Progressive Housewares - January/February 2018

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K I T C H E N WA R E COLLECTION NEW FOR 2018

M E Y E R

E X C L U S I V E

2018 could be your healthiest ever year for sales.

All thanks to Joe Wicks, the online Lean in 15 superstar and #1 author. Joe has transformed hundreds of thousands of people with the help of his 90 Day Plan and best-selling cook books and now he’s ready to take the fight into the kitchen - with his own range of top quality cookware and kitchen equipment, exclusively designed in partnership with Meyer.

Joe has been heavily involved in the development of his kitchenware collection which includes pan sets, bakeware and utensils - all the tools you need to prepare his trademark lean recipes.

Joe has a loyal and devoted fanbase, having sold over 2 Million books to date and a social network of over 5 Million followers.

With his new book The Fat Loss Plan already at Number 1, 2018 looks set to be Joe’s biggest year yet.

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www.max-publishing.co.uk INVENTIONS FOR THE HOME At Joseph Joseph we love solving everyday problems through intelligent design. Be it for the kitchen, bathroom or utility room, we apply the same inventive thinking to everything we do. Our mission is to create desirable products that enhance everyday life and stay true to our philosophy of creating Brilliantly Useful Design. This spring we’re launching our most comprehensive range of products to date. Key innovations include a brand new collection of kitchen gadgets, for preparing everything from avocados to zucchini; a stunning dry food storage solution, which takes stacking to a whole new level; and an expanded range of practical but smart utility products, all designed to keep a variety of kitchen essentials in order. We’ve also taken some of our biggest-selling chopping board designs and reimagined them in beautiful, natural bamboo. For more information contact info@josephjoseph.com

2018 y 2018 F b Januaryy / February

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 I

don’t know about you, but I for one was quite glad to see the back of last year. I finished a course of radiotherapy treatment in January (unexpected but necessary following three lots of surgery since my diagnosis of breast cancer in June). So with the hospital treatment behind me, I am hoping for a healthier 2018, complete with a host of healthier approaches to living! These include my turmeric-rich immune boosting drink, less sugar (thankfully dark chocolate has health benefits) and plenty of antioxidant-rich green tea.

Reading some of the food predictions for 2018, I am ‘on trend’ with foodie developments!

According to Yorkshire based food supplier, Eurostar Commodities, turmeric will be ‘centre stage as a named and lead ingredient’ in recipes this year, thanks to its pungent flavour and powerful medical properties. Sugars and binders are being replaced by chicory and fibre, and vegetable power continues to grow, with pizza bases made from vegetable flours such as beetroot and spinach.

Above: Cheers! Here's to turmeric and green tea (says PH's Jo Howard).

Other top food trends for 2018 (according to Eurostar’s report) include Asian Fusion Cuisine, with homemade sushi much more prevalent (and products like pho – Vietnamese noodles – more accessible to buy) as well as increasing preference for brown rice. So how can these trends translate in to cookshops and housewares retailers?

Demand for bowls fit for Asian Fusion continue to rise (see ‘Bowled over’, our tableware feature on pages 44-45), with plenty of newness at the spring trade shows. Retailers’ displays will soon look east with Chinese New Year, so perhaps these will take a ‘fusion’ approach with some East meets West recipe examples? Besides this, in-store product demonstrations could make some striking examples of purple and green (beetroot and spinach based) pizzas, or some of those elusive ‘have your cake and eat it’ examples of healthy but tasty snacks. There could also be opportunities to de-mystify the art of sushi making with some workshops for customers.

My health-boosting tea drinking is also a trend, as highlighted by suppliers of tea making products – we take a look at developments in tea and coffee on pages 38-41. I hope to share a cuppa (it doesn’t have to be green) at Spring Fair. It is my first outing since Exclusively, so I look forward to pulling up a chair or two (some sitting down is compulsory) and catching up!

Enjoy our show news and previews (Spring Fair from pages 24-29, and Ambiente from pages 34-37).

The team at Progressive Housewares wishes you a fruitful buying season and a prosperous year ahead.

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.

Jo Howard

Editor

In this issue in house JO HOWARD Editor joh@max-publishing.co.uk SUE MARKS Acting Editor sue@suemarks.co.uk WARREN LOMAX Publishing director warren@max-publishing.co.uk JAKKI BROWN Editorial director jw@max-publishing.co.uk EMMA CAIN Product page editor emmac@max-publishing.co.uk PATRICK WADE Advertisement director mediap@aol.com MARK GRAYSON Creative director markg@max-publishing.co.uk

5-19

News

42-43 Retailer focus: Steamer Trading

20

bira Cookshop & Housewares news

44-46 Market focus: tableware

21

BHETA news

47

23

Holly’s Wilson’s From the frontline

48-49 Retailer focus: UK gia winner, Harrods

Top Drawer review

24-29 Spring Fair preview

50-51

What’s cooking for Mother’s Day?

30- 33 Food for thought: State of the nation

52-53 Product focus: Mother’s Day gifts 54-55 Face to face: Rob Jones, Horwood

34-37 Ambiente preview 56-57 New products 38-41

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Debuting January 2018, Tower’s Rose Gold range is comprised of three unique lines, each available in colour-matching sets in a choice of two colours. Including both electrical and kitchenware products, this new collection features elegant, on-trend rose gold accents which elevate the style of your kitchen with a hint of contemporary style.

See the whole range on our website at www.towerhousewares.co.uk or check us out on social media @TowerHousewares

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Spring Fair looks into the future

Above: G&Tea Cocktail Set from Root 7.

Gift of the Year for foodies The finalists of Gift of the Year Awards (GOTY) feature a host of kitchenware, tableware and barware products. GOTY winners will be announced on Sunday February 4 at a special event to be held during Spring Fair. Commemorating the competition's 40th year, it will be hosted by impersonator and comedian Rory Bremner, and will take place at The Vox. Kitchen & Dining finalists are: Aprons Made from Old Denim by Ian Snow, New Soda’s Big Peeler, Orbit Centre from Sue Ure Maison, and Sara Miller – the Chelsea Collection from Portmeirion Group. Other finalists include the G&Tea Cocktail Set from Root 7 and Mystery Message Mug from Wow stuff – both in the Hot Novelty category – the Hand-decorated Gin Glass from Sunny by Sue in the General Gift category, and Gift Republic’s Flamingo Bottle Opener in the Under £10 category. For those that like to dine al fresco, Fallen Fruit’s Green Picnic range is one of the Garden & Outdoor finalists.

The Gift Food finalists include The Big Cheese Making Kit’s Ultimate Cheese Making Kit and the XL Homemade Curing Kit (Bacon) from Ross & Ross Food.

GOTY is organised by The Giftware Association.

Decco at Spring Fair Leading home improvement and garden wholesaler Decco is exhibiting at Spring Fair (Hall 10; stand C15) for the first time. This new venture reflects Decco’s commitment to providing independent housewares and garden stockists an array of leading brands, including Addis, Fiskars and STV. The wholesaler has also printed over a million copies of its Fair and Square Spring brochure.

Fair and Square is Decco’s flagship marketing programme for supporting independent retailers. Each Fair and Square campaign includes over 200 seasonal items including household and laundry, cook and bake.

Spring Fair (February 4-8* at the NEC, Birmingham) is set to reveal a host of new housewares launches in Hall 9’s Kitchen & Dining, backed by some celebrity appearances, including James Martin (due to visit Horwood’s stand on February 6) and The Body Coach, Joe Wicks (see linked story).

Among the show’s highlights will be The Atelier, a brand new immersive, interactive feature. It will reveal big-screen videos to show visitors what's new, what's trending now, and what the trends will be in 2019 and 2020, as well as how to make it work for their businesses.

The series of exclusive films, based on insights from industry-leading trend forecasters and platforms – WGSN, Pinterest, One Click Retail and Coloro Above: New picnicware additions to who will be presenting insights across a wide Folk by Katie Alice, from Creative range of product categories, as well as highlighting future Festival Tops, are among the Spring Fair launches. colour trends.

Four walk-in installations will feature real store interiors using products from Spring Fair exhibitors, curated by the show’s visual merchandiser.

“This is one of the most daring and exciting features we have ever launched at Spring Fair," enthuses Spring Fair’s head of content Sophy Searight. "The Atelier will give our audience the confidence that what they’re purchasing at the show will be on-trend in the future. It will also present great examples of how to diversify into new categories and make their businesses more profitable.”

Installations will include the opportunity for visitors to travel through time in Hall 20, where they can learn about home and gift trends through four different room settings.

Each one will focus on a different time frames ranging from now until 2020. (See linked stories and Spring Fair preview, pages 24-29).

Visit www.springfair.com (*The Volume halls will be opening a day earlier).

Joe joins Meyer at Spring Fair Meyer Group will launch its new partnership with The Body Coach, Joe Wicks at Spring Fair, with Joe demonstrating his new range on the Meyer stand (9F50-G51) on Monday February 5 at 10.30am, followed by a brief Q and A session.

Working closely with Joe, Meyer has created a wide range of products for the entire kitchen environment. Items will include cookware using materials such as hard anodized, stainless steel and premium aluminium, as well as tools and gadgets, bakeware, knives and storage items – all fitting Joe’s philosophy of creating quick, easy and healthy meals.

The range will be available from August 2018.

Jens Drinkwater, licensing manager at Global Merchandising Services, the worldwide licensing agent for Joe Wicks, said: “We are extremely excited to announce this partnership which will be a key part in the development of Joe’s extensive licensing programme.” She continued: “Meyer is a world leader in cookware and the perfect partner for Joe to work together with on his exciting kitchenware collection.”

Joe is the UK’s first Instagram superstar, author of the second bestselling cookbook of all time, has a number 1 fitness DVD, his own TV series on Channel 4 and is the creator of the UK’s biggest tailored weight loss programme: The 90 Day plan. His Lean In 15 books were the most ordered item on Amazon Prime in the last Inset: In a new partnership with decade and, in 2016, he became the first non-fiction Meyer Group, Joe Wicks will make it easier for his legions of loyal author to have three simultaneous top selling publications. followers to create simple, healthier food. Photo by Conor McDonnell.

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1908 - 2018

110 years of Swiss excellence, bottled.

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Christmas winners and losers Above: Chris Lynn-Thomas, pictured at last year’s Spring Fair.

Online boost Independent cookshop owner, Chris LynnThomas of Kooks Unlimited reflected on a positive Christmas overall, stating: “We ended up slightly up on last year, but that was only due to our online business as footfall was down.”

Chris continued: “The whole concept of Christmas shopping has changed beyond all recognition - the impact of Black Friday, the public’s expectation of retailers having sales before Christmas and customers thinking nothing of asking you to price match.” She added: “I’d like to think the answer would be for John Lewis to raise its prices so we all could too, but someone will always be there to undercut online.”

Chris concluded: “That said, Trouva, of which we are a founding member, served us well this Christmas and our sales were up 400% through the portal. We even had an order to ship two pestle and mortars to Australia, which would not have made sense for us to do without being on Trouva.”

Inset: John Lewis is benefiting from customer events.

Customer events boost for John Lewis John Lewis has linked the success of its popular shop experiences including many John Lewis customer Christmas events to good results over Christmas. These events saw a 15% increase in attendance and an 18% uplift in sales compared to last year.

The department store’s gross sales were £1,034m, up 3.6% versus last year and up 3.1% on a like-for-like basis (for the six weeks ending December 30), although Home was down 0.3% as customers were reportedly more cautious about bigger purchases for their homes.

Busy in the Highlands Christmas trade was “really busy” at Highland Industrial Supplies, Inverness, reports housewares manager Lesley Murray, with a lot of stock sold through by January. Christmas bestsellers at Highland Industrial Supplies included Just Slate, Stellar cookware “for cooking Christmas dinner” and cutlery from Maxwell & Williams. The store caters for a large number of loyal regular customers.

With Christmas a mixed bag for many cookshop and housewares retailers, (see linked comments), there was a stark contrast in evidence on the high street. While John Lewis (see linked story), Next and Poundland all saw bumper sales in the run up to Christmas there was far less Christmas cheer for other high street multiples.

Debenhams was among those to take a hit; at the time of going to press (mid January), a profit warning has been issued by the retailer, with plans afoot to cut £10 million in costs. However, although 10 of its stores may close, there is no indication that any further stores will be shutting Above: House of Fraser Glasgow. their doors.

House of Fraser too, which also saw disappointing sales over Christmas, will be axing failing stores, and/or reducing the size of others. Marks & Spencer saw sales decrease in its general merchandise division, which includes housewares.

Analysing the Christmas trading period, Helen Dickinson OBE, chief executive of the British Retail Consortium (BRC) commented: “There was both light and dark in this year’s Christmas trading period. Growth in spending was in line with the, albeit modest, average for the year. However, the divergence between growth in sales of food and non-food has never been so stark.” She continued: “With inflation outpacing income growth, shoppers continued to see more of their spending power absorbed by essential items, including food, leaving less left over for buying Christmas gifts. That made this year’s festive period all the more nail-biting for non-food retailers, many of whom offered deep discounts in the last weeks before Christmas in the hope of something to celebrate at the end of a year, which has seen, on average, zero growth in non-food sales.”

Helen observed: “Retailers who did well in such a challenging environment got both their discounting strategy and omni-channel offerings right. Those who could offer and deliver on last minute delivery options did better, boosting online non-food sales more than 15% in the seven days before Christmas, a week when, until now, shoppers would have had to turn to stores to ensure gifts made it under the tree in time.” She added: “With spending likely to remain under severe pressure in the next few years, it’s imperative that in the forthcoming trade negotiations, the Government does all it can to avoid adding new tariffs to existing price pressures.” (For views on how the Brexit vote has affected the housewares industry so far, see Food for thought pages 30-33).

Right: Snow activities distracted shoppers during December!

Snow stops sales Snowstorms that were reported (on December 10) as the worst Britain had seen for four years had an impact on cookshop sales in many affected areas.

Businesses without electricity across the Midlands, South West and South Wales included busy outlet centre, Bicester Village (whose brands include Zwilling JA Henckels, Villeroy & Boch, Emma Bridgewater and Cath Kidston). The centre had to shut at midday on December 10.

The weekend of snowfall influenced sales at Cooks of Trentham, in the shopping destination, Trentham Village. Cooks' Tania Hillman notes that: “Christmas was quieter than last year, although not drastically. The Village has expanded so there are more places for customers to shop.”

However, Tania adds: “We had a very busy final week as many people were last minute shopping.”

Sam Luxford, general manager at The Mistley Kitchen in Mistley near Manningtree (with its cookery school and shop) reflects: “Like many others, we lost a couple of trading days with the snowy weekend, when only online retailers benefitted. Overall Christmas was pretty good, just slightly down on the previous year.”

At Trevor Mottram, Tunbridge Wells, December sales were 5% down compared to 2016, but rebounded dramatically in January, with a successful clearance sale (see Food for Thought comment, page 32). The retailer is about 4% up over the last seven months (without counting the sale).

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News Left: Successfully launched on Kickstarter - Eau Good Duo from Black + Blum.

TOP STORY

Making connections at Ambiente Black + Blum launches ‘revolutionary’ bottle Design company Black + Blum has launched a new sustainably designed dual-purpose water bottle on Kickstarter.

The Eau Good Duo is made with Eastman Tritan copolyester and combines form, function and sustainability, according to the company. Notably, the launch coincides with the rising awareness of the environmental impact of single-use bottles.

The bottle – which has already reached its financial target on the platform – went through 30 prototypes and nearly five alterations to the tool before Black + Blum perfected the shape.

It features a Binchotan charcoal filter stick, which removes impurities, softens water and adds good minerals such as calcium. Dan Black, co-founder and lead designer at Black + Baum, said the company was looking to “celebrate naturally clean or infused tap water in a sustainable bottle”.

“Tritan’s durability and taste neutrality are two reasons we love the material,” Dan continued. “The fact that it is made without BPA, BPS or other harmful chemicals is another key factor for us. We’re delighted to see such a fantastic response less than three weeks into the campaign.”

With the clock counting down to this year’s event, Messe Frankfurt has revealed a number of key initiatives for Ambiente.

An established highlight for visitors, this year’s Solutions show will include 29 products chosen

by London-based industrial designer, Sebastian Bergne – each having a special emphasis on practical design and a restrained shape.

A number of kitchen items have been included Inset: Ambiente 2017. in Sebastian’s choices. These include the Twisted Measuring Jug from Alessi which features an ascending inside spiral and the StirrTime Gravy Stirrer from Üutensil, which is on a tripod that rotates as if by magic.

Also part of the showcase will be the SensoRed range of frying pans and the Multitop cooking lid from Mono. All the selected products will be showcased at Ambiente, in the foyer of Hall 4.0, from February 9-13.

A new addition to Ambiente this year will be a Business Matchmaking programme (in English and German). Manufacturers and retailers can save specific search parameters on the website and will then be matched with the relevant parties.

Nicolette Naumann, divisional manager for Ambiente, explained: “Making the right contacts and finding new visitors or exhibitors has become a central issue for anyone coming to the trade fair. We are now a digital step ahead of this trend, offering our exhibitors and visitors an uncommon service – the Business Matchmaking Program – which gives them major added value, even during the run-up to Ambiente.”

Elsewhere, BlogUps will be aiming to show retailers and manufacturers at the show what’s important in networking on social media and the kind of opportunities it can create. Organised by blogger Michaela Hoechst-Lühr, BlogUps – Blog Up Your Business will provide advice on how bloggers can contribute to the marketing mix. It will be based on stand G41 in Hall 8.0.

Last February, Ambiente attracted over 142,000 visitors from 154 countries. “Ambiente is a meeting point for a wide range of exhibitors, offering a vast range of products and attracting high-calibre buyers from all over the world,” continued Nicolette. “So products are not only superbly showcased, but also discovered as sales hits and therefore ordered on site – which is exactly what companies would like to see. After all, it’s all about gaining business and opening up new markets for themselves.” (See Ambiente preview, pages 34-37).

Cups for life

What More’s success in the news

Following Theresa May’s announcement of her government strategy to end the “throwaway culture,” environment secretary, Michael Gove has made sure that all Government Cabinet ministers are setting a good example. All Cabinet members were given reusable coffee cups, after some had been spotted entering Number 10 Downing Street carrying disposable cups.

The start of January saw proposals in parliament for a ‘Latte Levy’ of 25p on coffee sold in disposable cups. The proposal is seen as good news by many in the housewares industry. Among those keen to encourage sales of reusable travel mugs, Vivienne Cudahy, md of Auteur (winner of the Excellence in Housewares Innovation in Product Award 2017 for the compact coffee cup, Stojo) states: ““with the huge media interest in the environment, it is a really exciting time for us to be developing sustainable products, such as Stojo and Hip, which are alternatives to single serve disposable options.” (See full comment in Food for thought page 33).

• PM Theresa May has pledged to eliminate all avoidable plastic waste within 25 years. Small retailers - employing less than 250 people, to include many cookshop retailers - will be made to charge customers the 5p plastic bag levy for single use carrier bags.

Currently, small shops are exempt.

In a news story focusing on the growth for UK manufacturing post the EU referendum, BBC Breakfast visited Lancashire based plastic and bakeware manufacturer, What More. The story highlighted how the weak £pound has made UK made goods more attractive in global markets. The BBC’s Steph McGovern spoke to What More ceo, Tony Grimshaw in the factory about the company’s impressive growth in exports beyond the EU, including rising demand for the Wham plastics brand in Korea. Tony noted that the weakness of sterling has increased the costs of imported raw materials for the manufacturing process.

What More won The Queen’s Award for Enterprise – International Trade in 2014, and Tony gained an OBE in recognition of his work in international export trade in 2016. What More exports to around 80 countries and supports the Made in Britain Campaign, enabling UK and overseas buyers and consumers to identify British-made products.

• For more on Brexit’s influence on the housewares industry so far, see Food for thought pages 30-33.

Left: Stojo from Auteur won the Excellence in Housewares Innovation in Product Award 2017.

Above: BBC Breakfast presenter, Steph McGovern taking to What More’s Tony Grimshaw.

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Left: Some Zyliss products.

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Eddingtons acquires Stow Green

Zyliss unveils brand relaunch Swiss kitchen gadget brand Zyliss is rolling out its brand relaunch this month. The company has partnered with kitchen and housewares design studio, Sebastian Conran Associates for the redesign of its collection, which will see over 20 key skus enhanced.

In addition, language on product packaging will be revamped, highlighting the simplicity for the user and the ergonomic features, which Zyliss believes will help it stand out at point of purchase. The packaging redesign will also improve the on-pack communications of key selling points. The rebranded Zyliss range will be showcased at Spring Fair to the UK trade.

Grant Race, director of marketing at Zyliss, explained: "We are really excited about the Zyliss relaunch, [we] have always had great performing products, but we felt that the time was right for a major refresh. Retailing is getting ever more competitive and brand stand out at point of purchase has never been more important.

“In the past, Zyliss refreshes have centred around evolution of a design language both in terms of product and packaging. This time we believed that we needed to go further - not so much evolution, but revolution.”

Grant continued: “We have been working hard to implement as clean a transition as we can, and with that said all 150 plus skus in the assortment have had the artwork updated.”

RETAIL

STARS

Housewares and gift supplier, Stow Green (founded in the heart of the Cotswolds in 1975 by Gordon Griffith) has become the latest addition to the Eddingtons portfolio.

The acquisition was completed in early January, bringing another dimension to Eddingtons’ established Food Service division now incorporating Gilberts, Epicurean Outdoor and the core base of Eddingtons’ Homewares business.

Key members of Stow Green have joined the Eddingtons team to continue to grow the sales of Stow Green products in existing and new customers. There will be both Eddingtons and Stow Green stands at Spring Fair, promising a host of new launches.

Roger Murphy, md of Eddingtons said, “We are delighted to have the opportunity to acquire Stow Green and its 40+ years of delivering great product and great service to a broad base of UK gifting and housewares customers. Gordon Griffith embodies the DNA Stow Green’s Peter of this business and we’re delighted to welcome both he and other members Above: Rabbit collection, is now of the Stow Green team to Eddingtons and to have them spearhead further available through Eddingtons. growth for this great brand.”

Stow Green brings a broad range of gift-able products from worktop savers, mugs and collectables as well as traditional basket and wicker-ware. The acquisition will also see wider distribution of the Stow Green Peter Rabbit licensed range that celebrates the iconic Beatrix Potter character. The range is expected to experience a boost with this year’s release of the Columbia Pictures Peter Rabbit film starring James Corden.

Flash, bang, what a product!

A new range of Flash household cleaning tools has launched in the UK and Ireland. UK manufacturer, What More has licensed the Flash brand from Procter & Gamble. The range complements the leading brand’s existing offer of cleaning liquids, sprays, wipes and Magic Erasers. Used together the new household tools and surface care products are said to maximise cleaning power and efficiency.

The launch range consists of five mops with a variety of compositions and a two-tone mop bucket with wringer. The five mops offer a variety of functions and vary from 30% to 100% microfibre content. The range of products will expand further in the second half of 2018.

Above: New Flash cleaning tools from What More UK.

In 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.

ANNIE PARKS, SALES ASSISTANT, FENWICK COLCHESTER “Annie has worked in the store now for 42 years and has spent the last 16 years in the cookware department, which has been her passion. Annie describes working in cookware as an Aladdin’s cave with lots of new products coming in to learn about and try out. She is always ready to pass on all of her knowledge to new members of to team and set them on the right path.

Annie always puts our customers first and ensures they have the best possible experience and has many regular customers who keep coming back and introduce friends and family to the store. Annie has seen many changes over the years and always embraces every challenge with a strong positive attitude, is willing to try new things and never stops learning.” * To nominate an outstanding retail employee for PH’s Retail Star column please email joh@max-publishing.co.uk. Nominations will also be considered for the Retail Employee of the Year in The Excellence in Housewares Awards 2018.

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Home on trend at Top Drawer

Above: Consumers are looking for unique retail experiences. Photo is of an in-store demonstration by The Great British Bake Off winner, Candice Brown at Potters Cookshop last year.

Small-format shops are on trend A look at hot trends for retailers in 2018 has highlighted small-format bricks and mortar stores as ones to watch.

According to the predictions by Ian Tomlinson, founder of RetailStore, bigbox stores are ‘out’ and small-format stores are ‘in’ this year.

“Competing with online is harder than ever before and as a result many small-format stores have materialised over the last few years, offering a more solid approach to opening a physical store for retailers,” Ian said.

Notably, data from bira showed that across independent retailers more shops were opened than were closed in the first quarter of 2017.

Ian also highlighted the growing importance of retailtainment, with a study finding that 75% of companies said their top objective was to improve customer experience. Many retailers have found that introducing lifestyle elements and creating a unique shopping experience is proving to have a positive effect in pulling consumers away from online and back in-store.

Other trends to watch in 2018, highlighted in the report, include omni-channel, with flawless execution both on and offline, plus technological advances in payment transaction capabilities.

Trend-led show, Top Drawer which took place from January 14-16 at London Olympia, showcased over 1,500 UK and international brands and thousands of new products. Among those revealing a wide array of new kitchen and dining products in the Home section of the show, Forma House launched 100s of new lines across its three stands (including SagaForm and Eva Solo).

Meanwhile, Mini Moderns’ designers Keith Stephenson and Mark Hampshire chatted to stockists about their new ranges on the company’s stand at the show. The interiors brand launched its biggest UK trade showcase to date, including kitchenware.

Among the high profile, keynote speakers at London's Top Drawer was Geraldine James, buying manager at Selfridges, who Above: Sanjay Aggarwal, director of Spice Kitchen, who were among told visitors that surviving at retail in 2018 will be about creating in store the exhibitors in Home. ‘stories’ in order to attract additional footfall.

Several key trend themes were highlighted by Top Drawer for 2018: Easy Living; California Dreaming; Geometrics; Pattern Clash and Wanderlust (an example being Black + Blum’s food flask and spoon). Other pioneers of these trends included Wild + Wood, Broste Copenhagen, LSA International, Alessi and Zak Designs. (See linked stories and product review on page 47).

Spotted at Top Drawer Top Drawer launched its Spotted Awards during the show. Now firmly established as one of the show’s highlights, Spotted is a curated showcase of innovative, market ready, design-led businesses new to the major UK trade fair market. The inaugural Spotted Awards looked at originality and innovation, commercial viability, clarity of brand, communication of message and overall quality. The winner was Stay Sixty for its elegantly crafted, stainless steel reusable water bottle. The judging panel of industry experts acknowledged the: “Strong, innovative design tapping into the current and urgent concern with plastics.” Stay Sixty’s prize include a free stand at Top Drawer Autumn.

The Spotted Awards’ two runners up were home accessories and wallpaper brand, Divine Savages and Cult Vinegar. The latter brand has two parts: customers can make their own live vinegar in the Vinegar Vase, a contemporary take on the traditional vinegar fermentation crock designed by ceramicist Billy Lloyd, or add live vinegars made from premium wines, sakes, ports and ciders to what they eat and drink for a probiotic twist. Judges reflected on: “A well designed, unique product that perfectly taps into the food and craft movement.”

Among the Spotted Awards’ 10 finalists, Mynn London showcased its fun and unique napkins, placemats, tea towels, oven gloves and cushions across three collections, which are designed to be mixed and matched and J Dryer presented a compact wall-mounted drying rack for indoor and outdoor use, originally created in the 1950s, and re-designed for 21st century aesthetic.

Bryan’s dry January for The Rainy Day Trust Bryan Clover, ceo of The Rainy Day Trust abstained from any alcohol during January to raise funds for the charity.

After his first ‘dry’ week, Bryan reflected: “I've tried lots of different drinks and settled on caffeine in either chocolate or coffee forms as substitutes - sleeping could be a challenge soon!” He added: “I'd like to thank everyone that has sponsored me so far, but also say that you can still contribute.” To support Bryan and help raise vital funds to help industry members that have fallen on hard times, go to: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/dryjanuarybryanclover * 2018 is The Rainy Day Trust’s 175th Anniversary year.

Top: Tackling plastic waste in style – Stay Sixty, Spotted Awards winner.

Above: Cult Vinegar – Spotted Awards runner-up.

Just A Card helps keep shops open Top Drawer has lent its support to the Just A Card initiative which encourages consumers to support independent shops of all kinds, galleries, and artisans. The Just A Card message to consumers is that every small purchase counts towards the prosperity of independents. Retailers keen to back the initiative were able to collect a Just A Card window sticker at Top Drawer.

Sarah Hamilton, founder, artist and designer of Just A Card was inspired to take action when she read the quotation from a retailer who had recently closed: "If everyone who'd complimented our beautiful gallery had bought 'just a card' we'd still be open."

Alejandra Campos, show director of Top Drawer commented: “We are delighted to be supporting the Just A Card initiative. Our aim is to spread the word to our retail community.

If we can increase consumer awareness by encouraging retailers to endorse and promote the initiative, it can make a huge difference to these businesses and, consequently, to the diversity of their town centres, which is in everyone’s interest.”

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GB DU: 07.12.2017

9. – 13. 2. 2018

65855-021_AM_Dining_ProgressiveHousewares_210x297 • FOGRA 39 • CMYK • tg: 13.09.2017

Can form and function embrace one another.

Do we want diverse or diversity when we dine.

Can you feel quality with a touch of your hand.

Dining is the sense of companionship – a place where creativity is lived, where diversity pulsates.

Ambiente, the show.

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

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NEWS IN BRIEF l Ulster Weavers is producing

commemorative tea towels and mugs for the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on May 19. Designs include contemporary floral and traditional. Other celebratory housewares include a royal engagement mug from Emma Bridgewater. l Young housewares designers are invited

to submit their projects, one-off products and prototypes for consideration for Tendence’s Talents promotional programme by 19 Above: Talents at March 2018. Those chosen last year’s Tendence. have the chance to present their work at the fair and to make important contacts to trade and industry from 30 June to 3 July 2018. l Dunelm’s trading report for the 13-week period ended 30 December 2017 announced that revenue for the second quarter rose by 13.6% to £297.5m. Total likefor-like revenue grew by 3.4%. l Online electrical retailer, AO.com

reported double-digit sales growth in the UK across the vital golden quarter spanning Black Friday and Christmas. l NY NOW will be opening its doors a little

earlier in August 2018. The dates for the summer market have been brought forward to August 12-15, returning NY NOW to its preferred date pattern. The winter 2018 edition of NY NOW will be taking place from February 3-7 at New York City’s Jacob K Javits Convention Center, featuring three comprehensive collections: Home, Lifestyle and Handmade. l According to the recently released

International Housewares Association’s 2017 State of the Industry report, global housewares market data shows an overall retail sales increase of 2.4% in 2016. This is half of the percentage increase posted in 2015 and similar to the previous two years (ie 2.6% in 2014 and 2.9% in 2013).

TOP STORY

Going Dutch Dutch variety multiple retailer and housewares stockist HEMA has confirmed its ambitious international expansion plans for 2018. The retailer opened its new UK flagship 350 m2 store in Tottenham Court Road before Christmas.

Internationally, Hema has 35 openings planned for this year, having opened 25 stores in 2017. Alongside London, Above: The Cook section at HEMA’s new UK cities currently include Amsterdam, Brussels, Cologne, Luxembourg, flagship store in Tottenham Court Road.

Lyon, Paris and Madrid. Its UK presence started with an airside shop at Stanstead Airport in 2014, followed by other travel outlets – in Euston, Victoria and Birmingham New Street train stations. The retailer plans to open a handful of additional stores in the UK in 2018, across travel, the high street and shopping malls.

HEMA's international director and HEMA management team member Richard Flint told PH: "International expansion is an important part of our growth strategy. We see big opportunities for growth in the UK and especially in London." He continued: “Our strategy will primarily focus on establishing a presence of several HEMA stores per city, and we are particularly excited by our brand new Tottenham Court Road store.”

The HEMA store formula is based on living spaces within the home, organised around 10 themes, including: Home, Cook, Eat, Sleep and Kids.

The new Cook room on the lower floor of Tottenham Court Road includes kitchenware, food storage, bakeware, cake decoration items, tableware and kitchen textiles - along with more unusual items such as amuse bouche dishes and spoons and a whistling kettle. Products are designed in-house by the company's team in Amsterdam, in collaboration with Dutch suppliers, which are managed by HEMA. Sam Macgregor, HEMA's UK country manager confirms that, despite the tough retail market in the UK, HEMA is showing double-digit growth.

“We offer great quality and clever design at a reasonable, value for money price," explains Sam, adding: "We're in a very competitive retail market place and we know we have to stand out to make a difference." Sam describes HEMA as “a young, bright, fun, funky store,” stating: “I believe that customers instinctively know that it's a happy store rather than simply a transactional one.’

Sustainability plays a big part in HEMA design. "Our ceo, Tjeerd Jegen, is very focused on this, so, for example, in summer 2017 we introduced bamboo into our some of our ranges to include picnicware," Sam points out. Packaging is minimal, as Sam states: "We want customers to be able to see the quality and design, as well as to feel and touch our products.”

Brushing up Specialist brushes for the cleaning of coffee machines are becoming a popular add-on sale, according to Above: Redecker coffee machine brush.

German manufacture, Redecker, which is new to the UK market. "As the trend for artisan drinks continues to build momentum, people are dedicating extra time to creating the perfect hot drink, leading them to search for products such as the tea brewer and espresso /coffee machine brushes,” comments Hamish Lauder, UK wholesale director at Redecker. (For more on Tea and Coffee, see pages 38-39).

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PreP Cook Serve!

The UK’s premier showcase of housewares, tabletop and small domestic appliance brands

Make the right connections at www.exclusivelyhousewares.co.uk @ExclusivelyHW @Exclusivelyelec

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News Below: Pam Ballone, now part of the Exclusively team.

PEOPLE l Brooke House Exhibitions – the organiser of Exclusively Housewares and Exclusively Electrical – has appointed Pam Ballone to handle the marketing and PR for the 2018 event.

At the show, she will manage the press office, as well as looking after the seminar programme and the new Electrical convention.

Pam has over 20 years’ experience in the industry having worked with many housewares brands including Horwood, Premier Housewares, Mastrad, Haus, Royal Worcester and ICTC. Speaking about her new role, Pam said: "I am thrilled to be part of the Exclusively Show team. My entire career has been spent in the food and housewares industry, fostering brands, and I look forward to building on the show’s success.” l Kitchen, housewares and garden gadgets company, Creative Products, has boosted its marketing team with the appointment of Laura Harrison as sales an marketing administrator. With a background in in-store media promotions, Laura joins Creative Products following over 19 years of experience of sales and marketing experience.

SADLY MISSED The directors of Horwoods announced the death of Nigel Horwood (pictured) on January 9, aged 57.

Diagnosed with cancer in 2017, Nigel put up a great fight, as anyone who knew him would have expected.

Nigel was a great stalwart of the housewares industry dedicating over 40 years of his working life to Horwood Homewares, working across all areas of the business. He was well loved by his customers, suppliers and fellow employees at Horwood Homewares and will be dearly missed.

TOP STORY

Harrods to fly the flag Harrods will represent the best of UK retailing as the UK’s national gia (Global Innovation Award) gala and Chicago’s International Home + Housewares Show (IH+HS) and gia gala in March.

Harrods dates back to 1849 when Charles Henry Harrod started with humble beginnings as an East End grocer and tea merchant. After moving to Knightsbridge, the Harrods legend was born and has remained one of the most distinguished names in the worldwide luxury industry. The store is renowned for combining high quality branded Right: View of merchandise, innovation and even a little eccentricity in Harrods by night. providing its remarkable customer experience.

The luxury department store will join other national winners Top: Harrods’ Cookshop buyer, on display at the IH+HS’s Hall of Global Innovation, including Joanne Norton received the UK Ireland’s The Kitchen Whisk (see linked story). Organised and gia winner’s certificate from globally sponsored by the International Housewares the IHA’s Marcus Findlay at the Excellence in Housewares Association and IH+HS, the gia programme was launched in 2000 to recognise Awards last October. Joanne excellence in home goods retailing around the world. By 2018, gia will have will receive the UK celebrated over 400 gia national retail winners from over 45 countries, across five national trophy at the gia gala in Chicago. continents. Progressive Housewares is the UK national gia winner sponsor.

At the gia gala in Chicago (coinciding with the IH+HS, March 10-13) five global honorees will be announced (having been judged from the national winners by an international jury including retail expert jurors) as well as the Martin M Pegler Award for Visual Merchandising and the gia Digital Commerce Award for Excellence in Online Retailing.

The stellar line-up of UK global honorees includes: Selfridges, Bentalls, Steamer Trading, Lakeland, John Lewis, Lords, and Borough Kitchen.

• Highlights of the gia programme (with images from previous winners) are featured in the latest issue of the Home + Housewares Inspiration magazine - issue 17.2. A flipbook version of the magazine can be found at www.housewares.org/flipbooks/inspiration17.2 • (For more on Harrods, see pages 48-49).

Creating a stir in Dublin The gia Ireland winner is a Dublin independent cookshop.

The Kitchen Whisk is situated on one of Dublin’s prime shopping streets, Wicklow Street, and caters for a huge mix of locals and visitors. Owners Mary and Kate Masterson are renowned for their huge passion for the business and keenness to learn from and help their customers. Their displays are praised for creating a rich tapestry of textures and colours.

Right: A view of gia Ireland winner for 2018, The Kitchen Whisk.

Sssh, my coffee’s brewing Melitta’s new premium range of bean-to-cup coffee machines have been awarded the prestigious Quiet Mark icon in recognition of being among the quietest products on the market.

Bosch Home Appliances has also announced that its floorcare products are among a wide range of its Bosch and Siemens appliances that now bear the highly respected Quiet Mark.

Quiet Mark is the international approval award programme associated with the UK Noise Abatement Society charitable foundation. It encourages companies worldwide to prioritise noise reduction within the design of everyday machines and appliances, and find solutions to noise problems.

Dualit, Dyson and Magimix are other housewares brands with Quiet Mark products.

(For more on Tea and Coffee see pages 38-39).

Laundry’s helping arm A new invention from the Spanish Inventors’ Club speeds up the chore of hanging out laundry on a washing line. The product, which is attached to the user’s arm, holds pegs so that they are ready to use without the need to delve into a peg bag.

The association is interested in outsourcing the manufacture of the prototype product. *The Spanish Inventors Club exhibits at Chicago’s IH+HS’ Inventors’ Corner. See www.inventoseinventores.com and (for the IH+HS) www.housewares.org/show Above: The ‘peg arm’ as used by its Spanish inventor.

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TOP STORY

bira and Exclusively encourage indies Above: The Tefal Toast N’Egg Two Slice Toaster is among Robert Dyas’ 56 electrical and non-electrical egg-making products.

We’re not eggsagerating!

Robert Dyas says it is spearheading the ‘Great British egg revival’ by stocking 56 egg-related products in its kitchenware range, from the Tefal Toast N’Egg Two Slice Toaster and Egg Maker to the classic egg timer.

Rachel Brain, coo at Robert Dyas, points out that: “A single egg is packed full of 18 vitamins and minerals. It’s also home to vital micronutrients. No wonder the humble egg is often referred to as nature’s multivitamin pill. Eggs are also extremely versatile and due to this we stock an incredible 56 egg-related items in our kitchen range.”

For the first time since modern records began, sales in the UK topped the six billion mark in 2017 an increase of 4.8% on the year leading to June 18. Figures are expected to be rising since the news that the Food Standards Agency relaxed its guidelines about the consumption of raw or soft-cooked eggs in October.

Exclusively Housewares and Exclusively Electrical have announced a major initiative with the British Independent Retailers Association (bira) to support independent cookshops and housewares retailers. The two organisations will work closely together to ensure that a visit to the show is both productive and cost effective. bira will have a stand presence at the shows (June 12-13 at London’s Business Design Centre) for the first time and a raft of new joint marketing activities will be undertaken to promote the event to bira’s independent retail members, encouraging them to attend. bira members will be offered complimentary overnight accommodation, show refreshments and an invitation to the Exclusively summer party as well as some Above: View of Exclusively Housewares 2017. exciting new initiatives, including a Golden Ticket which will benefit those placing orders at the show (more details will be unveiled in February via Exclusively’s website and social media).

“We are delighted to have reached and agreement to work closely with bira to support the independent sector’ said Simon Boyd, show director. ‘The Exclusively shows offer retailers an excellent opportunity to view the latest innovation in homewares, tabletop and SDA products ahead of the key Christmas buying period.

The retail sector remains highly challenging. We are sure that our cooperation with bira will offer members a competitive edge.”

Sarah Arnesen, head of marketing, PR and events at bira added: “We are really pleased to be working closely with Exclusively Housewares and Exclusively Electrical and to have a presence at the show in 2018 for the first time. This will enable us to better support our members and the independent retail sector.”

ZOS is a gift favourite The CellarDine ZOS patented wine preserver was featured as an ideal Christmas gift on ITV’s This Morning presented by Philip Schofield and Holly Willoughby on December 5. The product has also featured in the run-up to Christmas in consumer press, including Delicious (Suzy Atkins), Metro, T3 and Your Home, with more coverage anticipated for early 2018.

Above: Fresh thinking: the Magisson Vertical Fruit Plate.

Magisso’s fruitful endeavours The Magisso Vertigo Fruit Plate (designed by Simon Stevens) has been awarded the Good Design award by the Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design and The European Centre for Architecture Art. Made from pressure casted ceramics, the plate keeps fruit fresh for longer as its waved surface minimises the contact between the fruit and the plate. This allows air to flow around the fruit and slows the ripening. Each plate is hand-finished with food safe metallic glazing.

This new set of winners also included Alessi, Apple and Ferrari.

The night sky’s the limit with Ultra Violet Pantone Colour of the year for 2018, Ultra, Violet is said to be ‘complex and contemplative’, reflecting the mysteries of the cosmos and the limitless night sky. The blue-tinged purple was used by pop icons Prince, David Bowie and Jimi Hendrix to express individuality and, according to Pantone, symbolises experimentation and non-conformity.

Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Colour Institute states: “We are living in a time that requires inventiveness and imagination. It is this kind of creative inspiration that is indigenous to Pantone 18-3838 Ultra Violet, a blue-based purple that takes our awareness and potential to a higher level. From exploring new technologies and the greater galaxy, to artistic expression and spiritual reflection, intuitive Ultra Violet lights the way to what is yet to come.”

• Leatrice (Lee) will treat housewares suppliers and retailers at Chicago’s International Home + Housewares Show (IH+HS) to a wealth of insights into colour trends and their influence on housewares in her presentations during the show (Monday March 12 and Tuesday 13 at noon). See www.housewares.org/show/keynotes for more information on speakers and events at the IH+HS.

Below: Fenwick highlighted Kilner’s frosted purple drinks dispenser (on the right) in an e-newsletter featuring products fitting the Pantone Colour of the Year in January.

Right: Lee Eisemann talking at last year’s IH+HS in Chicago, with the 2017 Pantone Colour of the Year, Greenery, visible in her choice of outfit!

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Support for indies at Spring Fair The British Independent Retailers Association (bira) will be offering advice and support to independent businesses at Spring Fair at Birmingham’s NEC on the February 4-8 2018. If cookshops and housewares stockists want more detail about how to reduce their outgoings, bira will be on hand to help. bira’s events and exhibitions manager, Lauren Chadwick said: “Retailers can add value to their visit to the show by stopping by bira’s stands in Hall 9 and Hall 10. We’ve got two stands to make sure we are as available to as many retailers as possible.

Although it isn’t the primary reason retailers are at Spring Fair, it is a great opportunity to stop by for a quick chat and to hear about the services you have available to you as a retailer and as a member of bira.” *See the membership team in Hall 9 on Stand J30 and in Hall 10 on Stand D33 in the bira DIY Village throughout the show.There is a discount of 25% for anyone who decides to join the association at the show.

H

ow well do your staff understand the laws relating to the sale of knives? Have you ever been test purchased and failed? You aren’t alone and things aren’t about to get any easier. The spotlight is currently on retailers that sell acid-based products (which could be a sink un-blocker for example) as well as knives, as the government tackles their use in violent attacks (See news story).

Obviously something needs to be done to stop these horrific life-changing violent acts, but we don’t feel the burden of prevention should be solely placed at retailers’ doors; these items are available in every home after all.

I thought I would use this column to assure our members that bira is fighting on behalf of independents in this area, from submitting a response to the recent consultation on laws relating to offensive and dangerous weapons, to working directly with the Home Office. We are asking for clear and unambiguous policies to allow you to be compliant. You may have also seen in the news in recent weeks that we are encouraging retailers to sign up to the government’s voluntary agreement not to sell acid to those under the age of 18. This makes sense, but it is only the start of a number of things that need to be done and not just by retailers.

We’d like to see everyone working together - this includes manufacturers making age-restrictions clear on packaging and flagging up restrictions in barcodes at the point of sale - in order to make sure we are doing all that we can.

Education and clarity in this area seems key too, and it would be a good idea to refresh your policies and look at the current guidance on the government’s website to ensure you and your team have all the knowledge you need.

We hope you will join us in this and we are really interested to hear your experiences and opinions.

We’ll be on hand to discuss this at Spring Fair but you can always speak to our membership team – 0121 446 6688.

Inset: Alan talking at the bira Conference 2017.

Alan Hawkins, ceo, bira.

Grow, Innovate and Challenge bira’s 2018 National Conference and Awards on May 10 in Hinckley, Leicestershire, will bring back the popular Breakout Sessions of Grow, Innovate and Challenge from the 2017 programme.

With a host of inspiring sessions that delegates can pick and choose from, delegates will return to their business with new ideas to help them face the future.

Incoming bira national president for 2018-19, Surinder Josan of All Seasons DIY in Smethwick, says: “The breakout sessions have been designed with the future in mind. Hear from the likes of Trouva and Vend who will talk about retail tech Above: Delegates enjoying a Breakout trends and using the internet to enhance your business.

Session at the 2017 Promoting yourself online, competing with the big players, as well bira Conference. as a not-to-be-missed cyber-crime prevention session, will make Left: Listening to speakers at the sure you feel safe and confident using the internet.”

2017 Conference.

Energy efficiency, and the latest technology preventing retail crime will also be key features. The Breakout Sessions will run alongside the Conference speaker programme, which includes Levi Roots and his Recipe for Success and Danny Crowe who will give advice on Branding your Business.

To book your place at bira’s Conference and Awards and to find out more, visit bira.co.uk/conference-2018/ or if you would like to speak to someone about your ticket, please ask for Lauren Chadwick, bira events manager on 0121 446 6688 or email events@bira.co.uk

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Retailers join Government effort to tackle acid attacks Some of the country’s largest retailers and independent business leaders have pledged not to sell the most harmful corrosive substances to under 18s, as part of a series of voluntary commitments proposed by the Government to help limit acid attacks.

Housewares stockists Waitrose, Morrisons and Tesco are among the major brands to sign the voluntary commitments on the responsible sale of corrosive substances. bira is also encouraging all its members to sign up.

The voluntary commitments will see the retailers agree not to sell products to under 18s that contain potentially harmful levels of acid or corrosive substances (including applying Challenge 21/25 policies when asking for age identification, staff supported by till alerts, supervision and inclusion of these products in age restricted sales training).

Retailers will also agree that equivalent age restriction measures are applied to products sold online, and agree to comply with the Poisons Act, and promote awareness to staff.

The Government’s publication of voluntary commitments coincides with the University of Leicester’s launch of a major research project, commissioned by the Home Office, into the motivations of offenders who carry and use acid in violent attacks.

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Ocado joins the forum Ocado’s senior buying manager, Martin de la Fuente, has joined a packed agenda of speakers at BHETA’s next networking forum on February 21. The programme includes Richard Butler from the CBI, Glynn Jones from the Bank of England and Rob Ingram from Root 7.

Martin de la Fuente will be presenting his views on the current market, latest consumer trends, internet trading and outlining the future strategic direction and focus of the Ocado Home team over the coming months. He will also be highlighting the opportunities for suppliers and how best they can benefit from developing their trading relationships with Ocado as they look to deliver future growth.

Rob Ingram will be sharing his thoughts on how suppliers can adapt to, and exploit, the new digital trade economy. One of the key challenges for suppliers is how to move from a pure B2B business to a partial B2C business, without damaging existing and important trade relationships.

Rob will also be sharing his Amazon trading experiences and providing tips on how best to maximise sales.

CBI (Confederation of British Industry) regional director, Richard Butler, will be providing an update on the challenges and opportunities a post-Brexit Britain offers the housewares market.

He will also present a wider perspective on the issues that face UK PLC based on the overview of its 90,000 members.

Glynn Jones, Bank of England - West Midlands & Oxfordshire, will be updating members on the Bank’s view about the UK economy following our vote to leave the EU, its forecast of the economic impact and opportunities likely to come, plus any policy responses both underway and taking shape.

BHETA’s housewares sector director, Will Jones commented, “Retailing continues to move fast, driven by different shopping habits and ever more advanced technology for the consumer. This forum will provide BHETA members with an invaluable insight into the opportunities for trading with Ocado and developing this route to market.

With both the CBI and the Bank of England also on the platform, we will also benefit from the very latest predictions on the economy in general and with regard to specific challenges like Brexit.

Applications to attend the forum should be made to Dawn Clarke of the Member Services Team on dc@bheta.co.uk or 0121 237 1130.

BHETA introduces the Retailer Zone As part of its new website, which goes live at Spring Fair, BHETA is launching a comprehensive product, brand and supplier directory aimed at retail buyers. Called the Retailer Zone and featuring information from all suppliers who are BHETA members across the home enhancement, home improvement and garden sectors, the directory provides a real-time search function – by product category, by brand and by supplier.

The Retailer Zone is just one of the exciting features on the new BHETA website, which will also include details of all the benefits exclusive to BHETA members, as well as live news, details of events, data supply, export information and business support services. BHETA’s Will Jones describes the new site as “visually more stimulating and interactive” with “much greater functionality”, as well as offering an inspirational buying tool for retailers.

BHETA will be showcasing its new website and demonstrating the Retailer Zone on its stand at Spring Fair (Hall 9, stand 9J59).

Spontex joins up Spontex is the latest housewares brand to join BHETA. Created in France in 1932, with the invention of the world’s first cellulose sponge, the name Spontex is an amalgamation of the words sponge and textile. Now based in Worcester, Spontex claims to be UK’s number one branded manufacturer of cleaning tools, scourers, sponges, mops, microfibre cloths and rubber gloves.

Letter of the law BHETA has canvassed member opinion on the Government’s proposed legislative changes on the selling and marketing of knives and corrosive substances, and responses have now been submitted to bira and LACORS, the Local Authorities Coordinators of Regulatory Services in a joint initiative to lobby Government and Home Secretary, Amber Rudd.

Potential legislation on the sale of knives and corrosive substances could mean that anyone purchasing a knife online will have to collect it either at a store or from another physical location to prove their identity and age. Commenting on the member survey, Will Jones, housewares director of BHETA said, “Clearly this is an important issue from many points of view, so it is vital that we represent collectively the views of suppliers and retailers in this market.”

It’s good to talk housewares BHETA is launching a new peer-to-peer opportunity to share trading queries with fellow suppliers and to take advice from senior personnel representing the different product categories across the various trade channels and sectors. Called BHETA Surgery, the first session is aimed at housewares suppliers and will take place after lunch at the next of BHETA’s popular forums on February 21.

Suppliers will be invited ahead of the event to submit pertinent questions about the day to day running of their businesses. Typical queries might be about the best contacts at a particular retailer, how best to follow up queries with a trading partner, advice on export opportunities or the best response to a request for a change in trading terms.

All questions will be submitted to the BHETA Housewares Committee with a selection then Left and right: Ready to discussed at the Surgery, which is exclusive to BHETA members. share views - members The Housewares Committee comprises: Richard Walker of Eddingtons (chair), Will Jones of of the Housewares BHETA, Mark Baumann of Meyer Group, Tony Grimshaw of What More UK, Kate O’Neil of The Committee include Meyer Group’s Mark Rayware Group, Seema Grantham of The Cookware Company, Paul Shelley of Haus Marketing Baumann and The & Distribution, Mark Newbould of Metaltex, and Le Creuset’s Jane Mason.

Cookware Company’s Seema Grantham and Le Creuset’s Jane Mason.

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The IHA Show in Chicago is by far the most exciting and valuable trade event of my calendar year. Without fail, it delivers innovation, excitement and a freshness that other shows can only aspire to.

2018 10 – 13 March Chicago, USA Show information and free online pre-registration: www.housewares.org

Clearly delineated category areas and great transport links make for really easy navigation – mean I can concentrate on the important stuff, finding the gems.

Quality suppliers, informative and relevant initiatives such as the Keynote speeches, Pantone Color Watch booth, New Product Showcases and Inventors Corner all make it an essential part of my annual sourcing calendar. There’s lots to love about this show!

Lisa Meth-Cohn, Solutions Buyer Lakeland

For more information, contact IHA UK Office: Marcus Findlay Tel: +44 1543 410 400, Email: ihauk@plimco.co.uk

NEW PRODUCTS AND NO RISK RETAIL - CREATIVE PRODUCTS AT SPRING FAIR Creative Products is heading to the NEC in Birmingham once again to attend Spring Fair, the UK’s number one home and gift show for the retail industry. Joining over 2,500 exhibitors from 4th to 8th February 2018, Creative Products will be exhibiting some of its exciting new products at this unmissable trade show.

Having recently

undergone an impressive brand update, Creative Products will be showcasing a selection of its new products for 2018 from the on-trend Mermaid Cushion, a fun, colour changing sequin cushion that makes a perfect gift for any sparkle lover, to the handy Quick Chop, a creative kitchen gadget featuring a built-in pull cord and rotating

Stand 9B44-C45, Hall 9

mechanism which chops, slices, mixes and whips with ease. As the UK’s number one in-store TV promotions company, Creative Products will also be presenting how its unique merchandising and no risk retail solutions provide retailers with a fantastic opportunity to boost sales.

Mark Hall, Managing Director at Creative Products, commented, “Spring Fair is an unmissable show for brands wanting to launch new product ranges and provides a great opportunity to meet new customers which is why we keep returning year after year.

This year, we are delighted to be also exhibiting on a second stand, as part of the Glee at Spring Fair concessions.”

Interested retailers should visit Creative Products on stand 9B44-C45 in Hall 9 and at stand D20-E21 in Hall 3 at Spring Fair in February.

For more information contact 01476 564 230 email sales@creativeproducts.ltd.uk or visit www.creativeproducts.ltd.uk.

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Holly Wilson’s

From The Frontline

Well, we managed to survive our first Christmas with two shops and it went pretty well considering! I was behind from the beginning as we had a pretty busy November in both shops so I went into December already low on stock - yikes! So the beginning of December was spent furiously ordering and unpacking deliveries.

Happy New Year!

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e managed to get into good stock levels for Richard Dare fairly early on so Fatima was able to crack on with selling. We really weren’t sure what our first Christmas would be like and, on the whole, it was as expected although slightly quieter than secretly hoped. Also, but as expected, the inhabitants of Primrose Hill fled the city for country homes or sunny climes long before Christmas week so that definitely had a negative effect on sales. However, we were still pretty pleased with its performance.

Prep, on the other hand, was less calm. Stock flooded in throughout December in a constant wave and the team fought to get it checked and packed away as quickly as possible while catering to the ever-increasing customer influx.

Footfall is noticeably much higher in Stoke Newington than Primrose

Hill and it is becoming quite an independent shopping destination with a lovely selection of shops that are perfect for Christmas shopping.

The week prior to Christmas week cleared us out of a lot of basic items as we still don’t have enough storage space to cater for the quick stock turnover that Christmas brings. So panic ordering ensued over the weekend and suppliers pulled out all the stops to whisk stock into store for the first few days of the week. As fast as we could unpack, it marched out of the doors in the bags of panicked shoppers and

by Friday we were low on stock again. However this didn’t seem to deter the hoards on Christmas Eve and we had our biggest ever day since I opened. A happy flow of local regulars and excited visitors crammed their way into the shop all day and we ended the day tired but happy.

We had a celebratory drink with the butcher’s team next door who were equally glad we had all survived Christmas once more.

We then all managed to have a relaxing few days off to spend time with family and friends and it felt much needed. We opened Prep again on the 28th as we find it is still busy with people mooching about with Christmas money to burn,

forgotten last minute presents to buy and NYE dinners to prepare for. The kids and I headed down to Devon for an extra few days though for some more family time.

We are now fully back into the swing of things in January and 2018 is well underway. I can’t believe that Top Drawer comes upon us so soon and I’m trying to get my head around the trade show season. I am excited to see what is new and refresh both stores though. Then, before we know it, Fatima and I will be winging our way to Frankfurt to see all the newness at Ambiente.

We will have to cover even more ground than normal as Richard Dare has some additional suppliers to Prep and I don’t get

Inset: Looking into Prep Cookshop over Christmas.

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Below centre: Holly and team in the Christmas spirit.

Below: New year window at Richard Dare.

to see them at any of the UK shows. It is a great opportunity to refresh these relationships, get more detail about current stock and see what’s new. Let’s hope the snow doesn’t delay us this year!

I am also in full swing with staff recruitment. We need a new part time member of staff for Richard Dare and I have taken the big step to take on a store manager for Prep so CV’s are being submitted and interviews being arranged. It feels strange but also like it’s the right time as we have lots to do this year and I need a strong team to keep building the business.

So 2018, let’s get this show on the road and see what you have in store for us. Best of luck with the trade shows everyone and here’s to a profitable year.

Holly Wilson is the owner of Prep Cookshop, Stoke Newington, which opened in February 2015, and now owns Richard Dare, Primrose Hill, also in North London.

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Spring Fair offers retailers the first opportunity to meet the new sales and marketing teams who add strength to Horwood’s existing staff, but most importantly, allow it to provide retailers an enhanced service and experience. Once at the stand, new products and initiatives will be highlighted and demonstrated, and Horwood’s more consumer-centric experience will be explained. All this will be complemented by new instore display stands and POS. Finally, there is also talk that there will be a celebrity appearance on the Horwood stand on Tuesday afternoon to meet, greet, cook and highlight new collections.

Horwood Homewares Tel: 01179 400000 Web: www.horwood.co.uk Hall 9 Stand A30-B31

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Meyer Group will be at this year’s Spring Fair, and are very pleased to announce a new partnership with health and fitness icon, Joe Wicks who will be in attendance on Monday 5th February. Everyone is welcome to join Meyer on its stand to watch some of his amazing demonstrations and to discover more about this exciting partnership. In addition to this new brand launch, Meyer Group will also be showcasing some fabulous new launches from Prestige.

Meyer Group Tel: 0151 482 8180 Web: www.meyeruk.com Hall 9 Stand F30-G31 and F50-G51

Spode’s new Maui collection captures the psychotropical trend combining a traditional aesthetic with a modern floral print. This new tableware collection perfectly encapsulates the lively mood of a tropical paradise with its brush stroke flowers set against a pure white porcelain body. Spode continues to astound with its coveted and inimitable heritage style, and as you’d expect, Maui adds a flourish of grandeur to the home.

Portmeirion Tel: 01782 744721 E-mail: homesales@portmeiriongroup.com Web: www.portmeiriongroup.com Hall 9 Stand E20-F21

If it is creativity, innovation and newness you are looking for, then look no further than T&G. New for Spring 2018 is the new featured “City” collection of ceramic kitchen storage items with an on trend geometric and sophisticated design. For something a little kitsch there is the fun “Tutti Frutti” ceramic range, and to add to the creative mix T&G introduces “Drift” a collection of painted wood kitchen pieces, perfect for organising any table, dresser or counter top.

T&G Tel: 01275 841841 Web: www.tg-woodware.com Hall 9 Stand F20 – G21

The Kilner® Measure & Store range provides an innovative solution for measuring requirements. Uniquely designed to fit into a Kilner® Clip Top Jar lid and neck, these space-saving and easy to use silicone cups are great for measuring ingredients for baking and are practical for portion control. Available in three bright colours, the silicone cups collapse into the void space within the jar keeping them handy for when measuring is required. Each features the volume measurements embossed on the cup.

The Rayware Group Tel: 0151 4861888 Web: www.rayware-trade.co.uk Hall 9 Stand E50-F51 PROGRESSIVE

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Visit Portmeirion Group’s stand at: Spring Fair (Hall 9, Stand E20–F21) Ambiente (Hall 4.1, Stand D05)

www.portmeiriongroup.com +44 (0)1782 744721 Copyright © 2018 Portmeirion Group Limited

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Make light work of laundry with the range of strong and durable ironing boards from Russell Hobbs. Incredibly ergonomic, the Spiro Ironing Board features seven height positions that are easily adjusted to suit the user, as well as non-slip capped feet and a transport lock for secure storage. The Cubic Ironing Board benefits from wheels for easy manoeuvrability around the home, and a space-saving iron rest that slides in and out for easy storage. Available in silver and black, the Geo Ironing Board benefits from a large iron rest, with space to hang freshly-pressed garments.

Russell Hobbs Tel: 0161 934 2240 E-mail: russellhobbshomewares@upgs.com Web: www.uk.russellhobbs.com/russell-hobbs-products E-mail: russellhobbshomewares@upgs.com Hall 10-12 Stand 12G04-J05

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The Eddingtons award winning and exclusively designed Epicurean “I can’t believe it’s not ceramic” Melamine continues the outdoor dining revolution with 2018 range extensions on Eddington’s bestselling Rio Medallion table and serveware range.

Also being introducing for 2018 is its New Garden Herbs range to offer customers a unique premium design, heavier weight and realistic touch and feel, which sets this melamine range apart from simpler mass market offerings.

Eddingtons Tel: 01488 686572 E-mail: sales@eddingtons.co.uk Web: www.eddingtons.co.uk Hall 9 stand C26-D27

The Ice.Bag® is a reusable mobile wine cooler that chills bottles to the ideal temperature in just 15 minutes, compared to three hours in the fridge. Portable, leak proof and durable, the Ice.Bag® makes the perfect gift with a bottle of wine and can be used for any occasion, whatever time of year - from indoor or outdoor parties/events to picnics, bbq’s or other forms of outdoor dining. Simply add ice and water and you’re ready to go.

Available in a range of vibrant colours, Ice.Bag® can be folded away when not in use, making it a great space saver.

JWP Tel: 01282 688080 E-mail: sales@jwpltd.co.uk Web: www.jwpltd.co.uk Hall 9 Stand number H38 – J39 The Monsoon Fleur collection by Denby is a modern take on a classic tableware story combining cobalt blue with contemporary fine line work against a warm sliver shimmer decoration on cream china. Nine key pieces include two medium plates, one of which is an accent plate in a striking cobalt blue colour and a great contrast to the other pieces in the range. The other pieces include two different sized mugs, cereal bowl, pasta bowl, serving bowl and several sized plates.

Denby Tel: 01773 740715 Web: www.denbypottery.com Hall 9 Stand C20-D21

Baker & Salt® will be a particular highlight of the stand this year. The black and cream enamelware features an integral front handle to aid easier removal from the oven. This oven-to-tableware has a timeless look that will grace any kitchen. In addition, a comprehensive new range of non-stick will be exhibited as the collection continues to expand. A variety of kitchenware and bakeware under the established PushPan® and Wham® Cook brands will also be on display.

Whatmore UK Tel: 01282 687030 Website: www.whatmoreuk.com Halls 10-12 Stand 10 D05-E04 PROGRESSIVE

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The new Pro Sharp Twist ‘n’ Sharp is a 2-in-1 knife sharpener with a simple singlehanded pull-through operation. The Twist ‘n’ Sharp achieves professional results, even on old and blunt knives. It can also be used to sharpen serrated blades and scissors. Its’ one-handed twist lock suction base will secure the sharpener to any smooth surface or worktop and once it’s locked in place you can safely sharpen your knife hands-free.

Eddingtons Tel: 01488 686572 E-mail: sales@eddingtons.co.uk Web: www.eddingtons.co.uk Hall 9 stand C26-D27

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The endearing new Apple Farm collection being unveiled on the KitchenCraft stand will transport you to a rustic country kitchen. Set against a hand painted pastel green wash background, beautifully illustrated farm characters feature across this delightful collection of ceramic kitchen and tabletop items which includes tea time and breakfast accessories, storageware and more.

KitchenCraft Tel: 0121 604 1111 E-mail: sales@kitchencraft.co.uk Web: www.kitchencraft.co.uk Hall 9 Stand G30/H31 Creative Tops will launch stunning new Edited additions from La Cafetière at Spring Fair. Coffee earns a luxury makeover with the Edited collection: stunning brushed gold is combined with minimalist product shapes for a premium look that will sit like an understated trophy in the modern kitchen. New additions see sophisticated matt black mugs and storage jars with luxury gold detail added to this La Cafetière collection.

Creative Tops Tel: 1536 207710 E-mail: sales@creative-tops.com Hall 9 Stand G20-H21

Denby Studio Blue is a new artisan collection of Mugs, Plates and Bowls in four stunning shades of blue creating a beautiful tonal range. Inspired by the trend for a natural aesthetic and honest materials in ceramic crafting techniques, Studio Blue is a tactile collection which captures the essence of Denby’s hand-crafting skills and textural glazes perfected over 200 years in Derbyshire. Available in packaged collations or as loose items, Studio Blue is easy to merchandise with POS available; there will be a media campaign, including social media, to support the launch of Studio Blue.

Denby Tel: 01773 740715 Web: www.denbypottery.com Hall 9 Stand C20-D21

The new Eternal knives feature a subtle smoky marble-effect handle, with a curved structure for optimum comfort when slicing and dicing. The range offers five beautifully designed knives, all made with the finest quality German grade steel blades for superior performance and precision. Made to last, the knives have a 25-year guarantee with each blade containing a higher carbon content for strength and durability. The blades are also taper ground to ensure a sharp cutting edge.

The Rayware Group Tel: 0151 4861888 Web: www.rayware-trade.co.uk Hall 9 Stand E50-F51

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Amongst a host of innovative and creative launches on the KitchenCraft stand will be West Blade, a range of outstanding graters with revolutionary Microblade technology which features extra sharp stainless steel with flat tines. This means that whether you are grating up or down the blade, or both, you are doing it the quickest, most effective way. Four graters feature for coarse, medium and fine grating and zesting.

KitchenCraft Tel: 0121 604 1111 E-mail: sales@kitchencraft.co.uk Web: www.kitchencraft.co.uk Hall 9 Stand G30/H31

The Aqua Flavour drinks bottle from Creative Products features a handy sports cap and removable fruit infuser stick that offers a new way to enjoy drinking water with natural fruit flavourings. The Aqua Flavour is fully dishwasher safe and can be filled with fruit, herbs and spices to give water a fruity flavour boost and offers retailers a chance to make the most of the New Year health and fitness trends.

Creative Products Tel: 01476 564 230 E-mail: sales@creativeproducts.ltd.uk Hall 9 Stand B44-C45

The Betty Crocker Microwave Cake/Brownie Makers from JWP are the fastest and easiest way to make delicious cakes and brownies (cakes in under six minutes, brownies under four minutes). Each has an easy ingredients box that utilises fill lines for all ingredients, meaning the mess, measuring and lengthy prep work normally associated with baking are no longer an issue. Perfect for novice/young bakers or those who simply don’t have the time or kitchen space, the microwave cake and brownie makers produce mouthwatering results almost 10 times quicker than oven baking.

JWP Tel: 01282 688080 E-mail: sales@jwpltd.co.uk Web: www.jwpltd.co.uk Hall 9 Stand number H38 – J39

CrDesigned in a chic Roaring Twenties style, Etore is a striking new stemware range from Durobor which captures the essence of a sophisticated art deco era when social gatherings and cocktails were all the rage! Perfect for embracing our current trend for cocktails and other hip drinks of the moment, Etore will be launched at the show alongside more exciting new lines including ‘Ginetic’ drink & serveware collection, ‘Dine in for 2’ carafe/wine glass set, ‘Raised Spirits’ barware and new collections from Crystalite Bohemia.

Tradestock Tel: 01823 661717 E-mail: sales@tradestockltd.co.uk Web: www.tradestockltd.co.uk Hall 9 Stand B26/C27

Sorbo smart brush is a unique dish brush, with soft outer bristles for delicate items such as glassware and tougher internal bristles for stubborn dishes. With a soft grip handle, flexible head - it floats in the washing up bowl and can also be sterilized in the dishwasher! Just one of a complete range of innovative quality cleaning products from Sorbo; one of Europe’s leading cleaning brands.

George East Housewares Tel: 01728 833400 E-mail: Info@george-east.com Web: www.talacooking.com Hall 9 Stand A20-B23,20E37 PROGRESSIVE

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On their new stand, Falcon Products will bring together its impressive and inspired collection of brands to whet the appetite of visitors for the SS18 buying season. WECK® (pictured) is a one-stop-shop for all things preserving, although their versatile range of jars also offers much wider options including presenting, storing, serving, cooking, baking and even display or decoration.

Other European brands Marcato, We Love Pasta and Pulltex will also feature, whilst Falcon Products’ own flagship Bake-O-Glide™ brand will take pride of place, unveiling some exciting new concepts.

Falcon Products Tel:01706 224790 E-mail: sales@falconproducts.co.uk Hall 9 Stand J38-K39

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Anniversary House is celebrating its 65th year in business, and will be Introducing a wealth of new products to Spring Fair 2018. You can expect to see new handcrafted sugarcraft designs, inflatable cake toppers, cookie cutters, brand new extra tall birthday candles, food and gift packaging, as well as many new napkin designs! The special highlight is the innovative new self-inflating balloon cake toppers that bring the foil balloon trend right into the housewares market! Simply break the capsule inside and watch the topper inflate.

Anniversary House Tel: 01202 590222 Web: www.anniversaryhouse.co.uk Hall 9 Stand G60-H61

Electronic mills remain popular with consumers and the latest model from Cole and Mason, the Penrose mill features a clever gravity feed system. Simply invert the mills for use, once inverted the mill will start to operate. Easily adjustable from the top the product features a ceramic mechanism making it ideal for salt and pepper alike. The inverta system whilst adding a degree of novelty has the added benefit in that it is totally mess free of the table top.

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

For celebrations and special occasions, Ava & I makes a dazzling addition to any home bar. Perfectly balancing feminine prettiness with modern style and a sprinkle of sass, the Ava & I collection stuns with gold detail and beautiful iridescence. Champagne saucers add a vintage touch to sparkling drinks while a stemless wine glass is a contemporary choice, with a pearlized glass cocktail shaker for preparing a mojito or a ‘Gin is always a good idea’ teacup and saucer.

Creative Tops Tel: 01536/207710 Web: www.creative-tops.com Hall 9 Stand G20-H21

‘Champagne Edit’ is the latest range from Navigate, part of the company’s boutique label Beau & Elliot.

Brand new additions to the table top line-up include a mug and coaster set, stylish kitchen textiles and bags, alongside placemats, coasters and a range of storage tins. The sophisticated designs are beautifully gift-boxed and feature soft pastels and dove greys with the company’s distinctive confetti pattern outlined in champagne gold.

Navigate Tel: 01279 653249 Email: sales@navigate.ltd.uk Web: www.navigate.ltd.uk Hall 8 Stand C14-D13

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Food for thought

State of the nation 2018 The past year’s news has been dominated by the UK’s departure from the EU and the negotiations that surround it. So, when looking back over 2017, PH asked several industry figures to reflect on the ways in which this thorny topic has affected the housewares industry.

Looking forward into 2018, PH invited commentators to highlight some reasons to be cheerful for our industry at the start of a new year.

THE TWO QUESTIONS 1) LOOKING BACK: How has the Brexit vote influenced the housewares industry so far?

2) LOOKING FORWARD: What opportunities (any theme) for the housewares industry in 2018 are you most looking forward to?

Consumer research Paul Wright, chairman, Meyer Group 1) LOOKING BACK: BREXIT

Inset: Brexit has fuelled public and political emotions over the past two years. (Image is of the London for Europe march in 2017).

2) LOOKING FORWARD: 2018 “There is cause for optimism. These include recent announcements regarding new buildings which will feed demand.

There is also the indication that the negotiated Brexit agreement will respect the

“The immediate aftermath of the Brexit vote had an immediate negative, impact on sterling forcing up the cost of imported finished goods and raw materials which are Inset: Paul Wright, Meyer Group. still feeding the way into the pipeline and fuelling inflation.

Despite consumers becoming more pragmatic in their purchasing habits, unfortunately retail prices have to go up.

The subsequent protracted negotiations is causing uncertainty and hurting business. Despite this our business continued to trade up significantly in the second half of 2016 and first half of 2017.

However, it has slowed down recently Inset: New housing, new kitchens – feeding the as trade and consumer confidence is demand for kitchenware. being eroded.”

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rights of immigrants already in the UK giving them confidence to invest in their futures.

We can also look forward to more retail initiatives to combat online activity, particularly in the department store category, designed to differentiate and add value to their customers.

Meyer Group is investing heavily in consumer research, to improve our understanding of their lifestyle and aspirations to ensure we develop products which are relevant. This is particularly important for the younger generation.

I believe private label products are approaching saturation and expect a move back towards manufacturers that invest in R&D and their brands.

The current model is not sustainable if we are merely used to benchmark private label product.”

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Food for thought

Blue sky thinking Samm Swain, buying and merchandising director, Lakeland 1) LOOKING BACK: BREXIT “It would be foolish to deny that Brexit has impacted on the housewares industry over the last year and a half. We’re all watching exchange rates, modelling this, that and everything else, as well as monitoring some of the most unpredictable sales of recent years! We all know that disposable incomes are challenged and consumers are watching their pennies.

Despite this, anyone attempting to get near the Trafford Centre on a Saturday will tell you that there are still customers out there, and they’re still spending! Trying to determine how consumers feel, how much they’re prepared to spend and what products they’re prepared to spend on is our biggest challenge… However, retail has been tough for more than 18 months, so what’s new? My team and I have rethought and reworked our processes from start to finish, to ensure we have an incredibly solid foundation to see us through these choppy waters.”

Top left: Lakeland’s Samm Swain.

Above: A view of one of Lakeland’s product demonstration areas.

2) LOOKING FORWARD: 2018 “I believe the upside of Brexit is that it’s making retailers think again about everyday decisions regarding sourcing, development, even product mix. The customer is looking to be inspired, and is wanting more than just the ‘norm’. This is great news for our industry, as it gives us retailers the opportunity for some real blue-sky thinking, and to revisit previous assumptions. Fundamentally, in every decision we make, our customer is at the forefront of our minds, as they always have been. Our mission is to find or develop great product that will delight the customer, but along the way we have to sell a vision of why they need X, Y and Z in their lives. It is more important than ever to highlight and clearly communicate the benefits of our exciting, new products so our customers are confident they are spending wisely. The opportunity to do this is as great as it’s ever been.

Sometimes a challenge brings about the best result.”

Positive influencers Alan Hawkins, ceo, bira 1) LOOKING BACK: BREXIT “The roller coaster ride of the housewares industry continues. The Brexit debate has hardened in the sense that the Brexiteers and remainers among my peers are still where they were. Nobody is admitting they got it wrong and even short-term problems are being batted away against potential long-term gains.

It seems to me however, that in the short term, Brexit has thrown up more negatives than positives. Inflationary costs, from a Brexit devalued £pound, that haven’t or can’t be passed on are squeezing margins. Is the new consumer so informed and cost aware that they won’t take price increases? Well they must!

With wages lagging inflation, and the essentials of life to be paid for first, it leaves those selling the more discretionary spend items at a disadvantage.

However, from bira surveys, the essentials of life Above: Alan Hawkins, bira. are meals out and

your body (hair, nails and a soothing cup of coffee) not the quality products our members sell. Our specialist cookshop members often say to me they have shot themselves in the foot by selling excellent products that don’t wear out as they used to, and consumers are currently not allowing themselves to spend to keep up with the latest fashions or gadgets. ‘UK PLC’ has dropped down in its place on the international expected economic growth charts, which can’t be good.”

2) LOOKING FORWARD: 2018 “So what of 2018? Well if the world moves ahead we will, to some extent, go with it. Brexit’s cat and mouse game, if stage one is anything to go by, may end up in a reasonable position. Government will continue to push back costs to the economy, like the latest national minimum wage starting at 18, and retail will have its fair share of casualties. The best will PROGRESSIVE

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Above: The power of social media. Happy consumers can provide influential online reviews.

benefit from this as they take market share. Innovation coupled with efficient use of staff will become paramount.

The internet will continue to change the market, but not on a path to 100% online.

Social media will more significantly drive spending habits. For example, I was wondering where my lawn mower was having sent it in for repair, and the online reviews I saw trying to get the phone number made me seriously question where I had taken it. I was totally happy, but I was being influenced.

Watch your online reviews and give your customers reasons to write good ones. As I say most years, if you’re the best you have nothing to worry about.”

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Food for thought

All good gifts

Making changes

Below: T&G’s Patrick Gardner.

Patrick Gardner, managing director, T&G 1) LOOKING BACK: BREXIT

Sarah Wood, director, Trevor Mottram, Tunbridge Wells (The Excellence in Housewares Awards bira Cookshop of the Year)

Top: Trevor Mottram’s Sarah Wood.

Above: Trevor Mottram is trying new opportunities for sales and publicity at the Tunbridge Wells edition of Tom Kerridge’s Pub in the Park. The image shows Tom and his team at the Marlow event last year.

1) LOOKING BACK: BREXIT “The exchange rate! We have a lot of foreign suppliers, meaning higher costs, but we also have a lot of good customers overseas who have been keen to make the most of the better rate.

Brexit has been like a bad egg that has been passed around parliament. Business has said ‘get on with it’ from the start and finally that seems to be happening. But we have been talking to our suppliers all along, and will keep on talking to make sure we have plans in place whatever the details of the UK’s departure from the EU. I am also getting more invitations from EU suppliers, particularly Italian companies, to come and visit, with the intention of developing imports whatever happens.”

2) LOOKING FORWARD: 2018 “The first thing I’m looking forward to is change! As an independent, we are good at adapting and changing. Trevor Mottram is in the process of closing down its China & Glass shop, tailoring our stock and moving some tableware into the Cookshop. It was a commercial necessity when the rent was increased again - the second big increase in two years - in addition to high rates for a double-fronted shop. In time, we intend to open the second floor above Cookshop, possibly putting tableware there, or using this floor for seasonal stock in their ‘out of season’ months (such as stockpots in the summer). I am looking forward to more staff training, as all staff members need to be knowledgeable in both Cookshop and Tableware (as we have had two separate teams). I am also looking forward to fitting in new products and developing our own brand products, which already include textiles such as oven gloves and corkscrews. We are becoming more specialised to differentiate ourselves and dealing with more niche companies. We are also doing our first outdoor show this year: Tom Kerridge’s Pub in the Park (which had a successful launch in Marlow).

Besides all of this, I am optimistic about the second generation of many housewares companies – younger family members who are looking at new products and ways of marketing, and talking to long established cookshops like us to find out how we can best work together.”

Four-way strategy Will Jones, housewares director, BHETA 1) LOOKING BACK: BREXIT “The first and immediate impact was the fall in the value of sterling against the dollar and the euro, which in turn created some serious challenges for most suppliers, particularly those so reliant on imports. In the last six months, suppliers and retailers have had to make some stark choices and their decisions have either led to increased prices, a decrease in margin contribution or will lead to some serious cutting of cloth and probably, in most cases, a mixture of all. Brexit has also contributed to a lack of consumer confidence, which, added to the mix of increased prices has impacted on sales. So in a sentence, while Brexit has created some serious challenges for the industry, all

is not lost and I continue to remain impressed by the resilience of the industry.

On a positive note, the impact of the Brexit vote has had an encouraging impact on suppliers export sales.”

2) LOOKING FORWARD: 2018

“While I am sympathetic to achieving UK Sovereignty, commercially it has been a disaster for many different industries, not least ‘bricks and mortar’ retailing.

The consumer is not happy with the level of price increases that Brexit has produced, and this has accelerated the move to buying from the Internet.

It was going to happen, but retailers have had to move so fast to keep up with the rapid changes on the high street. It will settle down eventually, as creative retailers find better and better ways of attracting consumers but we all just have to work at it!”

2) LOOKING FORWARD: 2018 “For T&G, we are expecting to have a good year in 2018 for many reasons. With changes to our sales team, we have reorganised the team so that our customers will have continuity with our existing experienced sales representatives. I have heard many times, customers being unhappy, as they know our range and are having to guide a new rep through the different aspects. This will not be the case in 2018.

T&G also bought a large laser engraving machine in order to keep ahead of the market in decorated woodware. It means we can offer bespoke items to anyone. We are also developing more housewares as giftware products, which will especially help with all our garden centre customers.

Also, our exports are performing well, so we have recruited a new person so that we can give this area more time.”

Above: There are growing opportunities in garden centres.

export opportunities that are available to your businesses?

Finally, suppliers; as the growth in online sales shows signs of plateauing in the housewares sector, owing to its maturity in this market, are you thinking seriously again about how to make the most of bricks and mortar destination retailers, such as garden centres?”

“When considering the industry and the vagaries of the marketplace, it is useful to reflect and understand those companies who have been able to buck the trend and grow their businesses Below: Will highlights export opportunities. in challenging times. I believe there are four clear opportunities that all suppliers should consider.

Firstly, do you have a clear online (multi-channel) trading strategy?

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Food for thought

New discoveries Justin Kowbel and David Caldana, directors, Borough Kitchen, London (winners of The Excellence in Retail Display (independent) Award for the past two years).

1) LOOKING BACK: BREXIT “Uncertainty has damaged confidence, leading to delayed or cancelled investment decisions. Hiring, which was already difficult before, has become even more squeezed and is set to tighten further once we leave the EU. We already have one core team member who has announced the need to move to another EU country (her partner has had to take on a position

abroad because of lack of funding for institutions in the UK following the referendum). As the government and parliament have devoted so much bandwidth to Brexit, it has completely lost sight of other critical issues to small business: business rates are crippling retailers across the country and Above: New ‘trend’ – fermentation (recap Fermentation Starter Kit from 2tech is pictured).

Left: Borough Kitchen’s Justin Kowbel and David Caldanda.

Encouraging sustainability

nothing is going to be done about this.

Mental health and health funding are pinched which bring about their own stresses for employees.”

2) LOOKING FORWARD: 2018 “We always love the discovery of a new tool we didn’t know we couldn’t live without. And, given we’re still reasonably new, they're often things tucked away in our supplier partners’ roster of items that we just haven’t come across yet. We do also enjoy debating whether or not new ‘trends’ will turn into core parts of the modern British kitchen such as fermentation.”

Right: Vivienne Cudhay of Auteur.

Below: Consumers are being encouraged to reuse – as exemplified by Prêt a Manger’s 100% increase in its discount to customers using their own coffee cups.

Vivienne Cudhay, managing director, Auteur (winner of The Excellence in Housewares Awards Innovation in Product Award 2017 for Stojo) 1) LOOKING BACK: BREXITS “The most immediate impact that Brexit thrust upon our industry is the dramatic currency fluctuation, leading to price increases for everyone.

While this is challenging, we continue to focus on innovation to stay ahead, as well as being more creative with sourcing.”

2) LOOKING FORWARD: 2018 “With the huge media interest in the environment, it is a really exciting time for us to be developing sustainable products, such as Stojo and Hip, which are alternatives to single serve disposable options. We welcome the proposed latte levy and we really look forward to seeing the opportunities this and further waste reducing initiatives bring to the housewares industry in 2018.

We encourage consumers to ditch disposable by providing practical, on-trend and sustainable solutions with our brands - Stojo, Hip and bobble. To put this into perspective, in the UK, we throw away 2.5 billion disposable cups annually - or 5,000 every minute. That means that we produce 30,000 tonnes of coffee cup waste each year. Less than 1% of these disposable coffee cups are recycled, which equates to fewer than 1 in 400, with the remainder ending up in landfill, being burnt or being exported as waste.

Whereas in the past consumers were not aware of the problem, they are now realising the benefits to ditching disposable! Initiatives such as Prêt a Manger offering customers a 50p discount to those who choose not to use a disposable paper cup, doubling the previous 25p discount that was introduced last year. This is really encouraging for brands such as Stojo- which is designed for thousands of uses - making Stojo a great choice for the planet and your purse!”

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Rayware is proud that the Mason Cash Innovative Kitchen Roller Shaker has been shortlisted for the Ambiente Solutions Award.

With the Innovative Kitchen range, the most iconic items have been given an innovative twist for modern day cooks and bakers.

The range has been developed to deliver smarter solutions for day-to-day kitchen needs, whilst maintaining the unmistakable Mason Cash traditional look. The Roller Shaker is no exception, it’s an all-in-one rolling pin, flour shaker and pastry measure.

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

The new sensor mirror from simplehuman with touch-control brightness gives you fast, intuitive control over a continuous range of brightness. Its tru-lux light system simulates natural sunlight, allowing you to see full colour variation, so you’ll know when your makeup is flawless. The mirror is cordless and rechargeable – one charge lasts up to five weeks. The 5x magnification is ideal for providing exceptional detail while still allowing you to see your entire face at once.

Simplehuman Tel: 01491 875974 Web: www.simplehuman.com/uk Hall 5.1 Stand A50 and Hall 11.0 Stand B32

Brabantia is excited to be previewing a number of new lines at Ambiente, including the beautiful Bo Touch Bin (pictured) - living proof that a bin can be a great addition to your interior. And that practical can be beautiful. Top model Bo has the perfect height, thanks to the legs with non-skid protection caps, and cleaning underneath is easy! It is available in a range of lovely hues (from Daisy Yellow to Matt Black), including two exclusive mineral colours. The textured Red and Gold are part of the Sense of Luxury collection.

Brabantia Tel: 01275 810600 E-mail: sales.uk@brabantia.com Hall 5.1 Stand C90 If it is creativity, innovation and newness you are looking for, then look no further than T&G. Retailers and consumers alike will be eager to get their hands-on T&G’s exciting new products and range extensions for spring 2018. For something a little kitsch there is the featured fun ‘Tutti Frutti’ ceramic range, which will add colour and cheer to the kitchen! To co-ordinate T&G introduces a range of new ‘Bar’ boards, a little bit of fun and the perfect gift!

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

The new range of glassware from Judge offers a cooking solution which will not stain, or retain flavours. In addition, cooking with Judge glass allows for great visibility, displaying the ingredients and recipe to the full. Finally, being manufactured from Borosilicate glass, means it can cope with rapid temperature change, allowing confidence when moving from oven to table, and freezer to the oven. The essential beauty of Judge glassware is, unlike humans or quite a lot of cookware, glassware simply doesn’t age with use! Every day it looks the same, it simply doesn’t look warn – age defying, pure cooking vision for years, how good is that?

Horwood Tel: 0117 940 0000 E-mail: sales@horwood.co.uk Web: www.judgecookware.co.uk Hall 3.0 Stand C35 PROGRESSIVE

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Ignite your senses and excite your taste buds at the DKB Kitchen Shows on its stand at Ambiente this year, showcasing brand new products from Zyliss, Cole & Mason and Jamie Oliver that will revolutionise your kitchen. Check out the show schedule on the DKB stand stand each day and try the recipes.

DKB Household Tel: 01252 522542 Web: www.dkbrands.com Hall 1.2 Stand J50

CellarDine will be showing all key lines and best sellers at the show to include some unique beer bottle chillers with a football theme just in time for the world cup, sold as singles with a headed card coming pre clipped stripped for ease of merchandising. For costs and MOQs please visit the stand.

CellarDine Tel: 01256 345560 or via PHA: 0151 651 2265 E-mail: office@cellardine.co.uk Hall 1.1 Stand D20

The best an egg can get.

Teflon™ – reimagined.

Come and discover!

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Creative Tops will launch new additions to the bohemianinspired Festival Folk collection

by British designer, Katie Alice.

Katie harmonises the vibrancy of outdoor festivals with her vintage style on this tableware for colourful and casual dining al fresco. Festival Folk celebrates the eccentricity of bohemian lifestyle with a mix-match of colour, shapes and Scandinavian folk art patterns. New additions see Katie style her vibrant folk florals with sparks of colour onto natural, pressed bamboo picnicware.

Creative Tops Tel: 01536 207 710 Web: www.creative-tops.com Hall 1.1 Stand A33

© 2018 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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Brabantia presents its newest answer to food waste. The homeware design brand is introducing four semi-transparent 1.3 litre plastic Storage Jars and two 1 litre Glass Storage Jars with handy measuring cup on top. Helping you store food correctly and cooking the right amount, these jars are twice as good against food waste! And - even better - for every storage jar sold, Brabantia donates to The Hunger Project.

Brabantia Tel: 01275 810600 E-mail: sales.uk@brabantia.com Hall 5.1 Stand C90

Housewares manufacturer, Addis, will be exhibiting an innovative addition to its award-winning laundry range at Ambiente this year. The ergonomically designed Shirtmaster ironing board helps to steam through the clothes pile by ironing from collar to tail without the need to shuffle shirts around, all thanks to its square design and rounded corners. A large surface area also means it’s perfect for bedding, making it a breeze to achieve flawless results every time.

Addis Tel: 01656 66 44 55 E-mail: info@addis.co.uk Hall 6.1 Stand C81

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New launches from KitchenCraft will give an exceptional insight into true innovation and will include the new MasterClass Smart Ceramic, a high-quality range of bakeware that combines functional design with outstanding performance.

A non-stick surface like no other, reinforced with ceramic and slightly textured, allows fat-free cooking and ensures flawless food release and easy cleaning. Pouring lips and extended surfaces provide added functionality while a rich brushed-copper tone adds an element of ontrend luxe. All pieces are also designed to nest together without risk of surface damage, for unique space saving storage of multiple yet essential bakeware items in one footprint.

KitchenCraft Tel: 0121 604 1111 E-mail: sales@kitchencraft.co.uk Web: www.kitchencraft.co.uk Hall1.1Stand B70/B71/B78

Meyer Group will be exhibiting at Ambiente 2018 and would love you to come and visit its stand to see the wide assortment of brands across numerous product categories. Meyer Group has built its reputation on producing high quality and innovative kitchenware across well established brands including Anolon, Circulon and Prestige. Meyer looks forward to seeing all its customers, both old and new to share all the exciting new launches and 2018 communication plans with you.

Meyer Group Tel: 0151 4828000 Web: www.meyeruk.com Hall 3.1 Stand E40

BergHOFF’s stand will be including a star performer from AW 2017, GEM cast aluminium cookware. GEM is the perfect combination of form and function – stunning design but real innovation as several of the pieces feature easy-click detachable handles. You can use it on the hob as a pan with the handle, in the oven without the handle and then take it to the table, transformed to a piece of serveware! The base features a full disc for superior heat distribution on all hobs plus the interior is durable non-stick.

BergHOFF Tel: 01908 049 345 E-mail: uksales@berghoffworldwide.com Web: www.berghoffworldwide.com Hall 3.0 Stand D80 PROGRESSIVE

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The US born Rabbit® leads the world of sophisticated barware with the integrity and quality of its products. The latest innovations include the next generation Winged Corkscrew in stylish black and stainless steel, featuring a fixed worm design for maximum leverage and a rotating ring for easy alignment with the bottle.

Dexam International Tel: 01730 811811 Web: www.dexam.co.uk Hall 1.1 Stand C35

Combining superior functionality with space saving design, new MasterClass Smart Space takes the trend for clutter-free living to the next level. Designed for the kitchen of today and tomorrow, these versatile and multi-purpose products maximise space without compromising on function. The range comprises 13 must have kitchen essentials that redefine everyday cooking including a nesting tool set, folding masher, stacking bakeware and a nesting saucepan set with detachable handle and one-size-fits-all lid, perfect for cooking, serving and storing.

KitchenCraft Tel: 0121 604 1111 E-mail: sales@kitchencraft.co.uk Web: www.kitchencraft.co.uk Hall1.1Stand B70/B71/B78

The best a cake can get.

Teflon™ – reimagined.

Come and discover!

2017 was the first time üutensil exhibited at Ambiente, using it as the launch pad for a new colour, teal on its award-winning Stirr automatic pan stirrer. Back again for 2018 and Stirr is again the main focus, now with the brilliant addition of a lightup timer, StirrTime. It has been selected by Ambiente organisers as part of their Solutions expo at the show. Every üutensil product – and there are now over 20 in the line-up – has a real USP and many are award winners.

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

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© 2018 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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Market focus

With consumers, especially Millennials, discovering their inner barista, suppliers are being challenged to up the ante, with freshly ground bean to cup, and cold brew coffee gaining ground. Tea drinkers meanwhile, are looking to loose leaf tea, with glass teapots driving trends.

Below left: The new JURA S8, a premium machine with a compact footprint, will be launching in late January.

Left: Dualit's Cafe Cino capsule machine.

Below: KitchenAid's Artisan Cold Brew coffee maker.

Wake up and smell the coffee T he consumer has begun to embrace the concept that you simply cannot beat freshly ground beans for an authentic coffee experience," comments JURA's commercial manager David Naylor.

"Bringing the artisan aspect of the coffee house into your own home brings dividends in taste, choice, and overall enjoyment. The freedom to experience the coffee of your choice, from the supplier of your choice, is the maxim." David adds that now that the UK is happily consuming more espresso-based prepared drinks at home, the future direction can only be towards exploring new avenues and experiences. "It's very similar to the

“

development of wine consumption in the UK from a choice of dry, medium or sweet whites, to the consumer demanding more choice and even specialising their preference," he points out. "The similarities are very apparent, and we have some way to go with coffee, but the direction of the footprints look the same to me."

Melitta too, is launching a brand new premium range of bean to cup coffee

Cold brew coffee Tapping into the current trend for cold brew coffee (coffee that is never exposed to heat), suppliers are currently looking to a new breed of manual coffee makers. "Cold brew coffee continues to be popularised by high street coffee chains," states Helen Simpson, marketing manager UK and Ireland at KitchenAid SDA. "To react to this growth, we have launched the Artisan cold brew coffee maker, the latest addition to our Craft Coffee collection. It's the first of its kind on the domestic market and takes home brewing to a whole new level. The noheat method involves steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for 12-24 hours which results in a smooth, balanced flavour that can be enjoyed ‘on tap’ all day long."

James Gray, md at Nixxee, (which introduced the innovative, UK made Brew It stick to great acclaim last year), says that the market is now starting to see the niche becoming mainstream as cold brew and pour over starts to become more commercially viable. "We have found consumers are looking to use these methods, as they have the freedom to use the coffee they want and experiment to find their preferred flavour. With our Barista&Co brand, we have set out to make coffee more accessible, matching the right coffee with the right tools in a simple way. We have paid great attention to detail and focusing on the end result, and in 2018 we will be introducing two new, patented manual brewing techniques. Although there has been a great amount of innovation in electric coffee machines, the manual preparation part of the market has stood still."

Continues James: "In addition to the innovative Made Simple range, we also made the decision to increase our quality. Our new Beautifully Crafted range will be for real coffee lovers, with both ranges launching at Ambiente in February."

Above: The Brew It Stick coffee infuser from Nixxee.

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Market focus machines featuring the Quiet Mark icon to recognise the machines being among the quietest products on the market. The collection includes the Barista TS Smart (Touch & Slide), the Barista T Smart (Touch) as well as the CI Touch.

“The new CI Touch is among the best all-rounders of bean to cup coffee machines for 'at home' barista style coffee enjoyment," says Melitta UK's consumer and trade marketing manager Nigel Morrison. "It’s simple to use, and the one-touch function with new touch user panel invites the user to select four different coffee variations, plus six additional coffee specialities, via the recipe book function. Coffee lovers are becoming increasingly discerning, looking for machines that champion modern design and high quality workmanship along with trusted authenticity."

Another trend is based around the milk element of enjoying a cup of coffee. "We are seeing that achieving texturised milk at home is becoming an increasingly desirable option for consumers, with our latest coffee machine, the Café Cino, our first to include a built-in milk frother for this reason," explains Debbie McIvor Main, marketing & PR executive at Dualit.

"It's designed to produce coffee shop quality texturised milk that whisking alone cannot achieve, with the frother in the machine steaming the milk as well as whisking it."

Adds Debbie: "Another trend we're seeing is the explosion of choice within the coffee market, and the benefit this offers the user in terms of convenience and personal taste. Our coffee machines allow users to make both coffee and tea, with some models also offering three different ways to brew coffee using coffee grounds, ESE pods or Nespresso compatible capsules. In

Inset: The new Melitta CI Touch.

Below: Morphy Richards Accents coffee capsule machine.

addition, our Dualit capsules are compatible with Nespresso machines, all helping to offer the customer a wider choice and to experiment at home."

Morphy Richards' Matthew Glynn, category consumer manager, coffee, says that consumers now appreciate that brewing the perfect cup of coffee is an art.

"Baristas are able to perfectly extract the flavour from the beans through the correct brewing techniques, with consumers wanting to be able to have the same experience at home," he states. "As a result, Morphy Richards coffee machines have had to become more intelligent so that they meet the needs of today’s

What's trending in tea "With the rise of wellness we’ve seen a growth in infusion and health drinks, and more demand for glass in teaware," says Creative Tops' marketing and PR manager Katrina Lawton. "Glass drinkware offers a barrier-free and more natural appearance, as well as displaying the theatrical colour infusions of fruit and herbal teas. Our use of heat-resistant glass and double walled designs in our new Healthy Living teaware by La Cafetière overcomes the problem associated with glass designs of the product being too hot to hold, as these designs can be comfortably cupped and enjoyed."

At a consumer level, Nixxee's md James Gray highlights that tea is really on trend for Millennials and generation X, with modern tea proving to be a growth area for the company, with brands such as Viva Tea and Full Circle tapping in to the new tea consumer market. "It's one that is more forward thinking and prepared to embrace the need for good quality tea leaves and accessories," says James. "In addition, we have seen real growth in glass teapots. Viva Tea has been offering modern styled glass and ceramic teapots for several years and are now one of the world's leading tea accessories."

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consumer. With the Accents coffee machine, we have taken the traditional pour over process and made it automated, delivering a controlled flow and even distribution of water for a fuller flavour and smoother taste."

Horwood's latest coffee introduction meanwhile, is the Stellar Espresso pot that is suitable for induction hobs. "As more and more people move to induction, it's echoing a market requirement," confirms sales director Rob Jones.

With so much choice in the market place, it ultimately comes down to cookshops not only having expert product knowledge, but also meeting the exacting requirements of the their customers, be they coffee lovers looking to become home baristas, or those who are just starting to acquire the taste!

Left: Nixxee's Viva Bjorn glass teapot.

Below: Creative Tops' La Cafetiere Healthy Living teapot.

Drink & Design

At nixxee we are passionate about drinks and proudly distribute category leading tea, coffee and hydration brands from around the world.

The quick and easy way to make french press coffee.

To find out more please visit us online or call us to speak to one of the team. +44 (0)1202 619 500 sales@nixxee.com

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nixxee.com

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No tea experience is complete without the right mug! Dexam’s new range of London Pottery mugs are picture-perfect matches for both the Farmhouse Filter and Globe teapots. Made from high quality stoneware with a solid glossy finish, each mug has a capacity of 300ml so you can comfortably fit in a full cuppa.

Dexam International Tel: 01730 811811 Web: www.dexam.co.uk

Tea &

COFFEE RELATED PRODUCTS

First-class materials, excellent quality and precise function is what the name Zassenhaus, the leading manufacturer of manual coffee mills has stood for since 1867. The original Zassenhaus conical burr grinder, machined from high grade tool steel, guarantees to produce the perfect grind, suitable for any coffee brewing system.

The mechanism is designed to minimise heat so the beans are gently hand ground to retain the delicate flavours and nutrients. Fully adjustable from coarse for filter and drip brewing to ultra-fine for espresso.

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

Elia’s Perfect Pour collection features a complete range of Teapots and Coffee pots made from 18/10 Stainless Steel. The unique design encompasses a drip-free spout to ensure a Perfect Pour that makes this range so appealing. With heat dissipating hollow handles and a pedestal base, this product is light in the hand and a delight to use. To complete the collection there is a co-ordinating stainless steel sugar bowl and creamer set with tray, all items are individually gift boxed.

Elia International Tel: 0208 998 2100 E-mail: sales@elia.co.uk Web: www.elia.co.uk

With its clean lines the Judge Coffee Grinder delivers the ideal grounds to suit your coffee maker. Consider brewing in one of the Judge Cafétieres. Made from Borosilicate glass, with a polished stainless steel lid, Judge’s cafétiere’ s, are stylish, making them the perfect partner for Judge Double-walled Glasses. With its beguiling scent and bewitching flavour, coffee is on the brink of becoming that nation’s favourite brew, knocking tea off the top spot. We hate to admit it, but Judge’s coffee collections might just be playing a part in that!

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

Coffee specialist, Melitta® launches its new premium bean to cup coffee machine into retail – complete with the prestigious Quiet Mark icon. The Barista TS Smart® is fitted with the intuitive Touch & Slide feature to simply and conveniently set and use the coffee machine by gently touching the sensor panels. Melitta has also added a number of new features, including the Melitta Connect App – ‘My Coffee & Smart Service’, the Quiet as a Whisper Grinder (Quiet Mark) for quiet grinding with five different grind settings and a super convenient automatic ‘once a year’ cleaning, descaling and flushing programme.

Melitta Tel: 01952 671073 Web: www.melitta.co.uk

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Retailer focus

From its quaint beginnings in the site of the former Steamer Inn in the village of Alfriston to its 42 stores nationwide (including iconic Divertimenti), Steamer Trading Group embraced a new era in 2017, with the appointment of a new chief executive officer, Mark Saunders. PH spoke to Mark and Ben Philips, now creative director and recent recipient of the Excellence in Housewares’ Honorary Achievement Award.

Inset: View of the Divertimenti Cookery School.

Navigating new waters

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ow Steamer Trading Cookshop’s collection of PH/bira Excellence in Housewares Awards trophies include two of the most prestigious – The Honorary Achievement Award, presented to Ben Philips at the last Awards night and previously to his father, co-founder (and former Habitat buyer) David. Both awards are recognition that the lifestyle brand that sells desirable (not merely functional) kitchen and home goods has changed the face of housewares industry.

With a new ceo at the helm of the family business (see breakout), the current journey is all about making the best out of the Steamer Trading portfolio, letting

consumers know about it, and then continuing its expansion, in the UK and beyond. Ceo Mark Saunders confirms: “Our ambition is to have more stores, but we have got to get the ones we’ve got working brilliantly.” Creative director, Ben Philips concurs: “A lot happened in 2016 with the acquisition of Divertimenti and Kitchens, two openings, three websites and a Cookery School, bringing something wholly different into the business.” The next opening (whenever that may be) might be a Divertimenti or a Steamer Trading store, but Mark also looks forward to “opening stores in factory outlet villages – a new channel that will allow us to clear

Mark Saunders: taking the helm Mark joined Steamer Trading as a consultant on June 1 last year, and became ceo on July 15. With almost 30 years of retail experience (including Cath Kidston and Habitat), Mark comments: “I have a lot of experience of brands and family firms as well as growing businesses and taking them through the journey of changed management.”

As a customer of his local branch in Harrogate (which opened in 2015), Mark admires, “the sheer potential of the brand” that represents “a comprehensive yet curated offer of kitchen and lifestyle products, sold in welcoming environments by store colleagues with excellent product knowledge (very much at the heart of the brand) and a reputation for expertise and innovation.” He acknowledges: “Working with a brand that you can so easily identify with is very rewarding.” As an enthusiast home cook - regularly rustling up his family’s Sunday roast as well as dinner party fare - Mark is also ‘hands on’ with Steamer’s product offering.

Standing down from everyday management and now in the role of creative director, Ben Philips has spent 16 years growing the company - the same length of time as his parents, founders David and Liz, were at the helm.

Welcoming Mark on board, Ben reflects that he can now focus on areas such as property acquisition or sale, as well as longer term strategy: “I’ve got a very enjoyable job!”

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end of lines while keeping our high street stores profitable.”

Referring to Divertimenti as “the crown jewels,” Mark notes: “It will inevitably be London-centric but there is also international potential.” Ben acknowledges that work is “60% of the way there in bringing the Divertimenti product offering up to date,” – with particular focus on premium knives, cookware and coffee machines. The store is also focusing on providing the “incredible customer service” expected of its central Knightsbridge location. With one of the world’s most renowned Cookery Schools, there is also the task of bringing the brand back into

Right: Ben Philips accepting the Honorary Achievement Award.

Far left: Steamer Trading customer and now ceo - Mark Saunders.

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Retailer focus Below: “Magical” - the Divertimenti Cookery School in action.

Below centre: Where it all began – the original Steamer Trading store in Alfriston.

Personal favourites consumers’ awareness. A second Divertimenti Cookery School in Steamer Trading’s Truro store is in its infancy, but Mark confirms the likelihood of more Cookery Schools within Steamer Trading’s stores in the future, noting that: “these need to be very strategically thought out.”

Having shopped in Kitchens when living in Bristol 30 years ago, Mark is well aware of the importance of “keeping what makes Kitchens special” – it has a strong reputation as “a functional cookshop that’s been there forever,” with enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff, including three branch managers who have “more than 70 years service between them.” The introduction of more of Steamer Trading’s ranges to the three stores is proving fruitful, with ‘tremendous” trading numbers, “especially over the last couple of months of the year,” Mark confirms.

Not surprisingly, Steamer’s online sales represent the “biggest percentage growth opportunity - already growing three to

When it comes to personal favourite branches of Steamer Trading, Mark picks: “Alfriston for its heritage, Guildford for its style and potential and Harrogate because it’s home.”

Ben’s first choice is Divertimenti with its Cookery School, which offers a “magical” in-store experience: “When there is a chef teaching, there’s an amazing atmosphere, so customers in the store want to know what’s happening, how they can learn and what kit they need.” Ben also refers to the Marlow branch with affection, although the building is set to return to its original use as a pub (with Steamer looking for a new site), and the Saffron Walden shop for its “store team who knows its customers so well, and are constantly providing advice.”

When quizzed, “Which retailer do you most admire at the moment?” Mark states: “Hotel Chocolat – for its consistently excellent service – I know how difficult that is to achieve.”

Ben comments: “A couple of years ago, the stock answer was Apple, but right now it’s boring, which shows how volatile retail is.” He chooses: “Waterstones – it has made a renaissance and returned to its first principle of being about books, with a passion that come through in stores, for example with managers’ recommendations.”

four times faster than the main part of the business,” confirms Mark, who adds: “It is still relatively underdeveloped.” With investment in sites, staff and marketing, Steamer’s online potential is also enhanced by its database of over a million customers (collected over the last 20 years). Blogging also presents a “big opportunity,” Mark notes.

When considering the greatest challenges to retail, Mark acknowledges the “on-going structural shift to online” (with overcapacity in property on the high

street) and “macro-economic uncertainty, not least caused by Brexit, which will slow down the housing markets and subsequent investments in new kitchens – we’re seeing general uncertainty in business pages on a daily basis.” However, relishing the future with a “good size” portfolio and seeing “stacks of opportunities” ahead, Mark and Ben admit to having “far more ideas that we can put into practise right away.” Hence the pleasurable challenge of “deciding which avenue to pursue!”

What’s in store?

Steamer Trading’s strongest performing categories include coffee, cookware, premium knives and tools (with more than 1500 tools in its biggest branches). “More innovative small electricals” are also setting the retailer apart from competitors – an example is the Aerogarden (with an exclusive UK launch): “good fun and pleasantly interactive,” notes Ben. There are more exclusive introductions in the pipeline and own label developments in some categories will include tableware and textiles.

Ben also highlights that: “We stock significantly more gift-led lines and greeting cards than we did this time last year.” The retailer’s lifestyle focused offering has evolved, just as the kitchen has become a central hub for households, far beyond cooking and eating. As Ben acknowledges: “Steamer Trading has always stood for ‘serious cookshops with style,’” hence stocking products that add to the style of the kitchen, “whether that’s a cushion or a pet bowl.” As Mark elaborates: “Vases, picture frames, candles and diffusers all fit into the kitchen environment.”

Of course, it is also vital to keep reminding customers of the gift appeal of Steamer Trading’s products (with tempting displays for events such as Mother’s Day and Easter). Mark observes: “Every time there is economic uncertainty people may hold back in buying for themselves but will often invest in others with their gift purchases.”

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Below: Cheese and wine gifts at Steamer Trading Cookshop.

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Market focus Inset: Creative Tops' Festival Folk by Katie Alice.

Bottom: Bermuda, among the new bowls from Churchill China.

Bowled over

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onsumer dining habits are becoming increasingly diverse," Keeping dining relaxed and casual continues to be a major states Portmeirion's sales and trend in tableware, with bowls stealing a march as marketing director Phil Atherton. "We’re people change not only how and where they want to becoming busier and often multi-tasking, eat but also what they eat too. so any dinnerware range has to reflect this.

PH explores what other trends will be leading the way in 2018.

Time spent around a table enjoying good food with family and friends is a pre-requisite for Dining al fresco happiness and well-being Inset: Portmeirion's new, Of course, the need for tableware isn't only and should be enjoyed as commemorative confined to indoors. mix and match "This year, entertaining outdoors is a big often as possible.

Westerly collection. focus at Creative Tops with new al fresco However, as such, tableware that has the style and trend-driven tableware collections design of our ceramics," says Katrina Lawton, marketing and PR manager. "Outdoor dining must be versatile, helps us get back in touch with nature, and al practical and built for fresco tableware helps to keep the experience carefree and relaxed with informal dining, sharing lightweight and durable materials. With this and entertaining, with trend in mind, two collections we have grown this season are our own Drift range and bowls becoming the Festival Folk by Katie Alice." tableware of choice."

Continues Phil, "with Portmeirion's international more formal dining table scenario now appeal and philosophy for seems to be replaced by more causal casual dining, we have eating, for example, while watching TV," always had a range of versatile tableware At Churchill China, buyer Thomas comments Thomas. "Plus, the including bowls to suit modern lifestyles – Woodward concurs that the change in consumption of more exotic dishes, such from Botanic Garden to Sophie Conran for people's eating habits has seen the as curries, means that bowls make the Portmeirion, to our new mix and match company introducing a vast bowl offer in perfect partner for these type of dishes."

Westerly collection that's been introduced its Spring/Summer 18 catalogue. "The Denby's marketing manager Vikki Irvine to celebrate what would have been the traditional means of consuming food in a highlights that bowl sales have overtaken 100th birthday of Portmeirion's founder plates, accounting for 40% of new Susan Williams-Ellis. The versatile tableware purchased in 2016 against 8% collection embodies the trend for for plates, highlighting the growing bowl relaxed and creative dining, following culture. Consequently, Denby now has Susan’s flair for casual entertaining." over 250 bowls to meet this demand, Phil adds that the same can be said for including nesting bowl sets for easy Spode. "It’s a heritage brand that’s evolved storage. "There is also an increasing trend with design and lifestyle trends to remain for buying tableware by occasion, with relevant to today’s market, with Maui by consumers avoiding the stressful decision Spode new for 2018." to purchase a whole new tableware set," PROGRESSIVE

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Market focus Inset: A new launch at Ambiente will be Burleigh's Felicity.

Below: Ravenhead's Entertain collection.

Below left: Mixologist glassware from LSA International.

observes Vikki. "Instead, they are purchasing tableware relevant to dining occasions, often to mix with existing tableware by simply adding different colourways. We have therefore added capsule ranges and gift boxed sets to our portfolio in response to this trend."

She also points to a growing trend for tableware with a inherent natural aesthetic, originally seen in restaurants, and now used in the home, featuring 'honest' materials and ceramic crafting techniques.

"Our new Studio Blue is an artisan collection of mugs, plates and bowls in different shades of blue that create a tonal effect."

At Burleigh meanwhile, commercial director Jim Norman says that increasingly, tableware is being given as a gift, with Burleigh extending the company's gifting range to focus on tea time china to meet the demand. New for Ambiente will be Burleigh's Felicity in rose pink and mulberry and Asiatic Pheasants in dove grey.

Horwood too, will be broadening its tableware ranges this year, with Judge set to offer customers and consumers more opportunities. "Currently, we offer dinner plates and coupe plates in white, but will be looking at neutrals and will be introducing new lines that will support the move to individual eating," comments sales director Rob Jones. "As our tableware is sold individually it gives us flexibility, but we will also be offering different, smaller sets too, to reflect today's eating patterns, where families don't sit down to eat together as often as they used to."

Jo Booth, senior brand manager at Ravenhead, says that the company has seen a surge in interest and sales for its

Taking glassware to the next level Stylish drinkware has become a big trend in the past couple of years, driven by Millenials who like gin or cocktail glasses that reflect their lifestyles."Following the success of our Gin collection in 2017, particularly the set of two generously shaped balloon glasses, our Mixologist collection for Spring/Summer features an assortment of glasses, serveware and tools to allow users to create their own cocktail bar at home," confirms LSA International’s PR and marketing manager Hannah Lambert. "Taking classic glass shapes such as the cocktail and the highball, Mixologist has given them a contemporary twist, featuring steeped designs and thick stems. The range has also reinvented the 2017 balloon glass, giving it a fresh, modern design for the coming season."

Entertain collection, which includes speciality cocktail glasses. "We predict that we will see more people experimenting at home with a variety of different cocktail recipes in 2018, with the Millennial obsession for social media driving growth in the premium spirits sector market."

At DRH, md David Holmes confirms that the company will be launching Speckle, a range of harlequin glasses under the Anton Studio Designs brand.

"Following on from the huge demand that we have seen for this style of glass, we will be adding some colour in to each piece," explains David. The range will include wine glasses, flutes, a tumbler and a gin glass.

Also debuting in 2018 will be the launch of Tower Housewares' iridescent tableware range, which includes wine glasses.

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"We are working on an iridescent oil slick range and will be unveiling more on this range early this year," confirms the company's buying director, Steve Galbraith.

Below: Denby's new Studio Blue artisan collection of bowls.

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Dexam’s lovely new range of Little Birds porcelain serving-ware is a perfect match to its best-selling Little Birds kitchen textiles, and is at home in both modern and vintage aesthetics. Made from high quality gloss porcelain, the range currently features complementary large and small jugs with easy pour spouts, a cake stand that makes an attractive centrepiece for serving both cakes or individual treats and a high quality stainless steel cake server.

Dexam International Tel: 01730 811811 Web: www.dexam.co.uk

Tableware You’ll be truly bowled over with KitchenCraft’s fabulous new collection of must-have bowls. Rather than sitting at the table, the trend for eating food from a bowl with perhaps just a fork or spoon has never been so strong, whether that’s breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Twenty-four different designs feature on gorgeous glazed stoneware to cater for all styles and trends – pastel, geometric, oriental, vibrant, floral and much more.

An extra boon for retailers is a ready assembled, hot spot merchandiser allowing all twenty-four designs (one hundred and forty-four bowls) to be merchandised as pick up products.

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

Edge is a reimagining of our White Basics collection and includes a selection of coupe shaped plates, bowls and mugs. Each piece features a hand-painted grey rim which frames the surface and elevates the natural white of the porcelain base.

Maxwell Williams Tel: 020 8200 5100 Web: www.maxwellandwilliams.co.uk

No tableware offering is complete without a comprehensive selection of quality napkins offered around the store at impulse-buy points.

Anniversary House are please pleased to offer over 70 beautiful lines from both Elise and Ti-flair brands in luxury Napkins, all stocked in the UK ready for same day dispatch. The range boasts innovative, attractive Everyday and seasonal designs all produced to a high quality 3 ply standard, ideal for entertaining. Merchandising is easy with countertop, wall racks and floor standing display options. All are easy to selfassemble and are supplied with fixtures and fittings.

Anniversary House Tel: 01202 590222 Web: www.anniversaryhouse.co.uk

This Cole & Mason Duo Oil & Vinegar Pourer features a beautifully styled glass bottle with a smaller “twist” triton inner bottle inside, thus allowing for two ingredients to be stored together.

Liquid is dispensed via the stainless steel flow control pourer, simply twist one way for oil or the other way for vinegar and move to centre to seal.

There is also a clever drip collection system which means there is no messy residue left around the top of the bottle or on the work surface.

DKB Tel: Tel: 01252 828053 E-mail: sales.orders@dkbrands.co.uk

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Top Drawer Review.qxp_Layout 1 18/01/2018 18:39 Page 47

The latest trends in barware from BarCraft really got the party started at the show but all these amazing new launches will make you want to keep the party going all year round, whatever your tipple! One of many new ranges to be unveiled at the show was Tropicana (pictured), oozing a totally tropical vibe with a lively collection of on-trend themes such as pineapples, flamingos and cacti featuring across the likes of stoppers, ice cube tray and cocktail stirrers.

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

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This year’s Top Drawer Show allowed visitors to see a preview of Burton McCall’s upcoming new brand, which will officially launch in March. Plus new products were on display from its existing brands such as Aladdin with the Espresso Leak-Lock mug. Perfect to enjoy your espresso drink and guaranteed not to spill a drop, the sleek design fits most coffee machines and locks in the flavour and aroma for longer. The leakproof flip lid has a locking slider and the whole mug is dishwasher safe and BPA free.

Burton McCall Tel: 0116 234 4611 E-mail: sales@burton-mccall.com Web: www.burton-mccall.co.uk

Edge is a reimagining of Maxwell Williams’ White Basics collection and includes a selection of coupe shaped plates, bowls and mugs.

Each piece features a hand-painted grey rim which frames the surface and elevates the natural white of the porcelain base.

Maxwell Williams Tel: 020 8200 5100 Web: www.maxwellandwilliams.co.uk

Creative Tops is excited to launch new magical James and the Giant Peach tableware from Roald Dahl at Top Drawer. With sky blue and peach colours, James and the Giant Peach products feature original storybook illustrations of James’ enchanted adventure with his charming insect family and their flying fruit home across three different styles of mug, a travel mug and a lap tray.

Creative Tops Tel: 01536/207710 Web: www.creative-tops.com

Enjoy your favourite flowers, all year round, with new Botanica Floris.

Designed in collaboration with the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria and botanical artist Malcolm Hobday, Botanica Floris brings to life the Camelia, Strelitzia and Iris blooms in larger than life graphics, alongside golden silhouettes of the plants from which they grow. Made from luminous fine bone china, this range is finished with a hand-painted rim of gold.

Maxwell Williams Tel: 020 8200 5100 Web: www.maxwellandwilliams.co.uk

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48-49 Harrods_muk.qxp_Grid 19/01/2018 12:56 Page 48

Retailer focus: Harrods

Green king

Inset: A view of Harrods’ striking façade.

From its Green Men welcoming customers at the entrance doors, to its coveted green bags and familiar logo, Harrods is a British icon. It is renowned the world over for its luxurious and customer focused shopping experience. In March, Knightsbridge’s famous department store will represent the best of British retailing at Chicago’s International Home + Housewares Show and gia (Global Innovation Awards) gala. PH highlights how our gia UK winner for 2017-2018 is ‘wowing’ the world with its Cookshop and Home Appliance rooms.

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early 30 national gia winners will be showcased in the Hall of Global innovation at Chicago’s International Home + Housewares Show in March, as well as applauded at the celebratory gia gala evening (see News).

Each national winner is asked to show how they excel in areas including displays, marketing and promotions, customer service, staff training and innovative business practices. And of course, world famous Harrods will not disappoint its global audience. Besides its collections of leading brands, the retailer’s seven floors include stunning restaurants, the opulent 100 year old Food Halls, The Studio - an exclusive design service, By Appointments Personal Shopping and the Urban Retreat Spa. Homegoods services include bespoke tableware - including hand-finished porcelain with customised highlight colours and personal monograms and a glassware engraving service - as well as

Below: Fresh ingredients enhance Cook Shop displays.

bespoke embroidered linens and personal commissions for lighting.

When it comes to kitchenware (and having won the Best Department Store – Independent trophy in the PH/bira Excellence in Housewares Awards 2018),

Annalise Fard, Harrods’ director of Home and Beauty, reflects: “Our specialist buying team has curated a collection of cookware and home appliances offered in the Harrods Cookshop, with design, quality PROGRESSIVE

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and our discerning customers in mind.”

She elaborates: “Many of these customers are aspiring chefs, looking for products of a professional standard, which we are able to offer.”

Covering a total of 13,466 square foot, Harrods’ bright and inviting Cookshop and Home Appliances rooms both have a central focus in each – the demonstration areas.

These help to create, in the words of Annalise, ”a truly unforgettable customer experience.” Hence it might be the smell of fresh baked bread or freshly roasted coffee in the Home Appliance room that appeals to visitors, or the drama and excitement of weekly live cookery demonstrations that reflect the seasons and new product launches.

In conjunction with these, displays in the Cookshop demonstration area change weekly to link into the brand that is being demonstrated. Demonstration themes include Summer BBQs along with outdoor cooking/dinning and entertaining

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Retailer focus: Harrods Inset: Tableware in a tempting window display.

Below centre: Enlightening: the Precision Cookware feature in Harrods Home & Property magazine discussed the benefits of Heston NanoBond cookware (introduced exclusively by Harrods in the Autumn), the Sage One Precision Poacher and the Bugatti Noun Cooking System.

or cosy baking and roasting during the winter months.

Elsewhere in the department, displays may link in with the styles and culinary themes of topical cooking shows such as The Great British Bake Off. It is not just products that help to tell merchandising stories: real food and herbs, cookery books, foliage, textiles and mannequins are used to enhance displays. Display themes are also reflected in the content of the store’s plasma screens, and often tie in with Harrods’ storewide activity, including its windows and magazine editorials.

One of the ways in which Harrods promotes its Cookshop departments is via publications dedicated to the Home and interior category, including two Summer and Winter sale campaigns with glossy A5 Magazines. These showcase best-selling and special purchase ranges including pans, knives, and small electrical appliances. Moreover, Harrods also promotes new season collections and new products in its bi-annual Harrods Home & Property magazine. A recent example is a Precision Cooking feature in the Autumn issue, which included new innovation in

materials and technology selected by Harrods’ Cookshop buyer, Joanne Norton.

Harrods’ main magazine features Cookshop events and cookery book signings in its Top 20 events page and a ‘What’s on’ section (reaching active loyal rewards cardholders with a print run of 120,000 and readership of 360,000).

This is all backed up, not surprisingly, by social media activity, as well as C O O K WA R E

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT Hestan NanoBond 20cm saucepan (lid not shown) £299, 28cm frying pan £269, 26cm covered stockpot £449 and 20cm covered soup pot £299

announcements on in-store digital screens.

Of course, another essential ingredient to the success of Harrods’ Cookshop is its expert buyers and staff. Individual employee’s development includes input from the store’s Learning and Development team as well as access to its website with ‘Toolkits’ for employees and managers. Harrods also emphasises the importance of valuing employees’ contributions, offering benefits within the store and negotiated benefits with local businesses, as well as lifestyle enhancing experiences such as a cycle to work scheme, desk based massages or fun days out.

Now adding gia to its global accolades, Harrods offers the customer a multisensory experience that makes each visitor feel exceptional! Director of Home and Beauty, Annalise sums up: “We are delighted to see Harrods’ commitment to technology and innovation recognised.”

TOOLS OF THE TRADE

The latest cookware is straight out of the science lab. Think molecular titanium pans, space-age heating elements or a pot that poaches and scrambles to the precise degree.

Now you, too, can cook like a pro B Y PAT R I C K M CG U IGAN / PHOTOGRA PHER DAMIAN RUS SELL

HARRODS.COM

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Flights of fancy Harrods' unique retail concepts are often demonstrated ‘hrough store wide campaigns. The Social Butterfly campaign from May 2017 was a striking example where Harrods unveiled a beautiful butterfly chandelier made up of more than 5,000 butterflies and 8,000 cable ties, created by leading designer Zoe Bradley.

Departments reflected this concept with ‘swarms’ of butterflies on display – for example fluttering around lifestyle tableware displays. There were also exclusive products offered throughout the store, including a drinking cup and a Tote bag displaying Zoe’s butterfly design, so customers could take a little piece of the concept home with them.

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Inset: Adding elements of surprise and charm: some of the butterflies that fluttered around Harrods as part of its summer Social Butterfly campaign.

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50-51 Horwood USE.qxp_Grid 19/01/2018 12:38 Page 50

Face to face Inset: New Judge glassware includes a set of four bubble tumblers.

Below centre: Rob Jones.

Bottom: The new showroom at Horwood's Bristol HQ.

Investing in the future H As a new year unfolds, visitors to the Horwood stand at Spring Fair in February will be seeing a new look and feel following a ÂŁ1/2m investment.

Not only will there be a fresh new stand, new products in both the Judge and Stellar ranges, and new sales and marketing staff for visitors to engage with, there will also be engaging new PoS to support the in store activation, along with informative product demonstrations throughout the show.

But even that's not all.

A spacious, shiny new state-ofthe-art showroom was unveiled at the company's Bristol HQ at the beginning of January, and there's more - much more innovation in the pipeline too.

As he celebrates his first year at the helm, PH put new sales director Rob Jones into the hot seat.

orwood may have been founded in 1896 as a family business, but under its present owner TTK Prestige (which acquired the business in 2016), combined with the ambition, energy and enthusiasm of a dedicated team, the company is on an upward trajectory. With an ambition to drive forward product innovation, Horwood is looking to complement its successful stainless steel cookware heartland with innovation and excitement in all other categories. "We want to be able to offer our customers, and our consumers, consistency," states Rob Jones, who previous worked for Miele, and has hit the ground running since he joined Horwood on the first day of Spring Fair 2017. "We aim for every interaction a customer has with our brands to be consistent from now on," he confirms. "Therefore when

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someone visits us at a trade show, or comes to our showroom, or goes into a stockist, or searches for our brands online, the core values, trust, quality and service will be reflected. Plus, with the consumer’s journey changing, we need to be able to highlight our products to our consumers in a very different way. We want retailers to be using our products with instore activation methods to demonstrate how our products are different and, in our opinion, better to those of our competitors."

Rob admits to being a big fan of less is more. "I don't think we have to show every single sku, or every single product we sell, whether in our showroom or at a trade show. The majority of our customers are familiar with of our products, so going forward there will be a big focus on what's new and different."

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Face to face

Left: The four new members of the sales and marketing team are, from left to right: Brendan Holley, Francesca Nesler, Daryl Eastlake and Niamh Costello.

Inset: The new collection of Stellar Stay Cool cookware.

Below: James Martin cookware from Stellar.

Taking the company's engagement with its customers a stage further still, Investment in stockists A significant investment, topping ÂŁ1/2m, has been made in sales and marketing and is the second phase of the expansion intrinsic to Horwood's Customer Awareness programme, involving the team working hand in programme will be an active kitchen at hand with customers.

The introduction of a retail-focused advertising and promotional spend involves investing in its Horwood's Bristol HQ, with plans firmly in customers enabling Horwood to work with them on bespoke PoS and bespoke in-store activation place to have this up and running in 2019. ideas. "It will be a key support mechanism," states Rob, "to include, most importantly, supporting "Retailers, and potentially consumers, customers digitally, helping them to engage with their customers. Everything we will be doing will be to help retailers attract customers into their stores." An example is the creation of strong new will be able to come here to use the PoS material for 2018, including featurisation around the James Martin brand, as well as the tools products in a dedicated environment," and gadgets categories.

In addition, the company has identified focus areas during April/May and June, as well as in Rob confirms.

September/October, based around eight key areas for sales to include Christmas and summer, as In terms of new product, he's very aware well as special occasions and more topical themes. of the current changes in consumer habits, to include the way in which consumers shop, and the way in which ordinator, who will be playing with our audience in a they shop when they are in a retail a critical role in customer more considered environment. "It's all changing very fast activation plans, while manner. If there isn't a and we want to replicate the consumer Francesca Nesler, digital silver bullet type journey in the showroom," he emphasises. marketing co-ordinator, has product then we will "There has also been a change in how been tasked to lead and ensure that our people eat. Sit down family meals are less develop Horwood’s digital launches offer retailers frequent, and individuals often cook for growth and online platform. something different themselves. As a result, we have scaled "It's really important for the that solves a down our cutlery sets and our pan sets to sales and marketing teams to consumer need. We reflect that transition." work closely together for are also keenly aware A re-categorisation now focuses on five the benefit of the customer," of the environmental key sectors representing Cook, Bake, Prep, Rob underlines. impact of product Food & Drink and Electricals. "Every Crucial is the launch of a brand new manufacture and packaging, and are product we look to launch needs to fit website which will be going 'live' in the working towards making sure that, in both into one of those categories," he points Spring. "It will showcase our products as cases, we can reduce any negative impact out. "However if it doesn't, we will consumers want to see them," explains that the product cycle has on potentially look at creating a Rob. "Relevant information will offer the environment." new category." consumers the best possible opportunity Meanwhile, going forward, the company A further development has seen with which to take their purchasing will continue to focus on its four key investment in the sales decisions." pillars: consumer awareness; in-store and marketing team.

He says that while activation; key customer relationships and New at Spring Fair Spring Fair will see the unveiling of new Four new the cookware taking a multi-channel approach. Plus, cookware range in the Stellar brand, plus a new appointments started market is evolving, there will be a greater focus on export in range of woodware. "There has also been a with Brendan Holley consumer 2018, which is a rapidly growing area of re-staging of the James Martin collection to offer a more consistent level of product," last summer, who has behaviour is the business. In addition to Spring Fair, confirms Rob. "We will also be revealing a come on board as evolving even Horwood will also be exhibiting at range of new glassware for the first time in several years. Plus, there will also be a new national account faster. "We need to Ambiente in February, and the International collection of knives within the Judge brand. manager. His be pro-active in Home & Housewares Show in Chicago in The NPD has been geared around people setting up home for the first time who are appointment was order to satisfy March, with a growth strategy evolving that looking for quality products." followed by Daryl consumer demand. will focus on reaching potential new Eastlake in the newly Therefore instead territories and new retailers. (The company created role of national sales manager. of introducing new products ad hoc, we exported to 49 countries in 2017).

Working closely with Daryl will be Niamh will now have two NPD launch periods "With ambitious plans to drive the Costello as the new trade marketing coeach year giving us the ability to engage business forward, it's all to play for."

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What's Cooking in Colours for Mother's Day Gifts_muk.qxp_50-51 18/01/2018 17:52 Page 52

What’s Cooking?

FOR MOTHER’S DAY GIFTS Four cookshops reveal some bestsellers that would make perfect gifts for mums or other female relations on Mother’s Day. Lin Cherrington, director, Creative Cookware, Edinburgh Creative Cookware is where you can find a wide range of items that the larger department stores just don’t stock. We pride ourselves on the amazing customer service we offer and the fact that we listen to our customers. We love a challenge and endeavour to track down a piece of equipment or information for them.

Sophie Conran Heart Shaped Wooden Boards from T&G

‘All you need is love and laughter’ – perfect for Mother’s Day.

Bar Drinks Gin Prep Board from T&G

For the mother who enjoys a gin at the end of a stressful day.

Dressed Three Tier Stainless Steel Cake Stand from Alessi

Perfect for those ‘special’ family gatherings like Mother’s Day.

London Pottery Oval Teapot from Dexam

Mum can take time out to enjoy a choice of various teas thanks to the fine mesh filer within the pot.

Royal Worcester Wrendale Bone China Mugs from Portmeirion Group

There are various animal designs available. A design for every mum!

Cast Iron Baking Sheets, Slow Cookers and Frying Pans from Netherton Foundry

For the mother who really enjoys cooking and using the very best cast iron cookware, and it’s UK made in Shropshire, which is a bonus.

Right: T&G’s Sophie Conran Heart Shaped chopping boards bring elements of love and warmth to the kitchen.

Left: Alessi’s Dressed Three Tier Stainless Steel Cake Stand will fit elegantly on the table, and is ideal for special occasions like Mother’s Day.

Nikki Sharp, director, UK Cookshop, Hurstpierpoint and Burgess Hill The UK Cookshop was established in 2005 and is run by Dave and Nikki with the most important member of staff Henry (the Cockapoo). We stock over 10,000 products in our online shop and two shops in West Sussex, in the village of Hurstpierpoint and market town of Burgess Hill.

Aprons from Ulster Weavers

Aprons are probably our bestselling Mother’s Day gift – the favourites are animal designs.

A-Z Mugs from Wild & Wolf

These appeal to children who like to chose something that is personal for their mum.

Price & Kensington Teapots from The Rayware Group

Traditional but colourful, one or two cup teapots are always good gifts for mums or grandmas.

Camelbak Water Bottles from Burton McCall

These good quality water bottles are popular as gifts for sporty mums.

Pretty storage for cakes, with designs including hearts and birds, and one with the words, ‘Nothing brings people together like tea and cake.’

There are all sorts of designs (including flowers and sayings) that come in a spinner. They make lovely, affordable gifts for children to give.

Cake Tins from Cooksmart

Eggcups from KitchenCraft

Left: Teatime is a British tradition and Price & Kensington Teapots offer a classic style to make a ‘proper’ cup of tea - mum would approve!

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Right: A best selling gift Ulster Weavers aprons make Mother’s Day gifting a headache-free option.

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What's Cooking in Colours for Mother's Day Gifts_muk.qxp_50-51 18/01/2018 17:52 Page 53

What’s Cooking?

Nicola Hardingham, director, Dinghams Cookshop, Salisbury and Winchester A family run cookshop, which recently opened a café on the first floor of the Salisbury shop.

Emma Bridgewater

It’s a classic. You can’t go wrong with the simple design and colours. It also comes in a box.

Tint Tea Pot from Maxwell & Williams

Lovely pastel colours and a nice shape.Perfect for loose leaf tea for one.

Just The One G&T Copa Glass from Dartington Sage Boss To Go Blender from Beam

A beautiful gin glass that comes in its own box.

Organic Jute Baskets from The Braided Rug Company

These come in lots of different colours and sizes and are so useful.

Polka Dot Mummy 1/2 Pint Mug from

Top design, and also comes with a cook book.

Emma Bridgewater Hens Cake Tins from Perfect for a mother hen who loves to bake.

Elite Tins Right: An easy to use, healthy addition to the kitchen - Sage’s Boss To Go Blender creates quick and easy smoothies and will make meal prep so much easier for all busy mums.

Left: This beautiful Gin & Tonic Glass from Dartington comes in its own box, which adds to the presentation - a great gift for Mother’s Day!

Sherri Singleton, owner, The Mistley Kitchen, Mistley near Manningtree The Mistley Kitchen combines a cookery school and shop stocked with supplies and gifts for cooks.

Leopold Vienna Slow Coffee Maker from Haus

For proper coffee that mum can enjoy – one of life’s pleasures.

Staub Tagine from Zwilling J A Henckels

This is beautifully elegant, practical and versatile – a wonderful gift.

Masterclass Oil Drizzler from KitchenCraft

This makes a good gift when bought with one of the beautiful bottles of olive oil that we stock.

This is an English company that makes luxurious handcreams in lots of nice fragrances – perfect for hands that have been busy preparing food and washing up in the kitchen.

These knives make chopping, slicing and dicing a breeze and will last a lifetime.

Abahna Handcream from Abahna Zwiling Pro Knife Set from Zwilling JA Henckels Professional Deluxe Two-Piece Champagne Box Set from Grunwerg

Presented in a bamboo box, this champagne bottle opener and stopper is a good gift for when mum can’t drink her champagne all in one go!

Left: Create a Middle Eastern feast with Staub’s classic styled tagine from Zwilling J A Henckels.

Left: This Leopold Vienna Slow Coffee Maker from Haus makes a proper cup of coffee and brings a contemporary feel to your kitchen space.

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Brabantia’s Bo Touch Bin Ipictured) is like no bin before it, which makes it the perfect gift for interiors-conscious Mums!

Bo is both a clever recycling solution and a beautiful addition to the home.

Brabantia Tel: 01275 810600 E-mail: sales.uk@brabantia.com

KitchenCraft’s mug collection has been totally revamped for 2018 and offers an exceptional choice of beautiful bone china mugs – the most ideal gift for mums everywhere! A host of shapes and a wonderful array of designs ranging from florals and fauna to animals and abstract offer something for everyone. The new introductions also include a charming collection of mini mugs, ideal for children or indeed the child in all of us, with a range of delightful designs including totally on trend unicorns!

KitchenCraft T: 0121 604 1111 W: www.kitchencraft.co.uk E: sales@kitchencraft.co.uk

There’s a timeless quality to both wood and slate; they come from the earth, exuding a natural beauty.

For its latest range of serveware, Judge has brought these two organic materials together in a collection that is as effortlessly practical as it is appealing.

Comprising eight charmingly rendered pieces – five platters, a lazy Susan, a cheeseboard with cloche and a cheeseboard and knife set – the Judge Slate assortment has been created to encourage sharing..

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

A great gift for Mother’s Day – the new ‘Bar’ boards from T&G will add a little bit of fun, choose from Gin, Cocktails and Prosecco boards, the perfect board to their tonic! Made from hevea wood, use these quirky boards for cutting lemon and limes for gin and tonics, fruit for cocktails and even serve nibbles to enjoy a glass of prosecco! A practical, eye catching board for everyday use which will be treasured for years to come, just perfect for Mother’s Day! T&G Tel: 01275 841841 Web: www.tg-woodware.com

An attractive way of storing food, Brabantia’s stackable square canisters (pictured), from the Tasty Colours line, would make a unique, thoughtful and truly useful gift for Mother’s Day. Brabantia Tel: 01275 810600 E-mail: sales.uk@brabantia.com

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Incredibly ergonomic, the Spiro Ironing Board from Russell Hobbs features seven height positions that are easily adjusted to suit the user, as well as non-slip capped feet and a transport lock for secure storage. The Cubic Ironing Board benefits from wheels for easy manoeuvrability around the home, and a space-saving iron rest that slides in and out for easy storage. Available in silver and black, the Geo Ironing Board benefits from a large iron rest, with space to hang freshly-pressed garments.

Russell Hobbs Tel: 0161 934 2240 E-mail: russellhobbshomewares@upgs.com Web: www.russellhobbs.com/russell-hobbs-products

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Eddingtons have extended their offering of “Vintage Design” cookie cutters. Together with the copper collection they have introduced a range of heavyweight stainless steel cutters featuring an easy press handle for ease of use. Eight traditional shapes make up the range, including three Christmas designs: star; Christmas tree; and angel. Free display baskets are also available for use in store.

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

Available in a variety of attractive colours, these rectangular 60-litre sensor bins are ideal for home or office kitchens. Equipped with a smart lid, which activates when objects are 15-20cm in front of them and closes five seconds later, the bins also feature a manual override button, which allows you to switch off the sensor function if required. The bins are complete with fingerprint-proof coating, making them as simple to maintain as they are to use.

Tower Tel: 0333 220 6070 Web: www.morphyrichards.co.uk/products/Cookware

Eagerly anticipated by all at Horwood is Spring Fair 2018 offering an exceptional opportunity to unveil the company’s new collections under the leadership of Rob Jones.

All supported by new approaches to retail presentation, promotion and collaborative opportunities, backed by their enhanced customer service experience. There is also talk that there will be a celebrity appearance on the stand on Tuesday afternoon to meet and greet retailers, to unveil a new collection, and cook.

Horwood Homewares Tel: 01179 400000 Web: www.horwood.co.uk

With its endearing vintage style coupled with modern functionality, Living Nostalgia’s comprehensive collection of kitchen and utility accessories now benefits from some exciting new lines for SS18 including the introduction of English Sage, a subtle new colourway which sits in perfect harmony with the existing shades of vintage blue, antique cream and French grey. In another exciting twist these four colourways are mirrored in the brand new Colourworks Classic collection of tools, gadgets, accessories and melamine-ware for an all-encompassing offering.

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Zyliss essential cooks’ tools, new style for 2018 Available now

To find out more about the new products, rebrand and the full range call us now on: 01252 828053 or email: sales.orders@dkbrands.co.uk

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