Hardware & Homestyle Sept Oct 24

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024

Perfect workwear for Perfect workwear for Perfect workwear for less than perfect days less than perfect days less than perfect days

On the Record David Broderick is the Director of the Small Firms Association (SFA).

See page 14

Leader Making it all look easy!

To many, it’s ‘suddenly’ Christmas. Like pressing a switch.

PUBLISHED BY Ocean Publishing, 14 Upper Fitzwilliam St., Dublin 2 Tel: 01 678 5165 Fax: 01 678 5191 PUBLISHER Patrick Aylward EDITOR Martin Foran Editorial Email: martin@hardwareand homestylenews.ie NATIONAL SALES MANAGER Dermot Casey Email: dermot@hardwareand homestylenews.ie DESIGN/PRODUCTION Catherine McDonagh AD PRODUCTION Audrey Fitzgerald PRINTED BY WG Baird Ltd., Antrim

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained within this journal is correct, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for errors, omissions or discrepancies. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher.

We are heading full-tilt towards the festive season now and the emphasis has changed yet again in our stores. To shoppers, it all seems to happen so easily – and so quickly! This is often the refrain heard on shop floors and shopping streets the length and breadth of the country.

To many, it’s ‘suddenly’ Christmas. Like pressing a switch. We know of course that it is nothing like that.

What may appear seamless shifts from one season to another do not happen automatically – though some of our readers are so well practiced they might well make it all look easy.

But it still takes constant planning and dedication to ensure that such ‘automatic’ shifts happen at the right time.

It’s the same throughout the year, no matter the season.

Having the items that will come into demand, ready to go – like clockwork – is what we do. Planning, anticipating, predicting.

Those featured in this issue are only too aware of this: from our inspiring retailers from around the world in The Homefront – this time out, a very special company from the Netherlands, to United Hardware, which has been named a Deloitte Best Managed Company, and many in-between.

Elsewhere, we speak to David Broderick of the Small Firms Association, we hear about the the Dulux Colour of the Year, 2025 and we get the latest on initiatives such as the WEEE Ireland’s Schools’ Battery Recycling Competition, which enters its thirteenth year.

All of that and more, including a visit to The Room Outside with our retail gardening guru Liam Kelly and a look at offerings from companies such as Dulux, Contech, Tor, Flogas and more besides.

We round it all off on a positive note as always, in The Final Say, with Jeff Haden.

We hope you enjoy the issue!

Martin Foran, Editor

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 1

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Contents 4

News

Stories from the trade and the wider economy

14 On The Record

David Broderick is the Director of the Small Firms Association (SFA)

18 The Homefront

Inspiring retail from around the world. This time out, The Netherlands and ‘a simple yet strong approach’ to innovative retailing

14 18

27 News Feature – WEEE Ireland

Calling on schools and students across Ireland to become battery recycling champions as WEEE Ireland’s Schools Battery Recycling Competition enters its 13th year!

30 United Hardware – a Best Managed Company

United Hardware named as one of Ireland’s best managed companies at the 2024 Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards

31 Showtime

‘Glee 2024 wrapped up with a bang’, celebrating fifty years!

33 Spotlight on Agility

Agility Software have been going from strength to strength for over twenty years now. We chat to Director, David Malcolm

36

31

36 Retail Excellence Awards

Retail Excellence announced thirty store finalists from right around the country in the Retail Excellence AIB Merchant Services National Awards 2024

38 Trends: Autumn Fair and beyond

Autumn Fair top trends ‘that will make their way from the show floor to the shop window’

41 The Room Outside

This time out Liam Kelly speaks to us about the rise of bird care ranges and more

47 Products & Services

What’s caught our eye? We hear from Contech, Curust, Dulux, Tor and more!

41

56 The Final Say

Think asking for advice makes you seem smarter? Jeff Haden has some good observations

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 3

NEWS United Hardware named as one of Ireland’s best managed companies United Hardware, the buying and marketing group for builders’ merchants, DIY and home & garden retail stores, has been named as one of Ireland’s best managed companies for the first time, at the 2024 Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards.

Commitment

The award recognises United Hardware’s commitment to superior business performance and excellence in leadership and was bestowed during a gala dinner event in Dublin, alongside other ‘best managed’ businesses.

The award follows United Hardware’s successful merger completion last year, transitioning from a joint venture partnership to a single trading entity which significantly enhanced business efficiencies while opening up major opportunities to develop and amplify its national retail brand, Homevalue, along with accelerating other strategic initiatives across the Group.

See feature in this issue.

Retail Excellence AIB Merchant Services national awards 2024 Our sector looms large with a number of familiar names included!

Crowned

The finalists will be vying to be crowned Ireland’s ‘National Retailer of the Year for 2024’. The overall winner will be announced in November at the Galmont Hotel, Galway.

In addition to the store finalists, Retail Excellence also announced the Top 5 Independent Store of the Year finalists.

The remaining award announcements for finalists of the Ecommerce, People, Sustainable & Supplier award categories were made separately.

The Store of the Year competition is the central part of the Retail Excellence AIBMS Annual Awards, which were established in 1997 to promote best practice and encourage the highest standards in the Irish retail industry.

They are now the largest and most prestigious of their kind in Ireland.

Former winners

Former ‘National Retailer of the Year’ winners include Brown Thomas, Applegreen, Arboretum, Guinness Store House, Fabiani and PetStop.

Commenting on the announcement, Jean McCabe, CEO of Retail Excellence, says: ‘I am delighted to announce the finalists for these national awards. We are experiencing a particularly tough trading environment at present and as such we must celebrate the positives even more so now.’

See report in this issue.

4 HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024

Former winner, Arboretum founder, Rachel Doyle above.

NEWS Retail Ireland reaction to Budget 2025 Retail Ireland, the Ibec group that represents the retail sector, said the personal tax changes and cost of living measures in Budget 2025 will support spending in the domestic economy.

‘However, despite some welcome targeted measures, spiralling labour market costs are set to remain a major concern.

‘This issue will need ongoing government attention into the future.’

Measures

Retail Ireland Director Arnold Dillon said: ‘Tax cuts and other cost of living measures will benefit household finances.

‘This should support consumer sentiment and retail spending as we approach the key Christmas trading period.

‘The increase in the Small Benefit Exemption annual limit from €1,000 to

€1,500 and increasing the number of payments that can be made in a single year is welcome in this regard.

Grappling

‘While the wider economy is performing well, many retail businesses are grappling with major labour market cost increases.

‘The Government signalled its intention to put in place a more realistic timeframe for the introduction of key labour market reforms.

‘It is important that this is followed through.

Security

‘Crime and security concerns remain a major challenge in many town and city centres.

‘The significant additional funding for the

Gardai is much needed and very welcome.

This should make a meaningful difference into the future.

‘It is crucial that short-term measures are also taken to ensure a visible Garda presence in urban centres in the run up to Christmas.’

Taoiseach Launches SFA National Small Business Awards 2025 It also includes broad-ranging national and local media coverage, and each finalist company will feature in a special supplement in the Irish Independent on the day of the Gala Presentation of Prizes which takes place in RDS Concert Hall on Wednesday, 26 March 2025 when the category winners and overall winner will be announced.

The Small Firms Association (SFA) National Small Business Awards 2025 were officially launched by Awards Patron, Taoiseach Simon Harris, TD.

Celebrate achievements

Now in its twenty-first year, these awards celebrate the achievements, innovation and excellence of small businesses in Ireland and recognise the vital contribution of the small business community to the Irish economy.

Speaking at the launch, Taoiseach, Simon Harris said: ‘The SFA National Small Business Awards is an opportunity to celebrate and promote the countless examples of entrepreneurship, innovation and creativity across Ireland’s small business community.

‘For over two decades it has been shining a spotlight on the companies that are the beating heart of our thriving cities, towns and villages throughout our country.

‘The Government is deeply aware of their importance to our continued economic success and we are committed

Tickets

to ensuring that such businesses can continue to thrive and prosper long into the future.’

Free

The Awards are free to enter and the prize package for ALL finalists is valued at €50,000.

This includes a strategic management masterclass weekend, participation in SFA Business Mentor’s Work Programme as well as in the SFA Business Connect event where they will be able to showcase their products and services to an audience of over 300 attendees.

6 HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024

Finalists also receive three complementary tickets to this ceremony.

The category winners will be presented with a trophy and free membership of the Small Firms Association for one year.

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NEWS Dulux Colour of the Year 2025 – True Joy Dulux’s expert trend forecasters have selected True Joy™ as the Dulux Colour of the Year of 2025 – an energising and motivating yellow that encourages us to embrace change and simply ‘take a leap’.

Uplift

This yellow was named True Joy™ for its ability to bring instant uplift to a space, filling it with optimism and energy.

Since the launch of the first Dulux Colour of the Year in 2004, the Dulux trend forecasting programme, ColourFutures™, has seen leading designers, architects, editors and thought leaders from around the world come together with the paint brand, to identify a colour that captures the mood of the moment.

For more see Products & Services.

Dulux’s expert trend forecasters have selected True Joy™ as the Dulux Colour of the Year of 2025.

Ibec publishes pay trends report Ibec, the group representing Irish businesses, has published the first part of its annual HR Workplace and Trends report, focusing on pay and resourcing.

The survey, conducted with over 400 Senior HR Professionals, reveals that 84% of businesses are planning to increase pay in 2025, with respondents forecasting an average increase of 3.4% across all business sectors.

The report also indicates that businesses in Ireland had an average staff turnover rate of 8.3% in 2024, down slightly from 9.7% in 2023.

Additionally, 41% of respondent companies plan to increase their headcount in 2025.

Expected

However, the average increase in overall headcount is expected to decline from a peak of 9.4% in 2024 to 7.2% in 2025.

The primary drivers of additional headcount are increased production/ demand, business expansion, and building the future supply of talent in their workplaces.

The sectors that saw the largest pay increases were Tourism and Retail, reflecting changes in the minimum wage.

Meanwhile, 23% of smaller businesses (with fewer than 50 employees) outside of the hospitality sector will not increase salaries in 2025.

Observing

Maeve McElwee, Ibec’s Executive Director of Employer Relations, commented: ‘Through our engagement with employers, we are observing the effects of a tight labour market, as businesses strive to retain and attract talent in a highly competitive environment.

‘Despite easing inflation, wages are expected to continue rising, following trends seen in recent years. This is largely driven by changes in the minimum wage and increased competition for talent.

‘While hiring may be slowing due to higher operating costs, recruitment challenges, and slower global growth, skills shortages in certain areas are likely to persist. Employers—and Ireland as a whole—must continue to innovate in strengthening the talent pipeline.

‘This includes expanding workforce accessibility by supporting those with additional caregiving responsibilities, ensuring that Ireland remains an attractive place to live and work without being constrained by inadequate public investment, and focusing on upskilling to manage the impact of digitisation and AI on our economy.

Unlock

‘In this context, the recent announcement

by An Taoiseach, Simon Harris TD,

From the report …

• 85% of respondents increased basic pay by an average of 4.1% in 2024 while 84% of employers are planning to increase pay in 2025 • The average increase across all business sectors forecast by respondents for 2025 is 3.4% • Average increase in overall headcount in workplaces is predicted to taper off from a peak 9.4% in 2024 back to 7.2% in 2025 regarding plans to unlock the National Training Fund to accelerate our economy’s transition will help us stay agile in an increasingly complex and changing world.

‘There is also an opportunity to support workers who are employed but wish to work more hours. The decline in average weekly hours worked per employee—currently 31 hours, down from a high of 34.7 hours at the peak of the Celtic Tiger—should be reviewed to ensure that those who want to work more are not unfairly penalised by the potential loss of additional benefits.’

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 9

10 HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024

NEWS Irish Green Building Council week of events focused on climate action and nature positive design The Irish Green Building Council (IGBC) kicked off a week of events across Ireland, aimed at accelerating the transition to a sustainable built environment.

Hottest

Summer 2024 was the hottest on record globally and for Europe, highlighting once again the need for greener urban areas.

Trees and plants are essential to cooling down our environment during heat waves while improving air and water quality and preventing floods.

This year, World Green Building Week aimed to showcase how smart design and nature-positive solutions can address climate change and restore biodiversity in our towns and cities.

Importance

Pat Barry, CEO of the Irish Green Building Council, highlighted the importance of this initiative: ‘Significant progress has been made in making our homes more energy efficient, but we must avoid the carbon tunnel vision and ensure the homes we build today are sustainable in every way.

‘Greening our neighbourhoods is not only good for the planet; it is also good for people, and can improve our well-being.’

Barry added ‘This transition requires substantial upskilling and an increase in awareness in the industry.

Pat Barry, CEO of the Irish Green Building Council

that highlight the role of nature-positive design to enhance biodiversity, boost climate resilience, and improve our health and well-being.’

Showcasing

‘This is why we are showcasing projects

‘Budget 2025 will relieve pressure on SMEs while planning for future growth’ Ireland’s largest Business Improvement District, Sandyford Business District (SBD) welcomed the measures announced as part of Budget 2025, to alleviate the cost of doing business and increased infrastructural investment.

•

Announcement

In particular, the district welcomes the announcement of a number of measures which align with the association’s Budget proposal, which was submitted to the Department of Finance. Among those are: Ger Corbett CEO, Sandyford Business District

• • • • • •

A €4,000 energy grant for businesses in the retail and hospitality sector to cover electricity costs Investment of the Apple windfall in water, electricity, transport and housing An increase in the VAT registration threshold A €20 million fund to help businesses upskill staff €750 million for the development of electricity grid infrastructure €1 million euro per day investment in

cycling and walking infrastructure An additional €25 million to the Community Recognition Fund for upgrades to sports facilities, community centres, parks, walking trails and playgrounds

Ger Corbett, CEO of Sandyford Business District said: ‘Many of the budgetary measures brought in by the Government will help businesses of all sizes to address the rising costs of doing business, while securing Ireland’s economic future.

‘Sandyford Business District’s budget proposal had sought tax cuts and one-off measures for businesses hit by energy costs and inflation, and we are delighted that these measures have been included in Budget 2025.

Instrumental

‘The strategic investment of the Apple windfall in capital infrastructure projects, including an immediate €3 billion investment, will be instrumental in driving critical infrastructure delivery across the country, while also ensuring that we are prepared for disruptions that are bound to take place in the years to come.’

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 11

NEWS Meta’s Anne O’Leary appointed Ibec President Ibec, the group that represents Irish business, has announced the appointment of Anne O’Leary, Head of Meta Ireland, as its new President for 2024 to 2025.

She succeeds Paul Duffy, Senior Vice President, Pfizer Global Supply.

Speaking about her appointment, Anne O’Leary said: ‘I am immensely proud to have been appointed as Ibec President. In my various roles with businesses in Ireland, I have always placed great value on Ibec’s role as

the voice of business and employers.

‘Ireland’s economy is in a very strong position, thanks to factors such as our openness to trade, capital, and people.

Agile

‘We must continue to be agile and responsive to new investment, support Irish businesses in internationalising, and ensure that Ireland remains a place where careers can grow and develop.

‘However, I believe the position we are in now is predominantly due to the hard

work of businesses and their ambition to grow and scale.

‘As a country, we have a real opportunity to make strategic investments that will ultimately futureproof our success so that businesses can continue to thrive.

Opportunities

‘I look forward to working on behalf of Ibec and our members with this government and the next in navigating these opportunities.’

Seventh successive rise in new orders New business expands further at end of third quarter A renewed increase in housing activity following August’s pause was not enough to prevent a renewed reduction in total output at Irish construction firms amid a fresh fall in commercial activity.

More positively, new orders expanded and firms took on extra staff.

Companies also remained optimistic around the year-ahead outlook.

The headline seasonally adjusted BNP Paribas Real Estate Ireland Construction Total Activity Index dipped below the 50.0 no-change mark in September, posting 49.0 from a reading of exactly 50.0 in August.

Total activity has now decreased in four of the past five months.

Signalled

Underneath the headline figure, latest data signalled differing trends among the sub-categories of construction than was the case in August.

Housing activity returned to growth following a fractional reduction in the previous survey period.

Activity on residential projects has now increased in six of the past seven months.

In contrast, commercial activity dipped back into contraction during September after having seen growth in August.

Civil engineering activity continued to fall.

The slight reduction in total construction activity in September was recorded in spite of a further expansion of new orders during the month.

Improving

New business increased for the seventh

month running, with panellists reporting improving client demand and the sign-off on projects which had been priced in previous months.

Construction firms responded to a further expansion of new business by raising staffing levels to help ensure that projects were completed on time.

Employment increased modestly, reversing the decline seen in the previous month.

Meanwhile, purchasing activity rose for the seventh month running amid the need for more materials to support construction activity.

Those firms that purchased items were faced with longer delivery times from suppliers, the fourth consecutive month in which this has been the case.

Delays were linked to a range of factors, including staff shortages at suppliers, difficulties sourcing materials and general supply-chain issues.

Increase

Another sharp increase in input costs was recorded in September amid general inflationary pressures on materials and higher wages.

That said, the rate of input cost inflation eased for the third successive month and was the slowest since January.

A first rise in sub-contractor usage for three months put pressure on the supply of sub-contractors, with their availability deteriorating to the greatest extent since April.

Construction firms remained optimistic regarding the 12-month

12 HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024

outlook for activity, with sentiment broadly in line with the series average despite easing from August.

Those companies that predicted a rise in activity over the coming year linked this to confidence regarding new orders and expected increases in housing activity.

Comment

Commenting on the latest survey results, John McCartney, Director & Head of Research at BNP Paribas Real Estate Ireland, said: ‘September continued along the lines of the last six months with overall activity broadly flat and residential construction out-performing commercial. ‘’This pattern reflects conditions in these respective markets. House prices and, to a lesser extent, rents are rising strongly and the demand for residential property is well underpinned by population growth, the strong economy and Government schemes like Help to Buy which was extended again in the recent budget.

‘Notwithstanding a continuous rise in costs since the spring of 2020, these factors have given builders confidence that they can deliver housing profitably, and residential commencements are strongly up.

‘In contrast rising office vacancy has caused new starts in the commercial sector to dry-up, dragging on overall activity.’

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ON THE RECORD

Retailers – the lifeblood of communities David Broderick is the Director of the Small Firms Association (SFA). We caught up for an On The Record chat towards the end of summer and here are some of the highlights!

How significant is retail among your membership?

The SFA has a diverse range of members, including many in the retail sector.

Retailers are important because they have a visible presence on our high streets and are the lifeblood of communities across the county.

What do you see as the biggest challenges; facing retail members?

Rising labour costs and incoming rises in the minimum wage. The retail sector, like the hospitality sector, is quite labour intensive and so labour costs make up a large portion of costs.

The SFA’s recent Cost of Business survey found that 57% of businesses noted an increase in labour costs in the past 12 months (time of writing: late summer 2024.)

How has business changed since the pandemic for smaller operators? How have you and your members worked to address this?

14 HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024

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ON THE RECORD

All businesses had to cope with a changing landscape since the Covid pandemic.

Some commodity prices have fluctuated due to geopolitical turmoil and supply chain challenges.

Energy prices are higher in the post pandemic world. Staff retention has also been a significant challenge, particularly in the hospitality and retail sectors.

These cost and operation challenges have led to tighter margins, particularly for smaller operators.

These challenges have been addressed by various means such as cutting operation hours, reducing staff numbers, embracing sustainability measures, availing of state grants, and diversifying supply sources.

As a last resort, many businesses have passed on costs to customers which is an inevitable consequence of operating in a high inflation economy.

How significant is ‘on-line’ for these members now? What are the challenges and opportunities here? Does it level the playing field?

It depends on the business. For many, online provides opportunities such as efficient customer engagement, advertising, and sales.

Online activity can provide an efficient and cost-effective means of expansion.

However, challenges around cyber security and financial fraud are ever present.

Ireland, being an English-speaking County, is particularly vulnerable to international online elements that may have sinister motives.

Looking to the near future what issues will your association be most focused on?

In the immediate term, the SFA is focussing on tackling rising business costs. With the General Election on the horizon, this provides an opportunity to highlight the plight of rising business costs, particularly labour costs.

Is there anything you’d like to add?

Of the 270,000 businesses in Ireland, 98.4% of them are small businesses and 91% of businesses employ fewer than ten employees.

If business costs continue to rise, the viability of small businesses will be threatened.

So, if the Government is serious about supporting Ireland’s small firms, it must place small business interests at the heart of Government policy.

A mixed bag - SFA reacts to Budget 2025 The Small Firms Association (SFA), the representative body for businesses employing fewer than fifty people, has reacted to Budget 2025.

Overall, the SFA is pleased that the Government has listened to some of its proposals to support small businesses, it said.

Concerned ‘The SFA is concerned with the 80-cent increase in the National Minimum Wage to €13.50 but welcomes the various measures to support small businesses such as the increased threshold in the R&D tax credit, the two-year extension of the Employment Investment Incentive, the Start-Up Relief for Entrepreneurs and provide for an increased lifetime limit on gains to which the relief applies from €3m to €10m’, it stated.

‘The SFA is also pleased that the Employment Investment Incentive, the Start-Up Relief for Entrepreneurs and the Start-Up Capital Incentive have been extended for a further two years to the end of 2026.

‘The increase in the VAT registration thresholds for the supply of goods is another positive step.

‘However many of these schemes remain cumbersome for small business owners who do not have the resources of larger firms.’

Director Reacting to Budget 2025, David Broderick, SFA Director said: ‘In the absence of additional detail, the Budget appears to be a mixed bag for small businesses.

‘Concerns for rising labour costs remain due to the announcement of 80 cent increase to the National Minimum Wage.

‘The SFA welcomes the increases in the thresholds for R&D tax credits, the two-year extension of the Employment Investment Incentive, and the VAT registration thresholds for the supply of goods.

‘Going forward the Small Firms Association believes that the Government must introduce a more targeted measure like PRSI rebate to assist small businesses with the transition towards the Living Wage rates.

‘One-in-three businesses that the SFA recently surveyed stated that they will run out of liquidity within six months without any additional financial supports.

‘83 percent of businesses surveyed stated that costs have risen in the past year which further emphasises the challenging environment for the small business community.’

Submission In July the SFA made a pre-budget submission which focusses on three topics creating better conditions for businesses to survive and hopefully flourish.

They were tackling business costs, easing the tax burden, and upskilling the workforce. Within those three categories, the most pressing requests are as follows: 1. The introduction of a PRSI rebate to assist small businesses with the transition towards the Living Wage rates.

2. Develop a creative tax system that can best support small firms.

3. Introduce National Training Voucher Scheme, which has the potential to boost in-company training and widen participation in upskilling and reskilling employees.

Business costs In May, the SFA published its survey on business costs. The survey, of almost 500 businesses nationwide, found that eighty-three percent of small businesses have experienced rising costs.

The research also showed an estimated increase of 16.6 percent in average business costs. 57 percent of businesses say that labour costs have contributed to rising costs. Alarmingly, 35 percent of businesses stated that they could not trade beyond six months without additional funding.

The SFA’s ‘cost of business’ survey also showed that 45 percent of small businesses say insurance costs have contributed to overall rising costs while 37 percent cited an increase in raw material costs.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 17

HOMEFRONT Innovation in product, marketing and path to purchase will be key New growth opportunities outlined introductions were even lower for housewares, a trend that continued through 2023.

According to Circana’s Retail Tracking Service, new items accounted for 19% of units sold across all general merchandise categories in 2021.

(Those industries include beauty, footwear, small appliances, technology and toys.)

That number decreased to 18% in 2022 and 15.1% in 2023. But when looking at only small appliances, new items accounted for lower percentages: 14.4% of all units sold in 2021, 12.6% in 2022 and 12.2% in 2023.

‘We really are craving innovation as an industry,’

Travel Gear + Luggage Expo

A new Expo will be added to The Inspired Home Show® 2025. The Travel Gear + Luggage Expo will debut next March, bringing to the Show, and bringing together, a wide selection of companies that offer products for the travel goods segment of the industry, the International Housewares Association announced.

W

hile typical product replacement cycles may start to buoy the home and housewares industry next year, Joe Derochowski, Circana home industry advisor, outlined opportunities for brands to proactively drive growth and position themselves for success in the short-, mid- and long-term in a keynote session, Uncovering Growth Opportunities for the Home + Housewares Industry: 2024 & Beyond.

Owned and operated by the International Housewares Association (IHA), the Show this year saw 1,700 home and housewares companies exhibiting new products, sharing ideas, and building

relationships with buyers from more than 140 countries.

‘We really are craving innovation as an industry,’ was the message at this keynote.

‘We need innovation not just in products, but in marketing, in merchandising, and along the path to purchase.’

Fewer new items

Attendees heard that ‘fewer new items have been introduced in general merchandise categories over the last few years due to the pandemic, resulting in manufacturing closures and then supply chain backlogs’.

Anit it was stated that new item

18 HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024

Position

The Travel Gear + Luggage Expo will be positioned in the South building and located at the top of the escalators leading into the hall from the Level 1 registration area.

This positioning will give buyers easy and direct access to this new section of the Show.

‘The buying community, including key retailers on IHA’s Retail Advisory Council, has asked that the Show broaden categories by including products that are industry adjacent,’ said Derek Miller, IHA president & CEO.

HOMEFRONT 211% over 2019.

In the mid-term (what he defined as 2026-2028), Derochowski advised brands to look for ways (and market these ways) their products can provide what he called an ‘er’ to any and all meal occasions…faster, safer, healthier, better, etc.

In the long-term, take a look at data on how our population is changing and ‘think about how to tie into life moments’, Derochowski advised.

For instance, as Gen Z enters the years where they’re buying homes and starting families, how will housewares products meet their values and tastes?

Housewares Growth Opportunities Derochowski said new products in home and housewares typically yielded a percentage ‘in the high teens’ in the years prior to the pandemic.

When it comes to new approaches in marketing, Derochowski said the only general merchandise category that increased unit sales last year (over 2022) was a category that has embraced social media – beauty.

He also noted that two products in the home space that are selling well are salad spinners and portable beverageware, which have also been marketed well on social media.

‘I think at this point, we need to be asking “What can we do from a marketing standpoint to drive sales?”’ said Derochowski.

Inspiring

There’s also opportunity when it comes to new ideas in merchandising and inspiring purchases in-store as well as online.

Circana’s Checkout Analytics data shows that shoppers are making more single item trips than pre-pandemic, and the overall number of items per purchase is down 2% over a year ago, repeating a second year of decline.

While there’s no question many consumers

face economic challenges, Derochowski outlined several eating trends companies can leverage in the short-term: • Coffee – There may be a marketing opportunity for brands to communicate how much money you can save over time by making specialty coffee at home instead of buying it outside the home, he pointed out.

• Other beverages – Interest in other beverages like tea and dark liquors is up.

• Balanced diet – There’s still a desire to eat well even while on a budget or on the go.

• Heat and eat – ‘We have become a heat and eat society,’ and people do this even more in challenging economic times, shared Derochowski.

• Portability – This applies to water and coffee, but there’s also a movement toward wanting to take hot meals on the go (as opposed to sandwiches).

• Entertaining – Chocolate fountains, fondue sets and ice cream makers sold well last year.

• Outdoor events – This includes anything from backyard dining to traveling for events.

Opportunities

On another front, opportunities for smart products ‘are still very much ripe’, said Derochowski.

As opposed to when smart products first hit the market – and sometimes just had an app for the sake of it, he advised companies to look for ways to use connectivity to solve a need or desire.

Circana’s Kitchen Audit ’23 showed that only 14% of consumers own connected appliances, but 33% say they’re interested.

Accomplished home cooks are two times more likely to say they own a smart kitchen appliance.

The International Housewares Association is the 86-year-old voice of the housewares industry. The not-for-profit, full-service association sponsors the world’s premier exposition of products for the home, The Inspired Home Show, IHA’s Global Home + Housewares Market (TheInspiredHomeShow. com), and offers its 1,300 member companies a wide range of services.

In the mid-term, Derochowski advised the industry to ‘never, ever underestimate how lazy we (as consumers) can be’.

Driver

Convenience is an incredibly important driver of sales, even in challenging economic times.

As an example, he pointed out that hot air stylers are selling extremely well. In 2023, they were up 33% over 2022…and SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 19

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HOMEFRONT The 2024 Global Innovation Awards (gia) winner and Global Honoree from the Netherlands has a simple yet strong approach to innovative retailing: Kookx is for everyone who has a passion for cooking. It also has an equally simple motto: ‘everything is for a tasty experience’.

Kookx: Putting the fun into cooking and retail by Michelle Hespe

K

ookx was launched by Robin Holleboom and his father Martin Holleboom with the goal of offering customers high quality kitchenware products at affordable prices, so that more people could gain pleasure from cooking.

The store is a new concept for the Netherlands, as within the 800-square meter space, there are three distinct sections: • A store for cooking products with regular demonstrations, cooking lessons, tasting sessions and events • A shop to buy entire kitchens and a service

to have them installed

‘Kookx has a warm, homey appearance, with a relaxed atmosphere, and we all firmly believe that shopping should be fun.’

• A kitchenware store.

It truly is a one-stop-shop for everything someone could need or want in their kitchen.

Logical

‘It sounds like a logical combination, but our business is unique to the Netherlands,’ says Robin.

‘People who come to our store find a surprising range of products and expert staff who are knowledgeable and passionate about what they do.

Popular

Less than a year after the bricks and mortar store opened the website went live, and Kookx was well on its way to becoming one of the country’s most popular kitchenware stores.

The store is incredibly welcoming, with products meticulously well-ordered around clear walkways so that everything is easy to find.

It is immediately obvious that visual merchandising is a major part of the store’s

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 21

2-4 MARCH 2025 | CHICAGO, USA TheInspiredHomeShow.com

WHERE THE INDUSTRY CONNECTS AROUND INNOVATION AND INSPIRATION

“The Inspired Home Show 2025 will be the 125th edition of the trade show. Although much has changed since the first event was held in 1939, one quality that has remained consistent throughout the decades is the Show’s dedication to bringing high-quality buyers and sellers together. In March, we will celebrate our past as well as our future as we continue to evolve in order to create the most productive and vibrant home + housewares marketplace possible.

Buyers can easily register for a free entrance badge and take advantage of numerous free events during their stay in Chicago – visit TheInspiredHomeShow.com for more details! We look forward to seeing you in Chicago, 2-4 March!”

— DEREK MILLER, President & CEO, International Housewares Association

“As a retailer, The Inspired Home Show in Chicago was an invaluable opportunity to connect with new and existing suppliers and discover the latest trends in home organisation. From innovative storage solutions to stylish housewares, this event provided an enriching experience that will undoubtedly elevate our offerings and delight our customers.”

— CHARLOTTE EASTAFF, Buyer, Homebase

For more information and to register for your FREE entrance badge, please visit TheInspiredHomeShow.com.

With any questions, please contact the IHA UK Office: PR Direct Limited, Mark Chapman, Tel: +44 7915 063255, ihauk@prdirect.net © 2024 International Housewares Association. All Rights Reserved.

HOMEFRONT

appeal – the displays are all neat, bold, colorful and enticing.

Kookx is also a dealer of the Parisian home fragrance manufacturer Lampe Berger, and so particular scents are chosen to complement themes for displays and the season.

Sleek

The grey cement flooring and the sleek brown, black and steel shelving and cabinetry are all warmly lit by the impressively large circular LED lighting on the black ceiling, giving the store a feeling of a prestigious showroom.

The building is a split-level and the three areas are very distinct – with the entrance being home to 300-square-meters for cooking products and demonstrations.

Above this is the 300-square-meter kitchenware department, and below customers can see the 200-square-meter section reserved for built-in appliances.

‘It sounds like a logical combination, but our business is unique to the Netherlands,’ says Robin.

The gia judges were impressed with the concept and the immaculate presentation of products and the design of the store.

‘Kookx has a unique, well-thoughtout concept and superb presentation – combining a cookshop and a kitchen studio,’ they commented.

‘There is tremendous dedication to lighting and design, which creates a sense of drama.’

Setting the scene for inspiration

As there are always interesting workshops, cooking lessons and demonstrations (by chefs, suppliers and staff) going on at Kookx, the store is buzzing with activity, an ever-changing hub of inspiration for customers and staff alike.

Just as all products are carefully laid out to ensure an enjoyable, easily navigable experience, the kitchen department is also a joy to visit and just as easy to explore.

Here, 11 kitchen layouts all lay claim to their own style and atmosphere, so that customers step into a fully assembled kitchen with lighting, furniture, kitchenware and built-in appliances.

Customers can make themselves comfortable in the kitchens, testing out the space as though it was their own.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 23

HOMEFRONT

Stimulate

This adds an emotive layer to the retailing experience and stimulates inspiration for purchasing some or all of the set-up.

The range is extensive, with more than 200 built-in appliances on display throughout the store.

This scene-setting approach extends to Kookx’s window displays, which have strong themes that are regularly changed in order to surprise customers.

There is a strong emphasis on staff being proactively creative with displays, and they are encouraged to take initiative and develop their own layouts in a part of the store, also creating promotional prices to complement the offerings.

Above and beyond

With one of Kookx’s mottos being, ‘everything is for the customer’ staff also go above and beyond after sales are made.

Once a kitchen is installed at someone’s home for instance, a staff member will visit the customer to view the result, take a gift and ensure that everything is how they expected it to be.

In this way, the inspiration is always flowing for both employees and customers.

The making and marketing of a brand

Kookx is a well-known, reliable brand in the Netherlands, and it also has its own label on kitchen aids and cleverly, its own coffee.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 25

HOMEFRONT The fact that it will go the extra mile every day turns customers into loyal supporters. Whether it’s advice on a recipe, inspiration for a new kitchen or even replacing something that is broken in the kitchen such as a stove or a microwave, Kookx steps in to help.

To further the close sense of connection with customers, frequent buyers are rewarded with Kookx goodies – such as a pack of its branded coffee beans, a high-quality Kookx branded paring knife or perhaps a discount voucher for pans when they are purchasing a cooker.

Comprehensive

Although Kookx has a comprehensive online store where everything can be purchased, the fact that customers can try products, watch experts demonstrating how things can be done, and step into a fully constructed kitchen space in-store, encourages customers to come back to the store in person.

The friendly staff and the homey atmosphere then make the experience so enjoyable that customers come back again and again.

It’s this warm, constant cycle of retailing that has helped to spread the word of Kookx, and the result is it is proudly becoming one of the best stores in the world.

To learn more about Kookx, visit www.kookxwinkel.nl and www. kookx.nl.

Sponsored and organized

by The Inspired Home Show and the International Housewares Association (IHA), gia (IHA Global Innovation Awards) is the world’s leading awards program honouring overall excellence, business innovation and creative merchandising in homegoods retailing. For more information about the gia retail program, the co-sponsors or participating 26 HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024

in 2024-2025, contact Piritta Törrö at piritta.torro@ inspiredconnection.fi.

Additional information on gia is also available online at TheInspiredHomeShow.com/ Awards/gia-Retailing.

For more information about The Inspired Home Show and to pre-register for the 2025 Show, taking place in Chicago on 2-4 March 2025, please visit TheInspiredHomeShow.com.

NEWS FEATURE - Batteries 1.5 million used batteries saved from landfill by students in Ireland!

TV and radio presenter Laura Woods is calling on schools and students across Ireland to become battery recycling champions as WEEE Ireland’s Schools Battery Recycling Competition enters its 13th year.

Saved

The equivalent of 1.5 million used AA batteries—the weight of almost four school buses—were saved from landfill and recycled by primary and secondary students during the last school year thanks to their overwhelming participation across Ireland.

Laura was joined by Roundwood National School in Wicklow to launch this year’s campaign, which also supports

LauraLynn Children’s Hospice.

Roundwood National School was awarded €2,000 in sports vouchers for its commitment to sustainability along with five other schools, including three in Sligo and one in both Dublin and Roscommon, who each won in their category.

Efforts

‘A huge congratulations to the winning schools whose recycling efforts not only make a significant environmental impact but also provide essential support to the children and families who depend on LauraLynn’s services,’ said Laura.

‘It’s inspiring to see so many schools engage in this important drive to rescue millions of batteries that might otherwise

sit forgotten in drawers or old devices and ensure their valuable materials can be recovered for reuse.’

The WEEE Ireland’s Schools Battery Recycling Competition returns this October for a new school year and is open to all primary and secondary schools in WEEE Ireland battery recycling counties that collect at least 10 full 5kg battery boxes.

Last year’s competition marked a new milestone, with a record number of primary and secondary schools participating from October 2023 to March of this year.

Involvement

By actively encouraging the involvement of teachers, families, and the broader community to collect used batteries

TV and radio presenter Laura Woods is calling on students across Ireland to become battery recycling champions as WEEE Ireland’s Schools Battery Recycling Competition enters its 13th year. She was joined by Leo Donovan, CEO of WEEE Ireland as well as students Billie Byrne, Quin Cunningham, Michael Fanning, Ailbhe Malone, Anna May Kelly, Cillian Lowe, Etain Power, Evaine Healy and Millie O’Rourke of Roundwood National School in Wicklow who collected the equivalent of 95,000 AA batteries to win in their category.

Photographer: Andres Poveda Photography.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 27

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NEWS FEATURE WEEE Ireland

WEEE Ireland (Waste, Electrical and Electronic Equipment) is a not-forprofit organisation, founded by Producers of electrical and electronic appliances to help them comply with the legal obligations imposed by the EU Battery Directive 2006/66/EC and WEEE Directive 2012/19/EU.

Manages

WEEE Ireland manages the collection of household e-waste, waste lighting, solar PV equipment and batteries from authorised collection points for recycling, on behalf of its 1,350 producer members.

WEEE Ireland’s objective is to provide cost effective quality compliance for producers to meet the requirements of the regulations whilst minimising the cost to the consumer.

WEEE Ireland supports indigenous recycling facilities with WEEELABEX (European quality recycling standards EN50625) certified recycling partnerships.

Operators

There are a number of recycling operators certified to the WEEELABEX standard on the Island of Ireland: KMK Metals Recycling Tullamore, Irish Lamp Recycling Athy, ENVA Toomebridge fridge recycling in Northern Ireland and Wisetek in Cork.

for recycling, students can ensure that valuable materials like lithium, nickel, cobalt and copper are recovered and reused, rather than lost to landfill.

‘The new European Battery Regulations, applicable from earlier this year, introduce comprehensive rules to manage the entire lifecycle of batteries within the EU,’ said Leo Donovan, CEO of WEEE Ireland.

‘Minimum material recovery targets for materials like cobalt, lithium, and nickel will apply to various battery types, ensuring valuable materials are recaptured.

‘These new targets will require increased participation in battery recycling across all sectors, so we’d urge even more to join the drive this year and make a real difference to saving materials that are increasingly in scarce supply.’

Gratitude

Kerry McLaverty, CEO of LauraLynn, expressed her gratitude as each battery recycled through WEEE Ireland contributes to a donation fund for LauraLynn.

‘The funds we have received from WEEE Ireland as a result of the battery campaign have had such a positive impact on the children and families who avail of LauraLynn’s care and specialised supports all across Ireland,’ she said.

‘This year’s donation brings the total fundraising to €590,575 - an incredible level. WEEE Ireland has been partnering with and supporting us since day one and we are grateful for their continued support as we grow our community of care and support more children and families than ever before.

‘We’d also like to say a huge thank you to everyone who took the time to recycle their batteries. It may seem like something small, but for the children and families who rely on LauraLynn, and for the environment, it is huge and very impactful.’

Information

Schools interested in participating in the WEEE Ireland Schools Batteries competition can visit weeeireland.ie for more information.

Retailers can contact operations@ weeeireland.ie to order delivery or collection of WEEE Ireland Blue Battery boxes.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 29

United Hardware

United Hardware named best managed company United Hardware, the buying and marketing group for builders’ merchants, DIY and home & garden retail stores has been named as one of Ireland’s best managed companies for the first time, at the 2024 Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards.

T

he award recognises United Hardware’s commitment to superior business performance and excellence in leadership and was bestowed during a gala dinner event in Dublin, alongside other ‘best managed’ businesses.

The award follows United Hardware’s successful merger completion last year, transitioning from a joint venture partnership to a single trading entity which significantly enhanced business efficiencies while opening up major opportunities to develop and amplify its national retail brand, Homevalue, along with accelerating other strategic initiatives across the Group.

As an indigenous, locally-owned business accredited by Guaranteed Irish, United Hardware operates the Homevalue retail brand for its members, who together own more than 160 stores throughout Ireland and employ around 2,000 people.

United Hardware serves a diverse range of trade and DIY customers in Irish communities. Being selected as a Best Managed Business will further bolster United Hardware’s positioning and validates its efforts to enhance member

performance through best-in-class sourcing, buying, sales, distribution and other value-added support services.

Significance

Noting the significance of winning the award for the first time, Paul Candon, CEO of United Hardware, said: ‘Being named a Deloitte Best Managed Company for the first time is a huge achievement for our company and a testament to the incredible dedication shown by our entire team and work over the last number of years to complete our merger, and become a true co-operative.

‘Their resilience, hard work and commitment have enabled us to thrive in a competitive landscape, and we are truly honoured to receive this prestigious recognition on their behalf.

‘United Hardware is now a unified business, enabled by an empowered team and a collaborative culture and we’re proud that this work has been recognised as part of the Best Managed Business Awards, which will further bolster our growth ambitions.

‘I’d also like to extend our deepest

30 HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024

thanks to our suppliers and our independent business owning members, whose partnership has played a crucial role in our success.’

Highest levels

The Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards Programme, in association with Irish Life Corporate Business, recognises indigenous Irish companies across the island that operate at the highest levels of business performance.

It is the only awards programme that evaluates businesses from every perspective, including strategy, capability, commitment, financials, and growth potential across all key functions.

The Deloitte Best Managed Companies Awards Programme is open to companies from across all 32 counties in Ireland and is the only awards programme that takes a 360-degree view of a company’s overall performance.

Winning this award is not only a powerful marketing tool for companies but, more importantly, provides an opportunity to celebrate the collective achievements of an entire organisation.

SHOWTIME Glee 2024 – ‘a showstopping 50th anniversary’

Glee 2024 ‘proved once again why it’s the beating heart of this flourishing industry,’ said organisers.

‘G

lee 2024 wrapped up with a bang, celebrating fifty incredible years as the UK’s number one garden and outdoor living trade event.’

Held at the NEC Birmingham, this year’s Glee exhibition was more vibrant and dynamic than ever, as the garden retail and horticulture sector came together to mark this milestone year.

With buzzing aisles, inspiring new products, and a palpable sense of optimism, Glee 2024 ‘proved once again why it’s the beating heart of this flourishing industry,’ say organisers.

Move

The move to a September event has clearly struck the right chord, with industry leaders hailing the timing as a gamechanger for the buying cycle.

Attendee numbers were up year-onyear, with an increased presence of owner/ operators, category buyers and buying teams, buying groups and retailers eager to place orders, and discover the latest trends – fuelled by an infectious atmosphere of discovery and opportunity.

One marked change was the number of ‘new’ visitors to Glee, demonstrative of the perceived value of gardening from not just the garden centre market but from the wider retail landscape.

As gardening thrives, more retailers are looking to benefit from this profit opportunity, with dozens of garden centres in the quest to source new supply partners.

Excitement

Looking ahead, Glee 2025 is already

generating excitement about the 2025 season.

A staggering 60% of the 2025 floorplan was snapped up during the show, which equates to 77% of 2024 floorspace – a significant increase of 40% when compared to 2023 data – racing to secure their spot for what promises to be another unmissable year.

Many of the event’s bellwether brands led the charge, setting the stage for Glee 2025 to build on this year’s remarkable momentum.

Director

Glee Event Director, Matthew Mein captured the excitement perfectly, saying: ‘From the second we cut the ribbon to officially open the show, the energy was electric.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 31

SHOWTIME

The sponsorship mix reflected the diversity and strength of a sector that continues to grow across omnichannel platforms, as well as within the realms of traditional bricks-and-mortar trading.

A key feature of Glee 2024’s success was the support of top trade associations, including the HTA, GCA, Gardenex, and GIMA. GIMA’s ‘Meet the Buyer’ events were a huge highlight, with over 150 sessions fostering valuable new retail partnerships that will shape the future of the sector.

‘One exhibitor summarised it perfectly by saying “the buzz is well and truly back in the aisles”, and that is all due to the enthusiasm and willingness of our visitors and exhibitors.

‘Glee has become the ultimate platform for growth and innovation, opening dialogue on those opportunities and challenges shaping our industry, and this September this role felt more relevant than ever.

‘The passion and optimism that filled the aisles and exhibition stands, and a bulging floorplan for the 2025 show, marks an exciting tipping point for both Glee and the wider garden retail sector.’

Celebrating garden retail

With hundreds of new and returning brands in the spotlight, Glee 2024 was a true celebration of all things garden, home, leisure, and lifestyle.

Innovation was everywhere, and buyers responded in kind, placing substantial orders and fuelling an atmosphere of growth and excitement.

Sponsors from both within and beyond the gardening sector added to the excitement, underscoring the growing reach and impact of the garden retail industry, including big names brands such as eBay, Shark Ninja, plus Gardena, The AMES Companies and Westland.

32 HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024

Charitable highlight

The final day of Glee saw a heartwarming display of solidarity and generosity, as the Floral Thursday fundraising initiative took centre stage.

The 2025 event will be marked with a new hall layout – halls 8-12 – that will provide more opportunity for expansion.

Find out more

Glee connects the garden industry to inspire change, drive growth, and promote innovation. To find out more or to register your interest in exhibiting please www.gleebirmingham.com or call +44 (0)203 3545 9752.

AGILITY SOFTWARE

Agility Software have been going from strength to strength for over twenty years now. Recently, we caught up with Director, David Malcolm.

Agility Software in focus!

Empowering Innovation with Agility Hi David, can you begin by telling us a little about the history of Agility Software?

Agility Software was founded by myself, David Malcolm, back in 2001.

Our offering now includes software development, customer services and consultancy, and we now have offices in the UK and Ireland.

Our customer base has also expanded over the last 20+ years, spanning retail, pet stores, convenience stores, electrical wholesalers and builders’ merchants.

What are your main services?

How has the company grown and developed over the years?

Our main service is developing software that makes life easier and increases profits for our customers.

Over time, we’ve responded to client needs by offering more comprehensive reporting tools, ongoing customer service and consultancy.

We’re committed to staying ahead of the technological curve, and the competition.

What are some of the features of your software that you believe are significant for retailers?

Retailers consistently face the challenge of rising costs. We’ve responded to this by developing a suite of affordable apps, covering stocktaking, staff attendance, e-commerce and more.

Customers can download these from Google Playstore onto their existing devices, negating the need for new hardware.

One example is the Sales Rep app, available on iOS and Android, which allows reps to take orders and see precise stock levels, delivery costs and lead times no

matter where they are.

Clients tell us it’s a gamechanger.

A key area here of course is ‘integration’ of systems, isn’t it? Can you tell us how Agility excels in this regard?

Integration is critical for our customers, therefore it’s critical to us.

Our products integrate fully with ecommerce platforms (Magento, Magico, Shopify etc), credit card providers and other systems – such as the Department of Agriculture’s internal systems.

We pride ourselves on offering a ‘one stop shop’, but the reality is that, for a range of reasons, some clients need to

retain legacy systems.

For everyone’s ease and convenience, it’s our job to make sure our products integrate seamlessly.

Can we look to retailers in the homewares, building materials and home enhancement area – you have been working with this sector for a long time; how have you seen it grow in terms of its needs and demands in terms of systems?

Where we’ve really seen a change is the rising demand for management information: rises and falls in sales, margins, changes in customers’ purchasing behaviour etc.

Since the 2008 financial crash,

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 33

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Not just an EPOS solution From streamlined purchases, sales, inventory, and real-time accounting to integrated card payments, loyalty programs, and delivery, we handle it all.

Plus, with our Android apps and ecommerce integration, Agility Pro empowers you to grow your business however you choose.

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businesses need to know where they’re making – and losing – money, and our reporting tools make drilling down into the detail almost effortless.

What do retailers in this sector look for and how can they take advantage of what Agility has to offer?

As we’ve said, we pride ourselves on offering a ‘one stop shop’, and we’re seeing more customers move towards this.

Businesses adopt one Agility product, then another; then – as they become more confident in our offering – make the shift to an ‘all in one’ Agility solution.

Customers find it streamlines their business, saving them time and money.

Can you give us any examples of systems you have implemented and how they are working / advantages they have brought to these retailers?

We’ve recently worked closely with a national vending company, developing an app specifically to meet their needs.

It works on their existing Android devices and gives drivers access to real time sales figures, stock movements and customer messages synchronising data via the cloud.

Previously, drivers had to drive back to a central point each evening to dock and update their mobile devices, whereas now, they can add new customers to the route while they’re out and about.

It’s made accessing data and communication simple and instant, and it’s generating more business.

Have the needs of retailers grown since Covid? What ways did the pandemic affect what you were being asked for by your customers?

Having an online presence became vital overnight, and enhancing online capabilities became and remains a top priority.

We’re responding to this all the time with apps and other products.

We’ve just released a new app which allows builders merchant customers to place and track orders on their mobile or tablet.

Once logged in, the trade customer will see their pricing as well as the ability to view invoices, credit notes and statements.

What do you find are some key areas and concerns common to retailers when you first meet with them? What sorts of issues do they outline?

New customers are always concerned

about transition, which is understandable, and especially regarding stock.

People want to know how it will work, how their existing stock will be recorded in a new system, how customer balances will be transferred and so on.

But if a business is changing product or supplier, it’s usually because they feel they’re no longer getting value for money, or they don’t have the functionality they require.

We’re happy to support customers through their transition and we’re always on hand to answer questions or troubleshoot.

Often these people will need ongoing support; what sort of support is typical of Agility for its customers?

Support is key to our offering. We respond to every issue or question in a time-sensitive manner, and there’s the additional back-up of our extensive ‘How To’ article library.

When a customer raises an issue via our Helpdesk, it automatically searches the Knowledge Base to find a resource which could help with the query.

If not, then we’ll be in touch ASAP with an answer or solution.

What about those with smaller operations, perhaps with limited Technological backgrounds? How can you support such operators to understand their new systems and get the most from them?

We deal with merchants with just two or three till points right through to large, multi-site operations.

As well as How To articles, we’re also building a bank of step-by-step instructional videos to support people with limited technological backgrounds or who lack confidence.

Of course, we offer standard pre- and post-sales support, but we can also deliver more in-depth post-sales consultancy if needed.

In fact, we can offer pretty much anything a smaller business might need, right down to bookkeeping or accounting services. www.agility-software.com ROI Tel: +353 (0)1253 0282 UK Tel : +44 (0)191 8149382

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 35

RetailBloom Excellence

Retail Excellence has announced thirty store finalists from right around the country in the Retail Excellence AIB Merchant Services National Awards 2024.

Retail Excellence AIB Merchant Services National Awards 2024 - finalists announced!

A

nd once again, our sector looms large with a number of familiar names included on the list!

Crowned

These finalists will be vying to be crowned Ireland’s ‘National Retailer of the Year for 2024’. The overall winner will be announced in November at the Galmont Hotel, Galway.

In addition to the store finalists, Retail Excellence also announced the Top 5 Independent Store of the Year finalists.

The remaining award announcements for finalists of the Ecommerce, People, Sustainable & Supplier award categories were made separately.

The Store of the Year competition is the central part of the Retail Excellence AIBMS Annual Awards, which were established in 1997 to promote best practice and encourage the highest standards in the Irish retail industry.

They are now the largest and most prestigious of their kind in Ireland.

Former winners

Former ‘National Retailer of the Year’ winners include Brown Thomas, Applegreen, Arboretum, Guinness Store House, Fabiani and PetStop.

Commenting on the announcement, Jean McCabe, CEO of Retail Excellence, says: ‘I am delighted to announce the finalists for these national awards. We are experiencing a particularly tough trading environment at present and as such we must celebrate the positives even more so now.

Proud

‘Even though there are just thirty-five finalists announced today, the reality is that the entire industry is working so hard and we are proud to be there to support them in every way we can.’

Images from National Awards 2023.

36 HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024

Retail Excellence

National Retailer of the Year finalists: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

Applegreen, Rathcoole, Co. Dublin Barnhill Stores, Dalkey, Co. Dublin Butlers Chocolate Café, Blanchardstown Red Mall, Co. Dublin Carraig Donn, Golden Island Shopping Centre, Athlone Co. Westmeath Carrolls Irish Gifts, College Green, Co. Dublin Chupi, Powerscourt Townhouse, Co. Dublin Diamond Furniture, Longmile Road, Co. Dublin Dublin Airport Duty Free, Dublin Airport, Co. Dublin ECCO, Kildare Village, Co. Kildare EIR, Blanchardstown Town Centre, Co. Dublin Eurospar, Hartstown, Blanchardstown, Co. Dublin EZ Living Interiors, Belgard Retail Park, Tallaght, Co. Dublin EZ Living Interiors, Sandyford, Co. Dublin Garvey’s Centra, Adare, Co. Limerick Garvey’s SuperValu, Convent Street, Listowel Co. Kerry Insomnia, Harbour Road, Howth Co. Dublin Kilkenny Design, Shanagarry Design Centre, Co. Cork Love Cherish, Charleville, Co. Cork McCabes Pharmacy, Citywest Shopping Centre, Co. Dublin

20. McCauley Pharmacy, Douglas Court Shopping Centre, Co. Cork 21. Michael Murphy Home Furnishings, Newbridge, Co. Kildare 22. Sienna Home Furnishings, Tramore Road Business Park, Co. Waterford 23. Sky Retail, Dundrum Shopping Centre, Co. Dublin 24. Stonechat Jewellers, Westbury Mall, Co. Dublin 25. SuperValu Graydon Road, Newcastle, Co. Dublin 26. Tempted, Howth, Co. Dublin 27. Three Store, Mahon Point Shopping Centre, Co. Cork 28. Tirlán CountryLife, Clifton, Athboy Co. Meath 29. Topline Murtaghs, Ashbourne, Co. Meath 30. Wardrobe Plus, Ashford House, Co. Wicklow Independent Store of the Year finalists: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Beo - The Well, Ennis, Co. Clare Joyces Expert, Clonard Retail Park, Co. Wexford This is Knit, Powerscourt Townhouse, Co. Dublin Topline Murtaghs, Ashbourne, Co. Meath Windyridge Nurseries & Garden Centre, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin.

About Retail Excellence: ‘Established in 1995, Retail Excellence is owned by the members, for the members.

‘We are an organisation which invests in innovative and exciting learning, market intelligence, human resources services, Government representation and member networking initiatives.’

Retail Excellence has over 2,200 leading retail companies in Ireland.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 37

Autumn Fair UK

Autumn Fair, the seasonal trade event for Home, Gift, and Fashion, has revealed the top trends that will make their way from the show floor to the shop window for this Autumn/Winter including global influences, the rise in affordable luxury, and the importance of customisation and personalisation.

Autumn fair reveals top trends!

‘It’s been nearly a month since we closed the doors to a hugely successful Autumn Fair, and we were blown away by the breadth of stunning products available on the show floor,’ said Soraya Gadelrab, event director from Autumn Fair when we caught up recently.

‘Autumn Fair is not only the ultimate trusted seasonal buying showcase it delivers tons of inspiration for retailers.

‘We are excited to bring you some of our favourite and most relevant trends from the show floor and for the coming season.’

The Impact of global aesthetics on local retail trends

The infusion of global aesthetics into local retail trends reflects the growing demand for culturally diverse, unique, and ethically sourced products.

Independent retailers are at the forefront of this shift, curating collections that blend the best of international design with local tastes.

As the world becomes more interconnected, the influence of global aesthetics on home decor, fashion, and giftware is expected to grow, making it an exciting time for retail innovation.

Independent retailers are increasingly incorporating international design influences to meet consumer demand for unique, globally inspired products.

Influences include Scandinavian minimalism, Japanese Zen and the concept of Wabi-Sabi, Moroccan boho, African tribal, and Mediterranean patterns driving new design trends.

Simplicity

Scandinavian Minimalism: Known for its simplicity, functionality, and muted tones, this trend has been a dominant force in home decor worldwide.

Its focus on clean lines, natural materials like wood and wool, and a soft colour palette offering modern, minimalist interiors.

Japanese Zen and Wabi-Sabi: The concept of Wabi-Sabi – embracing imperfection – brings together organic, raw materials, and muted earthy colours, celebrating craftsmanship and the beauty of simplicity in the form of handcrafted ceramics, bamboo furniture, and paper lanterns.

Moroccan and Mediterranean Influences: Known for vibrant colours, intricate and geometric patterns, and an eclectic mix of textiles, Moroccan and Mediterranean styles offer consumers an easy to achieve sense of global travel for their own homes.

African-Inspired Decor: Tribal prints, earthy colours, and raw materials such as clay, raffia, and reclaimed wood are shaping collections in 38 HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024

Autumn Fair UK

interiors.

African-inspired baskets, sculptures, and tapestries are highly sought after by consumers looking for unique, artisanal pieces.

Significant

The global marketplace has also had a significant impact on giftware, with retailers incorporating artisanal products and culturally inspired items that resonate with consumers’ desires for unique, meaningful gifts.

Items like hand-painted ceramics, handwoven baskets, and wood carvings are seeing a surge in popularity.

Consumers appreciate the authenticity and craftsmanship of these goods, often seeking products with a backstory.

Global trends in personalisation have also penetrated the giftware sector.

Whether it’s personalised towels, custom jewellery, or crafting kits, gift buyers are increasingly drawn to culturally influenced gifts that can be customised for a personal touch.

Affordable Luxury: high-end design for independent retailers

The concept of affordable luxury is allowing independent retailers to deliver high-end aesthetics, craftsmanship, and innovation to consumers without the premium price.

By focusing on budget-friendly materials, sustainable practices, customisation, and thoughtful packaging, retailers can tap into the growing demand for luxurious items that remain within reach for everyday shoppers.

As consumers continue to seek both style and value, the affordable luxury trend is set to thrive in the retail space, providing independent stores with an opportunity to offer distinctive, luxurious experiences that attract a broader audience.

Luxury isn’t just about the product itself, it’s about the entire buying experience.

Retailers can enhance the perceived value of affordable items through thoughtful packaging and presentation.

Straight from the show floor, here is an edit of the looks, colours, styles and innovative products defining the coming season.

Nature’s embrace

Brown is about to have the most major trend moment. Nature’s Embrace focuses on bringing quiet woodland comforts to the home and embracing the elements of nature with earthy brown tones and natural textures.

Over the Rainbow

Stripes and rainbow inspired colour combinations make this a joyful, upbeat trend – perfect for injecting pops of vibrancy.

About Face

The artistic representations of human faces, whether abstract, minimalist, or detailed on sculptures, ceramics and textiles bring a sense of personality, intrigue, and expressiveness to a space.

A Fungi Affair

Mushrooms have moved from our plates to our living spaces, and they show no signs of fading away. This enchanting trend is set to be huge for the festive season.

Under the Sea

Ocean-inspired motifs including lobsters, octopus, fish and sea birds offer a coastal, whimsical charm which continues to be hugely popular across home and gifting sectors.

Shimmer and Shine

Chrome, silver and anything that sparkles elevate any interior space and adds an

extra special dimension to interior décor.

The Shape of Paper

The trend for paper decorations in home decor emphasises eco-friendly, handcrafted designs. From intricate paper lanterns to festive garlands, these lightweight, versatile pieces bring texture, colour, and a playful, artistic touch to any interior setting.

Stitch in Time

A recurring trend in fashion, crochet has hit the big time. Handmade crochet flowers and botanical displays have gained in popularity and make thoughtful gifts or artistic decorations.

Perfect Pastels

The pastel trend in home decor emphasises soft, calming tones like blush pink, mint green, and powder blue, creating serene, inviting spaces with a modern twist.

Botanicals

The botanical trend in home decor and gifting embraces nature-inspired designs, featuring lush greenery, floral patterns, and plant motifs. Popular items include botanical prints, leafy textiles, and plant-themed accessories, creating fresh, serene environments that connect interiors with the outdoors.

Modern Nostalgia

Think the cosy, homespun charm of yesteryear, reimagined with modern elegance. Blending the warmth of a traditional Christmas with the clean simplicity of Scandinavian design, Modern Nostalgia merges the old and new.

Affordable

In fashion jewellery and accessories, gold-plated metals, cubic zirconia, and simulated gems are affordable alternatives to fine jewellery.

These materials allow retailers to offer products that look just as opulent as their high-end counterparts while maintaining a lower cost base.

In home textiles, velvet and satin have long been associated with luxury, and now, more affordable versions are widely SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 39

Autumn Fair UK

available - plush velvet cushions, satin throws, or bedding can exude a sense of indulgence without a premium price.

Even if a product isn’t made from the most expensive materials, showcasing excellent craftsmanship can elevate its perceived value. For example, handstitched leather accessories, artisanal pottery, or handcrafted furniture pieces that demonstrate skill and care in production, reinforce the sense of affordable luxury.

Eco-friendly materials such as bamboo, recycled fabrics, or organic cotton, which offer both luxury and environmental benefits offer the allure of eco-conscious luxury at lower costs.

Retailers can enhance the luxury experience with thoughtful, ecofriendly packaging. Beautifully designed, minimalistic packaging made from recycled materials can offer a premium unboxing experience, making the product feel more

looking to differentiate themselves from larger, more generic competitors.

This growing demand for personalisation offers independent retailers a competitive edge, creating opportunities to engage customers on a deeper level and cater to the shift towards individual expression and bespoke experiences.

Expect

Modern consumers, particularly Gen Z and millennials, expect brands to offer products that are tailored to their tastes and needs.

As e-commerce and digital experiences continue to evolve, personalisation has become an essential feature for retailers looking to keep pace with shifting consumer expectations.

Retailers can stand out by offering customisable gifts that cater to various occasions and personal preferences.

Engraving is a popular personalisation option, especially for jewellery, watches, and keepsake items.

Personalised

Personalised gift sets and build-your-own gift services for occasions like weddings, birthdays, and anniversaries is another way retailers can meet the growing demand for customisation.

Customers can choose specific products to include in a set, such as bath and beauty products, candles, or gourmet food items, and have the set personalised with the recipient’s name or a special message. This creates a highly custom and thoughtful giftgiving experience.

By leveraging technology, sustainability, and creative marketing, independent retailers can differentiate themselves from larger competitors and create loyal customer bases through the power of personalisation. luxurious.

Customisation and personalisation in fashion and gifting

Customisation and personalisation have become integral to the retail experience in both fashion and gifting, with consumers embracing products that feel unique, thoughtful, and tailored to their tastes.

Independent retailers are ideally positioned to meet this growing demand by offering bespoke services, personalised gift options, and unique fashion pieces that cater to the desire for individuality and sentimentality.

The ability to offer personalised goods is a powerful tool for independent retailers

Key trends…

Visual Merchandiser, Debbie Flowerday, who hosted Merchandising Masterclasses at Autumn Fair highlights her key window trends for next season.

‘Visual Merchandising trends are driven by the merchandise. At the moment we are seeing a change in interior design, more curved lines, arches, scalloped edges - these trickle down to furniture shapes, ceramics and fashion.

‘If your merchandise has a scalloped shape think of ways to endorse the pattern and shape, the colour of the merchandise will also dictate the window props or background.

‘Also, Christmas windows don’t need to be red and green. Look to the colour palette of your merchandise and bring this alive with decorations in the same colour tones.’

Seasonal Trends in Home Decor, Gifting and Fashion

Trends in home decor, gifting, and fashion reflect a desire for warmth, sustainability, and personal expression. Earthy tones, bold patterns, and sustainable materials are at the forefront of design, allowing independent retailers to offer both style and substance to their customers.

By tapping into these trends, retailers can appeal to consumers looking to refresh their homes, wardrobes, and gifting choices in a meaningful and on-trend way.

Dedicated to delivering inspirational in-season goods, buyers who attended Autumn Fair discovered over 500,000 products and new launches ready for immediate purchase.

40 HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024

A host of exciting trends were showcased, giving retailers the chance to stay ahead of the curve.

For more highlights from the September 2024 show visit www.autumnfair.com The next edition of Autumn Fair takes place 7th – 10th September 2025.

THE ROOM OUTSIDE

For the Birds …

Getting the most from our feathered friends This time out Liam Kelly speaks to us about the rise of bird care ranges – items that retailers have found can be easily tied-in to existing offerings when it comes to catering for the room outside.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 41

THE ROOM OUTSIDE

B

ack in the latter decades of the 20th century, when I started working in this trade, there was very little of a buzz about the feeding of birds.

Few

At most there were a few bags of shopweighed peanuts and mixed seed sitting forlornly on a shelf of a dumper unit on the floor, and a couple of cheap plastic feeders sourced from a pet supplier in very small amounts sitting beside them.

But sometime in the nineties that all changed as garden care wholesalers decided that they needed something new to bridge the cashflow issues that plagued them in the relatively quiet period between October and March.

The now-logical choice was to develop a range of bird care products that tied neatly into their existing offering, and which could be shipped and sold by the same means as boxes of fertilisers, bottles of chemical and bundles of hand tools.

Looking back, it was a no-brainer in many ways and it certainly caught on with garden centres and hardware stores where they too were longing to increase their turnover in what was always considered a leaner time of the year, especially the December to February period when there was less to sell apart from a little hedging and fruit trees, and the odd gardening accessory.

Quickly

Things grew quite quickly from then, with various seed mixes being promoted for different birds and times of year, and exotic and strange straight lines like nyger seed, sunflower nibs and mealworms gracing the shelves of every garden centre and similar retailer, along with quality metal feeders, bird stations and bird tables.

A whole new lucrative and popular category had blossomed and continues to grow and expand to this day, where even the packaging – admittedly due to the need for vermin control and to lessen puncture marks – has become slicker and stronger than that which wraps most human foods, with full colour printing and appropriate point-of-sale marketing to boot.

I would wager that there isn’t a garden centre or hardware store in the land who doesn’t have at least a couple of stands crammed with bird food and feeders, often from a couple of suppliers, which are restocked at relatively frequent intervals.

Birds are making retailers money, not in huge amounts compared to more lucrative categories, but certainly there is more than enough turnover to justify their continued 42 HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024

‘If you stock a specific feed for birds, you should also stock the appropriate feeder.’

THE ROOM OUTSIDE

existence.

But could some retailers be doing more?

Remind

Before we get into true bird care, we need to remind ourselves that this is a series about gardening and it would be remiss not to mention something about plants, even if bird care is garden-based in reality.

Although plants can’t be brought into most shops and most bird care lines would be risky to display in a conventional plant displays outdoors, there is certainly an opportunity for a crossover of sales from one to the others.

Bird friendly plants such as hollies, firethorn and mountain ash – to name but a few – can be pulled together into a display on the covered plant sales area of a garden centre and merchandised with a few bird care products such as bird tables, bird baths and feeding stations to highlight, along with some appropriate point-ofsale signage, that these plants are all bird friendly.

potential of plants by way of large labels on plants themselves.

This themed display is an attractive and easy to create display in its own right but add in its link to bird care with some of the larger lines mentioned, plus how social media friendly the concept and image is, then it’s impossible not to get right.

Back in at the bird care display in-store, there are a few obvious changes that can

be made too.

Range is the key to increasing sales and a confident display of almost all the various bird seeds and treats should be considered to capture more sales, but also so that you will be seen as the go-to supplier of all things bird.

Stock turn

Not all these lines will sell at the same

Look good

At this time of the year, it’s possible to get plants that look good, and include the allimportant berries.

Even if not berried there are many plant suppliers who emphasise the berrying

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 43

THE ROOM OUTSIDE

need for having two or three suppliers of bird care in order to satisfy the customer’s needs – which is totally acceptable and relatively normal.

Regular

The final important point to make is that bird care, perhaps more that many other categories in the store at this time of year, creates recurring and regular sales and visits from the customer.

And while the customer is in the shop, and providing a retailer is doing their job correctly, the customer leaves with more that just that bag of peanuts, they have amassed a trolley or basket of other unrelated lines and will do so again time after time.

If there is one retail category that has increased exponentially in garden centres over the last few decades it is bird care, so surely all of the above will make the retailer have a fresh look at their offering in this category?

Remember, bird care is not ‘for the birds’ - even though, it really is … with peanuts, seed mix and energy balls being the lines with the biggest stock turn, but all of the sidelines such as the aforementioned nyger, sunflower and mealworm generate enough sales to justify their space on shelves.

Other specific mixes of seeds, such as no-grow types and special winter mixes, are also worth stocking, as they too have their cult following amongst bird lovers and feeders.

Equally important is stocking the right feeder for the right seed, as we no longer live in the days where we have just two feeder types – one for peanuts and one for seed.

Now there are specific versions for energy balls, plus those nyger and sunflower nibs, and they are a must-stock item, as the solve a specific problem with those product lines, be it seed-size or the accessibility for the birds.

Appropriate

If you stock a specific feed for birds, you should also stock the appropriate feeder, as even from a purely retail point of view it’s an important link sale.

And of course you don’t stock just one type of peanut feeder, for example, as the ‘good, better, best’ rule of having at least three types of feeders for most lines is advisable in order to accommodate all pockets and minds.

It’s generally not advisable to stock too

cheap a feeder but within most ranges supplied by bird carer suppliers there is enough of a selection to at the very least do a ‘better’ and ‘best’ choice for the customer.

This can be increased to three with the hugely important addition of what is called a ‘squirrel-proof’ feeder but what in reality is normally purchased by customers to outwit the larger birds which are the bane of most of the bird feeding public – and these too come in a few qualities and price-points to suit most pockets.

Emphasize

About Liam

Another important point is to be always ‘selling up’ by emphasising to the customer the genuine case that the more expensive feeders, tables and stations tend to be more robust and longer lasting – a win-win for both parties.

Feeders that hold more seed should be stocked and promoted too, and although a cynical mind might say that this is just a way for the retailer to sell more food, it also means that the feeder will need less frequent filling.

There are link sales too, such as feeder fillers and brushes for cleaning feeders, and very important are the – relatively – big ticket items such as bird stations and bird tables for those without trees, from which they can hang their feeders.

This might certainly necessitate the

Since establishing Retail Services & Solutions in 2007, Liam has become one of the most effective people within the retail side of Irish horticulture.

His knowledge of the mindset and ethos of those in this sector, combined with his problem-solving ability, experience and hands-on work ethic make him uniquely placed to offer advice and help to those who need it.

Key to his success is his knowledge of purchasing, pricing and sales combined with his understanding of layout, signage and merchandising, and how the interaction of these can lead to increased sales and profits.

086 8221494 - retailsands@gmail.com

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 45

Nobody does Décor better…

Stores Nationwide | www.albany.ie

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 Complete irrigation solution in one

 Simplify the sale for store

Precision Watering for Vegetable Gardens, Flower Beds, Greenhouses Hedging, etc.

 Simplify the purchase for the customer, quicker & easier  Easy to see what you need for your micro irrigation system

• Complete irrigation solution in one mercandiser • Simplify the sale for the store • Simplify the purchase for the customer, quicker & easier • Easy to see what you need for your irrigation needs • Choose the control unit you prefer • Can adapt to vegetable gardens (or flower beds) of different sizes • Can modify the system using the accessories • Position in area of high traffic, high visibility • Speed of sale: quicker sale com pared to selling single components parts

 Choose the control unit your prefer  Can adapt to vegetable gardens (or flower beds) of different sizes  Can modify the system using the accessories  Position in area of high traffic, high visibility  Speed of sale: quicker sale compared to selling single components parts

CWP Ltd Trim Co.Meath, C15 X7VW Tel: 046 9546007 Email: info@cwp.ie www.cwp.ie

COOLRAIN SAWMILLS LTD. Coolrain, Co. Laois, Ireland. R32 AH67 T: +353 57 85 10062 E: gardenliving@coolrainsawmills.ie www.gardenliving.ie www.coolrainsawmills.ie

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We create and build functional Garden Centres throughout the country. They are built to a high standard and come with CE Certification. Call our office for advice and information.

CWP Ltd Trim Co.Meath, C15 X7VW Tel: 046 9546007 Email: info@cwp.ie www.cwp.ie

We create and build functiona a high standard and come wit

Product News Contech Building Products: building brands you trust

For over two decades, Contech Building Products Ltd. has been supplying Ireland’s merchant and DIY sectors with premium, high quality construction brands.

From the launch of Tec7 in 2002, to our latest partnerships with world-renowned brands, we’ve stayed true to our mission: delivering premium construction products that professionals trust.

As Ireland’s exclusive distributor for top-tier brands like Tec7, SMART Tools, TRACER Tools, ESSVE, Isocell Airstop, and Wera Tools, we ensure our customers have access to the best in construction technology and innovation.

Each brand we carry is carefully selected based on its quality, durability, and alignment with our values.

What we offer 1. Product range built on expertise We know the demands of the trade.

Whether it’s the renowned quality of the Tec7 range, the precision cutting solutions from SMART Tools, the robust marking tools from TRACER, or the simplified airtightness solutions of Isocell Airstop, each product is designed to meet the evolving needs of professional tradespeople.

Wera Tools, the latest addition to our portfolio, brings German-engineered excellence to Irish tradespeople, reinforcing our reputation for delivering excellence in both innovation and quality.

2. Tailored product training We don’t just supply products – we equip your staff with the knowledge they need to sell them confidently.

Our dedicated sales team offers comprehensive product training, ensuring your team is fully versed in the features, applications, and selling points of each brand.

This empowers your staff to provide expert advice to your customers.

3. In-store product demonstrations Boost your store’s footfall with engaging product demos.

‘We’ve stayed true to our mission: delivering premium construction products that professionals trust.’

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 47

Product News

Our team will visit your location, setting up live demonstrations that allow customers to experience the superior performance of our products first-hand.

These demo days not only drive sales but also build long-lasting customer loyalty.

4. Marketing support to elevate your brand At Contech, we go beyond product supply.

We work closely with our retail partners to provide tailored marketing support – from point-of-sale materials to online content.

Our goal is to help you highlight the value of our products, driving both in-store and digital sales to your business.

We are also committed to building our brands in Ireland and invest significantly in long-term brand building strategies designed to increase awareness and drive demand.

Why choose Contech?

Our development of industry-leading brands like TEC7 is testament to our commitment to building market-leading construction brands.

We understand the importance of offering reliable, high-performance products that your customers can trust, and will keep coming back for.

With our in-depth industry expertise and unwavering focus on service, Contech Building Products is more than just a distributor – we’re your partner in success.

Let us help you grow your business with the right tools, expert training, and marketing support. Together, we can provide Ireland’s tradespeople with the solutions they need to get the job done.

48 HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024

GYO focus on accessories -

Why the MyFarm Dripline Kit is a must-have for your garden centre As a garden centre manager, you’re always on the lookout for innovative, practical products that your customers will love.

The MyFarm Dripline Kit is the perfect addition to your product range, offering a simple yet highly effective solution for home gardeners and DIY enthusiasts who want to irrigate their gardens with ease, while conserving water and saving time.

Here’s why this kit is a musthave for your customers—and why it will be a strong seller at your garden centre.

Precision watering meets efficiency

The MyFarm Dripline Kit allows gardeners to water their plants with remarkable precision, thanks to drip holes spaced every 33 cm along the dripline.

This feature ensures that water reaches only the areas that need it, eliminating waste and encouraging healthy plant growth.

This targeted irrigation can help save up to 5,000 litres of water per year – an important selling point for today’s ecoconscious consumers.

Whether your customers are watering flower beds, vegetable patches, or hedges, this system offers a sustainable and efficient solution they’ll appreciate.

Versatility to suit every garden

One of the MyFarm Dripline Kit’s biggest selling points is its versatility.

With quick fittings and modular parts included, gardeners can easily customize the system to fit their unique garden layout, whether they have a small vegetable patch or a sprawling greenhouse.

The system is extendable and adaptable, allowing customers to add extra parts or cut the dripline at any point to meet their specific needs.

This flexibility makes it an ideal solution for a wide range of garden types, from vegetable beds to ornamental hedges, making it a universal choice for your clientele.

Product News Tailored solutions for every customer

The MyFarm Dripline Kit offers two types of packages, providing options for different customer preferences.

The first kit includes the dripline system without an on/off control unit, allowing customers to select their own timer or control system based on their needs.

This flexibility appeals to the DIY crowd, who may prefer to build a more personalized irrigation setup.

The second kit, on the other hand, features a Zero Pressure control unit, ideal for customers who may have lower water pressure but still want to achieve efficient irrigation.

This unit is battery-operated and easy to program, with two simple knobs for adjusting watering duration and frequency.

User-Friendly control and easy installation

Your customers will love how straightforward the MyFarm Dripline Kit is to set up and use.

The included Zero Pressure controller takes the complexity out of irrigation programming.

With just three steps—setting the correct time, start time, and irrigation duration—gardeners can have the system up and running in minutes.

This simplicity, combined with the reliability of battery operation, ensures that gardeners of all skill levels will find this product accessible and beneficial.

Drive sales with a product that delivers results

For your garden centre, the MyFarm Dripline Kit is more than just another item on the shelf.

It’s a product that delivers tangible results to customers – helping them save time, conserve water, and achieve healthier plants.

The eco-friendly features, combined with its flexibility and ease of use, make it a highly attractive offering for today’s gardener.

By promoting this product, you’re not only providing a practical solution but also reinforcing your garden centre’s commitment to sustainable, efficient gardening practices.

By stocking the MyFarm Dripline Kit, you’ll be offering your customers a product that meets their needs for water conservation, garden health, and

ease of use.

With its strong environmental credentials and versatile applications, this kit is bound to become a favourite among your customers, making it a smart addition to your product lineup.

The merchandiser structure is made of natural pine wood material.

Look good

Designed to look good for longer. There are 4 stocking levels plus 2 lateral positions.

The structure has a footprint of 560mm x 430mm x 1.8mH on your shop floor. Easy to build, no tools required.

The merchandiser structure will come supplied with a standard set up but as time goes by and you can see what is selling better, the Kits and the extra components can be adjusted to suit.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 49

Scan & watch PERMAWHITE® in action.

• • Stop mould in its tracks* with Zinsser PermaWhite®. Designed to protect kitchens, bathrooms and other high humidity areas from mould and mildew, PermaWhite® offers serious resistance against cracking and peeling for up to 7 years† and is tintable to any RAL, BS, NCS or custom colour. For further information on Zinsser’s range and services, visit: www.zinsseruk.com.

For stockist enquiries please contact Relay Global: NI: +44 (0)28 9262 0300, ROI: +353(0)1 840 3969 or email: info@relay.global.

PERMAWHITE® contains a biocide to protect the dry film from fungal degradation. Once dried the paint film is classed as a treated article and contains the surface biocide 4,5-dichloro-2-n-octyl-4isothiazolin-3-one 0.12% by weight. †PERMAWHITE® is designed to resist cracking, peeling and blistering for up to 7 years before first maintenance when applied according to the label directions.

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Paint -

Product News

Zinsser shows zero tolerance for mould and mildew

Mould is a problem professional decorators have to face time and time again, especially during the cooler months, as excess moisture and poor ventilation provide the perfect environment for mildew and mould growth.

Landlords rely on tradespeople more than ever to tackle mould in their properties and prevent it from returning, making it essential that decorators have the right tools to crack down on mould for good.

Zinsser’s range of reliable mould-resistant paints and products is the ideal way of combatting and preventing mould growth quickly and effectively.

The best product for the job When dealing with mould, it is essential to use a product that’s up to the task. Zinsser PermaWhite is the ultimate paint for mould prevention, as it offers a variety of features and benefits: • Tough and scrubbable mould-resistant formula, specifically designed for high moisture areas like bathrooms, kitchens and laundry rooms • Designed to resist cracking, peeling and blistering for up to 7 years—no need for decorators to return to the job at a later date • Touch dry in 30 minutes and recoatable in just 2 hours • Tintable to any BS, NCS or RAL colour • Water-based, low odour and contains Trace VOCs Proper paint prep Preparing a mould-stained surface with Zinsser Mould Killer & Remover before painting will provide a long-lasting finish.

The water-based formula contains a fungicide that effectively removes dark stains caused by mould, fungus and algae, and is ideal for use in bathrooms, kitchens and other areas of high

humidity.

The Mould Killer & Remover also has a handy trigger spray for hard-to reach areas and can be used on various internal surfaces such as tiles, wood, plaster and wallpaper.

Prime to perfection PermaWhite is self-priming; however, for persistent mould stains, B-I-N® AQUA is the go-to primer-sealer.

B-I-N® AQUA expertly blocks stubborn water, mould and mildew stains and acts as an outstanding barrier against all types of odours.

With an ultra-low odour and innovative water-based formula, B-I-N® AQUA contains only trace elements of VOCs (<0.1%) and offers easy soap and water clean-up.

Zinsser breaks the mould Mould-resistant interior paint PermaWhite has a unique formulation and contains a biocide that protects the dried coating against fungal degradation.

The hardwearing paint provides a scrubbable finish, specifically designed for high-humidity areas that are subject to challenging wear and tear such as bathrooms, kitchens and utility rooms.

In addition, the paint film is designed to resist cracking, peeling and blistering for up to seven years before first maintenance.

For renowned and trusted products, get in touch with Relay Global and enquire about stocking Zinsser today, contact: Michael Taylor, Sales & Key Account Manager info@relay.global NI: +44 (0)28 9262 0300 ROI: +353(0)1 840 3969 For more information visit www.zinsseruk.com or follow us on social media @zinsseruk SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 51

Paint -

Product News

Curust Industries Ltd. has all your wood care products covered…

Everything from protective Oils and Shellac Sanding Sealer to the latest additions of Wood Dyes, Exterior Wood Stains and Varnishes.

Quality

The Douglas brand has been synonymous with quality paint products in Ireland for over 50 years.

Contact your local rep for details and ongoing offers across the Douglas Decorative Range of Solvents, Linseed Oils, DIY Paints, Spray Paints, Oxides, Wood Dyes, Stains and Varnishes. FSDUs available as required.

Dulux Colour of the Year 2025 – True Joy - Interior Design Dulux’s expert trend forecasters have selected True Joy™ as the Dulux Colour of the Year of 2025 – an energising and motivating yellow that encourages us to embrace change and simply ‘take a leap’.

Uplift This yellow was named True Joy™ for its ability to bring instant uplift to a space, filling it with optimism and energy.

Since the launch of the first Dulux Colour of the Year in 2004, the Dulux trend forecasting programme, ColourFutures™, has seen leading designers, architects, editors and thought leaders from around the world come together with the paint brand, to identify a colour that captures the mood of the moment.

These conversations explore the way we will be living in the future, what we will want and need from our living spaces, and universal thoughts and experiences.

This year’s conversations revealed a universal belief that there is more to life elsewhere – this year’s Colour of the Year, True Joy™, empowers us to instead create the change we want to see.

Smile For the Colour of the Year 2025, Dulux sought after a pop of colour that puts joy on your wall and brings a smile to your face.

Creating a colour collection that fills homes and spaces with creative energy, optimism, pride and imagination. Making it easy for the consumer to take it into their own hands, experiment with confidence and create spaces that are personal to their needs The Colour of the Year 2025 has also been launched alongside three colour stories, providing clear insight and inspiration into how True Joy™ can be used in combination with other hues in the home.

The bold colour story allows us to leap into spaces that feel

Dulux’s expert trend forecasters have selected True Joy™ as the Dulux Colour of the Year of 2025.

exciting and take us on a delightfully spontaneous adventure outside of our current bubble.

Grounded The human colour story highlights artisanal spaces full of handmade touches that make us feel grounded and in touch with matters of the heart.

The proud colour story shows eclectic spaces, layered with individual influences that make us feel proud of our roots and all that we are.

These palettes are just another way Dulux hopes to encourage all to have the confidence to take a leap out of traditional colour comfort zones.

True Joy™ is available through colour mixing in all stores.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 53

Product News - Paint Fleetwood Paints Unveils Bold New Look for Primer Range Fleetwood Paints is excited to announce the rebrand of their entire range of Trade Primers, giving the same trusted products a fresh, modern look that enhances both shelf appeal and customer convenience.

As part of Fleetwood’s continued commitment to supporting retailers and trade professionals, this rebrand is designed to make the often complex primer category easier to navigate, helping customers choose the right primer for any surface

What’s Changed?

Introducing the range as Pro-Prep primers. This bold new design that clearly displays essential product information also includes a full grid of surfaces and problems on the side of the can.

With improved drying and recoat time on Terminator, and easy-torecognise icons showcasing the uses of each primer, selecting the right primer for the job has never been easier.

Additionally, a QR code is now featured on the packaging, guiding customers to helpful online resources on product application.

The new 500ml can shape has also been redesigned for a taller, sleeker appearance, improving its visibility and making it easier for customers to selfselect the right product for their projects.

Same Great Product, New Look

While the packaging has undergone a transformation Fleetwood has retained the trusted formulations that professionals have relied on for years.

Whether it’s the oil-based BLOXX-IT, the shellac-based TERMINATOR or the water-based PURE GRIP, each product continues to deliver superior coverage, adhesion, and performance across a wide range of substrates.

Look out for the new Fleetwood Paints primer range rolling out from November 2024.

For more information, contact your local Fleetwood Paints sales rep.

54 HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024

Fuel -

Product News

‘Stay cosy and save big: Why Superser Heaters and Butane Cylinders are your winter warming solution!’

As the chill of winter approaches, many homeowners are considering the most efficient and cost-effective ways to keep their homes warm without breaking the bank.

One popular option is the use of Superser heaters and butane cylinders for spot heating.

Here’s why you should consider this versatile solution to keep cosy this winter.

Cost-effective heating

Unlike central heating systems that require the entire house to be heated, a Superser heater allows you to heat only the areas you’re using.

This ‘spot heating’ approach can significantly reduce your energy bills, especially during periods when you only need warmth in a single room.

The price of butane cylinders remains competitive, offering an affordable alternative to electric or gas-powered central heating.

Portability and convenience

One of the biggest advantages of a Superser heater is its portability.

You can easily move it from room to room, ensuring warmth follows you wherever you go.

Whether you’re in the living room, kitchen, or a home office, your heating solution is always within reach.

Safety and reliability

Modern Superser heaters are designed with built-in safety features, including oxygen depletion sensors and flame failure devices, ensuring that the heater shuts off if any issues arise.

Butane is also a safe and reliable fuel, especially with proper storage and handling, providing peace of mind alongside its warmth.

As energy prices continue to rise, choosing a Superser heater powered by butane cylinders is a smart and flexible option for keeping your home warm while controlling costs this winter.

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 • HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE 55

THE FINAL SAY

I’m going with Mozart

by Jeff Haden Think asking for advice makes you seem smarter? Research says yes. Mozart said no. Especially if you Actually want to achieve your goals.

P

eople often tell me they want to be a writer and ask for advice.

I sometimes ask what they’re currently writing.

True

Most of the time, they don’t have an answer. That’s true for many pursuits.

Plenty of people want to be a noun, not a verb. They want to be writers, but they don’t necessarily want to write.

They want to be fit, but they don’t want to work out. They want to be entrepreneurs, but... you get the point.

Likelihood

They ask all sorts of people for advice – even though there’s typically an inverse relationship between the amount of advice you seek and the likelihood of actually starting something new.

That’s something Mozart apparently understood. As the (likely apocryphal) story goes, one day a man asked Mozart how to write a symphony.

‘You’re far too young to write a symphony,’ Mozart said. ‘It would be best if we started with something simpler first, like minuets.’

The aspiring composer took offense.

‘But you were writing symphonies when you were ten years old,’ he said, ‘and I am twenty-one!’

‘Yes,’ Mozart said, ‘but I didn’t go around asking people how to do it.’

Success

Just as ‘idea’ should be a verb (because an idea without action is just a dream), success lies in the verb, not the noun.

If you want to be a writer, what you really have to want is to write every day.

If you want to be fit, what you really have to want is to work out and eat healthy.

If you want to be an entrepreneur, what you really have to want is to bet on yourself, embrace the risk of failure, work long hours, and persevere when others quit.

You can’t just want the goal. You have to

want the work.

If you don’t want the verb, you don’t really want to be the noun.

Don’t

As for seeking advice? If you aren’t sure how to start, Don’t ask a lot of people for advice.

Don’t cast a broad net.

Don’t see advice collection as progress; often advice collecting – even though it is an action – is just procrastination.

Granted, asking for advice is comforting.

And, oddly enough, makes you seem more competent: a study published in Management Science found that people perceive those who ask for advice as more competent than those who do not.

Great...but seeming smart isn’t an accomplishment. Nor does it get you any closer to achieving your goal.

Pick

Instead, pick one or two people who have accomplished the thing you want to accomplish – preferably one, because

56 HARDWARE & HOMESTYLE • SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024

‘They want to be fit, but they don’t want to work out. They want to be entrepreneurs, but... you get the point.’ when you’re just starting out, you don’t need to collect a variety of opinions – and ask what they would do first: step one, maybe step two.

And then actually perform step one and step two.

Because real learning comes from acting, not asking.

About Jeff…

Jeff Haden is a keynote speaker, ghostwriter, LinkedIn Top Voice, contributing editor to Inc., and the author of The Motivation Myth: How High Achievers Really Set Themselves Up to Win. Expert Opinion by jeff haden, contributing editor, inc. @jeff_haden

Just leap with our Colour of the Year 2025

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Dive into the positive power of yellow

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