Progressive Housewares January/February 2017

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017

January/February 2017

PROGRESSIVE HOUSEWARES

Introducing the new Helix ergonomic food press range

More power, less effort

LEADING THE WAY IN COOKWARE INNOVATION

Exhibiting at Spring Fair, 5th – 9th February, HALL 9 F44-G25 and Ambiente 10th – 14th February, HALL 3.1 E40 Come and visit to hear more about our exciting advertising plans for 2017 and exclusive show offers.

For further information please contact customersupport@meyeruk.com

www.meyergroup.co.uk

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www.max-publishing.co.uk This season at Joseph Joseph, we’ve been focusing on developing some really unique products across a range of our key product categories, including Gadgets, Cleaning & Organisation and Cookware.

For example our new Helix collection, featured on the cover, reinvents how you press (or juice) food. With Helix products, the squeezing force is applied horizontally rather than vertically, so the design is much more comfortable to use and utilises the power of the shoulders as well. In addition, the unique, twisting mechanism multiplies the force used, which means you get more squeezing power from less effort. The range includes a garlic press, potato ricer and citrus juicer. For more information contact sales@josephjoseph.com

Max Publishing Ltd, United House North Road, London N7 9DP T: 020 7700 6740 F: 020 7607 6411 www.progressivehousewares.co.uk Subscription £50 per year for the UK, £75 for overseas Subscribe online, or email mike@marketingreinforcements.co.uk or call: Marketing Reinforcements on 020 8943 9541 (9am-5pm).

Editor’s comment Call me old fashioned, but I do like rice in my risotto. Despite my appreciation of vegetables of most types, I must admit that a recent trendy brasserie meal of Red Cabbage Risotto that was just cabbage (with not a grain in the bowl) tasted truly revolting. That aside, it is interesting to read forecasts of US food trends: ‘vegetables in 2017 will extend their domination of the dinner plate,’ food served in bowls will continue to grow in popularity, and ice cream and ice pops ‘made with avocado, sweetcorn, sweet pepper, sweet potato and pumpkin’ are on the rise (from the US’ Daily Record, part of the USA Today Network). For housewares, such trends can inspire the purchases of tools and gadgets for veggie preparation and the potential for some thought-provoking in-store demonstrations – anyone for an avocado ice pop? (See Superfoods focus on pages 34-37).

On the subject of what’s in store for 2017, J Walter Thompson’s Innovation Group’s third annual ‘Future 100’ report tracks key global retail trends, which, excitedly for cookshop and Above: In-store experience - PH’s Jo Howard recently housewares’ stockists, includes the rise of ‘Test-drive culinary retail.’ enjoyed taking a class at Borough Kitchen’s Chiswick Cook Author of the report, Lucie Greene, Director of JWT Innovation, cites School, led by Fran Warde, author and food writer. In keeping with the rising interest in the benefits of Zwilling’s new culinary concept store in Shanghai, which is ‘set in a fermented foods, the class including Kimchi making as groovy industrial-style space with atmospheric lighting and exposed well as vegetable and spice-rich chutney. For more on brick walls.’ Consumers can see Zwilling’s knives and cookware put Borough Kitchen see pages 28-29, and more on through their paces as chefs prepare food on long marble counters Superfoods preparation, pages 34-37). in the centre of the store. Visitors can also ‘test-drive’ the equipment. The report also highlights high-end kitchen-and-bathroom retailer, Pirch, which opened a New York ‘flagship temple to cookware’ last year. Consumers can experiment with equipment such as coffee machines installed as though in a real home. Visitors to the International Home + Housewares Show this March can see (touch and smell) for themselves, as Pirch is a stop on the inspirational Chicago Retail Tour (see www.housewares.org).

That the housewares industry lends itself to the emerging ‘experience’ culture is among the positive insights into the challenges and opportunities of 2017. You can see what else industry figures are reflecting on, and looking forwards to, in our annual State of the Nation (pages 23-27).

With Top Drawer just gone, and Spring Fair and Ambiente, (with UK as this year’s Partner Country), just around the corner, (see news and preview pages), I hope that you are enjoying the search for innovative new products to add zest to 2017, and I look forward to seeing you in the aisles or on stands.

But right now, I am looking forward to dinner – it is risotto, cooked by daughter in her food technology class today. I personally weighed out 250g of Arborio rice this morning, and there wasn’t a scrap of red cabbage in sight!

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in Progressive Housewares, the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for errors or omissions.

inhouse Jo Howard Editor joh@max-publishing.co.uk Warren Lomax Publishing director warren@max-publishing.co.uk Jakki Brown Editorial director jw@max-publishing.co.uk

Jo Howard

Editor

In this issue 5-19

News

39

Holly Wilson’s From the frontline

20

CHA News

40-47 Spring Fair preview

21

News extra: Mary Portas speaks

49-52 Ambiente preview

23-27 Food for thought: State of the nation

53

Shop talk: Potters’ Cookshop’s Tom Carter

Emma Cain Product page editor emmac@max-publishing.co.uk

30-33 Market focus: Tea and coffee

54-55 What’s cooking for starting out?

Patrick Wade Advertisement director mediap@aol.com

34-35 Lifestyle focus: Superfoods preparation

56

Product focus: starting out

57

Top Drawer review

Mark Grayson Creative director markg@max-publishing.co.uk

36-37 Product focus: Superfoods and healthy living

58-59 New products

Progressive Housewares

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O TV N RE TA MA LI & IL JO NE LA R U

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SPRING FAIR 2017 HALL 10-12, STAND 10B05-C04 4-9 Feb – NEC, Birmingham, UK

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See the full range at: www.towerhousewares.co.uk For more information call: 0333 220 6070 or email us: sales@towerhousewares.co.uk 04_HW_Jan Feb 2017.indd 1

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News

CHRISTMAS IN BRIEF

TOP STORY

Jingle tills?

Below: Lords (Holland Park branch pictured) had a “good, but different” Christmas.

Amid positive statements Christmas retailing from multiples (see NIBs) reports from independent cookshops and housewares stockists included “reasonable” to “good” trade. However patterns were not uniform, with some experiencing early buying and others a last minute rush.

At Lords (with six branches in and around London), brand director, Rita Dewan described the festive period as “good but different,” explaining, “It was slow to get going, with a crazy last few days.” Rita saw a pattern of considered, useful gifts and self-purchasing with “less frivolity.” For example, “a decent mug rather than a beautiful teaset, gadgets, knives and food preparation, but we did not sell as many electricals which was a lot to do with internet price matching.”

In contrast, Looses in Norwich had a strong start of December and, unusually, a slow final few days, corresponding with lower footfall in the city that week. The shop pulled in customers with its “big display in our atrium of fun and quirky stocking fillers,” for which it has built a strong reputation. He reflects: “It’s about enticing customers to spend with you rather than gift shops down the road.” Bruce adds: “Overall November and December were better for us than the rest of the year.” The shop saw a strong start to January, but Bruce admits: “We don’t really know what’s coming in the weeks and months ahead, and for sure - the old and familiar patterns of trade cannot be relied on to predict what’s ahead.”

Trevor Mottram in Tunbridge Wells saw a very early start to Christmas trade when the retailer displayed decorations the week before the October half term break. Festive napkins were also massive sellers for the shop, which also experienced strong sales of Nordicware’s Christmas Tree Bundt, as used by Nigella (with consumers favouring big cakes rather than cookie cutters). Director, Sarah Wood describes Christmas trade as “reasonable – a little down compared to 2015, but then that year was was up significantly on 2014.”

At The Good Cookshop in Worthing, co-owner, David Goodenough sums up seasonal trade as “in line with expectations,” with strong online growth, and “a crazy Christmas Eve.” (See linked stories).

Creating Christmas cheer and striking displays

l Sainsbury’s reports strong sales from

Argos, with like-for-like sales up 4% in its third quarter (driven by Black Friday and Christmas) and ‘record levels of online participation.’ The supermarket adds that Argos’ digital stores ‘are performing well, as awareness of the convenience of shopping at both Sainsbury’s and Argos under one roof grows.’ l Marks & Spencer’s Home like-for-like sales rose by 2.3% in the third quarter to December 31. Chief executive, Steve Rowe said: “In clothing and home, better ranges, better availability and better prices helped to improve our performance in a difficult marketplace.” l John Lewis chairman Sir Charlie Mayfield said the partnership traded strongly over Christmas, with department store sales up 4.9%. However he also warned that, “trading profit is under pressure” which, “reflects the greater changes taking place across the retail sector.” John Lewis online accounted for 40% of total sales during the six weeks to December 31. l House of Fraser’s like-for-like sales rose by 5.3% for the six weeks to January 2, with the group’s biggest online sales day ever on Black Friday, up over 40% on the previous year. Ceo Nigel Oddy noted strong growth in its recently refurbished stores in the final week before Christmas. l Amazon accounted for 38% of online sales over Christmas, with nearly three quarters of these placed via mobile.

Below: Stocking filler - Pizza Bike from Eddingtons.

For independent department store, Bakers & Larners of Holt, Christmas in the store was all about creating “a cheery, warm, welcoming atmosphere,” reflects retail manager, Maureen Hooker. She adds: “We had our Christmas shop in prime position, which brought people in.” Strikingly prominent displays were also key to bestsellers, Emma Bridgewater and Spode Glen Lodge from Portmeirion Group. Like Looses, fun sales included the Pizza Bike from Eddingtons, and for home entertaining, Gourmet Gadgetry’s Chocolate Fountain and Pizza Maker. With a “quiet first week, trade build up through the month,” notes Maureen. * At Barkers Home in Northallerton, homewares buyer, Julie Poynton reports “incredible” sales of slow cookers. The store – whose new Cook, Dine and Wine department launched last March saw strong sales in cake tins, Orla Kiely’s kitchen range, Hannah Turner novelty salt and pepper pots and Churchill’s China’s Country Pursuits.

Durable stainless steel range available now!

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Progressive Housewares

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KATIE ALICE FESTIVAL FOLK ADVERT 297 X 210 PORTRAIT V1.pdf

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News

Creative action at Spring Fair

Creative Products is bringing its products to life with demonstrations on its stands in Hall 9 of Spring Fair. The company is seeing significant growth in stockists of its ‘nothing to lose’ housewares gadgets (as well as garden and DIY products), which can be promoted in-store via a TV screen in a bespoke merchandising stand on a sale or return basis.

Commenting on Creative Products’ year-on-year growth since it was founded in 2009, md Mark Hall said that it is “the combination of our unique product range and accessible price points that will ensure we remain in a positive position for 2017.” * Creative Products has raised £10,213.57 for the breast cancer charity Pink Ribbon Foundation through donating 5% of sales of its pink dusters.

Winter fuel help from The Rainy Day Trust

The Rainy Day Trust is providing emergency winter fuel payments of £50 towards heating costs during this winter’s cold spells. Bryan Clover, ceo, said:“If you know of someone from the home improvement industry who is struggling financially, then please point them to this new emergency payment. It is a one-page form to complete and submit, and we will turn around applications very quickly. To qualify they must have worked in our industries for three years, earn less than £16,000 a year and have low savings.

All applications are completely confidential.”

More details from: Rainy Day Trust 0203 192 0486 or www.rainydaytrust.org.uk. * The Rainy Day Trust has been granted Charitable Incorporated Organisation status by the Charity Commission, which will enable it to develop new services in partnership with both industry and other charities. As part of the change, the Trust has been given a new charity registration number of 1170878.

Housewares retailers and suppliers with RDT collection boxes should return the box as soon as possible and will receive a new one displaying the new registration number.

Made with organic cotton, sustainably harvested beeswax, organic jojoba oil and tree resin

TOP STORY

Talking business at Spring Fair Spring Fair’s keynote speakers are businesswoman and judge from BBC TV’s The Apprentice, Baroness Karren Brady CBE (Tuesday February 7, 1.55pm at The Fashion and Accessories Theatre) and TV presenter and retail advisor, Mary Portas (Monday February 6, 1.45pm at the Fashion and Accessories catwalk - see news extra page 21).

A sought after speaker on topics including leadership and entrepreneurship, Karren is rated among the 50 most inspirational people in the world. Her many roles include ceo of West Ham United FC, and senior non-executive director on Above: Karren Brady will be giving some sound the boards of retail multinational Arcadia Group and business advice at Spring Fair.

Syco Entertainment. She is also the UK government’s Below: The Apprentice’s Courteney Wood.

Small Business Ambassador.

Other seminar speakers at the show will include Sophie Cornish, founder of Notonthehighstreet and homewares retailers are invited to participate in a ‘Meet the experts’ session on Social Media Strategy as well as Trends briefings for Autumn/Winter from WGSN Lifestyle and Interiors. There are also workshops on ‘Best practise’ for selling on eBay and Amazon, ‘How to promote your business online while running your shop,’ and making the most of pinterest (see www.springfair.com/content/event-timetable). l The line-up in Hall 9’s Kitchen & Dining sector includes Amefa, Arthur Price, Bobble, Churchill China, CKS, Creative Tops, Denby, Dexam, DKB, George East, Grunwerg, Haus, Horwood, JWP, Kitchen Craft, Le Creuset , Meyer Group, Portmeirion, Premier and Root 7. New exhibitors include Everdure by Heston Blumenthal with a range of barbecues and related accessories that have been developed with the active involvement of the celebrated chef.

New exhibitor, Tramontina (established 1911) will showcase its vast selection of premium cutlery including barbecue tools, skewers and steak knives. l Karren Brady is not the only familiar face from The Apprentice at this Spring Fair. The latest competition’s runner-up, Courteney Wood is exhibiting with his Bubblegum Stuff novelty gifts company in Hall 6. Courteney’s products include a heart shaped ice cream scoop (pictured) that was featured on the TV show and his trophy baby sip beaker, whose prototype was created in just 24 hours in the final episode.“It's been designed so that babies can take a sip of success," Courteney told The Apprentice panel. * Spring Fair (NEC Birmingham) runs from February 5-9.

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Progressive Housewares

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DISCOVER the brand new

Exclusive Preview Come and discover the brand new kMix range at our exclusive pre-launch preview.

View the full range of new kMix products on the EPE stand, Hall 10-12, Stand 10A05-A04 at Spring Fair, NEC Birmingham on Tuesday 7th February 2017, 4–7pm

www.epeinternational.com

WIN a Celebrity Chef in-store demonstration

by taking part in our visual display competition.

For further details and terms & conditions please contact david@graphicsworkshop.co.uk

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News

TOP STORY

Ambiente’s spotlight on design Ambiente (Frankfurt, February 10-14) will highlight design in several special exhibits. These include the UK Partner Country presentation, entitled Providence & Provenance, created by leading graphic Inset: UK exhibitors such as and product designer, Janice Kirkpatrick T&G will be highlighted at Ambiente 2017, where the using British products with a story behind UK is Partner Country. them (Hall 4.1 Foyer). Partner Country Day on the Monday of the show will see different events on UK exhibitors’ stands.

Meanwhile, Ambiente’s popular Solutions exhibit - curated by designer, Sebastian Bergne – throws the spotlight on practical design solutions for the kitchen and home. Exhibits include Joseph Joseph’s Helix Range, which “has a unique, ergonomic twisting mechanism that multiplies the force used, meaning you get more squeezing power from less effort,” explains the company’s Roslyn Frame. The SpreadThat! Deluxe butter knife from That Inventions (distributed by Auteur in the UK) and the Sauce Roller from Lékué (for the even distribution of sauce) are also part of Solutions (Hall 4.0 Foyer).

This year’s Design Plus competition has taken a unique ‘Ethical style’ slant, focusing on sustainability. The 23 prize winners can be seen in Galleria 1, and include Abeego reusable beeswax food wrap from Green Pioneer and china manufacturer Kahla’s elegant reusable coffee ‘To Go’ beaker. * With Dining as a key sector (alongside Living and Giving), the last edition of leading international trade fair Ambiente hosted 4,400 exhibitors and welcomed 137,000 trade visitors from almost 150 countries. Visit www.ambiente.messefrankfurt.com (See linked stories.)

Üutensil swells UK Partner Country exhibitor list üutensil is appearing at Ambiente as a standalone brand for the first time (rather than with one of its European distributors.) Founder and designer, Gavin Reay commented:“We have started to see a significant increase in our international business so it made perfect sense to position ourselves at the heart of that market, and at the key international show in the calendar.“ He added that, as “the UK is the show’s partner country, the timing seemed right.”

The company (whose products include the pot stirrer) continues to work closely with distributor PHA KitchEssentials in the UK.

Seeing green at Ambiente Ambiente’s second edition of its Ethical Style Guide for 2017 has grown to 220 companies with sustainable production methods from 50 different countries.

These include new glassware exhibitor, Green Glass from Chile. “We are simply trying to offer our buyers orientation and transparency in this market of sustainable products, which is as complex as it is vitally important for the future,” says Nicolette Naumann, vice president, Ambiente.

Ambiente’s new bloggers initiative Given the influence of bloggers in consumer purchasing decisions, new at Ambiente this year will be a BlogUps Blog Up Your Business initiative which will have its own dedicated stand (Hall 8, stand H38). Some 30 bloggers will be explaining why they find certain campaigns interesting, and which Ambiente products have stuck in their mind.

During the show the bloggers will be photographing a wide reach of products, subsequently displaying the images on their stand. Bloggers and visitors will also be invited to take part in the #Ambientecontest, where they will be able to post their favourite highlight of the show on Instagram, with the hashtags published.

Comparing Europe’s consumer spending Messe Frankfurt has commissioned a study, Consumer Spending in Europe, by Retail Consultants IFH, one of a series of management reports that will be published at Ambiente.

The report examines and compares European spending in 27 countries belonging to the EU between 2010-215, with a focus on the UK, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Austria, Poland and Spain.

The investigation analyses market volumes and the development of sales of consumer goods that are typically seen at Ambiente including glass, porcelain and ceramics and small electrical appliances. It highlights what markets will, in future, be of interest with regard to which groups of consumer goods.

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Email: sales@cks.uk.net or call Penni or Phoebe to order your brochure on: 01684 311300

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Progressive Housewares

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News Below: .Susan from Wiggles & Florence with the Bunners Ironmonger mug.

TOP STORY

Top Drawer’s launchpad

It’s personal says Susan Artist Susan Robertson from Wiggles & Florence is growing her bespoke design business, creating special mugs for tourist attractions and shops from her hand drawn illustrations. “There is lots of potential to develop this area of the business as retailers of all sizes search for unique products,” notes Susan, adding: “The minimum order of 250 makes this possible for smaller businesses.” Recent customers include Bunners, a traditional ironmonger in Montgomery.

The first home show of 2017, Top Drawer (London Olympia, January 15-17) was a hotbed for the new season’s launches from UK and international brands.

The Home area of the show saw the relaunch of New Zealand brands Strahl and Click Clack from Innova Products, now distributed by Beam Group. Tim Hossack, Innova Products’ regional sales manager for UK and Europe (previously of Sage) highlighted the growing popularity of Strahl drinkware as an alternative to glass in nightclubs, resorts and around the home.“The range is insulated for cold or hot drinks and doesn’t condensate, so you don't need coasters, while it is also elegant as each piece is hand-finished so you don’t see Above: Tim Hossack of Innova Products (far the seams,” explains Tim. He also highlighted Click Clack’s “world first” borosilicate left) celebrated a new partnership with glass food container with a vented silicone lid for storing and cooking good:“Perfect Beam Group, along with Beam’s Alex Lyons-Negus, Simon Darford and Darren for leftovers - there is no need for foil.”

Meanwhile, familiar housewares figure, Kevin McKay launched the Venn kitchen Murley, all with Strahl drinkware. tools and food preparation range from Captivate to the UK and European market.

The range includes 45 products aimed at space saving, including interlocking tools and a knife block that can be stored on the wall, countertop or drawer, and scissors whose handles incorporate spaghetti measures. Captivate will launch three more brands at Ambiente – Fanci Baking (“fun, functional, feminine with 50s styles products for making and serving cakes,” says Kevin), East and Nutrilife. (See linked stories). * Top Drawer’s Academy Live speakers included Emma Slate, food and drink content editor for M&S, discussing: ‘Trend to table – What you’ll be eating in 2017 and why you should care.’ Lucy Lines, head of visual merchandising for John Lewis provided insights into window dressing and trends, discussing The Role of Visual Merchandising in Brand Presentation was discussed with Neil McLennan, former deputy editor of Living Etc.

Introducing The British Textile Company Tattoos for your tabletop Launches from Forma House at Top Drawer included Cookut’s quirky temporary tattoos designed to use on plates for special occasions such as birthdays, and the Table Selfie. The latter adds entertainment to the dinner table, with a rotating stand that enables a 360 degree group selfie. Forma House showcased a host of brands at Top Drawer including Sagaform, Eva Solo, QDO, Dreamfarm and Zuperzozial.

Celebrating its 50th year in business, ICTC has re-branded its textile manufacturing business with the new name, The British Textile Company.

The textile manufacturer began in Norfolk in 1986, when the original founding company C’est Ça! was created. ICTC’s md, Ruth Cutter notes that the new name will fanfare the textiles’ origins as the company “branches out into the world!”

Launching the new branding at Top Drawer’s Home, The British Textile Company also introduced a new collaboration with AGA and its Crisp & Dene brand (from Suffolk designer, Will Crisp). The new AGA licensed range is available to all of ICTC’s UK customers.

Jacqueline Rayner worked as a consultant on the range’s development (having worked with ICTC and AGA previously), and described the link-up with AGA and the contemporary design style of Crisp & Dene as “a match made in heaven.”

Above: Consultant, Jacq Rayner and ICTC’s Ruth Cutter model the new AGA ‘Best in Show’ range at Top Drawer’s Home, where the company also celebrated its 50th anniversary with glasses of bubbly.

Feathered friends

Creative Tops’ change of ownership.

A new Yum Yum lunch ‘to go’ range

by Nest (from PHA Kitchessentials) was inspired when “grown-ups were buying pieces from our kids’ Tum Tum range for themselves,” says Nest’s Suzanne Stokes. Launched at Top Drawer, the adult range features a seagull design in similar shapes to Tum Tum, including a lunch set with removeable dip tray.

Bird life was also a feature on the Lomas & Lomas Above: One of the designs in stand in the Spotted section of Top Drawer, including the Lomas & Lomas range. kitchen textiles. Images by wildlife photographer, Garry Lomas have been used to create distinctive surface patterns including the silhouette of a sparrow in flight (pictured above) and of a swallow feeding its young.

At the start of the year, Creative Tops’ trade and assets transferred into Lifetime Brands Europe Limited, another Lifetime Brands company that operates the Kitchen Craft business. Creative Tops Limited is now known as the Creative Tops Division of Lifetime Brands Europe Limited.

Creative Tops Limited and Lifetime Brands Europe Limited, formerly known as Thomas Plant (Birmingham) Limited have separately formed part of the Lifetime Brands Inc group for over three years. With this new development the two businesses will become one legal entity with two divisions: Creative Tops and Kitchen Craft.

Managing director, Peter Murphy, commented,“The move is a very positive one which will enable us to share resources and reduce the administrative burden of dealing with our fellow Lifetime Brands business, Kitchen Craft. This is another great step forward for us that signifies an exciting future ahead for Creative Tops and its customers.”

Peter assured all customers and suppliers “that business will continue very much as usual, with the move being motivated by an intention to improve the efficiency of internal operations.”

Progressive Housewares

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Come see us at

Hall 9.0, A24 - B25

Showing our core range and presenting over 60 new lines

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News

NEWS IN BRIEF

TOP STORY

l The Department for International Trade (DIT)

Exclusively looks into Tomorrow’s Kitchen

l The government has revealed some of the

A new feature at Exclusively Housewares and Exclusively Electrical (London’s Business Design Centre, June 13-14) will showcase the latest advancements within the domestic kitchen – including ‘smart’ built-in appliances - and look ahead to what the future holds.

‘Tomorrow’s Kitchen’ will be built on the Atrium level above the Gallery Hall, where Exclusively Electrical currently takes place.

This level will also house the shows’ press office, Design Trend product display and a seminar theatre.

“With the housewares and small appliances market, like so many, facing new challenges, we feel it is timely to invest in sharing a wider view of the future, and how our exhibitor’s products will fit into prospective lifestyles and designs,” explains show director Simon Boyd.“The new feature will focus on a combination of technological, lifestyle and design items and features which are available now, or coming our way.”

He continued:“While new ‘smart’ products and apps tend to get most of the publicity, there are plenty of other factors which drive product innovation – some is legislation or safety based, some relates to material Above: Ken Hom will be changes or new ways of using existing materials. We’ll be consulting widely to ensure cooking in the Exclusively shows’ demo kitchen. we have identified all the elements any retailer should be aware of when making future buying choices.”

The product demo facility previously in Exclusively Electrical will also move up to the Atrium level as part of the Tomorrow’s Kitchen feature. The demonstration line-up will feature legendary Chinese chef, Ken Hom, pioneer of wok and fusion cooking. Ken will appear on both days, in conjunction with DKB Household.

The shows will also present advice from leading food and home experts and continue to work with trend forecasters Scarlet Opus. See www.exclusivelyhousewares.co.uk

North West has included plastics and bakeware manufacturer, What More UK in its 2017 list of Export Champions for the fourth consecutive year. most bizarre excuses used by unscrupulous bosses who have underpaid workers the National Minimum Wage. These include: ’My workers are often just on standby when there are no customers in the shop; I only pay them for when they’re actually serving someone.’

l For the second year in a row, IO Shen Knives

were Highly Commended in Restaurant Magazine’s Readers Choice Awards, second only to chef’s favourite, Global.

l Robert Welch Designs has been awarded the GOOD DESIGN award for its Oblique Bathroom Accessories (including toilet roll holder and brush). l Charles Viancin launched its new CDU display at Top Drawer’s Home. The display enables consumers to ‘feel the seal’ of the brand’s silicone lids on a bowl as well as the product’s benefits. l At Top Drawer, Bliss Home launched

tableware from Rick Stein created from a student design competition. The winning design was inspired by the shapes and sea colour of Cornish coves.

l Registration is now open for PG Live 2017,

the UK's only trade show dedicated to the global greeting card industry, presenting the largest collection of greeting card publishers in the world to diverse stockists, including cookshops. Visit www.progressivegreetings.live.com

l With sous vide cooking

predicted to rise in the US this year, Stasher will extend its range of selfsealing, air-tight, pure platinum silicone reusable bags at Chicago’s IH+HS (pictured). A new bigger size bags is “great for cooking, marinating and sous vide,” as well as storing food, says Stasher’s Sklyar Frederick.

l Half Moon Bay has become the licensee for

Jolly Awesome, created by illustrator Matt Nguyen. The brand is known for its range of humorous hip hop animal cards using on trend language. The new licensed range will be revealed at Spring Fair, and includes a heatchanging mug with the caption, So Hot Right Now.

l Over two thirds of exhibitors will be

launching new products at the winter 2017 edition of NY NOW, the Market for Home, Lifestyle + Gift. It takes place from February 4-8 at the Jacob K.Javits Convention Center in New York City with collections including Home, Lifestyle and Handmade.

l Spending on Small Business Saturday

(December 3) was up 15% on 2015, according to a survey commissioned by American Express.

Crime busting coffee machines Internet connected or ‘smart’ kitchen appliances such as coffee machines and fridges could be used to provide vital evidence for detectives who are investigating domestic crime scenes. A report in The Times newspaper quoted Mark Stokes, head of digital and electronics forensics at Metropolitan Police, who noted that smart kitchen devices will become more commonplace, particularly as technology prices come down.

“The crime scene of tomorrow is going to be the Internet of Things,” Mark said, observing: “A £3,000 fridge with a built-in family hub in it will soon be £400. Wireless cameras within a device such as the fridge may record the movement of suspects and owners.”

Mark suggested that detectives are already being trained to identify ‘digital footprints’ that might substantiate suspects’ alibis or find inconsistencies in witnesses’ statements.

• For more on ‘smart’ appliances, see Chicago news page 19 and Coffee and tea pages 30-32.

Above: The use of connected coffee machines like the De’Longhi Prima Donne Elite (pictured) may provide ‘digital footprints’ to help solve crimes.

Eddingtons’ indie initatives for 2017 Eddingtons is launching a raft of new initiatives to support its independent customers in 2017. These include carriage paid vouchers to incentivise customers to order between visits from the Eddingtons sales team, a price matching initiative and an ‘Open all Hours’ initiative where customers are invited to visit the showroom in rural Berkshire with a contribution towards travel expenses.

The company is also investing in new iPad technology for the sales team allowing access to a comprehensive selection of product imagery, demonstration videos and promotional offers. The new technology allows orders to be transmitted to the warehouse for despatch the same day.

Later this year, Eddingtons plans to overhaul its website to give customers access to high resolution images and pricing and product quotations, as well as reflect the company’s newly updated corporate branding.

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News Left: Dexam’s md, Bryony Dyer is pictured handing the first cheque raised from its spiraliser sales to Macmillan’s James Bacharew.

TOP STORY

Dartington’s sparkling half century Healthy spiraliser sales help Macmillan Dexam International has raised over £6,400 for cancer care charity Macmillan since July, by donating a proportion of the price of each sale of its spiraliser. The initiative is part of a two-year plan (to include other healthy living products), which is helping to fund Macmillan nutritionists nationally.

Dexam’s managing director, Bryony Dyer commented:“We are excited that the first stage of this co-operation has exceeded everyone’s expectations, and are exploring ways of taking it further.” She reflected:“It is good to know that over 200 more patients will benefit from the expert care that will now be available to them from Macmillan nutritionists.”

In thanking Dexam for its contribution so far, Macmillan’s, James Bacharew stated:“There is increasing demand for all our services, and initiatives like this are really important in providing the advice, support and help that thousands of people rely on us for.”

Dartington Crystal celebrates 50 years of trading this year and will be highlighting its unique story as the UK and Ireland’s only remaining factory scale producer of handmade glass. The year of celebration starts at Spring Fair (February 5-9) where Dartington was one of the show’s original exhibitors back in 1976. The company will unveil its anniversary collection as well as a range of ‘ground breaking’ wine glasses developed and comarketed with Laithwaites’ Wine. Dartington will be flying the flag for British manufacturing and design at Ambiente, where the UK is the show’s partner country for 2017 (see Ambiente news page 9). This is after a 15-year absence from the international show.

Dartington Crystal was founded in 1967 as a commercial enterprise to support Above: Image from the the employment and social ambitions of the Dartington Hall Trust. Swedish glassmakers were recruited to pass on their skills to local workers in the rural North Dartington Crystal archive.

Devon town of Torrington. By the 1970s the Dartington brand had become fashionable in an upwardly mobile society that was embracing more contemporary design.

Anniversary events will include a VIP factory visit for local dignitaries and a special party for present and past employees and families, (including some of the original Scandinavian workers). There will also be a special exhibition area in the Visitor Centre looking back over the half century. The company will be promoting its story via social media, national and local press, as well as customer events and store promotions.

The reassurance of Greenery The Pantone Color Institute has introduced Greenery as its colour of the year for 2017. “Greenery bursts forth in 2017 to provide us with the reassurance we yearn for amid a tumultuous social and political environment,” says Leatrice (Lee) Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. “Satisfying our growing desire to rejuvenate and revitalise, Greenery symbolises the reconnection we seek with nature, one another and a larger purpose.”

Pantone describes its symbolic Colour of the year as a ‘snapshot of what we see taking place in our global culture that serves as an expression of a mood and an attitude.’ The Institute also revealed 10 different colour palettes that will be seen in the worlds of fashion, beauty, design and product development. l Pantone’s Lee Eiseman will treat visitors to Chicago’s International Home + Housewares Show (IH+HS March 18-21) to her insights and observations in two presentations: Communicating with Color/Design: Inspiring and Defining Essential Trends (March 20, noon) and Consumer Color Preferences: What is Hot and What is Not (March 21, noon).

Meanwhile the show’s Hall of Global Innovation will showcase Pantone ColorWatch: the palettes representing the strongest home furnishing colour trends for 2018.

RETAIL

STARS

Right: Pantone Living Greenery products from Room Copenhagen on show at Top Drawer’s Home. Sales director, Uffe Emmertsen holds a Greenery mug.

Above: Part of the Pantone Color Watch exhibit at the 2016 IH+HS – this year’s will include Greenery in combination with various palettes.

For more Chicago news see page 19.

Sponsored by

In the fifth instalment of this regular feature, PH celebrates all-important ‘people power’ in housewares retailing, by putting the spotlight on a ‘star’ employee, nominated by employers and/or members of the trade.

SAM LUXFORD, GENERAL MANAGER, THE MISTLEY KITCHEN, MISTLEY “Sam understands all elements of the business and the financial implications. She really cares that our customers have a good experience in our shop and has built friendly relationships with our regulars. Sam is very creative and has lots of ideas on ways to improve the business, such as promotions and tastings, and often demonstrates products in our kitchen. We are a small independent retailer in a destination location, so we have to work hard to bring in our customers. Sam makes our customers feel welcome and generates sales, as well as being extremely organised with administration and staff training, sharing her excellent product knowledge.”

* To nominate an outstanding retail employee for PH’s Retail Star column please email joh@max-publishing.co.uk. Your nomination will also be considered for the Retail Employee of the Year in The Excellence in Housewares Awards 2017.

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News

Left: Cheeseboard from Welsh Slateware’s Fine Collection.

TOP STORY

Lobster Homewares’ TV break High thrills reward from Welsh Slateware Welsh Slateware (working with housewares consultant, Paul Kempsey of Luxury Housewares) is treating its customers to a special promotion to celebrate the launch of its Fine and Dressed kitchenware collections. Orders up until March 31 will receive 10% discount while in April, ten lucky winners selected at random will each receive a £120 gift voucher to redeem against a choice of Welsh-themed gifts. These include two vouchers for Zip World Velocity – the fastest zip wire in the world and longest in Europe that flies straight over Welsh Slateware’s old pit.

Alternatively, those winners who are less disposed to thrill-seeking can chose Penderyn Welsh Whisky and Welsh Black Beef or Lamb. There will also be 10 runners-up prizes of Halen Mon pure white sea salt from the Menai Straits.

Slate has been quarried at Welsh Slateware’s Penrhyn site in Bethesda, North Wales for over 2,000 years. Paul Kempsey commented:“It is virtually non-absorbent making it food safe.” Welsh Slateware is also dishwasher-safe unlike other slate, and can be gently warmed in a conventional oven to keep cooked food warm.

Nathalie Cuffley, co-founder of Spring Fair Inset: Lobster Homeware’s apron exhibitor, Lobster Homewares is appearing on a with integrated oven gloves. new TV show, having been spotted at the last Autumn Fair. The year-old company manufactures aprons which feature integrated oven gloves.

Sarah Ward, chief executive of The Giftware Association, suggested that Nathalie (a member of the association) should have a sewing machine on her stand at Autumn Fair to show visitors how she made the aprons. This caught the attention of the crew from London video agency Hub at the show.

As a result, Nathalie is now one of 12 aspiring manufacturing enterprises to appear on Pop Up Start Up, created by CNBC, Alibaba.com and Hub. The new TV show debuted on December 16 and is being broadcast in overseas territories as well as the UK. The programme follows the 12 enterprises who go head to head to win a £20,000 cash prize, with two candidates per episode given seed money and challenged to mass produce and sell their products in a pop up shop.

Nathalie started out from her kitchen table 14 years ago. “But by 2013, the stress of constantly working, raising my three kids alone and trying to run my sewing business was just too much. I collapsed with a heart attack, but to my joy, my younger brother Alec came back into my life after we had drifted apart. I had never made an apron for Alec, so I showed him one and he said we have got to do something with them.”

She says that without Alec, a director of Lobster Homeware, the company would not exist. “He gathered a team of people and, over the course of a year, they have turned my dream into a reality.”

::

18 – 21 March Chicago, USA The International Home + Housewares Show in Chicago is always one of the most inspiring fairs that we visit. Increasingly international, there is a real sense of welcome for overseas buyers – the IHA works harder than any other show to achieve this. We find a lot of innovation, interesting design and brands that we haven’t seen at the European shows.

The opportunity to visit the U.S. retailers and see class-leading merchandising is also time well spent.

Ben Phillips, Managing Director Steamer Trading

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News

PEOPLE l Ultimate Products has appointed of Jim McCarthy, former chief executive of Poundland, as chairman. Simon Showman, Ultimate Products’ co-founder and chief executive, said: “Jim brings a wealth of retail knowledge and experience gleaned over many years working at the very top of some of our key customers.” l Horwood Homewares is pleased to announce the appointment of new sales director, Rob Jones. Rob joins after three years at Miele, and prior to that, Bayer and Dyson. His appointment follows the retirement of Jeremy Horwood. l What More’s operations director of 16 years, Roger Tout is stepping into a nonexecutive director role, while Garry Ireland, former works manager steps into the directorship role. What More has also appointed David Brett as its new sales representative for the South of England, bringing over 20 years of retail and wholesale experience within a family business in Ireland. l Geoff Johnson (pictured) has joined Witt UK & Ireland (whose brands include Juicepresso and iRobot) as sales manager UK as part of the company’s ongoing investment in the UK market.

Geoff joins with an extensive background in the consumer electronics industry.

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TOP STORY

Prestige’s prime time TV sponsorship

Below: Prestige’s Dura Forge cookware from Meyer Group.

Prestige from Meyer Group is the main sponsor of a new prime time ITV show.‘The Secret Chef’ screening in early 2017.

In each episode, a different professional chef secretly trains a cooking novice to cook a gastronomic feast. When family and friends come to the restaurant at the end of the show, they have no idea that their meal has been prepared by a family member with no previous cooking skills.

As the main sponsor, Prestige will have bespoke sponsorship idents at the beginning and end of each ad break. In addition to the main TV show, Prestige will also underpin this with a digital campaign. Meyer’s managing director, Paul Wright stated:“This is a huge coup for Prestige and highlights our commitment for the brand in 2017 by communicating across all mediums to our core target consumers.’

Prestige will also be back on TV in a traditional advertising format in late spring.

Fenwick Leicester to close At the start of January, Fenwick Group announced that its Leicester store is to close in the months ahead, citing falling footfall as the main reason as shoppers have diverted to centres with purpose-built car parks as well as buying online. Fenwick group chairman Mark Fenwick, said: "This has been a very difficult decision for us, as we have been committed to serving the people of Leicester for over 50 years, but the challenging trading environment and gradual loss of footfall, has made it impossible for us to find a way forward that enables the business to trade successfully. Looking after our Leicester employees and customers will now be a top priority."

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TOP STORY

‘Smart’ Chicago show grows The 2017 International Home + Housewares Show (IH+HS) in

Below: View of the 2016 IH+HS.

Chicago (March 18-21) sold out in late December reports show organiser, International Housewares Association (IHA). “We have exceeded last year’s exhibit space square footage, a continued sign of how important this world-class marketplace is to IHA member suppliers,” said Phil Brandl, IHA president and ceo.

The Show will host more than 2,200 exhibitors from around the world, including 400 new companies exhibiting for the first time. Show sectors include Dine + Décor, Discover Design, Wired + Well and Clean + Contain. There will also be a focus on connected products with the new IHA Smart Home Pavilion in the Hall of Global Innovation. Technology experts Mike Wolf, curator of the Smart Kitchen Summit, and Carley Knobloch, digital lifestyle expert, will be answering questions at the Pavilion. Mike will also host a panel of experts and suppliers in a seminar, How the Smart Home is Disrupting Housewares (And What to Do About It) (March 19 noon, Innovation Theatre).

Meanwhile, Tom Mirabile, the IHA’s trend expert and senior vice president, Global Trend and Design, Lifetime Brands invites IH+HS visitors to ‘forget everything you think you know about today’s consumer.’ Tom will be joined by a panel of experts to reveal and explore the latest findings on American consumers: what they want, and how to engage them (March 20, 7.30am). * The IH+HS Power Hour returns from 5.30-6.30 to enable suppliers and buyers to arrange extended meetings on their stands in the hour after the show’s official closing time. * Buyers and press will gather for ‘A Toast to the Trends’ reception with Discover Design exhibitors in the Discover Design Gallery (Sunday 5.30 – 6.30 pm). * PH will be joining the new media panel at the IH+HS’s Inventor’s Corner, providing feedback on what makes interesting press coverage to inventors of new housewares. * To view the show’s exhibitor line-up, download the Show’s mobile app, IH+HS 2017, or visit www.housewares.org and search Housewares Connect 365.

Global market increases by 4.8% Global housewares market data show an overall retail sales increase of 4.8% in 2015, according to the IHA’s newly released State of the Industry Report 2016. This is nearly twice the percentage increase posted in the previous two years (2.6% in 2014 and 2.9% in 2013). In keeping with past reports, the report provides a projection of global sales using current US dollar valuations versus other major currencies. Total US housewares expenditures increased 9.4% in 2015 versus 2014, according to the report.

Housewares figures to be honoured

gia’s Martin steps down

After 16 years as a gia expert juror, visual merchandising guru, Martin Pegler (pictured) is retiring from full-time involvement with the gia (Global Innovation Awards) programme (organised and globally sponsored by the IHA and IH+HS). Martin will continue as an honorary member of the jury, selecting the winner of the Martin M Pegler Award for Excellence in Visual Merchandising.

Thanking Martin for his leadership and contribution, Derek Miller, IHA vice president, global marketing said:“Martin helped us develop gia into the leading global home and housewares awards programme it is now, and his inspiring speeches and presentations have been a highlight to retailers.”

Taking Martin’s place on the gia panel is Anne Kong, associate professor and former chairperson of the Visual Presentation and Exhibition Design Department at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). Anne is co-authoring the seventh edition of Martin’s textbook, Visual Merchandising and Display.

• UK gia winner, Borough Kitchen (pages 28-29) will be recognised at the gia gala on March 18.

Below: The HCF gala 2016.

The Housewares Charity Foundation (HCF) will celebrate 20 years of fundraising during its annual gala on March 20 during Chicago’s IH+HS. Since the first gala in 1998, HCF has raised more than $48 million.

During the 2017 gala, the philanthropic achievements of three industry leaders will be recognised: Janet Hayes, president of WilliamsSonoma, will receive the Lifetime Humanitarian Award; Richard L Boynton, Jr, president of Jura Inc, will receive the Humanitarian of the Year Award; and Phil Brandl, IHA president and ceo, will receive the Lifetime Leadership Award. Proceeds from the gala will go to Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF), the HCF’s legacy charity, and children’s charity, No Kid Hungry.

The rise of the creative home bar

Below: Zoku’s Naughty or Nice ice moulds. The brand’s

collection also includes Mixology Ice moulds, CoolMoji The trend for home entertaining will be reflected at Chicago’s IH+HS: new launches include an array of ice making Ice Tray and a Cheers Ice tray. moulds from Zoku (distributed by Burton McCall in the UK).

Ken Zorovich, president of Zoku told PH: “Home entertaining is increasingly bringing the craft bar experience home. People now have a keen interest in crafting cocktails at home with fresh artisanal ingredients, and there is a good demand for tools and products to help expand their mixology skills.” He continues: “Creative, oversized ice cubes add pizzazz to the party.”

Ken also observes: “There’s also a trend toward adult recipes for slushies and ice pops from Bellini Slushies to Mint Julip Ice Pops, and so many people have special diets and food preferences these days. This is also an opportunity to showcase trendy ingredients such as exotic fruits, sprinkles, and floral flavours such as hibiscus and lavender.”

Meanwhile, LipLidz will showcase its range of dual stemmed barware with drink-through attachable lids.

Suzanne Gavis, president of LipLidz highlights how the range is ideal for taking drinks outdoors, “or anywhere you do not want black flies in your chardonnay, broken glass or the possibility of spilling your Martini, including pools, boating, garden parties, RV’ing, tailgating, at the beach or lake, or even in your kitchen so there is no broken glass on the granite countertop or red wine stains on your clothes or carpet.”

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Recognising indie talent The British Independent Retail Awards (bira) 2017 are now open for entries and nominations. The awards include the return of the Independent retail business of the year 2017, Independent retail employee of the year and Team of the year. The charity awards will celebrate retailers’ dedication to communities and charities.

See www.bira.co.uk/events/ or request an entry pack by emailing events@bira.co.uk or contacting Paulina Swiech 0121 446 6688.

Challenge, grow and innovate at the bira 2017 conference The 2017 bira conference – with a refreshed new format – promises to be a stimulating and educational day, tailored for independents (Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel, Monday May 8.)

The conference will feature three interactive stages: Challenge, Grow and Innovate, where retailers will be able to learn, discuss, interact, and get new ideas on how to drive performance and transform for the future.

Speakers include Laura Tenison MBE (pictured), founder and md of the UK’s leading maternity and baby chain JoJo Maman Bébé. Laura will offer inspiration and advice on how to survive and thrive as an independent in this omni-channel world. She will be sharing the story of her business success, from borrowing £2,000 off her brother when four high street banks turned her down to being the leading independent mother and baby brand in the UK. bira is also partnering with The Digital Garage from Google, a digital skills training platform to assist retailers in growing their business, career and confidence, online. A Google digital expert will be teaching independents what is needed to gain a competitive advantage in the everchanging digital landscape.

Phil Dean, founder and md of Certain, a brand communications agency, will also be providing expert advice on how to create a compelling and competitive brand fit for the future.

• To book a day ticket for the conference (£95 plus VAT) visit http://www.bira.co.uk/conference2017/ or request a booking form by emailing events@bira.co.uk. The conference will be followed by the annual bira awards dinner (see linked story above).

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Glass half full One of my New Year’s resolutions (apart from the usual diet) is to be more optimistic. I’m going to be a ‘glass half full’ sort of girl. My customers are lovely and of course always right!

I am smiling through the first couple of weeks of January when they bring things back and try not to look too disappointed when a lovely lumpy sale is paid for using a gift voucher. I will patiently explain that we haven't quite had time yet to put our Easter egg moulds out (yes, it has happened!)

January can be a challenging month. It can also be fun: cleaning out the old tired stock, discounting the remaining Christmas linen and ceramics that you don't want to give precious stockroom space to, in order to make way for new, fresh and, hopefully, innovative spring products.

Here at Kooks we are also definitely adopting the attitude of "if you can't beat ‘em, join ‘em." Our website offering will be increased this year and we continue to increase sales through Trouva. In this new world of retailing it’s no longer an area any of us independents can neglect. Even if you are unable to invest in a full new website, make sure you are regularly posting on your social media channels - your customers are online and we’d rather they find you there than your competitors!

So, let's get out the comfy shoes, top up the business cards, fill our hip flasks with high energy drinks and I'll see you at the trade shows.

Chris Lynn-Thomas, CHA chairman

Above: Chris, owner of Kooks Unlimited, Richmond.

Behind-the-scenes of award winning Lords bira’s newly formed Cookshop and Housewares Action Group, which includes retailers from across the UK recently took a tour of the PH/CHA Excellence in Housewares Awards’ CHA Retailer of the Year, Lords’ branch in Westbourne Grove, London. Rachna Patel, director and buyer at Lords hosted the ‘access all areas’ tour, which left CHA members full of new ideas. bira’s new Cookshop and Housewares Action Group is an opportunity for those retailers who sell kitchenware, housewares, gift or home products to share their knowledge as well as air their views. Visits to exceptional retailers will be a regular feature in the coming year, in addition to supplier visits.

Alan Hawkins, ceo of bira said:“Lords is the first tour of many for the members of our new action group. bira is well-practiced in offering study tours and we have been to Selfridges, John Lewis and as far as Crate & Barrel in New York City to Above: Members of Cookshop motivate retailers and give them behind the scenes access.”

Housewares Action Group There is no commitment to taking part in the Action Group other and on their visit to Lords. than positively contributing. For more information and to get involved contact kate.godber@bira.co.uk. (See also Holly Wilson’s From the frontline, page 39).

Slow quarter for cookshops Cookshops showed a decline of 3.4% in bira’s Quarterly Sales Monitor for quarter three (ending October 31 2016). This was one of three product sectors to have reported a decline this quarter, out of 11 bira categories (compared to seven in the previous quarter.)

However, according to the same bira survey, 60.7% of independents were confident about the year ahead - the highest level of confidence in 2016.

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ary’s M home comforts

News extra Retail guru, Mary Portas will be offering inspiration and advice to cookshops and housewares stockists as one of Spring Fair’s keynote speakers. In the run-up to the trade show, Mary spoke about opportunities for homewares retailers in 2017 and why indies remain vital for our social cohesion.

A

ccording to Mary Portas, this is a “very exciting time” for homewares. The retail expert elaborates: “When the world is a rocky place (as it has been in 2016), people look to their homes to create a place of safety. A place where they feel warm, surrounding themselves with objects that they can connect with on an emotional basis and allow them to feel at home.” Mary reflects: “This sector has seen big growth and looks set to continue in 2017 and is a good sector to be in, albeit a competitive one.”

It is vital to understand trends and consumer buying patterns, as Mary observes: “For example, minimalism is speaking to a member of staff in store.” currently prevalent, with people living in Hence she advises homewares retailers: “If smaller spaces and buying fewer items, but you are standing by the front door of your the right pieces. And people are willing to shop, you should be able to connect with spend more money on these to make the people and socialise with your customers. It space work.” She also feels that provenance is absolutely key has become increasingly to retail today and important to consumers: the businesses “As opposed to it all Visitors to Spring Fair (NEC Birmingham February 5-9) can hear Mary Portas on that are moving being about the brands, Monday 6 February 6 at 1.10pm at the on and redefining it is now about brands Fashion & Accessories Catwalk. their ‘bricks and that have a real, mortar’ offer in today’s new super high legitimate story. People are more aware of streets are those that bring that and like the story behind the products: experience and connection, socialisation where you discovered it.” and communication at the heart of When Mary addressed the audience of their businesses.” independent retailers (including In Mary’s view, “not to be selling online cookshops) and their suppliers at the 2015 today, for any size business, is an issue.” bira High Street Conference, she expressed She adds: “Nowadays, it is a given that this the paramount importance of social is where most people start their retail interaction and she continues to highlight experience. Their smartphone is the first this as the key driver for bricks and mortar thing people reach to and if you haven’t businesses, particularly as consumers’ got a have a presence online, that is going desires for experiences grow. She to be an issue to your growth.” However, comments: “We need to look at our retail she advises small retailers to look at experiences as social experiences and at “partnering with other businesses that have the heart of this is interaction. Why would an online presence and which would be people want to come to our stores? To willing to work with small independents.” some extent to browse based on the She also emphasises that: ”Increasing social reputation that your store has, but mainly media and creating awareness is absolutely for social and for face-to-face interaction.” essential in order to be top of the game in Mary continues: ”Although online retail is this competitive market.” great and offers accessibility, speed, Keeping connected to the wider world comparison and research - it can’t provide and new ideas is also essential for indies. the connection that occurs through

WHEN AND WHERE?

Inset: Mary, when interviewed in 2015 by bira High Street Conference host, Alexis Conran.

Mary says, “I always advise retailers to read as much as they possibly can – look at what is happening in the market and on social media. What I think would be a gorgeous idea would be to have some sort of online forum as a networking site to share ideas – a ‘mumsnet’ for independent retailers.” She adds: ”It is also extremely important to read trade and consumer magazines such as home interior titles. You need to make time for research and remember that time isn’t just for selling.” Mary also sings the praises of working with fellow local independents and “co-create spaces.”

Reflecting on the challenges of the high street, Mary acknowledges that “nothing is worse than the fact that tax has now gone up – rates have gone up again and trebled in price.” However, she is resolute that the high street will remain central to consumer shopping habits, as people “want to get outside their homes, despite the internet having become such a part of their everyday lives.” She also notes that higher fuel prices prompted more consumers to shop locally rather than “be spending money on petrol to drive out of town and do a big week’s shopping in a big supermarket.”

In conclusion, Mary emphasises: “Regeneration is continually happening and this is why small independent shops are crucial to the social infrastructure of the country.”

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the show 10 – 14. 2. 2017 Living opens up new dimensions from impulse to trend, from design to lifestyle, from home to product. At the world’s most important consumer goods trade fair.

Information and tickets at ambiente.messefrankfurt.com Tel. +44 (0) 14 83 48 39 83 info@uk.messefrankfurt.com

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Food for thought

State of the nation 2017 At the close of an historic year of political upheaval as well as health reality checks and Olympic triumph for the UK, retailers and industry figures reflect and look forward to the challenges and opportunities that will shape the housewares industry in 2017.

PH asked thESE questions: 1) Major Influence: What stands out for you as a major influence on the UK housewares industry in 2016 and how has its impact been felt?

2) 2017 Challenge/ Opportunity: What challenge and/or what opportunity would you highlight for 2017 and how should the housewares industry address these?

The referendum and key events

Paul Britland, senior buyer for kitchenware, Wilko 1) Major Influence: “Firstly, the negative influence: It’s all about Brexit! That is to say, the uncertainty, its impact – when and how hard depending on your and your suppliers’ stock position. The renegotiation of terms, changes in supply to offset some potential sizeable increases. The consistent lack of real knowledge of how and when it’s true impact will be felt over time and, above all, the impact of the weakening £pound.”

Secondly, the positives: 2016 threw up some fantastic opportunities to trade more seasonal, promotional events than in an average year. Within the space of three months we had the Queen’s 90th birthday, Wimbledon with Sir Andy (Don’t call me Sir) Murray, the abridged European football championships (unless you were lucky enough to be born Welsh), the Olympics and some unseasonal warm weather later into the year. While this was a golden year for additional eventing it means a challenging hole for 2017 (Sir Andy Murray being the exception).”

Inset: Sporting high - some of Team GB’s medals won at the Rio Olympics. Wilko’s Paul Britland reflects that events such as the Olympics provided more opportunities for promotional events in 2016.

2) 2017 Challenge/Opportunity: “The challenges for this year will be the continuing effect of the weakened £pound against most major currencies, aligned with rising material costs in the Asia Pacific region leading to a perfect storm of cost on cost increases for suppliers and importing retailers that aren’t quick out of the blocks to review their terms, supply base and supply chain efficiencies. It will lead to a cleansing of suppliers and SKUs that

aren’t driving profitable sales.

On the positive side, this can lead to opportunities for manufacturers closer to home. The ones that invest in automation, and work from a low cost to serve, with an eye for innovation and ‘on time and in full’ delivery can compete with Asian suppliers. This will not be on a direct like-for-like basis but on the principle of adding value and quality.”

Inset: Many industry members concur that the Brexit vote was the biggest influence on the housewares industry in 2016, with the repercussions of price increases a big challenge this year.

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Food for thought

‘Safe’ buying and considered pricing

Inset: ‘Safe’ purchases of life’s essentials (such as kettles) are typical in uncertain times, reflects Amanda Reed. Illustration is from Tefal’s new Maison Breakfast range.

Amanda Reed, buying controller, Leekes 1) Major Influence: “The biggest influences on the past year have been the repercussions of the Brexit vote and consumers’ continued movement to buying online.

Leekes’ fiscal year showed excellent sales in the first quarter, but, after the Brexit vote, our second quarter was more challenging but we bounced back in our third quarter. However, we have had some cost price rises following the fall in the value of the £pound. It was inevitable our costs would go up, but not every retailer has moved their retail prices to reflect this at the same time, and it has been difficult with a price matching policy like ours. In some cases, we had to accept lower margins, but overall we have been able to maintain our expected profitability by working closely with our suppliers.

We had astonishing success over Christmas, especially in the peak period from December 19 to January 2. Sales were particularly strong with essentials such as kettles, toasters, vacuum cleaners and, in kitchen and tableware, roasters, saucepans and glassware. We saw more considered purchasing of products that will last - such as beautiful Royal Doulton tableware - rather than seasonal activity. Our customers are following a ‘safe’ pattern of buying that happens when there is a level of nervousness and uncertainty in the media, as there was at the end of 2016, following the result of the US election in November and reports on rising prices.”

2) 2017 Challenge/Opportunity: “Looking ahead to 2017, the opportunity for retailers like Leekes is to develop our online business, particularly given the fact that consumers are increasingly inclined to choose reputable companies to buy from. Recent reports show how footfall dropped in shopping centres during this year’s January ‘sales’ period. Leekes did not experience the same drop in footfall, but our online business performance against last year far exceeded store business for all of last year.

I think that mid to upmarket multiple retailers will find it challenging to open new stores, while those multiples that are dabbling in housewares may re-focus. This provides opportunities for independents like us, with both established ‘bricks and mortar’ and online channels to expand our customer base and build on our consumer loyalty.

Of course, the challenge for 2017 is pricing, due to the devaluation of the £pound. For example, we might have very good sales of a five-piece saucepan set priced at £100, but this becomes more challenging with a 20% increase. For long-term sustainability, housewares retailers need to make careful decisions about our pricing policy and avoid sales for vanity (keeping prices down in order to sell more) rather than profit.”

Good health and creating the buzz

Matthew Canwell, managing director, Kitchen Craft 1) Major Influence: “2016 has yet again been the year of the spiraliser, having obtained that title in 2015. ‘Clean’ and ‘healthy eating’ have been buzz words flying around the industry, causing us all to rethink how we offer products to customers and what the healthy angle of selling a cake tin is – has anyone cracked healthy baking yet?

However, while ‘healthy’ has buzzed, indulgence hasn’t disappeared evidenced by the ‘freak’ shake phenomenon. Clearly people want to have their cake and eat it, and are balancing their food lifestyle by eating healthily at times and then feeling able to splurge on a treat – and as this is a treat, it really needs to deliver! Looking forwards a little, I see this healthy trend morphing into a tasty trend – great food, great flavour, and good for you. Indeed the spiraliser’s enduring success is testament to this. It could be another gadget for the cupboard but it has avoided that because courgetti is not just healthy, it actually tastes great too – encouraging the spiraliser’s reuse time after time. So healthy isn’t just worthy, it is tasty.”

2) 2017 Challenge/Opportunity: “Casting the runes forwards into 2017 and beyond, I think our industry has many challenges as people change the way in which they shop. Clearly it is easy and convenient to order your peeler online – it arrives the next day, you pay a

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fair price and you don’t have to find somewhere to park at great expenses in your local high street.

It is true that online will only get bigger while the market won’t.

However our industry isn’t about just buying a peeler; it’s about buying a peeler you love. A peeler that will really do what it should.

Getting the right peeler can change your life, yes really!

But how do we educate customers that there is a difference if their default is to look online and buy mainly on price? Well if you are an internet-only business that’s great, but I also challenge you to think how you can take the customer on a journey to buy the right peeler for them.

Clearly if you have a retail shop the question is: how you generate the footfall to have the peeler conversation? Okay – not easy but we know that consumers are out there spending money, but have moved to spending on experiential things, such as eating out. So the question for me has to be: how do we make our industry more experiential both online and off line?

We need to build the value of our industry, stop people using rubbish peelers and introduce them to the benefits and joys of using a great peeler. And that can only be done via great engagement in stores through demos, cooking clubs and classes, coupled with social media. As suppliers we need to support all of this by creating readily available and usable material that helps customers understand what they are buying. We need to make our retail partners destinations where products can be tried and bought, and where you can have fun and learn along the way.”

Left: Spiralising fervour – 2016 saw the publication of the spoof Enid Blyton style book, Five Go Gluten Free (published by Quercus Books). The famous fictional characters’ lives are impacted by Anne’s birthday gift of a spiraliser (pictured on the cover).

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Food for thought

Looking fit with ‘Athleisure’

Philippa White, senior assistant buyer, Debenhams 1) Major Influence:

The rise of discount culture

Ben Phillips, managing director, Steamer Trading Group 1:

Major Influence: “2016 was the ‘tipping point’ when retailers across all sectors lost sight of their principles and offers became standard. Consumers’ distrust of retail prices has risen - a side effect of Black Friday – they will wait to buy brands that are regularly discounted, knowing that they will be back on offer, and are never prepared to pay the full price. Price matching has also become the norm in retailing.

This was the year when a lot of housewares suppliers realised the damage they are doing by not controlling their distribution and leaving their products in the hands of retailers that are only interested in being the lowest price.”

2: 2017 Challenge/Opportunity: “This is a critical time for the long-term health of the industry. With a price matching and discounting culture, leaner margins are increasingly a challenge as the costs of retailing rise. Coupled with this is the challenge of the decline in consumers’ spending power.

So, people need better reasons to shop. To entice consumers, housewares retailers need to look at everything from how they select products to train their staff, present housewares instore, provide exciting in-store theatre, reward customer loyalty and have a sustainable and attractive online strategy, as well as provide consumers with the confidence that they are getting the best price. If one of these elements is missing, consumers are likely to buy from someone else.

Meanwhile, suppliers must respect the long-term integrity of their brands – it is not the time for a ‘laissez-faire’ approach.”

“Looking back to 2016 we recognised two key lessons in delivering what our customers want going forward.

Firstly, they continued to show us they love trend driven, innovative product. Following the explosion of the spiraliser trend, we saw similar success in launching Infruition water bottles. The detoxing hydration trend has sparked a host of new product development and sales growth within the drinking category, mirroring the rise of Athleisure seen in fashion. Also reflecting the health-conscious customer demands, product shopping experience, alongside innovation from GreenPan on ceramic pans has offering a smooth omnichannel proved popular. purchasing process. Additionally, we GreenPan perfectly exemplifies our second will continue to seek out the best point – the importance of brands, especially deals, importantly offering great value within the speciality areas of a cookshop. Where for money as customers tighten their trade brands have a guaranteed space in our purse strings in 2017.” range to deliver key price points, this must be balanced with offering well-known brands in the market. The re-launch of Circulon cook and bakeware, as well as the continued strength of Tefal, Ken Hom and OXO, all demonstrate the customer appreciates this branded choice - and is willing to pay a premium for them.”

2) 2017 Challenge/Opportunity: “Assessing the fallout of Brexit while predicting consumers changing habits, Joe Staton from GFK acknowledged this point, reflecting that in the face of economic uncertainty ‘consumers turn to well-known brands they love and trust as a guarantee for quality and value for money’ (GFK UK Retail: Brexit update in July).

On the flip side, this poses the biggest challenge in 2017, with continued price matching activity coupled with increased cost prices. How can we as retailers and suppliers Above: Debenhams’ exclusive Nine both remain profitable without

by Savannah Miller ‘Athleisure’ driving the customer away by hikes in range launched in January 2017.

The trend for clothes ‘that take you retail prices? from the work to the gym’ (according to the retailer’s fashion Looking forward, retailers must deliver blog) has also been reflected in an inspiring and educational in-store rising interest in re-usable water

Keeping the high street relevant

Bo Simonsen, market manager for Witt UK 1) Major Influence: “For us, we have seen the influence of healthy eating options drive consumer demand this year, informing their choices and moving them towards products that meet that demand. We have seen how powerful this trend has become at our live demos of the Juicepresso slow juicer at the big consumer shows like Ideal Home and Grand Designs – the interest has been huge, and the feedback we have had has shown us that the move towards healthier lifestyles will continue to be a key area to focus on for brands in 2017.

We have also seen robotic floorcare take its place in the public consciousness, and become a mainstream choice rather than a piece of science fiction in the minds of the consumer. It is the biggest area of growth in the floorcare sector; iRobot has now sold over 15 million robots worldwide, and the UK is the latest market to accept the possibilities of robots in the home” 2) 2017 Challenge/Opportunity: “We think one of the biggest challenges for the industry next year is to keep the high street store relevant. That will mean doing more in store to bring customers in, like demonstrations and events that can’t be delivered online.

There is a lot retailers can do to attract people into store, and brands can do a lot to support them in doing that, whether it is high quality point of sale, or committing to involve themselves in store too. A key element of that will be training all the staff so that they have an indepth knowledge of the products and brands they are selling, and being able to demonstrate and speak about them with confidence.”

bottles as accessories.

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Food for thought

A hunger for innovation

Roger Morgan-Grenville, chairman, Dexam and president of BHETA 1) Major Influence:“Without doubt, the major influence on our industry in 2016 has been, is, and will be, the Brexit decision. An almost overnight reduction of the value of sterling by 15% has produced immediate margin challenges, which can only deepen as bought-forward currency stocks come to an end. At the end of the day, businesses and their cost structures will need to be re-modelled as no Right: Will the housewares industry one feels confident enough in current trade to pass the increases on in rise to the challenge full to the consumers. A background issue (which will grow in of embracing the ‘romance of food’ in importance) will be the potential impact of Brexit on trading in Europe, order to sell food and on what happens to all that compliance!” preparation tools, 2) 2017 Challenge/Opportunity: “The challenge/opportunity is cookware and serveware? Illustration how we all address the rapid changes in distribution channels, where is from Say It With more is bought online and less in the high streets. People will cook more Cake by Edd Kimber at home (as belts tighten), and the market will be hungry for genuine (Kyle Books). innovation. But consumers will buy in different ways, and will become ever cuter on real value; those who provide real theatre at the point of sale will do better than those who wait for people to come through the door.

And one day our industry will realise that we just aren’t interested enough in the romance of food, and its ability to help sell our products.”

Solid reliability and ‘reasons to buy’

Seema Grantham, UK sales director, The Cookware Company 1) Major Influence:“There are several influences which have played a strong role in our industry over the last few years but I think healthy eating is the most consistent. It is hard to see how or why that would change in the years to come.

Consumers have become so much more aware of how to eat and cook healthily and with that, they have become more demanding – and sophisticated – in their product choices. For example, they want cookware which requires little oil, but still allows them to cook tasty (if healthier) options and good size saucepans, stockpots and casseroles to allow them to cook ahead large quantities and freeze, or to create a focal point for sitting round the table with the family.”

2) 2017 Challenge/Opportunity: “2017 is likely to see tougher economic conditions and less consumer spending power as prices go up across all product categories. In this increasing competitive market, where everything is competing for consumers' precious spend, the housewares industry has to keep innovating.

Consumers are looking for no less than solid reliability, innovation and quality – and we need to show how our products have all these. We also need to excite consumers by showing them healthier options for cooking and also communicate how investing in a product can help them save them money in the long term (for example, GreenPan's energy-saving induction base technology, Magneto, introduced last year, along with the 5th generation Thermolon coating, enhanced with diamonds, so its most durable to date). Our packaging has been designed to highlight the key USPs as well as sell-in a snapshot of the GreenPan story and we supply conventional forms of point-of-sale like leaflets and shelf-talkers and work closely with retailers on staff training – something we feel passionately about. The key is to keep the message and ‘reason to buy’ to the point and as simple as possible for consumers.”

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Diversifying into new stockists

Paul Hargreaves, md, PHA Kitchessentials 1) Major Influence: “A major influence on 2016 was changing buying patterns. At PHA, November 2016 sales were down 3% on the previous year but December sales were up 51%. Consumers are shopping later and later for Christmas so, understandably, retailers hold back on orders as their shelves are full and they do not have the cashflow. Then when stock starts moving in December, re-orders come late in the year. This is a contrast to a decade ago, when retailers told us they didn’t want orders that were not delivered by the start of December.

Another changing consumer buying pattern is, of course, the rise of online purchasing. This, coupled with rising costs such as unrealistic rates and rents, has had a knock-on effect on the number of independent cookshops. We saw a stark decline in independents last year, which is not good for the industry as a whole (a strong, independent retailer network is a healthier shopping environment.) As a company, PHA’s growth was based on the independent market and in 2011 independent cookshops still represented over 60% of our business. In 2016, they had dropped to 32% of our business. So, like many suppliers, we have had to diversify, developing our business with garden centres, online retailers and supplying key retailers with exclusive products to suit their specific requirements.”

2) 2017 Challenge/Opportunity: “A significant opportunity for 2017 is healthy eating. Products with USPs that make a healthier lifestyle easier have made a big impact, for example, our Avocado Tool, Herb Stripper and Adjustable Oil Pourer from Prepara. The challenge for the year ahead is margins. As a result of doing more business with multiples (rather than independents), suppliers need increased sales to maintain their overall margin. We also have to consider the 15% devaluation of the pound against the dollar and that there is no genuine sign that this is going to recover. You can’t put prices up by 15% so we have to consider what products can bear a price increase, and by how much. Suppliers will continue to diversify into different retailers and think outside the box to make the housewares ‘cake’ bigger.”

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Food for thought

Protect your margins

Alan Hawkins, chief executive officer, bira 1) Major Influence:“There have many major influences in the UK housewares industry in 2016 but I suspect Brexit and internet sales are the two biggest. Brexit divided members in bira and post the vote the optimists and to a surprising extent consumers have followed up on this. However the housewares and cookshop arena, which bira track as a sector, are the second worst of the 11 sectors we monitor, running in modest negative territory when overall independent retail sales are positive and edging up.

It may be housewares products are too good and lasting longer, fashion has been less of a driver to change or online has become a bigger threat in this partly discretionary spend area. Clearly establishing unique selling points for your business concentrating on service and value will be critical going forward.”

2) 2017 Challenge/Opportunity: “2017 will therefore be tough but as always the best will not just survive but continue to develop. Our last survey still shows the gainers enjoying almost double digit growth. Towards the end of the

year confidence levels for all retailers improved to over 60% ‘confident or better.’

One big challenge for 2017 will be price increases, genuinely or sometimes not so genuinely, driven by the weakness of the pound. Resist them as best you can, but if they have to be accepted then it will be a dangerous game just to try and absorb them. Even if consumers are reluctant to accept them (as they would!), try to develop a plan that is not just centered on price and protect your margin.

Lastly, a Happy New Year from bira, your constant friend in the trade.”

Below: Alan urges retailers to protect their margins.

The need to ‘delight and surprise’

Will Jones, housewares director, BHETA 1) Major Influence:“Prior to this year’s Brexit vote my answer would have been quite simply the continuing rise and impact of internet shopping which continues to aggravate and stimulate the industry in equal measure.

However, the UK’s decision to leave the EU has caused an immediate adverse effect to the valuation of sterling, which in turn has created some serious challenges for most housewares suppliers who are so reliant on imports. Suppliers and retailers now have some stark choices to make and their decisions will ultimately result in either increased retail prices, or potentially the demise of a number of players in the market.

Being an optimist, I hope that common sense will prevail and that both sides reach compromise positions. The question then however will be the reaction of consumers, when they find themselves paying more whether in store or online.

Moving away from the implications of the referendum and back to the underlying question of online shopping, my view remains that it has both

positive and negative impact on the housewares sector. On the one hand its depth of range, convenience and speed create ever-greater challenges for high street retailers. On the other, its growth has inspired both suppliers and retailers to focus on delivering better opportunities in terms of in-store theatre, the provision of services as well as goods, personality and the human touch. Successful high street retail just goes to prove that consumers still like traditional destination shopping – as well as the internet - if it continually surprises and delights.

Multi-channel is now the norm and we see innovation of all kinds from both retailers and suppliers, prompted by the need to explore retail in all its forms. Click and Collect is just one example of mixed retailing; a cookshop in a garden centre is another. A more positive approach from suppliers towards trading with value retailers as destination stores in themselves is also something that has become much more noticeable.”

2) 2017 Challenge/Opportunity:“The number one challenge is innovation – of all kinds. I would like to see even more effort to invest in new products and new market initiatives from both suppliers and retailers. Creative thinking and an open-minded approach are going to be key at all levels in both the home market and in export as well.”

Above: Garden centres are a growing area of business for some housewares suppliers. Illustration is of a Blue Diamond Group’s Redfield Garden Centre.

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Retailer focus

As the gia UK winner, Borough Kitchen’s display acumen, innovative business practises and passion for housewares retailing will be showcased to the world at Chicago’s International Home + Housewares Show (IH+HS) in March. PH talked to Borough Kitchen’s cofounder, Justin Kowbel about the retail journey so far.

Inset: View through the window at Borough Kitchen in Hampstead.

Showing the best

B

orough Kitchen opened in London’s food hub Borough Market in September 2013 with a mission to present its customers with ‘the best of the best, and the best of value.” Justin describes their customer as “someone who loves to entertain and uses the kitchen more out of pleasure rather than just cooking for sustenance.” In May 2015, Borough Kitchen’s second shop opened at 1 Hampstead High Street followed by a re-launched online shop. Last spring saw the evolution of their two other stores into the opening of the Chiswick branch.

However, it all started when co-founder (then investment banker), Justin Kowbel was mulling over what was missing in his kitchen one Sunday morning. “I love to cook but I couldn’t find the tools I wanted in London; I would collect them on my travels,” reflects Justin. This marked the start of Borough Kitchen for Justin and co-founder David Caldana (fellow Canadian). Coupled with this was their desire for a new challenge. Moreover, Justin is no stranger to retailing;

Inset: Situated next to the famous Borough Market – the original Borough Kitchen store.

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his parents owned a few small supermarkets in Canada, and his clients in investment banking were retailers.

As avid home cooks and home entertainers, Justin and David’s own kitchen ‘must-haves’ were the starting point for a collection that “is heavily edited” in keeping with the aim to stock only the best performing kitchenware, as well as a good value alternative.

Justin observes: “The typical London customer wants the best, or if it is something they are not using a lot, a better value product.” This approach involves continuous product testing and re-evaluation, and finding what certain brands are best at, rather than automatically stocking a complete range.

Justin admits, “We spend an enormous amount of time on products and looking at what’s out there.” Product evaluation has become a team effort, particularly as Justin points out,

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Retailer focus

Independent spirit In 2015, Borough Kitchen won Most Promising Newcomer at the PH/CHA Excellence in Housewares Awards, and then scooped the Excellence in Retail Display (Independent) award in 2016.

However, Borough Kitchen, now with three stores and cook schools (in two stores) also won the prestigious accolade of gia (Global Innovation Award) UK winner for 2016-2017. In the IH+HS’ Hall of Global Innovation, Borough Kitchen will be part of a display of 28 leading housewares retailers from around the world (including Dreamhouse in Russia, One Kitchen in Germany, LUC Design in Australia and Amazon.com in the US.) These 28 national winners will be honoured at the gia gala in Chicago, where the recipients of up to five gia coveted ‘Global Honoree’ awards, the Martin M Pegler Award for Excellence in Visual Merchandising and the gia Digital Commerce Award for Excellence in Online Retailing will also be announced.

Borough Kitchen follows fellow independent, Lords as a gia UK winner (and both retailers have stores in London’s Hampstead, a few minutes apart). Lords was the first small independent group to join the UK’s impressive line-up of Global Honorees, which include Selfridges, Bentalls, Steamer Trading, Lakeland and John Lewis.

The gia programme is organised by the IHA and globally sponsored by the IHA and IH+HS, with PH as exclusive sponsor for the gia UK winner. See www.housewares.org/show/gia-retail

Inset: Borough Kitchen’s co-founders, Justin Kowbel (left) and David Caldana with the Excellence in Retail Display (independent) trophy at the recent awards.

“We have a team filled with foodies, and work is made a lot easier when there is passion behind it.” However, he insists that Borough Kitchen is always open to change. “We maintain a discipline to keeping a focused range in our existing categories, while being very selective in adding complementary new categories, such as BBQ.” However, sometimes David “reminds me that we need to keep our offer tight,” Justin adds.

Unlike many cookshops, “there is very little colour” in Borough Kitchen. Justin states: “Aesthetics have nothing to do with how something performs in the kitchen. We work with brands that focus on function, quality and durability.” It follows that products are merchandised according to functions

Above: A table setting at Hampstead. Borough Kitchen uses Instagram to share product photography with its growing online community. “It’s a lovely way to communicate and stay in touch with our customers,” notes Justin.

rather than brands (for example, “a Mauviel roaster in the roaster section rather than with other Mauviel pans”) and there is no brand signage.

Moreover, Borough Kitchen’s display philosophy is to allow “products to speak for themselves,” bathed in plenty of light on subtle merchandising units. Some displays include the retailer’s bespoke recommendation cards (with reasons for the product’s selection.) However, it is predominantly through striking up customer dialogue that product benefits are conveyed. “Our team can talk from the heart,” states Justin.

Recruiting passionately ‘foodie’ staff is key to Borough Kitchen’s success. Justin reports, “Half of our team members have found us rather than the other way round!” Perfect examples are food author, Fran Warde, who was impressed with the new shop sign in Chiswick and the retailer’s website and so approached them about working together, and Anne Blackie (of former cookshop, La Cuisiniere) who “came to us saying she how much missed the industry and loved our Borough Market store.” However, Justin and David actively recruit talented people when they see them. For example after they met Cordon Bleu chef, Carla Sturm at a chef event they spent two months trying to recruit her. Carla is now director of the Cook School.

The Cook School is a result of customer conversations.

“People kept asking us for classes, and we had room to accommodate these in Hampstead, and now Chiswick,” explains Justin. The classes are very much to do with imparting skills and techniques (rather than following a demonstration) and “reflect our easy access to diverse ingredients and different cooking styles in London." Justin adds: "They create a great atmosphere in the store.”

The biggest challenge?

“One significant issue is that some brands do not have a coherent strategy in how they distribute their products, which can impact negatively on brand positioning,” states Justin. “Bricks and mortar offers the opportunity to showcase the products and educate the consumer on how to get the best out of them. A happy customer creates brand loyalty over the long term. This is particularly important for technical products and new or less well-known brands. Also key to our philosophy and relationship with the customer is that we are able to remain competitively priced.”.”

Inset: The Cook School situated at the back of the Chiswick store.

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Market Focus

Hot stuff Coffee culture continues to evolve with diverse methods of ‘home brewing’, while the market is growing for healthy teas. PH sips a mug or two while considering trends and developments in tea and coffee making.

‘Aroma’ therapy More and more consumers are snubbing instant granules in favour of the taste of real coffee, made manually or via a machine. Whether it is a convenient touch of a button or a patiently crafted slow brew, coffee lovers are fast becoming home baristas and realising the savings to made by getting their caffeine fix at home rather than from a coffee shop.

“Whether it is an espresso, flat white, skinny latte or creamy cappuccino, as a nation we now drink an average of 3.2 cups of coffee per day,” states Alex Pickering, marketing manager at De’Longhi, citing a recent consumer survey (by Consenuswide, involving 2,000 adults). Roger Heap, managing director at Jura UK is also excited by “the UK’s flourishing coffee culture, particularly in the capital – which is now home to a thriving coffee scene.” He foresees that: “the trend towards more premium coffee products will continue, with an increasing prioritisation of quality and provenance.” Roger also notes that the eco-friendly credentials of automatic

bean-to-cup machines are important for many consumers, adding that, “There’s also a greater requirement for energysaving, efficient home appliances – coffee machines being one of them.”

At Melitta UK, Stephen Barnitt also recognises growth in premium bean-tocup machines where consumers are “moving to the next level” and “seeing the savings in their investment per cup over the year.” Stephen also reveals developments in filter machines, with the forthcoming launch of a “first of its kind direct grind filter coffee machine.” He acknowledges that consumers buy into Melitta’s filter coffee machines as the brand is “the world leader in filter papers” as well as for its USPs, such as the “integral aroma selector.”

Above: “Consumers value high quality, design and convenience rather than prices alone,” says Roger Heap at Jura UK. Jura’s contemporary and robust machines use “innovative PEP (Pulse Extraction Process) technology that provides a delicious coffee and rich aroma without any bitterness.” The brand recently opened a store in London (pictured).

According to Helen Simpson, marketing manager UK and Ireland, KitchenAid SDA: “The slightly older millennials are changing the world of coffee, not least because they like to experiment with a number of coffee types from cappuccino, mocha, espresso, caffè Americano to flat white. It's this group that also prefer to drink quality over quantity.” She reflects on changing work habits: “This demographic is driving coffee consumption at home. Part of this shift is driven by the increase in popularity, or necessity, of remote or home working.”

Helen adds: “It's these people who like to control the brewing process to create a cup that is exactly suited to personal preference.”

Appealing to a wide market,

Inset: From Creative Tops, La Cafetière’s luxury brushed gold Edited collection includes its GHIapproved Pisa cafetière and the induction stovetop coffee maker.

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Right: The Artisan Siphon Coffee Maker from KitchenAid.

Market Focus

Getting connected 2016 saw the launch of the world’s first connected coffee machines – including Jura’s Smart Connect, De’Longhi’s PrimaDonna Elite and Nespresso’s Prodigio - with more to follow this year. De’Longhi’s PrimaDonna Elite is “the world’s first smart connected bean to cup coffee machine,” according to the brand’s Alex Pickering and ticks the boxes in terms of flexibility, personalisation and essentials such as de-scaling. Alex explains: “Operated by the Smart Coffee App from any Apple or Android smartphone or directly via the machine’s intuitive premium 4.3” colour touch display, the PrimaDonna Elite allows the user to personalise any drink to match personal taste, set-up personal profiles by memorising ideal aroma, temperature and quantity of coffee and milk for each drink, and even create new recipes.” He adds: “The Smart Coffee App also allows the user to change the machine’s settings with an interactive guide and offers proactive maintenance and service connection.”

Meanwhile, Francisco Nogueira, Nespresso UK managing director reflects: “We’re living in the age of increased connectivity. The Internet of Things is taking the world by storm. We know people lead busy lives, and greater connectivity can simplify the way we live, whether it is the simple pleasure of having a coffee ready when you wake or having the heating turned on in your home before you walk through the door.”

Francisco continues: “The coffee machine market has been evolving in response to this demand, and what we’re seeing is an emphasis on integrating wireless technology into machines.” He elaborates: “At Nespresso, we’ve launched machines like our Prodigio that taps directly into the need for greater connectivity. It uses Bluetooth Smart technology to connect your phone to your machine via the Nespresso smartphone app. You can brew your coffee from the comfort of your own bed and even receive alerts when you need to restock your coffee supply.”

Melitta is among those introducing Bluetooth into some of its new launches.

KitchenAid’s range of appliances now include the Precision Press with its integrated scale and timer, the Pour Over Coffee Brewer and Siphon Coffee Maker with vacuum technology that “ensures coffee grounds are fully dissolved in the water via precise temperature control.”

At nixee (previously Hot Plate Products), md James Gray acknowledges that consumers are increasingly enjoying selecting their own beans. The company has expanded its range of manual coffee making products (with a host of launches at Top Drawer’s Home, including Barista & Co’s clever coffee dripper and newly introduced Rivers Drinkware’s “slow brew

on the go”). James observes the growing interest in drip through coffee, which is “very easy to make, low cost and one of the oldest and possibly the best methods of brewing.” Awareness is building thanks to “trendy coffee shops where you can see the drip through coffee lined up on the bar.” James also sees growing demand for “specialist tools such as weighing scales.” Grunwerg also recognises demand for manual coffee making with its interior trend focused new copper Café Ole cafetiere as well as its new Café Stal Pour Over Coffee Maker and Grinder with Lid. In the opinion of Katrina Lawton, marketing and PR manager at Creative Tops, making the perfect cup of coffee manually, “resonates with contemporary coffee drinkers as it taps into the ideal of ‘mindful living’:

being able to take the time to savour every moment right from the start of the process - from brewing to drinking - and thoroughly enjoy each experience.” She elaborates: “Today, experience is everything and consumers desire sloweddown processes for a prolonged and quality coffee experience in the home, away from the chaotic pace of contemporary life.” New additions include a drip filter set and a ‘gooseneck’ pouring kettle for pour over coffee. Katrina confesses that La Cafetière is Creative Tops’ fastest growing brand, with turnover tripling in 18 months – proof of the buoyant market for coffee related products.

Composting your coffee Dualit launched compostable capsules in its single origin Fairtrade Sumatra Mandheling and Indian Monsoon blends last year, with pod, lid and protective back all produced using cornstarch. Rina Yadev, marketing executive at Dualit explains that: “This means that all the components can be placed in authorised collection scheme food waste bins for industrial composting. The 100% compostable capsules will be broken down in approximately 90 days through the use of natural heat to become compost.”

The eco-credentials of the coffee are also apparent in their sourcing from groups of small farms, “which are dedicated to supporting their communities and Inset: Espresso delivery – environment,” says Rina. The capsules are Dualit’s coffee capsules. also made in the UK, contributing to a lower carbon footprint. * Dualit’s UK made capsules also include a new way to make tea using espresso machines from Dualit and Nespresso.

Dualit’s “patented tea capsule technology” have “an ultra-high flow, high wet tensile strength depth filter which reduces the high pressure needed to extract an espresso, so that it’s gentler and perfect for getting the finest flavour from delicate tea leaves,” explains Rina.

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Market Focus

Below: The new Bees collection from Sophie Allport includes teapot, teacup and saucer as well as an espresso cup and saucer, and a wide range of fine bone china mugs.

Loosely speaking The humble teabag is increasingly getting ditched The “bees knees” in teapots Sophie Allport’s new Bee Collection includes a china teapot. (not dunked) in favour of the burgeoning number Sophie told PH why she thinks consumers warm to bee of leaf teas that deliver taste and often health designs: “As a nation we have a real fondness for bees. benefits. The good news is, of course, heightened They make us delicious honey and help pollinate our gardens. There’s a real revival to protect these insects and demand for teapots and tea infusers to suit all they’re always so busy. Who doesn’t love a hard worker!” tastes and lifestyles.

She also reflects on what makes the perfect teapot, stating: “I believe tea tastes better poured from a china teapot and The trend for enjoying tea as a social occasion drunk from a china teacup or mug. The perfect teapot has or afternoon ritual is growing, observes Maxwell & to pour well – no one wants a dripping pot that makes a mess!” She adds: “It also has to look good. A stylish design Williams (with two new ranges imminent from makes the whole tea ritual a moment of calm to savour!”

Valerie Graham), Elia, Churchill China and Haus.

Recognising growing sales of teapots (especially with infusers), Elia’s sales manager, Adam Walker acknowledges: stand-alone infusers and tea balls” “Due to the rise in popularity of afternoon tea the trend has moved as well as expanding its range of borosilicate glass teapots (such as towards the home market for serving tea and cake, and more the Brygga teapot with a removable infuser), which “enhance the importantly luxury teas, along with different infusions and leaf theatrical element of infusion,” notes Katrina. Meanwhile, La teas.” Churchill China’s marketing communications and PR Cafetière’s Barcelona teapot collection has grown with more colour manager, Danielle Birch concurs: “Over the last 12 and size options. months the afternoon tea experience has There is plenty of potential for continued growth, gained a lot of momentum with it according to James Gray, md of nixee, stating: becoming a popular elegant afternoon “There is a massive gap in the market – tea is out. This trend has extended into the home the next growth area and is only in its with the desire for a good traditional brew on infancy.” James observes: “The UK followed the up.” However, the afternoon tea ritual does the trends of the Australian market for not have to be shared. Danielle highlights the coffee and this is now happening for tea.” popularity of ‘tea for one’ sets, including He also cites some of the many health benefits of tea Churchill’s recently launched Blooms and as “it is not full of sugar like so many soft drinks and has a much Above: Maxwell & Williams' new Butterflies pattern.

Lille glass teapot with infuser. lower calorie count than milky coffee.” There is also a growing Tea-for-one, glass and cast Iron teapots are recognition of the Asian method of “washing the tea for a subtle all seeing “a big upturn,” according to Rachel Worthington, flavour, which suits green teas,” notes James. marketing and PR manager at Haus, distributor of Bredemeijer (with Having launched the Scandinavian brand, Viva at Top Drawer, new launches at Ambiente). With the rise of afternoon tea as “a James reflects: “Younger consumers are more health conscious, serious ritual”, she recognises the desire for products with aware of the importance of hydration and are looking for longevity that “represent real, tangible value for money to contemporary style.” All positive reasons for healthy tea consumers.” Cast iron, in a variety of “intricate and eye-catching” product sales. designs and colours also “appeal as much for ornamental as practical reasons,” Rachel adds.

Meanwhile, Katrina Lawton, marketing and PR manager at Creative Tops agrees, reports: “The teaware category has undergone a detox: as the millennial generation puts increasing Below: Bredemeijer’s Yinan cast iron teapot from Haus. importance on healthy eating and drinking, the type of tea we choose has changed as well as the way it is experienced and there is a growing perception of tea as a health drink.” She elaborates: “Wellness is a key consumer ideal, as consumers endeavour to express themselves through what they are seen to be eating and drinking. Wellness is no longer just a fad, but a long-term lifestyle choice and status symbol.” Katrina adds: “This ideal is reflected in teaware with a focus on health, detox and loose leaf tea and the performance of brewing these drinks.”

Creative Tops’ Randwyck brand has introduced “more tea accessories such as

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Tea & Coffee p33_p33 Tea and Coffee 18/01/2017 12:35 Page 1

Tea and C ffee

Keep your drinks at the perfect temperature for longer with the sleekly designed Progress Thermal Flasks. Enjoy a spillage free, easy to transport beverage purposely created for all occasions. Insulated to keeps juice, smoothies, water, wine, cocktails and beer cold for up to 24 hours and tea and coffee piping hot for up to 6 hours so it is perfect for the commute, picnics, festivals or anywhere you need refreshment on the move.

Progress Tel: 0161 934 2283

related

The new Cafetiere design from Elia features an innovative and stylish 12-sided body, crafted in 18/10 stainless steel for a practical and elegant finish. Available in three, six and eight cup sizes. Incorporating a double filter inside the plunger allows for the perfect brew to release the natural flavours of coffee or leaf teas, and the double wall insulation ensures beverages are served hot.

Elia International Tel: 020 8998 2100 E-mail: sales@elia.co.uk Web: www.elia.co.uk

products

The new Coffee Filter Papers by Aerolatte are the perfect addition to the leading Aerolatte Coffee Accessory range. The filter papers are available in sizes No 2 and 4. Made from sustainably sourced paper, the filters are completely environmentally friendly, unbleached chlorine free, untreated and will not interfere with the taste of your coffee. The filter papers have been developed with a patented seam made without glue or bonding to keep your brewing pure. The filters can be used with the Aerolatte Ceramic Coffee Filter or appropriate coffee makers Eddingtons Tel: 01488 686572 E-mail: sales@eddingtons.co.uk Web: www.eddingtons.co.uk

With its retro look and 21st century design, the Judge Coffee Grinder delivers the ideal grounds to suit your coffee maker. The ceramic burr can be simply adjusted to deliver fine or coarse grounds, and rather than cutting them like most electronic devices, it actually grinds the beans, so you get the very best flavour from your cafétiere. Made from Borosilicate glass, with a polished stainless steel lid, Judge’s cafétiere’s – available in three sizes are simply stylish, making them the perfect partner for the gorgeous Judge Doublewalled Glasses.

Horwood Tel: 0117 940000 E-mail: customerservice@horwood.co.uk

Kitchen Craft’s all-encompassing beverage brand, Le’Xpress, offers an amazing choice with everything from basic tea and coffee essentials to striking trend driven pieces such as copper effect cafetieres and essentials to embrace current trends like slow brew coffee. Ever-evolving, the latest introductions to the brand include a selection of double walled glass drinkware. Tea cups, espresso cups, Irish coffee glasses, latte glasses, highballs and tumblers (shown here) are all suitable for both hot and cold contents and come packaged in pairs in stylish Le’Xpress gift boxes, making them ideal presents.

Kitchen Craft Tel: 0121 604 1111 E-mail: sales@kitchencraft.co.uk Web: www.kitchencraft.co.uk

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Lifestyle focus Inset: Prepara Avocado 3-in-1 tool is among PHA Kitchessentials’ top sellers.

Bottom left: Spring Fair will see more new introductions for Kitchen Craft’s Healthy Eating Collection including tools and gadgets in vibrant green, yellow, red and orange “relating to the fruit and veg they are designed to work with,” explains Kitchen Craft’s Claire Budgen. The collection (which includes the popular avocado tool and spiralisers) helps “make superfood prep quick and easy.”

Superfood heroes Green goodness Superfood: Avocados The healthy fats and nutrients found in avocados (including oleic acid, lutein, folate, vitamin E, monounsaturated fats and glutathione) are said to give protection against heart disease, cancer, degenerative eye and brain diseases.

Below: Fresh or frozen blueberries are one of the many superfoods easily prepared in a Vitamix. Pictured is blueberry and almond sorbet, a quick recipe from Vitamix’s recently published Healthy Eating book.

As aspirations for healthier living increase so does awareness of superfoods, such as ancient grains and vitamin-packed berries. PH puts the spotlight on some of the housewares suppliers that are helping nutrition-hungry consumers prepare a diet rich in superfoods.

John Lewis dubbed 2016,’ the year of the avocado’ in its annual Retail Report, with searches for avocado-related products some 85% higher than the previous year. Paul Hargreaves at PHA Kitchessentials concurs: “The Prepara Avocado 3-in-1 tool is already in our top 20 best-selling items and we have only had it in UK stock since July. Sales have been significantly beyond our highest expectations.”

Kitchen Craft’s Claire Budgen also describes a “notable increase in sales” of Avocado Huggers and preparation tools. She reflects: “Back in the 1970s, avocado was known for its popularity as a starter with prawn cocktail or as a bathroom colour, now it is considered one of the trendiest foods around!” She continues: “Avocados seem to be everywhere at the moment – celebs are talking them up for their nutritional value and benefits in promoting glowing hair and skin. They are also prevalent in ontrend health cookbooks such as Jo Wickes’ collections – particularly aimed at a younger audience. The trend for nutri drinks and shakes is also a factor as so many of these recipes include avocado.”

Got the blues?

Superfood: blueberries Packed with vitamins K and C, fibre, manganese and other antioxidants, blueberries are thought to protect against heart disease and some cancers, as well as improve the memory.

Vitamix has responded to demands for superfood and ‘superfruit’ recipes with its Healthy Eating book, published last year, including a “particular favourite” - blueberry and almond sorbet, reports Martin Devaney, Vitamix country manager UK and Ireland. The highpowered blender brand has also recently partnered with Natasha Corret, author of ‘Honestly Healthy in a hurry’ to create new superfood recipes and will share via print and Vitamix’s online communities this year.

Martin states: “With the Vitamix machine, you can prepare many recipes that feature “superfoods” and “superfruits” that are high in good-for-your-skin nutrients: walnuts that featured in our Basil Walnut Pesto, are high in fatty acids and green smoothies (like the Glowing Green Smoothie) feature nutrient-dense greens.”

Martin foresees that the trend for superfood drinks will continue throughout the year ahead, “especially as a recent study by the beverage innovation centre, Imbibe, found that consumers are prioritising health and wellness, but with their own personalised spin.”

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Lifestyle focus

Traditional remedies are back on the superfood menu Superfood: bone broth Harking back to kitchens of yesteryear, traditional bone broth or stock is making a comeback, with its nutritional benefits applauded by health conscious bloggers (such as foodie sisters, Hemsley and Hemsley.) Homemade chicken broth has long been known to help fight upper respiratory infections and boost immune systems. Moreover, bone broth has also been shown to help athletes recover as its amino acids aid muscle regeneration, and it assists digestion thanks to its gelatine content.

Both slow cookers and pressure cookers can assist with the preparation of bone broth, the latter slashing hours of cooking time as well as keeping nutrients intact. Reflecting on a renaissance of interest in pressure cooking from home cooks of all ages, Meyer Group’s trade marketing manager, Clare Holland notes: “This category has seen a boost from consumers’ interest in healthy eating and from the need for speed that is driven by today’s busy lifestyles.” She continues: “One major benefit is that it takes just one third of conventional cooking time which minimises energy costs and essential nutrients and vitamins are retained. This is obviously ideal from a health perspective and also for money conscious consumers.”

Ancient wisdom Superfood: quinoa Known as the supergrain, quinoa is rich in a number of minerals, vitamins, fats and proteins. Studies have also shown it has the capacity to lower blood glucose levels in diabetics and that regular consumption can help to lower blood pressure levels.

Last year, OXO introduced the Good Grips Rice and Grain Colander, which has holes that are “designed to allow water to drain slowly to wash impurities and starch from grains such as quinoa, buckwheat and barley,” reports OXO’s trade marketing manager, Tracy Carroll. She elaborates that the “small, square holes help prevent tiny grains from falling through and slow down the water flow, giving you more time to wash your grains and remove the starch.”

Tracy reflects: “I think people are starting to experiment more and have become more aware of the different varieties.

Grains are huge across in the US and I think it’s going to grow even more here.”

Right: Making the strain - the Good Grips Rice and Grain Colander.

Roots to wellbeing Superfoods: Ginger and turmeric Ginger and turmeric (from the same botanical family) are attributed with lowering the risk of heart disease, cancer and diabetes as well as inflammation.

Packed with protein Superfood: eggs Increasingly recognised for its health benefits, as well as fast food credentials, the humble egg is rich in essential amino acids, iron, phosphorous, selenium and vitamins A, B12, B2 and B5 and, of course, protein.

At Eddingtons, marketing manager, Adam Smith notes that the company’s egg related products are consistent good sellers “year on year.” Current stand-out products include Egg Cup Pails and the Omelit which “provides the easiest and healthiest way to prepare an omelette,” and is “also ideal for anyone partial to an omelette but watching their waistline, as the non-stick coating means it requires absolutely no extra oil or butter for cooking,” states Adam. Eddingtons’ new launches include new Egg Cup Pail designs, a Microwave Omelette maker and set of two egg poachers – “perfect for those on the go,” adds Adam.

Ross Harper, Microplane’s country manager for UK and Ireland acknowledges: “There's a flurry of interest at the moment around the new Microplane Ginger Tool 3-in-1 which efficiently peels, grates and slices both ginger and turmeric.” He observes: “Ginger is lauded both as a culinary spice and a medical marvel.”

Ross explains: “With the new Ginger Tool, it's simple to add terrific flavour to dressings, marinades, soups and any Asian-style dishes. You can also prepare a cup of recuperative Ginger Tea in just a few minutes. There's no need for a knife or spoon to peel the skin away and no need for a separate grater and then there's the added bonus of a razor-sharp, angled blade at the bottom of the tool which thinly slices the ginger to create a garnish.”

He adds: “Using fresh Turmeric is relatively new, but thanks to the prevalence of juicing, we're seeing more people grating a bit of the fresh root into their morning drinks to dramatically increase the antioxidant capacity of the body.”

Inset: A fast and nutritious omelette made with Eddington’s Omelit.

Above: Ginger is known to aid digestion and help fight colds – Microplane’s Ginger Tool is pictured next to a detoxifying ginger and lemon drink.

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Superfoods Preparation and Healthy Living

The easy way to cook fluffy scrambled eggs, runny fried eggs or up to four delicate pouched eggs all in one pan. The Complete Egg Pan from Salter offers a marble coated non-stick cooking surface to create the perfect eggs every time, with only the smallest dribble of cooking oil.

Salter Tel: 0161 934 2283 Web: www.saltercookshop.com

Creating delicious meals is easy with the Salter Healthy Starter Set. Chop, spiralize and scoop your way to a healthier meal. The set includes a Mini Chopper, which is perfect for chopping onions, vegetables and fruit. A Spiralizer with three interchangeable blades, and an Avocado Tool which is a great for preparing tasty guacamole.

Salter Tel: 0161 934 2283 Web: www.saltercookshop.com

The new Slow Juicer from Stellar (pictured) employs a cold-press technique, gently pressing fruits, vegetables and herbs so that juice is extracted with minimum oxidation. Using stainless steel micro filters, the Stellar Slow Juicer ensures that drinks are perfectly smooth, while providing superior juice extraction when compared to traditional centrifugal juicers. It has a powerful, yet quiet, motor capable of 18Nm of torque and with a smart drip-prevention cap and separate jug for dry pulp. The device itself has been designed for easy cleaning and a bespoke scrubbing brush has been provided for any tough adhesions.

Horwood Tel: 0117 940 0000 E-mail: sales@horwood.co.uk Web: www.stellarcookware.co.uk

One of the ways in which Macmillan support their patients is through access to nutritionists. Dexam felt that this was a really worthy cause, and wanted to help with the funding of this essential work. It has therefore teamed up with Macmillan, commencing the partnership with branded packaging for the Spiralizer. Dexam is working towards an initial fundraising target of £10,000 and will do this by making a donation, for every Spiralizer sold, directly to Macmillan whilst keeping the trade and suggested retail pricing the same.

Dexam Tel: 01730 811 811 E-mail: sales@dexam.co.uk

Kitchen Craft has extended its increasingly popular and award-winning Healthy Eating Collection! The new additions focus on a selection of tools and gadgets, which feature high quality stainless steel heads, soft grip handles and come in a vibrant choice of colours - green, yellow, red and orange, relating to the fruit and veg they are designed to work with.

To emphasise the healthy eating message further retailers will also be able to order fruit and veg style crates to create exceptionally eyecatching displays.

Kitchen Craft Tel: 0121 604 1111 E-mail: sales@kitchencraft.co.uk Web: www.kitchencraft.co.uk

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Prepare delicious, healthy food with the new All-in-One Food Prep Set from Salter. Spiralize, slice, chop, and grate fruit and vegetables for a variety of different dishes. The salad spinner also doubles up as a handy space-saving solution; just place all other attachments into the bowl for quick and easy storage!

Salter Tel: 0161 934 2283 Web: www.saltercookshop.com

Superfoods Preparation and Healthy Living

Use little or no oil to cook healthy meals on the non-stick, abrasion resistant Salter Marble Collection Portion Control Pan. Separated into segments, the pan makes it easier to control the amount you have to promote a healthier lifestyle.

Salter Tel: 0161 934 2283 Web: www.saltercookshop.com

Designed by Chef Karim Maoui to be a multi-purpose blade that is fit for a huge variation of tasks.�170mm in length and 57mm in depth at its widest point, it has a beautiful curve to the edge leading to an arrow head point. “Designed to fit and balance perfectly in the hand.

For me, it’s the perfect compromise of the weight of a German knife with the exquisite cutting edge of Japanese craftsmanship” – Chef Karim Maoui, Designer.

I.O.Shen Tel: 01869 357700 Web: www.ioshen.co.uk

Enhance the flavours of your food with the chemical-free Salter Pre-seasoned Pan For Life range; the more you cook the better it becomes!

Taking professional black steel cookware to the everyday consumer, the Salter Pre-seasoned Pan For Life is sure to impress!

Salter Tel: 0161 934 2283 Web: www.saltercookshop.com

Start 2017 with the Witt Juicepresso - a user friendly slow juicer with a reddot award-winning design. Witt Juicepresso and Smoothie Juicepresso will make a fantastic Christmas gift to help kickstart a healthy 2017! It uses a gentle process and extracts more higher quality juice. The juice is even, clean and clear with a much better taste and all nutrients intact. The patented extraction system extracts the juice in a way to maximise the goodness.

Witt UK & Ireland Bo Simonsen Tel: 01483 516633 Email: bo@witt-ltd.com Web: www.witt.zone

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• Powerful 10001000 W motor controlled by one-button Smart Speed.

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From the front line Jan/Feb 2017_Layout 1 13/01/2017 11:29 Page 39

Holly Wilson’s

From The Frontline Inset: Holly stocking her cookshop’s shelves at Prep Cookshop, Stoke Newington in north east London.

Forward thinking With costs rising including business rates for us, 2017 is going to be a challenging year for small independents like Prep Cookshop.

However, I am still excited by what the year ahead will hold – including lots of lovely new products, exciting online opportunities and the chance to share ideas and experiences with fellow indies.

Happy New Year everyone! I hope you all had a great Christmas and managed some well- deserved days off. A few days with my family by the beach in Devon was just what I needed after the madness of Christmas. The final rush seemed to come late this year but with Christmas falling on Sunday it was a long week running up to the big day - and an insanely busy one. We closed for three days and then reopened as I find that we are still very busy in the days before new year with delayed emergency gifts and everyone preparing for new year dinner parties.

So, what does the new year hold for Prep Cookshop? The huge increase in business rates in London is definitely a concern as in Hackney we have had a 46% increase. I am also behind with my pension scheme planning so I must crack on with that. On both counts, I will be looking to bira

for support. I attended a bira working group in November and found it so useful to sit around the table with other retailers and the bira team and discuss the big issues and how the association and similar businesses are dealing with them. It was also great to get a tour around Lords and hear the priorities for the business, as well as pick everyone’s brains and share information. I hope to take more time out of the shop for moments like this - it will allow me to step out of my ‘shop bubble’ and gain some perspective and advice. While it is hard to get out, especially when there are so many trade shows (which we also discussed), I really think it is worth it.

I also need to look at my staffing. I currently work in the shop most days on my own and then do my orders, bill paying and accounts in the evenings.

With two small kids that can be a bit much! However, I am a

control freak so the thought of handing over any of those responsibilities is daunting, but I will be investing in more staff to support me so that I can work on pushing the business forwards. I normally recruit staff locally which has worked out very well for me so far but it does bring in some colourful characters looking for work. So this time I’m thinking about skipping the guy with no teeth who sings me a song and maybe using an agency, but then again, where’s the fun in that?

Despite the challenges ahead, it is not all doom and gloom in 2017. Christmas left me more than ready to start refreshing my stock and I enjoyed finding new products and inspiration at the recent Top Drawer, and am keen to find more at Ambiente. I also hope to grow my online presence. I joined Trouva last summer - a website that hosts independent boutiques. It is beautifully curated and

presented and invests heavily in marketing and Google ads. This has been a great opportunity for me to test the water online. I don’t currently have the resources to launch my own website successfully but not being online is impossible if you want to survive. So Trouva has been a godsend for me. I’ve had product in a couple of magazines as a result of Trouva and there are more national glossies to come early this year.

You can instantly see the effect it has on sales so it is very exciting. However, I still haven’t given it the time or attention that I should have to really achieve its full potential so this is another focus for 2017.

I also have another super exciting project in the works but I will tell you all about that next time…. Happy trade show season everyone!

Holly Wilson is the owner of Prep Cookshop, Stoke Newington, which has been a hub for its North London community since opening in February 2015.

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P R E V I E W

Established in 1931, the Lancashire brand Progress has always strived to be at the forefront of style and design, whilst never forgetting what makes a kitchen the heart of any home. The focus on innovation and progression has enabled Progress to now provide an extensive range of products with a modern, clean-cut twist. A classic brand with a 21st century feel, Progress offers everything a kitchen could possibly need.

Progress Tel: 0161 934 2283 Hall 11 Stand G03-J02

The New Judge Radiant benefits from Teflon’s very latest Radiance non-stick surface, which is PFOA free. Judge Cookware has selected the perfect thickness of aluminium to provide a speedy, and most importantly, even heat transfer - making it ideal for fast efficient cooking.

The aluminium is then sealed with heat-proof metallic red paint – which looks stunning and is reassuringly hard wearing.

Matching Soft grip red handles complete the pan.

Horwood Tel: 0117 940 0000 E-mail: sales@horwood.co.uk Web: www.judgecookware.co.uk Hall 9-10 Stand A24-B25

Harmonising the vibrancy of outdoor festivals with vintage Katie Alice style, discover the new Festival Folk collection from the British designer at Spring Fair. The bohemianinspired Festival Folk is an eclectic collection with a mix-match of colours, shapes and Scandinavian-inspired patterns. Katie styles folk florals and pretty scalloped edges with sparks of colour on a fresh white canvas.

Creative Tops Tel: 01536 207710 Web: www.creative-tops.com Hall 9-10 Stand G10-H11

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Progressive Housewares

Enhance the flavours of your food with the chemical-free Salter Pre-seasoned Pan For Life range; the more you cook the better it becomes!

Taking professional black steel cookware to the everyday consumer, the Salter Pre-seasoned Pan For Life is sure to turn heads at Spring Fair 2017!

Salter Tel: 0161 934 2283 Web: www.saltercookshop.com Hall 11 Stand G03-J02

Meyer Group, the leader in innovative cookware will be showcasing its brands Ruffoni, Anolon, Circulon and Prestige at this year’s Spring Fair.

Show highlights will include the unveiling of the new Prism range from Prestige and a bakeware product demonstration to be held every day of the show. Featuring products from all the Meyer brands, the demonstration will provide an opportunity for visitors to understand the features and benefits of the bakeware ranges.

The Meyer Group Tel: 0151 482 8180 Web: www.meyergroup.co.uk Hall 9 Stand F44-G25

Spring Fair Preview pages_Layout 1 13/01/2017 18:33 Page 2

Horwoods’ lips are sealed – let the product speak for itself, presenting sturdy glass food storage containers with water and air-tight lids. This collection is made with high clarity clear Borosilicate glass, with the best thermal properties; they can be transferred from freezer to a hot oven, and be used in the microwave. The lid has a silicone ring and four strong clamps, which when activated (one on each side, creates a water and air tight seal.

Horwood Tel: 0117 940 0000 E-mail: sales@horwood.co.uk Web: www.judgecookware.co.uk Hall 9-10 Stand A24-B25

P R E V I E W

Salter presents the Salter Cook range!

Featuring the Bluetooth Recipe Scale, Thermometer and free app. Salter Cook is everything you need to streamline the culinary experience. Convert online recipes to create your own cookbook where you can edit recipes, change portion sizes, create categories, rate recipes and much more! Connect to the scale and thermometer to measure ingredients and temperature with interactive targets from your smartphone or tablet.

Salter Homedics Web: www.saltercook.co.uk Hall 4 Stand J50A

Anniversary House will be launching 100+ inspirational products at Spring Fair 2017. With glitter trend being seen from Fashion to Cake Decorations, this year Anniversary House is introducing brand new Glitter Numeral Moulded Candles. Featuring pink and gold glitz, these beautiful candles cover ages 0 to 9, with additional Gold Numerals for adults 18 to 80. Be sure not to miss new glitter cake toppers, covering milestone birthdays ages one to nine, 30 to 60 and those years in between!

Anniversary House Tel: 01202 590222 Web: www.anniversaryhouse.co.uk Hall 9-10 Stand G50-H51

Creative Tops will launch a fantastical Alice In Wonderland collection from V&A at Spring Fair. Decorated with hand-drawn scenes taken from this beloved book’s original illustrations, this collection is beautifully made of fine china with real gold decal and gold embroidered textiles, presented in curious puzzle packaging. This Alice In Wonderland collection draws upon a playing card game from 1918, based on the original book illustrations, found at the Victoria and Albert Museum, London.

Creative Tops Tel: 01536 207710 Web: www.creative-tops.com Hall 9-10 Stand G10-H11

This year David Mason Design is introducing several new ranges under the English Tableware Company brand. This brand epitomizes everything great about British design, using the beautiful countryside as inspiration. The Artisan collection as featured here is a throwback to the handcrafted Woodcut look featuring countryside animals. Combining different materials across the collection including Fine China mugs, Pressed laminated trays, Earthenware pad printed dinnerware.

DMD David Mason Design Tel: 01246 260500 E-mail: sales@davidmasondesign.co.uk Web: www.davidmasondesign.com Hall 9 Stand J24-K11

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IRIS kitchen textile range – a beautiful organic floral design in attractive blue hues with gold button detail that co-ordinates perfectly with the Iris printed cork trivet, perfect for hot pots and pans from the stove or oven, and Willow stoneware canisters, all part of our new release homewares for Spring/Summer 2017.

Ladelle Tel: 020 3755 3135 E-mail: Customerservice.uk@ladelle.com Web: www.ladelle.com Hall 9 Stand B52-C53

Pictured is MasterClasses new Stainless Steel Edgekeeper Knife Collection. This ingenious range features four high quality stainless steel knives - a chef’s knife in two sizes, a utility knife and a paring knife, each with taper ground cutting edge and a self-sharpening safety storage sheath. Each time the knife is removed from the sheath, it sharpens it ready for use. There is also a set of multi-purpose scissors with safety sheath/built-in sharpener to keep them sharp for every use.

Kitchen Craft Tel: 0121 604 1111 E-mail: sales@kitchencraft.co.uk Web: www.kitchencraft.co.uk Hall 9 Stand G24-H25 Portmeirion has always been known for informal entertaining, particularly since it launched Botanic Garden in 1972. With the botanicals trend a major inspiration for homemakers in 2017, Portmeirion has launched Botanic Blooms.

Inspired by Botanic Garden, this tableware and serveware collection features hand-picked floral designs in large scale – a sunflower, poppy, hydrangea and sweet pea. A beautiful mix and match range, it will also add unique accents to existing white tableware collections.

Portmeirion Tel: 01782 744721 E-mail: homesales@portmeiriongroup.com Web: www.portmeiriongroup.com Hall 9 Stand E30-F31

Elevate your tea experience and exceed expectations by brewing a favourite traditional English beverage in a beautifully crafted 18/10 stainless steel teapot in a modern aesthetic design. An infuser secures neatly inside the body to allow loose-leaf tea or other infusions to be prepared effortlessly and dispenses with the need for an additional tea strainer. Available in two sizes; 0.45L and 0.8L. Elia International Tel: 020 8998 2100 E-mail: sales@elia.co.uk Web: www.elia.co.uk Hall 9 Stand B40-C41

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Navigate, the outdoor living specialist, has a brand new line-up of alfresco accessories for 2017. Headlining its boutique brand Beau & Elliot is ‘Raindrops’ a contemporary picnic collection. The new luxury range features a colourful raindrop motif and is made from high quality materials with extra fine detailing. Pieces include a fully stocked four-person wicker basket, variously sized cool bags, wine carriers, an insulted tote bag, melamine tableware, flasks and hydration bottles – everything you’d need for a stylish day out.

Navigate Tel: 01279 653249 Web: www.navigate.ltd.uk Email: sales@navigate.ltd.uk Hall 9-10 Stand C28

Visit the Portmeirion Group stand at: Spring Fair (Hall 9, Stand E30-F31) Ambiente (Hall 4.1, Stand B16)

www.portmeiriongroup.com +44 (0)1782 744721 Copyright © 2017 Portmeirion Group Limited

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bobbleBOX™ is sitting in a unique market position, it is the entry level price point for a design led lunch box, the price is lower than Joseph Joseph and Black and Blum. bobbleBox™ appeals to the millennial consumer, she wants a lunch box that is unique and well designed, but also likes the security of the bobble brand, she is looking for more than a cheap children’s lunchbox, She also loves the functional elements of bobbleBOX™, the icepack, to keep her food fresh whilst she’s on the go, and the dividing shelf which is perfect to section off her salad from her raspberries, or remove if more free space is needed for her apple and yogurt. bobble Tel: 01869 338751 E-mail: sales@auteurlimited.co.uk Web: www.auteurlimited.co.uk Hall 9-10 Stand 9C24

New for Spring 2017 is the new “Stone White” collection of stoneware kitchen storage items with its clean, simple lines and rustic appeal. To co-ordinate T&G introduces the new “Nordic” wood collection available in natural and white, perfect for organising any table, dresser or counter top.

To add to the creative mix are new additions to the popular vintage enamel look “Pride of Place” in old green, old cream, white and cool grey ceramics (featured) the new storage items include bread crocks and pasta jars with some everyday kitchen items added to the white and cool grey colours.

T&G Tel: 01275 841841 Web: www.tg-woodware.com Hall 9 Stand F30-G11 Stockists of the Anniversary House range of Christmas Cake Decorations generate important incremental seasonal revenue during the allimportant fourth quarter of the year. There are a number of new product additions being launched at Spring fair, including new sugarcraft toppers, some on-trend Resin figurines (under wraps until the show), new gift packaging together with a number of new entry level plastic figurine kits. If you haven’t ranged Christmas Cake Decorations before do come and check out our product offering, whereas existing customers can preview the new for 2017 products.

Anniversary House Tel: 01202 590222 Web: www.anniversaryhouse.co.uk Hall 9-10 Stand G50-H51

Gin, Gin! A current hot trend, gin is fast becoming the favoured drink for many and with an enormous, and growing, choice of flavours, it’s only fair to do this favourite tipple justice and enjoy in one of these fabulous new Gin Glasses from Tradestock. With a generous 52cl capacity there is more than enough room for gin, ice, tonic (or other mixer of choice) and the allimportant garnish! A visit to the Tradestock stand will also enlighten you about some special promotions on these glasses - cheers!

Tradestock Tel: 01823 661717 E-mail: sales@tradestockltd.co.uk Web: www.tradestockltd.co.uk Hall 9 Stand B12/C13 From the experts in home relaxation, HoMedics is introducing Ellia – a premium range of unique ultrasonic oil diffusers.

Accompanied by a family of 100% Pure Essential Oils, all responsibly sourced from a global network of farmers. We’ve used natural materials to style our ultrasonic diffusers and 100% Pure Essential Oils to master our blends. Perfectly subtle, these decorative pieces fit naturally into every household.

Homedics Tel: 01732 354828 E-mail: UKSales@homedics.co.uk Web: www.homedics.co.uk Hall 4 Stand J50A

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Tala mills use a high quality ceramic mechanism for great grind performance, stripping the peppercorns for maximum release of flavour. There is a size, colour and style to suit everyone within the Tala range. Our unique Wooden mills are a mix of both natural beech and coloured wood for a striking and simple look, available in a variety of colours and also in gift tins.

George East Housewares Tel: 07932 256231 Web: www.george-east.com Hall 9-10 Stand 9A10

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Raw, from Fairmont & Main, is a collection of plates and bowls in a choice of organic matte colourways. A subtle textured finish and an element of exposed stoneware adds to the natural, raw feel of the range and whilst each piece is subtly different in both make-up and colouring, together they form a formidable style.

Raw is dishwasher, microwave, oven and freezer safe; has a fully vitrified surface; is lead and cadmium free and is edge chip resistant.

Fairmont & Main Tel: 01924 848300 E-mail: sales@fairmont.co.uk Hall 8 Stand A01

Renowned Bake-O-Glide™ brand is at the heart of Falcon Products’ portfolio, and will be one of many brands offering inspiration on its stand at Spring Fair. New launches across several other brands will be centred around the essential combination of food and drink, with a tasty focus based around pasta, pizza, cheese and wine, including some exciting and interesting new lines from We Love Pasta as well as a host of ingenious and striking new wine/barware products from Pulltex.

Falcon Products Tel: 01706 224790 E-mail: sales@falconproducts.co.uk Hall 9 Stand D74

Corelle dinnerware is made from Vitrelle® glass, a unique threelayer glass that is stronger, yet lighter-weight than traditional dinnerware. The Corelle brand will be showcasing its newest patterns, including Abstract Meadow, Tranquil Reflection and Adoria at this year’s Spring Fair.

World Kitchen Tel: 07769 150 889 Web: www.worldkitchen.com Hall 9-10 Stand B34

The all in one Smart Cutter from Creative Products features a razor sharp stainless steel knife blade and integrated cutting board for a quick and mess-free alternative to the traditional knife and chopping board system.

This clever kitchen gadget is ideal for chopping fruit and veg, as well as lots of everyday ingredients from cheese to chicken breasts, and offers retailers an inspiring addition to any cookware display.

Creative Products Tel: 01476 564 230 E-mail: sales@creativeproducts.ltd.uk Hall 9 Stand B36/C37

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Over 100+ Brand New Inspirational Products for 2017 NEW ★

★

GLITTER CAKE TOPPER RANGE

Unicorn Sugar Mix

Gold Glitter Candles

Cookie Cutters Cake Frills

CAKE Frills

New Everyday 2017 Catalogue available now!

Cake Frills Cake Frills 5 x 100cm (2

Candle Pink 7cm

1 / Case: 12

Glitter Numeral

CF001 - Magenta with Silver Centre Cake Frill 9 x 86.3cm (3.5 x 34") Retail Pack: 1 / Case: CFB001 - Reel: 7.3mtr 12 / Case: 3

AHC80/0 - Age

0

AHC80/1 - Age

1

AHC80/2 - Age

2

AHC80/3 - Age

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Moulded Pick

M526 - Pirate

+44 (0)1202 590222

Candle Gold 7cm

Party!

(2.7") Retail Pack:

M534 - Superstars

1 / Case: 12

with Silver Centre Cake Frill 9 x 86.3cm (3.5 x 34") Retail Pack: 1 / Case: CFB002 - Reel: 7.3mtr 12 / Case: 3

4

Treats M525 - Perfectly

AHC203 - Age

CF003 - Assorted

5

AHC80/6 - Age

Glitter Numeral

White with Silver / Gold Centre Cake 9 x 86.3cm (3.5 Frill x 34") Retail Pack: 1 / Case: CFB003 - Reel: 7.3mtr 12 / Case: 3

6

Moulded Pick

AHC80/7 - Age

7

AHC80/8 - Age

Candle Gold 7cm

8

(2.7") Retail Pack:

AHC80/9 - Age

1 / Case: 12

0

AHC90/1 - Age

MADE IN THE

1

AHC90/2 76 - Age

2

AHC204 - Age

Pink

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M543 - The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady™

CBS36 - Silver Cake Frill 6.5 x 91.5cm (2.55 x 36") Retail Pack: 1 / Case: 36

AHC90/0 - Age

18

9

CANDLES

AHC80/5 - Age

AHC205 - Age CBG36 - Gold 30 Cake Frill 6.5 x 91.5cm (2.55 x 36") Retail Pack: 1 / Case: 36

U.K .

AHC206 - Age

40

AHC207 - Age

M528 - Ladybug

Fancy

50

AHC90/3 - Age

Sales3 Office:AHC90/4 - Age +44 (0) 1202 4 590222

Email: sales@creativ

epartyltd.com

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CF002 - Bright Blue

AHC80/4 - Age

M527 - Sweet

Anniversary House is a trading name of Creative Party Ltd Creative Party Ltd | Roundways | Elliott Road | Bournemouth | BH11 8JJ Fax: +44 (0) 1202 590333 • www.anniversaryhouse.co.uk

Pack: 1 / Case:

Moulded Candles (2.7") Retail Pack:

PACKAGING

Moulded Pick

FOOD & GIFT

Glitter Numeral

For more information on our entire range contact us:

sales@creativepartyltd.com

x 39.4") Retail

Moulded Candles

M529 - Heart

Stitch Blue M530 - Heart

Stitch Pink

77

AHC90/5 - Age

48

5

AHC90/6 - Age

Sales Office: +44

6

AHC90/7 - Age

(0) 1202 590222

7

AHC90/8 - Age

Email: sales@creativep

8

artyltd.com

AHC90/9 - Age

9

AHC208 - Age

60

AHC209 - Age

70

AHC210 - Age

80

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Pictured is the new Tala Microwave Push & Push.

Features include a date-dial, which keeps track of food storage in your fridge or freezer, an integral steam valve for re-heating and defrosting and heat resistant wings to help remove safely from the microwave. When cooking or defrosting in the microwave, simply lift the white tab under the date dial to open the steam valve.

George East Housewares Tel: 07932 256231 Web: www.george-east.com Hall 9-10 Stand 9A10

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Monsoon Gather is a capsule collection featuring soft, muted tones of pink, grey, blue and green, which mix perfectly to show the relief pattern at its best. Beautifully giftboxed, the range showcases both dining and serving pieces to elevate every moment. A wonderful gift and a stunning addition for the living space, the collection is ideal for hosting every occasion from lunch with friends to celebrating a special occasion. Delicate in design and appearance but made to last, the china pieces can be used in the oven, microwave, dishwasher and freezer Denby Tel: 01773 740715 Web: www.denby.co.uk Hall 9 Stand C10-D11

T HE SE THE SECRET CRET OF NO RISK K RET TA AILIN AILING RETAILING

Retailers Retailers interested interested in working working with with Creative Creative Products Products should should ccontact ontact 01476 564 5 6 4 230 2 30 or or sales@creativeproducts.ltd.uk. sales@creativeproducts.ltd.uk.

Sp Spring ring Fair: Fair: Hall Hall 9 B36/C37 Progressive Housewares

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Nonstick.

Nonscratch.

New Technology.

Teflon™ – The Original by Chemours.

Come and discover!

A m bie n te 50 H all 3.0 | E

© 2017 The Chemours Company FC,LLC. Teflon™ and any associated logos are trademarks or copyrights of The Chemours Company FC,LLC. Chemours™ and the Chemours Logo are trademarks of The Chemours Company.

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New from simplehuman - the sensor mirror pro. Offering two magnifications (5x and 10x) and a patented trulux light system that mimics natural sunlight.

Wi-fi enabled, it allows users to recreate light settings from the world around them using the simplehuman app and connects to other smart devices. This mirror embodies the brand’s mission of efficient living, marrying technology and product innovation to streamline the daily beauty routine and help users see themselves in the best light.

Simplehuman Tel: 01491 875 974 Web: www.simplehuman.com Hall 5.1 Stand A50

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Winner of the reddot design award and most recently named as Best Kitchen & Household Product in the prestigious House Beautiful Awards, the ingenious Skåler from üutensil is the new way to weigh! Skåler allows you to scoop, measure and mix with one dishwasher-safe tool. Simply slide the stainless steel weight up the handle to the desired weight, scoop your ingredients then balance on finger or bowl edge. Perfect for hot & cold cooking and baking, and as a fun and hands-on approach, it’s great for encouraging the kids in the kitchen too.

PHA KitchEssentials for uutensil Tel: 0151 651 2265 Web: www.phakitchessentials.co.uk Hall 1.1 Stand D31

Iconic cookware brand Pyrex is set to reveal its new brand look at Ambiente 2017, along with an ever-growing collection of innovative products. After celebrating its 100-year anniversary in 2015, Pyrex has re-branded to further support its forward thinking products, which aim to ensure home cooks and professional chefs alike can achieve the best results with ease. Pyrex will also be featuring its latest additions to the existing popular metal bake and ovenware collection with the brand new Magic range that has been designed with both style and simplicity in mind.

Pyrex – International Cookware Tel: 01564 786030 E-mail: pyrexuk@intl-cookware.com Web: www.pyrex.com Hall 3.0 Stand D41

Meyer group, the leader in innovative cookware will be showcasing it’s wealth of brands including Anolon, Circulon and Prestige at this year’s Ambiente show. Highlights will include a Brand relaunch for Anolon. To support this launch, renowned chef Dieter Muller will be on the booth cooking some wonderful food with our new Anolon ranges. Meyer will also be unveiling its new Prism range from Prestige.

Please come and visit us and get a taste of things to come.

The Meyer Group Tel: 0151 482 8180 Web: www.meyergroup.co.uk Hall 3.1 Stand E40

Experience a new premium collection from La Cafetière at Ambiente: the Edited collection brings together popular La Cafetière coffee and tea products, styling them with one prestigious look using the latest on-trend metallic. Stunning brushed gold is combined with brushed chrome elements and minimalist product shapes for a premium look that will sit like an understated trophy in the modern kitchen.

Featuring in this luxury collection is the GHI-approved Pisa cafetière, the induction stovetop and the Le Teapot.

Creative Tops Tel: 01536 207710 Web: www.creative-tops.com Hall 1.1 Stand A33

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Established in 1931, the Lancashire brand Progress has always strived to be at the forefront of style and design, whilst never forgetting what makes a kitchen the heart of any home. The focus on innovation and progression has enabled Progress to now provide an extensive range of products with a modern, clean-cut twist. A classic brand with a 21st century feel, Progress offers everything a kitchen could possibly need.

Progress Tel: 0161 934 2283 Hall 1.1 Stand B16

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Enhance the flavours of your food with the chemical-free Salter Pre-seasoned Pan For Life range; the more you cook the better it becomes!

Taking professional black steel cookware to the everyday consumer, the Salter Pre-seasoned Pan For Life is sure to turn heads at Ambiente 2017!

Salter Tel: 0161 934 2283 Web: www.saltercookshop.com Hall 1.1 Stand B16

To mark a long and successful reign of 175 years, much loved housewares brand Kilner® has developed a new design, which reflects the styling and finish of the original jar. Whilst highlighting it’s simple but effective screw-°©�top mechanism; Kilner will take you on a journey through the ages. It tells us the story of how a glass jar traveled from the pantry of a Victorian kitchen, to becoming a staple product in homes, bars and restaurants across the world.

Rayware Group Tel: 0151 4861888 Web: www.rayware.co.uk Hall 1.1 Stand A71

Creative Tops will introduce the Drift collection at Ambiente, developed especially for casual dining and entertaining. Drift captures the search for authentic dining experiences, focusing on a fusion of influences from around the world and embracing simple, organic-inspired homewares that are minimalist in their nature. With an earthy colour palette and hand-printed patterns, the collection features tribal mark-making and tropical cacti prints with inky ombre effects and rustic terracotta highlights.

Creative Tops Tel: 01536 207710 Web: www.creative-tops.com Hall 1.1 Stand A33

GreenPan™ unveiled its 5th generation Thermolon™ coating, Infinity Professional, at Exclusively Housewares this year. Minneapolis – a new stainless steel range – is one of several featuring Infinity Professional, enhanced with diamonds making it the most durable coating – and metal utensil safe. Minneapolis stainless steel body has a thick encapsulated base for consistent cooking results, stay-cool handles for a comfortable secure grip and drip-free edges for less mess. It comprises three sizes of frypan, wok and milkpan with two spouts.

GreenPan Tel: 01483 255842 Web: www.greenpan.co.uk Hall 3.1 Stand D30

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Against the creative backdrop of a freshly re-designed stand, Tradestock will showcase new additions to its award-winning FreeForm® brand, with a particular focus on unique and innovative designs for inspired table dressing. Offering something truly different are these luxury petal shaped placemats. Their creative and unusual shape is designed to accommodate a complete setting, including glassware, and with eight reversible colourways providing a total of 16 colour options, there is certain to be one to suit all styles and tastes.

Tradestock Tel: 01823 661717 Hall 1.2 Stand J07

Long standing and illustrious cutlery brand Viners, brings a fresh, edgy, fashion led look in the form of the new chocolate inspired range. Pier-°©�headed by two designs Contour and Nala, these bold new creations sport a luxurious chocolate titanium coating. Contour stays true to its name through its smooth, contoured edges allowing you to hold the set comfortably, whilst the knife is uniquely designed to stand upright. Nala boasts an unusual ombre effect, blending from long, elegant matt handles, out to a bright mirror polish. Both designs bring a current and modern look to the home.

Rayware Group Tel: 0151 4861888 Web: www.rayware.co.uk Hall 1.1 Stand A71

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As a leader in Cutlery innovation, Elia is pleased to launch its new Stemme cutlery range. Perfectly balanced, Stemme cutlery elevates the dining experience in any setting.

Featuring gentle curves and a tapered finish for an elegant and comfortable hold in the hand. Expertly forged and highly polished in 18/10 mirrorfinish Stainless Steel, Stemme comprises eight-pieces for a full table setting.

Elia International Tel: 020 8998 2100 E-mail: sales@elia.co.uk Web: www.elia.co.uk Hall 4.1 Stand A74

For the latest in contemporary kitchen accessorising, the launch of the new Industrial Kitchen Collection offers style and function, where reclaimed natural materials have been imaginatively handcrafted across a selection of accessories and storage solutions. The 15-strong collection includes wall and ceiling mounted pot racks, scales, mango wood butchers blocks and trivets, wine rack, knife block set and these airtight canisters, which feature a powder coated interior for safe food storage and easy cleaning.

Kitchen Craft Tel: 0121 604 1111 E-mail: sales@kitchencraft.co.uk Web: www.kitchencraft.co.uk Hall1.1 Stand B70 & B71

Heritage brand Mason Cash continues to maintain a timeless collection, while adding versatility and modern touches. This spring summer, it welcomes multi-°©�functionality to a wealth of trusted products, introducing the Innovative kitchen utensils. Each one of the beech wood tools is perfect for multiple tasks in hand.

Rayware Group Tel: 0151 4861888 Web: www.rayware.co.uk Hall 1.1 Stand A71

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New for 2017 is Denby ‘Craft’; the epitome of Denby’s artisan, hand-crafting skills and stunning textural glazes perfected over 200 years and re-invented for a modern audience. Inspired by the trend for a natural, authentic aesthetic in the home (known as the ‘New Rustic’) four tonal glazes feature on earthy, informal shapes for mid-week dining and relaxed entertaining with friends. Available in packaged sets or individually statement items include ridged bowls and cheese plates.

Denby Tel: 01773 740715� Web: www.denby.co.uk Hall 4.1 Stand B21

Introducing the new “Opera” CrushGrind® mills available in Ash and Antique Beech. These sophisticated salt and pepper mills each contain the superior CrushGrind® ceramic mechanism, which effortlessly grinds not only salt and pepper but also using the same grinder, whole dried herbs and spices, perfect for blending your own spices. The ceramic mechanism/grinder is fully adjustable with over 12 settings to grind from fine to coarse grain. In addition these mills are without spindle, making them easy to fill. Each of these new mills comes git-boxed making them the perfect present and wedding gift!

T&G Tel: 01275 841841 Web: www.tg-woodware.com Hall 1.2 Stand A50

On the success of Cerastone™ ceramic non-stick coated Graphite range and meeting international demand, the all new Gold collection is now available for the UK market. The metallic finish enhances the brilliance when on display or in use in a kitchen space. As part of the professional cookware range with a 4mm edge and robust 2mm body, the forged pans offer best in class non-stick properties requiring little or no oil and are suitable for all hob types. A 28cm gold Saute Pan with Infuser Lid, a 25cm grill pan, a 28cm 3-in-1 and 2-in-1 pan is soon to join the exciting collection.

Tower Tel: 0333 220 6070 E-mail: sales@rkwltd.co

Pictured is the new Cook and Go storage range from Pyrex - the perfect partner for meal prepping. With three different shapes and seven sizes to choose from, Cook and Go provides the perfect solution to safely cooking food, storing whilst retaining maximum freshness and enjoying on the go. The products can be used in the oven and microwave (without the plastic lid), as well as to store in the fridge or freezer (with the plastic lid). All elements are dishwasher safe and the scratch/ stain resistant glass allows Cook and Go to be used in an everyday routine.

Pyrex Tel: 01564 786 030 E-mail: contact.pyrexuk@intl-cookware.com Web: www.pyrexuk.com Hall 3.0 Stand D41 This spring summer Typhoon welcomes the stowaway storage, a versatile range, which can be used to hold bread, pasta, flour and cakes for the kitchen.

With inspiration taken from vintage era travel trunks, they can also be used as decorative storage to tidy away keepsakes. The storage also has an airtight seal to keep contents fresh.

Interchangeable and blank labels are included to provide a quirky look to the range, giving you a choice of how you wish to organize your storage.

Rayware Group Tel: 0151 4861888 Web: www.rayware.co.uk Hall 1.1 Stand A71

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SHOPTALK

Guest columnist: Tom Carter of Potters’ Cookshop, Hockley

Building business W

ell the answer to that is ‘yes’, we are very happy, thankfully! With all the uncertainty surrounding Brexit, we did have a few nerves but after the success of the shop and our ever growing website, we have a lot to be happy about. Don’t get me wrong, there were quite a few problems along the way (and at times you do question what direction you are going in) but in the end we managed to be up on the year by a very good margin and that is the most important point.

Sure we know times could get a lot tougher, especially with all the price increases coming through from what it seems to be every supplier. You can’t pass every one of these onto the customer so you have to absorb some of them yourselves which in effect cuts your profit margin.

Now onto 2017 and after spending the last week tackling the joys of stocktake I’m about to start on our Cookshop extension, finally! This should have been completed in Spring, Summer, Autumn 2016 but due to some tenants taking an eternity to move it has

Above: Ready for business, despite the new extension works behind the scenes - Tom Carter, director, Potters of Hockley.

Right: A view of Potters’ Cookshop shopfront.

So here I am sitting in my office after the madness of Christmas, thinking back to how the last year was. Did everything go to plan?

What could we have improved on or were we happy with how it all panned out? put us back to now. I admit that going from the usual Christmas pressure to signing off building plans, signage designs and a new kitchen demo area has been a challenge over the past few weeks!

We now have the very complex issue of removing a wall connecting the original shop to the new area while remaining open! I have to ‘home’ 12 bays of stock somewhere else to allow the builders to build a false wall so all the work is completed behind the scenes, causing as little disruption to the customers as possible. We know there are some very long days and weekends to come but the end result will be worth it. We are using the same project managing company who did our last two extensions and I have to say they are very good with what are ‘not very straightforward works’!

New signage has been a nightmare to get right. We wanted canopies along the whole front of the shop but hit every issue possible and after nine months of getting nowhere we are going to ‘plan B’ which will be electric blinds.

This will help the customers from being blinded by the sun when they try to shop!

If all goes to plan then we are aiming for

an Easter launch with a whole week of special events planned. These will include demos, special offers on different brands each day, raffle prizes and then a big finish with a celebrity on the Saturday. Who this celebrity will be I have no idea at the moment but obviously they need to be cooking related. We would love Jamie Oliver with him being a local lad and his Aunt and Uncle coming into the shop regularly, but this would be highly unlikely. Can anyone help with that?!

Our demo kitchen is going to receive a makeover. The biggest change will be more space allowing us to have a larger audience for demos and VIP evenings. We can only fit 35 people in at our VIP nights at the moment but with demand for them being so high we will be able to increase this to 60 (no pressure on Al doing the demos!) When the area isn’t being used it will be set up as a coffee bar where we can demo a coffee machine at any point for the customer. All staff will be highly trained on these.

Stock is a key area and Spring Fair is coming at the perfect time for us. We are there every day and hope there will be new and inspirational ideas there to help us take the shop to the next level. Cookware and bakeware is an area we are looking to vastly increase as we are still seeing a huge demand from the general public.

Again, the support we have received from the industry has been really fantastic and I cannot thank everyone enough, we know they will be on hand again to help us with the new extension exciting times ahead!

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What's Cooking Editorial_50-51 18/01/2017 17:03 Page 1

What’s Cooking?

For starting out?

Four independent cookshops reveal their bestsellers for those starting out in their first kitchens, including students, and those learning to cook.

Maureen Hooker, retail manager, Bakers & Larners, Holt Situated in a market town, Bakers & Larners is an award winning family run department store, which has been in the same family since 1770.

Accents Sear & Stew Slow Cooker from Morphy Richards Judge Three Piece Steamer from Horwood Stellar 7000 Non-Stick Sauteuse from Horwood Masterclass Bakeware from Kitchen Craft

A versatile addition to a new kitchen – this hob proof cooking pot with 3.5L capacity and three heat settings comes with some great recipes included. It also has a two year guarantee.

Available in five sizes, 18/10 stainless steel, this is a real must in the kitchen. Double sided handles, base pan can be used as a casserole. It is suitable for all hobs.

One of my favourites. This can double as a frypan. It has a great non-stick which carries a 10- year guarantee.

Use this and it tells its own story. PFOA, PTFE and BPA free, with a two year guarantee.

Sensixx B1 Iron from Bosch

Very popular iron with an easy glide soleplate.

2.5m cord, non-drip, light to hold.

Easy to fill and pour with a limescale filter, boil dry protection and dual window, at a great price.

1.6L, 3kw Electric Jug Kettle from Kenwood

Right: A great addition to any kitchen, and the perfect solution for those households that are short on time the Accents Sear & Stew Slow Cooker will create hearty meals with no fuss!

Right: Bosch’s Sensixx B1 Iron allows easy ironing at a price that won’t break the bank.

David Goodenough, co-owner, The Good Cook Shop, Worthing Trading for nearly 15 years, with a shop on the south coast and online, The Good Cookshop “maintains the good old values of choice and customer service, while also meeting the demands and challenges of the changing retail environment.”

Gastromax Heatproof Utensils from PHA Kitchessentials Dexam Supreme Non-stick Frying pan 24cm from Dexam Wusthof Kitchen Surfer 4 from Haus

This is great range of tools, heatproof, dishwasher safe and under £5.

A good quality non-stick frying pan at a sensible price; what makes it stand out is that it is induction compatible.

Brilliant starter knife, the design makes it multipurpose so you can do most preparation tasks with just one knife. The promotional price point means you can afford a top of the range knife on a limited budget.

Sola Spice Mill from T&G

Sold as spice mills, these are just as good for salt and pepper too. An inexpensive way to obtain excellent mills with a lifetime guarantee.

Cooks Basic Double Oven Glove Ffom ICTC

Does exactly what it says on the label. The design is simple, effective and essential for any kitchen.

Coloured Cutting Boards from Grunwerg

A generous size and available in a range of colours, you get a whole lot of chopping board for your money.

Left: Chop away with these generoussized chopping boards from Grunwerg infuse some colour into the kitchen too!

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Right: T&G’s Sola Spice Mills will grind your favourite spices to perfection, and can be used for salt and pepper two get more for your money!

What's Cooking Editorial_50-51 18/01/2017 17:03 Page 2

What’s Cooking?

Liz Murray, owner, The Cookcraft Kitchen Shop, Berwick upon Tweed A small specialist cookshop with a wide range of good quality kitchenware, situated at the very northernmost tip of England, with plans to relocate and expand.

Two of my teenage boys are on the brink of university this year so what they will need is at

Colori Paring and Cook’s Knives from Kuhn Rikon

the forefront of my maternal consciousness. The Colori range comes with a sheath for easy storage and is sharper than a student's cunning brain.

Useful for porridge, scrambled egg (no bowl required, eat straight out of the pan), plus soup,

Cucina Small Non-Stick Milk Pan from Kuhn Rikon

custard, hot chocolate and so forth. Multi-tasking pieces are always worth the investment when you're pressed for storage, money, imagination and supermarkets.

Scanpan Mini Wok or Chef/Saute Pan with Lid from Haus

This doubles as a saucepan so works for pasta, stir fry, curry or risotto.

Silicone Spoon Spatula from Kuhn Rikon or

This replaces the wooden spoon, and is less unhygienic if left unwashed for three or four

Mastrad

days/weeks (but have a wooden spoon too if you can, as, actually, nothing really replaces a wooden spoon.)

Ovenproof Omelette Pan/Frypan from Lodge (in cast iron) from Eddingtons, Scanpan's Classic from Haus, or Little Gem (Delia) Pan from Silverwood.

OXO Good Grips Tin Opener from OXO

Fry-ups, obviously, but for the more ambitious: toad in the hole, frittata, tarte tatin, pasta bake, even a sponge cake.

By golly, yes – it is the obvious essential!

Right: This versatile non-stick milk pan from Kuhn Rikon is perfect for a myriad of tasks on the hob - be it making porridge or heating up soup or custard, this no nonsense pan is a musthave item!

Right:An absolute kitchen essential for those starting out! Oxo’s Good Grips Tin Opener will get the job done right!

Janet Denning, manager and buyer, Butler’s Pantry, Holt Cookshop situated in a courtyard of mostly independent shops and restaurants.

3-Cup LeXpress Cafetière from Kitchen Craft

The chrome body makes it a contemporary addition for any starter kitchen and replacement jugs are available.

Rainbow Crockery from Something Differemt Masterclass 18cm (2L) Saucepan from Kitchen Craft Victorinox Paring Knives from Burton McCall Myrtle Turtle Grater from Eddingtons Culinare MagiCan Can Opener from DKB Household

Bright and cheerful and, from only £3.50 for a mug, it's incredibly affordable. .

Heavy duty, non-stick, suitable for most cooker tops and dishwasher friendly. A good quality starter pan. .Swiss made. Sharp, sharp, sharp! The perfect little knife for any budding or established chef.

Quirky and functional! Grates the cheese so it is really fluffy!

Good quality all rounder and removes the whole lid making it a safe product to use.

Left: Rainbow crockery from Something Different adds fun and colour to the home - and at reasonable prices, you can really splash out on the full set!

Above: A functional and striking looking plastic grater that is also ideal for children who are learning to cook, or for use as a cheese grater at the table.

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What's Cooking page 56_Layout 1 17/01/2017 16:43 Page 1

What’s Cooking for

starting out?

The Witt Mycook Touch is the perfect way to try out your favourite recipes; the touch screen connectivity and amazing versatility that means you can choose from 1000’s of recipes to fry, steam, boil, chop, blend and stir to create your favourite meals using induction technology!

Witt UK & Ireland Bo Simonsen Tel: 01483 516633 E-mail: bo@witt-ltd.com Web: www.witt.zone

Eddingtons introduces the perfect solution for healthy food in a hurry. Make the perfect omelette in just two minutes with the Microwave Omelette Maker, and for perfectly poached eggs try the Microwave Egg Poacher (set of two). Both products are ideal if you are in a hurry, or just starting out in the kitchen. Both products are lightweight and durable in design with easy clean properties.

Dishwasher Safe Eddingtons Tel: 01488 686572 E-mail: sales@eddingtons.co.uk Web: www.eddingtons.co.uk

Starting out can be a daunting and expensive business, but Colourworks is the ultimate brand to provide easy style, colour and impact and with ‘easy-on-the-pocket’ price points you can have an amazingly kitted first kitchen without breaking the bank! Amidst an incredibly wide-ranging collection of tools, gadgets, accessories and cookware are these nonstick carbon steel woks an essential for quick and easy cooking. They are high heat resistant with a chemical fee, environmentally friendly durable non-stick coating and feature an all-important induction safe base and riveted handles.

Kitchen Craft Tel: 0121 604 1111 E-mail: sales@kitchencraft.co.uk Web: www.kitchencraft.co.uk

Transform your cooking with colour with POP, Prestige’s colourful cookware, tools and gadgets collection. Designed to brighten up your kitchenware, this unique and on-trend range is accented with a vibrant pop of colour for easy identification. POP’s colour coding is the key to great cooking for novice cooks and is designed to bring out the best in each dish. POP also features Prestige’s product benefits including quality aluminium for durability and even heat distribution; the range is suitable for all cooker types excluding induction and is also dishwasher proof.

Meyer Group Web: www.prestige.co.uk

Due to the success of the initial range launch, a Wok Set has now been added to the School of Wok collection. It comes with a 12” non-stick wok, bamboo spatula, two pairs of coloured chopsticks and is therefore ideal for creating easy to cook, quick and healthy meals with plenty of inspiration from the abridged version of Jeremy Pang’s cookbook, Chinese Unchopped, which is also included.

Dexam Tel: 01730 811 811 E-mail: sales@dexam.co.uk

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Top Drawer Review_Top Drawer Review 19/01/2017 11:18 Page 57

The Fred stand was a veritable focal point of fun as a host of new rib-tickling gifts centred around home, party and kids were launched. Getting the party started were these new Good Measure glasses - a selection of four 450ml measuring glasses which are printed with seven delectable cocktail recipes that are sure to turn you into the most-exacting mixologist. They are available in four individual styles focusing on recipes for Beer, Gin, Vodka, and the all-important remedy for Hangover!

Fred at Kitchen Craft Tel: 0121 604 1111 E-mail: sales@kitchencraft.co.uk Web: www.kitchencraft.co.uk/fred

Embossed with a rippling faceted pattern, White Basics Diamonds includes a range of classic dinnerware shapes and a selection of signature pieces, all with the natural beauty of prestige porcelain. Elegant as a matched set, this collection can also be paired with other White Basics pieces to create texture on your tabletop. Made from prestige porcelain, White Basics Diamonds is microwave, oven and dishwasher safe.

Valerie Graham Tel: 020 8200 5100 E-mail: sales@valerie-graham.co.uk

REVIEW

From the designers of children’s brand TUM TUM comes YUM YUM (pictured), an exciting new range of out and about products for dining on the move. The range includes a roomy lunch bag with reflective silver lining, a 350ml thermal drinks flask, a 710ml water bottle, an innovative lunch set with removable dipping pot and a set of four nesting snack boxes in a contemporary seagull design.

PHA KitchEssentials.

Tel: 0151 651 2265 E-mail: sales@phassocs.co.uk Web: www.phakitchenessentials.co.uk

The new Charles Viancin Watermelon Lids are made from BPA free, food grade silicone with an air-tight and water-tight seal, preventing spills when cooking, as well as keeping food fresher for longer in the fridge or when using outdoors. These innovative new lids are food, microwave, stovetop, oven and freezer safe, and double-up as an effective splatter guard, steamer or bowl cover. Also available in this collection are the new Watermelon Drinks Covers perfect for keeping bugs away when used outdoors, and also to keep warm drinks hotter for longer.

Charles Viancin Tel: 01280 841333 E-mail: salesuk@charlesviancin.com Web: www.charlesviancin.com

New Aloha by Maxwell & Williams is a playful addition to Valerie Graham’s range of dispensers.

Perfect for summer entertaining, the faceted glass dispenser and cups look stunning when filled with your favourite tropical cocktail or juices. The Aloha Drink Dispenser and Cups are gift boxed for a thoughtful present for loved ones this summer.

Valerie Graham Tel: 020 8200 5100 E-mail: sales@valerie-graham.co.uk

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New Products p58-59_New Products 11/01/2017 19:25 Page 1

new

products

Cole & Mason introduces its range of Racing mills, beautifully designed in a combination of acrylic and brushed stainless steel, they suit every kitchen style. Five new designs have been created in differing heights and styles thus offering an eclectic mix of options to suit today’s consumer. All have been named after famous English racecourses in celebration of the brands unique English heritage. Each mill comes with a lifetime guarantee.

DKB Tel: 01252 522322 E-mail: sales.orders@dkbrands.co.uk

Eddingtons introduces another charming range of eggcups, inspired by the beautiful Berkshire countryside. Styles include the classic Blue and White stripe, Cream Vintage Hens and Country Hares in beautiful pastel tones, each sold as a set of four. And last but by no means least, is the addition of the set of two Flower Pot Egg Cups. Made from terracotta and complete with a pair of stainless steel Gardeners Shovels, this set is the perfect gift for any budding gardener.

Eddingtons Tel: 01488 686572 E-mail: sales@eddingtons.co.uk Web: www.eddingtons.co.uk

With our increasingly busy lives, now is the perfect time for the revival of these vintage classics. This lap table is perfect for TV dinners and craftwork or as a surface for children to draw or do puzzles. You can work from your favourite armchair or even from bed with this sturdy lap table to hold your laptop, tablet and mobile. Made from marble imitate, both tray and table are easy to wipe clean. The attractive, brass-coloured surround of anodised aluminium is strong and durable and the table’s legs fold down smoothly for easy storing.

Horwood Tel: 0117 940 0000 E-mail: sales@horwood.co.uk Web: www.judgecookware.co.uk

Featured is the new MasterClass five-piece burnished brass effect Knife Set with Storage Block from Kitchen Craft. This striking set features five essential sized and shaped kitchen knives in a unique matt brass coloured coating. Beautifully contrasting with the black wooden storage block with inset brass coloured base, each knife is made from high quality stainless steel with a taper ground cutting edge for superior cutting performance.

The knives also have flared bolsters and have been weighted and balanced for easy and comfortable cutting.

Kitchen Craft Tel: 0121 604 1111 E-mail: sales@kitchencraft.co.uk Web: www.kitchencraft.co.uk New to the Jamie Oliver range for 2017 is a collection of ceramic storage containers.

The range includes three sizes of stackable jar with an acacia wood lid and integrated seal for freshness. The hand crafted range is finished in a tasteful two tone white and mid grey matt glaze - these are complimented by a matching salt pig.

DKB Tel: 01252 522322 E-mail: sales.orders@dkbrands.co.uk

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New Products p58-59_New Products 11/01/2017 19:26 Page 2

new The Zyliss ‘Control’ range of knives have two inbuilt patented touch points to support the user for more control. The knives are manufactured from high-grade German stainless steel, they are dishwasher safe, feature anti-bacterial agents in the handle, which kill 99.9% of all germs, and are guaranteed for 25 years. The Zyliss Control knife handle is designed to fit a variety of hand sizes and includes soft touch grip points on the underside resulting in great control. The Range includes 10 popular sizes and is complimented by a five-piece acacia wood block.

DKB Tel: 01252 522322 E-mail: sales.orders@dkbrands.co.uk

products

The clever minds at Décor have your hydration needs covered with their latest range of stylish drink bottles. Taking inspiration from global lifestyle trends, the range offers a variety of materials, styles and colours. The durable tritan plastic and crystal clear glass bottles are BPA free, odour resistant and dishwasher safe. Hitting the gym, going for a walk or simply heading to work – Décor’s new range of drink bottles has you covered!

Scott Brothers Tel: 01477 539500

Keeping things in the home as natural as possible is high on everyone’s agenda these days - this includes daily care and cleaning products. Ladelle is excited to launch its new all-natural cleaning and care range made from hard working plant extracts and essential oils. Made in Australia, the range allows you to care for yourself, your home and the planet in the most natural way possible. No toxic chemicals, just hand working natural and organic ingredients to get the job done.

Ladelle Tel: 020 3755 3135 E-mail: Customerservice.uk@ladelle.com Web: www.ladelle.com Spring Fair Hall 9 B52-C53

CellarDine is pleased to launch the new Zap Cap bottle tops.

Made from silicone, they are ideal for identifying bottles at any party, BBQ or home entertaining event - plus they’re perfect for stopping insects from crawling inside the bottle and can help to prevent the spiking of drinks. Six mixed colours per set prepacked on a clip strip.

PHA Kitchessentials Tel: 0151 651 2265 E-mail: sales@phassocs.co.uk

Welsh Slateware now has an extensive range of presentation products, quarried, designed and hand-crafted completely in the UK. The contemporary Fine collection includes a large selection of serving platters like the Fish design pictured here as well as items like placemats, coasters and cake stand. All products are available gift-packaged with swing tags.

Welsh Slateware Tel: 01248 604218 E-mail: enquiries@slateware.co.uk or info@luxury-housewares.com

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ROCKINGHAM FOREST IGL · SHEFFIELD · ENGLAND

Quality boards for quality knives www. rockinghamforestboards.co.uk

OBC_HW_Jan Feb 2017.indd 1

@I.Grunwerg

@IGrunwerg

19/01/2017 15:47