Progressive Housewares March April 2020

March/April 2020

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Editor’s comment W

Max Publishing Ltd, United House North Road, London N7 9DP T: 020 7700 6740 F: 020 7607 6411 www.progressivehousewares.co.uk www.max-publishing.co.uk www.housewaresnews.net Subscriptions Subscribe online at Max-Subscriptions.net

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.

e appear to be in the middle of a science fiction film but this time we can’t reach for the remote or click on a mouse to switch over to something more frivolous. As PH goes to press we are all experiencing the surreal twists and turns of the past two weeks that are the stuff of nightmares. But through the worst times shines some of the best of human qualities.

We’re hearing stories about communities coming together to help one another, and there are plenty of stories that make us proud to be a member of this very special industry.

For example, there are so many examples of housewares retailers supporting their local communities by making deliveries to those in Above: PH’s Jo Howard with isolation or reaching out with inspiration and help for cooking at home, and in Mary Berry on The Captivate response, stories of customers expressing their heartfelt appreciation. There are Brands stand at Spring Fair (see News page 11). suppliers that are pulling out the stops to safely pick and despatch orders to support their stockists, or reduce minimum delivery requirements to make things a little easier.

Sometimes it seems hard to see beyond the latest headlines, but there will be a time when we come through this pandemic, and perhaps we will all then see life rather differently, and know what we really value. I think those precious values will be centred on community – including the shops that are part of lives and communities - and coming together with friends and family, invariably involving meals in some shape or other.

Food and shelter are two of the most basic needs. Right now it rings true that we are all part of a vital industry that is helping people to cook, eat and keep their homes clean, providing the means to make the best of our dwellings, which are also doubling as offices and schools!

It was 20 years ago to this month that I joined Max Publishing to work on Progressive Housewares. Over these two decades of change, there has been something that has always stayed the same - feeling privileged to share this industry with so many wonderful people – proactive, inventive, hard working, creative and caring.

We might be isolated right now, but we are not alone. My colleagues and I really do feel privileged that through Progressive Housewares and HousewaresNews.net we are right at the centre of our community, ready and waiting to share your stories, your amazing products, your initiatives and provide news, inspiration and even some distraction. This issue has plenty of all these – including insights into the independents that champion our high streets (see The Retail Barometer pages 20-23), cookware developments (pages 28-29), Cooking with kids (pages 36-3) and our new retailer profile page ‘Shelf portrait’ (page 47). Keep in touch, and keep sharing what makes the housewares industry so exceptional.

In this issue in house

5-15

News

JO HOWARD Editor joh@max-publishing.co.uk

16

BHETA news

JAKKI BROWN Editorial director jw@max-publishing.co.uk

17

Bira news

36-39

So what's cooking for kids?

JOHN BARRY Advertising manager johnb@max-publishing.co.uk

19

Holly Wilson's From the frontline

41

Advertorial: Ultimate Products

ROB WILLIS Publishing director robw@max-publishing.co.uk

20 - 23 The 2020 Retail Barometer

42

Spring Fair review

findings

43

Ambiente revierw

24- 27

The Creative table: tableware focus

45- 46

New products

28-33

Market focus: Cookware trends

47

Shelf portrait: Gliddons

EMMA CAIN Product page editor emmac@max-publishing.co.uk MICHELLE BOARD Contributing editor michelleb@max-publishing.co.uk MARK GRAYSON Creative director markg@max-publishing.co.uk

34-35

new hub

and developments

Corner Cookshop

WARREN LOMAX Joint md warren@max-publishing.co.uk HELENA HOWARD Photography PROGRESSIVE

Face to face: KitchenCraft's

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De’Longhi No 1 in Espresso Coffee Makers De’Longhi has mastered the art of coffee preparation with the unique Italian know-how for artisan coffee. With a De’Longhi bean to cup, consumers can bring Barista quality to the home, serving the perfect coffee taste and all at the touch of a button.

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Shutting up shops

Above: Lakeland temporarily shut its shops last weekend.

Lakeland shares comfort food Lakeland closed its stores on March 22 and put its website and phone orders on hold (continuing as PH went to press). Chief executive Catherine Nunn told customers: “This pause is necessary so we can ensure those colleagues who choose to carry on working are able to do so as safely as possible and in line with all Government guidelines.”

Below: Recipes on Lakeland’s Meanwhile, the Facebook page. retailer is sharing home cooking tips from its team via Facebook to help and inspire its customer community during the UK’s coronavirus lockdown.

One member of the Lakeland team shares the recipe for her daughter Alice’s Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips and Honey, recognising that: “Keeping the kids occupied while they’re off school for the foreseeable and you’re trying to work from home is no easy feat, and it would be very easy to leave them to their own (electronic) devices.” The sweet bread is “absolutely delicious with a reviving cuppa.”

Other recipes include Sally’s Spirit-Soothing Batch-Cooked Vegetable Broth, which is “packed full of healthy veg,” and Brian’s Pizza Dough Garlic Bread.

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To provide safety for their staff and customers, many housewares retailers had already made the decision to temporarily close their physical stores by the time PM Boris Johnson announced the UK’s lockdown on the evening of March 24, resulting in the temporary closure of “non-essential” retail outlets to help thwart the spread of coronavirus. Some hardware stores (many of which stock housewares) remain open having been classified as “essential”.

Robert Dyas closed all stores on March Above: Non-essential retailers put up the 23 – described by its team as a ‘tough decision’ as the ‘closed' signs due to emergency measures to stop the spread of the coronavirus pandemic. shops ‘were providing much-needed services to the Below: Fenwick Brent Cross – keeping in touch community, for example allowing people to access with customers via social media. essential cleaning materials that have at times been in short supply elsewhere.’ The retailer is continuing to sell online ‘for as long as possible.’

With its stores also closing on March 23, Dunelm suspended online orders in order to create a plan to keep its staff safe. It re-opened ecommerce and home delivery three days later, focusing on a selection of homewares from long-standing suppliers, including a wide range of utility products from Brabantia, with additional lines to be added on a daily basis.

Having shut its physical stores the week prior (on March 19), Fenwick temporarily suspended online sales the Tuesday after (March 24) to protect its staff, explaining that its teams worked closely to handpick orders. The department store chain is encouraging its customers to keep in touch and share stories via its social media channels. The retailer states: ‘We would love to hear from you, our incredible customers, about how you are adapting to being at home. Have you decided to become a master baker..?’

Having shut its stores on March 18, but continuing to trade online, Selfridges took to encouraging customers to connect via social media. Jarrold (page 17) closed on March 23.

Harrods kept its Foodhall open to serve its local community until March 25, and then said it would be ‘be working with our charity partners and hospitals to ensure that our food goes to those doing important work in the local community over the weeks ahead.’

In a message to customers on shutting its four London stores (continuing online), Borough Kitchen’s founders Justin Kowbel and David Caldana said: ‘We are all in this together, cooking our way into comfort in these disorienting times.” (See linked stories).

Exclusively 2020 goes digital As PH News went to press and the coronavirus pandemic was continuing to escalate, the BHETA board announced that this year’s Exclusively Show will be postponed for 12 months, until June 1516 2021, ‘as the continued uncertainty and industry challenges outweigh the risk of holding the show later in 2020’.

The BHETA team is launching Exclusively Digital 2020 – an initiative that will showcase brands and new products to buyers, press and influencers via the Exclusively website. Product images, videos and press releases will form part of a comprehensive marketing and social media campaign to maximise exposure to all those with an interest in the show.

In a message shared with BHETA members, Will Jones, BHETA’s chief operating officer said: “We are living in unprecedented times; the impact on all of Above: Much loved housewares show our businesses and personal lives is very real, we are all facing Exclusively will return to the Business significant challenges but at some point in the future, a sense of Design Centre, Islington in June 2021. normality will return and our industry will be able to move forward.”

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Johnlewis.com expects Home boost

Below: John Lewis Oxford Street.

Dyson and Gtech make ventilators

As John Lewis’ 50 stores temporarily closed on March 23), chairman Sharon White confirmed that Johnlewis.com which generates half the brand’s business – was ‘seeing extremely strong demand.’ She also said that John Lewis Partnership expected a rise in demand for some Home product lines as people work from home.

Sharon stated: “The Partnership has traded for over 155 years, during which time we have faced many difficult periods, including two world wars and the 2008 financial crisis.

On every occasion, thanks to our customers and Partners, and the long-standing relationships with our suppliers and stakeholders, we have emerged stronger. We all need to continue to support each other and our strength and resilience will be tested.

But they will not be broken.”

The food halls within John Lewis Oxford Street as well as the Waitrose shops that share premises with John Lewis space at several stores were to remain open. John Lewis partners were being redeployed to provide additional support to busy Waitrose and johnlewis.com.

Sharon described the John Lewis Partnership as:“a diversified, resilient and strong business.” She said: “The Government’s decision to introduce a business rates holiday will save the Partnership around £160m over the next 12 months, and in addition, VAT and wages support is welcomed.”

She concluded: “Our current scenario, which takes into account the temporary closure of our John Lewis department stores, and models a significant net cash outflow in the year, shows that we have sufficient liquidity. However, we are not complacent; the scale of the societal and business impact of coronavirus is like nothing we have seen in recent times.” *The Partnership is working with Age UK, FareShare and the Trussell Trust, donating £75,000 initially to each charity, for immediate activity in response to the coronavirus outbreak. John Lewis has donated items such as pillows to the NHS to help its workers have more comfortable breaks.

Below: Bira’s headquarters.

Bira’s support for members The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira) is helping members (including cookshops and housewares stockists) navigate and access the emergency funds offered by the Government as a result of the coronavirus crisis. Emergency measures – including the abolition of business rates for 12 months – were announced in and after the Budget.

Bira has launched a new dedicated coronavirus hub to help members and all independents through the crisis.

The evolving package of measures from the Government includes sick pay payments to be refunded to small retail businesses with fewer than 250 staff for up to 14 days absence for anyone suspected to have coronavirus, ‘Business Interruption’ 'loans, cash grants, coverage for 80% of salaries up to £2,500 a month and VAT bills deferred for the next quarter.

Bira also welcomed the Government’s rescue plan for the self-employed - but raised concerns that many of its members (including some cookshop owners) will not benefit from the measures, which will see self-employed workers paid up 80% of lost wages by the Government, capped at £50,000.

Bira's ceo Andrew Goodacre explains: “Many of our members are not sole traders and so a grant based on profit may not work for them as our members might pay themselves a dividend, which is excluded.”

Bira called for further details and clarity regarding the various financial support packages. However, it also praised the Government for listening to its campaigns and pleas on behalf of retailers (including the reduction and subsequent removal of business rates; provision of grants from local authorities, and for hardware stores to be identified a essential services.) See Bira news page 16.

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Above: Gtech's ventilator.

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SDA companies Dyson and Gtech have both stepped up to design and manufacturer thousands of much needed medical ventilators for hospitals during the coronavirus pandemic.

Dyson is working on a first order of 10,000 ventilators called CoVent for the NHS, designed in just two weeks in partnership with The Technology Partnership. A report in The Guardian newspaper highlights similarities between ventilators and vacuum cleaners as ‘both pump air efficiently’ and ‘areas of crossover include digital motors, battery packs, airflow analysis and high-efficiency particulate air filters (HEPAs).’

Sir James Dyson has said he intends to make the ventilators – subject to stringent testing – in Wiltshire.

Gtech is sharing its design details of a medical ventilator and a video of the ventilator working has been presented to the government and NHS alongside video drawings and parts.

Nick Grey, owner of Gtech began working on the project after being contacted by Gareth Rhys Williams, Government chief commercial officer on March 15. He states: “We designed the ventilator entirely from parts that can readily be made from stock materials or bought off-the-shelf. This means that if Government approves and wants Gtech ventilators they can be made by almost any engineering and manufacturing company/y” He adds:“Gtech could produce around 100 per day within a week or two providing we could find steel fabrication and CNC machining companies to help us make some of the parts”.

Stocking up Prior to the UK lockdown, stockpots, steamers and large saucepans were popular purchases at The Kitchen Range Cookshop in Market Harborough in mid March, when trade was “quite busy,” according to director Andy Johnston. Andy speculated that some consumers were batch cooking and “going back to basics,” coinciding with supermarkets running out of flour.

Left: An uplifting spring themed window at The Kitchen Range Market Harborough.

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Left: Chemours’ UK marketing and business development manager Andy Godfrey congratulates Aspiring Student Chef winner Jack Rymer at the finals of the Teflon Diamond Standard Awards 2020.

News

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Teflon supports budding chefs Teflon (from Chemours) continues to encourage the next generation of chefs and keen cooks with its prestigious Diamond Standard Awards (launched in 2012). The latest winners were announced after the finals held at the Waitrose Cookery School, Finchley Road and Bournemouth & Poole College. Circulon (from Meyer Group) also sponsors the national competition, which was judged by experts including celebrity chef Lesley Waters.

The winner of the Keen Young Cook award (12-16 years) was Reece Bosowitz from Stevenage, whose winning dish was loin of wild fallow deer served with parsnip (puree, sweet roasted, parsnip crisps), kale, pickled blackberries, walnut ketchup and meat juices.

The Aspiring Student Chef (16-19 years) was Jack Rymer from Gillingham School, Dorset, who cooked roast poussin served with confit poussin leg, red pepper puree and salsa verde mash.

Both Reece and Jack were awarded the prestigious and life-changing three-year Specialised Chefs Scholarship, which includes work-based training with a chef member of the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts at one of the finest hotels or restaurants in the UK. Meanwhile, the winner of the Keen Home Cook award (aged 17+) was Yui Miles from Essex (who cooked Khoa Soi or ChiangMai Noodles, Sticky Rice with Caramelised Coconut, Thai Egg Custard and Sweet & Salty Prawns paired with Lychee Gin Granita). Yui received a luxury hamper full of cooking and foodie goodies worth over £200.

All the winners received bundles of Teflon nonstick coated cookware from lead sponsor Circulon, gift sets from partner Thermapen, and cash prizes of up to £500. See www.teflondsa.co.uk

Theo Paphitis’ #SBS at Autumn Fair Following on from the success of his online business community, #SBS, retail entrepreneur and former ‘dragon’ Theo Paphitis is set to return to Autumn Fair (Birmingham NEC September 6-9). As Above: Theo Paphitis part of the partnership, 12 at Autumn Fair. members of Theo’s #SBS community will be offered free stands at the show. The winners will be selected by a panel of retail experts from the Hyve Group, organsiers of Autumn Fair.

Independent achievements

Below: Above: Independents are helping to reduce the deluge of single-use plastic by encouraging alternatives such as hydration bottles and food containers.

Nearly two thirds of independent cookshops and housewares stockists’ businesses fared better or remained the same last year compared to the year before, according to The 2020 Retail Barometer – the annual survey conducted by Progressive Housewares and Housewares News.net in conjunction with Bira.

The survey – now in its 15th year – was conducted before the coronavirus crisis developed into a global pandemic, and looks back at trade over the last year as well as expectations for this year and beyond.

The Retail Barometer findings (shown in full on pages 20-23) reflect the creative, proactive and hardworking spirit of independents, their elevation of the customer experience and mission to stock exciting and useful products.

The biggest positive factor on indies’ trade in 2019 was the rising demand for ecofriendly products. Linked with this, there was very impressive growth in the category of ‘on the go’ food and drink/storage vessels.

The most negative influence on last year’s trade was the uncertainty surrounding Brexit, followed by competitive websites. The biggest wish for indies is a fairer trading environment, with many highlighting the need for taxes to change to shift some of the burden to large online retailers, namely Amazon.

Community is often at the heart of independent traders’ philosophy. One respondent reflects: “2019 was a tough year for many reasons but we must always stay positive, work hard and support each other.”

Meanwhile, social media is becoming ever more significant in building and maintaining customer communities, with Facebook now used by almost all respondents.

Scott Brothers celebrates team spirit Investors in People has recognised that housewares supplier Scott Brothers is an employer that excels in valuing and rewarding its staff.

Scott Brothers’ managing director Duncan PrattThompson explained: “One of the initiatives that we now have in place is recognising fellow teammates who have gone above and beyond Above: The team at during each quarter. The winner is decided by the team in a democratic process Scott Brothers. and not decided by management.”

Duncan added: “The whole process with Investors in People has been beneficial for the entire business and all our staff, we also had feedback from the assessor stating he sensed a real positive team spirit within the organisation, which we were so thrilled to hear.”

Tea with Alice Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland in the original Lewis Carroll books and manuscripts owned by the British Library. The classic fantasy adventure book was first released in 1865.

The book’s famous Mad Hatter’s Tea party is celebrated with a range of fine gilded bone china cups and saucers, a teapot, cake stand, tea plates and mugs. The new Alice range also features aprons, a heavyweight canvas shopping bag and tea towels.

Mark Tomlin, md of Bespoke 77 reflects on the enduring appeal of Alice and her Wonderland acquaintances: “Beautiful design spans the boundaries of time.” He also acknowledges the current trend for making teatime an occasion: “Teatime or afternoon tea affords us the opportunity to escape from the reality of our hectic life and indulge ourselves in a traditional and civilised moment of tranquillity.”

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Above: ‘It’s always teatime’ teapot by Bespoke 77.

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News Below: Emma Bridgewater with some of her ceramics.

TOP STORY

Emma Bridgewater spearheads “new era”

Above: The Made in Britain logo.

An £8m investment from BGF (Business Growth Fund) will spearhead growth for iconic ceramics brand Emma Bridgewater both in the UK and globally.

Founded in 1984, Emma Bridgewater founded the company in 1984, after she was unable to find the right gift for her mother’s birthday. In addition to tableware, Emma’s brand has diversified into glassware, stationery, picnicware, wallpaper and fabrics. Revenues have grown to over £20m in 2019, with EBITDA of over £2m.

HSBC has also committed a £2.5m debt facility, which, together with BGF’s £8m investment will support Emma Bridgewater’s continued growth in the UK, increasing capacity at its Stoke-on-Trent factory, and exploring international markets including the United States and China. Previously ceo of Joules, Colin Porter is joining the board as non-executive chair.

Founder Emma Bridgewater reflects: “All our ceramics are made in Staffordshire deploying traditional local craft skills; we have grown organically over the past 35 years while staying true to my vision of beautiful wares, made with love and attention in a beautiful factory.” She adds: “I am personally very excited to have this opportunity to work with the BGF, with Colin Porter chairing our Board, to expand our brand into new markets - and a new era.”

BGF is described as the UK and Ireland’s most active investor in growing businesses.

Samuel Groves flies the flag Samuel Groves is now a member of the Made in Britain Community, and is using the distinctive logo on its Birmingham-made cookware and bakeware.

“Made in Britain” is a growing community of manufacturers who can apply the protected collective mark to products, packaging, websites and social media. Lee McDonagh, managing director of the family-owned U Group (which owns Samuel Groves and Mermaid brands) states: “We’re very proud to be able to say we make world-class cookware and bakeware in Birmingham.”

U Group increases bin production Birmingham based manufacturer U Group has increased its hospital bin production fivefold to satisfy increasing orders for the NHS in its fight against Covid-19. U- Group produces a vast array of products from bakeware and cookware to bins for the hospitality industry, the domestic market and healthcare establishments.

The manufacturer recently invested in its bin manufacturing process, with the installation of an injection moulding machine last year. The investment is enabling U Group to respond to crisis situations and support the overwhelming surge in current bin requirements for the NHS. Lee McDonagh, md of U Group says: “Our strategy in recent years has been to have greater control of the quality and costs of our products and to that avail we made a conscious move to UK production. We are pleased that we can respond to the NHS demands and hope it helps goes some way to reduce the suffering caused by the virus.”

Jennifer remembered After a short illness, Jennifer Lawson (1938-2020), of home department store chain Lawsons of Devon, passed away on February 29.

Jennifer was a pioneer of independent retailing, recognising consumer demand and need for kitchenware from the 1970s onwards, and Liz Lawson with husband John championing exemplary service, the sharing of knowledge and the Lawson beside some of the importance of in-store demonstrations. She was instrumental in cake decorations stocked by Lawsons of Plymouth. expanding Lawsons’ business via new stores as well as departments.

Her passion for cake making (including making a massive Jubilee Cake for her daughters’ school) was the trigger for Jennifer to introduce baking products to Lawsons. “She saw a gap in the market and made it her mission to fill it,” reflects daughter and current md, Liz Lawson.

Jennifer and her team soon become a source of advice and inspiration for local bakers. She also organised cake-decorating demonstrations, leading to other in-store events, and was “the powerhouse” behind Lawsons’ trade stands at local agricultural shows.

Moreover, Jennifer was instrumental in opening Lawsons’ first shop outside Plymouth and for establishing strong trading key relationships, providing advice and feedback on product development and consumer trends.

Carrying on her mother’s legacy, Liz reflects: “Jennifer loved working on the shop floor and many staff would comment that she could work longer and harder than any of them. Customers would seek her out for her product knowledge. She always passionately led by example.”

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Above: Presentation to Gastroback UK’s head of export and business development Marcus Lux (left) by Lucas Wollenhaupt, product manager of the Plus X Award (right) on the Gastroback stand during Ambiente 2020.

Gastroback has the Plus X Factor Gastroback has received the technology innovation Plus X Innovation Award for its programmable portafilter Design Espresso Advanced Barista. The machine was commended in the following categories: ‘High Quality’, ‘Design’ and ‘Ease of use’.

Features include an integrated conical grinder, a heated warming plate for up to six espresso cups, swivelling milk frothing nozzle, and a fresh coffee bean compartment. Products that have at least one ‘Plus X’ factor are awarded a Plus X Award seal of approval. The awards recognise technology, sport and lifestyle and are judged by international and independent specialists from over 80 industries, with more than 700 participating international brands.

Gastroback’s Design BBQ Advanced Control has also won a Plus X Innovation Award, adding to its previous awards including the iF Design Award 2020.

Gastroback made its UK debut at the recent Spring Fair and was presented with its Plus X certificates at the recent Ambiente.

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Mary and Michel delight buyers Bowled over As part of Spring Fair’s new Sustainability Trail, Hokan’s Alistair Donald (pictured) showed visitors the brand’s multi-purpose bowls and new upcycled aprons. Picking up on Mary Portas’ talk at Spring Fair, Alistair said: “We’re a caring, engaged company. We love saving food and resources.”

He explained: “Our aprons feature materials that would otherwise be discarded as well as re-used pieces of fabric which make each apron one of a batch of 200 or 300 limited editions, so you feel special when you wear it.”

Denby, Jerry Bottles, Jose Maria Ferreira and T&G were also part of the show’s Sustainability Trail.

The Cook & Dine Hall at the recent Spring Fair played host to two culinary superstars: Mary Berry - with Captivate Brands - and Michel Roux Jr, with KitchenCraft.

Launching the precision scales and thermometer brand Taylor, Michel chatted to cookshop and housewares buyers, and cooked using Taylor products (see pages 35-36) Mary met with cookshop and housewares buyers, chatting to individuals and groups about her tableware ranges and her inspiration for them. She also delighted a huge crowd of Spring Fair visitors when she appeared on The Inspiring Retail Stage in conversation with Ashley Armstrong, retail editor of The Times.

Mary talked about the development of her tableware - The Signature range and The English Garden Collection from Captivate Brands - and revealed insights into her career. She told Above: Mary Berry on the Captivate PH that she has replaced all the tableware in her kitchen with her “stylish” stand with Bira members. ranges stating: “The colour scheme is as good now as it will be in the future – it’s very mellow and it won’t go out of fashion or detract from the food.” Mary wanted texture rather than pattern on her Signature tableware for the perfect framing.

The celebrity chef is also a fan of cooking with children/grandchildren, as it “doesn’t cost too much money” and provides a great confidence boost. “I feel that every school should have facilities to teach cooking,” said Mary. In her opinion, every boy and girl should leave school capable of cooking up to ten things on one source of heat. She also pointed out that cooking and baking are perfect antidotes to stress. (See Cooking with Kids feature pages 37-38). * The next Spring Fair is February 7-11 2021. (See page 41).

Be kind for the future Queen of Shops, the witty and retail savvy Mary Portas appeared on Spring Fair’s Inspiring Retail Stage, talking about the ‘kindness economy’ and why sustainability is the way forward.

“Today, everything revolves around being kinder to the planet, to being anti plastic, to being sustainable,” said Mary.

“These are massive issues, and people are taking on the big corporations.

People are changing the way that they consume. They want to engage with the businesses that share their core values. A kinder of way of doing business – the anthesis of the ‘alpha’ culture – is the only way forward. As retailers, think ‘people, planet, profit’.”

(See Retail Barometer pages 20-23).

Harts wins Good Retail Award Harts of Stur, based in Sturminster Newton, was one of the six winners of the new Good Retail Awards (for positive innovations), presented by Spring Fair and Modern Retailer.

David Conduit, purchasing director of Harts commented on winning The Bricks ‘n’ Clicks Award: “We are very happy to win this prestigious award that recognises not only our successful website, but also our physical store, and the investment we are currently making in enlarging and enhancing it.”

Hip to save plastic

Right: Auteur’s Kirstie Pendry, Vivienne Cudhay and Jenny Dahlman showing the Hip With Purpose range at Spring Fair.

A new range from US brand Hip (from Auteur) is providing a solution for waste plastic that would otherwise end up in the ocean. The range – called Hip With Purpose – received a “great response” when previewed at the recent Spring Fair and Ambiente.

“We’re collecting plastic from places where there is no recycling – mainly in Malaysia within a 50m radius from the coast, so it is plastic that would end up polluting the ocean,” explained Vivienne Cudhay, md of Auteur. “We’re thinking one step ahead before the problem arises.”

The waste plastic is then sorted into food grade material to use in the creation of the Hip With Purpose range of bottles and lunchboxes whose design is based on sea buoys. While there is still some virgin, recyclable plastic used at present to make the range viable, “Everything has elements of ocean plastic,” Viv confirmed.

She added: “Hip is thinking about its whole sustainable journey, for example in its factory production and other materials, such as cutlery made from wheat straw.”

Cutting edge anniversaries On Whitby & Co’s stand at Spring Fair, Jérôme Le Caïnec, international sales director of Opinel knives showed buyers how the French brand creates its Les Forges 1890 range to ensure perfectly balanced knives, which can be used by chefs all day without causing any strain.

Opinel celebrates its 130th anniversary this year and continues to be a family company with its factory in the Alps. Its museum is a popular tourist destination, and attracted 60 thousand visitors last year.

Famous owners of Opinel’s iconic folding knives include the artist Pablo Picasso and the late Paul Bocuse (awarded ‘Chef of the Century’ by the Culinary Institute of America), while celebrated chef Alain Ducasse uses Opinel knives in his restaurant.

Meanwhile, Grunwerg showed the new 35th anniversary editions of ten Global knives. “There are Global fans that collect the anniversary editions that come out every five years,” said Ben Grunwerg. The special editions create a real buzz – sales increased by 40% with our 30th anniversary knives.”

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Above: Opinel’s Jérôme Le Caïnec on Whitby & Co's stand at the recent Spring Fair.

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Keen orders at Ambiente Above: MasterChef products by Arovo.

MasterChef range unveiled A new collection of MasterChef products was unveiled at Ambiente the result of a partnership between Endemol Shine Group (the global content creator, producer and distributor) and European housewares company Arovo.

The range will expand to include ceramics, tableware, textiles, cookware, knives, utensils, small domestic appliances and more.

Jane Smith, group director, Brand Licensing & Gaming, Endemol Shine Group, said: “This partnership allows us to reach more of our global MasterChef consumers through both traditional retail and online channels.”

Slice of the action Zyliss from DKB is recognising the growing popularity of plant-based diets with its new SpiraSlicer, which can create vegetable-based alternatives to pasta sheets and noodles, as well as fruit spirals and ribbons. “There are three interchangeable blades and the SpiraSlicer Zyliss’ new comes with its own recipe Above: SpiraSlicer was book to show how fruit demonstrated at Ambiente, with plantand vegetables can be packed recipes incorporated into lots of including Apple Puffs and Butternut Squash meals,” explains Grant (pasta-free) Lasagne.

Race, DKB’s global marketing and NPD director. The brand is also working with a leading food blogger as part of an extensive social media campaign for the new product.

Below: Nextrade was launched internationally at Ambiente.

Despite being affected by the impact of the coronavirus on travelling, as well as storms disrupting flights, Ambiente (February 7-11 Frankfurt) was upbeat.

Satisfaction ratings among visitors continued to be at a robust level of 95 per cent, confirmed Messe Frankfurt.

In total, around 108,000 buyers came to Ambiente from nearly 160 countries, compared with 136,081 trade visitors from 167 countries in 2019. The UK remained in the top five for international visitor numbers after Germany (in 5th place, compared to 4th last year). 62% of visitors to Ambiente 2020 were from outside Germany.

Despite the challenges, large numbers of orders were places at the show, which had grown to 4,635 exhibitors from 93 countries.

Phil Atherton, sales and marketing director of Portmeirion Group (celebrating Spode’s 250th anniversary) was among those praising the show, stating: “We had back to back appointments, with a lot of people walking onto the stand, and good quality buyers. They were not at the show to browse, they were there to buy and place orders.”

The launch of a dedicated HoReCa hall met was overwhelmingly positive. “The atmosphere and visitor quality of HoReCa Hall 6.0 surpassed Above: Air Up’s Philipp Lelewel all our expectations. The clientele was exactly our target group and we were showed a new water bottle concept where scented air bubbles trigger the able to gain customers from all over the world,” reflected Marina Moraitis, brain to think it is flavoured water. co-founder of the Danish brand 1handPlate.

Ambiente also saw the international rollout of the online trade marketplace Nextrade. The platform made a strong start at the show, achieving 800 high quality leads from across the entire world in five days of Ambiente 2020. Brands already on the digital platform include Asa, Berghoff, Blomus, Koziol, Leonardo, WMF, Zieher and Zwilling.

“As the first order and data platform for home and living products, Nextrade is setting new standards in bringing together supply and demand,” states Philipp Ferger, Tendence and Nordstil group show director and ceo of nmedia. He emphasises: “Visitors wanting to place orders are no longer limited to the trade fair itself, but can do so 365 days a year.”• Ambiente 2021 takes place from February 19-23.

Wake Up with CellarDine CellarDine demonstrated its new Wake Up Wine electronic decanter and wine breather at Ambiente, attracting considerable interest from UK and international buyers. The new red wine aerator was created in collaboration with wine enthusiasts from the US Sonoma region.

“The Wake Up Wine Decanter fits superbly into our range and is the ultimate wine breather which will bring out the full bouquet and flavour in as little as one minute,” says CellarDine’s md Peter Dunne.

The patented decanter has a built-in rotating arm, which gently circulates the wine to maximise bouquet and flavour.

• CellarDine has launched its new look website, which also makes it easier for consumers to find stockists.

Above: Peter Dunne of CellarDine showing the Wake Up Wine Decanter at Ambiente. CellarDine is distributed

by PHA Kitchessentials in the UK.

Japanese flavours at Ambiente

Flower power Healing plants are the inspiration behind Rosenthal’s new Magic Garden tableware designed by Sacha Walchoff. Cornflower, chamomile, eglantine, dandelion and mulberry flowers are among the blooms and greenery depicted on the collections (which represent Above: Rosenthal’s Maik black seeds, foliage and flowers).

Hagemann and Iris Reichstein beside the flower meadow “You can mix or use the ranges on the company’s stand. individually,” notes Maik Hagemann, Rosenthal’s marketing services manager.

The trend for Japanese style and simplicity was evident at Ambiente. The show featured a new Japanese Pavilion in Hall 1.1 and 13 products from Japanese exhibitors in its Trends 2020 display.

Hiroko Onishi (executive general manager of Fujita Metal’s international sales division) demonstrated the Jui Above: Hiroko Onishi of Fujita Metal 10 Frying Pan range, with detachable walnut or beech wood with Jui 10 frying pan, which also handles that convert the iron pan into a serving bowl or dish. appeared in Ambiente’s Trend display in the Precise + Architectural trend.

Crafted in a small factory in Osaka, Hiroko says of the pans: “They don’t rust and have natural non-stick qualities so if you take care of them, handwash and use oil, you can have a lifetime of use.”

Design Works Ancient showed its petite sized Poketle food jars and bottles - perfect for a short walk or for refilling.

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PEOPLE l Dexam’s Sue Knight has retired after 20

years at the company, working in sales and marketing. Md Bryony Dyer says: “Sue has been incredibly influential in keeping our standards high, and her impact will live on in our catalogue and trade show stands.” Rosa Woodrow (who joined a year ago) is now stepping into Sue’s shoes and will work alongside Pete Urbanczyk, newly appointed in the post of marketing and digital executive. l Horwood introduces Richard Sharp in the newly created role of head of marketing.

Richard will take the strategic marketing lead across all four Horwood brands: Stellar, Judge, Smidge and newly acquired EcoSoulife. As part of Horwood’s sales and marketing restructure, Daryl Eastlake has been promoted from national sales manager to the role of head of sales, taking responsibility for broader UK sales. l Danny Smith joins Orthex Group, the

leading Nordic producer, as area sales manager, following an extensive sales career across a number of sectors. The Orthex Group UK office opened in 2017. Its Ambiente launches include the SmartStore Collect range of recycling bins and containers made from post-consumer recycled plastic with bamboo lids, and the GastroMax Bio range of chopping boards and kitchenware using a new and unique ’bio’ composite material made from renewables (sugarcane and Swedish wood fibre). The latter was awarded the German Design Award 2020.

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Chicago looks to the future The Inspired Home Show is looking to 2021 for its next exhibition, having cancelled the 2020 show when the coronavirus crisis began to escalate in the weeks prior to the major international event. The Chicago show (organised by IHA) had been scheduled for March 14-17 2020.

Derek Miller, IHA president said that the IHA board of directors had consulted extensively with exhibitors and retailers, and, along with staff, were: “working together over the next several weeks to measure the financial impact on the Above: Visitors at the opening of the 2019 show in Chicago. industry and the Association.”

The Inspired Home Show 2020 had been expected to welcome 52,000 attendees, including buyers from 130 countries. It was due to feature 2,200 exhibitors from around the world, although it had announced that its International Sourcing Expo would not open.

The Inspired Home Show 2021 will be held March 13-16 at Chicago’s McCormick Place Complex.

Meanwhile, exhibitors and buyers are continuing to connect with each other via The Inspired Home Show’s HousewaresConnect365. The digital resource provides buyers with a simple means to search for companies and brands and view new product photos, videos and catalogues. Buyers can save products in a personal ‘briefcase.’

Other major shows affected by the coronavirus pandemic so far include April’s Hong Kong Houseware Fair, which was postponed by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) with new show dates set for July 25-28.

l Diethelm Keller Group has appointed Rene

Stutz as its new managing director, DKB’s UK Operations. Rene brings considerable experience in the housewares industry globally, holding senior management positions across a range of international housewares brands including Fissler, All-Clad, Wüsthof and Victorinox. Reporting to Will Symonds, global ceo manual appliances, Rene will assume management responsibility for all UK-based employees. l The Funky Appliance Company has

appointed Jon Collings as marketing consultant and part-time member of its management team.Jon was marketing director at Gtech, which he helped take from £4m to £90m sales in five years.

The gia product superstars The UK’s Joseph Joseph and ashortwalk are among the 70 finalists in the IHA Global Innovations Awards (gia) for product design.

The impressive line-up also includes Microplane (Adjustable V-Slicer with Above: Dan and Paul Dicker of Julienne Blade), simplehuman (sensor mirror trio max) and Zwilling (Fresh ashortwalk showing the world’s first reusable cup made from old disposable & Save containers). The new Sustainability award finalists include UK coffee cups at the recent Spring Fair. company ashortwalk, maker of the Circular Cup or rCUP, the world's first reusable coffee cup and travel mug made from recycled paper coffee cup. Joseph Joseph’s two finalists are the Multi-Prep 4-piece Salad Preparation Set and GoRecycle Collector and Caddies.

The winners of Global Honorees for product design will be revealed during an online gia gala (details to be confirmed). The online gala will also reveal the gia retail Global Honorees from among the 32 national retail gia winners (which include UK gia winner Jarrold of Norwich). All of the national gia retail winners for 2019-2020 have been invited to The Inspired Home Show 2021 (March 13-16), where their achievements will also be celebrated.

Derek Miller, IHA president commented: “Our world-renowned gia programme is the ultimate awards event in the industry, honouring excellence in housewares retail, product design, student design and booth presentation.”

Right: The late great Martin Pegler.

In honour of Martin M Pegler

The IHA has paid tribute to world-renowned visual merchandising expert Martin M Pegler (1923-2020) who passed away in January.

Martin was a professor at New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology for 30 years (in its Display & Exhibit Design Department) and published over 80 books. His textbook entitled ‘Visual Merchandising and Display’ is a key text used in universities around the globe.

Martin helped create the IHA’s gia (Global Innovation Awards) programme, which started in 2000. He served as a gia expert juror until retiring in 2016. Thereafter he continued to have strong links with gia as an honorary member of the jury.

The gia Top Window Award was renamed the ‘Martin M Pegler Award for Excellence in Visual Merchandising’ in 2008.

In that year, Martin was presented with an honorary gia Award for Lifetime Achievement. Martin’s humorous and inspiring stories (shared when presenting the VM award) have been one of the highlights of the gia Awards ceremonies in Chicago.

Derek Miller, IHA president reflected: “Throughout the years, he became a true friend and mentor to so many in the industry. Martin was passionate, kind and sweet – always willing to offer advice and lend his expertise.”

He continued: “Although he will be greatly missed by everyone at IHA and the gia family, his legacy will live on through his namesake award – The Martin M Pegler Award for Visual Merchandising will remain a lasting tribute to his many contributions to our industry.”

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NEWS IN BRIEF l LSA International’s Canopy glassware

collection, launched in collaboration with the Eden Project, has won a Good Design Award in the tableware category. l The Gift of the Year (GOTY) Award for

Kitchen and Dining (presented at the recent Spring Fair) went to W&P Porter Seal Tight Containers, distributed by Stone. l David Eggison – of housewares supplier Hahn (distributed by Dexam) and previously an independent cookshop retailer – is introducing a host of top-selling European brands to the UK market. He launched two kitchen storage and organisation solutions brands for the cookshop market at Spring Fair: 5Five and Secret de Gourmet. l John Lewis Partnership announced a 23% drop in profit for its year ending 25 January 2020, citing weaker sales in Home and Electricals. l Widdop & Co has acquired a worldwide exclusive licence to Gift of The Year’s Highly Commended Contemporary Gift finalist, Ice & Slice, patented by Nobilé Glassware. The innovative new concept features oversized 690ml balloon Copa style gin or vodka glasses with ultra-realistic resin fruit moulded into the bowl.

Donate your commute As the Rainy Day Trust’s finances come under strain as demand for help increases and donations fall, ceo Bryan Clover has appealed to members of the housewares industry that are now working from home to “donate the saving in one day's commuting costs to the Rainy Day Trust.”

He adds: “We understand fully that your focus is on your business, but we need every penny to help the people that work alongside you.” https://www.justgiving.com/rainydaytrust

TOP STORY

The Housewares Show success AIS, organiser of The Housewares Show organisers reported a successful spring show (March 3-4), welcoming independent retailers in addition to member stores, with a pleasing level of attendance given the climate at that time.

The show featured leading brands that have not exhibited at any other UK key events so far this year, including Joseph Joseph, Amefa, Richardson Sheffield, Arthur Price, Bissell, Blueair, Meyer Group, Taylors Eye Witness and HoMedics.

Independent retailers were given an Above: The relaxed setting of The Housewares Show. exclusive first look at some new ranges.

Deborah Goulthorpe, event organiser commented: “Trade was booming with AIS members taking advantage of exclusive show offers, as well as backing the many suppliers who were promoting sustainable and eco products.”

An ‘eco-discovery’ trail gave buyers the opportunity to spot environmentally friendly products.

SodaStream’s ‘Cage of Shame’ was displayed at the show entrance, filled with plastic bottles used by an average family over a five-year period.

Ionic brand Spode (from Portmeirion Group) celebrated its 250 years with a drinks reception in the guise of a tea party. Drinks were served from Spode’s teapots, teacups and saucers.

Exhibitor, Alex Frubel, md of Tramontina UK reflected on The Housewares Show: “In the perfect environment of relaxed, yet professional surroundings, we spoke with a great number of high quality and serious buyers and it was a fabulous opportunity to show them our latest launches and offer some exceptional deals. Supporting our customers at all times but particularly amidst the current turmoil, is paramount to us.” The company has started the year with one of its largest UK launches.

Dexam’s community action Dexam has increased its focus on helping disadvantaged young people in its local area of West Sussex, adding to the list of initiatives it supports thought its charitable trust.

“Everyone thinks that the Home Counties are rich and have no particular social problems. That couldn’t be further from the truth. High house prices, disappearing rural jobs and the extra cost of living in the country have driven a surprising number of people into poverty,” explains Bryony Dyer, Dexam’s managing director.

In the last two years, Dexam has actively supported an after school Drop-in Centre for children, youth clubs in Petworth and Midhurst and a scheme with the Chichester Food Bank that provided food for children in low income families during school holidays.

Bryony reports: “We set aside at least £20,000 a year for these initiatives. Our staff members feel involved and motivated by this, and we see it as an important part of our role in the South Downs National Park community.”

Mixed Q4 for cookshops Cookshop and housewares retailers that are members of Bira (The British Independent Retailers Association) experienced an average decline of -0.3% for the allimportant fourth quarter of 2019.

However, there was a stark contrast between those increasing their sales in the festive trading quarter and those showing decline. The average percentage value of those with a higher performance was 10.1%. On the other hand, the average percentage value of those with a decline was -8.46%.

The overall average decline of - 0.3% was considerably better than the overall average for Bira members across all of its sectors, ie a fall of -2.82% for retailers, compared to the same period in 2018.

Below: Local school children explored the world of What More’s factory in Lancashire.

Kids inspired by What More Lancashire plastic and bakeware manufacturer What More treated children from its local Belthorn Academy Primary School to a tour of its high-tech factory earlier in March.

Nathan Griffiths, teacher and STEM [Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths] coordinator at Belthorn Primary, enthused that visits like this mean that “children get to see how the topics I teach in the classroom transpire in their future careers."

What More company director Tony Grimshaw OBE commented: "These children are our customers and colleagues of tomorrow. We are keen to show them who we are and what we're doing."

He also explained: "The other reason for this visit is that plastic products are much maligned by journalists using the word ‘plastic' on its own, when what they really mean is ‘single-use plastic'."

Tony added: “We're proud of everything we do, from the Upcycled range, which is made from 95% postconsumer plastic, through to the kitchenware, the bakeware, and the garden products."

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BHETA meets with The Met TK Maxx finds deals BHETA’s most recent Meet the Buyer retail networking day with housewares stockists TK Maxx and Homesense (part of the TK Maxx Group) was described as “a great success” by Seema Grantham, BHETA’s housewares sector manager.

The event saw a total of 47 appointments between buyers and suppliers.

TK Maxx buyers from the kitchenware, dining & tabletop, cookshop, utility, laundry & cleaning and bathroom accessories categories all attended, with a view to finding ‘great deals to start the year’.

Product ideas were presented from across the buying categories, including picnic, BBQ and barware, reusable and recyclable and small electrical products, as well as food preparation, cooking and serving, laundry, cleaning, storage and also bathroom.

The British Home Enhancement Trade Association (BHETA) responsible knife retailing steering group met with the Metropolitan Police Business Care Hub Inset: The OWA in early March. The group discussed the forthcoming addresses age verified Offensive Weapons Act (OWA) legislation – now delivery of knives. expected in the summer – as well as proactive police and trading standards initiatives that relate to the legitimate retail of knives and other bladed items.

The Metropolitan Police updated the round table forum on the relevant statistics and political emphasis, including its own new initiatives to record and analyse data on seized weapons with a view to advising on home and work storage of knives in circulation as well as new products.

The Met also supplied an outline of its guidance initiative aimed at SME retail regarding kitchen knives and welcomed feedback from suppliers and larger retailers at the forum on how this might be improved prior to wider roll out to retail in general, to parents and the general public. The forum also touched on the potential for testing round-ended kitchen knives for the mass market from the perspective of suppliers and retailers.

From a technical viewpoint, Tony Allen ceo of the Age Check Certification Scheme and co-chair of the Government Panel for Age Verification gave an overview of current age verification methods and how they will evolve. He offered practical suggestions regarding retail procedures, packaging and barcodes, and talked about practical elements of lobbying.

BHETA’s marketing manager, Steve Richardson welcomed the collaborative approach towards developing best practices and updated all parties on its lobbying regarding the multiple confusions in the initial OWA draft, liaison with Trading Standards and BHETA’s liaison with the Wine & Spirit Trade Associations (WSTA) to develop its Challenge 25 retail POS and packaging initiative for bladed items.

There is now a suite of officially sanctioned Challenge 25 artwork for suppliers, retailers and delivery companies involved in the legitimate supply of age-restricted bladed items such as kitchen knives and DIY and garden tools – all available through the BHETA member services team.

BHETA’s chief operating officer, Will Jones, chaired the meeting and reports: “This was a hugely positive event involving the best-informed opinion on the current situation regarding the legitimate purchase of bladed items through all retail channels.” He added: “We achieved some great consensus on a number of positive ways forward, and BHETA alongside the other parties will be following up keenly.”

BHETA’s consultative steering group on bladed items includes John Lewis, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Dunelm, Steamer Trading, T K Maxx, Elys of Wimbledon, Harts of Stur, Taylor’s Eye Witness, Amefa, Fiskars, Meyer Group, Haus, Burton McCall, Kuhn Rikon, The Rayware Group and Robert Welch Designs. BHETA has been working with Scotland Yard since summer 2019.

Below: Wayfair’s Joe Bill speaking to BHETA members.

Wayfair shares expansion plans Above: The BHETA/Bira Pavilion at Spring Fair featured 5Five and Secret de Gourmet brands, which are being introduced to the UK market

by David Eggison (pictured).

BHETA/Bira Pavilion success The first BHETA/Bira Pavilion at the recent Spring Fair (Birmingham NEC) proved successful in catering for innovative smaller brands and start-ups in the housewares sector. Companies benefited from shell scheme space at very special rates within the pavilion area, which also incorporated the trade associations’ stand.

There was steady stream of Bira’s Cookshop and Housewares members using the associations’ hospitality area.

The location between Halls 8 and 10 also delivered great footfall for the Pavilion’s exhibitors.

BHETA’s recent retailer networking forum provided a fascinating glimpse into online retailer Wayfair’s category expansion in the UK. It also provided insights into the retailer’s focus on sustainability in housewares buying trends, product development and packaging.

The event featured an informative and inspirational presentation from Wayfair’s associate director Joseph (Joe) Bill. He outlined the company’s significant growth to its current position as premier online home retailer in the UK, and its planned expansion into DIY / garden categories, alongside its successful housewares and small domestic appliance offering.

Joe outlined the key criteria for becoming and succeeding as a Wayfair supplier and the process for new or existing partnerships. The Wayfair team circulated with delegates and supplied contact details for relationship development.

Phil Pond of trend forecaster Scarlet Opus provided another stimulating presentation at the BHETA forum. Phil’s presentation covered sustainability, eco-friendly goods and the advances in technology that are leading to manufacturing innovation, material recovery and product design. He also explored the implications for suppliers of increasing consumer frustration at the business world’s perceived slowness to own the challenge of sustainability. Quoting Mark Carney – who stated that “firms ignoring climate change will go bankrupt” – Phil looked at the commercial potential of alternative (but commercially available) materials for product and packaging manufacture.

Other speakers included Dachser’s business development manager, Carolyn Hough who focussed on the potential logistics implications of the UK’s exit from the EU. *BHETA postponed its March Housewares Forum with Leekes to later in the year. While BHETA offices are temporarily closed, the member services team can be reached on 07946 078566.

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Bira’s Covid-19 response

I

write to you this issue in truly exceptional and unprecedented circumstances.

We are responding to the outbreak of coronavirus - a global pandemic - and these are certainly unforeseen, uncertain and troubling times for small independent retailers.

First and foremost, I must assure you we are taking our responsibilities to respond to Covid-19 very seriously. Looking after our members, the team at Bira, and the wider independent retail community is our top priority.

In doing so, I am keeping abreast of all the latest Government information. As this edition of Progressive Housewares goes to press, I am expecting a phone call from someone at the Treasury to discuss further the help on offer to independent retailers.

We have campaigned for more emergency funds for small businesses and we are pleased the Government listened, announcing its enhanced bailout package. Measures include the temporary abolition of business rates for all retailers, and grants for the smallest retailers. However, we are now demanding those funds are made immediately available to reverse the effects of already-reduced trade (see News).

In the meantime, I urge members and non-members to visit the Bira website, which has launched a new coronavirus hub featuring all the latest news and advice from the Government and our expert partners. The information in hub is regularly updated throughout the day, every day, as the situation unfolds, so please be sure to keep revisiting the Bira website as well as sharing it with other retailers.

We need to come together to help each other through the coming weeks and months.

We know that many of you are trying to maintain ‘business as usual’ while implementing strict hygiene measures to reflect the current climate. We hope this will be for as long as possible and that your communities will continue to support you through these uncertain times.

Here at Bira’s headquarters in Birmingham, we are doing all we can to delay the spread of Covid-19.

We are closely following Government advice for England and have introduced stringent hygiene procedures. We are also facilitating our staff to work from home as much as possible.

I hope this provides you with some reassurance.

Please visit the Bira coronavirus hub at www.bira.co.uk/coronavirus

Andrew Goodacre, ceo, Bira

Jarrold’s pop-up shop Jarrold of Norwich (gia UK winner and Excellence in Housewares Awards’ Best Department Store – Independent, and Bira member) set up a pop-up Corner Shop within the store to help customers buy essentials such as loo rolls and cleaning materials. The store also donated supplies of toilet roll to Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital Charity.

“We are trying to help our local community as much as we can at the moment,“ confirmed housewares and deli manager Chris Parsons (on March 20).

“We have also started Above: Jarrold has been doing takeaway meals for people to helping customers get the take home and freeze since the shops essentials that are selling are empty.” He added: “We are now out in many supermarkets. looking into the possibility of doing Left: Jarrold’s nostalgic loo essential parcel deliveries for those roll advertisement from isolating and working in hospitals.“ the 1920s.

Recognising the importance of some humour (and nostalgia) to buoy up spirits during challenging times, Jarrold recently used Twitter to announce it had a supply of loo roll alongside one of the historic department store’s 1920s posters advertising toilet tissue (which offered ‘special prices for bulk quantities’!). *As the current UK gia (Global Innovation Award) winner, Jarrold has been invited to The Inspired Home Show 2021, where it will receive its national gia trophy. John Adams, Jarrold’s trading and marketing director said that it is “lovely to have this to look forward to 2021!”

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Indies rally to help Many Bira cookshop and housewares members have been rallying to help and serve their local communities during the coronavirus pandemic, as well as support fellow local independents.

Twitter and Instagram have seen a hive of activity with independent retailers using the platforms to spearhead initiatives to raise the profile of local retailers or community support groups.

Hargreaves & Sons in Buxton encouraged people to support local independent retailers. It joined with other independent retailers in the community to offer customers 10% off their next purchase from a range of other shops including fellow Bira member, jewellery shop Jantar.

The store closed on March 21 but is keeping in touch with customers via Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and emails, Messenger and via its phoneline. Hargreaves is continuing to offer personal free delivery to customers who are self-isolating within a five-mile radius of the shop.

Frankie & Jonny’s Cookshop in York has been helping to promote the ‘Bishy Road Volunteers’ network - a local initiative to help vulnerable people who are in self-isolation. The cookshop announced its temporary closure on March 22, prompted by a problem with its broadband provider and the need to minimise cash handling.

Richard Dare Cookshop and sister store Prep Cookshop in London’s Primrose Hill used its social media platforms to promote fellow independent retailers, and – with the two stores having closed until further notice from March 21 - continue to offer to help customers that need something.

Meanwhile Coconut & Cotton, a plastic-free homewares store in Dorset (and online), has been offering a free local refill delivery service for its soaps, hand sanitiser and cleaning products.

“It is good to see that even during challenging times our members are being resilient and creative.”

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Holly Wilson’s

From The Frontline

Well this is a column I never thought I would be writing! I had written a totally different one just over a week ago and it is now totally irrelevant as things are moving at such a pace.

Lockdown

I

had just listened to the Budget and was feeling relieved that we were receiving business rates relief but sad for most of my neighbours in Primrose Hill who weren’t covered, but ‘wow’, how much has changed since then!

We all find ourselves in a completely surreal new existence and it is a real challenge to work out how to navigate it both personally and professionally.

Within days of the Budget the situation was getting much more serious and we introduced a whole raft of measures to protect staff and customers - card only, wiping down counters and card machines after each transaction, regularly wiping down doors handles and touch points. And then it moved to only one person in store at a time.

Friday March 20 saw the kids’ schools close so I now have a six and an eight year old at home who need entertaining and educating.

As a single mum I’m not going to lie - this is pretty hardcore! There is no tag teaming with your partner while one helps the kids with schoolwork and the other manages to squeeze in an hour’s work or makes a meal.

There is no let up! I’m afraid there is going to be serious screen time for all our sanity.

On Saturday March 21 both shops were open but Fatima, Janeta and I made the terribly hard decision to close our doors that afternoon until further notice. This was an impossible decision to make as over the last two weeks sales have been incredible - customers wanted to support us and have been stocking up on all the equipment they will need to cook for themselves during isolation.

We started off happy for the

boost in trade knowing that the time would come when we probably had to close our doors. As time went on, and we were still busy, basic stock started to run down but I was loathe to place new orders as it felt like closures were coming.

All the while it felt wrong that we were still open. People were treating every day like a weekend as they worked from home.

Although most were very understanding and touchingly concerned for us, there were

customers just browsing the shops and being cross when we were out of stock and asking us to order items in for the following week and not understanding when we said no stock was coming in. Their reality was feeling very different to the reality I was seeing. So we decided the risk was too high.

If we stayed open it made customers feel it was OK to be out shopping so the only answer was to take away the choice. I have also stopped online as I can’t ask my staff to go into work and the return is just not worth the risk. There was also the organisation it takes from my end while I’m juggling the kids, so we will be relying on the Government’s wages assistance.

We have WhatsApp groups for the streets on which I have the shops. We collectively discussed the Government aid as and when it dripped through and we also discussed the

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morality of staying open when our guts told us to close. And slowly one by one our guts won and we closed our doors unsure as to whether we would get wages cover or business interruption cover but it was the right thing to do. Our community has only gained strength through this.

As I write this I have just watched Boris put us all on ‘lockdown’ so now the remaining shops will close and I believe that’s the only way. The Government is doing what they can to help small business in the most difficult of circumstances but it will never be enough.

Landlords however have been another matter. My Primrose Hill landlord is a wonderful woman and was immediately happy to discuss some options and we came to a deal where I am not paying my full rent for this quarter - although in hindsight I have paid something and was closed days later so maybe it was not so good! My Prep landlord however had his rent due. I sent an email the week before asking if we could discuss it and got an email back saying he expected it ‘in full in a timely manner’. And should he get any relief he would pass it on as if anyone is ever going to refund a rent payment! Landlords all over are demanding rent in full. It seems crazy that they can get away with it. Lots of us are withholding until they compromise as they can’t evict us, but I fear I will be punished come rent review time next year. So it’s time to put the shops and ourselves into hibernation and hope that this makes a difference and we will come out the other side sooner. Good luck everyone; see you on the other side! X Left: Holly with the Bira Cookshop & Housewares Retailer of the Year trophy.

Above: Holly and Fatima (Richard Dare’s manager) at the Excellence in Housewares Awards.

Holly Wilson owns two independent cookshops in North London: Prep in Stoke Newington and Richard Dare in Primrose Hill. She won the Bira Cookshop & Housewares Retailer of the Year Award at the Excellence in Housewares Awards 2019.

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The 2020 Retail Barometer readings

Here’s some good news! Encouragingly, providing a decent base for business this year, nearly two thirds of independent cookshop and housewares retailers fared better or remained the same in 2019 compared to their trade in 2018. A great pride in coming up with ways of serving their customer communities with exceptional, personal service stood them in good stead in the last year, as did having the gumption to commit to new products and facilitate the move to more sustainable living. These are just some of the enlightening findings of the Retail Barometer, the annual survey into the health and wealth of cookshop and housewares retailers organised by Progressive Housewares and HousewaresNews.net in conjunction with Bira.

PH delves deeper into this important research, which, for the last 15 years has provided an invaluable benchmark for retailers and suppliers alike.

It’s

personal Inset: Independent cookshop and housewares stockists are proud of their exceptionally high standards of customer service. (Photo: Anastasia Gepp, Pixabay)

HOLDING UP

Increased slightly 49%

49%

Now in its 15th year, the PH/Bira Retail Barometer survey was open to all independent cookshops and housewares stockists to create a true picture of what retailing is really like in our sector. It is however worth noting that the survey was conducted just prior to the coronavirus becoming a global pandemic.

So how was 2019? What were the most positive and negative influences on business? What were the expectations for the future in early 2020?

The good news is that for a total of 63% of respondents, business was the same or better over 2019 compared to 2018.

Breaking down the numbers, there is an equal split. The percentage of independent retailers that fared better in 2019 than the previous year is the same as those that experienced a dip in trade (ie 37%). Happily, the number who fared ‘worse’ in 2019 compared with 2018 has shrunk – a trend that has continued over the past four years (see table).

Also, encouragingly, these results are close to expectations at the beginning of 2019 (from the last Retail Barometer), when 35% of independents predicted growth (mostly ‘marginal growth’) and the same number predicted some (mostly ‘slight’) decline.

BASKET VALUE?

20%

Same 20%

Independent view: “Every time a designer chooses to stock a supermarket or sell direct, they lose the independent retailers that have built their brand awareness - same as it ever was though. We keep moving forward. The freshest ideas will always be found at indies.”

More good news: almost half of respondents (49%) saw an increase in average sales last year, with another 20% experiencing a stable ‘basket value’ compared to the average Marginal Growth 54% sale in 2018.

Prior to the coronavirus pandemic taking hold, more than half of the independents in the Retail Barometer were optimistic for 2020, with another quarter expecting to About the same 26% hold the line. In fact, this spirit of optimism was notably greater than the previous Retail Barometer at the start of 2019.

Of course, no-one was claiming that achieving these expectations would be an easy task. The most frequently selected words that Slight decline 17% respondents felt best summed up the Major decline 3% housewares industry at the start of 2020 were: ‘challenging, ‘difficult’ and ‘tough’, followed by ‘stagnant’. Meanwhile, the most positive words used to describe the housewares industry were: ‘hopeful’ and ‘collaborative.’

Valuing the importance of service to their customers, the vast majority of independents (73%) were expecting to remain with current levels of staff, while 21% were anticipating a reduction staff numbers in 2020.

How has your business fared over the last year?

Looking further ahead, at the start of this year PH looks back at five years of Retail Barometer data: more respondents felt ‘neutral’ about the outlook 2019 vs 2018 2018 vs 2017 2017 vs 2016 2016 vs 2015 2015 vs 2014 for the next three to five years. Almost half (49%) Better 37% Better 26% Better 31% Better 41% Better 49% predicted a ‘weak’ future – however this is on a par Same 26% Same 28% Same 16% Same 5% Same 21% as the previous Retail Barometer.

31%

Declined 31%

54%

26%

year ahead?

3%

Worse 37%

Worse 46%

Worse 53%

17%

Worse 54%

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The 2020 Retail Barometer readings

What were the main factors that had a positive effect on business in 2019?

What were the main factors that had a detrimental effect on business in 2019?

1 – Eco-friendly products 2 – New customers 3 – Staff 4 – Promotional activity 5 - Social media 6 - Diversification outside housewares 7 - New housewares products 8 = Online/website 8 = Enhanced window displays 10 = Shift towards giftable cookshop products

1 – Uncertainty surrounding Brexit 2 – Competitive websites 3 – The UK economy 4 – Lower footfall 5- Expansion of discount/deep value retailers 6 – Suppliers selling directly to consumers 7 – Expansion of housewares products in supermarkets 8 – Parking issues 9 – Competition from multiples 10- Higher staff costs

THE NEGATIVES: BREXIT AND COMPETITION Uncertainty surrounding Brexit rose to the top of the list of negative influences on business for 2019. ‘Lower footfall’ (the main negative factor for the past five years) slipped down to number four in the list, with the general state of the UK economy remaining at number three.

According to indie respondents, 2019 saw more negative influences from competitors. ‘Competitive websites’ was in a steadfast second place as having had been a bane to business.

‘Expansion of discount/deep value retailers’ entered the top ten at number five. Supermarkets have crept back up to seventh in the list (from ninth previously), while ‘competition from multiples’ snuck in the list at number nine.

One respondent comments on the negative influence of: “Heavy discounting by competitors online! They are cutting prices drastically to win business. Customers will do anything to save £10 on a product.

We have loyal customers and sell on service and quality but many customers want the cheapest price without thinking about the implications of this on businesses, jobs, communities and the economy.”

The negative effect of suppliers’ selling directly online was also cited, coming in sixth place in the list.

With parking issues at number eight in the 2019 list, one respondent comments: “Much more action is needed to subsidise car parking in market towns to make access to shops as easy as shopping on line.”

(Respondents were asked for their top three most positive and three most detrimental influences, in order, and responses were then weighted according to first, second, third choices in order to compile these lists).

Inset: Opening a coffee area was the most positive influence for one respondent last year.

GETTING NOTICED

Social media is overwhelmingly the most used means of promotion for independent cookshops and housewares stockists, according to the findings of the Retail Barometer. Some 83% of indie respondents used social media to get noticed in 2019 (up significantly from 68%in 2018).

However there is also an increased use of other types of promotion, including the more traditional means of press advertising nearly half of respondents used Eco-friendly products (such as encouraging less single-use plastic) this in 2019 (compared to 38% in 2018). jumped to the top of the list of positive influences on a housewares’ Loyalty cards and retailer’s business over the last year. The previous year it had entered competitions were the list for the first time at number nine. The shift reflects how more popular last year, reflecting how independent cookshops and housewares stockists are helping independents are being consumers in their efforts to find more sustainable solutions. proactive in engaging their customer communities.

Loyalty cards were up by 13% compared to the previous year, while Encouragingly, ‘new customers’ were cited as having been the competitions (which entered the list in the previous Retail Barometer) second most positive boost to business over the last year, while staff grew in popularity by 7% (See ‘Popular promotions’ list).

Free gift promotions were up by 7%, while discount promotions takes the third place (having been top of the list in the previous are the second most popular means of Retail Barometer). ‘Promotional activity’ has promotion – used by 69% (compared to slipped down to fourth place (it was second in 78% in 2018 and 58% in 2017).

What promotions or advertising did Web advertising keeps its place in the top 2018 and top in 2017). you run in 2019? (with % of those who ten list of promotions (growing by 4% in Social media has increased in importance – popularity) while new to the top ten list is are engaged in them) Cookery events/demos – a reflection of the rising up to number five on the list (from rise of ‘shoptainment’ and the value of 1 – Social media 83% seven previously). Feedback from this Retail the in-store experience.

2 – Discount promotions 69% So what was the most useful in attracting Barometer suggests that using social channels footfall and/or generating sales? Almost half 3 – Press advertising 49% as the most effective way of attracting/ of respondents (45%) concur that social 4 – Leaflets 43% retaining customers (see ‘Getting media is most effective, followed by the 5 - Loyalty cards 37% traditional means of leafleting (which was noticed’ section). highlighted by 15% of respondents.

6 = Competitions 31% The new entrant to the list is a shift towards Facebook is the most used social media 6 = Free gift promotion 31% channel – used by a whopping 97% of ‘gift-able’ cookshop products (entering at 8 = Web advertising 26% respondents (up from 74% in 2018). However, number ten). all social channels are increasing in usage, 9 = Collaboration with other with Instagram the second most popular Respondents that cited ‘other’ positive factors retailers /businesses 20% (used by 55%, compared to 21% previously). for their business in 2019 mentioned good After that comes Twitter (now used by 39%), 9 = Gift voucher scheme 20% weather at key times, buying up stock from Pinterest, and then – to a lesser extent – 9 = Cookery events/demos 20% LinkedIn and blogs. liquidations and opening a coffee area.

THE POSITIVES: SUSTAINABILITY

Popular promotions

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The 2020 Retail Barometer readings

EVER GREENER? Consideration for the planet’s sustainability has ramped up in consumers’ consciousness, something that has been reflected in buying habits for our Barometer respondents.

Concerns about the environment influenced consumers’ buying habits last year according to 85% of indies (see pie chart). This number has increased by a fifth since the previous Barometer.

Inset: Consumers are ditching Of course, this has a knock on single-use plastic. Photo by Sigg. effect on the retailers’ own buying patterns. Some 71% of respondents said that they envisaged ordering more products that reduce ‘single-use’ this year. That is an increase of 9% from the previous Barometer. Meanwhile 12% are ordering products with less packaging.

11% Eco Alert 31%

Unsure 11%

54%

Yes marginally 54%

Yes, significantly 31%

3%

COMPETITIVE THREATS l 89% think that online operators in the housewares sector (such as Amazon) are a threat to independent cookshops and housewares stockists. Two thirds (66%) describe this as a ‘serious threat,’ which is notably higher than the previous year when this half of respondents held this view. l Housewares suppliers selling online directly to the public is regarded a threat by 85% of respondents (with 52% describing this as a ‘serious threat’). The remaining 15% feel neutral regarding suppliers’ direct sales.

The subject ignites strong feelings; for example, one respondent issues the plea to suppliers: “lf you're going to sell to the consumer at least think about the impact that your pricing will have on independents; we cannot operate with poor margins and when you sell online you effectively set our retail prices, please communicate with us about your pricing!” l The continuing expansion of supermarkets in their stocking of housewares products is seen as a ‘serious threat’ by 40% (compared to 34% in the previous Barometer) and a further 43% as a ‘threat’. l When asked which of these factors poses the biggest threat to their business, the overriding majority (65%) highlight online, with most citing Amazon specifically. Meanwhile, 15% pick supermarkets as the biggest threat – an increase on the previous year.

No 3%

BREXIT BEHIND US? With the uncertainty surrounding Brexit having cast a shadow over 2019, half (51%) of respondents are now uncertain about the effect of Brexit in their business in the long term. Another 20% do not anticipate any effects on their business resulting from the UK’s departure from the EU. The number that think that Brexit will have a negative effect on independents’ business in the longer term has reduced considerably from 40% (in early 2019) to 22% early this year.

However, there are some strong opinions from those that are already experiencing a negative impact. One respondent says: “Brexit is a disaster and has stopped many foreign visitors coming to our town.

The way this Government is handling the Talks show me clearly they only want to represent the 51% who voted to leave. Forget the other 49%.”

Independent view: “Make high street shopping as easy to customers as it is online, with massive concessions on parking. People want to support local shops, so let’s make it easier for them to access our towns. Internet shopping is simply too convenient and easy, so increasing tax and duties would make trading more of an equal playing field.”

Below: Some respondents highlight the need for high streets to be accessible, with concessions on parking.

LEVELLING THE PLAYING FIELD The theme of a ‘level playing field’ is dominant when independents are asked what they change about the housewares industry if they had ‘one wish.’

Most notably, this is the need for online retailers (especially Amazon) to pay more equitable taxes. Others want more equal pricing between internet retailers and bricks and mortar independents. Some would like to ‘banish Amazon’ - or at least its housewares sales – or have no internet sales at all!

The ‘one wish’ for some independents is that suppliers would not sell directly to consumers, particularly when independents are used as their showrooms for consumers. For example, one respondent comments: “Suppliers should recognise that indie retailers do their selling for them and that we shouldn't be squeezed by their ambitions to increase sales by targeting consumers directly.”

Another theme is that there should be fewer ‘me too’ (similar) products and more ‘unique innovation.’ This respondent states: ‘Everything has become very safe which plays into the hands of the larger retailers.’

There is a nod towards environmental concerns when one independent wishes for ‘less plastic’ and another wants to ‘Abolish cheap products that are inevitably destined for landfill.’ Another would like to see more UK manufacturing, and another independent retailer’s wish is: ‘Let’s get back to community spirit and support indies as they are the centre of our communities!’

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Independent view: “Until basic cooking and household skills are re-introduced back into the High School curriculum for all at a higher level the " JUST EAT" generations coming into maturity will have no interest for cooking for themselves . Ignorance of the products sold in our sector will continue and this - coupled with fewer independents on the high streets - will result in a very narrow product range very much dictated by the larger retailers.

The 2020 Retail Barometer readings

Sector by sector in 2019

Above: One of Chilly's Gift Responsibly series of Christmas 2019 advertisements.

CATEGORICALLY SPEAKING

Category

Growth

Stable

Decline

Bakeware Barware Cake decorating Cast iron cookware Casual dining Ceramic-coated cookware Children’s products Glassware Knives Mugs Non-stick cookware ‘On-the-go' food storage, bottles etc Oven to tableware Preserving Small electricals Stainless steel cookware Textiles Tools and gadgets Waste management

21% 12% 11% 19% 14% 30% 25% 16% 15% 17% 25% 67%

58% 48% 37% 22% 59% 52% 43% 59% 63% 66% 61% 30%

21% 40% 52% 59% 27% 18% 32% 25% 22% 17% 14% 3%

4% 41% 22% 21% 25% 14% 31%

88% 44% 45% 64% 64% 79% 58%

8% 15% 33% 15% 11% 7% 11%

There is one category that outshone all the rest in 2019: ‘on the go’ food and drink storage/containers (including water bottles and coffee cups) – showing that consumers are continuing to ditch single-use plastics, make their own ‘take outs’ and packed lunches as well as needing to store food at home. Encouragingly, this category saw an increase for a huge 67% and remained stable for a further 30%.

There is another indicator of a rise in ‘homemade’ and a disregard for packaged food: ‘preserving’ was another strong performer in 2019. This showed growth for 41% and stability for another 44%.

Innovation and recycling needs might be the reasons behind a good year for waste management, with 31% seeing growth and a further 48% maintaining stable sales.

There was some resurgence in sales for ceramic coated cookware in 2019, with growth for 30% (compared with 16% in the previous Barometer).

Just two sectors show declining sales for the majority in 2019: cake decorating and cast iron cookware.

Every other category showed stable sales for the majorities, with notably solid performance from both oven-to-tableware - showing stability or growth for 92% - and tools and gadgets for 93%.

The most product popular area for diversification in 2019 was candles, followed by greeting cards and then gift food and general gifts.

Meanwhile, the ultimate ‘hero’ product for 2019 was Chilly’s Bottles. The runners up were Stellar Cookware from Horwood and (equally) bees wax wraps (such as those from Eddingtons and George East) and candles.

Independent view: "The Goverment needs to add tax on to online retailers and when they reach the VAT threshold they need to pay more tax so that it makes it fairer for shops as we cannot compete with aggressive online businesses."

The next most mentioned achievement is providing excellent customer service – the personal touch that doubtless sets independent cookshop and housewares retailers apart from much of their competition.

Others highlight particular investments as their biggest achievement for 2019, including building renovation, new lighting, and even ‘investing £2 million in the future of in-store independent retailing.’

Another respondent looks forward to future investment having obtained planning permission to add a commercial kitchen extension, demonstration room and restaurant.

Other top achievements include winning or being a finalist in The Excellence in Housewares Awards 2019.

STILL HERE, PROVIDING SERVICE AND INVESTING When asked ‘What achievement are

you most proud of?’ the predominant answer is ‘still being here’ or ‘surviving’.

Encouragingly, some of these survivors are proud of achieving an increase in turnover and profitability, or to maintaining similar figures as 2018 or to be free of debt. Contributing to the high street community is also highlighted.

Neutral 37%

37% FUTURE THOUGHTS

Positive 14%

14% 3%

Very Weak 3%

Weak 46%

46% PROGRESSIVE

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HOUSEWARES

Independent view: “Suppliers need to reconsider selling direct to the public. The survival of independent shops is reliant on the support of suppliers. This can be achieved via marketing and social media campaigns to drive footfall back to the high street. The false economy of Amazon is a huge detriment to the UK economy. The loss of income from business rates from small high street stores will ultimately cripple local economies as well as hitting UK manufacturing.”

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Market focus

lay it your way Inset: Royal Doulton is embracing the casual dining experience.

Below: The Morocco collection from Porland features bold colours.

Bottom: Old English is an original pattern from the turn of the 20th century, but still a bestseller for Arthur Price.

Nowadays the idea of a complete tableware set is no longer the standard, as customers look to mix and match shapes, colours and styles across ranges.

Every taste is catered for, from high quality porcelain to rustic handmade pieces.

T

here’s never been more choice in tableware and serveware than there is now. Customers have complete freedom and flexibility to tailor purchases to their own style and needs.

With the influence of social media making people’s lives and homes more visible than ever, consumers are becoming more styleconscious and are always on the lookout for fashionable and functional pieces for their dinner table.

“A mix and match of neutral colours is very much on trend at the moment,” states Paul Donnelly, senior brand manager for

Typhoon (from The Rayware Group). “This creates a stylish and modern dinner setting without distracting from the delicious meals. We also see theatrical dining on the rise, with consumers striving to make staying in for a meal a memorable, and more importantly, Instagram-able experience.”

The Typhoon Living Dinnerware range has been designed in two neutral colours of cream and grey, perfect to add to any dining table in one tone or to mix and match. With dinner and side plates, as well as a mug, pasta and cereal bowl, this line is complete for every dining need.

Portuguese company Porcel sees the power of mixing colours, patterns and shapes, not just as a trend but also as a form of expression, as sales manager Diana Pinheiro explains: “These days, customers search for individuality, style, uniqueness and character. They’re looking for single and bold pieces, having options available that work as complements. Premium Gold collection is our first collection for 2020 featuring beautiful, well-designed

A cut above the rest The UK is still a relatively traditional market when it comes to cutlery, according to Simon Price, chief executive officer of Arthur Price. “Parish patterns are still our bestsellers with Old English, one of our original patterns from the turn of the 20th century, our bestseller. Many commentators talk about customers mixing patterns; we rarely see this.”

Simon continues: “A good price point, strong pattern design and material quality are important to customers. We’ve got a very strong selection of new products and ranges for 2020, one of our strongest ever. The new Arthur Price Party Collection is due out just in time for the summer party season. Great fun, an excellent price point and it’s complementary to many of our patterns.”

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and elegant hand painted pieces with a gentle touch of gold for a perfect and unique table set.”

Even brands traditionally associated with the complete dinner

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Market focus

World cuisine With widespread access to travel and inspiration from different sources such as TV and social media, people have greater exposure to new cultures, tastes and designs than ever before. The growth in availability of exotic and wonderful ingredients from around the globe at supermarkets and through food delivery services has led to an increase in people looking for appropriate serveware.

The new Typhoon World Foods collection allows consumers to recreate those exciting travel experiences on their plates and at their homes. “We have aimed to provide a wide selection of internationally inspired dinnerware and serveware that can be used to present a beautifully authentic dinner table setting whether you are serving up an Indian take away or a homemade sushi selection,” says Paul Donnelly, senior brand manager for Typhoon.

The range features all-purpose bowls, ramen bowls and rice and a variety of serveware from a chip and dip bowl for a Mexican fiesta, a trio serve dish for a Moroccan night in and several serving dishes in different sizes and shapes to present any cuisine beautifully.

Inspired by Japanese design, cuisine and culture, the new Satori porcelain tableware collection by Mikasa from KitchenCraft is designed to embrace an increased demand for Oriental cooking.

“Set against a background of deep indigo blue and white with gold edge detailing, Satori features an embossed Seigaiha wave pattern, the Japanese sign for good luck, energy and happiness,” explains Katrina Lawton, KitchenCraft’s marketing manager for Dine. “The collection includes dinner and side plates, bowls, rice spoons, serveware, teapot, cups and sake cups.”

service are embracing this more casual dining experience. One British brand steeped in heritage and dating from 1815 is Royal Doulton. Carolina Bade, director of business and brand development explains the new direction: “We want to reinvigorate the brand and bring the Royal Doulton casual dining experience to a younger and design-aware consumer in cities around the world. The diversity of urban life and the city as a hub for creativity has always inspired Royal Doulton and I’m excited to see the brand become more relevant and a part of everyday living once again.”

Launched to celebrate Royal Doulton’s 10 year anniversary with Gordon Ramsay is a limited edition colour in the popular Maze tableware collection. Maze Light Grey captures Gordon Ramsay’s relaxed, welcoming style of dining with a subtle concentric circle pattern.

‘Choose, like and combine’ is the mantra at Porland, Turkey’s leading manufacturer of porcelain, with customers combining products according to their own taste. “Some collections are preferred as a set and others as a combination,” says Ümran Ünsal, marketing group manager. “Our popular ranges are Ethos, which is inspired by nature and contains various shapes and colours, Christina, where modern and traditional styles

are synthesised, and Wild Life - with infused colours and patterns with animal motifs.”

Looking ahead, Ümran believes the trends will be for “flat forms, patterned motifs and lines inspired by nature,” observing that: “We all enjoy eye-catching colours and distinctive products all around the globe.”

Being bold It is eye-catching colours and design that are selling well for housewares distributor My Gifts Trade. “At Spring Fair we launched new ranges from some of the UK’s most exciting new designers, including Emily Brooks, Yvonne Ellen and Marcella Wylie - bright, bold designs for the Instagram generation,” says Kevin Mitton, sales manager. “We’re also seeing a real upsurge in demand for Costa Nova stoneware from Portugal, particularly

Above: Serving bowls and platters in the Typhoon World Foods collection from The Rayware Group.

the Plano range which is created entirely from recycled materials from the factory – both beautiful and environmentally friendly.”

Portuguese company Jomafe had a large presence at Spring Fair and Ambiente, showcasing its bold collection of classic and gourmet oven-to-tableware and serveware, which included the launch of three new colours of its best-selling Organic Ceramics collection.

“The Organics Ceramics collection offers an inspired combination of rustic charm and contemporary style, coupled with form and function – says Paul Threse, national account manager. “Many features contribute to the wow-factor of this collection – both colours and shapes blend together beautifully, offering the option of block colour or mix and match.”

Well-known names David Mason Design has teamed up with designer Ashley Thomas to launch a new range, which includes teatime accessories featuring Ashely’s vintage-inspired look. Rob Blackburn, director of sales and sourcing says: “Ashley has worked with a variety of greeting card companies, before moving on to work in collaboration with several well-known high street retailers, Marks & Spencer’s, Mamas & Papas and Laura Ashley. Culminating with a successful partnership with Debenhams with her Ashley at Home collections. Our new range demonstrates a variety of production techniques, product shapes and illustrations.”

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Inset: David Mason Design’s new range from Ashley Thomas includes teatime accessories in Ashley’s signature style.

ch21950 Progressively Housewares Pacific Mint advert.qxp_Layout 1 23/03/2020 13:49 Page 1

Pacific Mint Collection www.royaldoulton.co.uk

26_HW_March April 2020.indd 1

Fiskars UK Limited Tel: 01782 204141

27/03/2020 16:43

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Taking inspiration from the food and culture of Japan for its SS20 campaign Zen Kitchen, Le Creuset demonstrates that visual appeal and how food looks is just as important as taste for a complete sensory experience that can be created from the haven of the home kitchen. NEW for Spring Summer 2020, the Stoneware Fusion Noodle Bowls and Fusion Rice Bowls, will bring a Japanese touch to the kitchen, while classic Dinnerware is now available in New Coastal Blue.

Le Creuset T: 01264 343909 W: www.lecreuset.co.uk

The Mason Cash Linear Collection has been inspired by nature, Dress your table to impress!

featuring a range of matching dinnerware and ovenware with a

Discover Sabichi’s contemporary

modern linear embossment that gives a sophisticated

style dinnerware and bring a

contemporary look with a rustic feel. The timeless dinnerware

modern touch to your tabletop.

includes everything you would need for a complete dinner table

This stunning Blue Reactive

set from side plates and mugs to dinner plates in a cool blue or

glazed dinner set is perfect for

an elegant white that can be mixed or matched for relaxed or

both everyday dining and special

formal dining.

occasions. This dinnerware will

Rayware

bring high-quality-dining experience every time you serve your favourite meals. The set

T: 0151 486 1888 E: sales@rayware.co.uk W: www.masoncash.co.uk

includes dinner plates, side plates and bowls.

Sabichi Homewares T: 01909 544 570 E: info@hadenappliances.com W: hadenapplainces.com

Animal Luxe is an opulent collection of candles and fragrances extending to exotic mugs and beautiful dining pieces. It’s an exciting, luxurious range with black detail and strong gold metallic accents, along with stylish animal print patterns and quirky tiger shaped ceramics. It exudes glamour and confidence and is a strong statement range for 2020.

Candlelight T: 01709 723000 E: sales@candlelight.co.uk W: www.candlelight.co.uk

Royal Worcester Wrendale Designs welcomes a selection of exciting new designs by Hannah Dale for 2020. A collection featuring illustrations of vibrant sea creatures on mugs and travel mugs has been added to its extensive line of giftware, along with additional items to its tableware collection and a range of textiles for the kitchen. There is also a new collection of glassware featuring charming animal illustrations.

Portmeirion Group T: 01782 744721 E: homesales@portmeiriongroup.com W: www.portmeiriongroup.com

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PH Cookware.qxp_Grid 27/03/2020 16:07 Page 1

Market focus

Heat

Sustainability, performance and good looks – PH considers influences and new developments in the cookware market.

exchange Inset: Storage savvy – The Smart Collection by GreenPan. Below: Eco from Prestige boosts a non-stick coating containing plants.

E

nvironmental consciousness is increasingly influencing consumer demands and consequently ongoing product developments across all sectors of housewares, including the cookware market. Meanwhile, the trend for kitchens to be the hub of the home means that there is strong demand for distinctly stylish pots and pans.

Ambiente saw the introduction of a new range of environmentally focused cookware under the Prestige brand from Meyer Group – described by marketing director Carl Wright as “a major development for the organisation.”

Carl reflects that: “At our manufacturing

facilities in Thailand and Italy, we have always produced products in a conscientious way, with little or no lighting in the factory, relying on natural light through skylights or the reuse of water.” However the new Eco range champions many other sustainable features and consumer benefits.

“The pans are fully recyclable and are already made from recycled aluminium,” reports Carl.

“The non-stick coating is a specially designed formula from our factory in Italy that reduces the use of chemicals by adding in plant based components.” He

Inset: Rustic and stylish: The Trento collection from Tramontina consists of fry pans, two casserole dishes, a shallow casserole and a wok that “create a statement in any kitchen style,” notes Tramontina UK’s Alex Frubel.

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continues: “What’s exciting is that, even with this change in non-stick, the performance and durability is still at a really high level.”

In addition, Eco’s packaging is FSC certified, with all card sourced from sustainable sources, and Prestige has partnered with TREEAid to plant a tree for every pan sold. Carl acknowledges: “Modern consumers are looking to organisations and big brands to start to act responsibly when trading.

Environmental concerns are ‘front of mind’ for most, but sometimes it’s difficult for people to know where to start. So this new range helps people on their journey but still enables them to cook great food consistently.”

Carl admits that sustainability is an on-going influence on new product development, which is “trying to look

PH Cookware.qxp_Grid 27/03/2020 16:08 Page 2

Market focus Inset: Point of difference – the Emile Henry Tarte Tatin from Haus.

Below: Stellar triply combines stainless steel with an aluminium core for efficient heating up and cooking.

Something different “We all know that the most important factor for a specialist retailer is its point of difference, moving away from the standard and offering equipment and product that is not just about aesthetics but also function,” reflects Paul Shelley, managing director of Haus. He highlights two new pieces in the Delight range by Emile Henry, the Tarte Tatin and Small Tagine.

The new pieces of cookware are “30% lighter than cast iron, dishwasher safe and suitable for all heat sources including induction,” and “offer something that bit more special for the foodie that loves to create, cook and entertain,” notes Paul.

Emile Henry has also released its own Cheese Baker. Offering “everything a cheese lover and cook could desire, an oversized space to pack either a sharing portion or something a little more creative,” states Paul. The Baker comes in four attractive colours, with four recipe suggestions to show off its versatility and excite home cooks and entertainers.

beyond the everyday, almost ‘single use’ pan.” He states: “Nobody wants to purchase multiple pans in a short space of time; not only is it a terrible user experience but it’s absolutely not eco-friendly.”

Multi-use is a key benefit of the new enamelled cast iron Trento range from Tramontina. “The range comprises enough, but not too many pieces to be able to create the most up-to-the-minute cuisines from healthy stir-fries, curries and no end of global cuisine to convenient one-pot meals,” explains Alex Frubel, UK general manager.

He adds: “Most of the items in the range are also ideal for oven/hob-to-table, which is ideal for casual entertaining and fun gatherings in today’s fast-paced lifestyles.”

Desire for minimal energy use combined with “the best performing cookware that will heat up quickly and evenly” is behind the development of new Stellar Triply – the brand’s most premium range yet, explains James Robinson, product manager at Horwood. He elaborates: “It is unquestionable that tri-ply is the most efficient and reactive construction of cookware for all hob types. We evolved this range from Stellar Lamina, while adding some more modern touches.”

Longevity is a key benefit (with the reassurance of a lifetime warranty) as James notes: “We have used the highest quality materials and construction, with no compromises. The result is peerless Stellar quality, yet at a competitive price point (compared to other premium brands).”

Moreover, as Horwood is continuing its “mission to drive plastics out of the business,” each piece of Triply is individually packed in a bespoke reusable cotton bag.

Ceramic coated cookware continues to evolve, with the original brand GreenPan

(with its Thermolon non-stick) exploring the needs of modern kitchens, as well as meeting demands for fewer chemicals.

Lore Pieters, marketing manager for GreenPan from The Cookware Company states: “The cookware you use affects every meal you create, so healthy cooking starts with healthy cookware.

A ceramic non-stick pan does exactly what you expect it to do but doesn’t contain harmful chemicals such as PFAS and PFOA. So, it’s better for your body and the environment because no such chemical ‘nasties’ can be released onto your plate or into the soil or air.”

GreenPan revealed The Smart Collection at Ambiente (planned for official UK launch this summer), which has a stackable design “allowing you to easily store the pans and save up to 30% of space in kitchen cupboards – a key consumer demand where space is increasingly at a premium.” Lore adds: “The V-shaped handle minimises heat transfer and ensures a secure cool grip.

Featuring Infinity Ceramic non-stick enhanced with diamonds, Smart is very much an example of innovative design that’s perfect for intensive daily use.”

Ambiente also saw DKB Household’s launch of Zyliss’ first entry into this sector, with its new Superior Ceramic non-stick cookware, which has gained Good

The ‘must have’ induction accessory With the rise of induction cooking, Falcon Products’ Induction Hob Protector creates a protective surface between cookware and the hob to prevent scratches, scuffs and marks without affecting functionality (as long as the correct cookware is used on the correct zones).

The non-stick, heat resistant (up to 250°C) silicone coating also helps to reduce movement of pots and pans, while the design still allows for touch controls to be seen and used through the hob protector.

Falcon Products md, Gary Downham describes the Hob Protector as “an outstanding success, widely gaining praise for being truly innovative and an exceptional, practical product.”

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Inset: Keep hobs pristine - Falcon Products' Hob Protector.

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Market focus

Zen and now Even though the Olympics are not to take place this year as planned in Tokyo, Japanese culture stepped into the world spotlight from 2019 – and, with recent developments, the harmonious ‘Zen’ home that is infused with wellbeing has perhaps never been so sought after.

Le Creuset’s Zen Kitchen campaign for spring and summer 2020 embraces the peaceful and orderly home as a ‘welcome juxtaposition to the chaos of modern life.’ The campaign brings together a suite of cookware inspired by Japan’s love for neutral shades and natural elements, including the brand’s new serene Meringue.

Tranquil Coastal Blue and calming Flint are complemented by elements of vibrant Cerise. The collection ‘evokes scenes of delicate cherry blossoms, stepping stones in Zen Gardens, and vast blue waters lit by the striking rising sun.’ It also features a new 3-ply Stainless Steel Wok complete with glass lid.

The Zen Kitchen campaign is accompanied by a range of authentic Japanese recipes created by Tim Anderson, winner of MasterChef 2011 and Yuki Gomi, renowned Japanese chef and food writer.

Housekeeping Institute (GHI) accreditation.

Amrita Badh, brand lead reports: “Ceramic non-stick is certainly an increasingly popular cookware sector with consumers – it ticks a lot of the key boxes, whether environmental or health concerns. But there are varying levels of performance among existing brands and we held off on entering this sector until we had a product whose performance was unbeatable. The Superior Ceramic range features XERADUR 2 coating by ILAG, which will last typically three times longer than previous

Inset: Salter’s Marble Gold from UPGS celebrates the brand’s 260th anniversary.

generations of the coating.” Amrita emphasises: “It has a greater density meaning the surface is less susceptible to cracking.”

Highlighting that Zyliss Superior Ceramic is “kinder to the environment when manufactured,” Amrita acknowledges that practicality was also paramount to product development. Hence each piece is dishwasher-safe, oven/grill-safe to 180˚C and suitable for all hobs. It has also received high praise from the prestigious GHI, whose comments include: ‘Comfortable to use and versatile, the Superior Ceramic saute pan cooks food both on the hob and in the oven brilliantly’ and ‘One of the best frying pans we’ve ever tested; it’s truly fantastic; nothing sticks to it!’

Amrita reflects: “The GHI accreditation on our Cook Ultimate frypans last year really resonated with consumers and proved to be a draw at point-

Above: Part of Le Creuset's Zen Kitchen display at the recent Spring Fair.

Left: Part of the acclaimed and GHI certified new Zyliss Superior Ceramic range, which was launched at Ambiente by DKB Household.

of-sale. We expect the same for the new Superior Ceramic too.”

At Salter from UPGS, brand manager Katie Maxwell observes that: “Across the board, consumers are looking for more eco products, and our Salter Earth range is answering this demand.” The ceramiccoated range has been released in on-trend sage green and is packaged in brown raw card. Katie comments: “As we celebrate our 260th birthday, it’s really important for us to be keeping up with consumer trends and sustainability is definitely something we’re looking to be more and more involved with as a brand.”

Meanwhile Tower’s new Freedom range is a ceramic-coated non-stick with a removable two-stage locking system handle, meaning that one pan can be used on the hob, in the oven and to serve and store.

Hey good looking Simon Oliver, housewares sales director for Tower acknowledges that while the cookware market in general is driven by features and functionality, “there is always a place for good-looking products especially if they’re to be left on the worktop, hob or stored in view.” Tower’s fashion collections- such as Chameleon Flip range or Scandi with wooden accents - reflect interiors trends, while the brand is also proud of its recent cookware innovations.

Simon reports: “Our Ice Diamond pans scored highly in reviews including with the GHI and IndyBest, and at the Spring Fair we previewed two new ranges which we believe will really have an impact – Precision Black Diamond and Freedom.” Precision Black Diamond features one of Tower’s most durable stone coatings, which is “seven times stronger than standard non-stick”. Simon also points out that the range’s “smart design increases the cooking surface by 20% and the chef-inspired riveted steel handles with stay-cool silicone grips also feature a hanging loop for easy storage.”

Salter (from UPGS) is celebrating its 260th anniversary with the launch of its popular marble cookware in black and gold. “Featuring speckles of gold, our Marble Gold range includes a complete set of saucepans, fry pans and woks. Gold luxe is a really big trend, and we feel our black and gold is a nice subtle nod to one of 2020’s hottest home trend colours,” reflects brand manager Katie Maxwell. The shape of the cookware has also been tweaked to deliver a 20 % larger capacity when cooking.

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Stellar’s new Tri-Ply cookware range is its most efficient and responsive to cookware range to date, designed to offer the best performance so that food can be cooked to perfection. This good-looking premium range has a beautiful shiny- matte finish, which is easy to maintain and will be admired, loved, and be a pure joy to cook with, in every kitchen, whether its modern or traditional.

Horwood T: 01179 400 000 E: horwoodsalesoffice@horwood.co.uk W: www.horwood.co.uk

With a matt black finish, contrasted Circulon launched three new ranges in 2019, Total,

with a brushed steel knob and

Excellence and Style. Total is available both in Hard

imprinted stylised branding on the

Anodised and Stainless steel and can be used for most

lids, Trento is a new enamelled cast

occasions, whether cooking for one or a family feast.

iron cookware collection from

Excellence is a comprehensive hard anodised

Tramontina, which offers a striking

cookware collection and boasts an impressive Chefs

on-trend, yet rustic, style as well as a

pan which is ideal for hearty casserole dishes or

host of features.The collection of six

speedy meals when entertaining. Finally, Style is

items is suitable for all hob types

exclusive to John Lewis and not only looks beautiful

including induction, is ideal for use

but is built for performance. It comprises of an

in the oven, is dishwasher safe and,

extensive range of cookware items covering all of your

with the composition of the range

cooking requirements.

ensuring even and efficient heat

Meyer Group

distribution, is eco-friendly.

T: 0151 482 8000

Tramontina UK

E: clare.holland@meyeruk.com

T: 020 3176 4557 / 020 3176 4558 E: contact@tramontinauk.com W: www.tramontina.com New for 2020, Le Creuset is proud to present its toughest ever non-stick cookware. Toughened Non-Stick, is now even stronger, in fact it is now four times stronger*. Manufactured without compromise, Toughened Non-Stick ensures unbeatable cooking performance time after time thanks to its stateof-the-art six-layer body construction coupled with NEW sleek, black reinforced non-stick interior, which stands up to regular use of metal utensils.

All products are covered by a no-compromise Lifetime Guarantee. *Independently laboratory tested for metal utensil abrasion resistance.

Le Creuset T: 01264 343909 W: www.lecreuset.co.uk

Haden has developed a sophisticated and technical cookware collection to make the culinary experience professional and stylish. This range of Haden Perth Goldstone pans have an eye-catching gold speckle interior which offers a superior non-stick performance needing very little or even no oil when cooking. Made from toughened forged Aluminium and PFOA free, a balanced even heat distribution gives a chef’s cooking experience. The range is perfect for all the budding home chefs and those looking to make healthy and delicious meals a thing of today.

Sabichi Housewares T: 01909 544570 E: info@hadenappliances.com W: www. hadenappliances.com PROGRESSIVE

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Prestige launches the most environmentally friendly cookware to hit the market yet: Pictured is Prestige’s new Eco cookware - the world’s friendliest plant based, non-stick cookware range. Consisting of three different sized fry pans, a stockpot and 16, 18 and 20cm saucepans, every piece is made from recycled materials which can also be recycled at the end of the product’s life. These pans are suitable for every type of hob, including induction hobs, and have a steel base for improved energy efficiency. They’re also oven safe, dishwasher safe and easy to clean.

Meyer Group E: clare.holland@meyeruk.com T: 0151 482 8027

Le Creuset’s Flavour Revival campaign boasts a rich and decadent colour palette to add a touch of elegance to the kitchen.

Comprising of Le Creuset’s new shade Ultra Violet teamed with

This year’s Spring Fair saw a huge portfolio expansion for Tower

classic Cerise, Satin Black and

parent company RKW, with over 500 new lines on show! Tower has

Marine, the Flavour Revival colour

built a reputation for trend-setting collections and one of the latest is

palette epitomises opulence and is

Scandi. Available across housewares (including storage, knives

sure to make every dish a

and cookware pictured here) and SDA, Scandi comes in sleek grey or

showstopper. With shades linked

crisp white, with light wooden accents –the perfect Scandinavian

with the grand nature of the Art

minimalist look! Scandi will join other big hitter collections like Glitz,

Deco era, feel inspired by this

the original Rose Gold and Rose Gold Marble.

curation of colours, guaranteed to

Tower

bring new age and glamour to

T: 0333 220 6066

enrich your cooking and dining.

E: sales@rkwltd.com

Le Creuset

W: www.towerhousewares.co.uk

T: 01264 343909 W: www.lecreuset.co.uk

Pictured is Featherweights, the first cast aluminium range for GreenPan™. Extremely lightweight (50% lighter than cast iron), it is easy to handle, but with superior heat distribution, excellent heat retention and an innovative ‘rainfall effect’ lid.

It features the extremely durable diamond-reinforced Thermolon™ Infinity Professional ceramic nonstick meaning it is perfect for intensive daily use and is metal utensil safe. It is also oven and dishwasher-safe and easy to clean.

GreenPan

demanding. The sleek, polished surface offers the range a unique look, bringing energy and class to your kitchen.

Stratanium+ non-stick coating.

W: www.greenpan.co.uk

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thoroughbred cookware for the discerning and

The selection was created with the revolutionary

T: 0203 285 6352 (option 5)

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Pictured is t he new HaptIQ collection from SCANPAN,

Haus W: www.inthehaus.co.uk HOUSEWARES

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Face to face

Inset: The showroom’s demonstration kitchen.

Below: A view of the Dine showroom.

Bottom: The showroom provides a wealth of visual merchanding inspiration, such as the Artesa table setting pictured. “It’s about giving all our brands the space they need and creating atmosphere,” notes Matthew.

A visit to KitchenCraft’s new HQ demonstrates how leading suppliers are ‘selling’ more than just products in the online and offline retail environment.

Hub for

inspiration

O

fficially opened in September KitchenCraft’s managing director 2019, by the Lord Mayor of Matthew Canwell elaborates: “Besides Birmingham and KitchenCraft’s improved logistics, the new HQ is a longest serving employee of 47 years, design and inspiration hub, reflecting Noreen Sweeney (sales office manager), continued investment in brands and the purpose-built 250,000 categories.” He square foot building at continues: “In a Box of delights Birmingham’s The Hub tough and KitchenCraft’s ongoing focus on sustainability is influencing all areas of business park was designed turbulent world, the business – for example, all staff to take KitchenCraft to the NPD, marketing have their own Built drinks bottle, the next level in terms of and design are new HQ uses rainwater for toilet flushing, all shrink wrap used in the serviceability. A state of the critical – retailers warehouse is recyclable (with the aim art warehouse recently want and need of finding a biodegrabable option) and the in-house design team is became fully operational with something new, looking carefully at product the business in the final with new and packaging. An example is the beautiful new gift box packaging for stages of closing innovative ways of V&A mugs. “The box size is reduced previous communicating so there is less material used, and warehouses this in and out we can ship more, and it is also reusable,” highlights Aimee Elliott, in Corby, of stores.” creative director. while the “Globally, we adjoining head have over 120 office also houses a industrial, graphic and merchandise meeting point and designers working at Lifetime Brands, all workshop space constantly sharing ideas and inspiration,” for retailers. explains Matthew. “Our aim is to the share Rob Kay, chief executive this with our customers, being the source officer of parent company of consumer and design trends, product Lifetime Brands states: “It and marketing inspiration.” Hence a seemed only fitting that 10,000 square foot showroom is key to we design our own new the new premises, providing: “A place for home to reflect our retailers to be inspired by window or inbusiness values with store displays but equally to become adequate provision for more knowledgeable about product growth and development features and benefits of products by of the company testing things in our showroom kitchen,” over time.” says Matthew.

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Face to face The showroom is divided into two distinct areas for Cook and Dine and is described

by Rob Kay as “unique” and “a must see.”

The working kitchen at the centre of the Cook showroom can host groups of up to 12 retailers with a team of chefs who will put products through their paces. The kitchen also provides a venue for recipe creation and videos, leading to useful content for retailers’ social media and consumer engagement.

The site also houses an enhanced product testing facility, digital marketing team, in-house creative studio and photography facilities. “Provision of digital and printed marketing assets is a must these days to accommodate omnichannel selling,” Matthew reflects. “The team are focused on developing these to the next level for our customers to then leverage their own opportunities.”

Meanwhile, the new warehouse space is equivalent to four football pitches. With all stock in place, KitchenCraft aims to increase its daily delivery dispatches from 10,000 to 24,000, fulfilling as many ‘next day’ deliveries as possible. This will be achieved using high-tech picking and packing machinery, with bestsellers positioned in the most accessible locations.

Moreover, with more brands coming on board, such as the recent launch of the US market leading weighing and measuring brand, Taylor with brand ambassadorial support from Michel Roux (see breakout), KitchenCraft is poised to offer its customers more than just products, brands and innovation. “For us, it’s the whole service model we are aspiring to lead in”, states Matthew.

Digital support At the time of going to press, KitchenCraft is focusing on how to help its stockists at a time of social distancing and self-isolation due to the coronavirus crisis.

As more consumers shift to online shopping from home at this time and turn their attention to cooking more meals from scratch, KitchenCraft has been working on a series of social media posts and web banners to make the most relevant products stand out. These include: how to make pasta, eating healthily, and keeping kids occupied at home. The messages and banners are all being revised so that retailers can also load them onto their own social media posts or websites.

KitchenCraft’s online store and retailer app (with ‘how to guides’) is also helping stockists to keep track of their account, invoices and recently ordered items as well as look at new products and product information. The app also makes it easy for stockists to build up orders via barcode scanning.

Inset: The Industrial Kitchen area of the showroom includes a lifestyle graphic across one wall to create depth– an idea that retailers can use in window displays.

Weighing in with Michel KitchenCraft is proud to be working in collaboration with acclaimed two Michelin Star chef Michel Roux Jr for the introduction of Taylor to the international market. The celebrity chef is endorsing Taylor scales, timers and thermometers, using the products in his own elite professional kitchen at Le Gavroche, London.

“I’ve known Taylor for some time having travelled the world and having been in and out of American kitchens – it’s a very good brand,” Michel told PH at the brand’s UK launch at Spring Fair.

Founded in 1851 Taylor is highly respected in the US, renowned for innovation and precision weighing and measurement. The company even helped the US army during World War II due to its incredible precision.

Taylor’s weighing innovations include touchless tare technology: a wave-over sensor that allows you to return the scale to zero with a simple wave of the hand. Hence it is ideal for using the same bowl to add and weigh ingredients, with no need to keeping washing flour covered fingers! Michel describe Taylor scales as "very practical.”

The chef is also impressed with the durability and precision of Taylor’s tapered thermometer, which are being used in and out of Le Gavroche’s professional ovens.

The tapered probes leave a much smaller, discreet puncture hole, which helps retain meat juices.

At Spring Fair, Michel used Taylor scales and a thermometer when making sumptuous macarons and perfectly seared steaks on KitchenCraft's stand.

Right: Michel Roux Jr showing Taylor’s touchless tare scales to PH’s Emma Cain and Jo Howard at the Spring Fair in February.

Inset: Lord Mayor Mohammed Azim with KitchenCraft’s md Matthew Canwell at the opening of the new building.

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Cooking with kids

Bakeware and tableware designed with kids in mind is a growing category for retailers, with products featuring fun designs and some tapping into the lucrative licensing market. Not only practical purchases, these products also make perfect gifts for little ones.

Inset: The train cake pan from NordicWare allows parents to create cakes with a real wow-factor.

Below: The Paddington Bake & Take set from Eddingtons has everything included to make 24 cookie gift bags.

Kit for kids

T

he kitchen has always been the heart of the home but now, more than ever, our living spaces mean our kids are watching as we cook and bake, picking up our habits. As well as that, cooking and baking programmes on TV and SVOD, such as The Great British Bake Off, MasterChef, Nailed It and Zumbo’s Just Desserts are must-see viewing; not to mention spin-offs especially targeted at kids like Junior Bake Off and MasterChef Junior.

“We have seen an increase in the number of younger bakers who want to try and challenge themselves,” says Pauline Clements for NordicWare. “We have an extensive range of child-oriented cake pan designs.

With consistently good sales many have been part of our collection for over 30 years. We are relaunching some designs this year under our Pro Cast Party Time

Collection, including the stadium and the octopus. The intricate designs created by the products help novice or time-poor parents to create home baked birthday cakes that wow.”

Last year saw the first ever NordicWare and Disney collaboration with

the Frozen 2 Bakeware Collection.

Launched to celebrate the release of the movie, the range is designed to appeal to adults and children alike. “The Frozen range allows for movie theming to be the main focus but the classic designs can be used by bakers of all ages and skill levels,” PROGRESSIVE

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says Pauline. “The pans are also multipurpose and can be used for a variety of sweet or savoury recipes giving each piece a greater number of applications.”

The increasing popularity of cooking and baking shows involving children is having a knock-on effect at Dexam according to managing director Bryony Dyer.

“This is a growing category for retailers who want to keep up with this evolution. Our range of aprons has expanded to include some gorgeously appliqued and delicately embroidered designs, which comprise of a unicorn, mermaid, monkey and dinosaur and the latest additions in the form of a fun giraffe and ‘No Drama Llama’. Our collaboration with Scion also brings a matching range of animal magic print apron, lunch bag, and bamboo fibre dining set which includes a child sized plate, bowl, cup and cutlery.” She adds: “We will continue to develop and grow our range for aspiring

PH Cooking with Kids.qxp_Grid 27/03/2020 18:26 Page 2

Cooking with kkids

Table service

Inset: Helping kids to eat with co-ordinated dinnerware and cutlery by Viners from The Rayware Group.

Right: Fruit-inspired bamboo dinner set from Arthur Price.

young cooks in the kitchen.”

Eddingtons is another company expanding its offering for youngsters, with a new Paddington bakeware range – part of a wider collection including a breakfast and on-the-go range. “We’ve definitely seen a trend over the past few years of consumers getting back into baking, fuelled by TV programmes such as The Great British Bake Off, but it’s also so much more visible on social media and YouTube,” says Adam Smith, marketing manager for Eddingtons.

“Step by step tutorials on YouTube mean amateur Inset: Stasher bags in the freezer. bakers can create some stunning masterpieces – and then share with their friends on social media. We also see more and more mums involving the kids in baking, perhaps like they did with their mothers.”

Teaching little ones to feed themselves while getting them to eat healthy nutritious meals can be a challenge, which is why Viners has developed a selection of fun and colourful kid’s cutlery and tableware.

“Viners Kids Cutlery has been designed with small hands and mouths in mind and allows children to feel a sense of adult-like independence around the dinner table,” says Jo Booth, senior brand manager of Viners from The Rayware Group. “These sets resemble adult like cutlery but in a smaller size with small design adjustments to make them perfect for children.”

Due to the popular demand of the cutlery range, Viners has since expanded its kid-friendly collection with the brand new Kids Dinnerware range. “This features fun and exciting designs that match the existing Kids Cutlery range,” says Jo. “Each set includes a plate, bowl and mug made from bamboo fibre and corn which is a by-product of the farming industry. Ecofriendly and recyclable, the set is a perfect alternative to plastic.”

Eco-friendly is also the driver behind Arthur Price’s Bambino range, made from bamboo. “I became a grandfather for the first time in late 2019 and I was inspired by David Attenborough’s Blue Planet programme,” says Simon Price, chief executive officer. “Children are our future and we need to save our planet. We sold out when we launched the Bambino collection. We want to become a plastic free company by 2022 and Bambino was just the start of that journey. To continue the amazing success of our original Bambino bamboo children’s sets, we have four new sets in the shape of fruit which sends out a really important healthy message to children.”

The Paddington bakeware collection includes children’s and adults aprons, an engraved rolling pin, spatulas and a cookie gift set; all inspired by the original Michael Bond character reflecting the original Peggy Fortnum artwork used to illustrate the original books.

“Paddington’s longevity has been recently reinvigorated with the Paddington films and soon to be screened Paddington TV series making Paddington even more relevant for consumers today,” reflects Adam. “The Paddington products are designed for gifting, collecting and practical everyday use and are stylish and cute enough for both adults and children alike.”

Former Great British Bake Off winner in 2015, Nadiya Hussain is also entering the bakeware market with three baking sets from Wilton Bradley. Ian Downes, owner of Start Licensing brokered the deal and says: “The Wilton Bradley kits include a simple baking kit to help those getting started, a savoury kit and a deluxe baking set. The products have been developed with input from Nadiya, so are very authentic. They are practical items designed to be used in the kitchen and also include recipes that tie into Nadiya's Bake Me a Story books. So the kits include instruction and inspiration for young bakers which I think gives them an edge.”

Kitchen gadgets for kids American Originals – from UPGS – combine exciting kitchen products with a retro feel. For the kids in particular are the 3 in 1 Treat Maker, Bubble Waffle Maker, Popcorn Maker and Snow Cone Maker. “American Originals provides a perfect way to introduce children to cooking, and the kitchen itself, opening their eyes to a world where cooking can be exciting,” says Duncan Singleton, trading director. “It’s also a very affordable brand, so perfect for gifts for Christmas and birthdays. As a brand, the packaging is bright, exciting and eye-catching, encouraging parents and gift-buyers to have a little fun when choosing the perfect product.”

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Inset: Snow Cone Maker by American Originals from UPGS.

HOUSEWARES

Left: New ‘No Drama Llama’ apron from Dexam.

ALWAYS INSPIRED TO EXPLORE IN THE KITCHEN THAT’S THE MARK OF A MAKER

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What’s cooking

Eddingtons presents this beautiful beech wood rolling pin with

for kids and young chefs

engraved Paddington design. It perfectly embosses your cookies, pies and fondant. The Baking Spatulas are made from beech wood with a silicone head. There are three different Paddington designs available.

Dishwasher safe. A free display tin is available with your first order, but must be ordered separately.

Eddingtons T: 01488 686572 E: sales@eddingtons.co.uk W: www.eddingtons.co.uk

Opinel’s Le Petit Chef collection, distributed in the UK by Whitby & Co, will let families share recipes and culinary discoveries with their children, comprising of utensils which are efficient, comfortable and ergonomically designed just for them. The children’s kitchen knife and children’s peeler are equipped with a guide ring to ensure proper positioning of the fingers and to avoid touching the blade.

Bring a smile to your kids’ faces when you put them in this apron and tell them to help in the kitchen. Featuring the cheeky monkey, this kids

Whitby and Co

apron is made from 100% cotton and comes with an adjustable neck

T: 01539 721032

strap, so no matter how big your children grow, the apron grows

E: sales@whitbyandco.co.uk

with them. This fun apron is the ideal tool to have around when

W: www.whitbyandco.co.uk

letting the kids tire themselves out painting, baking or getting messy with glue, and is a great way to encourage them to get

Pictured is the American Originals Snow Cone Maker from

involved in cooking in the kitchen.

UPGS, a perfect way to introduce children to the kitchen and

Dexam

cooking. A fun and refreshing treat on a warm day – add

T: 01730 811811

fabulous tasty flavours to create something extra special,

E: sales@dexam.co.uk

This Snow Cone Maker comes with 20 brightly coloured

W: www.dexam.co.uk

paper cones for serving your amazing snow cones to friends and family. The transparent cover enables you to watch the snow cone in action and the detachable bowl and parts make it very easy to clean.

UPGS T: 0161 934 2240 W: www.upgs.com

KiddiKutter are kid-friendly knives. Available in six funky colours, BPA free with a food safe coated stainless steel blade and fabulous easy grip BPA free handle.

KiddiKutter is designed for children three-years nd older to cut their own food SAFELY. This fabulous knife will cut anything that a sharp knife can but it won’t cut kids fingers due to the rounded serrations of the stainless-steel blade. It works by using a sawing action, remember Kiddikutter is not sharp, so it won’t chop.

KiddiKutter T: +61 (0) 403 832 949 E: info@kiddikutter.com.au W: WWW. kiddikutter.com.au

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HousewaresNews.net is the online resource for the entire housewares sector. From the publishers of Progressive Housewares, and the organisers of The Excellence in Housewares Awards, this e-newsflash portal and website delivers and is the hub of the very latest news, views and analysis from across the housewares sector – covering both supplier and retailer aspects of the trade.

With an expertly qualified email subscriber base of 3547 (and rising) readers, the twice-weekly newsflash lands directly in the inboxes of everyone in this fastpaced sector. A modern, easy to navigate website provides a central resource for the trade too, offering pithy news, indepth articles, an industry jobs board, retail analysis, digital issues of Progressive Housewares, and much, much more.

All advertising on the website is duplicated to each and every newsflash, giving advertisers huge visibility and a direct connection with retail buyers for a whole calendar month.

HousewaresNews.net is published by housewares sector experts, for housewares trade experts.

To sign up for the HousewaresNews.net newsletter please visit www.HousewaresNews.net

Advertising and commercial opportunities: John Barry advertisement manager johnb@max-publishing.co.uk Rob Willis publishing director robw@max-publishing.co.uk Editorial and content opportunities: Jo Howard editor joh@max-publishing.co.uk 32_HW_Nov_Dec 2019.indd 40_HW_March April 2020.indd321

09/12/2019 18:12 10:51 30/03/2020

41_Salter.qxd_Grid 30/03/2020 11:57 Page 66

ADVERTORIAL FEATURE – SALTER

Salter – 260 years of British design and innovation With 260 years of experience in bringing the latest products to the home, from springs and scales to cookware and kitchen electricals, Salter is always looking to make life just that little bit easier.

We’re not just following trends, we’re setting them; providing the perfect way to update kitchens with functional, high-performance kitchen electricals that look fantastic too. From subtle pinks and

earthy woods to rich navy blues and luxe gold accents, we’re at the forefront of style and design.

Super non-stick and abrasion-resistant, our latest cookware lines prove that we’re always developing and innovating; never resting on our laurels. Revamp kitchen cupboards with the new Salter Earth cookware range, featuring a fresh and delicate sage green colourway, or opt for a luxurious feel with our Marble Gold pans.

After 260 years, we’re proving we know our markets, our products, our customers. It’s an exciting time to be a homeware brand, and we’re really looking forward to continuing to be part of your kitchens for the next 260 years.

Share your kitchen with Salter, and tag us on Instagram @Salter_cookshop #ShareWithSalter www.saltercookshop.com sales@upgs.com

Cookware – Bakeware – Food Prep – Kitchen Electricals – Scales

Spring Fair Review .qxp_Layout 1 27/03/2020 11:58 Page 1

Pictured from Grunwerg is Cafe Ole

Review

‘Desire’ - a classic and chic design cafetiere with a sleek 18/10 stainless steel jacket and heat resistant glass available in three sizes. Spare beakers are also available. Also pictured is Grunwerg’s Cafe Ole ‘Style’ - a sleek and urban look design cafetiere available in black or cream. Made of plastic and glass, with stylish and sturdy handle. It features a stainlesssteel plunger, and easy pour spout.

Spare glass beakers are also available in this range.

Grunwerg T: 0114 275 6700 E: sales@grunwerg.co.uk W: www.grunwerg.co.uk

Following the success of its innovative Induction Hob Protector, Falcon Products presented a larger version at Spring Fair. Coming under its Bake-O-Glide™ brand, the hob protectors can be cut to size if necessary and are suitable for two, four or six ring hobs. They create a protective surface between cookware and the hob to prevent

Grunwerg presents ‘Sandringham’ - a unique range of contemporary hammered effect 18/10 stainless steel teapots in a polished mirror finish,

scratches, scuffs and marks without affecting functionality. The nonstick, heat resistant (up to 250°C) silicone coating also helps to reduce movement of pots and pans, whilst the clever design still allows for

set to draw attention to any tables. The range is available in three sizes. Also featured is ‘Chatsworth’ - a stylish and elegant range of 18/10

touch controls to be seen and used through the hob protector.

Stainless Steel teapots with design-led handles

Falcon Products

with a distinctive style set to impress.

T: 01706 224790

The range includes teapots available in five sizes

E: sales@falconproducts.co.uk

and Coffee pots available in three sizes, complete

W: www.falconproducts.co.uk

with sugar bowl and milk jug.

Grunwerg T: 0114 275 6700 The brand new

E: sales@grunwerg.co.uk

Lesser and Pavey

W: www.grunwerg.co.uk

range is called ‘Butterfly Meadow’. It is exclusive to Lesser and Pavey having been designed by the in-house art department. It includes a wonderful range of tabletop items, including quality mugs, ceramics, coasters, placemats, trays, storage canisters and much more. The range also includes some new gift stationary items. Buyers can expect to see additions to this range released during the summer months.

Lesser & Pavey T: 01322 279225 E: sales@leonardo.co.uk W: www.leonardo.co.uk Tramontina’s new Purezza glass storageware (pictured) proved to be a roaring success with buyers. Highly practical and also very stylish, there are currently three different sizes of Organics tableware offers an inspired combination of rustic

containers which can be neatly stacked

charm and contemporary style, coupled with form and

on top of each other. They are perfect

function – perfect for savouring good food with good

for housing absolutely anything and they

company. A collection of plates, bowls and serveware in a

are great for storing everything you

mixed spectrum of rich, vibrant tones and subtle organic

need to organise and enhance outdoor

shades, including the latest introductions of Sea Blue, Sea

cooking such as herbs, sauces,

Green and White, blend together beautifully, offering the

marinades etc. The glass containers

option of block colour or mix and match. Crafted in Portugal,

allow for the contents to be easily

the flowing free formed shapes of each individual piece give

identified and plastic vacuum lids ensure

a very natural, handmade feel and provide the perfect canvas

the tightest of seals to keep contents

for inspired, casual serving and presenting.

fresher for longer.

Jomafe UK

Tramontina UK

T: 07702 511792

T: 020 3176 4557 / 020 3176 4558

E: paul@jomafe.pt

E: contact@tramontinauk.com

W: jomafe@jomafe.pt

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Ambiente Review .qxp_Layout 1 27/03/2020 14:52 Page 1

Ambiente 2020 was another successful show for Meyer and there was much

Review

excitement in announcing the launch of a new range of environmentally focussed cookware under the Prestige Brand. The Eco range (pictured) is made from recycled

The DrinkPod fashionable eco-range of reusable coffee cups

aluminium and is then recyclable at the end

from Grunwerg are a must all year around! Stylish, colourful

of its life. This range also has the world’s

and environmentally friendly – they’re ideal replacements for

friendliest plant based non-stick developed

single use plastic cups. Available in a choice of 16 designs,

by our Italian factory. Even with this change

they are: BPA free, dishwasher safe, microwave friendly and

in non-stick coating the performance and

biodegradable PLA plastic or Shatter resistant. These

durability has not been compromised.

DrinkPods are also 100% recyclable glass and have a non-

Meyer

slip silicone grip, ergonomic design, are a comfortable size with a splash proof lid. The packaging is also fully recyclable.

T: 0151 482 8015 or email

Grunwerg

E: clare.holland@meyeruk.com

T: 0114 275 6700 E: sales@grunwerg.co.uk W: www.grunwerg.co.uk Spring clean from top to bottom with Beldray. Delivering the latest cordless technology across vacuum cleaners, irons and garment steamers, alongside stylish and handy cleaning equipment including the latest mops and airers. Functional and affordable, Beldray brings convenient solutions to the mass market.

UPGS T: 0161 934 2240 W: www.upgs.com

The Kilner® Nut Drinks Making Set makes it incredibly easy to create plant-based drinks from nuts, oats, coconut or soya. This simple, easy-to-use set includes two Kilner® 0.5 Litre Wide Mouth Jars, a

Pioneer’s extensive range of sleek and stylish vacuum

silicone splash guard which prevents spills

flasks, sports bottles, travel mugs, snacks and lunch boxes

during blending, a stainless steel filter

keep food and drinks hot for up to eight hours and cold

plunger which separates the liquid from

for up to 24 hours depending on the size. Leak proof, BPA

the nut pulp, silicone pouring lip and a

free and environmentally friendly, they are available in

stainless steel lid which secures the

various sizes and designs to suit all activities. Constructed

contents, making it ideal for storage.

with the finest 18/10 stainless steel, Pioneer flasks feature

Rayware Group

double wall vacuumware technology with an insulated

T: 0151 486 1888

and reflective inner stainless steel layer to prevent heat

E: sales@rayware.co.uk

energy from radiating outwards, as well as being covered

W: www.kilnerjar.co.uk

by a protective outer casing.

Grunwerg T: 0114 275 6700 E: sales@grunwerg.co.uk W: www.grunwerg.co.uk

As chosen by the Ambiente trend show 2020, ‘Deco’ a 1920’s inspired range of dark wood serving, sharing and dining pieces with sharply defined lines and geometric art deco style proved popular. To complement the sophisticated wood serving pieces T&G introduced Tip Top CrushGrind® mills in gold and the Oblique CrushGrind® salt and pepper mills with gold tops.

Opulence and fine dining are a key trend for 2020 and ‘Deco’ from T&G certainly delivers gold!

T&G T: 01275 841841 W: www.tg-woodware.com

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Eco trade ad_Progressive.pdf

1

13/01/2020

13:52

help SAVE our

PLANET

ONE PAN

AT A TIME

C

M

Y

CM

MY

RECYC L Introducing ECO by Prestige - The world’s friendliest non-stick cookware - made from recycled aluminium and a unique eco friendly plant based non-stick coating making it totally recyclable too!

RECYCLAB & D E

B

ETT

LE

K

ALL

CY

CMY

S ER FOR U

the world's friendliest plant based non-stick

We’re working together with TREE AID to help people grow their way out of poverty & protect their environment.

For further information, please contact your Meyer Sales Representative www.prestige.co.uk

IFC_HW_Jan Feb 2020.indd 1

/YourPrestige

@YourPrestige

/YourPrestige

/YourPrestigeKitchen

13/01/2020 17:45

New Products .qxp_Layout 1 27/03/2020 12:13 Page 1

New

The newIcon pedal bins are not only iconic beauties, but

Products

they’re reliable workers too. Like the brand new Pedal Bin newIcon Recycle from Brabantia, which helps you separate waste in your bathroom or toilet with two two-litre inner buckets. Available in White, Matt Black, Platinum, and

Addressing sustainability has never been

Brilliant & Matt Steel, and matching PerfectFit bin liners are

easier with even more on-the-go items being

available too (Code V).

introduced by Built for SS20. Inspired by bright

Brabantia UK

floral prints and colours that are warming and

T: 01275 810600

energetic to make summer last all year round,

E: sales.uk@brabantia.com

Tropic is one of the many uplifting new ranges.

With lunch bags, lunch boxes, hydration bottle, food flask and even a lunch box complete with cutlery which fits neatly inside a separate compartment in the lunch bag, there is everything you need for sustainable body fuelling on the go.

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

Inspired by Japanese design, cuisine and culture, the new Satori porcelain tableware

These 13-by-13-inch sandwich wraps

collection from Mikasa is designed to embrace

from Eddingtons include a Vermont-

an increased demand for Oriental cooking. Set

crafted hardwood ‘Paddington’ toggle

against a background of deep indigo blue and

and piece of hemp twine for bundling

white with gold edge detailing, Satori features

up a meal on the go; after you unfold your

an embossed Seigaiha wave pattern, the

marmalade sandwich, the wrap doubles

Japanese sign for good luck, energy and

as a placemat. A treat for lunch-box-

happiness. The collection includes dinner and

toting tots and grown-ups alike,

side plates, bowls, rice spoons, serveware,

the sandwich wraps prove

teapot, cups and sake cups and, together with

especially popular during the

the World of Flavours collection.

back-to-school months.

KitchenCraft

Eddingtons

T: 0121 604 1111

T: 01488 686572

E: sales@kitchencraft.co.uk

E: sales @eddingtons.co.uk

W: www.kitchencraft.co.uk

W: www.eddingtons.co.uk

Don’t miss the newly launched range of high-quality paper straws from Anniversary House. Made in the USA and featuring patented Eco-Flex® technology, these are long lasting, sustainably sourced, biodegradable, food grade, best-in-class straws! The Eco-Flex® technology provides the bend and flex of a plastic straw – a truly outstanding product unique to the market.

Anniversary House T: 01202 590222 W: www.anniversaryhouse.co.uk

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New Products .qxp_Layout 1 27/03/2020 12:13 Page 2

New

New for 2020, the much-loved British made range of versatile Wham

Products

Studio Baskets is expanding. Wham is launching nine new sizes of these handy storage baskets as well as introducing a new colour – dusky pink. Although the range can be used anywhere, some of the new sizes have been designed with drawer organisation in mind, to help utilise every storage space in your home or workplace.

Whatmore UK T: 01282 687030 E: sales@whatmoreuk.com W: www.whatmoreuk.com

The Le Creuset 3-ply Stainless Steel 30cm non-stick Wok is perfect for Made from a natural bamboo fibre, this eco-

healthy stir-frying of meat, fish and vegetables. The deep, curved side walls

friendly ‘Bamboo Travel Mug’ comes with a

allow the food to be moved around the pan to cook quickly retaining

silicone lid and sleeve to help prevent spillages

flavour, colour and nutrients. The Wok is also perfect for deep-frying and

and protect hands from heat of a hot liquid. This

tempura cooking. Available for a limited period only and with a Money Back

reusable solution is a great value alternative to

Guarantee if not completely delighted within 90 days of purchase.

using disposable coffee cups that are harmful to

Le Creuset

the environment. The mug is super light-weight,

T: 01264 343900

meaning the user isn’t bogged down all day with

W: www.lecreuset.co.uk

a heavy bottle in the bag whilst on the go.

Available in cat, dog, tropical, dot-to-dot and a marble style. Holds 400ml of liquid.

Addis T: 01656 66 44 55 E: info@addis.co.uk

A timeless favourite from Crystalex. Here they bring a modern design to a traditional glass, creating the fantastic ‘Cross’ suite. Featuring a wine, flute, and tumbler, beautifully showcased in a decorative gift box of two. Western House distributes this piece of fine blow crystal glass, complete with sealed stems and fine cut rims. Available to order for April delivery, so get your orders in now!

Western House T: 01256 462341 E: sales@western-house.com

Brabantia is very excited to introduce its brand new Bathroom collection: ReNew! As well as revamped versions of its classic toilet roll holders, dispensers, and toilet brushes, Brabantia has a stunning new range of accessories in dark grey and white – pictured here are the stylish bathroom caddy and accessory set. Be the first to get your hands on the collection from the end of March!

Brabantia UK T: 01275 810600 E: sales.uk@brabantia.com

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PH SHELF PORTRAIT.qxp_Grid 27/03/2020 15:53 Page 2

Retailer profile

THE TOP

5 SHELF PORTRAIT GLIDDONS CORNER COOKSHOP

Above: Gliddons on a corner of the pedestrian shopping streets of Sidmouth.

Situated in the seaside town of Sidmouth in East Devon, Gliddons Corner Cookhop has been a family business for over 120 years. PH spoke to manager Mark Gliddon to find some of the shop’s facts and figures.

Below: Gliddons’ popular Joseph Joseph section.

LOOKING BACK OVER THE PAST YEAR, THE SHOP’S TOP SELLERS ARE: l Chilly’s Bottles l Bee’s Wrap from Eddingtons l Sophie Allport Textiles l Joseph Joseph Flex Loo Brush l Robert Welch Designs Signature Knives

ON THE WAY

Facts and stats

You can’t beat The best thing about Gliddons is “product knowledge (if the modern consumer wants to hear it!)”

l The shop stocks several thousand SKUs: “It feels like 5,000 – we still work on a manual system.” l There are four part-time members of staff in addition to Mark and Andi. l The average sale is £15, “which reflects the big purchases and lots of small ones.” l Gliddons is a member of Bira and Home Hardware.

ON THE WAY

Working relationships

We are family

“We’ve been working with both Horwood and KitchenCraft for 40-50 years, going back to when my grandfather ran the shop. Grant was our Horwood rep for three generations and he is sorely missed since his retirement last year.”

Gliddons dates back to 1898 and has always been a family business. Mark Gliddon joined the business in 2009 when his father was about to have a heart bypass and continues to run the shop along with his wife Andi Gliddon (Andrea).

Keeping busy

Keeping it new

Gliddons promotes itself via Facebook, but its “Advertising is minimal as we find little works locally and it is tourism that keeps us going far more than locals.”

The latest addition to Gliddons’ shelves is Prestige Eco Pans from Meyer Group: “They are very on trend and we’re very excited to be stocking them.”

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“Knives – very slightly. With the restrictions on sales of knives in supermarket and online, and with department stores cutting back due to the security required, the public are being forced back into the old fashioned way of buying knives in a specialist shop. However, the rise is not as dramatic as it was when we started to focus on knives as a speciality six years ago.”

HOUSEWARES

“Saucepans – people are buying these in supermarkets.”

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ADVERTORIAL FEATURE

happy at work and along with this we have a flat structure, an open office plan and ongoing accessibility to all of the directors... which staff would concede is a benefit; most of the time!

A message from Roger Murphy “The Eddingtons’ core cultural values have been with the business since it was started by Brian Rogers in 2000 and I’m a great believer in the old adage that ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’. Since my personal involvement over the last eight years I have tried along with all the other directors to reinforce these values. We refer internally to Eddingtons as having the best traits of a family business but always recognising that we need to run our business as professionally as we can with clear focus on growing the company and providing security for all our employees. We are blessed with wonderful offices in a lovely part of the UK in rural West Berkshire. This environment lends itself to our team being

Over the last few years we have made a number of acquisitions which has given us core pillars in household tools and gadgets, outdoor categories, food service Above: Roger Murphy, managing director and most recently with the acquisition of Stow Green the important gifting category. Our most recent acquisition of Tuftop in January was to ensure continuity of this great supplier and to develop the business beyond the current products, channels and geographies.

Our business is split between brands we represent in the UK and those that we have developed under the Eddingtons or other brand names where we own the IP. We have recognised that our industry (along with all others) is changing and that there is a need to carry a broad range of products and categories that meet the needs of current and future customers.

The biggest change that we have seen in the business certainly in the last eight years has been the need for independent cookshops to become more than just an outlet for selling a niche specialised range of products. To maintain footfall, independent cookshops have had to develop and carry broader ranges including gifting and this has been a strong driver for growth for Eddingtons. Who would’ve seen a few years ago the strong growth in sales of If You Care or Beeswrap that we have enjoyed over the last couple of years? Housewares products in the broadest sense are now being sold in a wide section of different retail categories and in order to compete we have had to develop a channel strategy where we have the right products for the right customers.

The biggest challenge for Eddingtons is undoubtedly the one that we all find ourselves in - the coronavirus pandemic. We are focused exclusively on this as it poses the single biggest threat to our longterm business. However in saying this we try to retain the right perspective on the developing situation which is that the most important single thing is the safety and well-being of our staff , their family and friends, those in our industry and most importantly of all the wider UK population.”

HW_Eddingtons_Paddington Bear_Print.qxp_Grid 30/03/2020 19:35 Page 68

ADVERTORIAL FEATURE

Paddington comes to Eddingtons At Spring Fair Eddingtons launched its new licensed homewares and gifting range based on Paddington Bear – the iconic character created by Michael Bond. The range is focused around three popular areas: Paddington ‘on the move’, ‘at breakfast’ and ‘baking accessories’.

The new range is created around the original Peggy Fortnum illustrations, which have been applied to some of Eddingtons’ bestselling lines. There are also new and exclusive additions, with newly developed baking sets and kitchen textiles.

“The reaction to our new Paddington range has been excellent following Spring Fair and as we come out of retail lockdown we expect strong orders and sales on this new addition to our licensed range,” says Roger Murphy, managing director. “When we were offered Paddington, it seemed a logical extension to our licensing activities alongside Peter Rabbit. We have further exciting news to announce later in the year with an additional IP that we feel fits into our Eddingtons and Stow Green range. That said we have no intention of becoming a licensing company. However I know the product development team in Eddingtons loves working on evergreen brand icons and developing slightly differentiated offers that can grow the sales of our current and future customers in the UK and Ireland.”

Introducing… The Paddington range Paddington Bees Wrap Driven by consumer demand, the UK market is seeing a growing trend in sustainable living products. Paddington Food Wraps are a natural alternative to plastic wrap for food storage. From start to finish; close attention is paid to the ingredients and materials used throughout the entire production process. The wraps are reusable, biodegradable and compostable.

Paddington Egg Cup Pails

Above: Egg cup pails

Eddingtons’ best-selling egg cups have had a Paddington makeover. Made from durable powder coated steel, they’re built to last. The vintage style egg bucket comes complete with a stainless steel handle making them a great addition to any kitchen table.

The packaging provides a gift focused presentation with no plastic packaging to deliver a more sustainable product range with recyclable packaging.

Paddington Baking Spatulas Paddington illustrations adorn these baking spatulas which are supplied as a set of two, one large size, in white, pink or blue and one mini size with a charming polka dot design. Made from beech wood with a silicone head. There are three different Paddington designs. Dishwasher safe.

Above: Beeswax wraps

Paddington Ziptuck Reusable Storage Bags These reusable and washable storage bags just took the mess out of snacking and travelling. Reusable food-safe storage bags available in multiple sizes, leak-proof, air-tight lock seal design; gusseted bags stand upright for everyday use and storage needs and BPA free.

Right: Reusable storage bags

Above: Baking spatulas

HW_Eddingtons_Paddington Bear_Print.qxp_Grid 30/03/2020 19:35 Page 69

ADVERTORIAL FEATURE Below: Engraved rolling pin

Paddington Engraved Rolling Pin A beautiful beech wood rolling pin with engraved Paddington design. It perfectly embosses cookies, pies and fondant. 26cm x 4cm.

Below: Apron

Paddington Bake and Take Gift Set Gift set includes 24 gift bags, gift ribbon, 24 Paddington gift tags, 2 decorating nozzles, 6 icing bags, coupler and 4 cookie cutters - Paddington, Sandwich, London Bus & Suitcase. Orange flavoured biscuits recipe included.

Paddington Adult and Child Aprons These beautiful aprons featuring Paddington illustrations have an adjustable neck strap and ties at the back for the perfect fit, plus a handy large front pocket for utensils. 100% cotton and machine washable.

Working with character Richard Walker, commercial director says that selecting a licensed range is perhaps the most difficult aspect to consider when approaching licensing. “There are so many opportunities to choose from. For Eddingtons and Stow Green we look for classic brands or characters that have the scope and relevance to fit within our portfolio. We know we are strong in gifting with Stow Green so Peter Rabbit mug sets and textiles fit straight in and complement wider ranges.

With Eddingtons we are known for our eco products so a natural fit was to develop reusable items such as bespoke beeswax wrap, a reusable coffee cup and printed snack bags. It is important that the licence will add value to the proposition by enhancing a product in some way making the final product more desirable – we are simply not into label slapping. In most ways, working with a heritage brand is easier than something less well known. Guidelines are well thought out and have been tried, tested and evolved to a point where development is straightforward. Strong guidelines lead to a better final product and in turn this results in a stronger final representation.”

Right: Richard Walker, commercial director

Above: Bake and Take Gift Set

CONTACT DETAILS t | +44 (0) 1488 686572 f | +44 (0) 1488 686941 e | sales@eddingtons.co.uk w | www.eddingtons.co.uk

HW_Eddingtons_Paddington Bear_Print.qxp_Grid 30/03/2020 19:35 Page 66

ADVERTORIAL FEATURE

Stow Green’s Peter Rabbit collection This classic range of kitchenware depicting a childhood love of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter is perfect for any special occasion or gifting opportunity. With products ranging from stylish cups and saucers, mugs, serving boards, tea pots and dessert plates, to the stunning cake stand with its contrasting tiers, each piece in the classic collection is lovingly illustrated with images of Peter Rabbit, creating a wonderful kitchen accessory or keepsake.

Peter Rabbit Classic Tea Towel This quality tea towel features the classic Peter Rabbit illustration and is a stylish addition to any kitchen. Made from absorbent 200gsm Indian cotton, the tea towel has hemmed edges, a small hanging loop and is machine washable.

Above: Tea towel

Peter Rabbit Trinket Trays These small, decorated dishes are ideal for holding jewellery or other hard to find items. The only problem is choosing which design to take home- you may have to collect them all! Made from high quality melamine.

Above: Cup and saucer

Peter Rabbit Tea Cup and Saucer This charming Peter Rabbit Classic cup and saucer comes in a card gift sleeve depicting the illustrations of Beatrix Potter. The elegant Peter Rabbit teacup and saucer is made from delicate porcelain and is decorated with classic images from The Tales of Peter Rabbit.

Peter Rabbit Tea Bag Tidies These tea bag tidy ‘teapots’ adorned with a selection of illustrated Peter Rabbit designs are durable and colourful, the tea bag tidy is an ideal pick up item and is made from high quality melamine. Handy for every home and a perfect little gift.

Below: Tea bag tidies

Above: Trinket tray

Peter Rabbit Egg Cup Pails Make boiled eggs taste even more delicious with these beautifully illustrated Peter Rabbit Egg Cup Pails. Whether it’s Peter Rabbit himself or Benjamin Button these Egg Cup Pails are sure to brighten up any breakfast table. Made from powder-coated steel.

Below: Egg cup pails

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