE FEATURES TO WATCH OUT FOR We have designed the site to adapt to the changing needs of our customers and since the launch at the end of May, the site has been constantly evolving. We have a planned schedule of additional features to be launched but our customers are the ones using this on a daily basis and their feedback has been invaluable. We encourage our customers to work with us so we can create a site that does everything they require.
Showroom sales tool
Route planning software
We’re working on a showroom sales tool which allows customers to use the website in customer-facing situations. They’ll be able to add their own logo and change the colourways to match their branding. The website then becomes an extension of their showroom. It also includes some nice features such as only showing the RRP price rather than their trade price. It will also include a quote builder which, with a few options selected, will allow them to provide a quote to the customer there and then.
We are in the process of bringing in new route planning software that calculates the most efficient routes for our deliveries. This software opens up multiple benefits, allowing us to pull through time slots for customers giving them a two-hour delivery window as well as E-Pods’. This service should be available by the end of the year.
Live chat If customers have a more complex question which they can’t find an answer to on the site, we will soon be able to offer a ‘live chat’ facility. This will allow our customers to send an instant message to one of our trained customer service staff.
smaller businesses that may not have time to place orders during working hours. With the website, you can order during the day, evening or night, and come back to your order as and when you have the time to do so.
Perfect for small businesses We have a diverse customer base however the huge range of features means there is something everyone will find useful. The site is also perfect for
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com
Our product bible Previously, our Yellow Price Guide has been our product bible but the new website allows us to take this one step further. The website has all of the products listed in our price guide but we have invested heavily in providing our customers with enriched product information. 99% of products have images and additional information such as dimensions, warranties, spec sheets and assembly instructions – providing everything our customer needs in one place. When logged into the trade site, the website even pulls through customers’ net pricing.
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
SHOWER TRAYS, THE MX WAY Ken Beney, MX Group Director, talks us through the new MX Minerals Trays and how they compare to other products in the market
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0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
Q. Tell us a little bit about the new MX Trays? The new Minerals Shower Trays are handmade from cast stone resin in our Tewkesbury factory and are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes. The slate effect textured finish also offers a slip-resistant surface.
Q. Why did you develop the new trays?
Q. What makes the MX Trays unique compared to other trays in the market? MX continues to invest into new innovative ideas as well as the use of the latest materials, designs and equipment. Maintaining a start to finish production process here in the UK allows us to maintain our competitive edge within the market place.
Q. Which trays will Ideal offer and when can customers order them? MX’s full range of trays including the new minerals trays are available now from Ideal Bathrooms. For more information, visit www.mx-group.com
With the demand for this type of tray on the increase, it was a natural step for us to produce a traditional homemade product for today’s market.
Q. What are the benefits of choosing an MX tray? The MX Minerals tray range is available in 16 different sizes and is produced in 3 standard colours – Ash Grey, Ice White and Jet Black. At only 25mm high, these trays are the ideal wet room replacement and all carry a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Q. Shower trays are becoming ever more popular, how have you seen trends for shower trays evolve over the last few years? We have certainly seen a continual growth in the shower tray market with the demand for larger trays and the latest interior trends, making the bathroom a living space as opposed to a purely functional area.
MX Trays full range is now available to order at Ideal Bathrooms Tel: 0800 634 2600 E-mail: neworders@idealbathrooms.com
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
ARMITAGE SHANKS CELEBRATES BICENTENARY Marking 200 years in business with a range of activities
Armitage Shanks has launched a celebratory campaign to mark its historic 200-year anniversary. The ‘Celebrate 200’ campaign commemorates the company’s past and looks to the future. Armitage Shanks has also announced a major investment in ‘future-proofing’ its factories, where more than 350 people are employed alongside hi-tech manufacturing machinery and robots. For 200 years, the business has produced millions of items for homes and public spaces of all shapes and sizes.
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THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
thanks to the addition of the first continuous fired tunnel kiln. In 1969, the Armitage Ware Company acquired Shanks Holdings Limited, and the merger resulted in the brand we know today – Armitage Shanks. In the same year, Armitage introduced the iconic Avocado glazed bathroom suit. During the subsequent decade, over one million Avocado suits were installed in the UK – outselling all other colours. The start of the 21st century saw major investment in new machinery to make sure traditional craftsmanship was complemented with the latest technologies. Today, products are developed with a team of skilled pattern makers and highly-trained technicians who create and programme the latest production machines.
A history of innovation
An ideal partner
In 1817, a brick maker called Thomas Bond built the first bottle kiln in the village of Armitage, conveniently sited next to the Trent & Mersey canal network. In response to the Public Health Act of 1847, which mandated the use of sewers in towns and cities, the business began to convert its production to making toilets to meet the rising public demand. By 1876, railway links had been introduced at the site, meaning business boomed. The products were even fitted in the Titanic. 60% of production was exported during the 19th century. The logo at the time was ‘Johns’, which became synonymous with the toilet, particularly in America.
Katie Cope, Marketing Director at Ideal Standard, said: “Whether it’s in our homes, schools, hospitals, stadiums and workplaces, or it’s plumbers, installers, architects, tradespeople, builders or merchants – over the last two centuries, Armitage Shanks has become part of the very fabric of British life. In recognition, we have launched initiatives as part of our Celebrate 200 campaign. The historic site at Armitage is the only remaining major scale manufacturing operation to still produce bathroom ceramic products in the UK, so we are delighted to celebrate this historic milestone and in doing so create a platform for Armitage Shanks to continue to take water intelligence to the next level in the future years.”
After World War II, the demand for sanitary ware meant the company expanded further
For more information, visit www.celebrate200.co.uk
Making music Armitage Shanks has collaborated with professional music producer DJ Molecules to compose a piece of music made entirely from sound clips from the bathroom and plumbers going about their daily work. There’s also a free to download app – Beats200 – which lets plumbers and Armitage Shanks fans create their own piece of music. Users can upload their track to be considered by the judges. The most popular track will win a £5,000 prize and will be published on a Beats200 album.
Test your knowledge If music making isn’t for you, Armitage Shanks are also running an amazing online quiz. The H2O-Levels quiz promises to test players’ knowledge of plumbing, Armitage Shanks and general knowledge. Not only will the quiz provide a spot of entertainment, players can win some great prizes as well.
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
MEET THE IDEALISTS
RAVIND PATEL
MEREDITH COX
ADAM TALBOT
What does your role involve?
What does your role involve?
What does your role involve?
I manage the North-West London patch for Ideal Bathrooms. This involves visiting customers (which I shall be doing in the next few weeks as I am still undergoing final parts of training), and resolving questions/queries from our customers. Day to day, providing customers with a 5* level of service.
Anything and everything! I produce a lot of reports and stats to give us an idea of how we are performing as a department, as well as sales figures for the business. But most of what I do on a day-to-day basis is reactive, which in such a large department represents a lot of work.
My role is predominantly customer facing. The main part of my role will be looking after customers, ensuring that customers maintain a positive relationship with Ideal Bathrooms and that we support their needs to help them grow.
What’s the best thing about working at Ideal?
What’s the best thing about working at Ideal?
The people I work with are great. The training and support I have received since joining has been exceptional. Everybody is very welcoming.
We have such a great team, with lots of staff who have been here for many years. Having so much accumulated knowledge means we can offer a great service. Because of our longevity in the industry we have a great rapport with our customers, which makes work so enjoyable and is such a rarity in most customer-facing roles.
North London Area Sales Manager
What drew you to a role at Ideal? I needed a change in my career, I currently have six years’ experience within sales but the industry is something new to me. I felt it would be exciting and challenging at the same time. The role appealed to me as it was similar to what I had done before which was visiting customers out in the field. However, it is different in many ways because it is a completely new industry to me. I have learnt so much since I have started and am really enjoying it.
Tell us something you couldn’t live without? This is a trick question. I couldn’t live without many things but I couldn’t live without my family and friends. If you’re asking about an item I couldn’t live without then it would be a phone seeing as how much we can do with our phones nowadays.
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Sales Office Supervisor
What drew you to the role? I really wanted to work somewhere that had a more intimate family feel but had the job security of a large corporation. Sounds like a strange combination, but during the financial crisis I had been made redundant from three jobs in a row and it gave me a different perspective. Ideal Bathrooms ticked all the boxes plus I like fact that movement and development within the company is encouraged as something positive.
Area Sales Manager
What’s the best thing about working at Ideal? The people. Everybody is so friendly and supportive, and the help and support I have received from everyone so far has been amazing.
What drew you to the role? A number of things excited me about this role, mostly the freedom to manage your own area and take responsibility for customers on behalf of Ideal Bathrooms. Steve Heney has been a great support for me during my initial time at Ideal, and this is very much a reason for taking up the role in the first place – so thanks Steve!
Tell us something you couldn’t live without? Too many things! A morning cup of coffee, my guitar, my son, but most of all holidays and time off with the family.
Tell us something you couldn’t live without? Chocolate and coffee (I know it’s two things) I live in hope that one day highly caffeinated chocolate bars will readily available.
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THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF JOHN BAGSHAW! This year we commemorate Ideal Bathroom’s Managing Director, John, for his 40 years of service. We take a look back at key dates in John’s thriving career and follow his journey to where he is today… a very busy man!
1977
John joins John Ashworth & Co, part of the International Timber Group, as a Sales Trainee
What does your role involve?
1984
Produce required reports to support different areas within the business, and to produce management reports by compiling data from various sources and analysing where we can improve as a business. Any other ad hoc requests.
Following the merger with Montague L Meyer to form Meyer International in the early 80’s, John is appointed Product Manager at Meyer International
1989
… and then promoted to Sales Director!
ALEX MCSHANE Data Analyst
What’s the best thing about working at Ideal? The people!
What drew you to a role at Ideal? The different variety in the role, and the opportunity to get an insight of the business operationally.
Tell us something you couldn’t live without? The other half of me, my twin sister.
1993
Gliksten Hardwoods, Waterman & Ross and John Ashworth & Co merged to become International Timber
1994
John finally received his MD-ship and becomes Managing Director of International Timber
1999
Appointed MD of International Decorative Surfaces (IDS) following the merger of Meyer Laminates and L Bloom Panel Products
2001
John once again is appointed as Managing Director of International Timber, whilst retaining his position at IDS
2002
John is appointed as the Head of Tile Group, the same year that Meyer was acquired by Saint-Gobain
2007
Expanding his management portfolio, John steps in to become Head of two more Saint-Gobain companies, Calders & Grandidge and PDM
2009
John is appointed Managing Director at the UK’s no. 1 bathroom distributor, Ideal Bathrooms
2012
Neville Lumb Bathroom Solutions, another Saint-Gobain brand, appoint John as Managing Director
2017
As of 2017, John is the Managing Director of Ideal Bathrooms, IDS and Neville Lumb
40 amazing years John...
LIFE OUTSIDE THE OFFICE 3 of John’s passions
Manchester United Football Club
Golf
Fish and Chips
Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Celebrating their everyday achievements is a crucial part of life at Ideal. In this section we talk to people across the business to see how they make a difference.
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
APRIL SHOWERS, AND MUCH MORE We talk to Richard Martin, Sales Director at April about the business, the importance of own label products and increasing trends in the industry
Q. Your relationship with Ideal Bathrooms is going from strength to strength, what is the key to the success?
Eldwick - Slipper Freestanding Bath
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We first met with Danielle Lillis (Commercial Director) and Kim KirbyEarnshaw (Operations Director) early in 2015. The launch of the April brand followed shortly afterwards. From the very beginning it was apparent that the Ideal Bathrooms team were extremely focused. Furthermore, it was clear that both companies shared the same ethos that a business partnership is invariably more successful if both supplier and customer actually listen to each other’s respective needs and act upon them. At that time, following the decline of Cooper Callas, we needed to ensure the continued growth of the brand by encouraging a partnership with a highly respected national distributor. Ideal Bathrooms needed a distributor-based shower enclosure range which would enhance their comprehensive product offering whilst giving their customers a profitable and stylish range.
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THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
Q. The April tray range has been extremely well received – what is the secret of an enclosure brand finally managing to sell trays, too? It often surprises many people that Cavalier Marketing (the manufacturers of the April range) have been manufacturing stone resin shower trays since 1998. The April range of shower enclosures was originally launched in 2004. Strictly speaking therefore, I suppose it’s a case of an established tray manufacturer making a success of manufacturing shower enclosures.
Q. How important is own label business to April and how do you see this changing in the future? Own label products are an extremely important part of the overall Cavalier Marketing business. We have many years’ experience in helping our customers build their own successful brands. Our marketing and design departments work closely with their opposite numbers. We are able to bring all our experience with branded products to the table to ensure a carefully planned launch of a viable own label offering. Distributors often have more than one branded shower enclosure. This gives them the opportunity to have a ‘good, better, best’ offering, which can appeal to the maximum number of showrooms and merchants. I believe that the future will see distributors carefully choosing one established and successful brand. This brand will satisfy the ‘better/ best’ demand. The ‘good/better’ scenarios will then be satisfied by the launch of an own label range ideally manufactured by the same supplier. This will enable the distributor to use all the product experience accumulated by that supplier, a perfect partnership!
Q. What trends have increased in the last 12 months? There is no doubt that the overriding bathroom trend has been towards wetroom panels combined with large shower trays. We have answered this increased demand by giving a greater choice of wetroom panel sizes in both our 8mm and 10mm ranges. Here at April we also manufacture a wide range of the larger sizes of trays both in our traditional offering and the more recently introduced ‘Waifer’ Tray Range (available in White Slate, Black Slate and White Gloss).
Q. As 2017 draws to a close, what can we expect from April in the coming year?
Ideal Bathrooms has significantly increased its April stock holding including Shower Enclosures, Trays and Freestanding Baths
We have a rolling programme of new and existing product development. We use feedback from our own sales team and our customers, as well as market trends, when considering this development. We are fortunate to have our own experienced product designers which enables us to react quickly to market changes and needs. As to the actual detail for 2018 – watch this space!
Tel: 0800 634 2600 or e-mail: neworders@idealbathrooms.com to place your April order
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
SHOWROOM EXCELLENCE As the UK’s leading bathroom distributor, Ideal Bathrooms endeavours to ensure that we always have the most up to date display offer information available. We recognize that displays are one of the key elements to a successful showroom and so, our aim is to make updating your showroom as easy as possible. To help you in making those all important decisions, Lyndsey discusses some of the best displays available.
New to Ideal Bathrooms brand portfolio is Nuance. To promote our new partnership and showcase the vast array of decors available, Nuance are offering their point of sale display stand or handy display case free of charge. For further information on how to obtain a stand or case for your showroom contact your ASM or Lyndsey Bailey.
Evolved trays are available in 7 colour finishes and 3 configurations, Square, Rectangular and Quadrant with something for every showroom. Display Offers start from RRP less 55% for a single display tray.
New to the Essential product portfolio are 3 dazzling new mirrors, Monroe, Taylor (available 2 sizes) and Hepburn. Display Terms are RRP less 70%.
e o r n o M 28
r o l y a T
n r u b p He
Contact Lyndsey Bailey at displays@idealbathrooms.com or call 01908 276408 to discuss your display requirements.
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80% OFF DISPLAYS Offer available until 31.12.2017
This is a great opportunity to get any of the seven fantastic elation furniture ranges on display
L-SHAPE If you are interested in displaying the Elation Furniture Range, you can order your 80% off display by contacting Lyndsey Bailey on 01908 278 513 or e-mailing displays@idealbathrooms.com FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE ELATION RANGE PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL ASM
The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
THE BIG BATH VS SHOWER DEBATE We look at why showers are causing such a splash and if the bath still has a place in the modern bathroom
It’s no secret that the number of showers in the UK is increasing as the number of baths falls. The shower enclosure is replacing the bath – and it might be happening quicker than you think. A recent article by The Guardian highlighted just how few people make use of a bath – only 4% of Britons said they regularly take one1. But are the benefits of the shower all steam and mirrors? Will the bath ever truly go out of fashion?
Essential Hampstead Shower Bath
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THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
April Prestige Frameless Sliding Door - Clear/Silver
In this feature we will look at the factors driving the rising popularity of showers, how you can benefit by helping customers find the right products, and if this might be the end of bath time as we know it.
Shower power As daily life continues to shift and change, the bathroom has had to evolve to keep up with new demands. It’s safe to say the pace of life for many people has increased, and so showers are seen as a quicker and more convenient option for many people. The average time spent in the shower is just eight minutes, whereas a bath can take around the same time just to fill.
Smaller bathrooms Another important factor in the increasing popularity of the shower is that houses are getting smaller. In 2014, researchers from Cambridge University found that, at an average of 76m2, the UK’s newly built homes
are the smallest by floor area in Europe2. As space comes at more of a premium in modern homes, people are favouring shower enclosures over shower baths in confined spaces. This is seen especially in en-suites where the home may include another bathroom.
Multi-generational living Our recent Industry Report highlighted that over 75% of respondents believed that inclusive design and accessible bathrooms would be an impactful trend in the coming year – with 27% believing it would be high impact. They weren’t wrong. For many factors, culturally and economically, multigenerational living is on the rise in the UK. With more families having children, the elderly (or both) in the household, there has been a sharp increase in the demand for accessible bathrooms. The ‘inclusive’ shower market offers great growth potential with around 14 million consumers aged 60, representing around 30% of all shower purchases in 2016³.
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The efficiency debate Efficiency is a word often associated with showers. The perception is that showers are a more eco-friendly and cost-effective product compared to baths. The truth is that really it depends on the type of shower and the type of bath. The average eight-minute shower uses 62 litres of hot water compared to 80 litres for the average bath, which seems to prove the link between showers and efficiency. Yet these stats are averages – some power showers can use up to 136 litres in the same amount of time. If efficiency is a concern for customers, it’s important to do your research so you can help them find the ideal solution for them.
Only 4% of Bitons said they regularly take a bath 31
The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
In defence of the bath It’s true that the number of baths is declining, but 90% of households still have a bath. Only 10% have a shower enclosure or wetroom as the sole washing facility⁴. Baths are still enjoyed by many people, not only as a way to clean, but as a way to unwind and relax in today’s hectic world.
Flexible for families Perhaps the biggest draw of a bath is its flexibility, especially to families with children or considering them in the future. A bath with a shower over it means customers are essentially getting the best of both worlds, and have a space to bathe their young children.
its walks. A bath allows owners to clean their furry friends with relative ease before it gets chance to jump on the sofa!
The value argument Perhaps the most hotly debated topic in the shower vs bath argument is whether the omission of a bath from a house affects the value of the property. It’s almost impossible to provide a definitive answer to this question because the truth is that it varies greatly – not only because of property type and size, but buyers as well.
Take a one-bedroom, city-centre flat, for example. It’s a safe assumption that people buying/renting this type of property will not have children, and that the bathroom will Dog owners are another audience that bear have limited space. The absence of a bath is thinking about when it comes to selling baths unlikely to change the price of this property. – especially if the dog enjoys getting dirty on In a good-sized house, however, no bath
can have an impact on price, even if not directly. If a property doesn’t include a bath then it could well put families, and multigenerational families off the property. By decreasing the number of interested parties, the price may be affected.
Social inspiration Privacy and relaxation are two factors linked closely with baths. The presence of a bath in the bathroom offers many people a sense of sanctuary – a feeling they are sharing more and more on social media. In an ever-connected world, people are sharing their bathroom sanctuaries on social media sites. People searching sites like Pinterest for bathroom inspiration are greeted with images of free-standing baths and relaxing bathrooms rather than shower enclosures.
Ideal Standard Concept Freedom Idealform Plus+ Baths
It’s true that the number of baths is declining, but 90% of households still have a bath
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THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
By 2020, there will be a £50 million growth in the shower products market
Nuance Calacatta Marble Wall Panels
No need to take a side It’s obvious that trends are moving towards shower enclosures, but it isn’t time to give up on the bath just yet. Smart showrooms will continue to offer a range of both options.
bathrooms, styles and tastes allowing you to help customers find the perfect solution for their space.
Shower baths
Wetrooms Wetrooms are increasingly becoming more popular in UK homes. According to the latest report by AMA Research, the value of the wetroom market has risen 10% between 2014 and 20166. Our Industry Report also showed that 27% of respondents believed wetrooms would be a high impact trend in the coming year.
Customers who have (or are planning to have) children, or those who need to think Showers about using space efficiency may consider a showerbath as the best of both worlds. A For those with limited space and who don’t bath for relaxing and a shower for everyday have children, a shower enclosure can offer use – a flexible option for a household For more information about our ranges of users a much better experience without showers and baths, visit idealbathrooms.com taking up as much floor space as a bath. With wanting to have it all. smaller houses and a growing population, it’s a safe bet that demand for shower trays Bath and shower References and enclosures will continue to increase. In For those with bigger budgets and larger 1. https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/shortcuts/2017/ fact, a recent report suggested that by 2020, bathrooms, the best option could be two aug/23/bath-or-shower-what-floats-your-boat there will be a £50 million growth in the 2. https://www.theguardian.com/money/2017/feb/11/ options. A freestanding bath and a shower shower products market. The same report welcome-rabbit-hutch-britain-land-ever-shrinking-home enclosure means customers get both without 3. http://www.phamnews.co.uk/uk-shower-market-set-toalso identified opportunities for sectors such any compromise. This luxury recreates the grow-says-report/ as concealed mixing valves, low profile trays bathing experiences of spas and luxury 4. AMA research 5 and semi-frameless enclosures . hotels and help customers start the day with 5. http://www.phamnews.co.uk/uk-shower-market-set-to-
We offer lots of contemporary shower trays and enclosures, designed to suit a range of
a quick shower before unwinding with a long soak in the bath after a long week.
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grow-says-report/ 6. http://www.kbbdaily.com/article/6803/wetroom-marketvalue-rises-by-10*percent,-says-ama
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
IN FOCUS... THE BATHROOM COMPANY The Bathroom Company’s Director Fiona Lowry talks about the company’s history and exciting future. Q. How and when did the business begin? Left to right: Angus Kerr, Lawrence Haddow & Craig Gillespie
It all started with our Managing Director, Lawrence Haddow, 25 years ago. A trained plumber by trade, and having ran LWHaddow Plumbing, Heating & Electrical, he decided it was time to open a bathroom showroom. The showroom is 4,500 square feet and features mid to top-end products. We proudly say that our average sale is now £20k. We employ our own installation teams and take care of the project from concept to completion. By employing our own teams and project managing in-house, we have created a strong extended family through our company that clients trust.
Q. How do you attract visitors? A lot of our business comes from recommendations. We also advertise in Homes & Interiors Scotland magazine and Scottish Field which target our demographic. Otherwise, we endeavour to increase our social media presence.
Q. What would you say is the most popular bathroom trend at the moment? As a company, our rooms are bespoke to individual clients requirements and we proudly offer a 4D virtual reality presentation to convey our designs. What we do get asked most for at the moment are combination WCs and we proudly represent Geberit Aquaclean. Between both our showrooms, we now have most of their products on display and working. For us, Geberit Aquaclean are the very best in design and value, offering the client everything they could ever wish for in a combination WC.
Q. Do you see any bathroom trends that are decreasing in popularity? We have seen many products and themes come and go over the years. Beige has been a strong theme for a number of years, but demand has slowly decreased and has been replaced with grey tones. From here, we now see people like to add a little texture or pattern into their room which is often achieved with wallpaper.
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THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
Q. It’s an exciting time for The Bathroom Company having just opened your brand new showroom in Edinburgh, what are your plans for The Bathroom Company moving forward? We’re confident that our new showroom in Edinburgh will push the boundaries of The Bathroom Company and what we can offer. Our showroom has 30 working bathrooms and 4 working kitchens. This allows clients to see how the basins/ showers/toilets function. It has given our entire company new inspiration and excitement and has been a joy to design and install from an empty shell. As we are introducing ourselves into the kitchen market – a request from our clients for many years – we will now consider a refurbishment of our Perth showroom in due course. In Edinburgh we have products displayed exclusive to The Bathroom Company, exclusive to Edinburgh and exclusive to Scotland and we would also like to show these in Perth.
Q. How long have you worked with Ideal and why did you choose to work with the company? We have worked with Ideal for many years. They are a wonderful company to be partnered with. All staff are helpful and informative. They have a great portfolio of products and their stock levels make it easy and simple to receive products quickly and efficiently.
Left to right: Angus Kerr, Fiona Lowry & Lawrence Haddow
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
Suit U range
DESIGNED TO SUIT Versatility is key to new VitrA brassware
New Suit U and Suit L bathroom brassware from VitrA bring a distinctive finishing touch to any contemporary bathroom. Both ranges include a wide choice of basin mixers, bidet mixers, bath and shower fittings, and chrome, copper and gold finish options. Suit U combines soft curves with a gently rounded, flat directional spout, while Suit L is characterised by an angular style, with a straight ribbon spout. It also boasts a swivel spout basin mixer. Both ranges feature easy to operate side levers and VitrA’s top quality ceramic disc valve. Basin mixers in both ranges come in a choice of heights and with or without pop up waste. Suit U Basin Mixer
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“Wall-mounted mixers are becoming increasingly popular,” says Margaret Talbot,
0800 634 2600 | atyourservice@idealbathrooms.com | www.idealbathrooms.com
THE IDEAL BATHROOM | The latest marketplace news
Suit Wall-Mounted Mixer
Marketing Manager for VitrA, “So we have included one in each range. Suit L has a spout that rotates 180 degrees for perfect water flow. A Suit wall-mounted mixer works really well with a showstopper contemporary basin.”
combined with VitrA’s technically advanced V-box concealed universal built-in valve. There’s a unique bar bath shower mixer with a water outlet at one end that can be rotated through 45 degrees to direct the flow.
Both ranges include manual and thermostatic shower mixers and diverters which can be
Wall-mounted bath spouts are also available in both ranges with or without a diverter for
a hand shower options. All brassware bodies are 100% brass and each piece is supported by a comprehensive aftersales warranty. The Suit range is included in VitrA’s current brassware promotion. Talk to your local distributor representative for more details. For more information, visit www.vitra.co.uk
Suit L range
Suit L Basin Mixer
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The latest marketplace news | THE IDEAL BATHROOM
WHO IS... NEIL HORTON For this issue’s Who is…, we talk to Nuance’s Commercial Director about delighting home owners, old aeroplanes and rare 60s soul.
Q. Tell us a little about Nuance? Smart Surfaces | Clever Ideas. That’s a simple idea born out of Bushboard’s DNA to innovate and delight home owners and designers to grow our business. Laminate is clearly the perfect solution for shower and bathroom walls. We started from the basis that we loved laminate, but hated scrubbing grout lines. We asked a simple question – how would we approach the problem and be sure we’d really want laminate in our own bathrooms? Nuance was born to have zero water failures and no ugly metal trims. I think we probably got it right!
Q. What has been your biggest achievement in your career so far? Bushboard has been around since 1935, and have dealt in laminate worktops since the 1980s and bathroom wall panels since 2009; we’ve only this last year become part of a group with two fabulous European laminate sister brands and factories. For most of the last 25 years, we’ve led innovations in laminate surfaces in our sectors. I sincerely believe that our industry would be poorer without what the team at Bushboard have achieved. The achievement is one of team effort, success and preparing for a bright future.
Q. What does your role as commercial director involve? Q. How did you get into the bathroom industry? Challenges, variety and a chance to make a difference. I’ve been with Bushboard for 21 years and the role has been extremely broad from strategy, product design, décor choice, sales and marketing through to supply chain, customer-facing sales, planning and purchasing office. I’ve enjoyed having the chance to be the Jack-of-all-trades and working within so many disciplines that rely on one another.
Q. Is there such a thing as an average day at work? If so, what does that look like? Happily, no – every day is filled with variety and challenge! The real challenge is to find the time to make that extra difference or sit back and find new ways to make a difference! There’s always something you can improve on.
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I’m originally a kitchen specialist, 32 years in most roles in kitchen retail, design, showroom and multi-site showroom management through installations and direct sales to manufacturing and distribution. Thirteen of my last twentyone years at Bushboard were kitchenbased so, like many in the kitchen industry, bathrooms were a natural extension for me.
a truly dream job, then you’d find me display flying old Spitfires and Hurricanes for a multi-millionaire collector!
Q. Who have been the biggest influencers in your career? I find them every day – colleagues, customers, suppliers, designers, installers, sales managers – so many people who influence in so many ways. Influencers are people with energy and those with the simplest ideas or needs that get you thinking up solutions and opportunities.
Q. Describe yourself in 3 words Honest, loyal and innovative.
Q. If you were stranded on a desert island, what item would you take? Easy one this – a record player and my record collection.
Q. What is your guilty pleasure? Rare 60s Soul, Blues, and Jazz. It’s been a passion for years, the more obscure the better!
Q. What would you like to be Q. If you hadn’t have gone good at that you’re not? into the bathroom industry, what would your dream job As I hit middle age and the hair greys, I envy some more simple pleasures, so I’d have been? I’m a bit of a bore when it comes to old aeroplanes, so I’d probably have been very happy following my father into aviation engineering. But if it’s got to be
love to be able to play the guitar, sing, and draw and sketch well.
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Pause a moment and think about what you’re looking for in the perfect bathroom: Beautiful clean lines. Effortlessly chic, contemporary styling. A stunning high quality finish. And unbelievably good value.
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Ideal Bathrooms would like to wish Roca a very happy birthday!